[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 69 (Thursday, May 13, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S5318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING JOHN FLORENO

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Mr. John 
Floreno who has been named the Italian American of the Year by the 
Italian Study Group of Troy. The annual recognition is presented to 
those who make significant contributions in promoting and maintaining 
the importance of the Italian culture.
  John Floreno dedicated himself for over 20 years to the Italian 
American Cultural Society in Warren, Michigan, in many ways, including 
raising funds to build the cultural center, arranging for the purchase 
of the center's property, and providing for significant repair costs 
for the center. Over the years, John has been recognized through many 
distinguished awards for his dedication to the Italian heritage.
  It was through John's leadership that the construction of the center 
went forward. The Center is a central location where the community can 
gather to teach and preserve the Italian culture for future 
generations.
  I am proud to say that Michigan is home to one of the most vibrant 
Italian communities in the United States. They have brought countless 
contributions to the Great Lakes State.
  Our Italian community in Michigan has played an important role in 
enhancing the Italian culture, identity and pride of Italian-Americans, 
by teaching the importance of family, church and local community.
  I want to express my congratulations to John Floreno for his years of 
dedication in keeping those traditions alive.
  Mr. President, I yield the floor.

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