Bill Pascrell

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Rabbi Goldman of Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel of South Orange, NJ. Rabbi Goldman has been the rabbi of Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel for more than 12 years. He received his doctorate of ministry from Colgate College and his doctorate of divinity from Hebrew Union College and has served as a rabbi since 1966. Rabbi Goldman has always worked toward the fulfillment of his beliefs. An activist in the crusade for civil rights, Rabbi Goldman was imprisoned for his social activism as he marched side by side with the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He also made his mark as a speech writer, contributing inspired prose for both the late Senator Robert Kennedy and President Carter. Beyond his oratory abilities, which he used both in government service and from the pulpit, Rabbi Goldman has a doctorate in family therapy and is a clinical member of the Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. He is also a member of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists and a clinical member of the American Association of Hypnotherapists. Rabbi Goldman has served on the executive board of the National Jewish Relations Advisory Council [NJRAC] and is a board member of the African-American/Jewish Coalition. He is a member of the BioEthics Committee at Beth Israel Hospital in Newark. On April 16, 1997, Rabbi Goldman will be a panelist for the Nationwide Bereavement Teleconference, hosted by Cokie Roberts. He originated and facilitates their HEAL--Handling Emotions After a Loss--group. He is listed in Who's Who in Religion, the International Who's Who of Intellectuals, Who's Who in World Jewry, Who's Who in the World, and Who's Who in America. The rabbi is also listed in Community Leaders of America. Rabbi Goldman is happily married to his wife Judi. Their children Harlan, Darren, and Jordan Heiber, and Joel, Karen, and Steve Goldman, Steve's wife, Dee Dee and their granddaughter, Sarah are all a source of pride and joy. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Rabbi Goldman's family and friends, and the congregation of Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Rabbi Goldman.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Dr. Thomas S. Bellavia who is being honored by the New Jersey State Opera for his support of the arts and their organization. Thomas is a graduate of New York University and the University of Rome, where he earned his medical degree and holds teaching appointments at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, the Hackensack Medical Center. He is also an associate professor at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Thomas attended the U.S. Army Field Medical School at Fort Sam Houston in 1968 and served as a major in the U.S. Army Medical Corps. An active member of the medical community, Thomas has been involved with numerous local, State, and national professional societies. He has served on the Governor's Committee on Cost Containment, as vice- chairman of the Medical Assistance Advisory Council to the State of New Jersey Board of Human Services, and as a member of the Department of Health and Human Service's Managed Care Task Force among other positions. In addition to his distinguished professional achievements, Thomas has served as a jail physician at the Bergen County Jail and at the school and sports physician for Becton Regional High School, Rutherford High School, St. Joseph's School, and the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority. He has been the recipient of many awards including the Civilian Service Award from the Bergen County Policeman's Benevolent Association, the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Boys Town of Italy, and Lo Stivale D'Oro. Thomas is also the founder and current president of the Italian- American Political Action Committee and has been awarded the Cavaliere delle Stato from the Italian Government in April 1995. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, and Thomas' family and friends, in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Dr. Thomas S. Bellavia.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention John Senesky of Belleville, NJ, in honor of his outstanding achievements in football. A resident of Belleville since 1958, John was a star football player at Belleville High School, from which he graduated in 1964. In 1968, after graduating from Montclair State College, John became a coach for the Belleville High School football team. Eventually he became the head varsity football coach, and he has held that position for more than 20 seasons. John has coached nine Belleville teams to championship records, and has coached four teams to the State playoffs--1979, 1980, 1982, and 1984. One of his proudest moments came when he coached the 1980 team to the State finals against West Essex at Giants Stadium. The Buccaneers beat Morris Knolls in the sectional semifinals the same year by a score of 14-7. John has nurtured many young athletes, specifically numerous All- County and All-State players. The most notable was Dave Grant, who later went on to play football for the University of West Virginia, the Cincinnati Bengals, and the Green Bay Packers. He was a major contributor in leading the Bengals to Super Bowl XXIII in 1989. Today, John remains actively involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes [FCA], providing many Belleville football players and township youth with positive insights. John is happily married to his wife, Carmela, and the couple have two sons: Daniel, 27, who is married to the former Lorraine Narvett, and Michael, 25. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, John's family and friends, and the township of Belleville in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of John Senesky.