[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 144 (Thursday, September 22, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1338]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN MEMORY OF ALEJANDRO DURAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALAN S. LOWENTHAL

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 22, 2016

  Mr. LOWENTHAL. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to remember a prominent Long 
Beach resident, Mr. Alejandro Duran. He was respected and liked by many 
in the community, known best for his work at the restaurant, Chianina, 
in Naples. As an experienced chef, sommelier, and general manager, 
Alejandro's extensive background and personality made him a popular 
figure within Long Beach's culinary community.
   Alejandro's experience with cooking spans over several years. Prior 
to moving to Long Beach, he worked in Austin, Texas as a chef at the 
Latin American restaurant, Malaga. Alejandro's entrepreneurial and 
culinary skills helped project Malaga to prominent success. In 2013, he 
moved to Long Beach, California and joined the Michael's Restaurant 
Group as general manager of Chianina.
   Alejandro was an active and energetic manager who often enjoyed 
engaging with customers. He was a respected leader amongst the 
restaurant staff for constantly motivating and supporting them. 
Alejandro's devotion to Chianina helped make it one of the top ten 
steak restaurants in the United States.
   The sudden loss of Alejandro has been a devastating blow to the 
community, Chianina, and his family. He is survived by his wife, Dana--
to whom he was happily married for eight years--and two daughters, 
Isabella and Sofia--to whom he was devoted to raising. Alejandro 
Duran's passing was sudden and shocking, but he will be remembered for 
the lasting impact he left on the Long Beach community.

                          ____________________