Frank Pallone

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 10:30 a.m. tomorrow for morning-hour debate.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on concurring in the Senate amendments to H.R. 5712.

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee). (Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. PALLONE. I yield the gentlewoman another 30 seconds.

Mr. PALLONE. I yield myself such time as I may consume. You know, Madam Speaker, I was very upset to hear the gentleman from California because I thought, for once--and it's very rare around here--as I heard the gentleman from Oregon suggest that he was supporting this bill, that we finally had some bipartisan support and some Republican support for the SGR doctors' fix; but now I listen to the gentleman from California, and he starts suggesting that somehow the Democrats are to blame. Well, let me suggest that the opposite is true. Back in November of 2009, about a year ago, the Democrats in this House passed a permanent fix. We wouldn't be here today if that legislation had been supported by the Republicans. To his credit, only one Republican--Dr. Burgess, who is a member of my Health Subcommittee--did, in fact, support it, but he was the only one. It is the Republicans' fault that we are constantly dealing with these short- term fixes, because they don't want to take care of the doctors. They don't want to resolve this, and they refused to come to the table and resolve it with us while we were in the majority. I don't want to go into it too much today because I know there is support on the Republican side of the aisle for this 60-day fix, until December 30; but in talking about the Democrats when the Republicans are the reason we are here today because they would not support the permanent fix and make it so that we didn't have to constantly go back to the table, I think it is totally inappropriate for the gentleman of California to lay blame when, in fact, it is his own party that is to blame. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the balance of my time on the majority side be controlled by Representative Stark of the Committee on Ways and Means.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Naval Weapons Station Earle (NWS Earle) based in Colts Neck, New Jersey as they celebrate the 235th Anniversary of the United States Navy. NWS Earle covers 10,160 acres and promotes a long-standing history of aiding the country in combat. I applaud the work, achievements, and dedication NWS Earle has provided the U.S. Navy, local community, and State of New Jersey. Long before the beginning of the Second World War, officers in both the Army and Navy saw the need to establish a base for loading explosive ammunition. NWS Earle is strategically located in the Port of New York, a focal point for all important rail lines throughout the country. Thus, construction for the Naval Ammunition Depot Earle--named in honor of Rear Admiral Ralph Earle, Chief of the Bureau of Ordnance during the First World War, began on August 2, 1943. Naval Ammunition Depot Earle was later commissioned on December 13, 1943. The south side of Sandy Hook Bay in the Leonardo section of Middletown was strategically chosen for the new Naval Ammunition Depot Earle, quickly becoming the focal point for ordinance shipping, loading the majority of ammunition used by the allies for the invasion of Normandy. In 1974, Earle's name was officially changed to Naval Weapons Station Earle. NWS Earle has tirelessly provided the U.S. Navy with a safe location to house their materials and equipment. Today, the primary mission of the Naval Weapons Station Earle remains the receipt, storage, segregation and issuance of ordinance for all Carrier and Expeditionary Strike Groups of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, which includes the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Department of Defense conventional ammunition requirements. Naval Weapons Station Earle currently houses a combined workforce of over 1,600 civilian, military and contractor personnel. They are home to over 20 tenant units where they also support over 250 military personnel and dependents in their housing. It is the hard work of the people employed at NWS Earle that make it possible for the station to run smoothly and efficiently. Most recently, Naval Weapons Station Earle has provided its assistance as the Department of Defense transshipment site for ordnance used in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. NWS Earle and staff have tirelessly devoted their time to the community, epitomizing what it means to give back in time of need to protect our country. Madam Speaker, please join me in leading this body in acknowledgement of the extraordinary contributions of NWS Earle. The station is a valued component of the State of New Jersey, and I am honored to recognize them today.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize St. Michael's Church in Long Branch, New Jersey as the parishioners celebrate the 125th Anniversary. St. Michael's Church has a rich and formidable history of serving the needs of the community. Historically noteworthy, St. Michael's main altar was given in memory of Mr. Francis Anthony Drexel, banker and great philanthropist of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Drexel and his family summered at West End. His daughter, Mother Katherine Drexel, was the founder of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. She was later canonized as a saint of the church on October 1, 2000. Mother Katherine Drexel decided to enter the Religious Life while residing in parish territory. The mosaic in her honor can be found in the vestibule of the Church. Originally formed as a ``mission church'' in 1886, St. Michael's was an extension of the Star of the Sea Church in Long Branch, New Jersey. However, members of the