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Martin G. Picillo, Esq. of Berkeley Heights, NJ, who is being honored by the New Jersey State Opera for his support of the arts and their organization. Martin is a graduate of Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and Georgetown University Law Center. Currently, he is a trial attorney and senior partner at the law firm of Picillo Caruso in West Orange. On April 7, 1997, Martin assumed the presidency of the Essex County Bar Association which is the largest county bar association in the State. In addition to his distinguished law career, Martin is also the cofounder of New Jersey Awareness Day, and has been very active in numerous local and national bar associations. He has been a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Lodge No. 179 in Orange, NJ since 1961, and is active in a number of Italian-American organizations including UNICO National, the largest Italian-American service organization in the country. Within the organization, Martin has held numerous offices including national president. Presently, he is president of NIACA, conference of presidents of major Italian-American organizations. An active member of the city of Orange, Martin has been a member and attorney for several boards, has served as deputy commissioner of the Department of Public Affairs, and has served as presiding judge of the municipal court. In addition to this impressive list of civil contributions, Martin has also served as president of the Parent-Teacher Guild and as an elected member of the Parish Council of Our Lady of the Valley Church. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, and Martin's family and friends, in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable contribution to the community of Martin G. Picillo.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention James H. Coleman, Jr., justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court, who is being honored by the New Jersey State Opera for his support of the arts and their organization. Justice Coleman is the first African-American to serve on the New Jersey Supreme Court. He was nominated by Governor Christine Todd Whitman on October 3, 1994, and was sworn in by Chief Justice Robert N. Wilentz on December 16, 1994. At the time of his nomination, Justice Coleman was serving as a presiding judge of the Appellate Division of Superior Court. Justice Coleman began his judicial career in May 1973, when he was appointed a judge of the Union County Court. He served in that capacity until December 1978, when he became a Superior Court judge. In March 1981, he was elevated by Chief Justice Wilentz to the Appellate Division in May 1987. Justice Coleman was born in Lawrenceville, VA, on May 4, 1933. He graduated in 1952 from the James S. Russell High School in Lawrenceville. He is a 1956 cum laude graduate of Virginia State University and received his law degree in 1959 from Howard University School of Law, Washington, DC. He was admitted to the bar in New Jersey the following year and in 1963, was admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court. Justice Coleman served in the U.S. Army Reserve and was discharged in February 1962. He was engaged in the private practice of law from July 1960 until February 1970, with offices in Elizabeth and Roselle. He joined the former New Jersey State Department of Labor and Industry in July 1960 as an assistant to the director of the Division of Workers' Compensation; consultant to the New Jersey Rehabilitation Commission; counsel for and manager of the New Jersey subsequent injury fund; and referee of formal hearings in the Division of Workers' Compensation. In July 1964, Justice Coleman was appointed a judge of the New Jersey Workers' Compensation Court and served there until his appointment to the Union County Court. He and his wife, Sophia, are the parents of two children: Kairon Michelle Mullins, born in 1963; and James H. Coleman, III, born in 1965. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Justice Coleman's family and friends, and the State of New Jersey, in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable contributions to the community of Justice James H. Coleman, Jr.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention L'Italico's Italian Community 1997 Woman of the Year, Mary Tubito Valastro Pinto of Little Ferry, NJ. Born on April 17, 1948, in the ancient and historic city of Altamura, Bari, Italy, Mary was the third of eight children born to Nicholas and Maddalena Tubito. At the age of 6, when Mary heard of the news of her family's decision to emigrate to the United States, she was very excited and since then she has constantly shown her devotion, admiration, and loyalty to her new homeland. The Tubito family settled in the city of Hoboken, NJ, where Mary attended Public School No. 3 and Demarest Junior High School. At an early age, Mary learned the benefits of hard work and commitment to family, from her father, who worked as a longshoreman, and from her mother, who, she helped with household chores, before and after school. With little time for play, Mary read religious books, and derived example and inspiration from the lives of the saints, enriching both her faith and character for life. When she was only 12 years old, Mary met her future husband, Bartolo ``Buddy'' Valastro, who, impressed with her beauty and energy, asked Mary to be his partner for life. Upon accepting this proposal, the couple first purchased Carlo's Bakery in Hoboken, in 1964, and then married in Our Lady of Grade Church on July 24, 1965. Mary and Buddy, with the caring help of Buddy's mother, Grace, steadily built a successful business with dedication and vision. In addition to starting a successful business, Mary and Buddy also found time to start a family, eventually being blessed with five children: Grace Faugno, June 30, 1966; Maddalena Castano, August 15, 1967; Mary, September 30, 1969; Lisa, December 31, 1974; and Buddy, Jr., March 3, 1977. All are associated with the family's baking business. In June 1989, Mary and Buddy acquired the former Shoening's Bakery, which turned out to be a successful business decision. The original Carlo's Bakery found a new home on Washington and First Street and has since become the mecca of quality for miles around, adding to the exciting renaissance of the historic ``Mile Square City.'' The period immediately following the relocation of Carlo's Bakery marked the golden age in the life of the Valastro family. Business was flourishing, the children had matured into fine, young adults, and the three daughters married; grandchildren were born. On March 21, 1994, tragedy struck the family when cancer claimed the life of Buddy, who passed away at the young age of 54. Mary however, managed to overcome this tragedy, and as a testament to her faith, she rallied her family and employees in uncommon leadership and continued the successful operation of the business. She later met and married Giovanni Pinto, an educator, a professor of modern languages, publisher of L'Italico, and father of one daughter, Julianne (age 11). Mary is the proud grandmother of three: Robert Faugno, age 4; Mary Castano, age 3; and Bartolina Faugno, age 1. Mary and Giovanni Pinto reside in Little Ferry, NJ, and are wonderful examples of the real possibility of the American Dream. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Mary's family and friends, and the city of Hoboken, in recognizing Mary Tubito Valastro Pinto's outstanding and invaluable contributions to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Ms. Dolores Colucci of Clifton, NJ who is being honored by the Clifton Optimist Club. A lifelong resident of Clifton, Dolores is one of seven children born to Dorothy and William Straub, a treadmill producer and a former airplane parts manufacturer. Her parents always advocated wholesome activity for youth, a legacy which Dolores does everything possible to continue. A former student of Pope Pius XII High School in Passaic, Dolores decided to pursue a career in education. She graduated from Montclair State College with a bachelor's degree in education and thereafter began teaching in local schools, and subsequently obtained a master's degree in guidance and counseling from Kean College. Dolores became involved with the local area youth in 1974, when she was a volunteer for the Girls' Club of Clifton. Two years later she became the club's executive director, and led the organization for 10 years. When the Girls' Club merged with the Boys' Club, Dolores became the new club's executive director. As the executive director of the Boys' and Girls' Club, Dolores maintains a very busy schedule as she offers her services to many other community organizations including the Civic Affairs Committee of the North Jersey Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Clifton Inter-Agency Council, the Clifton Education Advisory Board, the Recreation Task Force, and the Strategic Planning Committee of the Clifton Board of Education. In addition to her civic involvements, Dolores is also actively involved with projects for Zonta International, an organization for business and professional women, and religious programs at her parish, Saint Philip the Apostle Roman Catholic Church. Dolores has been recognized numerous times for her work with youth and was honored in 1989 as Outstanding Executive by the New Jersey Area Council of Boys' and Girls' Clubs as well as being named Agency Executive of the Year in 1993 by the United Way of Passaic County. Dolores always prioritized family. She and recently deceased husband Thomas proudly raised three children: Anne Sibilski, a kindergarten teacher at School 12 in Clifton; Thomas, a manager of a fitness store in Paramus; and Daniel, a sixth-grader at Woodrow Wilson Middle School. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Dolores' family and friends, the youth of the Boys' and Girls' Club of Clifton, and the city of Clifton in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of the Boys' and Girls' Club 1997 Youth of Year, Dolores Colucci.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Marco Cangialosi who is being honored by the Italian-American Police Officer's Association of New Jersey with the organization's Citizenship Award. Marco was born in Marineo, Palermo, Italy on September 23, 1933. In 1957, Marco came to the United States and immediately started working for a window manufacturing company. Five years later, after much hard work and many long hours, he and his brother opened a business of their own, Dor-Win Manufacturing. Widely known, Dor-Win offers a complete line of vinyl windows and doors. Marco married Angelina Guie in 1963, and has two daughters: Sarah, married to Fred Calderone; and Rosalba, married to Sal Scaravilli. He is also the proud grandfather of four grandchildren; Liana, Sal, Jr., Chiara, and Jack. In 1964, Marco became an American citizen and dedicated himself to helping others and his beloved adopted country. He has continued to give of himself ever since. Over the years, Marco has founded and been involved in many community and social events. He continues to contribute much of his time, effort, and money to numerous Italian-American organizations. Through his dedication and tireless efforts, Marco has achieved many distinguished awards and citations including the 1980 Kiwanis Club Man of the Year, the Humanitarian Award from the Italian Tribune in 1984. He was honored in the Columbus Day Parade, and received a silver medal from the Italian Ambassador for being voted one of the Top Ten Italian-American Citizens in the United States in 1986. His highest honor came when he received the title of Commendatore from the Republic of Italy in 1991. Marco's continued efforts to help others has become his way of life. His honor and sincerity has made him many friends and he has gained the respect of all who have had the pleasure of meeting him. Marco has proven that through hard work and dedication, the American dream can be realized. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Marco's family and friends, and the Italian-American Police Officer's Association of New Jersey in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Marco Cangialosi.