Bill Pascrell

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Ronald S. Fava, prosecutor of the County of Passaic, NJ, in honor of National Police Week. Ron was born on March 14, 1949. A lifelong resident of Paterson, he attended Paterson public schools and is a graduate of Paterson Central High School. In 1969, Ronald graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University, Rutherford campus with a bachelor of arts degree. He earned his juris in doctore in 1972 from Seton Hall Law School, Newark. Ronald was admitted to the New Jersey Bar in November 1972. He was an assistant county prosecutor with the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office from 1973 to 1974 and a municipal prosecutor for the city of Paterson from 1974 to 1978. Elected in 1975, Ron also served one term as an assemblyman for New Jersey's 35th Legislative District. He was the second youngest member of the assembly at the time. In April 1980, Ron became municipal court judge for the city of Paterson and was a full-time presiding judge of the Paterson Municipal Court from October 1981 to June 1988. He was appointed as the Passaic County prosecutor on June 7, 1988 and was reappointed on June 30, 1995. Ron has been active in many civic and professional associations. He has served as vice-chairman and chairman of the Boy Scouts of America, Passaic Valley Council, north valley district. He has also led the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey as its president from 1992 to 1993 and has become the chair of the County Prosecutors Association's Legislative Committee from 1995 to 1996. Ron is currently a member of Passaic County Bar Association, the National District Attorneys Association, the Supreme Court Committees on Criminal Practice and on Municipal Courts, and the New Jersey Sentencing Policy Study Commission. He has been appointed by Governor Whitman as a member of the Study Commission on Parole and is a trustee of the New Jersey Bar Association, Criminal Law Section. Ronald and his wife Gloria are the proud parents of two children, daughter, Valerie and son, Stephen Ronald. Mr. Speaker, I would like for you to join me, our colleagues, Ronald's family and friends, and the County of Passaic in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to law enforcement of Ronald S. Fava, prosecutor of Passaic County.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Mrs. Anna Crincoli who is being honored by the Italian Tribune News as the 1997 Mother of the Year. Anna was born on August 29, 1907 at 37 Hayes Street in Newark. She attended Newton Street School. When she was 10 years old, Anna and her family moved to 383 South 9th Street in Newark where she attended the 14th Avenue School. Anna managed to complete the seventh grade in a time when daughters were not encouraged to stay in school and receive an education. At the age of 13, she was forced to leave school and go to work. There were 10 children in her family and she and her older sister had to work in a local tailor shop. She worked on a sewing machine all week and attended the continuation school 1 day each week so that she could receive her working papers. When Anna was 21 years old, she married Angelo Crincoli. She and Angelo worked in a small grocery store. Anna was relieved to work in a grocery store because she would never again have to worry about food. She knew there would always be plenty to eat. Anna has two sons, Anthony and Dominick, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren who are the joy of her life. She fondly remembers her mother who lived to be 96 years of age and would share with Anna many stories of Italy. She also remains close to her four sisters and five brothers. Always active in the community, Anna belongs to the Rosary Altar Society in St. Rocco's Church in Newark, the Belleville Club on Mill Street and the Friday Club in Bloomfield. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, and Anna's family and friends in recognizing the outstanding achievement of Anna Crincoli as the 1997 Mother of the Year.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the momentous occasion of the 180th anniversary of St. Paul's Episcopal Church of Paterson, N.J. As one of the oldest parishes in Paterson, St. Paul's was founded in 1817 by newly arrived English immigrants Mr. and Mrs. Mark W. Collet who missed the Anglican worship services they had enjoyed so much in their homeland. The church's first formal service was the baptism of the Collet's infant son, performed by a clergyman traveling to Paterson from Burlington and the congregation's first members consisted of friends and neighbors who attended the christening. Over the past 180 years, north Jersey residents have been able to practice their Episcopal faith in Paterson and have done so under three different roofs. The first services were held in the old Dutch Reformed Church of Totowa on Water Street and the old Paterson Academy Building on Market Street. Following its incorporation as St. Paul's Episcopal Church in 1825, the church acquired 13,000 square feet of land at Hamilton Square (Market and Colt Streets) gratis from Roswell Colt, head of the Society of Establishing Useful Manufacturers. A few months later, members of the congregation began constructing a church of their own, a simple wood edifice with a square belfry, and worshipped there until June 28, 1848, when the building was destroyed by a horrendous fire that erupted at a nearby machine shop. One parishioner, Robert Johnson, lost his life when he rushed into the sanctuary to save the church's organ, which had been played every Sunday by Mrs. Collet, the parish's founder and first organist. While parishioners were devastated, they did not lose hope or faith. While holding worship services at Odd Fellow's Hall on Main Street, they immediately began making plans for a new church at the site of the original structure. On a bright, cold January day in 1851, members happily gathered at their new Gothic-style limestone church for dedication services. A year later, a gallery was installed to accommodate an overflow of worshipers. A house on Church Street was acquired for a