Bob Menendez

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. (Mr. MENENDEZ asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Bayonne branch of the NAACP on its 75th Anniversary. The ``Freedom Fund Dinner `` took place on Saturday, May 17, 2002, at the Hi-Hat Caterers. In addition to celebrating this momentous anniversary, the Bayonne NAACP honored eight exemplary citizens, including: Mario Joseph Depeine, Howard Fitch, Jane R. Roberts, Nancy Barnes, Willie J. Graham, Kathleen R. McQuilla, Richard Burroughs, and John R. McGee. Nationally renowned Emmy Award- winner Gil Noble was the featured speaker. Founded in 1927 by Mr. Ferdinand Smith, the NAACP Bayonne branch has helped gain political, educational, and economic status for minority groups, and continues to actively promote social justice and a better life for all Americans. Over the past 75 years, the Bayonne branch has proved to be an integral part of the Civil Rights Movement by successfully facilitating tile integration of several institutions and organizations throughout New Jersey. This dynamic Association participated in the March on Washington in 1963, organized numerous desegregation demonstrations, and helped introduce multi-ethnic textbooks in schools. It continues to serve as a resource that preserves the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and educates younger generations on the profound influences of this time in history. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the NAACP for 75 years of making real differences in the lives of our people. I wish them well in the future as we continue to make Bayonne a community that fosters social justice and equality for all.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 25th annual Jose Marti Student Aid Fund Award Dinner, which was held on May 18, 2002, at the Radisson Hotel in Secaucus, NJ. Two important individuals were honored at this event, Carmen Pardo and Clara Garcia, for their many years of dedicated service to the Jose Marti Student Aid Fund. In 1975, Mrs. Carmen Pardo and Mrs. Clara Garcia began recognizing students who excelled in the study of the Spanish language. In 1978, the resulting scholarship fund was legally registered as a nonprofit organization. Today, it is a scholarship for high school students graduating from Union Hill, Emerson, and Memorial High Schools, which promotes the understanding and appreciation of the Spanish language, heritage, and culture. Thanks to charitable contributions, and various civic and social activities organized by the institution, the Jose Marti Scholarship Fund has awarded over $120,000 in scholarships. Over two hundred outstanding students have been honored. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Jose Marti Student Aid Fund Award for its positive influence and the important role it plays in celebrating our Nation's Hispanic heritage.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today the Republican leadership, the party that wants to be known as the education party and that has gone to great lengths to win Hispanic votes, has proposed a welfare reform bill that proves their rhetoric does not match their reality. Instead of providing and expanding educational opportunities for all, the Republicans deny poor people the opportunity to get an education, to get a better job, and to get their family out of poverty permanently. Instead of providing an equal opportunity for permanent residents who are here legally and who have worked hard, paid taxes, served in the Armed Forces of the United States in many cases, are veterans of our country, and who have fueled the economic boom of the last decade, Republicans refuse to give them the helping hand they need to get back on their feet. The current recession has not bypassed Hispanics, but the Republican welfare plan does. It is ironic to me that less than a week before Republicans planned to pour millions of dollars into new Spanish-language infomercials to woo Hispanic voters, they refused to invest any money in helping poor Hispanic families get the education and training they need to lift themselves out of poverty. What family value refuses to invest the money needed to provide child care to those families who are making every effort to work, but still cannot afford the cost of child care? Today we see the true meaning of ``compassionate conservatism,'' and there is nothing really compassionate about it. The Republicans' new marketing strategy should really be called ``la mentira grande'' or ``the big lie'' instead of forging new paths, because today's bill shows that Republicans really have no intention of helping people forge new paths. Their rhetoric simply throws up roadblocks on the highway of opportunity. I will tell the gentleman before he gets up that Republicans have already left New Jersey with a $6 billion deficit.