Bob Menendez

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John O'Donnell for his years of service and appointment as Grand Marshall of the 23rd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 21, 2004. Mr. O'Donnell was honored by the Bayonne Saint Patrick's Parade Committee at the annual Grand Marshall Brunch at 11 a.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2004, at the Chandelier Restaurant in Bayonne, New Jersey. Mr. O'Donnell has been an active member of the Bayonne Saint Patrick's Parade Committee since 1988. For 15 years Mr. O'Donnell has been a hard working, dedicated, and true proponent for the promotion of Irish culture through the annual parade. Mr. O'Donnell is a member of Ireland's 32 of Bayonne since 1984, serving as Secretary from 1990 to 1991 and as President from 1994 to 1996. John O'Donnell displayed his leadership and commitment to promoting Irish culture by helping to save the annual post-parade party in 1993. His innovative idea of seeking financial support from local businesses helped preserve the tradition. Mr. O'Donnell is an active member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division #8 of Hudson County, serving as Vice President from 1998 to 1999 and President from 1999 to 2003. Mr. O'Donnell is currently Sergeant with the Port Authority Police of New York and New Jersey. He is also the Offensive Coordinator for Saint Peter's High School Freshman Football team. Previously, Mr. O'Donnell was an English instructor at Marist High School from 1986 to 1988. Mr. O'Donnell received his bachelor's degree and Master's Degree in Education from Seton Hall University. Mr. O'Donnell is a loving husband to his wife, Kathleen O'Donnell, and dedicated father to his six children, John Richard, Kelsey Marie, Shannon Kathleen, Tara Mary, Meghan Elizabeth, and Liam Charles. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring John O'Donnell for his distinguished public service, his dedication to promoting Irish culture in the City of Bayonne, and his outstanding leadership and devotion to his community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I regret that an International Relations Committee hearing on Haiti yesterday caused me to miss Rollcall vote 38, on final passage of H.R. 1561, the United States Patent and Trademark Fee Modernization Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on Rollcall vote 38.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Democratic Caucus, I offer a privileged resolution (H. Res. 504) and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Democratic Caucus, I offer a privileged resolution (H. Res. 495) and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate, on behalf of all the members of the Democratic Caucus, our colleague, the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Gordon), whom the Democratic Caucus elected as the new ranking member on the Committee on Science. He is a proven leader on the Committee on Science and within this body, and I know that he will serve our Nation well in his new capacity.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, the Republican plan that we consider here tonight is not a Medicare prescription drug plan, but rather a poison bill for our Nation's seniors and for Medicare itself. The more you know about this bill, the less you like it. The Republican plan would encourage employers to drop retiree coverage for their employees. And this means that approximately 94,000 New Jerseyans in my State will be left with no coverage. I thought this debate is supposed to be about expanding coverage for our seniors, not taking it away. Under their demonstration plan, 7 million beneficiaries would be forced to pay more for Medicare if they do not give up their doctor and join an HMO. The Republican plan would cut payments to oncologists nationwide and would result in New Jersey cancer care providers losing $552 million, this in a State that has the third highest instance of cancer in the United States, and in which cancer is the second leading cause of death. Republicans would include a $14 billion bribe to get private insurance company plans to compete against Medicare. Why give away billions of taxpayers money to private insurance interests when that money could be used to enhance a true prescription drug benefit under Medicare? Obviously, Republicans are more concerned about their special interests than senior interests. Republicans would make millions of seniors pay more for their drugs. Seniors would pay $4,020 out of the first $5,100 in prescription drug costs. And low-income seniors, like my 83-year-old mother who worked her entire life in the factory of New Jersey and who suffers from Alzheimer's, would pay higher premiums and would lose additional assistance under Medicaid. And only in Washington would Republicans prohibit the Federal Government from using the collective purchasing power of 40 million citizens to obtain lower prescription drug prices. Let us stand up for our parents and our grandparents and our seniors. Vote against the rule. Vote against this poison pill that is this plan.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 634, I was unavoidably detained in traffic. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I was tending to official business and was not present for Roll Call Votes 620 through 623. The votes were on Senate Joint Resolutions 22 and 18, House Concurrent Resolution 299, and on a motion to the meeting time of the House, respectively. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on these measures.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, this conference report which is the subject of the rule represents only the second time in modern history that a conference report filed by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure does not include a single Democrat signature. The first time this happened was the first conference report on this same bill which subsequently had to be recommitted, and this last conference report is no better; and we will be back here again because this bill will simply not pass the Senate. Now, the House rules governing conference committee requires that at least one conference committee be held and what that means is that all of the conferees, all of the conferees get invited in democracy, my friends, in a democracy which we try to promote throughout the world. We stand here and resolution after resolution promote it throughout the world. We are in Iraq. We are in Afghanistan, but here in the greatest democracy in the world, Democrats representing 134 million Americans in this country through the 206 members of the Democratic Caucus do not get invited to a conference to have those Americans' views on this important air safety issue. That is outrageous and it is the corruption of the process and the corruption of the House rules. You are supposed to have a conference committee that brings all to the table. Not only did you corrupt the House rules and the conference, you corrupted the will of the House that voted overwhelmingly in a bipartisan manner on this question of air privatization of air traffic controllers. The House clearly said we do not want rent-a-controllers. The chairman of the full committee in the first conference report did not want it for Alaska. So if it is not good for Alaska, it is not good for any other State of the Nation. I agree with him and his wisdom. Also, you corrupt the process when you do not permit the opportunity for our colleagues to participate on behalf of those 134 million Americans. After September 11 we did not privatize screeners; we Federalized them. We federalized them. And on the September 11 day, it was these air traffic controllers that brought to the ground hundreds and hundreds of planes across the country in a very incredibly short period of time in order to ensure the safety of those who were traveling on those planes and the safety of all Americans should those airplanes be used as they were used in New York and in the Pentagon as weapons of mass destruction. So let us give to air traffic controllers in a privatized function the responsibility for air security as well. America cannot afford, in terms of the traveling public's safety once they are in the air, to have those airplanes which we have seen can be turned into weapons of mass destruction, ultimately be controlled by some privatized entity. We need to continue to keep it as it is. It is the safest, most reliable system in the world. I simply do not know why we are trying to undo that, and I certainly do not know what is so terrible about the marketplace of ideas that my colleagues cannot have us in the conference room and the opportunity to make sure that the rest of America knows what they are doing.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the conference report that this rule seeks to bring to the House floor. During House consideration of this bill, I pledged that I would not write the Bush administration a blank check of the taxpayers' money for the $18.6 billion in reconstruction funds for Iraq. I pledged not to write a blank check for a plan with no exit strategy, no clear link to this supplemental, and no details for after January of this coming year. I pledged not to hand over $18.6 billion of the taxpayers' money to build Iraq's electricity infrastructure when ours is not functioning here at home. I pledged not to sanction the use of American money to modernize Iraq's medical facilities and medical equipment when millions of Americans here at home are living without health care. And I pledged not to spend the American people's money to pay for that which we did not damage and that which did not previously exist in Iraq. I pledged not to send $18.6 billion in grants to a country that has the second largest oil reserves in the world, worth approximately $7 trillion. Why should Iraq not be expected to pay back this money? And I pledged not to add another $18.6 billion to this year's deficit, estimated already at over $480 billion. Each of us in this Chamber has a responsibility to the American people to demand an Iraq package that will not bankrupt future generations. That is why the American people still support creating a loan package for Iraq, not a grant. Iraq can and should pay back the money for reconstruction with their future oil reserves. Period. Evidently, I reached the same conclusion many of the nations and organizations at the Madrid donors conference reached themselves. That conference only produced $4 billion in grants and roughly $13 billion in loans and trade credits, that amount toward a total estimated Iraqi need of $56 billion over the next 4 years. So, Mr. Speaker, this is not the last time that we will see moneys being brought by the administration for Iraq. And why should the American taxpayer not be paid back if the taxpayer in other countries, countries that did not support this effort, will be paid back? The consequence of this grant approach is that the American taxpayer will pay more than he or she should, will pay more for Halliburton to make more. The President's suggestion that bombings in Iraq are a result of our success is outrageous. The bombings are a failure of our postintervention planning, not a symbol of success. And though I strongly support our American servicemembers and the money that is going to them in this bill, made much better because of Democratic efforts, I cannot in good conscience support this legislation. I urge my colleagues to vote against the conference report.