Donald Payne

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to support the passage of House Resolution 94, a resolution to recognize the outstanding contributions of Venus and Serena Williams. Venus and Serena Williams are two esteemed professional African American women tennis players who have broken racial and socioeconomic barriers with pride and poise. The Williams sisters have accomplished many firsts in the world of tennis. Twenty-year-old Venus is the first African-American woman to win the Wimbledon Championships since 1958, the first United States woman since 1924 to win an Olympic gold medal in both singles and doubles, holds the women's world record for the fastest serve at 127 miles per hour, and is one of only seven women to win the singles titles in both the Wimbledon Championships and the U.S. Open in the same year. Nineteen-year-old Serena Williams is only the second African-American woman ever to win a Grand Slam singles title, is only the sixth American woman to win the U.S. Open singles title since 1968, is only the fifth woman to win both singles and doubles Grand Slam titles in the same year, and is the first woman to reach the finals in a U.S. Open debut since 1978. Demonstrating through the spirit of sports, Venus and Serena Williams have truly inspired and encouraged people of all backgrounds and ages, especially those in their hometown of Compton, California, that education, teamwork, fortitude, and self-determination are the essential ingredients for success. Venus and Serena Williams are great African American leaders and role models who espouse high moral and ethical standards, family values, and community service. Recognizing the importance of giving back to their community, together they have conducted tennis clinics for low-income children, raised funds for community development, and joined our Nation's leaders in support of seat belt safety campaigns. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the passage of House Resolution 94, to recognize the many contributions to American society made by Venus and Serena Williams through their achievements and community involvement. We are fortunate to have noble citizens like Venus and Serena Williams who have demonstrated that tennis is a sport for all people.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, let me begin by commending the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee) for the outstanding work that she has done in her tireless efforts to bring to the attention of America, the Congress, and the world the need for us to do much more as relates to the HIV and AIDS pandemic; and also the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs. Christensen), a physician, who also has been spearheading this. Let me commend them for attending the 14th International Conference on AIDS where the question of HIV and AIDS, of course, was the center of discussion. It has been indicated that AIDS will kill at least 68 million people by 2020 unless rich nations invest far more in global prevention, says a report that was released last week. It is now clear to me that we have only seen the beginning of the worst epidemic in human history, says Peter Piot, Director of the joint United Nations program for HIV and AIDS, UNAIDS. He said that the disease will not only destabilize Africa but it will affect economic and political stability worldwide, particularly when the epidemic begins to peak in the most populated countries, such as China, India, and Russia. The UNAIDS update, released ahead of the planned meeting that started on July 7 in Barcelona, indicates the number will grow to 40 million people worldwide, there has been a jump of 6 million cases, new cases, in 2 years, and that the infection rate continues to steadily rise in India, China, Russia, and Eastern Europe. So we have a very, very serious situation. This terrorism is far more deadly than anything we could ever imagine. As we have indicated, the numbers are staggering, and AIDS is ripping through every continent destroying everything in its path. But let me concentrate a bit on Africa. Botswana is currently experiencing the worst of the pandemic, with over 30 percent of its population affected. South Africa has also been hard hit. It is estimated that one out of three adults are infected. We have seen, to date, with President Mbeki, that there currently is really no national agenda to deal with the problem. We have seen statistics from Zimbabwe which say that 35 percent of that population has been infected with HIV and AIDS. In many instances, the largest number of victims are from the public service sector: teachers, civil servants. So we can imagine what that will mean for most of the developed world when we are losing the leaders in those countries, with 14 percent of the teachers in South Africa infected. The rate is expected to increase to 30 percent in 10 years. So we have a very, very serious problem. What we need to do, though, is to increase the amount of funds that are available. On the eve of the G8 meeting, President Bush announced a new initiative to address the pandemic through a pledge of an additional $500 million over 3 years to help prevent mother-to-child transmission in parts of Africa and the Caribbean. As little as a single dose of medication to mother and child at birth is reported to prevent transmission 50 percent of the time. While this is a positive step, it does not address the problem itself. The disease many times is transmitted through sexual activity, but this initiative focuses on the least politically sensitive aspect of care and treatment. U.S. AIDS programs, through the Agency for International Development, focus on education and do not offer treatment. Fewer than 2 percent of the people living with AIDS in sub- Saharan Africa have access to antiretroviral drugs that are saving lives and improving the quality of life for those who are fortunate enough to receive them. So focusing primarily on the innocent newborns, Bush's pledge leaves out women and children and communities and families. So I urge that we push and stress that the U.S. House of Representatives step up to the plate and offer additional funding.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in paying tribute to the members of the International Connection Committee of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated for their outstanding years of service as leaders in the community. For 60 years, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a registered 501(7) nonprofit, nonpartisan fraternal organization, has been an active participant in fostering political activities. The Sorority's involvement has ranged from organizing the Nonpartisan Lobby for Economic and Democratic Rights to press for political, social and economic justice for African Americans to the establishment of the Office of Governmental Affairs in Washington, D.C. Recognizing the importance of engaging its members in public policy initiatives and political campaign activities, the International Connection Committee became a reality in 1980 at the International Convention. The Committee's first major initiative was a nationwide ``voter blitz'' to mobilize the African American community to vote in the 1980 General Election. In 1998, members joined with the NAACP for the Mass Demonstration at the U.S. Supreme Court