Carolyn Maloney

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce legislation to subject operators of push polls or phone banks to the same disclosure requirements as other types of political communication. It will not ban push polls or phone banking--it will simply create a level playing field for all types of political communication. Under this bill, any person conducting these types of calls would be required to disclose to each recipient of a call the identity of the organization paying for the call. In addition, the bill would require that campaigns and other organizations that conduct advocacy phone calls report to the Federal Election Commission, FEC, the number of households they have contacted and the script they used in making the calls. The bill would not interfere with legitimate polling, conducted either by candidates or independent organizations, as it would only apply to phone banks in which more than 1,500 households are contacted within the 25 days preceding a federal election.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, 60 years ago, allied forces entered the scene of the greatest mass murder in history--the concentration camp known as Auschwitz. Auschwitz has become recognized around the world as a symbol of genocide, terror and brutality. The liberation of Auschwitz by the Red Army became a turning point in our understanding of the world and of inhumanity. Auschwitz showed us the face of evil incarnate and to our horror, it was an ordinary face. Auschwitz did not start out as an experiment in death. Established by the Nazis in 1940, it was initially a camp for individuals deemed problematic by the Third Reich--Polish dissidents and Soviet prisoners of war. Soon after its creation, the Germans decided to use prisoners as slave laborers for their large industrial complex. Once Auschwitz became a work camp, the Germans found themselves faced with the question of what to do with prisoners who could not work. At first, they simply shot them. Eventually they began looking for ways to kill prisoners without unduly discomfitting the killers--ultimately discovering the effectiveness of crystallized prussic acid, a pesticide mass produced under the trade name Zyklon B. When the crystals dissolved in air, they created a lethal gas. The Germans first used this deadly gas to kill Soviet POWs. In 1942, the Germans drew up plans for the so-called ``Final Solution,'' which contemplated the murder of every Jew under their control. Auschwitz, which had already proved itself to be effective at killing large numbers of people, was perfectly situated to carry out the deadly plan. It was located on major railroad lines and it was easy to move large numbers of people there. Auschwitz became a crucial part of the Germans' effort to eradicate an entire people. The majority of the Jewish men, women and children deported to Auschwitz were sent to their deaths in the Birkenau gas chambers immediately after arrival. As Germany conquered new territory, the SS gathered and sent the Jewish populations to Auschwitz and other death camps. Meanwhile, other atrocities were also being committed at Auschwitz. In May 1943 Dr. Josef Mengele, an SS physician, and his colleagues began conducting experiments on thousands of human guinea pigs. By January 1945 the SS knew that the Red Army was approaching Auschwitz. In an effort to eliminate evidence of the crimes they had committed, the SS blew up the gas chambers, crematoria, and other buildings, and burned documents. On January 18 and 19, 1945, more than 60,000 Auschwitz inmates deemed capable of walking were forced by the SS to march through freezing weather into German-occupied territory. Lacking proper food, clothing and medical attention, thousands died during the death march. Many were shot. Those who made it to the rail stations were put in open wagons and sent west to become slave laborers. Some prisoners, many of them too weak or ill to travel, were left behind. Those who remained behind in the camp were liberated by Red Army soldiers on January 27, 1945. Perhaps the most eloquent survivor of Auschwitz, Elie Wiesel, commemorated the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the camps with these words, ``In this place of darkness and malediction we can but stand in awe and remember its stateless, faceless and nameless victims. Close your eyes and look: endless nocturnal processions are converging here, and here it is always night. Here heaven and earth are on fire. Close your eyes and listen. Listen to the silent screams of terrified mothers, the prayers of anguished old men and women. Listen to the tears of children, Jewish children, a beautiful little girl among them, with golden hair, whose vulnerable tenderness has never left me. Look and listen as they quietly walk towards dark flames so gigantic that the planet itself seemed in danger. All these men and women and children came from everywhere, a gathering of exiles drawn by death.'' From 1940 to 1945, the Nazis deported over a million Jews, almost 150,000 Poles, 23,000 Roma, 15,000 Soviet POWs, and over 10,000 prisoners of other nationalities to Auschwitz. The overwhelming majority of them died in the camp. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. May we forever remember those who perished there, and may their deaths remind us how our own humanity suffers when we serve as silent witnesses to genocide.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce legislation that establishes a 5-year term of office for the Director of the Census Bureau. By establishing a fixed term of office, this legislation would lessen the role that politics plays at the Census Bureau, an agency which should be grounded in the science of counting our Nation. Other agencies charged with developing critically important statistical information, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, have a fixed term for their directors. This policy ensures the most accurate, non- partisan data possible.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Bob Matsui was a dear friend. His long and distinguished public service on behalf of the people of California and all Americans was a tremendous benefit to his State and our Nation. As a Member of Congress, he was a respected leader, an effective lawmaker, and a tireless leader of his party. With a major debate on Social Security looming, we will sorely miss his unparalleled expertise and foresight on that issue. Most of all--in that fight and in many to come--we will miss his compassion and his dedication to serving the most needy among us. Throughout his career, Bob Matsui was a champion of the vulnerable, leading the fight for civil rights. He said that he was inspired to go to law school by Clarence Darrow and to go into politics by John F. Kennedy. And he never stopped advancing those ideals. Imprisoned as a young child in the Japanese-American internment camps of World War II, he authored the landmark bill that provided restitution to Japanese Americans held in those camps and, more important, tendered an official apology on behalf of the government. Never one to shirk the tough jobs, he worked over decades on the thankless but essential task of improving flood protection for the Sacramento region, and recently reached an historic agreement on that critical issue. Bob Matsui was a thoughtful and prescient legislator. An early advocate of free trade, in the early 90s, he provided critical assistance to President Clinton in getting NAFTA through the House-- despite opposition from labor groups that traditionally support Democrats. In 2000, he played a key role in obtaining permanent normalized trade relations with China, again at Clinton's behest. And he was a strong backer of giving the President fast track trade authority. At the same time, he was increasingly concerned over how little was being done to help Americans who had lost jobs. Even those who fought the hardest with Bob over policy issues admired his intelligence and dedication and enjoyed his humor and warmth. He was a truly kind person and we will all miss his friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with Bob Matsui's family. May he rest in peace.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute Lifetime Television on its 20th anniversary and honor not only the outstanding work of the network in raising awareness about the issues affecting women, but for their efforts to pass critical legislation that will make a real difference in the lives of women. I have been fortunate to work with Lifetime Television to end violence against women and families by pushing Congress to pass landmark legislation that I introduced, ``The Debbie Smith Act,'' that will put rapists behind bars by reducing the number of unprocessed rape kits. In March 2002, Lifetime sponsored several events on Capitol Hill to educate Congress about the violence that many women face daily and what was being done to stop it. It was then that I introduced Debbie Smith, a courageous rape survivor whose assailant had been identified through the use of DNA technology, to Lifetime. This occasion marked the beginning of a collaborative effort to move ``The Debbie Smith Act'' through Congress and signed into law. Lifetime initiated a petition drive, and 120,000 signatures were sent to Congress expressing outrage that rapists were walking the streets when the evidence that could put them behind bars was collecting dust. By holding numerous educational briefings and receptions over the course of 2\1/2\ years, Lifetime continued the momentum to pass this legislation. Through their relentless work, Lifetime was instrumental in ensuring