Charlie Rangel

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor, recognize, and celebrate Mr. Bob McCullough SR., recipient of the Marcella R. Brown Foundation's Founders Award. My good friend Bob McCullough Sr., is the Founder & Co-Founder of several community organizations such as the Rucker Pro Tournament Summer Professional Basketball League, Harlem Professional Inc., National Association of Each One Teach One Inc., John Hunter Camp Fund, Rucker Professionals Hall of Fame, Bob Douglass Hall of Fame, 133rd & 134th streets Alumni Association and the Pelham Fritz Basketball League. I am glad that the Marcella R. Brown Foundation has chosen to recognize Bob for all his service and devotion. The Marcella R. Brown Foundation Inc. is a well regarded organization that seeks to provide assistance to youth who want to pursue a higher education. They give financial support in the form of scholarships, and provide opportunities for youth to get valuable work experience with non-profit organizations and select governmental agencies. Bob McCullough is a legendary Benedict College athlete who holds a spot in the upper echelon of all-time great basketball players in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. A heralded New York schoolboy athlete, he was recruited by Coach John E. Brown and scored 2,135 points for a 28.4 points per game career average during his three years with the Benedict College Tigers. McCullough displayed textbook-pure shooting and was quicker than everybody guarding him. He made studder-steps dribbling down the court then, faded back for odd-angle 10 to 17-foot jumpers that invariably went in the basket. In 1964-65, he was the second leading scorer in the nation averaging 36.4 points per game. He netted over 45 points on four occasions, 49 points twice and a single career high of 51 points against South Carolina State Bulldogs. As a freshman in 1961-62, Bob canned 54, 56, and 64 points in exhibition games. In 1963-64, he was the star of Benedict's national scoring championship basketball team that averaged 101.2 points per game. McCullough was the first black athlete to be selected for the All-Southern Textile Basketball All-Star Team in Greenville, SC. He was named to All-American Honorable Mention teams by sportswriters for United Press International and Converse Magazine in 1965, Bob was offered a contract by the Harlem Globetrotters, and was drafted by the Cincinnati Royals of the National Basketball Association. He was dropped from the Royals when All-Star guard Oscar Robinson renewed his contract. In 1967, Bob played with the New Jersey Asbury Park Boardwalkers in the Eastern Professional Basketball League, now known as the CBA. He averaged 22 points and five assists per game and was selected to the All-Rookie Team, and played in the Eastern Professional League East/West All-Star Game with NBA Stars Walter Dukes and K. C. Jones. McCullough earned a Master of Science degree from Lehman College and studied additionally at New York University, Cornell University and Hunter College. He is a New York Department of Education licensed school teacher, former counselor for Hunter College, and a published researcher who has lectured at conferences on mentoring in the US and abroad. Bob presented in Vancouver, Canada, New Castle on the Thyme, England, and for the National Association of Black Social Workers in New Orleans as well as Los Angeles, California. In 1976-80, Bob became the Assistant Director and Counselor of the Fordham University Upward-Bound Program, on the Rose-Hill campus. Bronx, New York. Bob is founding member of the East Harlem Abyssinian Triangle Inc. that brought Pathmark to Harlem. Throughout the years Bob McCullough has received numerous honors and awards as the commissioner of the internationally-known Rucker Summer Professional Basketball League and as co-founder of the National Association of Each One Teach One, a youth developmental mentoring program in Harlem. Bob McCullough Sr., is the Founder & Co-Founder of several community organizations; Rucker Pro Tournament Summer Professional Basketball League, Harlem Professional Inc., National Association of Each One Teach One Inc., John Hunter Camp Fund, Rucker Professionals Hall of Fame, Bob Douglass Hall of Fame, 133rd & 134th streets Alumni Association and the Pelham Fritz Basketball League. Bob has played a pivotal role in my Congressional District by providing programs and activities that help foster and develop minds and talents of the community youth. Because of his selfless devotion and unwavering dedication, many of your young people will go on to reach their ambitions. It is in that spirit that I ask all my colleagues and our Nation to join me in this special Congressional Recognition of the Mr. Bob McCullough Sr. recipient of the 2012 Marcella R. Brown Foundation's Founders Award.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Harlem Arts Alliance, Inc. as they celebrated their Sixth Annual Arts Advocacy Week 2012 at The City College of New York Aaron Davis Hall, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, The Manhattan Neighborhood Network's El Barrio Firehouse Community Center, The Studio Museum in Harlem, The ImageNation and The Dwyer Cultural Center. From Monday, October 1 through Sunday, October 7, the Harlem Arts Alliance (HAA) presented a seven day series of mostly free events, designed to elevate the platform for Harlem's illustrious arts and cultural scene and to renew enthusiasm and support for its great cultural institutions and artists. HAA recognizes the correlation between a community's vitality and economic health and its vibrant cultural life and is committed to fostering the development of Harlem's artists, arts institutions and cultural organizations for the benefit of artists, residents, local businesses and tourists alike. The HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a not-for-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth, capacity, and development of artists and arts organizations based primarily in Harlem and the greater Harlem communities. With a membership of over 750 individual artists and arts organizations, HAA plays an essential role by helping to build the resources, network, and capacity of its richly diverse association. HAA also maintains strong partnerships with numerous arts organization and institutions throughout New York State, the region, and the nation to maintain vital collaborative efforts to promote the arts in communities. This year's theme ``Harlem at the Crossroads: Sustaining Our Arts and Cultural Resources,'' highlights the need to maintain and preserve some of the city's most stellar arts organizations, artists, individuals and entities and to help them to secure and sustain the critical resources needed to continue their missions. HAA Chairman Voza Rivers and Executive Director Michael Unthink have billed this year's advocacy week as the Harlem Arts Summit. The undertaking involves the collaboration of key Harlem arts institutions, artists and arts leaders creating an exciting array of events showcasing the Uptown arts landscape. On Monday, October 1, the Harlem Arts Summit honored three extraordinary cultural icons who have contributed greatly to African American Arts and Culture, the Village of Harlem and our great nation: activist and actor Danny Glover, legendary theatrical producer Vy Higginsen and pioneering arts producer and consultant Mikki Shepard. Danny Lebern Glover was born in San Francisco, California, the son of Carrie (nee Hunley) and James Glover. His parents, postal workers, were active in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), working to advance equal rights. Glover's mother, daughter of a midwife, was born in Louisville, Georgia and graduated from Paine College in Augusta, Georgia. Danny Glover grew up with a love for sports, like his father. As a teenager and a young adult, he suffered from epilepsy, but he claims to have ``developed a way of concentrating so that seizures wouldn't happen.'' Using this technique, which he describes as ``a type of self-hypnosis'', Glover says he has not suffered a seizure since age 34. Danny Lebern Glover is an American actor, film director and political activist. He is well known for his roles as Mr. Albert Johnson in The Color Purple, as Michael Harrigan in Predator 2, as corrupt cop James McFee in Witness, as Detective Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film franchise (where he coined the catchphrase ``I'm too old for this shit''), as Detective David Tapp in Saw, and as George Knox in Angels in the Outfield. He has also appeared in many other movies, television shows, and theatrical productions. He is an active supporter of various humanitarian and political causes. Danny began his activist career while attending San Francisco State University, as a member of the Black Students Union, which, along with the Third World Liberation Front and the American Federation of Teachers, collaborated in a five-month student-led strike to establish a Department of Black Studies. The strike was the longest student walkout in United States history and it helped to established not only the first Department of Black Studies, but also the first School of Ethnic Studies in the nation. Danny's long history of union activism includes support for the United Farm Workers, UNITE HERE, and numerous service unions across the nation. He challenged former President George W. Bush, when he was Governor of Texas for leading a penitentiary system that executed more people than any other state, people who were predominately African Americans and Hispanics. His activism continues today as an outspoken critic of the War in Iraq; and as a humanitarian for the arts, the Jazz Foundation of America and board member of the TransAfrica Forum. Danny Lebern Glover was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Humanitarian Award. Vy Higginsen's accomplishments are vast and her impact on the media and culture in New York City is immense. This Harlem native, who was born and raised on 126th Street, is a noted author, playwright, radio, and TV personality. Vy has a remarkable reputation as a trailblazer. Her list of pioneering achievements include first African-American female radio personality in the prime time New York City market on WBLS; first woman to host a morning show on New York radio at WWRL; first woman in advertising sales at Ebony magazine; first African- American woman to produce a drama on Broadway with Joe Turner's Come and Gone by August Wilson; and first African-American female writer, producer, director of the longest-running, Off-Broadway musical in the history of American theatre with Mama, I Want to Sing, which had an unprecedented 2,200 performances over eight years from 1983 at Heckscher Theatre in East Harlem. It was also a national and international hit with performances across the United States, Japan and Europe, including a six-month run in London's fashionable West End. Vy has won numerous honors for providing excellent products and services to African-American audiences. In addition to her success behind the microphone at several major New York stations, notably WBLS- FM, WWRL-AM and WRKS-FM, she's also excelled in publishing. Always the visionary, one of her first publications was a 1970s magazine providing opportunities for black photographers, graphic designers and media salespeople to hone their crafts. Unique NY Magazine, which she published and edited, was a lifestyles magazine designed for African- Americans and tourists. Another of her successful publishing ventures was ``This Is My Song: To pass the legacy of gospel music on,'' an illustrated book for children. In 1996, Vy Higginsen founded Mama Foundation for the Arts as a conduit for her philanthropic work. The non-profit is dedicated to nurturing talented black singers, musicians, and arts administrators. As the Foundation's executive director, she's the primary force behind its programs including the acclaimed, Gospel for Teens. Product spokesperson, public relations professional, keynote speaker, and ordained Interfaith Minister, the list of Vy Higginsen's credits go on. Vy Higginsen was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award. Arts Producer and Consultant Mikki Shepard is the current Executive Producer for the world famous Apollo Theater. In this capacity, Mikki is part of the senior executive staff and creates institutional policies and oversees programming, marketing and development. Her past consultant work in the arts focused on organizational development, institutional program development and assessment, strategic planning and implementation. Mikki's clients included: The Ford Foundation, Heinz Endowments, Media Democracy Fund, New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Jacob's Pillow, Opera America, Future of Music Coalition, and the National Black Arts Festival. Mikki was the Director for the Arts and Humanities at the Rockefeller Foundation and Artistic Director/Executive Producer of 651ARTS. As Producer, Mikki Shepard presentations includes 100 Years of Jazz and Blues Festival, Women In Jazz, Lost Jazz Shrines and an international new works program, Africa