Carolyn Maloney

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Rocco Sacramone, Chef and owner and of Trattoria L'Incontro and restaurateur, for his achievements and outstanding devotion to the betterment of the Queens community. Since its opening in 1999, Trattoria L'Incontro has been a staple of the Astoria community. Under the direction of Chef Sacramone and Jack Brucculeri, Trattoria L'Incontro quickly became a ``must place'' to dine. In 2005 the restaurant was rated as one of the top two Italian restaurants in New York by Zagat, providing the highest level of quality and service in a unique setting that reflects Mr. Sacramone's hometown in Italy. Despite his tremendous successes, Mr. Sacramone came from humble beginnings. Born in Orsonga, a small town in Abruzzo, Italy, Mr. Sacramone came to the United States with his family in 1970. At the age of 14, Mr. Sacramone began his work in restaurants as a dishwasher in a popular Italian restaurant in Queens. Working long hours in the kitchen, he rose through the ranks and quickly became manager at Nino's Restaurant in Greenwich Village, where he learned the front of house aspect of the restaurant business. Throughout his career, Mr. Sacramone has received numerous accolades from the New York Times, Newsday and Timeout. Mr. Sacramone attributes much of his success to his team and loving family, especially his mother Tina who worked alongside him in the kitchen and taught him his respect and love for the art of cooking. Mr. Sacramone continues to be a pillar of his community by devoting his time and support to many local organizations, including Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens, United Civic Community Association, SHAREing and CAREing and L.I.C./Astoria Kiwanis Club. Mr. Sacramone also plans to travel to Italy to help the victims of the recent earthquake. Additionally, his generous, unending support and charity to the Holy Name Society of St. Francis of Assisi Church makes the ``Taste of Italy'' Scholarship fundraiser a tremendous success. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Sacramone for his tremendous achievements and continued generosity, dedication and support to his community.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Jonathan Darche for his undying devotion to improving the lives of New Yorkers through public service. Because of the dedication that Mr. Darche has shown to his community in Astoria, he is being honored at Taminent Regular Democratic Club's 85th Annual Dinner Dance with the Taminent Political Activism Award. Mr. Darche, a life-long resident of Queens, graduated from Empire State College and received his law degree from the City University of New York School of Law. Mr. Darche began his career in public service working for Senator Charles E. Schumer. After graduating from law school, he continued his commitment to the people of Queens as an Assistant District Attorney at the Queens County District Attorney's Office, where he met his wife, Samantha Darche, Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas. Mr. Darche's contributions to his community have by no means gone unnoticed. He has received numerous rewards for his dedicated public service, including the Narcotics Investigation Bureau Commendation and the New York State Bar Association Citation for Achievement in Public Service. In November 2014, Mr. Darche was promoted to Chief Prosecutor of the New York City Civilian Complaint Review Board after his time spent serving as the Deputy Chief Prosecutor and the Acting Chief of Investigations at the agency. Mr. Darche's dedication to service extends past his career. He is incredibly active in his Astoria community. Mr. Darche's many roles include Corresponding Secretary for the Queens County Brandeis Association, member of the Taminent Regular Democratic Club, member of the Astoria Center of Israel and member of the United Community Civic Association. Mr. Darche lives in Astoria with his wife and their two- year-old son, Moses. Mr. Darche has demonstrated tireless dedication to his community throughout his entire career. As both a hardworking attorney and community servant, Jonathan Darche consistently devotes his time and effort to improving the lives of those around him, with much success. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the incredible accomplishments and contributions of Jonathan Darche, a man who has undeniably made his community a better place.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Mr. Michael Serao, an experienced philanthropist and cultural activist who has dedicated many years to serving his community in Queens, New York. Mr. Serao is being honored at Taminent Regular Democratic Club's 85th Annual Dinner Dance with the Ralph DeMarco Award. After serving for six years at Commerce Bank in Astoria and three years as Vice President of JP Morgan Chase Bank in Astoria, Mr. Serao is now the Regional Manager and Vice President of Quontic Bank. As grandson of Edward Serao from Bogan and Sons Furniture, a Steinway Street store that was a fixture in Astoria for decades, Mr. Serao is following in his grandfather's footsteps in giving back to his community. Michael Serao, a third-generation Italian-American, truly defines the meaning of community service. Mr. Serao is the Board Director for the Astoria LIC Kiwanis, Chairman of the Advisory Board of SHAREing and CAREing, former Advisory Board member to Immaculate Conception school, past President of the Ditmars Merchants Association, Chair for the Astoria Park Relay for Life, Charter member and President of the Lions Club, Treasurer of the William Jefferson Clinton Democratic Club, a former Board Director for the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens, Board Director of QSAC and an active former Board member of Community Board 1. He is also the Vice President of the Astoria Civic Association which is led by former City Council Speaker Peter F. Vallone. Mr. Serao's philanthropy work includes working with children with autism and senior citizens with disabilities. He has also worked actively in the LGBT community as a former member of OUT Astoria and former President of the Western Queens LGBT Democratic Club. Some of Mr. Serao's past honors include HX Magazine Businessman of the Year, Business Leadership Award from the Powhattan Democratic Club, Man of the Year from the LIC KOC, Business Leadership Award from the Borough President and numerous City Council and state recognitions. He currently resides in Hewlett Harbor with his partner, Dr. Fidel Abreu. Community involvement is the foundation of a successful city, and Mr. Serao exemplifies commitment to his community through his years of active service to local groups, organizations and elected officials. It is a privilege for me to represent a district with dedicated citizens, like Michael Serao, who work constantly to improve our city. Michael Serao consistently devotes his time and effort to improving the lives of those around him, with great success. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary work that Michael Serao has done for the great city of New York.