Bob Menendez

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jose L. Linares for his appointment to the Superior Court of New Jersey. Mr. Linares will be sworn in on December 13, 2000 in Newark, New Jersey. Jose L. Linares was born on November 30, 1953 in Havana, Cuba, and at the age of 13, immigrated to the United States. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Jersey City State in 1975 and his J.D. from Temple University Law School in 1978. Mr. Linares began his exceptional career in law as the Examining Attorney at the New York Department of Investigation, where he supervised white collar crime and corruption. A short time later, he took a position as trial attorney with Horowitz, Bross, Sinnins & Imperial, P.A. In 1982 Mr. Linares founded his own firm, now called Partner, Linares, Coviello & Santana, which specializes in product liability. Mr. Linares has achieved numerous awards, honors, and memberships, including the Exxes County Bar Association Civil Trial Attorney Achievement Award; Essex County Ethics Committee; NJ Supreme Court Board on Trial Attorney Certification; past President of the NJ Hispanic Bar Association; Essex County Bar Vice Chair; New Jersey Association of Trial Lawyers; National Association of Trial Lawyers; and the NJ State Bar Association Products Liability Committee. Mr. Linares has earned this appointment through his lifelong pursuit of justice and his dedication to America and its laws. As a judge, he will serve with continued distinction and honor. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Jose L. Linares not only for his appointment to the Superior Court of New Jersey, but also for the wonderful example he has set for the Hispanic community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Church of the Incarnation on its 90th anniversary, which will be celebrated on Sunday, December 10, 2000. Founded in 1910, the Church of the Incarnation is celebrating ninety years of faith in God and community. The Church of the Incarnation held its first service on January 8, 1911, in a room rented from the Afro-American Women's Industrial Club for $6.00 a month. Although its beginnings were meager, its future would not be. Despite financial hardship, the congregation grew steadily, attracting members with the deepest faith and commitment. In June of 1928, the Church of the Incarnation held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new building. On December 24, 1928, the Church held its first service there. In 1971, the Church achieved ``Parish Status,'' and later established an award for the man and woman of the year. In order to become more involved in the community, the Church began to sponsor and implement community outreach programs and participated in community development projects, including after school and summer camp programs; the renovation of P.S. #18, which currently provides housing for low-income families; a ``Clothing Ministry'' for the poor; and a scholarship fund. ``Resurrection House'' opened for occupancy in 1992. In addition, the Church established a Sunday school and a men's chorus and youth choir, as well as a newsletter entitled ``Good News.'' The Church of the Incarnation merged with St. Mathew's and St. Stevens in 1997. Today, the three churches together are St. Augustine. A new church and community center will be completed in December 2001. Ninety years after its founding, the Church of the Incarnation proudly celebrates its history--a history that is a testament to the congregation's enduring faith and extraordinary commitment to God and community. Today, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the 90th anniversary of the Church of the Incarnation. This congregation's faith is a wonderful example for everyone.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today, I speak regarding a matter of great importance to my district and the entire State of New Jersey. New Jersey is confronted with an array of complex challenges related to the environment and economic development. However, one issue in particular, the overdevelopment of land, had become especially concerning because of the impact it is having on our watersheds and floodplains, as well as its resulting impact on economic activity. As many of my colleagues already know, this past August vast parts of northern New Jersey were devastated by flooding caused by severe rainfall. The resulting natural disaster threatened countless homes, bridges and roads, not to mention the health, safety and welfare of area residents. This flooding resulted in millions of dollars of damage, and area residents are still fighting to restore some degree of normalcy to their lives. While the threat of future floods continues to plague the region, one new Jersey institution is taking concrete steps to prevent another catastrophe. The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) has been studying the challenges posed by flooding and stormwater flows for some time, and is interested in forming a multi-agency federal partnership to continue this important research. NJIT is one of our state's premier research institutions and is uniquely equipped to carry out this critical stormwater research. The university has a long and distinguished tradition of responding to difficult public policy challenges such as environmental emissions standards, aircraft noise, traffic congestion, and alternative energy. More broadly, NJIT has demonstrated an institutional ability to direct its intellectual resources to the examination of problems beyond academia, and its commitment to research allows it to serve as a resource for unbiased technological information and analysis. An excellent opportunity for NJIT to partner with the federal government and solve the difficult problem of flood control has presented itself in the 2000 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The final version of this important legislation includes a provision directing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to develop and implement a stormwater flood control project in new Jersey and report back to Congress within three years on its progress. While the Corps of Engineers is familiar with this problem at the national level, it does not have the firsthand knowledge and experience in New Jersey that NJIT has accrued in its 119 years of service to the people of my district and state. Including NJIT's expertise and experience in this research effort is a logical step and would greatly benefit the Army Corps, as well as significantly improve the project's chances of success. Therefore, I urge the New York District of the Corps of Engineers to work closely with my office and NJIT to ensure the university's full participation in this study. By working together, we can create a nexus between the considerable flood control expertise of the Army Corps and NJIT, and finally solve this difficult problem for the people of New Jersey. I hope my colleagues will support my efforts in this regard.