Bill Pascrell

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, on paragraph 2 of the bill that is before us right now, paragraph 2, line 11, on page 3 of the bill, it says ``an authorization described in paragraph (1) * * *'' And we go back to paragraph (1), Mr. Speaker. It says, ``except with the separate, prior, written, voluntary authorization of each individual * * *'' What do we mean in that paragraph number 2? What does that mean? That is a parliamentary inquiry.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express strong outrage concerning recent reports about Mexico's plans to reduce the production of crude oil, which will result in higher gasoline prices at the pump. Mr. Speaker, it was not too long ago, the same Mexican government officials who today seek to increase the price of crude oil came to the United States seeking financial assistance and aid. This special assistance was over and above what we have already given to the Mexican government in development aid and to support counternarcotics efforts. This body debated and ultimately approved a $20 billion bailout package to prop up the peso and save the Mexican economy from collapsing. Without this money, the Mexican economy would have surely fallen and today Mexico is on the road to recovery. Now, just over 3 years later, how does Mexico repay us for our role in pulling them back from the brink of economic disaster? They repay us by attempting to drive up the price of crude oil. This is wrong and we need to stop it now.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of my colleagues a tragic event of yesterday and raise a call to action on a serious problem of today. Today marks the 87th anniversary of what was, by many accounts, the worst factory fire in the history of our Nation, a fire that by the time it was finally quenched, had taken the lives of 146 women, many of whom would better be described as young ladies, girls as young as 13 years of age. The fact that 146 innocent lives were lost make the events of March 25, 1911, horrible, but it is the reason why these lives were lost that makes it a very tragic, a serious tragedy and a crime. The fire occurred in the factory at the Triangle Shirtwaist Company, a woman's clothing manufacturer. The factory was little more than 500 women crammed together at sewing machines in a small building which now houses part of New York University, forced to stay at the machines for long hours at little pay. The tragedy was fostered by the fact that the room was packed well beyond its capacity and the doors were locked by the owners to keep the women at their machines. Mr. Speaker, this is history being repeated today, a setting which led to the loss of 146 lives in 15 minutes. As great a tragedy as the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was, the bigger tragedy is that the very conditions that led to it 87 years ago still exist. Despite what many think, sweatshops are not a thing of the past nor are they the domain of Third World nations. They exist right here in this greatest of all democracies. Mr. Speaker, a 1994 General Accounting Office study estimated that New York City's famed garment industry may be populated by as many as 2,000 sweatshops. In Los Angeles and Miami, 90 percent, 80 percent of all garment shops are sweatshops; the Department of Labor officials have determined that in my own State of New Jersey, in the northern part of the State, 300 sweatshops, a figure that is actually on the rise as more and more sweatshops are migrating across the river from New York to New Jersey to take advantage of less expensive rents. The continued proliferation of sweatshops is one of the greatest threats to the continued vitality of our economy and the rights of hard-working Americans. The honorable businesses that observe the Fair Labor Standards Act and the other laws of this Nation that govern the workplace are put at serious competitive disadvantage when they are forced to compete with sweatshops that ignore all the laws, and then we have stars go on television and smile and say of their sponsored products, they know nothing about it. How can we reasonably expect a company that pays its workers a livable wage and provides a safe workplace to compete with sweatshops? Such a notion is absurd. If we continue to allow these sweatshops to operate, who are the real losers? Our workers, the millions of hard- working Americans who will see their wages artificially repressed and their jobs lost as legitimate businesses are forced out of business by sweatshops. Mr. Speaker, what does it say about us as a society if we are willing to allow sweatshops that treat humans worse than we would treat animals to continue to operate; sweatshops where children and women are forced to work 14 hours a day, overcrowded rooms at a fraction of the minimum wage? Mr. Speaker, if we are going to save jobs, especially those in the manufacturing industry, and ensure our workers appropriate conditions and pay, we must crack down on these illegal sweatshops. I have joined with several of my colleagues to send a strong message by cosponsoring H.R. 23, the Stop Sweatshops Act. This important measure would hold any manufacturer legally responsible if it or one of its contractors operates a sweatshop. Simply increasing the penalties is not enough. It is time for the Department of Labor to get off their fannies, to begin addressing the problem with the seriousness that this warrants. It is time for the Department to make exposing and putting sweatshops out of business a real priority. Mr. Speaker, 87 years ago 146 young women died in what amounts to a senseless tragedy motivated by greed. We owe it to their memory to rid our Nation of sweatshops and those who endorse them, and fight against those who smile and say they know nothing about it when they endorse those products.