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1275. As we debate the authorization of the civilian space program I wish to remind my colleagues of the importance of investing in NASA. Throughout the years there have been calls to abandon our commitment to technological advancement by shifting funding from these important programs. Having the foresight to resist these efforts and invest in our future has yielded critical advancements in areas such as medicine, public safety, consumer products and transportation. These spinoffs include safety improvements for our school buses, water purification systems for our homes, emergency rescue cutters to free accident victims and enhanced alarm systems for our prison guards, the elderly and the disabled. Particularly in health care, the advancements due to NASA have been remarkable. We have developed a digital imaging breast biopsy system which greatly improves the treatment and cost of surgical biopsies. As we work together in this body to help women with breast cancer, this nonsurgical tool has been and will continue to be an essential part of safer, less traumatic treatment. And instead of having to use the less accurate, more painful thermometer, Mr. Chairman, I hold in my hand, thanks to NASA technology, we now have this ear thermometer which would not have been developed if it had not been for NASA. It has helped physicians improve the treatment of our own children. I bring this device to the floor today to highlight the importance of this vote. This thermometer is an excellent example of the advancement that has developed directly from our investing in NASA. This is an important vote today. It is easy to say we are for improving people's day-to-day lives, but it is another actually to vote in a manner that achieves that goal. While we all are conscious of reining in our spending practices by cutting programs that have failed to meet the objective, I rise today to say that NASA is not one of these programs, and I urge my colleagues to support the space program and the space station and to allow us to continue developing critical technology that improves our lives.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Unitarian Church of Montclair, NJ. The church dates from February 1897, when a few women gathered to consider the feasibility of forming a Unitarian Society. Having a church school for their children was of their greatest concern, and therefore the women began preparing themselves as teachers. In 1898, the church's first minister, the Rev. Arthur Grant, was called, and both the church and the church school were organized. Reverend Grant was succeeded in 1902 by Rev. Leslie Sprague, and it was during his ministry that the church was built on its present site. In 1906, the Rev. Edgar Swan Wiers was called and continued as minister until his death in 1931. During his ministry, and with keen interest from himself and the congregation in the cultural life of the community, Reverend Wiers established a forum series, a Unity Institute, and a concert series which has continuously brought the best available talent to Montclair. Later in Reverend Wiers' ministry, Unity Institute was expanded to include a travel series as well as a chamber music series. Interest in the institute's programs of the performing arts, theatrical, musical, and the fine arts was vast and continued in numerous concerts, plays, monologs, and art shows. From the forum series grew the Collegiate Pulpit. Dr. Norman Fletcher became the church's minister in 1932 and his concern for civil rights, as well as his love of English literature and the theater was evident. During the years of World War I, the church's women's alliance was very active in several war projects. The women's alliance continued with its concern for the people as well as its support for the church through projects such as fairs and rummage sales. Throughout the 1950's, church membership soared with scores of chairs being placed in the church's aisles to accommodate the growing congregation. This remarkable increase in members led to numerous discussions concerning the need for a new church. The church school, with close to 500 members, outgrew the basement classrooms and the public library located next door was bought from the township for church use. In 1970, Dr. George J.W. Pennington was appointed as an associate minister, and in 1972, upon the retirement of Dr. Fletcher, who had become minister emeritus, Dr. Pennington became a full minister. With a second profession as a clinical psychologist, Dr. Pennington managed to increase the amount of counseling work done and also lent a psychological tone to many of his sermons. As with the times, the church became less formal, and in March 1982, Dr. Pennington resigned. The Rev. Lee Barker was called to the ministry of the church in 1983 and had been with the church until June 1994. His ministry was distinguished by a growth of membership and a continuing commitment to community outreach. Called to the pulpit in April 1995, the Reverend Charles Blustein Ortman became the seventh minister of the church on November 4, 1995. Reverend Ortman continues to serve as minister and, along with the church's congregation, is looking forward to the centennial anniversary of the Unitarian Church of Montclair. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Reverend Ortman, members of the congregation, and the township of Montclair, in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community and the 100th anniversary of the Unitarian Church of Montclair.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the selfless and steadfast dedication and outstanding public service of Pasquale ``Pat'' Assalone, to the community of West Paterson. After more than 30 years of service on the West Paterson police force, Deputy Chief of Police Assalone is retiring. Pat has been a dedicated and loyal servant of the public, coming up through the ranks within the police department and eventually being promoted to the rank of deputy chief of police. Pat is a well-decorated officer, with numerous meritorious service awards and citations from the department. He has been honored by the State Police Benevolent Association many times for meritorious service, life saving, and honorable service. As the deputy chief of police, Pat oversees every facet of the department's administration, from training to public relations, scheduling to grants. Always serving above and beyond the call of duty, Pat has been a natural leader within the police department as well as the community. He was an integral part in the institution of the borough's Drug Abuse Resistance Education [DARE] program 6 years ago and has been an instrumental part in maintaining the success of the program ever since. Pat remains steadfast in his commitment to the community and his family: wife, Judy, daughter Lisa, and two grandchildren, Shane and Steven, and to the memory of his loving son, Vincent, who has recently passed away. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Pat's family and friends, members of the law enforcement community, and the entire borough of West Paterson, in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service of more than 30 years to the community of Deputy Chief of Police Pat Assalone.