Bob Menendez

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 180th Anniversary of Greek Independence Day. The annual celebration commemorates the day the Greek people took up arms against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. And today, it stands as the defining moment in the establishment and preservation of modern democratic ideals espoused by Greek society. The Greek and American people share a common heritage that cannot be overlooked. The foundation of America's democracy is based on the democratic principles established by the ancient Greeks. The political and philosophical beliefs of the ancient Greeks enabled our Founding Fathers to craft a Constitution and to establish a government that holds high the ideals of equality and justice. During its struggle for independence, Greece looked to the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution for inspiration. The annual Greek Independence Day parade will be held on Sunday, March 25, 2001. On that day, the streets of New York City will overflow with the pride and passion of the Greek-American community. Greek Independence Day is not only significant because it marks the beginning of the liberation of Greece from Ottoman rule, but also because it presents an opportunity for all Greek-Americans to reflect on the important economic and cultural contributions their community has made to American society. It is especially comforting to see the support and guidance that the National Coordinated Effort of Helenes and the Federation of Hellenic Societies, as well as other Greek-American organizations provide their community members--ensuring that past accomplishments are celebrated and commemorated, while also ensuring future success by providing opportunities for advancement in education and the workplace. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Greek Independence Day and the common democratic heritage of Greeks and Americans.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a truly special occasion, the 39th anniversary of La Tribuna newspaper. This momentous event in my state's journalism community will be recognized at a gala banquet to be held Friday, March 16, 2001. In 1962, large numbers of Hispanic immigrants began relocating to New Jersey. At that time, few newspapers were being published in their native language. La Tribuna was one of the first news sources committed to keeping the Spanish-speaking community in touch with its government and the rest of the world. For thirty-nine years, La Tribuna has shone light on daily events affecting the Hispanic community. Part of the foundation of the United States Constitution is freedom of the press. La Tribuna brings this ideal to life for the Hispanic community on a weekly basis through the paper's commitment to truth and fairness. Whenever and wherever news happens, La Tribuna is at the forefront of articulating events in a concise, non-nonsense manner. Under the direction of publisher and editor Ruth Molenaar, La Tribuna has grown to be a well-respected member of New Jersey's news community. The people of my District, and New Jersey, are fortunate to have Ms. Molenaar and her staff, including Lionel Rodriquez, providing fair and accurate news coverage. They have been a reliable voice for the Hispanic community for almost two generations. In recognition of the impact La Tribuna has had on the community, the City of Newark will name a street after the newspaper. The corner of Ferry Street and Niagara Street will be named La Tribuna Street. It is an honor to have La Tribuna operating in my District. Its efforts have helped our nation's Hispanic community to blossom and flourish. I ask that my colleagues join me in applauding this remarkable organization for all it has done for the Hispanic community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I am here to represent the working people in my district, the schoolteacher dealing with an overcrowded class working to teach 30 students algebra, the waitress at my local diner serving tables, the police officer risking his life every day, these are the hard-working people that I am fighting to give a tax break to. So when I look at a Republican plan that gives a tax-free inheritance to a billionaire's son, and an average tax cut of over $28,000 to those making $900,000 a year while giving, on average, only several hundred dollars per family to the vast middle class, that just does not seem fair to me. I do not think that most American families would take all of their projected earnings for the next 10 years and spend every last dime up front leaving no room for ill health or a rainy day. Unlike the Republicans, most American families would never do this without first preparing a budget. But that is what the President wants us to do here, blindly follow him and leap off the budgetary cliff. The Democratic plan gives everyone a fair tax break, leaves enough money to pay down the debt and invest in the future. The Republican plan gives away our future so that a few can share the lion's share of everyone's hard-earned surplus.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise in the strongest opposition to this abandonment of American workers. Elections have consequences, and today the Republican leadership starts down a road on what I believe will be a long list of repealing worker rights. It is shameful. Today, the Republican leadership will sacrifice the health and safety of hard-working Americans for pure political gain. This is nothing more than Republicans paying back their big contributors who helped them get all elected. It is certainly not compassionate, and the process being used today to overturn workplace safety is not bipartisan. Common sense tells us that workers are our most valuable asset. Without them there are no corporate profits, without them there are not going to be increasing stock prices, without them as the hard-working engine there is no one fueling our economy. But Republicans argue that it would cost companies too much to protect them, despite the fact that these workplace injuries are already costing businesses $50 billion a year and that there are 600,000 men and women suffering from such injuries each year. These are men and women who cannot prepare dinner for their families or help dress their kids for school because their hands have been crippled by repetitive-stress injuries; or who cannot have the joy of picking up their child because of back injuries, injuries that are no fault of the workers themselves. To argue these protections were rushed through at the last minute is to deny that more than 10 years ago this effort was started by a Republican Labor Secretary. My colleagues should understand that if they vote for this resolution they will repeal and strip away a right American workers have now and that there will be no recourse. American workers have been driving our Nation's economy. Today, Republicans throw them in the back seat and take them for a ride. Vote against the rule and the resolution. Protect America's workers. Help our families and stand by what is right in making sure that that which drives this economy, which is the labor of men and women, is preserved.

