Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Charlene Phillips, a native New Yorker with a passion for helping others through non- profit means. Ms. Phillips was educated in the New York City Public School system. She attended Long Island University where she received an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She graduated with Honors, Suma Cum Laude. Ms. Phillips is the District Manager for Community Board 3, a position she has held since January 2006. She began working for the Community Board in December of 2004. Ms. Phillips has always enjoyed assisting people and felt that she would be able to live her passion through her position of helping at the Community Board. She has managed for the past 15 years to work in the field of service provider to the community through diverse non-profit organizations. Prior to coming to Community Board 3, she worked in the office of Attorney Kimberly L. Detherage, again providing service to those of our community. Ms. Phillips possesses a humble spirit and is rarely seen in the forefront. In the 1990s she worked for a church where she provided services to the congregants, often utilizing the services of the Community Board and its former District Manager. Later, she worked for an organization, The Faith Center for Community Development, which specialized in capacity building for organizations within the faith- based community to enhance the communities around them through areas of housing, day care, and multi-service facilities. In addition to her work at the Community Board, Ms. Phillips is very active in her church. Her activities include singing in the choir, teaching children in Sunday School, and she also worked with the Female Rites of Passage Program for young ladies between the ages of 12-18 for twelve years. She has recently become a Deacon in Brooklyn Community Church. Ms. Phillips believes that God places you in diverse circumstances to allow you to fully understand exactly where you should be and what you should be doing. Ms. Phillips' motto is: ``If she can help someone as she passes along this way; then her living will truly not be in vain. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Charlene Phillips for her extraordinary ability to serve her fellow constituents with unwavering dedication.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Detective First Grade Izora Neal for her dedication to restoring law and order in my district, as well as for bridging the gap between the community and the police. Detective First Grade Neal is currently assigned as the Community Affairs Officer of Police Service Area #2. She entered the New York City Police Department Academy in 1994. Upon her graduation, she was assigned to the PSA #2. Detective Neal excelled--engaging in numerous arrests while gaining experience on the force. Detective Neal was assigned to the Community Affairs position in October 1997. She entered the position with confidence and a genuine desire to have a positive impact for all New York City Housing Authority residents. Detective Neal was ambitious about the prospects of becoming detective and made great strides towards accomplishing her goal. In July 1999, her perseverance was recognized as she was promoted to the rank of Detective Special Assignment. As a newly promoted Detective she continued in her present assignment and utilized her leadership and strong interpersonal skills, gaining the trust of all residents. In her continued pursuit for success, Detective Neal was promoted to the rank of Detective Second Grade in February 2003. Although pleased with her present rank and assignment, Detective Neal's desire for excellence compelled her to continue working hard. Her devotion for a better quality of life for all NYCHA residents proved to be very successful. In August 2006 she was promoted to the rank of Detective First Grade. Currently, Detective Neal continues to make strides while assigned to Police Service Area #2, giving her the opportunity to display her leadership skills, and her dedication towards the community. As the Community Affairs Officer one must ensure a bond of trust and reliance between the police and community; one must be open-minded, unbiased and sensitive to the concerns and problems within the community, display empathy and compassion with sincerity, but not in a rehearsed manner. These ideas are a part of the partnership that allows Detective Neal to define herself as the Community Affairs Officer of Police Service Area #2. Detective Neal is happily married to Anthony Neal (whom she met on 09/11/2001), and has a 5 year old son Jaylen. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Detective Izora Neal for her pursuit of excellence in the field of law enforcement.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Major Morrison for his dedicated public service to his country, community, and family. Reverend Major Morrison, III is son of Marian and Major Morrison, Jr. Reverend Morrison grew up in New York City where he attended Medgar Evers College with a concentration in Liberal Arts. He then transferred to New York City Community College and studied Mechanical Engineering. In 1979, Reverend Morrison joined the United States Merchant Marines and served until 1998. He was elevated to the post of Watch Engineer. Reverend Morrison served one tour duty in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield in 1991. After serving his country he started working at the Veterans Medical Center in New York City where he is presently a Systems Boiler Plant Operating Engineer. Reverend Morrison was called into the ministry at an early age. He was baptized in the Methodist tradition and faith. Reverend Morrison was a choir member; Boy Scout; and served as an usher. Reverend Morrison has preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ in various denominational settings: Baptist; Methodist; and Presbyterian. Reverend Morrison felt compelled to continue his education and enrolled in Somerset Christian College pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Upon completing his degree at Somerset Christian College, Reverend Morrison will enhance his ministerial capabilities as a biblical interpreter at The New York Theological Seminary in the Master of Divinity Program. Reverend Morrison has been engaged in many civic associations: he is a former member of Community Board 4; sat on the Public Safety and Human Services Committee; was a chaplain for the New Jersey Eastern Star Home; and serviced the veterans at St. Albans Community Living Center--Unit A5. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Reverend Major Morrison for his excellence in working with Veterans and his service within the church.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Alice Adell Mays for the many accomplishments she has attained in my district throughout her life. Ms. Mays was born in Halifax County Virginia, about six and a half decades ago. Growing up on a farm as the second oldest of five children she was endowed with the responsibility of being the caregiver at an early age. This was never an issue for Ms. Mays, as she always had a loving and compassionate heart. Ms. Mays was educated in Virginia and later migrated to New York City. Once settled in, she began working as an usherette for playwrights such as Neil Simon at the Eugene O'Neil Theatre and other local theatres. Presently, she is a Childcare Provider and package receiver for the community. She has not only raised her own children, but she has been a community mother for numerous years. Later she met and married George (Gee) W. Mays. Together they reared six children; three have preceded them in death. She also has four grandchildren and one great grandchild. Through it all, her faith has gotten stronger in Christ, and she gives back to her community through her devout religiosity. Ms., Mays was a faithful member of the Greater Friendship Baptist for many years where she served as President of the Deaconess Board and on the pastor's aide ministry. In 2003, after the death of her mother, she moved her membership to Union Baptist Church. There she works in the capacity as President of the Pastor's Aide and will willingly help other church ministries in their efforts. Ms. Mays has many hobbies that include conversing with people from all walks of life; playing games of various sorts; and beautification of one's self, making sure her hair, nails, and makeup are done on a daily basis. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Alice Adell Mays for her dedication to her faith and the nurturing personality she has developed with all those she is in contact with.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Carl Luciano, a Brooklynite who has offered decades of service to my community through education and social welfare programs. Mr. Luciano is a lifelong Brooklynite, educated in the New York Public school system. It was the streets of Brooklyn that gave Mr. Luciano the passion for the work that he currently does. He is presently working with Councilmember Darlene Mealy and has had the fortunes of working with many other officials in the Brooklyn community. The Lord has allowed Mr. Luciano to work under three other elected officials. The blessing in working with all of these elected officials is that they all share the same passion as Mr. Luciano towards education and empowerment of the community of Bedford Stuyvesant. Through education, a youth can change their personal lives and the lives of others living in their community. It is Mr. Luciano's way of paying it forward--the service he offers Brooklyn constituents. Mr. Luciano has resided in Bedford Stuyvesant for over forty years. He has witnessed the good and bad of his community. In his spare time he devotes attention to youth intervention, willing to communicate with anyone interested in learning the power of community through unity. He has planted this seed in various platforms for the past eleven years. Mr. Luciano's strength comes from his spiritual grounding and guidance through his relationship with Christ Jesus. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Carl Luciano for his accomplishments in Brooklyn.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Kimberly Headley for her extensive efforts to reform my Brooklyn district through public outreach services. Reverend Headley was born and raised in East New York, Brooklyn. She started junior high school at age 12 and was promoted from the 7th to the 9th grade. After high school, Reverend Headley entered Bernard M. Baruch College at age 16 where she studied Public Administration. Upon graduation, she entered the workforce as a junior press secretary to then Comptroller Elizabeth Holtzman. She stayed in the administration until Alan G. Hevesi became Comptroller. Reverend Headley has always demonstrated a willingness to go above and beyond what is expected of her. In her earlier years, while her father was district leader and first vice chair of Kings County Democratic organization, she spearheaded all of his fundraisers at which hundreds of people were in attendance. The most successful fundraiser she hosted had an attendance of up to 900 people. In 1997, Reverend Headley began teaching Sunday school, and became the Sunday School Superintendent within a year in Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. In 2006, Reverend Headley became a licensed minister of the Gospel. Prior to that, she had been preaching in platform services and evangelizing on the subways and streets of Brooklyn. Upon the death of pastor Reverend Charles Dunston, the Lord called Reverend Headley to Berean Baptist Church. She was ordained as a Reverend by Reverend Dr. Arlee Griffin, Jr., pastor of Berean Baptist Church. Today she is an active member of the Young Adult Ministry; is a teacher with the New Members and Friends Ministry; and is an associate minister and member of Berean's newest drama ministry. She is presently a Special Assistant to Congressman Edolphus ``Ed'' Towns in the Canarsie district office where she drafts most of the proclamations and assists with letters of commendation; condolence; and support for organizations seeking funding from Congressman Towns' office. She is his office liaison for the 40th Assembly District and sits on the Cypress Hills Weed & Seed Steering Committee on behalf of Congressman Towns. Reverend Headley holds a Master of Science degree in Publishing. She presently is a second year student at Alliance Theological Seminary in New York City, pursuing a Master's in Divinity in Church Development. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Reverend Kimberly Headley for her passion for God's word and the dedication she has for improving our community.