Alcee Hastings: “I rise today to offer the amendment to the Foreign Operations bill. The amendment is designed to recognize members of…”

“I rise today to offer the amendment to the Foreign Operations bill. The amendment is designed to recognize members of the Colombian flower industry who have worked diligently to improve the living standard of all people in Colombia. Known by their countrymen as Growers of Flowers, these business persons have been leaders in Latin American private industry in reducing corruption in the commercial sector, while working closely with the Colombian Government to bolster and advance its Democratic initiatives. Programs being supported and funded by Growers of Flowers include corruption reduction in the private sector, the establishment of nursing care, day-care, subsidized food, nutrition, and educational programs, and a new program to eradicate domestic violence. At this time there is scarce good news coming out of Colombia. The work that Growers of Flowers is voluntarily doing on the ground is, however, a bright little light. I am offering this amendment this evening to acknowledge the contributions of Growers of Flowers, and I hope my colleagues will join me in this effort.”