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 50th anniversary of the founding of Boys' and Girls' Club of Clifton, NJ. Founded in 1947, the Boys' Club of Clifton provided recreational activity opportunities to young men in the community. These recreational programs were held after-class hours in the local school until 1958, when the current building on Clifton Avenue was opened and became a center for the children in town. In 1966, the Girls' Club was founded to provide similar recreational activity opportunities for young women in the community and in 1979, the Girls' Club initiated Clifton's first after-school day-care program for 30 children. Since 1986, the two clubs consolidated, becoming the Boys' and Girls' Club of Clifton, Inc. The Boys' and Girls' Club still occupies the Clifton Avenue building, but over the years additions to the building were constructed to house the executive offices and the teen program. An adjacent building contains the preschool area and a recreational facility. The current facilities are right now at maximum capacity as they serve approximately 1,400 children from Clifton and the surrounding communities at any given time, and provide services to more than 2,000 children yearly. After several years of exploring various expansion options, the Club's Board of Trustees finally settled on plans to add an addition that will connect the existing buildings as well as extensively renovating the facilities now in use. The new addition will house a modern pool, learning center, computer room, counseling area, and offices. The renovations will allow for the Boys' and Girls' Club to redesign their current program space to provide new program areas and make the entire facility accessible for handicapped and senior citizens. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the members of the Boys' and Girls' Club of Clifton, and the city of Clifton, in recognizing the momentous occasion of the 50th anniversary founding of the Boys' and Girls' Club of Clifton, Inc., as they commemorate the founding with a groundbreaking celebration on Sunday, April 6, 1997.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Joan and Dan Silna, of Saddle River, NJ. Joan and Dan are being honored by Temple Emanuel of Woodcliff Lake, NJ in celebration of the temple's expansion, Temple 2000. As members of Temple Emanuel for more than 20 years, Joan and Dan have always looked to the future of their congregation. They were instrumental in the temple's relocation from Westwood to its present location in Woodcliff Lake and have been leaders within the congregation ever since. Dan serves as a trustee on the temple board and Joan has served on numerous committees including, most recently, the catering committee. Dan also served the temple as the Capital Campaign Chairman, spearheading successful fund-raising efforts for the Temple 2000 expansion, a tremendous time-consuming undertaking which Dan performed with great skill and dignity. Faithful to the Jewish community, Dan combines business know-how with a concern for the continuity and perpetuation of Jewish culture. He works diligently not only for Temple Emanuel's members, but for the larger Jewish community as well through his commitment as a board member of the UJC of Bergen County and the YM-YMHA of Bergen County. Joan's contributions have been likewise numerous and significant. Through the use of her artistic talents, she helped bring the very successful handworks fair to Temple Emanuel and continues to dedicate herself to the improvement of the synagogue. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Joan and Dan's children, Tracy and Amy, their family and friends, Temple Emanuel, and the Jewish community of northern New Jersey, in recognizing Joan and Dan Silna's admirable warmth and generosity to the community and for their embodiment of the highest ideals of Jewish giving.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 90th birthday of Ada Catania, of Fair Lawn, NJ. Ada was born on April 28, 1907, in Zurich, Switzerland to Cesare and Bartolo Guidi. The second of four children, Ada's family included her brother, Domenic, and two sisters, Louise and Elvitia. In October 1913, her family emigrated from Switzerland to the United States, coming first to Paterson, NJ, before finally settling in Fair Lawn in 1918. Even today, Ada lives in the house her father built in 1918. On June 28, 1925, Ada married Frank Catania in Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church, Paterson. She worked in the Silk City textile industry of Paterson and was a proud union member of the ILGWU. Hardworking, Ada, along with Frank, still found the necessary time to happily raise a family of four children, Philomena, Jean, Eugene, and Frank. Today, she can proudly boast of an extended family including 9 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Ada's family and friends, the borough of Fair Lawn, and the city of Paterson, in recognizing the momentous occasion of Ada Catania's 90th birthday.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Delma Cuccinello of Haledon. Delma is retiring from her position of administrative clerk in the office of the Superintendent of Elections, Passaic County, NJ, after 31 years of public service. During her 31 years, Delma has worked under five superintendents of election, and has touched the lives of many. A native of Paterson, Delma now resides in Haledon with her husband, Lou, and the couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year. Delma and Lou are the proud parents of two daughters, and the proud grandparents of two grandsons. Although a resident of Haledon, Delma remains very active in the Riverside Veterans Organization of Paterson, and is an integral part of the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Delma's family and friends, and the county of Passaic in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Delma Cuccinello.