church community soon saw the need to expand and serve a growing population. By 1892, St. Michael's relinquished its status as a mission church and became an independent entity. Reverend Richard Crean served as the church's first pastor. Since then, St. Michael's Church has been served by many accomplished priests. Today, Reverend Charles B. Weiser leads the members of the St. Michael's Church and gathers a vibrant community where members passionately practice the Catholic faith. St. Michael Church's original parishioners were predominantly the Irish Catholic. Today, the parish reflects a diverse ethnic population located throughout Long Branch and Monmouth County. Often referred to as a ``metropolitan church'', the congregation has continued to welcome new members and the St. Michael's Church family has grown exponentially in the past years. Madam Speaker, please join me in leading this body in acknowledging St. Michael's Church as the parishioners celebrate their 125th Anniversary. The St. Michael's community is tremendously valued in my district and the State of New Jersey.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the ministry of Reverend Linwood D. Rouse, Pastor of Macedonia Original Freewill (OFW) Baptist Church in Piscataway, New Jersey. For 26 years, Reverend Rouse has served as a pillar of his church and community. His rock-solid faith and commitment toward helping others deserves recognition. Reverend Rouse, the second of eight children born to David and Lorraine Rouse, moved to New Jersey from his birthplace of Washington, D.C. in 1963. He is a graduate of the Dr. Howard Anderson Interdenominational School of Divinity Southern Baptist Seminary Extension and Philadelphia Biblical University, from which he holds a degree of Associate of Biblical Studies. Starting out as an organist and choir director, he soon was made a church trustee. He eventually found himself called to minister. After his first sermon in June of 1978, he was licensed to preach at Macedonia OFW, was ordained on October 19th, 1979, and in 1984, became pastor. For over two decades, Reverend Rouse has served his community with a diligence, steadfastness, compassion, and faith that is inspirational. He has worked tirelessly as an advocate for his church, securing building space for the schooling of his congregation's youngest members. Under his care, numerous community programs have grown, such as the Horns of Joshua, a youth outreach program that targets children and families going through times of crisis. And he was the creator of Caring Hand of New Jersey Inc., which serves as a Bible School and includes a Child Care Program. He is a board member of the Piscataway Township Board of Ethics, vice president of the Middlesex County Board of Ethics, president of District Union No. 1 of Central Jersey, and a board member of Piscataway Township's Turn-on Youth Coalition. His other positions in the community include Chaplin of the Holmes Marshall Vol. Fire Co., chaplain and then delegate of the National Police Defense Foundation, member of United Chaplin International, treasurer of the Middlesex Central Baptist Association of New Jersey, Inc., and member of the Singing Pastors of Piscataway. Madam Speaker, I sincerely hope that my colleagues will join me in recognizing Reverend Rouse's work. His supporters and friends will be honoring his 26th Pastoral Anniversary on Sunday, October 10, 2010. Let us join them in acknowledging and honoring the values his life of service shows.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the life of Mrs. Shirley Keenan Dill. Mrs. Dill, an active member of her community, passed away on January 16, 2010 at the age of 81. She was a model citizen and adored by her colleagues. Her faithful dedication and commitment toward others is unquestionably worthy of this body's recognition. Mrs. Dill was a lifelong resident of the Parlin section of Sayreville, New Jersey. She was predeceased by her three sisters, Claire Glinsky, Evelyn Szarvas and Joan Dooling and by two brothers, George and William Keenan. Surviving are her husband Homer Dill and daughter and son-in-law Sandi and Wayne Krainski. She also had three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Mrs. Dill attended Our Lady of Victories School and is an alumna of Sayreville War Memorial High School. Proud to represent her Irish heritage, Mrs. Dill was recognized for her role as the Welcome Home Queen in 1946 following World War II. Mrs. Shirley Kennan Dill has an exceptional record of community service. Mrs. Dill served as President of the Sayreville Lady Dems for eighteen years. Throughout her life, she also worked on numerous political campaigns, most notably that of former Governor Jim McGreevey. She was best known for making the campaigning process fun and organized unique events such as pep rallies and parades. Similarly, she also led the Democrats to organize multiple volunteer efforts, many of which benefited terminally ill children. Mrs. Dill was also involved with the Sayreville Historical Society, Sayreville Senior Citizens Thursday Club, Middlesex County Federation of Democratic Women and the New Jersey State Federation of Democratic Women. Mrs. Dill was best known for her wit and standing up for what she believed in. She is remembered as an individual who poured her heart and soul into the community and was best known for advocating on behalf of the people of Sayreville. Her persistence served as motivation to other women interested in pursuing political opportunities. Mrs. Dill's hard work has undoubtedly touched many lives and has helped countless people throughout central New Jersey. As a result of her exceptional work, Mrs. Dill was the recipient of the Peg Roberts Award from the New Jersey Federation of Democratic Women. This award is presented to an individual who promotes the Democratic Party and is involved with government and volunteering. Mrs. Dill was the first woman from Middlesex County to be bestowed with this honor. Madam Speaker, Shirley Keenan Dill dedicated her life to community activism and her actions have touched the hearts and minds of countless men, women and children. Her legacy has served as an inspiration to us all and she will be truly missed.