that ``The Debbie Smith Act'' became law in October. Lifetime also has committed itself to providing valuable information to its viewers about women's healthcare, childcare, voting and running for elected office, and women who are making the world a better place. The network was one of the earliest leaders of efforts to raise awareness of breast cancer and refuses to back down until this deadly disease is eradicated. Lifetime, along with more than 10 million of its viewers, also continue to urge Congress to pass critical legislation to end the disgraceful practice of drive-through mastectomies, when women are forced out of the hospital only hours after surgery. In addition, one of Lifetime's original movies, ``Video Voyeur: The Susan Wilson Story,'' helped to inspire recently passed legislation that will make video voyeurism a serious, punishable crime. I believe that with its ability to reach millions of people everyday, Lifetime will continue to educate and enlighten. Although Lifetime's commitment is company-wide, I want to specifically acknowledge its outgoing president and CEO Carole Black and its executive vice president of public affairs Meredith Wagner, who initiated the network's advocacy efforts. Thanks to their passion and dedication, Lifetime truly has become an example of the power of the media to cause positive change, and I hope that others will follow its lead. Once again, I commend Lifetime Television for its dedication to improve the lives of women and families, and I look forward to working with them again in the future. Lifetime will once again be bringing its campaign to Stop Violence Against Women to Washington in March 2005, and I hope all of my colleagues will get involved.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, earlier, I had an opportunity to praise the work of the 9/11 Family Steering Committee and of the ``leaders in Congress that has allowed the Congress to vote on and pass the Conference Report to S. 2845, which is the legislation that will enact the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission. While it would be nearly impossible to thank and recognize everyone that played a part in its passing, I would like to recognize the hard work of two 9/11 Pentagon family members, Abraham Scott and Rosemary Dillard. Over the last several months these two individuals have been a constant presence on the Hill fighting for the implementation of intelligence reform. During this time I have had a chance to get to know these two remarkable individuals and I would like to share with you a little bit about them. Abraham Scott, lost his wife of 24 years, Janice Marie, who was working in the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Everyday that Abe has traveled to the Hill, I have always been touched by the pictures of his family and his wife. He speaks fondly of his children and he speaks lovingly of his wife. Rosemary Dillard lost her husband, Eddie A. Dillard, who was on flight 77 that struck the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Ms. Dillard, as a retired flight attendant manager for American Airlines also lost a crew of flight attendants that she managed. I cannot imagine the grief and loss that these two individuals have had to endure, but I am honored to have had the opportunity to know them and work with them in fighting for the passage of the 9/11 Commission's recommendations. Both of them know that we still have work to do to ensure that our Nation will be safe from future terrorist attacks and I look forward to the opportunity to working with them again.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me this time and for her leadership. Right after 9/11, the Congress had never been more united and determined to work together in a bipartisan way to keep America safe from further attacks. We got a great deal done in a short period of time. It was a proud moment in this body's history. Unfortunately, it did not last long enough. But today, the last act of this session of Congress, passing this intelligence reform and anti-terrorism bill, will be a heartening reminder to the American people that the two parties can work together and live up to the ideal that was so often repeated after 9/11: united we stand. Mr. Speaker, 9/11 made the Cold War politics of containment obsolete. We all knew we had to change and modernize our intelligence network to be more agile, more proactive, to connect the dots across the agencies in order to protect and anticipate attacks. That is the kind of network that our new intelligence director will be able to lead. This is a true anti-terrorism bill that will harden our borders, tighten our visa restrictions, and strengthen our first responders: air, cargo, and transport security. The next Congress still needs to pass key recommendations to strengthen our security, but this is a big step forward. I want to thank the President, the minority leader, the Speaker and his Chief of Staff, Scott Palmer, for their dogged efforts to give this country this wonderful holiday gift. I also want to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Hunter), chairman of the Committee on Armed Services, for his willingness to find a middle ground, and I want to thank my colleagues in the House and Senate who played critical roles in this passage: the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Menendez), the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Harman), the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Hoekstra), Senator Collins and Senator Lieberman, and the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Shays). Ultimately, however, this is not our moment. This moment belongs to the family members of the 9/11 victims, many of whom are with us tonight in this Chamber. For more than 3 years they fought to turn personal tragedy into public service. By sheer force of will they made today's results inevitable by persevering when it seemed impossible. They held vigils in the rain, they bowled over bureaucracies, they courageously channeled their pain. Without them, there would have been no 9/11 Commission and probably no major intelligence reform bill. I saw a number of 9/11 families last night alone at a White House vigil, their loved ones claimed by al Qaeda. As I stood there with my husband, it drove home the fact that they did not do this for themselves, but to ensure that all of us will never lose loved ones to terrorism. I would like to recognize their ultimate act of service and to thank them, especially Carol Ashley, Kristen Breitweiser, Patty Casazza, Beverly Ecckert, Mary Fetchet, Monica Gabrielle, Bill Harvey, Mindy Kleinberg, Carie Lemack, Sally Regenhard, Lori Van Auken and Robin Wiener. Today, their words are much more important than mine. Mr. Speaker, I will place in the Record their personal statements, in their own words, in support of this legislation. An Open Letter to Members of the 108th Congress on the 9/11 Bill Conference Report December 7, 2004. Dear Members of Congress: You have at last reached consensus on a bill that will implement the 9/11 Commission's recommendations. A vote on the Conference Report appears imminent. We believe this conference report accomplishes our main goal, which was to fix our nation's broken intelligence system. The passage of these reforms marks a critical point in a long, three-year journey. We started as a diverse group of 12 individuals representing a number of 9/11 family groups who shared a common loss. Our goals was to make our country safer. Although at times our resolve was sorely tested, the 12 of us have remained steadfast refusing to ever give up. Having reached this critical junction, we want to acknowledge the many individuals who have helped us. We thank all of the Members of Congress who voted for the establishment of an independent 9/11 Commission. We thank the ten 9/11 Commissioners who acted in a truly bipartisan manner and produced a report whose 41 recommendations became a roadmap for today's Conference Report. We would also like to thank the individuals who have made today's votes possible. In particular, we want to acknowledge the leadership of President Bush, Speaker Hastert, Leader Pelosi, Majority Leader Frist and Minority Leader Daschle. We would also like to acknowledge the efforts of the Conference Chairman, Pete Hoekstra as well as the other principal conferees Susan Collins, Jane Harman and Joseph Lieberman. Finally, we would like to acknowledge the hard work of the 9/ 11 Commission Caucus led by Congressman Christopher Shays and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. While we thank you for your work on this historic legislation, we must keep in mind that more work needs to be done. One critical issue is reorganizing Congress so our intelligence agencies will have the oversight required to ensure it is doing its job. We look forward to working with you in the 109th Congress, to help enact the remaining recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Report, and to make our country as safe as possible for this generation and generations to come. Signed, Carol Ashley, mother of Janice Ashley, 25; Kristen Breitweiser, wife of Ronald Breitweiser, 39; Patty Casazza, wife of John F. Casazza, 38; Beverly Eckert, wife of Sean Rooney; Mary Fetchet, mother of Bradley James Fetchet, 24; Monica Gabrielle, wife of Richard Gabrielle; Bill Harvey, husband of Sara Manley Harvey, 31; Mindy Kleinberg, wife of Alan Kleinberg, 39; Carie Lemack, daughter of Judy Larocque; Sally Regenhard, mother of Christian Michael Otto Regenhard, 28; Lorie Van Auken, wife of Kenneth Van Auken, 47; Robin Wiener, sister of Jeffrey Wiener, 33.