to protest the lack of minority law clerks employed by the Justices. To build on the success of the inaugural committee, the 1998-2000 International Connection Committee continued to move the public policy program by implementing a wide range of events including voter education and registration activities, training sessions for members who sought elective and appointive office, and AKA Lobby Days. It is my distinct honor and privilege to recognize the members of the 2000-2002 International Connection Committee of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for their efforts to continue the work of an organization rich in both history and service. The members are Juanita Orr, Chairman; and representatives Lenora Gerald, North Atlantic Region; Leyser Morris-Hayes, South Eastern Region; Vivian Burke, Mid- Atlantic Region; Jenelle Elder-Green, Central Region; Vertelle Middleton, South Atlantic Region; Tari Bradford, South Central Region; Nancy Quarles, Great Lakes Region; Kimberly Scott, Mid-Western Region; Dawn Bobbitt, Far Western Region; Frances Molloy, International Region; Dorothy R. Jackson, Resource & Washington, D.C. Chairman of Millennium Public Policy Conferences, and Dr. Norma Solomon White, International President. I also acknowledge with pride and respect the many Connection Committee activists who preceded the current Committee. Mr. Speaker, I know that my colleagues will join me in honoring the members for their exceptional service to our community. We are fortunate to have noble citizens like them to provide essential services and support to our society.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, today is World Refugee Day. For many years, numerous countries all around the world have set aside a day for remembering the plight of refugees. One of the most widespread is African Refugee Day celebrated June 20 in several African countries. In 2000, as an expression of solidarity with Africa, a special U.N. General Assembly resolution was passed naming June 20 of every year World Refugee Day. Some of my colleagues may be thinking, why do we need a day to celebrate refugees? Why? Because today, right now, there are over 21 million refugees worldwide, people displaced by conflict, humanitarian disasters, and crises; men, women, and children whose lives are starkly different from those we lead because they find it very difficult to meet just basic needs such as food, shelter, and water. Many times, men, women, and children find themselves living in destitute conditions in camps that leave them vulnerable to attack and to disease. There are anywhere from 3 million to 6 million refugees and approximately 10.6 million internally displaced refugees in Africa. More than half of all African refugees have fled from four countries: Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, and Angola. These four countries, along with Eritrea, Burundi and Liberia, each produce over a quarter of a million or more of refugees. The numbers are staggering, too large even to imagine, and difficult to connect to human lives. So what do we do? What does it mean to be a refugee? Who needs to be resettled? Let me tell my colleagues the story of one. Jean Pierre Kamwa, a student activist from Cameroon, fled to the United States in 1999 seeking asylum from imprisonment and torture, evils visited upon him because of his activism, ethnic background, and pro-democracy rhetoric. After arriving at JFK Airport from the long trip and treacherous ordeal, he was immediately taken into custody, fingerprinted, photographed, and handcuffed by an INS officer. Mr. Kamwa was told to remove his clothes and was subsequently searched. Then he was taken, still handcuffed, to the Wackenhut detention facility in Queens, New York, where he was detained for 5 months until granted asylum in April of 2000. Mr. Kamwa now works with refugee visitation programs, such as First Friends, a community-based network that coordinates visits to the Elizabeth, New Jersey, immigration facility where 300 refugees are being held waiting for their cases to be judged and, might I add, at a facility that still does not reach the standards, in my opinion, that it should. This one man's story shows that even refugees who find their way to our shores have a long way to go before they can lead normal lives again. Now imagine that you are a refugee, seeking asylum in the United States. Imagine how difficult life is, held in detention, while you are being processed. Since September 11, that wait has become even longer. Understandably, the tragedy that occurred created a delay in the processing of immigration and refugee resettlement cases. On November 21, 2001, President Bush authorized the admission of 70,000 refugees into the United States for fiscal year 2002. Yet, as of May 31 of this year, slightly less than 13,800 refugees have been admitted. Given the current pace of processing, it is highly unlikely that the allocation admissions level will be reached by September 30 of 2002; and, therefore, those people will not have an opportunity to come into this country. What is even more disturbing is that while 28 percent of the refugees worldwide are Africans in origin, less than 7 percent of the refugees admitted into this country in fiscal year 2002 are of African origin. A mere 891 African refugees have been admitted this year, while 14,089 refugees from the Near East and South Asia have been resettled in the same amount of time; and a staggering 6,470 have come from the former Soviet Union. There is clearly an imbalance here, and it has to be redressed. Testifying at a February 12 hearing held by the Senate Immigration Subcommittee, the head of the State Department's Refugee Bureau, Assistant Secretary Dewey, and INS Commissioner James Ziglar committed their agencies to working very diligently to admit the 70,000 refugees that President Bush pledged to bring to the United States of America. In his testimony Ziglar said, ``The terrorist attacks of September 11 were caused by evil, not immigration. We can and will protect ourselves against people who seek to harm the United States, but we cannot judge immigrants or refugees by the actions of terrorists. Our Nation must continue in its great tradition of offering a safe haven to the oppressed and persecuted.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask all of my colleagues to join in to try to make the processing of refugees more humane. The Refugee Resettlement program has proved to be a success for many individuals seeking asylum from terrible situations in their own countries, such as the thousands of Dinka youths that have come to be known as the ``Lost Boys'' of Sudan. The treacherous war in Sudan, fueled by the lust for oil, has forced thousands of Southern Sudanese to flee to neighboring countries like Kenya and Ethiopia. As the war rages on, thousands of Sudanese boys went from one country to another and 5,000 survivors of the 33,000 who originally fled Sudan ended up in a refugee camp in Northern Kenya called Kakuma. They have since become known as the ``Lost Boys'' of Sudan. John Tot and 109 other Sudanese teenagers arrived in Philadelphia and other cities around the U.S. in late 2000, part of a humanitarian effort of the State Department and the UN High Commissioner on Refugees. These young boys have overcome numerous obstacles to learn English, graduate from high school, and even make their way to college. The refugee resettlement program can work and can mean the difference between barely surviving and leading a full, productive life. We must do what we can to urge the processing of African refugees. It's a matter of life and death.