Steven Rothman

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pleasure to honor representatives of two generations of an extraordinarily talented family from the great state of New Jersey, Mr. Stephen Adubato, Sr., and his son, Dr. Stephen Adubato, Jr. Both members of this truly remarkable father-and-son team are to be presented with the Tree of Life Award by the Jewish National Fund on June 1, 2005 in Livingston, New Jersey. The Adubatos, as well as the former Governor, the very Honorable Thomas Kean, Sr. and his distinguished son, New Jersey State Senator Thomas Kean, Jr., have been chosen to receive this prestigious honor for compiling such exemplary records of public service. Past recipients have included such outstanding public servants as United States Senator Jon Corzine, Representative Bill Pascrell, two former Governors of the State of New Jersey, and corporate leaders Ted Turner and Donald Trump. Mr. Adubato, Sr., is the founder and Executive Director of the North Ward Center, Newark Business Training Institute, The Robert Treat Academy Charter School and Casa Israel. His life's work has demonstrated to the people of his native city, Newark, and the entire state of New Jersey, just what one dedicated, brilliant, and courageous man can accomplish to improve his community's educational, civic, and cultural life. Mr. Adubato, Sr., has also served as a teacher, supervisor, and counselor for the Newark Board of Education, an instructor and consultant at Rutgers University, a consultant to New Jersey's Chancellor of Higher Education, and Director of External Affairs at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Like his father, Dr. Stephen Adubato, Jr., has also compiled a distinguished career as a four-time Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, best-selling author and motivational speaker. In the mid-1980s, at the age of 26, he served as New Jersey's youngest state legislator. Since then, he has been seen on-air as an expert commentator for MSNBC, the FOX News Channel, WABC-TV, and WNET, the leading public television station in the Greater New York City metropolitan area. In 1995, Dr. Adubato started a company called ``Stand and Deliver'' that is geared to helping people become better communicators. In 1999, he founded ``Stand and Deliver: Communication Tools for Tomorrow's Leaders,'' a non-profit program which provides many young people with the communications tools they need to become better citizens and to more effectively compete for and succeed in the growingly complex job market. He currently hosts two shows on public television, ``Caucus New Jersey,'' an Emmy Award-winning public affairs television series and ``Inside Trenton,'' an insightful and innovative news program that covers public affairs on a weekly basis. Founded in 1901, the Jewish National Fund is one of the premier organizations in the world devoted to the welfare of the people and land of Israel. The Tree of Life Award is a humanitarian award that the Fund presents to individuals in appreciation of their outstanding community involvement, their dedication to the cause of American- Israeli friendship, and their devotion to peace and security. The award recognizes outstanding leaders for their achievements and innovations in industry, government and education. Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the outstanding contributions to New Jersey's civic life made by Mr. Stephen Adubato, Sr., and Dr. Stephen Adubato, Jr., and to acknowledge their lifetime of good works, as well as those of former Governor Thomas Kean, Sr., and State Senator Thomas Kean, Jr. Individuals such as these make me proud to be a New Jerseyan and proud to call these wonderful people my friends.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the Board of Directors of the National High School Mock Trial Championship for their commitment to a competition that is all-inclusive and sensitive to religious minorities. The National High School Mock Trial Championship is a prestigious event that requires a tremendous amount of preparation, skill, and dedication on behalf of those students who are competing, and is looked upon with distinction by institutions of higher learning. The Torah Academy from Teaneck, New Jersey, located in my Congressional District, won the New Jersey State Bar Foundation competition, and advanced to the national championship, which is to be held on May 4-7, 2005 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The members of the mock trial team from Torah Academy observe the Sabbath, in accordance with their practice of Orthodox Judaism, and will therefore not be able to participate in any National High School Mock Trial Championship competition from sundown on Friday, May 6 through sundown on Saturday, May 7, 2005. After much discussion between the school, the national organizers, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation, and me, the Torah Academy will now be able to participate fully without being forced to violate its members' religious beliefs. The national organizers of the event have agreed to rearrange the schedule of the tournament to accommodate students of all religious faiths. I thank the Board of Directors of the National High School Mock Trial Championship for their willingness to change the schedule to allow all students to fully compete in this competition. This is fundamentally a question of equal access and the right of religious minorities to participate in a competition open to students from every walk of American life, and I encourage the national organizers to restructure the schedule of competitions in future years with this in mind.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in celebration of the 184th Anniversary of Greek Independence and to thank my colleagues, Mr. Bilirakis and Mrs. Maloney, who have once again shown great leadership in their efforts to organize this special order. On Greek Independence Day, we celebrate our special ties of friendship, history, and shared values with Greece. In doing so, we not only honor such an important day in Greek history, but also the strong and unique relationship that exists today between the United States and Greece. Our two nations have enjoyed close relations since the people of Greece declared their independence on March 25, 1821. Our country has welcomed generations of Greek immigrants, and we are grateful for how they have enhanced our culture and contributed to our country in a variety of fields, including philosophy, architecture, politics and the arts. I am so proud to have a thriving community of Hellenic-Americans in the 9th District of New Jersey. I salute them and their ancestors' struggle for freedom on the anniversary of Greek Independence Day and I commend them for their tremendous contributions to the very fabric of our community. For nearly 200 years, the American and Greek peoples have shared a profound commitment to democratic principles, and have worked to create societies built on these principles. The United States and Greece have stood together in every major struggle for freedom and democracy and now they continue to work together in the fight against terrorism. Greece continues to be a valuable military partner to the United States, as is evident through their support of both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and an important member of both NATO and the European Union. I am so pleased to have this opportunity to toast the Greek people and celebrate Greek culture once again. It is an honor to rise and commemorate the 184th Greek Independence Day. On this day we celebrate more than just Greece's independence, we celebrate Greece as an important military ally and longstanding friend of the United States.