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Max Rodriguez, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) ``2002 Community Service Awardee of the Year''. He was honored by the NAACP, Hempstead Branch & Youth Council at their 22nd Annual Freedom Fund Luncheon on May 4, 2002, at the Nassau County Bar Association. Mr. Rodriguez was appointed to the Board of Trustees of Hempstead Village in 1994, and elected to the Board in 1995, making history as the first Hispanic Trustee to serve, not only in Hempstead Village, but also in Nassau County. In 1997, he was appointed Assistant Director for the Office of Minority Affairs. Currently, Mr. Rodriguez is a Project Manager for One Source, and a Representative for Best Business Corp. Realty. A leader in the Hispanic Community, Mr. Rodriguez contributes to many organizations, including: the NAACP; Silver Life; the Cuban American National Foundation; the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; La Hermandad del Senor de los Milagros; Hempstead for Hofstra Scholarship Board; the Interfaith Nutrition Network; and the East Meadow Kewanis Club. He is the Northeast Regional Representative of the Republican National Hispanic Assembly; serves on the President's Advisory Board on Multicultural Concerns at Molloy College; and is Commissioner of Recreation and Parks in Hempstead Village. For his initiative and outstanding service, he has received numerous awards, including: the American Red Cross Peter Bon Berg Humanitarian of the Year Award; Hofstra for Hempstead Unispan Award; United States Postal Service Award; Hempstead Chamber of Commerce Public Servant of the Year; West Indian-American Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award of the Year; and countless others. Mr. Rodriguez holds a Bachelor's Degree from Adelphi University, and a B.A. in Business Management/Communication. Mr. Rodriguez is married to Gladys, father of three daughters, Vicky, Jennifer, and Monica, and proud grandfather of Nicholas. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Max Rodriguez for his selfess dedication and positive contributions to our community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Urban League of Hudson County in celebration of its 24th Annual Equal Opportunity Day Awards Dinner Dance on May 3, 2002, at Casino-in-the Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. Founded in 1971, the Urban League of Hudson County, which is associated with the National Urban League, is a nonprofit community- based organization dedicated to advocating initiatives that allow local residents to participate in the development of their neighborhoods, as well as achieve economic self-reliance. The Urban League of Hudson County works in association with community groups, as well as government and corporate sponsors. It provides services in the areas of education, mentorship, economic development, job placement, childcare, family counseling, and programs for senior citizens through the help of its dedicated staff. Programs sponsored by the Urban League include Children's Services, Health and Human Services, Employment and Training, Affordable Housing and Community Development, and Communications and Fund Development. I strongly believe in the mission of the Urban League, and have successfully obtained grants for the construction of its Workforce Development Center, as well as critical funding for the Affordable Housing and Community Development Corporation, and AmeriCorps. I look forward to continuing my work with the Urban League to fulfill the economic dreams of all our citizens in the 13th, District and across the country. The Urban League continues its work to improve the lives of those less fortunate in our community, and I am proud of their positive impact and dedication. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Urban League of Hudson County for its service to the people of Hudson County. The Urban League's generous and selfless work never goes unnoticed, and I am grateful for all it does.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during National Prom and Graduation Safety Month to recognize the Century Council and the distilled spirits industry for their continuing efforts to fight drunk driving and underage drinking. During the months of May and June of 2002, the Century Council is implementing a multifaceted campaign to educate parents, teachers, local, state, and federal elected officials, and the community as a whole about the importance of talking to their kids about making responsible decisions when it comes to beverage alcohol. And, reminding them that if they Ire under the age of 21, the only responsible decision to make is not to drink. Launched in May of 1991, the Century Council is funded by America's leading distillers to promote responsible decisionmaking regarding alcohol consumption and to fight alcohol abuse, focusing on drunk driving and underage drinking problems. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Century Council and the distilled spirits industry for their efforts to fight drunk driving and underage drinking.