[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 75 (Thursday, June 15, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1025-E1026]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           OLAYA DANCE STUDIO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SOLOMON P. ORTIZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 15, 2000

  Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to an integral part of 
our cultural community, the Olaya Dance Studio of corpus Christi, 
Texas. They will be holding their annual recital this weekend on 
Saturday, June 17, and I want them to know how much we appreciate what 
they do.
  In the Coastal Bend of South Texas, Olaya Dance Studio contributes 
mightily to the entertainment of the area through the dancing of 
children. It is, after all, children who fascinate us as well as 
entertain us, and teach us a little bit about ourselves.
  The dancers at Olaya range in age from 3 through adult. They do a 
host of dances but are known particularly for Flamenco, which is 
Spanish classical dance, and Folklorico, traditional Mexican dances 
from different regions in Mexico. There are nearly 100 dancers, and 
Olaya Dance Studio attracts both boys and girls.
  There are certain times of the year when people around Corpus Christi 
just cannot get enough of these talented young people. These dancers 
perform a valuable cultural community service. South Texans celebrate 
two holidays that are unique to the Southwest Border, Cinco de Mayo and 
the 16 de Septiembre.
  Cinco de Mayo pays homage to a great Mexican battlefield victory over 
the French in the 19th Century. The 16 de Septiembre celebrates Mexican 
Independence Day. On these two holidays, and for many other holidays 
throughout the year, including birthdays, anniversaries or other 
special occasions, the Olaya dancers are in great demand. They will 
even go to dinners held at homes of area restaurants to perform for 
special events.

[[Page E1026]]

  Olaya Dance Studio is run by Olaya Solia, a director, choreographer, 
and performer who is dedicated to children and educating them through 
dance.
  I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Olaya Dance Studio 
for the contribution they make to the community of Corpus Christi and 
the Coastal Bend.

                          ____________________