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pleasure to honor and commend the Fairleigh Dickinson University Men's Basketball Team, the Knights, who won the 2005 Northeast Conference Championship (NEC) game on March 9, 2005. The Knights are returning to the 2005 NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1998, and will face number one ranked Illinois on March 17 in Indianapolis. The Knights hosted the NEC Tournament championship game last Wednesday evening, March 9th, at their home court in Hackensack, NJ where they secured a hard fought win over the Wagner College Seahawks by a score of 58-52. The highlights of the game included Center Andrea Crosariol scoring 18 points, just two points shy of his career high, and junior guard Chad Timberlake scoring 11 points. Senior guard Mensah Peterson scored 7 of his 13 points in the final three minutes, with an impressive 3-point shot made with 24 seconds left on the clock to secure the Knights' triumph. Head coach, Tom Green has had his fair share of accomplishments during his 22 years at Fairleigh Dickinson University. He has led the Knights to 17 winning seasons, 15 NEC Tournament semi-final appearances and eight NEC Championship games. Today, Coach Green continues to lead a team of talented and bright young men. Junior forward Gordon Klaiber was named to the All-NEC First Team and senior guard Tamien Trent was selected to the All-NEC Second Team in a vote conducted by the league's head coaches. The duo boasts a combined average of 32 points per game for the highest scoring offense in the NEC during the regular season. Founded in 1942, Fairleigh Dickinson University, located in my Congressional District, has provided Northern Jersey with a quality level of higher education. The university's sixth president, Dr. J. Michael Adams, serves as an outstanding motivator by encouraging his students to expand their perspective of the world by embracing diversity and utilizing sophisticated technology in order to enact rapid change through education. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Dr. Adams for his tireless efforts to continually raise the level of education at this fine institution. I also thank Coach Green and the outstanding team members of the Knights for their dedication to their school and for the passion they have for the sport of basketball. I commend the Fairleigh Dickinson University Knights for their stellar season, including the NEC Championship title, and I offer Coach Green and his team the best of luck in the Big Dance.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join with my colleagues and Tibetan communities around the world to commemorate Tibetan Uprising Day, and to draw attention to the continued serious human rights abuses committed by the People's Republic of China. On March 10, 1959, in reaction to rumors that the Chinese were planning to kill or kidnap the Dalai Lama, thousands of Tibetan refugees courageously surrounded the Dalai Lama's compound and began calling for the Chinese to leave Tibet. This marked the beginning of the ``Lhasa Uprising.'' On March 17, 1959, fearing that Chinese troops would massacre the thousands of refugees who were refusing orders to disperse, the Dalai Lama disguised himself and took flight to India. Forty-eight hours later, believing the Dalai Lama was still inside, Chinese troops began shelling his compound and other targets in Lhasa, killing thousands of mostly unarmed civilians. Chinese statistics estimate that 87,000 Tibetans from all parts of Tibet were killed, arrested, or deported to labor camps during the 1959 Uprising. Only a small number of the thousands who fled to India survived Chinese military attacks, malnutrition, cold and disease. Over the past 46 years, Tibetans inside Tibet and in exile around the world have bravely fought against tremendous odds to preserve their religious identity, culture, and history. It is estimated that 1.5 million Tibetans have died as a result of Chinese occupation since 1949 and 6000 monasteries, temples, and other cultural buildings were destroyed. And today, Tibetans, including monks and nuns, are continually persecuted for practicing their religion, and voicing their support for His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In fact, five Tibetan monks were jailed by Chinese authorities in February of this year for allegedly publishing politically sensitive poems, and were given sentences of two to three years. The U.S. government has continually supported Tibetan self- determination, and I am proud of the dedication of the U.S. Congress to drawing attention to the gross human rights abuses committed by the People's Republic of China against the Tibetan people. We must continue to support the dialogue between His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the government of China, and remain committed to a peaceful resolution to this tragic conflict, keeping in mind our shared values of freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom from tyranny. I commend to you the statement written by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in commemoration of Tibetan Uprising Day, and I am honored to submit the statement in its entirety for the Record. The Statement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the 46th Anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day On the occasion of the 46th anniversary of the Tibetan People's Uprising, I convey my warm greetings to my fellow Tibetans in Tibet and in exile and to our friends around the world. During these more than four decades great changes have taken place in Tibet. There has been a great deal of economic progress along with development in infrastructure. The Golmud-Lhasa railway link that is being built is a case in point. However, during the same period much has been written by independent journalists and travelers to Tibet about the real situation in Tibet and not what they have been shown. Most of them portray a very different picture than what the Chinese government claims, clearly criticizing China about the lack of human rights, religious freedom and self-rule in Tibet. What has actually happened and is still happening is that since the establishment of the Tibet Autonomous Region the real authority has been solely held by Chinese leaders. As for the Tibetan people, they have been facing suspicions and growing restrictions. The lack of true ethnic equality and harmony based on trust, and the absence of genuine stability in Tibet clearly shows that things are not well in Tibet and that basically there is a problem. Prominent and respected Tibetan leaders in Tibet have spoken out on this from time to time and even suffered because of their courageous acts. In the early 1960s, the late Panchen Lama outlined the sufferings and aspirations of the Tibetan people in his petition to the Chinese leaders. Baba Phuntsok Wangyal, one of the foremost Tibetan communist leaders, in his recent biography published in English dwells at length on the need to meet the interests of the Tibetan people. In fact, it is clear that most senior Tibetan officials in Tibet deep in their hearts are extremely dissatisfied. This year the Chinese government will mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Tibet Autonomous Region. There will be much fanfare and many commemorative events to celebrate the occasion but these will be meaningless when they do not reflect the ground realities. For example, the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution were celebrated with great pomp as real achievements at the time they took place. China has made tremendous economic progress during the past more than two decades. China today is not what it was twenty or thirty years ago. Much has changed in China. As a result she has become a major player in the world and China rightly deserves this position. It is a big nation with a huge population and a rich and ancient civilization. However, China's image is tarnished by her human rights records, undemocratic actions, the lack of the rule of law and the unequal implementation of autonomy rights regarding minorities, including the Tibetans. All these are a cause for more suspicion and distrust from the outside world. Internally, they are an obstacle to unity and stability that are of utmost importance to the leaders of the People's Republic of China. In my view, it is important that as China becomes a powerful and respectable nation she should be able to adopt a reasonable policy with confidence. The world in general, of which China is a part, is changing for the better. In recent times there is definitely a greater awareness and appreciation for peace, non-violence, democracy, justice and environmental protection. The recent unprecedented response from governments and individuals across the world to the tsunami disaster victims reaffirms that the world is truly interdependent and the importance of universal responsibility. My involvement in the affairs of Tibet is not for the purpose of claiming certain personal rights or political position for myself not attempting to stake claims for the Tibetan administration in exile. In 1992 in a formal announcement I stated clearly that when we return to Tibet with a certain degree of freedom I will not hold any office in the Tibetan government or any other political position and that the present Tibetan administration in exile will be dissolved. Moreover, the Tibetans working in Tibet should carry on the main responsibility of administering Tibet. I once again want to reassure the Chinese authorities that as long as I am responsible for the affairs of Tibet we remain fully committed to the Middle Way Approach of not seeking independence for Tibet and are willing to remain within the People's Republic of China. I am convinced that in the long run such an approach is of benefit to the Tibetan people for their material progress. It is encouraging that there is support from various parts of the world for this approach as being reasonable, realistic and of mutual benefit to the Chinese and Tibetans. I am particularly encouraged by the recognition and support that has come from certain quarters of the intellectual circle from within China. I am happy with our renewed contacts with the Chinese leadership and that the third round of meetings last September shows that gradually our interactions are improving. Now that our elected political leadership is shouldering more responsibility in Tibetan affairs, I have advised them to look into the issues raised by the Chinese side during our third round of talks and to take steps to address or clarify them as needed. We remain hopeful that eventually we will be able to develop the necessary trust and resolve this long-standing issue to our mutual benefit. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to express the Tibetan people's gratitude and appreciation to the people and Government of India for their steadfast sympathy and support. I very much feel a part of this nation not only because of the centuries-old religious and cultural ties that India and Tibet enjoyed but also because I and most of the Tibetans in exile lived in India for the past 45 years. I offer my prayers to the brave men and women of Tibet who gave their lives for the cause of Tibetan freedom. The Dalai Lama, March 10, 2005.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable American, a dear friend of mine, and a dedicated member of my congressional staff--Mary Bustillo Donohue, who turns 80-years-young on February 14, 2005. Mary has dedicated her life to her family and her community. She was born in Cuba to parents who valued education and citizenship. After her family fled a repressive government in 1933, Mary grew up in New York City with a strong sense of the sacrifices her parents had made in coming to America, and with compassion and admiration for others longing to be citizens of our nation. She attended Cathedral High School, and met the love of her life, Jerry Donohue, on their first date, April 19, 1942. Jerry, who had enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was transferred to the Naval Reserve, served his country in World War II in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war. During a brief break from Jerry's training at the School of Naval Administration at Stanford University, Mary and Jerry were married at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City on June 18, 1946. Mary and Jerry Donohue moved to River Edge, New Jersey in 1952 where they were blessed with eight fantastic children, and later, 17 brilliant and beautiful grandchildren. After earning her BA and MBA degrees in Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and working on her doctorate in Spanish Literature at New York University, Mary embarked on a 26-year teaching career, including her role as the first female administrator at Paramus Catholic Boys High School. Mary's life of ``firsts'' continued. Mary and Jerry were elected by the parishioners of St. Peter the Apostle Church to serve on the first Parish Council. Mary served as Democratic Town Committeewoman for River Edge District 4 for over 30 years. She was twice elected River Edge Councilwoman, having the honor of being the first elected woman to serve River Edge in that capacity. In 1989, she was elected to the Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders, the first Hispanic to serve as a member of the County's seven-person legislative body. Mary was then elected by the New Jersey State Democratic Committee to serve two terms as a member of the Democratic National Committee, and was elected Chairperson of the National Hispanic Caucus of the Democratic National Committee during President Clinton's tenure. This past year, after 57 years of marriage, Mary lost the love of her life, her beloved husband, friend, and companion, Jerry. His passing has caused her much sadness. However, Mary continues to give back and touch the lives of the residents of Northern New Jersey. She serves on the New Bridge Landing Park Commission, was recently re-elected Democratic Committeewoman of District 4 in River Edge, teaches Spanish two hours a week to senior citizens at the Teaneck Senior Center, and assists with national, state, county, and municipal election campaigns. Also--and for this I am most proud and grateful-- Mary serves as a caseworker in my Hackensack, New Jersey office three days a week, specializing in immigration and citizenship services, using her vast knowledge, experience, multilingual gifts and compassionate heart to assist those people who, very much like her parents, want to become citizens of our great nation and provide a better life for their children. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with sincere and enduring admiration, fondness and great respect for my dear friend and colleague, Mary Bustillo Donohue and I wish her the very best as she celebrates her 80th birthday. I know her family, friends, and coworkers will join me in wishing her a wonderful year ahead, filled with joy, happiness, and good health. She is truly an inspiration and role model for us all. Happy Birthday Mary!

