[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 138 (Monday, September 30, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1854]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CELEBRATING GERMAN-AMERICAN DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Saturday, September 28, 1996

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I am looking forward to celebrating German-
American Day, which is traditionally observed on October 6, with the 
community in Michigan. In community halls, homes, and places of worship 
across the Nation, German-Americans will be gathering to reflect on 
their heritage. In Macomb County, we will be gathering on Saturday, 
October 5, at the Carpathia Club in Sterling Heights. The local German-
American club, chaired by Agnes Newman, will again be hosting the 
celebration.
  Since the first German immigrants settled in America on October 6, 
1683, German-Americans have made significant contributions to the 
heritage and culture of the United States.
  Today, there are more than 50 million citizens of German ancestry in 
America. Together, we have forged a strong and lasting bond. Our two 
nations have made a strong commitment to strengthening the friendship 
between our two governments and our citizens. While the importance of 
the relationship between our two governments cannot be emphasized 
enough, it is the personal connections we make that will keep the 
relationship flourishing. We have been associated with several very 
good programs that help to do just that.
  In Michigan's 10th District, we have been very closely associated 
with the Congress-Bundestag exchange program for young professionals. 
This year, we are hosting three Germans who we hope will benefit from 
the experience, and young people from our communities are guests in 
Germany. In addition to the Congress-Bundestag program, there are 
efforts such as the staff exchange that help to strengthen our bonds of 
friendship.
  Mr. Speaker, in this spirit, it is a fitting tribute to German-
Americans to again observe German-American Day and celebrate our 
friendship together.

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