Carolyn McCarthy

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Salvatore J. Modica, sworn in as a judge on December 26, 2001. For the last 15 years, Salvatore ``Tory'' Modica has served as a prosecutor Queens District Attorney's office and as a Principal Court Attorney in the Bronx. A graduate of the University of Arizona in 1983 and St. John's Law School in 1986, Tory has worked diligently to rise through the ranks in our courts. Starting in the Queens D.A.'s office in 1986, Tory ascended from the Appeals Bureau to the Homicide Investigations Bureau to the Supreme Court Trial Bureau. In 1989, Tory became the Principal Court Attorney for Judge William C. Donnino, Court of Claims in the Bronx Supreme Court. In this capacity, he did legal research and wrote opinions, becoming extremely well-versed in complex legal issues. This is evidenced by an article he authored on the age requirement for the New York State death penalty law, which appeared in St. John's legal journal and in other publications. Tory is the fourth child and oldest son of Dr. and Mrs. Edmondo Modica, and he is married to the Honorable Deborah Stevens Modica, Deputy Supervising Judge in Queens Criminal Court. Together they raised five girls--Deirdre, Erin, Reagan, Flannery and Kate--and are the proud grandparents of Elijah, Issa and Aidan. Mr. Modica's extensive knowledge of the justice system and his incredible work ethic has gained the respect of his colleagues in the law profession. His perseverance in work, the community and his family has certainly paid off. I am delighted that he has earned his appointment as Judge to the Criminal Court in the City of New York by Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. My warmest regards to His Honor, Judge Salvatore J. Modica.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I have named the Franklin Square School District as School District of the Month in the Fourth Congressional District for January 2002. The schools are Polk Street, Washington Street and John Street Elementary Schools. This month I've decided to honor three schools in the Franklin Square School District for their growth and innovativeness. Dr. Timothy Lafferty is the outstanding Superintendent of Schools in Franklin Square. Primarily serving the residents of Franklin Square, the school district also adds portions of these neighboring communities: Garden City South, West Hempstead, Elmont and Malverne. The administrators of the schools are: Gloria Perry, Principal, Polk Street Elementary School; Vincent Butera, Principal, Washington Street Elementary School; and Ceil Candreva, Principal, John Street Elementary School. Today, all three elementary schools in the district held groundbreaking ceremonies for renovations and additions to be completed in this new year. Any time I see Long Island schools growing, expanding and renovating, I'm heartened for our future. The very structure of a building is so vital to the inside health and well-being of the students, staff and faculty on the inside. Dr. Lafferty and his administration prepare children to be contributing members of society along with their academic instruction. Providing a ``Foundation for Success'' is the driving force that shapes all programs in the Franklin Square School District's three elementary schools. Two programs cited as ``exemplifying the spirit'' of the schools are the Accelerated Reading Program and the Character Development Program. The goal of the Accelerated Reading Program is to ensure that students read more books independently outside of the school day. Each teacher maintains a bulletin board which spotlights students' progress toward achieving their goals. The Character Development Program aims to teach students values by stressing practice in addition to study and discussion. Through the implementation of cooperative learning, students learn to practice leadership strategies, impulse control and responsibility. Students learn to be good citizens. The vision of Franklin Square School District--A Foundation for Success--prepares Long Island students for a lifetime of learning. It is a vision shared by all members of Franklin Square community, including students, teachers, administrators and parents. The Fourth Congressional District salutes the Franklin Square School District's focus on the future. I congratulate all members of the Franklin Square School District community on this honor.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an extraordinary organization, Child Abuse Prevention Services (CAPS). CAPS, a not-for-profit volunteer group, is entering its 20th year of service to the Long Island community. CAPS is working together to keep every child safe from harm. True to this vision, their experienced volunteers have reached 300,000 Long Island residents with preventive and educational programs to end the cycle of child abuse and neglect. Conceived from a union of the Junior League of Long Island and the National Council of Jewish Women, CAPS developed programs to give children and adults the tools and strategies to deal with child abuse, sexual abuse and date rape. As Long Islanders' needs and awareness grew, so did the services that CAPS provides. The Child Safety Institute (CSI) was established by CAPS in 1995 in response to the concerns of our school communities as they encountered school violence. They have formulated comprehensive methods to reduce bullying and harassment, including conferences and roundtables presented in classrooms to specifically curb the trend of increasing violence in our schools. CAPS has been recognized as a ``model primary prevention program'' locally, regionally and nationally. They have received the New York State Eleanor Roosevelt Community Service Award as well as the Metro Region Allstate Safety Leadership Award. I am truly grateful for Child Abuse Prevention Services, as they are an invaluable resource to my office and to the people they serve. It is my honor to pay tribute to them as they enter their 20th year of service to the Long Island community.