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, while I rise in support of this conference report, I would like to go on record with a concern that the New York City Mayor's office has brought to my attention. Mr. Speaker it is my hope that we can work to make sure that New York City's concerns are addressed as we implement this legislation. New York City had attempted to address concerns regarding vital statistics earlier this year in this bill but it appears that in conference some matters of importance to New York City have been dropped. First of all, New York City maintains vital statistical data on its own much like Washington, DC and therefore there is a need to treat New York City and Washington, DC as States relative to minimum standards for birth certificates. While the bill calls for there being grants to States, for assistance in meeting federal standard allocation of grants, this program is estimated to cost in excess of $400 million nationwide, of which New York City needs--which would be dependent on many factors, including the costs of modifying legacy computer systems, converting birth and death records that may be decades old, and the number of records--will be more than $7 million. This funding need is not reflected in the bill which calls for these grants to be based on a proportion of the birth and death records created by the State. These number of records are only a small factor in the formula that needs to be developed and should not be the sole factor in funding allotments. The formula for such should be developed after consultation with State vital statistic offices. Furthermore, the section Driver's Licenses and Personal Identification Cards--Standards for Acceptance by Federal Agencies-- Minimum Standards will likely require the Electronic Verification of Vital Events (EVVE). However, the bill does not provide for consultation with State vital statistics offices, or for funding the vital statistics systems needed for EVVE. Similarly, the section on Social Security Cards and Numbers: Security Enhancements requires independent verification of any birth record submitted by an individual to SSA for purposes other than enumeration at birth. However, it does not provide for systems or funding to vital statistics offices. And while this section requires the Commissioner of Social Security to undertake improvements to the Enumeration At Birth (EAB) program. The Commissioner of Social Security should do this in consultation with State vital statistics offices as should the Commissioner of Social Security's study to determine the most efficient options for ensuring the integrity of the process for enumeration at birth.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, last month Congress passed the FY2005 Omnibus Appropriations Bill. The version that passed the House included a provision that would allow Appropriations Chairmen access to IRS tax returns. Once this provision was noticed, the Senate passed a resolution to strip it and the House was forced to go back into a pro forma session to adopt the Senate language. Two years ago, outrage followed the passage of an omnibus bill that included indemnification language for vaccine makers against autism lawsuits. Earlier this year, I introduced H.R. 4971, the Restoring Democracy to the United States Congress Act. This legislation sought to enact a series of reforms that I believe would have prevented this from happening. If the bill was law, among other things, it would have required the legislation to be online in a searchable form for a minimum of 24 hours before we voted on it. As an opportunity for Members to clearly state that the current manner in which we often consider legislation is not good for the institution, I am introducing legislation that would require all legislation be available to the public on the Internet and in a searchable form for a minimum of 24 hours before a vote could be considered.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the winners of the 18th Annual Exceptional Merit in Media Awards (EMMAs) which were presented by the National Women's Political Caucus earlier this year. This prestigious honor is given for excellence in media coverage of women's issues. The 2004 EMMA honorees include: The Liz Claiborne Award for Outstanding Reporting on Violence Against Women: Marie Claire, Lesley Jane Seymour, Editor-in-Chief. Magazine Story, Winner: ``Code of Dishonor'', Clara Bingham, Vanity Fair Magazine. Television, Exceptional Feature Story: ``He Said, She Said'', Melissa Cornick, ABC News. Magazine Story, Runner-up: ``Your Body is a Battle Ground'', Kimberly Sevcik, Self Magazine. Television, Exceptional Documentary: ``Our Lifetime Commitment: Stop Violence Against Women'', Denise Young Farrell, Lifetime Television. Magazine Story, Runner-up: ``Are You Ready to Really Understand Abortion'', Allison Brower, Glamour. Radio Segment: ``Shoshone Sisters Fight for Land'', Susan Shepard, Living on Earth, NPR. Television, Special Topics: ``Final Justice with Erin Brockovich, #315'', LMNO Productions, Larry Goldman, VP Corporate Communications. Special, Print: ``Violently III'', Jennifer Wolff, Self Magazine. Television, News Story: ``Women and the Media'', PBS to the Contrary Television, Cari Stein, VP Corporate Communications. Newspaper, Exceptional Feature Story: ``The Complete Anita Hill'', Florence Graves, freelance writer, 1994 EMMAs winner, The Boston Globe. I was thrilled to have been a part of this special event by paying tribute to journalists who write meaningful and groundbreaking articles about issues affecting women. I believe that they should be commended for their talents, and I look forward to reading more of their work in the future.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, last month, the Republican majority pushed through Congress a $388 billion omnibus spending bill that very few people had a chance to read. The Weldon provision was slipped into this enormous bill which severely alters the state of reproductive healthcare in this country. It gags America's doctor's and it jeopardize's women's health. Without education and without knowledge and information, women are being forced to make life-changing decisions about their reproductive health. This is not only wrong, it's un-American. The Weldon provision is nothing but another attack on a woman's right to choose in an effort to dismantle Roe v. Wade. After all, why is it necessary? Federal law already protects medical professionals who refuse to take abortion training. Is this what American women can look forward to under the new Republican ``mandate?'' The rolling back of their fundamental rights, an elimination of their healthcare options, and an undermining of their representation in Congress. I, for one, certainly hope not, but this action does not look good and should put us all on alert. I urge my colleagues to remove the Weldon provision from the FY05 Omnibus spending bill.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the bipartisan 9/11 Commission bill. This past week I joined relatives of victims of 9/11 at Ground Zero. It was one of the places that we held vigils across this country to remind Members of Congress of the human cost of the terrorist attack. Vigils were held in Washington, D.C., New York, Buffalo, Boston, Los Angeles. We are hopeful that a vote will be taken tomorrow. It will move forward this bill that will make Americans safer. We ask people to sign a petition and present that petition to the Speaker of the House of Representatives. I will place in the Record the text of that petition at this point. December 6, 2004. Dear Speaker Hastert: These signatures represent the will of the people. The democratic process must be respected. Congress must be allowed to vote. The ``9/11 Commission Recommendations Implementations Act'' is supported by the 9/11 Commission, the President, the Senate, and the majority of the members of your House. Listen to the voice of the people. Signed, Carie Lemack, Mindy Kleinberg, Lorie Van Auken, Patty Casazza, Carol Ashley, Mary Fetchet, Linda Lewis, Kathy Wiesniewski, Beverly Eckert, Bill Harvey, Charles Wolf. Speaking: Abraham Scott (lost wife Janice Marie); Beverly Eckert, Stamford (lost husband Sean Rooney); Mary Fetchet, New Canaan (lost son Brad); Carie Lemack, Boston (lost mother Judy Larocque). Not speaking: Carol Ashley, Long Island (lost daughter Janice); Kathy Wiesniewski (lost husband); Charlie Wolf (lost wife Kathy); Lorie Van Auken (lost husband Kenneth); Mindy Kleinberg (lost husband Alan). The holidays are a particularly difficult time for people who have lost loved ones, Thanksgiving and the holiday season. I am very, very hopeful that the hard work of these families in support of changes that will make America safer will be allowed for a vote in the House of Representatives.