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the truly momentous occasion of the 100th Anniversary of the Borough of Totowa in Passaic County, New Jersey. The incorporation of Totowa in 1898 as a municipality in Passaic County, New Jersey, defined the boundaries that included the 3.7 square miles of mountain, meadows, rivers, and glens that are known today as Totowa Borough. The original inhabitants of Totowa were the Minsi tribe of the Lenni- Lenape people. ``Minsi'' means ``people of the stony country.'' The Lenni-Lenape word ``Totauwei,'' from which we get the name Totowa, has been translated to mean ``heavy falling weights of water'' or ``where the water dives and reappears.'' Many historians believe this was in reference to the Great Falls of the Passaic River in Paterson. Settled by the Dutch around 1620, Totowa soon became part of the thriving, larger Dutch colony in the New York-New Jersey area. The colony changed to British rule in 1664 until the War for Independence began in 1776 and set the stage for a new nation. Totowa's shining moment in our nation's history came during the summer and fall of 1780 when General Washington and his Continental Army positioned themselves along the Totowa ridges, protected by the high ground and overlooking the river barrier to the East. During this time, some of our greatest patriots trod on Totowa's soil. Among this group were Generals Washington, Wayne, Knox, Stirling, Huntington, Glover, Saint Claire, Howe, and Greene. Additionally, the famous Marquis de Lafayette, Baron von Steuben, and the young Colonel Alexander Hamilton were also Totowa's honored guests. During Washington's encampment, the Army's most valued possession was their artillery, gathered at great risk and cost. General Washington and his Artillery Officer, General Henry Knox, chose to place their cannons close to Totowa Road where they could be used to support the army, but were to be quickly withdrawn Westward in the event of a British breakthrough. Indeed some of the street names such as Artillery Park Road, Knox Terrace, Battle Ridge Trail, and Lookout Point Trail reflect this proud period in our history. The Borough of Totowa was part of Essex County and then Bergen County before the County of Passaic was formed in 1837. Until the incorporation in 1898, Totowa was part of Manchester Township. The first election in the new municipality showed 85 registered voters with 75 voting on April 12, 1898. From humble beginnings, Totowa has enjoyed steady growth until the end of World War II, which brought an influx of young families into the Borough thus doubling the population in the following decade. Today, through the efforts of citizens past and present, Totowa has become a balanced community with a blend of commerce, industry, and residential areas designed to provide affordable suburban living for its residents. In return, Totowa citizens have developed a tradition of volunteer service to their community, giving freely of their time and energy to benefit their neighbors. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, and Totowa's Mayor, Council, and residents in celebrating the truly momentous occasion of the Borough of Totowa's 100th Anniversary.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Sister Patricia Codey who is being honored this evening at the 55th Annual Dinner Dance of the Friends of Brian Boru. Sister Patricia is being honored this evening with the organization's ``Irish Religious of the Year Award.'' This award is given in recognition of her selfless and dedicated service, efforts and contributions that have served to improve the quality of life for the residents of the State of New Jersey. Sister Patricia's remarkable record of leadership includes teaching at Saint Paul's in Clifton, law intern at the Essex County Prosecutor's office, and Assistant Federal Defender in the Federal Public Defender's office in Newark. Additionally, Sister Patricia serves her fellow citizens as Representative in the Sisters of Charity Southern Provincial Assembly, the Red Mass Committee, the Seton Hall Law School, the Archdiocese of Newark Response Team, and the Judicial and Prosecutorial Appointments Committee in Essex County. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues and, Sister Patricia's family and friends in recognition of Sister Patricia Codey's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Ms. Veronica ``Ronnie'' Sommer who is being honored this evening at the 55th Annual Dinner Dance of the Friends of Brian Boru. Ronnie is being honored this evening with the organization's ``Irishwoman of the Year Award.'' This prestigious award is given in recognition of her selfless and dedicated efforts, and contributions that have served to improve the quality of life for the residents of Essex County and the surrounding community. Ronnie's remarkable record of leadership includes 20 distinguished years of service on the Saint Patrick's Day Parade Committee, of which in 1996 she served as the Parade's Deputy Grand Marshall. Additionally, Ronnie has served her fellow citizens as an active member of the ``Women of Irish Heritage,'' where she has served as President from 1987 through 1989, and is currently the President for a second term; the New Jersey Irish Festival for 16 years; Independent Irish for 12 years; and many other numerous Irish organizations. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues and, Ronnie's family and friends in recognition of Veronica ``Ronnie'' Sommer's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, the efforts of the freshman task force have given us a very real chance for meaningful campaign finance reform. I am committed to seeing that this opportunity is not lost. It is incumbent upon this Congress that we honestly address the many flaws in the current system by which we finance our campaigns. I believe the very credibility of not just this Congress but of the entire institution is at stake. The sad reality is that the American public holds Congress in very low esteem. We cannot reasonably expect to effectively carry out our duties as Congressmen if we lack credibility. Whether we want to admit it or not, the fact is that our campaign finance system is jeopardizing our own 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. I hope that we will address, Mr. Speaker, the growing problem of the way soft money is influencing this system; and the sooner we do it, the better we will be in terms of getting back our own credibility.