[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 109 (Tuesday, July 29, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1547]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E1547]]



      IN HONOR OF THE PERUVIAN COMMUNITY CELEBRATING 176 YEARS OF 
                              INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 29, 1997

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
Peruvian community as they celebrate their 13th Annual State Parade. 
This event, which recognizes Peruvian independence from Spain, was 
celebrated on Sunday, July 27, 1997, in the cities of Passaic, Clifton, 
and Paterson, NJ.
  Peru's independence began 176 years ago on July 28, 1821. The State 
Parade is the biggest celebration of Peruvian immigrants in my home 
State of New Jersey. They have made many contributions to this country. 
They have distinguished themselves at every level of American society. 
Their dedication to family and community demonstrates what can be 
accomplished when people work together.
  The Peruvian community is honored to have Carlos Noriega Jimenez and 
Roberto Chale as the grand marshals of the parade. Carlos Noriega 
Jimenez is the first Peruvian-American in space. He is a major for the 
USMC who was on the May 15, 1997, NASA mission STS-84 aboard the space 
shuttle Atlantis. Mr. Noriega Jimenez is loved by the Peruvian 
community and serves as an inspiration for the entire Hispanic 
population.
  Roberto Chale is the former star soccer player of the Peruvian 
national team. Mr. Chale, along with other Peruvian soccer players, 
remain as role models for the younger generation.
  I commend the 1997 Peruvian Parade Committee led by parade president 
Jose Falen who is currently in his third year as the parade president, 
and vice-president Lusi Ona for their work in making this event 
possible. On this momentous occasion, a number of people will be 
recognized for their outstanding work: Ambassador Carlos Gamarra 
Mujica, Florencio Guerrero, Lucila Campos, Daisy Cuellar, Dr. Carlos 
Neyra Estens, Roberto Bustamante, and Jose Cabada. Each of these 
exceptional individuals has made a unique contribution to enhancing the 
image of Hispanics in our community.
  It is gratifying to know that the Peruvian Day Parade brings our 
community together, reflecting on the cities of Passaic, Clifton, 
Paterson, and the State of New Jersey. I am certain my colleagues will 
rise with me and recognize this wonderful celebration of culture and 
diversity.

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