Bob Menendez

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Orlando Edreira for his life-long commitment to education. Dr. Orlando Edreira has been a symbol of learning since his days as a student in Cuba during the 1950s and 1960s. It was then that he decided to make the study of language and the education of others his life's work. His decision was based on a true understanding of the value of language and the freedom it provides. Dr. Edreira began his career as an educator in 1966, when he became an instructor in the Department of Spanish at Columbia University. In 1968, he joined the faculty of Kean College of New Jersey as an assistant professor in the Department of Foreign Languages, where he has been an integral part of the faculty ever since, and where he became as associate professor in 1972 and a full professor in 1977. As a member of the faculty at Kean College, Dr. Edreira served as the Coordinator of the Bilingual Education Program from 1971-1972, and the Chairperson of the Department of Foreign Languages from 1974 to 1986. He has served as the Director of the Spanish Speaking program since 1972. In addition, Dr. Edreira has made important contributions to program development, faculty development, and student development at Kean College. He is a member of the Committee on Academic Concerns of Hispanic Students; a member of the Language Laboratory Committee; and a member of the Committee on Academic Support for Hispanics. He also initiated and coordinated faculty training programs for faculty of the Spanish Speaking Program, and developed and directed In-Service Training Programs for Bilingual Teachers in the State of New Jersey. I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Dr. Orlando Edreira for his lifetime commitment to education and for the support and guidance he has provided Hispanic students.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John ``JJ'' Johnson, recipient of the New Jersey AFL-CIO Labor Award for the year 2000. The AFL-CIO Labor Award is given to extremely dedicated individuals, who have made enduring contributions to the labor movement. John Johnson became active in the labor movement in 1960, when he organized the Peter Pan factory in East Newark, New Jersey. In 1975, Mr. Johnson co-founded Local 617 of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), which elected him executive vice president, a position he held for 23 years. Today, Local 617 represents approximately 3,500 employees, making it the largest public employees local of the Service Employees International Union in the State of New Jersey. Mr. Johnson's hard work and dedication have been a major factor in the growth and success of Local 617. In 1996, Mr. Johnson was elected to the Executive Board of the Services Employees International Union, AFL-CIO, CLC, becoming the Union's first African American official to serve in that capacity. The Service Employees Union is the third largest union in the AFL-CIO, with a membership of 1.3 million. In addition, Mr. Johnson serves as a board member of the Public Sector Division and the Political Committee of SEIU; was elected president of the SEIU New Jersey State Council; was appointed to the board of the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, CLC; and was elected president of Local 617. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring John ``JJ'' Johnson for his enduring contributions to the labor movement.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I regret that some would use fear, would use the darkest shadows that might exist within our society, would use false statements to try to describe something that is basic justice. I guess Governor Bush's compassion does not extend to his party here in the majority in Congress. What we seek in this legislation, that is not here, is three simple common sense justifiable public policy immigration issues. They are: one, during the 1980s, the INS wrongfully denied, under U.S. law, thousands of persons who could have legalized their status to do so. And that is universally recognized. That injustice of the government should not be on the backs of those families but should be on the back of a government that unjustifiably, illegally denied them their opportunity to adjust their status. So we look to right that wrong. We hear a lot about family values. Well, that is what 245(i), which was the law of the land, stripped away by the Republicans in their last immigration bill, seeks to accomplish. We simply seek to restore that which was the law of the land and say that U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have family members here in the United States and who, under existing immigration law, have the right to adjust their status, should not be ripped apart and sent back while they are waiting to legalize a status that they have every right to accomplish. We should preserve families, and that is a family value. And lastly, during the Reagan-Bush era, we conducted wars in Central America in promotion of democracy. And we told those people that they would have a place here while those wars raged. Now we seek to turn our backs on them instead of giving them the same right that this Congress gave to Nicaraguans and Cubans. They deserve the same rights. This is not about a blanket amnesty. This is about fairness and justice in helping taxpaying law-abiding individuals who have made their families here in the United States. And the Latino community is watching as to what this Congress does on these votes.