[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 160 (2014), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 4577]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO JORGE PAVEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 14, 2014

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a 
dear friend of mine, Jorge Pavez. Jorge passed away on Saturday, March 
8, 2014. Riverside County has been fortunate to have community members 
whose personal stories have contributed immensely to the rich history 
of Southern California. Jorge Pavez was one of these individuals. He 
was truly the definition of the American Dream fulfilled and served as 
an incredible inspiration to those around him. A resident of Corona for 
over 40 years, Jorge was a pillar of the community and will be deeply 
missed.
  The story of Jorge's incredible life began in 1963 when he boarded a 
plane in his home nation of Chile, with a one way ticket to Miami. He 
wasn't sure what the United States of America would hold for him, but 
was ready to tackle any challenge that came his way. With only $150 in 
his pocket upon arrival, success proved distant. He struggled without 
any knowledge of the English language and just a small bed at the local 
YMCA that ran him $5 a night. After a series of unfortunate events, 
Jorge decided to head west to California by driving a Buick convertible 
there for its owner.
  Jorge, who was still learning English and developing his skills, was 
not discouraged by the tough job market, and eventually landed a job as 
a parking attendant in Santa Monica. He was soon transferred to another 
parking lot, and the move proved to be a testament to fate, when he met 
his future wife, Joyce, who worked in management there. She became 
responsible for helping him learn English when she gave him a book to 
assist in the process. With the love and support of Joyce, proven hard 
work at the parking lot, and a new knowledge of the English language, a 
neighborhood insurance agent took notice of Jorge's natural work ethic 
and decided to give him a chance with a job. Insurance was not an 
industry Jorge had come to know while growing up in South America, so 
while he was initially skeptical, he ultimately proved to be a natural 
at selling policies after a few short weeks of getting accustomed to 
the nature of the business.
  Following a tragic event in the community where an insurance policy 
had a real impact, Jorge became a believer in the industry and 
developed a passion for the craft. This would ultimately be the 
beginning of a long and successful career. After starting his own 
agency, CPI Financial & Insurance Services, in two locations and 
acquiring another agency all within a matter of 10 years, Jorge became 
one of the preeminent insurance agents in the Inland Empire.
  Through all of his success, Jorge remained committed to helping 
others fulfill their ``American Dream.'' By promoting employment 
opportunities within his insurance companies, he has been able to help 
others looking for a chance to achieve their own form of success. From 
moving to the country virtually penniless, to being responsible for 
creating economic growth for many in the Inland Empire, Jorge proved 
that it is possible to accomplish your goals with a lot of hard work 
and dedication. On March 14, 2014, Jorge would have celebrated his 50th 
Anniversary in the United States of America.
  On March 20, 2014, a memorial honoring Jorge's extraordinary life 
will be held. He is survived by his loving wife and children. Jorge 
will always be remembered for his incredible work ethic, generosity, 
contributions to the community and love of family. His dedication is a 
testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I 
extend my condolences to Jorge's family and friends; although Jorge may 
be gone, the light and goodness he brought to the world remain and will 
never be forgotten.

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