Carolyn McCarthy

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. One of the things I would like to comment on, and I support the words that the gentlewoman has just said, again we as health care providers know a lot of times that when our patients are certainly looking for something to hang onto, and God knows we have seen our patients fight for every breath that they take and they want to try something to continue to be with their loved ones, but it is the loved ones that unfortunately are faced with this fighting most of the time; a lot of the patients do not. We have become their advocates. We are still taking our oath very seriously; the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs. Christensen) as a doctor, myself and the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps) as nurses. We are there to protect our patients, as I said earlier, and we will continue to do that. I think again what I am seeing, which really starts to scare me because are we coming into a society for those that have really good insurance and those that have minimum insurance, those that have really good insurance will get the health care that they need; those that do not they are not going to get the health care. I spent, like I said, 32 years in nursing. We did not know who was wealthy. We did not know who was poor. Everybody got the same kind of treatment in the hospital. Going back to earlier what we were saying about where the hospitals would pick up because they felt the treatment was needed, that is their obligation because, again the good hospitals, the good health care providers know their job is to take care of the patient.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. The majority of hospitals in this Nation do not make money. They are always in the red because every penny they get goes back into the infrastructure of the hospital. Now, I think the three of us, once we get this Patients' Bill of Rights through, we could come back and talk about all the other ills that we are seeing in the health care system, things that all of us are working on for future bills, because we have to start addressing them and we have to face them. We cannot hide our heads in the sand anymore. Five years ago, when the gentlewoman came in, we started talking about the whole collapse of our health care system; 5 years ago. Here we are now finally having a bill out there that can make a difference, but we have a long way to go. We have to bring the health care system back to the way it was. Certainly our hospitals have learned to cut down on costs. Certainly we have to make sure there is not fraud and abuse. We will do that, but we still can deliver good health care system to our patients. The Patients' Bill of Rights will do that. This is the only true bill because it has the protections in there for our health care workers, our nurses, our doctors. It is certainly going to make our HMOs stand up and take their responsibility and if they do their job right they will be fine. It is a shame, it is a shame that we have had to come this far to do legislation in this great House that we work in but sometimes that is why we are here, to make them, whether it is the HMOs, whether it is the auto manufacturers, or different corporations, to do the right thing. The Patients' Bill of Rights does the right thing for the American people.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. I would just like to follow up. When the gentlewoman was talking about our small businesses, I was on that committee for 4 years and we certainly all know how we have all fought to protect our small businesses. That is the engine that is driving this country, by the way. Our small businesses are doing well. The gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Norwood), certainly the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Dingell), at that time even when I had concerns about is this going to hurt our small businesses, and that is why the language is in our bill. If they want to clarify it a little bit more, we can probably work that out. We are not out to hurt our small businesses because that is not going to help any of us. As the gentlewoman said, we have to make sure that our small businesses can open up and offer health care insurance to all their employees so let us take that myth out of there. The gentlewoman is absolutely right on that. The protection that is in the Patients' Bill of Rights, especially with the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Norwood), if anybody knows the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Norwood), believe me he is going to protect small businesses. So that is a myth. Unfortunately, there is too much politics dealing with this health care issue and we should take the politics out of this issue and certainly do the right thing for the American people. That is what has to be done.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of four veterans from Nassau County's United Veterans Organization (UVO)--Joe Librizzi from Oceanside, Pat Cassetta from Uniondale, Bernie Flatow from West Hempstead and Sal Brandino from Rockville Centre--as June Citizens of the Month for the flag education program. In December of 1997, the UVO came up with a brilliant idea of a flag education program for Nassau County schools and students. This program was designed to teach elementary students proper flag etiquette and respect. Too often our students aren't exposed to the knowledge and the history our veterans possess. With this program students can learn about our nation's history from those who lived it. At the same time, the students learn about America's most important symbol from those who fought for our country. The veterans began to put their idea into a plan by sending letters of introduction and explanation to 56 school superintendents in Nassau County. In early 1998, the team consisting of Librizzi, Cassetta, Flatow and Brandino began their presentations and as they say, ``The rest is history.'' In the first year of presentations, they visited 29 schools and reached about 12,000 students. During the 2000/2001 school year, the vets predict they will reach 39 schools this year, bringing their three-year total to 40,000 students. Thousands of letters from students, teachers and administrators give testimony to the fact the vets achieved their goal--fostering respect for the American flag. The vets committee have also been honored by the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard attending many of their presentations. These veterans saw a void in education, and stepped in to help out. We should all be like these veterans--they're still giving back to their community and shaping their country's future. Thank you, and congratulations.