[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16635]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF ESTER MATA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 11, 2002

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to the life of 
Esther Mata, a beloved community member.
  Esther took much pride in her cherished San Bernardino community. 
Being a long time resident of San Bernardino she attended San 
Bernardino High School and San Bernardino Valley College. Her love for 
the city and its people was deeply rooted. She was the quintessential 
community activist for despite challenges, she continued to fight for 
services to be implemented in the community. Her presence and efforts 
in the community was a vital source in motivating people and enhancing 
the community.
  Esther devoted her life to improve the livelihood of her fellow 
community members through her civic engagement and involvement. Some of 
her accomplishments include serving as President of the Inland Empire 
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, President of Sinfonia Mexicana, and 
President of the Inland Counties Hispanic Roundtable. She was San 
Bernardino's catalyst to progress. Her passion enabled her to make 
great contributions that will never be forgotten. One of her most 
memorable contributions was garnering an $87,000 grant from the county 
to assess Hispanic business in the area.
  Esther passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2002. She is survived by 
her son, Malcolm Mata; three daughters Sylvia Zicafoose, Bernardine 
Leutz, and Desiree Forshay; two brothers Raymond and Louie Lopez; and 
sister Braulia Ortega. Her family, innumerable friends, and the entire 
community will miss her greatly.
  And so Mr. Speaker, I submit this memorial to be included in the 
archives of the history of this great nation, for individuals like 
Esther are unique in their generous contributions to this country.

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