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of our country's great educators, Dr. Norman Samuels. A native of Montreal, Quebec, Dr. Samuels has been an integral part of the Newark, New Jersey community for the past 35 years. As of June 30, 2002, Dr. Samuels will resign as provost of the Newark Campus of Rutgers, leaving behind him a campus that will be forever changed because of his presence. Upon his arrival in Newark in 1967, Dr. Samuels began his career at Rutgers as an assistant professor of political science. From there, he rose to associate dean and visiting fellow at the Woodrow Wilson School of Princeton University, being appointed as acting provost in 1982. Upon his resignation, Dr. Samuels will return to the classroom. In 1967, Rutgers was not the place that it is today. Much like the rest of the country, Newark was erupting in race riots and Rutgers was a predominantly white university. When Dr. Samuels arrived he became a catalyst for change at the university from lending support to the school's African-American students to seeing that diversity flourished at Rutgers. The notion of a segregated society was foreign to Dr. Samuels and he made it his mission to see that disadvantaged students, students of color, and students of foreign nationalities were all given the same high-quality education. His goal was to create a unified campus life. As a result of his efforts Rutgers-Newark is recognized as one of the country's most diverse universities. Dr. Samuels not only has the drive to educate our country's young people but also to instill in them the necessary values for the future. He has sought to equip them with the tools necessary to become the future leaders, thinkers, and doers of the next generation. He has inspired greatness through his greatness. Mr. Speaker, I know that my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives join me in recognizing the work of Dr. Samuels and wish him the best for a healthy and happy future.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, today has been designated by America's Second Harvest as the First Annual Hunger Awareness Day. I would like to ask my colleagues here in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the dedicated work of the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, whose mission is to fight hunger and poverty. Many individuals and families in need benefit from the efforts of the Community Food Bank and its associated food banks, which provide assistance to emergency feeding programs in 18 of New Jersey's 21 counties. Today, representatives from those counties will gather at the Food Bank to issue a call to action. Participants will include recipients of emergency food, who will share their stories; staff from soup kitchens and shelters; volunteers; and donors of food and funds. The goal of the Hunger Awareness Forum is to highlight what is happening in New Jersey, to reveal how many are hungry in our State, and to discuss how all of us can work together to see that no one from New Jersey is without food. The Community Food Bank is thevital link between the food industry and the charitable organizations which serve the needy in our community. Activities are being planned throughout the nation today to raise awareness of the need to address hunger both nationally and locally. The theme of this initiative is ``Nobody in America Should Go Hungry.'' Mr. Speaker, as Congress addresses the issue of hunger, it is fitting that we take a moment to honor the efforts of the staff and volunteers who have made the Community Food Bank of New Jersey such a successful resource for our communities. Let us thank them for assisting countless individuals and families through this labor of love.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to rise today to recognize a legend in baseball history, Larry Doby, on the occasion of the dedication of the Larry Doby Baseball Field in Eastside Park in Paterson, New Jersey. Larry Doby has made history as the first African American to play in the American League when he joined the Cleveland Indians in 1947, and finished his career as a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Always an exceptional athlete, Larry Doby grew up in Paterson, New Jersey participating in four Varsity sports: baseball, football, basketball, and track. At this poignant start to his career he was an ``All State'' athlete in three out of his four competitive sports, displaying his clear athletic ability at an early age. Larry Doby was an inspiring power-hitting center fielder and a key member of the Indian's pennant winners in 1948 and 1954. Preceding his breaking the color line with the Indians, Doby also starred with the Negro National League's Newark Eagles taking them to win the 1946 Negro League World Series. In later years, Doby was a nine time All-Star player, leading the American league twice in homers. Since the culmination of his baseball career, Doby has worked within his community, establishing a basketball league in Paterson, New Jersey for young people within the school system, grades six through nine. My first visit to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998 was for Larry Doby's induction ceremony, which I was pleased to attend because of my great respect for him. As a youngster growing up in Newark I looked forward to seeing him play at Rupert Stadium from 1942-43 and 1946-47, in the years surrounding his military experience. His career exemplifies what can be done with hard work and determination, having risen through prejudice and poverty to becoming a world-renowned athlete. He serves as a role model to all young people and especially to those aspiring athletes in our home state of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I know that my colleagues here in the United States House of Representatives join me today in recognizing this great athlete and his innumerable contributions to society and send their very best wishes to him for a healthy and prosperous future.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Community Problem Solving Team of the Quest Program at the Dr. John Howard, Jr. School in East Orange, New Jersey. The September 11th tragedy has made them aware of the tremendous needs that follow a tragedy as well as the vast patriotic spirit that we possess as a country thus they decided to assist people who have experienced a personal tragedy in their lives so that their situation will be improved for a period of time. This group of 12 fourth and fifth graders has become increasingly concerned about people who are experiencing difficulties in their own lives due to personal loss or economic strain. Thus they have striven to assist these members of the community through various means including: volunteering in an after school program for homeless children, visiting hospital patients, collecting for a toy drive for needy children, collecting canned goods and nonperishable foods for needy families and a food pantry. In addition, this group has received numerous grants and donations from organizations that have recognized the great potential that this group possesses. These outstanding students will represent New Jersey at the International Competition in Storrs, Connecticut, June 5-11, 2002, having placed first in the New Jersey junior division of the Problem Solving Component of the International Future Problem Solving Program. It is with great pride that I recognize the Community Problem Solving Team of the Quest Program in East Orange, New Jersey. These young people have taken great strides to assist the members of their community and to see that they have a part in securing a healthy future for our country. Mr. Speaker, I know that my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives join me is wishing the Quest Program continued success.