E1754 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 6, 2005 part, by opening its arms and its heart to shel- Eisenhard inspired members of the Inland Em- Charles Eisenhard inspired members of the ter the homeless from Louisiana and Mis- pire Symphony Association, local civic leaders, Inland Empire Symphony Association, local sissippi. and then Consul of Mexico Emerenciano civic leaders, and then Consul of Mexico Rodriguez, to form a committee to present a Emerenciano Rodriguez, to form a com- This is just the first bill that Congress will mittee to present a unique concert of Mexi- need to enact to recover from this terrible dis- unique concert of Mexico’s symphonic master- co’s symphonic masterpieces. Consul aster. It will provide an immediate infusion of pieces. Consul Rodriguez was selected to Rodriguez was selected to chair the com- money to allow FEMA and the Department of chair the committee for this exciting endeavor. mittee for this exciting endeavor. The con- Defense to address the most immediate The concert was a tremendous success! En- cert was a tremendous success! Enthused, needs, ensuring there is no disruption in fund- thused, the committee continued to present the committee continued to present annual ing for relief efforts. Because much of the re- annual state-of-the-art musical and culturally state-of-the-art musical and culturally en- gion is still underwater, the full extent of the enriching programs for the enjoyment of the riching programs for the enjoyment of the entire community. damage is unknown. It will take some time to entire community. The purpose of this organization is to It is a well-established fact that Mexican assess the scope and cost of this disaster, but folkloric music is enormously popular and Congress will ensure that FEMA and other present the finest music compositions of Mex- world-renowned, however, what was rel- federal agencies have the resources they ico to the Inland Empire. In addition to its out- atively unknown to many people locally, was need to assist the citizens of this region to get standing music programming, the group has Mexico’s veritable treasure of classical and back on their feet. committed numerous volunteer hours and fi- symphonic music created by notable com- nancial contributions throughout these many posers and arrangers—many of whom Sin- f years, with participation of organizations and fonia showcased over the past 19 years. They ´ RECOGNIZING HAROLD KURTH individuals that shared in the identical goal of included: Carlos Chavez, Pablo Moncayo, Manuel M. Ponce, Silvestre Revueltas, program development and other auxiliary com- Miguel Bernal, Bla´ s Galindo, Juventino HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE ponents. Rosa, Enrique Mora, Manuel Enriques, Ri- The current success of the Sinfonia ´ OF FLORIDA cardo Castro, Candelario Huızar, Felipe Mexicana has been recognized as an out- Villanueva, and others. To be sure, Cha´ vez’s IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES standing achievement in the Inland Empire ‘‘Sinfonia India’’ is a fine example of the uni- Tuesday, September 6, 2005 and beyond. It is a well-established fact that fication of Yaqui and Seri indigenous melo- Mexican folkloric music is enormously popular dies into a symphonic masterpiece. Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. A typical Sinfonia program of Mexican Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge Mr. Har- and world-renowned; however, what was rel- classical music often features a guest con- old Kurth of Citrus County, Florida, a Purple atively unknown to many people locally, was ductor and/or artists from Mexico per- Heart recipient from World War II. Mexico’s veritable treasure of classical and forming with the San Bernardino Symphony Volunteering for service in 1943, Mr. Kurth’s symphonic music created by notable com- Orchestra at the historic California Theatre of Performing Arts in San Bernardino. Guest ambition was to join the Air Corp, but was in- posers and arrangers—many of whom Sin- fonia showcased over the past 19 years. They conductors have included Abraham Cha´ vez, ducted into the Army at Camp Roberts to re- ´ included: Carlos Cha´vez, Pablo Moncayo, Sergio Cardenas, Francisco Savın, Guada- ceive his basic training instead. lupe Flores, Eduardo Diazmun˜ oz, Enrique Following his initial training, Mr. Kurth was Manuel M. Ponce, Silvestre Revueltas, Miguel Diemecke, Jose´ Hernandez, Stewart Robert- aboard the Sea Witch on his way to Guadal- Bernal, Bla´s Galindo, Juventino Rosa, Enrique son, and Jeff Nevin. On two occasions Sin- canal when the ship was fired on by Japanese Mora, Manuel Enriques, Ricardo Castro, fonia had the distinction to host the ´ ´ ´ submarines. Luckily, the Sea Witch made it Candelario Huı´zar, Felipe Villanueva, and oth- ‘‘Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional de Mexico’’ in ers. To be sure, Cha´vez’s ‘‘Sinfonia