[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 134 (Tuesday, August 14, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING ELMER JOSEPH ``ALMO'' LORENZI

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 14, 2018

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Elmer Joseph ``EJ'' 
Lorenzi, an upstanding member of the Merced community, who has been 
recognized as ``Man of the Year'' for the 2018 Harvest of Hope by 
Catholic Charities of Merced.
  EJ was born on May 18, 1931 at Mercy Hospital in Merced to Giuseppe 
and Rita Bernardi Lorenzi. Within a few, short years, it became clear 
that EJ was destined for an extraordinary life of serving others. His 
life-long dedication to service began at the age of 10, when EJ played 
the accordion for the United Service Organization to help raise money 
for war bonds.
  From that moment, EJ's service and dedication to the Merced community 
never wavered. While he established himself as a mainstay in the 
business community, EJ's focus continued to be service. He has been a 
member of the 3rd degree and 4th degree Knights of Columbus Council 
2384 for over six decades. He has served Merced with integrity and 
honor through the Merced City Chamber of Commerce, Merced Little 
League, and as Ambassador for the City Council of Merced.
  EJ also served on many advisory boards in Merced County. EJ's 
tireless leadership as chairman of the advisory committee for Measure C 
was instrumental in passing the measure, which is expected to raise 
millions for the police and fire departments in Merced.
  EJ has also been instrumental in restoring several historic buildings 
in Merced that were slated for destruction. Historic sites such as Bob 
Hart Square and Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, still stand today 
because of EJ's unwavering leadership.
  EJ's service to his community has always been backed by his lovely 
family. EJ married his high school sweetheart Evelyn Weres in June of 
1950. Together, EJ and Evelyn have five children, ten grandchildren, 
and nine great grandchildren, who will carry on the family's great 
legacy.
  At the spry age of eighty-seven years old, EJ continues to serve his 
community however he can, guided by the same three principles that have 
followed him throughout his life: God family, and his Catholic faith.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the 
exceptional life of Elmer Joseph Lorenzi. I wish him and Catholic 
Charities of Merced the best as he is recognized for his contributions 
to our community.

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