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Operation Weed and Seed in Newark, New Jersey and its commitment to the revitalization of the city. In 1991 the United States Department of Justice established Operation Weed and Seed, a community based multi-agency approach to law enforcement, crime prevention, and neighborhood restoration. The Weed and Seed strategy is a two-pronged approach to crime control and prevention where law enforcement agencies first ``weed out'' criminals from the target area, followed by a ``seeding'' of prevention, intervention, treatment, and neighborhood revitalization. On Saturday May 4, 2002 The Clinton Hill Weed and Seed Partnership, sponsored by Public Service Electric and Gas Company, will celebrate the unveiling and kick-off of the Newark, New Jersey project at Mildred Helms Park. Consisting of over 150 stakeholders, The Clinton Hill Weed and Seed Partnership has accomplished a milestone by receiving its Official Site Designation from the United States Department of Justice. The Weed and Seed strategy is based on collaboration, coordination, community participation, and leveraging resources. The emphasis on community participation cannot be understated. The prevailing concept is neighborhoods function more effectively when empowered to solve their own problems. The process to become a Weed and Seed site requires a significant commitment by the community to engage in strategic planning, collaborate with key stakeholders, and coordinate programs and services. The Clinton Hill Partnership will become a significant impacting force on the city of Newark. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in recognizing the tremendous efforts of the Weed and Seed Partnership and the lasting impact that it will surely have on the city of Newark.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring a remarkable woman, Mrs. Deborah Henry of Jersey City, NJ, who recently realized a lifelong dream by becoming the first recipient of the Eliza Anna Grier Scholarship. As one of the founders of the scholarship, I was proud to nominate Mrs. Henry for this prestigious award, sponsored by Ross University and the Congressional Black Caucus, which will enable her to attend Ross University Medical School. Mrs. Henry's desire to become a physician was kindled over 25 years ago when she attended Clara Barton High School, which prepares students for careers in the health professions. Majoring in Health Occupational Services, she became excited about the field of medicine and began to dream of one day attending medical school. In 1994, she returned to school and successfully pursued a bachelor of science degree in chemistry with a minor in biology. Married with four children, she managed to carry a full time schedule of classes that included biochemistry, organic chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and physical chemistry. Her last 2 years as an undergraduate at New Jersey City University were also spent fulfilling commitments to teaching biology to fifth graders under the Careers in Teaching internship programs; working on two undergraduate research projects, with papers published in the American Chemical Society's Middle Atlantic Regional Meeting Journal, establishing a public school outreach program to encourage interest in the sciences among minority students, and holding top offices in the Chemistry Club where she oversaw fundraising and other organizational activities. Her past experiences and current work as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician at West New York Volunteer Emergency Medical Service Company furthered her determination to become a doctor who would serve her community. Mrs. Henry's lofty goal is to establish a nonprofit clinic in a community center that offers quality healthcare to all people who are economically disadvantaged. Mrs. Henry is a bright, dedicated, and compassionate individual who will make an outstanding physician. I know my colleagues join me in offering warmest congratulations and best wishes to her as she begins this exciting phase of her life.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call your attention to the outstanding accomplishments of the only New Jersey-based statewide literacy provider, Focus on Literacy, Inc. celebrates its 21st anniversary on July 2nd. In 1986 Focus on Literacy, Inc. through an Act of the United States Congress Established July 2nd as National Literacy Day. In 1989 Focus on Literacy, Inc. received the President's Volunteer Action Award Citation for its effort. This year is the 17th anniversary of National Literacy Day. Illiteracy is a non-partisan issue that effects all ages and demographics. The consequences of illiteracy have a profound generational effect as illiteracy perpetuates illiteracy. The lack of literacy skills in adults has a direct and measurable effect on the education and the quality of life of their children. Illiteracy inhibits people from being viable and productive members of our society. Non-readers are not able to make contributions back to our communities. It is estimated 70% of the unemployed and 65-85% of the incarcerated have reading problems. If literacy skill are improved there might not be a need for some of the tax dollar supported services currently in existence. Illiteracy costs the taxpayer billions of dollars in lost revenue as well as costs for additional programs such as welfare, job training, criminal rehabilitation, and insurance losses. Illiteracy is everyone's problem; it doesn't just affect the individual. The illiterate individual is our untapped resource for they do possess under utilized talents and abilities. As a country we stand by the belief that everyone is entitled to an education, but those who cannot read must HEAR by word of mouth, since they are unable to read, that there is a free and private assistance available for them. Unless they are informed, the illiterate will not know where to get help let alone know enough to seek it. As a nation, it is everyone's responsibility to assist each other and make sure the information is disseminated to aid all concerned. There is no shame with being illiterate; the shame is not doing something about it. July 2nd National Literacy Day was established to thank volunteers and to encourage the television and radio media to broadcast and advertise ONLY Public Service Announcements for free literacy services for this one day a year in order to publicize and inspire those in need to come forward to help themselves to correct their reading deficiency. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing this group and its accomplishments.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring a very special group, the Sons & Daughters of St. Christopher Charitable and Benevolent Society, Inc. On Sunday, May 26 , in East Hanover, New Jersey they will gather to celebrate their 60th Anniversary. The Sons & Daughters of St. Christopher Charitable and Benevolent Society, Inc. of New Jersey was founded in the City of Newark, New Jersey in 1942 by a group of men and women from the Island of St. Kitts. The purpose of the Sons & Daughters of St. Christopher is to bring together its natives for the betterment of its social, intellectual and financial environment. The Sons & Daughters of St. Christopher meets its objectives through several annual programs, such as a Fall Dance and Annual Scholarship Jazz Luncheon and an Oldies But Goodies Dance and other events. The Society has and continues to establish a relief program for the Island of St. Kitts during times of natural disaster. The Sons & Daughters of St. Christopher have established the Thomas A. Nelson Scholarship Committee which has awarded in access of over $20,000.00 in Scholarships and the Esmond E. James Award given to every scholarship recipient who graduates with degree. Mr. Speaker, let us offer our congratulations to the Sons & Daughters of St. Christopher Charitable and Benevolent Society, Inc. on this great occasion and express our very best wishes for continued success.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in offering our warmest congratulations to an outstanding community leader, Reverend Craig D. McDaniel, who is being honored for his faithfulness and dedication to the Smith Memorial Church of God in Christ as well as to the 10th District of New Jersey. On Friday May 10, 2002, there will be ``A Night of Celebration'' in Newark mark his achievements. Craig Douglass McDaniel was born on February 25, 1960 to the Reverend Melvin McDaniel and the late Sallie Prather McDaniel in Newark, NJ. He is the eldest of five siblings born to this union. Craig was reared in Newark, NJ and attended the Newark Public Schools, graduating from Weequahic High School in 1979. He furthered his education at William Paterson College in Paterson, NJ. Craig attended church with his family until he joined Holy Temple (Smith Memorial) Church of God in Christ in 1984 under the leadership of the late Bishop Howard Smith. In 1986, Craig was ordained a minister under the current Pastor, Dr. C.H. Evans and a few years later was ordained an Elder in the Church of God in Christ. In the early 90's, Elder McDaniel became assistant Pastor. He has traveled throughout the United States in revivals as an avid supporter of the Church of God in Christ. One of Reverend McDaniel's greatest joys in life is serving people. In church, he is the Youth President and the Advisor of the Youth Department, Committee member for the Pastor's Anniversary Committee, former Vice President of the Young Adult Choir and many other auxiliaries. Reverend McDaniel serves in our jurisdiction as Vice President of the Youth Department and is also a National Adjutant in the Church of God in Christ. In the community, he has participated on the advisory board for AIDS Benefits, Outreach Street Ministry, Essex County Prison Ministry, Annual Youth Retreats and Summits and the Beth Israel Medical Center Cultural Awareness Board. Reverend McDaniel was on the committee that enabled the Smith Memorial Church street to be renamed, from Stratford Place to Bishop Howard Smith Plaza (named after our founder, the late Bishop Howard Smith). In addition, Reverend McDaniel continues to better himself by continuing his education at Kean University in Union, NJ where he is currently majoring in Education. Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues will join me in wishing Reverend McDaniel all the best as he continues his outstanding service to his church and the 10th District of New Jersey.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10th anniversary of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-- School of Nursing. This anniversary will be celebrated with a gala to be held this Friday, April 12 at The Newark Club in Newark, New Jersey. The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) is a national leader in health professions education, research, clinical practice, and community service. One of eight schools within the University, the School of Nursing (SN) has become recognized as a driving force in implementing premier academic programs, advancing clinical practice, conducting urban health research, and offering needed community health services in inner cities. A dynamic institution, the School champions continuous program review and refinement as it prepares students to meet the healthcare delivery challenges of this century. Established as an academic program in 1990, the School of Nursing was reorganized as UMDNJ's seventh school in 1992. The School offers a comprehensive program of research, education and educational mobility. Nursing degree programs at the Associate's (A.S.), Baccalaureate (B.S.N.), Master's (M.S.N.) and Post-Master's Certificate (P.M.C.) levels as well as Ph.D. program in Urban Systems provide an articulated educational ladder for advanced education. Student enrollment has risen dramatically since the establishment of nursing programs at UMDNJ, increasing from 55 students in 1990 to 600 currently. The School's success in offering a statewide system of fully articulated undergraduate and graduate education programs has been made possible through the establishment of strong partnerships with both institutions of higher education and leading healthcare institutions. In addition to the nursing education programs offered on the University's Newark and Stratford campuses, UMDNJ-SN has established joint educational programs with its partner institutions (Middlesex County College, Ramapo College of New Jersey, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center, and Planned Parenthood Federation of America). These partnerships have increased statewide access to nursing education programs and have enabled SN students to enjoy a rich exposure to a diverse, interdisciplinary faculty and a wealth of clinical experiences. Educational excellence at the School of Nursing is evident by the high distinction received by the Middlesex County College/UMDNJ Joint Nursing Program for receiving the highest ranking in the United States for its 100 percent pass rate on the national board examination in 2001. Leading the School's development has been its founding Dean, Dr. Frances Ward (formerly known as Frances W. Quinless). Dr. Ward's leadership has inspired the School's faculty and students through a decade of growth. In June, Dr. Ward will be returning to teaching and research as a faculty member of the School of Nursing's M.S.N. Program and its Joint Ph.D. Program in Urban Systems. This program is focused on preparing graduates to address critically important issues involving urban health, health delivery, policy and planning. Mr. Speaker, let me conclude by congratulating Dean Ward on her successful stewardship of the UMDNJ-School of Nursing and for her achievements in advancing nursing education in the State of New Jersey. I salute the School of Nursing for its decade of growth and excellence and look forward to its continuing good works in preparing the state's nursing profession to meet the demands of this new century.