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 50th wedding anniversary of Stephen and Jane Scillieri of Paterson, NJ. Stephen and Jane celebrated their anniversary on February 16, 1997. Born and raised in Paterson, Stephen and Jane are active members of the community, especially through their involvement with Blessed Sacrament Church, where they are parishioners. Stephen is the proud owner and president of Scillieri Funeral Home of Paterson and Hawthorne. He has served as former president of both the State Board of Mortuary Science and the Passaic County Funeral Directors Association. Jane is retired from the Prudential Insurance Co. The loving couple are proud parents of two children, Stephen Anthony and JoEllen Cox. In addition to being proud parents, the two are also proud grandparents of four grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Stephen and Jane's family and friends, Blessed Sacrament Church, and the city of Paterson in recognizing the momentous occasion of Stephen and Jane Scillieri's 50th wedding anniversary.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention a truly dedicated public servant in Edward R. Farmer, of Paterson, NJ, as he completes his tenure of public service to the residents of Passaic and Essex Counties. A highly respected and distinguished individual, Ed has faithfully served as an integral member of my congressional and general assembly staffs, and as the foundation of former Congressman Herb Klein's congressional staff. Through his efforts, Ed has loyally served the people of New Jersey for many years with true distinction. His extensive record of community and civic involvement includes outstanding service as president of the Passaic County Young Democrats, an organization which, under his dedicated leadership and guidance, has infused the Democratic Party of Passaic County with a plethora of spirited and talented young people. Within all spheres of life, Ed has set an example in community leadership and responsible citizenship toward which others might strive, and his professional and volunteer public service has been equaled only by his dedication to his family and friends. The strength and success of the State of New Jersey as well as the United States of America, and the continuation of our American society, depend in large part on the dedication of highly talented and educated individuals like Ed Farmer who have dedicated themselves to the service of others. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Ed's wife, Patti, his family and friends, and the State of New Jersey in honoring Ed Farmer for his outstanding and invaluable service to the communities of New Jersey as he seeks a new beginning with his wife, Patti, and their two cats, Dog and Gunther, in Lexington, KY. For his many years of dedicated service, it is only appropriate that the House recognizes Edward R. Farmer today.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Dorothy C. Rowe of Paterson, NJ, an educator who strives for and encourages excellence. A native of Wilmington, DE, Dorothy moved to Paterson more than 20 years ago, and has since become a prominent resident of the community. Upon settling in Paterson, Dorothy soon became affiliated with the Calvary Baptist Church, where her husband-to-be, the Reverend Dr. Albert P. Rowe, is the pastor. As a member of the congregation, she became involved in numerous church programs and activities including developing the church's day care program, organizing the Golden Keys and Women Fellowship, and organizing the Dorcas Missionary Society. In addition to her organizing church activities, Dorothy also serves the church as director of the board of Christian Education, director of the Vacation Bible School, director and writer for the Calvary Players, program chairman of the Calvary Building Council for Church Construction, and chairman of the Calvary Stewardship Program for Family Life Center. Aside from her church activities, Dorothy is also involved with the community through her work as principal of Paterson's School No. 26 where she has served since 1985. Formerly, she has served as principal of the Dale Avenue School, vice-principal of School No. 10, and teacher of history at Kennedy High School, all of the city of Paterson. Dorothy has always prioritized education. From her own in the public schools of Wilmington, to her undergraduate work in history at Howard University, where she received her bachelor of arts degree, and ultimately her work as a graduate student in social studies at Montclair State College, where she received her master of arts degree. She exemplifies the importance of education. Dorothy is also a member of numerous professional educational organizations, most notably the National Education Association, the Paterson Principals Association, and the National Council of Social Studies. Her membership in organizations also extends to many civic groups, the most noteworthy of which are the YWCA, where she was a former board member, and the NAACP, where she serves as an elected member of the board of directors and chairperson of the program committee for the Paterson branch. Dorothy is also a volunteer at Barnert Hospital. She has been recognized for her outstanding work and achievements by being bestowed upon with numerous awards and citations including the Calvary Baptist Christian Education Award, the Paterson Arts Council's Salute to Black Women Award, the NAACP Youth Citation, and the NAACP Outstanding Teacher Award. Dorothy is happily married to the Reverend Dr. Albert P. Rowe, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Dorothy's husband, Reverend Rowe, their family and friends, Calvary Baptist Church, and the city of Paterson, in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Dorothy C. Rowe.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I supported House Joint Resolution 58 today to decertify Mexico as fully cooperating in the war on drugs. There are few threats to the health and welfare of our country more dangerous than the flood of illegal drugs which is inundating our borders. President Clinton was correct when he decertified Colombia as a fully cooperating partner in the international war on drugs, but his certification of Mexico's efforts is completely unjustified. My constituents and all Americans face a very grave danger from illegal drugs from Mexico. Let's examine just a few of the facts. In each of the last 4 years Mexico has been certified as fully cooperating in the war on drugs. But, in 1993, 50 percent of all the cocaine entering the United States came from Mexico. During this period of fully cooperating, the amount of cocaine entering the United States from Mexico increased by 40 percent. Today, Mexico is the source of 70 percent of all of the cocaine entering the United States. I do not