[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 195 (Tuesday, November 17, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1040]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING MR. FRANCISCO MANTILLA

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 17, 2020

  Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Francisco 
Mantilla for his commitment to the people of New Jersey. Mr. Mantilla 
came to this country from Ecuador in pursuit of the American Dream. A 
businessman, father and community leader, Francisco leads a rich life 
here in the United States. He is a role model for many in the Silk 
City. Today, I ask that we honor him for all his outstanding work.
  Born to Mr. Francisco Arturo Mantilla Sr. and Rosa Mantilla Faz, 
Francisco's story starts in Ecuador. A studious and dedicated 
individual, Francisco would complete high school with high honors and 
by the age of twenty-one, earn a law degree from the Catholic 
University of Guayaquil. Mr. Mantilla, after completing his education, 
made the brave decision to leave Ecuador for greater opportunity here 
in the United States.
  In 1970, Francisco arrived in the Silk City. In Paterson, Mr. 
Mantilla would begin his journey as an American citizen with dreams of 
a better life for his family. Living briefly in New York, Francisco met 
his wonderful wife Elsa and in 1972, resettled permanently in the City 
of Paterson. Married a year later in 1973, Francisco and Elsa would 
have three children, Rosa, Francisco and Elsa Elizabeth.
  The year is 1980, and together with his wife, Elsa's Fashions is 
opened on 21st Ave. in Paterson. The second ever Latino owned business 
in the immediate area. Elsa's Fashions would become an important 
gathering place and respected establishment for the Latin American 
community. The owner and operator, Francisco would encourage and 
support other Latin Americans to start their own small business. 
Offering guidance and leadership, there has been no greater advocate 
for the businesses here in the Silk City.
  A founding member of many community organizations, we can see 
Francisco's work throughout the State of New Jersey. Starting the 
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Paterson and the 21st Ave. Business 
Association, there are hundreds if not thousands of small business 
owners who have Francisco to thank for his contributions. A liaison 
with the City of Paterson, Mr. Mantilla is a constant advocate before 
the Mayor and council on behalf of the small businesses on 21st Ave.
  Francisco Mantilla has shared his prosperity with the community. 
Hosting toy drives, voter registration drives and clothing and food 
drives for the less fortunate, Francisco gives back and raises others 
up in the City of Paterson. Recognized by many different organizations 
for his community activism, Francisco was named the ``Patersonian of 
the Year'', ``Entrepreneur of the Year'' and ``The Ambassador of 21st 
Avenue''. I, on the other hand, know him to be my friend.
  The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, yet nothing compares to working with and recognizing the 
efforts of individuals like Mr. Francisco Mantilla.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, friends, family, 
and the residents of New Jersey in recognizing Francisco Mantilla, as 
we celebrate his years of distinguished service to the people of the 
Ninth Congressional District.

                          ____________________