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. William Blake, a World War II veteran and resident of Edison, New Jersey. Mr. Blake will be honored with the Medal of Chevalier in the French Legion of Honor by the Consul General of France, Mr. Philippe Lalliot for his brave actions during combat. Mr. Blake's courageous actions in combat are deserving of this body's recognition. Mr. Blake served as a corporal with the United States Army from April 14, 1944 to June 11, 1945. During this time, Mr. Blake displayed valor and bravery. He began as a tank driver with the 2nd Armored Division. As tensions in the region began to grow, in June 1944, Mr. Blake's division was deeply entrenched in the Battle of Normandy, specifically fighting in the Cotentin Peninsula. His heroic actions resulted in the liberation of Carentan. By July 1944, Mr. Blake and his brothers in arms were heavily engaged in Operation Cobra. Subsequent combat missions included the Battle of the Bulge, before his unit was finally stationed in Schonebeck, Germany until July 1945. Mr. Blake's valiant efforts to defend our nation during World War II are noble and highly commendable. As a result of his courageous efforts, Mr. Blake was awarded the Silver Star Medal. This honor is the third-highest military decoration for valor awarded to a member of any branch of the Armed Forces. Mr. Blake is also the recipient of a Purple Heart. Today he is being honored with the Medal of Chevalier in the French Legion of Honor. His nomination to the position of Chevalier in the Legion d'Honneur was approved by French President Nicolas Sarkozy. The Chevalier of the Legion of Honor is the highest military distinction awarded by France. Madam Speaker, please join me in leading this body in congratulating Mr. William Blake as he receives this prestigious award. His dedication to this country serves as a shining example of what bravery and determination can accomplish.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ranney School in Tinton Falls, New Jersey as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. Ranney School continues to promote academic excellence and encourages a well-rounded education, as well as the development of the student's intellectual, personal, creative and moral promise. Ranney School founder, Mr. Russel G. Ranney's visions have remained the foundation for the school's small class sizes, curriculum choices, student life activities and campus building expansion. Twelve years after opening the Rumson Reading Institute, Ranney School was founded with seven students and three full-time teachers. College preparation was the main focus of the curriculum. By 1963, Ranney School's increasing student body created the need for an Upper and Middle School, located at Trinity Episcopal Church in Asbury Park, New Jersey. In 1965, Ranney School proudly conferred diplomas on the first class of graduates, which also included Ranney School's first National Merit finalist. Ranney School soon moved to its current location on Hope Road in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Renovations at the new location included work on the Annex, formerly utilized as a horse barn, and included the addition of the Searle Library and a science lab. A multi-purpose lunchroom, study hall and play area were built to further develop the theater arts program and accommodate the 375 enrolled students and 41 teachers. In 1974, Ranney School became accredited by the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools and National Association of Independent Schools. Between 1975 and 1979, the facility, currently known as the Gerhard Pavilion for Athletics, was constructed to provide a recreation center for students. Enrollment soon reached an impressive 549 students and plans for a full-service summer camp, to begin the summer of 1979, were later announced. In April 1987, Mr. Ranney passed away, leaving behind a firmly established and well respected institution. The Commons Building, which completed its construction on April 10, 1987, served as a fitting tribute to Mr. Ranney's life and work as an innovating educator and visionary. Margaret Mahon succeeded Mr. Ranney and served as Head of School until 1993. During her tenure, Ranney School achieved a number of ``firsts,'' including the establishment of the Ranney School Parents Association. In 1993, Dr. Lawrence S. Sykoff assumed the position and currently presides as Head of School. Dr. Sykoff's vision has been to create an environment for every student to include a wide range of educational opportunities. The launch of the Foundations for Learning campaign further confirmed Dr. Sykoff's commitment to the future development and enhancement of Ranney School. Academic programs have expanded while an infusion of traditions and ceremonies have been brought forward to further enhance the Ranney School curriculum. Relationships with the Parents Association and alumni have also helped to expand and provide a community building, family interaction and school pride. Today, Ranney School is home to 800 students in three divisions, which range from beginners through grade 12. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Ranney School as the students, faculty and staff celebrate its 50th anniversary. Ranney School has provided many years of unyielding commitment to academic achievement and is a tremendously valued academic institution.