understand how any thinking person can characterize this as fully cooperating. There are many examples of the corruption within Mexico's law enforcement agencies, but the two most recent examples, which occurred in the days just before the State Department certified Mexico's cooperation, are nothing short of outrageous. Gen. Jesus Gutierrez Rebollo, the top official in Mexico's counternarcotics program was arrested last month because of his close association with one of that country's most notorious drug lords. How can this happen? The man who was commanding Mexico's war on drugs is an associate of a drug lord? Unbelievable. Or, take the example of Humberto Garcia Abrego, the brother of the head of the Gulf Cartel. He was arrested on a money-laundering charge, released by a local court because it was an illegal arrest, taken into custody again on another court order, and then he simply walked out of the National Institute for Combating Drugs. The explanation from the Mexican Government was that Abrego ``left * * * before the investigation was completed. These are examples of Mexican behavior during a period of heightened sensitivity toward the impending certification deadline. This level of cooperation is unacceptable and must not be tolerated. Certification of Mexico at this time will only send the message that the United States is more than willing to give a wink and nod to Mexico's corruption and inadequate law enforcement. If our war on drugs is going to succeed, we must vigorously enforce our policies and hold Mexico accountable for its clear lack of cooperation in our efforts.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 50th wedding anniversary of John and Emma Spanedda of Paterson, NJ. It was 50 years ago on February 15, 1947, that John and Emma were happily married. The two were childhood sweethearts, growing up together in Seminole, a small coal mining community in western Pennsylvania when John, the oldest son of 4 children of Anthony and Elizabeth Spanedda, along with the former Emma Veronesi, the youngest daughter of 11 children of Peter and Julia Veronesi decided to finally marry. After John served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II, the couple decided to move to New Jersey, taking up residence in the Riverside section of Paterson, where they have since lived for most of their married life. Upon their to Paterson, NJ, John became a business partner and manager of Pennsy Coat, Inc., in downtown Paterson, which manufactured women's coats and had employed 70 workers for 25 years. During this time, Emma was busy at home, raising their family of two sons and four daughters. Both John and Emma have been active members of the community, especially through their involvement with Blessed Sacrament Church, where Emma had served on many committees of the church and was a leading participant in the Blessed Sacrament PTA. Even today, John and Emma remain faithful parishioners of the church. Since their retirement, John and Emma's life has been occupied by church, friends, and family, including the activities of their 6 grown children, 14 grandchildren, and 2 great-children. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, John and Emma's family and friends, Blessed Sacrament Church, and the city of Paterson, in recognizing the truly momentous occasion of John and Emma Spanedda's 50th wedding anniversary.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentlewoman from New York for yielding me this time. I commend her efforts in bringing this legislation to the floor. The Paperwork Elimination Act is an excellent piece of legislation. I believe it will enjoy overwhelming bipartisan support. The importance of small businesses in New Jersey cannot be emphasized enough. They are the backbone of the State's economy. Of the 187,000 full-time business firms in New Jersey, 98 percent are small businesses, which are independent businesses with fewer than 500 workers. The aim of this act is to minimize the burden of Federal paperwork on small businesses through the use of electronic information technology. To use an extreme example, some small businesses are required to file forms with up to 50 different Federal, State and local agencies. This is impossible. These bureaucratic demands can strangle a small business. This bill ameliorates this burden by requiring all Federal agencies to provide the option of electronic submission of information to all those who must comply with Federal regulations. I believe it will accomplish the goal that is set out in the summary of the bill. Small businesses play too significant of a role in our economy. We need job creation. We need productivity, and we need expansion. I strongly urge my colleagues to support H.R. 852.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, working families from the Eighth Congressional District in the State of New Jersey elected me to solve problems, to work together across the aisle and, specifically, to bring closure on issues such as campaign finance reform, environmental sensibility, and balancing the budget. Mr. Speaker, it is ironic that the majority is bringing a resolution to the floor to demand that the President submit a second budget when the majority has yet to present their first budget. Where is the Republican budget? Section 301(a), the Congressional Budget Act, requires that the Congress complete action on the budget resolution on or before April 15. Since the majority became the majority party in the House, the conference agreement on the budget resolution has not cleared both houses until June, 2 months after the deadline. Over the last 10 years, the House Committee on the Budget marked up the budget resolution well in advance of the April 15 deadline. Six out of the eight times it was controlled by the Democrats. In 1992, the Committee on the Budget markup was on February 27. In 1993 the markup was on March 10, and March 3 in 1994. This budget resolution is behind schedule for the third year in a row under Republican leadership. And there is a simple reason why Republicans have not released the budget. They want $200 billion in net tax cuts, but they have not figured out how to balance the budget and enact huge tax cuts without imposing deep cuts in programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and education.