[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 40 (Wednesday, March 12, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E437]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING BROOKLYN CHINESE-AMERICAN ASSOCIATION 15TH ANNIVERSARY 
                              CELEBRATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 12, 2003

  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 15th 
anniversary of the Brooklyn Chinese-American Association.
  The Brooklyn Chinese-American Association (BCA) has developed into 
the largest service and community development organization for the 
Asian communities of Brooklyn since its inception in 1987. BCA 
addresses the needs and concerns of Asian Americans, which therefore 
enhances the strength and cohesiveness of our neighborhoods.
  Since BCA's beginnings, Brooklyn's Asian-American communities have 
seen tremendous growth with recent estimates of more than 250,000 
Asian-American residents. Sunset Park has seen such a significant 
increase that it is now called ``Brooklyn's Chinatown.'' Due to this 
population boom BCA provides numerous services and programs to ease 
transition of recent immigrants.
  These programs include three early childhood education centers, nine 
youth-oriented programs, comprehensive bilingual social services, crime 
prevention and victim services. BCA also organizes community events and 
economic development projects. One annual event BCA is proud of is the 
annual Chinese New Year's parade, which brings local residents together 
to celebrate their heritage and traditions.
  In celebration of BCA's 15th anniversary, I would like to acknowledge 
their hard work and dedication to enhancing the lives of Asian 
Americans in Brooklyn. Over the years, BCA's achievements have enabled 
them to offer programs that bring great joy to many residents.
  I hereby join the Brooklyn Chinese-American Association along with 
Asian-Americans throughout the city to celebrate BCA's 15th 
anniversary.

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