Biographies in this series represent the diversity of Hispanic heritage in the United States. Those featured are contemporary figures whose national origins range from Argentina to the United States, and whose careers and contributions cover many aspects of American life. Each person profiled is a positive role model, not only for people of Hispanic origin, but for anyone. This volume includes biographical sketches of the following: (1) Christina Saralegui, journalist and talk show host; (2) Trent Dimas, Olympic gymnast; (3) Nydia Velazquez, Congresswoman from New York; and (4)Jimmy Smits, actor. All of these people, or their ancestors, came from Spanish-speaking countries. Collectively these biographies demonstrate the value of cultural pluralism and the view that the future strength of the United States lies in nurturing the diversity of its human potential rather than its uniformity. The books in this series are designed for juveniles and have an interest level equating to grades 4 to 10, and a reading level equating to about grade 5. (SLD)