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the 75th anniversary of Union City, NJ, the city I love, the city that allowed me to enter public service, and the city I proudly serve to this day. Since it was founded on June 1, 1925, Union City has become home to people of varying ethnicity, many of whom made the difficult journey from their native land to build a new life in America, the land of opportunity. As a result, Union City represents the best of America, reflecting the melting-pot diversity that contributed to our Nation's great success. Union City's 75th anniversary is a wonderful time to celebrate the history and future of a city whose culture is so rich in diversity. Union City's ethnic makeup includes Germans; Italians; Irish; Armenians; Puerto Ricans; Cubans; South Americans; Central Americans; Haitians; Asian Indians; Koreans; and Arabs; as well as many others. With a population of approximately 60,000 individuals, living and working in 1.4 square miles, Union City is an amazing example of diversity in harmony. The residents of Union City proudly share their experiences, and I am proud to have had the opportunity to share my life with them. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 75th anniversary of Union City.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, we heard a few minutes ago that truth has been a victim in this election. I would submit that it has been a victim today on this floor. The fact of the matter is it was Democrats and Democrats alone that passed the votes for the President's deficit reduction program that brought us the first balanced budget in a generation and now the Federal surpluses that we argue about on this floor. That is a good argument to have, but let us not forget that the truth of the matter is not one Republican in this House, not one Republican in the Senate, was willing to make the difficult decisions on the deficit reduction program that President Clinton put forth. I have never seen how the majority that runs both this House and the other body can claim that it is the responsibility of the minority to be able to achieve that for which they control the entire legislative process of this House and the other body. I do not know where in America the majority does not run and rule, and the majority in this House is a Republican majority. Now we have had the whole year to finish our budgetary work, and we have not. We Democrats want to stay here and work until we complete the important business of the people. The real purpose of this continuing resolution, which by the way is a one-page resolution for which the date is changed so it is not that complicated to have it on a daily basis to keep the pressure to make us complete the people's business, is not to help America's working families; it is to allow Republican Members to go home and avoid a battle of public opinion they know they will lose. Now Governor Bush keeps talking about bipartisanship. Well, I hope he makes some phone calls here to the House and to the other body where his party rules, because we want bipartisanship, too; but that does not mean abdicating our principles and letting one do simply what they want. We believe that we will have bipartisanship, but not at the expense of reducing class size for our children or giving children the modern schools they deserve or hiring 100,000 qualified teachers. There are some battles we are fighting, some principles worth going to the mat to defend. For me, for Democrats, educating our children and giving our seniors a secure and decent retirement, are just those kinds of principles, the right principles for America. Governor Bush keeps talking about bipartisanship. But look at what Republicans cannot accomplish when they control both Houses of Congress. They cannot pass a strong Patients' Bill of Rights; they cannot pass a Medicare prescription drug benefit for all seniors; they cannot provide class size reduction legislation for our children; they cannot pass campaign finance reform to preserve our very democracy; and that is the failed record, in part, of this Republican Congress. And they want the presidency too. If the Republican majority cannot get a budget done at the height of prosperity, how can you govern when tough decisions have to be made? To my colleagues on the other side, I say it is time to stop the delaying and get the work done. Working families need our help now, and if Republicans cannot provide the leadership to do so, we Democrats are more than ready to take the reins and get the job done: pass a strong Patients' Bill of Rights; pass a prescription drug program under Medicare; pass an education process that raises standards, but helps reduce class size; modernize our schools and provide for technology connections; ensure that we pay down this debt over the next 12 years; and have tax cuts for working families. That is an agenda. If we had been working together, we could get it done. That is an agenda that your Members are campaigning upon. That is an agenda we have been fighting for.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCC). SHCC has had a tremendous impact on the development and growth of the Hispanic community across the state of New Jersey, and I commend SHCC's many invaluable contributions. Because of the hard work of SHCC, as well as that of other organizations, the Hispanic market is the fastest growing sector in the United States. In New Jersey, the Hispanic market has experienced 87 percent growth over the past decade. Currently, there are over 30,000 Hispanic-owned businesses, supporting 128,000 jobs, and generating 7.5 billion dollars in sales. At the dawn of the new millennium, the Hispanic community is experiencing economic and political empowerment. The new economy and the political landscape would not be complete without the contributions of Hispanic Americans. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey for its contributions in empowering Hispanics across the State of New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Olga Alvarez, anchorwoman and reporter for Univision (Channel 41 in NYC). Ms. Alvarez has made it a priority to keep Latinos well informed about current events and news that affects their community, empowering them to participate fully in American society. For her contributions to broadcast journalism, the National Association of Cuban Journalists in Exile will pay tribute to Ms. Alvarez at an event on Sunday, October 15, 2000. Olga Alvarez was born in Havana, Cuba and was raised in Puerto Rico. Her parents were musicians, who regularly performed on live television. As a child, Ms. Alvarez was influenced greatly by her parents' television performances, making television her favorite medium. Ms. Alvarez began her career as a production assistant and producer, working on projects that included documentaries and video news releases produced in the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. During this time, Ms. Alvarez was a correspondent for Telemundo's ``La Buena Vida,'' a program highlighting the accomplishments of Latinos. In addition, she worked as a segment producer for the daily magazine show ``Club Telemundo,'' developing and writing stories regarding medicine, family relations, and important community issues. At Univision's WXTV 41, Ms. Alvarez began as a writer and later became a reporter, hosting the station's community service program and reporting tri-state area news on ``Despierta America.'' In 1997 and 1998, Ms. Alvarez was awarded the ``Latin A.C.E.'' from the New York Latino Entertainment Reporters Association. In 1999, Ms. Alvarez won an Emmy for ``La Clave De La Salsa,'' a series on the history of salsa music. In addition, she was awarded First Plaque in the New Jersey Associated Press Broadcasting Association Awards, and second place in the New Jersey Press Awards. Recently, she received an Honorable Mention from the Associated Press for ``Regalo De Vida,'' a series on the importance of liver donation and transplantation. Today, I honor Olga Alvarez for her extraordinary career in broadcast journalism, and I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring her.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I honor three recently retired police officers, who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting Jersey City, New Jersey. Lieutenant Eugene Canfield, Detective Joseph Lopez, and Police Officer Angel Maldonado retired on September 1, 2000, after exceptional careers as law enforcement officers. During their careers, these fine officers held one principle foremost in their minds: namely, that residents of Jersey City need and deserve a safe community. Lieutenant Eugene Canfield began his career as an officer with the Jersey City Police Department on September 11, 1976. He is the recipient of two excellent police service awards and one police commendation. Lieutenant Canfield served in Operations (Patrol Division); Special Patrol Bureau; Central Communications Bureau; and the Field Leadership and Training Unit. Lieutenant ``Gene'' Canfield was not only an exceptional police officer, but also a talented actor, playing Al Pacino's chauffeur in ``Scent of a Woman.'' Detective Joseph Lopez began his career as an officer with the Jersey City Police Department on September 11, 1976. He is the recipient of eight excellent police service awards, two commendations, the class ``E'' award, and a unit citation. Detective Lopez served in the East District Patrol; the Car Pound Administration; the Special Investigations Unit, the Auto Theft Squad, and the North District Detective Division. Police Officer Angel Maldonado began his career with the Jersey City Police Department on February 23, 1981. He is the recipient of four excellent police service awards and two commendations. Officer Maldonado served in the Detective Squad; the Juvenile Bureau; the West District Patrol; and the East District Patrol. I commend these officers for their courage and commitment, and I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring them today.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Herb B. Siperstein, recipient of the Humanitarian Award from the New Jersey Department of Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the U.S. This award is bestowed on those exceptional individuals, who have consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the fight against bigotry and discrimination. Herb Siperstein was born on October 6, 1923, in Jersey City, New Jersey. After high school graduation, he began fulltime-work for the family business, Siperstein's paint store. Siperstein's was founded by his parents, Nathan and Lottie. From 1943 to 1945, Mr. Siperstein served in the 7th Infantry in World War II. As a Jewish American soldier, Mr. Siperstein served with exceptional courage and valor. In the process of defending his country and fighting against the worst aggression the world had ever seen, Mr. Siperstein received numerous accommodations: the Bronze Star Medal; the Good Conduct Medal; two Bronze Arrowheads; six Campaign Stars; the Presidential Unit Emblem; the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal; the Combat Infantry Badge; the Expert Infantry