HONORING THE CAREER OF LORRAINE SALAZAR

On 2025-03-18, Representative Jim Costa (D-CA-21) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE CAREER OF LORRAINE SALAZAR" in the House. The speech addressed the environment and also covered trade policy, education.

HONORING THE CAREER OF LORRAINE SALAZAR

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025) [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. ____________________