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend M. Zidde Hamatheite for his profound dedication to his religion and for sharing his convictions with my community through prayer. Reverend M. Zidde Hamatheite was born on January 11, 1971 to the late Archbishop M. Zidoneo and Rakal Hamatheite in Brooklyn, New York. He was taught at an early age to respect God and the people of God. It was because of his upbringing that he understood that he would pursue a career in prayer service. Under the auspices of his Pastor, Rev. Alvin Barnett of West Baptist Church, Reverend Hamatheite learned the ways of the ministry until he turned 25. The Lord led him to accept the challenge as the Pastor of the Gethsemane Baptist Church in December 1995 as a result of his training. After working in the Department of Education for several years and seeing the desperate need of the young people in this community, Reverend Hamatheite sought to rival against strongholds on the young people. He joined forces with the 73rd Precinct where he serves as Clergy Liaison, Police Chaplin, and Administrator for the Police Explorers Program. He and several members of the church also mentor youth for the Kings County District Attorney's Office in their Youth and Congregation in Partnership Program. Reverend Hamatheite saw the need to teach young men how to be real men so he developed a program that the Lord gave him, entitled, M.O.V.E. (Men of Valor Empowered), working with 12- to 17-year-old young men. Reverend Hamatheite serves on several boards in my district: he is the Vice President of Bridging the Gap Ministries; first and former President of the Young Pastors, Ministers, and Evangelists Department of the Eastern Baptist Association; and the former Recording Secretary for the Moderator's Department of the Progressive National Baptist Convention. Reverend Hamatheite now serves as the Pastor of the Wayside Baptist Church, where he was installed on July 18, 2011. Since arriving at Wayside Baptist Church, Reverend Hamatheite has implemented a new Visionary Theme, ``Moving from Conformity to Transformation.'' During his first year as Pastor he established leadership classes for all leaders, reorganized the Youth and Young Adult Ministry, and under his pastorate many have come to give their lives to Christ. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Reverend Hamatheite for his passion for God's word and the diverse initiatives he has employed as Pastor of Wayside Baptist Church.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Bernice A. Brown, a native New Yorker with a passion for helping others through community building. Ms. Brown was born on October 22, 1921 in Brooklyn, NY to Alice and George Wyche, and was the second to eleven other siblings. She was a 1940 graduate of Girls High School and soon went on to marry her husband of 49 years Charles Brown. For 20 years Ms. Brown served as an accountant in payroll and retired in 1984. Her true passion and efforts were geared towards the community and her church, joining many organizations and church affiliated clubs. Ms. Brown was a member of Berean Church for 30 years, serving as Treasurer of Berean Federal Union for 18 years, Trustee for 15 years, and being part of Usher Boards. Ms. Brown's community involvement has been the focus of her career, being affiliated with the Decatur Street Block Association and the Unity Democratic Club. At the Decatur Street Block Association Ms. Brown served as the President for four years, Financial Secretary for eight years, and Treasurer for 10 years. Ms. Brown has also been a member of the Unity Democratic Club for over 40 years, and served as the first female President of the organization during her tenure, as well as being the Financial Secretary and Treasurer. Ms. Brown's efforts have extended well beyond what has ever been asked of her and she continues to this day to exemplify her passion for the community. In her spare time Ms. Brown is a member of Area Policy Board and has been a member of Planning Board No. 3 for 30 years. She has also taken an active role at the Key Women Brooklyn Branch where she has served as President, Vice President, Financial Secretary, and Treasurer. Ms. Brown has been a resident in Brooklyn for over 90 years and has been a major influence in the lives of her fellow constituents. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Bernice Brown for her extraordinary ability to build partnerships between the church and the community while furthering the political process in Brooklyn.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Theresa Graham DeVore for her many accomplishments as a constituent in the 10th congressional district of New York. Ms. DeVore was born on June 7, 1945. From an early age growing up in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, NY, she developed a strong concern for her community. As a teenager she witnessed children, adults, and seniors who lost many opportunities for advancement because of a lack of information. Ms. DeVore began her career as a nursing assistant in the Brooklyn Veteran's Administration Hospital, and was later promoted to clerk. It was during this work experience that she developed administrative skills. She was later reassigned and promoted to Supervisor of Medical Records in the Bronx Veteran's Medical Center. She received special recognition and monetary awards for implementing the first rotating file unit in the Bronx. Ms. DeVore is committed to doing all that she can through mentoring, support, and sharing with children, adults, and especially seniors the importance of education, and how to fulfill their purpose. She provides them with the skills, knowledge, and direction that contribute to their growth and development. In addition to giving support, she respectfully challenges them to be accountable for choices and decisions that affect their lives. She is lovingly known in the community as ``Momma Tee.'' Ms. DeVore's professional experience includes: CEO and founder of Covenant of Faith Outreach, Inc (faith-based community initiative) which has been in operation for 10 years, issuing referrals and resources to those in need of housing, and information on health issues that affect our community. Covenant of Faith Outreach continues to award scholarships to students who are entering college for the first time and she conducts workshops on topics such as: ``The Awareness of Single, Dating, & Marriage'', ``Mastering the Mysteries of Love'', Grieving, Self-Esteem, tutoring and much more. Ms. DeVore volunteers as a Chaplain with the United Chaplain International Worldwide Outreach, Inc. She is a member of The National Council of Negro Women; The Unity Democratic Club; The Women's Federation for World Peace; American Clergy Leadership Conference; and the Global Peace Foundation. Presently, she is completing her studies, and will graduate with a Master's of Divinity degree in 2012. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Theresa DeVore for her resounding dedication to faith-based initiatives in the 10th congressional district of New York.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong opposition to the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act, which preempts the laws of almost every state by obliging each to accept concealed handgun carry permits from every other state, even if the permit holder would not otherwise be allowed to carry or even possess a handgun in the state where he or she is traveling. Presently America's economy is struggling. Many of our citizens are devastated by unemployment and crime rates are an issue of national concern. Therefore, extending handgun laws simply does not seem logical. I am greatly perturbed by the negative ramifications that this bill will have on individual state's abilities to protect their citizens from gun violence. For example, states such as Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, Nevada, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming require gun safety training as a requirement to obtain a concealed carry permit. North Dakota requires certain permit applicants only to pass an open book exam to satisfy its requirement. My state, New York prohibits carrying by individuals younger than 21 years of age. H.R. 822 eliminates the authority of states to select who may be eligible to carry a concealed loaded gun in public. Who can decide the best protective policies for each state besides the officials elected to represent it? Additionally, H.R. 822 can potentially endanger the lives of our valued law enforcement officers who strive to protect our citizens. Out of state carrying permits are extremely difficult to verify since a national permit database does not exist and officers tend to have difficulties establishing the validity of these particular permits. Such an impediment can lead to an escalating situation during traffic stops or other high risk situations that could end fatally. Law enforcement officers work diligently to ensure that streets are safe for our citizens but H.R. 822 makes this task more difficult in numerous ways for these esteemed officers. It is our responsibility to protect these law enforcement officials who put their lives at risk on a daily basis to ensure the safety of our citizens. Supporting this bill will indubitably reverse the efforts by officials in New York to reduce already challenging crime rates. Supporting this bill will jeopardize the safety of my constituents, New York residents and citizens nationwide. Our constituents depend on us to maintain a safe country for them and the generations after them. Voting in support of this bill will put all of our lives at risk. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote ``no'' on this Bill.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Pastor Lester Charles Smith for his leadership in guiding the New Jerusalem Holy Church towards participating in a community of building God's Kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven. Pastor Smith has a proven track record of accomplishments and over the years has led his congregation through the integrity of his heart. While his ministry has often been tested, Pastor Smith has stayed his God given course and kept the mandate of his divine assignment. With such leadership, the New Jerusalem Holy Church has its principles firmly rooted in the belief that we must appropriate the great salvation of God through commitment and excellence. Pastor Smith understands that our personal lives, family lives, and church lives should always be a reflection of the stability we have with God. He has built an organization that strives everyday to spread the word of God while demonstrating excellence in all that they do. As is preached by Pastor Smith the congregation is called to demonstrate, to a world in search of truth, the wisdom rooted objective in submission to their Heavenly Father. Pastor Smith has transformed the mission of the church and has pushed for many programs to be implemented under his leadership. Pastor Smith has partnered with the Brooklyn AIDS Task Force and Feed the Children at New Jerusalem to provide food for the community throughout the holidays. Along with the Brooklyn AIDS Task Force, Pastor Smith has offered advice and techniques for childcare, development and health news for parents. Pastor Smith is expanding his vision to include the establishment of a Community Development Corporation which will provide an ongoing GED program, an after school program for youth, and a job training program. Currently Pastor Smith is training to become a certified chaplain with the New York State Chaplain Task Force. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Pastor Lester Charles Smith for his leadership at the New Jerusalem Holy Church and the unrelenting hope he has for his congregation, community and fellow man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor the Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders Center established at Kings County Medical Center and SUNY Downstate Medical Center. This center has been critical as a research, outreach and comprehensive care center for many constituents in Brooklyn and the New York region. The Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders Center was created with the intention of providing patients and medical personnel with the proper understanding of this disease with a focus on treatment. This center has two locations that are being recognized: Kings County Medical Center and SUNY Downstate Medical Center. At SUNY Medical the capabilities of this center include two attending physicians, a clinical trials coordinator, research fellows and assistants led by Dr. Ivan Bodis-Wollner, Dr. Marta San Luciano and the center coordinator Dr. S. Glazman. Patient Advocate, Mrs. Aida Torres, and Head Nurse, Mrs. Patricia Craig RN, provide invaluable support to the clinic as it provides tertiary care for Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders. Under the direction of Dr. Bodis-Wollner and Dr. San Luciano, SUNY Medical Center has been able to focus on the education and treatment options for this disease. Tests include CT scan, MRI, PET scan, EMG/ Nerve conduction