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, so what is a nice Jewish boy doing here on the floor of the House praising Catholic Schools? Because Catholic Schools do so much for our country, so much for our children, providing them with the basic tenets of the Catholic faith, the faith that has added so much to the civilization of the world and making the world a better place. Catholic Schools recognize that people are physical, spiritual, moral as well as intelligent beings. They provide so many good values to our children. We have 408 Catholic Schools in the State of New Jersey alone, and I can tell you from all of my dear friends over a lifetime who have told me about their Catholic School experiences. This is where they learned respects for elders, not only the tenets of the Catholic faith but also discipline and respect for other faiths. I want to pay particular attention and I want to particularly praise the teachers at Catholic Schools who have done so much and sacrificed so much to teach these young people, our children, all of these valuable and important lessons that have helped our country and have helped the world and have helped these young men and women be better human beings. They often do this for far less pay than in the public schools, but they are perhaps some of the greatest and finest teachers you will find in our country. So I am delighted and proud that we rightfully honor the contribution of Catholic Schools here in the United States Congress, and I thank all of those in the Catholic faith who have made that possible for these youngsters to enjoy the blessings of these wonderful institutions.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, due to a family religious obligation, I will be absent from the House of Representatives on Friday, November 19, and any possible session on Saturday, November 20, 2004. Should H.R. 4818, the Foreign Operations Appropriations Conference Report, serving as the Omnibus vehicle, be considered, I would like the Record to reflect that I would have voted ``yes'' on this conference report.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Taiwan's National Day, which will be celebrated on October 10, 2004. People in the United States and around the world have always marveled at the modern miracle that is Taiwan and the enormous political and economic successes that it has achieved. As we approach Taiwan's National Day, it only seems appropriate that we congratulate our Taiwanese friends on their many successes. In just 50 years, Taiwan has transformed from a poor authoritarian dictatorship into a vibrant modern democracy. Last March, Mr. Chen Shui-bian was re-elected the eleventh president of the Republic of China. This was the third democratically-held election for the people of Taiwan. A firm believer in the free enterprise system and the importance of democratic governance, President Chen's leadership has enabled his people to enjoy one of the highest standards of living in Asia, with only 1 percent of its population remaining below the poverty line in 2000. Taiwan has also continued to make steady progress at expanding democracy in this republic: it currently has more than 95 political parties and a Constitution that guarantees its citizens full political rights, including the freedom of speech and the freedom of assembly. Taiwan is a strong ally of the United States. It has unequivocally supported the U.S.-led war against global terrorism and the U.S. war in Iraq. And we, in turn, have given Taiwan our pledge that Taiwanese way of life should not be threatened by any outside forces. This strong mutual relationship is manifested in many ways. Taiwan is our eighth largest trading partner. The Taiwanese people continue to demand a variety of U.S. exports and consistently choose the United States as their number one travel destination. In fact, every year thousands of Taiwanese people come to my own state, New Jersey, for vacations as well as for business purposes. I am confident that the strong relationship between the United States and Taiwan will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead. On the occasion of Taiwan's forthcoming National Day, I wish to recognize Taiwan's many economic and political achievements and express my congratulations to President Chen Shui-bian and to the Taiwanese Ambassador to the U.S., Mr. David Lee.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my profound shock and sorrow concerning the bombings that occurred yesterday, October 7, 2004, in Taba, Egypt, where at least 29 people died and 160 were injured. The fact that the attacks coincided with the joyous Jewish festival of Sukkot is particularly horrifying. Two years ago we witnessed similar acts of violence when terrorists struck the Park Hotel in Netanya, killing dozens of Israelis celebrating the traditional Passover meal and again in Mombasa, Kenya where terrorists unsuccessfully attempted to take down an Israeli passenger jet but were successful in killing twelve people at an Israeli-owned hotel. Yesterday's bombings, which occurred at a popular hotel and camping ground in Egypt, are especially jarring for two reasons. First, the attacks show the indiscriminate nature of these terrorists who killed innocent Muslims, Christians and Jews, Egyptians, Russians, Britons and Israelis alike. Second, photos and accounts of Israelis rushing the border to get back into Israel are a jarring reminder of why the State of Israel was created--to provide a safe haven for Jews the world over who all too often cannot find peace elsewhere. Mr. Speaker, the bombings in Egypt also illustrate another important point--that the security fence being built around Israel works. Although no group has yet been definitively tied to this attack, it is clear the attack in Egypt was chosen because it would be too difficult to perpetrate inside of Israel. The security fence is a sad reality for those living on either side, but a necessary reality in order to save lives. As our strategic military partner, ally, trusted friend of 56 years, and only democracy in the Middle East, Israel needs the continued support of the United States as it works to secure her people from Palestinian and other terrorists who seek Israel's destruction. Mr. Speaker, it has been said that the bombers may have hoped to bring an end to talks between Egypt and Israel that focused on halting arms smuggling from Egypt to Palestinian terrorists in Gaza, and addressing other issues of shared concern to both nations. We must not let that happen. Egyptians died in Taba just as Israelis did, Egyptians that lived and worked in peace with Israelis each and every day. I encourage Egypt and Israel to continue to work together and I applaud President Mubarak and his government for coordinating with Israeli rescue workers and response teams to allow them access to the site of the attack in Egypt. Mr. Speaker, my heart goes out to all those whose loved ones were killed or wounded in these vicious attacks and I vow to continue my work to fight terror to prevent such horrifying attacks in the future.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Police Chief John L. Shannon, Jr. of Hawthorne, New Jersey. Chief Shannon retires at the end of September, concluding a nearly 36 year career in law enforcement. In fact, Chief Shannon has spent much of his life bravely serving our country--first as a decorated soldier in the United States Air Force stationed in Vietnam and later as a committed member and leader of Hawthorne's Police Force. I commend Chief Shannon for his dedication to our nation and its ideals of justice and freedom, both at home and abroad; Chief Shannon's lifetime of service is befitting a true patriot. Since first joining the Hawthorne Police Department in 1968, and with each position he has held between Patrolman and Police Chief, Chief Shannon has continually worked to improve the safety and quality of life for Hawthorne residents by involving them in Police Department decisions and programs. Chief Shannon was a leader in the development of the Cops in Schools program in Hawthorne to ensure that, while in school, students can concentrate on achievement and not be distracted by concerns for their safety. He established a School Emergency Response Plan, implemented a Junior Police Academy, created a traffic unit to focus on motorcycles and drunk and aggressive driving, and worked with seniors and business owners to create targeted crime prevention programs. Chief Shannon introduced the community policing concept to Hawthorne and thus encouraged residents and police to work together to improve their shared community. Judging by the unanimous vote that allowed Chief Shannon to serve for 3 terms as the President of the Passaic County Chiefs Association, his Vice Presidency and role as State Delegate of the Hawthorne PBA Local 200, and his membership in the New Jersey, National and International Police Chiefs Associations, Chief Shannon is clearly admired and respected by his peers. The impact of his leadership will be seen for years to come in Hawthorne and Passaic County. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chief Shannon for his estimable service and wish him well in his much deserved retirement.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to call on the House Republican leadership to allow us to vote on H.R. 2038 and H.R. 3831, which would allow us to decide whether we should let the assault weapons ban stay in effect or disappear from America. This Monday, September 13, the assault weapons ban will expire, unless the House Republican leadership allows us to vote on whether to keep it in effect or let it expire. Madam Speaker, the second amendment to the United States Constitution allows individuals to own firearms. The question is, where do we draw the line? Should people be allowed to have shoulder-fired rocket launchers that down airplanes? Of course not. Well, you do not need a 20-round-a-minute assault weapon to take down a deer. Madam Speaker, I ask the House Republican leadership to allow this Congress to allow us to vote on whether we should extend the assault weapons ban or should we just, because they will not let us vote, have it expire. The assault weapons ban works. Since it went into effect, these crimes have gone down 66 percent.