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Mr. John Ford, the current President and Business Manager of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, Its Territories and Canada (IATSE). Mr. Ford is being honored at Taminent Regular Democratic Club's 85th Annual Dinner Dance with the Man of the Year Award. The IATSE was founded in 1893 when representatives of stagehands working in eleven cities met in New York and pledged to support each others' efforts to establish fair wages and working conditions for their members. The union has since evolved to embrace the development of new entertainment mediums, craft expansion, technological innovation and geographic growth. Today, the over 130,000 members work in all forms of live theater, motion picture and television production, trade shows and exhibitions, television broadcasting, and concerts as well as the equipment and construction shops that support all these areas of the entertainment industry. John Ford is a third generation member of IATSE Local 52 Motion Picture Studio Mechanics, and he has been a member since 1978. He served on the Executive Board as the Property Department Representative from 1992 to 1998. Mr. Ford also served as Secretary and Treasurer from 1999 to April 2004. In addition to serving as the President and Business Manager since April 2004, John Ford serves as a Trustee on the Motion Picture Industry Pension and Health Plans. Mr. Ford presently serves as a Trustee on the Local 52 401k Plan. He also currently serves as the International Vice President of the Executive Board of IATSE, a position to which he was elected in July of 2006. The entertainment industry has played a strong role in our great city by providing good paying jobs to thousands of workers. IATSE ensures that stagehands receive fair pay and good benefits for their essential work. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary work that John Ford has done for the IATSE and his larger impact on the great city of New York.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Eartha T. Washington, who has a long history of service to her community. Ms. Washington is being honored at Taminent Regular Democratic Club's 85th Annual Dinner Dance with the Taminent Community Service Award. Her commitment, enthusiasm, and generosity have helped countless members of her community. Ms. Washington was born in South Carolina and grew up in Bedford- Stuyvesant, Brooklyn as the oldest of four children. She was married to the late James Washington Jr. and is the proud mother of three sons and three granddaughters. Ms. Washington has lived in Astoria, Queens for over 50 years. After graduating from Borough of Manhattan College and Baruch College, Ms. Washington served as a Contract Administrator with the New York City Department of Parks for 31 years. Ms. Washington has dedicated most of her spare time to community service. Her many roles include: Chairperson of the Advisory Board at Elmhurst Hospital; New York State Licensed Chaplain; New York City Department of the Aging Advisory Board Member; Director of Astoria Civic Association; Astoria-LIC Kiwanis; Vice President of SHAREing/ CAREing and Director of Taminent Women's Regular Democratic Club. In recognition of her commitment to serving her community, Ms. Washington has received many awards and honors from New York City Council, State of New York, Congress of the United States, New York State Assembly and the Coleman Foundation, among others. Additionally, Ms. Washington has traveled extensively and has visited five continents. A considerable amount of this travel has been service oriented; including the several trips Ms. Washington has taken to volunteer abroad in Dominica, Kenya and South Africa. Ms. Washington's dedication to aiding others is epitomized by her motto--``If I can help someone as I pass this way, I must do it now, for I may not pass this way again.'' She has demonstrated tireless dedication to her community throughout her entire adult life. Eartha Washington consistently devotes her time and effort to improving the lives of those around her, with great success. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary work of Eartha T. Washington, a New York woman who makes a difference in her community.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the York Theatre Company as they celebrate the inauguration of their new theatre seats. Founded by Janet Hayes Walker in 1969, the York Theatre Company produces nearly 200 musical theatre performances each year, reaching over 37,000 patrons. The York Theatre is an incredible company that makes musical theatre accessible to New Yorkers of all ages and backgrounds. The unique mission of the York Theatre Company is two-fold as it aspires to produce new musical works, as well as rediscover musicals of the past. The York Theatre hosts several programs and activities that encourage musical theatre students to engage in Off-Broadway productions, greatly impacting the Off-Broadway scene. With programs such as the Mainstage Series, Musicals in Mufti Series, Developmental Reading Series, internship offerings, and a volunteer program, the York Theatre has made its mark on New York City's vibrant theatre community. Since 2015, the York Theatre Company has offered its Musical Theatre Training Program that brings together working professionals and dedicated theatre students. This program offers training in singing, acting, and movements, as well as master classes with New York's top theatre artists. The York Theatre's intensive sessions are offered to students from middle school to college. Many of these intensives offer students an opportunity to perform on the York Theatre's Off-Broadway stage at the conclusion of the program. In the fall of 2014, the York Theatre celebrated its 100th Musical in Mufti with the production of Stephen Sondheim's Saturday Night. The York Theatre's Musical in Mufti ensures that lesser known musicals of the past are performed and brought into new light for the enjoyment of modern audiences. The York Theatre was able to expand its seating capacity thanks to more than 100 generous supporters, as well as the $112,000 grant issued by Sei Young Kim of New York City's Department of Cultural Affairs. Because of this expanded seating section, the theatre will be better able to reach its goal of providing free and low-cost performances to its audiences. With the ribbon cutting celebrating the company's new theatre seats, the York Theatre's patronage will expand to even broader audiences of New York theatregoers. Off-Broadway theatre has played a pivotal role in making New York City the theatre capitol of the world. In its 47th year of productions, the York Theatre Company has had a substantial impact on this great city's history. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to rise in recognition of the York Theatre Company, a principal in shaping New York City's theatre culture, as they celebrate the inauguration of their new theatre seats.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Kimberly N. Mullarkey, who is being honored with Taminent Regular Democratic Club's Gloria D'Amico Trailblazer Award at the Club's 85th Annual Dinner Dance. Kimberly Mullarkey is not only a third generation Astorian, but also a third generation member of the Taminent Regular Democratic Club. Ms. Mullarkey is a firm believer in the importance of giving back to her community, a value that was instilled in her by her family and drives much of the work she does today. Ms. Mullarkey graduated from Dominican College in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in Social Science and a minor in Politics as well as a concentration in History and Psychology. During her time at Dominican College, Ms. Mullarkey found her love of the performing arts, acting in lead roles in Grease, Nunsense and The 50 Years of Aquin Players. After graduating, Ms. Mullarkey began her consulting career at The Dryfoos Group and later worked at Constantinople & Vallone. Ms. Mullarkey joined the Taminent Regular Democratic Club as a young adult. She later became Corresponding Secretary for the Club and is currently serving as Women's Club President. Taminent Regular Democratic Club was founded in 1933, making it one of the oldest clubs in New York City. The Club addresses all things that affect the community of Astoria. Also, the Club plays a large role in local elections by backing politicians that they feel fit the community's best interest. In addition to her work at the Club, Kimberly Mullarkey also served four terms on The Board of Alumni Directors at Dominican College and she has worked on numerous political races throughout her life. Ms. Mullarkey considers her most rewarding work, however, to be her role as her father's caregiver and advocate. Ms. Mullarkey has demonstrated tireless dedication to her community throughout her entire adult life. Kimberly Mullarkey consistently devotes her time and effort to improving the lives of those around her, with great success. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Kimberly N. Mullarkey, a New York woman who makes an extraordinary difference in her community of Astoria, Queens.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Ms. Kavita Krishnamurthy for her lifelong contributions to film and music. Throughout her decades-long career, Ms. Krishnamurthy has performed all over the world and collaborated with renowned musicians from a wide array of genres. Ms. Krishnamurthy showed promise at a young age, winning a gold medal in the Inter-Ministry Classical Competition in New Delhi as an eight year old. A year later, she recorded her first song with famed Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar under the direction of composer Hemant Kumar. By the 1990s Ms. Krishnamurthy was known as one of Bollywood's leading female playback singers. She won critical acclaim for her performance in 1942: A Love Story and established herself as a lead singer. She worked with several renowned directors including Bappi Lahiri, A.R. Rahman, and Anu Malik. Ms. Krishnamurthy began expanding her artistic range. She was the featured soloist in a global fusion album in which she worked with musicians from five continents. Ms. Krishnamurthy began to explore fusion music, which brought her around the world to some of music's most famous concert halls, such as the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Lincoln Center in New York City, and the Zhongshan Music Hall in Beijing. In 2007, Ms. Krishnamurthy co-founded the Subramaniam Academy of Performing Arts, which serves as a home for global music in India. The Academy exposes its students to music from all over the world and trains them to love and respect the art they create. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Ms. Kavita Krishnamurthy for the lifelong contributions she has made to music, film, and education. Ms. Krishnamurthy is an inspiration and role model to musicians around the world.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize The Spence School of New York on the occasion of its 125th anniversary. The Spence School has advanced the education of young women tremendously since its founding. The Spence School was established in 1892 by Clara Spence with the mission of providing young girls a solid educational foundation, which was a revolutionary idea for that time. Since then, thousands of young female students have been given a rigorous education that not only builds knowledge, but also character and spirit, and puts young women on a path to a college education. Clara Spence was a social rights activist in the late 19th and early 20th century who aimed to solve class and social problems. Her ideals are embodied in The Spence School's motto, which reads: ``Non scholae sed vitae discimus,'' or ``Not for school but for life we learn.'' Clara Spence preached virtue and care to her students and children around her to inspire them to grow up and affect change. Her care and careful planning still live in the actions of the school to this day. That is why the school's mission statement aims for a ``lifelong transformation of self and the world with purpose, passion and perspective.'' During its 125 years, The Spence School developed a reputation for excellence in education. It has shown a commitment to helping all women by continually educating those of diverse backgrounds. The school's commitment to helping women of all backgrounds can be seen in both the 5 million dollar tuition assistance it annually gives, which allows for 20% of the student body to receive aid, as well as its many partnerships with non-profit organizations to recruit girls from all over New York City. Over the years, The Spence School has become an intrinsic part of the Upper East Side community in New York City. Many local parents, including me, have had their daughters educated at this top institution. We have seen amazing success from the students of Spence, including frequent admission to top universities such as the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, Northwestern University, the University of Chicago and many more. As a former educator, I understand just how far a strong education can go to help young women succeed and grow. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that women made up 57% of college students in 2013. This is thanks to the work of passionate educators and schools such as The Spence School, which are working to give women the equal chance in life that Clara Spence sought after for her first class of girls more than a century ago. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my distinguished colleagues join me in recognizing the amazing contributions to academic and civil life that The Spence School provides to the young girls of the Greater New York City area on its 125th anniversary.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Major Chuck Kilbride for his work with the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program. Major Kilbride, through his work with the Toys for Tots Program, has provided hope and joy to children in need during the holiday season for well over two decades. Started in 1947 by Major Bill Hendricks, Toys for Tots collects toys to provide to less fortunate youth, bringing local communities together around spreading holiday cheer. Toys for Tots was a quick success, collecting and distributing 5,000 toys in its first year alone. It has only improved throughout the years, providing over 512 million toys to over 237 million children nationwide to date. The Toys for Tots Program is not only about making children's wishes come true, it is about creating an environment of inclusion for all youth, regardless of their background or economic situation. The program recognizes that children are our most valuable asset because they are our future; investing in them is contributing to our future. The Toys for Tots Program has a special place in my heart. Each year, it has provided toys to public housing residents throughout my district in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. I fondly remember distributing toys with Major Kilbride at the Seward Park Community Center and the Vladeck Houses on the Lower East Side of Manhattan in December, 2009. That year, Major Kilbride named my late husband, Clifton Maloney, honorary vice chairman of the Toys for Tots program in New York City. I am grateful for all the amazing work Major Kilbride and his Marines have done for children throughout the New York metropolitan area. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Major Chuck Kilbride, Gunnery Sergeant Brian Gomez, Staff Sergeant J.D. Quinton, and Sergeant Eliezer Gomez for their work for the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program. These gentlemen and the Marine Corps have worked tirelessly to spread happiness and faith to less fortunate youth during the holiday season.