Bill Pascrell

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Frank T. Votto, Ed.D., Superintendent of the Nutley School District who is retiring after 16 years of service to the Town of Nutley. Frank has been a public school and collegiate educator for 35 years in New Jersey. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Social Studies from Montclair State, a Master of Arts degree in Administration and Supervision from Kean College, and a Doctor of Education in administration, Curriculum, and Supervision from Rutgers University. He has served as an Adjunct Professor in Reading Studies at Middlesex County College, 1970-71, as Assistant Director of the Evening Divsion, 1971-72, also at Middlesex County College, and as House Principal of Plainfield High School, 1972-81. Frank joined the Nutley School District in 1982, serving as Principal of Nutley High School. He served in this capacity until 1986 when he was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Schools for Nutley. Ten years later he was promoted to Superintendent of Schools for the Nutley School District. Frank is a representative of the New Jersey Association of School Administrators and served as President of the Assistant Superintendents Roundtable for Essex County. Since 1978, he has also served as Adjunct Professor in Administration, Curriculum, and Supervision at Jersey City State College. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Frank's family and friends, and the Town of Nutley in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions Dr. Frank T. Votto has made to the Public School System of Nutley, New Jersey.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Lawrence R. Codey of Spring Lake, New Jersey. Larry is President and Chief Operating Officer of Public Service Electric & Gas Company. Larry was born and raised in Montclair. After graduating from St. Peter's College in Jersey City in 1966, he attended Seton Hall University's School of Law and was awarded his J.D. degree in 1969. Following admission to the New Jersey Bar, Larry entered military service, attained the rank of Captain, and spent one year of service in Vietnam. Larry joined Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) in 1973 and was named Corporate Rate Counsel two years later. In 1983 he was elected Vice-President. In 1987 he was elected Senior Vice President, Electric and in September 1991, was elected President and Chief Operating Officer of PSE&G and Director of the Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc. He was also appointed that year to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Air Act Advisory Committee. Recently, Larry became a spokesman on the environmental impact of energy deregulation and, in 1997, he spoke before the National Governors Association on the subject. Larry serves as Director on the Boards of the Trust Company of New Jersey; United Water Resources, Inc.; Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey; Sealed Air Corporation; the Regional Business Partnership; the Chamber of Commerce of the Metro Newark Region, Inc.; the New Jersey Utilities Association; and the Edison Electric Institute. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of St. Peter's College and the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Larry's family and friends, the ARC of Essex County, and the County of Essex in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions Lawrence R. Codey has made to our community throughout the years.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Walter Hoffman of Wayne, New Jersey, who is being honored this evening by the Wayne Democratic Organization. Walt was born in Newark, New Jersey on December 21, 1924. He was raised in Glen Ridge and East Orange, and was active in scouting activities, including Assistant Scout Master and Explorer Adviser, Walt was also co-captain of his high school's track team. Walt is a Marine Corps veteran, having served his country during World War II in the Pacific Theater of Operations from 1943 to 1946. Upon leaving Marines, Walt attended the University of Michigan where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science in 1948. Pursuing a career in law, he attended the University of Chicago Law School and earned his J.D. in 1950. He was also Associate Editor of the law school's Law Review. Walt has an accomplished and distinguished career in both law and public service. He was a trial attorney for the National Labor Relations Board in 1951 and a staff attorney for the House Ways and Means Subcommittee Investigating Administration of Internal Revenue Laws from 1951-52. From 1955 to 1985, Walt sought out the private practice of law and was a senior partner in his own firm for 26 of those years. During this time, however, he still remained active in public matters. Walt served as Chair of the Arms Control and Disarmament Committee and Vice-Chair of the International Courts Committee from 1974-78. He was founder and Executive Vice-President of the Campaign for United Nations reform from 1975-91 and Executive Director and Executive Vice-President of the World Federalist Association from 1985-93. Walt also was appointed by House Speaker Thomas Foley to the United States commission on Improving the Effectiveness of the United Nations, serving from 1992-93, Chair of the International Organizations Interest Group from 1995-96, and President of the Center for U.N. Reform Education from 1993-96. In addition to his vast experience in governmental affairs, Walt also has a strong teaching background. He has taught courses on Political Science, American Government, Political Theory, and Law at such institutions as William Paterson College and Ramapo College. Currently he is an Adjunct Professor of American and International Studies at both Ramapo College and William Paterson University. Walt is also serving as Legal Counsel to the World Federalist Association and Treasurer of the Center for U.N. Reform Education. Walt has also been active politically, having served as Councilman for the Township of Wayne from 1964-71. He was also a Democratic candidate for mayor in Wayne as well as the State Assembly, and served in numerous capacities for Presidential candidates Eugene McCarthy and Norman Cousins. Walt is married to the former Lois Johnson, and together they will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary this June. They have three adult children: Anne Ferruggio, who is Minister of St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Allentown, PA; Laura Calixte, who is the Chief Window Clerk at the Pequannock Post Office; and Charles Hoffman, who is a mortgage banker with Northwest Mortgage Company. Walt and Lois also have three grandchildren: Sylvianne Calixte, who is a student at William Paterson and Raymond and Gregory Hoffman, who are in the 4th and 1st grades respectively, in Havertown, PA. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Walt's family and friends, and the Township of Wayne in recognizing Walter Hoffman's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to our society as he is being honored this evening by the Wayne Democratic Organization.