Badge; the Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII; and the French Fourragere. After the Second World War, Mr. Siperstein returned to the family business, and as the president, he has seen Siperstein's Paint and Wallpaper grow and prosper. Today, there are seventeen stores in New Jersey and six new stores in Connecticut and Massachusetts. Herb Siperstein has given back to the community in a profoundly caring fashion, including financial support for local churches, temples, and schools. In addition, the Sipersteins have made extremely generous donations to their community, resulting in an auditorium at B'nai Jacobs and a Library at St. Peter's Preparatory School. Mr. Siperstein has also received many awards from civic organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League's David H. Litter Humanitarian Award and the New Jersey Department of Jewish War Veterans' Humanitarian Award. Last year, the Mayor of Jersey City, Bret Schundler, declared October 12th, Herb Siperstein Day in recognition of his contributions to the community. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Herb B. Siperstein for his unparalleled contributions and commitment to our community.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Holy Family High School, as it celebrates Reunion 2000. On October 7, 2000, many of Holy Family's alumni will attend a reunion to celebrate the school that guided them through their formative years and prepared them for future success. Holy Family High School was founded in the late 1800s, and was known as Columbia Business School. In the early 1920s, Franciscan nuns and priests took stewardship of the school, changing its name to Holy Family. They dedicated their lives to providing support and guidance, creating an environment that facilitated learning. Because of the exceptional education Holy Family provided, many of its students had the opportunity to go to college. The closing of Holy Family High School in 1972 was a sad moment for everyone who had been a part of its history, and sad moment for the community. However, with this reunion, Holy Family's alumni share their memories and experiences, their triumphs and difficulties. In so doing, they breathe life back into their school and their childhood. Today, I honor Holy Family High School and the students who passed through its halls on the way to realizing their dreams. And I ask my colleagues to honor them, as well.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to be an original cosponsor of this resolution, and I congratulate Mr. Neal for authoring it. With this Sense of Congress, we commend the parties to Northern Ireland's peace process for their achievements to date. But, we also call on the British Government to come to its senses on the issue of police reform. All the parties deserve praise for the progress they have made so far. The Good Friday Agreement stands as a remarkable achievement and the best hope for lasting peace in Northern Ireland. The seating of Northern Ireland's new executive, alongside the power sharing Assembly, was a crucial step towards solidifying peace and democracy in Northern Ireland. Also critical were IRA steps towards disarmament. Weapons decommissioning is one of the two most pressing and sensitive issues facing Northern Ireland. The other is police reform. Without full implementation of the recommendations for police reform made by the Patten Commission--a commission called for in the Good Friday Agreement--a full peace will remain elusive. Common sense calls for the name of the police force--the Royal Ulster Constabulary (and I cannot imagine a more British-sounding name than that)-- to be changed. And for the membership in the police force--now 93 percent Protestant and a scanty 7 percent Catholic--to be formed more equitably to reflect the near even population split in the community. Mr. Speaker, we are once again at a perilous point. The answers lay in moving forward to full implementation of the Good Friday accords--to pull participatory, accountable and representative government and rule of law in Northern Ireland--not in stagnation and trepidation. Vote today to support this important resolution.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, when Republicans shut down the government, that was not a bipartisan act. This continuing resolution the Republicans are requesting is an admission of failure, a failure of the partisan ways Republicans run this House and their failure to do the people's business. While the Republican leadership has spent its time scheduling extremist bills that they know have no chance of becoming law, there are real people with real problems that this House should be addressing. Their leadership does a good job of ensuring that the political needs of the Republican Party are being met while the needs of working Americans everywhere are ignored. True to form, the Republican leadership has ignored our Democratic call for a Patients' Bill of Rights. They have ignored our call to give seniors universal prescription drug benefits under Medicare. They have ignored the call to modernize our Nation's schools. They have ignored our call to reduce class sizes for our children. They have ignored our call to hire 100,000 new highly qualified teachers. They have ignored our call to raise the minimum wage for hard-working pressed families. They have ignored our call to pass a comprehensive campaign finance reform bill. Mr. Speaker, Republicans are in the majority here. They run this House, and they have failed. The American people should know where we stand. We Democrats in Congress stand ready to work together to pass these bills and build an even stronger, better Nation, and Republicans have blocked our efforts to bring these issues to the floor and address these critical issues at each and every turn. If they could lead, they would have accomplished these priorities. But they cannot lead; so, instead, they come here today with a continuing resolution asking for yet more time to finish work on a budget that in 5 days will be past due. They should be ashamed of their inaction and the price America's seniors and children and working families pay every day for their failure to act.