Michael McNulty

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Madam Speaker, due to my attendance at the wake and funeral of my good friend, Judge Francis Bergan, I missed rollcall votes 75, 76, 77 and 78 on Thursday, March 26, and rollcall votes 79 and 80 on Friday, March 27, 1998. Had I been present, I would have voted in the following manner: ``No'' on rollcall vote number 75; ``no'' on rollcall vote number 76; ``yes'' on rollcall vote number 77; ``no'' on rollcall vote number 78; ``yes'' on rollcall vote number 79; and ``no'' on rollcall vote number 80.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, March 17, I was absent for rollcall votes number 53, 54, and 55. Had I been present, I would have voted in the affirmative on all three.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. McNULTY. Madam Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Harry M. Rosenfeld, the editor-at-large of the Albany Times Union and one of this Nation's most highly respected journalists. Harry, who was one of my constituents, has enjoyed a long and illustrious career. He came to this country as an immigrant, was educated at Syracuse University, served his Nation proudly during the Korean war, and embarked on a career in newspaper work. He served as foreign editor of the New York Herald Tribune and then moved to the Washington Post, where he directed the coverage of the Watergate story that earned the Post a much- deserved Pulitzer Prize. In 1979, Mr. Rosenfeld came to New York's capital district of serve as editor-in-chief of the Albany Times Union and Knickerbocker News. During his tenure as editor, the newspaper won countless awards for general excellence and community service. Because of Harry Rosenfeld's commitment to honest courageous reporting as the foundation of responsible journalism, he leaves his community a better place. Harry retired from journalism last week. For nearly half a century he has served as the living embodiment of the loftiest principles of his profession. In his community and in his industry, he enjoys a well- earned reputation for integrity and undying devotion to the highest standards of his craft. I am proud to salute my friend Harry for his distinguished journalistic service to the cause of democracy. Thanks, Harry.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, one of the benefits of serving in this body is the opportunity to pay tribute to citizens who make positive contributions to their communities and their professions. One such citizen is Harry M. Rosenfeld, the editor-in-large of the Albany Times Union and one of this Nation's most highly respected journalists. Mr. Rosenfeld, who is one of my constituents, has enjoyed a long and illustrious career. He came to this country as an immigrant, was educated at Syracuse University, served his Nation proudly during the Korean War and embarked on a career in newspaper work. Mr. Rosenfeld served as foreign editor of the New York Herald- Tribune. He then moved to the Washington Post, where he directed the coverage of the Watergate story that earned the Post a much deserved Pulitzer Prize. In 1979, Mr. Rosenfeld came to the New York's capital district to serve as editor-in-chief of the Albany Times Union and Knickerbocker News. During his tenure as editor, the newspaper won countless awards for general excellence and community service. Mr. Rosenfeld retires from journalism at the end of this week. For nearly a half-century, he has served as the living embodiment of the loftiest principles of his profession. In his community and in his industry, he enjoys a well-earned reputation for integrity and undying devotion to the highest standards of his craft. Because of Harry Rosenfeld's commitment to honest, courageous reporting as the foundation of responsible journalism, he leaves his community a better place. I am proud to salute my friend Harry Rosenfeld for his distinguished journalistic service to the cause of democracy.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join with Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton and others in commemorating the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Congressional Caucus on Women's Issues. Since it was first formed in 1977, the Caucus has had a tremendous impact on this body, and has played an important role in efforts to recognize that the diversity of America is our preeminent strength. John Kennedy once said: ``Effort and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.'' For the last 20 years the Caucus has given direction and purpose to issues of particular importance to women, families, and children. In the last few years the Caucus has undergone some changes, but its role as the premier vehicle for raising and addressing the concerns of women has remained the same. The Caucus has shaped critical public policy such as equal pay, domestic violence, breast cancer research, family leave and access to quality health care. While we have made significant advances in moving toward gender equity, progress has been slow and much more work needs to be done. If we hope to ensure equality, this Congress must continue the commitment necessary to remove the economic, political and educational barriers which hinder far too many women. As the father of four daughters, I am well aware of the obstacles which women face and I am proud of the progress we've made in the last 20 years. Many of these changes are a direct result of the great work done by the Caucus--in serving as a catalyst in efforts to increase opportunity and ensure equality for all Americans. In celebration of these achievements, I urge all Members of the House--and all my fellow Americans--to recognize the accomplishments of the Congressional Caucus on Women's Issues on the occasion of its 20th anniversary.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Madam Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. McNULTY. Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, the life and achievements of the Honorable Charles H. ``Chuck'' Shoudy, Commissioner of the Albany Department of Human Resources, were an inspiration to many. It is with great sadness that I inform the House that Chuck Shoudy died in a car accident on June 30, 1997. He was 50 years old. With Chuck's death, the City of Albany, NY, lost a much loved and valued public servant--and I lost a good friend. His life was motivated by a tireless and creative commitment to helping economically disadvantaged individuals help themselves. Chuck Shoudy was named director of the Albany County Neighborhood Youth Corps in July 1971--a program he helped to develop. In 1974, he was appointed director of the city of Albany's Department of Human Resources, holding such positions as deputy commissioner and executive deputy commissioner before becoming commissioner of the department in July 1990. Born in Albany, he knew every nook and cranny of the city but, above all, he knew the people--the young and the elderly--and he was devoted to them. He reached out to the jobless and sought to help them by providing them with education, skills training, and jobs. Chuck believed that everyone--given the opportunity--would choose to be a productive citizen. Over the years, he enabled tens of thousands of men and women to enter the workforce. At the time of his death, he was administering and coordinating 10 programs, including On-the-Job Training, Albany Service Corps, Services for Dislocated Workers, an older worker program--Club 55, Training for Trades, and a youth internship program. He was a devoted father to his children, Elizabeth and Daniel--and a devoted brother to his only sister, Linda C. Martin. Chuck Shoudy made a difference, and he will be sorely missed.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, this month, the Nation observed Crime Victims' Rights Week, which was geared to the theme: ``Let Victims' Rights Ring Across America.'' This annual observance is a recognition of the victims of criminal acts and an expression of confidence that we will soon have in place all the necessary legislation to ensure justice and assistance for the victims and their families. It is gratifying to see that this important issue is being addressed by the House and Senate. As a strong supporter of victims' rights, I take this occasion, Mr. Speaker, to recognize the work of the Capital District Coalition for Crime Victims. This organization represents the collaborative efforts of crime victims, victim advocates, victim service providers, agencies of the justice system, and my constituents in the 21st Congressional District of New York--as well as surrounding districts. The coalition's mission is to increase public awareness about the effects of crime and victimization, and work for fair and equal treatment of those who have been victims of crime--and their families. The coalition had its beginnings in 1988. It is chaired by Ms. Patricia Gioia, of Waterford, NY, who is also capital district chapter leader of POMC [Parents of Murdered Children], and other survivors of homicide victims. The coalition cochair is Ms. Flo Derry, coordinator of the Albany County CCVAP [Comprehensive Crime Victim Assistance Program]. This year, a major coalition event was the dedication of the Brick Memorial Walk Way at the New York State Crime Victims Memorial, located directly behind the legislative office building near the Swan and State Streets intersection in Albany. Each brick of the walk way is inscribed with the name of a crime victim. This walk way will serve as a monument to the victims of criminal acts of violence. It also sends an important message that we shall do all in our power to protect the rights of victims of crime.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join with Representative Carrie Meek and others in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the day Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball's color barrier. As a ballplayer, Jackie Robinson set standards through both his superior athleticism and dignified grace. His unflinching commitment and determination to achieve set him apart from countless numbers of his peers. However, a look beyond pure statistics--6 National Pennants and 6 seasons batting over .300, to name a couple--allows us to truly understand why Jackie Robinson is a hero to us all. Jackie Robinson was an American pioneer. His perseverance when all the odds were against him is certainly an inspiration. This strength of will is reflective of the true spirit of America. His personal sacrifice reflects his commitment to our society. Robert Kennedy once said: ``Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.'' America was formed and is continually transformed by these ``ripples of hope.'' Jackie Robinson was a ``ripple of hope'' for many Americans. Yet, we must never forget the times in which Jackie Robinson lived. Discrimination and dehumanization were societal norms of the 1940's and 1950's. We must continually reflect on these ills, and admit past mistakes. This American conscience has always shaped our society for the better. People have said that Jackie Robinson never took a step backwards. A lot has changed in the 50 years since he first put on that Brooklyn Dodger cap, yet too much has remained the same. We must continually move forward, ensuring all Americans their rights. The first step is to recognize those individuals who have strived to make an impact. Jackie Robinson's impact is still being felt today. Therefore, I urge all the Members of this House, and all of my fellow Americans to remember Jackie Robinson as a great ballplayer, an inspirational American hero, and most important of all, an individual whose courage has touched the lives of millions.