Bill Pascrell

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Rothman and myself would like to call your attention to six brave officers from the Sumter County and Hernando County Sheriff's Departments who, at great risk to their own lives, pursued and engaged in an exchange of gunfire with a heavily armed suspect accused of shooting and killing a fellow police officer. On Wednesday, July 23, 2003, the New Jersey Honor Legion honored Sergeant Scott Bierwiler, Sergeant Lanny Corlew, Corporal Lawrence ``Bo'' Amman, Deputy John Melanson, Sergeant Danny Button, and Deputy Thomas Williams for their valiant actions. It is only fitting that these six Florida Law Officials be honored in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth. On Thursday, April 17, 2003, while assisting Clifton Police Officer Steven Farrell in a traffic stop, Fair Lawn Police Officer Mary Ann Collura was fatally wounded. The incident sparked what would become an interstate manhunt, culminating three days later with the death of the suspect during a gun battle in Sumter County, Florida. After fleeing the State of New Jersey following Collura's murder, the suspect traveled via New York State down to Florida. On Sunday, April 20, 2003, Sheriff's officers in Hernando County, Florida, noticed a car matching the description of the suspect's car. When approached by the officers, the vehicle fled, leading six sheriff's deputies from Sumter and Hernando Counties on a 20 mile chase. The chose, during which the suspect repeatedly fired out of the back window of the car, came to an end when the suspect emerged from his car and opened fire at the police officers. The suspect was killed in the subsequent exchange of gunfire. Mr. Speaker, the job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing the accomplishments of such brave and dedicated individuals as the members of the Sumter County and Hernando County Sheriff's Departments. Their selfless and unquestioning act of heroism is a tribute to the close bond shared by law enforcement officials everywhere. Each of these officers deserves an expression of our immeasurable esteem. Mr. Speaker, we ask that you join our colleagues, the members of the New Jersey Honor Legion, and us in honoring these brave men.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, those who are supporting the Chilean resolution here would like us to think this is the process. Many of them have said already we do not agree with what the United States Trade Representative did in these agreements, and for that reason we will oppose the bills by voting yes. Now, if that makes sense, please, what have I missed? We have already a trade deficit with Chile. That deficit has tripled from 2001. It is now $1.2 billion. This is not the way to have reciprocal trade agreements. These agreements set precedent. Again, we export jobs, we import workers. It is our workers that are out of jobs. We understand that this is at the very basis of the downturn in the economy. We will not recover this economy. These folks are out of work not 2 weeks or 3 weeks, this is permanent unemployment; and the jobs that they finally do get pay half of what the jobs paid that they lost. This is a fact of life. The trade deficit that we have with Chile and the rest of the world equates to a loss of $1 million per minute in United States' wealth. It makes no sense. We need to stop the hemorrhaging of jobs. We need to stop trying to communicate to the American people that we care about their jobs. We know that these trade agreements are precipitated by the big folks, the big corporations, the big farmers to the detriment of the average American worker, and we cannot accept that any longer. What is it about this trade deal that will stop the job losses? How does this end these consecutive months of decline in the manufacturing workforce? The silence is deafening, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. PASCRELL. The facts are that we should not have manufactured jobs here and have manufactured jobs across the ocean. We need to take care of our own people in this country.

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Texas for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, the Statue of Liberty speaks out very clearly, if anybody has been to this great monument. And from the poem ``The New Colossus,'' at the bottom, the 19th century American poet Emma Lazarus writes, ``Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me. I lift my lamp beside the golden door.'' What has happened to us, in a country where we continue to export jobs and import workers? This issue is at the very center of the economy of this country. We will never have recovery until we address it, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. PASCRELL. Let us get our facts straight.

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, when the gentleman says displacement, when a manufacturing job is lost, the average in United States pays $635 a week, and it is usually replaced eventually down the line by a retail job, which is $350. Let us put the facts on the table.