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the North Ward Center on its 30th anniversary. For 30 years, the North Ward Center has been an invaluable asset to Essex County, New Jersey. By providing a variety of important social services, the North Ward Center has improved the lives of thousands of Essex County residents. Through educational, cultural, and social programs, the North Ward Center has empowered low-income families and families on welfare, providing them with the tools necessary to take full advantage of all that America has to offer. The Center helps promote self-sufficiency and assists in neighborhood revitalization, building better and stronger communities. In addition, the North Ward Center provides exceptional pre-school, elementary, and middle school education for young people, enabling them to learn essential skills for setting and achieving future goals. Through after-school development and recreation programs, the Center works very hard to develop compassionate and productive young adults. It also assists senior citizens with vital services, such as transportation to medical appointments and grocery stores. At every level, The North Ward Center serves the community--leaving no one behind. Its Child Development Center is one of New Jersey's best pre-school programs; its Youth Development Program serves over 3,500 young people annually, providing a comprehensive approach to personal development, peer mentoring, and physical activities through organized sports; its Academy for Life Long Learning provides a high tech, adult basic skills program and is a statewide model used by the governor; and its Youth and Family Outreach program provides important development and support initiatives to help prevent family disintegration. The extraordinary success that the North Ward Center has achieved is attributable to many factors, especially to the hard work and dedication of Executive Director Steve N. Adubato. He is the Center's spiritual leader and guiding force. Under Steve's leadership, the North Ward Center has changed the face of the North Ward and improved the lives of its residents; for that, I extend my deepest gratitude. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring The North Ward Center for all it has done for the families of Essex County, especially Newark, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge Goya Foods, Inc., and its CEO Joseph A. Unanue, for contributing the company's historical archive to the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History. The Goya Collection will further the public's education in important and unique ways, illustrating not only Goya's history, but also representing the histories of the thousands of enterprises started by new immigrants and their contributions to America. The Goya Collection tells the story of how this company, which was founded in 1936 by Spanish immigrants Prudencio Unanue and his wife, Carolina Casal de Unanue, has come to occupy its present position as the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the U.S. The Goya Collection, including scores of photographs, calendars, sales promotional materials, cookbooks, recipes, product labels, scrapbooks and news clippings, is now housed at the National Museum of American History's Archives Center and its Division of Cultural History. This collection, the first from a Hispanic-owned business, is a significant addition to the Smithsonian Institution's holdings. It affords researchers and the public the opportunity to learn not only about the growth of a Latino enterprise, but to see how Latino culture has enriched American history. The Goya Collection tells more than the story of one company--it also chronicles an important Chapter in the living history of the Hispanic community in the United States. Today, I ask that my colleagues join me in acknowledging Goya Foods' wonderful donation to the Smithsonian.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Cathy Gonzalez for winning the United Way's Congresswoman Mary T. Norton Memorial Award. The award, which was initiated by United Way of Hudson County in 1990, recognizes those who exhibit a deep commitment to human service as exemplified by Congresswoman Norton during her 13 terms in the House of Representatives (1925-1950). The Congresswoman was a forward-thinker who advocated for government action to help address issues we are still grappling with today, such as day care, fair employment practices, health care for veterans, and inclusion of women in high levels of government service. Cathy Gonzalez is the vice president of Human Resources for the Pershing Division of Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation. In her role at Pershing, Mrs. Gonzalez is responsible for leading many of the firm's community relations efforts. She works with the Jersey City Board of Education to provide meaningful school-to-work opportunities for local students. Under her leadership, employees of Pershing participate