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Dr. Prakash Swamy for his tremendous dedication to improving United States and India relations. Dr. Swamy holds a doctorate degree in Media Studies from Amstead University and has worked as a journalist for over 35 years. Starting as an intern with the Gainesville Sun, he has written and served as editor for numerous newspapers both in the United States and India. Dr. Swamy is an experienced public speaker. He was a speaker at the 2009 convention of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas sponsored by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, which celebrates the contributions of the overseas Indian community to India. Dr. Swamy currently is a Diplomatic Correspondent to the United Nations and has spent the last 10 years writing about the UN General Assembly Session. In this role, he has reported on prominent international leaders including heads of state, foreign ministers and ambassadors. Dr. Swamy is dedicated to improving India-U.S. relations and has worked with officials in the Clinton, Bush and Obama administrations to achieve this goal. Dr. Swamy is the president of America Tamil Sangam, an organization that promotes Tamil language and heritage throughout the United States. America Tamil Sangam provides a platform for Tamil scholars, writers and artists to share a rich culture and history with the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Dr. Prakash Swamy for his accomplishments in the U.S. and abroad, and for his continued dedication to improving India-U.S. relations.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the Seneca Falls Dialogues, a conference that fosters a dialogue regarding women and gender studies issues, and the Women's Initiative for Leadership and Learning, Inc. (WILL) for supporting such an important event. Once every two years, dedicated students, faculty and activists come together in Seneca Falls, New York, which has been associated with women's rights since the Declaration of Sentiments was signed in Seneca Falls in 1848 at the first women's rights convention. The Seneca Falls Dialogues aim to encourage discussion and research concerning equal rights for women. In October of 2008, the Seneca Falls Heritage Group, the Friends of the Women's Rights National Historical Park, the National Women's Hall of Fame, and the Greater Rochester Branch of the American Association of University Women, in collaboration with an alliance of western New York colleges and universities, came together to create the First Biennial Seneca Falls Dialogues. This initial conference was held on October 11-12, 2008 in celebration of the 160th anniversary of the first women's rights convention and the 60th anniversary of Eleanor Roosevelt's Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Today, the Seneca Falls Dialogues are sponsored by WILL, in collaboration with the College Alliance, the town of Seneca Falls, the Seneca Falls Heritage Group, the Friends of the Women's Rights National Historical Park, the National Women's Hall of Fame, and the Greater Rochester Branch of the American Association of University Women. Works presented at the Dialogues are archived and serve as an important cache of materials used by a network of university Womens and Gender Studies programs and enable scholars to do further research. Additionally, I would like to recognize the President of Friends of Women's Rights National Historical Park, Marilyn Tedeschi, who is also the key organizer of the Seneca Falls Dialogues. Ms. Tedeschi has served in a number of roles, including urban educator, youth advocate, business entrepreneur and social activist. Her passions lie primarily in economic development of the working poor and their communities. She is a member of several boards that reflect this dedication, and is a cofounder of the Community Microenterprise Center, a not-for-profit that helps small businesses and serves as a Progressive Neighborhood Federal Credit Union for Rochester's lowest income families. An advocate for women and girls, Ms. Tedeschi is the President of the Greater Rochester Area Branch of the American Association of University Women and Vice President of the Women's Institute for Leadership and Learning, both of which sponsor the Seneca Falls Dialogues. This year's WILL award recipient is Brenda Ann Keneally. Ms. Keneally is an interdisciplinary artist who captures intrinsic aspects of human nature in her photographs. A highly honored photographer, Ms. Keneally has pushed the boundaries of art and social documentation by immersing herself in the lives and situations of her subjects, and incorporated the Internet as a documentation tool. Ms. Keneally also cofounded The Raw File, a digital theatre which focuses on expanding recognition for socially provocative media. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Seneca Falls Dialogues, Marilyn Tedeschi, and Brenda Ann Kenneally for their dedication to fostering civil discourse regarding women's rights, and their perseverance and advocacy in the fight to ensure equality for women.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Dr. Lakshminarayana Subramaniam for his contributions to classical music. Dr. Subramaniam's achievements have reshaped and added a new dimension to a genre of music which so many people enjoy. Dr. Subramaniam has earned degrees in Western Classical composition, distinctions in western violin studies, classical Carnatic music, and medicine. This unique combination of classical western and South Indian music led Dr. Subramaniam to develop not only a new style of orchestral writing, but a new genre altogether. As one of India's most prolific composers, Dr. Subramaniam has collaborated, conducted, and performed with world class orchestras and musicians from all over the globe at some of music's most famous venues. To date, Dr. Subramaniam has worked with over 50 orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the London Symphony Orchestra, the Swiss Romande, and the Royal Oman Symphony. His recorded collaborations with musicians include Yehudi Menuhin, Stephane Grappelli, Joe Sample, and George Harrison. The sounds of Dr. Subramaniam's compositions have graced the halls of venues like the Lincoln Center, the Tchaikovsky Hall, Zhongshan Music Hall, and the Gewandhaus. Dr. Subramaniam is one of only a handful of living composers with over 150 live performances of his various orchestral works. In 1992, Dr. Subramaniam co-founded the Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival, which showcases various genres from a multitude of different artists. The event has been held in 55 cities in 22 countries, drawing audiences of up to 200,000 people. In 2007, Dr. Subramaniam co-founded the Subramaniam Academy of Performing Arts, a global music institute located in Bangalore which exposes its young students to music from all over the world. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Dr. Subramaniam for his contributions to the musical world. Dr. Subramaniam's achievements in composition, conduction, and orchestral performance are truly unparalleled.