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I thank my chairman, and I really do. I know that he has worked extremely hard to try and bring this bill up on the floor. He gave a promise to me, and, as far as I am concerned, he really kept his end of the deal. I am not upset with him at all. As far as trying to inflict pain on someone else, on all the work that he has done, that is not my style, and he knows that, and I would not do that. But, being in the minority, I do not have to many recourses on trying to do something. I believe in this bill very, very closely. These are victims that have suffered tremendously. Not only have they suffered tremendously, I do not think we are setting a good example on how we treat our victims that die because of war. You know, we talk about compassion here. Well, I have to deal with these victims in my district. I have to go to too many memorial services, which we are still going to. So every little thing that I can do for these victims, I am going to do it. And I do not like doing what I have to do tonight, and I have spent and the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller) has spent the evening. We have the votes, unfortunately, to bring this other bill down. But, as I said, we are in the minority, and I have tried every diplomatic way possible to find out what was wrong. We worked with the committee. We made many changes to satisfy our committee. So, with that, again, I apologize, because I do not like doing this. But it is also my job to protect the victims that are in my district, in Connecticut and throughout this country, and future victims. With that, Mr. Speaker, I will be certainly on the floor first thing in a couple hours and have my colleagues to vote against this. I am hoping between now and then something can be worked out. I truly mean that. But, again, I thank my chairman. He has worked well with us on every single thing this whole year. I have been proud to work with the gentleman. I thank the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller) for everything he has done. Believe me, we do not want to be here at a quarter after 4 in the morning having this kind of debate. But I believe in it strongly and I am going to fight for this one.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3488, the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Response Act of 2001. On September 11, our way of life changed. Something that has been on everyone's minds since the beginning of the anthrax scare in the United States is the state of our public health system. Everyone wants to know if the United States is equipped for a possible chemical or biological attack, and I'm proud to say we are working to ensure our readiness. Before September 11, it was important for the United States to allocate money for improvements to our public health system. After September 11, it became a necessity. Congress is taking a step in the right direction by passing the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Response Act of 200l. Since our public health infrastructure is spread among different agencies and departments, this $2.96 billion package addresses a variety of funding necessities to infuse our public health system with desperately needed funds to protect the American people in case of chemical or biological attacks. My colleagues and I realize the important role played by state and local offices of the public health system. Often, it is our local health officials who are deeply embroiled with the day-today assistance for those involved in chemical and biological attacks. This legislation allocates almost $2.7 billion across a variety of agencies that prepare for public health emergencies such as bioterrorism attacks. $1 billion will be given to states, local governments, and public and private health care facilities in the form of grants. It allows them to improve planning and preparedness for attacks, enhance their laboratories, educate and train their health care personnel, and develop new treatments and vaccines. $1 billion is earmarked for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand our current national stockpile of antibiotics and vaccines, including those for smallpox. Since the Centers for Disease Control play an important role when it comes to bioterrorism, $450 million will go to it for bioterror program expansion. It is crucial they renovate their facilities and improve lab security. The package also calls for the creation of a national database of hazardous pathogens and establishes registration, safety and security requirements on the 36 most deadly biological agents and toxins. Congress is finally addressing some major deficiencies in our food inspection process, and water supply security. This bill gives $100 million to the Food and Drug Administration, which will allow them to better protect our food supply by hiring more border inspectors and finding new methods to detect contaminated food. An additional $100 million will be distributed specifically to safeguard our drinking water by increasing vulnerability analyses and emergency response plans. I applaud my colleagues' hard work on this legislation, and I'm glad we were able to address this issue before the holidays.