rectory. When membership continued to increase, the church purchased land to construct a larger building on the fashionable ``Eastside,'' on Broadway and East 18th Street. Ground was broken October 9, 1893 and the cornerstone was laid on May 10, 1895. Designed by William Halsey Wood of Newark, the new church, styled after Durham Cathedral of England. Wood left no stone unturned in creating his masterpiece. A stickler for detail, he outfitted the building with strong, lofty towers with slitted windows like those Anglicans historically installed in their churches to withstand assaults by mighty armies. The interior of the parish was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany, who complimented the congregation's handsome mosaic and marble alter with nine magnificent Tiffany windows. As membership in the congregation grew, St. Paul's took on many new ventures in the community. In addition to serving as a house of worship, it became a pacesetter for innovative, humanitarian programs. In so doing, it has continued to practice teachings of the Bible and serve the entire community as a 20th century Good Samaritan. Mr. Speaker, I would like for you to join me, our colleagues, the congregation of St. Paul's Episcopal Church and the city of Paterson in recognizing the momentous occasion of the 180th anniversary of St. Paul's Episcopal Church and in celebrating the church's survival and importance in the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the Passaic Semi-Pro Baseball League, as they celebrate their 12th annual salute to Passaic semi-pro baseball reunion dinner, in honor of the baseball greats who left behind a legacy of greatness and fond memories in the sport of baseball. This year's event is truly a special occasion as the careers of four great men are highlighted in recognition of their outstanding and invaluable contributions they have made not only to the Passaic Semi- Pro Baseball League, but also to themselves, their family, and friends, and their teammates. The distinguished group of honorees includes Al Ianuzzi, Emil Majka, John Kopec, Jr., and Ed Szerencsits. Although a tribute to the Passaic Semi-Pro Baseball League, I feel that is only fitting and proper that the careers of these four gentlemen are equally recognized for their proud accomplishments. Al Ianuzzi, born 1923, began his distinguished baseball career when he played varsity baseball at East Rutherford High School as a first- baseman. In his senior year, Al's contributions helped lead the Wildcats to the group 2 State championship and earned him a place on the Passaic Valley Conference All-Star Team. He continued to play even when in the U.S. Army, and after he was discharged, Al played semi-pro baseball with great area teams, such as the Carlstadt Cubs and the Carlstadt Pros. He finished his outstanding career with the Passaic Demuro Comets. Emil Majka, born 1926, began his distinguished baseball career when, as a young teenager, he played for several years with the Passaic Industrials. A well-rounded player, Emil served the Industrials as a second- and third-baseman, and also at shortstop. He also played second base with the Holy Rosary St. Stan's in the Clifton Recreational League, eventually helping the team to a first-place finish. Later, Emil played Legion baseball, playing third base for Passaic Memorial Post No. 200 and batting over .400. An integral part of the team, he contributed significantly to the Post's Legion championship and played an outstanding game in the State championship in Trenton where he batted over .500. During this time, he also played shortstop for the All-Passaics. Upon entering service with the U.S. Air Force in 1944, Emil played third-base with his squadron's softball team and after being discharged, played third-base for the Okonite Co. of Passaic, of which he was also an employee. Emil is currently retired and lives in Garfield with his wife Anne, and has two sons. John Kopec, Jr., born 1931, began his distinguished baseball career early on, playing at Pulaski Park--South Field, mostly with the Bisons. He also played shortstop for the American Legion Rosoc-Duc Post No. 359 and the Passaic High School Indians as a second-baseman. John's superb playing contributed to the Indians 1948 Valley Conference cochampionship and their 1949 championship. In 1949, John made first- team All-Valley Conference as a second-baseman. His semi-pro activities include stints with the Bisons, the Maple Leafs, the Comets, and the Clifton Dodgers. Ed Szerencsits, born 1937, began his distinguished baseball career as a pitcher at Pope Pius XII High School in Passaic from 1953 to 1955. He went undefeated in high school and led the team to the parochial group B north Jersey sectional championship. During this time, Ed made first- and second-team all-State for private schools. His semi-pro career began in 1955 playing for teams such as the Demuro Comets, under Ted Lublanecki, the Granatell Indians, under Milt Stein, and the Clifton Dodgers, under Ray Mastrobert. Ed also had pitched for Seton Hall University under coach Ownie Carroll, taking the Pirates to the metropolitan collegiate baseball title in 1959. He was 22d in the Nation E.R.A. in 1958 and 10th in the Nation E.R.A. in 1959. In 1959, Ed was signed to a professional contract with the Milwaukee Braves by Honey Russell and the current manager of the New York Yankees, Joe Torre but was released by current Chicago White Sox manager, Roland Hemond, after spring training. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Al's, Emil's, John's and Ed's family and friends, and the people of north Jersey in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable contributions to the sport of baseball, made by these four gentlemen, during the 12th annual salute to the Passaic Semi-Pro Baseball League.