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the memory of Magnus Ellen, Sr. of Passaic, NJ, who passed away recently on February 25, 1997. Magnus' life was one of dedication and commitment to the community, serving the city of Passaic as its only African-American councilman and as a member of the board of the United Passaic Organization, the city's branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. As well as being a community activist, Magnus also served the community as deacon of St. Paul Baptist Church, and as chairman of the board of directors at St. Paul Baptist Church for two decades. Through his involvement in the community, Deacon Ellen--as he was affectionately known--led several city-wide improvement campaigns which included an antilitter program that saw the participation of hundreds of residents and students picking up trash from the city's streets while city officials were debating the management of the program. A giving and honest man, Deacon Ellen never turned away those in need of help and even unofficially adopted two young musicians from St. Paul Baptist Church, who were members of the Inspirational Choir, a program organized by Deacon Ellen. Another popular church program begun by Deacon Ellen is the annually celebrated, Youth Day. In addition to being a community activist and a man of God, Deacon Ellen was also a traveler who counted as one of his greatest personal achievements, a trip made to Jerusalem nearly two decades ago. Deacon Ellen and his wife, Christine, who passed away 4 years ago, had raised a loving family of five children including Magnus, Jr., a retired Passaic detective, and Carl, owner of the Ellen Agency, his insurance company. Deacon Ellen was planning to remarry on August 2, of this year to his fiancee, Loretta Bradley. Surviving Deacon Ellen are his five children, a sister living in Chicago, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Deacon Ellen's fiancee Loretta, his family, and the city of Passaic in remembering Deacon Magnus Ellen, Sr., and his many invaluable contributions to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the outstanding achievement of the 300th anniversary of the Belleville Reformed Church, of Belleville, NJ. As one of the oldest churches in America, I have the honor of being its Representative in the U.S. Congress. Founded by Dutch settlers in 1697, the Belleville Reformed Church was originally known as the Old Dutch Church of Second River, with its first pastor being Reverend Berthoff. Throughout its history, the church had undergone several structural improvements. Records indicate that the Belleville Reformed Church's original building was replaced in 1725. In 1804, a tornado ruined that building and as a result, in 1807, a new edifice was dedicated. As church membership grew, there was a need for new construction and in 1853, the present building was dedicated with the fellowship hall being added in 1895. The dedication of the building included the presentation of several memorial windows which are still in the buildings. In 1915, the present 8-rank pipe organ was purchased with matching funds from the Carnegie Foundation. The console of the organ has since been replaced but the pipes are the original. In the past as in the present, the congregation of the church has demonstrated the ability to work together with the community and other faiths. When the new buildings were being replaced, church services were permitted in the neighboring Episcopal Church. In turn, the church allowed for services to be permitted in its building by Episcopal and Methodist churches. Even today, the church is shared with the First Hispanic Reformed Church. Relations with the community have also been generous with the anniversary of the township of Belleville being held in the church. On every Memorial Day, services are held, and the church bells are rung at the conclusion of the services, keeping with tradition begun in 1890, when the town requested that the bells be rung. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the congregation of the Belleville Reformed Church, and the township of Belleville, in recognizing the historic tradition of the Belleville Reformed Church and its many important contributions to the community. For its 300th anniversary, it is only appropriate that the House recognizes the Belleville Reformed Church today.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like for you to join me in honoring Charlie Stillitano, of Westfield, NJ, as the Roma Sports Club ``Man of the Year.'' Charlie has proven to be a leader in the soccer community of New Jersey for the last two decades, eventually becoming vice-chairman of the U.S. Soccer Federation Foundation, a position which he currently holds. Charlie's commitment to soccer began when, as an undergraduate student at Princeton University from 1977 to 1981, he was a key player on the university's soccer team, becoming an All-America and All-Ivy League defender. In 1978, Charlie was a member of the United States under-19 team, and in 1981, played professionally for the New York United Soccer Club. Graduating from Rutgers University law school in 1987, Charlie when on to become an attorney, first with the AT&T Credit Corp., and then with the law firm of Crummy, Del Deo, Dolan, and Griffinger and Vecchione. Although a successful attorney, Charlie never gave up on his commitment to soccer, becoming, in 1994, an integral part of the World Cup being hosted by the United States at Giant Stadium. It was Charlie who, in his capacity as venue executive director for New York/New Jersey and Giant Stadium, oversaw the $1 million project that enabled the Bermuda grass field to be grown over the stadium's astroturf. From the World Cup, Charlie has since gone on to become vice- president and general manager of the MetroStars. Seeking to give back to the community, Charlie has in recent years become a factor in the advancement of the sport of soccer in New Jersey on all levels. From his becoming first vice-president of the New Jersey State Soccer Association to his coaching of many teams within the New Jersey State system, Charlie has proven his commitment to the sport of soccer and the community at large. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Charlie's wife Cary, their daughter Isabella, and all of the soccer players, young and old, in New Jersey, in honoring a true pioneer in New Jersey soccer.