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I think the gentleman clearly recognizes that if we have a set of rules that protect workers today and we repeal them we are taking away a right they presently have.

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joseph Michael Pelliccio, who will be honored as the ``2001 Man of the Year'' by the Bayonne Chapter of UNICO National for his outstanding contributions to civic and community affairs. Mr. Pelliccio has served his community as a law enforcement professional for more than forty-five years; and throughout his career, he has tirelessly provided for the public safety of New Jersey's residents. For his many contributions to his community and to law enforcement, he has received over fifty commendations and awards. In 1955, Mr. Pelliccio began his career as a police officer in Jersey City, New Jersey, serving for more than 28 years, and rising to the rank of Lieutenant. Throughout his career, he has held numerous high- ranking positions in law enforcement: He has served as the Under Sheriff of Hudson County; the Public Safety Director of the City of Bayonne; the Assistant Criminal Division Manager for the Essex County Court System; and the Chief of Staff to the Hudson County Sheriff. In 1992, he was selected to serve as the Director of the Jersey City Police Department, where he was responsible for a $50 million annual budget, and supervised 840 police officers and 80 civilian employees. Currently, Mr. Pelliccio is the Police Director for West New York. Consistently demonstrating a passion for community service, Mr. Pelliccio is involved with many organizations and causes: He is a 16- year member and past president of UNICO National; past president of the Bayonne Columbus Day Parade Committee; current parade chairman; and was parade grand marshal in 1998. In addition, Mr. Pelliccio helped found the Jersey City Youth Hockey program, and helped form recreational ice- skating and bowling programs for brain damaged children in Jersey City, New Jersey. During Workd War II, Mr. Pelliccio served in the Navy, and was recalled during the Korean War. He served on the USS Iowa and on the USS New Jersey, the most decorated ship in Naval history. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Joseph Michael Pelliccio, UNICO's ``2001 Man of the Year,'' for his countless contributions to our Nation and to his community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dona Lolita de la Vega, who will be honored by Save Latin America, Inc., and Goya Foods for her great contributions to Spanish language media in the United States. Lolita Bravo was born in Merruecos, Spain. She attended Sacred Heart School, Ecole des St. Louis des Francais, and the Conservatory of Music of Madrid. Lolita Bravo later married Jose de la Vega, and the couple emigrated to the United States in 1939, where they settled in New York City. Lolita and Jose are considered pioneers of Spanish Radio. In 1946, they purchased three half hours each week on WWRL to present a La Voz Hispana del Aire, a radio show that voiced the concerns and sentiments of Hispanic Americans. The success of the radio program enabled Lolita and Jose to found two Spanish weekly newspapers. In 1950, they founded Temas, which is currently the oldest Spanish language monthly magazine published in the United States. Temas is now celebrating its 50th anniversary. When her husband, Jose, died in 1994, Dona Lolita de la Vega assumed all responsibility for directing and editing the magazine. That same year, Dr. Maria Perera, a Cuban educator, joined the magazine. Currently, the two women work hard to meet the challenges of ensuring that readers receive a Spanish language magazine of the highest quality. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dona Lolita de la Vega for her hard work and dedication in the field of Spanish- language media, and for her exceptional contributions to the Hispanic community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Felipe Reinoso, who will be honored at the 33rd Anniversary Gala Award Banquet of Nosotros Magazine on Saturday, February 21, 2001. The Banquet is an annual event that honors distinguished Hispanic leaders for their important contributions to society. This is an opportune time for today's Hispanic leaders to reflect on the economic, political, and cultural contributions that Hispanics have made to American society. In 1984, Felipe Reinoso received his Bachelor's Degree in Spanish Education from Sacred Heart University and his Master's Degree in Bilingual Special Education from Fairfield University in 1987. Before co-founding the Bridge Academy High School in 1998, where he was Principal, he taught bilingual Social Studies at Warren Harding High School for 14 years. For his excellence in bilingual education, Mr. Reinoso has received numerous awards and honors, including a citation from the Connecticut General Assembly for Excelling in Education; Teacher of the Year, Warren Harding H.S.; Connecticut Bilingual Teacher of the Year; an Award for Outstanding Achievement as Bilingual Teacher from Hispanic Society, Inc.; and the National Education Association Human Civil Rights Award. In addition, he has received the Points of Light Foundation President's Service Award from President Clinton. On November 7, 2000, Felipe Reinoso became the first Peruvian- American in United States history to be elected as a legislator. Today, he proudly represents the 130th District