[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 87 (Thursday, June 5, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E910-E911]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING ANDREW GARCIA

                                  _____
                                 

                      HON. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 5, 2014

  Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise to 
honor the life of New Mexico resident Andrew ``Andy'' Garcia, a man of 
iconic proportions who developed, refined, and transformed New Mexican 
cuisine in our great State of New Mexico.
  Andy began his entrepreneurial pursuits on his own, 50 years ago with 
his first venture selling New Mexican food at carnivals and street 
fairs. It was not until a few years later that Andy founded the wildly 
successful Garcia's Tents and Events. Andy's life success culminated 
with the establishment of eight Garcia's Kitchen restaurants, a popular 
food choice throughout the Albuquerque metro area.
  For those visiting Albuquerque, as locals will tell you, a stop at 
Garcia's is a must. Today at Andy's establishments, business leaders, 
political icons, and New Mexicans enjoy great food, hospitality and 
camaraderie. Garcia's embodies the spirit of New Mexico culture and is 
a historic pillar in the Albuquerque community--still today and for 
years to come.
  The truth is that Andy's life is a testament to the American Dream 
and the idea that with hard work, persistence, and dedication nothing 
is unattainable. His vision and accomplishments serve as an inspiration 
for future generations of entrepreneurs and small business owners, and 
demonstrate the impact one individual can have on an entire community. 
As a proud family man, Andy was fortunate to see these values passed 
down to his children and grandchildren who continue to manage and build 
his enterprises.
  His family will tell you that he:

       Shared his love, his wisdom, his will to love life and all 
     it brings. He has had many peaks and valleys, highlights and 
     adventures

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     in his 90 years of life, more than most of us. He lived 
     everyday with passion to do his best and to be happy. He is 
     now on his journey into somewhere we will all meet again.

  A successful businessman, loving father, and community icon, Andy was 
indeed a talented man of courage and integrity. His character, love of 
life, enthusiasm and selflessness were felt by all who knew him. It is 
individuals like Andy that make our Nation a sought-after home for 
those with a dream. My thoughts and prayers are with family, and 
everyone who has enjoyed Andy's hospitality and a meal at one of his 
restaurants. May the memory of Andy live on in our hearts.

                          ____________________