Rosa DeLauro

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I would just like to remind my colleague on the other side of the aisle who just spoke that the Republican prescription drug plan would do nothing about bringing down the cost of prescription drugs, which is what is killing Americans, all Americans, and their plan would cover 6 percent of seniors instead of 90 percent of seniors who would like to have that kind of coverage. However, today, the House is going to vote on a very dangerous and cynical provision that allows the Federal Government to break its own spending limit, takes hundreds of billions of dollars from the Social Security trust fund. What they would like to do is hide this plan from the American people and what they want to do is to hide this debate today without leveling with the public, and what will happen is their plan is to take the Nation back into the deficit, raid Social Security. We oppose this plan. We support a responsible budget. What we need to be trying to do is to make investments in national security, protect Social Security and Medicare, do something about prescription drugs and the cost of those drugs in the United States today. It is time for the House Republicans to be straightforward with the American people. We need a responsible, honest, bipartisan budget. We need to protect and strengthen Social Security and shore up the prescription drug benefit, meet our obligations today so that our kids are not saddled with debt.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, the American people deserve to know what the Republican Congress and the President are going to do to Social Security. They have proposed a vague plan, a plan they say is voluntary, that would create individual accounts for those who choose to invest a portion of that money in the stock market. They say that these accounts will earn retirees a higher rate of return. But what they do not tell the voters and they do not tell the American seniors about is that changing to this new system will result in cutting benefits, cutting benefits for Social Security retirees across the board. So even though the accounts themselves may be technically voluntary, the benefit cuts are very much mandatory; and if a retiree does not want to risk his or her benefits in an increasingly shaky stock market, fine, but his or her guaranteed monthly check will not equal what it is today. If they have a higher rate of return on their account than the government will allow, what they do not tell us is that in fact the government is going to tax that rate of return at 100 percent. Mr. Speaker, the simple fact is that the Republican plan cuts benefits for today's retirees, those in the future, and puts them at risk. Let us not let them do it.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to rise today to pay tribute to two outstanding members of the New Haven community, and my dear friends, Sidney and Libby Glucksman, as they receive Honorary Doctorates of Humane Letters from Albertus Magnus College. Theirs is a compelling story as both Sidney and Libby survived the darkest of times and triumphed in spite of the gravest of circumstances. As a young woman, Libby was a member of an underground group who delivered messages for Russian Partisans. Sidney was born in Chwonow, Poland and was just twelve years old when his homeland was taken by Nazi Germany. Taken out of school, he spent the next six years as a prisoner in labor and concentration camps and would never again see his parents, brother or sister. He remained a prisoner until American servicemen liberated Dachau in 1945. Sidney and Libby met in a displaced persons camp in Bad Reichenholen, Germany and soon made their way to America where they married and began a new life together. Settling in New Haven, where they have made their home for over fifty years, Sidney opened a successful tailoring business which has been thriving for four decades. It is also the center of Greater New Haven community. Sidney and Libby boldly faced one of the darkest times in our history. Few of us can truly comprehend the reality of Gross-Rosen, Dachau, Auschwitz and the many other camps where Jews were held prisoner for so many years. Even fewer want to relive these memories. I am continually inspired by Sidney and Libby's dedication to ensure that future generations will never forget the unspeakable horrors of the Holocaust. For many years, they have been very active in both national and local Holocaust organizations. Sidney often shares his experiences with students and community groups. Just two years ago, he was asked by the Justice Department to recount his story at the trial of a former Nazi camp guard with the Waffen SS ``Death Head'' Battalion at Gross- Rosen. His testimony detailing the guard's treatment of prisoners was the crucial evidence needed for his conviction. Sidney, once again, gave a strong voice to the millions lost in the Holocaust. Today, survivors of the Holocaust are aging and soon we will not have many who can recount that which we should never forget. It is people like Sidney and Libby, who willingly share their stories, that ensure future generations will remember. It is with great pleasure that I stand today and join their children, grandchildren, friends and colleagues in congratulating them as they are honored with Honorary Degrees from Albertus Magnus College. The Glucksmans are an inspiration to us all and this honor is a reflection of all that they have brought to our community.