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Harry ``Skip'' Gould of Nutley, NJ who is being presented this evening with the 1997 Dr. Virginius D. Mattia Service Award in recognition of his 36 years of community service to the Township of Nutley. Skip serves the community in a volunteer capacity and remains an active member of the Nutley Volunteer Emergency and Rescue Squad. Considering the average volunteer emergency medical technicians active participation is between 4 to 6 years, Skip's dedication is truly outstanding and noteworthy. Throughout his 36 years of service, Skip has compiled an impressive record. His volunteer hours are estimated to be over 75,000 and he has answered well over 5,100 calls for assistance. He has devoted thousands of hours to receiving training and providing training to other members. Skip has served eight terms as captain of the Nutley Volunteer Emergency and Rescue Squad and two terms as its president. In addition, Skip is also the mechanic who ensures that when someone needs emergency medical care, the ambulances and equipment are functioning at peak performance. All vehicles and equipment are maintained at the squad's headquarters by Skip, which eliminates a very substantial cost to the squad. He also leads the squad in the maintenance of the headquarter's building. Skip is looked upon throughout the State of New Jersey as a volunteer EMT [Emergency Medical Technician] with significant expertise in the emergency medical field. His vast knowledge has enabled new volunteers to learn from him and to develop their skills under his direction. He demands excellence in everything he does and the squad's ability to render the best possible care to the community is a direct result of his leadership. Mr. Speaker, I would like for you to join me, our colleagues, Skip's family and friends, and the Township of Nutley in recognizing the 36 years of outstanding dedication and leadership of Harry ``Skip'' Gould to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Thomas Clifton, chief of police for the Borough of Totowa in New Jersey, who has retired after 39 years of service to the community. Chief Clifton is a dedicated officer who has served Totowa well throughout the years and is respected by his peers throughout the State as an outstanding law enforcement official. Thomas Clifton rose through the ranks of the police department. In 1980, he became deputy chief of police of the detective bureau and held this challenging post for 10 years. In March 1990, Thomas Clifton was promoted to the rank of chief and has served in that capacity with distinction. In 1993, Chief Clifton was instrumental in renovating the borough's headquarters, purchasing a new communications system, and in computerizing the department's records. Under his leadership, the department has been readied for the 21st century and made law enforcement in Totowa smarter and more efficient. Chief Clifton has been a vital and effective force in the growth of law enforcement not only in Totowa, but in the entire area. His innovation and leadership will set the standard throughout the Totowa Police Department for years to come. We are grateful as a community for Chief Clifton's lifelong dedication to insuring our safety and the security of the Borough of Totowa. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Chief Clifton's family and friends, the Totowa Police Department, and the Borough of Totowa in recognizing the 39 years of outstanding service to public safety of Chief Thomas Clifton and wishing him continued health and happiness in his retirement.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Susan Amirian of Clifton, NJ, who is being honored tonight by the Clifton Optimist Club in recognition of her outstanding community service to the city of Clifton. Susan began the fundraising efforts to obtain high-tech infrared imaging fire helmets for the Clifton Fire Department which cost $25,000 each and thanks to her extraordinary efforts, Clifton firefighters are now able to see through smoke, observe body heat from victims, notice heat behind walls, floors and ceilings and move swiftly through unfamiliar surroundings. In recognition of her accomplishments, Susan has received numerous awards statewide and was Citizen of the Year for the New Jersey Firefighters Association. Susan is a native of New York State and received a citation from the mayor of New York and the New York Police Department for volunteer work at the 72d Precinct in Brooklyn. She obtained her bachelor of fine arts from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn and received her master's degree from the New School for Social Research. She was also a regional finalist in the White House Fellowship Program during the administration of President Ronald Reagan. Always eager to serve the community, Susan served on the Crop Walk committee this past fall to raise funds for the hungry. She also conducts workshops on recycled materials at the Hackensack Meadowlands Environment Center and takes part in first night activities in Montclair. Susan is also on the board of Clifton Hospice and is a Sunday school teacher and church council member at the First Lutheran Church. Currently, she is assistant director of the office of publications at Montclair State University and is responsible for the production of catalogs, manuals, brochures, newsletters, and posters for the university. Susan and her husband, Armen, an electronics shop worker at the Metropolitan Opera Co. and freelance writer, are the proud parents of their 10-year-old son, Garen. Mr. Speaker, I would like for you to join me, our colleagues, Susan's family and friends and the city of Clifton in recognizing Susan Amirian's outstanding and invaluable service to the community as she is presented with the Clifton Optimist Club's Judge Joseph J. Salerno Award.