Exchange. She also produced and created for the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) over 25 major performing arts events, such as DanceAfrica, Steps In Time, a Tap Dance Festival, DanceBlack America, a festival and PBS special celebrating 300 years of black dance in America. Mikki also currently serves as the Chair of the Boards of the Mertz Gilmore Foundation; and on the Boards of the Brooklyn Community Foundation, Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), the Creative Capital Fund and the Association of Performing Arts Presenters. Mikki Shepard was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/ Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Arts Leadership Award. I would also like to congratulate and recognize Mr. Fred Powell, who was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Business Award. Fred was honored for his contributions and business collaboration with local arts groups over the years. The Festivities continued into the evening with the Harlem Arts Summit 2012's opening reception kick off and panel discussion entitled ``A Conversation with Harlem Arts leaders: Today's Challenge, Tomorrow's Promise,'' introduced by accomplished actress, director, producer and Harlem resident, Tamara Tunie (Law and Order SVU) and moderated by multimedia journalist, Katti Gray at Aaron Davis Hall. In a unified effort to continue building Harlem's legacy as a cultural Mecca, Harlem Arts Summit 2012 is presented by the HARLEM Arts Alliance in collaboration with key Harlem organizations including Columbia University, Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, 125th Street Business Improvement District, Studio Museum in Harlem, Aaron Davis Hall/City College of New York, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Harlem Business Alliance, Harlem Stage/The Gatehouse, Caribbean Cultural Center, Harlem Community Development Corporation, New Heritage Theatre Group, MIST Cinemas and Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN)--El Barrio Firehouse Community Media Center. Major support for the Summit is provided by the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, New York State Council on the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts. Let me take this opportunity to thank all of our Harlem Arts Advocacy Week community sponsors, supporters and collaborators as we celebrated ``Harlem at the Crossroads: Sustaining Our Arts and Cultural Resources'' during the Sixth Annual Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012. Mr. Speaker, the Harlem Arts Alliance under the great leadership of Chairman Voza Rivers and Executive Director Michael Unthink has contributed daily to the survival and enhancement of Harlem's beloved cultural artist and arts organizations. During these economically challenging times for our arts and cultural organizations, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting the Harlem Arts Alliance as they continue their advocacy for the arts on behalf of the Village of Harlem and a very grateful nation.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember the life and legacy of Joseph Fleming, fondly known to many as Papa Joe, Joe Cool, The People's Lawyer, The Master Negotiator and Harlem's General Counsel. On Monday, September 10, 2012, Harlem's honorary elite gathered at the Sanctuary of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church to celebrate the life of our dear beloved attorney and friend, Joseph Fleming, Esq. It was a special gathering of people that knew Joseph as clients, as activists, as educators, as business partners, as media personalities, as religious leaders, as entertainers and promoters, as elected officials and as family members and friends. In his very short time here on this earth, my dear friend Joe Fleming lived a complete and compact life of excellence and accomplishment, which included being the best husband in the world, a wonderful loving and complete father, a devoted son, a trusted friend and confident, an author, inventor, entrepreneur, role model, track runner, singer, a man who loved to party and dance with the ladies, but a man who gave all of his unyielding heart to his only true love and partner Temple-Jene. Great men like Joseph Fleming, Esq. are precious gifts we temporarily have in this world, but their assistance and contributions are far remembered and everlasting. Although Joe will be missed, his legacy now lives through his wife, Temple-Jene, his son, Joseph Harris, his three daughters, Lavon Robin, Lateefah Shariene and Terilyn Marshelle, his grandson, Nathaniel Joseph Williams, his God-daughter, Nyah Cha' Ron Uhuru and through Maschil Entertainment, whose mission is to create, produce, and promote music and artists who ``make music with a conscious message''. That is indeed a great comfort to all who knew this amazing, articulate, soft spoken, serene and outspoken man, who lived life positive despite pain and discomfort as an example to all of us. Mr. Speaker, on a very personal note, when I remember Joe Fleming, I think about myself as D'Artagnan who joined Athos (Joe Fleming), Porthos (Leon Ellis) and Aramis (Reggie Williams), the Black Musketeers, inseparable friends who live by the motto ``all for one, one for all'' (``tous pour un, un pour tous''). The friendship and kinship of these amazing three Amigos, The Black Musketeers is a story that bears and dares to be written in the mortals of Harlem's history, which will tell a story of three very best friends who were always there for me and the community we love so deeply. I am honored to include the Obituary of our dear beloved Musketeer, Joseph Fleming, Esq. Joseph Fleming was born January 4, 1951 in Richmond, Virginia to Mary Terry Fleming and the late Rev. Leroy Fleming, Sr. His family moved to Mt. Vernon, New York in 1953, and later to the Bronx in 1957. Joseph is a product of the New York City School System, P.S. 103, Olinville Jr. High School, and Evander Childs High School. He graduated from New York University School of Liberal Arts at its Uptown Bronx Campus in 1973, where he received his B.S. Degree in Economics and Political Science. While attending NYU, Joseph was the Founder and one of the Directors of the Educational Development and Community Enrollment Program, a program designed to enroll and mentor students with promise, but without the grades. He was also President of the Black Students Organization. Joseph loved the law. At an early age, after watching Perry Mason, he decided he was going to be a lawyer. Upon receiving his Juris Doctor from New York University in 1976, Joseph began working as an Associate in the Law Offices of Reginald F. Lewis. It was an opportunity of a lifetime to be able to gain firsthand experience with one of the top African American attorneys on Wall Street. Within a couple of years, Joseph knew that his passion for the law would only be truly satisfied by having his own firm. In January of 1978, Joseph started his private practice, Joseph Fleming, Esq., which was located in his home on Central Park West. In the beginning he only had a handful of clients, but word began to spread about this young attorney who could get the job done. In 1986, he moved his home office downtown nearer the Court Houses, first to Hudson Street, and then in subsequent years, as his practice grew, he maintained offices in the Wall Street area on John Street. The Law Offices of Joseph Fleming was a general practice law firm committed to providing superior legal representation in a personalized and cost effective manner. Many who sought professional advice and counsel from Joseph were also fortunate to have a personal relationship with him. He often gave out his cell phone number so that he could be reached directly by his ``client/friend'' anytime of the day or night. During his 34 years of having fun practicing law, Joseph never advertised his practice. You had to be his client by referral only. Attorney Fleming's practice concentrated in the following areas of expertise: Federal Civil Litigation, General Civil Litigation in all courts including Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury, and Medical Malpractice; Corporate, Commercial, and General Business matters; Real Estate transactions on all levels from the sale and purchase of property to major corporate mergers, acquisitions, and development; Entertainment, Media and the Arts; Estates, Wills and Trusts, Not-for-Profit Corporation Law, and Trademark and Copyright. Joseph served as legal counsel to a wide range of professionals, corporations, not-for-profit corporations, and individuals. Although his practice was spread worldwide, the majority of his clients were from the Village of Harlem. Joseph also provided opportunities to many law students and young attorneys. Whatever he could do, he expected them to do the same, from making photocopies, interacting with clients and other attorneys, to standing before Judges and Clerks. He gave young men and women a full and true experience of what it was to be an attorney in all facets. Joseph was admitted to practice in the United States Supreme Court; the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit; the Second Circuit Court of Appeals; United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York; United States District Court for the Southern District of New York; United States Tax Court; and the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division First Judicial Department. He was a member of the New York State Bar Association and a founding member of the Society of African American Law Firms. Joseph was also one of the founding members and Chairman of the Board for the Education of People of African Ancestry. He had been an adjunct Professor at John Jay College for Criminal Justice. Joseph was most proud of his victory in the case of Professor Leonard Jeffries v. the City University of New York, where he successfully defended Dr. Jeffries in his First Amendment suit against the College. He was also proud of his skillful legal prowess in successfully recovering the property of Malcolm X, from an eBay auction and a near storage facility sale, and returning the property to the Shabazz Family. Joseph was so much more than an attorney and counselor. He was one of the best husbands in the world, a wonderful loving father, devoted son, trusted friend and confident, an author, inventor, entrepreneur, role model, track runner, singer, a man who loved to party and dance with the ladies, and Temple- Jene's handyman. Among his many entrepreneurial activities, in 1974 he served as the publisher of one of the first African American fashion magazines. ``Black In Vogue'', which was the first fashion publication to give credit to models and photographers directly on the page of the photo magazine. Attorney Fleming was named to Who's Who in Black New York City in 2009. He was an Officer in his son's company, Maschil Entertainment, Inc., and was Executive Producer and co-host of Maschil's critically acclaimed live art, music show ``LoveJonesNYC''. He worked with other giants in the entertainment industry including Dr. Benjamin Chavis and Russell Simmon's Hip Hop Summit, Doug E. Fresh, Lion King's Sophia Nicole, and his son, J-Harris; as well as a number of other celebrities and up and coming artists. Joseph was amazing! He had been battling several cancers over the years, starting in 1999, culminating with his transition in 2012. Joseph's faith in God was so strong! Without God, none of the above could have happened! Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Harlem's General Counsel, Joseph Fleming, Esq. It is my hope that his example will serve as a testament that, with hard work and genuine character, we can achieve our greatest dreams.