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring the Most Worshipful John M. Bettis, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F & AM of New Jersey. On Saturday evening, April 13, 2002, Mr. Bettis will be honored at ``An Appreciation Evening'' to pay tribute to his untiring efforts and contributions. John M. Bettis was born and raised in Pleasantville, New Jersey, where he received his elementary and secondary education, graduating from Pleasantville High School in 1963. He has earned an Associate Degree in Police Science from Atlantic Community College in 1971, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice from Stockton State College and graduate credits in Public Administration from Ryder College and the University of Houston. John is a veteran of the United States Air Force, having served as a Security Policeman from 1963 to 1967 and the New Jersey Air National Guard from 1979 to 1983. Currently, John is a member of the Board of Directors of Atlantic County Chapter of the National Conference (formerly the National Conference of Christians and Jews), a member of the African American Male Conference, the Atlantic County Veterans Advisory Board, the Board of Directors of the Atlantic County Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors for the Jersey Shore Council, Boy Scouts of America, the Board of Directors for the United Way of Atlantic County and the Board of Trustees for Atlantic Cape Community College. John is a proud Prince Hall Mason of the 33rd Degree and Shriner, holding membership and rank in all of its affiliated bodies; most significantly, Past Master of Hiram Abiff Lodge No. 16, F & AM, and Past Patron of Ivy Leaf Chapter No. 18, OES, Pleasantville, New Jersey. He is a Past Grand Worthy Patron of Oziel Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, NJ 1988-1990 and is currently serving as the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, State of New Jersey. John resides in Pleasantville, New Jersey with his wife Doni. They have three daughters and four grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, let us offer our congratulations to Mr. Bettis for his many contributions to the community as well as our very best wishes to him for the future.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, let me thank the gentleman from New Jersey for yielding me time and commend him for the outstanding work that he did on the subcommittee handling this very important Pension Security Act. There are, in my opinion, defining financial points in every decade. In the seventies we suffered a gasoline shortage, where long lines disrupted the daily lives of American people and lost productivity ensued. In the 1980s, there was the savings and loan debacle where greedy investors and unscrupulous brokers went away with billions of dollars of Americans' money. In the 1990s we suffered a recession where the market dropped. However, we bounced back because President Clinton and his great program in the early 1990s cut $250 billion of spending and another $250 billion to the 1 percent of the top earners in the country, and that $500 billion put us on to a projected $5 trillion surplus over the years. However, we have seen that wilted away by the new administration. In this decade, it is safe to say that the Enron debacle will go down in the books as an example of deception and mismanagement and which has ruined the lives of thousands of people. That is the human side that we do not see. What have we learned from this tragedy? How can we protect ourselves from a recurrence of the financial disasters of this magnitude? By not supporting the Republican bill. Why? Because their bill fails the American people. Because they create new loopholes and a relaxed requirement. Their bill lacks real teeth to hold companies accountable. It fails to hold plans accountable, and it fails to provide real diversification in plans; and it fails to give employees' notice when companies are dumping company stock, and it continues to give preferential treatment to executives. The Democratic alternative provides real pension reform. How? By, one, including strong criminal penalties for executives who engage in mismanagement and abuse, by requiring notification of employees when executives are dumping company stock, and ensuring that employees receive honest and timely information about their pensions from unbiased, independent financial advisors, and it gives employees a voice on pension boards. During the markup in the Committee on Education and the Workforce, the Democrats offered amendments, amendment after amendment, which would strengthen the current law that would protect the American workers, holding their hard-earned savings to their own portfolio, which were denied. Because the bottom line is, this is their money, and the employees should have more say over it. It appears to me that the Republican bill serves the interests of corporate executives rather than the rank-and-file employees who lost billions of dollars of their retirement savings. There must be an end to this giving special treatment to executives while employees suffer. Enough is enough. Support the Democratic substitute, which seeks to correct loopholes, shifting less risk on our workers, putting more control of their money in their hands. Support the substitute which provides unbiased, independent advice, a parity of benefits for all employees, representation on pension boards, and tougher criminal enforcement. We can all agree we cannot let this happen again. The Miller-Rangel bill seeks to correct the loopholes, shift less risk to our workers by putting the control of their money in their hands. Stop favoring executives, and let us protect our workers. Support the Democratic substitute.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today, as a member of the Human Rights Subcommittee, to join in commemorating the 181st Anniversary of the revolution that freed the Greek people from the Ottoman empire. I congratulate Greece on celebrating its 181st anniversary. The Greek people have much to be proud of. As a senior member of the International Relations Committee, I have long been involved in, and have followed issues affecting the Greek- American community. I am aware that Greece achieved its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. During the second half of the 19th century, and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories with Greek-speaking populations. Following the defeat of communist rebels in 1949, Greece joined NATO in 1952. A military dictatorship, which in 1967 suspended many political liberties and forced the king to flee the country, lasted seven years. Democratic elections in 1974 and a referendum created a parliamentary republic, and abolished the monarchy. Greece joined the European Community or EC is 1981 (which became the EU in 1992). I originally introduced a bill in March 2000, calling for the return of the Parthenon Marbles to their rightful home in Greece. I am re-introducing that same bill tonight. Madam Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Greek people in their celebration of democracy. Once again, congratulations on your 181st anniversary celebration!

