José Serrano

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and work of Raul Davila, the late, great Puerto Rican actor. Mr. Davila was a leading light in the Hispanic acting community and a good friend. He will be missed by all who knew or knew of him. Mr. Davila was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico on September 15, 1934. He graduated from the University of Puerto Rico and Tulane University. By the time he was in his early twenties, he was acting in soap operas and other works broadcast on the island of Puerto Rico. In spite of his success in Puerto Rico, he soon felt the pull to move to a larger market and to take on more challenges. In late 1963, like so many of his generation, he moved to New York. Upon arriving in New York, he immersed himself in the vibrant and vital Hispanic acting and arts scene. He began to work as an actor, and starred in many television shows, both in Spanish and English. He, along with other Hispanic actors, fought valiantly for the rights and recognition that Hispanic actors deserved. One manner in which Mr. Davila successfully pushed for equal opportunities for Hispanic actors was through his leadership at the Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors, or HOLA, of which he was president many times. Part of HOLA's mission statement reads that the organization seeks ``to expand the presence of Hispanic actors in both the Latino and mainstream entertainment and communications media by facilitating industry access to employing professional and emerging Hispanic actors.'' Raul Davila's service to the community, of which he was such a vital part, focused directly on that mission. He sought to open doors for Hispanic actors here in the United States. Today we often take for granted much of the success that Latino performers have in show business. It is important, however, to remember that this was not always the case. We must recognize those who led the way. For this reason, it is fitting that we honor this Puerto Rican actor, who was not only a pioneer in his field, but also set the standard for others to follow in the decades to come. We must also recognize Mr. Davila's artistic achievements, which were many. He was the star of many ``telenovelas,'' popular Spanish-language soap operas, as well as well-received appearances in movies like ``The Believers,'' ``The Man with My Face,'' and ``Counterplot.'' He was perhaps best known for his role in ``Carmelo Y Punto.'' His acting in the play ``Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf'' won him a prize in 1972 from the Puerto Rican Cultural Institute, and a prize from the newspaper ``El Tiempo.'' He also never gave up his love of learning about his craft, earning a Masters in Dramatic Arts from the Pasadena Playhouse in California later in life. Mr. Speaker, with the passing of Raul Davila, we have lost one of the leaders in the Hispanic acting community. His passion for acting and his dedication to promoting opportunities for other Hispanic actors was truly inspirational. Although he has passed on, his works will continue to inspire and impact the lives of generations to come. Surely, that is the mark of great life. I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Raul Davila.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sympathy that I rise today to say goodbye to a Latin Jazz legend and a wonderful man. Mr. Ray Barretto passed away on Friday, February 17, 2006 at the age of 76. Ray was the first Hispanic to record a Latin song which became a ``hit'' on the American Billboard Charts. Although he has gone, his musical influence will live on for generations to come. Surely that is a mark of a great life. Like many Puerto Ricans, Ray's parents moved to New York in the early 1920's in search of a better life. Raised in Spanish Harlem, he was deeply influenced by his mother's love of music and by the jazz music of musicians such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie. In 1946 at the age of 17, he joined the Army and was stationed in Germany where he met Belgian musician Fats Sadi. However, it was not until he heard ``Manteca'' recorded by Dizzy Gillespie and Cuban percussionist, Chano Pozo, that he realized music was his true calling in life. After returning to New York in 1949, Ray began to visit clubs where he participated in jam sessions and perfected his conga playing. It wasn't long before the likes of Charlie Parker, Jose Curbelo and Tito Puente began to ask him to play with their bands. Ray opened the door for other Latin percussionists to appear in jazz groups, creating a sound unlike any other. Over the years Ray achieved international superstardom and released nearly 2 dozen albums with the Fania label from the late-60s until salsa's popularity peaked in the mid 1980's. In 1975 he was nominated for a Grammy Award for the song ``Barretto,'' and in 1990, he finally won a Grammy for the album ``Ritmo en el Corazon'' (Rhythm in the Heart), which featured the vocals of the late great Celia Cruz. In 1999, Ray was inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame and in January 2006 he was named one of the National Endowment for the Arts' Jazz Masters of 2006, the Nation's highest jazz honor. Mr. Speaker, Rays fusing of Afro-Caribbean rhythms with jazz created a whole new genre of music that has not only entertained us but also helped to unite people from diverse backgrounds in a common love for the sound. The bonds that he worked to create over the years are, as one of his most popular tunes is entitled, ``Indestructible.'' I thank him for having the courage to ask, ``why not,'' when others asked ``why.'' For his masterful play and his genuine creativity I ask that my colleagues join me in giving a final farewell to the Godfather of Latin Jazz, Mr. Ray Barretto.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise during this month dedicated to the celebration of African Americans who have made great contributions to the world, to pay tribute to Ms. Gloria Denard, an accomplished musician who has helped to improve the quality of life for the people of her community. Born into a family of musicians and raised in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, Gloria was destined to be a great musician herself. Under the tutelage of her mother, she began her musical training at the tender age of three. Later in life, she studied at Julliard where she concentrated on classical music and majored in voice with a piano minor. After Julliard, Gloria married and moved to East Harlem. She performed nationally and internationally, including stints in Italy, Bermuda, Greenland and Canada. Although she enjoyed great success as a musician, Gloria was consumed by the desire to improve the quality of life of the people in her community. To that end, she established Manna House Workshops to serve the social and cultural needs of her talented neighbors. Gloria, who by this time had two children, worked without salary and maintained a staff of six teachers. In 1970 she decided to purchase a five story building and establish the current home of Manna House Workshops. After 38 years of service, Manna House Workshops continues to serve as a bright beacon of hope in its community, providing training in music and dance to all who enter their doors. In 1980, Gloria conceived Music for Entertainment Education and Enlightenment (MEEE), a jazz concert series featuring emerging and professional artists presented in the Manna Mini Theatre. In addition, she has maintained her own vocal career and has released two CDs including ``Come Feel the Things You Cannot Touch'' and ``Two for Jazz''. An additional CD will be released in March of this year. She also produces and hosts a cable show every month entitled ``The Best Kept Secret'' on the Manhattan Neighborhood Network. Mr. Speaker, it is impossible to discuss the contributions of African Americans to the history of the world and not mention the great influence they have had upon music. Often great beauty comes from great pain and suffering. It was this sacred art that helped so many find light in times of darkness and peace in times of stifling oppression. From gospel to blues to jazz, and most recently, hip hop, African Americans have not only provided the world with new forms of entertainment, but have found a way to provide insight into their struggles and aspirations. A student of this art, Gloria teaches music to the next generation, hoping to instill in them a sense of self confidence and pride so that they may one day share their gifts with the world. For her beautiful voice and spirit, and her willingness to help others find their own voice, I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Ms. Gloria Denard, and the countless African Americans who came before her and enabled her to find her own voice.