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the Chian Federation, on the occasion of its 30th anniversary. Since its founding in 1974, the Chian Federation has educated and empowered the Hellenic American community to exercise their rights and fulfill their obligations as American citizens. The Chian Federation has a strong record of advocating human rights and striving to promote democratic ideals. The members of the board of this outstanding organization are: Alexandros Doulis, President, Stavros Haviaras, Executive Vice President, Mike Frezoulis, First Vice President, John Monogioudis, Second Vice President George Arnitsis, Executive Secretary, Kalliopi Volikas- Theodoropoulos, General Secretary, Nikolaos Papagiannakis, CFO, John Stoupakis, Treasurer, Kostas Potamousis, Assistant Treasurer, and Elsa Tsartsidou, Director of the Federation's Cultural Center. In addition to its political objectives, the organization takes pride in its dance group, cultural events, website, magazine, business card exchanges, food, clothing and toy drives, Senior Citizens' breakfast and lectures on topics ranging from archaeology to health care. The Federation's accomplishments extend beyond the borders of the United States. On Chios, The Chian Federation has financially aided nursing homes, environmental groups for reforestation of the island, the Korais Library and the Office of the Repatriated Chians Organization, in addition to making substantial donations to the educational and health systems of Chios. In 1977, the Chian Federation established the Homeric Award to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Hellenic community. This year's Homeric Award recipient is Stamatios M. ``Tom'' Krimigis. The former Head of the Space Department of The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Dr. Krimigis' research interests include the earth's environment and magnetosphere; the sun; the interplanetary medium; and the magnetospheres of the planets and other astrophysical objects. He has been Principal Investigator or Co- Investigator on several NASA space missions, including the Low Energy Charged Particle Experiment on Voyagers 1 and 2 and the Active Magnetospheric Particle Tracer Explorer, a collaborative program that created the first man-made comet on December 27, 1984. Dr. Krimigis is the author of more than 370 academic papers; was awarded the NASA Medal for Exceptional Scientific Achievement in 1981 and 1986; and has received more than thirty NASA Group Achievement Awards for his work on the Voyager, AMPTE, Galileo, Ulysses, Cassini, and ACE projects. Dr. Krimigis has also been a member of the National Academy of Sciences' Space Science Board; Chairman of the Board's Committee on Solar and Space Physics; a member of NASA's Space Science and Applications Advisory Committees; a Fellow of the American Geophysical Union, the American Physical Society, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science; an Associate Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics; and trustee of the International Academy of Astronautics. He received the International Academy of Astronautics Basic Sciences Award and the AHEPA Academy Prize, both in 1994. At the World Space Congress in 2002, he was presented with the COSPAR Space Science Award, the highest honor that the worldwide space science community can bestow. In November 2004, he was presented with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory Lifetime Achievement Award. He has participated as member or Chairman in many national and international conferences in space science and space systems management, has delivered more than 1,100 talks on these topics, and has lectured in major conferences and National Academies in all five continents. The International Astronomical Union in 1999 named asteroid ``8323 Krimigis'' in his honor. The President of the Hellenic Republic awarded Dr. Krimigis the Gold Cross ``Commandeur de l' Ordre du Phoenix'' in 1997. Also, the American Hellenic Institute honored him with its ``Hellenic Heritage Achievement Award'' in Washington in 1998. Dr. Krimigis has often testified before Congressional Committees on issues of Space Science and Technology and has been a member or chairman of many advisory committees for the U.S. government. He is often quoted in national and international media on space science and technology issues, most recently on the Voyager crossing of the heliospheric termination shock and the Cassini orbits of Saturn. His work on Voyager has been featured as front-page news in the New York Times three times and has appeared in many other newspapers and magazines throughout the world. He is listed in Who's Who in America, Who's Who in the World, Who's Who in Frontiers of Science and Technology, Who's Who in Technology Today, Personalities of America, American Men and Women of Science, Men of Achievement, International Who's Who of Contemporary Achievement and the Dictionary of International Biography. Dr. Krimigis is truly a man ``axios'' (worthy) of the Homeric Award and I offer him my best wishes for many more years of outstanding achievements. I ask my colleges to join me recognizing the Chian Federation and its honoree, Dr. Tom Krimigis.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I first rise to thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Frost) for his many years of service to this body. He worked selflessly for the people of Texas. He led the Democrats as the head of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and as the ranking member on the Committee on Rules with great distinction. He was outstanding, a mentor to many of us, and we will miss him deeply. But wherever the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Frost) and Kathy go, I know they will continue to work for the people of Texas and for the United States of America. I also thank the appropriators, especially the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Obey), ranking member, and the chairman. And I would like to really thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young), who I understand this is the end of his term, for his steadfast help to New York after 9/11. He has been there through our darkest hours. I even remember on 9/12 calling him and saying that the police and fire needed phones, and he shipped them down to New York that day. He has done a great deal of support for New York in a bipartisan way, and my constituents and city are deeply grateful to him and the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Obey). We thank them and we will miss him. Mr. Speaker, I also rise in very strong opposition to the anti-woman, the refusal law, the Weldon gag rule which will undermine and roll back a woman's constitutional right to choose. I would like my colleagues to put this in perspective. This is the 209th action striking at and chipping away at a woman's constitutional right to choose since the Republicans took control of this body; and I find it outrageous the way that they are disregarding the State, local, and Federal law. I will end by saying that women will suffer, our health care system will suffer, and the Constitution will suffer. I urge my colleagues to vote against expanding this provision to hospitals and clinics.