Charlie Rangel

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. I thank the gentleman for yielding. I would just like to join in by saying those who knew Jack Kemp, you couldn't help but admire and respect him. He wasn't just a quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, but he was a quarterback for America and what's good for America. It wasn't really working across the aisle when working with him; it was working with someone that was trying to improve the life conditions of people in this country no matter what color or what religion they had. I worked with him on the empowerment zones. I got all the credit; he did all the work. I worked with him on the African Growth and Economic bill. He was one of the first to testify not because of Africa but because it was the right thing to do. When he became Secretary of HUD, everybody in public housing knew him as the ``godfather.'' He would visit when he was running for Vice President, and in Democratic districts, they would come out to pay respect to a guy that respected people regardless of their color. So he was one of those people that when they asked, ``What can I do for you? What do you need from me?'' it wasn't just an expression. Jack Kemp really meant it. His wife, Joanne, was a partner. He's got a great family. I know he's in heaven because he lived a straight life. He was a great guy. We all will miss him, especially the New York delegation and those who were honored to work with him and respect the work that he has done.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to salute and congratulate my dear friend, an outstanding businesswoman and community leader, Ramona ``Mona'' Lopez in celebration of the 369th Veterans' Association Annual Pre-Mother's Day Brunch taking place on Sunday, May 9 at the elegant Marina del Rey. Affectionately known in Harlem as Mona by her many fans, friends, business associates and Jazz musician legends, was born on the Island of Puerto Rico and came to New York at an early age. Mona was educated in the Public School system, raised three daughters and embarked on a career that has spanned over three decades. Her daughters Joann, Eva, and Dolores have blessed her with four grandchildren, Margaret, Kimberly, Eva, and Jonathan. Since December 1978, Ms. Mona Lopez has managed Showman's Cafe in all of its locations within my Congressional District. Showman's, originally located next to the World Famous Apollo Theatre, over the years has been the home club of choice and hangout for many of Harlem's renowned entrepreneurs and personalities. Since 1942, Showman's Jazz Cafe has showcased top musicians for Harlem and International audiences, as Mona, Co-Owner and retired Son of Sam New York City Police Detective Al Howard, and former barmaid ``Lil'' Pierce refer to as ``family.'' Madam Speaker, The Friends of Showman's roster include luminaries and entertainers like Count Basie, Billy Eckstine, Sammy Davis, Jr., Charles Honi Coles, Leroy Myers, Gregory Hines, Pop Brown, Nat Davis and Savion Glover. Personalities like Jesse Walker, Joe Yancy and Jimmy Booker. Performers like Bill Doggett, George Benson, Seleno Clarke, Irene Reid, Jimmy ``Preacher'' Robins, Gloria Lynne, Joey Morant, Akiko Tsuruga, Grady Tate, Frank Dell and the Prince of Harlem Lonnie Youngblood. Mona has always been, and still is a ``Hands-On'' person and as Operations Manager she along with her dedicated and energized staff, is responsible for the reputation that Showman's has maintained for being ``The Jazz Club in Harlem'' since it was founded back in 1942. For her service to the community, Mona has been honored to receive a ``Woman of the Year'' award from the Tioga Democratic Club, the Women's Ministry Achievement Award, and a special award from the Greater Harlem Uptown Chamber of Commerce Association. In 2009 Ms. Lopez became a partner in Showman's Jazz Club.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the gentleman from New York, the Honorable Scott Murphy, be permitted to take the oath of office today. His certificate of election has not yet arrived, but there is no contest and no question has been raised with regard to his election.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor as the dean of the New York delegation to present to this honorable body the Honorable Scott Murphy. Quite frankly, the Nation has said this has been a victory of Democrats over Republicans. That's just not so. This is just one great American that found himself in a district that had more Republicans who saw and wanted the best for this country. It is my great honor to present the Honorable Scott Murphy of the 20th District of New York.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the life and achievements of John Hope Franklin, and his dedication to, ``weave into the fabric of American history enough of the presence of blacks so that the story of the United States could be told adequately and fairly.'' In March 2009, the passing of John Hope Franklin removed from the world a scholar whose academic excellence was profound in its effect on modern U.S. history. Though he is no longer with us we will not forget the contributions he has made to this country and the world. John Hope Franklin succeeded in his intention to recognize the presence of African Americans in our history and through his scholarship which was unparalleled in its brilliance and so complete that it was universally acclaimed. He created an awareness of the role of the African American in American history that did not exist prior to his work. John Hope Franklin was born just fifty years after the Emancipation Proclamation in Rentiesville, Oklahoma on January 2, 1915. He graduated from Fisk University in 1935 and earned a PhD from Harvard University in 1941. From Slavery to Freedom: A History of African-Americans, perhaps his most famous book, traces the African-American journey from the African continent to their struggle for equality in the twentieth century. Through his efforts to explain that African-American history is American history, John Hope Franklin himself became an integral actor in that history not only through his published scholarly papers but through his engagement in the Civil Rights Movement, beginning with the part he played in the landmark case of Brown vs. Board of Education and subsequently as an activist scholar providing an eloquent voice for the Movement. John Hope Franklin was a true scholar and activist. Through his life he has inspired generations of historians. Today, I am proud to pay tribute to the life of Mr. John Hope Franklin.