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise during this month dedicated to the celebration of African Americans who have made great contributions to the world, to pay tribute to New York Assemblywoman Aurelia Greene. Aurelia is a dedicated public servant who has worked tirelessly to uplift and empower her constituents. A native of the Bronx, Aurelia is a graduate of Livingston College at Rutgers University, where she majored in community development. For the past 24 years she has served as Assemblywoman for the 77th Assembly District, effectively using her urban planning skills to negotiate on behalf of her constituents for affordable housing, quality education, employment opportunities, affordable healthcare, senior services, and improved transportation and infrastructure. As a member of the State Assembly, Aurelia is known for her strong work ethic and robust legislative agenda. She authored legislation, which became law in 2002, prohibiting predatory lending practices in relation to high cost home loans. In addition, she was instrumental in ensuring the passage of the Apprenticeship bill, which provided funds for supplemental and related instruction to apprentices registered by the New York State Department of Labor. And in 1994, she was awarded a gold helmet by the New York State Head Injury Association for her bicycle helmet legislation. As a result of her competence as a legislator and considerable personal charm, Aurelia has been successful in rising through the ranks of the New York State Assembly. She previously served as Deputy Majority Leader and is the first woman to chair the Assembly Standing Committee on Banks. In addition, she recently became the first African American to serve as Speaker Pro Tempore in the State Assembly. Mr. Speaker, earlier this week we said a final goodbye to Mrs. Coretta Scott King, a woman of great resolve and patience, who helped to change the world. Today we honor a woman who stands on her shoulders. Working tirelessly to change the world in her own right, Ms. Greene is the hope and dream of countless men and women of African descent who silently contributed to the pages of history. As a result of the efforts of the likes of Mrs. King and Rosa Parks, Aurelia's contributions to this nation have not gone unnoticed. For her unyielding spirit, and willingness to serve others, I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Ms. Aurelia Greene and in honoring the great women upon whose shoulders she stands.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise during this month dedicated to the celebration of African Americans who have made great contributions to the world, to pay tribute to Mr. Dennis Terry, an individual who has worked throughout his life to fortify the bonds that unite the people of the Bronx in order to help them find success. Born in North Carolina, Dennis has been a Bronx resident since 1969. He is a graduate of Howard University in Washington, DC. Dennis is a retired manager from Lilco (now known as Keyspan) and is currently engaged in part-time consulting. The extensive involvement of Dennis in the community and civic life of his borough and city is reflected in his numerous organizational affiliations. These affiliations include: Mid-Bronx Senior Citizen's Council (chairperson); Concourse Day Care Center (member); and HAC Family Services (member). Dennis' past affiliations include: Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center (former chairperson); The Bronx Health Link (former chairperson); SOBRO (member, Executive Committee); The New York Urban League (member and former chairman of the Bronx Advisory Board); Community Planning Board 4 (former chairman); and the Mayor's Community Planning Board 4 Task Force. Throughout his lifetime of community involvement, Dennis has sought to construct collaborative platforms and organizational networks that maximize the strength of the Bronx's multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and religious diversity. Dennis' efforts have enabled the institutions that he has been affiliated with, and in many cases led, to define, develop, and deliver much needed services. He has focused his public service in the areas of senior and child care, healthcare, housing, employment, and economic development. Mr. Speaker, Dr. King once stated that ``All men are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality.'' This is a statement that Dennis understands all too well. The Bronx is a melting pot of ethnic and religious groups, none of which can survive without the help of another. Fortunately, the Bronx is home to individuals like Dennis Terry, a man of vision and understanding who has helped tear down the walls that so often divide us. He has forced us to see the great potential we can unleash when we work together. He stands on the shoulders of giants, yet he himself has become a giant, espousing a philosophy of tolerance and understanding in order to uplift his fellow citizens. For his selfless attitude and unyielding spirit, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Mr. Dennis Terry and the giants upon whose shoulders he stands.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise during this month, dedicated to the celebration of African Americans who have made great contributions to the world, to pay tribute to Ms. Paula J. Martin, a woman who has worked vigorously to ensure the less fortunate of her community have the necessary skills to succeed in life. Paula serves as the Executive Director of the Harlem Center for Education (HCE), a community based non-profit organization located in East Harlem, New York. Among its programs, HCE counts two federal TRIO Talent Search projects and one Educational Opportunity Center Project. Paula has been involved in TRIO programs for over 32 years. During the 20 years she has served as Executive Director of HCE, the organization has grown from an operational budget of $137,000 to one that is currently over $1,000,000. Her unique ability to secure timely grants has allowed the Harlem Center for Education to grow and reach more deserving young people and adults. Like most of the students with whom she works, Paula is a first generation college student. A graduate of Hunter College High School, she went on to receive a bachelor's degree from Syracuse University and a master's degree in developmental psychology from Columbia University. This achievement alone is worthy of praise; but Paula did not stop there. She decided to dedicate her entire professional career to empowering individuals who shared her life struggles, thus helping to ensure that the cycle of poverty is broken. Booker T . Washington once said: ``Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.'' Indeed, Paula has overcome great obstacles to achieve the position that she now holds and would surely be considered a great success by Washington's standards. However, what impresses me the most about this incredible woman is that she was not satisfied with achieving success for herself. Like Washington, she has worked tirelessly to pull others up from the depths of despair, providing them with opportunities to find success in their own lives. Mr. Speaker, this country owes much of its greatness to the countless men and women of color who silently contributed to the pages of history. Today, I ask that my colleagues join me in saluting them for their efforts and in paying tribute to the great leaders who stand upon their shoulders, such as Ms. Paula J. Martin.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bid a last farewell to Mrs. Coretta Scott King, a woman of great character and conviction who worked tirelessly to make the dream of her husband a reality. Although we know her as the widow of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., that label is far too small to encompass the life of this remarkable woman. Born April 27, 1927 in Marion, Alabama, to Bernice McMurry Scott and Obeadiah Scott, Coretta was an accomplished student, graduating at the top of her high school class while becoming an exceptional musician. Although her parents worked hard to ensure that she was protected from the hardships of the segregated South, she was very aware of the fact that she and all blacks were deprived of many rights. In her 1969 autobiography, ``My Life With Martin Luther King Jr.'' Coretta stated: ``From the first, I had been determined to get ahead, not just for myself, but to do something for my people and for all people.'' Little did she know that fate would have her help shape the mind of a world leader. She met a young King in Boston while he was a student at Boston University and she a student at the New England Conservatory. After receiving her degree in voice and violin, the young couple moved to Montgomery, Alabama. Fifteen months later on December 1, 1955, a woman by the name of Rosa Parks refused to move to the back of a city bus . . . and the rest is history. Over the next 13 years she and her husband pushed our nation to tear down the walls of oppression and to reach for its great potential. By 1968 she had lived a life worth writing about, but it was the woman she became after the