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am not sure that the American people understand what is happening with our fiscal House, our economic well- being. I wonder if the American people know, Mr. Speaker, that the President of the United States is borrowing money to add to the largest annual deficit in the history of the United States, borrowing money to give tax cuts, tax cuts that will go disproportionately to households making over $300,000 a year. As the Wall Street Journal said just the other day, a very conservative newspaper, all of these prior trillion dollars of tax cuts have benefited primarily the very rich in our society, not the middle class, not the working class and not the poor; and they give reasons why that is so. Instead of borrowing money, adding to the deficit for more tax cuts for the rich, who have done very well, thank you very much, why do we not invest that money in our Nation's infrastructure, roads, bridges, sewers, hospitals, school buildings, so that not only do we provide good-paying jobs but at the end of it we have something to show for it and we do not force our local property taxpayers to pick up the tab when the Federal Government should be paying for it, instead of giving it to the very rich who have done extraordinarily well. God bless them, but they do not need the money. America and our taxpayers need the money.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentlewoman from New York for yielding me the time. Allow me, Mr. Chairman, to first thank the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Wicker) for all of his cooperation and that of his staff in taking into consideration all of our concerns, including those in the minority. It is greatly appreciated, and the spirit of bipartisan that you bring to the committee is very welcome and I believe has produced a very fine bill overall. Of course, my ranking member, the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Lowey), has done a magnificent job in leading us in so many ways to improve the condition of peoples around the world. A lot of Americans wonder why we spend any money on foreign aid at all. Well, it is really very simple. Of course, we have a humanitarian interest in making sure that people do not suffer, and we help our neighbors, not just those next door but across the border. But if one were to look at it purely selfishly, in America's national interest, we do not want people to go hungry. We do not want them to be brutalized by dictatorships. We do not want them to become resentful and frustrated and angry, and we do not want them to lash out at all of the powers in the world who live in a democracy and live in freedom, which is what we are facing now, people who have been deprived or who feel deprived, who have nothing to lose by giving up their lives, so they think, to destroy a world order that has ignored them. Mr. Chairman, I am so delighted that this bill provides money, for example, for microloan projects, where $100 literally given to a small village in Africa or in Latin America or even in Eastern Europe can change the whole town's economy. Buy a sewing machine and create garments, sell those garments and buy another sewing machine. Along with our aid to our allies such as the state of Israel, to Jordan in the Middle East, our assistance to Egypt, which hopefully will continue to help the situation in Gaza, number one, by preventing smuggling of arms from Egypt to the Palestinians that are being used against Israeli civilians but also to help train a security force in Gaza so that when Israel pulls out of Gaza, as they have announced their intention to do, there will be a civil order in Gaza and the Palestinians can control Gaza themselves and hopefully develop a moderate leadership that is interested in living in peace next to its neighbor, our number one ally and friend for 55 years, the state of Israel. I am also delighted that we have provided sufficient money for Armenia and Azerbaijan, money for Cyprus for bicommunal activities, because these are ways that areas, countries where there was traditionally tension between the two countries or the two entities within one country can find common ground, get over their historical differences and work together. Hopefully, that is an example for the whole world. Of course, in Haiti and the Sudan there is much to do. There is so much suffering in Haiti, and that is why I am proud that $75 million in humanitarian aid for Haiti's recovery is in the bill, and that $310 million is in the bill for the Sudan, where there have been and are presently ongoing horrors, murders and rapes and slavery, literally slavery of men, women and children in that region. So that $310 million will be very well spent. Again, this foreign aid bill not only is in our humanitarian interest to do to make the world a better place and to help our neighbors live a better life, we want to make sure that the people of the world are well fed, have a job, have a chance to be free, have a chance to take care of their families. This is so important and especially now when, regardless of the cause, and we can debate the cause, I think it is fair to say, and most Americans believe, that many people in the world wonder about America's character. They wonder about that great Nation, shining Nation on a Hill, if we still have the kind of values that they thought we had. Well, this foreign aid bill should let them know that the people of the United States of America are as generous as always and interested in their well-being. Mr. Chairman, I ask for the support of this bill.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, America's future is contingent upon the leadership, vision, and commitment of teachers, and a life dedicated to the education of our children is one that should be both acknowledged and praised. Thus, I would like to recognize Ms. Barbara Bosch, an educator in the East Rutherford school district in New Jersey and a member of the New Jersey Education Association, who will be retiring this June after 41 years of teaching. Ms. Bosch's devotion, creativity, and resourcefulness as an educator helped her to meet the diverse needs of her students in the continually evolving field of education over the past several decades. Her dedication to her students was displayed in part by the many hours spent with them both inside and outside the classroom. Ms. Bosch's dedication and strong character allowed her to fulfill her professional responsibilities at the highest level, and serve as a role model for her students and colleagues. Such achievements in the field of education were so admired and respected by her colleagues, that the East Rutherford Educational Community has proclaimed June 2004 as ``Barbara Bosch Month.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Barbara Bosch as a person who served our Nation as a distinguished educator of our children for 41 years. We are all deeply indebted to Ms. Bosch and teachers like her for their service to our Nation's schoolchildren. Along with all those students, parents, and other educators in East Rutherford who have come to know Ms. Bosch, I wish Ms. Bosch much happiness in her well-deserved retirement.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Chairman, I am from the Garden State of New Jersey, from which most of the people who came to rescue the people in the burning towers came, from the place where the victims of 9/11 were transported to Liberty Island, to be triaged and cared for, where we have four nuclear power plants, chemical plants, two tunnels to New York City, several bridges to New York City, et cetera. I would like to commend the subcommittee chairman, the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Rogers), for making extraordinary progress from where we were before this bill was written; and I acknowledge his good faith and sincere effort in moving in the right direction. And I know that it is very difficult to balance the equities and the interests of all concerned. However, it is 3 years, Mr. Chairman, since 9/11, 3 years, when every State in the Union has gotten some money for their homeland security. The question is, whether now, 3 years later, we have waited long enough for the largest portion of moneys that go out on this homeland security bill, whether they are given to those areas that are most at risk and that are most targeted by the terrorists. How many years do we have to wait before we get to 100 percent? We are at 90 percent with this bill, 92 percent. Do you think the terrorists are going to wait several years before they arrive at the likely places where they have said they are going to hit and which are underfunded by the present bill? Finally, let me comment on my distinguished subcommittee chairman's chart, which we had the good fortune of discussing at the Committee on Appropriations markup. I believe that nothing has changed in the finding, and please correct me. The distinguished subcommittee chairman's chart that shows the amount of money per State that a State would lose if this amendment were approved does not tell, with respect, the full story. It says we are where everyone would begin when the risk assessments would then take place. So, for example, under the distinguished subcommittee chairman's list, the particular dollar figure for your State does not tell you what your State will get after the risk assessment occurs. Now, if you have a State that has a lot of targets, you have nothing to worry about, because the same folks in this administration who have made the judgments about the nature and the level of the risk will be deciding, with the same criteria, on these extra funds. I guess if you do not have any significant risks compared to the other States and regions, then you will suffer a loss. But with respect to the gentleman from Kentucky (Chairman Rogers)'s list, it does not tell you what you are going to end up with after the risk assessment. Again, I want to congratulate the subcommittee chairman and all of those who worked so hard to move this bill as far as it has come, but it needs to go further. We have waited long enough, and the terrorists are not going to wait 2 or 3 years before we get to 100 percent.