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize World Autism Awareness Day that is held on April 2. This special day is held to educate people about this birth disorder that is the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the U.S. The cause of autism has not been determined so there is a great need for funding to research its cause. It is important to understand this disorder since 1 in 150 individuals are diagnosed with autism. It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors, such as obsessively arranging objects or following very specific routines. Autism usually is detected by parents who notice unusual behaviors or developmental problems in children as young as 6 months. There are several services available to help autistic people live their own independent lives and to participate and contribute to their communities. Although this is a developmental disability, people with autism still achieve and accomplish many things in life. Several autistic people attend college and hold a variety of jobs from those that require enormous amounts of concentration but limited intense interaction with others, such as computer programming or graphic design, or more repetitive jobs, such as filing. More still needs to be done to help those that have autism and to find the cause. Through broader awareness this can be accomplished.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Chairman, our minority leader said that it's time for us to say ``no.'' Well, that's all they've been saying since we've been involved in this crisis and every issue that we brought to the floor, saying ``no.'' Our great Nation is involved in a fiscal sickness that's equivalent to being in intensive care, and anyone who knows serious illness knows that is not the time to negotiate with your doctors or the hospitals as to how you've got to pay the bill. The essential thing is that we regain our health and come out of this as America always has, as a stronger, more competitive country. Our President is going abroad trying to get the rest of the world to get some type of fiscal order. But we aren't down here to have Republican budgets and Democrat budgets and to take shots at each other, because our constituents that are losing their jobs, losing their health care, that are out there suffering as a result of this crisis, they are not Republicans or Democrats. They are Americans. No. I don't think it's time to say ``no.'' I think it's time to say, how can we work together to restore the health of this great Nation? How can we educate the Nation? Give it health care, help to clean the atmosphere, move forward as the world leaders that God blessed us to have the resources. It's time to stop the fighting and come together and support our President, our economy and our country.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I rise to acknowledge the contributions of The Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center and congratulate them for organizing its Annual Flower Ball Benefit Banquet on April 1, 2009. The Ball is in support of its dedicated hard working staff, team of volunteers, and most importantly, the lives of the its many patients and residents. I applaud the vitally important programs they conduct to improve access to health care for the medically needy and many under-served individuals in my congressional district. For the past three decades the Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center has provided outstanding and compassionate care and treatment for the many community residents in my district. Since 1978, it has provided continuous comprehensive medical treatment and skilled nursing care to infants, children, and young adults who are diagnosed with developmental disabilities and demanding medical conditions. The center currently provides care and treatment for over 700 residents in my district. Additionally, more than 71,000 outpatient clinical services are provided each year. The Cardinal Cooke Center's approach to quality medical care is what has allowed it to prosper into the 21st century of advanced technology and medicine. The Center's staff respects the dignity of every human being and recognizes each individual's potential to live as independently as possible. They provide unique approaches to the care and treatment of our residents and patients, and serve the elderly, people with developmental disabilities, and those who live with chronic illness; people of all races, creeds, economic means and ethnic backgrounds. This year's Ball holds a unique and special honor--His Eminence Edward Cardinal Egan will be acknowledged for his distinguished leadership and great dedication in support of compassionate and innovative care for some of the most frail and at-risk members of the New York community. The Cooke Center will also honor The Honorable Louis J. Freeh and Barbara Boyle with their coveted Partnership Award, which recognizes outstanding community leaders whose life work reflects the mission of the Center--to reach out to the disenfranchised and give hope to those for whom others have given up hope. Judge Louis J. Freeh has dedicated much of his life to serving others. As the former director of the FBI or through his personal efforts with local charitable institutions, Judge Freeh has consistently demonstrated his selfless commitment to those less fortunate. After 13 years of committed service, Barbara Boyle is retiring as National Executive Director and CEO of the Huntington's Disease Society of America. Ms. Boyle's honor coincides with the 20 year anniversary of the Cooke Center's own Huntington's Disease Unit. Daniel Foxx, who serves on the Center's Community Leadership and Development Advisory Boards, will receive The Mary White Commitment Award, for his years of inspirational volunteer service. His devotion, friendship and support is an invaluable gift to the residents of the Cooke Center. It is my honor to congratulate all the honorees, including His Eminence Edward Cardinal Egan. Each has been a significant partner in the overall improvement of the quality of life for all. I also salute the organizing committee and members of the Cooke Center's staff for its efforts in coordinating the Annual Flower Ball Benefit where many other members of their crusade will publicly be acknowledged. Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating The Terrance Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center for continuing to serve the residents of my district with the greatest challenges such as children with disabilities, elderly with severe medical needs, Huntington's Disease patients, HIV/AIDS, as well as those who require outpatient primary care services. Their constant dedication and commitment in providing quality health care with dignity and compassion is worthy of the highest esteem.