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Ms. Ernestine Coley Francies of Passaic, New Jersey. Ernestine is a graduate of Passaic High School. She attended Fairleigh Dickinson University where she received her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Ernestine was the Basic Skills Parent Liaison for 16 years and has been the District Parent/Teacher Coordinator for the Passaic School District for the past seven years. Her primary responsibilities include the organization and implementation of educational training programs for parents, students, teachers, and the community. In addition, Ernestine presents workshops to audiences with interest in local education throughout the State of New Jersey, and nationwide. Through the Basic Skills Department, Ernestine has developed the BSI/ Bilingual Parent Resource Center; the Parents Assistance in Reading Program; the MegaSkills Program; the Family Math Program; the Family Science Program; the Systematic Training and Effective Parenting Program (STEP); and the parental involvement activities of the BSI Council. Since 1993, Ernestine has served as the Coordinator of the Passaic Community School, located at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School No. 6 on Hamilton Avenue in Passaic. Ernestine has received numerous awards for her community involvement throughout her career, including accolades from the Passaic Board of Education and her achievements as the United Passaic Organization's ``Adult Educator of the Year'' in 1990. She holds membership with many associations, including the National Coalition of Title 1, Chapter 1 Parents Organization; assistant recording secretary for the New Jersey Association of Parent Coordinators; member of the Early Childhood Advisory Committee for the Passaic Board of Education; the Passaic Chapter of the NAACP; past membership on the Board of Directors of the YWCA; and is currently a nominee for the Board of Directors of the Community Substance Abuse Center in Passaic. Ernestine is the mother of three children, all of whom attended Passaic Public Schools and are graduates of Passaic High School. Her fiance, David Wyder of Passaic, is also employed by the Passaic Board of Education and coordinates the activities at the high school's media center. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Ernestine's family and friends, and the City of Passaic in recognizing Ernestine Coley Francies' many outstanding and invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Fran Lawton of Passaic, New Jersey. Fran is a certified senior HUD Housing Counselor, and was a member of the United Passaic Organization (UPO) Board of Directors for seventeen years. For 5\1/2\ of those years, she worked in the capacity of Board Chairperson. Presently, Fran serves in the capacity of advisor to the Board, drawing upon her vast experience in providing guidance to the Board as it engages in community planning with an eye towards the year 2000. Fran has developed a distinghished track record of contributions to the UPO and to the community at-large. It was under her administration that the organization added the dimension of direct service to its mission. She was instrumental in keeping community action funds in the City of Passaic by spearheading the drive to make the UPO the Community Action Agency for the City in 1993. Other achievements Fran has made in terms of her affiliation with the UPO are as follows: orchestrated the first fashion show at ``The Bethwood'' in 1982 as a major fundraiser for the organization; was instrumental in the UPO introducing a breakfast program in the Passaic school system; and was very active in the protracted but successful fight against the proposed incinerator for the City of Passaic that was officially nullified by Governor Florio in 1991, to name a few. As indicated earlier, Fran has forged a very distinguished career in the arena of community service. She is very active in the National Federation of Housing Counselors, being certified by that organization as a housing counselor. She also held the position of Regional Vice- Chair for the Federation. Fran was named Housing Counselor of the Year by the Federation in 1993, when in the same year she was largely responsible for bringing the 23rd Annual Convention of the National Federation of Housing Counselors to New Jersey. At the convention she received a proclamation from the then-Mayor of Paterson William J. Pascrell, Jr. which made June 19, 1996 ``Fran Lawton Day.'' Other areas of achievement in Fran's service to the community are as follows: past Chair of the Rainbow Coalition from 1984 to 1989; past Director of Housing for the Paterson Task Force; Passaic Urban Enterprise Zone Board, where she initiated the Adopt-a-Block Program which was later imitated by other communities; member of the Passaic Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) Board; past consultant of Fair Housing for the City of Passaic; present Director of County Homelessness Prevention Program; and new Director of the Regional Opportunity Counseling Program for Essex and Hudson Counties. Recently, Fran was appointed as a Commissioner for the Passaic Housing Authority where she helps to oversee procedures and policies of the Housing Authority. Fran is a mother of two and grandmother of one. She remains an active participant with her church, the Bethel A.M.E. Church. She is also President of the Lay Organization for Bethel. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Fran's family and friends, and the City of Passaic in recognizing Fran Lawton's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to introduce you to a remarkable individual, Ms. Cesarina Earl. On Saturday, March 14, Cesarina will be honored as a Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of America. This award is presented to women who have provided a positive role model for young women. I am proud to say that Cesarina was born and bred in the Eighth Congressional District of New Jersey. A graduate of Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey, she went on to graduate from Seton Hall University with a BA in History in August of 1965. Eager to pursue a career as a school librarian, Cesarina returned to school to earn her New Jersey State library science credentials, attending both Caldwell College and Rutgers University. Cesarina has put her certification as a New Jersey Librarian/ Education Media Specialist and a New Jersey