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Francis X Lamparello, Bayonne's ``2002 Unico Man of The Year''. Mr. Lamparello will be honored Saturday, April 27, 2002, at a Black Tie Dinner Dance at the Colonia Country Club in Colonia, New Jersey. Francis Lamparello started his career with MCC Powers, later joined Monsen Engineering, and now serves as President and owner of Beacon Oil. From 1993 to 1995, Mr. Lamparello served as President of the Hudson County Fuel Dealers Organization, and was recognized as its Gold Seal Man of The Year in 1996. He also served as Fuel Merchants Association Convention Chairman in 1993, and member of the Finance Committee from 1995 to the present. Attentive to the community's needs, Mr. Lamparello served the community as Treasurer and Building Chairman of Bayonne Family YMCA from 1994 to 1997, and then as President from 1997 to the present. As a member of the Board of Trustees for Marist High School, he served as Chairman of the Development and Advancement Committee, and the Building and Grounds Committee. He was chosen as a Trustee of the Bayonne Care at Home Board and as the Committee Chairman for NCCJ Brotherhood Week in 1999. A devoted member of the Bayonne Chapter of Unico National since 1991, he served the organization in all officer positions, including as President in 1998-1999. Mr. Lamparello holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Rutgers University College of Engineering, a Master Plumber's license, and is licensed as a Professional Engineer in New Jersey. Mr. Lamparello is happily married to Doreen and the proud father of daughter, Andrea Danielle, and son, Connor Xavier. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring New Jersey's own Francis X. Lamparello. Along with the Bayonne Chapter of Unico, I would like to commend him for his outstanding contributions to our community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 30th anniversary of the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). The celebration will take place on Friday, April 26, 2002, at NJIT's Van Houten Theater, and is followed by a gala in the Hazell Center Ballroom and Gallery. For three decades, the Educational Opportunity Program has served New Jersey's underrepresented student population majoring in engineering, science, and technology. Each year, the EOP program provides educational support services including: tutorial and financial assistance; informational seminars to help freshmen learn about potential career opportunities; and required community service projects in Newark, providing sophomores with hands on experience in their field of study. Having assisted over 3,150 full-time freshmen at NJIT, many of these students have won honors and awards for their academic and community work. The graduates of the Educational Opportunity Program have entered the workforce well equipped and prepared to make positive contributions to our community. These young people have turned into the professional adults of today, working for our country's major corporations and technological entities such as NASA, AT&T, Johnson & Johnson, Lucent Technologies, IBM, PSE&G, and many more. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Educational Opportunity Program, which has recognized the importance of our youth by helping them succeed in their future endeavors.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Week of the Young Child, and commemorate the 37th Anniversary of Project Head Start. A luncheon to honor Jersey City's community leaders was held by the Jersey City Child Development Centers, Inc., Wednesday, April 17, 2002, in Jersey City, New Jersey. Week of the Young Child, April 7-13, 2002, provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the importance of providing our children with strong foundations; a successful start leads to a successful future. And with the help of parental involvement and the guidance from child care professionals, our youngest citizens can look forward to a future full of opportunity. A national early childhood development program, Project Head Start, focuses on parental involvement and provides education, health, nutrition, and psychological, and social development services. Eight million children and their families across the United States enjoy a brighter future thanks to Project Head Start. Under the direction of Esther G. Lee, Jersey City Head Start serves 875 children and their families in fifteen centers. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Week of the Young Child and Project Head Start; the well being of our nation depends on the livelihood of our children. Thank you to the community leaders that dedicate themselves to these outstanding programs.