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, is with great pleasure that I rise today to join Albertus Magnus College in congratulating Sister Mary Faith Geelan as she is awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. Sister Mary Faith was born and raised in New Haven and later entered into the Dominican Sisters of Saint Mary, Albertus' founding order, where she currently serves as prioress--leading the 300-member international congregation. The daughter of former U.S. Congressman James Patrick Geelan, Sister Mary Faith followed his example of public service throughout her life. A teacher, principal, administrator, social worker, and spiritual leader, Sister Mary Faith has generously dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of others. As a teacher and administrator, she touched the lives of thousands of children, providing them with a strong academic foundation on which to build their futures. In her role as a social worker, she worked in family therapy, bringing families closer together and helping to strengthen the bonds between them. Her good work with children and families is a reflection of her continued commitment to enrich the community. First and foremost, Sister Mary Faith has committed herself to service within the Dominican Sisters of Saint Mary. Their mission is to fulfill the motto of the Dominicans--``to contemplate and to give to others the fruits of contemplation.'' Past president of the Dominican Leadership Conference, vice chairperson of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, Region VI, member of New York City's Dominican Academy, Mohun Health Care Center, Ohio Dominican College, and Albertus Magnus College--Sister Mary Faith certainly continues to exemplify the Dominican motto. Her dedication, generosity, and commitment are unparalleled and her good work continues to inspire others throughout the Order. In joining Albertus' founding order, Sister Mary Faith found a way to use her chosen path to benefit her hometown community. Albertus Magnus College has been fortunate to have Sister Mary Faith Geelan as a member of their Board and I am honored to join with them today as they bestow upon her an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in recognition of all of her good work.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to join Albertus Magnus College in recognizing the achievements of Willie Ruff as they honor him with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. The City of New Haven has been fortunate to be home to this composer, musician, film maker, recording artist, writer and teacher for over fifty years. Born in Sheffield, Alabama, Willie Ruff was first inspired by the words of legendary blues artist, W.C. Handy--the father of the blues. He came to New Haven to study at the Yale School of Music and our great City has never been the same. Throughout his career, he has blended both his passion for music and his love for teaching--bringing his own unique magic to performances and classrooms alike. For nearly five decades, Willie Ruff and his collaborator and pianist, Dwike Mitchell, have enchanted audiences across the globe with the sweet tones of his French horn and bass. The duo has accomplished much in their time together, perhaps most notably for introducing jazz to both the Soviet Union and China. Perhaps even more impressive is that Mr. Ruff mastered Russian and Chinese--his seventh and eighth languages--so that he could bring the international language of music to them in their own tongues. In addition to his outstanding achievements as a musician, Mr. Ruff has been a professor of music and Afro-American studies at Yale University for over thirty years. As the founder of the Duke Ellington Fellowship, he is also credited with bringing legendary jazz musicians to New Haven to teach at Yale and in the city's public schools. His work in establishing this unique program has brought the likes of Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Pearl Bailey, Charlie Mingus and Ahmad Jamal among others, to perform for more than 150,000 city schoolchildren--providing an extraordinary opportunity for children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to experience such wonderful artistry. I have often spoke of my firm belief in the importance of educating our young people in the arts in any medium. Over the course of his career, whether through his inspirational melodies or his dedication to teaching, Willie Ruff's generosity and commitment has touched the lives of thousands--making a real difference in their lives. I am honored to join with Albertus Magnus College as they bestow upon him an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in recognition of his many contributions to our community.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this substitute. We hear much talk of compassion, but the underlying legislation does not address the needs or the aspirations of those who are trying in earnest to make the transition from welfare to work. Compassion is not eliminating education as an activity that counts toward work requirement. Compassion is not replacing the successful food stamp program with a program that puts the nutritional needs of 19 million people at risk. Compassion is not abandoning the 15 million children who are now eligible for child care assistance, but who are not covered because of inadequate funding. This legislation shortchanges working mothers who need help affording child care. Democrats offered an amendment. It would have increased child care, enhanced child care quality, expanded the services to nearly 1 million additional working families. The Republicans barely increased funding for child care, and the leadership did not even allow us an amendment to consider this critical issue. This legislation is anything but compassionate. It is disinterested, wrong-headed, and it puts at risk all of the gains that we have made in moving people from welfare to work in the past 6 years. Vote yes on the substitute.