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this conference report for the Individual on the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA. When the IDEA reauthorization passed the House in April, I voted against this bill because I was concerned that the House bill did not provide the assistance students with disabilities deserve and I had real concerns with the way the House bill sought to discipline disabled students. Thankfully, the Conference Committee worked in a bipartisan manner and worked for what was best for our children with disabilities. I am pleased that this bill seeks to finally meet out funding goals by increasing authorization levels for grants to States. These new levels are set to fulfill our commitment of providing 40 percent of the national average of educating a child. Even though I am pleased with a lot of what is contained in this conference report, I still have concerns about some of the provisions. I don't want this bill to be the next ``No Child Left Behind Act''--a bill that has great promise, but a bill that Congress and the President fails to fully fund. The gains in this reauthorization will be for naught unless this Congress backs up this bill with the appropriations necessary. While changes have been made to the original House bill, we need to make sure that the Department of Education does the enforcement necessary to make sure students are not punished for behavior that is caused by their disability. I think we should all agree that under no circumstance should a child be punished for the behavior that has been caused by their disability. This bill goes a long way to ensuring all students the education opportunities they deserve. I expect that this conference report will pass by a wide margin. I ask my colleagues to remember your vote today when it comes to actually appropriating funding for this bill. Today we make a commitment to disabled students across this country, let's not forget them during future votes on educational funding.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Greece for its outstanding performance as host of the 2004 Olympic Games. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues and as the House Member privileged to represent Astoria, Queens, one of the largest and most vibrant communities of Hellenic Americans anywhere in this country, I join with all of my Caucus colleagues and fellow residents of New York's 14th Congressional District in saluting the people of Greece. On October 29, 2004, the Hellenic community, together with many friends, convened in Astoria's Athens Square Park to recognize this outstanding accomplishment. While it has been nearly three months since the Olympic flame was extinguished in Athens, the memory of how wonderful the 2004 Summer Games really were remains with us. The Athens Games attracted the largest American audience ever for an Olympic competition held outside the United States. The impact will be felt worldwide for generations to come. To me it was always clear that Greece would be an excellent host for the 2004 Olympic Games. Greek hospitality and warmth is renowned throughout the world. Thus, it is no surprise to report that the Greek people proved the naysayers wrong by hosting an impeccably organized and safe Olympic Games, an extraordinary world event in which the athletes took center stage. For three weeks in August, the people of Greece welcomed the world to participate in a competition that allowed countries to set aside their political differences for a brief time and to come together in the spirit of peace and sportsmanship. Wanting to help make the 2004 Olympics a great event for visitors many volunteers, including those from New York City such as Andreas C George, Katherine George, Vlasis Anastasiou, Julia Anastasiou, Helen Skarla, Katerina Papaioannou, Joanna Savaides, Irene Aindili Kalliroe Argenas, Yeannis Kaltsas, Spilios Gianakopoulos, Elizabeth Bogiatzi, Marika Gianakopoulos, Argyris Ignatiades, Stephanos Pavlides, Ieanni Michaelides, Theodora Ziongas, George Costacos and Zacharoula Karyammi, gave generously of their time and energy. While they were there, the volunteers were able to see Greece's beautiful historic and natural treasures, ensuring that they would remember forever their experience in Greece. On October 29th, the members of Hellenic cultural and civic organizations, Greek Orthodox churches, constituents and friends joined together to pay tribute to Greece for its extraordinary showing in the Olympics. The organizations represented included the Federation of Hellenic Societies and its members: Grinion Benevolent Society; Daughters of Roumeli Society of New York, Inc., Society of Diplatanos, Saint Marina, Inc., Nafpactian Brotherhood of New York, Galaxidi Brotherhood Eanthe, Thermopyles Phiotidos, the Laconian Brotherhood ``Mani'' Inc., Calavrytan Fraternity, Geros Tou Morea, Inc, Society Vryseon Anavretis, Pankerkyraikos Association, Kephalos, Society of America, Ithacan Society, ``Odesseus'' Ithacan Society, ``Odesseus'' Aesculapian Thessalian Brotherhood, Inc., Society of Epirotes, Pyrrhus Benevolent Society, Inc., Society of Epirotes Ladies Auxiliary, Souliotissaithessalonikian Society Society of Kastorians, Pontion Society of Kastoria, Inc., Panthracian Union of America, ``Orpheus'' St. John Theologos Society, Pan-icarian Brotherhood, Mytilenian Society of America, Pan-lemnian Philanthropic Association ``Hephaestos'' Inc., Gnomagoras Nisyrian Society Inc., Zoodohos Pighe of Andros Society, Cretans Association, ``Omonoia'' Cretan Women's Association, ``Pasiphae'' Syllogos Kreton ``Minos'' Pancyprian Association, Inc., Greek Cultural Center Inc., Northern Chios Society of ``Pelineon'', United Pireotes of America, Aetoloakarnanian Mutual Society, Mutual Aid Society, Aigioton Vostitsa Epidavrou Limiras Association, Inc., Pan- eliakos Society of New York, Kalamata Society, Ltd., Aristotelis Society of Halkidikipansamian Brotherhood ``Pythagoras'' of New York, ``Labrys'' Cretan Youth Organization of New York, Pontian Society ``Komninoi'', NY Greek American Folklore Society, Inc., Greek American Folklore Society, Inc., El Greco Society of Visual Arts, Inc., ``St. Demetrios'' Naupaktias Brotherhood of America, Greek American Homeowners Ass., Society Agiogalousion Amerikis, Greek-American Labor Council, Greek Society Elatousion of ``St. Stefanos'', Syllogos Noumou Magnisias ``Argonaytes'', Benevolent Association of Calamatahellenic Veterans Society of Greater New York, Inc., Panhellenic Organization ``Martyrs of Kavo Melanios'' Othoni Society of USA, Inc., Association of Logastra, Inc., Hellenic Organization of University Graduates of America, Philoptohos Adelfotis Arahoviton Nafpaktias Olympiakos Fan Club of NY, USA Greek and American Retirement Club, Pankritiki Enosis Athlitismou, Inc., Pan-Grecorian A.E.K. Fan Soccer Club of USA, Inc., Greek-American Mothers Association of USA, Omilos Metanaston Karitsis Messinian Benevolent Association, Hellenic American Educators Association, Gnomogoras Nisyrian Society, Inc., Benevolent Society of Athanasios Diakos ``Apostole'', Association Magoulioton of Spartasyllogos Patrinon Kostis Palamas and other prominent organizations, including PSEKA, Athens Square Park Inc., American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association, St. Paul Soc., Pan Dodecanese Society of America, Krikos; Eastern Orthodox Lawyers, Pan Macedonian Cultural Center; the Modern Greek Studies Center; the Hellenic American Medical Society; Euro-American Women's Council and the Pan Erikoussa Society of America, as well as our friends in the Greek press: National Herald, Hellenic Harmonies, Hellas News, National Greek TV, Hellenic Times, Estiator & Greek American Review, Antena, Aktina, Eseis Magazine, Maria Papadatos Show; Orthodox Observer, Hellas FM, and Mike Zapitis Hour. The millions of Americans who watched the Games achieved a better understanding of the Greek people, their warmth, generosity and graciousness. These Olympics helped solidify the reputation of Greece and the Hellenic people for abundant hospitality, or ``filoxenia''. Greece has earned our gratitude and sincerest congratulations. ``Axie!'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to rise to pay tribute to Greece for giving the world a spectacular 2004 Summer Olympics.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker: A little patience, and we shall see the reign of witches pass over, their spells dissolve, and the people, recovering their true sight, restore their government to its true principles. It is true that in the meantime we are suffering deeply in spirit, and incurring the horrors of a war and long oppressions of enormous public debt. If the game runs sometimes against us at home we must have patience till luck turns, and then we shall have an opportunity of winning back the principles we have lost, for this is a game where principles are at stake.