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor, recognize, and celebrate the 100th Birthday of New York City's own Mrs. Onie Bell Norwood, a true Harlem Legend. Mrs. Onie Belle Norwood has lived a century in the United States of America and in that time has been privileged to witness its magnificent transformation. ``Old age'' is a term she's heard but not yet experienced as she is able to navigate the city streets better than individuals half her age and has a memory capable of challenging any young mind. ``Elegant'' and ``witty'' are just two of the words that come to mind when friends are asked to describe Mrs. Norwood and she is known to freely share from her wealth of ``experience driven'' information. In 1912, William Taft was president of the United States, Emmet O'Neal was governor of Alabama, segregation was a way of life, and, on November 16, Onie Belle Carter was born in the ``Heart of Dixie,'' known as Union Springs, Alabama. She was the eldest daughter of the eight children born to the late Mr. & Mrs. Willie Carter. They were a hardworking family that pulled together to make ends meet. While many things seemed impossible, Onie Belle would soon discover that ``all things are possible.'' While the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote (1919) was ratified and the Ku Klux Klan boasted a membership of over 4.5 million members, Onie accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at First Baptist Church in Alabama. She worked hard and served as secretary for the Sunday school and the BYPU. After the death of her father as a young girl, Onie was forced to leave school and take on the responsibility of helping her mother provide for her sisters and brothers. It was the Red Summer of 1919 where race riots broke out across the country including in Chicago, Illinois, Washington, D.C. and Knoxville, Indianapolis. In 1920, less than 400 miles away, a Black-run town called Rosewood was being attacked and burned to the ground. Understanding the importance of an education, Onie traveled to Montgomery, Alabama to attend the H. A. Loveless Middle School. In 1938, Fiorello LaGuardia was mayor of a bustling city called New York, where, just four years earlier, the now famous Apollo Theatre held its first live show, and Onie Belle, a twenty-six year old country girl from Alabama accepted an invitation for ``live-in'' work in Kew Gardens, Queens, New York so she could send money back to her mother. Onie and her mother prayed that God would protect her in this huge city. Onie was a warm, friendly person who kept her business to herself. She was drawn to the Thursday ``socials'' that were a ``meeting time'' for many day workers, porters and laborers. That same year she met and married Clarence Norwood. The sounds of Harlem echoed in Onie's ear and she enjoyed visiting the Apollo Theatre every week where the place was ``jumpin'' with the sounds of Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington and Nat King Cole. In 1939, Billie Holiday first performed a song entitled ``Strange Fruit'' in New York City which protested the horrid act of lynching. Some of the more popular cabarets and clubs in Harlem such as the Cotton Club, Connie's Inn, and Smalls Paradise were frequented by Whites and did not allow Blacks. Onie found herself in the midst of a changing nation. Onie sought to survive through hard work, diligence and determination. On March 19, 1941, the 99th Pursuit Squadron became the first African-American active combat unit and Onie joined the war effort working for the Department of Defense making duffle bags and suspender belts for soldiers. After the war, she secured employment in factories making belts. On June 25th, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802, the ``Fair Employment Act'', to require equal treatment and training of all employees by defense contractors. In that same year, Mitchell v US, the Interstate Commerce Clause is used to successfully desegregate seating on trains. The country was changing and thirty something year old Onie was changing with it. The Civil Rights movement was in full swing and forcing America to deal with life-changing decisions. Feeling her soul was not satisfied, Onie joined St. John's Baptist Church on West 152nd Street in Harlem under the pastorate of Rev. Dr. Wilson Major Morris in 1950. She has been an active member every since serving under the second pastor, Rev. Walter C. T. Willoughby and the present pastor, Rev. Dr. John Luster Scott. She is often heard saying how she ``loves her Pastor and her Church family.'' Onie's magnetic personality attracts many young and old. Her favorite ``suitors'' are Christopher Williams, William ``Sonny'' Gamble and Ernest DeVerger. Presently retired from the Chimera Belt Factory, she still enjoys going to Church, taking pictures, shopping and listening to music. A long time Harlemite, she has seen a century of great changes take place in her life, the Church, the Nation and African-American people, including the granting of the right to vote to women and the great Civil Rights Movement. She has seen the Ku Klux Klan membership dwindle to less than 8,000; 81 African-American mayors including John McGowan (1984) of her hometown of Union Springs, Alabama and David Dinkins (1988) of New York City; 3 ``first'' African-American governors; nearly 100 Members of the House of Representatives; 4 African-American Senators and one African-American President, her favorite, President Barack Obama. She has lived through 19 US presidents, 3 pastors and a multitude of African-American leaders and innovators. She keeps her favorite Bible verse close, Psalm 121, which begins, ``I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.'' On November 16, 2012 Onie Belle Norwood will be 100 years old. Blessed indeed, she has seen her prayers answered--a God who kept her safe in New York City. I ask my colleagues and our Nation to join me in this special Congressional Recognition of the 100th Birthday of a true patriot and Harlem legend Mrs. Onie Bell Norwood.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor, recognize, and celebrate the United Palace Cathedral's 45th anniversary and 45 years of ministry's services to the community. The United Palace Cathedral has been an important institution of the Northern Manhattan community with an esteemed reputation of devotion to our families and youth. The congregation has opened its doors, providing service and hope, to the poor, middle class and immigrant communities. The church has united the community and provided a welcoming place to practice the Christian faith. United Church, under the leadership of our pastoral beloved founder REVEREND IKE, is a place of worship for thousands of people of various races, faiths, and social strata. It is also a classic, architecturally grand, international, inter-cultural Center for the Arts. The square block United Building Complex, containing the Palace Auditorium, was purchased by the United Christian Evangelistic Association in 1969, under the direction of Dr. Frederick Eikerenkoetter (``Rev. Ike''), Founder and Pastor of the United Church. It fronts on four streets, occupying a full block on Broadway, 175th Street, and Wadsworth Avenue. The building was the last of the ``Wonder Theatres'' erected between 1925 and 1930. These ``Wonder Theatres'' were so named because of their extravagant design and were placed in strategic areas of Manhattan. Intended as a stage theatre, it opened February 15th, 1930, and housed vaudeville shows for uptown residents. With the decline of vaudeville and the growing popularity of moving pictures, the theatre was quickly converted to a deluxe movie house and renamed Loew's 175th Street Theatre. The Church provides an impressive roster of youth programs ranging from tutoring classes for elementary to high school students to the Collegiate Society for the elder students. These programs have become vital in the fostering of young talent. United Palace has joined in a concerted community effort to keep our children off the streets by providing simulative, spiritual and cultural alternatives. The United Palace Cathedral demonstrates the power and fortitude of our community. Their congregation serves as a positive outcome produced by uniting in the face of adversity. The United Palace Cathedral believes and affirms: The Omnipresence of God--God is absolute good, everywhere present--The Divinity of Humankind--The Power and Value of Thought--Practicing the Presence--The Law of Demonstration. Knowing the Ancient Wisdom Principles, Universal Law and the laws of life, also called Truth, is not enough, we must also live and practice the Truth we know. ``But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and God's righteousness; and all these things will be added unto you.'' (Matthew 6:33) As a Spiritual and Multicultural Community, we: Believe that spiritual power lives within us, eager to be discovered and expressed; Emphasize universal spiritual principles and welcome people of all races, religion, social backgrounds, lifestyles and economic levels; View religion as an open-ended search for Truth rather than as a closed system of pre-established beliefs; Embrace Jesus Christ as the perfect expression of our own indwelling spiritual potential, and his teachings as a guide to our own spiritual empowerment; Recognize and embrace the importance of spiritual community in supporting and empowering our personal journey. This parish has demonstrated the power and fortitude of community. They refused to allow the loss of a physical space to destroy the bonds that they share with each other. The congregation serves as a beautiful portrayal of the positive outcome produced by uniting in the face of adversity. I ask my colleagues and our Nation to join me in this special Congressional Recognition of the United Palace Cathedral as they celebrate the 45th anniversary and 45 years of spiritual service and strength in the face of Adversity.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life of West Harlem's beloved businesswoman, managing director, visionary, community resident and advocate Patricia Jones, who unexpectedly passed away on Friday, November 16, 2012. On Tuesday, November 27, friends, residents and community leaders gathered at Convent Avenue Baptist Church to reflect and celebrate the life of our beloved Pat Jones, who was a faithful and dedicated public servant to residents, non-profits and businesses throughout West Harlem and the City of New York. It is with great sorrow that my wife Alma and I joined members of the West Harlem Local Development Corporation, Community Planning Board 9, elected officials representing the New York State Legislature and the New York City Council in mourning the unforeseen death of our beloved Pat Jones who left an unforgettable and indelible mark in all of our political and community hearts and minds. We are truly thankful for her decades of service to our community, and for the many memories that I will personally cherish forever. Great women like our beloved Pat Jones are precious gifts we temporarily have in this world, but their assistance, contributions and accomplishments are far remembered and everlasting. Pat was a dear friend and was known to many of us as a brilliant hardworking community leader who dedicated her life work to fighting for and expanding historic and landmark preservation, positive community, public safety, health care, environmental justice and education. Patricia Arlene Jones was born on July 17, 1953 in Flushing, Queens, New York. She was the youngest of four children of Darline Clark Jones and Herman Lee Jones. Pat's family affectionately called her Trisha. Young Trisha was baptized by the late civil rights Preacher, Reverend Timothy P. Mitchell at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Flushing, Queens. Trisha graduated from Flushing High School, where she was a member of the Arista Club, a student organization dedicated to educational excellence. She matriculated to Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan majoring in Mathematics. Pat graduated from Michigan State in 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration. Pat was recruited by Price Waterhouse Coopers where she worked as an audit manager for over five years. She moved on to JP-Morgan & Company where she managed over 100 finance employees and eventually rose to become the first African American woman to serve as a Managing Director. During her tenure, Pat also served as a manager of diversity, establishing mentoring programs for African American employees, and establishing a women's speaker series featuring powerful professional women, including former U.S. Senator, First Lady and current United States Secretary of State, the Honorable Hillary Rodham Clinton, and former National Security Advisor and United States Secretary of State, the Honorable Condoleezza Rice. Managing Director Jones retired from JP-Morgan after 17 years of service. Pat was also a Certified Public Accountant and played key leadership roles in organizations such as American Women for Economic Development and the American Institute of CPAs. Highly respected for her achievements in business, Pat was mentioned in the 1981 edition of Outstanding Young Women of America. Pat, an accomplished businesswoman and retired Managing Director, volunteered and joined Manhattan Community Board 9 in 2001 to advocate and serve on behalf of the West Harlem community, where she owned her home and which she loved so much. Pat's dedication, professional skill and wit led her to be elected 2nd Vice Chair of the Board, serving 3 terms from 2004 to 2007. In 2008, Pat was elected Chair and served for two consecutive terms, from 2008 to 2010, receiving the admiration and support of her fellow board members. Pat concurrently co-chaired the Manhattanville Rezoning Task Force, as well as Chair of the 197-A Planning Committee. I am also proud to say that Pat Jones was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, which is one of nine federal zones established by President William Jefferson Clinton, by legislation I authored and sponsored in the House of Representatives. More significantly, history will remember Pat Jones as the co-author and chief navigator of the historic Community Benefits Agreement between Columbia University and the City of New York on behalf of West Harlem and Community Planning Board 9. After successfully negotiating the 197-A Plan for Community Board 9 through the New York City Planning Commission approval process, Pat Jones was elected to fill one of the Community Board seats on the West