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this legislation, but it is with my extreme disappointment. Mr. Speaker, five million widows currently experience a drastic reduction of benefits of up to 50 percent after their spouse dies. The poverty rate remains a staggering 15 percent for widows. That is simply wrong. America's seniors should not have to be confronted with a dramatic reduction in their Social Security income at the same time their beloved spouse dies. It should not happen. That is why we should be debating legislation today that would guarantee Social Security benefits for elderly widows. But we are not. Instead, we are debating a totally inadequate Republican proposal that would cover only 125,000 widows. The Republicans would leave over four million widows--four out of ten of whom depend on Social Security for 90 percent of their income--with severely cut benefits. But it is a small step in the right direction. Covering 125,000 widows is better than covering none, which is our only other alternative and which is why I will support this weak bill. But let's not fool ourselves into thinking it is enough. We could do more. Democrats want to do more. Our substitute, which was not allowed to be considered today, would have helped approximately 4.5 million elderly people--one million of whom now live below the poverty level. It would have addressed this problem in a meaningful way that helps our seniors out of poverty. Instead, the Republicans are trying to fool the electorate into think they care about this issue by offering something, anything. The fact is that the Republicans find no problem with denying over four million widows Social Security benefits while they look forward to spending $8 trillion to privatize the system. Mr. Speaker, we should be doing more.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to join the Connecticut's Girl Scouts, and troops nationwide, as they celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Girl Scouts of America and the presentation of the Girl Scouts highest honor, the Gold Award. This tremendous organization has provided a unique and important experience to millions of young women in America and abroad. In 1912 a group of eighteen girls assembled and, with a idea well before its socially acceptable time, Juliette Gordon Law called to order the first meeting of what has grown to become one of the most well-known and respected organizations for girls in the world. Today, the Girl Scouts can boast of a membership of just under four million young girls and adults. The Girl Scouts organization promotes an important message for young women: that all girls should be given the opportunity to develop physically, mentally, and spiritually. Girl scouting empowers our young women to realize their full potential while making a contribution to our communities. The variety of activities and programs that they participate in teach them invaluable life lessons--lessons that they will carry with them into their adult and professional lives. Reaching beyond socioeconomic and geographic barriers, the Girl Scouts of America have touched the lives of millions of young women--many some of our nation's most vulnerable citizens. The self-confidence and determination that all Girl Scouts develop is truly invaluable. Perhaps the most important idea that these young women take away from their girl scouting experience is the value in serving their communities. Our communities would not be the same without the efforts of those who volunteer their time and energy to its enrichment. I am always amazed at the consistency of the stories I read of our local troops actively involved in reshaping the many towns and cities of my congressional district. Whether volunteering to raise funds for a new playground or becoming mentors for other young girls, they have a direct and positive impact on our community--one of which they should all be very proud. The Gold Award is the highest distinction earned by a Girl Scout and each of those honored today should be proud of their accomplishments. These young women have demonstrated a strong commitment to their communities through the service programs in which they have participated. This recognition reflects their hard work and dedication to the Girl Scouts and to improving the lives of their friends and neighbors. The Girl Scouts of America have left an indelible mark on our nation as well as across the globe. For 90 years, the Girl Scouts have given our communities an invaluable resource for young girls. I am proud to join today in expressing my sincere congratulations to them on this incredible milestone as well as to all of those who will be honored with the Gold Award.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to join the Woodbridge community in celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Woodbridge Senior Center. As the center for senior activities, the Woodbridge Senior Center has become a landmark in our community. With the establishment of a local Commission on Aging in 1977, there was an assessment of the needs of the elderly in Woodbridge. Almost immediately, the Commission found that there was a lack of space for a place for seniors to gather. Under the remarkable leadership of Patricia Gilbert and the founding members, the Commission on Aging successfully negotiated for space at Center School, adopted a budget, completed a needs assessment survey, formulated policies, opened the lounge and office, developed a volunteer transportation service and established several programs--all within nine months. In the years since its inception, the Woodbridge Senior Center has developed a very unique relationship with the community. Through the Woodbridge Awareness to Crime and Home Safety (WATCH) Council, the Senior Center and the Woodbridge Police Department joined together to develop programming aimed at reducing fear of crime and improving the quality of life for seniors. Each year, the Senior Center sponsors an afternoon tea at which they honor the many volunteers who assist them throughout the year. Working with the town officials, the Senior Center was able to secure a handicapped accessible van which provides transportation to the senior and disabled community. These are only a few of the many outstanding programs the Center has offered to Woodbridge seniors. Our seniors deserve to have a place in each of our communities where they can socialize as well as access much needed programs. In the quarter of a century since the Senior Center was established, the efforts of the staff and volunteers has greatly improved the quality of life of Woodbridge Seniors. Providing invaluable programs and services, they have made a real difference in the community as a whole. Even today, the Senior Center continues to grow and expand---enriching the community and the lives of many seniors. Today, as they celebrate their 25th anniversary, I am honored to stand and join the Woodbridge community in congratulating the staff and volunteers, past and present, of the Woodbridge Senior Center, on this milestone. Their commitment, dedication, and advocacy has left an indelible mark on our community and I would like to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to them for all of their good work.