studies, EEG, laboratory tests, cardiovascular, pulmonary and gastrointestinal function tests, speech and swallow evaluation, and genetics testing. Kings County Medical Center is undergoing similar work at its Parkinson's Disease Center of Excellence. Kings County Hospital Center was the first ever public hospital in the world to be designated as a Center of Excellence by the National Parkinson Foundation and selected by the National Institutes of Health for exploring neuroprotection, a form of therapy which aims to slow the progression of the disease. The main goal in mind is to provide tertiary care for all patients and help to adjust their lives so that living with the long-term effects of Parkinson's disease is easier. The Kings County Medical Center support staff work tirelessly to offer quality specialty services for the health needs of Central Brooklyn's diverse communities and neighborhoods. The Center of Excellence is another example of this service that goes above and beyond the patient care that is needed. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders Center of Kings County and SUNY Downstate Medical Centers for their continued work in this field.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to and honor Dr. Ivan Bodis-Wollner for his work on advancing the knowledge of Parkinson's Disease, towards finding a cure and establishing a PD Clinic that offers specialized, comprehensive care for all patients. Dr. Bodis-Wollner has established and maintained a Parkinson Disease and Related Disorders Clinic, designated as a Center of Excellence (COE) by the National Parkinson Foundation since 1995. His work as a Professor of Neurology and Ophthalmology has taught him the discipline needed to continue his outreach in this field. In this capacity Dr. Bodis-Wollner, popularized the concept of the ``Pre-Cardinal stage'' of Parkinson's disease both in the field of neurology and in the lay press. This concept helps to recruit patients in early phases for participating in NIH sponsored neuroprotective trials clinical research. Dr. Bodis-Wollner has done extensive work in the Brooklyn area producing ongoing, renewable multicenter research for the potential neuroprotective effect of Creatine and of Co-Q10. Several of his works focus on the affluence of Parkinson's disease in inner city communities and among African Americans and other racial and ethnic groups. The significant strides Dr. Bodis-Wollner has made in his research will undoubtedly benefit countless numbers of constituents in my district and the New York region. Dr. Bodis-Wollner was Chief Editor of Clinical Vision Sciences and after its merger, Section Editor of Vision Research in all for 14 years. He has lectured around the world, taught medical students, and trained scores of younger scientists who have worked with him and learned from him in his laboratory. Among his students are professors of neurology and clinical neurophysiology and faculty members in neurology. Dr. Bodis-Wollner is also the Chairman of the ``Non-Motor'' working group of the Parkinson Study Group, a nationwide think-tank for clinical Parkinson Disease Research. Further, he has published well over 100 research studies in peer reviewed journals including Nature, Science, Journal of Physiology, Brain, and Annals of Neurology. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Dr. Bodis-Wollner for his accomplishments in the area of health care and his service to Brooklyn and New York.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Dr. Michael Jose Charles for his many accomplishments in the health care field for the residents in my district of Brooklyn, New York. Michael Jose Charles was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti where he attended Father Andre's college Canado Haitian and College Classiques D'Haiti. Following an excellent high school career, Michael's outstanding scholastic achievement earned him entry into the school of Medicine at North East University Tampico, Tamps, Mexico where he graduated at the top of his class. While in Mexico, Dr. Charles served as General Practitioner, Counselor and Advisor, while performing various preventative medicine functions as a Public Health Agent at the General Hospital at Tampico. In 1986, Dr. Charles migrated to New York and completed his Postgraduate studies at Columbia University. He also completed a residency program in Internal Medicine and a fellowship in Gastroenterology at the SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn. Dr. Charles is also Board Certified as an Internist and Gastroenterologist. Dr. Charles' professional accomplishments are notable. He served as an attending physician in the Department of Health and Emergency Medical at Ryker's Island, Kings County Hospital, VA Brooklyn, SUNY Downstate, Brookdale Hospital and Paul Cooper Drug Rehabilitation Program. Currently, Dr. Charles serves as attending physician and program director at Brookdale Hospital, while maintaining a thriving private practice. He also volunteers on several medical missions venturing to Haiti, Guyana and the Dominican Republic. From a physician's perspective Dr. Charles notes that injustice in healthcare is the most shocking and inhumane form of discrimination. As a person, he recognizes that ethnicity and social class often determine these disparities. With this knowledge in mind, he goes out of his way to show compassion and concern for humanity, especially to the underprivileged, and he has dedicated his life to provide service to those needy people. Dr. Charles is humbled by his success and gives credit to his mother. Most important, he thanks his wife of over twenty-five years and his immediate family for their undying love and support. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Dr. Charles for his accomplishments in the area of health care and his service to Brooklyn and New York.