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention William ``Henry'' Alston of Passaic, New Jersey who has recently passed away. Henry was born in Warrenton, North Carolina on July 23, 1923. He was the son of the late Wiley P. Alston, Sr. and Maggie Stamper Alston. A lifelong resident of Passaic, Henry attended Passaic public schools and graduated from Passaic High School. He served in World War II and was very active in the community. He was the former President of both the former President of both the Passaic Democratic Club and the Passaic Alcohol Beverage Board. Henry worked and retired from the Manhattan Rubber Company of Passaic. On October 7, 1951 Henry married the late Lulu Cornell Alston. From this union, two children were born: Elaine Everett of West Orange and Wayne Alston of Passaic. Henry is survived by a brother, Irving Alston of Dover, New Hampshire and three sisters, Emma Moody of Passaic, Vernette Cole of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Mary Coleman of Montclair as well as son-in-law Richard Everett, daughter-in-law Dawn Alston, brothers-in-law Robert Cole and Andy Coleman, and grandchildren Brian and Kelly Everett, Branden and Avery Alston, and Derek Hardy. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the family, friends and colleagues of Henry, and the City of Passaic in paying tribute to the memory of William ``Henry'' Alston.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention John J. DiNapoli who is being honored this evening as the Orange/West Orange UNICO ``Man of the Year.'' The eldest of Angelo and Antoinette's three sons, John showed his intelligence at an early age by skipping kindergarten. During the remainder of his school years at Immaculate Conception Grammar School and later Montclair High School, he developed a penchant for numbers and mathematics which would serve him well in his chosen field at work. It was also during this time that John developed his underlying loyalty to the New York Yankees and the New York Giants while idolizing a man named DiMaggio. Upon graduation, John took advantage of an opportunity offered to him by Montclair National Bank, while continuing his education with courses at Seton Hall University. He later attended the Stonier School of Banking at Rutgers University in New Brunswick where he also earned his degree. His banking career took him from an entry-level teller at Montclair National all the way to Vice-President at Chemical Bank, where he has served for 30 years. In the late 1950's, John made a long standing commitment to one of his loves that remains intact today. He became a season ticket holder to the New York Giants. Eight Autumn Sunday afternoons were spent with family and friends at Giants Stadium cheering on ``Big Blue.'' Saturdays can find John supporting the Mounties of Montclair High School with another group of family and friends. During the 1960's, John discovered another love, Angela Pomarico. John and Angela dated, and developed a strong mutual love for each other that resulted in marriage. Together, they raised a family of four: John Jr., Diane, Patti, and Carol. John and his family eventually settled in West Orange, and along with Angela, raised the children and guided them through the school years. A 25th Wedding Anniversary present from their children sent John and Angela to the birthplace of the DiNapoli Family: Calitri, Italy. It was a moving experience that made John appreciate his roots. Soon thereafter, on the recommendation of friends, he became a member of the Orange/West Orange Chapter of UNICO where he has held a variety of positions with the organization including President and District Governor. Now in his 36th year of marriage to Angela, John's family has grown to include a daughter-in-law Mary Lynn, and sons-in-law Anthony, Robert, and Peter. Much of John's free time is spent with his eight grandchildren: Diana, John III, Danielle, Samantha, Thomas, Brianna, Anthony, and Alexa. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, John's family, friends, and colleagues, and the members of the Orange/West Orange UNICO as John J. DiNapoli is honored this evening as the organization's ``Man of the Year.''

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the momentous occasion of the opening of the Great George Festival in the City of Paterson, in memory of the late Grace George. Grace was born in 1918. Her wealth of knowledge regarding the history of Paterson and dedication to promoting the historic district eventually led to a request from the Mayor that she leave her teaching job of 37 years at Eastside High School in August 1976. She then began directing and operating the Visitor's Center in the Historic District. At the Visitor's Center, Grace conducted walking tours of Paterson's Historic District for groups of all ages. She also conducted and led educational workshops, presented slide shows and lectures to classes and organizations, and developed teachers' guides for teaching Paterson's history. In 1994 Grace was presented with the Historic Preservation Committee Heritage Citizenship Award. She passed away in February of 1996. The legacy she leaves behind is one of pride and passion for the great historical past and the uniqueness of the City of Paterson. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the family and friends of Grace, and the City of Paterson in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions Grace George has made to the City of Paterson. It is fitting that we honor a true pioneer such as Grace on this occasion of the opening of the Great George Festival.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the Paterson Task Force for Community Action, Inc. The Paterson Task Force is one of 27 Community Action Agencies in the State of New Jersey. From Sunday, May 3, 1998 to Saturday, May 9, 1998 the Paterson Task Force will be observing National Community Action Week with a series of activities designed to help lower income people in the City of Paterson. The Paterson Task Force has increasingly assumed duties connected to maintaining the self-sufficiency of those who are unable to maintain themselves without public assistance. Members of the Paterson Task Force are also increasingly devoting themselves to helping move those already on public assistance to self-sufficiency and other non-welfare means of support. The Paterson Task Force has served the Paterson community since 1964 in providing child care, housing, employment and training, and emergency assistance services. The task Force will continue to expand and improve these services to all low-income residents of the Paterson community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, members of the Paterson Task Force for Community Action, the City of Paterson, and the State of New Jersey in recognizing the momentous occasion that is ``National Community Action Week,'' from Sunday, May 3, 1998 to Saturday, May 9, 1998. This proclamation is truly benefitting of the dedication and accomplishments of the members of the Paterson Task Force.