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention Dr. Carlos A. Neyra Estens, associate professor in the department of plant sciences at Cook College, Rutgers University. Dr. Estens was recently awarded two patents for the discovery of a novel Bacillus licheniformis strain that produces a lipopeptide antibiotic which is effective against fungal pathogens that affect corn, turfgrasses and vegetable crops. In addition, Dr. Estens was a key speaker at the ``NATO Advanced Workshop on Azospirillim and Related Bacteria'' in Sarvar, Hungary, the ``Mediterranean Colloquium on Protected Cultivation'' in Agadir, Morocco, and more than 100 symposiums and international conferences. He has written three books and over 100 articles in scientific publications. Dr. Estens is also a consultant for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Academy of Sciences and other organizations. Dr. Estens was born on October 4, 1940 and earned his bachelor of science in agronomy at the University of Tucuman, Argentina in 1965. He earned his Ph.D. in biology at the University of Illinois in 1974. Dr. Estens' post-doctoral fellowship was conducted at EMBRAPA, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with Dr. Johanna Dobereiner, sponsored by the Brazilian Research Council/USA National Academy of Sciences. For over 30 years, Dr. Estens has taught at numerous universities including the Universidad Nacional de Tucuman (Argentina), the Universidad Agraria, La Molina (Lima, Peru), the Universidad Rural de Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), the University of Chihuahua (Mexico). Since 1977, Rutgers University has been fortunate to benefit from his vast experience. In addition to his involvement in the scientific community, Dr. Estens has been very active in the Peruvian community. He served as past president of the Union Peruvian Lions Club and was recently honored by this fine organization. Dr. Estens has been a role model and great praise must be extended for all his worthy achievements. Mr. Speaker, I would like for you to join me, our colleagues, Dr. Estens' family and friends, and the scientific community in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable lifelong contributions Dr. Carlos A. Neyra Estens has made to plant biology and to our society.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the John Raad Post No. 438 of the American Legion as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The John Raad Post elected its first slate of officers on February 9, 1947 and was granted its American Legion charter No. 438, on December 7, 1947. Since that time, the Post has been a tremendous resource to its members and to the community. As a former mayor and south Paterson native, I am aware firsthand of the contributions of the John Raad Post. It has been the center of civic and social activity in south Paterson for many years. The Post has been a place for veterans to congregate and for members of the community, including the variety of new immigrant groups who settled in Paterson, to use for social gatherings. The members of the Post themselves have been active. Members of the Legion not only take care of veterans by visiting them in hospitals and sponsoring recreation activities, but they care for the community. They and their auxiliary sponsor boys and girls to participate in Boys' Town and Girls' Town. They give donations to charity and their concerns for the welfare of our children, Americanism and the world around them are evident. The Post has 25 members who were original with the Post when it was first conceived 50 years ago. Mr. Speaker, I therefore ask that you join me, our colleagues, the members of the John Raad Post, and members of the entire community, as we recognize the invaluable services of this American Legion Post on its 50th anniversary.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the deeds of one of my closest friends, Adolph J. Galluccio of Wyckoff, NJ. Adolph is being honored tonight as Man of the Year by the House of Compassion. It is only fitting that the House of Compassion honor Adolph, for he epitomizes caring and generosity of spirit. He was born and raised in Paterson and still considers it home. Adolph practices law in Paterson, is involved in charitable organizations in Paterson, and he has given his heart and soul to Paterson. Adolph continually touches the lives of others. Whether he is performing stand-up comedy to benefit charity or giving turkeys he personally buys for the needy, Adolph unceasingly and enthusiastically keeps giving to his community. Adolph has been a parishioner of Blessed Sacrament R.C. Church in Paterson for more than 40 years. He has been a member on the original board of directors for Eva's Kitchen and has served on the board of trustees for Paterson Catholic High School. Professionally, Adolph Galluccio is well-respected as one of the best criminal attorneys in New Jersey. He graduated from Seton Hall Law School in 1964 and received the Bureau of National Affairs award. He is admitted to the New Jersey, U.S. District, and U.S. Supreme Court. Adolph continues to emphasize the importance of education and serves as a resource for the next generation. He is a regular Career Day speaker and occasional guest lecturer at both Paterson Catholic High School and Ramapo High School. Adolph and his wife Dorothy have four children, Michael, Terry Lynne, Karen, and Mark, and seven grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Adolph's family and friends in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Adolph J. Galluccio.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Preparatory Center for the Arts at Montclair State University. This occasion will be celebrated on Saturday, May 3, 1997 with a concert showcasing the winning compositions from the Music Division Composition contest in which some 250 scores from composers in seven countries were entered. In 1976, Dr. Ruth Rendleman, professor of music at Montclair State University, was the driving force behind what was then called the Music Preparatory Division. The division was created by the Department of Music to seek out, encourage, and develop the talents of qualified music students of all ages from the State of New Jersey and adjacent areas. The Preparatory Division officially opened its doors in September 1976, with an enrollment of 54 students. It offered courses in private instrumental instruction, class piano, music theory, and chamber ensembles. Today, the Music Preparatory Division has evolved into the Preparatory Center for the Arts. Three hundred and twenty students participate in similar music courses as those offered 20 years ago, and can also be involved in large ensembles such as orchestra and choir. They can also take classes in jazz, dalcroze and eurythmics, traditional and electronic music composition, and introductory music history. In addition to its curriculum, the Preparatory Center for the Arts now offers classes in ballet and tap dancing. It further has inaugurated its Theatre Kids program of drama classes for children, ages 5 through 10. The scholarship program, for which students and faculty perform a few benefit performances each year, allows Montclair State University to offer both talent- and need-based scholarships to many deserving students. This year, the center will be hosting their fifth summer music camp at the New Jersey School of Conservation at Stokes Forest. This camp is a 2-week extension of the 30-week academic year program in which students from various parts of the country can come to study music and the environment. The Preparatory Center clearly has come a long way since its inception. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, the students and faculty of the Preparatory Center for the Arts, and all of Montclair State University in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to musical development Montclair State University has made on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Preparatory Center for the Arts at Montclair State University.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Nicholas Vecchio of West Orange, NJ who is being honored by the Orange- West Orange Chapter of UNICO as their Man of the Year. A member in good standing of the Orange-West Orange Chapter for more than 23 years, Nick has faithfully served UNICO as treasurer, vice- president and president, 1979-80. He has also served as a delegate to UNICO's national convention for 9 years and was a member of the board of directors of district XI, New Jersey for as many years. His personal successes have been followed by tremendous generosity. Nick has donated Toys for UNICO; is a major contributor to the Orange- West Orange Sports Breakfast; is a frequent contributor to the Sisters of St. Lucy Filippini Mother House, Villa Walsh, Morristown; and is a supporter of A.C.T. Now, Abolish Cancer Today, affiliate of Memorial- Sloan Kettering Service Center. Through his outstanding and invaluable contributions, Nick has aided many people, using his personal funds to assist them in their time of need. He has been and still is instrumental in raising thousands of dollars for various organizations where he is a member, among them: the Pack 3 Boy Scouts of America, the West Orange American Cancer Society, and the West Orange Cerebral Palsy Campaign. Nick is happily married for 45 years to Camille, and is the proud father of five children: Beth, Andrea, Lisa, Camille, and Anthony. He is also the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren. Nick is a graduate of Rutgers University and attended Rutgers Law School. Currently he serves as a member of Rutgers' Committee on Academic Excellence. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Nick's family and friends, and the members of the Orange-West Orange Chapter of UNICO in recognizing the exceptional dedication and service to the community of Nicholas Vecchio, Orange-West Orange UNICO's Man of the Year.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the momentous occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Belleville. The Rotary Club of Belleville received its charter from the Rotary International on April 22, 1992. The club counts among its members this community's leaders in business, the professions, and trades. The club enriches our community by observing the Rotary mottos, ``Service Above Self,'' and ``He Profits Most Who Serves Best.'' It has sponsored projects to aid the aged, youth, the ill, the poor, and the illiterate. The Belleville Rotary continually works to provide services to those in need. The club is generous to the community. Whether they give funds directly, provide food, endow scholarships to Belleville high school students, or donate to the Student Exchange Program with Japan, the Belleville Rotarians epitomize the spirit of giving. The club is particularly proud of its ability to give to the Gift of Life Program for children of the world. This program provides doctor and hospital services to children in need of heart operations who would not have had the benefit of the treatment. The club contributes to and supports the Rotary International's PolioPlus Program to eradicate polio in developing countries and regions worldwide. The club will officially observe its anniversary with a musical program at the Belleville Public Library and Information Center on May 7, 1997 and a dinner dance to be held on June 26, 1997 in Belleville. These events will be attended by the club's members, guests, and dignitaries from the Rotary, the town, and the State. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, members of the Rotary Club of Belleville, and the township of Belleville in recognizing the momentous occasion of the 75th anniversary of its Rotary Club and to commend the organization for its outstanding and invaluable service to the community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of this great budget agreement. I think we have come a long way and it has taken us a long time. This budget proposal is real. For the first time in 28 years, we have the opportunity to pass a truly balanced budget. I hope the Members of this House will consider later on this evening the Shuster-Oberstar amendment in terms of transportation and investment into our infrastructure. I think it is important. This is a balanced budget that protects our commitments to working families, the elderly and children and one that puts our economy on the right path as we enter the next century. The interest payment on the debt is currently the third largest portion of the Federal budget. That is money that could otherwise be invested in education, in job training, and infrastructure, or could simply be given back to the taxpayers to spend as they see fit. This budget proposal allows for tax credits for our young people and allows for expanded Pell grants. It is the right vote tonight, later on this evening, that we support this budget agreement. I commend both sides for a job well done.