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for removing the objection, and we certainly do apologize for the misunderstanding. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to speak this evening on this year's theme for Black History Month, ``The Color Line Revisited: Is Racism Dead?'' While we all wish that we could proclaim the end of racism, we know that we are not there yet. We continue to hear disturbing stories about racial profiling in my State of New Jersey, where it has been admitted by the New Jersey State Police that they were not only doing it, but trained in how to perfect it by disguising numbers and falsifying reports. We hear the question is racism dead, but we hear about the unequal opportunities in our school system, where the dropout rate continues to soar, where the great author Jonathan Kozol wrote a book, ``Savage Inequalities; Children in America's Schools,'' where he highlighted how race and economics have a great deal to do. In the mis-education of people, we ask, Is racism dead? We take a look at the whole question of home ownership and employment, where we find that only 45 percent of African Americans own homes in the United States, where 75 percent of other Americans, white Americans, have been able to achieve that level. We find that it is difficult in many instances to get the finances to do that. We have the question of health care, where African Americans' life expectancy continues to drop about a month or so each year, where the white population's life expectancy increases about 2 months per year, therefore making a disparity in a widening gap in life expectancy in our great Nation. However, we in the Congressional Black Caucus have worked hard to overcome these obstacles. Despite setbacks along the way, we are making sound progress. We continue working on innovative initiatives at all fronts as we meet weekly to promote our agenda, and we have seen much success and progress as we continue to move forward. Black History Month offers us an opportunity to honor many African American heroes who have been largely left out of the history books. When I was growing up, I loved history; and I learned about the midnight ride of Paul Revere who came and warned the colonists that the Redcoats were coming. However, I never was taught about the first man who gave his life for our Nation's independence, who was an African American, Crispus Attucks, who was killed during the Boston Massacre incident the night of March 5, 1770. Today, there is a monument to Crispus Attucks in Boston inscribed with the words of John Adams: ``On that night the foundation of American independence was laid.'' As a student I was taught about Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders and the crucial battle at San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War. However, I did not discover in school, but later, about the story of the Buffalo Soldiers, who had a very low desertion rate, who had a low alcoholism rate, which were prevalent in the cavalries at that time; and the fact it was the Buffalo Soldiers who prevented the annihilation of Teddy Roosevelt at the battle of San Juan Hill. That was kept out of the history that I learned. The Indians gave the Buffalo Soldiers that name because the buffalo to them were a symbol of courage. Finally when we were taught about Admiral Peary and told of his skill and courage in reaching the North Pole, I was so proud of that great explorer. However, it was only in recent years that we did learn that much of the credit should have gone to Matthew Henson, an African American who was on the expedition. Admiral Peary became sick, became snow blind, his feet were injured, and he had to slow down and stop. But Matt Henson went forward, provided a camp, and waited for Admiral Peary to come there. At that spot, it was the North Pole, and it was Matt Henson that got there first. However, when Admiral Peary returned home, he was given awards by the White House and the Congress. Mr. Henson was not invited to participate. So as I conclude, I think we should resolve to teach our children the lessons of history every day, so that they may take pride in their rich heritage. We are all proud to be Americans today, more than ever before; and we are especially proud of our African Americans who have contributed to the growth and development of this great Nation.

Mr. PAYNE

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

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous request to address the House for 5 minutes.

Mr. PAYNE. This is definitely it.

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I am sorry if there was a misunderstanding. We thought the gentleman was advised there would be two speakers. However, the gentleman certainly has the right to object.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, as the President makes his first state visit to China later this month, I wish him well and a productive trip. The United States and China will have many issues to discuss, such as counter-terrorism, human rights, arms proliferation, Tibet and Taiwan. It is my hope that President Bush will stand on his principles regarding Taiwan. As a long time observer of the Republic of China on Taiwan, I have noticed that Taiwan is a country that has taken great strides towards democracy. With U.S. assistance, Taiwan is now a major economic power in the world, and a member of the World Trade Organization. Although it has embraced democracy, it faces a formidable adversary--the People's Republic of China. From time to time, China threatens Taiwan militarily. It is important that Taiwan has the capability to defend itself against outside forces. Therefore, I consider President Bush's trip to China vital, but believe that Taiwan's interests must not be compromised.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Black History Month, I want to call to the attention of my colleagues here in the United States House of Representatives an event that will be held in Newark, New Jersey, a Tribute to Negro League Baseball. Six months before the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, on April 12, 1861, two Black baseball teams played in Brookyln, New York. Throughout the 1860s amateur Black baseball clubs sprang up around the Northeast and Midwest. Players for the Mutuals of Washington, DC included Black Activist Frederick Douglass' sons, Charles and Fred. The first all Black professional baseball team was composed in 1885 of employees of the Argyle Hotel in Babylon, New York and in 1883, Fleet Walker, a catcher, signed with the Toledo Blue Stockings along with his brother Welday. The Blue Stockings then joined the American Association, which was considered a major league, thereby making the Walkers the only Black players to play in the major leagues until Jackie Robinson in 1947. In 1886, the Southern League of Colored Base Ballists became the first Negro League with teams in Memphis, Jacksonville, Savannah, Atlanta, Charleston and New Orleans. In 1900 only five professional Black baseball teams existed: the Genuine Cuban Giants, the Cuban X