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Old Glory. National Flag Day is a day especially revered by veterans and one which deserves the special attention of each of us. The Flag of the United States of America has been a constant throughout our nation's history; through its high and low points. In its long and distinguished history, our flag has taken various versions. Just as our country has grown from the original 13 colonies to the great country it is today, so too has our flag. At the time of the original 13 colonies and the Continental Congress, it was a flag of red and blue stripes, with 13 stars, representing the union of those colonies, set in a blue field, representing a new constellation. From the Star Spangled Banner, to the Flag of 1818 with its 20 stars, to today's flag, with its 50 stars, Old Glory has been a symbol of liberty and freedom for people around the world. I am always touched by the efforts of people across the country to preserve, protect, and honor America's flag. One example that stands out, is the effort of four veterans in my district, who I have recognized as June Citizens of the Month, for their flag education program, which has taken to almost thirty different schools to talk to more than 12,000 students. Another, was the placement of a flag receptacle by a VFW Post in Levittown, Long Island, in which old and worn flags can be placed so that they can be disposed of by the U.S. Post in a manner that is befitting their importance. As demonstrated by these men and the community in Levittown, the American flag is more than a piece of cloth--it is a national symbol. For this reason, I believe our flag is worth a constitutional sanctuary. Therefore, as we celebrate National Flag Day, let me remind my colleagues of the need to pass legislation that prohibits the desecration of the flag. It is time to give our flag the honor and respect it deserves as our most sacred national symbol.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Hofstra University President Dr. James Shuart's unique and lifelong commitment to Nassau County. Our community is indebted to Dr. Shuart. His lifelong relationship with Hofstra University alone is notable. Not only did he attend the University for undergraduate and graduate studies, but he joined the University staff and rose steadily through the ranks. For 42 years, Dr. Shuart has served Hofstra University as an integral staff member, from his initial position as an admissions officer until his appointment to University President 25 years ago. Dr. Shuart's term as Hofstra President benefitted both the University and the outlying community. While Dr. Shuart brought technological innovations to the campus for both students and staff, he brought national recognition to the University for its art museum and arboretum. Today, Nassau residents can take advantage of the campus' art galleries and exhibitions, outdoor sculptures and more than 7,000 trees. They can attend lectures, conferences and symposia on a variety of topics and enjoy dozens of concerts and plays performed in campus theaters. Yet Dr. Shuart's tenure at Hofstra is just part of what makes him invaluable to our community. His work to improve our children's education on the local and state levels has set him apart from other educators. He has been involved in Nassau government consistently since 1971. Throughout the years, Dr. Shuart has consistently volunteered for a variety of community service organizations. His interest in the public good has made Dr. Shuart a role model for our children, their parents, indeed all of us. I consider myself to be a better person because of my friendship with Dr. Shuart. He has shown me what comes with commitment and years of hard work. Dr. James Shuart exemplifies how one person can make a difference, one person can change a community. We are lucky to have Dr. James Shuart in Nassau County.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, for over 45 years, Dr. Harry Jaroslaw has worked tirelessly for the residents of New York State as a superior educator, and more importantly, as a role model to our children. In the overcrowded and sometimes violent New York City schools, Dr. Jaroslaw provided his students with the knowledge and hope that is ever important in children's lives. For the past 13 years, Dr. Jaroslaw has brought his enthusiasm for teaching to the students of the Mineola School District. During his tenure as Superintendent of Schools for Mineola School District, Dr. Jaroslaw has helped a great number of students attend prestigious universities and colleges. When he began, the percentage of students attending college was 39 percent. Today, it's an astounding 80 percent. He also played an integral part in raising student scores on both the Regents and State Achievement exams well above the Nassau County and New York State average. Dr. Jaroslaw helped Long Island students think globally by establishing educational programs in foreign countries as Africa, Mexico, Israel, Sweden, Italy and Brazil. Dr. Jaroslaw's efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has been honored as ``Administrator of the Year'' by both the Nassau County Music Educator's Association and the Long Island Teachers of Foreign Language. In addition to his many awards and recognitions, Dr. Jaroslaw has served as chairman of a national committee for the American Association of School Administrators as well as the Governor's Task Force on alternative teacher certification. Dr. Jaroslaw's extensive career is evidence of his devotion to the education of our children. I applaud Dr. Jaroslaw for all he has achieved in his lifetime, and thank him on behalf of those whose lives he has touched through teaching.