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Shuster] for giving me this time. What my colleagues have proposed and what many have joined them with is not a breach of any kind of any agreement. We will decide the agreement in this House. That is the only agreement that we are concerned about. Forty-nine Governors, 89 senators, 239 Members of this House are on record supporting the transportation spending level proposed in this amendment. What we have done is not any different than what we did with veterans. We collect fees, and then we put those fees back in the general fund rather than spend them on veterans. What we are doing here is a collection agency, $20 billion that goes back into the general budget rather than being spent on the infrastructure, on economic development in this Nation. The gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Shuster] is right on target. We are going to win this fight tonight. It is an important one for America. It is just as important as our balanced budget.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring this House's attention to a matter of concern to all Americans. A little over 7 years ago, Noel Gaynor legally emigrated from his native Northern Ireland to the United States in hopes of putting his past behind him and beginning a new life. Mr. Gaynor settled in my district in Bloomfield, NJ, and since his arrival has been nothing but a model citizen and part of the community, a diligent and hard-working union laborer. He is highly regarded for both his work and his character. Mr. Speaker, he is my neighbor. More importantly, Mr. Gaynor has married a wonderful wife, Colleen, two beautiful young daughters. He has established a life here in the United States. This is all in jeopardy because the INS now seeks to tear Mr. Gaynor away from his home. Mr. Speaker, he is my neighbor. Uprooting Mr. Gaynor from his life here and deporting him would not only destroy his life but the life of his wife and his children. Mr. Speaker, Noel Gaynor is our neighbor.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Michigan [Mr. Stupak] for leading the effort to bring a commonsense approach to this issue. First of all, there is purposeful misconstruing of our bill. Our bill does provide for States to apply for dollars right in the bill itself to local communities to hire law enforcement officers or officers of the corps, that may include police officers, juvenile judges, and probation officers. Mr. Chairman, there has been an attempt by some on the other side of the aisle to paint this as being soft on crime. It is not soft on crime. Nothing could be further from the truth. Our bill expedites the time that a judge has to decide whether to transfer a juvenile to adult court, increases the penalties for juveniles who possess a handgun and expands the use of the juvenile records for Federal law enforcement purposes. However, in addition to that, we must focus on the majority of our young people, who follow the law. They need opportunity so that they do not cross that line. If we focus solely on the few who are convicted with juvenile crimes, we are surely going to lose the war on youth violence in America. Our bill is balanced. There is nothing wrong with funding boys and girls clubs. In fact, unlike the provisions of the McCollum bill, funding prevention has proven to work. Mr. Chairman, this is a critical issue for the country. I ask us to have an open mind of how we are really going to help our young people instead of pounding our chests and having poor results.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, today I address the House on the passing of a great man, a great American, Rev. Dr. Albert Moses Tyler, who died at 93 years of age in Paterson, NJ. He was a minister for 69 years, and head of St. Luke's Baptist Church in Paterson for 62 years. He spoke softly about our dignity and human rights but always intensified his efforts to make sure that our civil rights are protected. We have lost a great American, but his legacy lives on. I try in this House to carry on his great model of principles which he brought forth.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me this time. I rise in strong opposition to H.R. 3 and in support of the Democratic substitute. We in Government have no higher responsibility to those we serve than to provide for the protection and to do all within our power to make our streets and neighborhoods safe. We owe it to our constituents to confront the issues of crime head- on, not just chest pounding and tough talk. That is why I rise today in support of the Democratic substitute to the juvenile justice bill. Our substitute represents the only real balanced approach to solving the problem of youth violence. In contrast to our balanced approach, the bill of the gentleman from Florida [Mr. McCollum] takes the most extreme approach to juvenile justice reform and is filled with tough- sounding provisions which have never been proven to reduce violent crime. The bill of the gentleman from Florida [Mr. McCollum] provides absolutely no funding for initiatives that focus on preventing crimes before they occur because 98 percent of young people in this country do the right thing. Those are the kids we should be supporting and worried about. I have had to deal with youth violence on a day-to-day basis. I understand the fight that we are facing. In Paterson, NJ, we were able to reduce crime 36 percent in 6 years. We did not achieve this reduction by tough talk and posturing. We had the folks on the streets to work with the folks that walk the streets, the brothers and sisters in blue. We achieved it by taking real steps, implementing real prevention and community policing initiatives. After I was elected, I formed a public safety advisory committee composed of police officers, prosecutors, judicial officials and others who have had great success in crime fighting, Mr. Chairman. I charged them with the task of reviewing our current juvenile justice system. An interesting thing happened last week. When I asked the committee to reconvene and share their opinions, to a person, every one of them acknowledged that there is a real need to be tough on these juveniles committing violent crimes. We should concentrate on how we prevent kids from ever becoming involved in crime in the first place. They expressed the belief that we must concentrate on keeping young children from ever getting into crime. That is just what the Democratic substitute does. Our legislation cracks down on gangs and juvenile drug dealers and prescribes harsh graduated penalties for those convicted of crimes. We must recognize that only a very small handful of youths are convicted of crimes. In here, in a very specific article in Jersey, ordered to reduce the juvenile jail crowding in our State. This is not how you fight crime. It is how you pound your chest and get people to think that you are doing something about it and you are not.

