[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18271]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE LIFE OF CITY COUNCILMEMBER MATT GARCIA OF THE FAIRFIELD, 
                            CA CITY COUNCIL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELLEN O. TAUSCHER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 9, 2008

  Mrs. TAUSCHER. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Councilmember Matt 
Garcia, who faithfully served the city of Fairfield and whose life was 
tragically taken last week.
  Councilman Garcia, in his 22 years, made an indelible mark on the 
city of Fairfield and as a young leader he inspired many to make this a 
better world through service and sacrifice.
  As the youngest member ever elected to the Fairfield City Council, 
Matt understood the potential for young people to effect change in 
their communities.
  He coached Little League, rejuvenated the Fairfield Youth Commission, 
and vigorously supported the Police Athletics League; Councilman Garcia 
was a tireless advocate for the youth of Fairfield.
  At the age of 16, Matt told his fellow students that he would become 
the mayor of Fairfield one day and never lost sight of that goal.
  From his days at Armijo High to his victorious race for City Council, 
Matt was able to bring together diverse people and organizations.
  My thoughts and prayers are with Councilmember Garcia's family and 
our community at this very difficult time. I am deeply saddened by his 
passing and know his memory will live on for generations through the 
work of those he inspired.

                          ____________________