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Dr. James Dumpson, a preeminent social activist of outstanding character and a transformative life's work, who turns one hundred years of age on April 5, 2009. This public servant of notable and illustrious record--who in 1959 became the only African American Commissioner of Welfare in the country--is a quiet hero of our movement for Civil Rights and racial equality. He is a gentle man of forceful voice and conviction, agitating on behalf of children, the elderly, and the impoverished in New York for 60 years, his country for 80 years--and we are all the better for it. A modern-day Renaissance man, Dr. Dumpson's long- distinguished activism touches the fields of health, education, social justice, and academia. He is a familiar, popular, and pioneering leader in New York and in the African American community; an icon who worked tirelessly on behalf of others. He earned a teaching certificate in 1932 from the Chaney Normal School, a B.A. degree from Temple University in 1934, an M.A. degree from Fordham University, and his Ph.D.--when he was henceforth known as ``Dr. D.''--from the University of Dacca in Ghana. Dumpson has throughout his life served as a teacher to others, teaching elementary school for two years as a young man, and later, beginning as a Visiting Associate Professor at Fordham University in 1957 and returning a decade later as Dean of the Graduate School of Social Work, with the faculty rank of professor. He served as a United Nations Advisor and Chief of Training in Social Welfare to the government of Pakistan in 1953, returning to Pakistan in 1971 as a consultant and receiving a fellowship there in 1977 through the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to Pakistan. He cemented his trailblazing status by becoming Commissioner of Welfare for New York City in 1959, the only African American and social worker to serve in that post in the country. He wielded his talents and skill to assist Presidents Kennedy and Johnson as an advisor, serving on various advisory commissions, including the Parents Commission on Narcotics and Drug Abuse. He did not retire until the spritely age of 97, channeling his vigor and youthful spirit as New York City's Health Service Administrator and Chairman of the Health and Hospitals Corporation beginning in 1990, and teaching at Fordham University up until 2006. May this Congress today note, applaud, and send its gratitude for the contributions of Dr. Dumpson, and send him warm birthday wishes.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to submit a New York CARIB News tribute to the late Wilbert Bill Tatum, honoring the journalistic heavyweight for his commitment to his craft, his community, and to social justice and equality. He passed away in late February, ending a decades-long tenure as the owner, chairman, and publisher of the Amsterdam News--a premier and pioneering Black newspaper in the heart of Harlem. He wielded his pen as a sword, holding public servants' feet to the fire and rarely mincing his words in pursuit of truth. A philanthropist of formidable character and impassioned conviction, Tatum lent a powerful voice to the African American community through his words and his inspiration. The following article--``Wilbert Tatum Remembered,'' published on March 17 and written by Victoria Horsford-- details the legacy of the great Bill Tatum. Wilbert Tatum Remembered Wilbert Bill Tatum, Amsterdam News Chairman/CEO and publisher emeritus died, a long way from home, on February 26 in Croatia. The ultimate Fourth Estater, Bill Tatum was equal parts race relations maven, humanist, entrepreneur, and warrior. He left a legacy of integrity and passion in journalism. Tatum was a face in the proactive Harlem crowd for almost four decades, which predates the $2.3 million purchase of the Amsterdam News in 1971, by him, Percy Sutton and other business associates. In 1983, Tatum assumes full control of the paper. By 1996, Tatum bought out all of his AmNews partners, became the sole owner and Begins the Tatum Era. Founded on December 4, 1909, the Amsterdam News emerged as one of the most important Black newspapers in the U.S. on par with the Pittsburgh Courier, The Afro-American, and The Chicago Defender. Tatum kept burnishing the paper's image while keeping a watchful eye as events unfolded of special interest to the Amsterdam News readers. Tatum's editorials railed against inequities vis-a-vis the Black community re: housing, employment, term limits, the NYPD, immigration. No one nor organizations was off limits to the acidic Tatum editorial. He relished a good fight taking on mayors and local corrupt community leaders, businessmen and untoward clergy. For years, he ran acid-tinged ``Mayor Ed Koch must go'' editorials. In the 90s, he began a long run of ``Mayor Rudy Giuliani must go'' editorials. He allocated equal editorial space to unsung community heroes and contributed regularly to scores of charities. Tatum was one of a few publishers who believed in the innocence of the young Black men convicted in the racially marred Central Park jogger rape case. He was best when he was opinionated and tapping into instincts. The AmNews had taken on a new life during his watch. It was the World According to Bill Tatum. And what a delightfully, crazy, unpredictable, diabolical, lovable, plot-rich moral world it was. He ceded control of the paper to his daughter Elinor in 1997. Last Friday, 2/27 during a NY1 TV interview, Elinor said ``My dad loved the Amsterdam News,'' she added. ``He was born in North Carolina, was one of 13 children, a descendant of sharecroppers whose granddad started a newspaper. He wanted to make this world a better place for people who looked like him.'' A Lincoln University and Occidental College alum, Tatum had a master's degree in Urban Studies. The following are remembrances of Bill Tatum. Governor David Paterson reflects on Tatum ``as a decent person who stood out amongst the giants of NYC for his commitment to justice and social equality.'' Mayor Michael Bloomberg intones. ``The paper was really heard across the city...and on many occasions, around the world. He covered issues of concern to African Americans in ways that other media opportunities they might not otherwise have had. He was a real character in the nicest sense of the word!'' NYC Comptroller Bill Thompson says. ``Bill was a pioneer in publishing...who always stood up for causes he believed in and spoke out against injustice and highlighted issues too often forgotten and ignored. Bill always let you know when he disagreed with you in a genuine forthrightness,'' Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer says. ``NY lost one of our great citizens. . . . Bill wore many hats at the Amsterdam and its success is due to his dedication and vision.'' Reverend Al Sharpton remembers. ``Bill Tatum was an iconic and vitally important figure in both journalism and civil rights. We have lost a great advocate, a penetrating writer and unmatchable institution builder and for me a great friend and father figure.'' Survived by his wife Susan and his daughter Elinor, Bill Tatum's wake was held on Thursday, March 5, at the Provenzano Lanzo Funeral Home at 43 Second Avenue. His funeral was held Friday, March 6 at 10 am at Harlem's Riverside Church at 490 RSD, near 120 Street. The family requests that you make donations to the Amsterdam News Educational Foundation, 34 East Third Street,