Giants, the Norfolk Red Stockings, the Chicago Unions and the Columbia Giants. By 1910, there would be more than 60 professional Negro teams barnstorming the country. During 1902, in an attempt to circumvent the color barrier and get infielder Charlie Grant on his team, Baltimore Orioles manager John McGraw changed Giant's name to Charlie Tokohama and tried to pass him off as a full blooded Cherokee Indian until his plan was exposed by Chicago White Sox owner Charles Comiskey. Future Hall of Famer, pitcher Rube Foster, went 51-4 for the Philadelphia Giants in 1905. In an exhibition game against the Philadelphia As, Foster beat 26 games winner Rube Waddell and became known as the ``colored Rube Waddell.'' On February 14, 1920, Rube Foster organized a meeting in Kansas City of owners of several Black touring teams. The owners organized the first successful Black professional league, the Negro National League, which was comprised of the Chicago American Giants, the Chicago Giants, the Dayton Marcos, the Detroit Stars, the Indianapolis ABC's the Kansas City Monarchs, the St. Louis Giants and the Cuban Stars. Foster became the league's president and members agreed to honor each other's player contracts, which brought stability and organization to Black baseball. In 1924, the pennant winners of the two Black leagues met in the first Negro World Series with the Kansas City Monarchs defeating Hillsdale in 10 games. In 1926, thirty years before Don Larson's perfect game, Red Griers of the Atlantic City Bacharachs pitched a no-hitter in game three of the Negro World Series against the Chicago American Giants. In 1930, five years before the major leagues turned on the lights, the Kansas City Monarchs became the first team to regularly play night baseball with a portable lighting system. In 1937, the Negro American League was formed and the Kansas City Monarchs won five of the first six Negro American League pennants. The Negro National League Homestead Grays won eight pennants between 1937-45 with John Gibson, the greatest hitter of the Negro Leagues (962 career homeruns). In 1945 Kansas City Monarchs rookie shortstop Jackie Robinson signed to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers at $600 per month, thereby breaking the color barrier in major league baseball. Since baseball's integration from 1947 to 1953, six of the seven National League Rookies of the Year were former Negro League players, including Jack Robinson, Don Newcombs, Sam Jethrol, Willie Mays, Joe Black and Jim Gilliam. After the integration of baseball, the Negro leagues began to decline in 1948, due to the fact that its best players were now signing with major league teams. The Negro American League finally dissolved in 1963. Sixteen Negro League baseball stars have been inducted into the Hall of Fame including former Newark Eagles and local Major League players, such as Larry Dolby, Monte Irvin and Ray Dandridge. From 1920-1955 over 30 communities located throughout the Midwest, Northeast and the South were home franchises comprised of the Negro National League, Eastern Colored League, East-West League, Negro Southern League and the Negro American League. The City of Newark, New Jersey was the home of the Newark Browns, Newark Dodgers, Newark Eagles and the Newark Stars. Of all the Newark teams, the Newark Eagles were the most memorable. The team was managed by a woman, Mrs. Effa Manley, who along with her husband Abe Manley owned the team. They were also entrepreneurs, owning Club 83 on New Street in Newark. I had the privilege of attending Newark Eagles games as a youngster. The games were very memorable occasions. There was great excitement in the air when the Newark Eagles won the 1946 Negro League World Championship over the Kansas City Monarchs in the seventh and final game of the series held at Newark's Ruppert Stadium on September 29. Mr. Speaker, it is with much pride that we remember and pay tribute to the athletes of Negro League Baseball during Black History Month. I know my colleagues here in the United States Congress join me in sending best wishes as the City of Newark pays homage to those who made history and made us proud.

Mr. PAYNE

Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my colleagues here in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in congratulating a wonderful couple who have reached a magnificent milestone in their lives, Pastor and Mrs. W.C. Scales, Sr., who will celebrate their 68th wedding anniversary on March 7, 2002. William C. Scales, Sr. and Myra E. Scales were united in holy matrimony on March 7, 1934, in the beautiful city of Charleston, West Virginia. Throughout their marriage, Pastor and Mrs. Scales have maintained a strong partnership, working together in ministry and giving so generously of themselves to their church and their community. After becoming a successful businessman in West Virginia, Pastor Scales moved his family to Cleveland, Ohio where there were even greater employment opportunities. As a faithful Seventh-day Adventist, he refused to work on the Sabbath, but he was able to follow his trade with Sabbath privileges. Pastor Scales and his wife faithfully served the Cleveland, Ohio Glenville Church in practically every capacity of leadership. In 1943, Pastor Scales entered the organized work of the church as a literature evangelist in the Ohio Conference. He began conducting Bible study and was so successful that 17 of the 23 in attendance were baptized. Pastor and Mrs. Scales had many accomplishments over the years. Mrs. Scales shared her musical gift as a soloist, and her personal evangelism skills as a part time Bible Instructor. She is a fantastic cook and has a special gift of encouraging and nurturing those to whom she ministers. From 1945 to 1950, Pastor Scales became Associate Publishing Director, Allegheny Conference; from 1950 to 1966, he was a Singing Evangelist and Bible Instructor in summer evangelism; in the early 1950s, he became Lay Pastor of Bethel S.D.A. Church in Cleveland, Ohio; in 1964, he became the first full time male Bible Instructor for Allegheny Conference; from 1965 to 1971, he began working with his son, Elder W.C. Scales, Jr., as part of the Allegheny Conference Evangelistic Team and coauthored the Real Truth Bible Courses; from 1971 to 1973, he received his ministerial license, and became Assistant Pastor of Baltimore Berea Temple Church; from 1974 to 1976, he served as pastor of Asbury Park, New Jersey District; In 1976, he ordained to the gospel ministry at the Allegheny East Camp Meeting; from 1976 to 1980, he served as pastor of Portsmouth, Virginia District; in 1978, he assisted his son in conducting the Georgetown, Guyana, Crusade; in 1980, he officially retired from organized work and Mrs. Scales retired as a part time Bible Instructor. Pastor and Mrs. Scales have remained active in retirement. Among other things, Pastor Scales has authored an autobiography entitled ``Born to Win Souls,'' and coauthored with his son a book entitled ``Practical Evangelism Sermons and Soul-winning Techniques,'' and conducts workshops and occasional preaching appointments.