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Carmela Ascolese Karnoutsos for her dedicated service to the community of Bayonne, NJ, and for her exceptional contributions to the field of women's history. Today, Dr. Karnoutsos will be presented with the Volunteer of the Year Award at the Bayonne Historical Society's annual Holiday Dinner Dance. Dr. Karnoutsos graduated Magna Cum Laude from Jersey City University and received her Master's Degree and Ph.D. at New York University. She is currently Professor of History at New Jersey City University (NJCU), specializing in women's history and new Jersey history. She is the author of New Jersey Women: A History of their Status, Roles and Images (1997). At NJCU, Dr. Karnoutsos has served as the Chair of the History Department, as Chair of the Intercollegiate Athletic Council, and as a member of numerous committees, including the General Studies Coordinating Committee. Dr. Karnoutsos is a charter member of Bayonne Historical Society, Inc., and has been a trustee since its founding in 1990. She has spoken at many of the society's programs and events, edited and contributed articles regarding the city of Bayonne, and recently developed the society's web sight. In addition, she recently became a member of the Bayonne's Historical Preservation Commission, which was formed in 1999. As an important authority on the history of New Jersey, Dr. Karnoutsos presented the keynote address at the 125th anniversary of Bayonne in 1994; served as the moderator of the city's mayoral debate in 1998; and appeared in the video ``What is a Freeholder? An evaluation of the Role of County Government.'' Because of her dedication to the history of New Jersey women, Dr. Karnoutsos has made great contributions to the Women's Project of New Jersey, Inc., as associate editor of its publication Past and Promise: Lives of New Jersey Women (1990), and as a member of its editorial board. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Carmela Ascolese Karnoutsos for her exceptional contributions to the history of women and New Jersey, and for her selfless service to her community and country.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I bring to your attention one of the premier science museums in the nation, the Liberty Science Center (LSC) in Jersey City, New Jersey. The LSC has a unique mission to serve as an innovative, ``hands-on'' learning resource for the lifelong exploration of nature, humanity and technology. Its mission is to promote informed stewardship and lifelong interactive learning of the world for all ages. The staff members have extensive backgrounds in science and technology education. They work closely with regional school districts and educators in order to fulfill their goal of bringing the enjoyment of scientific discovery to children. The LSC has recently initiated a unique, visionary ``Partnership Program'' with 28 at-risk school districts in New Jersey. This program provides students with a challenging inquiry-based learning experience aligned with New Jersey State Core Curriculum Standards, as well as teacher training and opportunities that encourage the whole family to get involved in the education process. Since the Partnership's inception during the 1998-1999 school year, student participation has increased from 45,000 to 160,000. The New Jersey State Legislature has already appropriated $6 million to support expansion of the Partnership Program making the Science Center and the State of New Jersey a model for other partnerships between public school systems and private institutions everywhere in the United States. The LSC aims to complete a major infrastructure expansion project by the year 2005, so that even more at-risk students and families can reap the benefits of hands-on scientific learning. The museum seeks to emerge as a landmark destination in the region offering experiences that significantly advance the reach and impact of a complete science education both onsite, offsite and online. With this proposed expansion, LSC intends to provide an indispensable public service and remain broadly involved in the growth of Jersey City's diverse urban neighborhood as it begins a renaissance. I would like to call upon my distinguished colleagues to join with me in the next session of Congress to make the expansion of the LSC a priority on our legislative agendas. Our most precious resource is our children. Providing them with exciting educational opportunities to expand their horizons should always be a top priority of our nation's leaders, and I hope to continue this important work with my colleagues in the 107th Congress.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Henry Sanchez for his years of dedicated service to the community of Bayonne, New Jersey. Today, Mr. Sanchez will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Bayonne Historical Society's annual Holiday Dinner Dance. Henry Sanchez was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico and moved to New York as a child. In 1944, he joined the United States Navy and served in World War II. For his courageous service to our nation and the world, he was awarded medals from the governments of the United States, France, and Taiwan. In 1950, Mr. Sanchez began work for the Bayonne Naval Supply Depot, later named the Military Ocean Terminal (MOT). Between 1950 and 1997, he served in leadership positions at MOT, and with the United States Air Force. These positions included Supervisory Transportation Assistant, Deputy Commander of the USAF's Water Port Logistics Office, and Deputy Director of the Personal Property Directorate at the Eastern Area Military Traffic Management Command. In recognition of his hard work, dedication, and leadership, Mr. Sanchez has received many awards, including the U.S. Air Force Meritorious Civilian Medal and the Army Civilian Award for Humanitarian Service. Mr. Sanchez has also selflessly given his time to many other important causes and organizations. He has served as member, chairman (1989), and Grand Marshal (2000) of the Bayonne Memorial Day Committee; Chair of the F.A. Mackenzie Post #165 of the American Legion blood bank; Post Commander of the Disabled American Veterans; member of Catholic War Veterans #1612; member of the board of directors of the United Way of Hudson County; Red Cross volunteer; local baseball and softball umpire; and recently, Commissioner of the Bayonne local Redevelopment Authority, which is responsible for redevelopment of the Military Ocean Terminal. He is also a parishioner of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. Mr. Sanchez has four children, ten grandchildren, and seven great- grandchildren. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Henry Sanchez for his years of exceptional service to country and community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Jay B. Bloom, Executive Director of Brand New Day, Inc., for his outstanding contributions to community development and low-income housing. In appreciation of his service to the community, Brand New Day is honoring Mr. Bloom at its 15th Anniversary Celebration, entitled ``Renewal of Our Commitment to Elizabethport.'' A graduate of Columbia Law School, Jay B. Bloom has lived in and around New Jersey all his life. After law school, Mr. Bloom established a law practice specializing in real estate and municipal law. Four successful decades later, he retired. With the knowledge and experience he gained through the years, and with the desire to help those in need, Mr. Bloom joined Brand New Day (BND), a charitable non-profit community development organization that provides affordable housing for community members in the Elizabethport area. BND acquires and rehabilitates existing structures and purchases land for the construction of new affordable housing developments. BND also sponsors and coordinates community outreach programs. As the Executive Director of BND, Mr. Bloom developed and implemented a comprehensive neighborhood revitalization program. Under his leadership, BND has revitalized and constructed numerous rental units and homes for low-income community members. Today, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Jay B. Bloom and Brand New Day for their unparalleled contributions to community development and for their generous and compassionate service to the residents of Elizabethport, New Jersey. As a community leader, Mr. Bloom is an inspiration to all of us.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kostas Mastoras for his outstanding contributions to the Greek community. The Greek Orthodox community will honor Mr. Mastoras at the 65th Anniversary of Evangelismos Tis Theotokou. The parish has chosen to commemorate the event with a special presentation entitled ``Remembering Our Past . . . Looking to Our Future.'' Born and raised in Kavala, Mr. Mastoras moved to Thessaloniki with his mother soon after his high school graduation to attend Aristotle University. Before graduating from the Department of Economics, he met fellow student Stavroula Papadopolou, whom he married in 1980. Mr. Mastoras moved to New York to further his education in 1976, earning a Bachelor's Degree from Queens College and an MBA in International Marketing from St. John's University. As the Director of Marketing for Krinos Foods, Inc., Mr. Mastoras had the opportunity to learn the grocery business and to work closely with the Greek community. In 1982, Mr. and Mrs. Mastoras founded their own company, Titan Food, Inc., dedicated to Greek food and culture. Today, Titan Foods has become the largest Greek food store in the United States, attracting the attention of the national media. Blessed with three daughters, both Mr. and Mrs. Mastoras are active members of the Greek-American community and the Financial Committee of the Education of Hellenic Societies, and are involved in the PTA of St. Demetrios Schools. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Kostas Mastoras for his many years of dedicated service to the Greek community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Patricia L. McGeehan for her exceptional contributions to the education of New Jersey's children. For 30 years, she has provided for their educational needs as a teacher, principal, and superintendent. Dr. McGeehan received her Bachelor's Degree in Economics from the College of Saint Elizabeth, and her Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Seton Hall University, where, in 1997, she went on to complete her Doctorate in Education/Administration. As Principal of the Midtown Community School from 1992 to 2000, Dr. McGeehan helped develop the school's curriculum, and provided meaningful guidance and support to enhance every student's educational experience. In 1995, she developed the Stevens Institute Partnership to provide students with the technological skills required to succeed in the new economy. For her dedication, vision, and hard work, Dr. McGeehan has received numerous awards, including the New Jersey Star School Award, the National Blue Ribbon Award, the National Elementary School Principals Honor Council Excellence Award, and the New Jersey Principals' Harvard Project Case Writing Award. Dr. McGeehan's commitment to community does not stop at the end of the school day. She generously serves on the Board of Trustees for the Bayonne Hospital, the St. Barnabas Burn Center, and the Simpson-Baber Foundation for the Autistic. In her spare time, she participates in Ireland 32's, the Friends of the Bayonne Community Orchestra, and the activities of the Holy Family Academy. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Patricia L. McGeehan for her hard work and dedication on behalf of our community, and for her extraordinary contributions in the field of education.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Jules J. Bonavolonta, this year's recipient of the North Ward Center's Monsignor Geno Baroni Award. The North Ward Center provides educational, cultural, and social programs to improve the quality of life for thousands of Essex County residents. Each year, the Center pays tribute to the life of the late Monsignor Baroni, a man whose dedication to the less fortunate was an integral force behind the Center's development and success. The Center honors the Monsignor by recognizing a community leader, who best exemplifies the life, spirit, and commitment of this inspirational man. Mr. Bonavolonta was chosen as the honoree this year based on his service to the country in the military, his contributions to the fight against crime, and his rise to success in the business world. A native of Newark, New Jersey, Mr. Bonavolonta grew up in the Essex County Parish of Sacred Heart Cathedral. He is the son of Italian immigrant Ralph Bonavolonta and American-born Mary Bonavolonta. He attended St. Benedict's Prep and received his Bachelor's and his Master's Degree in Public Administration