[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 34 (Wednesday, March 17, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E393]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING LAREDO DAY IN WASHINGTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 17, 2004

  Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize today, March 17, 
2004, as Laredo Day in Washington. A distinguished delegation from 
Laredo is in our Nation's Capital this week to meet with leaders and 
decision-makers in Congress and executive branch. Please join me, Mr. 
Speaker, in welcoming them.
  Settled in 1775 by Spaniards, the first Texas cattle drives 
transformed Laredo from a settlement of three families into a principal 
stop on the lower Camino Real, the Spanish royal highway.
  Laredo became the first official port of entry on the United States-
Mexico border in 1851. Today, Laredo handles more trade traffic than 
ports found in Southern California, New Mexico, Arizona and West Texas 
combined. As the fastest growing city east of the Rocky Mountains and 
the second fastest growing city in Texas, Laredo has become a vibrant 
and booming economic hub on the United States-Mexico border.
  Much like it shares goods across the border, Laredo's culture melds 
both American and Mexican traditions. A prime example of this cultural 
fusion is Laredo's famed Washington's Birthday Celebration. The event 
includes over 34 events, lasts 17 days and brings together Americans 
and Mexicans alike. One event, the International Bridge Ceremony, takes 
place on the Lincoln-Juarez bridge and includes the meeting of 
officials, dignitaries, and children from both sides of the border. The 
groups share an embrace signifying the friendship and cooperation 
shared between the two nations. I was privileged to participate in this 
event earlier this year.
  Helping to foster this camaraderie is the mayor of Laredo, the 
Honorable Betty Flores. Elected in 1998, Mayor Flores is the first 
female mayor to serve Laredo. She has worked diligently to improve the 
quality of life for all citizens of Laredo by tirelessly promoting her 
city without compromising the dignity of those she serves. Among the 
projects she has initiated are the Colonias Improvement Project, the 
inauguration of the Laredo Entertainment Center, and the opening of the 
World Trade Bridge. Mayor Flores' leadership on the state, local and 
national levels has brought prestige to her city.
  Laredo's importance as a trade zone and cultural center is 
unparalleled, and its future is bright. It is my honor to recognize 
this city and Laredo Day 2004.

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