[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 103 (Monday, July 23, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1400]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      IN RECOGNITION OF THE BOLIVIAN FOLKLORIC GROUP, LOS KJARKAS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 23, 2001

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Los Kjarkas, a 
world-renowned Bolivian folkloric group.
  The seven members of Los Kjarkas, Gonzalo Hermosa Gonzalez, Elmer 
Hermosa Gonzalez, Gaston Guardia Bilbao, Eduardo Yanez Loayza, Miguel 
Mengoa Montes de Oca, Rolando Malpartida Porcel, and Ivan Barrientos 
Murillo will begin the American portion of their 2001 world tour on 
July 28th, in New York City.
  Often referred to as the Ambassadors of Bolivia, audiences throughout 
the country will be entertained by Los Kjarkas' folkloric 
presentations. The music of Los Kjarkas provides audiences with an 
Andean cultural experience that will enhance their knowledge and 
exposure to Bolivian customs and traditions.
  Before coming to the United States, Los Kjarkas will begin their 
international tour in Europe with performance throughout Spain and 
Switzerland. The tour will conclude in South America.
  Los Kjarkas has used its fame and notoriety to positively impact the 
lives of youths throughout Latin America. In 1994, the group 
established ``la fundacion Kjarkas'', a foundation devoted to teaching 
children throughout Lain America how to compose and perform Andean 
music. As a result of their dedication and commitment, Los Kjarkas has 
inspired many Latin American children to pursue musical endeavors.
  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Los Kjarkas for 
their outstanding musical contributions and unparalleled commitment to 
the children of Latin America.

                          ____________________