[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 134 (Friday, October 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1814]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       IN HONOR OF MARIA PESTANA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2002

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Maria Pestana for 
thirty years of service to Hudson United Bank (HUD) and communities 
throughout New Jersey. The Federation of Cuban Musicians is honoring 
Mrs. Pestana for her dedication to Hudson United Bank and the Hispanic 
community on Saturday, October 12, 2002, at Las Palmas Restaurant in 
West New York, New Jersey.
  In 1957, as a young adult, Mrs. Pestana arrived in the United States 
from Cuba, initially devoting her time to the care of her family. As 
her children grew, Mrs. Pestana began a career at Hudson United Bank 
She started at an entry-level position, but her enthusiasm and hard 
work quickly propelled her up the corporate ladder. Today, she is the 
well-regarded Executive Vice President of HUD and the General Manager 
of the Main Office.
  For over thirty years, she has been a devoted employee, not only 
providing outstanding customer service, but also helping HUD become a 
fundamental fixture of the community. Her ability to rise to the 
occasion and attend to the needs of her customers and colleagues has 
gained her much respect and admiration.
  Mrs. Pestana, and her husband, Francisco, have four children, Frank, 
Mary, Georgia and Jackie.
  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Maria Pestana for 
her outstanding leadership and countless accomplishments. She is an 
important and integral part of the Hispanic community, and we are proud 
of her dedication and hard work on behalf of all New Jerseyans.

                          ____________________