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Bernard B. Kerik, who was officially sworn-in as Commissioner for the City of New York's Department of Corrections. On December 23, 1997, Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani announced the appointment, effective January 1, 1998, of the Department of Correction's First Deputy Commissioner, Bernard B. Kerik, as Commissioner. Mr. Kerik, as Commissioner, oversees an annual budget of approximately $792 million, a civilian and uniformed workforce of about 13,000 and an inmate population of some 133,000 admissions yearly in the Department's 16 jails, 15 court detention pens and four hospital prison wards. As First Deputy Commissioner, he was responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Department. He has been appointed by Mayor Giuliani to the position of First Deputy Commissioner January 24, 1995, Mr. Kerik served in prior positions with the Department as Executive Assistant to the Commissioner and as Director of the Investigations Division. Prior to DOC, Mr. Kerik served with the New York City Police Department for eight years. After uniformed and plain clothes duty with anti-crime and narcotics units in Midtown South and Manhattan North commands, he was assigned to the U.S. Justice Department's New York Drug Enforcement (DEA) Task Force. There, he helped direct one of the most substantial narcotics investigations in the history of that office, resulting in the conviction of more than 60 members of the Cali Cartel. Mr. Kerik received 28 citations for meritorious and heroic service during his tenure with NYPD, including that Department's Medal of Valor. Before joining NYPD, Mr. Kerik was the Warden of the Passaic County Jail, the largest county adult correctional facility in the State of New Jersey, responsible for the administrative direction of the 265 uniformed and civilian staff and an annual budget of $7.2 million. He also served as that Department's Training Officer, assistant commander of the Sheriff's Emergency Response Team, and commander of the Special Weapons and Operations Units. Mr. Kerik spent nearly four years in various security assignments in Saudi Arabia, training Saudi and other nationals in physical security and police patrol operations. Before that, he served as an MP for three years in the U.S. Army, assigned to the 18th Airborne Corp where he trained Special Forces personnel at the John F. Kennedy Unconventional Warfare Center, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He was also a member of an all-Army martial arts team. Mr. Kerik has a diverse background and education in international and domestic anti-terrorism, personal protective security and special weapons and operations. He has been commended for heroism by President Ronald Reagan and the Cities of Paterson and Passaic, New Jersey. He has received the DEA Administrator's Award, the Medal of Valor from the International Narcotic Enforcement Officers' Association, and a Special Achievement Award from the Special Narcotics Prosecutor for the City of New York. In December, 1997, he was appointed by the Mayor as a member of the newly-formed New York City Gambling Control Commission. The five-member Commission is charged with establishing and enforcing regulations for shipboard gambling to ensure that consumers are protected from fraudulent practices and to prevent the influence of organized crime. Mr. Kerik is vice chairman of the Boy Scouts' Greater New York Councils Law Enforcement Exploring Division. He also chairs the Michael John Buczek Foundation's annual fundraiser that honors law enforcement heroes across the nation. Named in memory of a 34th Precinct, officer slain in the line of duty, the Foundation provides financial assistance to youth foundation in that neighborhood and to the law enforcement community in New York and New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the family and friends of Commissioner Kerik's, and the City of New York, in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions Bernard B. Kerik has made to public safety through his distinguished career in law enforcement.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Walter Hoffman of Wayne, New Jersey, who is being honored by the Wayne Democratic Organization. Walt was born in Newark, New Jersey on December 21, 1924. He was raised in Glen Ridge and East Orange, and was active in scouting activities, including Assistant Scout Master and Explorer Adviser. Walt was also co-captain of his high school's track team. Walt is a Marine Corps veteran, having served his country during World War II in the Pacific Threatre of Operations from 1943 to 1946. Upon leaving the Marines, Walt attended the University of Michigan where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science in 1948. Pursuing a career in law, he attended the University of Chicago Law School and earned his J.D. in 1950. He was also Associate Editor of the law school's Law Review. Walt has an accomplished and distinguished career in both law and public service. He was a trial attorney for the National Labor Relations Board in 1951 and a staff attorney for the House Ways and Means Subcommittee Investigating Administration of Internal Revenue Laws from 1951-52. From 1955 to 1985, Walt sought out the private practice of law and was a senior partner in his own firm for 26 of those years. During this time, however, he still remained active in public matters. Walt served as Chair of the Arms Control and Disarmament Committee and Vice-Chair of the International Courts Committee from 1974-78. He was founder and Executive Vice-President of the Campaign for United Nations Reform from 1975-91 and Executive Director and Executive Vice-President of the World Federalist Association from 1985-93. Walt also was appointed by House Speaker Thomas Foley to the United States Commission on Improving the Effectiveness of the United Nations, serving from 1992-93, Chair of the International Organizations Interest Group from 1995-96, and President of the Center for U.N. Reform Education from 1993-96. In addition to his vast experience in governmental affairs, Walt also has a strong teaching background. He has taught courses on Political Science, American Government, Political Theory, and Law at such institutions as William Paterson College and Ramapo College. Currently he is an Adjunct Professor of American and International Studies at both Ramapo College and William Paterson University. Walt is also serving as Legal Counsel to the World Federalist Association and Treasurer of the Center for U.N. Reform Education. Walt has also been active politically, having served as Councilman for the Township of Wayne from 1964-71. He was also a Democratic candidate for Mayor in Wayne as well as the State Assembly, and served in numerous capacities for Presidential candidates Eugene McCarthy and Norman Cousins. Walt is married to the former Lois Johnson, and together they will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary this June. They have three adult children: Anne Ferruggio, who is Minister of St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Allentown, PA; Laura Calixte, who is the Chief Window Clerk at the Pequannock Post Office; and Charles Hoffman, who is a mortgage banker with Northwest Mortgage Company. Walt and Lois also have three grandchildren: Sylvianne Calixte, who is a student at William Paterson and Raymond and Gregory Hoffman, who are in the 4th and 1st grades respectively, in Havertown, PA. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Walt's family and friends, and the Township of Wayne in recognizing Walter Hoffman's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to our society as he is being honored this evening by the Wayne Democratic Organization.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Thomas E. Hardy of Prospect Park, New Jersey and Ann Cestaro of Totowa, New Jersey. Tom and Ann were honored at the Passaic Valley Elks Lodge 2111 Awards Dinner. Tom was born on December 16, 1947 in Paterson, New Jersey. As a resident of Paterson, he attended the local public schools, including P.S. No. 5 and Central High School, where he graduated in 1965. Upon graduating from high school, Tom was drafted into the United States Navy and served his country with honor. As an Aviation Gunners Mate, 2nd Class during the Vietnam War, Tom received numerous medals and commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea). He was honorably discharged in 1970. After leaving the U.S. Navy, Tom decided to further his education. He attended Southwestern College from 1970 to 1972, earning an Associate's degree in Finance. From 1973 to 1976, he attended San Diego State, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. Upon graduating from San Diego State, Tom then attended Florida State, and in 1980 earned an M.B.A. degree in Finance. During the years 1970 to 1982, he worked for Martin Marietta, in both California and Florida. Starting out as a senior buyer, Tom worked his way up to become chief of procurement, responsible for purchasing and establishing out-of-town representation for the company. In 1982, Tom came back to New Jersey and was employed by the Kearfott Guidance and Navigation Corporation. As a senior buyer, he was responsible for contracts relating to computer hardware and software, as well as government contracts. Tom also was responsible for the inspection of facilities, production ability, and financial worthiness of all sub- contractors utilizing company and customer personnel. In 1994, Tom was employed as a senior buyer by DRS Military Systems of Oakland. He was responsible for the procurement of materials for the ASVS program, and operating on strict budget, was able to save the company more than $265,000. Tom was a Scout Master from 1986 to 1989 for BSA Troop 2, St. Paul's Church, Prospect Park. He is a member of V.F.W. Post 5084, Elmwood Park and has been a member of the Passaic Valley Elks Lodge since 1991. As an active member of the Elks, Tom has served as Memorial Service Chairman, Parade Chairman, Charity Ball Chairman, and Flag Chairman. He is also the Lodge's Past President and Exalted Ruler. Ann Cestaro is a resident of Totowa, having lived there for 40 years. Having been married for 33 years, she has three married daughters and three grandchildren. She is employed by Cestaro's Furniture Refinishing, a 25 year-old family-owned business. Ann is a member of the Passaic Valley Elks Lodge Ladies Auxiliary for 30 years. She has served twice as President and in many other capacities. She is also active with the Veterans Committee and the Handicapped Committee. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Tom and Ann's family and friends, and the members of the Passaic Valley Elks Lodge 2111 in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions Thomas E. Hardy and Ann Cestaro have made to our community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the momentous occasion of the 90th Anniversary of the Borough of Totowa's Lincoln Fire Company. The Lincoln Fire Company was formed in 1908 by a group of civic minded citizens who met at the Willard Park Hotel. The corporation papers were filed and recorded on April 23, 1908. In that same month the governing body of the Borough passed an ordinance that established the Borough of Totowa Fire Department and included the Lincoln Fire Company as one of two companies in the Borough. In July of that same year a committee was appointed for the election of a chief and assistant chief. The first elected Chief was George McCrea and the first Assistant Chief Thomas Dunkerly. In the early years of the Company the engine was attached to passing wagons to get it to a fire. The engine carried fire pails, ladders, lanterns, hose and the firefighters' gear. Alarms were sounded by striking large steel gongs with hammers made available to citizens located in strategic areas. Whenever available, citizens who owned horses would bring them to the fire house, hitch them to the apparatus and bring it to the fire scene. For this favor a citizen was paid the sum of $2.00. Lincoln's headquarters have been located in what is now known as the ``Old Borough Hall'' since it acquired space on the ground floor of the building on Lincoln Avenue somewhere around 1910. The front part of the building housed the apparatus and the rear section of the building provided space for the Company members to hold their meetings. Additional space was acquired when the Police Department moved to the new municipal building in 1969. The meeting room has been completely remodeled and now serves as a place to hold social functions as well as meetings. Through the years Lincoln has had a number of different fire trucks. Present members recall a Reo, a 1937 Ford '85, a 1950 Mack and the present 1967 Mack Thermodyne. All of these units were pumpers. Prior to the 20's it appears that the Company was equipped with horse hand-drawn chemical apparatus. Active membership has averaged between twenty-five and thirty members in recent years. Membership also includes Junior Members, Social Members, Honorary Members and Life Members. The members and their families gather several times a year to celebrate special occasions such as the installation of officers, St. Patrick's Day, Halloween and the traditional Christmas Party at which the members' children and grandchildren are paid a visit by Santa Claus. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, and the Borough of Totowa in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions the members of the Lincoln Fire Company provide to the public safety of our citizens. On this the 90th Anniversary of the Lincoln Fire Company, the members take great pride in providing volunteer fire service on a round-the-clock basis, 365 days a year, to Borough residents. In the future, as in the past and present Lincoln will continue to be the ``First, Last and Always.''

