[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14781]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MR. FABIO ANDRADE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 29, 2010

  Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Madam Speaker, this week Colombia 
celebrates 200 years as a sovereign nation. As we congratulate our 
democratic ally and friend on its Bicentennial, it is fitting that we 
also honor some of Colombia's finest, and among them, is Fabio Andrade.
  Fabio is one of South Florida's most dedicated, selfless and tireless 
community activists. He leads the Colombian American community with 
conviction and commitment. He is a leading voice in urging the passage 
of a Free Trade Agreement between the United States and Colombia and is 
an advocate of strengthening the partnership between the two countries. 
Fabio understands that as the hemisphere's leading democracies, 
Colombia and the United States are positioned to make an impact through 
trade, the creation of jobs and a steadfast commitment to spreading 
democracy throughout Latin America.
  Fabio is committed to ensuring that the needs of our diverse 
community are met, the voice of South Florida is heard throughout the 
various levels of government and that Hispanics have opportunity for 
growth and success. He has set forth to empower individuals, strengthen 
families, create networks, and bring within reach opportunities for 
others.
  For more than 20 years, Fabio has been instrumental in the creation 
of work training centers across South Florida, providing support for 
small businesses and assisting new business owners. As a founder and 
the CEO of The Americas Community Center, a non-profit organization, he 
has created a network of support and guidance for immigrants and 
minorities as they enter the workforce. Fabio himself was able to 
achieve his success through hard work and dedication, and it is those 
values which he strives to instill in others.
  Fabio's work and his love of service embody the true spirit of 
prosperity and freedom. He is committed to defending our nation's 
principles, while at the same time working to ensure that his native 
Colombia remains the strongest democracy in Latin America.
  I ask that you join me in honoring and thanking my good friend Fabio 
Andrade, a true leader who loves and values freedom and works so that 
others may enjoy it.

                          ____________________