assassination of her husband in 1968 that will define her legacy. Only months after his death, she created the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change as a living memorial to her husband's life and dream. Leading marches, giving speeches and meeting with various world leaders, Coretta devoted all her energies to alleviating the pain and suffering of the disenfranchised at home and abroad. She probably will be most remembered for her successful campaign to establish a national holiday to honor the life and works of her husband. Mr. Speaker, throughout our history, great men and women have come and gone from these halls of Congress. However, their contributions to the American discourse did not die with them because we as a body have picked up where they left off, just as those who come after us will undoubtedly do. We all know that none of us are more important than this institution and what it represents. Coretta realized the same was true of her husband's dream. Though he was a great man, his dream was greater than him. Had she allowed it to die with him, we all would have suffered a great disservice. Through her tireless work post-1968, she has ensured that our nation will never forget the dream of Dr. King, and more importantly, that we will never stop working towards its fulfillment. For her great service to America and her unyielding spirit, I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Mrs. Coretta Scott King and in bidding her a final farewell.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Let me start by saying that I support, like everyone else, a free and fair electoral process in Nicaragua in the coming year. And I support democracy in Nicaragua, the separation of powers, the independence of the judiciary, and other institutions. What I am opposed to is the typical U.S. interference in Latin America. Our foreign policy traditionally, historically, has been to ignore Latin America, and then every once in a while to take some action that is so out of touch with reality in Latin America, and foolish, as this resolution is tonight. What we are doing on the floor of the House today is a clear example of this warped, nonexistent policy. If U.S. history in Nicaragua were one of supporting elections without taking sides and supporting checks and balances and independent institutions, I would feel differently about a resolution like this. But we have little credibility in Nicaragua today because the U.S. is perceived as having such a strong animosity to Daniel Ortega, my brother from California just called him a communist and I thought that had ended awhile ago, and the FSLN, that any actions we take are viewed as biased and certainly not objective or impartial. While I can go through sentences in this text that I have differences with, that is not what is driving me to speak on the House floor today. Would we not be providing a better example to the democratic movement in Nicaragua if we led by example and instead of voting on this resolution today, we stayed away from anything that appeared to show the United States taking sides and interfering yet again in Nicaragua? Given our long and troubled history in this country, we need to be careful not to interfere. Instead, let us support the OAS's effort and not take positions on internal Nicaragua elections. Let me also take a moment to comment on one line of the resolution that states: ``Congress condemns the continued operation of the Aleman- Ortega Pact,'' which no longer exists, ``as detrimental to democracy in the Republic of Nicaragua, the future of democracy in Nicaragua, and the stability of the entire region.'' Of course this is right on top of the fact that we now claim that Venezuela is the danger to the region so they have been replaced tonight by Nicaragua as the main danger to the region. I simply have to take issue with the ``stability of the entire region'' comment. I think what undermines the stability of Latin America is the total lack of attention on an ongoing basis to the concerns of Latin America and then kinds of efforts like this resolution that show up every so often. If this were coming to a vote, I would vote against this because I know what this is about. This is a little different than the Chavez- Venezuela issue. On that one we did not like the results, and the results are the fact that either through his coalition, through pushing back and attempted coup, which has our fingerprints all over it, President Chavez and his coalition have been elected and reelected eight times. We do not like the results, so we do not like him. Here we suspect, like the rest of Latin America, that the result may be one we do not like so we are anticipating that by suggesting that they better get their act together, meaning let anybody win except the opposition because that obviously would be undemocratic. Mr. Speaker, there has to be a reason why Latin America went from military dictatorships to so-called democracies to again electing leftist leaders. Either something is in the water of Latin America or people are fed up with conditions. So what do we do? Instead of saying they are electing leftist governments and we should find out why and support the elected leaders in their desire to bring up the poor, we say beware Chavez, beware Bolivia, beware Peru, beware Chile, beware everybody, and especially beware Nicaragua: we did it to you once; we can do it to you again. If you do not elect the kind of government we want, you are in deep trouble with us and you are not democratic. That is not democracy.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Carolyn McLaughlin for her many years of outstanding service as the Executive Director of the Citizens Advice Bureau, a Bronx based social service organization that has helped countless families obtain a new lease on life. Carolyn has always been dedicated to empowering the people of her community. After receiving her Masters in Social Work from Columbia University, she joined the Mt. Eden Senior Center and later the Vacation Camp for the Blind. In 1979, Carolyn made the Citizens Advice Bureau her home and has overseen CAB's progression from a small organization staffed by two people to one with 450 staff members, eight major divisions, and a budget of more than $25 million. The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is a multi-service organization whose mission is to improve the well-being of low-income individuals, families, and communities in the South Bronx and Northern Manhattan. CAB provides an array of services including: Early childhood education, after-school and summer camp programs for children, assistance for homeless families, crisis intervention, counseling and case management for persons with AIDS, senior programs, legal and citizenship assistance for immigrants and a wide range of teen programs. Under Carolyn's strong leadership, CAB has enjoyed many accomplishments over the past 25 years. These accomplishments include: Merging with the Girls Club of New York, obtaining contracts for three Tier II family shelters, creating a Homeless Prevention program, developing a Homeless Outreach team and living room drop in center for homeless adults, launching the Homelessness Relocation Assistance Program for families leaving the shelter system and returning to permanent housing and developing a homeless outreach team. Carolyn sits on the boards of the Non-Profit Coordinating Committee and the Mid-Bronx Senior Citizen's Council. She chaired the Bronx Cluster of Settlement Houses for two years and oversaw cluster-wide community building activities from 1997 to 2001. She also served on advisory panels commissioned on out-of-school time services and homelessness by Mayor Bloomberg. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for Carolyn's unyielding service to the people of the Bronx. Her efforts have helped countless families enjoy a higher standard of living and given them hope that there is a brighter tomorrow. Dr. King once stated that, ``Life's most urgent question is: What are you doing for others?'' Carolyn, along with the entire staff of Citizens Advice Bureau need simply point to the long list of individuals they have helped to empower in the City of New York. I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Ms. Carolyn McLaughlin and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Robert Sancho, an outstanding individual and a dear friend who has dedicated many years of service to empowering the people of my community. Tonight the Citizens Advisory Board will recognize him for his many achievements in the City of New York. Bob was born and raised in the South Bronx. He is a product of the New York City Public School system and went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts Degree at the Inter-American University in San German, Puerto Rico specializing in Education and Political Science. As an undergraduate Bob was awarded a Minority Urban Education Scholarship and completed a Teaching Fellowship in both Urban and Rural School Districts on the Island of Puerto Rico. He received a scholarship to the prestigious Graduate School of Urban Affairs at Hunter College where he completed his Masters of Science Degree. Throughout his career Bob has held positions of great importance in the City of New York and has demonstrated his ability to work extremely well under pressure. As Deputy Superintendent of Schools in Community School District Number 4, he took the district from last place (32nd) in reading and math to 13th among New York City School districts. This feat was achieved over a 7 year period and was considered one of the most successful educational accomplishments in America. During the 1960s Bob was successful in organizing the East Harlem Community against attempts by the Mayor to close down Metropolitan Hospital Center which provided much needed services to the people of that community. In 1981 Bob was appointed Vice President of Development and External Affairs at Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center, the second largest medical facility in the Bronx. During his 23 year tenure at the hospital, Bob was an important catalyst in securing over 240 million dollars in New York State guaranteed Bonds. These bond issues financed the construction of three new buildings and provided for the rehabilitation of the existing hospital buildings. In addition his department has raised approximately $15 million during the last several years for various hospital programs. Mr. Speaker, what makes Bob such a unique an incredible person is that he is willing to put his knowledge and skills to work for causes that help everyday people. Such selflessness is hard to find in today's world. The great work that Bob does at the Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center inspires me to work harder in Washington for the people of the Bronx. It is my hope that he will continue to work to empower and protect those who need it most. For his unyielding spirit and selfless dedication to the citizens of New York, I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Mr. Bob Sancho as he is recognized for his many achievements by the board of the Citizens Advice Board.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. I come with a photograph that sits in my office for many years. It is a photograph of the day that I was sworn in as chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. In the picture is the previous chairman, Solomon Ortiz, and at the center is Ed Roybal. I think it is fitting that he was at the center, because he was always at the center of any change or movement or any small or large or historic moment in our community. The folks that gave me the photograph titled it ``Passing of the Torch.'' At that moment, it was not passing of the torch because I was such a change in the caucus, but because he always welcomed every new Member, and he always felt that every new Member had something new to add. Today, as I look at this photograph, I realize that we have two major parties and a lot of other parties courting the Latino vote. We have posters and journalists and editorial boards saying how strong we have become and how important we are. Yet I wonder at times what it must have been for Ed Roybal to be a member of the L.A. City Council at that time and to be a Member of Congress at the time that he was, when it was not fashionable to be a Latino Member of Congress, when it was indeed a pioneering effort. What I remember most about him is sitting on the House floor and having him speak to me, and in the cloakroom speak to me, with such dignity and such respect about what was expected of me as a Member of Congress, and how much I had to represent the east coast and the Puerto Rican-American community in everything that we did. He had a way about him that is mentioned here. He is what we call a class act. He conducted himself in such a way. He spoke in such a way. If you did not know the history, you were baffled at the fact that this man spoke in a low voice, in a soft voice, and yet he had been a giant in tearing down walls. I guess what he taught me more than anything else is you do not have to yell and scream and kick and get into a rage to make change. You just had to know what it was that you and your community wanted and go at it. This photograph has been replicated today; and tomorrow, Lucille, I will present it to you in the hope that your family takes it not as a moment when I was chairman of the caucus, but rather when the founder of the caucus took time to once again continue the message to yet another generation of Members of Congress and Latino Americans, that this was an important thing to do. This was the passing of the torch at that moment, but he has been passing on the torch and will continue to for as long as we are around.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to bid farewell to friends and mentors, especially those who have worked so hard and given so much to their communities and to our Nation. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of and tribute to Joseph Monserrat, who passed away this week. Joe spent his life in public service, both to his community and to his people. He was born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, and like so many of his generation, moved at a very young age to the United States. He attended public schools and some of New York's most prestigious universities. Joe served honorably in the Army Air Force, and upon returning, began his long career of public service. He quickly rose to positions of leadership in all his undertakings, making a significant mark as Director of the New York office and Deputy National Director of the Migration Division of the Puerto Rican Department of Labor. This agency helped assist and smooth the transition for Puerto Ricans resettling in the United States by working to increase employment and business opportunities, increasing the number of major corporations that had employment programs for Puerto Ricans, and other vital services. After eight years in this capacity, because of his hard work and talent, Joe was promoted to National Director of the Division, where he served for another nine years. Under his leadership, this agency was to become one of the most important national organizations devoted to the cause of helping Puerto Ricans gain a foothold in the United States. He later turned his attention to education, serving on the New York City Board of Education in the early 1970s and later teaching. In his spare time, Joe served on the boards of many prominent civil rights organizations as well as service with many labor-related organizations. He also spent a great deal of time researching and writing some of the most influential scholarly works on issues affecting Hispanics, Puerto Ricans, the Caribbean and Latin America. Mr. Speaker, Joe was a tireless leader, brimming with vision, energy and ideals. He was a mentor, a teacher, a friend, and, most importantly, the source of inspiration to countless leaders. The institutions that he touched were forever marked as they reached new heights of service and dedication to worthy causes. Joe's legacy of service to others and his valuable contributions in all sectors of society will be sorely missed but his legacy lives on. I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Joe's family, colleagues, friends, and all those whom he touched by his life and example. Mr. Speaker, Joe Monserrat was an uncommon leader on the many different issues that he addressed during his life. He truly showed the way for many Puerto Ricans and Hispanics who followed in his footsteps in New York City and in the nation. Joe could truly be called one of the leading lights of the Hispanic community in the United States, and his commitment to public service should be honored. Fortunately through his leadership, he created a generation of people who will ensure that his vision for the betterment of the Puerto Rican and Hispanic community will not be lost. Mr. Speaker, I am glad to report that even with his passing, his light was not extinguished; instead it will shine stronger than ever among all those he inspired. I ask my colleagues to join me and all who had the privilege of knowing Joe Monserrat in paying tribute to him for serving his community and our nation with uncommon wisdom, generosity and dignity.