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Puerto Rican Action Board on its 30th Anniversary, which was celebrated on Saturday, April 20, 2002, at Pines Manor in New Jersey. For three decades, the Puerto Rican Action Board (PRAB) has been developing proactive programs to address the needs of the community and improve the quality of life of our families. A private, nonprofit corporation, they have improved local neighborhoods by caring for our children, educating our youth, maintaining and improving our homes, ensuring job placement opportunities, and fighting for justice in our communities. Serving all people regardless of age, race, creed, color, or national origin, the PRAB is the only social services agency in central New Jersey that offers comprehensive home improvement, preschool, and social services through a bilingual/culturally sensitive approach. The present programs and services of PRAB include: Greater New Brunswick and Ocean County Multi-Service Program; Pilot Project for Better Housing; ``Our Children'' Project; Youth Development Program; Latino Scholars Program; Student Re-Engagement Program; Healing Through the Arts: Artists Mentoring Against Racism Summer Program; Bilingual/ Multi-cultural Daycare and Preschool Program; Middlesex County Weatherization Assistance Program; Home Energy Assistance Program; New Jersey Statewide Heating Assistance and Referral for Energy Services; English Classes; and numerous other community-oriented programs. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Puerto Rican Action Board for its efforts to improve the quality of community life for all people. Their presence in our community does not go unnoticed and we give our heartfelt thanks for all that they do.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time. The Bush tax cut is really a tax increase on seniors and on lower- and middle-income Americans because, for the wealthiest 1 percent to get a huge tax cut today, working Americans and retirees are going to end up paying back the debt tomorrow. It is like the Republicans giving a huge credit line increase to the wealthiest 1 percent who then rack up astronomical credit card bills, with working families and cash- strapped retirees being stuck paying the tab at a later date. That is not smart. That is not fair. That is not fiscally responsible. We Democrats want a tax cut, but we want a tax cut that benefits working families and that does not bust the budget or raid Social Security to pay for it. The fact is after 8 years of fiscal responsibility and economic growth under a Democratic administration, it took Republicans less than 1 year to bring us back into long-term deficit spending. Making that reality permanent is not a good idea. Let us defeat this tax on retirees and working families and defeat this unwise raid of Social Security.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, let me say at the start that I admire my friend from California with whom I have worked so closely on so many issues. This is one issue where we disagree, and disagree strongly. While I would like nothing more than to see democracy and free market trade with Cuba, and while my family in Cuba would like nothing more than to see democracy and free markets and greater access to food, subsidizing trade with a regime on the U.S. terrorist list that has threatened us in the past, that is one of the world's worst human rights abusers, that gives its citizens none of the religious or political freedoms we Americans hold here dear, is not helping the Cuban people, it is only helping the dictatorship. I have taken that constant position, whether it be in China or any other totalitarian place in the world. I wish so many of my colleagues who take that position in those countries would take that position here. Cuba can get food from almost anywhere else in the world. But the fact is the Cuban regime and its failed economic models rations the food that eventually gets to the ordinary people; and rationing food is a control mechanism over the populous. My family in Cuba gets a ration card, and no matter how much food comes into Cuba, they ultimately can only purchase that amount that they are controlled by the government to have access to. When a government rations food, they obviously control the people because they are waiting in long lines, not thinking about a democracy or overturning a dictatorship, but waiting in long lines to get a mere subsistence. This is a regime that goes so far as to prohibit their own citizens from privately producing its own agricultural food. It is failed economics that does not give them the hard currency to purchase food. Financing Castro, whether it is food sales or any other kinds of sales, supports the very system that actually prevents the Cuban people from getting freedoms, rights, and, yes, even food without government control. Some of us look at the motion which I understand my colleague is doing to help farmers in his district and throughout the country, but we look at it and say ultimately it finances oppression, totalitarianism, and I do not think that we can count on the regime to honor its debt. This is not about the private sector simply taking risks on their own because maybe we can make an argument for that, that if the private sector wants to take the risk, they should have the opportunity. If they lose, they lose. But under this instruction and the Senate's provisions, in fact, the Federal Government's different programs of financing can finance the food sales. Therefore, it is not the private sector making their market decision, it is the taxpayers of this country ultimately who will lose when Castro, who has a long history of not paying debt, ultimately does not pay. That is, I think, a poor statement for American taxpayers to be subsidizing a regime, a dictatorial regime, that ultimately controls its people by rationing its food. Mr. Speaker, I think what we need to do is deal with the Freedom to Farm Act which was a catastrophe for the farmers. Let us not foot the bill for oppression and dictatorship, and let us not allow the Cuban people to be controlled by food rationing. Let us stand with them against dictatorship and against the motion.