of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Mr. Reinoso's victory resonates with historic significance, and gives a greater voice to the concerns of the Hispanic community. In honoring Felipe Reinoso, Nosotros Magazine is promoting the most important values in American society today: hard work, dedication, and compassion. Mr. Reinoso embodies these American ideals; and, throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to provide others with the opportunity to meet the standard of excellence he has set. As an educator, he has worked hard to empower Hispanic Americans, and I am confident that he will continue his valuable service to the Hispanic community as State Representative. Because of community leaders like Mr. Reinoso, the Hispanic community is not only experiencing economic empowerment, but also political strength. Today, we prepare for a future that reflects our years of hard work, and our commitment to each other. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Felipe Reinoso for his many contributions to the Hispanic community and to the State of Connecticut.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Judge Julio Fuentes, who will be honored at the 33rd Anniversary Gala Award Banquet of Nosotros Magazine on Saturday, February 21, 2001. The Banquet is an annual event that honors distinguished Hispanic leaders for their important contributions to society. This is an opportune time for today's Hispanic leaders to reflect on the economic, political, and cultural contributions that Hispanics have made to American society. Judge Fuentes was born in Puerto Rico and raised in Toms River, New Jersey. He served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1969 as a military police officer. He earned his Bachelor's Degree at Southern Illinois University and his Juris Doctor at the State University of New York at Buffalo. While serving as a judge, Fuentes earned two Master's Degrees, one in Latin American Affairs at New York University and one in Liberal Arts at Rutgers University. Throughout his career, Judge Fuentes has served with distinction and honor. For over 20 years, he has proven to be an impartial, open- minded, bright, and dedicated public servant at the Municipal, Superior, and Appeals Court levels. Judge Fuentes's recent appointment to the 3rd U.S. Court of Appeals resonates with historic significance: He is the first Hispanic ever to be appointed to this prestigious court. As a result, the judicial branch is one step closer to reflecting America's rich diversity. In honoring Judge Julio Fuentes, Nosotros Magazine is promoting the most important values in American society today: Hard work, dedication, and compassion. Judge Fuentes embodies these American ideals; and, throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to provide others with the opportunity to meet the standard of excellence he has set. Because of community leaders like Judge Fuentes, the Hispanic community is not only experiencing economic empowerment, but also political strength. Today, we prepare for a future that reflects our years of hard work, and our commitment to each other. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Judge Julio Fuentes for his many contributions to the Hispanic community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize George A. Castro, II, President of the Hispanic American Association for Political Awareness, for his personal achievements and for his outstanding contributions to his community. Mr. Castro will receive the Hispanic American Recognition Award from Mayor Jim McGreevey on February 25, 2001. George A. Castro, II emigrated to the United States from Colombia in 1985 with only his lucky quarter and a strong desire for success. A short time later, he started his first business, a cleaning company, which grew to 60 employees in just a few years. The rapid growth of the company allowed it to bid on the state's largest jobs. In 1989, Mr. Castro received his real estate license and gained employment at an ERA office in Union County, where he became the top- producing seller with more than $10 million in sales after his first year and $27 million the following year. In 1991, Mr. Castro opened his own office, Countywide-Realty, as an independent broker. Within a year and a half, Countywide was one of the most successful real estate offices in New Jersey. The office joined the Century 21 franchise in 1995, eventually changing its name to Century 21 Atlantic. Recently, Century 21 Atlantic received Century 21's prestigious Double Centurion Office award for achieving more than $90 million in sales in 1999, a 300% increase over the previous year. Mr. Castro is an accomplished businessman and community activist. The success of Century 21 Atlantic and the Ritz Theatre and Performing Arts Center, which he purchased in 1994, has made him a role model for the Hispanic community. Mr. Castro serves as the Chairman of the Hispanic Political Action Committee and is a member of the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the City of Elizabeth. He also participates in the Boy Scouts of America, Eastern Union County. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing George A. Castro, II for all he has accomplished and for all he has contributed to his community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Karen Smith, who has been selected as the 20th Grand Marshal of the Bayonne St. Patrick's Day Parade. Ms. Smith was selected as the Grand Marshal in recognition of her years of dedicated service to Bayonne's Irish American community. Karen Smith was born in Bayonne, New Jersey to Philip and Frances O'Donnell. She attended St. Vincent's School and the Holy Family Academy. After receiving her BS in Nursing from the College of Mt. St. Joseph in Ohio, Ms. Smith returned home in 1974 and began her nursing career in Bayonne Hospital, where she cares for the sick to this day in the Endoscopy Department. Ms. Smith takes great pride in serving the Irish American community. She is a member of Ireland's 32 Club, the County Corkmen's Association, the Ticket and Raffle Committee for the annual New Jersey Irish Festival, and the Women of Irish Heritage of the Jersey Shore. She also works for Project Children, which promotes understanding and tolerance by allowing Catholic and Protestant children from Ireland to interact peacefully with each other while temporarily living with American families. Ms. Smith's many contributions to the Irish American community are a result of her great love for America, Ireland, and the community of Bayonne. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Karen Smith for being selected as the 20th Grand Marshal of the Bayonne St. Patrick's Day Parade.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ruben Pabon, Jr., who will be honored at the 33rd anniversary Gala Award Banquet of Nosotros Magazine on Saturday, February 21, 2001. The Banquet is an annual event that honors distinguished Hispanic leaders for their important contributions to society. This is an opportune time for today's Hispanic leaders to reflect on the economic, political, and cultural contributions that Hispanics have made to American society. Ruben Pabon, Jr. was born in New York City and currently resides in New Jersey. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War, rising to the rank of sergeant. After being honorably discharged, he accepted a position with Pan American World Airways, from which he retired in 1987. Mr. Pabon has continually exhibited a great passion for community service, which began when he joined the Newark Borinquen Lions Club, helping to establish outreach programs for the Hispanic community in Newark, New Jersey. He was later elected President of the Club, and received the Governor's and President's Awards for his hard work and dedication. Mr. Pabon serves on several housing boards that seek to address the problems faced by Hispanic senior citizens and those in need of affordable housing in Newark. He currently serves as an active member of a task force created by Bergen County Executive Pat Schuber to recommend strategies for the implementation of a multi-cultural center in Bergen County, New Jersey. In addition, Mr. Pabon is treasurer of the Spanish American Cultural Association; a member of the Knights of Columbus; a member of the Hispanic Business and Professional Association; and a volunteer for the Association for Retarded Citizens in Bergen County. In honoring Ruben Pabon, Jr., Nosotros Magazine is promoting the most important values in American Society today: hard work, dedication, and compassion. Mr. Pabon embodies these American ideals; and, throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to provide others with the opportunity to meet the standard of excellence he has set. Because of community leaders like Mr. Pabon, the Hispanic community is not only experiencing economic empowerment, but also political strength. Today, we prepare for a future that reflects our years of hard work, and our commitment to each other. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ruben Pabon, Jr. for his invaluable contributions to the Hispanic community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Democratic Caucus, I offer a resolution (H. Res. 69) 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. 63) and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Mariano Alonso, one of three honorees at the annual dinner-dance hosted by Ireland's 32 on January 19, 2001. Dr. Alonso will be honored for his accomplishments and for his continued dedication to improving the quality of life for the residents of Bayonne, New Jersey. A native of Spain, Dr. Alonso was influenced greatly by his grandfather and uncle, both of whom are doctors, and by his father, a pharmacist. After completing medical school at Valladolid University, and serving in the Spanish Army and the Medical Corps, Dr. Alonso arrived in New York City in 1957. He completed his internship and residency at the Jersey City Medical Center and St. Mary's Hospital in Bayonne. Dr. Alonso subsequently became house physician at the Bayonne Hospital until 1964, when he established his own pediatrics practice, which has served the community of Bayonne for 35 years. Dr. Alonso is the president of the Bayonne Hospital Medical Staff and past president of the Bayonne Medical Society. He is also a member of the American Medical Association, the Academy of Pediatrics, the Hudson County Medical Society, and the New Jersey Medical Society. In addition, Dr. Alonso volunteered at the Bayonne Family Health Center for more than 20 years. He is also the past president and current honorary vice-president of the Spanish American Club, which has allowed him to provide important community support for Spanish and Hispanic Americans. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Mariano Alonso for his contributions to health care and for his dedication to the community of Bayonne.