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2884, the Victims of Terrorism Relief Act, which I am a proud cosponsor. This legislation provides much needed tax relief to the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks. The terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Pennsylvania directly affected 25,000 families, and left 15,000 children without a parent. Figures show that 35% of those who died were between the ages of 35 and 45, and 85% were 25-55 years old. Not only did these families lose an important part of their lives, but they lost a source of financial support they need and deserve. I am overcome by the outpouring of support during this difficult time. However, spouses who lost a loved one in the attack are still enduring financial hardships. Even though many charitable organizations have provided some form of relief, the Federal government must do more. Easing their federal tax liability is a step in the right direction. In addition, this legislation addresses some of the recovery concerns within the New York City area damaged by the terrorist attacks. The creation of the New York Liberty Zone provides numerous tax benefits for qualified property. In order to rebuild, we must also help those businesses that were impacted by the senseless acts of terrorism. September 11th will forever be synonymous with other historical events that Americans have endured. It will serve as yet another reminder of how Americans come together during difficult times, as well as send a simple message to those who hide behind terrorism--America Will Never Fear You and We Will Always Take Care Of Our Own.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, although I rise in strong support for the Elementary and Secondary Education bill, I am disappointed that it does not fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The basic principle of IDEA is that a free and appropriate public education should be provided to children with disabilities between the ages of 3 and 21, and that these children should be educated with children who are not disabled ``to the maximum extent appropriate.'' In the 1975 law, Congress pledged to provide up to 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure on special education services. However, we have not kept our promise. Congress has appropriated only funds to meet between 5 and 14 percent of the average per pupil expenditure with FY2001 appropriations setting a record at 14.9 percent. Since Congress has not fully funded IDEA, our schools must spend more of their own money to meet the regulation of providing free and appropriate education to children with disabilities. Mr. Speaker, when everyone in government is finally making education a top priority, we must provide our schools with the funding we promised them. As I meet with my schools each week, I've been hearing a clear message from my superintendents and principal that more resources must be committed to provide fair and adequate educational opportunities to children with special needs, and that the federal government can help in a dramatic way by moving towards the maximum authorization level. In the past, ``fully funding'' IDEA (meeting the 40 percent authorization) has generally been a trade-off that for sacrificing other educational programming. And although today I believe we have missed a historic opportunity to meet our federal commitment to local schools this year, I believe in Chairman Boehner's commitment to passing this legislation next year. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Education and Workforce Committee to fully fund IDEA when we reauthorize the program next year.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support for this education bill. I want to take this opportunity to thank Chairman Boehner, Ranking Member Miller, and the rest of the conference committee members for their hard work on behalf of all of our children. I am really proud of this bill. This bill not only puts $26.5 billion into education, it provides accountability measures for these Federal dollars. In addition, it gives flexibility to schools on how they spend their Federal dollars. Today's bill includes my amendment that gives our school Federal funds to pay for their own school nurse. Never before have schools been able to use Federal dollars to pay for school nurses. No longer will school districts have to share a nurse. This bill also provides essential teacher mentoring programs. Through my mentoring amendment, we are providing new teachers with one-on-one mentoring by veteran teachers. Now our new teachers will find the support they need to stay in the profession. With the dropout especially in teaching after 5 years, we have to do more to retain our teachers. As a member of the committee, I am thrilled to mention that today's bill invests an additional $154 million in after-school programs, for a total of $1 billion. After-school programs, as we all know, are the cornerstones to keeping our children safe and giving them extra time to learn. Finally, this bill, through my academic intervention amendment, schools can develop programs to help troubled students stay focused and achieve their goals. I certainly urge all of my colleagues to support this education bill. I am looking forward to next year when we will be tackling the problems that we are having with IDEA. Certainly I know with our committee we will be fighting to increase the funding to help those children with disability. I thank the staff. I know how long and hard it has been for all of them. It has been a long battle, because both sides had disagreements. But it kind of shows when we work together, we can get this done. I thank everyone who was involved.