Bob Menendez

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Tammy Blanchard for winning an Emmy in her portrayal of the young Judy Garland in ``Me and My Shadow: Life with Judy Garland.'' The Bayonne Public School System will recognize her outstanding accomplishments by declaring Wednesday, December 5, 2001, as ``Tammy Blanchard Day.'' On December 5th, Ms. Blanchard will be honored during a fundraising party at Chandelier Restaurant in Bayonne, New Jersey. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Bayonne High School Vocal Music Program. Tammy Blanchard has enjoyed an extensive and successful acting and modeling career that has included many awards and acclamations. She has appeared in numerous television commercials and has modeled for several teen magazines and catalogues. In addition to her acting role in ``Me and My Shadow: Life with Judy Garland,'' Tammy Blanchard has also appeared in episodes of ``Guiding Light'' and ``Law and Order.'' Future projects include acting parts in ``The Promise,'' scheduled to be in movie theaters April, 2002, and the upcoming Lifetime television movie, ``We Were the Mulvaneys.'' A native of Bayonne, New Jersey, Tammy Blanchard is a 1994 graduate of Bayonne High School. She continues to reside in Bayonne, sharing a house with her mother, Ms. Patricia Rettig, and her brothers, William Blanchard III and Thomas Walters. In light of her many accomplishments, I would like to extend my personal congratulations and my warmest regards to Tammy Blanchard for her many achievements. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Tammy Blanchard for her magnificent acting career and commitment to helping assist students in the Bayonne Public School System.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Catherine Todd for her years of service on behalf of public housing residents in Hudson County, New Jersey. On Friday, December 7, 2001, the Jersey City Tenant Affairs Board will honor Ms. Todd at their December Board Meeting. This tribute will take place at the Montgomery Gardens housing complex in Jersey City, New Jersey. For nearly 50 years, Catherine Todd has worked to improve the standard of living for public housing residents in Hudson County. Since 1978, she has served as the Chairperson of the Montgomery Gardens Tenant Management Corporation in Jersey City. As Chairperson, she supervises the entire Montgomery Gardens Tenant Management staff and manages their operating budget. During her tenure as Chairperson, she has initiated a day care center service and developed an afterschool program for neighborhood children. As a result of her extensive experience in the public housing sector, Catherine Todd has served as a consultant to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and numerous other resident management associations. Currently, she serves as the Resident Management Coordinator for the Newark Housing Authority and continues to offer advice and guidance to various resident management firms. A graduate of Ferris High School, Catherine Todd is also an alumnus of Hudson County Community College. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Catherine Todd for her years of distinguished service on behalf of public housing residents in Hudson County, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and acknowledge the many accomplishments of Sergeant Samuel Jefferson of the Jersey City Police Department. Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly to enhance the safety and well-being of the residents of Jersey City, New Jersey. A 22-year veterans of the Jersey City Police Department, Sergeant Jefferson has enjoyed a dynamic and extensive law enforcement career. Sergeant Jefferson joined the Jersey City Police Department in 1979, and was quickly promoted to the rank of Detective after assignments in the North District Division and the Radio Room. As a Detective, he spent countless hours working on cases in the Hudson County Prosecutors Homicide Division, the Welfare Investigation Unit, and the Warrant Squad. In 1990, he assumed the rank of Sergeant and was assigned to the Patrol Division. From 1991 until his retirement, Sergeant Jefferson worked in the Jersey City Policy Department's Internal Affairs Division. Prior to his law enforcement career, Sergeant Jefferson was a decorated United States Marine. While in the Marines, he was the recipient of the Purple Heart, the Vietnam Combat Cross, the Combat Infantry Badge, and the South Vietnam Medal. A Jersey City native, Sergeant Jefferson graduated from Lincoln High School. Currently, he enrolled at New Jersey City University and completing requirements for a BA in Criminal Justice. Sergeant Jefferson and his wife Denise have three children and two grandchildren. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sergeant Samuel Jefferson for his dedicated service on behalf of the residents of Jersey City.