Harlem Local Development Corporation. Pat took on the leadership role as Chair of the West Harlem Local Development Corporation (WHLDC) at a very difficult and contentious time during the negotiating process. Many long mornings, afternoons and evenings shepherding through the complex personalities and agendas was no easy task by any means, but somehow Pat was able to move the WHLDC above and beyond those personalities and agendas, which led to one of the most significant Community Benefits Agreements ever achieved in the City of New York and in the nation that will positively enhance and improve the quality of health, environment, education and affordable living for all the residents of Community Board 9, West Harlem and beyond. The origin and purpose of the West Harlem Development Corporation are connected with the 25-year expansion project of Columbia University in the City of New York. This educational mixed-use complex that began in 2009 will eventually span 17 acres and will include academic, commercial, cultural, and community facility space as well as open space. It is bounded by West 125th Street to the south, West 133rd Street to the north, Broadway on the east, and Twelfth Avenue on the west. The integrated teaching and academic research campus would create 6.8 million gross square feet in 16 buildings at a projected cost of $6.28 billion. A consequence of this expansion project is the Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) which is a legally enforceable document between a real estate developer and a community that binds the developer to provide agreed-upon benefits. The West Harlem Community Benefits Agreement Between the West Harlem Local Development Corporation and the Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York was signed on May 18, 2009, initiating phase one of the Columbia University's Manhattanville Expansion project. In 2005, Community Board 9 of New York City voted to approve the creation of the local development corporation to engage in negotiations with Columbia University on behalf of the community of West Harlem. It was initially incorporated on March 16, 2006 as the D9 Local Development Corporation, a nonprofit New York State entity. Subsequently, an amendment was filed to change the name to West Harlem Local Development Corporation (WHLDC). Through Pat's effective and determined leadership, and with the support of our elected body of public officials, the WHLDC was able to negotiate a total of $300 million in CBA benefits for housing, employment and economic development, education, environment, transportation, arts and culture, community facilities and historic preservation, which included $150 million from the City of New York to preserve affordable housing. It also included $150 million from Columbia University, which included the creation of a $20 million Affordable Housing Fund; up to $4 million in related legal services; a $30 million commitment for a planned Demonstration Community K-8 Public School to be established in conjunction with Teachers College; $76 million in Columbia University's financial contributions to a benefits fund that will be paid out in installments over sixteen years, which allows the WHLDC to determine the programmatic uses of these funds; $20 million worth of access to Columbia University services and facilities to be apportioned over twenty-five years (``In-Kind contributions''); and a commitment from Columbia University to provide ``Advice and Guidance'' to the WHLDC on a range of issues and programs. During Pat's amazing community career she served as Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Children's Arts Carnival, Treasurer of the Hamilton Heights-West Harlem Community Preservation Organization, Member of the Board of the Harlem Venture Group, Treasurer of the Hamilton Heights Homeowners Association (HHHA) and Chair of HHHA's Annual House and Garden Tour Committee. Let me share with you a poem Patricia Jones authored in the 4th Grade, entitled I am Thankful. ``I am thankful for many things. One is that I have a nice home and wonderful parents in them. Some children overseas don't have homes as we do, and some do not even have parents. I am thankful for the schools we have in New York because some children in other countries don't have schools and need the education badly. Many people in the United States are grateful for the world peace we have. In some countries people have to do what their leaders say to do, and they don't have the right to do what they want to, and to tell their feelings. I am very grateful for all the things that I have, and I hope that many people all over the world have the things that I have.'' Mr. Speaker, Pat Jones was a strong black woman, who understood the true meaning of commitment, sacrifice, hard work and effort. She now takes her place alongside our other Freedom Sisters of extraordinary women who, while less prominent in the media, shaped much of the spirit and substance of civil rights, social and economic justice in America, just as our beloved Pat Jones, whose important historic contribution to the West Harlem community will surely be missed. I ask you and my colleagues to join me in this very special congressional salute to West Harlem Advocate, Patricia Arlene Jones.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. I rise on the floor because there have been so many people in my constituency that are wondering about why did I vote in support of China going into the WTO, and at the same time we all are complaining about our failure to abide by the rules. I want to make it abundantly clear that we're in the same situation. Sandy and I, it was a profile in courage almost to support China, and we have consistently supported our position as most people are supporting the committee's position and the Congress' position as relates to allowing Russia to assume the responsibilities of joining the WTO. While we have no guarantees that she will abide by the rules, at least we do have that she recognizes that there are international rules. For those people that are just monitoring the behavior of the People's Republic of China, we have to realize that in order to get people to cooperate and to find some discipline in international trade, they have to join. This goes a long way in making certain not only that we create the jobs and improve commercial trade with Russia, but also it encourages the administration now to see what works for the great United States, what really works to improve the quality of trade between all nations, and it gives us another tool to work with. So I want to thank Sandy and the chairman of the committee for working together as closely as they have, and Mr. McDermott. And I do hope that we will be able to join these countries to say that even in America it's possible to work even with Communists and not sell out our principles of the great qualities of democracy that are prevalent with most people.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish our good friends in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, a Happy Anniversary on October 10th. Known as Double Ten Day due to it being the tenth day of the tenth month, it marks the day that The Republic of China/Taiwan came into existence. Taiwan will be 101 years old on this day. Young by comparison to other nations in the world, but they have done so much in these relatively few years. Most impressively, Taiwan has become a thriving democracy during this time. In 1996 they held their first direct President elections. Since then, Taiwan has seen different political parties hold the office of President. A true mark of a democracy. Taiwan's economy is strong and their unemployment is low compared to much of the world. A lot of this can be attributed to them being recognized as a powerhouse in the electronics field. Taiwan is also an important world citizen--constantly giving aid and assistance where it is needed throughout the globe. If a natural disaster occurs in another country, Taiwan is often one of the first nations on the scene providing much needed help. One last note, Taiwan's top diplomat in the U.S. and our longtime friend Jason Yuan is leaving his post here to assume the awesome responsibilities of Chief of the Republic of China's National Security Council. We wish him well in this new role and assure him of our continuing confidence in the special relationship between Taiwan and the U.S. For these reasons and more I congratulate Taiwan and wish them a very happy celebration on their 101st year.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to recognize the Department of Sociomedical Sciences Doctoral Program/ Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health for its outstanding impact on the success of its Latino student population. The school is a groundbreaking and progressive institution that strives to promote academic excellence and a diversified student, faculty, and staff population. Since its founding in 1968, the Sociomedical Sciences, SMS, program in Columbia's School of Public Health has evolved into a truly multidimensional institution. Its unique approach to teaching with its use of educators, engineers, and social scientists creates a robust learning model for addressing and ultimately solving today's prevalent health concerns. Columbia University has shown a dedication to maintaining its diverse community while also sustaining a high level of academic excellence. The Mailman School, in particular, has contributed to this mission exceptionally. From 2003 to 2010, 12.8 percent of students enrolled in the SMS doctoral program were Latinos, accurately representing the proportion of Latinos in the United States population. In addition to the implementation of equal opportunity policies, the Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity, IMSD, has provided funding for graduate research positions and tuition assistance that demolished financial barriers previously hindering enrollment and timely degree attainment. This has provided for an increase in minority student enrollment and further expanded the already vibrantly assorted ethnic community. A culturally well-rounded student body enhances the world perspective of students both academically and personally. The Mailman School of Public Health has accomplished all that it has educationally, while remaining committed to diversity among its student population, creating an equitable academic environment fostering a more inclusive world perspective. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to recognize this achievement as particularly outstanding and its focus on promoting academic advancement of Latino students.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me this opportunity to participate in the Republican Presidential campaign, because that's exactly what this is. I saw a commercial with a white guy with leather gloves on working and sweating, and, oh, God. It looked like America to me except they had something in there about President Obama wanting people who didn't want to work, that all they had to do was ask for a welfare check, and I think it had something like ``I paid for this commercial,'' or something like, ``I'm proud of it.'' This is the first time I've seen a standing committee manipulate itself to give credibility to a guy who just really doesn't know what this business is all about. I never thought I'd be in the well talking about States' rights, but I do recognize there are different employment needs of people in Alaska and people in Hawaii, people in New York, people in Mississippi. They just don't all have the same job opportunity. And the whole idea of asking for Governors, Republican and Democrat, to have the flexibility not to fill out forms, but to say, What's working? How are they putting people to work? But I think the most important thing that we're forgetting is that not having a job and facing your family each and every day is more than not having a paycheck; it is not having self-esteem.

