[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 5 (Tuesday, February 3, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E81]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN HONOR OF THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE CITY OF PICO RIVERA

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                       HON. ESTEBAN EDWARD TORRES

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 3, 1998

  Mr. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise in honor of the 40th 
anniversary of the City of Pico Rivera. On Thursday, January 29, 1998, 
residents from the City of Pico Rivera came together at a ``City 
Birthday Party'' celebration in honor of this milestone and to 
inaugurate Pico Rivera's yearlong 40th anniversary festivities.
  Following a grass roots movement for incorporation, the neighboring 
communities of Pico and Rivera decided to join together as an 
incorporated city. On January 7, 1958, an election was held to select 
the name of the 61st city incorporated in the County of Los Angeles and 
to create a City Council-City Manager form of government. On January 
29, 1958, the Secretary of State received and filed the election 
results of the residents of this newly formed city and by resolution of 
the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors the City of Pico Rivera was 
born.
  During the past four decades, the residents of Pico Rivera have grown 
together as a strong family oriented community. The City's residents 
are highly motivated, faithful, and unselfishly willing to share their 
talents and time to build a brighter future for their community. The 
City provides a variety of programs and services to its residents, who 
take full ownership in its success. Over the years, citizens of Pico 
Rivera have remained steadfast and strong in their belief in civic 
duty. With many proactive youth, senior, veteran and civic groups, Pico 
Rivera is proud of its over 60,000 friendly citizens.
  The City of Pico Rivera has made substantial and significant 
contributions to the progress and development of Southern California. 
Located in the center of the City is the former site of the once 
thriving Ford Auto plant. Now, in that same location is one of our 
nation's critical links in our national defense, the Northrop-Grumman 
B-2 Division. Truly the City of Pico Rivera has a long and rich history 
of local, regional, and national significance.
  The birthday celebration was a kick off for the City of Pico Rivera's 
yearlong family oriented festivities. Entertainment was provided by 
children and youth groups in the community. The Ladies Vocal Ensemble 
from El Rancho High School performed ``Las Mananitas,'' a Mexican 
birthday folk song as the community joined in the chorus of ``Happy 
Birthday.'' Other performances were provided by the nationally 
acclaimed North Park Middle School Marching Band, a participant in the 
1997 Tournament of Roses Parade, South Ranchito Elementary and El 
Rancho High School Folklorico Dancers, and the Pico Rivera Football for 
Youth Donnas. The Colors were presented by my fellow veterans of the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7734, led by Commander Joe Perez.
  In February, banners emblazoned with the colorful 40th Anniversary 
logo will be installed on street lights along major city thoroughfares. 
In March, the City's annual ``Youthfest'' will tie in its art 
celebration with the City's 40th birthday. A city-wide tree planting 
program will be kicked off in April, tying in the anniversary 
celebration with ``Earth Day.'' Discussions are underway for planning a 
parade and family festival in May. The July 4th fireworks display will 
carry the anniversary theme as will the ``Concert in the Park'' summer 
series in July and August. Junior and business golf tournaments for 
charity have been proposed as well as a Hispanic cultural event in 
October. The 40th Anniversary will conclude with the New Year's Gala 
entitled ``The Next Best 40 Years.''
  Planning the events is the mayor's Select Anniversary Steering 
Committee chaired by Ms. Terri Bodadilla. Others on the committee who 
have dedicated their talents and time are Armando Abrego, Stephen 
Chavez, Charmaine Garcia, Bea Palomarez, and Gregory Salicido.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mayor Bea 
Proo, Mayor Pro Tem Garth Gardner, Council members Pete Ramirez, Carlos 
Garcia, and Helen O'Hara, the City staff, community leaders and 
residents on the occasion of the City of Pico Rivera's 40th Anniversary 
and send our best wishes for its continued success and prosperity.

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