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Annual Bayonne Holocaust Remembrance Day Observance. Co-sponsored by the Inter-Faith Clergy and the Bayonne Jewish Community Council, the event will take place on April 10, 2002, at the City Hall Council Chambers. On Tuesday, April 09, 2002, Jews around the world commemorated Holocaust Memorial Day, or Yom Hashoah. The colossal crimes against humanity and the unimaginable horrors that cost the lives of 6 million Jews and so many others, perpetrated by the world's most evil forces, shall never be forgotten, as we commit ourselves to fight bigotry, condemn hatred, and foster understanding among people. Bayonne's annual observance will feature speaker Jay Sommer, 1981 National Teacher of the Year, and a Holocaust survivor. Jay Sommer, who managed to escape from a Nazi labor camp in occupied Czechoslovakia, and arrived in the United States after more than two years in a displaced persons camp in Italy, has successfully established himself as a successful and well-respected educator in our nation. In 1981, he was appointed to the National Commission on Excellence in Education established by President Reagan, and traveled throughout the United States with the Commission, serving as an official spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Education. He is a specialist in foreign language instruction, and has taught Spanish, Russian, Hebrew, and French for over twenty years at New Rochelle High School. Mr. Sommer graduated from Brooklyn College, and, in 1982, received a Distinguished Alumnus Award in recognition of his leadership in the field of education. He earned a Masters in Spanish language and literature from Hunter College in 1960, a second Masters in Russian language and literature from Fordham University in 1965, and completed his course work for a Ph.D. in comparative literature at New York University. Chairing this event for the fourth time is Alan J. Apfelbaum, who has been an active and dedicated member of the Holocaust Remembrance Day Committee since its inception. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Annual Bayonne Holocaust Remembrance Day Observance, and honor those that lost their lives, especially during these most difficult times for the State of Israel and Jews across Europe subjected to a new wave of Anti-Semitic violence.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Alex Saavedra for over 25 years of dedicated service to the public. He retired from the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office on March 1, 2001, and was recognized for his many contributions to New Jersey on April 3, 2002, at The Empire Club in Little Ferry, New Jersey. Starting out as a patrolman for the Union City Police Department in 1974, Mr. Saavedra quickly climbed through the ranks; in 1977, he served as President of the Policeman's Benevolent Association (PBA) Local 67. In 1983, he worked as an investigator in the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office in the Grand Jury Section; in 1984, he was transferred to the Sex Crime/Child Abuse Section; in 1988, he became Senior Investigator; and in 1989, he was transferred to the Criminal Investigations Section. From 1990 through 1992, Mr. Saavedra served as Vice President of the PBA Local 221, and, in 1991, returned to the Grand Jury Squad; in 1997, he was appointed Sergeant, and, in 1998, was transferred to the Narcotics Task Force. In 2000, he began his last assignment in the Fugitive Squad of the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office. Over the course of his law enforcement career, Alex Saavedra received the following notable distinctions: Silver Life Member Award, Exceptional Duty Medal, Certificate of Commendation, and Certificates of Appreciation from the Kiwanis Club International, The Lions Club International, The Bergen County Police Academy, and The Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Alexander Saavedra for a career devoted to the safety and well being of the citizens of New Jersey. His selfless service will never be forgotten.