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Shira Billet and Dora Sosnowik, two seniors from Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls in the Fourth Congressional district of New York. These two teens have accomplished an amazing feat. On December 4, they were awarded the top team prize of $100,000 in the Siemens Westinghouse Science and Technology Competitions. Their ingenious project was the development of a Viscometer to measure the consistency of ultra-thin lubricants. Their achievement is bound to affect the fields of micro-electronics and medical therapy, specifically in the treatment of arthritis patients. The Westinghouse Competition is administered by The College Board and funded by the Siemens Foundation. It recognizes achievement and invention in the fields of science and technology, and allows high school students to receive national recognition for their research projects. Awards are given to individual and team projects in scholarship amounts ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. I admire Shira and Dora for many reasons, the first of which is their ability to research, develop and apply such a spectacular invention at the ages of 16 and 17. The two girls have shown high levels of intelligence balanced with concern and dedication to the betterment of their community. Their participation in the Westinghouse research program was just a small part of their busy schedule. Both Orthodox Jews who observe the Saturday Sabbath, Shira and Dora maintain a packed academic and extra-curricular schedule. Attendance at the Abraham School is from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., where emphasis is placed on a combination of academic and religious studies. The girls are also co- editors of the school yearbook. The research program at the Abraham School is relatively new, created just two years ago. Shira and Dora were advised by their chemistry teacher, Rebecca Isseroff, and supervised by Professor Miriam Rafailovich, director of the Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces at SUNY Stony Brook. I know this prestigious honor is a precursor of things to come. Long Island can expect great things from Shira Billet and Dora Sosnowlk. I congratulate and thank them for what they have done and will continue to do for our community.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Veterans health bill. Before coming to Congress, I spent 30 years as a nurse on Long Island, New York. And even now, I know that there isn't a better career in the world than nursing or better training for being a Member of Congress. The only difference is now I have a lot more patients. That's why I am particularly saddened when we talk about the nursing shortage--especially in our VA hospitals. Our veterans give their lives for our country and therefore deserve the best health care in the world. Unfortunately, like the rest of health care in this country, VA hospitals are experiencing a nursing shortage. As a nurse, I know the key to solving our nation's nursing shortage is recruiting and retaining nurses. And the best way to attract new students and keep good nurses is through education. Helping nursing students pay for their education or helping them to finish an advanced degree goes a long way in attracting those who want to help people to the nursing profession. That's why I am proud of this bill, it does just that. Through the Employee Incentive Scholarships and Education Debt Reduction Programs nursing students and nurses can choose to work for a VA hospital and receive financial assistance for their education. In addition, this bill requires the VA to develop a nationwide policy on staffing standards to ensure that veterans are provided with safe and high quality care, taking into consideration the numbers and skill mix required of staff in specific health care settings. We promised our Vets we would take care of them--let's keep that promise by improving their health care. We need to end the nursing shortage crisis across this country, but tonight I am honored to fight for our VA nurses as the first step. I urge all my colleagues to vote in favor of the Veteran's health bill.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 3005, which is similar to a bill that failed two years ago, that establishes expedited procedures for congressional consideration of trade agreements negotiated by the President. Under H.R. 3005, the Trade Promotion Authority Act (TPA), the Administration would be required to consult with Congress before signing a trade agreement, but once the agreement is formally submitted to Congress, both houses must consider the agreement within 90 days without amending the tentative agreement. As a New Democrat, I believe in the fundamental concept of free trade. Eliminating unfair foreign trade barriers leads to greater exports by the United States and potential increases in production. It is important that America not be left on the sidelines as trade agreements are negotiated without our participation. However, free trade must occur on an equal playing field. Unfortunately, this particular, H.R. 3005, does not sufficiently address important concerns that were expressed two years ago. For example, this legislation does not require countries to implement any meaningful standards on labor rights. These include the five core International Labor Organization (ILO) standards: the rights of association and collective bargaining, bans