SACRAMENTO - In a ceremony today at the state capitol, Assembly Member Hector De La Torre (D-South Gate) honored Aurelia Harris as the "Woman of the Year" for the 50th Assembly District. The ceremony is held annually in Sacramento to recognize women that have contributed above and beyond in their communities.

Mrs. Aurelia Harris was born in Dale, Texas on September 23rd, 1915. She was the oldest of thirteen children which placed many responsibilities on her at an early age. Mrs. Harris has been an active member of Carver Missionary Baptist Church since 1946 and has also served on the Pacific District Women"s Missionary Union.

In addition to her involvement in religious organizations, Mrs. Harris participates in a variety of community civic organizations. She is President of the Florence-Firestone Coordinating Council and is also active in the Florence-Firestone Community Enhancement Team whose mission it is to enhance community involvement and improve municipal services for residents.

Mrs. Harris a lifetime member of the National Council of Negro Woman and has received achievement awards on twelve separate occasions. Mrs. Harris aims to help youth, seniors and low income families in need by raising funds to support community programs. Mrs. Harris is well known and highly respected as a community leader and volunteer.

During the floor session all of the honored women were recognized and given a certificate by Assembly Speaker Fabian Nuñez. After session there was a reception hosted by the Legislative Women's Caucus with special guest First Lady Maria Shriver in the State Museum.

In addition to the ceremony in the State Capitol, Assembly Member De La Torre will host his local "Women of Courage" event on March 23, 2005 in Lynwood. The event will honor other local women leaders from each of the communities within the 50th Assembly District.