Mr. RANGEL. To believe that people who are used to working hard, having dignity, having pride in their kids, just because the candidate for President made another mistake, that we're going to have to now legislate something to show that we think he makes any sense on that issue, it is wrong, and it ain't going nowhere.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to share the news of a devastating loss to Harlem and the greater New York City community. We joined with many family members and friends at Memorial Baptist Church to celebrate the life of Harlem Youth Marine Cadet First Sergeant, Ackeem Paul Green, who passed away Sunday, June 3, 2012, from a fatal gunshot wound. On behalf of our beloved Village of Harlem, my wife Alma and I want to extend our most sincere and heartfelt sympathy, support, and love to my beloved friend, Col. Gregory E. Collins, and the entire family of the First Sergeant Ackeem Paul Green. At the age of 25 he was indeed a promising young man continuing the honorable legacy of his father to better not only himself but his fellow community youth members as well. Great young men like Ackeem are precious gifts that God has made to help make this world a better and safer place for all of us. First Sergeant Ackeem Paul Green lost his life on the urban battlefield, from gun violence right here at home, while enjoying a game of basketball with friends on a Sunday afternoon. First Sergeant Green was shot in the back by the enemy of illegal guns in the hands of our misguided youth. An enemy that has taken the lives of so many of our promising young carnations and roses and that has declared war throughout every urban neighborhood in the United States of America. Every time I hear the news that one of our young sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, husbands and wives are struck down by illegal guns in the wrong hands of our misguided young people--it pains my heart with depression and anger. What makes this very difficult for me is that it has taken the life of a young man whose very focus in life was to mentor young men and women and provide them with a positive direction through the principles and leadership of the Harlem Youth Marines and with the values and courage of the United States Marine Corp. Since the age of 15 Ackeem has committed countless amounts of time and effort to the Harlem Youth Marine Cadets (HYMC). Once Ackeem reached the age limit to serve as a cadet, he remained dedicated and continued to serve the organization through volunteer work. He took time to mentor young cadets and served as a positive and much needed role model to many of our youth both in and outside of HYMC. The Harlem Youth Marines, Inc. provides instruction in military grooming and development to students willing and eager to learn. This program has supported the youth in my district for over thirty years with an emphasis on youth development through education and discipline. They also provide cadets with the opportunity to indulge in basic military skill building activities such as rappelling, marksmanship, and weapons safety. The children of Harlem have thoroughly benefited from this program through the development of body, mind, and spirit. Ackeem was a remarkable testament of their success. Mr. Speaker, I know that we, the Village of Harlem, will honor Ackeem's life by ensuring that his young infant son, Ackeem Paul Green, Jr., follows in his father's drill steps and exceeds his dreams and aspirations to be all that he can be. May First Sergeant Ackeem Paul Green's legacy be far remembered and everlasting, as we pick up the flag and defeat this enemy of illegal gun violence that has destroy the lives of our children, families and communities. I ask that you and my colleagues join me in honoring a great young man and an impassioned mentor whose legacy shall be far remembered and everlasting.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life and legacy of another Harlem's Southern Home Style Restaurant owner and Master Chef, Calvin Copeland, who passed away on Thursday morning, August 23. As we remembered and recently celebrated the life of Sylvia Woods, The Queen of Soul Food--certainly for 50 years, Mr. Calvin Copeland and his famed Copeland's Restaurant & Reliable Catering was worthy and reigned with royalty on West 145th Street, between Amsterdam Avenue and Broadway in the Village of West Harlem. Born in Virginia on May 1, 1925, Mr. Copeland headed north to live with an aunt who taught him her secret recipe to making finger licking good, fried chicken. Never one to forget his southern roots, Mr. Copeland proudly proclaimed Harlem as ``the place'' that made him famous by cooking and serving his delicious, and often catered, Southern foods and a little bit of live Jazz. Mr. Copeland started the business in 1958 as a catering service, one of Harlem's first, in a modest storefront on Broadway north of 148th Street. Mr. Copeland baked and decorated cakes and only had but one worker, Ms. Gertrude Clark, who is white and grew up on a farm in upstate New York did whatever else was needed, which often included preparing Southern fare. Quoted in a New York Times Article, she stated. ``I had never eaten collard greens in my life, and there I was making fried chicken and souse meat.'' Ms. Clark later became Copeland's banquet manager. Mr. Copeland eventually rented the store next door, opened up a hole in the wall, expanded the kitchen and started serving breakfast and lunch, cafeteria style. In 1980, As small business restaurateur, Copeland faced many challenges. In 1981, the restaurant burned to the ground and the insurance company went bankrupt before Mr. Copeland was able to recoup his losses. He lost everything, but the liquor. Back in the day Banks were not prone to lending money to restaurants located in Harlem, but because of the generosity of friends and special loyal worker, Copeland was able to reopen in grandeur. That very special worker was Gertrude Clark who mortgaged her property in upstate New York, which along with a small business loan helped her boss secure financing for a new location, on West 145th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam in Hamilton Heights. Calvin Copeland became an institution, when he moved his business to 547 West 145th Street and opened Copeland's Restaurant & Bar Lounge and Reliable Catering Service, which was also a community buffet style diner. Copeland's became a destination for black families from as far South as Florida and the Carolinas and as far North as Buffalo, New York to Canada. Black entertainers, like Harry Belafonte and Stevie Wonder; and other notables would stop by when in town. Desmond Tutu, the retired Anglican archbishop, ate there once, and so did Muhammad Ali and the comedian Richard Pryor, who threw money in the air when he left the restaurant so as to distract the crowd that had surrounded him, Mr. Copeland stated that Natalie Cole was a regular. Michael Jackson came by once for take-out. One of my fondest memories was the eve of the Mayoral General Election in 1989 when David N. Dinkins and I campaigned at the subway stop on 145th Street and Broadway and ate at Copeland's Restaurant. I don't know if it was the lucky fried chicken, the collard greens or Copeland's corner, but the next day David N. Dinkins won the election and became the first African American and 106th Mayor of the City of New York. Copeland Restaurant was a place where you can catch Kathy Sharpton, Candi Staton, Lonnie Youngblood, Gloria Lynne and other great Jazz, Gospel and R&B artist perform. Where politicians held court and Harlem players and shakers hung out for breakfast. I miss those fried apples, chicken livers and cat fish, and that amazing banana pudding and sweet potato pie. Unfortunately, in 2007 due to the economic downturn and poor health, Mr. Copeland had to close. Mr. Copeland always dreamed that one day he would make a comeback to the food business that he loved so much. He was a great teacher and mentor to those in need of a trade to make a decent living, Mr. Copeland trained many into the restaurant business. Even people coming out of prison with no real job options could depend on him for a professional introduction into the culinary arts. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Calvin Copeland, a Harlem Mainstay was there when rioters burned and looted stores in 1964, when crack cocaine and HIV/ AIDS tore families apart, when brownstones were for sale for $50,000 and few outsiders dared move in. He endured fire and financial ruin, yet each time he picked up the pieces and prospered, as bold and resilient as the neighborhood around him. If he could be the master of his fate, he would live out his days in Harlem. Please join me and my colleagues as we salute another Harlem Icon, Mr. Calvin Copeland who has contributed to the greatness in which Harlem is known.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life of our dear beloved spiritual leader, Bishop Norman N. Quick who passed away on Wednesday, August 1, 2012. The celebration will begin on Tuesday, August 7, as the local Jurisdiction of the Church of God In Christ presided by Bishop Frank O. White, General Board Member and Interim Jurisdictional Prelate will host the first Celebration of Life Service; and on Wednesday, August 8, the National Jurisdiction of the Church of God In Christ, presided by Bishop Charles E. Blake will host the final Celebration of Life Service. Bishop Quick will lie in state for viewing at Childs Memorial Temple Church of God In Christ, where both celebration services will be held. It is with great sorrow that my wife Alma and I join Harlem and the Church of God In Christ Worldwide Ministry in mourning the death of our beloved Bishop Norman N. Quick who left an unforgettable and indelible mark in all of our spiritual hearts and minds. I am truly thankful for his decades of service to our community, and for the many personal memories that I will cherish forever. Bishop Norman N. Quick was a renowned and outspoken evangelist of the word of Christ, who grew his ministry nationwide and internationally, mentoring young pastors from as far as Africa, Asia and throughout the Caribbean, creating a legacy of evangelists and educators whose ministry will live through his teachings forever. Great men like our beloved Bishop are precious gifts we temporarily have in this world, but their assistance and contributions are far remembered and everlasting. Although he will be missed, his legacy now lives through his flock and through his children and that is a great comfort to all who knew this amazing servant of God. Bishop Norman N. Quick was installed as Senior Pastor of Faith Temple Church of God In Christ in October 1973, after the death of another historic renowned Evangelist, Bishop Dr. Alvin Alexander Childs, who passed away on Saturday, August 11th of that same year. In 1974, Bishop Quick renamed the church to Childs Memorial Temple Church of God In Christ in honor of Bishop Dr. Alvin Alexander Childs, who also left an unforgettable and indelible mark on Harlem and in all of our spiritual hearts and minds. Under the leadership of Bishop Quick and First Lady Sister Verline Quick, Childs Memorial Temple grew larger in its spiritual teachings and ministerial work throughout the West Harlem and ``Sugar Hill'' community. Childs Memorial Temple offered spiritual and compassionate support through its religious services and social programs. In 1976, Bishop and Sister Quick founded The Childs Memorial Temple Bible Institute for the purpose of promoting their study of the Bible, training Christian Workers and carrying the Gospel to the unsaved. In 1982, they also established the Childs Memorial Temple Christian Academy, which has, and continues to provide a wholesome and religious education for hundreds of children in the community. Within the cathedral, the United Homeless Organization provides social services such as housing, job placement, and nutritious meals to individuals in need and rejected by society. Childs Memorial Temple houses Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troops that serve both the community and the church. At a time when drugs, housing abandonment and despair ravaged throughout the neighborhood and community at large, Bishop Quick was one of the founding pastors and churches to form Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement in 1986, where he actively served on the Board of Directors. His success was as much a result of his enormous charming personality and character, as it was of his spiritual work ethic. Bishop Quick's incredible hospitality and personable nature was symbolic of Harlem's rich collective composition that will be remembered forever. The history of Childs Memorial Temple Church of God In Christ began with the Faith Temple Church of God In Christ under the leadership of Bishop Alvin A. Childs, which was one of the faster growing Pentecostal Churches in New York with over 3,000 members. Thousands of people received spiritual, financial and healing blessings under the dynamic ministry of Bishop Alvin A. Childs and the Faith Temple Church of God In Christ Family. Faith Temple was noted for its 11:00 p.m. radio broadcast where many people started gathering at 10:00 p.m. to hear the radio choir, many outstanding artists, Preachers and the voice of the Bishop, who was matchless as an orator and master `pulpiteer.' In 1965, at the time of Malcolm X's death, none of Harlem's gaping Cathedrals would open the doors for his funeral. A fearless Bishop A. A. Childs dared to allow Malcolm X's slim body with bullet holes in the chest to be rolled into Faith Temple. Thousands of people lined the streets in front of the church as hundreds squeezed into the 600 seat Temple where actor Ossie Davis delivered the Eulogy. Faith Temple was a friend to all classes of people, Mayors and Governors, rich and poor and the rejected of society. Mr. Speaker, the Village of Harlem and a very grateful nation extend our sincere and heartfelt support, love, and sympathy to the Church of God In Christ family as we celebrate the life of our beloved Bishop Norman N. Quick, who now takes his place alongside our other renowned Freedom Fighters, who have contributed and dedicated their entire lives to uplifting the spiritual morality, civil rights, social justice and education equality for all Americans despite race, color or creed.