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time and for the very kind words. I rise in support of the conference report, and I congratulate the gentleman from Virginia and the gentleman from West Virginia for not only the way in which they continue to work together but the way in which they work with all members of the subcommittee and, indeed, all Members of the House. I am especially pleased that we were able to fund the Census Bureau at the higher House level. This will allow for the continuation of the important American Community Survey which provides accurate and up-to- date information on housing, demographic and socioeconomic conditions in our country. As we know, there was a period of time there during conference negotiations where this program was in danger. I am also glad that NOAA was funded at a higher level than that included in the House bill. In the aftermath of the recent hurricanes, we all recognize the important role of our National Weather Service. This is the first year, Madam Speaker, that the Science portfolio was added to this subcommittee's jurisdiction, and I am satisfied that both NASA and the National Science Foundation received more funding than was appropriated in 2005. NASA has a vital role in maintaining our Nation's leadership in science and technology through its educational programs, in particular, and in its broad portfolio of university-based research. I am happy that the National Science Foundation's funding will allow for the continuation of their education programs, which benefit so many of our students. I am also pleased that the State Department funding was provided so that there would be worldwide security improvements. We must always be vigilant in guarding the safety of those who so ably represent us both here and abroad. The FBI is the biggest winner in this bill, receiving an increase of $547 million; and as the chairman knows and the ranking member knows, I have always felt that the FBI should get whatever resources it needs. But I would be remiss, Madam Speaker, if I did not briefly mention that I have been troubled by many of the bureau's practices of late, including its handling of the Filiberto Ojeda-Rios incident in Puerto Rico, which should not have resulted in his killing. I am also concerned about the FBI's ever-increasing use of national security letters. As the FBI continues to adjust to its new powers and responsibilities, I hope that we in this country will continue to scrutinize the FBI's activities to ensure that we do not witness repeats of the abuses that have tainted the organization in the past. Before closing, let me just say that I have often said in subcommittee, Madam Speaker, that if in the process of getting the bad guys, we throw away the Constitution and take away the civil liberties of the good guys, then the terrorists would have won and we as a Nation would have lost. With that in mind, I support the conference report, and I ask for its passage.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, fifty years ago a small group of Americans, set out to ensure that America lived up to its promise of providing equal rights to all. They forced America to reach for her great potential and changed the destiny of not only a nation but the entire world. I rise today to honor the legacy and memory of the woman who gave life to this small group of Americans, the mother of the civil rights movement, Mrs. Rosa Parks. Rosa Louise McCauley was born in Tuskegee, Alabama, on February 4, 1913. In 1932 she married a barber named Raymond Parks. Prior to her arrest they both were very active in the voter registration movement and with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, where she also worked as a secretary in 1943. Those who knew her best described her as being hardworking, polite and morally upright. On December 1, 1955 Parks took a seat in the front of the black section of a city bus in Montgomery, Alabama. The bus filled up and the bus driver demanded that she move so a white male passenger could have her seat. When Parks refused to give up her seat she was arrested. Four days following her arrest, a group of dedicated young individuals founded the Montgomery Improvement Association and named Martin Luther King Jr., their leader. King led a successful boycott of the transportation system and went on to lead the modem civil rights movement ensuring that every American was guaranteed equal rights under the law. Rosa Parks was truly a courageous person. Her refusal to give up her seat in the face of the powerful forces of injustice helped to galvanize the long-overdue struggle for civil rights. She sat down in order to show us that we have tremendous power when we stand up. All Americans, regardless of race or creed, owe Mrs. Parks a debt of gratitude for her contribution to the national movement for a better America. Mr. Speaker, although she is gone, the power of her actions remain with us. As she said, ``Memories of our lives, of our worth and our deeds will continue in others.'' I hope that we heed those comments today as we continue the fight for equal rights and social justice. I thank her for her courage and I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring her memory.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to a woman of great integrity and character. Ms. Amalia V. Betanzos has decided to retire from the Wildcat Service Corporation after 27 years of dedicated leadership. Tonight, she will be honored for her service in the city of New York. Born and raised in the South Bronx, Amalia is a graduate of New York University and has extensive experience in the public and private not- for-profit sectors. She has served in a variety of positions in the administrations of several New York Mayors. As Commissioner of the Youth Services Agency she helped to shape the destinies of more than half a million New York youth and gained a reputation for being an outstanding administrator with an untiring capacity to meet new challenges. As Executive Secretary to Mayor John Lindsay she was in charge of programs for the poor and the physically and mentally handicapped. As Commissioner of Relocation and Management services in the Housing and Development Administration, Amalia was directly in charge of coordinating relocation services to families in conjunction with the City's Urban Renewal programs and emergency housing. Amalia's extensive experience in city government provided her with the breadth of knowledge necessary to lead an organization such as Wildcat Service Corporation. Founded in 1972, Wildcat's mission is to bring the chronically unemployed, for example, ex-offenders, public assistance recipients, former alcohol and substance abusers, high school dropouts, youth involved with the criminal justice system and persons with limited English language proficiency, into the regular labor force, thus breaking their cycle of poverty, addiction and crime. Under Amalia's strong leadership Wildcat changed the lives of countless New Yorkers, providing them and their families with a new lease on life. Mr. Speaker, it is rare to find individuals who are willing to dedicate their entire lives to uplifting others. Amalia V. Betanzos is indeed one of these special people. She has literally improved the lives of thousands of individuals. Her efforts to empower society's most vulnerable citizens will not only change their destinies but also the destinies of generations to come. Surely that is the mark of a great career. For her unyielding service and untiring spirit, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to a dear friend, Ms. Amalia V. Betanzos.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. If the gentleman will yield for just a moment. In this profession of ours, we like to make predictions and, of course, we like to be right. I will make a prediction now, one that we have discussed before, and I hope I am wrong. I hope I am totally wrong. News flash: Making a prediction; I hope I am wrong. When this war settles down to something other than it is, because we are going to be there for at least 10 or 12 years, but when it settles to something less or different than what it is now, there will be many of us coming to the House floor putting in legislation to say those folks coming back need special medical attention, psychological, physical, all kinds of things. They need special housing and job training. They need all kinds of help. Well, the very people who are now saying we support the troops and are jumping all over the place spending all kinds of money on that ill-conceived war will be the ones saying we are fiscally irresponsible in trying to take care of the troops coming back home. The best way to take care of the troops is, one, bring them home now, right away; and the second thing is to make sure they are rewarded and cared for for the pain they went through. We know, sadly enough and unfortunately, that of the close to 2,000 Americans who have died we all know some personally. What we do not know, because this government will not tell us, is what is the total number of thousands of wounded, wounded who will come back, and are here already, with pain that needs to be dealt with. And the wounded in a war, as you know, could be getting shot in the hand to losing your eyesight or losing a leg or an arm. There are serious injuries coming back, but nobody is talking about that. So I think the gentleman is right to continue to drive this home so that the American people can just get a wider look and then make their own decision, and I thank the gentleman once more so very much.