in a variety of charitable activities. Ms. Gonzalez is vice chairperson of the United Way of Hudson County and vice president of the Board of Managers of the Hudson Unit of the American Cancer Society. She has received recognition from Gateway II, Van Vorst Block Association, Ferris High School, and New York Blood Services. Pershing, a leading provider of global correspondent financial services to over 650 financial institutions, moved its corporate headquarters to Jersey City in 1989. Pershing has established an outstanding relationship with the community by actively practicing its corporate value of social responsibility. Ms. Gonzalez was born and raised in Jersey City, NJ. She holds a master's degree in health administration and began her career working for Christ Hospital, where she initiated volunteer efforts in the community. Cathy Gonzalez embodies the life work of Congresswoman Mary T. Norton. On behalf of my colleagues in the House of Representatives, I congratulate her for her outstanding service to the community and for carrying on the work of Congresswoman Mary T. Norton.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Carol Viola for winning the United Way's Congresswoman Mary T. Norton Memorial Award. The award, which was initiated by United Way of Hudson County in 1990, recognizes those who exhibit a deep commitment to human service as exemplified by Congresswoman Norton during her 13 terms in the House of Representatives (1925-1950). The Congresswoman was a forward-thinker who advocated for government action to help address issues we are still grappling with today, such as day care, fair employment practices, health care for veterans, and inclusion of women in high levels of government service. Carol Viola has been the cornerstone of support in the Executive Office of the United Way of Tri-State since 1991. The Tri-State United Way conducts the single largest annual workplace campaign in the nation for the benefit of people in need. She began working at Tri-State just four yours after it was formed, and she has served the organization's three most recent presidents: Calvin Green, Betty Beene (a 1990 recipient of the Mary T. Norton Award and now President of United Way of America), and Douglas Wams. Ms. Viola has fulfilled the important responsibility of maintaining and coordinating relationships with United Way of Tri-State's key constituents and stakeholders. These individuals include CEOs and senior executives of Fortune 100 Companies, influential labor leaders and prominent community leaders who serve as Governors and volunteers of Tri-State, and 31 Chief Professional Officers of the participating local United Ways. Through her commitment to excellence and to people, Carol has provided the support that enabled many busy executives to give their time and talents to United Way and those it serves. Ms. Viola has been happily married to Joe Crum for 13 years. She manages her mother's household and is active in her church, professional women's organizations, and neighborhood nonprofit organizations. Carol Viola embodies the life work of Congresswoman Mary T. Norton. On behalf of my colleagues in the House of Representatives, I congratulate her for her outstanding service to the community and for carrying on the work of Congresswoman Mary T. Norton.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Guttenberg Housing Authority for 50 years of dedicated service to the public. To commemorate a half-Century of serving the community of Guttenberg, the Housing Authority will hold its 50th Anniversary Jubilee on September 16, 2000. The Guttenberg Housing Authority was founded on April 5, 1950, and the first residence, Guttenberg Towers, was completed in 1952 and renamed Joseph P. Macaluso Towers in 1966, after the late executive director. Centennial Towers, the second residence, and Golden Gardens, the third, were completed in 1960 and 1961, respectively. The final residence, Herman G. Klein Towers, was completed in 1961 and is the only senior citizen building. From 1966 to 1981, John R. Macaluso served as the executive director, followed by Robert F. Sabello, who served until 1994. Currently, the executive director is Barbara J. Venezia. In order to provide meaningful support for its residents, the Housing Authority has implemented programs such as the Residents' Initiative Program, which consists of computer training for residents and an after-school program for children. The Housing Authority is not only dedicated to continuing such programs, but to expanding them, as well. Today, the Guttenberg Housing Authority serves 450 families, in 251 public housing units, utilizing 199 Section 8 Certificates and Housing Vouchers. On behalf of my colleagues, I congratulate the Guttenberg Housing Authority for its exceptional and compassionate service to the families of Guttenberg, New Jersey.