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

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, the tragic events of September 11, and the anthrax attacks shortly thereafter, reinforced the possibility of a widespread bioterrorist strike on America; and that is very real. There was a report submitted to us by Warren Rudman, who was the chairman of the Independent Task Force on Emergency Responders dealing with this subject very recently, and in that report it says the following: public health labs in most States still lack basic equipment and expertise to adequately respond to a chemical or a biological attack, and 75 percent of State laboratories report being overwhelmed by too many testing requests. In fact, Mr. Speaker, we were told of this threat well before 9-11. In January of 2001, a report submitted by the National Intelligence Council stated that the number of players, that is, state players and nonstate players, bioterrorism sponsored by state governments, bioterrorism sponsored by nonstate terrorist organizations throughout the world possessing or seeking to acquire a biological weapon, that group is growing despite the fact that biological weapons are banned by international treaty. We were warned of this in January, 2001. While Congress has made progress over the last 18 months on expanding our vaccine stockpile, an enormous amount of work still remains. The Project BioShield Act of 2003 is so important because it encourages the development for new countermeasures against a bioterror attack in a comprehensive manner. This committee, the Select Committee on Homeland Security, was given a rude awakening upon hearing the testimony of Mr. Paul Redmond, the assistant secretary for information analysis at the Department of Homeland Security. We learned that Mr. Redmond's office had only one person working under him on the bioterror threat and that Mr. Redmond had limited access to the intelligence himself. Imagine, we are asking two people to protect 290 million Americans about a possible biological threat they do not know about. The Cox-Turner amendment, approved by our committee, correctly concentrates on increasing not only access to intelligence but an increase in the staff of those folks who collect intelligence. Specifically, it requires that the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services be provided all intelligence information from all other agencies relating to the threats regardless of classification and regardless of whether the Secretary has requested the information. This bill is not just about creating a significant stockpile of vaccines and medical devices. It is about making sure that our first responders do have the tools to effectively operate their attack. Mr. Speaker, they will be the first ones there, be it a firefighter, be it a cop, be it someone working in emergency services. They will be the first one there; and if they do not know what they are doing, if we do not train them, if we do not provide the training, we are doing a disservice to them and we are certainly putting them in harm's way. A nurse or a doctor will be able to immediately provide a vaccine and prevent the spread. A fireman will have a mask to breathe purified air while a building with biological agents burns. This bill will make those and other lifesaving tools available so we can begin to protect ourselves, protect our children and our grandchildren from the threats of today and the unfathomable biological threat of tomorrow. This is just the beginning, Mr. Speaker. There is a great deal that we still do not know. When one reads the report of the National Intelligence Council on biological warfare, one understands what scale we are talking about and what a delayed onset is and what a delayed response will lead to. Most biological agents cause symptoms that have a delayed onset ranging from a few hours to many days. This is serious business. The fact that an attack has taken place can be masked, and the identification of the perpetrators would be extremely difficult to find out. I am confident, Mr. Speaker, that H.R. 2122 will help, will help protect every American against the unimaginable. The importance of Project BioShield cannot be overstated, and I congratulate the leadership of both parties for bringing it to the floor today.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the great service and patriotism demonstrated by the members of the congregation of Temple Sholom in Cedar Grove, New Jersey who so valiantly served and fought on behalf of the American people. On Friday, May 23, 2003, at the Sabbath eve service, the Brotherhood of Temple Sholom commenced the celebration of Memorial Day Weekend by honoring those members of its congregation who are veterans of the armed forces of the United States of America. As a veteran of the United States Army and the Army Reserve, I am honored to join the Brotherhood of Temple Sholom in paying tribute to the great dedication and loyalty that these men have demonstrated for their country. In giving so generously of themselves, they have ensured the safety of our country, while defending the human right to justice, freedom, and peace throughout the world. Their selfless and unquestioning commitment to promoting the tenets of liberty and democracy on which our country is founded deserves an expression of our esteem. I believe it is only fitting that each of these men and their contributions to the United States of America be saluted, in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth. The members of the congregation of Temple Sholom who served on active duty in the armed forces of the United States are: Marcel Bollag, 2nd Lieutenant, United States Army, WWII; Samuel Brummer, Pfc., United States Army, WWII; Norman Cohen, Pfc., United States Army; Charlie Dryfoos, SP 3, United States Army, WWII; Stuart J. Freedman, Captain, United States Army; Jerome Gold, Chief Warrant Officer, United States Army, WWII, 1941-1945; Jerome Goodman, Corporal, United States Army, WWII; Irving Greenberg, Corporal, United States Army, 1946-1948; Martin M. Gross, Lieutenant, United States Army, WWII; Dr. Richard Kaiser, Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy, 1971-1973; Arthur Kleinberg, Pfc., United States Army, Korean War, 1954-1955; Arthur Kolodkin, Corporal, United States Army, Korean War; Arthur Krupp, Corporal, United States Army, WWII, 1942-1946; Philip Kupchik, Sergeant, United States Army, WWII; Irving Levinson, Tech 2nd Grade, United States Army, WWII; Ed Maged, Pfc., United States Air Force, 1944-1946; Jerry Marks, SP 4, United States Army, Korean War; Joe Nadler, Sergeant, United States Army, Korean War, 1954-1956; David Neumann, Sergeant, United States Army, WWII; Ashley Paston, Pfc., United States Army, WWII, 1944- 1945; Rabbi Norman R. Patz, Chaplain, United States Navy, 1965-1967; Alan Reifenberg Corporal, United States Marine Corps, currently serving in Iraq; Ray Rowen, Pfc., United States Army, WWII, Korean War; Stanley Scheiner, Sergeant, United States Army, 1956-1958; Stanley Sigman, Sergeant, United States Army Air Corps, WWII; Stanley Silverman, Lieutenant, United States Navy Air Corps, WWII, 1942-1946; Stephen Sobel, 1st Lieutenant, United States Air Force, 1958-1960; Carl Solomon, Ordnance Officer, United States Army, Korean War, 1952-1954; Ben Steinberg, Pfc., United States Army, WWII; Bernard Sterling, 1st Lieutenant, United States Army, WWII; Lee Wasserman, Corporal, United States Army, WWII; Morris Wishnack, United States Army, 1957, 1961- 1962; Peter Wolff, Pfc., United States Army, WWII; and Hersh Zitt, United States Army Air Corps, WWII. The job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to learning about and recognizing the sacrifices and patriotism of this country's veterans. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the Brotherhood of Temple Sholom, and me in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable efforts of these brave men.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the work of a woman I am proud to represent in the United States Congress, Ms. Georgette Hauser. Georgette was honored on Sunday, April 27, 2003, for her 35 years of dedicated service at the Memorial Day Nursery School in my hometown of Paterson, New Jersey. It is only fitting that she be honored, in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth, for she has a long history of caring, leadership, and commitment to the children of the Silk City. Her intense involvement in the Memorial Day Nursery began when Georgette served as a board member. After witnessing the needs of the children in the program she became a volunteer administrator for the non-profit school. Her first hand experience with the important role the nursery had in the Paterson community, Georgette knew that she was exactly where she was meant to be. For the next 3 decades, Georgette served as the head of the Memorial Day Nursery School and is still there today. Through her position at the nursery school, she became aware of the need for quality educational facilities for the children of Paterson. Georgette became part of a formative group looking to provide just that. She helped to form Paterson's first charter school. Although the charter school did not succeed, it gave Georgette further insight into the City's educational needs. Since her experience with the charter school, Georgette has continued to work towards expanding and improving the City's preschool program. As head of the State of New Jersey's oldest nursery school. Georgette has witnessed many changes in her 35 years there. Today, the Memorial Day Nursery is celebrating its 116th anniversary with the grand opening of its new campus, appropriately named the Hauser Campus. The legacy Georgette has created at the Memorial Day School and the City of Paterson will live on forever. Georgette has stated that while she may be turning 80 next year, she still has more work to do. When asked about retiring Georgette has been quoted as saying ``What am I going to do if I retire? Sit and chitchat? Forget it.'' The job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing the accomplishments of individuals like Georgette Hauser. Her concern for the education and well being of children is unparalleled. We are grateful for her years of dedication and hard work on behalf of the children of Paterson. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the City of Paterson, Georgette's family and friends, all those who have been touched by Georgette and me in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service of Ms. Georgette Hauser.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the work of an outstanding individual, Chief Glenn L. Brown, who was officially sworn in as Chief of Detectives for the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office on Wednesday, July 2, 2003. Chief Brown has dedicated the past 27 years to tirelessly serving the people of Passaic County. It is only fitting that he be honored, in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth. Glenn Brown began what would become a distinguished career in public safety in 1980 when he was appointed to the Paterson Fire Department. His dedication and valor was widely noted and, during his tenure with the Fire Department, he received numerous citations from the NJ State FMBA, the American Legion, FMBA #2, Firehouse Magazine, former Mayor of Paterson Frank X. Graves, and the Paterson City Council. In 1989, Chief Brown was appointed to the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office where he was initially assigned to the Narcotics Task Force. In 1992, he was promoted to Senior Investigator and reassigned to the Arson Section of the Major Crimes Unit where he undertook the training of all County Arson Investigators. It was while working in this capacity that Chief Brown helped to establish the Red CAP Program which significantly reduced the number of fires in vacant buildings in the city of Paterson. Largely due to the success of this program, the Passaic County Arson Unit was officially named Arson Unit of the Year in 1998. As a Senior Investigator within the Major Crimes Unit, Chief Brown was frequently placed in charge of handling Special Investigations and assisting the Sheriff's Department Bomb Squad. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1997, at which point he formally took charge of the Unit. Three years later, Chief Brown was promoted to Lieutenant, becoming second in command of the Major Crimes Unit. In September 2002, then Lieutenant Brown was promoted to Deputy Chief of Detectives and placed in command of the Passaic County Prosecutor's investigative staff. A mere eight months later he became Acting Chief of Detectives where his first task was to reorganize the Prosecutor's Office investigative staff. Mr. Speaker, the job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing individuals who have devoted themselves to serving the special needs of the people in their community. Chief Brown's long history of leadership and service to the people of Paterson and Passaic County is unparalleled. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office and me in recognizing the invaluable service of Chief Glenn L. Brown.0.1.