[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 89 (Friday, June 28, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1185]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     TRIBUTE TO THE 16TH ANNUAL MAR ADDAI CHALDEAN CHURCH FESTIVAL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 27, 2002

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Chaldean 
American community of Michigan, who celebrated the 16th Annual Mar 
Addai Chaldean Church Festival on Sunday, June 23, 2002.
  As Michigan is home to a thriving Chaldean American community, we 
have the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments and contributions 
of a fabulous people. They possess a focused vision of their future and 
will do all they feel is necessary to ensure prosperity.
  Today, the United States is enriched by the many Chaldean Americans 
who have made this country their home. As one of the largest 
communities in Michigan, Chaldean Americans are making their mark, 
serving as hard working members of the civic, business, and 
professional communities. They have made major contributions to nearly 
every facet of American society. The Chaldean American community of 
Michigan truly adds to the wonderfully diverse American culture by 
sharing with us their customs, traditions and beliefs.
  The 16th Annual Mar Addai Chaldean Church Festival attests to the 
wealth of the culture we have developed here in Michigan. An all day 
festival of food, music, dancing, and fun, the Mar Addai Festival is 
attended by thousands of Chaldean and non-Chaldean people and is one of 
the largest and most successful family festivals in Oakland County. The 
spirit and enthusiasm of the Chaldean American community of 
Southeastern Michigan has been such an invaluable asset to our great 
state, and will surely continue to bring families and communities 
together for many years to come.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Chaldean 
American community of Michigan on this landmark day, and I salute them 
all for their tremendous contributions and support.

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