[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 64 (Tuesday, May 8, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E728]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


       IN RECOGNITION OF THE MOBILE TURKISH COFFEE HOUSE PROJECT

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 8, 2012

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Mobile 
Turkish Coffee House, currently touring the East Coast to promote 
friendship between Turkish and American people. Led by Gizem Salcigil 
White, this all-volunteer, non-profit project has decorated a food 
truck with images of Turkey and is travelling to Washington D.C.; 
Baltimore, Maryland; New York City; New Haven, Connecticut; and Boston, 
Massachusetts to share free Turkish coffee with Americans in order to 
facilitate ``coffee conversations'' between Turkish and American 
people.
  The United States of America and the Republic of Turkey have close 
diplomatic ties and they cooperate on many issues. The Mobile Turkish 
Coffee House project is promoting awareness of this friendship through 
fun cultural events. In addition to sharing free coffee, the Mobile 
Turkish Coffee House is hosting educational events throughout the East 
Coast. The events feature expert lectures and free tastings followed by 
short role-plays that reflect Turkish traditions and values.
  Turkish coffee is world-renowned. This unique coffee was recently 
submitted to UNESCO's World Heritage list by the Republic of Turkey's 
Ministry of Culture and Tourism as a cultural inheritance that should 
be protected. The Ottoman Empire brought coffee to Europe, from which 
it made its way to the United States. Both Americans and Turkish people 
enjoy coffee; through this project both peoples can learn more about 
our shared history.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating Gizem 
Salcigil White and all the volunteers who have made The Mobile Turkish 
Coffee House a reality. As they spread their message of good will, we 
recognize their spirit of friendship and commend them for their efforts 
to promote peace and international camaraderie.

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