India’’ is San Bernardino. On their first visit, Maestro safely to Guadalcanal without further contact Francisco Savı´n served as musical director. with the enemy. a fine example of the unification of Yaqui and Seri indigenous melodies into a symphonic On their second, Maestro Enrique Diemecke Mr. Kurth then took part in campaigns on directed the Orque´sta as part of a national the Soloman Islands and the Philippines, masterpiece. tour of seven U.S. cities in honor of the 100th A typical Sinfonia program of Mexican clas- where he was wounded by a hand grenade birthday celebration of Mexico’s premier sical music often features a guest conductor while guarding a church in Manila. He was composers Carlos Cha´ vez and Silvestre and/or artists from Mexico performing with the part of a group of six soldiers who came under Revueltas (Diemecke is currently the artis- San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra at the tic director of the Long Beach Symphony). enemy fire in the church yard following a river historic California Theatre of Performing Arts Instrumental guest soloists have included crossing. Several of his compatriots were in- in San Bernardino. Guest conductors have in- Carlos Prieto, cello; Jorge Juarez and Maria jured as well in the battle. cluded Abraham Cha´vez, Sergio Cardenas, Teresa Rodriguez, piano; Miguel Alcazar, Part of the ‘‘Heavyweights of the South Pa- guitar; Roman Revueltas, violin; Elena Francisco Savı´n, Guadalupe Flores, Eduardo Duran, flute; and Manuel Arpero, trumpet. cific,’’ Mr. Kurth’s division was credited with Diazmun˜oz, Enrique Diemecke, Jose´ Her- killing 12,500 enemy soldiers during World Sinfonia commissioned Maestros Mateo nandez, Stewart Robertson, and Jeff Nevin. Oliva and Mario Kuri-Aldana to arrange into War II. Serving three years without a furlough, On two occasions Sinfonia had the distinction symphonic form romantic ballads by beloved Mr. Kurth returned to the United States on to host the ‘‘Orque´sta Sinfo´nica Nacional de Mexican composer, Agustiin Lara. The world Christmas Eve, 1945. Me´xico’’ in San Bernardino. On their first visit, premiere of the concert in San Bernardino Mr. Speaker, true American heroes like Har- Maestro Francisco Savı´n served as musical di- was an international sensation. That cutting old Kurth should be honored for their service rector. edge program was the most popular classical to our Nation and for their commitment and Sinfonia has presented a variety of special concert ever presented in the Inland Em- pire—drawing audiences from Mexico City, sacrifices in battle. I am honored to present performances by outstanding ensembles from Mr. Kurth with his long-over Purple Heart. He Los Angeles, San Diego, and beyond. Special Mexico and Southern California. Sinfonia is guests included Lara’s widow and famous is truly one of America’s greatest generation. now organized as a non-profit 501(c)(3) orga- contemporary songwriter, Roberto Cantoral, f nization and yet maintains its volunteer-driven and numerous luminaries. Sinfonia has presented a variety of special IN HONOR OF THE 20TH ANNIVER- mission to foster the awareness of Mexico’s symphonic musical masterpieces, and educate performances by outstanding ensembles from SARY OF THE SINFONIA the public of the fine music and culture of Mexico and Southern California. They fea- MEXICANA tured the West Coast premiere of Mexico. ‘‘Navidades’’ by the internationally ac- Mr. Speaker, that is a re´sume´ of the sub- claimed Ballet Folklorico de Amalia Her- HON. JOE BACA stantial achievements of this important cultural nandez from Mexico City. And, from Baja OF CALIFORNIA institution. My family and I enjoy this music. California, Sinfonia presented ‘‘Bastian y IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES We encourage everyone in the community to Bastiana’’ Mozart’s comic opera performed by a student group, Grupo Juvenil de Ti- Tuesday, September 6, 2005 partake of this great resource. I ask that a more detailed history of Sinfonia juana. Moreover, Sinfonia presented the Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great be included in the Congressional Record, for West Coast premiere of the first Chicano pride that I rise to pay tribute to the Sinfonia public display and historical preservation. And opera, ‘‘Esperanza’’ composed by David Mexicana, on the occasion of its 20th anniver- Bishop and the libretto by Carlos Morton again, I say: thank you to Sinfonia, for pre- based on the classic cult film, ‘‘Salt of the sary. serving these important musical traditions! Earth.’’ The opera was performed by the This important institution, located in San SINFONIA MEXICANA—A HISTORICAL OVERVIEW Euterpe Opera Theatre of Pasadena, which Bernardino, has been thrilling audiences since Sinfonia Mexicana has been thrilling audi- featured soprano Ariella Vaccarino and tenor 1985, when Mario Porras and Charles ences since 1985 when Mario Porras and Eric Castro.