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the life of a couple who I am proud to call my friends. Mr. Selvin J. White, Sr. and Mrs. Jeanne A. White celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 5, 2003, at the Spain Restaurant in Newark, New Jersey. For the past fifty years, Mr. and Mrs. White have wholeheartedly committed themselves to serving the families of the city of Newark, New Jersey. It is only fitting that, upon the auspicious occasion of their 50th Wedding Anniversary, they be honored, in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth. Selvin and Jeanne White first met at a Newark family gathering in January 1951. They were married two years latter, in July 1953. From the very beginning of their marriage, Selvin and Jeanne dedicated much of their time and energy to serving the members of their community. Jeanne, a graduate from the Newark State Teachers College with a B.S. in Elementary Education, began teaching Special Education/Hard of Hearing students in Elizabeth in 1953. Her devotion to the students whom she taught has always been self-evident, though perhaps never more so than in her decision to remain in the classroom even after receiving her Master of Arts Degree and Doctoral Equivalency Degree in School Administration and Supervision from the prestigious Seton Hall University. The leadership, compassion, and love that she has shared has made a lasting impression on the lives of all how have had the pleasure of knowing her. Like his wife, Selvin has been extremely active in the city of Newark and its environs. A Deacon at the First Mt. Zion Baptist Church for almost 30 years. Selvin and his wife have worked tirelessly to improve the social and academic possibilities available to the city's youth. The Newark Chancellor Avenue School Youth Organization, the Newark South Ward Little League, the Newark Chancellor Avenue School Parent Teacher Association, and the Weequahic High School Parent Teacher Association are just a few of the numerous organizations with which they have been involved. Most recently, they have worked to establish and ensure the continuation of the First Mount Zion Baptist Church Scholarship Fund to help assist youth in the congregation attend college. Mr. Speaker, the job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing two individuals who have so generously given of themselves to the community in which they live. Selvin and Jeanne's long history of leadership, compassion, and service to the people of Newark is unparalleled. Many Newark families owe them a debt of gratitude. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, their only son, Selvin J. White, Jr., the members of the White family, and me in recognizing the invaluable service of Selvin J. White, Sr. and Jeanne A. White.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the life of an outstanding individual, Mr. Lloyd Gayles Reese of Paterson, NJ, who sadly passed away earlier this week. It is only fitting that his legacy be immortalized in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth. Lloyd began his life's journey on January 22, 1938. Born the second son of Theodore and Cornelia Gayles Reese, Lloyd spent this formative years in Westfield, AL. Already known for its production of steel and the baseball legend, Willie Mays, Westfield would also become known for producing a musical legend as well. Whether through vocal talent or mastering an instrument, the entire Reese family was musically blessed. During his grade school and high school years Lloyd was devoted to playing the piano. Upon graduating high school, he was offered several college scholarships for his musical talent. Choosing to attend Miles College in Birmingham to be close to his family proved to be a wise choice for Lloyd. While at Miles, his self-composed songs and lyrics gained national attention upon being published in a national anthology of college poems. Lloyd's musical talent was discovered by the late Dorothy Love Coates who witnessed his abilities at the Municipal Auditorium in Birmingham. She quickly hired Lloyd to travel with the ``Original Gospel Harmonettes.'' His career with the group was abrupt, however, as Lloyd was drafted to serve in the Army. Service to his country did not deter Lloyd's passion and dedication to music. He formed ``The Originals,'' a singing group at the Dugway Proving Ground Army Post, in Utah, where Lloyd was stationed. The group was so popular that they participated in All-Army concerts. Upon receiving an honorable discharge from the Army, Lloyd came to my hometown of Paterson, NJ. Upon his arrival, he became the choir director for the Solid Rock Baptist Church. Lloyd's dedication and talent with the choir led to their recording on the Verve-MGM label. This was only the beginning of many records for Lloyd. Throughout his professional career, he enjoyed such hits as ``Until we Meet Again'' and ``Spread a Little Sunshine.`` Due to the success of his musical endeavors, Lloyd was able to perform on the great stages in America, including Radio City Music Hall, in New York City. Lloyd returned to focusing on choir performances after the passing of his oldest brother Theodore Reese, Jr. He began working with the United Presbyterian Church and the Community Baptist Church of Love, both in Paterson. In addition he joined the William Paterson College community as the Choir Director. ``Professor Reese'' spent his life devoted to his talent and his family. The legacy he leaves us with, should remind us all to be true to our talents and our loved ones. Lloyd has left an indelible mark on everyone who has heard and experienced his music. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Lloyd's family and friends, the Community Baptist Church of Love, City of Paterson and all who have been touched by Lloyd Gayles Reese in recognizing the life of a great man.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call your attention to an exceptional individual, Michael J. Sika, who was officially sworn in as Deputy Chief of Detectives for the Passaic County prosecutor's Office on Wednesday, July 2, 2003. For the past 22 years, Deputy Chief Sika has devoted himself to ensuring the safety of the people of New Jersey. It is only fitting that he be honored, in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth. Michael Sika began his career in law enforcement in 1981 as a New Jersey State S.P.C.A. Officer. In 1983, he was promoted to Sergeant and assigned to the Special Investigations in the Severe Cruelty to Animals Unit where he and his unit targeted pit bull fighting and cock fighting matches. It was only four short years later that Michael began working as a Passaic County Investigator in the Prosecutor's Office. In addition to his duties in the Juvenile Court Unit, the Court Squad / Extraditions Unit and the Environmental Prosecutor's Unit, Michael began to augment his previous training in Title 4--Statutes, Arrest, Search & Seizure and Firearms, by attending the Division of Criminal Justice Training Academy where he received the Academic Excellence Award. Mr. Speaker, perhaps most impressive is the work that Michael has done since his 1992 promotion to the position of Sergeant in charge of the Environmental Crimes Unit. During his eleven year tenure with the Environmental Crimes Unit, Michael worked with Federal, State, and Local authorities in the investigations of over 300 cases involving hazardous waste. He attended numerous courses in Explosives, Weapons of Mass Destruction, and Haz-Mat Techniques, and he has served as a Certified Instructor in Firearms and Environmental Crimes at the Passaic Police Academy since 1994. In September 2002, Michael Sika was promoted to the rank of Captain and assigned as the Commander of the newly formed Passaic County narcotics Task Force. Less than a year later, he was promoted to Acting Deputy Chief, and was subsequently reassigned to assist Chief Glenn Brown in the reorganization of the Investigators' Staff of the Prosecutor's Office. Mr. Speaker, the job of a United States congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing the accomplishments of such an outstanding individual. Deputy chief Michael Sika's long history of service to the people of Passaic County, and his commitment to educating those that choose to follow in his footsteps is beyond compare. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office and me in recognizing the invaluable service of Deputy Chief Michael J. Sika.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall vote No. 338, on approval of H. Res 310, providing for the consideration of H.R. 2211, the ``Ready to Teach Act.'' Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on H. Res 310.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the work of a man I am proud to represent in Congress, Mr. John R. Moscinski. John was recognized on Monday, May 05, 2003 by the Township of Little Falls, New Jersey. It is only fitting that he be honored, in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth, for he has a long history of dedication, leadership, and commitment to his community. John Moscinski was born on October 25, 1920. After graduating from a local high school John proudly served his nation in the Second World War as a Tech Sergeant. Upon his return to the United States, he enrolled in New York University under the G.I. Bill. After two years, however, he had to leave his college studies to support his wife and two children by working two jobs. John attributes his life's accomplishments to the values and training he received while in the Civilian Conservation Corps, a program initiated by President Roosevelt during the great depression. Beyond the physical skills he acquired working in this program, John also gained valuable leadership qualities. His leadership abilities would prove to be essential when he took a position with the modern day replica of the CCC, the Northeast Americorps Advisory Board. John continues to remain active in his community. He is currently a member of senior citizen groups in Little Falls and West Paterson, New Jersey as well as a member of the support group at the Veterans Administration hospital in Lyons, New Jersey. In addition to his involvement in the community, John has remained steadfast in his desire to complete his college education. At the age of 78 he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Health Services from Montclair State University and this year, at the age of 82 he will receive his Master of Arts degree in Community Health as well. The job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing the accomplishments of individuals like John Moscinski. I applaud the Township of Little Falls for their initiative in naming May 9, 2003 as John Moscinski Day. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the Township of Little Falls, John's family and friends, all those who have been touched by John and me in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable achievements of John Moscinski.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call your attention to the work of an outstanding individual, Mr. Eugene De Bellis, of Clifton, New Jersey, who was recognized by the De Bellis School of Performing Arts on Sunday, June 22, 2003, for his lifelong dedication to musical education and the performance arts. As a musician and music educator, Mr. De Bellis has spent his life fostering the arts. His creativity, boundless generosity, and commitment to the cultural enrichment of others have helped to shape the careers of a number of professionals within the music industry. Therefore, it is only fitting that Mr. Eugene De Bellis be honored, in this, the permanent record of thet greatest freely elected body on earth. Eugene De Bellis began what would become a distinguished career in music at the early age of nine when he first undertook the study of solfeggio, violin, piano, and accordion. Eugene's musical talent was soon recognized and, several years later, he was invited to study at a private music school in New York. As a teenager, Mr. De Bellis performed in Newark, New Jersey, in various bands comprised of musicians from the American Federation of Musicians (Local 16). He continued his formal musical training at the Pietro Deiro Conservatory of Music in New York, while pursuing independent studies in piano performance with Professor Ulysses Senerchia, and Music Theory and Harmony with Professor Otto Cesana and Professor Joseph Biviano of NBC in New York City. In 1948, Mr. De Bellis began attending Seton Hall University. His tenure there was short-lived, however, and he left Seton Hall after a mere two years to be inducted into the United States Army. While in the United States Army, Mr. De Bellis attended the 9th Infantry Division Band School, and graduated to become a training officer for the Field Army Corp and a member of the prestigious United States Army Band. Upon leaving the Army, Mr. De Bellis returned to New York to pursue a bachelor's degree in Music Education at New York University. His desire to instill an understanding and love of music in other young artists led to his decision to organize his own private school. In a response to the great need for a school of music in Newark, New Jersey, the De Bellis School of Performing Arts opened its doors in 1952. Fifty-one years later, the De Bellis School of Performing Arts continues to offer courses to students of Instrumental Music, Dance, Voice, and Drama. The job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing the accomplishments of individuals like Eugene De Bellis. His passion and commitment to music education and the community of Newark is unparalleled. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, Eugene's family and friends, the faculty and students at the De Bellis School of Performing Arts, and me in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service of Eugene De Bellis.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the work of an outstanding organization, Paterson Rotary Club #70 that, on Wednesday, June 18, 2003, celebrated 90 years of service. As a lifelong resident and former mayor of Paterson, I cannot think of another organization that has dedicated itself more to serving the special needs of the city's diverse community. It is only fitting that Paterson Rotary Club #70 be honored, in this, the permanent record of the greatest freely elected body on earth. Established in 1913, Paterson Rotary #70 held its first meeting of civic leaders and professional businessmen on February 25th at Crawford's Restaurant in Paterson, New Jersey. Over the ensuing 90 years, the members of the Paterson Club have exemplified the Rotary's time-honored motto ``Service Above Self.'' From its inception, Paterson Rotary #70 has dedicated itself to assisting the local youth of Paterson. One of its earliest projects was the establishment of the Rotary Student Loan Fund which has enabled numerous young men and women to continue their education in colleges and universities around the country. While still in its formative years, the Paterson Rotary similarly chose to support the Paterson YMCA and, in the 1940s, the club assumed an