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Artists whose designs were selected through the BID on Culture banner design competition. The banner designs for BID on Culture will be displayed in March 2009 as part of Women's History Month, celebrating the contributions of women to Harlem and to communities of color, in the fields of government, arts and culture, business, education, and religion. BID on Culture is a new initiative developed through the partnership between the 125th Street Business Improvement District and the Harlem Arts Alliance to help build a community-based vision of Harlem's heritage, its role as a vibrant cultural center, and to promote the continued revitalization of 125th Street as the commercial and artistic heart of Harlem. BID on Culture Banners will extend the brand of 125th Street as the center of culture in Harlem, a diverse community with an unparalleled history of contribution to the nation in all fields of human endeavor. Let me recognize the five selected artists whose banner designs will be displayed on the 125th Street Corridor. Andrea Arroyo, a Mexican born, New York-based artist whose work has been exhibited in twenty-four individual and more than eighty group shows in galleries and museums. Andrea is in the public collections of The Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History, The Library of Congress, the Mexican Museum in Chicago and numerous private collections in the US, Mexico, Europe and Japan. Her public art projects include commissions for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority of New York, the New York School Construction Authority, City Arts and the Florida Art in State Buildings Program. Laura Gadson is a native New Yorker raised in Jamaica Queens. A graduate of Fiorella LaGuardia High School of Music and Art, she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the City College of New York. She has been a teaching artist since age 14 for a variety of public and private New York City institutions. Ms. Gadson's craftwork is in the private collections of Susan Taylor, Iyanla Vanzant and other collectors. Her work has been exhibited in the New York State Museum in Albany, The Cork Gallery at Lincoln Center, Columbia University and she currently has two quilts on a National Tour until 2010. A Harlem brownstone has been her home studio and personal gallery since 1993. Obatola Wilhelmina Grant, a native New Yorker and resident of Harlem is an assemblage artist, creating pieces from discarded objects. Obatola was formerly the Director of Programs and Administration at the National Jazz Museum in Harlem and before that the Director of Community Outreach for SHARE, Self-Help for Women with Breast or Ovarian Cancer. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English Language Arts from Hunter College and expects to graduate in June from Hunter with a Masters of Science in Urban Affairs. She has exhibited at Bank Street College, Union Theological Seminary, the Simmons Gallery and the New York Public Library. Sharon Lewis, a graphic designer, originally from Detroit, Michigan, now based in New Rochelle, New York, Sharon is a Production Associate at DMD Insight, a boutique agency specializing in integrated marketing for arts and culture, architecture, design, philanthropic and financial services clients. She has a BFA in Industrial Design from Columbus College of Art and Design and her career focus has been print design in the fields of publishing, advertising and law. Shimoda, a Harlem-based artist, whose work has been featured on television on The Cosby Show, HGTV-Crafting Coast to Coast, in the magazines Essence, Braids and Beauty, and YSP, and the book Jumping the Broom: The African American Wedding Planner, among others. Shimoda's exhibit and presentation schedule includes Bank Street College, The National Black Arts Festival, The Mt. Vernon Library, Mt. Vernon NY, the Center for Book Arts, and the Donnell Library in New York City. She serves on the crafts panel for the Artists' Fellowships of the NY Foundation for the Arts, has taught beading at Brooklyn Academy of Music and Harlem School of the Arts, assisted Sonya Clark and Joyce Scott at Penland School of Crafts, NC and Ralph Lauren with his 1998 beaded jewelry collection. The 125th Street Business Improvement District (BID) is a non-profit organization funded primarily from an additional tax assessment collected from the property owners within the defined boundaries. Organized in compliance with state and city laws, the property and business owners determine the services and programs needed for the district. The BID will utilize the competition to bring visibility to its streetscape improvement efforts and to enliven the community's central business district. The Harlem Arts Alliance (HAA) is a non-profit membership service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth and organizational development of artists and arts organizations primarily in Harlem and its surrounding communities. Comprised of over 400 individual artists and arts organizations, HAA is the only service organization of its kind in Harlem and plays an essential role by helping to build the resources, network and capacity of its richly diverse membership. Counted among its members are young emerging artists as well as established and internationally recognized artists. Also represented are small grassroots organizations and major cultural institutions in Harlem and beyond. Major funding for HAA is provided by the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Corporation, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, and the New York City Council. Barbara Askins, President of the 125th Street BID says the BID on Culture project ``seeks to maximize the value of the 125th Street corridor by initiating efforts to secure the future of cultural presentation and production in Harlem and to encourage the ongoing revitalization of 125th Street as a premier arts and culture entertainment destination.'' Michael Unthank, HAA Executive Director, says that ``over the past 10 to 15 years, 125th Street Corridor has emerged as a major destination anchored by not just local and national chain retail outlets but also by major cultural institutions such as the Studio Museum in Harlem and the Apollo Theater.''

