[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 71 (Friday, June 9, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E928]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            DAY OF PORTUGAL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. GARY A. CONDIT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 7, 2000

  Mr. CONDIT. Mr. Speaker, today I honor a very important community in 
the 18th Congressional District. On Saturday, June 9, 2000, the 
Portuguese community will celebrate the Day of Portugal in Hilmar, 
California.
  The Central Valley of California has long been a home for many from 
the Azores region of Portugal. Our communities have been enriched by 
the contributions of the Portuguese community. In honor of this 
distinguished celebration, three mayors from Portugal will be in 
attendance to participate in honor of the Portuguese culture. The 
mayors--Jorge Manuel Perira Rodrigues, President-Camara Municipal da 
Madalena; Manuel Joaquim Neves da Costa, President-Camara Municipal das 
Roque do Pico; and Eng. Claudio Gomes Lopes, President-Camara Municipal 
das Lajes do Pico--have traveled to the Central Valley of California 
for this celebration.
  Many families have immigrated from Pico to the Merced County area 
over the years. Many have achieved prominent status in the areas of 
business, education, and politics. These families have maintained close 
ties to Pico and the Azores.
  I consider it an honor and privilege to recognize the Day of Portugal 
and the special guests who have traveled so far to share it with our 
community.

                          ____________________