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Justice Marie Garibaldi for winning the United Way's Congresswoman Mary T. Norton Memorial Award. The award, which was initiated by United Way of Hudson County in 1990, recognizes those who exhibit a deep commitment to human service as exemplified by Congresswoman Norton during her 13 terms in the House of Representatives (1925-1950). The Congresswoman was a forward-thinker who advocated for government action to help address issues we are still grappling with today, such as day care, fair employment practices, health care for veterans, and inclusion of women in high levels of government service. Justice Marie Garibaldi was the first woman to serve on the New Jersey Supreme Court, the State's highest court. She was also the first woman to serve as president of the New Jersey State Bar Association, and as director of the State Chamber of Commerce, New Jersey Bell Telephone Co., and the Washington Savings Bank. Justice Garibaldi was a Trustee of St. Peter's College, Honorary Trustee of the National Organization of Italian American Women, and a founding member of the Executive Women of New Jersey. She is the recipient of several awards from her alma maters, including the Medal for excellence from the Columbia University School of Law. She has received Honorary Doctor Degrees from St. John's University Law School, Seton Hall University Law School, and Drew University; and Honorary Doctor of Humanities Degrees from Upsala College, Caldwell College, College of Saint Elizabeth, and Saint Peter's College. In her honor, the American Inns of Court Foundation established The Justice Marie L. Garibaldi American Inn of Court for Alternative Dispute Resolution. Justice Garibaldi retired from the Court on February 1, 2000. Since her retirement, she has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Crown Cork & Seal Company, Inc., and the National Italian American Foundation. Justice Marie Garibaldi embodies the life work of Congresswoman Mary T. Norton. On behalf of my colleagues in the House of Representatives, I congratulate her for her outstanding service to the community and for carrying on the work of Congresswoman Mary T. Norton.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Puertorriquenos Asociados for Community Organization (PACO) on its 30th anniversary. PACO is a non-profit organization in Jersey City that has served communities throughout New Jersey for 30 years, Since 1970, PACO has provided assistance with education and vocational training, job placement, housing, health services, emergency food and shelter, youth and elderly programs, and medical insurance. By providing a variety of essential social services, PACO has made valuable contributions to the welfare of Jersey City residents, as well as to residents throughout New Jersey, insuring that the people who need it most receive a helping hand. Today, this organization has every reason to celebrate. Because of years of selfless dedication and hard work, PACO has greatly improved the quality of life of many of our fellow citizens. I commend PACO and its dedicated staff for all they have done for the residents of New Jersey. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing PACO and all its success.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the victims of the Katyn Forest Massacre, sixty-one years after the horrible tragedy. On September 17, 1939, Poland was invaded by Soviet-Russian troops. At the time, Poland was boldly and courageously fighting an invasion by Nazi Germany. Because Polish troops were over extended fighting the Germans, they were unable to stop the communist troops. In an area called the Katyn Forest, Soviet troops proceeded to murder Polish soldiers from all branches of the military, as well as justice and administrative officials. An estimated 21,000 died. This horrible tragedy is known as the Katyn Forest Massacre. On September 16, 2000, at 12:00 PM, the Polish American Congress, the Katyn Forest Massacre Memorial Committee, and the Siberian Society of Florida will sponsor a memorial service in Jersey City, New Jersey, in honor of the victims. Today, I honor the victims of the Katyn Forest Massacre. I commend them for their courage and sacrifice. They fought against terrible aggression; and they not only fought for their own freedom, but for the world's freedom, as well--freedom that many of us enjoy today. I ask that my colleagues join me in remembering the victims of the Katyn Forest Massacre. And I ask that we also honor their sacrifice for freedom.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Armando Talavera for his career as a sports commentator, covering Major League Baseball for Spanish language radio. Mr. Talavera was born in Caracas, Venezuela. He currently lives in Queens, New York, with his wife, Linda, and his two children, Carlos and Adrianne. He began his career as a sports commentator in 1972, and has covered the All Star Game and World Series since 1975. He has also covered New York Mets and Yankees baseball, the NBA finals, the past 11 Super Bowls, Major League Soccer, the World Cup, and the Caribbean World Series. Because of his exceptional abilities, Mr. Talavera was hired by WADO Radio (1280 AM) in 1993, and has been an integral part of the station ever since. He covered sporting events initially, and later was the host of a four-hour talk show called ``WADO Deportivo.'' For his contributions to journalism, and for his service to Hispanic Americans, I commend Mr. Talavera. I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring him today.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Housing Authority of Union City, New Jersey, celebrating a half-century of providing affordable housing to area families. The 50th anniversary of the Union City Housing Authority is a wonderful cause for celebration. However, the real celebration lies in the extraordinary success the Authority has achieved in community building, which has led to its recognition as one of the top performing housing authorities in the nation. This success has been accomplished through a clear understanding that building houses alone will not build communities. Compassion, hard work, dedication, and solid planning are the heart and mind of the Union City Housing Authority, and it is this heart and mind that builds prosperous communities. When people envision public housing, they do not envision communities that provide for the spiritual and social needs of residents. Most picture dismal, neglected houses, empty streets, and residents disconnected from the mainstream. Public housing has changed because we have changed. For many years now, the Union City Housing Authority has had a different vision of public housing; and today, that vision has touched countless lives, satisfying for many the age-old need for a real home--not just a shelter from the harsh elements. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me as I honor the Union City Housing Authority for its extraordinary success at providing affordable housing, establishing communities, and changing lives.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor EII, Inc., at the Bayway Infenium Chemical Plant, located in Linden, New Jersey, for its exceptional employee safety and health programs. EII, Inc.'s recent approval for participation in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) is a testament to a company that puts the well-being of its employees above the careless and irresponsible desire to increase profits at all costs--rare behavior at a time when profits often seem more important than people. EII, Inc. is an electrical contractor providing maintenance and process support at the Infenium Chemical Plant, a VPP Star for five years running. EII, Inc.'s employees, all represented by their respective trade unions, include electricians, pipefitters, millrights, and carpenters. Each employee has been incremental in OSHA's evaluation and approval of EII, Inc. OSHA's recognition of EII, Inc. is the result of a special relationship that has developed between management and employees, a relationship established by the management's commitment has to the safety and health of the hard working men and women at EII, Inc. In addition, EII, Inc. is the only electrical contractor to receive VPP approval, with less than 20 construction companies participating nation-wide--only two of which are in New Jersey. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me as I honor EII, Inc., a company that truly understands the safety needs of its employees, and a company that puts people before profits.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor EII, Inc., at the Linden Business and Technology Center, located in Linden, New Jersey, for its exceptional employee safety and health programs. EII, Inc.'s recent approval for participation in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) is a testament to a company that puts the well-being of its employees above the careless and irresponsible desire to increase profits at all costs--rare behavior at a time when profits often seem more important than people. EII, Inc. is an electrical contractor providing maintenance and process support at the Infenium Linden Business and Technology Center. EII, Inc.'s employees, all represented by their respective trade unions, include electricians, pipefitters, millrights, and carpenters. Each employee has been incremental in OSHA's evaluation and approval of EII, Inc. OSHA's recognition of EII, Inc. is the result of a special relationship that has developed between management and employees, a relationship established by the management's commitment has to the safety and health of the hard working men and women at EII, Inc. In addition, EII, Inc. is the only electrical contractor to receive VPP approval, with less than 20 construction companies participating nation-wide--only two of which are in New Jersey. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me as I honor EII, Inc., a company that truly understands the safety needs of its employees, and a company that puts people before profits.

Mr. MENENDEZ

Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Mr. Michael Virgil, Special Agent in Charge of the Caribbean Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), for all of his achievements on behalf of the United States and to congratulate him on such a noteworthy and honorable career. Since joining the DEA in 1973, Mr. Vigil has continuously put himself in harms way to protect this country. Through his numerous foreign and domestic assignments, Mr. Virgil has made a career of fighting drug traffickers and drug cartels both here and abroad. As the Assistant Country Attache in Mexico City, Mr. Virgil oversaw the intelligence and enforcement operations. He also led the efforts of the Northern Border Response Force, a multi-agency program responsible for the seizure of more than 140 metric tons of cocaine and more than 2,000 arrests in a five-year period. In addition, Mr. Virgil spearheaded the development and implementation of Operation Triangle, Operation Unidos, Operation Unidos II, and Cobra. In each of these programs, Mr. Virgil sought to create relationships between Mexico and other Central American countries to seal of drug-trafficking activities in Mexico. Throughout his twenty-seven year career with the DEA, Mr. Virgil's dedication and service have not gone unnoticed. Mr. Virgil has been the recipient of numerous performance and achievement awards, including the Administrator's Award for Exceptional Service. Mr. Virgil graduated with honors from the New Mexico State University, with a Bachelor's degree in Police Science and Criminology. For his almost thirty years of dedicated duty in fighting the threat that drugs pose to our society, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking and honoring Michael Virgil.