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of The Mount Olive Baptist Church in Plainfield, New Jersey, and to commemorate their 140 years of service to their community. Throughout the organization's rich history, Mouth Olive Baptist Church continues to perform admirably in the areas of home and foreign missions, education and religion. I applaud The Mount Olive Baptist Church and its worshipers, as their achievements and dedication should serve as an inspiration to us all. In 1870, Mount Olive Baptist Church was formed based upon the desire by Plainfield residents interested in expressing their individual freedom of religion and creating their own house of worship. Mount Olive Baptist Church began as a scion of the First Baptist Church of Plainfield and remained a mission until Reverend Mitchell's pastorate. During Reverend John Mitchell's tenure, he laid the foundation for an independent and self-supporting church. Along with structural remodeling, the goals set forth by Reverend Mitchell saw completion. These actions laid the foundation for the church's future success. During the next few years, Mount Olive Baptist Church continued to build and grow both structurally and spiritually. By 1963, further embellishments were added to the structure of Mount Olive Baptist Church and spiritual ties throughout the community continued to grow stronger. June 2000 led the way for the development of the Fellowship Hall and classrooms. Upon its completion in 2002, a new area of worship became available for students and worshipers to learn and practice. The organization has also led the way for the creation of three other Baptist Churches in the city of Plainfield: Shiloh, Calvary and Community Baptist Church. The Mount Olive Baptist Church continues to make a great contribution by teaching its worshipers that religion is practiced, lived and displayed in everyday life. Currently under the leadership of Reverend Donald DeWitt Nicholas, Sr., Mount Olive Baptist Church and its leadership have worked diligently to ensure that persons joining the church become engaged members. During his tenure, Reverend Nichols has seen a tremendous urgency in addressing the problems facing the Plainfield community. Through acts of volunteerism, the Liberty CDC group was formed. Its mission is to partner with other community organizations to improve the quality of life and to promote the social and economic welfare of the citizens within Plainfield. Madam Speaker, please join me in leading this body in acknowledging The Mount Olive Baptist Church and their 140 years of service. Their contributions to civic life as well as charitable and religious organizations make them a tremendously valued organization in my district and the State of New Jersey.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the New Brunswick Police Department as its family and friends gather to celebrate the organization's 175th Anniversary. Since its founding in 1835, the New Brunswick Police Department has faithfully protected the local residents, businesses and visitors in the City. Their honorable actions are undoubtedly deserving of this body's recognition. The New Brunswick Police Department has a proud and long standing history. From its humble beginnings, in which two officers patrolled the City, the New Brunswick Police Department has grown exponentially. The Department has continued to provide a safe and peaceful environment in the City through effective and impartial law enforcement. They are also committed to meeting the needs of residents and businesses through active participation and community partnerships. Today, more than 130 dedicated men and women nobly protect the community as part of the New Brunswick Police Department. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the New Brunswick Police Department on its 175th Anniversary and thanking the thousands of men and women who have served and protected the City of New Brunswick.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Rodney Morris. Mr. Morris is a Corrections Officer with the Monmouth County Sheriff's Department and an active member of the Long Branch, New Jersey community. On October 1, 2010, Mr. Morris retired after dedicating 26 years of service to the Sheriff's Department. I applaud Mr. Morris, as his achievements should serve as an inspiration to us all. Today we recognize Mr. Morris for contributing 26 years of service to the Monmouth County Sheriff's Department. The 609 officers and employees of the Monmouth County Sheriff's Department are dedicated to serving the needs of the community. Located in Freehold, New Jersey, the Sheriff's Office is comprised of three divisions: Law Enforcement, Corrections, and Communications. Mr. Morris has demonstrated unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the constituents of Monmouth County and remains a tremendously valued member of my district and the County. Mr. Morris is also a valued and dedicated member of the Long Branch, New Jersey community. Mr. Morris is actively involved in community sports activities and serves as a coach for the tee-ball and basketball teams for Long Branch Recreation Department. Mr. Morris has also served as Head Coach for the Pop Warner Football team. Mr Morris has served as Chairperson of the Deacon's Ministry at the Second Baptist Church in Long Branch for ten years and continues to serve in this capacity today. He has been happily married to his wife Susie for seventeen years. Together, they have one son, Tyree Rodney Morris, who is 10 years old. Mr. Morris is a positive role model for his family and other members of the community. Madam Speaker, please join me in leading this body in acknowledging Mr. Morris' 26 years of service with the Monmouth County Sheriff's Department. His dedication and commitment are positive examples of what steadfast determination and allegiance can accomplish.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, can I inquire how much time remains?