Professional Librarian to excellent use. Possessing a keen interest in our United States, she has served as a school librarian from New York to California. Returning to Peterson, she was employed for twelve years in the Paterson Free Public Library System. From there, she moved on to serve as a school librarian/media specialist at North Arlington High School. Most recently, she has been hired by the Little Ferry Board of Education to work with children grades K-8. In addition to her impressive professional career, Cesarina has been extremely active in the Italian-American community in the Greater New York Area. Accolades are nothing new to Cesarina. She has been honored by many Italian-American groups for her active role in that dynamic community. The proud mother of two grown children, she publishes a weekly newspaper, The Italian Voice, with her son Douglas. In addition to an impressive array of speaking engagements, she also travels extensively, speaking fluent Spanish and Italian. Needless to say, Cesarina continues to enjoy her involvement with the Girl Scouts of America. Her leadership and dedication to this important young womens' association led to the receipt of this prestigious award. Mr. Speaker, I would ask that you join me, our colleagues, Cesarina's family and friends, and the Girl Scouts of America as they honor her as a Distinguished Woman in the Girl Scout World of People.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to introduce you to Mattie Sims. Mattie is a wonderful person, and an outstanding asset to our community, my hometown of Paterson, New Jersey. Mattie's roots are in the south. She was born in Alabama and raised in Florida. Eventually, she made her way north to New Jersey, where she raised her family. She is the proud mother two children, a daughter, Stacey, and a son, Richard. Her favorite pursuits include collecting miniature elephants, solving crossword puzzles, and playing bingo. For well over thirty years, Mattie has served the residents of Paterson as an employee of the Post Office. Her commitment to public service is combined with a sincere interest in private enterprise. In Keeping with this interest, Mattie works part-time as a real estate agent for Shriver Realty of Paterson. In addition to her professional and familial responsibilities, Mattie is also actively engaged in a number of religious and service-oriented organizations. A faithful member of the Grace Chapel Baptist Church, she serves the congregation as the President of the Senior Usher Ministry. Mattie is also a participant in the Hospitality and Pastor Aide Ministries. She is also a member and the financial secretary of the Passaic County African American Woman organization. She is also member of Chapter 22 of the Matron Star of Bethlehem, the Order of the Eastern Star, and the Royal Matron of Lady Love, Chapter #7. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the people of Paterson, and Mattie's family and friends as we honor her for here extraordinary contributions to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to introduce you to Mr. Frank Leone. On March 31, 1998, Frank will be honored as the Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the Passaic Valley Council Boy Scouts of America. Frank was born and raised in the Fort Apache section of the Bronx, New York. After graduating from James Monroe High School in 1945, Frank joined the United States Navy. During the Second World War, he served with distinction aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Keersage. When Frank returned home, he studied electronic engineering at Farleigh Dickinson University and the Stevens Institute of Technology. Upon graduation, Frank moved from New York to his current home in Oakland, New Jersey. It is there that Frank and his wife, Ellen, have raised their three children. Making use of his education, he began a brilliant career in the private sector, specializing in electronic engineering and sales. During this time, Frank was able to glean valuable business insight through his interactions with companies such as Allen and Dumont Labs, Curtiss Wright, and the Walter Kidde & Company. Characteristically, Frank used his knowledge to help the residents of Oakland. For twelve years, beginning in the late 1960s, Frank was President of the Oakland Chamber of Commerce, where he fostered a positive environment for the local business community. In 1963, Frank began his auspicious career in public service when he was elected to serve on the Oakland Borough Council. After leaving the Council in 1965, Frank became the Acting Postmaster of the United States Post Office in Oakland. In June 1967, he received an official appointment to the post from President Lyndon B. Johnson. In addition to his duties as Postmaster, Frank's reaffirmed his commitment to the people of Oakland by serving as the Civil Defense Director and the head of the Oakland Office of Emergency Management for twelve years. During the 1984 flood of the Ramapo River, Frank coordinated the relief effort in the Oakland area and toured the affected areas with Governor Thomas Kean. Frank belongs to an extensive array of professional and service oriented organizations. In the past, Frank has held a number of important posts in these groups, including terms as the Vice President, the Legislative Chairman, and a National Presidential Aide for the National Association of Postmasters. Currently, he is the State Vice President and Chaplain of that organization. In addition to these critical professional commitments, Frank is the Deacon of the Ramapo Valley Baptist Church, the Adjutant for VFW Post #5102. He is also active in the American Legion Post #369 and is the Financial Secretary of the Oddfellows Lodge. Mr. Speaker, in light of Frank Leone's outstanding contribution to Oakland and Passaic County, I would ask that you join me, our colleagues, and Frank's friends and family as the Passaic Valley Council Boy Scouts of America honor him with their Distinguished Citizen Award.