from Seton Hall University in 1975. During more than six years of service as a Green Beret in the U.S. Special Forces during the Vietnam War, Mr. Bonavolonta returned to the U.S. a highly decorated veteran. He was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star with ``V'' for Valor (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Purple Heart, Air Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. Upon Mr. Bonavolonta's return, he began his 23-year career of exceptional and dedicated service to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In this capacity, he spearheaded the efforts to combat organized crime in this country. As Chief of the Organized Crime and Narcotics Division of the FBI's New York City Office, he was instrumental in securing the indictments and convictions that made the 1980's the FBI's most successful decade in the battle against organized crime. Mr. Bonavolonta now serves as Vice Chairman of MBNA America Bank, N.A. He and his wife Linda have been married for 32 years. They have two children, Maria and Joseph. For his many accomplishments and for his service to the country, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Bonavolonta, a very deserving recipient of this year's Monsignor Geno Baroni Award.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fred Hassan, the recipient of the 2000 Global Citizen Award from the School of Diplomacy and International Relations at Seton Hall University. Fred Hassan is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of Pharmacia Corporation, a pharmaceutical company created by the merger of Pharmacia & Upjohn and the Monsanto Company. Mr. Hassan, a native of Pakistan, received his Bachelor's Degree in chemical Engineering from the Imperial College of Science and Technology at the University of London in 1967 and his Master's of Business Administration from Harvard Business School in 1972. At Pharmacia, Mr. Hassan and his management team have established a global organization dedicated to improving health and wellness around the world. Under Mr. Hassan's leadership, Pharmacia collaborates with government, academia, and the private sector to address global challenges in the fields of health care, science, and nutrition. To meet these challenges, Pharmacia, the United Nations Population Fund, and The world Bank created the ``Save the Mother's Fund'', a program that works to improve obstetric care in order to reduce maternal mortality rates in childbirth. In addition, Pharmacia has partnered with the World Health Organization's European Project on Tobacco Dependence to reduce tobacco-related death and disease among cigarette smokers in Europe. Mr. Hassan has set an excellent example for other business leaders around the world; to be successful in the business world, while also helping to improve the lives of our fellow global citizens. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Fred Hassan and Pharmacia for their outstanding commitment and contributions to global health and development.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Belinda Cuevas of Perth Amboy, New Jersey for being recognized by the Puerto Rican Association for Human Development as ``an outstanding community member'' and ``an outstanding human being.'' Born and raised in Perth Amboy, she has demonstrated a continued commitment to her community through her work with the local school and church. She has served as President of the Parent Teachers Organization at the EJ Patten School, and has served as a catechist and member of the choir at La Asuncion Church for a number of years. In her devotion to the community, Belinda strives to live up to the inspirational example of her late grandmother Balbina DeJesus Hernandez. The mother of four, Belinda knows the importance of setting a good example for her children, Ava Ivis, Gabriela, Alexander, and Emily Janet. She does her best to teach them the importance of service to the community and love for one's neighbors. Recently, Belinda performed an extraordinary act of kindness when she donated one of her kidneys to save the life of a fellow Perth Amboy resident, Pedro ``Pete'' A. Roman. When she learned that he suffered from renal failure, she demonstrated remarkable kindness and selflessness by volunteering to be tested as a donor, and eventually donating her kidney. Pete received this gift of life on July 13, 2000 at the Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, and both patients have since recovered and returned to work. It is certain that Belinda's exceptional generosity has changed the lives of Pete and his family forever. For her service to the community of Perth Amboy as well as her unparalleled show of compassion and selflessness, I ask my colleagues to join me in praising Belinda Cuevas as a truly extraordinary member of the community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rafael Toro on being recognized by the Puerto Rican Association as the Outstanding Community Leader of the Year. Rafael Toro, whose parents immigrated from Puerto Rico, is a native of New York City. He graduated from Northeastern University with a Bachelor's Degree in Communications and from Cambridge College with a Master's Degree in Education. Shortly after graduation, Mr. Toro was selected to serve as the Special Assistant to the Mayor of Boston, the Honorable Kevin White, where he led the Mayor's Hispanic Advisory Board in a coordinated effort with local organizations to empower Boston's Hispanic community. For his work with the Advisory Board, Mr. Toro received the Certificate of Excellence for Outstanding Contribution to the Hispanic Community from Governor Michael Dukakis and an award for outstanding achievement from Senator Edward Kennedy. In 1985, Rafael Toro was hired as the Director of Public Relations for Goya Foods, Inc., the Nation's largest Hispanic-owned company, to oversee public affairs, media relations, community activities, cultural programs, and corporate contributions. In addition, he supervises all Goya-sponsored special events, parades, and festivals. Mr. Toro has been instrumental in implementing several community and cultural activities, including the United Negro College Fund Annual Telethon, a Goya-sponsored, multi-city concert tour, and Goya's sponsorshp of Picasso at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 1993, Mr. Toro was awarded the prestigious Roy Wilkins Humanitarian Award from the NAACP. Today, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Rafael Toro for his contributions to the Hispanic community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a great man and a genuine leader whom we lost one week ago today: Henry B. Gonzalez. Henry B.