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts for yielding me time on this disappointing rule, on which I rise in strong opposition. Yes, we need to repair our juvenile justice system, but first we need to get our priorities in order and that is what we should be about. I speak as a former mayor of a large city and now as a Congressman from the Eighth District. While I am pleased that this House is going to take a good look at our juvenile justice system and how we can improve it, the majority is denying us the opportunity to discuss commonsense anti-gun violence efforts as part of this legislation. Our priorities should be about those young people who are in the galleries listening to us debate this issue, and how we can prevent violence from occurring in our streets. Every day American youths are injured and killed by guns. A staggering 1 in every 4 teenage deaths are gun-related. These numbers do not even take into account the number of crimes committed by juveniles with guns. Few factors have had as direct an impact on the increase in violent youth crime over the last 10 years as have guns. Juvenile arrest records for weapons law violations are up 103 percent since 1985, a rate that is clearly unacceptable to all of us in this room. This House is only fooling itself if we believe for a second that we can effectively address the issue of youth violence without addressing gun violence. If we are truly serious about making our streets and neighborhoods safer, keeping those young kids safe and alive, we need to get serious and have gun violence addressed in this juvenile bill. The Democratic substitute that we originally brought to the Committee on Rules would have addressed the gun issue. The real losers under this rule are the millions of Americans who live in fear of violent youth crime, mixed up with gangs and armed to the teeth. The majority is keeping us from implementing commonsense rules. This is for young people. If we truly love them and wish to protect them, then let us put the amendments before this body. Announcement By The Speaker Pro Tempore

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention, David Maniaci of Allendale, NJ, who is being honored by the Italian- American Police Officer's Association of New Jersey. David was born on May 24, 1963, at Saint Joseph's Hospital in Paterson to Anna and the late Nicholas Maniaci and was raised in North Haledon. He is a graduate of Neumann Preparatory High School and Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia. David majored in food marketing and earned a bachelor of science degree in 1985. While a young high school student working part time at the local Foodtown, David met his wife, Nancy, who was also a student and part- time worker. They have been married for more than 8 years and have two children: Alexa, age 7 and Nicholas, age 5. David is president and CEO of Nicholas Markets, Inc., a family-owned business that was started in North Haledon by his father, Nicholas, in 1943. Nicholas Markets owns and operates 10 Super Foodtowns and 2 Grand Opening Liquor Stores in Passaic, Essex, Sussex, Middlesex, and Union Counties. David is a member of the Foodtown Board of Directors, and the New Jersey Food Council Board of Directors. He also is a member of the Passaic County Police Chief Association and the Passaic County 200 Club. David also serves many civic organizations as well, including the Boy Scouts of America, where he is a member of the board of directors, the Fidelians of America, and the Hawthorne Lions Club, where he serves as treasurer. He also helped establish the Nicholas Maniaci Scholarship Fund for St. Paul's Roman Catholic School in Prospect Park and has worked on various projects which assist handicapped members of the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, David's family and friends, the Italian-American Police Officer's Association, and the citizens of North Jersey in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of David Maniaci.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Holy Rosary Young Men's Club of Passaic, NJ. The Holy Rosary Young Men's Club was incorporated in 1927 as an organization where young men of the Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church could participate in social, athletic, civic, and fraternal activities. Since its inception, the Young Men's Club has been a leader in all of these activities. Its athletic teams have gained area renown, boasting the city and area championship baseball teams of the 1920's, 1930's, and 1940's, and continuing with its championship basketball teams of the 1950's and 1960's which played to capacity crowds at local arenas. Bowling and softball are also club mainstays. The Young Men's Club has always been at the forefront of many civic endeavors as well. They conducted parish food and clothing drives during World War II and during other times of need. With many of its members going on to elected office, the Young Men's Club still plays a pivotal role in civic and political affairs in the community. On every Palm Sunday for the past seventy years, the Young Men's Club sponsors its annual communion breakfast in the parish auditorium, an event which is considered by many visitors and dignitaries to be the most outstanding communion breakfast of the year. Additionally, the club sponsors a Thanksgiving social and a fun-filled beefsteak dinner at club headquarters. The Young Men's Club contributes to the vibrancy of Holy Rosary Church and is integral to the lifeblood of the city of Passaic. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, members of the Young Men's Club, and the city of Passaic in honoring the momentous occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Holy Rosary Young Men's Club of Passaic.