[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18625]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ALBANIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY CENTER (AACC)

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELIZABETH H. ESTY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 19, 2015

  Ms. ESTY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 50th anniversary of 
the Albanian American Community Center (AACC) in Waterbury, Connecticut 
and the 103rd anniversary of Albania's independence.
  Next week, the City of Waterbury will recognize Mr. Xhemal Dani as 
the 2015 Albanian Mayor of the Day. On that day, the double headed 
eagle flag will fly over Waterbury City Hall, and we will celebrate the 
contributions and accomplishments of the Albanian community over the 
past fifty years. The AACC has been instrumental in bringing our 
community closer together through religious and non-religious events 
including festivals, picnics, and charity dinners. Regularly taught 
Albanian language, culture, and history lessons at the center highlight 
the rich and vibrant heritage of the Albanian community.
  The Albanian-American Community Center's mission began fifty years 
ago when a small committee organized to advance an environment where 
religious and social activities could thrive. Through strong work ethic 
and fundraising efforts, the organization, then-known as the Albanian 
American Moslem Community, was able to build a new mosque and bring an 
Imam to serve the City of Waterbury and the surrounding region. In 
1969, construction began on the current mosque located on Raymond 
Street, allowing the Albanian-American Community Center to expand its 
membership and services to the community.
  Under the leadership of President Visar Tasimi, the AACC has 
strengthened its Scholarship Program, making college more affordable 
for youth and their families. Since the fund's establishment in 2012, 
over $10,000 has been awarded for higher education scholarships. I was 
pleased to be a part of the scholarship reception this summer and meet 
the talented recipients.
  To the members and leadership of the AACC, thank you for your 
tireless efforts to encourage friendships and unity among all Albanian-
Americans and educate the public about your traditions and culture. 
Your achievements are a true testament to the positive impact diversity 
can bring to our community. I am proud to represent you in Congress.
  Congratulations to the Board of Directors, members, volunteers, and 
all who have helped organize the anniversary celebration. I look 
forward to many more years of your continued success.

                          ____________________