[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 163 (2017), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 12704]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE MERIDEN PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELIZABETH H. ESTY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 4, 2017

  Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
50th Anniversary of the Meriden Puerto Rican Festival in Meriden, 
Connecticut. This cultural festival is a highlight of summer in 
Connecticut, and it brings us together to learn about and enjoy the 
food, music, dance, and history of the Puerto Rican community.
  Each year, the Puerto Rican Festival attracts thousands of people to 
Meriden from across New England and the Northeast. Visitors can enjoy 
delicious Puerto Rican food from an array of vendors and enjoy 
performances from musicians and dancers.
  The first festival was planned by Francisco Velez, who was born in 
Puerto Rico and came to Meriden in 1947. Inspired by the Puerto Rican 
cultural events in New York, Francisco wanted to share his culture and 
heritage with his community in Connecticut. Following the first 
festival in 1967, Francisco led it for more than four decades, and his 
vision has evolved into a signature event that brings together Meriden 
residents and thousands of visitors to celebrate Puerto Rican culture 
and the Puerto Rican community's contributions to the city and state. I 
also want to recognize the many volunteers who have generously given 
their time and skills to make this festival such a success over the 
past 50 years.
  Mr. Speaker, the Puerto Rican Festival has brought our community 
together to celebrate the culture of Puerto Rico and the Puerto Rican 
community in our state. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we 
honor the festival, and all those who have contributed to its success 
for the past five decades, here today.

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