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I stand before you today to acknowledge the unjust and inhumane treatment of 30,000 Haitians living in the United States who have been threatened with deportation. These Haitian nationals have contributed to our society for several years as hard- working, law-abiding tax-payers and are now being asked to return to a country that is in no position to support them. Haiti is the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere and it has furthermore been ravaged by natural disasters during the last year. The impact of hurricanes and floods has been devastating to the Haitian economy and has resulted in an unprecedented level of suffering requiring emergency assistance for the people of Haiti. The idea of sending thousands of refugees into such a desperate situation is so inhumane as to be unthinkable. The UN estimates the lives of approximately 800,000 have been affected by the storms of the previous year. These people have no viable country to return to--what is the rationale behind sending an additional 30,000 people back to a country that already has close to a million displaced individuals? This is a Bush policy that needs to be reconsidered--it is uncertain who would support such a policy that threatens an already fragile environment. The humanitarian thing to do would be to offer these Haitians Temporary Protection Status (TPS) which is consistent with concessions given to other countries given the same circumstances. In the past, we have made this compromise with countries such as El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras, even as recent as 2008. This is blatantly inconsistent with the treatment given to Haitian immigrants despite the fact that economic and social conditions are worse, in addition to the reality that the country has not overcome the recent floods and hurricanes. Considering the compelling humanitarian reasons against returning Haitians to a homeland that cannot now support them, I must wonder what the real motives behind such a policy are. It is unfortunate to see the treatment of these Haitians by the United States government given the fact that Haiti has had such a rich, long history with the United States. During the American Revolution about 750 Haitian freemen fought alongside colonial troops against the British in the Siege of Savannah in 1779. This level of sacrifice by a country should not be forgotten, especially during times of need. The defeat of the French Napoleon Army by the Haitians, albeit indirectly, helped America expand its territories towards the West with the Louisiana Purchase. At the time, Haiti was the producer of 40 percent of the world's sugar, was the most profitable colony the French owned and in fact the wealthiest and most flourishing of the slave colonies in the Caribbean. This was a tremendous loss to the French, and as a result was forced to sell off some of their land. The outcome for the US was significant--the land included in the purchase comprised of around 23% of the territory of the United States today. The historical relationship and the humanitarian concerns are important facts to consider before deporting this group of Haitian refugees. Also consider that the Haitian economy has become increasingly reliant on the money sent by the Haitian Diaspora living abroad. Haiti's remittances make up one-third of their GDP and no other national group anywhere in the world sends money home in higher proportions. These 30,000 Haitians should be allowed to remain in this country and continue to send remittances to their homeland, while still paying their tax dollars and helping our economy grow. Madam Speaker, I hope that our government will make the right decision and allow this country, a friend of ours, to rebound from these tragic natural disasters. As an example to the world, we must not let this humanitarian opportunity go unnoticed.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I rise to congratulate my good friend Florence Rice as she joins her family, long time friends, and the Harlem community together in celebration of her 90th Birthday. This momentous and joyous occasion is being celebrated with an extraordinary affair today at Noon in the Church of the Intercession in my beloved village of Harlem. Florence M. Rice was born on March 22, 1919 in Buffalo, New York. She is the founder of the Harlem Consumer Education Council. During her childhood, Rice spent several years in the Colored Orphan Asylum and in several foster homes in New York. Upon completion of the eighth grade, Rice left school for work as a domestic seamstress where she became a member of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. Rice spoke out against the discriminatory practices against African American and Latino workers. She participated in Harlem Congressman Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.'s 1962 congressional hearing, which probed dressmaker union's policies and after testifying, she was blacklisted. In the 1960s, Rice founded the Harlem Consumer Education Council, waging a war against corporations who discriminated against African Americans and other minorities. The Council organized many successful New York City boycotts and picket lines against grocery stores, furniture stores, and individuals found to be overcharging minorities. Rice's biggest victory was against the New York State Public Service Commission, forcing New York Telephone to stop charging low income residents pre-installation fees. The Harlem Consumer Education Council investigated over 100,000 complaints. Appointed Special Consultant to the Consumer Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Board in the 1970s, Rice also taught consumer education at Malcolm-King College and has lectured to thousands at her workshops and seminars. In the 1990s, Rice was responsible for the Bell Atlantic Technology Center in Harlem. The center is dedicated to educating business people, students, senior citizens and other customers about the latest advances in telecommunication technologies. She has lectured in several countries, including South Africa where she was named a delegate in the first World Consumer Congress. Florence continues to work as the first lady of consumer education in my beloved Village of Harlem. She is famed for her extraordinary commitment, energy, wisdom, discipline, principle, and clear purpose which have won the admiration of all who are privileged to come to know and work with her. I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to observe and experience her example as a personal inspiration. Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Florence Rice on her historic 90th Birthday. Her constant dedication and commitment to our community is worthy of the highest esteem.