--Thomas Jefferson, 1798, after the passage of the Sedition Act. These words of Jefferson ring particularly true at this moment. Principles are indeed at stake--basic principles of standing up for fiscal integrity, keeping our promises to American workers, and leaving the next generation free of crushing deficits. The majority has abandoned these principles, but we will not let them be forgotten. The futures of our children and our grandchildren are at sake. We are here to vote on the administration's demand for an increase in the debt limit of $800 billion dollars. This is the third increase in the debt that this administration has demanded in its first term--for a total of $2.1 trillion, the largest debt increase in our history. This administration has spent recklessly and immorally, driving the deficit each year to a new record. Democrats know how to reduce the deficit--and so did Republicans, in earlier years. When I came to Congress in 1992 we had a deficit of $290 billion. Yet, after 8 years of bipartisan policies of fiscal responsibility we ended President Clinton's second term with a projected 10-year surplus of $5.6 trillion. After only 4 years of this administration's irresponsible spending, we have a 10-year projected deficit of $2.3 trillion--a free fall of almost $8 trillion dollars in only 4 years. How much worse will it get before we can restore the government to its true principles? Having been chastised by all the financial ministers of Europe this week for allowing the U.S. budget deficit to get to this point, Secretary Snow said today that the budget deficit is the administration's highest economic priority. I challenge the administration to put its money where its mouth is. If the administration meant what it said, it would urge Republicans to join Democrats in reinstituting the pay-go rules that enabled us to reduce the deficit under President Clinton. We had bipartisan support for these rules for 8 years--because they work, and because they represent the necessary and responsible course. If the administration meant what it said, we would have a strategy to pay down the debt held by China and other Asian countries before they acquire a stranglehold on our economy and can dictate our fiscal choices. If the administration meant what it said, we would not be here debating a further increase in the debt limit while the Secretary has already raided the Civil Service Retirement Fund. For the sake of our children and grandchildren, we must bring government back to fiscal responsibility. Any vote on increasing the debt limit must be coupled with a vote to reinstate the pay-go rules.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the achievements of Harris Levy Fine Linens, a business in the Lower East Side neighborhood of Manhattan. Harris Levy has flourished since its modest beginnings 110 years ago. At a time when many small businesses struggle to compete with franchises and larger companies, Harris Levy has thrived by inspiring the trust of its customers. Harris Levy Fine Linens began in 1894 when Harris and Ester Levy started selling tapestries and yard goods from a rented pushcart. Five years later, they were able to move their business to a nearby basement and in 1930, they finally purchased a lot at 278 Grand Street, where their store is presently located. Early in its history, Harris Levy established itself as a pioneer--at a time when most stores relied on importers or wholesale suppliers, it chose to import its own goods. In those days, Harris Levy would sell its imported bed, bath and table linens at cost and derive its profits from the sale of the wooden crate in which the fabrics were shipped. Today, Harris Levy's fourth-generation owners continue to adhere to the core values with which Harris Levy started his business more than a century ago. The company insists on setting reasonable prices for its goods, striving not only to make a profit, but to maintain its customer base and supplier networks, as well. Harris Levy's owners also take great pride in the dedication of their employees, all of whom have been with the company for more than fifteen years. Mr. Speaker, I respectfully request that my distinguished colleagues join me in paying tribute to this outstanding family-run business, which has established itself as an integral part of the Lower East Side neighborhood. I wish Harris Levy's owners and longtime employees many more years of success.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt) for yielding me this time and for organizing this Special Order to highlight the outrageousness of the administration's demand that Congress raise the debt limit for the third time. Remember, my colleagues, when President Bush took office, the administration said that the debt ceiling would not be reached until 2008. But, instead, the majority has led the country so far into debt that we have had three huge increases in 4 years. The last raise, only a year ago, of $984 billion was far greater than any in United States history. Remember, in February of 2001, the Bush administration was predicting that the publicly held public debt would be paid down to $1.2 trillion by 2008. In its latest midsession review this summer, the administration itself was now projecting that the debt would be $5.5 trillion in 2008. In fact, the $800 billion increase the administration now demands under threat of default would raise the debt ceiling to $8.2 trillion and give the administration the greatest increase in debt of any administration ever. What a terrible distinction. What an appalling legacy for future generations. And under President Bush's policies, the CBO and other economists predict that the debt will continue to rise to at least $14 trillion and as much as $14.5 trillion in the next 10 years. What have the Republicans done to our economy? Remember, when President Bush took office, the CBO was projecting a 10-year baseline budget surplus of $5.6 trillion. A surplus. That was the result of President Clinton's policies that paid down the deficits and reduced the public debt. But after only 4 years of Republican leadership CBO is now projecting a cumulative 10-year deficit of $2.3 trillion. That is a swing of almost $8 trillion after only one term. Dare we ask my colleagues how bad will the next term be? The budget deficit reached a record 3.5 percent of GDP this year. As a share of GDP, the deficit is larger than it has been at any time since 1993. And let us not blame the war on terrorism. This is the direct product of their fiscal policies, the President's tax cuts that have left this Nation reeling. In the private sector, there is a bipartisan consensus that the deficit is killing the U.S. economy. Last week, the Wall Street Journal released a November survey of 55 prominent economists on what the top priorities of the President should be in his new terms. These are conservative folks, financial leaders in our country. Their top item was narrowing the budget deficit. I quote from Peter Hooper, a former economist with the Federal Reserve Board, ``If we do not get a narrowing of the budget deficit, it will slow the rate of the growth of the economy.'' It is not just our financial leaders in this country that are worried. This morning, the Associated Press reported that a pressing concern of the EU finance ministers at their meeting this week is the U.S. budget deficit and the resulting weakness of the dollar, which was at a record low today against the Euro. The ministers called on the U.S. to reduce its deficit and said that action, not just words, were what is needed. But what do we get from the administration? An increase in the debt ceiling, the largest ever in the history of the country. Secretary Snow responded that the deficit was, ``unwelcome.'' Unwelcome? We are not talking about an unexpected dinner guest but a monster of this administration's making that our children and our grandchildren will have to suffer under and will have to pay for. Where has the administration been as the deficit has continued to mount? A recent paper by William Gale and Peter Orzag of the Brookings Institute put the situation very clearly: ``The United States has never before experienced such large, long-term financial imbalances. Sustained chronic deficits will gradually reduce national income and living standards and carry with them the risk of a financial crisis.'' A recent New York Times editorial spelled out what this financial crisis might be. This is extremely troubling, and the gentleman from New York (Mr. Rangel) touched on this very eloquently earlier. Almost all, 92 percent, of the huge increase in publicly held debt that has occurred in this administration is held by foreign nations, with Japan and communist China the two largest shareholders. In particular, China has almost tripled its holdings since Bush took office and now