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the momentous occasion of the 40th Anniversary of ``The Emeralds'', greater Paterson, New Jersey's premier rock and roll band. ``The Emeralds'' got their start in 1958. George Gerro and Joe Zisa met one day on a city bus while on their way to high school. As they spoke with one another, they realized they shared a common bond: music! George played guitar with the early inception of ``The Emeralds'' while Joe sang and played the saxophone with other local musicians. George took down Joe's number and promised to call if he ever needed a saxophone player. Within time that phone call came and the rest is history. ``The Emeralds'' now consisted of George on Guitar, Joe on vocals and saxophone, Charlie Lombardo on bass, and Jack Sliker on drums. The band rehearsed diligently in George's garage at 205 Emerson Avenue in Paterson. Performing many of the current hits of the day, ``The Emeralds'' were quickly booked to play school dances and one Saturday a month the John Raad American Legion Post in south Paterson. No matter where you went, be it St. Mary's C.Y.O., Central High School, or the Lincoln Club on West Broadway, ``The Emeralds'' were there! In 1960, ``Lightning'' Lenny Conforti, Joe's best friend, joined the group on drums replacing Jack Sliker who had joined the Army. The bank also added Bernie LaPorta from Central High on guitar. During the 1960s the band members paid their dues to ``Uncle Sam'', but still managed to keep the group together. ``The Emerald Experience,'' as they were now called went through additional lineup changes, with Bernie and Lenny taking an opportunity to go on the road with ``The Happenings.'' They were replaced by Joe Collucci on keyboards, who stayed with the band for three years, and Ron Tattersall on drums, who remained with the band until 1976 when Lenny returned. Bernie came back in 1973. Nineteen sixty-six was the year that Sal Sellitto became an ``Emerald.'' Returning home from his recent tour of duty in Vietnam, Sal met up with his old friend, Joe Zisa. Knowing of Sal's vocal talents, Joe proposed to the rest of the band that Sal take over on lead vocals. The band was very skeptical at first. But, one night ``The Emeralds'' were performing at the Four Winds in Verona. The band asked the audience if they would like to hear Sal sing with the group. With some coaxing and encouragement, Sal eventually made his way to the stage and the band promptly broke out into ``Expressway To Your Heart.'' When the song ended, the audience roared its delight and from then on Sal was an official ``Emerald.'' Celebrating their 25th Anniversary, the band was booked for a big show at the Imperial Manor. For the show, the group added John Lepore on keyboards and he soon became the sixth ``Emerald.'' John had a 14- year tenure with the group until he decided to go on his own; he was then replaced by Joe Shamah. In 1989, Marie Fernandez joined the band and became the first female member of the ``Emerald Experience.'' Marie was a graduate of the Berkeley School of Music and took over on lead vocals and harmonies. After a brief stint with the band, Marie got married and with her husband, moved to Maryland. Replacing her on vocals was Sherry Piero, who had the right chemistry, personality, and above all, a great voice. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the members (past and present) of the ``Emeralds,'' and their families and friends, in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions the band has made to not only music history but to the history of New Jersey.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I believe that the amendment of the gentleman is right on target. One of the largest and most severe problems facing college students is an ever-mounting debt. When I look at the students in my own State and how that debt has increased over the past several years, moving up to close to $13,000 on the average, and by another 2 years, that debt will increase to perhaps a little bit more than $20,000. I think that the indirect loan program to those students who are not taking advantage of the direct loans, 10 years is certainly questionable at this time. I am not offering an amendment, Mr. Chairman. What I would like to do is in conference, if it is possible with the leadership, to consider the possibility of extending from 10 to 25 years those indirect loans. If we do not, then I think that we are in jeopardy for those students who graduate who want to take on some noble service like teaching or social work or joining the Peace Corps, that becomes impossible if one has to pay that loan off, that debt in 10 years. I hope we could extend it to 25 years. We have looked at the numbers on it and I think it is very doable. This will allow students more flexibility in their repayment schedules and make it easier for them to both adjust to the working world and take low-paying, public service-oriented jobs. I have asked the students in my district about this, Mr. Chairman. They support this idea and I believe it is best for them, best for education, and best for America.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Ms. Mary Lou Langone of Maplewood, New Jersey who is being honored with the 1998 Maple Leaf Award on this occasion of the 30th Annual Maple Leaf Award Ceremony. Mary Lou Langone has certainly had a positive impact on the community of Maplewood, both through her work in the Maplewood Chamber of Commerce and, through her service in numerous volunteer organizations and service groups. After attending Columbia University, completing business and accounting courses, and working at ADP, Mary Lou changed direction toward a vocation in which she has had both talent and success. She attended the New Jersey School of Floral Design and then opened her own business, Patina's Florist, which has flourished under her creative direction. As a successful Maplewood businesswoman, Mary Lou's contributions to the Maplewood Chamber of Commerce, include her membership on the Board of Directors, founder and past President of the Profile Program for the Maplewood Chamber of Commerce, and