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I proudly recognize the academic and personal achievements of Holli Dunayer of East Meadow, New York. Holli is a spirited and dedicated woman who has triumphed through life's continual ups and downs. Although Holli gave her all to the North Bellmore Hair Salon family business, she always wanted to contribute to the community. While managing the salon, Holli helped the neighborhood's homeless, organizing a benefit for the poor from her store. But times were difficult for Holli. In the early 1990s, she lost her home, was divorced, and went on public assistance so she could care for her daughter, Samantha, then seven. But Holli bounced back. In 1996, she enrolled in Nassau Community College, where she received an Associate's Degree in sociology. Holli was awarded a partial scholarship to Adelphi University, where she received a Bachelor's Degree in social work last year. On Sunday, May 20th, 2001, Holli received a Master's Degree in social work from Adelphi University. While Holli pursued her Master's Degree, she interned in my Hempstead District office. I was impressed by her commitment, and I hired her as a full-time legislative aide to handle education, IRS, grants and passports. I'm excited to have a second social worker on my staff. Holli is a recipient of a $5,000 Maurice Paprin Memorial Fellowship given to students who demonstrate commitment to social change through past or present work. Holli calls her employment ``poetic justice'' since she has gone from the government taking care of her to being a government employee helping others in tough situations. Holli is proof that hard work and dedication is all you need to make your dreams come true. I congratulate Holli and her daughter, Samantha, now 15, on their achievements and Holli's graduation. I am honored to have her as a member of my staff and as my friend.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong opposition to the amendment by the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Norwood). I do not think that there is anybody here in this Chamber that disagrees that a student that is causing disruption in a classroom should be removed. But let us remember something very clearly. We are talking about children with special needs. Right there, special needs. Mr. Chairman, anyone who disrupts the classroom should be removed, but they have to have an alternative place to go. One of the things that we are not doing in this Chamber and not providing to children with special needs is to give it to them: Alternative schools. We have seen children removed and sent to alternative schools, and we have seen them do very well in small classrooms with specialized care for them. These are children that have special needs. Mr. Chairman, I came to Congress to reduce gun violence in this country, and I certainly stand by that. So of course anyone that is carrying a gun to a school should be removed. But to put students out on the street and have them come back the next day and fire among their classmates, that is the wrong way to go, too.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank certainly the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller) for the work that he has done, as well as the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner). Mr. Chairman, I have been hearing that there are some people that are unhappy with this bill, and I am sorry to say that is too bad. This is a good bipartisan bill. Both sides gave up a lot, and they did. There are certain things in this bill that I would like to have seen in it, but anyway working on bipartisan, that means each person has to give a little bit. Let us get down to what this bill really does. It is going to help our schools that need the most help, with accountability and flexibility. Mr. Chairman, I come from Long Island. I have some very wealthy suburban schools. They are doing very well, but I also have schools that are failing terribly because they do not have the resources to do what they have to do. This bill, through title I, is going to help them. We will be helping all the children across this Nation, and that is what the Committee on Education and the Workforce is supposed to do. With that, I would like to say we on the committee are on that committee because we care about education. So I am hoping that all the Members will listen to us and say this is a good bill, accept it and let us help the children of America. That is why we are here. That is why we sit on all the different committees. We can disagree and we can disagree, but when a bill like this comes out of our committee with good bipartisan support, each of us giving up a little bit of something that we wanted, this bill will help the American people. President Bush accepts this bill, and we should work with him to make sure it goes flying through this House.