[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 12665]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING IRMA LOPEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JULIA BROWNLEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 30, 2013

  Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to 
recognize Irma J. Lopez, a community leader and activist, who is a 
tireless champion of women's and social justice issues in Ventura 
County. Irma is a remarkable role model, and a woman who never stops 
striving to improve and strengthen her community.
   Irma was born and raised in Ventura County. As a graduate of 
Camarillo High School and the University of California, Santa Barbara, 
Irma has been a longstanding citizen of the area. Her career in public 
service began in the State of California Employment Development 
Department, where she worked for more than 20 years. Additionally, Irma 
also worked for California State Senator Gary Hart.
   Irma's leadership is a testament to her invigorating commitment to 
Ventura County. She is the founder, former chair and a current board 
member of Ventura County's Rebozo Festival. Every year, this festival 
promotes the cultural richness and diversity of the Latino community 
and philanthropy in Ventura County.
   Irma is also a founding member of the Women's Legacy Fund and the 
Destino Hispanic Legacy Fund. She is a former City of Oxnard Woman of 
the Year and has been recognized for her humanitarian achievements on 
both the local and national level.
   Irma's passion for public service and dedication to the community is 
one that I commend. Throughout her life, Irma's tireless efforts have 
always focused on helping those who are underrepresented and unheard. 
She is an exemplary model of the great achievements a devoted citizen 
can make.
   I have personally known Irma for many years and am most pleased to 
join the Ventura County Women's Political Council in honoring Irma 
Lopez for her contributions, dedication and engagement in Ventura 
County.

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