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. (Mr. ROTHMAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor those who selflessly and courageously risked their lives in service to our country. On Memorial Day we gather to remember and give thanks to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect this nation and to defend our freedoms and our way of life. This nation is extremely grateful for their service and must never forget their heroic acts. On this Memorial Day in particular, as we are set to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of D-Day, as veterans from across the country gather on the Mall in Washington, DC to dedicate the new World War II Memorial, and as our troops labor at home and abroad to secure and defend our interests around the world, we must remember their service and express our appreciation. Like the ``greatest generation'' and the generations that came before them, this generation has once again proudly heeded the call to serve a country in need. And for their courage and dedication, we stand united in support of these brave men and women. During this difficult time, we draw strength and inspiration from those who persevered and triumphed in conflicts past. I have little doubt that this generation of Americans like so many before them, will prevail against those who would do us harm. And we must make certain that when our troops return home, we keep the promise we made to provide them with the health care and benefits they have earned and deserve--a promise we must fulfill to all 26 million of our nation's veterans. I join my colleagues, in expressing our deep appreciation to those brave men and women who gave their lives for this country, and I pledge to continue to work to honor their invaluable contribution to American liberty and freedom.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and to remember a courageous young lady from my home state of New Jersey, Ms. Melissa Anne Centrella, the only child of Claire and August Centrella. It is with great sadness that I inform you that Melissa passed away two years ago on June 4th, 2002; she was only 25 years old. As a child, Melissa was like every young girl--she was cheerful, she loved her parents, and she greatly enjoyed dancing. However, at an early age, Melissa was diagnosed with a rare illness called Dystonia. Dystonia is a neurological disorder characterized by powerful and painful involuntary muscle spasms that cause a twisting of the body, repetitive muscle movements, and sustained postural deformities. Melissa lived with the constant pain of Dystonia for 18 years. As the years passed, Melissa's life became increasingly constrained. She was eventually confined to a wheelchair and then bedridden until she passed away from complications of this disorder. Melissa endured many medical procedures to assess and attempt to treat her Dystonia. She suffered through a series of spinal taps, intrathecal pump implantations, and preparations for deep brain stimulation surgery. On several occasions, Melissa was overdosed with medication, leading to seizures and once, to a three-day coma. Through all the pain, she accepted her suffering with dignity and, according to her family and friends, never once complained. Melissa believed she was put on earth for a reason, that God had a plan for her. That reason was to be a part of the mission to find a cure for Dystonia so that no one else would have to experience the torture that she did in her short life. Many in her position would have given up, but not Melissa. She was relentless in pushing her mother, Claire, to establish the New Jersey Chapter of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF). Whenever Claire became depressed or overcome with distress, Melissa would gently prod her along and remind her of their shared family mission. I would like to salute Claire Centrella and her family for making such strides against Dystonia in Melissa's memory. Today, the Chapter holds many events to raise funds for Dystonia research and to promote awareness of the disorder. Sadly, Melissa's body lost its battle with Dystonia; however, her soul continues on in her mother and with the New Jersey DMRF Chapter, whose goal is to improve the quality of life for people with Dystonia. Melissa Centrella will never be forgotten and her legacy, to find a cure for Dystonia, will be carried forth through the hard work and determination of her family and friends.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the administration's proposed restructuring of the Section 8 Housing Program, particularly in regard to the block grant funding proposal, which is especially important to low-income men and women in my home state of New Jersey. The Section 8 Housing Program currently assists two million individuals including elderly citizens, persons with disabilities, and low-income working families to meet their housing needs. The proposed Section 8 restructuring will leave states and local public housing authorities starved of the necessary financial resources they need to keep up with the demand for housing. Local housing authorities will be forced to either substantially raise rent or cut the number of vouchers distributed, severely hampering the program's effectiveness in helping Americans afford a safe and secure place to live. Nationally, the Congressional Budget Office recently estimated that proposed changes to the Section 8 Housing Program will lead to the elimination of 600,000 vouchers by 2009, which equals thirty percent of all vouchers now in use. In 2005 alone an estimated 250,000 families could lose their housing assistance, including 7,181 families in New Jersey. For example, in Fiscal Year 2005, the Jersey City Housing Authority, located in my district, will face an expected $3,117,611 in funding reductions resulting in an estimated cut of 351 currently assisted families. The Housing Authority of Bergen County, also located within my district, expects a funding cut of $4,056,468, resulting in 434 families currently receiving assistance to lose their vouchers. While losses such as these could be devastating to many families, several of my colleagues have argued the proposed restructuring is necessary in part to counteract escalating costs of the Section 8 Housing Program. Indeed, the cost of the Section 8 voucher program has increased, but these increases have been reasonable, legislatively driven, and impermanent. Over half of the growth in cost has resulted from Congressional decisions to increase the number of families the Section 8 Housing Program assists, often as a result of ending other federal public housing initiatives. Another 37 percent of the growth has resulted from an increasing gap between housing costs and the earnings of low-income families. In addition, the program has expanded because of efforts to improve its efficiency; the share of authorized vouchers rose from 90.5 to 96 percent between 2001 and 2003. Cutting the funding would, therefore, punish the program for more effectively achieving its objectives. Furthermore, the actual Section 8 Housing Program costs have risen at a low annual rate of only four percent, and the Congressional Budget Office expects future growth to slow markedly due to the cooling of the housing market, with an expected small 1.8 percent growth in fiscal year 2005. Studies have shown that a large percentage of low-income families and individuals spend more than half of their income on housing, severely inhibiting their ability to meet other basic needs. Affordable housing is the foundation of economic self sufficiency, the loss of which is a barrier to employment that affects children, families, and entire communities. Cutting housing funding and reducing opportunities for American families to live in safe housing, will directly correlate with escalating costs in federal spending for welfare, crime, health, and homelessness in the coming years. Mr. Speaker, I ask that we guarantee the Section 8 Housing Program an adequate level of funding by rejecting the administration's proposal. I hope that my colleagues will join me in taking preemptive action against escalating financial and social costs in the future by providing stable housing for our working poor today.