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Meeks).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 847, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010. This important legislation was reported by the Energy and Commerce Committee with bipartisan support on May 25 by a vote of 33-12. I would like to take a moment to thank the bill's sponsors, Representative Carolyn Maloney and Jerry Nadler; as well as my colleagues from New York on the committee, Eliot Engel and Anthony Weiner, for their tireless work on behalf of this legislation. Now, beyond the immediate loss of life on September 11, today, thousands of people are suffering debilitating illnesses from its aftermath. H.R. 847 would establish the World Trade Center Health Program, a program to screen, monitor and treat eligible responders and survivors who are suffering from World Trade Center-related diseases, most commonly from the massive toxic dust cloud that enveloped lower Manhattan. The bill also funds research to improve our understanding of the health effects of the exposures over time. Federal spending for the WTC Health Program is capped at $3.2 billion and is fully paid for. The version before the House today is more than $1 billion less expensive than that reported with bipartisan support from the Energy and Commerce Committee. Mr. Speaker, Congress must ensure that the appropriate resources are available to take care of those who risked their own lives to save others on September 11, so I urge my colleagues to pass the bill. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel), who has been a champion on this legislation and who also managed it through the Rules Committee yesterday.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Israel).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, can I just ask the gentleman from Illinois if he has any additional speakers? I yield to the gentleman.

Mr. PALLONE. At this time, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Hall).

Mr. PALLONE. Thank you. I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Velazquez).

Mr. PALLONE. I would yield that to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Chief O'Neil, a resident of New Jersey and dedicated member of the Neptune Township police. Chief O'Neil has recently completed 40 years and 4 months of distinguished service in the township of Neptune and will be retiring this winter. I applaud Chief O'Neil's achievements and dedication and recognize his work which serves as an inspiration to us all. A native resident of Ocean Grove, New Jersey, Chief O'Neil's career of public service began in 1964 when he served in the New Jersey National Guard until 1970. He was then assigned to the patrol division of Neptune Township Police until 1979. During his career on the force, O'Neil earned several promotions, including Sergeant in 1981, Lieutenant in 1985, Captain in 1987, Deputy Chief of Police in 1996 and most recently, Chief of Police in 2003. Furthermore, he remained an outstanding member, former president and vice president to the Policeman Benevolent Association as well as the Fraternal Order of Police State Lodge. Chief O'Neil's civic achievements have also helped to form numerous organizations devoted to further advancing the safety and well-being of the Monmouth County community. In 1994, he chaired a committee that established a fund that gives monetary donations to families of officers who were killed in the line of duty. In addition, he helped establish an education fund as well as a fund for healthcare for special case residents of the area. Moreover, O'Neil has served or continues to serve on multiple organizations, including the New Jersey Governor's Awards committee and Attorney General's Awards committee. Chief O'Neil's enthusiasm for service extends well beyond his call of duty as a police officer as evident in his active community leadership. A true member and devotee to his community, he has dedicated his time to coaching numerous youth sports teams including little league, recreational basketball and soccer, and travelling boys and girls soccer. The youth and families of Neptune Township are fortunate to have benefited from Chief O'Neil's energetic service and civic participation. Chief O'Neil has tirelessly devoted his time to his community and epitomizes what it means to give back. Madam Speaker, please join me in leading this body in acknowledgement of the extraordinary contributions of Chief Howard O'Neil. He is a greatly valued citizen of the State of New Jersey, and I am honored to recognize him today.