[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 84 (Tuesday, June 17, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1229]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO SPECIAL GRADUATES OF NEW YORK'S 12TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

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                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 17, 1997

  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, with great pride I would like to 
congratulate some special graduates of the 12th Congressional District 
of New York. I am certain that this day marks the culmination of much 
hard work and many valiant efforts for these students; work and effort 
which have led and will lead them to continued success. They have 
overcome the obstacles of overcrowded and dilapidated classrooms, 
antiquated and insufficient instructional materials, the all too 
frequent distractions of random violence and pervasive drug activity, 
and, for some, having to adapt to a new language and new customs. But 
these students have persevered despite the odds. Their success is a 
tribute not only to their own strength, but also to the supportive 
parents and teachers who have encouraged them to achieve.
  These students have learned that education is priceless. They know 
that education will provide them with the tools and opportunities to be 
successful in any endeavor they pursue. In many respects, this is the 
most important lesson they will carry with them for the rest of their 
lives.
  In closing, I would like to say that youth in America must be 
encouraged to stay on course and complete their educations so they can 
pave the way for a better future. Let us not forget that their future 
is the future of this Nation. These successful graduates of the 12th 
Congressional District take the charge to lead our Nation very 
seriously as their commitment to their education has demonstrated. Mr. 
Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to 
join me in congratulating the following graduates who have triumphed 
despite adversity and who have achieved outstanding academic standing.
  Congratulations to the 1997 graduates of the 12th Congressional 
District:
  Sherlley Medina, John Denton and Geimy Colon--El Puente Academy for 
Peace and Justice High School.
  Evelyn Reynoso and Carlos Segura--Eastern District High School.
  Naisha Arthur and Ragon Atkhas--Bushwick High School.
  Dawn Stokes and Alberto Sanchez--East New York High School.
  Jetaime Toliver and Shykia Bell--Maxwell High School.
  Dory Garcia and Kaleena Torres--Intermediate School 291.
  Christina Rodriguez and Bartosz Bernatowicz--Charles O. Dewey Middle 
School.
  Nina Soto--Middle School 88.
  Delaila Catalino and Edwin Carrion--Public School 86.

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