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to an outstanding organization in our community, the Woodbridge Fathers Baseball League, as they celebrate their thirtieth anniversary. This Saturday, I will have the honor of joining the WFBL as they kick-off this season with their Opening Day ceremonies. For three decades, the WFBL has provided children between the ages of 5 and 15 with the opportunity to participate in softball and baseball-- our country's greatest pastime. The league was born out of the concern of several fathers in Woodbridge who wanted to provide a more competitive baseball league for their children. In only a few short months, the WFBL was formed and, in its initial season, had about 200 children that made up fifteen teams, Today, with the addition of softball and a Rookies League Division, the WFBL has 575 participating children, making up forty-eight teams. Baseball and softball, like all sports, teaches us the value of team work, practice, camaraderie, and commitment to excellence. These are the skills that will serve our young people well as they begin to make a difference in the world. Through baseball or softball, the WFBL has given the children of Woodbridge and Bethany the opportunity to develop strong bonds of friendship based on many years of teamwork that often last well beyond their high school years. This is the true gift that the WFBL has and continues to give to the young people of Woodbridge and Bethany. As a symbol of the start of spring, Opening Day has always been one of my favorite times to visit communities--especially Woodbridge, Connecticut. Every year, families from throughout the community gather to celebrate the beginning of the season---it is one of this community's most enjoyable spring rituals. Every team is in first place, dreaming of a championship that will be theirs at the end of the summer. The smell of a new glove, the crack of a bat, and the chatter of the outfield remind us why this is America's favorite pastime. This year, as the Woodbridge community celebrates Opening Day and what has become a symbol of America, we will also take a moment to reflect on one of our country's greatest tragedies. In the months that have passed since September 11th, the American people have struggled to regain a sense of normalcy. Who can forget the truly awesome scene at Yankee Stadium, with the brilliant voice of a New York Police Officer singing God Bless America as an eagle swooped through the stadium-- unifying our nation and strengthening our resolve. In these past months, communities across the nation have developed a new found respect for those who dedicate their careers to protecting our families and our communities. I am honored to join the Woodbridge Fathers Baseball League and the Woodbridge community in extending my deepest thanks and appreciation to the Woodbridge Volunteer Fire Department. Their commitment and unparalleled courage make a real difference in our community. Celebrating thirty years of prosperity and fun, it is with my sincere thanks that I join the Woodbridge community in congratulating the Woodbridge Fathers Baseball League on their 30th Anniversary. From your first president, Tony Malafronte, to the current president Dwight Rowland, this organization has left an indelible mark on this community.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, today, May 1st, marks the beginning of Older Americans Month. This should give us pause to focus on the status of our nation's seniors. What is the major concern facing older Americans today? It is the need for affordable prescription drugs. As we all know very well, the Medicare program does not cover outpatient prescription drugs. Women, in particular, are affected by this shortfall in coverage. Women live, on average, seven years longer than men, have earned less during their working lives and have half the average annual income of older men. This makes women vulnerable to high health care costs, including out- of-pocket expenses and insurance deductibles as well as the price of prescription drugs. Because of their longevity, women are more likely to have chronic health conditions and functional limitations. Eight of ten women on Medicare, including those with disabilities, use prescription drugs regularly to manage chronic conditions and subsequently are vulnerable to catastrophic expenses. These women fill fewer prescriptions annually than those with drug coverage but spend nearly twice as much out-of- pocket for their medications. The Congressional Budget Office reports that the average out-of-pocket costs for older Americans just for prescription drugs will be $1500 this year alone. This month, Connecticut seniors who are members of the Alliance for Retired Americans will board buses and travel to Canada in order to have their prescriptions filled at affordable prices. The Alliance, which will send its members from every state that borders Canada, expects to show that in just one month of short trips seniors can collectively save as much as one million dollars in annual prescription costs. The trips are not a solution, but they will demonstrate just how ludicrous it is for U.S. citizens, especially older Americans, to have to go to Canada to purchase lower cost medicines because of the lack of a prescription drug benefit within the Medicare program. We must bear in mind that for every person making the trip to Canada there are others who are far worse-off physically and who need the lower-priced medications even more. Unfortunately, they cannot physically board a bus. Congress must act this year to break the hold that the pharmaceutical industry has on the drug pricing system that forces our citizens to travel to Canada to purchase their prescription drugs at affordable prices. Congress must relieve the emotional and financial distress that millions of older Americans are experiencing. Mr. Speaker, the best way to honor older Americans is for Congress to enact a comprehensive Medicare prescription drug benefit this year.