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, let me thank the gentleman that he brought this week this issue up again and again. I think it is very courageous on his part and very profound. Secondly, as far as the World Series goes, it is true that the Yankees and the Marlins are not in it, I also noted that you took our bench coach, our assistant coach, as your new manager so you will do better in the future. One of the issues that come to mind as I was watching the gentleman, as we know, this is transmitted live on television, I am wondering if the folks who are watching us today were also the same folks perhaps that watched the victims of Hurricane Katrina as that national tragedy hit us. Regardless of whether you felt it was a State or local responsibility or a joint responsibility with the Federal Government or whether you think we as a Nation failed or not, those images are in your head. Now you see this discussion. What is this discussion about and how do I see it? We all tend to come have the same feeling but we come to the table with perhaps slightly different views. My concern is, as a member of the Committee on Appropriations, is that in the appropriations process we have the ability to declare an emergency. An emergency means just that. That while we try to balance a budget and while we try to have expenditures that meet both the needs and our ability to pay, that there comes every so often a situation that requires us to spend the money and deal with the fact that we are spending that money rather than try to make somebody pay a major price for it. Of course, my biggest example is the war in Iraq. Now, whether you support the war or you oppose the war; and, incidentally, one of the things that we always need to clarify is that opposition to the war is not opposition to the men and women fighting the war. In fact, I could argue that you really support them by bringing them home tomorrow and ending the war. But that is a discussion for another time. What is a discussion today is that the American people need to know that the way we pay for the war is by paying for the war. Whatever amount needs to be spent on the war in Iraq, we spend it. And it has gone close to or above $300 billion that we have spent. Now, if I was to be sarcastic up here I would say that basically what we have done is print the money. We have not taken it out of anybody's budget. We have not taken it out of anybody's pain. We basically printed the budget. Now there is a word in the English language that I try very rarely to use and that is immoral immorality. The reason for that is who the heck am I to determine what is immoral and who is involved in an immoral act, when in fact we are all guilty of a lot of things in the way we behave in this society. But if there is anything that resembles legislative immorality it is the suggestion that for you to get whole again, for you to be helped after Katrina, the way to do this is by taking money away from the programs that in fact affect the very same communities in many ways that are being hurt while slipping in, slipping in permanently this gigantic tax cut for people who did not need it and some of them who publicly said we do not want it. You recall some very wealthy people in this country saying we do not want that tax cut. We do not need it. So that what the American people need to understand is that I cannot imagine, nor have we ever heard of one American who watched the videos, the scenes of Katrina, and said, good for them. Everyone was heartbroken and wanted to do something. Our country came together in the aftermath to try to help. But what I think most people do not know is that the majority party is trying to slip in all of a sudden a new legislative morality that says when you pay for certain emergencies, you have to take it out of somewhere. Now, where do you take it out of? Well, if you take it out of people and places that can afford it, then perhaps that is balanced. But to suggest you are going to take and pay for Katrina relief by cutting out certain amounts of student loans or certain housing programs or what may be left of the Food Stamp Program in this country, which is now down to practically nothing, or to help children in our country, to suggest that you would pay for that by taking out of there is, in my opinion, totally improper. It is not in the best interest of who we are as a country and it does not make us look good. So we saw many in the last couple of days allow perhaps a momentary slight retreat on bringing that approach to the House floor. But the importance of the gentleman's comments and his being here today, and the reason why I joined him for a few minutes, is the fact that we have to keep mentioning the issue and the fact that that idea is still out there; that, again, if we cut the taxes of billionaire, that is okay; that if we put forth a war that half the country is still questioning why we are in it to begin with, that is okay to pay the $300 billion; that it is okay to build schools, hospitals, playgrounds, temples, churches, and any kind of structure for the people of Iraq. But to rebuild New Orleans, we have to take it out of a social program or an educational program. That is what the people need to understand, and I know that is what we are trying to do here today. Let me repeat that just one last time, not to be repetitious but to simply make the point and to drive it home. In Iraq it is not just a war. The American people need to know that we are rebuilding Iraq. Incidentally, not necessarily rebuilding anything the former government destroyed but maybe we destroyed in the process. So we are putting in new schools, new homes, new temples, new churches, new community centers, an infrastructure, and new transportation systems. We are rebuilding a country. But if you were caught up in Katrina, you are on your own. And if we help you, we are going to take it out of another part of your life or another part of your suffering. That is wrong. That is where we have to wake up and say who are we, what are we, and I believe that we are much better than that. So I thank the gentleman for his time, and I really hope that we can wake up soon, in the next week or so, and stop this madness from going forth.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the conference agreement on H.R. 2360, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2006. This is not a perfect bill; I believe that we are acquiescing too readily to yet another restructuring plan, allowing the Department to yet again reshuffle boxes on its organizational chart without adequately establishing in hearings that the proposals will actually make this country safer. No amount of structural reform, which inherently muddles missions and produces chaos among employees, can substitute for professionalism, expertise, and strong leadership. I am also concerned that, given our woefully inadequate 302(b) allocation, we have had to shore up funding for the Department's essential activities at the expense of our support for state and local law enforcement agencies and first responders. State and local governments continue to be on the front lines of any effort to respond to natural disasters and acts of terrorism, and yet we have funded them significantly below both last year's level and the Administration's request. At a time when the Administration is trying to shift blame to state and local governments for the chaotic overall response to Hurricane Katrina, we have not provided them with adequate resources to get the job done. That said, I believe that this bill does a reasonably good job of addressing our most pressing homeland security needs. I especially want to highlight a provision that directs the Department to allocate the bulk of first responder grants on the basis of threat and risk. While I do not believe that our task in this Congress will be finished until 100 percent of the Department's grant funds are allocated on the basis of risk, this conference report is a noteworthy step in the right direction. In addition, I am pleased that the conference report includes measures to ensure accountability in the way that the Department spends these appropriations, especially with respect to emergency supplemental funding for Hurricane Katrina. The Department's initial reports to Congress, required by law, have lacked detailed specifics on how the Department has been spending the $60 billion that this Congress has provided since the hurricane first hit. While the American people fully support our commitment to providing relief to the victims of Katrina and Rita, they also expect this Congress to make sure that the Department spends their tax dollars effectively and responsibly. In closing, I would like to thank subcommittee Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Sabo for their hard work on this critical bill. We all knew that the creation of the department would create a considerable management challenge, and today, as we pass the third appropriations bill funding the department, I would like to applaud their leadership on this subcommittee for making sure that many of these concerns have been addressed.