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel Jack Jacobs for his years service and dedication to his country. Colonel Jacobs will be honored by the Jewish War Veterans of the United States at the Testimonial Dinner on Thursday, October 30, 2003, at the Newark Liberty Airport Wyndham in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Colonel Jack Jacobs is a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving two tours of duty courageously. His heroism is exemplified by his numerous commendations, including two Purple Heart Medals, three Bronze Stars, two Silver Stars, and the Medal of Honor, the United States highest combat decoration. Colonel Jacobs risked his life and overcame personal injury to save the lives of 13 allied soldiers and one United States advisor. Colonel Jacobs retired from the United States Army in 1987. Colonel Jack Jacobs serves on several boards of directors on numerous companies, and is the secretary of the Board of Directors for the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation. Colonel Jacobs is a regular fixture on CNBC and MSNBC as a military and foreign affairs analyst. Colonel Jack Jacobs received his bachelor's degree from Rutgers University. During his military service, Colonel Jacobs served as a faculty member at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, and the National War College in Washington, DC. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Colonel Jack Jacobs for his outstanding leadership and courage, his 21 years of military service, and his commitment to his fellow man.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey for its efforts in developing and advancing the role of Hispanics in small businesses, and in enhancing the interests of Hispanics throughout New Jersey. On Friday, October 17, 2003, the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey will hold its 13th Annual Convention and Expo at the Newark Airport Marriot Hotel in Newark, New Jersey. The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey has contributed to the increase of business opportunities, prosperity and success for Hispanics throughout the state by forming new partnerships with Latin America, bringing products and jobs back to New Jersey, and creating further economic development and business opportunities throughout our region. The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey has been serving as an advocate for Hispanic small businesses in the political process since its inception in 1989, successfully bringing the issues and concerns of Hispanic-owned businesses to the forefront of the local and national economic agenda. As the Hispanic market continues to represent the fastest growing economic sector in the United States, events, such as The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey 13th Annual Convention and Expo, benefit the general business community, government agencies and Hispanic entrepreneurs, while providing networking opportunities. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey for playing a critical role in the success of Hispanic businesses throughout New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time and for his work and also the gentleman from California and rise to support their amendment. Mr. Chairman, the question before us is whether we give the President a blank check for $86 billion or whether we fashion a bill that promotes the best interests both of our troops and the American people. I for one do not intend to write a blank check for a plan that just came here yesterday with no exit strategy, no clear link to this supplemental and no detailed plan after January of this coming year. I do not intend to send $18.6 billion in grants to a country that has the second largest oil reserve in the world valued at over $7 trillion. Why should we not expect Iraq to pay back some of this money? It is not a poor country, and it will not be a poor country. And for all of my friends who have been deficit hawks, you are just going to add another $18.6 billion to this year's deficit, estimated at over $480 billion. We have a responsibility to the American people to demand an Iraq package that will not in essence bankrupt future generations. That is why the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos), his package along with my colleague the ranking member of the Committee on Appropriations is the appropriate vehicle, a loan package. They can and should pay back reconstruction costs with future oil revenues. Period. Finally, this administration has failed to present us with a financially responsible plan for reconstruction in Iraq. Their Iraq request would have invested over $255 per person on electricity in Iraq, when we only spend 71 cents per person in the United States on our own failing electricity grid. Their request would have spent over $38 per person in Iraq for medical infrastructure while we spend about $3.30 per person in the United States. The administration's total request of $87 billion is more than all 50 States combined would need to make up for budget shortfalls in 2004. Their total request is more than the Federal Government hopes to spend next year on elementary and secondary education and on homeland security combined. Combined. This is clearly not the way that the American people want to see us proceed. They understand that maybe that there are those things that we have to make investments in, but that should be paid back. Our troops should not be held hostage to an outright grant for Iraq's reconstruction, and that is why this amendment should pass. Let us loan the money to Iraq, let us help rebuild it, but let us not mortgage the future of the next generation of Americans.