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Deputy Chief Robert Martin of the Jersey City Police Department, for his outstanding law enforcement career and years of dedicated service on behalf of the residents of Jersey City. A veteran of the Jersey City Police Department, Robert Martin excelled as a law enforcement officer. He joined the force in 1973 and was assigned to the 5th Precinct and South District Divisions. In 1979, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and worked in the Bureau of Supervision. As Sergeant, Robert Martin assumed responsibilities that included heading up the Investigation Division's Street Crime Unit and the Special Investigations Unit. In overseeing the operations of these two units, Robert Martin was responsible for police investigations related to robbery, organized crime, and narcotics. While heading up the Special Investigations Unit, Mr. Martin was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and eventually assumed the rank of Captain. As a result of his unyielding work ethic, in 1991, Robert Martin was appointed as Chief of Investigations for the Hudson County Prosecutors Office. Upon returning to the Jersey City Police Department in 1997, he was promoted to Deputy Chief. A graduate of Bergen Community College and Jersey City State College, Deputy Chief Martin also attended the F.B.I. National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and has a Master's Degree from Seton Hall University. I would like to extend my gratitude to Chief Deputy Robert Martin for all he has done to ensure the safety and well-being of those individuals residing in New Jersey's 13th Congressional District. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Deputy Chief Robert Martin for keeping our communities safe and for being an excellent role model and civic leader for the residents of Jersey City.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, we could have and should have a much stronger bill on the floor, both to protect our economy, and to protect the victims of terrorist attacks. Given the extraordinary circumstances, it is reasonable to provide a Federal ``backstop'' to the insurance industry for terrorist attacks. Developers, builders, and the people they employ need to know that insurance is available--otherwise, important projects may come to a halt, American commerce will be hurt, and jobs will be lost. The problem is while the Republican bill provides a guarantee to the insurance industry, it does not in turn require that the industry provides the insurance when it is needed; the Democratic substitute does. We also need to make sure that in the event of an attack, victims can go after any negligent parties. But the Republican bill severely limits victims' rights--even in cases where the negligence was willful. That is not, in my view, a defensible position. Finally, while we are undertaking this important effort, we should also be doing much more for the many American workers who have already lost their jobs. I support guaranteeing insurance against terrorism is readily available. I support full victims' rights. And it is because of my belief in those principles that I must oppose final passage, with the hope and trust that these deficiencies can be fixed in conference.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Wesley R. Calloway of the Jersey City Police Department for his years of distinguished service on behalf of the citizens of Jersey City, NJ. Sergeant Calloway will be honored at a special retirement ceremony on Thursday, November 29, 2001, to commemorate his 28 years as a Jersey City Police Officer. The ceremony will take place at Puccini's Restaurant in Jersey City, NJ. As an experienced veteran of the Jersey City Police Department, Sergeant Calloway has enjoyed a successful law enforcement career that included numerous awards and acclamations. During his extensive career, he has received a Commendation, two Class D Awards, and four Excellent Police Service Awards. A graduate of Snyder High School and the Teterboro School of Aeronautics, Sergeant Calloway also served honorably in the Jersey City Army National Guard from 1969 until 1975. While in the National Guard, he was the recipient of the Army Service Ribbon and the New Jersey Good Conduct Medal. Throughout his career, Sergeant Calloway has successfully balanced his professional responsibilities with his civic duties. He currently serves as a member of the New Jersey Police Honor Legion and is a Boy Scouts of America Troop Leader. Sergeant Calloway and his wife Vivian are the proud parents of their son Brandon. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sergeant Wesley Calloway for his selfless and committed service on behalf of the residents of New Jersey's 13th Congressional District.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Deputy Police Chief Thomas Kane of the Jersey City Police Department. On Thursday, November 29, 2001, Thomas Kane will celebrate his retirement with family, friends, and colleagues at Puccini's Restaurant in Jersey City, NJ. As a 28-year veteran of the Jersey City Police Department, Thomas Kane has enjoyed an extensive and successful career as one of Jersey City's finest. In 1973, Thomas Kane joined the Jersey City Police Department. Quickly earning the respect and admiration of his peers and supervisors, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1979. In 1985, Thomas Kane was again rewarded for his hard work and commitment, when he was appointed to the rank of Lieutenant. Between 1992 and 1994, Officer Kane served as a Commander in the Records Bureau and North District Divisions. Following his assignment in the Records Bureau and North District, he was promoted to Inspector and headed up the Inspectional Services Unit in the Office of the Chief of Police. In 1997, Mr. Kane assumed the rank of Deputy Chief. A graduate of St. John's Grammar School and St. Michael's High School, Thomas Kane received his Bachelors of Arts in Economics from New Jersey City University. He later continued his studies at New Jersey City University by acquiring his Master's Degree in Criminal Justice. An active community leader and role model for Jersey City youths, Thomas Kane serves as a member of the Jersey City Police Emerald Society and the Police Department's We Care Basketball Team. In addition, he serves as Executive Vice President of the Deputy Chiefs of Police Association of the State of New Jersey. Thomas Kane and his wife Pamela are the proud parents of two daughters, Tara and Erin. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Thomas Kane for his commitment to helping others and for his years of distinguished service in the Jersey City Police Department.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Joseph Simunovich for his extensive corporate, governmental, and entrepreneurial genius and expertise. On Friday, November 16, 2001, Mr. Simunovich will celebrate his official retirement with family, friends, and former colleagues. The celebration will take place at the White Beaches Golf & Country Club in Haworth, New Jersey. Joseph Simunovich's remarkable career in corporate America spans four decades. In 1962, he began his distinguished career working in the Sales and Marketing Management divisions at the New York Telephone Company. After 16 years of remarkable service, Joseph Simunovich left the New York Telephone Company to become Marketing Manager for major accounts at Bell Atlantic New Jersey, now Verizon. While at the former Bell Atlantic, he quickly rose the corporate ladder becoming Director of Sales in 1985. As Director of Sales, he supervised and coordinated a renowned sales team that led Bell Atlantic sales for 8 consecutive years. Upon his departure from Bell Atlantic, Mr. Simunovich joined United Water New Jersey-New York as Senior Vice President for Business Development, External Affairs, and Corporate Communications. In addition, Mr. Simunovich has served as Chief of Staff, President, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors during his nine dedicated years at United Water New Jersey, New York. Mr. Simunovich has also played an influential and active role in New Jersey politics. In 1986, he was appointed by Governor Kean to be a Member of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA). He has been re-appointed to the EDA for six consecutive terms and currently serves as EDA Vice Chairman. In addition, he is Chairman of the Bergen County Economic Development Corporation and served 12 years as a Hudson County Freeholder. Joseph Simunovich is a resident of Bergen County, New Jersey. He is married and has two children and four grandchildren. As a result of his hard work, Joseph Simunovich has helped improve the quality of life for thousands of families living throughout New Jersey. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Joseph Simunovich for his commitment to helping others and for his years of distinguished service to the people of New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to the Puerto Rican Association for Human Development, Inc. (PRAHD). PRAHD is a non-profit organization in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, dedicated to providing health, educational, and social services to low-income residents of Middlesex County, New Jersey. Since 1974, PRAHD has emerged as one of the premier non-profit organizations in the State of New Jersey. This dynamic organization provides a wide range of social services essential to low-income and elderly residents of Middlesex County. PRAHD currently sponsors pre- school child care programs, HIV/AIDS educational services, substance abuse prevention classes, and health care services for homebound senior citizens. The outstanding success and efficiency of this organization can be attributed to its committed staff, which is working tirelessly to ensure that adequate social services are provided for residents in Middlesex County. PRAHD, which is governed by a Board of Directors and is managed by an Executive Director, currently employs 38 full-time and 74 part-time staffers. It is also supported by the diligent efforts of numerous community leaders, who volunteer their skills and services. As a result of its hard work, PRAHD has vastly improved the standard of living for thousands of New Jersey families. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring PRAHD for its service to the community of Perth Amboy and for its countless acts of kindness and compassion.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to the Food Drive Committee at Saint Joseph's High School in Metuchen, New Jersey. For over thirty years, this Food Drive Committee has provided Thanksgiving food baskets for thousands of needy families throughout New Jersey. This charitable food drive was inaugurated under the guidance of Brother George Woodburn. Currently, the Food Drive Committee operates under the auspices of the Saint Joseph's Student Council. Annually, this food drive provides hundreds of Thanksgiving food baskets to various food shelters and organizations for distribution to families in need. The success and longevity of this event is due to the compassionate efforts of Saint Joseph's dedicated administration, faculty, and students. As a result of Saint Joseph's kindhearted efforts, this month-long food drive enables hundreds of needy families to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner. For four decades, Saint Joseph's has also been dedicated to the education and leadership development of young men residing in Central New Jersey. This institution prepares young men for post-secondary academic success, while also enabling them to acquire the skills and values essential to become responsible young adults. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Saint Joseph's High School for its dedication and commitment on behalf of needy families throughout New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Carl J. Goldberg. On Friday, November 16, 2001, Mr. Goldberg will be the Honoree at the Deborah Hospital Foundation's 15th Annual Children of the World Humanitarian Award Dinner-Dance. The event will be held at the Sheraton Meadowlands Hotel in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Carl Goldberg has enjoyed an extensive and successful real estate career that spans over two decades. In 1979, he joined the prestigious real estate firm Bertram Associates as a Project Manager for the development of single-family homes. While at Bertram, he quickly climbed the corporate ranks and became Operating Partner. As Operating Partner, he was instrumental in the construction of more than 2,000 homes throughout New Jersey. In 1994, Carl Goldberg left Bertram Associates and founded the Roseland Property Company. Since its formation, Roseland has played a major role in the development of company communities throughout the Northeast. Under Carl Goldberg's guidance, Roseland builds over 1,500 residential units a year. Currently, Carl Goldberg serves as a member of the National Association of Homebuilders and is the former President of the Community Builders' Association. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Carl Goldberg for his years of distinguished service on behalf of New Jersey residents.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rescue Company #1 from the Elizabeth, New Jersey, Fire Department for their bravery and valor in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks. On November 7th, the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce will honor Rescue Company #1 with a special ceremony at the New Loews Theatre at Jersey Gardens Mall. Rescue Company #1 was among the group of first responders to the World Trade Center after units from the New York Fire Department Rescue Squad parished in the collapse of the buildings. From September 11th until September 20th, this crew assisted in the hazardous recovery efforts. Working lengthy shifts and risking their own lives and well- being, this crew searched for survivors in smoldering heat and dangerous structures. Since 1837, men and women from the Elizabeth Fire Department have continuously put themselves in harm's way to save lives and property. Through their courageous efforts, the Elizabeth Fire Department has served with honor and bravery. The spirited and valiant efforts of our nation's firefighters are often overlooked or taken for granted. Therefore, I would like to extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the Elizabeth Fire Department for all they have done to ensure the safety and welfare of those who reside in New Jersey's 13th Congressional District. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Rescue Company #1 for their immeasurable contributions. The Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce could not honor a more deserving group than Rescue Company #1--remarkable individuals, who continue to inspire a nation.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I want to also thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Ferguson) for putting forth the resolution. In the resolution it says two things that we are so accustomed to saying, but I think we have now come to understand in a very dramatic way how important that sentiment is. It says, as law enforcement officers serve at great risk to their personal safety, and whereas the citizens of New Jersey are indebted to their law enforcement officers who are willing to die to protect them and their families and to risk all of their hopes and all of their dreams to ensure the safety and well-being of New Jersey's communities. We have seen that time and time again in New Jersey, and we have seen that certainly in the aftermath of September 11, the enormous risk that individuals who we come to rely upon, their everyday members of our community, in a sense; we see them as we walk our streets or as they patrol our neighborhoods and we think of them in the context when there is no great harm and no great fear. But when events like September 11 take place, it magnifies for us the great risk that they take, and that risk is never known when it is going to visit. In my district, which is right across from midtown Manhattan where we see the New York skyline view, where we used to see the World Trade Center, and now see the scar that has been left behind, we saw hundreds of police officers being part of the triage system that brought individuals, over 1,000, to the New Jersey side of the river to ultimately get care in our hospitals and emergency clinics. In that respect, and in so many other respects, the fact of the matter is that we see the enormous risks that our men and women in blue