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Thank you so much. It was such a pleasure hearing the word knocked around here, ``bipartisanship,'' and well there should be. I hope we can explain what it means to some of the newer Members. As I was talking with Jim McDermott, whose ideas first created this legislation, some on the other side were Mr. Crane from Illinois, who was the cosponsor; Speaker Gingrich who was the first witness for this bill as I introduced it; and, of course, President Clinton, who took a bipartisan group of Members to Africa not only to help these African countries but to help American industry and the textile industry. But more importantly than anything, the United States became a symbol of being able to help people not just by handouts but by teaching them exactly what has to be done. Oh, yes, Jim McDermott is right that when it comes to picking up the pieces and moving forward in terms of expiration dates and people not knowing how to invest. But let's face it, Jim, in today's climate, this is some sort of legislative miracle. And it was completed with the help of Karen Bass, who came here and she worked the devil out of people on the other side of the aisle. They got so annoyed with her that I had to come in and to let the committee members know that she's new here, but when she gets involved in something, that the Senate, the other body, doesn't mean that much. I got a call from Bob Menendez saying it was his idea all along to get this thing through. And we have done it. I do hope, Chairman Camp, that we might snatch what this means in bipartisanship. It may be long and difficult before this session ends to find something else. But I know that those who played a role in this over a decade ago and see that we are moving forward in that bipartisan way with the Foreign Affairs Committee, the Ways and Means Committee, that we all leave here as better legislators.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. First, let me thank Ranking Member Levin for giving me this opportunity, and let me thank the chairman for bringing up the idea that this Congress is concerned about taxes. I say that because some of us will go home, and our friends and constituents will say, Well, how long are you going to be home? I guess we have to say for close to a month. They say, Do you mean that Thursday, today, was the last day for over a month? Yes. So what were you doing? I'll say, We were doing taxes. Oh. What were you doing about taxes? Were you talking about reforming it? I would say, I heard the word ``reform'' being used, but no. We are being asked by the Republican majority to vote for a pathway to reform. I wish I had some of the Republican statements on this floor stapled to my press release so that I could explain what the heck is a ``pathway to reform.'' Since 1986, what we had thought ``reform'' was was to cut out from that Tax Code obscene provisions--some shouldn't have been in there, and certainly there is no reason for them to be in there now--to save trillions of dollars and to take that savings by reducing the high rate that we pay corporations and so that we can be competitive in the international market; but someone outside of the Congress said that to close these loopholes and to raise revenue are the wrong things to do. I don't know where this wiggly path is to reform, but I know one thing--we're not going to be dealing with this path in August or in September. It's hard for me to believe that we're going to do it this year. So what the heck do we need a path for when the American people are jobless and looking for a way to some type of relief and when the only thing they believe is that, somewhere along the line, the Republicans want to get rid of Obama and don't care how they get rid of him? The Republicans don't care whether it's jobs, education, science, air pollution. Don't let the Congress be cooperative and be involved with anything that's good for the country as long as the President gets a chance to sign it for the United States of America. Now, how in the heck can we be on a path to reform when basically what we're talking about is that tax reductions that were supposed to be temporary expire at the end of this year? What reform is there for those people who see a dramatic increase in their taxes in order for liberals and conservatives to say, We don't want that to happen? If we don't want that to happen, why don't we do something about it today so that they and businesses will know what tomorrow is going to look like beyond today, which for all practical purposes is the end of our legislative session? It is my understanding that 98 percent of the people will get dramatic increases under this pathway, this roadway. Their taxes will go up. Now, we have to admit there are some wealthy people who belong to the less than 2 percent. It's abundantly clear, if the reason they have to hold hostage the 98 percent is that they have created all of the jobs, well, they certainly haven't proved it in the past; they aren't proving it now; and very few of them hold small businesses so that they will be adversely affected. I would assume that that is the controversial 2 percent. I would assume that that's what we should fight about. I would hate to be a Republican who has to go back home to his district and explain that the reason 98 percent of hardworking taxpayers are going to get an increase in their taxes is that we felt so strongly about the top wealthiest people that we said, The heck with them. We're not giving that up until we make certain that you are protected. Wow. Sometimes the party asks too much of its members, and I really hope that somewhere along the line the hatred and animosity for this President at least will be reduced to the voting booths and not to the country.

Mr. RANGEL. Someone once said that the goal of the Republican Party is to get rid of Obama and to make him a first-term President. I understood that. I started saying these things about Nixon and Bush--all of those things--but I never dreamed that it meant having the country go down with the captain. I never dreamed that it meant that you don't let the President increase the debt ceiling. I never dreamed that it included millions of jobs and tax relief for people as it seems that they mean. I hope things change in September.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is with immense gratification that I recognize the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) and its Summer 2012 Interns for the completion of their intensive nine-week internship program on Capitol Hill. This summer, 40 college-aged students from across the nation participated in this program. These students were chosen through a competitive process based on an essay submission, a history of community involvement and a sense of civic engagement. The CBCF's Congressional Internship program was designed to diversify our Congressional offices and give students an opportunity to develop their talent as young professionals and future leaders. During their tenure, summer interns had the opportunity to learn more about public policy and gain a complete understanding of the federal legislative process. In addition, they have grown professionally by identifying the skills and qualities of strong leaders. Outside their congressional offices interns put their legislative experience to use by engaging in their own mock Congress simulation. Furthermore, interns were offered the opportunity to attend numerous professional and leadership development workshops, networking events, and engage with Members of the Congressional Black Caucus. I had the privilege to speak with the CBCF interns myself, encouraging them to be leaders and continue to be persistent in their fight for equal justice and opportunities for all. I would like to specially recognize CBCF intern Amir Rowe who worked in my office this summer. Amir demonstrated a great deal of proficiency in completing assignments and engaging with my constituents. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to congratulate the CBCF 2012 summer interns for taking advantage of this lifetime opportunity and I thank the CBCF, under the leadership of Elsie L. Scott, Ph.D., for providing such an invaluable experience. Ashley Bobo, interning in the office of Rep. Laura Richardson, attending Harvard College; Jeremy Broadus, interning in the office of Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, attending Rutgers University; Tierra Burns, interning in the office of Rep. Melvin Watt Cameron, attending North Carolina Central University; Melissa Chin, interning in the office of Sen. Charles Schumer, attending Brown University; Saliha Cifci, interning in the office of Rep. Al Green, attending Rutgers University; Devon Cox, interning in the office of Rep. Hansen Clarke, attending University of Michigan; Nairobi Cratic, interning in the office of Rep. Gwen Moore, attending Temple University; Devon Crawford, interning in the office of Rep. Terri Sewell, attending Morehouse College; Elizabeth Davis, interning in the office of Rep. Bobby Scott, attending George Mason University; Courtnie Drigo, interning in the office of Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, attending Rice University; Camylle Fleming, interning in the office of Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, attending Wellesley College; Chazmon Flood, interning in the office of Rep. Maxine Waters, attending Howard University; Ariana Gibbs, interning in the office of Rep. Bennie Thompson, attending Spelman College; Brianna Gibson, interning in the office of Rep. Donna Edwards, attending Columbia University; John Grigg, Jr., interning in the office of Rep. Donna Christensen, attending University of Tampa; Brittany Harvey, interning in the office of Rep. Andre Carson, attending Clark Atlanta University; Brandon Hill, interning in the office of Rep. Corrine Brown, attending Stanford University; Tyler Hill, interning in the office of Rep. Barbara Lee, attending University of California, Berkeley; Brooke Hutchins, interning in the office of Rep. Chaka Fattah, attending Georgetown University; Duane Jackson, interning in the office of Rep. Yvette Clarke, attending Bates College; Ocoszio Jackson, interning in the office of Rep. Sanford Bishop Jr., attending Morehouse College; Tatehona Kelly, interning in the office of Rep. Marcia Fudge, attending American University; Jordan Lindsay, interning in the office of Rep. William Lacy Clay, attending Morehouse College; Malaiya McGee, interning in the office of Rep. Gregory Meeks, attending Howard University; Kaylan Meaza, interning in the office of Rep. G.K. Butterfield, attending North Carolina State University; Origen Monsanto, interning in the office of Rep. David Scott, attending Southern Polytechnic State University; Khristopher Nicholas, interning in the office of Rep. Alcee Hastings, attending Columbia University; Matthew Norwood, interning in the office of Rep. John Lewis, attending Dartmouth College. Jasmine Omeke, interning in the office of Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., attending Harvard University. Brittany Porter, interning in the office of Rep. Frederica Wilson, attending Hampton University; Jeremy Ratcliff, interning in the office of Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, II, attending Livingstone College; Amir Rowe, interning in the office of Rep. Charles Rangel, attending St. John's University; Shannon Schoultz, interning in the office of Rep. James Clyburn, attending American University; Kaleese Shepperd, interning in the office of Rep. Bobby L. Rush, attending Western Illinois University; Jason Sneed, interning in the office of Rep. Karen Bass, attending University of Southern California; Travis Stanislaus, interning in the office of Rep. Edolphus Towns, attending Cornell University; Jonathan Sykes, interning in the office of Rep. Hank Johnson, attending Fort Valley State University; Rahel Tekola, interning in the office of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, attending Texas Tech University; Terrence Thrweatt Jr., interning in the office of Rep. Elijah Cummings, attending St. Mary's College of Maryland; Benjamin Turman, interning in the office of Rep. John Conyers, attending Hampton University.