[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 160 (Wednesday, December 14, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2522]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF TATIANA HORUNOWYCZ VONDERSAAR AND RUSSIAN HERITAGE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 14, 2005

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Tatiana 
Horunowycz Vondersaar and Russian Heritage on the occasion of the 10th 
Annual Russian Heritage New Years Celebration, January 15, 2006. Mrs. 
Vondersaar's contributions to the Russian community have touched 
countless lives. It is a pleasure to pay tribute to this illustrious 
community leader and, of course, to all Americans of Russian heritage 
who have offered so much to our great Nation.
  There is no doubt that America has become great because the American 
people are great. Coming from all parts of the globe and from humble 
beginnings, the average American is a priceless gift to our society and 
world. Without the common citizen, America would not have assumed the 
uncommon role she enjoys among the nations of the earth. Among these 
citizens are the proud and humble people of Russian heritage who are 
precious gems in the American mosaic.
  I can think of no better example of this unique heritage than Tatiana 
Horunowycz Vondersaar, who has tirelessly promoted Russian heritage 
among the citizens of the great State of Florida. Mrs. Vondersaar is a 
former president and board member of the Russian Heritage located in 
St. Petersburg, FL. The Russian Heritage was established to preserve 
and promote Russian heritage, culture and educational programs among 
family, friends and neighbors.
  Volunteering her time and talents to better the lives of others, Mrs. 
Vodersaar has been active on numerous committees and boards. She 
represented the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society, SPIFFs, 
promoting Russian heritage and culture. Mrs. Vondersaar has worked with 
the Police Athletic League and educated students about the influence of 
Russian customs and traditions. She has lectured at St. Petersburg 
College and volunteered her time at the Salvador Dali Museum. Mrs. 
Vondersaar has served as a translator for Russian immigrants for the 
public defender's office, assisted the elderly, and participated as an 
active and leading member at St. Andrew's Russian Orthodox Church. She 
also has served as treasurer of the Association of Russian Cadets, and 
board member of the Russian American Club.
  Mrs. Vondersaar and her husband Lee, a courageous veteran of World 
War II, are the proud parents of 6 children, 14 grandchildren and 2 
great grandchildren.
  I want to commend Russian Heritage and its President Bill Parsons for 
their leadership in raising awareness of the rich contributions of 
Russian Americans to the United States. I ask my colleagues to join me 
in honoring all Americans of Russian descent and particularly Tatiana 
Horunowycz Vondersaar, whose spirit and dedication serve as a model of 
commitment to us all.

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