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, in the last 18 months we have watched while nearly 400 Israelis, mostly civilians, have died in the violence in the Middle East. We have watched the escalation that has cost so many Palestinians their lives in a senseless intifada. We seek an end to violence and we ask for peace to all the people of the Middle East. The established Palestinian leadership cannot decide on which side of the line they stand, but this is a moral line that one cannot straddle in pursuit of political goals. Whether or not they ordered the terrorists into action or whether they turned a blind eye, it is they who are responsible for the violence that kills the innocent and kills the young people who are suicide bombers today. Israel is not perfect, but I believe that Israel does not wage war on innocents. Israel knows that there is no compromise with terrorism. America lost its innocence after September 11, and that caused us again to view and understanding of the forces of evil that can threaten our survival. There is no more important moment for solidarity. With only 6 million people in the preciously small place, Israel needs our voice. Our solidarity is borne of our common instinctive response to that September 11 attack. With this resolution, we renew the solidarity in a common cause.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. DeLAURO. I yield to the gentleman from Connecticut.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I just want to say that I think we can hear from what my colleagues from Connecticut and myself are saying as to how the UConn Huskies, the women, have captured the enthusiasm of the State, whether young or old, men or women, but particularly women. I will just say that my mother, Louise DeLauro, is 88 years old. She is fixed to the TV when the women are playing, and I will tell Members why. When she was growing up, and I did not know this until really listening to her and watching her watch this game and looking at the plays, and it was just amazing to me, she talked about women's leagues when she was in school, in which she played in the city of New Haven, eight leagues of women playing in one city in our State. And given that she is 88 years old, Members can figure out how many years ago that was. We literally have come full circle. This is intergenerational. We have Louise DeLauro at age 88 fixed to the TV, and we have young women all over our State looking at these women as real role models. It is a change in how not only our State, but this country views women in competitive sports and views women's basketball.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. First, let me just thank the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Isakson) for bringing this resolution to the floor, and those of us in Connecticut accept his good wishes on this issue. I also want to thank the gentleman from the Connecticut delegation (Mr. Simmons) for introducing the resolution honoring the Huskies for capping a perfect 39 and 0 season. That is right. Say it again; a perfect 39 and 0 season, with their third NCAA women's basketball championship. Under the guidance of NCAA division Coach of the Year, Geno Auriemma, the Huskies dominated their opponents on the court. The 2002 Huskies are destined to be remembered as one of the best basketball teams in sports history. The people of Connecticut are justly excited and proud of their Huskies who have set an example for us all with their teamwork and with their standard for perfection. They ranked number 1 in the Nation in scoring, 3-point shooting percentage, scoring defense, and field-goal percentage allowed. They set an NCAA record with a season-long average victory margin of 35.4 points, and set a national record with 831 assists. Throughout the entire season, only 1 opponent lost by less than 10 points. The individual talent of the Huskies' players, and particularly the 5 starters, meshed to make them an unbeatable force. Their talent was recognized with a number of accolades. All 5 of the starters, Asja Jones, Swin Cash, Tamika Williams, Diana Taurasi, and Sue Bird, made the Big East All Tournament team and they were also selected as All Americans. Swin Cash was named the final 4 most outstanding player. Sue Bird, who scored 14 points in the championship game, was chosen as the National Championship Player of the Year and won the Honda Award for women's basketball. These women have illustrated for us the results of Congress's commitment, through Title IX, to getting girls involved in sports. I might just add on a personal note, many, many, many years ago at the Academy of Our Lady of Mercy in Milford, Connecticut, I played basketball. I am so old in this process that women could only play half court at that time. We have really turned things around. Really what title IX has provided is that it has shown that given the resources, that women are just as talented and as exciting to watch as any men's team that is out there. With their hard work, their absolute determination, and their commitment to teamwork and, quite frankly, doing what they love to do on and off the court, these talented young women have proven themselves to be role models for girls and boys across this great Nation. They have set a new standard of excellence that teams in the future will strive to match. The UCONN Huskies have achieved perfection and inspired us all. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Huskies on their championship win and on their perfect season. They have truly earned this recognition. Go Huskies. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to New Haven, Connecticut's Graduate Club as they celebrate their 100th anniversary at 155 Elm Street. Throughout its history, the Graduate Club has been a social institution in our community--bringing town and gown together for nearly 200 years. Established in 1892, the Graduate Club was founded to provide a place where faculty and graduates could socialize and work. While there were many clubs, organizations, and public resorts, they were generally dominated by undergraduates. Their first president, Arthur W. Colton, Yale 1890, with a number of other men, held the first meeting in November of 1892 and adopted the name Graduate Club, only because the more common University Club was already being used by undergraduates. The Graduate Club found its first home at the Anktell House where it remained until the Spring of 1894 when it was forced to seek other quarters due to the expansion of Yale University. It was in their second home on Chapel Street that members signed the Articles of Association. Blending academic and civic interests, membership grew and steadily strengthened the young organization. With the turn of the century membership continued to increase and a mounting waiting list continued to expand. It was evident that the Club had to seek a larger venue. Closely following the bicentennial celebration of Yale University, the Graduate Club acquired the historic home of Eli W. Blake at 155 Elm Street. Though there was a need for alteration and enlargement of the property, a date was set for the formal laying of the cornerstone: April 26, 1902. The celebration of a centennial anniversary is always a special occasion. It is especially so for the Graduate Club because they are recognizing the anniversary of the establishment of their home. Being able to remain in the same building, particularly during the many phases of revitalization, is a great accomplishment. What began as a means to distinguish a collegiate generation gap has grown into a popular and respected gathering place. You can often find New Haveners dining in the Club and it is sought out for meetings or social gatherings. It has become a true New Haven landmark. I am honored to rise today to join the New Haven community in congratulating the past and present membership on this wonderful occasion.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I believe we all have one goal in mind when it comes to reauthorizing welfare, and that is to improve the system so that more people can make the transition from welfare to work. We all want welfare recipients to move from assistance to jobs and self- sufficiency. But the fact is that we need to take the necessary steps to ensure that people can stay in the workforce. I am disappointed that the Ways and Means and Education and the Workforce Subcommittees have chosen to ignore the roles that poverty reduction and child care can have in helping people move from welfare to work. In Connecticut, we have the ``Jobs First'' program that imposes a 21--month limit on welfare benefits, but allows recipients to retain their benefits if they find employment. It is among the most effective state programs in the country. But a recently released study also warns strongly that the gains we have made in Connecticut are at risk unless we do more to alleviate the tremendous financial stress young mothers are burdened with when they move from welfare to work while raising young children. It found that families were cutting back on the size of meals and had problems paying the rent. That is why we must approach welfare as a two-generation program that makes a substantial investment in quality child-care. That is why we must also make vocational education count as credit toward work activity--not eliminate it as the Republicans have proposed so far. That is how we can help families move up the economic ladder. Mr. Speaker, these people are trying. Let's let them succeed.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to an outstanding organization in our community, the Woodbridge Fathers Baseball League, as they celebrate their thirtieth anniversary. This Saturday, I will have the honor of joining the WFBL as they kick-off this season with their Opening Day ceremonies. For three decades, the WFBL has provided children between the ages of 5 and 15 with the opportunity to participate in softball and baseball-- your country's greatest pastime. The league was born out of the concern of several fathers in Woodbridge who wanted to provide a more competitive baseball league for their children. In only a few short months, the WFBL was formed and, in its initial season, had about 200 children that made up fifteen teams. Today, with the addition of softball and a Rookies League Division, the WFBL has 575 participating children, making up forty-eight teams. Baseball and softball, like all sports, teaches us the value of team work, practice, camaraderie, and commitment to excellence. These are the skills that will serve our young people well as they begin to make a difference in the world. Through baseball or softball, the WFBL has given the children of Woodbridge and Bethany the opportunity to develop strong bonds of friendship based on many years of teamwork that often last well beyond their high school years. This is the true gift that the WFBL has and continues to give to the young people of Woodbridge and Bethany. As a symbol of the start of spring, Opening Day has always been one of my favorite times to visit communities--especially Woodbridge, Connecticut. Every year, families from throughout the community gather to celebrate the beginning of the season--it is one of this community's most enjoyable spring rituals. Every team is in first place, dreaming of a championship that will be theirs at the end of the summer. The smell of a new glove, the crack of a bat, and the chatter of the outfield remind us why this is America's favorite pastime. This year, as the Woodbridge community celebrates Opening Day and what has become a symbol of America, we will also take a moment to reflect on one of our country's greatest tragedies. In the months that have passed since September 11th, the American people have struggled to regain a sense of normalcy. Who can forget the truly awesome scene at Yankee Stadium, with the brilliant voice of a New York Police Officer singing God Bless America as an eagle swooped through the stadium-- unifying our nation and strengthening our resolve. In these past months, communities across the nation have developed a new found respect for those who dedicate their careers to protecting our families and our communities. I am honored to join the Woodbridge Fathers Baseball League and the Woodbridge community in extending my deepest thanks and appreciation to the Woodbridge Volunteer Fire Department. Their commitment and unparalleled courage make a real difference in our community. Celebrating thirty years of prosperity and fun, it is with my sincere thanks that I join the Woodbridge community in congratulating the Woodbridge Fathers Baseball League on their 30th Anniversary. From your first president, Tony Malafonte, to the current president Dwight Rowland, this organization has left an indelible mark on this community.