against child labor, compulsory labor, and discrimination. The bill simply details negotiating objectives on labor rights, but does nothing to ensure that any final trade agreement will actually include those provisions. In addition, this legislation simply requires a country to enforce its existing law--however weak that law may be. Furthermore, this bill contains only voluntary negotiating objectives on the environment. It does nothing to prevent countries from lowering their environmental standards to gain unfair trade advantages, and would do nothing to protect multilateral environmental agreements from trade challenges. Moreover, it does nothing to block foreign investor lawsuits from challenging domestic environmental laws. Future trade agreements could include provisions like Chapter 11 of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which allow foreign investors to undermine U.S. environmental, safety, and health law on the basis of unfair trade. Lastly, I am concerned over the lack of congressional action prior to the signing of any trade agreement; only consultations. Congress may vote on a disapproval resolution, but only to certify that the Administration has ``failed to consult'' with Congress. Moreover, under this bill Congress would give up the right to amend trade agreements-- even those that are controversial and which dramatically alter domestic law--in exchange for optional negotiating objectives. Any trade agreement should be under the purview of the House of Representatives, not the House of Consultants. I am disappointed that these issues were not resolved prior to floor consideration. The trade policy of the United States must benefit the entire country, not simply select interest groups. We must strive and enter into trade agreements that are not only free, but fair. Unfortunately, H.R. 3005, like its predecessor, fails to remedy the concerns associated with expedited trade agreements.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, for personal reasons I was unable to cast my vote for the District of Columbia Appropriations Conference Report (H.R. 2944). Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea''. Stated against:

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker. I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 280, of which I am a cosponsor. On Saturday, December 1st, suicide bombers killed 10 teenage Israelis and wounded more than 150 others in downtown Jerusalem. On Sunday morning, just 14 hours after the first horrific attack, a suicide bomber boarded a local bus route in the northern port city of Haifa, killing 15 and wounding 35. The victims of these attacks range in age from 14 to 75; they include students, senior citizens, and a Filipino nanny. The terrorist organization Hamas claimed responsibility for their cowardly attacks. Since September 11th, international attention has been deflected from the everyday acts of violence in Israel to the United States' war on terrorism. Recently President Bush brought the Arab-Israeli conflict back under public purview by sending U.S. peace envoy General Anthony Zinni to the region to promote a cease-fire and possible resumption of peace talks. When Palestinian terrorists killed 26 and wounded 175 Israelis within a matter of 24 hours, Palestinian Authority Chairman Arafat's commitment to find and prosecute terrorists was called into question, and Israel subsequently launched its own war against terrorism. Twenty- four hours after the suicide bombing in Haifa, and 36 hours after the bombings in Jerusalem, Israel retaliated against the Palestinian Authority by bombing chairman Yasser Arafat's headquarters in Gaza Strip, and police buildings in the West Bank town of Jenin. I rise in agreement with Prime Minister Sharon and President Bush. As the chairman of the Palestinian Authority, Yasser Arafat has on more than one occasion voiced his commitment to peace, and his desire to fight terrorism. Yet words alone are not enough; they necessitate action. Yasser Arafat must take an active and responsible role in tracking and arresting those involved in terrorist activities. As the leader of the Palestinian people, Yasser Arafat must utilize his power to reign in the extraneous terrorist factions that continue to lash out at innocent Israeli civilians. This resolution, H. Con. Res. 280, holds Arafat responsible for the actions of all his people, including Palestinian terrorists. It expresses the United States' solidarity with Israel during this difficult and emotional time. Now, more than ever, we must stand strong with our democratic allies to fight terrorist groups worldwide.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, the tragic events of September 11th have left a profound impact on this country. As a representative from New York, I have witnessed firsthand the destruction and grief endured by the survivors. I've watched our brave rescue personnel work tirelessly to recover lost loved ones. Cleanup crews continue to work around the clock in hope of rebuilding what was destroyed. There is no question that New Yorkers are united in their effort to overcome the challenges ahead of them. As we know, in the aftermath of September 11th, Congress quickly passed the 2001 Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Recovery and Response to Terrorist Attacks on the United States (P.L. 107-38). This supplemental appropriates $40 billion and allows the Bush Administration to spend the first $20 billion with minimal reporting requirements. The remaining $20 billion can be spent only after the Administration has specifically requested