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I stand before you today to acknowledge Paule Marshall, a renowned American author and poet who published her first novel, ``Brown Girl, Brownstones'', 50 years ago, and served as an influential trailblazer for emerging black female writers in the 60s and 70s. I introduce into the Record an article from the New York Times of March 12, 2009 highlighting the career of Paule Marshall and her new publication titled ``Triangular Road'', a memoir that follows her early years as a writer. Born in Brooklyn, NY to Caribbean parents and raised in a Bedford- Stuyvesant brownstone, Ms. Marshall brought a unique voice to the literary genre. She captured, in a fine balance, the stories of West Indian life emerged in American culture. It is no surprise that Langton Hughes selected her to accompany him on a tour of Europe in 1965. Over the last 50 years, she has consistently remained relevant, publishing 2 collections of short stories and five novels, while simultaneously teaching at various universities, including Yale and New York University. Ms. Marshall has received many awards and honors throughout her career, including an American Book Award and a John Dos Passos Award of Literature. She was a MacArthur Fellow and designated as a Literary Lion by the New York Public Library in 1994. In 2001, Marshall was inducted into the Celebrity Path at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. At this time, I would like to honor this distinguished New York City literary figure and offer recognition of the work she has contributed to American literature.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 1586.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Veterans Administration as a Cabinet level Department. For some time members of many communities from across the nation have given their loved ones to defend our freedoms as Americans, yet when they returned there was nothing in place to aid them in their transition to civilian life. All of this changed twenty years ago when the Veterans Administration was officially elevated as a cabinet level agency and renamed as the Department of Veterans Affairs. The intrinsic value of having a department such as this has benefitted our nation in innumerable ways and now more than ever we see its particular value. Changes in battle and warfare tactics have caused evolving consequences. It is essential to have a Department that is especially equipped to handle the consequences of engagement in combat, especially the impact of grievous physical wounds. I am especially supportive of our Department of Veterans affairs and even more pleased to have a person of character and sense of duty such as Eric Shinseki as the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The challenge of military personnel transitioning into civilian life becomes even more daunting especially during this period of economic downturn facing our nation. The Department of Veterans Affairs will have to be prepared now more than ever for the growth in the number of veterans needing our assistance to establish their lives once again. I believe it is our duty as a nation to ensure the well-being of those who have so valiantly given of themselves to protect our nation and I commend the values that have been upheld by the*Department of Veterans Affairs. I introduce into the Congressional Record the remarks made by President Obama at the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Cabinet Agency on March 16, 2009. The White House, Office of the Press Secretary, Washington, DC, March 16, 2009. Remarks by the President at the 20th Anniversary of the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Cabinet Agency Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C. The President: Thank you very much. To Jim Benson for helping to organize this; for Mahdee for your service to our country--a Pledge of Allegiance that you've shown in your own commitment to protecting this country; and obviously, to Secretary Shinseki. It is an honor to join you and the hardworking public servants here at the Department of Veterans Affairs as we mark a milestone in the distinguished history of this department. You know, 20 years ago, on the day the Veterans Administration was officially elevated to a Cabinet-level agency and renamed the Department of Veterans Affairs, a ceremony was held to swear in the administrator of the old entity as Secretary of the new one. And in his remarks that day, President George H.W. Bush declared that the mission of this agency is ``so vital that there's only one place for the veterans of America: in the Cabinet Room, at the table with the President of the United States of America.'' I could not agree more. I could not be more pleased that Eric Shinseki has taken a seat at that table. Throughout his long and distinguished career in the Army, Secretary Shinseki won the respect and admiration of our men and women in uniform because they've always been his highest priority--and he has clearly brought that same sense of duty and commitment to the work of serving our veterans. As he knows, it's no small task. This department has more than a quarter of a million employees across America, and its services range from providing education and training benefits, health care and home loans, to tending those quiet places that remind us of the great debt we owe--and remind me of the heavy responsibility that I bear. It's a commitment that lasts from the day our veterans retire that uniform to the day that they are put to rest--and that continues on for their families. Without this commitment, I might not be here today. After all, my grandfather enlisted after Pearl Harbor and went on to march in Patton's Army. My grandmother worked on a bomber assembly line while he was gone. My mother was born at Fort Leavenworth while he was away. When my grandfather returned, he went to college on the GI Bill; bought his first home with a loan from the FHA; moved his family west, all the way to Hawaii, where he and my grandmother helped to raise me. And I think about my grandfather whenever I have the privilege of meeting the young men and women who serve in our military today. They are our best and brightest, and they're our bravest--enlisting in a time of war; enduring tour after tour of duty; serving with honor under the most difficult circumstances; and making sacrifices that many of us cannot begin to imagine. The same can be said of their families. As my wife, Michelle, has seen firsthand during visits to military bases across this country, we don't just deploy our troops in a time of war--we deploy their families, too. So while the mission of this department is always vital, it is even more so during long and difficult conflicts like those that we're engaged in today. Because when the guns finally fall silent and the cameras are turned off and our troops return home, they deserve the same commitment from their government as my grandparents received. Last month, I announced my strategy for ending the war in Iraq. And I made it very clear that this strategy would not end with military plans