[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E224]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE CAREER OF LORRAINE SALAZAR

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 18, 2025

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lorraine Salazar a 
third-generation partner of Sal's Mexican Restaurants, a cherished 
institution and ``A Valley Tradition Since 1942.'' Her family's 
entrepreneurial spirit has been a beacon of perseverance and success in 
our community.
  From an early age, Lorraine embraced the values of hard work and 
dedication, learning restaurant operations alongside her parents and 
grandparents. She contributed in every way possible, from preparing her 
grandmother's signature recipes to working the cook line to serve 
guests.
  Understanding the importance of education, her father encouraged 
Lorraine to pursue her studies. She earned her Bachelors Degree from 
UCLA in 1982 and returned in 1991 to manage the family business. 
Lorraine's passion for Mexican culinary heritage has led her to travel 
extensively, studying regional specialties from renowned chefs. These 
experiences have influenced the seasonal menu items offered at Sal's.
  Sal's Mexican Restaurants received the 2001 California Small Business 
Award and multiple ``Best of the Valley'' and ``People's Choice'' 
awards. Lorraine's impact reaches well beyond her restaurant. In 
recognition of her dedication, she was awarded the 2017 California 
Faces of Diversity honor by the California Restaurant Association. 
Additionally, in 2022, the Marjaree Mason Center recognized her as one 
of the ``Top Ten Professional Women.''
  Lorraine has also been a distinguished public servant. In 2005, 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed her to The California 
Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley, where she served as co-convener 
of its Higher Education and Workforce Development Group. In 2015, 
Lorraine served as the Chairwoman for the Greater Fresno Area Chamber 
of Commerce.
  Currently, Lorraine serves on the California Office of Small Business 
Advocate's Entrepreneurship and Economic Mobility Task Force and has 
been a member of the California State University, Fresno Foundation 
Board of Governors since 2017. She has dedicated over 28 years to the 
California and Fresno Restaurant Associations and served as Chairperson 
of the California Restaurant Association State Board.
  Today, celebrating 83 years in business in 2024, Sal's Mexican 
Restaurants employ over 150 dedicated team members across three 
locations. The next generation, including Lorraine's son Aaron and her 
brother Karl's children--sons Sal and Roman and daughter Karly--are 
also continuing the family legacy.
  Beyond her professional and civic achievements, Lorraine finds joy in 
culinary and wine travel, beachside relaxation, concerts, movies, and 
professional sports. Above all, she cherishes time spent with her 
husband Tom, son Aaron, and beloved grandsons, Ethan, Tyler, and 
Landon.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Lorraine 
Salazar for her incredible contributions to the culinary industry, 
small business community, and public service. Her dedication is an 
inspiration, and her legacy will continue to enrich our community for 
generations to come.

                          ____________________