it and Congress has passed a bill reported by the Appropriations Committee. New Yorkers were promised $20 billion of these funds to help with relief efforts. I supported this legislation because it stipulates that ``not less than one-half of the $40,000,000,000 shall be for disaster recovery activities and assistance related to the terrorist attacks in New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania . . .'' However, only $3.2 billion has been released and the Administration has only requested an additional $6.3 billion for a total of $9.5 billion. That's less than half of what was promised. I am extremely concerned that New York is not receiving the full $20 billion in emergency funds promised by the President in this bill. New York can not afford to wait for future legislation allocating the remainder of the $20 billion in emergency funds it was promised. Overtime pay for cleanup workers must be paid. Unemployment Insurance funds are rapidly depleting. Continuation of COBRA must continue. These are real concerns that will require, at a minimum, the immediate allocation of the $20 billion in emergency funds. Equally important, however, is the urgent need to equip our military personnel with the resources and tools they need to prevent future acts of terrorism. We are at war with an enemy that is not restricted to country borders or even continents. The 7-percent increase in funding addresses many of our military's needs and prepares this country for the long road of eradicating all terrorists. I have little doubt that New York will eventually receive the full $20 billion promised by the President, but I would have preferred to receive these funds today. The President must not forget about New York, just as we have not forgotten about our brave men and women fighting overseas to prevent another attack similar to September 11th.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in memory of Deputy Chief Edward Geraghty of Rockville Centre, NY. On Tuesday, September 11, 2001, Deputy Chief Geraghty and many of his fellow firefighters lost their lives while trying to save victims of the World Trade Center terrorist bombing. Ed and his men from Battalion 9 quickly responded to the World Trade Center on the morning of September 11, and they rushed into the bombed buildings to help those trapped inside. An unknown number of people were saved by firefighters like Ed, who received the posthumous promotion from battalion chief to deputy chief, retroactive to September 10. More than a thousand mourners gathered at St. Agnes Cathedral to honor Ed on Thursday, October 25. He is survived by his wife, Mary, and his three sons, Connor, 14, James, 11, and Colin, 4. Ed also leaves behind his father, Jim, a retired FDNY captain, his mother, Norma, his sisters, Lynn, Janet, and Maureen, and his brothers, Steve and Timmy, both New York City firefighters. I first met Ed's wife when she was a little girl. Mary grew up across the street from my husband Dennis and I, and as she got older, she began to babysit for our son, Kevin. She deserved the best, and that is exactly what she got when she met Ed. He was a true family man who coached his sons' soccer and baseball teams. Nothing came before his family. He also made countless contributions to the community of Rockville Centre, like starting an infamous running club. On Christmas, Ed's favorite holiday, he volunteered for the Adopt-A-Family program, which distributed gifts to less fortunate children. Ed joined the New York City Fire Department in November 1978, and he served as a volunteer in both Elmont and Baldwin. Fire safety skills and procedures were important to Ed. He received his masters degree in fire science from John Jay College, and he designed a national safety program called Back to the Basics. Ed's oldest son Connor eulogized his father with the following, ``One goal that I am setting for myself is to follow in your footsteps to be such a great man to my family, my community and the nation just like you.'' I believe Connor exemplified his father's heroism and courage by circulating a petition to establish a National Firefighters Day on September 11 in honor of his father and all other firefighters. Today, I honor Ed Geraghty's memory. I know firefighters like Ed are heroes every day of their lives, and they leave a lasting impression all those who cross their paths. Ed's conviction and drive to help those in need is a testament to his family, friends, and coworkers. I know Mary, and I have seen the difference he has made in her life. I know the lessons he taught his sons will live on. Thank you Connor, for making a difference.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 257, of which I am a cosponsor. The U.S. Postal Service delivers more than 200 billion pieces of mail a year and handles about 680 million pieces of mail each day. Letter carriers work tirelessly six days a week, providing over 136 billion homes and business with an invaluable service. Unfortunately, as a result of the September 11 terrorist attacks and the national anthrax scare, the U.S. Postal Service has been placed on the front lines of our war against terrorism. Three pieces of mail were recently confirmed as being contaminated with anthrax. On a grand scale, that's a low ratio, but not when human lives are concerned. The three letters exposed workers from a wide array of postal distribution centers to anthrax and many are being treated medically as a precaution. But despite the risk of anthrax infection, our Postal Service continues to sort the mail. 34 billion pieces of mail were delivered since September 11, equaling about five pieces for each person in the world. I visited my local postal facilities and am reassured by the steps they are taking to protect their workers on Long Island. This resolution, H. Con. Res. 257, commends the hard-working men and women of the United States Postal Service for their commitment to mail delivery during this time of national emergency. Postal workers are known for delivering mail no matter what the situation and I'm proud of their work in the face of terrorism.