VerDate Aug 18 2005 05:09 Sep 07, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A06SE8.019 E06SEPT1 September 6, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1755 Quintessentially popular mariachi per- native Panama to become a Priest. While fans IN LOVING MEMORY OF formances have included the legendary Los of opposing teams dread to see Rivera on the ANASTASIA ‘‘ANNIE’’ SAIZ, OF ´ Camperos de Nati Cano, Sol de Mexico de mound, all will agree that he is a class act. BELEN, NM Jose´ Hernandez, Las Reinas de Los Angeles, Mariachi Mujer, Mariachi Divas, and Mari- Never one to boast or brag about his incred- achi Champan˜ a. Other diverse artists in- ible gift, Rivera comes to work and does the HON. JOE BACA cluded Latin jazz great, Tito Puente, the ro- job better than anyone. He is fearless yet OF CALIFORNIA mantic trio, Los Tres Reyes, famed humble, a combination that we seldom see in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES folklorists Tlen Huicani (Veracruz), and the today’s athletes. brilliant Ballet Folklorico del Pacifico. The Tuesday, September 6, 2005 famous pop artist, Vikki Carr graced Sin- When the game is on the line, great athletes Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in loving trib- fonia’s portfolio, as did Alicia Juarez (widow always rise to the challenge. Jordan, Montana ute and memory of my sister Anastasia of Jose´ Alfredo Jimenez), Lalo Guerrero, and Pele´ all separated themselves from the ‘‘Annie’’ Saiz, who passed away over the Au- Mayor Judith Valles, sopranos Maria Luisa pack with their ability to overcome their fears Tamez and Florencia Tinoco; tenors gust congressional recess. and anxiety and play with a high level of con- Beloved wife of Seferino Saiz, beloved sis- Alejandro Guerrero, Pedro Rey, Raul Her- fidence. With his ability to shut down oppo- nandez, Dennis Meade, Daniel Hendricks, and ter of Florenio, Maria ‘‘Lupe’’ Napier, Morris, the West Coast debut of tenor Daniel nents at the end of a game Rivera has earned Tanny, Raymond, Joe, and Theresa Perez, Rodriguez performing with a symphony or- a place among these elite competitors. and the late Abiflio Baca, beloved mother and chestra (the former New York police officer Mr. Speaker, Mariano Rivera is proof of the mother-in-law of Robert Saiz and Lisa; Elsie who awed the nation with his rendition of great contributions Latinos continue to make Giron and husband, William; Sefe Saiz Jr. and ‘‘God Bless America’’ in the aftermath of 9– to this country. While I am proud of the many wife, Liz; Dorothy Johnston and husband, 11). Sinfonia endeavors to help promote the Johnny; Lorraine Marquez and husband, Carl; musical careers of local young aspiring art- championships Rivera has helped to bring to ists such as Elizabeth Quintero and Desiree the city of New York, I am more proud of the and Charlie Saiz and wife, Rose, all of Belen. Flores. Sinfonia supported the very first fact that he has helped to improve the lives of She is survived by 16 grandchildren, and 6 youth mariachi in the region, Mariachi many young people in the South Bronx. great grandchildren. Estudiantı´l and founder Lou Herz, whom Whether he knows it or not, Rivera’s attitude Annie lived life to the fullest, reaching the Sinfonia sponsored for several years, and towards the game of baseball provides all who mark of 78 years young. She and Seferino supported the debut of the region’s first all- had just celebrated their 60th anniversary with watch him with a model of how to approach girl, Mariachi las Princesas. a family dinner at their home on August 5. life—hard work and determination. Sinfonia is now organized as a non-profit They were married in 1945 in La Joya. 501(c)(3) organization and yet maintains its Mariano Rivera exemplifies the idea of an Annie was widely admired by family, friends, volunteer-driven mission to foster the aware- athlete as a role model. For his unyielding ness of Mexico’s symphonic musical master- and colleagues. She was hard working, dedi- pieces, and educate the public of the fine competitive spirit and positive impact on the cated, committed, disciplined, loving and sup- music and culture of Mexico. The board of di- lives of all Americans, I ask my colleagues to porting. She was everything one would want in rectors and staff invite interested members join me in paying tribute to Mr. Mariano Rivera a sister, daughter, mother, wife, grandmother, of the community to become involved in Sin- as he is awarded the 2004 Latino MVP Award. and great grandmother. fonia Mexicana programs. She was employed by the Los Lunas Hos- f