[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 160 (Thursday, November 13, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2346]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING RECIPIENTS OF HISPANIC INDEPENDENCE AWARDS

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                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 13, 1997

  Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Hispanic 
Independence Awards Ceremony that will be held on Saturday, November 
15, 1997, at Mott Community College in my hometown of Flint, MI.
  September is National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Hispanic 
Independence Awards is a special event to celebrate Hispanic culture, 
ideas, and achievements in Genesee County. The Hispanic community will 
once again honor individuals who have unselfishly committee themselves 
to making Flint and Genesee County a better place for all people.
  The Pedro Mata Leadership Award is given to a person who has provided 
leadership, encouragement, and influence in the Hispanic community. Mr. 
Chris Flores is this year's honoree. The Tano Resendez Community 
Service Award is being bestowed upon Mr. Pedro Suarez for his dedicated 
personal efforts to promote civic and cultural activities.
  The Joe Benavidez Education Award will be presented to Ms. Marcie 
Forsleff for her support of educational issues relating to Hispanics of 
all ages. The Rafael Arceo, Sr. Labor Involvement Award will be given 
to Ms. Marcie Garcia for her efforts to increase community awareness, 
improve the quality of life, and open doors for Hispanics.
  Ms. Sue Quintanilla will be honored with the Bruno Valdez Arts and 
Entertainment Award for promoting Hispanic culture through professional 
and personal activity. The Domingo Berlanga Veterans Award will be 
given to Mr. Refugio Rodriquez for his honorable service in the U.S. 
Armed Forces. The final award, the Pedro Mata, Jr. Scholarship Award 
will be given to a student that has a commitment to community service 
and a desire to continue their education.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today and ask my 
colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing 
the accomplishments of these individuals and the entire Hispanic 
community. I congratulate the honorees for their compassion and 
commitment to helping their fellow citizens.

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