[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 19]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 26311]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO MARIANO APRAIZ

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 13, 2001

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize a representative of the American spirit and drive, Mariano 
Apraiz. Mariano is from Spain originally, who after living in this 
nation for over thirty years, will take his oath and become a citizen 
of the United States. The ceremony will take place in Denver, Colorado 
on Friday, December 14.
  The reason I bring Mariano's name to bear is to tell his story and 
determination to become an American. Mariano came to this country to 
find a new way of life and experience new opportunities in the world. 
He found work as a miner, rancher, and eventually a position in the 
local school district. Now at the age of 55, Mariano has made for 
himself successful life in this country and I praise him for his 
determination and courage to live his dream.
  Mr. Speaker, when asked by the Grand Junction Sentinel why he wants 
to gain citizenship, he simply replies, ``I want to vote.'' I think 
this statement speaks volumes for the pride Mariano has in his new 
country. He wants to be part of the process, he wants to participate in 
civic responsibility, and he wants to make a difference. Mariano has 
grown to love this nation and in these difficult and trying times, he 
is a symbol of national pride and spirit.

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