instrumental role in the construction of a large social hall at the YMCA's summer camp at Silver Lake in Sussex County. Over the years the Paterson Rotary has expanded the scope of its service to include regular support of the Memorial Day Nursery, the Gift of Life Program, and the Salvation Army. Yet its initial focus on the youth of Paterson has not been forgotten. Acting in the spirit with which it was founded, the Rotary Club currently sponsors various self- help programs for local students, High School Interact Clubs, and numerous Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, while providing support for the local PAL, the Boys and Girls Club, the Boy Scouts, the Paterson Education Fund, and the Nathaniel Lieberman Scholarship Fund for Paterson students pursuing careers in music. Mr. Speaker, the job of a United States Congressman involves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing organizations such as the Paterson Rotary that give so much to their community. Paterson Rotary #70's long history of leadership and service to the city of Paterson is unparalleled. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, the members of the Rotary, the city of Paterson, and me in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service of Paterson Rotary Club #70.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I really suggest that the other side go to see the movie, it is an old movie, ``Thelma and Louise.'' Thelma turns to Louise and says, ``Do not settle, Louise.'' You have settled. You blew it. In fact, the seniors already are angry. The plan does not even go into effect until 2006. Why are they angry? They are angry because this is a question of values. Just when you need it most, the plan ends. The second reason why they are angry is you are going to force them into HMOs. Look what happened in New Jersey on Medicare+Choice. Now you are going to call it Medicare plus advantage. Bill Safire would have a picnic on this. This is a joke and a sham, and you know it. Look at that record that you have provided, that we provided, all of us in the State of New Jersey, where they lost 100,000 people. What we are going to do, as the gentleman from Pennsylvania said just a few moments ago, is subsidize insurance plans. That is what we are going to do. The third reason why they are ticked off is that there is no control over prices. Boy, are they angry. You blew it.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I have some sad news this morning. A great American passed last evening. Larry Doby, 79 years of age, broke the color barrier in the American League and became a Hall of Famer, but he was a Hall of Famer in his life. He said when inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998, ``Kids are our future, and we hope baseball has given them some idea of what it is to live together and how we can get along, whether you be black or white.'' He was a great American. He lost his wife, Helyn, just 2 years ago. Larry lived a very productive life in my hometown of Paterson, New Jersey, and lived in Montclair, which is part of my district as well. Mr. Speaker, if I can read from the resolution, a tribute to him back in 1997, which was entered into the Congressional Record, ``Despite his great accomplishments, Larry Doby has remained modest and endearing and a true gentleman. Mr. Doby always gives thanks to God for giving him the talent to help integrate baseball and American society and to Mr. Veck for giving him the opportunity to use that talent and to his wife Helyn for holding together their family while he was away.'' I ask that my colleagues join in a resolution which I will be introducing. We have lost a good American. [From the Record, June 19, 2003] Larry Doby, Hall of Famer, Dies Hall of Famer Larry Doby, who grew up in Paterson and became the first black player in the American League, died Wednesday night after along illness at his home in Montclair, his son, Larry Doby Jr. said. Doby was 79. Doby was a seven-time All-Star in a 13-year career, almost all of it spent in the outfield for the Cleveland Indians. He helped lead the Indians to their last World Series title in 1948. On July 5, 1947--just 11 weeks after Jackie Robinson broke baseball's color barrier--Doby joined the Indians. Although he hit .283 with 253 home runs and 969 RBI in a big-league career that lasted through 1959, his locker room reception that first day was chilly. Some teammates would not even shake his hand. ``Very tough'', Doby once recalled. ``I'd never faced any circumstances like that. Teammates were lined up and some would greet you and some wouldn't. You could deal with it, but it was hard.'' Doby ended his major league career in 1959 with the Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox. In 1978, he took over as manager of the White Sox, becoming only the second black to manage a major league team (following Frank Robinson). Although Doby was voted into the Hall of Fame by the veterans committee in 1998, he always had commanded respect throughout the community. He was a standout athlete at Eastside High School and starred with the Newark Eagles of the Negro Leagues for four seasons. Doby never forgot his roots and always gave his time to others. In the late 70's he was named director of community relations of the NBA's Nets and got involved in a number of inner-city youth programs. Last year, then Paterson Mayor Marty Barnes unveiled a lifesize bronze statute of Doby at a rededication of Larry Doby Field at Eastside Park. ``You have done more for Paterson...than Paterson has done for you,'' Barnes said at the time. ``What we are hoping is that we could try to catch up and give you all the accolade that you deserve. Earlier this year, the Yogi Berra Museum announced it would be constructing a Larry Doby wing to house an exhibit of Negro League memorabilia. ``Larry Doby could do everything hit, run, field and throw,'' Berra said. Doby and his wife, Helyn, had five children. She died of cancer in 2001. ``Larry and I were very good friends,'' Indians' teammate Bob Feller said Wednesday. ``He was a great guy, a great center fielder and a great teammate. He helped us win the pennant in 1948 and three World Series. My thoughts go out to his family,'' he said. Feller remembered some of the difficulties Doby faced when he entered the league. ``It was tough on him,'' Feller said. ``Larry was very sensitive more so than [Jackie] Robinson or Satchel Paige or Luke Easter or some of the other players who came over from the Negro Leagues. He was completely different from Jackie as a player. He was aggressive, but not like Jackie was.'' While Robinson's ascension to the majors was widely recognized, Doby received relatively scant attention. In his first decade with the Indians, Doby was kept apart from his teammates--eating in separate restaurants, sleeping in separate hotels--even during spring training. From players and fans, he was the frequent target of racial taunts. Despite provocation, Doby kept his temper, heeding Bill Veeck's advice when the Indians' owner bought Doby's contract from the Newark. Doby was a 22-year-old second baseman when the Indians signed him. Two seasons later, as the team's starting center fielder, he helped Cleveland win the World Series, hitting a home run in Game 4. Doby played in six straight All-Star Games. In 1949, he, Robinson, Roy Campanella and Don Newcombe became baseball's first black All-Stars. In 1943, Doby recorded another first--he became the first black to play in the American Basketball League, a forerunner of the NBA, as a member of the Paterson Panthers.