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, in the 1820's, when the Greeks fought for their independence--after 400 years of domination by the Ottoman Empire--they were inspired by the American Revolution. In an 1821 appeal to the American people, a Greek Commander--Petros Mavromichalis--declared: Having formed the resolution to live or die for freedom, we are drawn toward you by a just sympathy since it is in your land that liberty has fixed her abode, and by you that she is prized as by our fathers. Hence, honoring her name, we invoke yours at the same time, trusting that in imitating you, we shall imitate our ancestors and be thought worthy of them if we succeed in resembling you . . . it is for you, citizens of America, to crown this glory. Greek intellectuals translated our Declaration of Independence and adopted it as their own. And many Americans sailed to Greece to join in the Greek fight for independence. However, in reality, it is we, the American people, who are indebted to Greece for their great contributions to American democracy. Thomas Jefferson acknowledged this when he stated: To the ancient Greeks . . . we are all indebted for the light which led ourselves [American colonists] out of gothic darkness. American democracy was born in Greece. Two thousand years ago, Pericles declared: Our Constitution is called a democracy because power is in the hands not of a minority but of the whole people. When it is a question of settling private disputes, everyone is equal before the law . . . And when it is a question of putting one person before another in positions of public responsibility, what counts is not a membership of a particular class, but the actual ability an individual possesses. It was to preserve our mutual way of life that Greece stood shoulder to shoulder with the United States in every major international conflict in the 20th century. We owe so much to Helenic civilization, to the people of Greece and to the Greek American community for their contributions to virtually all aspects of American life. In a broad sense, as the English poet Percy Bysshe Shelley put it: We are all Greeks! Our laws, our literature, our religion, our art, have their roots in Greece. To the people of Greece and to the Greek American Community, I extend heartiest congratulations on the national birthday of this great nation.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, because I was unable to participate in Tuesday's Special Order commemorating Black History Month, I respectfully submit this extension of remarks on behalf of Sgt. Henry Johnson's candidacy for the Congressional Medal of Honor. Sgt. Henry Johnson, an African-American soldier from Albany, NY, performed extraordinary acts of bravery during World War I. However, he has yet to receive the honor and recognition he deserves from the Nation he so heroically served. According to the Department of the Army, on the night of May 15, 1918, near Verdun, France, then Private Johnson, a member of the all- Black 369th Infantry Regiment, gallantly fought off an attack from an enemy patrol of at least 12 German soldiers. On that night, Johnson killed four German soldiers, wounded numerous others, rescued a wounded comrade, and captured a stockpile of weapons. He accomplished this feat by using grenades, rifle fire, and engaging in hand-to-hand combat with both the butt of his rifle and his French bolo knife. In the midst of the fighting, Johnson was severely wounded. To acknowledge and reward this act of valor, the French Government honored Johnson on May 24, 1918--just 9 days after the engagement. Citing ``his magnificent example of courage and energy,'' it awarded Johnson with the Croix de Guerre, for all intents and purposes the highest strictly military honor a foreign soldier can receive. Last year, 78 years after the fact, the Department of Defense finally awarded Henry Johnson the Purple Heart. Mr. Speaker, he deserves the Congressional Medal of Honor. During this celebration of African-American History, I need not remind you of the great injustices that took place in our Nation during the years of legalized racial segregation. No one disputes that the values for which American stands were undermined during that period. I simply urge that those who bravely fought for those values, in spite of the then-existing practices of American society, receive their just reward. The fact is that Sergeant Johnson and many other African-American soldiers performed heroic service during World War I. To date, only one of these men has received the Medal of Honor--and that was awarded 73 years after his death on the battlefield. This is wrong. We must correct this blemish on our history. If we as a Nation are going to realize, as President Clinton noted in his State of the Union, that our ``diversity is our greatest strength,'' we must settle the errors of our past. If we are going to ``give all of our citizens, whatever their background, an opportunity to achieve their greatness,'' we must honor those who have already earned great distinction. To be sure, as our colleague, the gentleman from Oklahoma, reminded us just a week ago, ``Government can't ease all the pain'' of racial division. But when Government can effectively act, it should; when Government has been part of the problem, it must be part of the solution. I therefore urge all the Members of this House to do justice to the memory of St. Henry Johnson and support the effort to award him the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Mr. McNULTY

Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, in 1972, 11 Israeli athletes, who came to Munich to participate in the Olympic games, were ruthlessly shot down by terrorists--as a stunned world looked on in horror. This despicable act was perpetrated against athletes who had come to Munich in the spirit of peace and brotherhood. They were returned to Israel in coffins. And yet, the International Olympic Committee refuses to officially recognize these 11 victims, claiming that this would be a political act--and that the Olympics are for the living, not for the dead. What on outrageous statement. It is so out of keeping with Olympic principles. I call upon the International Olympic Committee to reconsider its position and devote at least 1 minute to memorialize the deaths of these 11 athletes.