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Michael J. Madonna, who is being honored by Italian-American Police Officer's Association of New Jersey. Michael has served as a member of the Oakland police department since 1966 and was elected to the position of State delegate for P.B.A. Local 164 in 1968. He has climbed through the ranks of the Police Benevolence Association ever since. He became president of the local 164 and was a past trustee of the Bergen County Conference. In 1974, Michael was elected to the State executive board and since 1984, has served as the P.B.A.'s representative to the New Jersey Police Training Commission. Currently, he is serving as the vice-chairman of the Police Training Commission. In addition to these positions, Michael has served and is currently serving the following State committees: Capital Expenditures; Convention, chairman; Collective Bargaining; Federal Legislation; Golf; Legislative; Local Presidents, chairman; New Delegates; Organization, chairman; and Special Police. In 1996, Michael was voted in as president of the New Jersey State P.B.A. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Michael's family and friends, and the Italian-American Police Officer's Association of New Jersey in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Michael J. Madonna.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention Hon. Douglas H. Palmer, who on July 1, 1990, became the first African- American mayor of the city of Trenton, NJ. Mayor Palmer was born on October 19, 1951, and was raised in his family home on Edgewood Avenue in Trenton. He attended the public schools of Trenton during his formative years and graduated from Bordentown Military Institute. Bordentown, NJ. Mayor Palmer then went on to graduate from Hampton University in Hampton, VA, where he received a bachelor of science degree in business management in 1973. While in college, he played football and baseball and was named to the all-conference baseball team in 1970, 1971, and 1972. Since becoming mayor of Trenton, Mayor Palmer has made tremendous strides in rebuilding his beloved hometown, including implementing changes and improvements in every area of city government. He has orchestrated plans that have increased affordable housing, expanded recreational programs, improved health care--especially for the children, the elderly, and the poor--and created numerous economic development projects. Mayor Palmer has also demonstrated leadership in the area of health care, including securing grant funding and luring the State's top medical school, the University of Medicine and Dentistry, NJ, to Trenton in order to start the State's first comprehensive drug treatment, research, and educational facility. He has also established Trenton Loves Children [TLC], the city's first comprehensive program for inner-city children that ensures all preschoolers will receive free immunization against childhood diseases. Also Mayor Palmer has worked to bring the Family Development Program [FDP] to Trenton. This welfare program involves both the business and educational communities and seeks to provide complete individual job training, education, and placement assistance for welfare recipients. In its first year of operation, FDP has been extremely successful and is considered a model welfare reform initiative for the Nation. Mayor Palmer's most prized accomplishment, however, must be making Trenton home to the country's first federally funded Weed and Seed antidrug program. Weed and Seed helps rebuild inner-city communities by weeding out drugs and other unlawful elements of crime-ridden areas and seeding in positive aspects of community life such as after-school safe haven sites for neighborhood children. The program has been called a model for the country and has attracted visits by such dignitaries as former Vice President Dan Quayle and former U.S. Attorney General William Barr. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Mayor Palmer's family and friends, and the city of Trenton in recognizing the outstanding and invaluable service to the community of Mayor Douglas H. Palmer.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the momentous occasion of the 75th anniversary of St. Mary's Knights of Columbus Council 2346 of Nutley, NJ. Founded in 1922, St. Mary's Council 2346 Knights of Columbus will be celebrating their 75th anniversary on Saturday, April 19, 1997. Under the leadership of Grand Knight Robert McDowall and Deputy Grand Knight Joseph French, the Nutley Knights currently have more than 365 members. Each year the Knights sponsor several contests, among them being poster and essay contests, for Nutley schoolchildren, many of whom have gone on to win statewide awards. The Knights also sponsor a free-throw basketball contest and provide scholarship funds for deserving students. Over the years, the Knights have become well known for their outstanding and invaluable service to the community which includes their participation in local blood bank drives and several charitable efforts. In the past few years, their canister drives to help retarded children have raised more than $10,000 a year to help local organizations such as special young adults and the JFK Boy Scout Troop 159. Also, the Knights have conducted a used clothing drive to aid the poor people of Appalachia, an event which has resulted in the shipping of several truckloads of clothing for these needy people. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, St. Mary's Knights of Columbus Council 2346, and the township of Nutley in celebrating the momentous occasion of the 75th anniversary of St. Mary's Knights of Columbus.