Chairwoman and Coordinator of the Chamber Holiday Decorations. Professional recognitions include Vice- Presidency of the Eastern Region of New Jersey for FTD, design teacher at New Jersey School of Floral Design, and ``Designer of the Year'' in 1983. Patina's has also received awards several times as ``Shop of the Year.'' Mary Lou had begun much of her volunteer work in the 1970s, and includes being a member of the Maplewood Woman's Club Evening Membership Department, Board member of the YWCA of the Oranges and Maplewood, member and past Board member of UNICO, and fundraiser for St. Johns Children Residence and the Make-a-Wish Program. Additionally she has worked to benefit charitable causes, including being the past President and former Board Member of the Wives of the Maplewood Firemen. She has also worked as the Scouting Chairperson and Group Leader for both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and worked to establish the permanent outdoor theater for the Tuscan School. Mary Lou has also served the community on the Maplewood Economic Development Committee and as a CPR instructor for the community. But perhaps the most significant gift of time and talent has been in Mary Lou's dedication of energy and talent to the Maplewood First Aid Squad, where she is a founder, a 10-year service veteran, and is a First Aid Squad Alumni member. Mary Lou and her husband Pat, a retired Maplewood Fireman, have two children, Patsy and Christina. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the family and friends of Mary Lou Langone, and the Township of Maplewood in recognizing Mary Lou's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to the community of Maplewood and to the State of New Jersey.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Carmela ``Mel'' Currier of Passaic, New Jersey. Mel is being honored this evening on the occasion of her retirement after 21 years of service to the County of Passaic. Mel began her career in Passaic County in June of 1977, working as a keypunch verifier/operator in the Administration Building. In April of 1979, she was transferred to the County Clerk's office in the Civil Law Department (Judiciary) as a Clerk Typist. In less than a year, Mel was put into the Criminal Part of the office, entering bail recognizances, forfeitures, and reinstatements of bail. After proving herself to be a competent worker, she was given more responsibility by the County Clerk. Upon taking the Civil Service promotional tests and coming in first in a series of these tests, Mel worked her way up to become Chief Docket Clerk, the position which she has held until her recent retirement. During her years prior to becoming a State worker, Mel was very involved in the Democratic Party. Throughout her 23 years of service to the Party, Mel has served as treasurer, vice-president, and president of the City of Passaic's Democratic Party. Additionally, she served as a County Committeewoman and a Ward leader. Mel will be married 37 years come this May to John Currier, who is a retired Deputy Chief of the Passaic Fire Department. Mel and John have a son, Joseph, who is classified as autistic and had to attend special schools and classes. Joe has since overcome many of his autistic tendencies, thanks in part to his mother's interest in the ``Saturday Group.'' Mel is President of the Learning Disabled Young Adult Group, Inc., which oversees her son Joe's ``Saturday Group.'' The group's Board of Directors set policy, disseminate information to the public, and hold fundraisers and many other events. Mel is also very active in her church, Saint Nicholas' Roman Catholic Church on Washington Street in Passaic. She serves as a Eucharistic Minister, leads the congregation at the 4:00 p.m. mass in their Hymns and responses, and sings at the 11:00 a.m. mass in the church choir. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Mel's family, friends, and colleagues, and the County of Passaic in recognizing Carmela ``Mel'' Currier's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to our community, and in wishing her continued health and happiness in her retirement.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Mr. Charles Leidig of Maplewood, New Jersey, who is being honored with the 1998 Maple Leaf Award on this occasion of the 30th Annual Maple Leaf Award Ceremony. Charles Leidig is being honored for his many years of extensive, and varied community service, especially amongst senior groups, his community neighborhood association, and for the Township of Maplewood. Charlie has lived in Maplewood since 1920, and has attended Seth Boyden Elementary School, Ricalton--now Maplewood Middle School, and Columbia High School, from which he graduated in 1937. After attending New York University, he worked for a major corporation in the areas of Trade Show Coordination, Advertising and Sales Promotion, and Industrial Relations. Charlie's work often required extensive travel, with as many as 27 trips in one year. While he took an interest in his neighborhood and its activities, it wasn't until his retirement in 1984 that Charlie became fully involved. Following a neighbor's suggestion, Charlie joined one of the Maplewood Senior Clubs, the local chapter of the AARP. Almost immediately he became heavily involved, serving first as Program Chairman and then as Vice-president. He was the group's first President to hold office for four years. Even now Charlie continues to serve as Trip Chairman. In addition to AARP, the St. Joseph Rainbow Club was another senior organization that benefited from Charlie's endless energy and imagination. He served as the group's Vice President for two and a half years, and in 1992, was honored with the organization's Senior Citizen's Award. Charlie Leidig has also volunteered his time and talents to Maplewood through his service as Director of the Police Advisory Committee, the Recreation Advisory Board, the Senior Advisory Board, the Maplewood TV Channel Advisory Board, and as an Election Day volunteer at Town Hall. Additionally, Charlie has served for many years as a Holiday Decorations Judge, a Lions Blood Bank helper, member of the Fourth of July Committee, and an Economic Development strategist. Charlie was a very active participant in the Ron Karnaugh Olympic activities and most recently, served on the Neighborhood Association. He is also volunteers as a collector for the American Heart, Cancer, and Cerebral Palsy Associations as well as working for the United Way and Deborah Hospital. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the family and friends of Charlie Leidig, and the Township of Maplewood in recognizing Charlie's many outstanding and invaluable contributions made to the community of Maplewood and to the State of New Jersey.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the Reverend James Arnold Kuykendall of Paterson, New Jersey. Reverend Kuykendall who, this evening, is being conferred an honorary ``Doctorate of Divinity'' degree from Shiloh Theological Seminary. James Arnold Kuykendall was born on December 8, 1952 in Paterson, New Jersey. His parents were the late James Kuykendall of Oakland, Mississippi, and the late Mattie Burns-Kuykendall of Whitehall, South Carolina. Reverend Kuykendall was educated in the public schools of Paterson and attended Montclair State College, Ramapo College, as well as Gilmore Memorial and Hawthorne Bible Institutes. Reverend Kuykendall began serving the local church as a member of the Junior Usher and Deacon Boards at Gilmore Memorial Tabernacle Church of God in Christ. In 1977 he rededicated his life to Christ, became Assistant Choir Director, and served as Youth Minister. Reverend Kuykendall preached his first sermon in 1983 and received his ministerial license in April of that same year. He later served as associate minister at Gazaway Baptist Church under the pastorate of Dr. Lester I. Glover, and was ordained in December 1985. Reverend Kuykendall is the founder and Pastor of the Agape Christian Ministry of Paterson. Agape Christian Ministry is an interracial, non- denominational church established on March 1, 1987. The first service was held in the home of Mrs. Margaret Hicks, at 19th Avenue and East 33rd Street in Paterson. The congregation began with seven people and has since grown to include over one thousand members. On February 16, 1973 Reverend Kuykendall was sworn into active duty in the United States Army. He served in the capacity as a Finance and Accounting Clerk, and did an overseas tour of duty with the 8th Army in Seoul, Korea for 24 months. He was later transferred to stateside duty in Fort Knox, Kentucky, until being honorably discharged on October 22, 1976. Reverend Kuykendall has an extensive record of community service which began with him serving as a county committee person for the 6th District, 4th Ward in Paterson, and later as district leader. He was also a Commissioner of the Rent Leveling Board and Commissioner of the Parking Authority in the City of Paterson. Reverend Kuykendall has served as an aide to the Honorable Martin G. Barnes, and presently serves as an aide to Assemblyman Alfred E. Steele. Reverend Kuykendall is also serving as assistant treasurer to the Congress of National Black Churches--Paterson affiliate, and renders pastoral care at Barnert Memorial Hospital. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Eva's Village Sheltering program, the Youth Services Commission of Passaic County, and a volunteer minister in the New Jersey Superior Court--Passaic County Division, Minister's program. Reverend Kuykendall is a charter board member of the Fellowship of Inner City Word of Faith Ministries under leadership of Dr. Frederick K.C. Price, the Kingdom Council of Interdependent Christian Churches and Ministries under the leadership of Reverend Dr. David M. Copeland, and serves on the board of directors of both organizations. Reverend Kuykendall is currently the executive vice-president of the Paterson Pastor's Workshop Minister's Association and has served as the chairman of the Political Screening Committee of that organization. He is the Chief Executive Officer of the Agape Christian Ministries Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships to senior high school students of the City of Paterson, is the Senior Pastor of the Agape Fellowship Association of Churches, and is a member of the board of directors at the Agape Pre-School Child Development Center. Reverend Kuykendall is married to Minister Kathy A. Ivy Kuykendall of Paterson. They are the proud parents of one daughter, Tanisha Vonetta, and the adoring grandparents of Tera Trae Samuels. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the family and friends of Reverend Kuykendall, and the City of Paterson, in recognizing Reverend James Arnold Kuykendall's many outstanding and invaluable contributions made to the City of Paterson and the State of New Jersey.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Mr. Enrique ``Ricky'' O. Fernandez of Maplewood, New Jersey who is being honored with the 1998 Maple Leaf Award on this occasion of the 30th Annual Maple Leaf Award Ceremony. Ricky Fernandez, a retired high school language teacher from the Dover School System, has been doing volunteer work since the 1960s when he joined the Kiwanis Club, an organization in which he served a term as President and is still a very active member. Working to benefit several children's causes, he devoted special energy to the Children's Identification Program. Ricky and fellow members of the Kiwanis Club provided for free Polaroid pictures and fingerprinting of children, creating a permanent identification of each child for the parents to have in case the child disappeared. As an active member of the VFW Post 10120, Ricky served as commander in 1989 and again as commander from 1996 to the present. He also served as commander of American Legion Post 80 in 1975. Since 1992, Ricky has served as the Maplewood Memorial Day Parade Chairman, ensuring that Maplewood organizations and residents have an opportunity to participate in this annual memorial event. Additionally, Ricky has visited numerous schools to distribute materials for, and to promote, the ``Voice of Democracy Contest'' sponsored by the VFW, and he visits hospitalized