[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 39 (Thursday, April 7, 2005)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E587-E588] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING POLLY ANN GONZALEZ ______ HON. SHELLEY BERKLEY of nevada in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 6, 2005 Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. Speaker, on March 28, 2005, my community of southern Nevada lost one of its most outstanding citizens. Polly Ann Gonzalez was taken from us in a highway accident, a tragic event that shocked the community. Southern Nevadans by the thousands have expressed their sense of loss and their loving memories of Polly through their e-mails of condolence, their attendance at memorial services, and their contributions in support of Polly's daughters, Sabrina and Gabriella. The passing of Polly Gonzalez is a heart-rending instance of the good dying young, far too young. In her mere 43 years, Polly attained the highest levels of accomplishment, both as a newswoman and as an advocate for people in need. Polly first earned the reputation as a top-notch television investigative reporter in northern California, exposing the social and economic injustices faced by agricultural workers and by revealing the growing threat of gang violence, among other important stories she brought to light. Honored with an Emmy Award, Polly moved on to Las Vegas, where she quickly established herself as one of the area's most popular, admired, and energetic television news anchors. Polly's passion for bringing truth to the public through her reporting was matched by her commitment to public service. She established herself as a most effective advocate for the advancement of the Latino community and for the less advantaged. She went beyond the call of duty to be involved in community organizations and events, accepting myriad requests for her time, her talent, and her energy to support the people of the Las Vegas area. As was stated on KLAS-TV8, where Polly worked for 10 years, she ``always was . . . standing up for people whose voices might not have carried as much weight as hers.'' She was a preeminent role model for young women, whom she showed, ``if they put their mind to it they could accomplish anything.'' Polly's passing has brought an overwhelming and nearly unprecedented outpouring of emotion from those who knew her personally or knew her only through her newscasts. I join all southern Nevadans in mourning the loss of a great friend, a great newswoman, and a great contributor to the building of a community with opportunity for all. I miss you, Polly, and I thank you, my [[Page E588]] friend, for the treasured moments I shared with you, for your soaring spirit, and for the marvelous work you accomplished. ____________________