take on on a daily basis. September 11 magnified that for us. The constant challenge we have magnifies that for us. Lastly, let me just say it is good to recognize the New Jersey Law Enforcement Officers Association and their members and others in uniform. I also believe we need to stand by them in meaningful ways, in ways in which we assist them as part of that crucial first responder network. We need to help them with resources for training in the new environment that we are in. We need to help those communities that have exhausted their overtime budgets in this context so that we can be able to keep those departments whole. We need to provide resources through what has been our COPS program to deal with the new security threats. When we do those things, we truly honor the individuals whose resolution we seek to recognize today.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Chairman, the Republican leadership thinks they can dress up the people who work for these private companies in fancy uniforms and put badges on them and that will make people think they are federalized. They think they can change the name of the bill and put federalization in the title and that fixes its flaws. Listen to what USA Today said, and I quote: ``House GOP leaders insist on protecting failed screening firms.'' That is the bottom line. We have Federal officers at our national borders. We have Federal officers protecting the President. We have Federal officers protecting us here in the Capitol, and that is the right way to do it. The most important role of the Federal Government is to protect its people; but the Republican leadership is saying we need Federal officers to protect us here in Washington, but the flying public can have their security sold off to the lowest bidder, and that is outrageous. The American public deserves the same quality of protection we receive; and I keep hearing these complaints about unionization and government employees, and personally I am sick of it. Who do my colleagues think risked their lives on September 11? Firefighters; police officers, first responders; pilots; flight attendants; government workers, many; union workers, almost all. They were heroes. Heroes. Shame on anyone who says that union workers or government workers cannot be trusted. I will tell my colleagues who cannot be trusted: the companies who will cut every corner to save a dime so they can come in with the lowest bid. We need to regain the confidence of the flying public, and there is only one way to do that: get rid of the system we have today, get profit motives out, put safety incentives in, and federalize our airport security. It is what we Democrats propose in the substitute. It is what the American people are demanding. It is what they deserve so we never, ever again have a tragedy like September 11.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Frank Perrucci. On Saturday, October 27, 2001, the Sicilian Citizen's Club will honor Mr. Perrucci at its 74th Annual Dinner Dance at the Villa Nova in Bayonne, New Jersey. Frank Perrucci, a native of Bayonne, attended Jersey City State College and Saint Peter's College. A distinguished World War II veteran, he joined the U.S. Maritime Service in 1994 at the age of seventeen. In addition, he honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1945 until 1947. Throughout his extensive career, Frank Perrucci served and represented the residents of Hudson County, New Jersey. From 1979 until 1984, he was Director of Community Development for the City of Bayonne. In 1984, he served as Secretary to the Warden of the Hudson County Jail. He currently serves as the Secretary to the Register of Hudson County. In addition to this civic responsibilities, Frank Perrucci has vigorously advocated for the fair and equal treatment of employees working in Hudson County. For 12 years, he served as President of the Laborer's International Union of North America Local 202. Furthermore, for 20 years, he served as a Trustee of the Board for the Agents Trade Union Council of Hudson County and the Hudson County Laborer's Pension, Welfare, and Vacation Fund. Frank Perrucci and his wife Jean are the proud parents and grandparents of four children and seven grandchildren. Today, I ask my collegues to join me in honoring Frank Perrucci for his selfless work on behalf of the residents of Hudson County, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, the Republican Economic Security Act being voted on today is not economic stimulus; it is a corporate orgy. It is not temporary, as most economists would recommend, but a permanent corporate party at the expense of the average taxpayer. The Republican plan does not help small and mid-sized businesses that cannot weather the storm on their own, but it does help special interests. The Republican economic plan not only provides a tax break for corporations, but a corporate tax bonus going back to 1986. Displaced, laid-off workers get no guaranteed assistance; and if they get anything, they get chicken feed. The Republican plan is nothing but a shameless raiding of billions of dollars from the public treasury for private profit, with $20 billion in tax benefits alone for overseas corporations of financial services companies. At a time of national urgency, when we should be here providing for the security of the American people, we should not in fact be fleecing them, and that is what this Republican plan does.