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, we ought to tell to all of America as well as those people assembled in this room, what are we going to benefit from this legislation? They have attempted, the other side, from the very beginning of this debate, to say that they are for something and we are against. The Democratic amendment this afternoon covers most of the people, 99.3 percent of everybody on both amendments. You are talking about the exclusiveness of that very, very small percentage of people. Who are those people? Those are the people that are multimillionaires. Those are people who do not need us. The gentlewoman from Washington has suggested that this is what this State could send back, this is what that State could send back. Does she know they would put a $100 billion hole in the Federal budget? What are they going to cut? Where is that money going to come from? It is wonderful to say we are going to send all of these inheritance taxes back to the people. How are they going to fill that hole? They must tell the American people where they are going to come up with that money so that they can get this money back in their pockets.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I heard two gentlemen this evening, one from Minnesota, the other from Texas, say some things and I need to respond even though it is also part of what I am going to be saying this evening. One gentleman said the folks on this side of the aisle are concerned about class warfare. Now if we were in session, I would ask his words to be taken down because that has happened one too many times. That is serious business. That is political warfare here. We are all Americans, and we have a right to our opinions. The other gentleman, the gentleman from Minnesota, talked about unfairness, that we on this side are unfair. Let me tell Members what is unfair. That is the subject about which I speak tonight. The recent CBO study found that between 1979 and 1997, the after-tax incomes of the top 1 percent of the families rose 157 percent. The wealthiest 5 percent went up 81 percent compared with only a 10 percent gain of the people in the middle of the income distribution. Mr. Speaker, during that period of time, incomes in the bottom fifth of the population actually fell. That is what is unfair. I want to examine tonight the five myths, I call them lies, that the Republicans have put forth on the estate tax. The first myth: Many Americans will benefit from the repeal of the estate tax. It is in all of their literature. Well, let me see what the case is. Because the estate tax only falls on estates worth over a million, it only affects the richest of the 1.4 percent of American families. Two-thirds of the estate tax revenues comes from the wealthiest 0.2 percent. When the higher exemptions are fully implemented so a two-parent family could transfer $7 million to their children without any estate tax, only 0.05 percent would be subject to the estate tax. So in myth number 1, a study by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that after all repeal of the estate tax, and that is where the other side is headed, the largest 4,500 estates, therefore the wealthiest 0.003 percent of all the taxpayers will receive as much relief from the repeal as 142 million Americans. Myth number 2: The estate tax is forcing family farmers to lose their farms. We could not find one farmer who was losing their farm, and then they try to quote from the American Farm Bureau Federation, and they could not find one farmer who lost their farm either. And as far as I am concerned, the American Farm Bureau Federation is just like the National Association of Manufacturers, they talk, do no good, and we continue to export jobs overseas. They are both worthless. Tell a lie enough times, and folks might believe it. The small farmers are not represented by the American Farm Bureau Federation. Myth number 3: The estate tax stifles creativity and innovation by punishing the successful. Listen to what Andrew Carnegie said about that myth, that each generation should ``have to start anew with equal opportunities. Their struggles to achieve would, generation after generation, bring the best and the brightest to the top.'' Warren Buffett was quoted from this floor just a week ago, there is no free lunch. Myth number 4: Taking 55 percent of someone's life earning is unfair. That is a myth. Conservatives, particularly on the other side, do not let facts get in the way of political ideology. The effective tax rate, which is the percentage of an estate, which is actually taxed, does not even come close to 555 percent, Mr. Speaker, and they know it. In 1999, the effective tax rate on all estates was only 24 percent, less than half of the 55 percent reported. The 24 percent effective rate leaves heirs 76 percent of the value of the estates. Mr. Speaker, do not let Americans think you are going to help them on this estate tax when we are talking about a tiny percent of the population. The other side of the aisle is trying to create that myth. Finally, Mr. Speaker, the estate tax is double taxation. Do you want a list of those poor people in the middle class that we double tax on issues? There are a lot of ways that we tax beside the income tax. This is a myth and they have quoted from folks that do not even support the position. This vote that we will take on Thursday is one that everybody should look at the facts, not how things are perceived, not at how things look, look at who is being helped and look at the redistribution of wealth in this country, and we will see who is guilty of class warfare. Without the estate tax, these assets would never be taxed. But that is exactly the point. Conservatives who argue that it is unfair to tax them twice are really trying to get out of having them taxed at all. Repeal of the estate tax means that huge amounts of capital gains would be passed on to children without ever having been taxed. The fact that the estate tax also falls on a part of an estate made up of previously taxed income is not problematic because it is no different than how any other income is treated. Under our tax system, the same dollar is taxed multiple times as it moves through the economy from employer to employee to a gas station and then on to the next employee, ad infinitum. It is unfair and inconsistent to single out the estate tax for exemption from this system.