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Speaker, it goes without saying that, as legislators, our goal is to pass the best legislation possible. Extending the deadline for people to adjust their immigration status under Section 245(i) of the Immigration and Naturalization Act is the right thing to do. In this case, the goal is to allow everyone who is eligible under the law, to obtain permanent legal residence. Unfortunately, I fear a four month extension is an incomplete remedy. Consideration of this legislation says volumes about the way business is conducted in the House. The Speed with which this bill has been brought to the floor was noticeably absent on April 30th. This House was uncharacteristically silent about the pending deadline. While I'm pleased that we finally have the opportunity to talk about extending the deadline, I'm concerned about the circumvention of the committee process and the noticeably shorter extension period. We have not had a fair hearing on the alternatives, such as the bill Congressman King and I introduced after working closely with state and local officials in New York, that gives eligible people an adequate window of opportunity to adjust their status by extending the deadline by six months. The process of adjusting one's immigration status can be confusing and that misinformation is rampant in the immigrant community. As we cast our votes for or against this bill, we have to ask ourselves a number of important questions: is four months enough time; are we setting ourselves up for a repeat of the last deadline, when long lines of eligible people inundated the I.N.S. offices and many were excluded; and finally, is this bill a fair and reasonable compromise designed to help those who deserve it. I fear it is something less. We could have done better. The people deserve better.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, It is essential that future generations always remember the sacrifices for freedom made by the World War II generation. A tribute to the men and women who helped win that war, both overseas and on the home front is long overdue. It's for this reason that I'm working to expedite construction of the memorial and why I will vote with my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to pass legislation that directs work on the World War II Memorial begin as soon as possible. The construction of the country's first national memorial dedicated to all who served in the armed forces and Merchant Marine of the United States during World War II on the National Mall is a fitting tribute to their courage. I am disappointed by the efforts of those to delay construction of the World War II Memorial, but the real victims of the indefinite delay are the members of that generation, who now must wait even longer for it to be completed. It is a harsh reality, but of the 16 million who served in uniform during the war, it is estimated that only 5 million are still alive, and of whom, we lose 1,100 each day. Throughout a lengthy, open and democratic approval process, the American people have expressed their overwhelming support for the construction of the National WWII Memorial on our nation's mall. Hundreds of thousands of individual Americans, hundreds of corporations and foundations; dozens of civic, fraternal and professional organizations; state legislatures, and veterans organizations have joined the effort to say thank you to America's WWII generation. Each year, millions of visitors come to the nation's capital to appreciate its monuments to our country's founding fathers, great presidents, and places of government. Home to our nation's cherished symbols of freedom, the memorial will beautifully complement the green vistas of the Mall and its existing monuments. They story of the World War II generation is an inspiration for us all. Once completed, this memorial will be a visible and timeless reminder of what they did to protect freedom and democracy.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I support H. Res. 116. It is a long-awaited tribute to the hard working law enforcement community members. Countless law enforcement men and women daily dedicate their lives to our country's protection. They face unbelievable danger to say nothing of the sacrifices: death, injury, disability and family stress. We must finally recognize their dedication and commitment to our communities, families and children. They not only deserve our support and gratitude, but they also deserve protection under the law. That is why I cosponsored H.R. 218, the Community Protection Act. This bill, supported by police nationwide, allows law enforcement officers to carry concealed weapons. They need this as criminals know who the officers are, who their families are and where they live. Very simply: law enforcement officers need protection both on and off duty. When law enforcement officers begin their day, the risk and danger are unknown. I cannot imagine a more unsettling feeling for both the officer and his or her family. Therefore, I honor law enforcement officers nationwide, particularly those who serve Long Island.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I have named Floral Park Memorial High School as School of the Month in the Fourth Congressional District for May 2001. Gloria M. O'Connor is Principal of Floral Park, and Dr. George Goldstein is the Superintendent of Schools for the Sewanhaka Central High School District. Floral Park has incredible student outreach programs. A student at Floral Park is destined to be a well-rounded, community-minded, educated young person by the time they graduate. Floral Park has long been known by the parents, students and community as a jewel in the Sewanhaka Central High School District--as a school of exceptional excellence among public high schools. Floral Park has an excellent reputation in Nassau County. They can be especially proud of their past, recent and future recognition which shines as an example of the quality education provided at the school. Floral Park waves its school flag high as a Nationally Recognized School of Excellence, and is designated by Redbook magazine as one of America's Outstanding Schools. Also, Floral Park has received the New York State Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and the Department