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call your attention to Mr. James Calister. James was recently honored as one of New Jersey's top two student volunteers by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program. By initiating and supporting programs that promote racial harmony, James has set a positive example for his hometown of Maplewood, and the residents of the Eighth Congressional District of New Jersey. James recognized that Maplewood was undergoing a gradual demographic change. Once an affluent, white suburb, Maplewood was quickly becoming a diverse municipality, consisting of residents from different racial and socio-economic backgrounds. James became an instrumental figure in creating a peaceful merging of these disparate groups by ensuring that the dialogue remained amicable. By attending community planning and Board of Education meetings, James learned how to influence policy-makers and enlist them in his fight against prejudice and racism. He joined the Racial Balance Task Force, and won election as Student Council President based on his promise to improve relations within his school and community. In addition, James spends much of his free time helping to coordinate various community and school-wide events, such as Diversity Day and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, which help to promote racial harmony. On May 2, 1998, James will travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the awards ceremony hosted by the Prudential Insurance Company of America in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principles. James will come to our nation's capitol with a well- deserved and earnest sense of pride in his accomplishments. This year alone, more than 11,000 students were considered for his honor. Prudential Insurance Company of America, in concert with the National Association of Secondary School Principles, created the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards in 1995. It was an award created to impress upon all youth volunteers that their contributions are both critically important and highly valued, and to inspire others to follow their example. During its three short years of existence, the program has blossomed into the nation's largest youth awards program based solely on community service, with more than 30,000 youngsters participating. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, the Prudential Insurance Company of America, the National Association of Secondary School Principles, and the residents of Maplewood as we commend James Calister for his dedication to the cause of racial reconciliation.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Joseph F. Duffy of the Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey. Joe is being honored on Sunday, February 15, 1998 on the occasion of the 28th Annual Murray House Dinner Dance. Joe is currently serving as Executive Director of Catholic Family & Community Services (CFCS). As Executive Director, he is responsible for the delivery of social services to clients in Morris, Passaic and Sussex Counties, and oversees a budget of $6.5 million. These services include assistance to emotionally troubled children and adults, persons with disabilities, individuals with AIDS, the elderly, homeless, jobless, refugees, immigrants, and persons seeking to adopt. Additionally, Joe is also Executive Secretary for Social Ministries. In this capacity, Joe is responsible as CEO of CFCS and oversees the activities of four other Social Services Agencies and the Department of Parish Social Ministries. He directs Social Ministries with a budget of $25 million. Joe's impressive resume does not stop here. Before joining CFCS in April of 1997, Joe served as Vice-President of Long-Term and Ambulatory Care Services, Assistant Vice-President of Long Term Care Services, and in many capacities with the Diocese of Paterson's Department of Persons with Disabilities. He also served as a Co-Director and House Parent at the Murray House from September of 1971 to June of 1976. In addition to his administrative skills and experience, Joe has vast educational and teaching experience. He is currently service as Field Instructor at Rutgers University's Graduate School of Social Work, a position he has held before in the late 1970's and mid-1980's at Rutgers, Fordham University, Ramapo College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and William Paterson College. Joe has also served as an Adjunct Faculty member at St. Elizabeth's College, in the Department of Business Administration and Sociology. An honors graduate, Joe has an M.P.A. degree in Health Care from Rutgers. He has two M.A. degrees in Rehabilitation Counseling from Seton Hall University, and in Special Education from William Paterson College. Joe also has a B.A. degree in Sociology from Seton Hall. He graduated from all of these schools with honors. Joe is also involved with numerous professional and civic associations, and currently serves as President of CFCS, Straight & Narrow, the Father English Multi-Purpose Community Center. He is a member of the New Jersey Chapter of the American Red Cross, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (Passaic County), the Association for Special Children & Families, and the West Milford Board of Education. Joe is married and is the father of three children. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, and Joe's family and friends, in recognition of Joseph F. Duffy's many outstanding and invaluable contributions to our society.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. I want to begin by thanking the members of the Committee on Government Reform and Oversight and, in particular, the distinguished Subcommittee on Postal Service chairman, the gentleman from New York (Mr. McHugh); the ranking member, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fattah); and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis) for their assistance in bringing this bill to the floor. I would also like to thank my colleagues from New Jersey, each of whom is cosponsor of this legislation, and Senator Torricelli, the sponsor of the bill on the Senate side. I think it is more than appropriate, Mr. Speaker, that we bring this bill to the floor today as we are in the midst of celebrating Black History Month. Few people are more deserving than Larry Eugene Doby to be honored by this Congress during this Black History Month. The impact Larry Doby had on the integration of professional baseball should