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, the tragic events of September 11th make the observance of Veterans Day particularly poignant this year. Engaged in a battle, different from any other in our nation's history, we are once again calling upon the brave members of the U.S. Armed Forces to defend democracy and freedom, Since we began the tradition of honoring American veterans after World War I, Veterans Day has passed with varying degrees of observance. This year however, perhaps more than ever before, we understand what our nation's armed forces have given to preserve our freedom and security. On October 8th, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower redesignated Armistice Day as ``Veterans Day'' for the millions of veterans who honorably served this nation. President Eisenhower also issued the first `Veterans Day Proclamation' to ``help preserve in the hearts and lives of all our citizens the spirit of patriotism, the love of country and the willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good symbolized by this very special day.'' And so, in honor of those who served in the military and those who are now stationed around the world protecting our national interests, and promoting peace and security, it is my earnest hope, that all Americans, join hands to insure the proper and widespread observance of this day. While the effect our veterans have had on world history is great, they are not distant historical footnotes, but are as close as a father or mother, brother or sister, grandfather or grandmother, friend and neighbor, and co-workers. Let us, as a grateful nation, pay the appropriate homage to our veterans who have contributed so much to the preservation of this country. While we all desire peace, when war could not be avoided, our veterans put their lives on the line, many paying the ultimate sacrifice. To all those who wore the uniform, or may have seen their comrades die around them, or possibly suffered injuries that continue to affect them today. We honor and thank you.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I have named Carle Place Middle School in Carle Place as School of the Month in the Fourth Congressional District for November 2001. Neil J. Connolly is Principal of Carle Place, and Dr. Patricia B. Hansen is the Superintendent of Schools for the Carle Place Union Free School District. There are approximately 260 students in 7th and 8th grades. The outstanding academic records at Carle Place demonstrate the vibrancy of learning inside this school firsthand. The faculty and staff are focused on sending their students to high school wholly prepared and ready to keep learning. One group of national renowned winners at Carle Place are the budding journalists involved in The Carle Place Middle School Newspaper, The Path. For two years running, The Path's excellent team took top honors from the American Scholastic Press Association newspaper competition. Expanding on those good deeds, Carle Place Middle, in conjunction with Carle Place High, is the number one contributor to Make-A-Wish Foundation in the entire country, exceeding $379,500 since 1988. At Carle Place, students are focused on helping others. When young people dedicate their time and effort willingly, a lifetime of caring for your fellow man is solidified. You name it, Carle Place students are there, nabbing top honors in the Long Island Science Congress Junior Division, Scholar Athletes, National Junior Honor Society, language arts competitions, and excelling in the Fine and Performing Arts programs. Congratulations to Carle Place Middle School students, faculty and administration on this achievement. Keep up the good work.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to H.R. 3150, the Aviation Security Act, a bill that does not fix America's aviation security problems. I do, however, support the Democratic substitute, which passed the Senate unanimously. I stand fast to my belief that aviation security is a matter of national security. Congress needs to treat this as a question of national security and put in place an effective, federal law enforcement system. Public safety is threatened by an unprecedented war declared on the American people by Osama bin Laden and his terrorist network. It is the federal government's job to protect our country. Security at the nation's airports is no longer a private sector matter. It is part of the front line of our national defense. We would never consider contracting out the duties of our police departments, and it makes no sense to do so with airport screeners--the very people who are on the front lines of aviation security. Screeners are often paid less than fast-food workers, resulting in an average employee turnover rate of more than fast-food workers, resulting in an average employee turnover rate of more than 120% nationally and more than 400% at some airports. Instead, baggage screeners should be a professional, skilled trained law enforcement workforce. Unfortunately, the Republican bill keeps things as they are with the same private contractors submitting the same low bids, the same private screeners, the same high turnover rate, the same low pay, and the same insecure aviation system. It fails to fundamentally reform the air safety system. There's a clear way to make sure our families are safe and restore their faith in America's airline security. Making airline security workers professional will ensure our families are safer, boost confidence in air travel and help restore our economy.