[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 76 (Friday, May 6, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E460]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE SERVICE OF SAVANNAH A. VAN DYKE BELLO

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK DeSAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 6, 2022

  Mr. DeSaulnier. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize long-time 
community member Savannah Van Dyke Bello, as she celebrates her 100th 
birthday.
  Savannah was born in Idabel, Oklahoma to Richard and Rebecca Van 
Dyke. Savannah later moved to California where she met her husband, 
Albert Bello, and the couple became parents to three children.
  Throughout her life, Savannah has demonstrated her dedication to 
public service and civic education. After overcoming tuberculosis 
herself and noting the stigma behind the disease, Savannah enrolled in 
nursing school. She worked as a nurse at the Contra Costa County 
Medical Center from 1961 until her retirement in 1984. Additionally, 
throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Savannah was involved in the civil 
rights movement. She was and continues to be passionate about helping 
the Black community to connect with their history. Savannah has shown 
her passion for bettering her community in many ways, including as a 
member of the Richmond Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) in the 1960s, 
working with the American Red Cross for over 20 years, and engaging in 
local, statewide, and national elections. Savannah is also a writer and 
her book, ``Savannah . . . Unexpected Turns'' describes 20th century 
American history through her own lens.
  In her personal life, Savannah is a proud Catholic and attends Saint 
David of Wales Catholic Church in Richmond, California. She loves 
attending Bible study to connect more with her faith. Savannah also 
enjoys quilting, writing poetry, and spending time with her three 
children, three granddaughters, and nine great-grandchildren.
  Savannah is a leader in our community and is respected for her 
intellect and compassion. Please join me in congratulating Savannah on 
her 100th birthday and her lifetime of service.

                          ____________________