[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 51 (Monday, March 25, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING TRAZENA ``KANDIE'' JONES AS WOMAN OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 25, 2019

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Trazena ``Kandie'' Jones, as 2019 Woman of the Year in Contra Costa 
County, California. Woman of the Year recognizes women who have made 
important contributions to California's 5th Congressional District in 
Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurship and 
Innovation or Community Service.
  Ms. Jones has been active in our military community for over 30 
years. Ms. Jones is the Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 
Post 1351 in Martinez, California. At the VFW, she does outstanding 
work helping veterans connect with one another and assists elderly and 
sick members with tasks that have become too difficult for them. She 
works tirelessly at Post 1351 and spends her remaining free time 
volunteering at the Veterans Service Office assisting veterans with 
obtaining the benefits that they have earned. She is also the driving 
force behind Post 1351's local Buddy Poppy distribution program, which 
benefits veterans' rehabilitation and other services across the United 
States.
  In addition to her work at the VFW, Ms. Jones has been an active 
volunteer of the PGA Veterans Hope Tournament and the Valor Games Far 
West. The Valor Games helps veterans and their families receive the 
services they need within their community. Ms. Jones also curates 
veterans hall military memorabilia.
  Ms. Jones enlisted in the U.S. Army and rose to the rank of Sergeant 
while serving as Quartermaster. She was honorably discharged at Fort 
Ord near Monterey and since then has been committed to helping our 
veterans.
  Ms. Jones grew up in Chicago, Illinois where she graduated high 
school. She enlisted in the Army and moved to California, where she 
attended aviation school. She also studied automotive/machinist 
training.
  Madam Speaker, Trazena ``Kandie'' Jones is an incredible member of 
our community whose tireless work throughout her career has benefited 
the women throughout Contra Costa County and California. Therefore, it 
is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

                          ____________________