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act, and I want to commend the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mica) and the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. DeFazio) because they have stressed so specifically the need for security in our airports, and they have worked diligently on that subject in terms of their leadership. Working in a bipartisan manner, the committee has done an admirable job forging reasonable compromises on many issues. In the past 18 months, the Congress and the American people have made airport security and airline stabilization the primary focuses of aviation policy, and it is fitting to focus on our aviation capacity and safety needs again. The Airport Improvement Program funding authorized in this bill will have the added benefit of putting people to work in a time of 6.1 percent unemployment. One issue that remains a top priority for me is funding for the national airspace redesign in the operations and maintenance account. With a national airspace that looks as if it was designed in the time of the Wright brothers, AIR 21 did a good job of providing funds to stop the comprehensive design. H.R. 2115 allows that work to continue. In 1998, FAA administrator Jane Garvey came to Newark airport and announced that the National Airspace Redesign would begin in the New York/New Jersey/Philadelphia region. I know that the FAA is still working on that segment of the design, and they hope to have a draft environmental impact statement next year. The completion of the redesign will benefit Newark Liberty International Airport immensely by reducing delays, and it could potentially benefit New Jersey residents with air noise reduction. Let me reiterate a point included in the committee report, if I may, that reminds the FAA that environmental streamlining provisions in the legislation have not been drafted to undermine the National Environmental Policy Act and we also worked that out. I urge the House to improve this important legislation.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, even the most favorable assessments conclude that few jobs are going to be produced by this tax cut. This President could become the first President in 64 years to preside over a net loss of jobs during a single term in office. The President's party staked its future on smaller government, balanced budgets, and fiscal responsibility. This administration refuses to understand that Americans will not invest in this economy because we lack confidence in corporate America. Democrats have spoken forcefully on the issue of corporate greed and corporate welfare, corporate corruption, which resulted in the stealing of American working retirement funds. When the President proposed his budget in 2001, the administration actually claimed that there was a danger that the Government would pay off the debt held by the public too quickly. We have selective memory. That is the problem on the opposition side. And we cannot pass this tonight because there will be a scourge on our children and our grandchildren.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Turner) for his generous words. I want to also thank this Congress for moving this and putting this on a fast track. Hopefully next month this Post Office will open up, and it will be a fitting gesture from Congress. I rise today to speak in strong support of H.R. 1625, legislation to name the new postal facility in Clifton, New Jersey, after a really great public servant, Robert P. ``Bob'' Hammer, former city manager of Clifton, New Jersey. He was a man who understood what public service was all about. He was honest. His word was his bond. He had integrity. He was a fixture at city hall and in the community, a leader who worked each day to improve the life of every Clifton resident. He was a city manager for 7 years before succumbing to a serious health problem in December 2002 at the age of 54. In his position as city manager, Madam Speaker, Bob Hammer oversaw a blooming Main Avenue business district. How many towns throughout this landscape we call America are older towns trying to fight back and become part of the economic dream. It is our hope that the new downtown Post Office will be an anchor that holds the redevelopment together and brings residents down to the local businesses. This was one of his dreams. Naming this Post Office after Bob is an appropriate tribute for an extraordinary individual. He helped improve city parks and playgrounds and ushered in scores of new businesses and homes to this great city even during very tough economic times. He was credited with guiding Clifton through a period of economic growth all while maintaining minimal tax increases. There is no question that Robert Hammer left Clifton a better city than when he started. How often can we say that for individuals throughout this great country, and that is all anybody can ever ask of us, did we leave the place a little better than how we found it? A father of five, Bob Hammer developed strong friendships with his humor and his professionalism. He was a leader in the truest sense of word, and a tremendous public servant. My friend and mayor of Clifton, New Jersey, James Anzaldi, said that never in his 30 years of service in Clifton government has he known anyone with Hammer's leadership qualities. A native of Stanhope, New Jersey, Bob earned a Master's Degree in public administration from Farleigh Dickinson University, and a Bachelor's Degree in commerce from Rider College. He was a member of the New Jersey and International City Managers Association, the New Jersey Finance Officers Association, and New Jersey International Clerks' Association. He was also an adjunct staff member of Montclair State University, which is also in the Eighth Congressional District. Before working for Clifton, Bob Hammer was a borough administrator in Oakland, Bergen County, and borough administrator in Bloomingdale, Passaic County. He was a parishioner of St. Philip the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Clifton and a member of the St. Philip's Knights of Columbus. He was also a past president of the Clifton Rotary. He was a dedicated husband and a great father and son. I know how proud the whole family feels about him. Our thoughts are with his wife Kathy; his five children, Megan, Kelly, Sean, Brett and Staci; and his parents, Stanley and Vera Hammer, of Stanhope, New Jersey. My staff and I have fond memories of working with Bob on a host of issues over the years. He was on my transportation advisory committee. We worked on Clifton highway interchanges, access to mass transit facilities, and pedestrian safety measures. Government and politics is all local, as someone who stood in your place, Madam Speaker, said many, many times. Most recently, I was able to work with Mayor Anzaldi and Bob and other Clifton officials and representatives of the U.S. Postal Service to make the new postal facility in Clifton, New Jersey, a reality. The new postal building, which is currently in its final phase of construction, is on schedule to be completed next month. It will service the people of Clifton. The fact that this construction got done at all is a tribute to Bob Hammer. Madam Speaker, I urge the House to pass this fitting tribute to my friend and our friend, Bob Hammer.