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong support for the resolution before us, which expresses our deep sorrow and sympathy for the horrifying earthquake that devastated India, the world's largest democracy, on January 26. In spite of this enormous natural disaster, the will of the Indian people perseveres as they try to recover and meet the latest challenge placed before them. Many of my constituents have family, friends and loved ones that live in Gujurat, the hardest-hit region, and my thoughts and prayers are with them. Our shared democratic values and commitment to the rule of law and basic freedoms demonstrate why it is in America's interest to assist India, a growing trading partner, in its full recovery. While the Agency for International Development has already provided several millions of dollars in emergency humanitarian and disaster assistance, I hope President Bush will seek to do more. Even though the earthquake will have a negative impact on India's growing economy, India should continue with its bold economic liberalization and revitalization efforts. Through those efforts, the United States will remain its largest foreign trading partner and investor. The Indian-American community, which has played a strong and productive role in strengthening ties between India and the United States, has responded strongly in the midst of their overwhelming grief. The effects of this unfolding tragedy will be felt over time, but it remains necessary to continue with relief efforts and begin to consider the long-term steps necessary to help India rebuild itself. I hope our Government will continue to support the relief efforts of AID, private voluntary organizations, and international financial institutions to supplement for the vigorous efforts of the Indian government as it helps its citizens recover and rebuild their lives. It gives us the sense of universality of our citizens, the citizens of the world. And in moments of need, this is the time which the United States has a tremendous opportunity to help.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Police Officer John S. Wisniewski on his retirement from the Jersey City Police Department after thirty years of service to our community. John S. Wisniewski attended grammar school at Our Lady of Czestochowa, St. Anthony's High School, and Jersey City State College. Between 1966 and 1968, he served in the United States Army and achieved the rank of SP/4, while bravely serving his country and its citizens. As an officer of the law, he continued that invaluable service to his country with integrity and dedication. On May 1, 1972, John S. Wisniewski was appointed to the Jersey City Police Department. During his thirty years of service, Officer Wisniewski wore many hats at the department. He was assigned to the Neighborhood Taskforce in 1972; the Special Patrol Bureau in 1975; the East District Patrol in 1990; the West District Patrol in 1991; and again to the Special Patrol Bureau in 1992, until his retirement. Throughout his career at the Police Department, Office Wisniewski was a fine example of dedication and excellence. For his hard work, he earned a Class ``C'' Award, two commendations, and eight excellent police service awards. I am proud to recognize Police Officer John S. Wisniewski for his accomplishments, and I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing him for his service to New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Commissioner Rafael Fraguela, recipient of the ``Los Proceres Antillanos Award,'' which was presented by Save Latin America, Inc., on January 25, 2001. Save Latin America, Inc., a non-profit organization that honors Hispanic community leaders for their contributions to society, provides information to Hispanics regarding their rights and responsibilities in the areas of education, health care, housing, and other social services and economic development opportunities. Rafael Fraguela, who was born in Cuba on June 7, 1955, immigrated to the United States as a boy, and attended Union Hill High School in Union City, New Jersey. He received his BA in Social Studies/Political Science from Montclair State College and his MA in Education from Seton Hall University. Since receiving his undergraduate degree and teacher certification, Commissioner Fraguela has dedicated his life to public education and to the New Jersey education system, serving as teacher, vice-principal, and principal. He is currently the Principal of Grant School #7 in Passaic, New Jersey. In addition, Commissioner Fraguela has served the residents of New Jersey as an elected official in a variety of positions over the past decade. He served as President of the Union City School Board and as President and Commissioner on the School Board of Estimates. In 1993, Commissioner Fraguela was elected to replace me as a Commissioner of Union City, an office to which he was reelected in 1994 and 1998. He served as Commissioner of Revenue and Finance and Public Affairs and Recreation, and as Commissioner of Public Affairs, Parks, and Public Property. Commissioner Fraguela is a member and founder of the Alliance Civic Association; the National Association of Latino Elected Officials (NALEO); the Mid-West Northeast Voter Registration Project; the Summit Avenue Merchants Association; the Hispanic Leadership for Political Action Committee; the Democratic National Committee; the Committee to Elect President Clinton; the National Democratic Steering Committee; the Union