[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 131 (Friday, October 1, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S11809]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                     POLISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

 Mr. REED. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the city of 
Pawtucket, Rhode Island's celebration of October as Polish American 
Heritage Month.
  Famous leaders, musicians and scientists of Polish descent have made 
numerous contributions to society. Pope John II, of Wadowice, Poland 
was the first non-Italian Pope chosen by the Roman Catholic Church in 
more than 400 years. Fryderyk Chopin of Zelazowa Wola, Poland is 
remembered for his unique approach to the piano and is considered one 
of the greatest composers of all time. Marie Curie, of Warsaw, Poland 
was awarded a Nobel Prize for physics in 1903 and in 1911, a second 
Nobel Prize for chemistry. Madame Curie is still the only woman in 
history to be awarded two Nobel Prizes.
  The Polish heritage is so alive today because Polish Americans play 
an active role in their cities, towns and communities. Millions of 
Polish immigrants have settled in cities like Pawtucket all across 
America. The Polish people brought their traditions, faith and pride to 
communities across the country and established schools, churches and 
organizations to help celebrate their heritage in America. With over 
47,000 people of Polish descent in Rhode Island alone, one cannot talk 
about the history of Rhode Island or the history of America without 
recognizing the contributions of people of Polish descent.
  Therefore, I urge my colleagues to join with the Polish community of 
Pawtucket in celebrating the city's Polish American Heritage 
Month.

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