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to musical legend Celia Cruz. On Tuesday, October 16, 2001, Ms. Cruz will be awarded the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal for her distinguished musical career and invaluable contributions to our nation's cultural heritage. The award ceremony will take place at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Celia Cruz was born and raised in the Santa Suarez neighborhood of Havana, Cuba. As a young girl, she spent much of her spare time entertaining her peers, friends, and neighbors by singing lullabies and melodies. In the 1940's, she officially began her musical career by singing on numerous Cuban radio programs. She expanded her musical aptitude by studying at Havana's Conservatory of Music from 1947 to 1950. In 1950, Celia Cruz gained international acclaim by becoming the lead singer for Cuba's top dance band, La Sonora Matancera. For over fifteen years, La Sonora Matancera electrified sold-out audiences with their vibrant and catchy Afro-Cuban melodies and rhythms. Throughout much of her career, Celia Cruz has been hailed as the ``Queen of Salsa'' due to herr energetic and animated musical performances. Cruz, a Grammy Award winner and Latina musical icon, has enjoyed a dynamic career that has spanned over five decades, recorded countless albums, and has often performed with musical great Tito Puente. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Celia Cruz, for her immeasurable contributions throughout her illustrious career. The James Smithson, Bicentennial Medal could not have been awarded to a more deserving human being--Celia Cruz, a living legend, who continues to inspire the world.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Our Lady of Grace Church. This church has served the community of Hoboken, New Jersey for many generations. The church will celebrate its anniversary on Saturday, October 20, 2001, at the Casino-In-The-Park Restaurant in Jersey City, New Jersey. Our Lady of Grace Church is one of the largest Roman Catholic Churches in New Jersey. It was founded in 1851. Today, Our Lady of Grace Church stands as the focal point of Hoboken's Church Square Park. Its cornerstone was laid in 1875, construction of this grand edifice was completed in 1878 and dedicated by Bishop Corrigan. Francis G. Himpler, a well-known 19th Century architect, designed this grand gothic structure. After the church dedication in 1878, members of the Italian and French royal families donated ceremonial works of art to decorate this magnificent dwelling. This Church is well known for its kindness, charity, and for its involvement in the parish. Our Lady of Grace Church stands poised to continue to make invaluable contributions to the ongoing success of the Hoboken community. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Our Lady of Grace Church on its 150th Anniversary.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, the American people have a right to expect that their top priority will be our top priority. We are sent here to represent them and to address their concerns. And as far as America is concerned right now, security, security, is job one. So if we want to do something today, right now, to make America safer, not tomorrow, but right now, to make America safer, the rule and the bill that we should be considering one month after the incident at the World Trade Center, after that tragedy, one month later, we should bring the airport security bill to the floor. It passed the other body unanimously, but it has been languishing here for weeks; and it is stuck because some elements of the Republican leadership do not want to federalize airline security, even though many in their own party, almost all Democrats, and the American people are fully behind that commonsense proposal. Instead, we come to the floor with a bill that is important, but that comes through a process in which Members have not even had the chance to read this bill. The bill that was developed in a bipartisan effort out of the committee does not come to the floor, but is slain in the Committee on Rules. What is sent here is not the bipartisan work of Democrats and Republicans. Surveillance is important, the immigration provisions are important; but you will not secure one American today in the air of this country, in the security of people flying in this country. We could take 3 days to bail out the airline industry, but 30 days later we cannot give the people of this country the security that they can fly on those planes. We do not have all the air marshals that we need, we do not have the federalization of the security screeners, having the force and professionalism that is needed. We are not checking all of that baggage. We are not having those cockpit doors fully reinforced. One month later, there is no answer. We need to have an airline security bill today. We cannot leave this Congress this weekend until we do.