[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 11] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 14922] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]HONORING MR. RICARDO TRIBIN ______ 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 Ricardo Tribin. As former President of the Colombian American Chamber of Commerce and current Board Member, Ricardo continues to be a leader for small businesses in South Florida. He has created opportunities for Colombian Americans to become successful business men and women, immerse themselves in the world of trade and commerce, and expand their businesses. As a consultant and businessman himself, Ricardo has been able to use his knowledge and experience to help others, and does so with humility and professionalism. He has successfully authored and published a number of self-help books in the United States and Colombia, encouraging others to move past life's most difficult challenges and find strength to achieve success in both personal and professional settings. Ricardo is also fully engaged in ensuring that the needs of his community are met and actively participates in the democratic process. He understands the need for a Free Trade Agreement between the United States and Colombia and the positive impact it would have on the South Florida economy by creating jobs. As such, he has been a leading voice in urging passage of the deal. Ricardo is also a firm believer in the principles of liberty and freedom and works to ensure that his native Colombia continues to be Latin America's leading democracy. I ask that you join me in honoring and thanking my good friend Ricardo Tribin for his hard work, service and dedication to free enterprise, empowering others, and seeing his community flourish. ____________________