holds almost $175 billion in United States treasuries. The Treasury figures which came out this morning show that China is one of only four nations that is buying significant amounts of U.S. debt, increasing its holdings by close to $20 billion since the beginning of this year alone. The Chinese are not buying our debt to advance freedom and democracy. They are buying it to advance themselves at a competitive advantage. By maintaining the dollar at an artificially high rate against the Chinese currency, they keep the price of their products low in the U.S. In other words, our budget deficit enables the Chinese to hold down prices of Chinese goods and makes them more competitive in the U.S., at the expense of U.S. companies. In short, the American taxpayer is subsidizing Chinese manufacturers, and the American worker is paying the salary of a Chinese employee. But what if the Chinese changed their minds? What if they dumped those Treasuries? Perhaps because, as the Times suggests, and I quote, of ``dismay over the United States' long-term fiscal disarray'' or for whatever reason they feel would advantage them. That is not an unrealistic scenario. Recent articles note that the Chinese policy of pegging its currency at a fixed rate to the dollar has been creating great imbalances in that country's economy and putting pressure on the Chinese government to let the dollar fall. Then we would have a crisis. Dumping dollars would almost certainly cause an abrupt spike in inflation and interest rates. All I can say is that these economic policies are dangerous. I came to Congress in 1992 and we had a $290 billion deficit, as the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt) pointed out. In 6 years, we had what was projected to be a huge surplus. Under this administration, we have lost that surplus. They have created the largest deficit in history, and they are now calling to increase the debt ceiling to the largest amount it has ever been in the history of this country. And who is buying that debt? China is the prime purchaser of that debt. This is not a valid policy. It is wrong-headed. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his leadership on this issue.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the achievements of Abraham Lazar, a great American and longtime resident of New York. On Sunday, November 7, 2004, Abraham's many friends, family and colleagues gathered in his current hometown of Lake Worth, Florida to celebrate his 80th birthday. Birthdays are a time for reflection, and I feel that it is fitting to pay tribute to this truly remarkable man. Abraham Lazar served his country with distinction, both in the U.S. naval service and in civilian life. I am privileged to be able to share some of his more memorable exploits with you. Mr. Lazar and his ten brothers and sisters were born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He attended Brooklyn Technical High School and graduated shortly after the United States entered World War II. At the age of seventeen, Abe enlisted in the Navy and quickly established a distinguished service record. Abe served in both the Pacific and Atlantic theaters of battle. Mr. Lazar participated in the Battle of Peleliu, a struggle for a tiny airstrip amid the Palau Islands of the Western Pacific. Despite the island's small size, the battle for Peleliu lasted nearly two months and claimed more than 12,000 lives. Allied forces ultimately prevailed and captured the island, but Mr. Lazar was severely wounded in the battle. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his sacrifice. Abe received another Purple Heart during the war, this time for his service in the Atlantic. I understand that Mr. Lazar's landing craft was sunk in the North Atlantic by a German U-Boat. Abe was forced overboard, and the fleeing submarine strafed his life raft with gunfire; despite these incredible dangers, Abe managed to survive, spending nearly twelve hours in open water before he was rescued. For his heroic service, Abe was promoted to Chief Motor Machinist's Mate, one of the highest ranks to which an enlisted sailor can be named. After the war, Abe attended New York University and received a bachelor's degree, with honors, in engineering. In civilian life, Mr. Lazar worked with noted scientist Wernher von Braun to develop the Pershing missile system and was also employed by the Bulova Corporation to design and manufacture missile timing devices. Mr. Lazar is currently enjoying a well-deserved retirement in Florida, where he lives with his wife of 56 years, Anita. Mr. Speaker, I request that my colleagues join me in honoring Abraham Lazar's lifetime of service to our nation. I'm sure that Abe's family, longtime friends and colleagues will join me in wishing him many more years of happiness. Happy birthday, Mr. Lazar.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Junior Achievement of New York as it celebrates its 75th anniversary of educating young people about business, economics, and free enterprise. On October 18, 1929, ten visionary women and men created an original organization exclusively dedicated to providing a broad appreciation of business to young boys and girls throughout New York City. Since its inception, Junior Achievement of New York has worked vigorously to help every student in the five boroughs of New York and on Long Island appreciate the value of education, and understand the free enterprise system. In its distinguished history, Junior Achievement of New York has inspired nearly two million kindergarten through twelfth grade students. This inspiration has been achieved through the dedication and energy of more than 65,000 volunteers from the corporate, education, and civic sectors of the New York community. Junior Achievement volunteers are amazing individuals from large, medium, and small businesses, from high schools, colleges, and graduate school programs. They are devoted parents, accomplished retirees, and caring members of the communities where the students they teach live and learn. Junior Achievement of New York has facilitated and continues to create business-to-school partnerships. These relationships create meaningful experiences that bring the real world into the classroom and forge valuable relationships between successful professionals and future business and social leaders. Thanks to volunteers' educational consulting, Junior Achievement of New York has been able to deliver dynamic, innovative educational programs that motivate, inspire, and equip young people to succeed. Junior Achievement of New York's programs prepare students for the workplace by encouraging exceptional academic performance, developing employability skills and providing career education. The programs are designed to foster students' desire to complete their education and instill in them an understanding of the vital link between staying in school and becoming productive citizens. Furthermore, the programs enhance students' abilities to attain the core skills and competencies necessary for success in today's workplace and marketplace. Junior Achievement of New York's curriculum serves as a building block to help achieve the goals of the New York City and State education systems and produce bright, motivated entrepreneurs to build a better future for the city and State. I salute Junior Achievement of New York, its mission and the commendable volunteers, teachers, and students who have been a part of its 27-year history. On its platinum anniversary, I applaud the impact this educational organization has had on the students of New York. Moreover, I confidently endorse the future success Junior Achievement of New York will have as it continues to inspire young people to be successful.