and diplomatic agendas, but would endure through my commitment to upholding our sacred trust with every man and woman who has served this country. And the same holds true for our troops serving in Afghanistan. The homecoming we face over the next year and a half will be the true test of this commitment: whether we will stand with our veterans as they face new challenges--physical, psychological and economic--here at home. I intend to start that work by making good on my pledge to transform the Department of Veterans Affairs for the 21st century. That's an effort that, under Secretary Shinseki's leadership, all of you have already begun--conducting a thorough review of your operations all across this agency. And I intend to support this effort not just with words of encouragement, but with resources. That's why the budget I sent to Congress increases funding for this department by $25 billion over the next five years. With this budget, we don't just fully fund our VA health care program--we expand it to serve an additional 500,000 veterans by 2013; to provide better health care in more places; and to dramatically improve services related to mental health and injuries like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury. We also invest in the technology to cut red tape and ease the transition from active duty. And we provide new help for homeless veterans, because those heroes have a home--it's the country they served, the United States of America. And until we reach a day when not a single veteran sleeps on our nation's streets, our work remains unfinished. (Applause.) Finally, in this new century, it's time to heed the lesson of history, that our returning veterans can form the backbone of our middle class--by implementing a GI Bill for the 21st century. I know you're working hard under a tough deadline, but I am confident that we will be ready for August 1st. And that's how we'll show our servicemen and women that when you come home to America, America will be here for you. That's how we will ensure that those who have ``borne the battle''-- and their families--will have every chance to live out their dreams. I've had the privilege of meeting so many of these heroes. Some of the most inspiring are those that I've met in places like Walter Reed--young men and women who've lost a limb or even their ability to take care of themselves, but who never lose the pride they feel for their country. And that is, after all, what led them to wear the uniform in the first place--their unwavering belief in the idea of America; that no matter where you come from, what you look like, who your parents are, this is a place where anything is possible, where anyone can make it, where we take care of each other and look out for each other--especially for those who've sacrificed so much for this country. These are the ideals that generations of Americans have fought for and bled for and died for. These are the ideals at the core of your mission--a mission that dates back before our founding--one taken up by our first President years before he took office, back when he served as Commander-in- Chief of the Continental Army. Then-General Washington fought tirelessly to support the veterans of America's Revolutionary War. Such support, he argued, should ``never be considered as a pension or gratuity . . .'' Rather, ``. . . it was the price of their blood,'' and of our independence; ``. . . it is, therefore,'' he said, ``more than a common debt, it is a debt of honor . . .'' A debt of honor. Washington understood that caring for our veterans was more than just a way of thanking them for their service. He recognized the obligation is deeper than that--that when our fellow citizens commit themselves to shed blood for us, that binds our fates with theirs in a way that nothing else can. And in the end, caring for those who have given their fullest measure of devotion to us--and for their families--is a matter of honor--as a nation and as a people. That's a responsibility you hold, that's the work that you do--repaying that debt of honor, a debt we can never fully discharge. And I know it's not always easy. I know there's much work ahead to transform this agency for the 21st century. But I have the fullest confidence that with Secretary Shinseki's leadership, and with the hard work of the men and women of this department, we will fulfill our sacred trust and serve our returning heroes as well as they've served us. Thank you. God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America. Thank you, everybody.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, today I rise to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch of the Metropolitan Council of NAACP Branches as they pay tribute to the everlasting accomplishments and contributions of the NAACP Women of Excellence in celebration of Women's History Month and the Centennial Anniversary of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch honors the Honorable Hazel N. Dukes, President of the New York State Conference of NAACP Branches; the Honorable Mildred Roxborough of the NAACP National Development Department; the Honorable Laura D. Blackburne, Counsel for the New York State Conference of NAACP Branches & NAACP Special Contribution Fund; the Honorable Paula Brown Edme of the NAACP National Development Department; the Honorable Gloria Benfield, Membership Chair for New York State Conference of NAACP Branches; and the Honorable Shirley Stewart Farmer, Co-Founder of the NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch. As a Life Member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, I am proud to join Mid-Manhattan Branch in saluting these NAACP Women of Excellence. Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premiere advocates for civil rights in their communities, conducting voter mobilization and monitoring equal opportunity in the public and private sectors. The Mid-Manhattan Branch recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary since its founding in 1966. In the mid 1960s a group of citizens, concerned that there was no NAACP Branch in the Mid-Manhattan area, met for several months to plan a branch. Over 500 letters co-signed by Roy Wilkins and Ralph Bunche, invited hopefully interested residents to a meeting at Freedom House (120 Wall Street, New York, NY). For forty years, the Mid-Manhattan Branch has been an advocate for all its citizens in the struggle for civil rights and equality. Today, the Branch plays an active role in confronting the gaps and disparities in healthcare, economics, education funding, Criminal Justice, diversity in the Courts and in the Judiciary. Their efforts continue in voter education, registration and mobilization, as well as youth development and enrichment programs. Today, the Mid-Manhattan Branch has over 600 members, with eight working Committees (Education, Health, Fundraising, Legal Redress, Membership, Civic Engagement, Veteran Affairs, and Youth Council).