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, when Congress considered the president's tax proposal last spring, we had budget surpluses as far as the eye could see. Back then the Republicans argued that we could have it all, that the surpluses were so large we could strengthen Social Security and Medicare, make necessary investments in education and health and still have enough left over to pass their tax cut, half of which benefited the wealthiest one-percent of Americans. Well, to put it simply: they were wrong. Since that time, the economy has slowed to a halt, layoffs have soared and $4 trillion of the surpluses have evaporated, the quickest turnaround in our history. The president's own numbers show that the tax cut is the main culprit, accounting for almost half of the disappearance of the surplus. And the Republican budget is already draining the Social Security Trust Fund. So what is the Republicans' solution? They propose to make the tax cut permanent which will cost $4 trillion in the decade after 2012. That is $4 trillion gone at precisely the same time we will need the funds to shore up Social Security and preserve Medicare. At a time when we have serious budgetary challenges before us, we should be meeting the priorities of the American people, not giving away the farm. Making the tax cut permanent for the wealthiest 1 percent alone will total an amount one-and-a-half times the entire Department of Education budget. We should be investing in our kids, not giving away their future. Mr. Speaker, it is not fair, it not responsible and it is terrible policy. I urge my colleagues to reject this bill and leave this money in the Social Security Trust Fund where it belongs.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Dooley motion to instruct conferees to the farm bill. It repeals existing restrictions against private financing of agricultural sales to Cuba. It is an opportunity to help innocent people suffering under repressive regimes and truly help our farmers who are facing record low prices. Our foreign policy must be to help, not punish, people who suffer under repressive regimes. Unilateral agricultural sanctions end up hurting the most vulnerable in a target nation, eroding their confidence in the United States as a supplier of food and as a supplier of hope. Human Rights Watch reports that the U.S. embargo has not only failed to bring about human rights improvements in Cuba, it has actually, and I quote, ``become counterproductive to achieving this goal.'' We are not defending the Cuban Government or its poor human rights record. We must always speak strongly against the abuse of human rights in this world. But current U.S. policy towards Cuba hurts 11 million innocent Cuban men, women, and children; and it denies our farmers a vital export market. This policy has cost America important export markets. The USDA estimates that trade sanctions reduce U.S. agricultural exports by over $500 million per year. U.S. wheat farmers have been shut out of 10 percent of the world wheat market. Soybean farmers could capture as much as 60 percent of the demand for soybeans. We need to help American farmers, but we need to help the innocent people of Cuba. We are talking about food. I urge my colleagues to please support the Dooley motion. It makes sense. It is humanitarian and maybe in a change in policy we can help to bring about a change in a regime that, yes, in fact has abused human rights. Let us help to see if we can get this back on track.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to honor an outstanding member of our community and my good friend, Father Bill Sangiovanni. Father Bill has been a fixture in our community for many years and because of his seemingly endless contributions, we owe him a great debt of gratitude. As a spiritual guide, he has nourished the souls of many--often providing much needed comfort in the hardest of personal trials. From South Dakota to Connecticut, Father Bill has touched the lives of thousands. His commitment and dedication is unequaled and as he celebrates the anniversary of his ordainment, I know that he is reflecting on his many experiences. Father Bill has served in an array of positions in the public arena. For a number of years, he served as assistant to former Congressman Stewart B. McKinney and later as special assistant to the Minority Leader of the Connecticut General Assembly. Appointed by former Governor Lowell Weiker, Father Bill served on the Connecticut Ethics Commission in 1991 and was elected Vice-Chair just a year later. He would then go on to serve as the interim Chairman. Even with his extensive involvement with the government at both the state and federal level, perhaps his most cherished memories are from his many years in education. Graduating from Fairfield University with a Masters in Education, Father Bill has and continues to be the consummate educator. I have often spoke of our nation's need for talented educators, ready to help our children learn and grow. Father Bill is a true reflection of this ideal. He spent two years at Assumption School and five as the Director of Ministry at Sacred Heart University. For the last sixteen years, Father Bill has been a teacher and administrator at Notre Dame Catholic High School in Fairfield, Connecticut. I have always held the firm belief that education is the cornerstone of great success. An invaluable resource to many of our young people, he has helped hundreds to obtain the knowledge and skills they will need to enjoy successful futures. Father Bill is loved and respected by students, parents, and faculty alike. This is his legacy. On a personal note, Bill and I grew up together. We argued and challenged each other but learned the values that guided our respective ways since. Father Bill has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. His unparalleled commitment and dedication has made a real difference in countless lives. It is my great honor to stand today to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Father Bill Sangiovanni for all of his good work.