[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 139 (Wednesday, October 8, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S10714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          ITALIAN-AMERICAN COLUMBUS DAY CELEBRATION (LIVONIA)

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today to celebrate the 
achievements of Italian-Americans as we join to commemorate the 
accomplishment of the first Italian-American, Christopher Columbus. 
Italian-Americans came to this country with little, but have left a 
large mark. Therefore, it gives me great pleasure to celebrate with 
them today, Columbus Day.
  Mr. President, certainly everyone in this country is grateful for the 
courage, dignity, and thrill for exploration given to this Nation by 
Christopher Columbus. As a grandson of Lebanese immigrants, I am 
convinced that the various ethnic heritages people bring with them when 
they come to the United States greatly benefit our country. Indeed, 
Italian-Americans have taken over where Columbus left off, building 
this Nation into the great power that it is. Certainly, without the 
leadership, insight, and continued support of one of this Nation's most 
valued resources, America would face a terrible emptiness.
  Many Italian-Americans have given generously of their time and energy 
in preparation of this celebration, and they should be commended for 
their efforts. I am very pleased to have this opportunity to recognize 
this very meaningful event in the U.S. Senate.

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