of Education National School of Excellence Award. Furthermore, Floral Park is one of the outstanding schools in a prestigious high school district which received the New York State Governor's Excelsior Award. Floral Park is a junior/senior high school comprised of 1,472 students and is one of five high schools in the Sewanhaka Central High School District. In order to ensure all of our students meet new regents standards, Floral Park offers a broad range of extra help sessions in all academic areas before and after school, such as Operation Success, Homework Helper, Regents Prep and Review classes, Peer Tutoring and one on one tutoring with members of the faculty in each department. Students excel at Floral Park. The Class of 2000 was comprised of 207 students where 75% attended four year colleges, 20% attended two year colleges and 5% enrolled in technical programs, employment or the military. In addition to the outstanding academics, the wealth and diversity of extracurricular activities and athletics are fostered. The School of the Month program highlights schools with outstanding students, teachers and administrators. Each month, I will recognize a different school that demonstrates a unique contribution to Long Island education. I will honor Schools of the Month with a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as bestowing a Congressional Proclamation of Distinction award.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I express my support for 34th annual National Nursing Home Week. When the very first National Nursing Home Week began, the theme was to let millions of Americans know the ``fuller life'' elderly lead in America's nursing homes. Mr. Speaker in Woodmere, New York, there is an outstanding nursing home that I commend for giving Long Island's elderly a fuller life. Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health Care Center offers incredible rehabilitation services and skilled nursing services to Long Islanders. This year, Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health Care Center celebrates it's 30th year and I am proud of their work they do. I especially thank Director Anthony Matese, whom made changes and improved the Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. The 2001 theme is the effect Nassau County nursing boxes have on the community and that nursing homes in the Nassau County area have had on the community, and how the administrators are striving to create a warm, homelike environment without an institutional atmosphere. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health Care Center on their success and wish them and all our nursing homes the best during National Nursing Home Week.

Mrs. McCARTHY OF NEW YORK

Mrs. McCARTHY OF NEW YORK. Mr. Speaker, National Nurses Week is an established recognition event created to honor the nurses who give care to millions of patients daily. It is celebrated every year beginning May 6 and ending May 12, Florence Nightingale's birthday. The theme for Nurses Week 2001 is ``Nurses are the True Spirit of Caring,'' which is incredibly appropriate given the role nurses play in the medical community. As a nurse, I am lucky to be part of such a caring group of professionals. I think that many people used to look at nursing as if it was a ``runner-up'' profession. As if those who became nurses were the ones who couldn't ``cut it'' as doctors. Today we know that is not the case. Nursing care is just as important as physician care, and I feel like the American public finally recognizes is as such. Yet nurses have another battle on their hands: the fight to become a financially competitive profession. A prominent national issue is the growing nursing shortage. There are various new career options for healthcare professionals today, prompting nurses to gradually move away from patient care and into fields with better pay, benefits and hours, and often less stress. It is vital for the health of this nation that nursing field continue attracting experienced and educated candidates. In this day and age, positive recognition needs to be coupled with competitive salaries and benefits. That is why I have cosponsored H.R. 1436, the Nurse Reinvestment Act of 2001. This legislation amends the Public Health Service Act, the Social Security Act, and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to alleviate the nursing profession shortage. Being a nurse takes heart. I think the last line of the Florence Nightingale pledge says it best: ``With loyalty will I . . . devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care.'' It's a tough job, day in and day out, one that requires attention to others before attention to oneself. Whether you work in a hospital emergency room, a free inner-city clinic, or a small-town doctor's office, there is always one common bond: the commitment to provide the best possible care for your patients. Nurses are there to help the sick get better and to make sure the healthy stay that way. Every month, I honor someone as Citizen of the Month for the Fourth Congressional District. This month, May 2001, I name all the nurses in Nassau County as Citizens of the Month. Representing Nassau nurses is Fran Heslin of Nassau University Medical Center. Fran has been a valued member of the surgical intensive care unit since her graduation from Nassau Community College in 1985 with a degree in Nursing. She is an excellent example of the competency, care and respect exuded by nurses. Fran is married to William Helsin, and they have three children, Tara, Ryan and Erin. I congratulate Fran and her family, and all of Nassau's nurses on being named Citizens of the Month.