[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 140 (Thursday, October 9, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2007]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         THE CONFRATERNIDAD GUINERA VEINTIOCHO DE ENERO HONORED

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 9, 1997

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the members 
and officials of the Confraternidad Guinera Veintiocho de Enero.
  This organization, founded on the 8th of October in 1972 in Union 
City by Mr. Manuel Rodriguez and other residents from the town of 
Guines on the beautiful island of Cuba, is celebrating their 25th 
anniversary. The sons and daughters of Guines living in the United 
States have made us proud of their service and dedication on behalf of 
their community in Union City, NJ.
  This organization came together at a time when Union City, like many 
inner cities in the United States, was facing financial hardship 
because their businesses were moving to the suburbs. The Guineros, as 
part of the Cuban community in exile, contributed to the city's 
renaissance, not only in Union City, but also in the neighboring towns 
of North Bergen, West New York, Guttenberg, and Weehawken. It is 
gratifying to know that this organization brought together the sons and 
daughters of a land left behind and also of an entire community.
  I am certain my colleagues will rise with me to honor this wonderful 
celebration of a job well done.

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