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the Fortunato Brothers Cafe, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary as a neighborhood institution in Brooklyn's Williamsburg. What started as an idea by three brothers from Italy to make and sell authentic Italian desserts has become a landmark and a point of pride for New York's vibrant Italian community. Opened in October 1976 by Salvatore, Michael, and Mario Fortunato in Williamsburg, the Fortunato Brothers Cafe is known for its famous pastries with displays full of cannoli, marzipan, tarts, gelato, and cakes of all shapes and sizes. Using the same original recipes since its opening, Fortunato Brothers Cafe's sweets are just as delicious now as they were in 1976. The bakery's continued success serves as a model of excellence for other small businesses and speaks to the strength of New York's Italian community. In a city crowded with Italian restaurants and eateries, Fortunato Brothers Cafe continues to shine due to the high standard its owners have set for it. The Fortunato Brothers Cafe is a symbol of the resilience and liveliness of Italian heritage. Although Williamsburg has changed a lot over the years, the bakery's recipes and atmosphere are timeless. Fortunato Brothers Cafe's widespread popularity reflects the profound positive impact Italian culture has had on New York. Fortunato Brothers Cafe continues to be a welcoming and familiar place for neighbors to come together over a cup of coffee or a pastry. Still owned by Salvatore, Michael, and Mario, the bakery remains dedicated to serving the community with delicious baked goods and a welcoming environment. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary achievements of the Fortunato Brothers Cafe as it celebrates 40 years of serving tasty delicacies in North Brooklyn.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the Diwali At Times Square celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. I particularly want to recognize Neeta Bhasin, President and CEO of Event Guru and ASB Communications, for her extraordinary effort in organizing this event. The largest Asian-Indian event in the United States, it has successfully united Hindus, Sikhs and other Diwali celebrators from all over the world in the heart of New York to share the joyous occasion. Diwali At Times Square started in 2013 and has since grown into an eight-hour event featuring delicious food, fashion, arts and crafts, and Bollywood performances. It displays Asian-Indian culture to the world and engages people of all ages and backgrounds in the values of Diwali: light over dark, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. This year, I had the pleasure of attending Diwali At Times Square. The energy and joy at the celebration is contagious. Times Square, one of the brightest places on earth, is the perfect location to honor the Festival of Lights. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Neeta Bhasin and Diwali At Times Square for helping everyone in the New York Metropolitan region celebrate this beautiful holiday.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Eddie Palmieri, a New Yorker, famed pianist and composer who has won nine Grammy Awards throughout his career. Mr. Palmieri has revolutionized Latin music, influenced many other musicians, and thrilled audiences with his unique sound. He is one of America's best jazz musicians and an icon in the music industry. Mr. Palmieri was born in Harlem, New York to Puerto Rican immigrants on December 15, 1936. He was raised in the Bronx and learned to play the piano at an early age. Through his education in the city's public school system, he was exposed to jazz. Mr. Palmieri was inspired to practice and perform publicly from watching his older brother, Charlie Palmieri, play with talented musicians. At the age of 11, Eddie Palmieri auditioned to perform classical piano at Carnegie Hall, and made his debut there in 1947. Mr. Palmieri's professional career as a pianist took off as he played with various bands in the early 1950s including Eddie Forrester, Johnny Segui, and the popular Tito Rodriguez Orchestra. By late 1961, Eddie Palmieri started his own band, Conjunto La Perfecta, which featured a unique instrumentation of trombones and flutes instead of trumpets. Mr. Palmieri also experimented with the fusion of jazz and Latin-style music, adding a bassist as well as a vocalist. The unusual mixture became Palmieri's signature sound. After La Perfecta disbanded, Eddie began a new group with his brother Charlie, as well as musicians Victor Venegas, Andy Gonzales, Bernard ``Pretty'' Purdie, and Ronnie Cuber. Developing a new style together, this group further blended traditional Latin music with Afro-Cuban influences. In 1974, Mr. Palmieri reached a career milestone with his release of The Sun of Latin Music. That year, he won his first Grammy Award, marking the first time that Latin music was recognized by the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS). He won again the following year for Unfinished Masterpiece (1974). Returning to Puerto Rico, Palmieri formed a band called the Eddie Palmieri Orchestra and recorded several Grammy-winning albums including Palo Pa' Rumba (1984), Solito (1985), and La Verdad (1987). In 1988, the Smithsonian Institution recorded two of Palmieri's performances for its catalog at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. In 1993, Mr. Palmieri was appointed to the board of governors at the New York chapter of the National Association of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS). In 1995, he helped institute the Latin/African- Caribbean Jazz category for the Grammys. Mr. Palmieri has received many awards throughout his career including the Alice Tully African Heritage Award from City College, the Harlem Renaissance Award, Yale University's Chubb Fellowship, and the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Latin Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. In 2013, Eddie Palmieri was awarded the coveted Jazz Master award by the National Endowment of the Arts, the highest honor an American Jazz artist can receive. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary career of the exceptionally talented musician, Eddie Palmieri.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Alicja Winnicki, Superintendent of the Community School District 14 in Brooklyn, who was honored for her achievements as part of Women's History Month. Ms. Winnicki has been District 14's Superintendent for four years. Before that, she served as Principal at Oliver H. Perry Elementary PS 34 in Greenpoint. During her tenure in 2012, the school received the National Blue Ribbon Award for Academic Excellence. As a 2010 Cahn Fellow at Teachers College, Columbia University, Ms. Winnicki completed ``action research'' in collaboration with the teachers and staff at PS 34, on fostering academic rigor in instruction. Ms. Winnicki began her career in education as an English as a Second Language teacher to both children and adults. Later, she became an ESL and bilingual staff developer for District 14 and conducted many workshops and training sessions for teachers, paraprofessionals, and parents. Working with bilingual student populations, Ms. Winnicki coordinated and supervised Saturday academies for children of recent Polish and Spanish speaking immigrants, organized and led conferences for educators focusing on the needs of Polish speaking students, and co-wrote a district bilingual/ESL curriculum. Ms. Winnicki holds a Master's Degree in the Polish Language and Literature from Wroclaw University, a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Adelphi University, and a Master of Science in Administration and Supervision from Baruch University, School of Public Affairs. She writes about instruction for the CAN-Tainer, Teachers College, Columbia University. Ms. Winnicki has been celebrated by the community for her achievements. For example, she has been named a Williamsburg and Greenpoint Rising Star by St. Nicholas Neighborhood Preservation Corporation, received a City Council Citation for Outstanding Citizens from Councilwoman Diana Reyna, was presented with a Certificate of Recognition for community service by State Senator Martin Malave Dilan, and was named Seneca Club's 2007 Principal of the Year. Twenty years of experience in New York City's education system have allowed Ms. Winnicki to forge strong relationships with students, teachers, parents, and community leaders. She sets and achieves goals for high student performance, provides leadership and feedback to parents, teachers and principals, encourages and cultivates mentor educators for future leadership positions, and creates countless programs and opportunities for community and parent involvement. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Winnicki's tireless work for the children of Brooklyn and our entire community.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Rev. Ann Kansfield, FDNY Chaplain and Pastor at the Greenpoint Reformed Church in Brooklyn, who is being honored for her achievements as part of Women's History Month. The Church holds a special place as part of the Greenpoint Historic District. Under Rev. Kansfield's leadership, the Church offers space for worship, is used by community groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Nar-Anon, and has been featured in several film productions. It is also known for its 12-step recovery groups, children's music classes, and a hunger program that feeds over 300 people per week. Rev. Kansfield has loved and served the people of North Brooklyn ever since the Greenpoint Reformed Church called her to be their pastor in 2003. Prior to her arrival, demographic shifts over the previous century had caused the once large Dutch Reformed congregation to dwindle to less than a dozen people. The remaining congregants believed that the church had a bright future in the community, and invited Rev. Kansfield to help revitalize their ministry. With energy and hopefulness, she has succeeded beyond anyone's fondest dreams, bringing new parishioners and their families to the church. Rev. Kansfield's work at the church includes worship, evangelism, theology, improving the church building, fundraising, as well as public and community relations. Much of Rev. Kansfield's time is spent feeding the hungry. When an increasing number of people began coming to the church asking for food, the congregation began a soup kitchen and food pantry under Rev. Kansfield's guidance in October 2007. Rev. Kansfield works with caring volunteers, colleagues, and donors to ensure that the soup kitchen and food pantry are able to keep up with an unprecedented demand for emergency food. Today the soup kitchen regularly serves 90 people a day and hundreds more get food from the food pantry. Rev. Kansfield holds degrees from Columbia University (BA, with honors) and New Brunswick Theological Seminary (MDiv, summa cum laude). Before her ordination, she built car batteries on an assembly line for AC Delco and punched in stock trades for TD Waterhouse. Nevertheless, Rev. Kansfield believes that a four-week long bartending course that she attended in college gave her the most useful skills in preparing to be a pastor. Rev. Kansfield is married to Rev. Jennifer Aull, who also officiates at Greenpoint Reformed Church. They have a son, John, and a daughter, Grace. She is ordained in the United Church of Christ. In the spring of 2015, Rev. Kansfield was sworn in as an FDNY chaplain by Commissioner Daniel Nigro, fulfilling her lifelong dream. Rev. Kansfield is the first female and openly gay chaplain of the FDNY, and was voted the New York Times ``New Yorker of the Year'' in 2015. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the extraordinary work of Rev. Ann Kansfield and her unwavering dedication to her community.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Deputy Borough President Diana Reyna, who is receiving Greenpoint YMCA's Spirit of Service Award, given in recognition of her efforts to better the community in which she lives and serves. Deputy Borough President Reyna has been a dynamic and effective leader who has worked for real change. Deputy Borough President Reyna made history as the first Dominican- American woman elected to public office in New York State when she won her seat in the New York City Council in 2001. As a Councilwoman, she garnered praise as an advocate for affordable housing and economic development, and she pushed for funding for family literacy and youth programs. Additionally, she has been a tireless supporter of women and minority owned small businesses, supported high-tech innovation, and encouraged entrepreneurs and start-up companies. She also sought to fight crime in her district. She authored a bill that increased fines for illegal conversions from industrial to residential uses, which passed the Council in 2007 and was signed into law by Mayor Bloomberg. Ms. Reyna became Deputy Brooklyn Borough President in 2014. As Deputy Borough President, Ms. Reyna has been a champion for the BQ Green Project, which would create a park that connects communities separated by the Brooklyn Queens Expressway, allowing for new open spaces, bolstering local businesses, and improving quality of life for thousands of residents in the community. She has also fought for zoning laws that would allow for affordable industrial spaces to remain in Brooklyn in an effort to keep industry and jobs in the borough. In every position she has held, Deputy Borough President Reyna has demonstrated dedication to families and businesses in our great city. She is a tenacious and effective public servant who has instituted great changes to the borough of Brooklyn and New York City at large. Deputy Borough President Reyna has lived in New York her whole life, growing up in Brooklyn. She attended Pace University in Pleasantville, New York. From there, she went on to work as Chief of Staff for a New York State Assembly member. Deputy Borough President Reyna is a proud resident of Brooklyn, NY, a place she believes ``holds our future, our children, our neighbors, our artists, our entrepreneurs, our schools, and our businesses.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Brooklyn Deputy Borough President Diana Reyna for her continuous commitment to improving her community, city, and country.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Dr. Andrea P. Thau, President-Elect of the American Optometric Association (AOA), who will be installed as its 95th President during the 119th Congress of the AOA's House of Delegates. Dr. Thau, a native of the 12th Congressional District in New York, was first elected to the American Optometric Association Board of Trustees in 2007, and has served as its vice president, Speaker of the House Pro Tem, and Chair of the AOA Investment Committee. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, a Fellow of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, a Distinguished Practitioner on the National Academies of Practice, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry. Dr. Thau is also a faculty member, associate clinical professor, and former chair of the Admissions Committee at SUNY College of Optometry, where she received her doctorate. Prior to her election to the AOA Board, Dr. Thau broke new ground as the first woman president of the New York State Optometric Association, the New York Academy of Optometry, and the Optometric Society of the City of New York. She has continually used her expertise and success in her field to serve the public, especially children. She is a founding member of the New York Children's Vision Coalition as well as the AOA's InfantSEE committee, a national program that provides vision assessments to babies at no cost. She has advocated for children's vision at both the state and national level. Dr. Thau is also the owner of a private practice in Manhattan, Dr. Andrea P. Thau and Associates, which serves as a full-scope primary care practice with a special emphasis on children's vision and vision therapy. Dr. Thau has been lauded by her peers for her excellence in optometry and has received numerous awards for her outstanding work, including the 2005 New York State Optometrist of the Year and SUNY Optometry Alumna of the Year. She has also been recognized twice as Vision Monday's 20 Most Influential Women in Optical. Dr. Thau has long stood out as an example of extraordinary dedication and brilliance in her field. She was a stellar student at the Bronx High School of Science and completed her undergraduate studies at SUNY Albany before attending the SUNY College of Optometry. Since then, Dr. Thau has practiced optometry for nearly three decades, consistently providing first-rate eye care to her clients. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Andrea P. Thau for her outstanding work in the field of optometry and her tireless efforts to provide accessible eye care and eye health education to her community and the general public.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Gina Argento, who was honored for her achievements as part of Women's History Month. Ms. Argento is President of Broadway Stages, one of New York's largest film, television, and music production facilities which is located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Ms. Argento and her brother, Tony, opened Broadway Stages in 1983, turning a rundown movie theatre into a sound stage. Over the past 32 years, Broadway Stages has expanded both its physical size and capabilities. Broadway Stages now has over half a million square feet of space with 38 state-of-the-art stages and support facilities. Offering full service film, television, photography and music production facilities, Broadway Stages has served an extensive list of hit movies and television shows including ``The Good Wife,'' ``Blue Bloods,'' ``Mr. Robot,'' ``Madam Secretary,'' ``Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,'' ``Limitless,'' ``Broad City,'' ``Unforgettable,'' and ``Master of None,'' in addition to commercials, print and music videos. Broadway Stages has facilities in Brooklyn and Queens and is currently in the process of building a 69 acre facility in Staten Island. Under Ms. Argento's leadership, Broadway Stages has exhibited an unparalleled commitment towards the local community in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. In addition to creating hundreds of local jobs, Broadway Stages helps neighboring residents, small businesses, and community- based organizations. Broadway Stages has donated food, equipment, and additional resources to local soup kitchens, partnered with the McGolrick Park Neighborhood Alliance to clean up the beloved park located in the center of Greenpoint and hosted family-friendly neighborhood block parties during the summer. Most recently, Broadway Stages joined the television show ``Blue Bloods'' and CBS to give $25,000 to the families of NYPD officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu who were brutally murdered in Brooklyn. Ms. Argento is also committed to supporting young people. Broadway Stages provided new audio equipment to St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Academy, sponsored a 5 Boro Basketball team for teens, created a ``Green Science Week'' at PS110, and partnered with community organizations to hold a local ``Schoolfest'' fair for students and their families. Broadway Stages also funded the SYSTEM Teen Summer Program, which provides high school students the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities focused on green technology, engineering, gardening, and community service. Broadway Stages is an incredible community partner that is committed to building a strong and environmentally sustainable future. Under Ms. Argento's leadership, Broadway Stages has become a model of the way private industry can champion energy sustainability and environmentally-sound community development. By installing 50,000 square feet of solar photovoltaic systems on the roofs of 7 of its sound stages, Broadway Stages created the world's first solar powered sound stage and the largest private solar power installation in New York State. The solar roofs have offset 30 percent of Broadway Stage's annual electricity consumption. Broadway Stages also created an organic vegetable farm called ``Eagle Street Rooftop,'' located on top of a warehouse in Greenpoint. The 6,000 square foot rooftop farm features a variety of educational and volunteer programs and a farmer's market during the growing season. Broadway Stages is also involved in cleaning up a Brownfield site at 359 Kingsland Avenue. Ms. Argento has worked with YMCA Greenpoint, Boy Scouts of America, Kings County Democratic Club, Greenpoint Chamber of Commerce, Solar One, and EWVIDCO, an advocacy organization for industrial businesses in Greenpoint. Ms. Argento is a loving mother to her three sons, John, Anthony, and Paul. She and her husband, John Ciafone, make an incredible team. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the remarkable work of Gina Argento, a successful businesswoman, environmentalist, and fantastic neighbor.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Mr. Carlo Scissura, who is receiving Greenpoint YMCA's Spirit of Service Award, given in recognition of Mr. Scissura's efforts to better the community in which he lives and works. Mr. Scissura has worked to expand and strengthen the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, making it the largest and fastest-growing Chamber of Commerce in New York State. In 2012, Mr. Scissura became President and CEO of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is one of New York's premiere business advocacy and leadership organizations. Under Mr. Scissura's leadership, membership in the Chamber has grown by more than 200 percent. Mr. Scissura has launched a series of highly successful and innovative programs, including Explore Brooklyn, Brooklyn-Made and Chamber on the Go, leading to a historic period of growth and development in the Chamber. The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce has become a national model for business development, outreach and technical assistance, and regional branding. Prior to joining the Chamber, Mr. Scissura served as both Chief of Staff and General Counsel to former Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz. In this role, Mr. Scissura focused on advancing the Borough's economic development agenda. Mr. Scissura worked alongside the Mayor's Office, Council, and Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and served on the boards of EDC, the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation and Brooklyn Public Library. In addition to his professional success, Mr. Scissura has a long history of service to his community. This began nearly twenty years ago, when he was elected to Community School Board 20 in 1999. During his time on the Board, Mr. Scissura reinvigorated various Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Committees. In recognition of his outstanding dedication, Mr. Scissura was appointed to the Community Education Council in 2004, where he served as President and Chairman of the Legislative Committee. In this position, Mr. Scissura continued his advocacy for increased community and parental involvement. Today, Mr. Scissura serves as Vice President of the Federation of Italian-American Organizations, where he has led the construction of the new Italian Cultural and Community Center. Mr. Scissura has received numerous honors and awards for these contributions to his community. Mr. Scissura was born and raised in Bensonhurst, and currently resides in Dyker Heights. As a lifetime Brooklyn resident, Mr. Scissura has been an advocate for Brooklyn throughout his career. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Carlo Scissura for his continuous commitment to improving his community and his incredible leadership of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Mr. John Catsimatidis Jr. who is receiving Greenpoint YMCA's Spirit of Service Award, given in recognition of Mr. Catsimatidis's efforts to better the city of New York. Mr. Catsimatidis is a driven and hard-working New Yorker who has shown dedication both to his business endeavors and philanthropic causes. Mr. Catsimatidis serves as an executive of the Red Apple Group, where he is involved in all areas of the business, but focuses mainly on the energy resources, investment divisions, and job creation. In August, 2016, Mr. Catsimatidis was also appointed to the board of the Gold Coast Bank in Brooklyn, NY. Mr. Catsimatidis has always been involved in various philanthropic activities. Mr. Catsimatidis supports the Catsimatidis Family Foundation, which makes generous donations to organizations including the Police Athletic League and the Alzheimer's Association. Mr. Catsimatidis also serves on the Emerging Leaders Council for the Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation, which provides financial aid, scholarships, grants, and critical support to Federal Law Enforcement officers and their families in times of need. Mr. Catsimatidis's steadfast support of these families throughout New York City exemplifies his dedication to our community. Mr. Catsimatidis graduated from New York University's Leonard Stern School of Business in 2015. While at NYU, Mr. Catsimatidis served as President of the NYU College Republicans, a premier political organization on campus. This position gave Mr. Catsimatidis the opportunity to hold debates, host speakers, and cultivate informational political dialogues for the student body. Additionally, Mr. Catsimatidis was elected Chairman of the New York State Federation of College Republicans. In both of these positions, Mr. Catsimatidis sought not only to contribute to politically active student groups on campus, but more importantly to foster healthy, respectful, and bilateral political discussion. For his contributions to the NYU community, Mr. Catsimatidis was named one of NYU's Ten Most Influential Students of 2015, and received the Presidential Service Award. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. John Catsimatidis Jr. for his contributions to New York's vibrant business community and dedication to local philanthropic causes.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Mr. Robert Sancho, an experienced Urban Affairs Specialist and cultural activist who has dedicated his career to serving his community. For the past forty-five years, Mr. Sancho has fought to improve the quality of education in New York City's public schools, and to make healthcare services more accessible in New York City neighborhoods. Today, Mr. Sancho continues his fight as a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Center of Educational Innovation, Icahn Charter Schools, and the Multicultural Committee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Mr. Sancho was born and raised in the South Bronx. After completing his primary and secondary education in the New York City public schools, Mr. Sancho went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and Political Science at the Inter-American University in San German, Puerto Rico, where he was also offered a teaching fellowship. Later, Mr. Sancho was granted a scholarship to the reputable Graduate School of Urban Affairs at Hunter College, where he earned his Master of Science Degree. Mr. Sancho was appointed to serve as Deputy Superintendent of Schools in Community School District 4 in East Harlem, which is responsible for roughly 24,000 students. During his time in office, the district rose from 32nd place in reading and math achievements among New York City public school districts, the lowest ranking at the time, to 13th place. This unprecedented rise is considered one of the most successful educational turnarounds in our nation. Thanks to Mr. Sancho's bold success, Community School District 4 was awarded national competitive grants under his leadership. Mr. Sancho became a community activist in the late 1960s, when then- New York City Mayor John Lindsay tried to shut down the Metropolitan Hospital Center, a public hospital which provided low cost vital health services to the community in East Harlem. Mr. Sancho helped organize the East Harlem community to reject the proposed closure. After a two- year struggle, the city decided to keep the hospital open. In 1981, Mr. Sancho was appointed Vice President of Development and External Affairs at the Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center, which is located in the poorest Congressional District in the nation. As Vice President, Mr. Sancho helped the hospital secure over $240 million in funding, which helped to finance three new hospital buildings and repair existing buildings. Additionally, Mr. Sancho's department helped raise almost $15 million in the past few years for various hospital programs. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary work of Robert Sancho has done for the great city of New York.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Ana Rodriguez, Director of Community Relations and Volunteer Services at Mount Sinai Queens, who was honored for her achievements as part of Women's History Month. Ms. Rodriguez is a dedicated, compassionate, and beloved representative for the hospital. She attends countless community meetings and is always cheerful and well-informed. In her role at Mount Sinai Queens, Ms. Rodriguez works with community organizations and community leaders to ensure that the hospital best serves its community. In addition, she coordinates educational health programs and events to promote awareness about health issues in the community. Ms. Rodriguez also works with people of all ages and all walks of life who are interested in volunteering, in order to ensure that the hospital's patients are served in the most meaningful way possible. Ms. Rodriguez has also been an important advocate for children. From 1993 through 1999, she worked with Greater New York Councils, Boy Scouts of America. In her role as Associate Director, Ms. Rodriguez served youth in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx through the Urban Emphasis and Scoutreach Program. She collaborated with school principals, religious institutions, and community organizations to establish new scouting programs. For six years, Ms. Rodriguez served adolescents, as well as adults, as a senior clinical social worker at the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Here, she provided mental health services, and worked with young men and women to empower them to reach their full potential. Ms. Rodriguez has been celebrated by the community for her achievements. For example, Centero de Desarrollo de la Mujer (Center for Women Development) has presented her with a Woman of the Year Award for her community service. Her work has also been recognized by the Office of the Borough President of Manhattan, and she has received the Peter Vallone, Jr. Award from the 114th Precinct Civilian Observation Patrol for her dedication to the people of Astoria and Long Island City. Ms. Rodriguez has a Bachelor of Science from Hunter College and a Master's degree in social work from Columbia University. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the wonderful work of Ms. Rodriguez and her tireless service to her community.