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 10 and its impact on American workers across this country. The United States savings rate is at a level that has not been seen since the Great Depression. This is unfortunate because it forces more people to work later in life to supplement their retirement. Retirees can no longer live solely on Social Security. Furthermore, not everyone employed is offered a pension or some form of retirement plan. That is why individual retirement accounts initially gained so much support when created in the 1970s. However, the contribution limit was never adjusted for inflation. The current cap of $2,000 does not provide much of an incentive to save as it used to. People are making more money and should be able to save more. As we have witnessed in the last few months, the stock market is bound to constrict, and those who solely rely upon their stocks as a pension plan will feel the strain the most. That is why it is important to increase the IRA contribution limit to $5,000 and increase the amount contributed to 401(k) plans. H.R. 10 does this and more. It also takes into consideration those on the verge of retirement with catch-up contributions, which will help those people we refer to as the baby boomers, myself included. We need to provide hard working Americans the option of saving more and relying less on Social Security when they retire. The Portman- Cardin bill allows this to occur.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for more money for our public schools. Our public schools desperately need increased funding as we prepare our students for the next generation for the 21st century. Schools must modernize facilities, provide better training and pay for teachers, reduce class size, and provide innovative learning experiences. That is why I support the New Democrat's Three R's bill. This bill will increase education funding by $35 billion over 5 years. Right now we only spend 7 percent of our Federal budget on education. That means that some our most neediest schools are not getting enough funding. We need to do more for these schools, and we can. Let us be honest here: We know that putting more money into the system is not going to solve all our problems. If our schools do the work and use this money to meet their goals, we will reward them with additional funding. But if they do not meet their goals after 3 years, there has to be accountability. But there is a major difference in the way we approach funding in our schools and the way President Bush approaches it. While the President sends funding to the States without any direction, our approach is that we should send our Federal dollars back to our school districts. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to give all of our schools the help they need by supporting the Three R's.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring attention to the following article by Mr. Dennis Fitzgerald proposing an end to taxation on members of the U.S. armed forces. George W. Bush has a golden opportunity to effect a meaningful tax cut, spark our flagging economy and restore morale and loyalty in the military in one fell swoop. He should--immediately--end all taxes on members of the armed forces. It has always seemed to me mildly absurd that those who are being paid by taxes also have to pay them. It would seem that by ending military taxation, President Bush could increase the buying power of our military and at the same time relieve them from the burden of filing federal tax returns. He would also go a long way toward keeping the best people in the service. Military stationed in a combat zone pay no taxes now. Why should they have to pay while training for that mission? Some training is more dangerous than some combat. And people who change jeep transmissions in a combat zone are often under no more peril than those performing the same task stateside. It is no secret that re-enlistment rates have reached an all time low. The all--volunteer military is woefully short of competent middle management. And only the Marines last year filled their enlistment quotas. Some have cited the opportunities presented by a booming economy as the reason for the best captains leaving the service before their time. But the real reason for these departures is morale and a lack of financial incentive. Thirty years ago a career military person could count on a living wage while on active duty, discounted food, gasoline and other creature comforts through the PX system and the GI education bill amounting to a month of education for each month served up to 36 months. The retirement benefits, if one served 20 or more years, were what kept most ``lifers'' going. These were one half to three fourths of the highest salary and medical services and PX aid club privileges for life. Both retirement and active duty benefits have been severely curtailed, leading to a malaise that even George Washington's army would recognize. The solution is a tax-break--big time. There are approximately 1.4 million service people on active duty with total salaries of about $42 billion. Tax revenues from this group currently stand at about $12 billion. This is a drop in the bucket when one considers total tax revenues of $950 billion. This move would encourage people both to join and stay in the military. In the worst case it would cost the country little, and, if the Laffer curve is still operational, perhaps would actually increase tax revenues. Increasing the disposable income of service people makes good economic sense. The newly formed XFL is killing to attract male audiences between 18 and 32. Why? Because they have a lot of money to spend. It should dawn on this administration that they have a lot of that cohort in their employ. And If they freed up their income, they might just spend it on stuff. Camp LeJeune North Carolina on its web site proudly boasts it contributes some $3 billion to the local economy. Fine. With a tax cut it might just contribute $4 billion. And with the multiplier effect, this would pump tens of billions of dollars into an economy that most agree is faltering. And part that increased revenue would find its way