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Saint Jerome Church in the Bronx. On October 2, 2005 they will hold rededication ceremonies in honor of the newly renovated Church. St. Jerome Church was founded on September 24, 1869, and primarily served the large group of Irish immigrants arriving in America during the latter half of the 19th century. In 1898, the cornerstone was laid for the building that St. Jerome Church would call home for the next hundred years. So magnificent was the edifice that to this day it is called ``The Cathedral of the Bronx.'' The stained glass windows and beautifully painted ceilings make Saint Jerome Church truly one of the most visually stunning churches in the city. Throughout its history, St. Jerome Church has stood fast in good times and bad as a symbol of faith. Through two World Wars, the Korean War and Vietnam, the church has watched as many of its sons and daughters bravely served their country. Those who made the ultimate sacrifice have their names inscribed on the walls of the church as a reminder of the high cost of war. In the fifties, as Puerto Ricans and others from the Caribbean made the Bronx their home, St. Jerome Church was there to welcome them with open arms. The priests made it a priority to learn Spanish as new spirit was breathed into the surrounding neighborhood. Even today, St. Jerome Church continues its legacy of welcoming newcomers to the Bronx as Mexican immigrants have revitalized the area. Mr. Speaker, scripture tells us in Deuteronomy 15:7: ``If there is a poor man among you, one of your brothers, in any of the towns of the land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart, nor close your hand to your poor brother; but you shall freely open your hand to him, and generously lend him sufficient for his need in whatever he lacks.'' St. Jerome Church has always striven to realize these instructions. Under the spiritual leadership of my friend, Father John Grange, over the last 26 years St. Jerome Church has grown into a powerful healing force in the Bronx, taking in Bronxites of all nationalities and providing them with food for the soul. As the representative from the South Bronx, the poorest Congressional District in the nation, I am grateful to have a church in my community that works so hard, day in and day out, to provide for those who are in need. In an effort to provide better lives for themselves and their families, many immigrants make the Bronx their first home in the States. During those trying first few years, it is institutions like St. Jerome Church which help them manage their struggle by providing constant spiritual guidance. St. Jerome Church has in the past and continues to freely open their hand to the people of the Bronx. For 136 years of outstanding service to the people of the Bronx, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to St. Jerome Church as it is re-dedicated on October 2, 2005.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sympathy that I rise today to give a final goodbye to a wonderful woman who dedicated her life to helping others live well. Ms. Reeves Dixon passed away on September 2, 2005. She was a fine woman and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. This daughter of the Bronx life's resume is long and impressive but I want to take a moment to highlight the important contributions she made to the people of my community. Since 1980 Reeves worked with the 163rd Street Improvement Council, serving first as the Assistant Executive Director and later as its President and CEO. As CEO of the 163rd Street Improvement Council Reeves pushed the organization to plan, design, develop and implement affordable housing and support services that focused on meeting the housing and human services needs of the residents of the Southeast Bronx. Most of the Council's clients have incomes below the median level. In an effort to help empower these low income families the council offers an integrated program which provides quality and affordable housing through direct assistance that includes support services, education, advocacy, placement and referral. The Council helps to increase self esteem and self determination and decrease dependency on government subsidies. Under her strong leadership the Council moved from a budget of $400,000 to a multi-million dollar organization. Its growth not only demonstrated the great need for such an organization in the Bronx but also the strong leadership and vision of Reeves. This past week the world watched in disbelief as Hurricane Katrina destroyed a major American city. While this storm will go down in history as the worst natural disaster to strike this Nation, it had much more significance. Katrina forced Americans to remove the wool that many had placed over their eyes to face the grim reality that there are millions of people in this country who live in utter poverty. Perhaps now Americans will realize the great responsibility they have to uplift those who are most vulnerable in our society. The life of Reeves Dixon is a shining example of how every American should lead his/her life--working to uplift her/his fellow man. Reeves understood that her community, much like the Nation as a whole, could not survive if its most vulnerable citizens were not protected. As a result she spent her life empowering others. Although Reeves has passed on, the many good works that she did will continue to benefit the lives of others for generations to come. Surely that is the mark of great life. For her unyielding spirit and kind heart I ask my colleagues to join me in saying goodbye to a dear friend and role model to us all--Ms. Reeves Dixon.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to National Hispanic Heritage Month. During this month, America celebrates the traditions, ancestry, and unique experiences of those who trace their roots to Mexico, the countries of Central and South America, the Caribbean and Spain and we thank them for the many contributions they have made to this nation. Unlike any other country on earth, America thrives on its ability to attract people of all faiths, colors and creeds to reside within its borders. Such mixing of cultural knowledge and experiences has helped this country to become the greatest nation the world has ever known. Moreover, as a Puerto Rican, I am very proud of the contributions Hispanics have made and continue to make to this cultural mosaic. Hispanic influence on American culture is evident from every aspect of American life including music, film, food, arts, sports and politics. Economically, culturally, and politically, Latinos are an integral part of our nation. As we celebrate this special month I would like to pay special tribute to those who were Hispanic trailblazers and helped to bring the rich culture of the Hispanic people to the United States. As a Hispanic Member of Congress, I along with the rest of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, follow in the footsteps of great pioneers such as Joseph Marion Hernandez who became the first Hispanic to serve as a member of the United States Congress in 1822. Roberto Clemente, Celia Cruz, Raul Julia and countless others helped to open doors in their respective fields enabling the Hispanics of today to share their rich history and culture with all Americans. As we forge ahead in the 21st century we must continue to work to guarantee that America is not only rich with diversity but equality as well. I am committed to ensuring that Hispanics are able to enjoy a higher standard of living for generations to come. It is important that Hispanics become home owners, attend institutions of higher learning, earn higher wages and receive quality healthcare. The success of this nation depends upon the success of all its citizens. Mr. Speaker, for their many contributions to our nation and culture, and for their unyielding drive to achieve the American dream, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Hispanic Americans during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Mariano Rivera, as he is awarded the 2004 Latino MVP Relief Pitcher of the Year Award by Latino Sports and the Latino Sports Writers & Broadcasters Association (LSWBA). Rivera made his major league debut with the New York Yankees in 1995. Since 1997 he has