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Chairman, clean water should be a national priority; and, in part, that is why I support this amendment. Clean water is vital to the urban community that I represent, but it is just as vital to the rural communities that would directly benefit from this amendment. It is essential to the quality of life of every resident in every community, every family, and every business. There are simply no exceptions. Many rural communities have a critical need for improved infrastructure such as water filtration and waste water systems, but without the infrastructure to provide for clean water, public health and the environment suffers greatly, and these communities are unable to attract new and viable businesses. The USDA acknowledged this problem in a State-by-State analysis. It was found that 2.5 million Americans had a critical need for safe drinking water. This number includes almost 1 million Americans who had no water piped into their homes primarily because they could not afford it. Estimates on updating water systems go well into the billions, and rural communities just do not have the money. They lack the local tax base to tackle this problem alone, and that is why it is up to Congress to commit the funding that will bring clean water to these communities, or this need will never be adequately addressed. Mr. Chairman, rural Americans should not have to leave their homes for urban centers to ensure that they will have access to clean water. Another fundamental need in rural communities is the need for professional staff to conduct strategic planning. This amendment would expand the strategic planning initiative in funding and scope and would empower rural communities to solve this problem at the local level. Rural communities often find themselves without a means to improve their local economies, and I believe this adversely affects the national economy. By passing this amendment today, Congress will help ensure that these communities participate in the national economy, in realizing the hopes and dreams of their citizens, in making sure that many citizens of minority communities who live in rural America will have their opportunity of fulfilling the American dream. Mr. Chairman, I am very happy to support the gentlewoman in her amendment, and I would hope that many of my colleagues who do not come from rural America will come here and support this amendment as well.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sister Joan McKee, who, on Sunday, September 30, 2001, will be honored at a special ceremony for her 50 years of service to the Sisters of Charity organization. The Sisters of Charity organization assists in ensuring adequate access to quality social services and educational opportunities for the poor and disadvantaged. The ceremony honoring Sister McKee will take place at Saint Joseph's Church in Jersey City, New Jersey. A native of Jersey City, New Jersey, Sister McKee is a graduate of St. Mary's Elementary School and St. Dominic's Academy. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to assist those in need. As a schoolteacher and school administrator for 50 years, she has instructed and counseled thousands of poor and underprivileged students in the Jersey City school system. Countless school children throughout Jersey City have prospered and excelled academically under Sister McKee's guidance and supervision. Later this year, Sister McKee will officially retire as Principal of Saint Joseph's Elementary School in Jersey City. During her years as Principal of Saint Joseph's, she has implemented and coordinated several education initiatives that have fostered and enhanced the intellectual and learning capabilities of Jersey City students. Sister McKee's 22 years as Principal of Saint Joseph's ranks as one of the longest tenures for a school administrator in Hudson County history. Outside of her teaching and administration obligations, Sister McKee has served as an essential contributor to the viability and successes of the Jersey City community. She has actively, participated in programs dedicated to assisting disadvantaged women get back on their feet. In addition, she has donated her time to projects dedicated to providing quality social services to the needy. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sister Joan McKee for her tireless work on behalf of the community of Jersey City, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I support this bill because without it our economy would be in even greater danger. While I would have written a bill that protected the more than 100,000 airline industry workers who have been laid off or are at risk of getting pink slips, and we must address that, a vote against this bill will put all of the airline industry workers at risk, both those who have been let go and are hoping to be rehired, and the more than one million still on the job. Mr. Speaker, not to vote for the bill means no job is secure. Most important, I cannot in good conscience vote against a bill that provides compensation to the more than 150 families in my district, and that number may sadly grow, who have been directly affected by this tragedy and who are in desperate need right now. There is no time to wait and negotiate further for them. I agree with my colleagues who want more for airline travel security and worker protection, but we need to move now and move quickly.