to the U.S. Treasury through increased income and excise taxes on civilians who sell to service people. Congress, especially those members from the South, should support this measure. Increased revenue from businesses surrounding military bases has always warmed their hearts-and filled their campaign chests. With the military tax cut adopted, there would be an easier haul through Congress for a more far-reaching bill later in the year. These practical considerations aside, the major reason for this measure would be to put pride back in our military. Those on active duty in the armed forces should consider themselves so special that the government exempts them from paying taxes. In addition to saving administrative headaches, increasing disposable income, bumping up total tax revenues and attracting good people for the military, a zero tax rate would add a certain all-encompassing eclat to serving that medals, decorations or flag ceremonies could never replace.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise with my colleagues to remember one of the great tragedies of the twentieth century: the deportations and massacres of more than one and a half million Armenians in the final years of the Ottoman Empire. I extend my sincere sympathy to the survivors and their descendants for the hardships they suffered. Our hearts go out to Armenians around the world, including the Armenian-American community, as they mourn the loss of those innocent lives. However, Armenians deserve not only our sympathy, but our support as well, Although Armenia has made great strides to become an independent and democratic state, many challenges remain. As Armenia, moves towards forging a lasting peace in the region, it is critical that there be an honest accounting of all those who died and why they died. Taking a moment here today, is the least we can do to honor the victims of that terrible time, but it is essential nonetheless. If there is to be any hope of preventing future acts of such inhumanity, the senseless acts of violence inflicted upon Armenians must be properly recognized.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, the First Presbyterian Church of Baldwin on St. Luke's Place will celebrate its 75th anniversary on Sunday, May 20, 2001. The church's history and the congregation's contributions to Baldwin and the Long Island community are remarkable and noteworthy. A new church became a necessity in November 1923. A development of nearly 300 homes had been built north of the railroad, but the five churches in Baldwin were located south of the railroad. The expanding community recognized the need for a new church, and they began to use the Fire Department on Baldwin Avenue for Sunday School and church worship services. On May 14th, the church was recognized by the Brooklyn-Nassau Presbytery with a charter membership of fifty-nine people. The congregation and church building went through many changes over the years. In 1926, the congregation held its first worship service in its own portable ``building,'' which had been moved from Queens to Baldwin. This became too crowded for the growing membership, and the cornerstone for a new church building was laid on November 30, 1930. The St. Luke's Place building was completed in 1931. Although badly damaged by a fire in 1940, it remains the central structure of the church to this day. By 1960, membership was nearing 900. An education building had been built 10 years earlier to accommodate the growing Sunday School. Many organized groups were founded for both adults and children, and church facilities were being used by community groups. A new sanctuary was added in 1961, and considerable renovations to the original building were made. A church member opened a full-time state licensed nursery school, now in the thirty-seventh year of operation. Today, the First Presbyterian Church of Baldwin at 717 Luke's Place is a mini-complex of buildings that serves the community not only as a Christian congregation, but as a meeting place for many non-religious groups such as the Girl and Boy Scouts, and Alcoholics and Gamblers Anonymous. The nursery school provides pre-school education for seventy-five three and four year olds. I congratulate the entire congregation, past and present, on their remarkable achievement and contribution to Long Island.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Madam Chairman, I am troubled by the budget resolution's disregard of the funding needs of the Department of Justice. Time and time again I have heard the need to enforce our laws instead of passing new ones. How can we expect law enforcement when this budget cuts funding for the Department of Justice by $1.6 billion in fiscal year 2002. Based upon the budget submitted by President Bush, these cuts are to be largely applied to State and local law enforcement assistance. The highly successful COPS program falls within these targeted cuts. Although the President's budget proposal does not single out this important program, it does propose to redirect $1.5 billion in State and local grant assistance funding which does in fact fund COPS. Cutting the COPS program would undermine its success and harm local law enforcement throughout the country. Our police officers across this country applaud this program. This is a program that has worked. We have seen crime drop since 1994. We are seeing our police officers going in and having community ties in our schools and working with the community itself. They have built up relationships with our schools and our students, and at this time when we see so much violence going on, especially with the recent shootings, this is not a time to cut these particular programs. This certainly is a time that we should be encouraging these programs. With our particular budget, we increase this. Madam Chairman, we have done a good job on reducing crime. We should continue with this program. We should guarantee that these programs continue, and we certainly should be supporting our police officers throughout this country.