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, today, in my hometown of New Haven, Connecticut, friends, family and colleagues will gather to pay tribute to one of our community's most outstanding citizens. It is with great pleasure that I rise today, both as a friend and last year's recipient, to join the Connecticut Anti-Defamation League as they honor Nathaniel Woodson with their 2002 Torch of Liberty Award. Our communities would not be the same without the efforts of individuals whose work truly benefits our families and neighborhoods. Each year, the Connecticut Anti-Defamation League presents the prestigious Torch of Liberty Award to an outstanding leader in the community, recognizing their unique commitment and dedication. Nat is a remarkable reflection of the true spirit of community service. With extraordinary compassion and generosity, Nat has touched the lives of thousands of families throughout Greater New Haven through his participation in a variety of organizations. Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven Savings Bank, the Enterprise Center, the Regional Leadership Council and the United Way of Greater New Haven are just a few of the organizations who have benefitted from his work. Nat has also been a driving force behind the economic revitalization initiatives for New Haven and the region as a whole. Working with the Regional Growth Partnership, New Haven's Empowerment Zone, and the Southern Connecticut Regional Council of Governments, Nat has put a tremendous amount of time and energy into addressing the many needs of our community. Balancing transportation, infrastructure, business and other interests has not been an easy task. Nat has worked with his colleagues and met this challenge head on--striving to enrich the lives of all residents of the Greater New Haven area. His involvement with the community has earned him a reputation as a leader. He has built strong relationships by creating public-private partnerships that work and his service to our community has made a real difference. I am proud to stand today to join his wife, Margaret, his children, the Connecticut Anti-Defamation League and the many friends and colleagues who have gathered this evening to congratulate Nathaniel Woodson for his outstanding contributions to our community.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to extend my congratulations to the Afghan Interim Administration for its steadfast work in officially reopening the schools in Afghanistan. On March 23, 2002, nearly 3,000 schools throughout Afghanistan opened their doors. The reopening of the schools began with the delivery of stationery for over 20,000 primary school aged children in addition to teacher kits, blackboards, and textbooks. The materials are essential tools in order to make the learning experience of the children a success. Because of the reopening, more than 1.5 million girls and boys were given hope and the opportunity to pursue their dreams and make a better lives for themselves and their families. This is the first time Afghan girls have legally been allowed to attend school since the Taliban came to power four years ago. Today, the adult literacy in Afghanistan is forty-six percent for males and a dismal 16 percent for females. Enrollment in primary school is even more disturbing: fifty-three percent for males and just three percent for females. This remarkable event of reopening schools across the nation demonstrates the high priority the Afghan Interim leaders assign to the education of the Afghani people, to reversing these trends, and to the long-term commitment to improving the quality of life for the nation. The dedication to programs which focus on the education and development of Afghan children is essential if the nation is going to move forward and allow its people to make a better life for themselves. Finally, let me commend UNICEF and the many other organizations providing critical support for the Back-to-School Campaign. Their commitment to working hand in hand with the Afghan Interim Administration has played a pivotal role in the success achieved thus far and will go a long way in ensuring that the children continue to benefit.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, until the collapse of Enron, most Americans felt that their pensions would be there for them when they retired. They felt their savings earned from a lifetime of hard work were protected. We know better now. We know that our pension rules do not do enough to protect helpless employees from being locked out of their pension plans while their life savings go down the drain. They are not protected from venal executives who took their money and ran. Two years ago, employees from a Westbrook, Connecticut lighting company learned a similar lesson. The company lost $2 million from their pension plan. I met with these men and women as we worked together to win back their hard-earned retirement savings, and no one should ever have to go through what those families did. This Republican bill does virtually nothing to prevent what happened there or at Enron. It fails to allow employees the right to fully diversify their stock. It fails to hold executives who are fiduciaries of the pension plan accountable if they violate the law; and Ken Lay has to be accountable. It continues to allow employers to give the same conflicted financial advice the Republicans tried to push on the American workers last fall before the Enron scandal broke. We have an opportunity today to do something worthwhile for middle- class Americans, for working men and women in this country. We can tell them today that, yes, we want to protect your pensions because your life's work has to be there for you and your family when you retire. That is what this country is built on. That is what our values are. That is the direction we should go in. I urge my colleagues to vote against this flawed Republican bill and vote for the Democratic substitute.