--as his friends affectionately knew him--was a pioneer who came from the most humble beginnings. His parents, Mexican immigrants, raised him in San Antonio's West Side in a home with dirt floors and no running water. He experienced discrimination and segregation firsthand during his childhood and youth in Texas. He defied all odds by putting himself through college, serving his community while at the San Antonio Housing Authority, and later in San Antonio's City Council. He went on to serve as a Texas state senator-- the first Texan of Hispanic-descent to do so in over 100 years. He later achieved another first, becoming the first Mexican-American to serve the state of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives. Throughout his nearly 40-year congressional career, Henry B. served with distinction--always faithful to his morals and beliefs--and as a true Texan--with courage and determination. He was a tireless advocate of the poor and the disenfranchised in our country, and always carried in his heart a special place for the people of his hometown of San Antonio. He was instrumental in the dismantling of segregationist laws in Texas while in the state senate; he led the restructuring of our nation's financial services industry during the S&L crisis as Chairman of the House Banking Committee; and he championed projects and initiatives that brought economic development, access to healthcare, and jobs to his beloved San Antonio. Beyond Henry B.'s political and legislative accomplishments, he served as a role model for two generations of aspiring leaders. Scores of Texans--young and old, public servants and corporate leaders, Democrats and Republicans--can point to Henry B. as their inspiration and role model. His accomplishments were our accomplishments; for this we all owe him a debt of gratitude. There's a popular Mexican dicho that states: El que da camino es por que ya andubo, which means: ``He who makes a path does so because he has walked it.'' Henry B. blazed a path--not just for Hispanic leaders, but for all leaders, by having the courage to be the first. Henry B.'s life was a fulfillment of the American Dream--it illustrates the greatness of America and the potential that is in each and every one of us, regardless of skin color, national origin, or economic background. I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to my friend, Charlie Gonzalez, his family, and the people of San Antonio--you are in my prayers. I hope you will find comfort in that Henry B. lives on in the legacy he has bequeathed to all of us. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring our friend, Henry B.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Andreas Comodromos for his outstanding contributions to the Greek community. The Greek Orthodox community will honor Mr. Comodromos at the 65th Anniversary of Evangelismos Tis Theotokou. The parish has chosen to commemorate the event with a special presentation entitled ``Remembering Out Past . . . Looking to Our Future.'' Mr. Comodromos, the former Supreme President of the Cyprus Federation of America, was born on the island of Cypress in 1949, where he was raised by his parents in the Greek Orthodox faith. There, he attended high school and performed his compulsory military service before gaining employment with the Cyprus offices of the American Life Insurance Co. Mr. Comodromos and his wife, Anna Zachariades, had their first child, Eliza, in 1974, the same year Turkey invaded Cypress. To realize a better life for himself and his wife and son, Mr. Comodromos and his family immigrated to America, where he could pursue a college education. In the United States, they became members of the Evangelismos Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox communitry, and in 1978, Mr. Comodromos graduated Magna Cum Laude from St. Peter's College with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. In the following years, Mr. Comodromos celebrated the birth of his second child, Demitrios, while working at the international accounting firm Ernst & Ernst. In 1982, he became a CPA and co-founded the accounting firm of Comodromos Associates with his brother Michael. He is currently the president and managing partner. In addition to his impressive professional and personal achievements, Mr. Comodromos has served the community through is firm commitment to the cause of justice in Cyprus. He is dedicated to liberating the island from Turkish occupation. He has served on the board of the Cyprus Federation of America, and was elected president for two consecutive terms (1991-1995). Mr. Comodromos has been recognized for his contributions with several awards and honors, including the 1978 Newcomen Society of America Award, election to the National Council of the Order of St. Andrew, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and the Offikion Archon Dikaiophylax Award. Mr. Comodromos currently serves as the President of the US-Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Council of Hellenes Abroad of the North and South American Region. He is a member of the Order of AHEPA, the American Institute of CPAs, and the New Jersey Society of CPAs. Mr. Comodromos is actively involved in various business and political endeavors, and continues his commitment to community service at the local and national level. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Andreas Comodromos for his many years of dedicated service to the Greek community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I also want to congratulate the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Chairman Shuster), to congratulate the gentleman from New York (Mr. Boehlert), the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), our ranking Democrat, and the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Borski) for working together to bring this bill in the late stages of this Congress. It is an incredibly important piece of legislation which has been crafted which has been critical to help our country's waterways. The country needs this legislation to improve our ports, our channels, our waterways and our environment. We also need it to reduce flooding, increase our competitiveness, and create more jobs. That is why it is critical to pass this Water Resources Development Act. Now, this legislation could not arrive at a more critical time for the Port of New York and New Jersey, which generates 180,000 jobs and $20 billion of economic activity. That is because right now in my own home district where the Port of Elizabeth and Newark, which