served as the team's closer and has blown away his competition. Rivera is arguably the most effective closer in postseason baseball history, recording final outs in three Yankee world title seasons (1998, 1999 and 2000). He also owns the Major League record for most postseason saves with 32, as well as most World Series saves with 9. Rivera also established the longest scoreless innings streak in postseason play with thirty-three innings pitched and was named as the World Series MVP in 1999 and the Most Valuable Player of the American League Championship Series in 2003. He currently leads the Yankees as the club's all-time saves leader with 366 and boasts an incredible Earned Run Average below 1.00 in postseason play. Mariano Rivera was born on November 11, 1969, in Panama City. The son of a fisherman, he grew up poor and played baseball as a kid using a glove fashioned out of a cardboard box. He has been described by many as being a deeply religious man, and says that he would one day want to move back to his native Panama to become a Priest. While fans of opposing teams dread to see Rivera on the mound, all will agree that he is a class act. Never one to boast or brag about his incredible gift, Rivera comes to work and does the job better than anyone. He is fearless yet humble, a combination that we seldom see in today's athletes. When the game is on the line, great athletes always rise to the challenge. Jordan, Montana and Pele all separated themselves from the pack with their ability to overcome their fears and anxiety and play with a high level of confidence. With his ability to shut down opponents at the end of a game Rivera has earned a place among these elite competitors. Mr. Speaker, Mariano Rivera is proof of the great contributions Latinos continue to make to this country. While I am proud of the many championships Rivera has helped to bring to the city of New York, I am more proud of the fact that he has helped to improve the lives of many young people in the South Bronx. Whether he knows it or not, Rivera's attitude towards the game of baseball provides all who watch him with a model of how to approach life--hard work and determination. Mariano Rivera exemplifies the idea of an athlete as a role model. For his unyielding competitive spirit and positive impact on the lives of all Americans, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Mr. Mariano Rivera as he is awarded the 2004 Latino MVP Award.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to the sixteenth annual Dominican Day Parade and Festival of the Bronx which will take place Sunday, July 17, 2005. This famed event is eagerly anticipated by the Dominican and Bronx communities each year. It is a wonderful celebration of the spirit and richness of Dominican culture. Under the leadership of Felipe Febles and Rosa Ayala, the Bronx Dominican Day Parade, Inc., (La Gran Parada Dominicana de EI Bronx) has grown into an important institution to increase the self awareness and pride of the Dominican people in order to promote economic development, education, cultural recognition, and advancement. As the second largest Latino community in New York City, Dominicans have made invaluable contributions to the city, as well as to the entire nation. Although the highest concentration of Dominican people live in Washington Heights, a significant number have enriched the Bronx with their unique culture and spirit. The Dominican culture is one characterized by, among other things, diverse multi-culturalism, strong family values, distinctive art, amazing music and unique cuisine. We are grateful that so many have chosen to make the Bronx home. Mr. Speaker, the roots of Dominican New Yorkers lie in a country with a fascinating history and arresting beauty. The Dominican Republic is the home of a number of people from various heritages. As a result, the culture is charged with strong Taino, African, and European influences. One visit to the Dominican Republic will put to rest any questions one might have as to why Dominicans in America retain such a strong sense of pride in their homeland and never stop missing it. The achievements and contributions made by Dominican-Americans and Dominican residents have spanned the realms of politics, science, the Armed Forces, literature, public service, and the arts, and undoubtedly make them an integral part of American society. The Dominican Day Parade and Festival of the Bronx is a great opportunity to celebrate the Dominican people's culture, history, and bright future. I ask my colleagues to please join me in honoring the Dominican Day Parade and Festival of the Bronx.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to the sixteenth annual Dominican Day Parade and Festival of the Bronx which will take place Sunday, July 17, 2005. This famed event is eagerly anticipated by the Dominican and Bronx communities each year. It is a wonderful celebration of the spirit and richness of Dominican culture. Under its founder and president, Felipe Febles, the Bronx Dominican Day Parade, Inc., (La Gran Parada Dominicana de EI Bronx) has grown into an important institution to increase the self awareness and pride of the Dominican people in order to promote economic development, education, cultural recognition, and advancement. As the second largest Latino community in New York City, Dominicans have made invaluable contributions to the city, as well as to the entire nation. Although the highest concentration of Dominican people live in Washington Heights, a significant number have enriched the Bronx with their unique culture and spirit. The Dominican culture is one characterized by, among other things, diverse multi-culturalism, strong family values, distinctive art, amazing music and unique cuisine. We are grateful that so many have chosen to make the Bronx home. Mr. Speaker, the roots of Dominican New Yorkers lie in a country with a fascinating history and arresting beauty. The Dominican Republic is the home of a number of people from various heritages. As a result, the culture is charged with strong Taino, African, and European influences. One visit to the Dominican Republic will put to rest any questions one might have as to why Dominicans in America retain such a strong sense of pride in their homeland and never stop missing it. The achievements and contributions made by Dominican-Americans and Dominican residents have spanned the realms of politics, science, the Armed Forces, literature, public service, and the arts, and undoubtedly make them an integral part of American society. The Dominican Day Parade and Festival of the Bronx is a great opportunity to celebrate the Dominican people's culture, history, and bright future. I ask my colleagues to please join me in honoring the Dominican Day Parade and Festival of the Bronx.

Mr. SERRANO

Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to a long time friend, Mr. George Rodriguez. ``Georgie'', as he is affectionately known in my community, will be honored in the Bronx, New York tonight for his outstanding work and unyielding service to the people of the Bronx, NY. Since he arrived in New York over forty years ago, George has devoted most of his time to fighting the good fight. Serving as an advocate for the disadvantaged, George has helped to curtail the debilitating effects of racism, poverty and disease throughout the Bronx community. Among George's long list of accomplishments are several projects which have helped to put roofs over the heads of our most vulnerable citizens. He has served as Chairman of the NYC Model Cities Program (a program that provides low income residents and senior citizens with housing), and helped to establish Mins Plaza Housing, OVB Garden Apartments and Borinquen Court housing for seniors. In addition, George has assisted in providing his neighbors with much needed quality healthcare. He was instrumental in the establishment of the New Lincoln Hospital, and the Degunda Ruix Belvis Neighborhood Health Center. Mr. Speaker, men like George are a rare breed. It is not everyday that you find individuals who are willing to devote their entire lives to uplifting others. His selfless acts of kindness have helped countless Bronxites live better lives. Furthermore, his actions serve as a testimony to the great influence an individual can have when he is determined to bring about change. Mr. Speaker, I am truly appreciative of the work George has done for residents of the congressional district. As a result of his strong leadership and vision, the Bronx is a better place and as result of his enduring friendship I am a better leader. For his outstanding service to the people of my community, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. George Rodriguez.