[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 17 (Thursday, February 4, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E151]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING MEKONG PLAZA AND ITS CELEBRATION OF THE VIETNAMESE TET NEW 
                                  YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HARRY E. MITCHELL

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 4, 2010

  Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the many 
contributions that the Mekong Plaza has made to the City of Mesa and 
surrounding communities. In just over a year since its Grand Opening, 
Mekong Plaza has proven to be a distinctive and uniquely wonderful 
element of Mesa's community. The grocery story and many shops and 
restaurants serve as a window into the Southeast Asian culture, 
showcasing Vietnamese food, clothing, culture and hospitality.
  I especially want to recognize that, this year, all of the proceeds 
from Mekong Plaza's annual Vietnamese Tet New Year Celebration--the 
largest such event in Arizona--will be donated to provide services to 
the needy and to assist public safety through the non-profit CARE 
Partnership and the Mesa Public Safety Foundation.
  I am truly privileged to represent such a strong cultural fixture in 
our district and will continue to treasure the plaza's addition to 
Mesa's diversity. As many in the Vietnamese community decorate their 
homes with flowers and share special cuisine to start the New Year, I 
am honored to share in their celebration. Again, I am proud to serve 
the Mekong Plaza and am eager to see its continued success and growth.
  I urge you, Madam Speaker, to join me in rising to congratulate the 
tenants and management team at Mekong Plaza for their tremendous 
service and contributions to Mesa and the surrounding community.

                          ____________________