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support of H.R. 1429, Stop AIDS in Prison Act of 2009, which has been reintroduced by Congresswoman Maxine Waters. It is important that proper HIV/AIDS testing, prevention, treatment, and education are provided to all inmates. HIV/AIDS is quickly rising in America. According to the Department of Justice the rate of confirmed AIDS cases in prisons was three times higher than in the general population. This piece of legislation will help reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS by making inmates get tested for HIV/AIDS upon entering jail and when they leave. Testing inmates when they enter and when they leave will help track the number of people infected and it will also help reduce the spread to others in their communities. Educating inmates about HIV/AIDS and providing them treatment will make them more responsible about their health and the health of others. This is only one part of helping to solve this epidemic that has spread vastly in large and small cities and towns across America as well as in countries around the world. That is why I am in strong support of this legislation.

Mr. RANGEL

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1586) to impose an additional tax on bonuses received from certain TARP recipients.

Mr. RANGEL. Well, there is no constitutional challenge here, I can assure you. But one thing may be clear, I may be supporting an inquiry as to who did the stimulus, schpimulus. The people want to know, are these guys going to get away with what they have done to our communities, what they have done to our homes, what they have done to our pride, what they have done to our country, and what they have done for the world? So when the score is taken, it is going to be those who voted for the bill and those who voted against it. And that's it. You can go on with your inquiry, but this bill is abundantly clear, and the question is which side are you on? I yield 1 minute to the distinguished member of the Ways and Means Committee from Florida, Representative Meek. (Mr. MEEK of Florida asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. RANGEL. First of all, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Congressman Peters, Congressman Israel and Congresswoman Maloney for coming together and working with the committee to see how, the best we could, right a wrong. Most all Americans believe that a bonus is something that is paid as a reward for a job well done. And certainly we don't believe in the House that when a handful of people receiving taxpayers' money for threatening the community in which we live, and indeed our country and the financial structure of the world, the whole idea that they should be rewarded millions of dollars is repugnant to everything that decent people believe in. But notwithstanding that, it is not our job to tell the private sector what to do; it is our job to say you don't do it at taxpayers' expense. All this bill does is just pull out that part that they called bonus. And if you received, or the company received, $5 billion of taxpayers' money, we say the tax that you will pay on this is 90 percent. The rest of your income would be at the regular rate of 35 percent. If, indeed, this combination of the so-called bonus reward is combined with the regular salary and reaches a cap of $250,000, only the regular 35 percent would count. Maybe somewhere along the line someone might say, ``I don't deserve this, we've caused enough damage, people have lost their jobs, their savings, they've lost their homes, their health insurance, they've lost their dignity, they've lost their pride, and we don't deserve to take this money from the taxpayers.'' Then give it back, don't receive it, and the law certainly would not apply. But if you're proud of what you've done, we are saying the buck is going to stop here, the red light is flashing. And anyone thinking about doing this, we say you just pay your dues to the IRS because we're going to be watching this. Mr. Speaker, we're not trying to punish anybody, we just say do what you have to do. Rewards are subjective, but you don't do it with taxpayers' money. At the end of the day, I do hope that this will be a message that will be sent in a bipartisan way. We may have differences in how we resolve this problem in the future, but this problem is there, and we are saying to the IRS and to the commissioner that we really want to make certain that, at the end of the day, they're not the ones that caused the problem and then get rewarded for it. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, let me try to answer a couple of questions. Whatever point the minority leader was making as to what happened in the Senate bill, he should have an inquiry and do whatever he has to do. I can say, as a conferee, that issue never was in conference. Having said that, it doesn't mean whatever he comes up with with his inquiry that these people deserve to have these bonuses at taxpayer expense. And that's the issue before the floor. It has nothing to do with what was in conference. It has everything to do with, do these people deserve, at taxpayers' expense, to receive these types of bonuses? The second thing is that, while it's only 90 percent Federal, there is local and State liability, and they're entitled in their 10 percent to take a look at that and make the decisions that they have to. Mr. Speaker, I want to now yield 1 minute to my friend and colleague from New York, Congressman Israel.

Mr. RANGEL. Let me thank my leader, the ranking Republican on the committee, for pointing out that this is, and I agree, an extraordinary procedure. And I've given a lot of thought to it. And it just seemed that this is an extraordinary situation when President Bush and Secretary Paulson would come to the Congress and ask for $700 billion of taxpayers' money, and if we didn't do it in a week or two, the sky would fall not only in the United States but around the world. If, indeed, people among that group of people, who without regard to the people that we were trying to protect, take this money, then it calls for an extraordinary response to it. So I feel very, very comfortable in saying we tried to look at the arsenal that we had, whether it's the Justice Department, the Finance; the American people demand protection, and that's what we're doing today with your help. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call on a senior member of the committee, my friend from Michigan, Congressman Levin, for 1 minute. (Mr. LEVIN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, I've taken a deep breath and am now relaxed. I have reviewed this thing, and I am going home saying we have got the taxpayers' money back. And our colleagues and friends and those who love America as much as I do are saying, hey, slow down, we've got to make an inquiry. You make your inquiry; we're going to do what we have to do. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to present a young man that is a freshman who hasn't been here that long but he came here with a feeling about what is moral, what is just, and the committee appreciates his advice on this bill, Representative Peters from Michigan, for 1 minute.