is really where the greatest activity within the port region resides, our port is beginning to handle more traffic and cargo. It is creating more jobs. But without the authorization for deeper channels contained in this bill, all of this recent growth is in jeopardy. Deepening the port means more trade and commerce with a better environment. Not deepening the port means commerce, goods and, most importantly, jobs generated by the port all being shipped to Canada. Consumers in the New Jersey, New York metropolitan area would have to pay more to get goods to their shelves. Now, I am concerned the conference report does not include a provision giving the local sponsor of the Port Jersey Channel deepening credit for the work it has done and will do prior to the signing of its final agreement. But I plan to work with my colleagues to pass this provision before we adjourn. In the past, WRDA has contained important provisions on sediment decontamination, the beneficial use of dredge material, and environmental dredging. That is because we know that commerce and the environment are not mutually exclusive issues. They are interdependent concerns that determine the quality of life for our constituents. So we can deepen the port of New York and New Jersey in an environmentally responsible way. I look forward to continuing to work with the committee to make sure that growth takes place in the days ahead.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate my colleague, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Holt), for his leadership in offering this motion, a motion that recognizes that the Nation's competitive future in a global marketplace depends on how well this and the next generation are educated. Since the Nation's competitive future is at stake, there is clearly a Federal role to play, and a defined Federal role. We Democrats are not as pessimistic as the view that many of our Republican colleagues have expressed here. No, this may not be all of the money necessary to rebuild all of our schools, but it is a beginning to use as a leverage for States, municipalities, school districts to join in that effort and to stimulate local resources in that regard. Since we are talking in terms of our competitive future at stake in terms of education, it is appropriate that the Federal government say, ``We want these monies used for these purposes in order to stimulate schools and municipalities to follow in that effort.'' If we leave it wide open to discretion, they may not very well use it for school construction. Across the country we tell children education is a value, and then we send them to schools that speak of a totally different value, like the South Street School in my district, a school built 115 years ago as a factory, a school that today is a school, a school that has no hallways. One walks up a flight of stairs, goes into one classroom off the landing on one side, the other on the other side. There are no technology connections to the future, no blackboards we can read. There are temporary units, 20 years ago they were temporary, still being used today. How do we educate a child under that set of circumstances? What the gentleman from New Jersey is trying to say is since the Nation's competitive future is at stake by how well educated these kids are, we need to be able to have a defined Federal purpose. Lastly, I keep hearing we have an agreement. We keep having Members say, ``We do not agree on Davis-Bacon, we do not agree on flexibility.'' That is not an agreement.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Diane Johnson, who has been a dedicated public servant, working tirelessly to implement housing programs and promote community development across the State of New Jersey. As the housing director of Mt. Carmel Guild, Newark, Diane Johnson was responsible for publicly funded housing programs for low- and middle-income families, which placed over 150 families in jobs or training programs, enabling many families to purchase their first homes. Mrs. Johnson has worked for the New Jersey Office of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) since 1972, during which time she has held a variety of leadership positions, such as director of the Housing Management Division, deputy office manager, and acting office manager. In 1994, President Clinton appointed Mrs. Johnson as a HUD State Coordinator. Her duties included overseeing a staff of 126 employees, and administering HUD funds and $300 million of HOPE VI grants. Mrs. Johnson also manages one of our Nation's largest housing and community development portfolios, and she is HUD's representative to New Jersey's congressional delegation, Governor, and State legislature. Mrs. Johnson is the chairperson of the Federal Executive Board of Northern New Jersey; vice chair of St. James Prep School; vice chair of Newark Federal Kids-Care, Inc.; member of the board of trustees of the United Way of Essex & West Hudson; and member of the board of trustees for the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. In recognition of her hard work and dedication at HUD and her community service, Diane Johnson has received many distinguished service award certificates, proclamations, and commendations from the New Jersey congressional delegation and a variety of State agencies, community groups, and professional associations. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Diane Johnson for her hard work at HUD, and for her years of service to the State of New Jersey, where she has helped build houses, develop and revitalize communities, and change lives for the better.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Celia Cruz, ``the queen of salsa,'' one of the greatest singers of salsa music, who has entertained audiences around the world for five decades. Celia Cruz has mesmerized audiences for five decades with her exceptional singing talent and her wonderful charisma. She has been one of the single greatest influences on salsa music, recording more than 70 albums, and receiving more than 100 awards, which included a Grammy in 1989 following twelve nominations. In addition, she has been honored with stars and street sections in some of the world's most visited avenues, such as the Walk of Fame in Hollywood and the Calle Ocho in Miami. Celia has also received honorary degrees from Yale, Florida International University, and the University of Miami. Celia began her illustrious career in Cuba in the late 1940s, and joined the legendary group La Sonora Matancera in the early 1950s. After several successful recordings, the group's music was in demand beyond the borders of Cuba. In 1960, Celia left Cuba for the United States, where her career blossomed and where she became a household name. During her first decade in the United States, she recorded several albums with the great Tito Fuente, and together they captured the hearts of nontraditional fans of salsa, a phenomenon known as ``the Salsa of the 70s.'' Celia has also collaborated with other great Latin artists, including Johnny Pacheco, Willy Colon, and la Fania All Stars, as well as great American artists, such as Dionne Warwick, Patti Labelle, David Byrne, Gloria Estefan, and Wyclef Jean. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Celia Cruz--a great artist and entertainer, and a salsa icon.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the National Association of Cuban-American Women (NACAW) for promoting excellence and achievement for minority women. NACAW's philosophy and focus has helped create the support that is essential for building a strong community. With an understanding that the individual is the building block for the success of every community, NACAW has provided excellent support and guidance for Cuban- American women, and for the community as a whole. In pursuit of its goals, NACAW has developed a comprehensive agenda: to work with other women's organizations to develop a strong national platform in response to common concerns; to serve as a forum for Cuban-American women and other minority women to ensure their participation and representation in national organizations; to increase awareness of education and career opportunities for Cuban-American women and other minority women; to promote participation of Cuban-American women in Hispanic community service activities; and to accurately portray the characteristics, values, and concerns of Cuban-American women. Since its founding, NACAW has sponsored a variety of important programs: NACAW's Educational opportunities Center disseminates information about post-secondary programs, scholarships, and financial aid sources. NACAW sponsors an annual awards ceremony that honors outstanding Cuban-American leaders, as well as leaders outside of the community, who have contributed to the advancement of Hispanics. In order to maintain the tradition of ``Dia de los Reyes Magos'' (``Feast of the Epiphany''), NACAW has sponsored a number of toy- collection campaigns for disadvantaged children. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the National Association of Cuban-American Women for their contributions to the Cuban-American community and to the lives of minority women.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, my colleague, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Foley), talked about immigrants; but the bill the Republicans blew up had nothing to do with immigrants. And I would hope that we would stop using immigrants on this floor as a scapegoat for Republican inability to get their business done. You spoke about the President. John Podesta, his chief of staff is here, Jack Lew, the people who negotiate directly are here; and they have the authority to make a deal. And they are ready to do it and they made a deal and you broke it. Now, after 3 days of no negotiations with Democrats on education, Republicans and Democrats met Sunday night and they worked out a landmark education bill that included full funding towards 100,000 new teachers, teacher training, after-school programs, a $1.3 billion school construction and school modernization program and, yes, safety for workers on the job. It was a package Democrats could be proud of because it addressed the most pressing needs of local communities; and it promised to help our public schools lift them up, help our parents and our children. And less than 12 hours later, as we heard, you blew up the bipartisan agreement out of the water. Apparently you rejected the worker safety provisions because business lobbyists told you they would not have it that way, and maybe you did not like the increased education funding that we had finally agreed on together when it went to your leadership. Bipartisanship requires keeping your word, and it starts with a majority that controls the agenda of this House, and I would remind Governor Bush that if he wants to have some bipartisanship call the majority, pick up the phone, we can get this business done, and tell your party's leaders, here in the House and in the other body, to start getting to work on behalf of the American people. You have produced the most dysfunctional Congress in memory. The New York Times just reported that this is the latest the Congress has ever met since post World War II for the latest adjournment date, and on Halloween. This is the ultimate trick on the American people and it is the ultimate treat to big business. Announcement by Speaker Pro Tempore

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, since I have seen my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have an affinity, I would even have to say a proclivity, to quote the President's words, I would like to refer to the statement he made as it relates to the bill that is being considered for referral to committee, the bill that he vetoed. He said, ``We are now a full month past the end of the fiscal year, and just a week before election day. Congress still hasn't finished its work. ``There is still no education budget. There is still no increase in the minimum wage. There is still no Patients' Bill of Rights or Hate Crimes Bill, or meaningful tax relief for middle class Americans. ``Today, I want to talk about an appropriations bill that Congress did pass. The Treasury-Postal Bill funds these two departments, as well as the operations of Congress and the White House. Last night, I had no choice but to veto that legislation. I cannot in good conscience sign a bill that funds the operations of Congress and the White House before funding our schools. ``Simply put, we should take care of our children before we take care of ourselves. That's a fundamental American value, one that all parents strive to fulfill. I hope the congressional leadership will do the same. We can, and we will, fund a budget for Congress, but first let us take care of the children.'' I agree with the President. Simply put, how is it that we would hold ourselves up as an institution and the White House that they are worthy of being funded when we have a whole host of vital issues, some of which the President recited himself, that simply are not being funded and will likely not be funded before the American people go to vote next Tuesday? He goes on to say, ``We thought we had a good-faith agreement with honorable compromises on both sides,'' with reference to the landmark budget for children's education. ``That was before the special interest weighed in with the Republican leadership. And when they did they killed the Education Bill.'' I agree with the President. Let us put our people before ourselves.