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Terri Graham for her outstanding contributions as a Visual Arts Teacher at Bayonne High School. She was honored at the ``Lifetime Presents Disney's American Teacher Awards'', on November 10, 2001, at CBS Television City in Los Angeles. The entire Bayonne Public School community is proud of Terri's talent, commitment, and creativity that have had a profound and lasting impact on the students and community of Bayonne. Terri has provided a comfortable and safe learning environment in which her students thrive. Her students have achieved statewide recognition in the past with the 2000 State of New Jersey Arts and Humanities Award (AH-HA), and the 2001 New Jersey State Department of Education Best Practice Award, ``An Interdisciplinary Puppet Show''. By collaborating with the school's German teacher, Mrs. Varda Wendroff, and her German students, Terri and her ceramics students created puppet performances of German folk tales. Each year, her students are selected to participate in the Morris Museum ``Fresh Perspectives'' show for outstanding high school students in the state. Terri and her students have participated in a variety of community projects, such as the New Jersey Transit Hudson Bergen Light Rail Tile Mural, and they worked with the Bayonne Historical Society, ``History of Bayonne Architecture'', duplicating Bayonne's historic buildings in clay. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Terri Graham's selfless work in educating our nation's youth. She has provided and continues to provide an invaluable learning experience to the students of Bayonne.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Deborah Mandell, the National Police Defense Foundation's ``Woman of the Year,'' and Mr. Bernard Kerik, the National Police Defense Foundation's ``Man of the Year.'' Dr. Mandell and Mr. Kerik were honored on Thursday, April 4, 2002, at Russo's on the Bay in Queens, New York. Dr. Deborah Mandell is the Director of National Police Defense Foundation Psychological Services. Following the tragic events of September 11, Dr. Mandell headed the National Police Defense Foundation's emergency response team. This team provided grief counseling and support to many survivors, family members of victims, and rescue workers. In addition to her tireless work with the National Police Defense Foundation, Dr. Mandell is also a psychologist in New Jersey and volunteers her time to United Way. This year's ``Man of the Year'' is former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik. A New Jersey native, Mr. Kerik has dedicated his life to public service. His leadership and dedication proved invaluable following the World Trade Center disaster. As New York City Police Commissioner, Mr. Kerik coordinated the rescue efforts and ensured the City's safety. Prior to becoming the City's 40th Police Commissioner, Mr. Kerik served as a New York City police officer, an undercover detective, and a commissioner of corrections. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Deborah Mandell and Mr. Bernard Kerik for their dedicated service on behalf of our nation and the citizens of New York and New Jersey throughout these challenging times.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the First Latin Health Ministries Development Project Health Fair, a great opportunity to promote and provide health care information to the Latino community. The event took place on April 6, 2002, at New Horizons International Church. Latino churches have united to sponsor health care initiatives in communities throughout New Jersey, where health care disparities exist in minority populations. The health fair will help communities work towards a more effective and just health care situation for all citizens. Access to quality health care is a right, not a privilege, and I'm proud to support the project's efforts. Under the leadership of the Community Development Center for the Planning and Actualization of Sustainable Programs and Projects, Inc.'s (PASP, Inc.) President, Reverend Jose C. Lopez, the First Annual Health Fair will become a reality, demonstrating a commitment to public health. This event was made possible through the sponsorship of the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services, Office of Minority and Multicultural Health, and the Community Development Center--PASP, Inc. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the First Latin Health Ministries Development Project Health Fair, working towards effective and quality health care for all.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Chairman, Republicans who control the House denied the most responsible fiscally conservative Members of the Democratic Party the right to their alternatives on this floor. You act as a big bully, and now you want to hold it out there as where is your alternatives, where is your suggestions. No matter how you want to paint it, a deficit is a deficit is a deficit; and the Republican budget is swimming in red ink and broken promises. President Bush and every Republican leader promised that they were committed to a balanced budget. President Bush and every Republican leader promised that they would put the Social Security surplus in a lockbox and never use it again for other spending, but today, no matter, one thing my colleagues do deny is that Republicans want to take a sledge hammer to that lockbox so they can bust it open and loot the money that hardworking Americans have spent a lifetime contributing. It is that bad