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mother Teresa of Calcutta for her life-long dedication to the poorest of the poor. She did not do it out of obligation, but out of love and goodwill. On October 19, 2003, Mother Teresa will be beatified by Pope John Paul II in Rome. Mother Teresa dedicated the majority of her life to helping the poorest of the poor in India. While supervising a school in Calcutta, Mother Teresa was faced with the suffering and poverty that was outside her convent walls. These images made such a deep impression on her that, in 1946, she received permission from her superiors to leave the convent school and devote herself to working among the poor in the slums of Calcutta. In 1950, Mother Teresa, while doing her charity work, founded Missionaries of Charity, an order of nuns dedicated to serving the poor. Originally, the convent began with just 12 sisters; today, it has over 3,000 sisters in over 100 countries worldwide with 517 missions. Mother Teresa's compassion for the suffering knew no boundaries and has served as an inspiration to the world. She fed the hungry, sheltered the homeless, and cleaned the wounds of those injured; but what is even more important is that she made them feel good, loved, wanted, and gave them back the dignity that poverty had taken away from them. For her endless amount of volunteer work and selflessness, Mother Teresa was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979, an honor that she deserved for laboring in loving dedication. She was also acknowledged for her work in 1985 with the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Lifetime Achievement Award. Even late in her life, she continued to dedicate her time and energy to those who were in need. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mother Teresa for her selfless devotion and extraordinary contributions to the world community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for the time. Mr. Chairman, the question before us tonight and tomorrow is whether to give the President a blank check of nearly $87 billion or to fashion a bill that represents and promotes the best interests of our troops and the American people. I, for one, will not write the President a blank check for $18.6 billion in reconstruction funds of American taxpayers' money based on a reconstruction plan just sent to Congress, which rebuilds Iraq's electricity infrastructure, among other things, when ours is not functioning here at home; which modernizes Iraq's medical facilities and medical equipment, when millions of Americans here at home are living without health care; which pays for that which we did not damage and did not previously exist in Iraq; and which sends $18.6 billion in grants to a country that has the second largest oil reserve in the world valued at over $7 trillion. I do not intend to add another $18.6 billion to this year's deficit, estimated at over $480 billion, and that is why we demand an Iraq package that will not bankrupt future generations, that is paid for. This administration failed to present a financially responsible plan for reconstruction in Iraq. It failed in its responsibilities to our troops in Iraq. Was it responsible to send American troops into Iraq without adequate planning, with tens of thousands of our troops without border armor, without an exit strategy, without a realistic troop deployment and rotation schedule, without a plan to get them eventually back home? No, and that is why we support our troops and the Democratic proposal to improve the funds in this bill that go to protect them. Our troops and the American people have paid the brunt of the cost in lives lost and resources spent. In our war on terror and our war in Iraq, they are looking for honest leadership and demand a realistic plan from this President. So we must give our men and women in uniform the resources they need to do the job they have been given, and we must do all we can to return them to their families quickly and safely. It does not mean cutting and running, but it does mean protecting them while they are there and finding a plan to have them ultimately exit and to bring more people from the international community to bear in Iraq. However, our troops should not be held hostage to an outright grant for Iraq's reconstruction, and I bristle when I hear already the beginnings of suggestions that question those who have a different view. We demand an opportunity to vote for the money for our troops and at the same time to limit the unbridled grant money to fund reconstruction in Iraq.