f pital and Training School, working with men- tally challenged children. She had a big heart TRIBUTE TO MR. MARIANO RECOGNIZING THE SPRING HILL and compassion for the less fortunate. She RIVERA NATIONAL DIXIE YOUTH AAA would bring home children during the Easter BASEBALL TEAM holiday to enjoy the picnics; she couldn’t see HON. JOSE´ E SERRANO them being alone. OF NEW YORK She was a devoted Catholic, and active in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE our Lady of Belen Catholic Church, and she volunteered at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Tuesday, September 6, 2005 OF FLORIDA She participated in civic causes, volunteering Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES her time, getting up at 7 a.m. to drive voters pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. to the polls. When she believed in a cause, Tuesday, September 6, 2005 Mariano Rivera, as he is awarded the 2004 she would work her heart out. Latino MVP Relief Pitcher of the Year Award Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. She loved to shop. During the holidays she by Latino Sports and the Latino Sports Writers Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the always gave out presents to strangers and her & Broadcasters Association (LSWBA). members of the Spring Hill National Dixie friends. She enjoyed listening to Mariachi Rivera made his major league debut with Youth AAA baseball team on their recent vic- music, going dancing at the senior citizen the New York Yankees in 1995. Since 1997 tories at the State championships and world dances with Seferino and friends. She enjoyed he has served as the team’s closer and has series. listening to Jennifer sing Mariachi songs. blown away his competition. Rivera is argu- When we would visit she was always so ably the most effective closer in postseason The Spring Hill Nationals are made up of 9- thoughtful and kind to give me and Barbara baseball history, recording final outs in three and 10-year-olds who have worked tirelessly and my children a little gift. We will always re- Yankee world title seasons (1998, 1999 and for their successes. The 13 members of this member her kindness and love for family. 2000). He also owns the Major League record extraordinary team have demonstrated Annie enjoyed spending time with her fam- for most postseason saves with 32, as well as through their victories the traits of sportsman- ily. She always supported her children and most World Series saves with 9. Rivera also ship, dedication, loyalty, and discipline. grandchildren, cheering them on at baseball established the longest scoreless innings Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the games; she was their No. 1 fan. She defended streak in postseason play with thirty-three in- following members of the Spring Hill team: her family, as she stood by their side. She nings pitched and was named as the World Gabe Abbadessa, Mason Arroyo, Drue was all about ‘‘familia.’’ On her children’s birth- Series MVP in 1999 and the Most Valuable Brooks, Brandon Brosher, Alex Martin, Danny day, she would call the local DJ and dedicate Player of the American League Championship Gendusa, Derek Newman, Nic Pasarela, Nick songs to her children. She would tell them to Series in 2003. He currently leads the Ramirez, Drew Dessa, Brad Smith, Evan turn on the radio, and there is a special song, Yankees as the club’s all-time saves leader Webster, and Joey Wright. Their manager, chosen from her heart. with 366 and boasts an incredible Earned Run She was a great cook. Everyone would go Dave Smith, and assistant coaches, Bob Average below 1.00 in postseason play. to her house, and even if you were not hun- Pasarela and Dave Newman contributed to Mariano Rivera was born on November 11, gry, she would make sure that she gave you their successes. 1969, in Panama City. The son of a fisher- a plate and made you eat. The food was al- man, he grew up poor and played baseball as The Spring Hill National Dixie Youth AAA ways so delicious, how could you refuse. We a kid using a glove fashioned out of a card- baseball team is Florida’s team. I am honored loved her tortillas and atole. She had special board box. He has been described by many that these fine young gentlemen are from my Mexican food remedies for our colds. as being a deeply religious man, and says that district and am proud of their accomplish- Annie’s life was dedicated to family, friends, he would one day want to move back to his ments. and community. Her memory lives on in our

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