and it is that ugly. The Republicans are doing this because they believe it is the only way that they can cover up the deficits they created as far as the eye can see, and that is why they are only giving us 5-year numbers instead of the 10-year numbers and that is why they are using the overly optimistic OMB estimates instead of nonpartisan CBO numbers. Democrats spent 8 years putting this Nation on a sound fiscal course, and it has taken Republicans 14 months to undo that. Now they want to blame the recession for everything, but no one here or in the country really believes that this recession can be blamed for deficits 10 years from now. The fact is we Democrats saved enough for a rainy day like this, but the Republicans spent every penny of it on an irresponsible economic plan, leaving few priorities that they claim to support like education, prescription drug coverage for seniors and environmental protection. So vote against fiscal irresponsibility. Vote against red ink and deficits. Vote against looting the Social Security and Medicare, and vote against this budget resolution.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Jose R. Sanchez- Pena for his many contributions to the Hispanic community. He will be honored by the Federation of Cuban Musicians in Exile on Sunday, March 17, 2002, at Mi Bandera restaurant in Union City, NJ. Dr. Jose R. Sanchez-Pena is currently an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Puerto Rico and the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey. He is a member of Barnert Memorial Hospital in Paterson, NJ. In Passaic, NJ, he is a member of Beth Israel Hospital, Saint Mary's Hospital, and General Hospital Center. He is the Medical Director at Gregory Medical Associates, Comprehensive Medical Evaluations, and Gregory Surgical Services. Dr. Jose R. Sanchez-Pena is an asset to the Hispanic community, providing excellent medical care to countless Hispanics at his medical offices in Manhattan, Queens, Jersey City, West New York, Paterson, Passaic, and Hoboken. Having medical licenses in New York, New Jersey, Indiana, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, he is able to extend his services to a diverse group of individuals. Not only does he attend to people's medical needs, but his services also benefit the community, as he is a medical consultant for the Social Security Administration, the Immigration and Naturalization Services, and Workmen's Compensation in the State of New York and New Jersey. Today I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Jose Sanchez- Pena for his many contributions to the medical community and the Hispanic community of New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Portuguese Instructive Social Club Incorporated (PISC). The Club commemorated this important milestone on Saturday, March 16, 2002. In the early 1900's, Portuguese immigrants started making Elizabeth, New Jersey their new home. The Portuguese Instructive Social Club was born out of pride for the founder's heritage, and as a way to preserve Portuguese culture, language, and traditions. The Club provided a support structure to help immigrants adjust to American culture, the English language, and a new way of life. The Club became a reality thanks to the dynamic leadership of Amadeu Correia and a group of fellow Portuguese immigrants. Officially founded on March 18, 1922, the Portuguese Instructive Social Club became the center of the Portuguese community in Elizabeth. The Club was first located at 131 Pine Street, later moved to 131 Third Street, and today is located at Routes 1-9 and Portugal Grove Street in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Over time, the Portuguese-American community has grown considerably, and with its growth, the Club began offering more activities to its members. By 1925, the Club included a drama group, an orchestra, and a soccer team. Ten years later, on January 20, 1935, a new group emerged, the ``Ladies Auxiliary of the Portuguese Instructive Social Club.'' In 1935, Amadeu Correia founded the Portuguese School, then known as ``Escola 1 de Dezembro,'' with a class of about 30 students. Today, the school is known as ``Amadeu Correia School,'' with an average of 275 students. In 1940, the ``Youth of the PISC'' introduced new activities, such as bowling, basketball, soccer, and youth dances. On February 7, 1970, after a major fundraising drive, the new Portuguese Instructive Social Club in Elizabeth, New Jersey was inaugurated. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Portuguese Instructive Social Club Incorporated for providing 80 years of camaraderie and the preservation of Portuguese culture and traditions in New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Cathedral Village Townhouse Development, which was sponsored by Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr., the Cathedral-Second Baptist Church, and the Church Community Development Corporation. The ceremony took place on Friday, February 22, 2002, followed by a luncheon at the Family Life Center in Perth Amboy. A newly-completed affordable townhouse facility, the Cathedral Village Townhouse Development will improve the quality of life for many families. This project was made possible thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Cathedral-Second Baptist Congregation and funding and support from the State of New Jersey; Governor James E. McGreevey; Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Susan Bass Levin; City Council Members Peter Jiminez, Frank Sinatra, David Szilagyi, Geraldine Bolanowski, and Robert Sottilaro; the HUD Home Program; the Reinvestment Fund/CLI, and First Union Bank. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Cathedral Village Townhouse, a truly memorable and historic event for the community of Perth Amboy.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joseph A. Wutkowski, the youngest person in the history of the Borough of Carteret to place the Wreath of Honor at the Carteret Soldiers and Sailors Memorial in Carteret Park. Joseph was recognized by the Carteret Veterans Alliance and the Senate and General Assembly of New Jersey as being a truly patriotic citizen and the youngest presenter of the Wreath of Honor at the Carteret Soldiers and Sailors Memorial. He was a special guest speaker in July of 2001 at the Rotary Club of Carteret, and was presented with an official Certificate of Appreciation. In addition, Joseph received a proclamation from Carteret Mayor Jim Failace, and was honored with a Joint Resolution from New Jersey State Senator Joseph Vitale, Assemblyman John Wisniewski, and Assemblywoman Arline Friscia. Joseph is presently enrolled at Holy Family School in Carteret, New Jersey. He enjoys playing Basketball and Little League Baseball. He is the son of Joseph and Bernadette Wutkowski. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Joseph A. Wutkowski for his patriotism, and for honoring America's veterans in Carteret, New Jersey, and veterans all across America.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mayor Patricia Siano-Gilligan of Keansburg, New Jersey, who was honored on February 22, 2002, at the First Annual Keansburg Mayor's Ball. Mayor Gilligan was born in Hoboken, New Jersey, and lived in Union City and Carteret before moving to Keansburg sixteen years ago. In 1994, Mayor Gilligan was elected to the Keansburg City Council, where she served until 1998, becoming the youngest councilperson ever elected to office in the Bayshore area of New Jersey. Following her tenure as councilperson, she focused her efforts on reorganizing the Keansburg Democratic Party preparation for the General Election of 2000. Patricia Siano-Gilligan was sworn-in as the Mayor of Keansburg in 2000, becoming the only female mayor in the Bayshore area, as well as the youngest mayor in the area. Mayor Gilligan was a founding member of ``Save the Bay'' Committee, which successfully stopped a proposed waste site off the coast of Keansburg. For several years, she has been a dedicated basketball and softball coach, and is active with such veterans' organizations as the American Legion and VFW, as well as various senior citizen organizations. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mayor Patricia Siano-Gilligan of Keansburg, New Jersey, for her many accomplishments and her dedication to public service.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and acknowledge the many accomplishments of Grand Marshal Maryann Connelly. The St. Patrick's Parade Committee honored her on Sunday, February 24th, 2002, at the annual brunch at the Hi-Hat Caterers in Bayonne, New Jersey. Maryann Connelly is the Principal at the Philip G. Vroom Elementary School in Bayonne, New Jersey. She has been employed by the Bayonne Board of Education for the past ten years as a teacher and guidance counselor. She is an active volunteer in a variety of organizations: she was the first female President of Ireland's 32 in 1992; elected by Ireland's 32 as the first ``Irishwoman of the Year'' in 1985; elected to Bayonne St. Patrick's Parade Committee and was the first female Chairperson elected in 1991; and is currently serving her eighth consecutive term as the General Chairperson. She raised funds for the Hudson County March of Dimes; is a member of the Art Auction Committee for the Bayonne Hospital Foundation; and co-hosts a weekly Irish-American radio show. Mrs. Connelly received the State of New Jersey Governor's Teacher Recognition Award in 1992; became a member of Who's Who Among American Teachers in 1996; was recognized as Outstanding Community Leader from Ireland's Civic Organization in 1999; and was awarded the New Jersey Heritage Award in 2001. Maryann Connelly earned her Bachelors and Masters of Arts degree from New Jersey City University. She is married to Philip Connelly and is the proud mother of Kevin Patrick. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Grand Marshal Maryann Connelly for her contributions towards cultural understanding and the education of our youth. We are pleased to have her play such an important and positive role in the community of Bayonne, New Jersey.