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Dawood Farahi on his inauguration as the seventeenth president of Kean University. Dr. Farahi was inaugurated on Tuesday, September 30, 2003, at the Wilkins Theatre on the campus of Kean University. On February 24, 2003, the Kean University Board of Trustees unanimously elected Dr. Dawood Farahi to be the seventeenth president of Kean University. Dr. Farahi has been described as the embodiment of Kean University for his commitment to educational quality and affordability for its students. His leadership will undoubtedly bring Kean University to an even higher level of academic excellence. Dr. Farahi was recently special assistant to the president of Kean University for both operations and technology. During this time, Dr. Farahi was responsible for the supervision of budget management, position control, enrollment services, and the office of computers and information systems. He created and implemented the Technology Institute, which provides training for faculty and staff in order to integrate computers into the curriculum and begin developing distance- learning courses. Dr. Dawood Farahi has worked closely with state, county, and municipal officials in problem solving and technical capacities. Dr. Farahi developed and implemented a strategic information plan for the City of Elizabeth, New Jersey. As a result, the Elizabeth Police Department has been lauded as one of the 10 best in the nation. Working with the Elizabeth public school system, Dr. Farahi created the Vision 2000 Strategic Plan, which is now used as a model for many urban schools in New Jersey and throughout the nation. Dr. Farahi was a Fulbright Scholar, and received a Ph.D with honors from the University of Kansas. He has been a full-time professor at Kean University since 1989, teaching Quantative Methods, Management Information Systems, and Strategic Management, and was honored in 1993 as the Graduate Teacher of the Year, and was named Teacher of the Year in 1996. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Dawood Farahi on his appointment as the seventeenth president of Kean University.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Neil DeSena for his years of dedicated leadership throughout the community of Bayonne, New Jersey. Mr. DeSena was unanimously selected as the Grand Marshall for this year's Bayonne Columbus Committee parade to be held on Sunday, October 12, 2003. Mr. DeSena has been a devoted member of the Bayonne community for over thirty years. His exemplary work in local organizations and his understanding of the needs of Bayonne residents have provided a great service to the entire community. First elected as the Third Ward Councilman in 1970, Mr. DeSena served four consecutive four year terms. In 1986, Mr. DeSena was re-elected to the City Council as a Councilman- at-Large. He currently serves as a personal aide to Mayor Joseph V. Doria, Jr. A veteran of World War II and the Korean War, Mr. DeSena fought on behalf of his country with great honor and valor, receiving an honorable discharge with the rank of Staff Sergeant. A licensed broker, Mr. DeSena opened his own insurance company in 1982. His natural leadership qualities led him to serve as the president of the Local 164 Insurance Workers International Union, and as a member of the Union's General Executive Board. Mr. DeSena has received several awards from various community and business organizations, including the Patriots Award for God, Country, and Home from the Catholic War Veterans Post 1612 and the Ladies Auxiliary. He recently received the 2003 Honor Citizen Award from the New Jersey Honor Legion Police, and is a recipient of the Rudy DeAngelo Foundation Award and the Boy Scout Distinguished Award. Mr. DeSena pursued professional studies at the Professional School of Business, St. Peter's College, Seton Hall University and Fairleigh Dickenson University. He and his wife Marie are the proud parents of Robert, Julianne, and Neil, and the grandparents of Jessica and Robert Thomas. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Neil DeSena for his years of service and dedication to the citizens of Bayonne.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the city of Elizabeth's Estuary Day 2003. Estuary Day was held on Saturday, September 20, 2003, at the Marina in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Estuary Day 2003 provides families from the city of Elizabeth and surrounding areas the opportunity to learn about and celebrate the importance of the Elizabeth River and the Arthur Kill. In addition to providing recreational uses for residents, these two estuaries have a unique historical significance to the city of Elizabeth. Elizabeth's Estuary Day is part of National Estuaries Day, which seeks to promote awareness about the importance of estuaries. The National Estuary Program has been critical to administrating the goals of the Clean Water Act, and to improve the quality of estuaries nationwide. This program mandates the protection of public water supplies and the protection and propagation of indigenous population of shellfish, fish, and wildlife. Estuary Day provides an opportunity for many residents to become aware of the natural wonders present in their backyard. As estuaries are some of the most important ecosystems on the planet, it is important for residents to view our waterways as part of the community, and to maximize their recreational and environmental uses. Estuary Day presents the importance of protecting and appreciating our natural resources to the people of Elizabeth, by providing fun and educational activities. Such interactive environmental educational opportunities, presentations and environmental boat rides, allow for an in-depth and hands-on approach to learning about life within and around estuaries. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Future City Inc., in conjunction with the city of Elizabeth's staff and Mayor J. Christian Bollwage, a committed member of the New York/New Jersey Harbor Estuary Management Committee, for planning Estuary Day 2003 in Elizabeth.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Maureen Walliser for her tireless commitment to community service. She was presented the Memorial Mary T. Norton Award by the United Way of Hudson County on September 16, 2003, at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Secaucus, New Jersey. For over 30 years, Ms. Walliser has been working to improve the lives of individuals living with disabilities. She has been a leader in her field, and continues to promote employment for individuals with disabilities. Currently, Ms. Walliser serves as the governmental affairs chairperson of Access New Jersey, a statewide community-based employment service organization that serves individuals with severe disabilities. Previously, Ms. Walliser served as vice president and two terms as president of Access New Jersey. Ms. Walliser was also a co- founder of one of the first thirteen charter schools in New Jersey. Ms. Walliser began her career as a rehabilitation counselor for the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. She then began working at the Occupational Center of Hudson County, where she has served as president for the last 15 years. Under her direction, the Center has flourished into an organization that provides a wealth of services beyond rehabilitation. Now known as Hudson Community Enterprises, the organization provides school-to-work programs, job training and placement, and is creating social enterprises that will open up further opportunities for individuals with disabilities seeking to gain employment. Committed to expanding the field of vocational rehabilitation, Ms. Walliser has been an adjunct professor at Saint Peter's College and New Jersey City University, and was a vocational expert for 5 years at the Social Security Administration. She continues to be an active member in her church in Woodbridge, where she provides support and services for individuals with disabilities. She also works with many professional groups in Hudson County, including the Private Industry Council and the Hudson County Human Services Advisory Council. A native of Jersey City, Ms. Walliser received her bachelor's degree from the College of Saint Elizabeth, and her master's degree in Special Education from New Jersey City University. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Maureen Walliser for her commitment to community service and for her advocacy and support of people with disabilities.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Carmel Galasso for her outstanding commitment to serving her community. She was presented the Mary T. Norton Memorial Award by the United Way of Hudson County on September 16, 2003, at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Secaucus, New Jersey. Ms. Galasso has demonstrated a remarkable passion for helping those in need and has provided, and continues to provide, valuable services that have touched many lives throughout Hudson County. As a member of the Saint Peter's College Alumni Board, she currently works on special projects for the college, as well as the community as a whole. Since 1996, she has served as the program coordinator of Catholic Community Services for the Hudson County Parish Access Center in Jersey City. Over the years, Ms. Galasso has worked tirelessly to improve her community. She began as a grammar school teacher and guidance counselor at Saint Aedan's School in Jersey City, where she taught for 8 years. She then became assistant director of Campus Ministry at Saint Peter's College for 10 years, where she spearheaded food and toy drives and walks against hunger. As program coordinator for the Parish Access Center, Ms. Galasso was instrumental in establishing a registration site for families to apply for New Jersey Kid Care and creating satellite offices that provide critical services for families in need. These offices have provided countless family baskets, Christmas gifts, toiletry items, and food gift certificates. Ms. Galasso's dedication is also evident in her immediate response to the tragedy of September 11. In the days following the tragedy, Ms. Galasso led efforts to provide sandwiches, water, and other supplies needed to help support those impacted by the World Trade Center disaster. With the help of the United Way of Hudson County, Ms. Galasso was able to process 186 cases for families who were impacted by the attack. Ms. Galasso continues to be involved with the Resurrection Parish and the Bon Secours Health System. She helps coordinate the Parish Nurse Program, which offers medical care to parishioners at local churches through a holistic approach to physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Ms. Galasso was born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. She received her bachelor's degree in Education from Saint Peter's College and her master's degree in Adult Christian Community Development from Regis University in Colorado. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Carmel Galasso for her outstanding contributions to the success of community programs that have served countless individuals throughout New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of the victims of the Katyn Forest Massacre of 1940. A Memorial Service sponsored by the Katyn Forest Massacre Memorial Committee of the New Jersey Division of the Polish American Congress was held on Sunday, September 21, 2003, at the Katyn Monument in Jersey City, New Jersey. The Katyn Forest Massacre Memorial Service is a tribute to the bravery of the Polish people who fought valiantly during World War II. Over sixty-three years ago, during the Soviet invasion of Poland, over 15,000 Polish military officers, intelligentsia, prisoners of war, clergy, and Polish civilians were attacked and killed by Soviet military and secret police. Over 4,500 bodies were discovered in the Katyn Forest in a single mass grave. This year, the Katyn Massacre Memorial Service will also pay special tribute to the brave men and women who perished in the horrific terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Flight 93 in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, on September 11, 2001. Although more than 60 years apart, the loss of innocent lives in both tragic events have had a profound effect on our society. To lay wreaths and flowers in memory of all of the victims is a fitting tribute, as the site of the Katyn Monument in Exchange Place in Jersey City once looked upon the towers of the World Trade Center just across the Hudson River. Today, I ask that my colleagues join me in remembering the victims of the Katyn Massacre and the September 11th attacks, and honor their sacrifice and courage. May we continue to honor the memories of those who were lost, so we will not be destined to repeat the horrors of the injustices suffered by these innocent victims.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael Leggiero for his leadership and dedication to the North Hudson Community Action Corporation. Mr. Leggiero was honored with the Louis T. Scialli Memorial Award by the United Way of Hudson County on September 16, 2003, at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Secaucus, New Jersey. As President and CEO of the North Hudson Community Action Corporation, Mr. Leggiero's vision and leadership has helped make the organization the largest and one of the most highly regarded community organizations in Hudson County. The North Hudson Community Action Corporation is currently the largest provider of health and social services in the county and serves as a model for the quality of services it provides the community. Mr. Leggiero first came to the North Hudson Community Action Corporation in 1971. Through his hard work and communal spirit, Mr. Leggiero assumed directorship in 1978. At that time, the North Hudson Community Action Corporation administered seven programs, which served 5,000 residents per year. After 25 years under Mr. Leggiero's leadership, the North Hudson Community Action Corporation now runs 20 programs that serve over 55,000 Hudson County residents each year. Mr. Leggiero's foresight and understanding of community issues has been a great asset to the North Hudson Community Action Corporation. Mr. Leggiero helped create a state-of-the-art community health center, which now provides care and assistance to over 2,000 patients each week. In 1996, Mr. Leggiero spearheaded the production of 49 new affordable housing units and just recently completed a similar venture, which provided the North Hudson community with 37 new housing units. Michael Leggiero is a lifetime resident of Union City, where he lives with his wife Lois. An active member of his church, Mr. Leggiero is known for his love and dedication to his congregation, with whom he shares a commitment to giving back to the community. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Michael Leggiero for his outstanding leadership and service to the people of Hudson County.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Hispanic- American Chamber of Commerce of Essex County for its efforts in developing and advancing the role of Hispanics in small businesses, and in enhancing the interests of Hispanics throughout Essex County and New Jersey. On September 25, 2003, the Hispanic-American Chamber of Commerce of Essex County will hold its 15th Annual Corporate Lunch and Scholarship Awards Presentation at the Newark Club in Newark, New Jersey. The Hispanic-American Chamber of Commerce of Essex County (HACCEC) has contributed to the increased prosperity and achievement of Hispanics throughout the State by forming new partnerships with Latin America, bringing products and jobs back to New Jersey, and creating further economic development and business opportunities throughout our region. As a member of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the HACCEC has successfully brought the issues and concerns of Hispanic-owned businesses to the forefront of the national economic agenda. The Chamber is currently advancing its mission by building the first Hispanic Business Center in Essex County. This will provide the HACCEC with the resources to develop and support economic opportunities for the Hispanic community of Essex County and throughout New Jersey. I would like to extend my gratitude and congratulations to this year's honorees: Miguel E. Rodriguez; Mario E. Moyano; Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.; Hector M. Corchado; and Anthony F. Ambrose. Currently president of the HACCEC and former Deputy Mayor of Newark, Miguel E. Rodriguez has led a career proven in leadership and commitment to the Hispanic community. His vast community resources, marketing and management experience, and commitment to diversity have helped make the HACCEC a great resource for small businesses. The president of American Latin Travel Agents in America, Mario E. Moyano, has been a leader in Newark for over 20 years. Born in Ecuador, he came to the United States in 1969, and by 1975, had established his own business, the Moyano Agency. He is currently the voice of over 160 travel agencies throughout the Newark area. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., has brought quick and impressive change to Essex County. One of his first actions as county executive was establishing the Office of Cultural Diversity and Affirmative Action to ensure adequate minority participation in county affairs. Heavily involved with the Essex County Parks system, Mr. DiVincenzo is the founder of the Newark ``Small Fry'' basketball program, the Rick Cerone Little League, and other recreational programs. Newark City Councilman Hector M. Corchado has been an effective and dedicated member of his community. A longtime resident of Newark, Councilman Corchado was elected to the City Council in 2002. Mr. Corchado began his career in the Newark Police Department over 14 years ago, where he served as a detective and sergeant in the Community Affairs Division. A natural leader in the police department, he went on to become deputy mayor of Newark before serving on the City Council. As the chief of police for Newark, Anthony F. Ambrose, III, has served with the Newark Police Department for 17 years. Chief Ambrose rose quickly through the ranks of the Department, and has been a dedicated officer and a true public servant, always keeping the interests of the community at the forefront. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Hispanic- American Chamber of Commerce of Essex County and its honorees for playing a critical role in the success of Hispanic businesses throughout Essex County and New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Christian Children's Parade and Multicultural Festival, which celebrated its 25th annual parade on Saturday, September 13, 2003, in Jersey City, New Jersey. For 25 years, the Christian Children's Parade and Multicultural Festival has been providing a wonderful celebration for children and parents, and has enriched the spiritual development of young people throughout Jersey City. By dedicating the Christian Children's Parade and Multicultural Festival's annual parade to the second anniversary of the September 11th attacks, this event will provide an opportunity for us to remember those who were lost, and to recognize the strength and unity of families and friends who lost loved ones on that horrible day. Led by the Reverend Jose C. Lopez, president of the Christian Children's Parade and Multicultural Festival, the parade will end with a ceremony in Hamilton Park. I extend my gratitude to Reverend Lopez and his staff for making this important event possible for the children and residents of Jersey City. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Christian Children's Parade and Multicultural Festival for its years of dedicated service to the children of Jersey City, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor La Casa de Don Pedro for providing invaluable community programs and services for residents of New Jersey. La Casa celebrated its 30th anniversary on Friday, September 12, 2003. Since 1973, La Casa de Don Pedro has been providing a wealth of services to the residents of Newark, New Jersey and surrounding communities. La Casa currently provides over 20 programs and services that have made a profound difference in many lives. A true community- based organization, La Casa was founded and continues to be driven by members committed to changing and improving their community. La Casa de Don Pedro has been tremendously successful in providing critical services for children, young people, adults, and families ranging from education and job training to emergency assistance. In 2002, La Casa provided after-school programs to more than 300 children, ages 6 to 18, and Early Childhood Education programs for parents of 130 families, 80 percent of whom maintained employment or remained with the program. La Casa's Weatherization Assistance Program helped 294 homes become more energy efficient, which will help families save thousands of dollars in energy costs. More than 410 adults received English language education or citizenship assistance from La Casa, and over 130 adults received immigration assistance. La Casa's Welfare to Work initiative had one of the highest job placement rates in Essex County in 2002, and its Telecommunications Learning Center served as a model for New Jersey's new Workplace Literacy Program. From its inception, La Casa has been a leader for the quality and wealth of services that it provides to members of the community, and its success proves that it will continue to be a model for similar organizations. La Casa de Don Pedro received the 2002 Excellence in Hispanic Leadership Award from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs' Center for Hispanic Policy Research and Development and was listed as one of the top 25 Hispanic Nonprofit Organizations of 2002 by Hispanic Business Magazine. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring La Casa de Don Pedro for thirty years of outstanding and dedicated work, and for making critical differences in the lives of many New Jersey residents.