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Chairman, I've never been so fortunate in this House to have the Republicans state the argument as clearly as they have this afternoon, and I think Wally Herger said it. It is possible that we're not talking about a tax cut. People working every day trying to make ends meet, they don't know the wonderful tax cut that they are enjoying, but you bet your life if we don't come together, if we don't reach agreement, they'll understand what a tax hike is. That's exactly what's going to happen to 98 percent of the tax-paying people of this great country. Taxpayers, who work every day, who raise their families, who buy from the local merchants that keep small business alive, are going to find out, probably too late, that the Republican Party says you don't deserve the lower tax rate. Then they may ask: What's holding this up if everyone agrees that they should have it? We're going to have to explain to the middle class what the Republicans are explaining to us: that somehow we are to believe that less than 2 percent of the population is creating the jobs and really supporting the economy. I don't know where they've been or how they're going to come back, but they haven't been creating jobs, and they haven't been spending and investing money. Even if there was a controversy, why the heck are we holding hostage 98 percent of the people? If Republicans agree and Democrats agree and liberals and conservatives and even Tea Party people agree that these people who work hard every day should continue to have this tax cut, then why the heck don't we agree to give it to them? If it ever becomes that we're in a political debate, and it's only about less than 2 percent of 100 percent, then let's fight like the devil over that and see who prevails. But it's not going to be hard for us to explain this. If you do this to the hardworking American people, shame on you.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I stand to honor a venerable Harlem institution, Sylvia's Restaurant, on its 50th anniversary. Founded by the late Sylvia Woods, Sylvia's is nationally and internationally famous, yet its soul remains in Harlem. On Wednesday, August 1, 2012, to kick off Sylvia's Restaurant's 50th Anniversary Golden Jubilee, the Woods family salutes the Harlem community with a complimentary Southern-style sidewalk breakfast party featuring Cake Man Raven complete with a voter registration drive, children's programming, live entertainment, guest speakers, prize giveaways and plenty of ``Dancing in the Streets.'' The celebration continues with The Golden Jubilee Parade, featuring the awesome Brooklyn Steppers, which begins at Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Harlem State Office Building African Village Plaza from 125th Street and 7th Avenue to Sylvia's Restaurant at 127th Street and Lenox Avenue. I'd like to include in this Congressional Record, in celebration of this milestone occasion the obituary that was prepared in remembrance of Mrs. Sylvia Woods. In Remembrance of Sylvia Woods, February 2, 1926-July 19, 2012 If ever there was a woman who defined strength, ambition and determination coupled with enough entrepreneurial spirit to uplift and inspire generations, it was Sylvia Pressley Woods, `The Queen of Soul Food.' Encapsulating family traditions of love, unity, female empowerment and of course soul into her business ventures, she not only established an imprint with her famed restaurant Sylvia's, but the visionary blazed a trail for an entire community to emulate. After a blessed 86 years with us, Sylvia Woods departed this world and reunited with her late husband, Herbert Deward Woods, on July 19, 2012. On February 2, 1926, Sylvia Woods was born to Van and Julia Pressley in Hemingway, South Carolina. Three days after Sylvia's birth, her father succumbed to chemical-weapons injuries; he worked to ensure financial stability. When Sylvia was three years old, her mother left her in the care of her grandmother and the greater community of Hemingway as she went to Brooklyn, New York in search of work and increased opportunities. It was the notion of strength and that sense of family togetherness which ultimately defined who Sylvia Woods became. Julia returned to Hemingway a short time later whereby she raised her children, Sylvia, Louise, whom she adopted, Christine (Tiny), and Janie (Cout), whom she also raised. In an era where women were fighting for equal footing, Sylvia's grandmother already had a farm and instilled the value of ownership in Julia and later in Sylvia herself. Widowed after her husband was falsely accused of a robbery and hung, her grandmother later remarried and eventually fought to maintain control of the property after the second husband passed away. It was on that land, on that farm that Sylvia Woods absorbed an impeccable work ethic along with her cousins and other children from the community. It was under the hot sun that she picked beans every day after school and first fell in love with food. And it was there that Sylvia initially met her future husband at the tender age of 11 as she worked alongside him on the farm. You could say it was destiny. Sylvia's mother Julia worked tirelessly as a laundress in New York and saved nearly every penny with the aim of purchasing the property adjacent to her own mother. That dream ultimately came to fruition. She returned to South Carolina when Sylvia was still an adolescent. Julia bought property next to the farm and had her own house constructed. Together, as a family unit, they worked the farm and provided living examples of strong, independent, Black land owning women for young Sylvia to one day replicate. In addition to their domestic work and maintenance of the farm, both Sylvia's mother and grandmother were midwives for Hemingway during their prime. Despite being unable to read or write, her grandmother was the community's only midwife at the time. This unyielding persistence to rise above adversity was a quality passed down to Sylvia, as was a sense of humility and gratitude for all of life's blessings. Sylvia herself once recounted that as a young child, she considered herself extremely lucky to be able to study by a lamp, for many in her neighborhood could not afford electricity. It was these humble beginnings that allowed Sylvia to continue to cherish each and every success and never waver in support of the less fortunate. During her formative years in Hemingway, Sylvia observed a community that lived and worked for the benefit of all. It was commonplace to adopt someone's child if the need arose, or to help out in a person's home if necessary. Sylvia's mother and grandmother had both adopted children at various points in their lives. It was in this environment where Sylvia's dedication to hard work was fine tuned, as her mother made sure she stayed busy even on rainy days when the beans could not be picked. Learning to sew and mend, Sylvia started replacing buttons and repairing worn out clothing for herself and the family. But soon enough, that transitioned into a new creative outlet. Without the benefit of patterns to duplicate, or any formal training, Sylvia began making clothes--complete outfits--and tapping into the ingenuity that played a key role in all her life's work Whether she was expressing her innovative side, or working on the farm, Sylvia's childhood also centered on one other main factor: food. Watching her mother, grandmother, relatives and neighbors pour their hearts into the dishes they served, she understood that great food didn't just emerge; it required passion, love and soul. As different folks added their own ingredients and made their own specialties, Sylvia soon learned that cooking was a creative and artistic process unto itself. It was those recipes that were in turn handed down from generation to the next. And no matter what the occasion, it was food that brought everyone together. When Sylvia was 16, her grandmother sent her to cosmetology school in Brooklyn in order to find work as a beautician. The youngest person to graduate in her class, Sylvia then returned to South Carolina. After a few years honing her beautician skills while still assisting her family at home, she made the difficult decision to return to New York. In addition to parting ways with relatives, Sylvia faced the heart-wrenching reality of saying goodbye to her beloved Herbert. Possessing the same sentiments as Sylvia, Herbert joined the Navy shortly thereafter with the hope that he might one day sail to Brooklyn and reunite with his love. Although he never quite made it to Brooklyn through the Navy, the two married soon enough and moved to the village of Harlem. On the tough and often unforgiving streets of New York, almost everyone was chasing after a dream. But it was the incomparable lessons of integrity, sacrifice, dedication and courage of her childhood that laid the foundation for Sylvia's eventual empire in Harlem and was an imprint for the nation. When the Woods first moved uptown, Herbert drove a cab to earn a living, while Sylvia worked a factory job on Long Island. Exhausted for her commute, she seized an opportunity to work as a waitress at Johnson's Luncheonette on Lenox Avenue. It was a decision that later proved invaluable. When Sylvia first accepted this waitressing job, it was yet another daring move not only because she was inexperienced, but because she had never set foot inside a restaurant before. Growing up in the Deep South at a time when most restaurants barred Blacks and Black-owned restaurants were basically non-existent, she had no knowledge of the complexities of the fast-paced industry. But Sylvia was a quick learner. In 1962, when the owner of this luncheonette was leaving to focus on other ventures, he offered to sell Sylvia the establishment. After her initial shock, Sylvia realized the potential this venue could have for a community that was still yearning for a place to call home. Remaining true to the ideals of working as a family, Sylvia went to her mother who then mortgaged the family farm and allowed her daughter's concept to become a reality. On Aug. 1, 1962, Sylvia's opened its doors. It had 15 stools and six booths. Having a business is no small feat, let alone a restaurant vying to survive during a period when many were forced to close their doors. It was Sylvia's faith and unbelievable relationship with Herbert that allowed her to overcome any obstacle big or small. From the fields of South Carolina where they looked after one another, through an enduring marriage that saw the birth of four children--Van, Bedelia, Kenneth and Crizette--the Woods had a bond that few will ever experience in their lives. Both were born in Hemingway, and both lost their fathers as babies. And in an added twist of fate, both Sylvia's mother and Herbert's mother were born on the same day, January 1, 1906. During the 1960's, Harlem was an unpredictable and ever- changing neighborhood. As many restaurants struggled to remain open, Sylvia's found a niche with its southern cuisines of collard greens, peach pies, fried chicken, cornbread and other soul foods. But it was the warmth and love with which Sylvia welcomed patrons into the restaurant and that extra touch of care added into her dishes that won the hearts of the community. Her establishment was so well respected in fact, that during the riots of the '60s, as businesses were set ablaze, hers remained protected and intact. ``Sitting idle is not an option'' is what Sylvia's mother used to say, and it's what Sylvia herself exemplified throughout her time on earth. As her restaurant grew in popularity, so did her efforts towards expansion. Sylvia's currently seats over 450 patrons, and the powerhouse behind it all had branched off into other business endeavors. She purchased the remaining stores on the restaurant's Lenox Avenue block, as well as several nearby brownstones. She packaged her own signature line of food products that found their way into grocery stores across America and remain of the few truly Black owned businesses in food production today. And she somehow found time to publish two successful cookbooks. In 2001, Sylvia said goodbye to her best friend, the love of her life, Herbert Woods. In his memory, the Woods family founded the Sylvia and Herbert Woods Scholarship Fund offering collegiate scholarships to Harlem and local residents. To date, the fund has dispersed 76 scholarships and will continue to live up to its mantra: ``a higher level of education should not be a high-end luxury, but a right to all those who seek it''. After the death of her soul mate, Sylvia once again turned to her faith for renewed empowerment. Growing up in a strong Christian home, she came to know God as a young child. She was a firm believer in the notion that no matter what the adversity, God would see you through. It was a value and belief system she passed down to her children and grandchildren. Sylvia was a member of Abyssinian Baptist Church for many years, and later joined Grace Baptist Church as it was more convenient for her to attend there. She was instrumental in the construction of her home church, Jeremiah Methodist, in Hemingway. In 2007, Sylvia received a Congressional honor acknowledging her immense contribution to American society. She appeared in numerous national and international media outlets and has been saluted by President Bill Clinton, New York Governor Pataki, New York Mayors Ed Koch, David Dinkins and Mike Bloomberg, the New York Stock Exchange, among others. She was also recognized by the NAACP and received numerous awards. Sylvia's has proudly served Presidents--including the first African American President, Barack Obama--international dignitaries, celebrities, Harlem residents and tourists the world over. It is owned and operated by three generations of the Woods family that remain committed to the work ethic, devotion, and entrepreneurial spirit of its founder. 