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I have named Karan ``Bobby'' Kumar, Chairman of the Board at Nassau Health Care Corporation, as Citizen of the Month in the Fourth Congressional District for April 2001. Bobby is a prominent leader in both the Indian Community on Long Island and in his health care profession. As a nurse, I know how important the Nassau Health Care Corporation is to our district Kumar is a charismatic and hard working individual who has grown from a simple beginning into a respected individual in the society. The Nassau Health Care Corporation employs over 4,200 employees and is comprised of a 631-bed medical center, five health centers and is one of the largest nursing homes in the country with 889 beds. An entrepreneur who has worked his way up from a bus boy to a successful businessman, Kumar now owns many successful businesses including a publishing company, and a construction and environmental company. Kumar Enterprises, a manufacturing company specializing in paint, is his most recent start-up. His leadership role in the Indian community is extensive. In the past, he has published the Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and American Yellow Pages. He is the chairman of the International Punjabi Welfare Council, and has received awards from the American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin, the Indian Association of Long Island, the Indian Professional Engineers Association of USA, and the News India Times. Yet his community involvement reaches outside the Indian community. He has been honored by various organizations including the Battered Women's Association, Nassau Association for the Help of Retarded Children, and the Convenience Stores Association. He was recognized by Newsday as the January 2000 Long Island Man of the Century. Kumar and his wife, Roisin Meegan, have five children. I congratulate Bobby and his family on this achievement.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Town of Hempstead's special ceremony honoring African American World War 11 veterans for their dedicated commitment and service to the country. Throughout our nation's history, our armed forces have gone off to battle and served bravely and effectively in every situation we have asked. As of late, we have done much to recognize the accomplishments of the generation that fought the Second World War, and rightly so. But we should not forget the special role that African Americans played in that conflict. The road to preserving democracy was paved by a legacy of racism. For this reason, I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the 1.2 million African-Americans who served in World War II, and in many cases died for their country. We cannot expect future generations to understand fully what those who came before saw, experienced and felt in battle, but we can make sure that our children know enough to say, ``Thank you.'' Fighting against tyranny and participating in the liberation of Europe, they risked their lives to defend freedom, even though they did not enjoy those same freedoms at home. In the process, they forever changed the face of America's armed forces and society. We owe them a debt of gratitude. As a precursor to the civil rights movement of the 1950's and 60's they resisted America's centuries old hypocrisy about race. If it was not for their belief in the future, surely we would not have had President Truman's Executive Order desegregating the armed forces. If it was not for sacrifices, surely there would not have been the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that racial segregation in public schools is unconstitutional. And surely, if it was not for their faith, I fear we would not have the 1965 Voting Rights Act ensuring the right of everyone to participate in our democracy. For all of this, we thank them. With bravery and determination they led a struggle for racial equality that doomed segregation and changed America forever.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I have named Frederick Brewington, Attorney and community activist in Hempstead as Citizen of the Month in the Fourth Congressional District for March 2001. When there is an issue the public is concerned about, you can bet Frederick is there, fighting against injustices, and seeking the truth. Our community is better because Frederick is with us. A graduate of Northeastern University School of Law, Frederick opened his personal practice in Hempstead over 13 years ago. His law firm handles civil and voting rights, employment discrimination, constitutional law, and fair housing cases. In addition to his practice, Frederick also finds time to teach Federal Pretrial Litigation and Trial Practice at Touro College in Huntington. A much-sought after public speaker, Frederick has addressed the Nassau Bar Association on numerous occasions, taught at the Practicing Law Institute, and conducted many media interviews. Frederick stands out from the crowd because of his commitment to all elements of community activism. Well-fought legal battles are only part of his contribution to Nassau. He is an active member of the Church of the Good Shepherd, where he serves as a Trustee, and he is a certified Lay Preacher. He has proven that a community is what you make of it. He has lived on Long Island, in Albany, and in Massachusetts. Frederick has been honored by all three communities, and has a long list of titles, awards of recognition, and certificates of appreciation from each. Every so often you come across someone who is so actively, so immersed in his or her community, that you have to stop and wonder how he or she does it. Frederick is one of those people. Frederick and is wife, Adrienne, who is pastor of United Methodist Church of Westbury, reside in Freeport.