[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 11, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E22-E23]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING THE TAOS NEWS 2021 TRADICIONES UNSUNG HEROES

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. TERESA LEGER FERNANDEZ

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 11, 2022

  Ms. LEGER FERNANDEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
incredible lives and work of the Taos News 2021 Tradiciones unsung 
heroes. It was my honor to join all of them on their big night of 
celebration. The stories they shared and the work they do for the 
community are more important than words can describe. I feel very 
fortunate to have attended such a special event surrounded by such 
selfless and inspiring people.
  It was an honor to hear Benito Concha share his heartfelt story in 
person. I'm happy that he shared a gift with all the unsung heroes of 
the night. We all need to do more to uplift the good work and the 
heroes who deliver. All and all he's an incredible example of why it is 
so important to listen to the wisdom of our Native elders.
  I thank Judy Weinrobe for bringing the wonderment and love of our 
state to a group like Los Jardines. I often hear how easy it is to fall 
in love with our state. She is an example of why. She adds beauty to 
our community through her work. We recognize the beauty of her labor. 
Keep planting the seeds.
  Bette Myerson can't retire for the last time if she does what she 
loves. Especially if what she loves is a necessity, repairing the 
world. I think we were destined to meet because we do the same work. 
Best wishes to Bette and her family. I know she'll continue to do good.
  Anita Bringas is a true asset as a strategic support manager. The way 
she can easily connect people, time, and tradition is the essence of 
New Mexico. We are all different and beautiful. It's understanding each 
other and caring that makes this place truly unique. The moment she 
shared with her mom was one I'll always remember.
  As a founder of the women's shelter, HEART of Taos, the world needs 
more people like Kathryn Herman. Someone who is called to action to 
fill a void without the intention of becoming a hero but is one. She's 
saved countless women and children. There is nobody who has a bigger 
heart than Kathryn. She is the person who we all should aspire to be.
  The beauty of Questa, New Mexico doesn't end with its scenery--it 
extends to its people and there is no better example than Malaquias 
Rael, Jr. He is an inspiration. The work he has done to diversify and 
promote sustainability serves as a model for the state and other 
communities. In small towns, it's important we remain a community and 
truly live as neighbors who look out for each other.
  It's a rarity to see people as generous as Roels ``Roy'' Cunnyngham, 
especially when it comes to donating land for the community. Those 
actions promote the health, welfare, and economy of our community, 
echoing long after the deed is handed over. It's people like Roy who 
will ensure that Taos grows and prospers for decades to come.
  Lisa Abeyta-Valerio is a treasure to her community but more 
importantly, to our youth. Her passion as a cheerleader coach 
constantly reminds us of this. Taos may be a small community, but there 
is no shortage of champions. With someone as caring as Lisa in the 
driver seat, we'll never get lost.
  Pauline Mondragon's story as a fighter and cancer survivor inspires 
all. Having been there myself, I understand how strong she must be to 
do as much as she has. Pauline devotes her time and energy for 
everything that we value as Nuevo Mexicanos. When the pandemic passes, 
we will all be able to celebrate her and the great heroes of our 
community.

[[Page E23]]

  David Elliot, Citizen of the Year, is an outstanding citizen for the 
community of Taos. The progress and change he fostered during the 
pandemic are a beautiful example of the power of love for community. 
The world is a better place because of the work he's done. It was my 
honor to invite David to President Biden's State of the Union address 
to Congress, and I appreciate him inviting me to hear the stories of 
many of New Mexico's other unsung heroes. I look forward to seeing the 
incredible things he continues to do.
  After listening and meeting with them, my heart is filled with 
inspiration and hope. It is their passion and the passion of so many 
more that bring peace, prosperity, and harmony to our beloved 
communities.

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