City Day Care Board of Directors; the Union City A.B.C. Board; and Gore 2000. For his continued and selfless public service to the community, he has received numerous honors and awards, including the Human Values Award, Man of the Year Award (1993, 1995, 1998); the Babe Ruth League Award (1997); the Summit Avenue Merchant Association Award (1998); the Duarte, Sanchez & Mella Award (1996); and the Hispanic Law Enforcment Society of North Hudson, NJ Achievement Award (1998). In 1991, it was my distinct honor to appoint Rafael Fraguela to be the President of the School Board of Union City. I am extremely proud of his record, his dedication to public service, and his many achievements since that first appointment. Over the years, I have cherished his friendship as an educator, school board president, and commissioner. More importantly, he is an invaluable asset to the residents of New Jersey. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Rafael Fraguela for his leadership and for his important contributions to New Jersey and to the Hispanic community:

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize H. Mickey McCabe, one of three honorees at the annual dinner-dance hosted by Ireland's 32 on January 19, 2001. Mr. McCabe was honored for his accomplishments and for his continued dedication to the improvement of the quality of life for the residents of Bayonne, New Jersey. Mr. McCabe has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the safety and welfare of his community: He is the founder and president of McCabe, and he recently established the Bayonne Community Bank. His service commitments to the community of Bayonne are numerous: coordinator for the Hudson County New Jersey State Police Office of Emergency Management; state president of the Medical Transportation Association of New Jersey for more than 5 years; commissioner of the Bayonne Alcohol Beverage Control Board; chairman of the 2000 Bayonne Mayoral Task Force; past president of the Bayonne Uptown Merchants Association; and member of the board of directors of the Bayonne Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Mr. McCabe is the founding president of the American Heart Association, Bayonne Chapter; treasurer of D.A.R.E., Bayonne Chapter; and citywide chairman of the Bayonne Police Bulletproof Vest Fund Drive; and he is a founding member of the Bayonne Saint Patrick's Day Parade Committee. He is an honorary lifetime member of the Police Benevolent Association, Local 7, and a recipient of the Boy Scout Council Distinguished Citizens Award, among other awards. Mr. McCabe is married to Judith P. McCabe, and is the father of two children: Allison (27) and Michael (23). Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing H. Mickey McCabe for his important contributions to the community of Bayonne, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Agnes Gallagher Mangelli, who will be honored by the Richard Rutkowski Association for her exceptional contributions to the community of Bayonne, New Jersey on January 20, 2001. In America, the wealth and prosperity of our communities is not based solely on economic indicators. In fact, the most important indicator for the social well being of our neighborhoods and communities is the important contribution of community leaders; and today, I recognize a truly great leader. Agnes Mangelli was born and raised in Bayonne. She is married to Nicholas Mangelli Sr., and is the mother of four children: Mary Beth Ward, Anne Marie Tatte, Patricia Mangelli, and Nicholas Mangelli. Ms. Mangelli is the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Bayonne Community Mental Health Center, an organization she has served since 1974. She has also served on the Board of Directors and as vice president; fundraising chairman; recording secretary; and corresponding secretary. She has been the chairman since 1993. In addition, Ms. Mangelli is the co-chair of the United Cerebral Palsy of Hudson County, and serves on the Bayonne Hospital Parent Board and the Bayonne Hospital Compliance Committee. She served as chairman of various committees at St. Peter's Prep Mother's Club. She is also past president and member of the Robinson School of PTC, the Vroom School Parents Association, and the Holy Family Academy Alumni Association. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Agnes Mangelli. Through her compassion and dedication, Agnes Mangelli has made great contributions to the community of Bayonne. Her leadership and hard work are a great asset and an example for us all.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marguerite S. Baber, one of three honorees at the annual dinner-dance hosted by Ireland's 32 on January 19, 2001. Ms. Baber will be honored for her accomplishments and for her continued dedication to improving the quality of life for the residents of Bayonne, New Jersey. Marguerite Baber's compassion and dedication to her community and to children are the cornerstone of the Simpson-Baber Foundation for the Autistic, which she founded. The Foundation is a non-profit charity that raises funds for the educational, recreational, and social needs of autistic children and other developmentally disabled children in the Bayonne community. The Foundation works closely with the Bayonne Public Schools to provide for the special education needs of public school students, and sponsors numerous social events for autistic children and their families. In addition, Ms. Baber is the former director of Financial Services at the Katherine Gibbs School in Montclaire; and she served as trustee and treasurer of the Bayonne Healthcare foundation, director of the Bayonne Chamber of Commerce, and director of the Bayonne Town Center. Currently, Ms. Baber is pursuing her Ph.D. in school business administration at Seton Hall University. Ms. Baber is also co-owner of Carousel Collections, a children's clothing store. She is married to Superior Court Judge Mark A. Baber, and is the mother of three chidlren: James (12), Stephen (10), and Marguerite (9). Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Marguerite S. Baber for her compassionate and committed service to the community of Bayonne, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Reverend Gerard A. Pisani, who will be honored by the Richard Rutkowski Association for his exceptional contributions to the community of Bayonne, NJ on January 20, 2001. In America, the wealth and prosperity of our communities is not based solely on economic indicators. In fact, the most important indicator for the social well being of our neighborhoods and communities is the important contribution of community leaders; and today, I rise to recognize a truly great leader. Pastor Pisani attended Wheaton College and Taylor University, and completed his theological training at Nyack Missionary College. He was ordained to the ministry in the Baptist church in 1962. Pastor Pisani finished his requirements to become an ordained Priest in the Episcopal Church on October 15, 1966, and was appointed the first Vicar of St. Gabriel's Church, where he served until he became the Rector of Christ Church in Pompton Lakes. In 1974, he came to Trinity Parish in Bergen Point, where he is currently the pastor. In addition, Pastor Pisani is the president of Windmill Alliance, Inc., an organization that consists of volunteers from several local churches and temples and works in cooperation with leaders from area businesses and industry to provide for the needs of the community. The following groups are involved: The Windmill Center, a daily work activity center for disabled adults; Supportive Living, a residence program for disabled adults; Highways, a program providing support for the needy; the Umbrella Project, a proposed program to provide housing for women and children in need; and Supportive Employment, which provides career development, job training, and employment for adults with special needs. Pastor Pisani has served on the Board of the Bayonne Medical Center, and is presently serving on the Bioethics Committee of the Bayonne Hospital as co-chair of the education committee. He is also chaplain of the Bayonne Kiwanis Club, the Bayonne Fire Department, and secretary/ treasurer of the Bayonne Interfaith Clergy Association. He has received numerous awards from these and other organizations. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Reverend Gerard A. Pisani. Through his compassion and dedication, he has made great contributions to the community of Bayonne. His leadership and hard work are a great asset and an example for us all.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, this is the first test of bipartisanship, the first test of leadership, and the Republican leadership has failed it. They seem to look at the rules package as a way to settle political debts, to gain strategic advantage and work out intra-party struggles, and they are wrong. A rules package should have one central and overriding concern, how the American people are represented in the people's House. So when the representation on committees does not fairly reflect the makeup of the House as decided by the people, the rules package fails this test; and when we fail to take advantage of an historic opportunity to address the problems in our election system, the rules package fails this test. We all know that tens of thousands of voters were disenfranchised in this past election. We have a responsibility to make sure that never happens again. Democrats are fighting for these voters; Republicans are ignoring them. I urge our colleagues to give us on this first day bipartisanship, by fairness in the committee assignments, fairness in the opportunity for the Nation's voters, and voting for the Democratic alternative.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Judge Joseph N. Falbo, who passed away on October 27, 2000. Mayor Brian Stack and the Union City Board of Commissioners will hold a memorial service today to honor Judge Falbo and his distinguished career. Judge Joseph N. Falbo was born and raised in Union City. After graduating from John Marshall Law School, he served in the Army Airforce during World War II. In the 1960s, Judge Falbo served as municipal and county prosecutor, and was appointed to serve as municipal judge in 1969 by Mayor William V. Musto. At 83 years of age, Judge Falbo was one of the oldest judges in the State of New Jersey. While state judges are required to retire at the age of 70, there is no age restriction for municipal judges. Judge Falbo served with great honor and integrity. Throughout his career, he continually demonstrated the deepest commitment to the laws of the United States and to the residents of Union City. He was a deeply compassionate man, who understood the differences and challenges faced by the people he served. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and career of Judge Joseph N. Falbo. This is a great loss for the community, and he will be deeply missed.