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of Sylvia's. A relentless fighter and champion first for her family, community, and minority/female-owned businesses, Sylvia is now reunited with her mother, grandmother, husband Herbert, adopted sister Louise Thomas and half-brother McKinley Preston, all of whom have passed on. She is survived by her four children, Van (Brenda Woods) Bedelia, Kenneth (Sylvia Woods) and Crizette; one step-daughter, Linda Woods; 18 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two great-great- grandchildren; two special cousins, Christine Cameron and Janie Cooper; one sister-in-law, Evelyn Woods; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and a nation that will forever be indebted to a woman who reminded us to never lose sight of the key ingredient for any success. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of this esteemed Harlem institution. May it continue its long run of excellence for another 50 years and more.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness, but also great pride, that I rise today to share a few words about Sylvia Woods, founder of Sylvia's Restaurant in Harlem, who passed away on Thursday, July 19, 2012. Ms. Woods was a local hero and a world renowned restaurateur, but also a dear personal friend; her death marks a devastating loss to Harlem and the greater New York City community, and she will be sorely missed. On behalf of the Harlem community, my wife Alma and I extend our sincere and heartfelt support, love, and sympathy to Ms. Sylvia's entire family. Ms. Sylvia was an exceptional woman whose extraordinary work ethic and wonderful character should serve as a model for all Americans. Her life epitomized the American dream. Growing up on a farm in Hemingway, South Carolina, she began working in the field as a young girl and then made her way to New York in search of opportunity. After working as a teenager in a Queens hat factory for several years, she began working as a waitress at a luncheonette in Harlem. This would mark the beginning of her fortuitous journey to the center of Harlem society. Ms. Sylvia would eventually purchase that luncheonette and, with hard work and patience, transform the small restaurant into a commercial empire boasting a catering service, banquet hall, and a nationally distributed line of prepared foods. Her farm to fame journey should remind us all of the great opportunity this country represents, and the hard work necessary to achieve it. But Ms. Sylvia's success was as much a result of her charming personality as it was of her work ethic. She was a dynamic, warm, and kind woman who greeted every customer with a friendly and inviting smile. Her incredible hospitality and personable nature were symbolic of Harlem's rich communal character, and for that she was beloved. Her energetic personality attracted local and national politicians, international celebrities, tourists, and ordinary neighborhood residents, and created an environment so comfortable that it naturally became the social center of our community. I want to thank Ms. Sylvia for her decades of service to our community, and for the many personal memories that I will cherish forever. Thank you for creating such a special, magical place at the soul of Harlem. Nothing can replace you, but your legacy will live on forever in our hearts. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in mourning Ms. Sylvia Woods' passing. It is my hope that her example will serve as a testament that, with hard work and genuine character, we can achieve our greatest dreams.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Amb. Ido Aharoni, Consul General of Israel in New York, who will meet with New York City's Jewish and other community leaders and elected officials on Friday morning to honor the 11 Israeli Olympians who were killed by a terrorist group during the 1972 Munich games. As the new Olympians march in the opening ceremonies of the 2012 games, these community groups and elected leaders will gather together for their own minute of silence, hearing the firsthand account of 1972 Israeli Olympian Avi Melamed. The Munich Massacre, as it has come to be known, occurred during the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Bavaria in southern West Germany, when members of the Israeli Olympic team were taken hostage and eventually killed by the Palestinian terrorist group Black September. Eleven Israeli athletes and coaches and a West German police officer were killed. On this 40th anniversary of the horrendous act of terror, we are not only reminded of the importance of our special relationship with Israel but also of the existence of evil in this world. Recently, we witnessed another terrorist attack on an Israeli tour bus in Bulgaria that left at least 7 dead and more than 20 wounded. These kinds of attacks against innocent people are horrifying and reprehensible. Such violence targeting people for their ethnicity, nationality or religion has absolutely no place in our world. Whenever and wherever we witness the taking of innocent lives for whatever reason, the voices of the concerned people must be heard. While terrorist attacks on the people of Israel were once viewed as a regional problem, today we know that the entire world is no longer safe from the warped minds of those who have no regard for the lives of children and people who do no harm. We must fight against those who choose to recklessly use the fear of terrorism against innocent victims to achieve their own evil political objectives. We must remain vigilant and outspoken. So I join the New York community this Friday as we come together to condemn such acts of terrorism and to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the massacre in Munich. Whether or not the International Olympic Committee agrees to pay tribute to the fallen, we will observe a moment of silence to pray for the victims and their loved ones.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I am pleased to recognize the National Association for Advancement of Colored People for its 103rd year of pursuing justice and equality for everyone in America, regardless of color, religion, or gender. The NAACP is one of our nation's most revered and outstanding organizations dedicated to social, political, and economic equality. It has fought countless battles--from race riots to voter suppression--to protect the rights of all persons. I commend the leadership of President Benjamin Jealous who has been outspoken on the most pressing issues in our communities. He has inspired thousands of Americans across the country to take action, whether it is organizing the ``Justice for Trayvon Martin'' movement or protests against unfounded voter ID laws. Furthermore, I am pleased to acknowledge the Mid-Manhattan branch of the NAACP located in my district for its unwavering commitment to our community. The branch is involved in mentorship programs, youth development, and encouraging people to be politically and socially active. This year they helped to organize the ``Silent Stop and Frisk'' march in June, which rallied roughly 72,000 of our community. I had the pleasure of marching in unison with them against unjust stop and frisk practices that discriminately target minorities and violence in our communities. The event was an example of NAACP's continuous efforts to galvanize and mobilize our communities to stand up for equality. I am proud to congratulate the Mid-Manhattan branch for receiving the Thalheimer award for outstanding membership enrollment at their annual convention in Houston, Texas earlier this month. I applaud them for their accomplishments in health and education advocacy, fighting for economic empowerment, and continuously standing up for justice. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in honoring the NAACP during its 103rd anniversary for its accomplishments and tireless commitment to uplifting all communities throughout America.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. This Sunday, the International AIDS Conference is going to be held in our Nation's Capital. It was some 30 years ago that this serious disease became known in our great country and spread from other parts of the world. Since that time, we've lost over a half a million people, yet we have not found a cure for this deadly disease. I have introduced legislation, H.R. 1462, with Senator Gillibrand, to see whether or not we can have more national attention focused on the fact that we can do a lot more than we are doing. The major thrust, of course, of what we have to do is to educate people that, although it used to have great stigma, there are so many different ways to come in contact with the disease. Education is one way that we can help people. Prevention, of course, is another, but I would like to emphasize the need for testing. So many people are walking around with the virus and have no idea that they have it. Even though there have been efforts made by community organizations for free testing, this is one of the exciting things about the President's Affordable Care Act. There is no question that after we get finished with the political circus that we are forced to go through because of the coming election that more and more Americans will understand the benefits they are receiving even now from this universal coverage, which so many people need, and the dramatic decrease in cost when people are able to get preventative care. Preventative care is one of the major parts of the President's Affordable Care Act. What it means is that people can now go to doctors for regular checkups and can find out things in time to prevent them from becoming more serious. My mom had three kids. When I was a kid, someone told her that she was going to the doctor with us, and we were not sick. Well, that was something that we didn't think was a luxury we could afford. Now, in seeing how important it is to contain serious illnesses and to reduce the costs of health care, it is so important that preventative care be a part of our national health system, and the quicker we get on with the implementation of this great bill, the more lives and the more dollars we will be able to save. So, remember, if you have any interest at all, take a look at what is going to be happening in September. The Congressional Black Caucus, during our legislative weekend that month, will have professionals come in to talk with us, to teach us, to tell us what we can do to extend this education process throughout our great country.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. My colleagues, I know that history would reflect that this Presidential election started much earlier than most of them do. As a matter of fact, it started the very day that President Obama was sworn in. The honesty of this Republican Party was for them to say that the strategy for getting back the White House was to make certain that their primary job was to get rid of Obama. The destruction of the President of the United States and everything he stood for, every piece of legislation, every idea had to be destroyed as their strategy, not for America, but for their party. Well, I assumed that this was just political rhetoric. I didn't put too much importance to it. But when the debt ceiling came, I felt it was just a little Republican ploy of playing chicken to see how much they could get. But when I saw they were prepared to allow the fiscal integrity of the United States of America, and what it represented, to go down the drain just to embarrass the President, then I was nudged to take another look to see just how far would they go. Then comes recently the Attorney General, where we just didn't seem to care what kind of bad history we were making for this great Republic. We were going to, the first time in history, hold him in contempt and turn it over to the Justice Department to see what they could do to the President. Then, of course, comes the tax cut for 98 percent of the American people. I never heard in political science 101 how you tell 98 percent of the American people that they are going to be held hostage for a tax cut or a continuation of the tax cut that they had. But I think, when it gets to health care, you don't have to be religious to understand that you are talking about a right to live, a life to improve the quality of your life, a life to give children, not necessarily your children, but any child, a better way of life, and the ability to be able to say that even if you had a precondition, you are entitled to health care. And when someone comes up with this grand idea, the whole thing that it is the person who thought about it that decides whether you are going to either support it, repair it, make it better, perfect it, but to repeal it, and to leave nothing out there except that, trust us, we're going to replace it, it is so unfair to the American people, who could only dream that one day health care would be something that as an American, and as a human being, they would be entitled to. The things that are happening now by the majority party in this House are very contagious because a lot of young Democrats think this is the way to govern. A lot of Democrats are coming here thinking that the more mean you get, the more successful. It's bad for this Congress and it's bad for our great country.