[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 129 (Thursday, July 31, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1635-E1636]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       IN HONOR OF YASH PAUL SOI

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 30, 2008

  Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Yash Paul Soi, a 
devoted leader who has worked tirelessly to advance and promote Indian 
culture. Mr. Soi has been an exemplary spokesman and ambassador for the 
causes of India and its people in the United States.
  Mr. Soi has committed himself to supporting the Asian-Indian 
community through the advancement of Indian cultural activities. He has 
been recognized as an Indian cultural icon and his Indian music radio 
program has been vastly influential. His work in bringing Indian issues 
to the media forefront presented him with the opportunity to interview 
Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, President Jimmy Carter, and many 
other distinguished world figures. Additionally, Mr. Soi has 
contributed to American society through his work to bring Indian arts 
to many of our Nation's most famous stages.

[[Page E1636]]

  As a founder and former President of the Federation of Indian 
Associations (FIA), Mr. Soi performed the essential role of 
representing Indian groups in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. 
Under his leadership the FIA has thrived and is now known for its 
annual India Day Parade that goes down New York City's Madison Avenue, 
the largest celebration of Indian Independence Day outside of India.
  As a graduate of Utah State University and Columbia University, Mr. 
Soi has brought his knowledge and experience to improving his 
community, as well as the communities of many others. In 2002, he was 
honored with an ``Outstanding Community Service Award'' for his 
tireless service to the Indian-American community. He was also a beacon 
of hope in the fight to bring democracy to the people of Guyana and 
supported efforts which led to that nation's first free elections.
  Madam Speaker, I sincerely hope that my colleagues will join me in 
honoring Yash Paul Soi. His leadership and perseverance have improved 
Indian-American understanding and will long serve as a shining example 
of what can be accomplished by the determined human spirit.

                          ____________________