veterans regularly to play games with them, distribute cash canteen booklets, and provide friendship and assistance. He also is a volunteer as St. Barnabas Hospital where his warmth and generous spirit have made a significant difference in the lives of many who have been hospitalized. Ricky, a member of Maplewood Service Men's and Women's Committee since 1943, has served as the organization's Chairman since 1995, and has since revitalized this important volunteer effort. For decades, he has worked tirelessly to ensure that Maplewood's service personnel receive newspapers from home, cards, letters, and holiday gifts as remembrance from their hometown of Maplewood. In addition to these other services he has rendered to Maplewood, Ricky also serves as a member of the Civil Defense and Disaster Control Committee and has served as an active member of the Maplewood Citizen's Budget Advisory Committee. He continues to teach English as a Second Language at the Summit Y, and he is an active member in Morrow Memorial Church where he serves as Head Usher. He and his wife, Bette White, are both excellent dancers who have integrated the joy of dancing within their personal and professional lives. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me our colleagues, the family and friends of Ricky Fernandez, and the Township of Maplewood in recognizing Ricky's many outstanding and invaluable contributions made to the community of Maplewood and to the State of New Jersey.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, there is one overriding fact in here that I would like to stress, if I may, to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Shuster) and the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), the ranking member, who have done such a marvelous job. This bill, this legislation would spend $18 billion less than the Federal Government will collect in highway user taxes, not including the interest, over the next 3 years. Over the next 6-year life of the legislation we are about to vote on, it will spend $12 billion less than highway tax receipts. The facts are clear, Mr. Chairman, that there is within our domain the facility to pay for what we are voting on here today. New Jersey is a perfect example of a State that will be helped. It ranks fiftieth of all the States in the Union in terms of return on our tax dollar, the very basis of Federalism upon which the Constitution was written. This legislation is going to help us correct the major deficiencies we have in 44 percent of our bridges. Who will we turn to when another bridge is shut down in New Jersey? In just a short 6 years, there have been 230,000 new jobs in New Jersey as a result of the original transportation legislation, which my predecessor, Bob Roe, of good memory, was able to bring to this floor many, many times. We need a little history here once in a while to keep us on track. So, Mr. Chairman, we thank you for allowing us the time here today. This is critical legislation. Let us get on with it and get it passed to help America.

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Davis amendment. First of all, we must go to the appropriations. There are checks and balances. That is something we have to do. This is a general fund authorization. Second of all, we have spoken in the last 4 years about welfare reform. It is time for us to put our money where our mouth is. The argument that this bill is a pilot program and cannot increase too quickly, forget about it. We have told people in 5 years they have to be off welfare, by the year 2002. We do not have that much time. Let us have bipartisan agreement that we are going to get people to jobs that exist. There are 2 million people out there that are going to be removed from welfare to work over the next 5 years, and only 6 percent of them have cars. Now, what are you going to do about that? This amendment goes right to the heart of that situation. This is getting people to work. This is what we want, work, not welfare.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, the freshman campaign finance bill takes the bold and important step of banning soft money. In the last election Democrats and Republicans combined to raise more than $260 million in soft money. That was a 206 percent increase from 1992. If we extrapolate, when we get to the year 2000 we will be spending $1 billion in soft money. We divide the House into two groups: Those who think there is not enough money in the pot to spend doing elections, and those who think there are far too many dollars to be spent. And the problem is not what is illegal, so much as what is legal that we accept. Let us bring credibility back to the Congress. Let us have real campaign finance reform, and let us not think that the public is going to accept the sham that went on last night.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. May I ask through the Speaker to the sponsor?

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I have a parliamentary inquiry.

Mr. PASCRELL. I was asking for a parliamentary inquiry. Point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, the current Members of Congress can be broken into two groups, those who think that there is too much money in politics in an election and those who think there is not enough. That goes across party lines. Mr. Speaker, whether we want to admit it or not, the fact is that our campaign finance system is jeopardizing our credibility. We should not fool ourselves into believing that the problem is only the illegal activities that occur during campaigns. Quite to the contrary, the real problems stem from what is legal. It is the abuse of soft money time and time again. We heard it from both sides of the aisle in the campaign finance bill submitted by the freshman bipartisan committee. Instead of bringing up our bill, instead of bringing up McCain- Feingold II, for which there is also widespread bipartisan support, the leadership on the other side of the aisle has decided to hide behind some parliamentary tactics. This is a low point in the 14 months that I have been in here. In fact, it may be the lowest point.