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.J. Res. 71, which designates September 11th as Patriot Day. The lives lost in the terrorist attack on this sad day must never be forgotten. Honoring them, as well as the thousands of rescue workers that worked tirelessly and bravely throughout this difficult time, is a fitting reminder of what this country stands for. We never forget our own, and we will always fight to continue our way of life. This Resolution will also acknowledge how difficult it is to kill the American spirit. Those who oppose our way of life may try to destroy our buildings, but they will never destroy the sense of pride and love for this country that was exhibited throughout this difficult time. Patriotism is a concept that is nothing new to Americans. This country exists because of the sacrifice and determination of brave patriots who fought, and continue to fight, for our freedom. We have embraced these fundamental beliefs and will do whatever it takes to preserve them. This latest attack on our way of life will be answered in a way that will once again make us proud to be Americans. September 11th will forever be synonymous with other historical events that Americans have endured. It will serve as yet another reminder of how Americans come together during difficult times, as well as send a simple message to those who hide behind terrorism--America Will Never Fear You. Mr. Speaker, I urge immediate passage of this legislation.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Nadler), whose district covers Ground Zero.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I strongly support the HEROS Act, H.R. 3086. I think it is a very good bill; and as our chairman, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner) had said, things have been a little hectic around here in the last 10 days, and certainly on the Committee on Education we have worked very closely over the last year. So I know in good faith that we will be able to work out to take care of those victims who are going to need it, and I look forward to that. I certainly stand here and recommend to all of my colleagues to pass this bill. It is a first step. We should be taking care of our people in the service. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Owens), my colleague on the Committee on Education and the Workforce. (Mr. OWENS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I applaud the gentleman from California (Mr. McKeon) for introducing this bill, of which I am a proud cosponsor, which provides student loan relief to individuals serving on active duty during this national emergency, and individuals residing in the disaster areas caused by the September 11 terrorist attack. The Federal Government must do everything in its power to help ease the financial burden our brave men and women may endure while they fight overseas to rid the world of terrorism, as well as those directly impacted by the tragic events of September 11. Although I believe this is a good bill and urge all of my colleagues to support it, I believe we are missing a good opportunity to vote on more sweeping legislation that benefits the spouse of a policeman, fireman, or other safety and rescue personnel that died in the line of duty on September 11. The gentleman from California (Mr. McKeon), right before we started this debate, said that we would continue this discussion to see if we can do something in that regard in the future. This body has worked aggressively to bail out our airline industry and will most likely debate an economic stimulus package later this week, but we have not done enough to help the spouses of the brave men and women who risked their lives in the line of duty on that tragic day. I know firsthand how difficult it is to pay bills when one suddenly loses one's spouse who provided the majority of the family's income. Expenses such as a mortgage, food and clothes for kids, and car payments suddenly become daunting. Although I did not have student loans to repay, many spouses do. Currently, the individual who died has their loan forgiven, but not the spouse who may have relied on the working spouse to pay the loans. I have spoken to several of these spouses who are in similar situations, and they need all of the help that is available. Earlier today, legislation was introduced to provide student loan relief to all spouses directly impacted by the terrorist attack on September 11. It expands upon the measure introduced by the gentleman from California and provides spouses with desperately needed financial relief. Although this language was not included in today's bill, I would hope, with the help of the gentleman from California, we can move separate legislation that helps the spouses as well as our military personnel with their student loan relief. Today's legislation is a big step in the right direction which we can build upon, and I urge all of my colleagues to support it. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. McCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Roemer), someone who sits with me on the Committee on Education and the Workforce. (Mr. ROEMER asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)