[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Pages 16498-16499]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                        FIESTA 2002 CELEBRATION

 Mr. LUGAR. Mr. President, as a lifelong supporter of cultural 
heritage events and friend of the Indianapolis Hispanic-Latino 
Community, I rise today to share with my colleagues my interest in, and 
strong support for, an important cultural event that will take place in 
Indianapolis on September 21.
  For the 22nd year, Fiesta will be held on the American Legion Mall in 
downtown Indianapolis to celebrate Hispanic culture and heritage. This 
is the premier Hispanic cultural event for the State of Indiana.
  Fiesta 2002 will highlight the music, food, and traditions of 
Hispanic culture and provide an educational opportunity for everyone to 
learn more about Hispanic traditions and understand the contributions 
Hispanics in Indiana have made to enrich and strengthen our community.

[[Page 16499]]

  Attendees for this public event will have the opportunity to enjoy a 
wide range of activities that showcase the Hispanic traditions in 
music, history, art, and food, among many others. Information booths, 
contests, and speakers will be set up to encourage attendees and their 
families to experience and enjoy the many educational, social, and 
culinary offerings that will be available.
  Fiesta is organized and coordinated by Fiesta Indianapolis Inc., a 
non-profit volunteer organization. Fiesta's mission is to promote and 
preserve Hispanic culture in central Indiana. Executive Director Carmen 
DeRusha has done outstanding work to coordinate Fiesta 2002, and I am 
thankful to her for her leadership in organizing the many individuals, 
groups, and businesses that are a part of this event.
  I am so pleased to join in this celebration, and I welcome the 
opportunity to be a part of Fiesta 2002. The success and longevity of 
the Fiesta event is attributable to the growth and strength of the 
Hispanic presence in Indiana, and to the dedication and commitment of 
everyone involved planning Fiesta 2002.
  Fiesta 2002 is important for the Hoosier State and I want to share 
with my colleagues in the Senate my support for this great event. The 
Hispanic community is strong in Indiana and growing stronger every day. 
Fiesta 2002 is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Hispanic 
heritage and to celebrate their rich and vibrant traditions that 
broaden and strengthen the fabric of our community in Indiana.

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