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Olga Chorens and Tony Alvarez (``Olga and Tony''), two very special and talented entertainers, who have been in show business for six decades. Olga and Tony began their careers as singers in Cuba during the early 1940's. When they married in 1945, their celebrity status turned the wedding into a popular social event. After the wedding, Olga and Tony went on a 5-year tour through Latin America, which began in Panama and ended in Argentina. Upon returning to Cuba, they were offered the opportunity to host a daily 1-hour television and radio program for CMQ and Radio Progreso, which they did with great success from 1951 to 1959, while also recording many successful albums. Because of their popularity, Olga and Tony were named Miss and Mr. Cuban Television. Olga and Tony fled communist rule in Cuba for New York City and Puerto Rico, where they again performed on television. From 1965 to 1972, they performed on Telemundo, Channel 7, Channel 11, and WNJU Channel 47 in New York. For the past 20 years, Olga and Tony have lived in South Florida, where they maintain a large fan base and where their voices can be heard every Saturday morning on Radio Mambi. They also star on ``El Show de Olga y Tony,'' which airs twice a week on Tele-Miami. In 1999, they were awarded a Star on the ``Calle Ocho'' Walk of Fame. As entertainers, Olga and Tony have always promoted family values. They have been married for 55 years, and their parents and children often participated in bringing family-based entertainment to the television audience. Today, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Olga Chorens and Tony Alvarez for entertaining so many for so long, and for being inspirational role models to Hispanics throughout Latin America.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from Florida, my dear friend, says he is amazed at what he sees on the floor. So am I. The title of this legislation is the St. Croix Island Heritage Act. But Republicans have to use this legislation in order to fix their sloppy, inefficient, incompetent form of legislating that has been brought to the floor. It is Republicans ramming through legislation, and I am so glad to hear Governor Bush talk about bipartisanship. He needs to make a phone call to the majority of his party here to talk to them about creating bipartisanship, because it is ramming through the legislation without even talking to Democrats that caused, in part, a major mistake, leaving minimum wage workers without protection for 6 months. Mr. Speaker, thank God for Democrats who pointed out to the Republican majority the error which today they seek to fix. It is Democrats who fought for the minimum wage increase, bringing Republicans kicking and screaming to this issue. And who, in fact, are here today fighting once again not only for the working men and women to fix that mistake, but also to fix the mistake they have made on our hospitals, urban, rural, and teaching hospitals, to ensure that all in the community will have the access to the services they provide. Mr. Speaker, we deserve to fix the mistakes not only on the minimum wage, but we also deserve to fix the mistakes that Republicans have made in reference to our hospitals. They allowed, through their errors, through their process, and through ramming it through, to leave the lowest wage earners subject to the corporate excesses of the marketplace. Now they would leave our hospitals to be ravaged by the corporate excesses of the HMO. That is something we cannot tolerate. It is not something working men and women can accept. And that is why we must defeat the previous question. Give us an opportunity to save our hospitals, and, yes, to save the working men and women of this country who were left exposed.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Dominick Condo and Dr. Salvatore LaPilusa, who are being honored by the Sicilian Citizens Club as ``2000 Men of the Year'' at the 73rd annual dinner- dance celebration. On Saturday, October 28th, two of New Jersey's most talented and dedicated physicians will be honored for their contributions to medicine, to the health of the residents of the City of Bayonne, and to philanthropic causes. Dr. Dominick Condo, whose parents, Domenico and Rosa Condo immigrated from Calabria, Italy, was born in Jersey City, New Jersey on August 13, 1954. Dr. Condo was raised in Bayonne, New Jersey, where he practices medicine today. In 1975, he received his B.A. from St. Peters College; studied medicine at the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, Mexico, graduating in 1980; and performed his medical internship and residency at St. Michael's Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey. Dr. Condo is an attending physician of internal medicine at Bayonne Hospital in New Jersey. He is a member of the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians, and the American College of Geriatrics. Dr. Condo was named the Hudson County Physician of the Year in 1994, and was recently named one of the 100 Best Doctors in the New York Metropolitan area in New York Magazine (7/99). Dr. Salvatore LaPilusa, the son of Sicilian immigrants, was born in Bayonne, New Jersey. He received his B.A. from the University of Notre Dame and his medical degree from Loyola Medical School in Chicago. Dr. LaPilusa received his orthopedic training at New Jersey Medical Center and Iowa University. After serving in the Korean War, he returned to America to start his own practice, and was certified with the American Board of Orthopedics. Dr. LaPilusa was married to Lorrine McNally, a nurse at the Jersey City Medical Center, with whom he had a son, Richard. When his wife lost her battle with cancer, Dr. LaPilusa founded the Lorrine McNally Pavilion, in order for cancer patients to remain close to home for treatment. In addition, he started a scholarship fund at the University of Notre Dame, which currently provides support for 15 students. Dr. LaPilusa also volunteers his time and skills in developing countries, such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Bhutan. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Dominick Condo, and Dr. Salvatore LaPilusa, the Sicilian Citizens Club's ``2000 Men of the Year.'' They are truly exceptional physicians and dedicated community leaders.