not be underestimated or diminished. As the first African American to play in the American League, and only the second African American to play in the major leagues, Larry Doby is in no small part responsible for opening doors for thousands upon thousands of African American ball players. After playing in 1946 in the Negro League for the Newark Eagles, Larry Doby's contract was purchased by the Cleveland Indians of the American League on July 3rd, 1947. Two days later, on July 5th, he became the first African American to play in the American League. Larry Doby's debut came 11 weeks after that of Jackie Robinson in Brooklyn for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Many have discounted his achievement on the basis that he was not the first African American but rather the second. That, I think, is foolish. In fact, there is much reason to believe that what Larry Doby did was more special because he was second. He stepped onto the field at a time when Jackie Robinson, a man who would be a great Major League baseball player, was struggling to find his game, struggling to the point that many wondered whether or not he would make it. Robinson's struggles could have been more than enough to keep other African Americans from seizing the opportunity to integrate the American League, but not Larry Doby. He was a very special, special person. We honor him not only for his feats in professional baseball but this is truly a family man, a large family, a great family, an extended family. This is what Larry Doby was about. Not only in Cleveland, not only where he came from, Paterson, New Jersey, but all of northern Jersey and New Jersey knew of his feats. The silk city. Mr. Speaker, Larry Doby was from another time but very appropriate to our time. Today, when professional athletes hold up sneakers made in foreign lands with less than reasonable wages, we think of Larry Doby and his professionalism and his character that he brought to the field and off the field. Mr. Speaker, he is a special person because he loved children; still, to this day, working with them in his own community of Montclair, which is a few miles from Paterson, New Jersey. The naming of this post office is very fitting, very apropos. It should make us think about sports, which is all around us today. Every time we turn to the tube or turn to our own children or our children's children, it is around us and we are submerged. But that athlete, and particularly Larry Doby, was an individual who made sports more than a profession. He made sports his life. And, yes, he helped integrate the sport. But as significant as that was, he helped elevate the character of what it was to be in professional sports. He is a very special person, very special indeed. Not only as a long-time resident of our State, the silk city slugger has certainly been a hero to everyone. Naming this post office will not only be an appropriate honor for Larry Doby, it is an honor for the people of Paterson. From another time, perhaps, Mr. Speaker, but appropriate for our time.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Mario Lombardo and Steven Nicholas, both of Haledon, New Jersey. Mario and Steve are being sworn-in as members of the Haledon Borough Council on Saturday, January 3, 1998. Mario Lombardo has been a resident of the Borough of Haledon for 18 years. His family emigrated from Italy to the United States when he was nine years old. A graduate of Passaic Valley Regional High School, Mario has been a member of the Manchester Regional Board of Education for seven years, and has served as vice-president. He is a member and past president of the San Andrea Social Club; a member of the Passaic County Republican League; vice-president of the Haledon Independent Republican Organization; and, a member of the Board of Adjustment for the Borough of Haledon. Mario has been a hair stylist since 1960 and is fluent in three languages. He is the proud father of three sons, Donald and twins, Mark and David. Steven Nicholas has been a Haledon resident for 19 years. A graduate of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Steve is employed by Erasteel, Inc. where he is operations manager. He has been a member of the Haledon Board of Education for nine years and has served as president for four years and vice-president for two years. Additionally, Steve has served the P.A.L. (Police Athletic League) for six years. Steve has also served on the Key Communications Committee of Manchester Regional High School, and was a committee member for the high school's Project Graduation. Steve is married to the former Ida Fattorusso and is the proud father of Lisa, of William Paterson University, and Steven, of Manchester Regional High School. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Mario and Steve's family and friends, and the Borough of Haledon in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions Mario Lombardo and Steven Nicholas have made to the community as they take office as Councilmen of the Haledon Borough Council.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the 100th Anniversary of the Saint Ciro Society. The Saint Ciro Society will be celebrating this memorable occasion on Saturday, January 31st. The Saint Ciro Society was founded in 1898 by Italian immigrants, many of whom came from the small town of Marineo in the Province of Palermo. Saint Ciro is the patron saint of Marineo and it was only natural that these immigrants would dedicate their association to the Saint to whom they were so devoted. In time, the Saint Ciro Society became the place where these immigrants could go and not feel isolated by language barriers and discrimination. It was a touch of home in a far away place. As time passed, enough money was raised to make it possible to buy a site where they could go and feel accepted and share their experiences of living in a foreign land with their fellow ``paisans.'' Eventually, a chapel was built where Saint Ciro could be venerated. Gathering at their site on Gaston Avenue in Garfield, New Jersey, members of the Saint Ciro Society pray in the chapel where masses are often celebrated by local priests in addition to priests visiting from other countries. The Saint Ciro Society has a long history of association with Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church as well as aiding numerous charities. The society has donated close to $25,000 to help build a church in the Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire), where the Adorno fathers have a mission supported by the organization. The Saint Ciro Society also supports the Collegine Sisters in Tanzania and Father Salerno's mission in Peru. Additionally, the society has raised $15,000 to help acquire and send a much needed ambulance to the town of Marineo. The charity of the Saint Ciro Society is not limited to just foreign countries. In 1996, $8,600 was donated to having a shrine installed in honor of Saint Ciro and in helping to defray the costs of renovating the organization's church. Always an integral part of the community, the society helps all those in need by helping to pay rent or medical bills and, every year at Christmas, the society collects food for the needy. Over the past two years, the collected food has been brought to the food pantry at Mount Virgin. As a valued member of the community, the Saint Ciro Society provides yearly scholarships to worthy Italian-American students, one each from Garfield and Lodi High Schools. One year the society also provided a mobile mammography unit to help screen for breast cancer and stands ready to do it again. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the members of the Saint Ciro Society, and the community of North Jersey, in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable services provided by the Saint Ciro Society. It is only fitting that we honor the society on the occasion of the 100th Anniversary.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the Past Masters' Banquet of the Integrity Masonic Temple of Paterson, New Jersey. Honored at the banquet will be Bob Bolling, Leroy Walker, Willie Harris, Levi Price, and Harrison Adams. Bob Bolling, was born to the late Sidney and Olivia Bolling on May 25, 1940 in Baltimore, Maryland. Bob lived in Buffalo, New York from which he enlisted in the U.S. Army on April 22, 1958, and served a total 10\1/2\ years on active duty. Upon completion of basic and advance training, Bob served two tours of duty in West Germany from 1958 to 1960 and 1961 to 1965. After completion of heavy helicopter maintenance supervisor training, he was assigned to duty in South Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. Returning stateside, Bob was assigned to duty at Fort Sill, Oklahoma until October 30, 1968 whereupon he was discharged from the Army. Joining the Army Reserve program in 1974 as a Staff Sergeant, he served in the 2nd brigade, 76th and 78th divisions. On January 18, 1997, Bob was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 4 and is presently serving with the 800th Military Police Brigade in Long Island. Bob, a resident of the City of Paterson, worked at a variety of jobs, including the state Department of Corrections (1973-1975). In early 1975, Bob joined the Passaic County Sheriff's Department and was given many assignments at the County Jail including Floor Control Officer, Day Shift Supervisor of the Jail's Satellite Housing Unit at Preakness Hospital, and Supervisor of the Ombudsman's Office, from which he retired in April 1994 with the rank of Lieutenant. Bob received an Associate's Degree in Police Science from Bergen Community College 1978, and a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from William Paterson College in 1980. He enjoys membership in numerous organizations including the Reserve Officer Association, the Reserve Warrant Officer Association, the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, the Passaic County Mental Health Association, the William Paterson College Alumni Association, and the Paterson NAACP. Bob is married to the former Ester Palmer and together, are the proud parents of Damia Ann, a graduate of Clark University, and Ajamu Sekou, a student at Passaic County Technical Institute. Leroy Walker was born on January 23, 1949 to Janie May Walker and the late Roy Walker, and is married to Minnie Walker. He attended Paterson Public School #12 and graduated from Eastside High School in 1966 whereupon he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Leroy served tours of duty in the United States, Vietnam, and Japan and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. Upon returning to Paterson, he worked at a variety of jobs including Broadway Bank and the Bergen Record. In 1972, Leroy joined the Paterson Police Department where he served for the past 25 years and has received several awards for valor as well as community service. He is also a Certified Police Instructor for the State of New Jersey and is a member of PBA Local #1. In 1995, Leroy was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and is now presently serving as Detective Sergeant with the Paterson Juvenile Division. While working for the Paterson Police Department, Mr. Walker attended William Paterson College and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Public Safety Administration. Willie Harris was born in Camden, South Carolina to Logie and Bertha Harris. He graduated from the Mather Academy in Camden upon which he worked at Brown's Funeral Home as a licensed funeral director. Willie joined the Air Force in 1956 and served four years on active duty. He came to Paterson in 1960 and joined the Air National Guard Reserve and was honorably discharged in 1962. Willie and his wife, Joyce Wilson, are the proud parents of two children, Tona Peel, and Tyson, and the proud grandparents of four grandchildren, Marquis, Ashley, Naja, and Tiana. Levi Price was born in Lexington Park, Maryland, the son of Robert and Maggie Price. He graduated from G.R. Whitfield High School in Grimesland, North Carolina. After graduating from high school, Levi worked in a variety of jobs, and presently works for the Marangi Sanitation Company of Paterson. Levi is married to Mattie Price, and together are the proud parents of three children, Tony, Angelie, and Janita, and proud grandparents of seven grandchildren. Harrison Adams was born in Ridgewood, New Jersey and attended school in Paterson. He is a graduate of Passaic County Technical and Vocational High School in Wayne and the Barnet Temple Culinary Institute. Harrison has worked for Marcus Jeweler for 9\1/2\ years, and the Meadowlands Sport Facility for six years. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the family and friends of Bob, Leroy, Willie, Levi, and Harrison, and the City of Paterson in recognizing the many outstanding and invaluable contributions to our society of Bob Bolling, Leroy Walker, Willie Harris, Levi Price, and Harrison Adams.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to introduce you to Mr. Jack Birnberg. Jack is a remarkable individual who has done much to improve the quality of life for the people of the Eighth Congressional District of New Jersey. Deeply concerned with the well-being of our senior citizens, Mr. Birnberg has been actively involved with the Daughters of Miriam Center for a number of years. Most recently, he served two terms as President of the Board of Trustees of that organization. Prior to that he was the Vice-President and a member of the finance committee for six years. Jack is also an active member of the community at large. He is a former trustee of the Barnert Hospital and serves as a trustee at the Barnert Temple. Jack has also served as the Commissioner and President of the Board of the Children's Shelter of Passaic County and as a President of the Northeast Regional Association of Small Business Investment Corporation. He is also a former member of the Executive Council and the Board of Governors of the National Association of Small Businesses Investment Corporation. Currently, Jack is a corporate banker. He is the Chairman of the Waldorf Group, Incorporated, of Little Falls and the Tappan Zee Capital Corporation. In addition, Jack is the Chairman of the Board of Olo Deerfield Fabrics, Inc. of Cedar Grove. Although active in the community and the corporate world, Jack is also a dedicated family man. A resident of Wyckoff, Jack is married to the former Louise Rothstein. They are the proud parents of four sons, Michael, Steven, Jeffrey, and John. They have two grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Jack Birnberg's family and friends, and the grateful residents of New Jersey as we commend Jack for his years of service to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, on October 8, 1998, I inadvertently cast a vote in favor of H.R. 901, The American Land Sovereignty Protection Act. I intended to vote against the bill, but mistakenly voted for it. As you well know, debate on the bill and amendments to the bill occurred in the evening of October 7, but all of the votes were delayed until the next afternoon. The votes were then taken in rapid succession without debate or review. As my record clearly indicates, I voted in support of each of the four amendments that would have significantly weakened this misguided legislation. Unfortunately when it came time to vote for final passage, I mistakenly thought we were voting on another amendment. Had I recognized that the vote was on final passage, I would have certainly voted ``no.'' I would like for my record to reflect that this vote was cast in error, and that should it come up for a vote again, I fully intend to vote against H.R. 901.

Mr. PASCRELL

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

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Hastert] yield?

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

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I have a prepared statement which I will present. Mr. Speaker, this is serious business. For a moment I would like to address the Members of the other side. Every time that I have come to the well or up here, I have tried to make my comments as nonpartisan as possible. I think the Record will indicate that. I came here to build bridges. We are making a very, very serious mistake on the language agreed to in the conference committee on the census and sampling. I have in my hand here the materials that go back to 1994, 1995, 1996, concerning the city that I was mayor of, in Patterson, NJ, the third largest city in New Jersey. We were one of three communities that agreed to try out the new techniques of the U.S. Census. Sampling was used. Not only was it used, but it was proven to be very effective in that the city statistics for Patterson were changed by 8,000. I ask the other side to please listen. I have here the letter from the U.S. Census which is dated September 12, 1995. In that letter, it specifically says that because of the work that we did in the city of Patterson, the letter was sent to us by Martha Farnesworth Rich, Director of the Census, the population change had been made officially to the city of Patterson. Not only do most scientific organizations in the United States support scientific sampling, but more important than that, in the areas that this was tried, it worked. We talk on the other side about austerity and tightening our belts. We would agree with that. Do Members know how much money we spent to do this test in 1994 and 1995? This Government, through the Congress, spent $35 million. So now we want to shift to the dress rehearsal of 1998, and regardless of what comes out in that dress rehearsal, the leadership has said they are going to kill it in 1999. I ask Members in good conscience, how can they accept that? In 1970, in 1980, in 1990, towns went to court against the census and the Department of Commerce, spent millions of dollars, lawyers got rich. All this document is going to do, this conference report, is make lawyers richer, put more antagonism on the floor of this House, and throw in the face of science what has already been proven. What will we have accomplished? We are already past, way past, the time when one person-one vote is a reality. It is supported by the law. There are undercounts in small towns as well as large towns. All we want is an honest count. I ask Members, this conference report, while it has many good things in it, deserves to be sent down the tubes because of this unreasonable attempt to fly in the face of the state of the art and science.

Mr. PASCRELL. Is the gentleman from California aware that in the past four censuses that we did not have a nose count, that 85 percent of the people were counted through normal means and the rest was due to an adjustment?