[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17741]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE 516TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DISCOVERY OF PUERTO RICO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RON KLEIN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 14, 2009

  Mr. KLEIN of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
discovery of Puerto Rico and the contributions of Puerto Ricans to our 
Nation.
  On November 19th, 1493, five hundred and sixteen years ago, 
Christopher Columbus discovered the island on his second voyage to the 
New World. The island took the name Puerto Rico, meaning ``Rich Port,'' 
and ever since, it has been home to the vibrant culture which has 
enriched American life
  I would like to express my gratitude to the Puerto Rican/Hispanic 
Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach and Broward counties for their 
continuing innovation and their role in preserving and promoting Puerto 
Rican culture.
  In honor of all Puerto Ricans who have served, fought, and worked 
tirelessly to make the United States what it is today, the state of 
Florida has recognized this November as Discovery of Puerto Rico Month.
  On this occasion, I commend Puerto Rican-Americans for their 
contributions to American life and extend best wishes to all observing 
November 2009 as Discovery of Puerto Rico Month.

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