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the achievements of the 23rd Street Association, its president, Sharon L. Ullman and the Association's 2004 honoree, North Fork Bank, on the occasion of the Association's 75th anniversary celebration and award luncheon. The 23rd Street Association is an outstanding organization that addresses community concerns and fosters a wholesome environment for those who live and work between 18th and 28th Streets in Manhattan. The 23rd Street Association was formed in 1929 by 22 local businesspeople to improve environmental conditions and promote economic development in Manhattan. Today, the Association addresses a broad range of citizen complaints and concerns by working closely with local community boards as well as city, state and federal government agencies. The Association is also actively involved with local police precincts to improve area security and prevent drug sales, theft and other crimes. Whether purchasing and planting over 200 trees from the City Parks Department or working with the New York Department of Transportation to improve traffic conditions, the Association's commitment to community service has been exceptional. One of the Association's most notable achievements is its Campaign for the New Madison Square Park, which raised more than $11 million to revitalize the park with art shows, music, children's programming and improved grounds maintenance. I am proud to say that with the Association's help, Madison Square Park has truly become an oasis in the heart of Manhattan and a source of pride for those who live nearby. The 23rd Street Association's president of 10 years, Sharon L. Ullman, has been an instrumental part of the Association's success. Her dedication to public service is truly inspiring: Ms. Ullman served as the Warden of Madison Square Park for four years, has been a longtime board member of the Associated Blind and the Gramercy Park Block Association and has received community service awards from Concerned Citizens Speak and New York Mayor Rudolph Guiliani. Ms. Ullman was also named one of the top 100 New Yorkers by New York Resident magazine. The Association's 2004 honoree is North Fork Bank, which will be represented by North Fork's Senior Vice President, Carl M. Gambino. The Bank's 15 New York City branches are vital elements of our community, employing more than 250 New Yorkers and managing more than $1.5 billion in assets. Mr. Gambino, who was born and raised in Greenwich Village, has served as the director of the 23rd Street Association, the New York City Council of the Boy Scouts of America and the East Village Business Association. Mr. Gambino is an inspiring humanitarian and business leader whose Christmas Toy Drive and financial counseling initiatives have greatly benefitted New York City children. Mr. Speaker, I request that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to the 23rd Street Association, its president, Sharon L. Ullman, and its honoree, North Fork Bank.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the achievements of Empire City Iron Works, the oldest and largest steelmaker in New York City. For the past 100 years, Empire City Iron Works has played an integral role in developing New York's distinctive urban landscape. At a time when many of its competitors are struggling, Empire City's specialized service and ability to adapt to changing market conditions make it a model for new businesses in the region. Empire City Iron Works was established in 1904 by Leopold Heffner, an ironworker who immigrated to the United States from Austria. Early in its history, Empire City produced cast iron frames and covers for coal- delivery holes installed in New York City sidewalks, some of which remain to this day. During World War II, Empire City's employees worked diligently to provide supplies to the U.S. Navy, constructing ammunition boxes and gun racks, as well as watertight doors for ships produced in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. In later years, Empire City made enormous contributions to New York City's power grid, one of the most reliable networks in the country. In cooperation with Consolidated Edison, the company built almost every power plant in the New York metropolitan area. Today, Empire City Iron Works furnishes and installs a wide range of metal products including steel pan and ornamental stairs, structural steel, railings and walkways. On occasion, it works directly with artists, cutting and fitting pieces to create sculptures according to the artist's specifications. The company has also undertaken a number of high-profile projects in recent years, such as the extensive renovation of the Museum of Modern Art and the construction of the first new building at the World Trade Center site. With projects ranging from the Time Warner Center in Manhattan to the Atlantic Center Mall in Brooklyn, Empire Iron Works continues to thrive; at present, it has more than 75 employees at its factory in Long Island City, Queens. Mr. Speaker, I respectfully request that my distinguished colleagues join me in paying tribute to this fine company and its exceptional work in New York City. I wish the management and employees of Empire City Iron Works another 100 years of success.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce legislation, the ``Preventing Sexual Assaults in the Military Act of 2004,'' along with Representatives Ellen Tauscher, Diane Watson, and Ed Towns, which would appropriate such funds as are necessary for fiscal years 2005 through 2007 to eliminate the backlog in processing DNA evidence, to ensure that testing takes place in a timely manner, to provide an adequate supply of forensic evidence collection kits at all domestic and overseas U.S. military installations, military academies, and theaters of operation, and to ensure that at least one military medical personnel member, who is trained as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) or Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE), is on duty at all times in the health care facility at a military academy, domestic military base, overseas military base, and theaters of operation, except where a memorandum of understanding is issued between the military installation and a local civilian hospital. Rapes and sexual assaults are far too common in both civilian life and in the military. As the April 2004 report issued by the Pentagon states, among other findings, current DoD policies and standards do not focus on sexual assault and ``the military services'' policies lack integration for effective prevention and response.'' This legislation will help bring justice to the victims and survivors of sexual assault by ensuring that DNA evidence is used to identify perpetrators and bring them to justice. Additionally, it will provide servicemembers who are raped with the necessary medical care. As our soldiers are fighting for those who have long been denied basic rights, we should do everything possible to ensure that we are protecting their rights, too.

Mrs. MALONEY

Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the life and achievements of Bishop Moses Taylor, one of New York City's foremost spiritual leaders. I am saddened to report to the members of this chamber that Bishop Taylor passed away on October l, 2004. He is survived by his loving family, his many friends and the congregations of the three ministries he founded in Long Island City and Astoria, Queens. Bishop Taylor was a fixture of his community for more than 60 years. Bishop Taylor's ministry began in a small house on 12th Street in Long Island City, where he preached to a group of twelve followers; in the next few years, this ministry moved to a larger, permanent home across the street and became known as the Long Island City Gospel Tabernacle. It was during this time that Bishop Taylor began many of the community service initiatives for which his ministries would become widely known in the Queens community. Indeed, the two founding principles of the Bishop's ministries are ``to teach and preach the Word of God with simplicity and understanding'' and ``to undergird, strengthen and increase (the) community through programs, targeted activities for men, women, singles and families, combined with educational instruments that will address the whole need of man.'' Building on the success of the Gospel Tabernacle, Bishop Taylor went on to found the Astoria Outreach Ministries and the Center for Hope International in Long Island City, which is now led by his son, Pastor Mitchell G. Taylor. I am certain that Bishop Taylor was extremely proud to see his son follow in his footsteps and dedicate his life to enriching the lives of people in the Queens community. The three ministries founded by Bishop Taylor have become invaluable parts of New York City's spiritual life. They are true reflections of the vibrant and generous Queens community that Moses Taylor so faithfully served. Mr. Speaker, I request that my colleagues join me in honoring the late Bishop Moses Taylor, whose dedication to community service lives on thanks to the generosity of his many followers. With his passing, the community has lost one of its true heroes.