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois for yielding me time. I thank our chairman, the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Tom Davis), and I thank our ranking member, the gentleman from California (Mr. Waxman), for moving this bill so expeditiously through the House. And I thank our fellow Senators from the other body for their cosponsoring of my legislation in that body as well. I rise in support of H.R. 3939, a bill to rename the main post office in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, the town I live in, within my district, as the Mary Ann Collura Post Office. It has been a year since we lost Mary Ann, who served on the Fair Lawn Police Force for 18 years. She was the first female police officer in Fair Lawn history. She was killed in the line of duty on April 17, 2003. Mary Ann was backing up another police officer from the district of the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell), Steven Farrell, who was in the course of arresting three men charged with robbery following a car chase that ended outside a church in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. It was at that point that Officer Farrell was wounded and Officer Collura was fatally wounded. Throughout her life, as the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pallone) so eloquently said, Mary Ann embodied what is best about the people in our communities in New Jersey, and perhaps in all of America. She was kind, she was generous, she was courageous, she was a pioneer, and she was a person who truly cared about her community. She was the kind of a police officer who all the kids in the school system knew they could go to if they had a problem, especially a problem that they felt uncomfortable talking to their teachers or their parents about. She was a pioneer. She grew up always wanting to be a police officer, and when she got sworn in, it was the happiest, most proud day of her life. There was no obstacle that would stand in her way. She was going to protect the people of Fair Lawn, New Jersey. She had this special desire, among many other things, innovations of hers, to protect kids during Halloween. So she spearheaded the effort to give each child in Fair Lawn, New Jersey a glow stick so that while they were walking through the streets trick-or-treating, they could be seen by people driving their cars and perhaps their parents following somewhat behind since, of course, it is very embarrassing, as my children say, to be walking with your own children, or have your own parents walking with you. That led, as a matter of fact, to my reintroducing a bill to move daylight savings time one week later after Halloween so that kids could trick-or-treat in an extra hour of daylight. But it was Mary Ann's love for her community and love for those children that put forth that particular effort and made her a mentor, a mentor to young police officers, men and women, who saw her as a true leader. She loved motorcycles, and the day after her memorial service, 2,500 police officers, and others, 2,500 motorcyclists rode through Fair Lawn, New Jersey in honor of Mary Ann Collura. It was a sight to behold. To commemorate the life of Mary Ann Collura and her outstanding service to the people of the community of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, I introduced legislation to rename the Fair Lawn Post Office the Mary Ann Collura Post Office at Fair Lawn, New Jersey, so that when future generations who never had the privilege of knowing her or never read the stories about her, when a child walks into the post office in the future with their mom or their dad, they would say, Mommy or Daddy, why is this plaque here? Who was Mary Ann Collura? And then the story of Mary Ann Collura, her bravery, her great service to the people of Fair Lawn would be retold from generation to generation and onward ever forward, because she truly was a great role model, not just for young women, but for everyone. As we come together to celebrate National Police Week and National Peace Officers Memorial Day this Thursday, we remember that in life and death, Mary Ann Collura and so many other fallen officers remind us of a difference that one person can make in making this world a safer and better place. We know that Mary Ann is looking down upon us from heaven, and that while Fair Lawn and the people of Fair Lawn may have lost one of their bravest protectors, they have gained and the world has gained another angel. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote for this piece of legislation, and I know that the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell) joins with me and will have some remarks as well.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 605 to recognize the importance of generating awareness about autism, increasing research efforts into this terrible disorder, and improving support for those who suffer from autism and those who help care for the autistic. My 13 year old nephew Jack has autism, so I am part of an extended family working to raise a child with this disability. My family's ongoing experience has impressed upon me how critical it is for us, as a society, to give those with autism and their families the support they need to fight this devastating disease, and to commit the resources necessary to determine the cause of autism and to develop a cure for the millions of afflicted individuals. Autism is not rare. Autism effects approximately 1 in every 166 children in the United States, making it one of the most common childhood medical disorders. In many cases, those with autism will never marry, they will never live independently, and more than half of them will never learn to speak. Families affected by autism are forced to bear an extraordinary burden. Parents, siblings and friends have to learn to try to communicate with and care for a child who may be incapable of either verbal or nonverbal communication or who may exhibit erratic behavior. The fact that autism is so common is proof that autism research is deserving of our nation's wholehearted support. Funding for autism research at the National Institutes of Health has been increased from approximately $93 million in Fiscal Year 2003 to $96 million in Fiscal Year 2004, but we know that is not enough. Scientists continue to disagree on the cause or causes for the dramatic increase in the number of autism cases diagnosed in the United States. Only with increased research will we be able to understand autism, find better treatments and effective prevention methods, and hopefully, someday soon, develop a cure for this terrible disease. I am pleased to be here today as a cosponsor of H. Res. 605. I applaud Representative Tierney for authoring this Resolution and working to bring attention and resources to an all too common, but devastating disorder. At its peak, there were 20,000 cases of polio each year. Today, less than 10 Americans contract polio annually. By working together and by never giving up, I know we can make autism just as rare. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to pay tribute to Wilson and Margaret Kaplen, known as Bill and Maggie to their family and friends, for their dedication to community service and philanthropy. The Kaplens are life-long New Jersey residents, currently living in Tenafly. I have had the privilege of knowing the Kaplen family for many years. In acknowledgment of Bill and Maggie's many contributions and devotion to the community, the Englewood Hospital and Medical Center will recognize Bill and Maggie Kaplen at the Medical Center's annual black tie gala on May 8, 2004 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The Kaplens will be the first recipients of the Touchstone Award from the Medical Center, an award that has now been established in their honor. In 1963, Bill established the Kaplen Foundation, and with the assistance of Maggie and their children, the Kaplens have given their time, hard work, and resources to endeavors including healthcare initiatives, civic projects, education and youth programs, social services, the arts, and Jewish organizations. The Kaplens have been given numerous awards for their charitable endeavors, including the Torch of Liberty Award from the Anti-Defamation League and the Chaver Award from the Jewish Community Center of the Palisades (JCC) in Tenafly. Bergen County residents have honored the Kaplen family name at the Kaplen Family Field of Dreams in Teaneck and the Michael F. Kaplen Red Cross Service Center, named in loving memory of their son, Michael. Mr. Speaker, I commend Bill and Maggie Kaplen for their commitment to making our community a better place for all people. The Kaplens represent the best of the human spirit and serve as a true source of inspiration to us all. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring Wilson and Margaret Kaplen for their contributions to our community, and in wishing them continued success and happiness in their future endeavors.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Greek Independence Day and to thank our colleagues, Mr. Bilirakis and Mrs. Maloney, who have once again shown great leadership in their efforts to organize this special order for Greek Independence Day. I would like to honor not only this important day in Greek history, but the strong and unique relationship that exists today between the United States and Greece. The evolution of modern democracy has its roots in ancient Athens, and as such, it is only fitting that we, as representatives of one of the world's great democracies, pay tribute to the Greeks and their historical contribution to democratic governance on this 183rd anniversary of their independence. Since the people of Greece declared their independence on March 25, 1821, our two nations have enjoyed close relations, and generations of Greek immigrants have helped to strengthen and enrich the relations between our two countries. As the Congressional Representative for thousands of Greek Americans, I salute their motherland's eight-year struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire. Our countries' shared histories of fighting for our freedom and sovereignty creates a common bond between the United States and Greece. Today, the United States' relationship with Greece continues to grow stronger. Greece has been a devoted supporter of the U.S. in every major international conflict of this century and plays an important role in both the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Greece has been one of our most loyal allies throughout our war against terrorism and has assisted the Coalition in both Iraq and Afghanistan by providing a military presence on land, sea and in the air. In turn, the United States has worked to attain a peaceful settlement to the conflict in Cyprus, the island nation that was brutally invaded by Turkey thirty years ago. I was saddened to see the UN-sponsored negotiations break down recently, so soon before Cyprus's impending accession to the EU on May 1st, but I will continue my efforts to see this important matter through to its successful resolution. On this celebratory day of freedom and independence, I also want to heartily congratulate the Greek nation on the honor of hosting the Olympic Games in Athens this summer. I cannot think of a more meaningful place to celebrate the spirit of extraordinary achievement than in Athens, nearly 2,780 years after the first Olympics were held in ancient Greece. I look forward to sharing in the pride and celebration of the Olympic Games as they take place this summer and I look forward to continuing to work with leaders from the Greek community as we persist in our fight for a free and united Cyprus.

Mr. ROTHMAN

Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr Speaker, today I introduced the Halloween Safety Act of 2004, legislation to change the date on which daylight saving time ends each year in the interest of the safety of our children. This is a companion bill to S. 1803, introduced by Senator Michael Enzi of Wyoming. As we all know, the holiday of Halloween falls on October 31st, typically just a few days after the switch from daylight saving time to standard time. As a result of turning our clocks back, many young children go out to trick-or-treat around their neighborhoods or towns when darkness has already fallen by five or six o'clock in the evening. Parents are faced with the decision of whether or not to allow their children to go trick-or-treating in the dark, which creates a safety hazard for children running from house to house, and for motorists who must contend with children darting out into the streets. Valerie Vainieri Huttle, the Chairwoman of the Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders, and David L. Ganz, who is both a Bergen County Freeholder and the Mayor of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, have raised this issue at the county government level and have asked that I act on a federal level to address this problem. The Halloween Safety Act of 2004 extends daylight saving time each year until the first Sunday in November, instead of the last Sunday in October, thereby ensuring that Halloween falls during daylight saving time each year. I am proud to acknowledge that this safety problem has already been partly addressed in Bergen County, New Jersey. Fair Lawn's beloved police officer, the late Mary Ann Collura, implemented a special ``glow stick'' program so that young children would be adequately lit and visible as they walk the streets trick-or-treating. Since her untimely death in the line of duty last April, the glow stick program has gone countywide in Bergen County, thanks to the initiative of County Executive Dennis McNerney and his staff, Bergen County Prosecutor John Molinelli, and the Board of Chosen Freeholders. By modestly changing the date that daylight saving time ends and that standard time begins, children in Bergen County and across the country would be safer and would have extended hours of daylight in which to participate in this holiday. I commend Freeholders Huttle and Ganz for sponsoring a resolution adopted by the Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders urging the change of daylight saving time, and I thank them for their commitment to the safety of the children of New Jersey and our Nation. I urge prompt consideration of the Halloween Safety Act of 2004.