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the late William E. Martin, a posthumous recipient of the Jersey City Education Association's Louis T. Scialli Memorial Award. A special ceremony remembering the achievements and accomplishments of Mr. Martin will take place on September 25, 2001, at the Meadowlands Crowne Plaza in Secaucus, New Jersey. Youth outreach and community service initiatives were always top priorities in William Martin's life. In 1946, Archbishop Boland, the Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey, appointed him Director of the CYO Center in Hudson County, New Jersey. While at CYO, he established one of the largest day camps in the state, with over 1,000 children participating in his youth programs. In 1956, William Martin began his distinguished career with the United Way Foundation, serving as President of the United Way in Hudson County. During his tenure, Mr. Martin was instrumental in establishing over 30 Tri-State United Way agencies. As a result of his hard work and dedication, United Way now provides social services in over 700 communities throughout the Tri-State area, lending assistance to over 8 million people a year. Beyond his administrative duties, William Martin also served as an Ambassador for the United Way Foundation. In 1988, he was chosen by this peers to set up United Way services in Beijing, China and Hong Kong. In addition, he assisted in the implementation of United Way services in Vietnam, Pakistan, Egypt, and the Philippines. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring William Martin for his distinguished service and diligent efforts on behalf of the residents of Hudson County, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Patricia Donnelly for winning United Way's Congresswoman Mary T. Norton Memorial Award. This prestigious award is bestowed annually to women who have made exceptional contributions to the success of communities throughout the nation. Ms. Donnelly will be presented with the award on Tuesday, September 25, 2001, at the Meadowlands Crowne Plaza Hotel in Secaucus, New Jersey. Patricia Donnelly has enjoyed an extensive and impressive career in journalism that has spanned over three decades. During her career, she has initiated and overseen the operation of several print journalism projects, including the Gold Coast magazine and the Jersey Journal's Spanish-language weekly, El Nuevo Hudson. In addition, she has served as editor for the Jersey Journal's Hudson Dispatch and the Hoboken Reporter. Throughout her career, Ms. Donnelly has impressively balanced her demanding professional commitments with her desire to help promote community service initiatives that improve the quality of life for families living in New Jersey. She has consistently assisted the United Way and other non-profit organizations, by helping them advance and broadcast their message to thousands of New Jersey residents. Ms. Donnelly is a native of Jersey City, New Jersey, and an alumnus of Marywood College in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Currently, she resides in Hoboken, New Jersey, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Hoboken-North Hudson YMCA. Furthermore, she is an active member of the Parish Council at St. Francis Church in Hoboken. Patricia Donnelly is happily married to Arturo Martinez, her husband of 25 years. Patricia and Arturo are the proud parents of Nora and Peter. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Patricia Donnelly for her commitment and dedication in helping foster and promote community service initiatives that have assisted countless families in New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Carol Mahler, a recipient of United Way's Congresswoman Mary T. Norton Memorial Award. The award, which was created by the United Way of Hudson County in 1990, pays tribute to women who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to community service as exemplified by Congresswoman Norton during her 13 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives (1925-1950). Ms. Mahler will receive this award of Tuesday, September 25, 2001, at the Meadownlands Crowne Plaza Hotel in Secaucus, New Jersey. Carol Mahler currently serves as Executive Director of the Visiting Homemaker Service of Hudson County (VHS). As Executive Director of this organization, she manages three facilities in Hudson County that provide nursing supervision and social services to individuals in need of short- or long-term health care assistance. In supervising the operations and activities of VHS of Hudson County, she is dedicated to ensuring that the elderly and those in need of nursing supervision are provided with quality health care services. Ms. Mahler has an extensive and comprehensive background in providing nursing services. A 24-year veteran of the VHS staff, she holds nursing degrees from the Orange Memorial Hospital School of Nursing and Jersey City State College. Furthermore, she has a Masters Degree in Public Administration from New York University, where she received the Dean's Award for Leadership. Outside of her commitments to VHS, Carol Mahler is an active participant in numerous health associations. She serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Home Heath Assembly of New Jersey and is a Member of the Commission on Accreditation for Home Care University, a subsidiary of the National Association for Home Care in Washington, D.C. In addition, she is a Member of the Board for the Hudson Prenatal Consortium. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Carol Mahler for the outstanding health care services that she has provided to the people of Hudson County. Through her efforts, the quality of life for many New Jersey residents has vastly improved.