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Ruth Cherry for her tremendous impact on the lives of Brooklyn youth. Ruth Cherry has made a lifelong commitment to educating young children and their families by providing them with opportunities that encompass the most innovative learning strategies and essential services to spark a new-range of possibilities in their lives. Born in ``Snakebite'' and raised in Ahoskie, North Carolina, Ruth earned her BA degree in Psychology at North Carolina Central University and her Masters degree in Education from Bank Street College of Education in New York. ln 1965 the Federal Government declared a ``War on Poverty'' by creating Head Start, a national preschool program for underserved young children and their families. It was then that Ruth Cherry would be able to hone her skills and solidify her commitment to children and families when in 1966 the Bedford Stuyvesant community, under the sponsorship of a community based organization named Youth-In-Action, created the Bedford Stuyvesant Head Start--now known as Bedford Stuyvesant Early Childhood Development Center, Inc. Ruth Cherry began her career in education as a Group Teacher and as Bed Stuy Head Start's first official employee. Through devotion and hard work Ruth was able to diligently move up the ladder. Ruth went from her first role as Group Teacher to her current role as Executive Director, with many positions in between. During Ruth Cherry's 40-year tenure and counting at Bed Stuy Head Start she has been the forerunner of the development, coordination and implementation of programs that meet the needs of the children and families of Bedford Stuyvesant. Ruth has utilized her expertise as an ``award-winning'' grant writer to acquire millions of dollars to supplement existing, and implement additional high-quality services to children and families. One such grant allowed Bed Stuy Head Start to implement a New York State Even Start Family Literacy Program which provided adults who were deemed most in need with an opportunity to participate in adult literacy programs that led to a GED. After the September 11th crisis, Ruth wrote a grant that created a program to support and provide mental health services to Bed Stuy Head Start families affected by the tragedy. Her latest endeavors include the development and coordination of one of the first Universal Pre-Kindergarten programs in the Greater New York area and the Bed Stuy Head Start Extended Day Program.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Mary ``Mitzi'' Perdue for her tremendous generosity to personal charities and organizations. Ms. Perdue was born into a life of privilege, being the daughter of Sheraton Hotel founder Ernest Henderson. With her privileged life, she decided to dedicate herself to public service and philanthropic causes. At a young age her parents instilled a sense of giving that carried with her throughout her life. One of her life mottos is, ``It's the givers of the world who are the happiest''. Ms. Perdue pursued an education at Harvard. Upon graduation she began a career in communications writing a syndicated column on the environment, first for Capitol News in California and then for Scripps Howard, nationally. At its peak, ``The Environment and You'' went to 420 newspapers, and the total number of columns was more than 1100. The articles focused mainly on how individuals could protect the environment, but they also encouraged students to study science, so they could play a role in saving the planet. Ms. Perdue also wrote more than 250 columns on charities for my local paper and occasionally for national magazines. The columns and articles provided recognition to the charities and let readers know about each charity's needs and services. Many of the charities couldn't afford a professional writer, and yet they needed to communicate with their supporters. Ms. Perdue understands the importance of her philanthropic activities that if philanthropies don't develop strong bonds with their donors and volunteers, their supporters may, over time, drift away. To this extent she donates the location, the food, the beverages, the decorations, and the wait staff for parties of between 10-110 guests. In the last four years, Ms. Perdue has entertained close to 4500 people at her home. Ninety-five percent of these events have been charity-related, but some have also been book parties, since, as a (soon-to-be-former) Commissioner of the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science, she loves the idea of encouraging authors. Another charitable interest of hers is supporting veterans. In the past, Perdue Farms won the nation-wide Pro Patria Award largely because her and her husband wrote personalized monthly letters to overseas Reservists. In her life, Ms. Perdue lives by one quote by Aristotle, ``the only true success in life is to find yourself in service to the community''. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Mary ``Mitzi'' Perdue for her dedicated public service and charitable giving.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Ms. Rita Cosby, a charismatic New Yorker who's energy and passion for her work is an inspiration to us all. Prior to joining network news, Rita was an anchor/reporter for CBS affiliates in Bakersfield, California and Charlotte, North Carolina. During her tenure there, she broke numerous stories, reporting that Susan Smith drowned her young sons and that the father of NBA superstar Michael Jordan was murdered. Her investigative report inside a Tijuana, Mexico prison exposed government corruption and allowed an American, who was held unlawfully, to be freed. Honors for the three-time Emmy' winner include the Matrix Award, Headliner Award and Jack Anderson Award for journalism excellence. She was also selected by Cosmopolitan Magazine as a ``Fun and Fearless Female.'' A recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and the Lech Walesa Freedom Award, she hosts the National Memorial Day Parade broadcast to all US military installations around the world. A highly sought-after keynote speaker, Rita has talked to major groups all over America, including heads of state in Washington, D.C., ambassadors and foreign ministers at the United Nations, as well as for countless celebrity, charity and especially military/veterans events from coast to coast. Her first book, Blonde Ambition, was a New York Times bestseller and called ``The most talked about book in America'' by Extra. Her second book, Quiet Hero: Secrets From My Father's Past, is the most personal and important story of her life, as she uncovered an amazing history of heroism and courage involving her own father and shares the incredible journey in this highly acclaimed and poignant memoir. As a result, her father Richard Cosby, was awarded a special recognition by the Medal of Honor Society for his bravery. The book has raised money for the USO to help wounded soldiers and their families. She has headlined veterans' events with Admiral Mike Mullen, The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as well as with performers such as Tony Orlando and Charlie Daniels. Because of Rita's ``extraordinary journalism and exemplary service on behalf of her community,'' October 11th, 2010 was officially named ``Rita Cosby Day'' in the State of New York. Rita earned her bachelors' degrees from the University of South Carolina, graduating with honors. She grew up in Greenwich, Connecticut and currently resides in the New York area. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Rita Cosby for her outstanding contribution to the fields of literature and journalism.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Mr. Douglas Lazzaro for his exceptional service to Brooklyn and the Greater New York area in the field of corneal transplantation and other complex corneal surgeries. Dr. Lazzaro, the Richard C. Troutman M.D. Distinguished Chair in Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Microsurgery, serves as Professor and Chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at SUNY Downstate. Dr. Lazzaro received his MD degree and his residency training in ophthalmology at SUNY Downstate and then completed a cornea and refractive surgery fellowship at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital and Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Lazzaro has been involved in residency training since 1994 and has served in a variety of roles since then. He was director of surgical training at the Kings County Hospital Center for a decade and has been its Chief of Ophthalmology from 2001 to the present time. This eye service is the largest in the NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation and currently sees over 27,000 outpatients regularly. In addition to being responsible for the design of the clinic, Dr. Lazzaro has been serving as President of the Medical Board at Kings county since 2010. The ophthalmology residency that Dr. Lazzaro directs is one of the largest in the United States and is recognized as one of the top training programs in the NYC area. Dr. Lazzaro serves on the board of the Eye Bank for Sight Restoration and the NY Society for Clinical Ophthalmology, and was recently elected to the NY Ophthalmic Laser Society. Dr. Lazzaro has also been the recipient of many other awards including: Attending of the Year in Ophthalmology at Kings County Hospital Center in 2002 and 2007, and Attending of the Year in Ophthalmology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in 2003 and was the recipient of the Community Service Award for Visions/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired in 2007, he has been elected to New York Super Doctors in 2008, 2009, and 2010 and was elected a lifetime member of Swathmore's Who's Who. Dr. Lazzaro also received the Outstanding Faculty Award from the Daniel Hale Williams Society at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in 2010. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Dr. Douglass Lazzaro for his contribution to the health of Brooklyn residents.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Lorraine C. Cancro for her outstanding work with Veterans in my Brooklyn District. Ms. Cancro has been working with returning veterans for most of her professional career--gaining a specialization as a clinician in treatment of returning veterans suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury, TBI, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD. In this capacity Ms. Cancro has served many in her community that deal with this very serious disorder. When Ms. Cancro is not dealing with individuals directly she contributes as a mental health editor for Exceptional Parent Magazine, writing articles on topics that include returning veterans who suffer from TBI and PTSD, and chronic pain among other disorders. These articles furthered her efforts to spread awareness of psychiatric disorders which impact the general population as well. Ms. Cancro also serves as Director of the Global Stress Initiative, GSI, an affiliate of the International Committee against Mental Illness, ICAMI. Together with Emmy Awarding wining Anchor Rita Cosby, they have launched the American Heroes Tour, which is a fundraising arm of the GSI. The Tour will visit Major League Ballparks throughout the country and offer veterans, first responders, and their families' acknowledgement for their heroic efforts to preserve our freedom. In response to those who suffer from PTSD, Ms. Cancro along with her colleagues spearheaded cutting edge research and treatment for TBI and PTSD. The tour culminated at the 11th Annual World Congress on Disabilities in Atlantic City, New Jersey, September 23rd and 24th, 2011. At last year's event in Dallas, Rita Cosby emceed the event and Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was the keynote speaker. Ms. Cancro has a specialty in Journalistic advocacy and development of mental health programs for research and treatment. She is a member of the International Committee Against Mental Illness (ICAMI)-- Association for Stress Disorders, The David Lynch Foundation's Operation Warrior Wellness, Autism Speaks and Fountain House, Mental Health Advocacy. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Lorraine Cancro for her contribution to the education and awareness of veterans suffering from the various disorders service can create.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Samuel L. Dunston for his financial business that serves the greater Brooklyn community. Mr. Dunston has been working to improve worker benefits for the better of 40 years, and has lead an outstanding minority operated and owned businesses in New York. Mr. Dunston takes pride in knowing that he offers a highly regarded service to the residents of Brooklyn and has gained the esteemed support of many organizations in his career. Groups such as the Boys Scouts Council, numerous church councils & the Kiwanis Club are as eager for this counsel as are the boards of directors of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, for which he is chairman of the Women & Minority Business Development Committee, the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office, the Central Brooklyn Coordinating Council, the Brooklyn Hospital Community Advisory Board and New York City Technical College Small Business Advisory Council. Mr. Dunston works equally as comfortably with the neighborhood as he does with Corporate Leaders. He puts as much energy into protecting the family of a client who can only afford $4.00 a week for a Life Insurance policy as he does for an impressive list of companies on his clients' roster. Several companies he represents are Amalgamated Union, Bethel Baptist Church, and Social Concern Community Development Corp. In addition to his advocacy through his organization, Mr. Dunston sits on the boards of the Greater New York Chapter of the 100 Community Advisory Board; the CABS Nursing Home, the Brooklyn Sports Foundation, Brooklyn Hospital and the United States-New Independent States Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Dunston cherishes his family which consists of his own children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mr. Dunston and his wife, Pastor Patricia Dunston, are long time residents of Freeport, New York. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Samuel Dunston for his financial services expertise and community partnerships he has built with Brooklyn and its residents.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Rev. Robert Waterman for his leadership as a pastor, doctor, proprietor, and activist in Brooklyn and the greater New York State. Rev. Waterman is the fifth Pastor of Antioch Baptist Church located in Brooklyn, New York. Reverend Waterman has brought many gifts to Antioch--the three most notable being his exuberance, a willingness to get the job done and spirituality. Rev. Waterman tries to impress on people that God desires our praise and worship, and has been labeled ``The Preacher of Thunder'' by the late Dr. William A. Jones. He encourages his congregation to know God so that hearts, and thereby lives, can be changed. Being born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Hemingway, South Carolina, Rev. Waterman is a very ambitious businessman in his spare time when not actively operating the church. He fully embodies the notion that he truly can do all things through Christ. In his ninth year, Rev. Waterman's focus is on moving the church toward building God's Kingdom by restoring people, both spiritually and physically. Antioch is concerned about the health and spirituality of the community. Building the Church, Building the People, and Building the Community. Antioch continues on its path, uniting for fellowship and following Christ. Rev. Waterman is a premier example of an activist. He is a lifetime member of the NAACP and serves on Community Board # 3 as the Chairperson of the Transportation Committee. Rev. Waterman is a part of the Black Brooklyn Empowerment Convention as the Chair of Securing Our Institutions Cluster. He serves as the Ecumenical Chair in Brooklyn for BLCA, Black Leadership Commission on Aids and is the President of the A.A.C.E.O., African American Clergy and Elected Officials Organization of Brooklyn. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Rev. Robert Waterman for his excellent leadership of faith based initiatives in Brooklyn and commitment to service.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Dr. Robert Cancro, a charismatic Brooklynite who carries the energy to inspire and motivate others. Dr. Robert Cancro received his M.D. degree in 1955 from the State University at Brooklyn. In 1962, he obtained his Med. D.Sc. Degree from the same institution. Following a straight medical internship, he completed his residency training at Kings County Hospital. From 1959-1966, he was on faculty of the State University of New York and developed and ran the first alcohol rehabilitation unit in New York City. In 1966, he went to Menninger Foundation, where he was director of research training. He spent a sabbatical year in 1969, at the University of Illinois at their Center for Advanced Study, and as a Professor of Computer Science. He returned to the East in 1970, as Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Connecticut, and joined the faculty at NYU, as Professor and Chairman in 1976. In 1982, he added the directorship of the Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, NKI, to his other responsibilities. Dr. Cancro retired as a Chairman of the Psychiatry Department and as Director of NKI in 2005. He continues as a Professor of Psychiatry at NYU. Dr. Cancro's major academic interest has been in the psychoses and, in particular schizophrenia. He has worked on a number of different aspects of schizophrenic psychoses, but focusing on the interface between the nervous system and behavior. He has over two hundred publications including a dozen books. In addition to his academic record, he has been active in the World Psychiatric Association, chairing their Section on Psychiatric Rehabilitation, and has served as consultant to the World Health Organization for a number of years. At the national level, he has served as a consultant for the U.S. Secret Service, the Department of Justice, and the New York Yankees. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Dr. Robert Cancro for his contribution the field of medicine and his service to the Brooklyn community.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Ms. Kim Godwin, an exceptional former Brooklynite who demonstrates ambition and a passion for her work to inspire us all. Kim Godwin joined CBS News as Senior Producer in April 2007. In her current role on the CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley, she is exclusively in charge of planning future CBS News editorial coverage of day to day and major news events, both domestically and internationally, including most recently, the launch of the final Shuttle mission from Kennedy Space Center. In her previous role on the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric, Godwin was in charge of Domestic News, overseeing editorial coverage and story production for all CBS bureaus in The United States, excluding Washington, D.C. Most recently Godwin received a 2010 Emmy Award for ``Outstanding Business and Economic Reporting in a Regularly Scheduled Newscast'' for her groundbreaking series ``Financial Family Tree.'' The unique series provided viewers with an in-depth, analytical look at the immediate and long-term ripple effects of the recession. She also recently won two New York Association of Black Journalists Awards for producing ``Conquering Cancer'' and ``The Changing Face of AIDS.'' She also received an Emmy nomination for ``Conquering Cancer.'' In her prestigious career, she has won numerous awards for excellence in journalism, including a Los Angeles area Emmy for Investigative Journalism for the report ``One Gun,'' in which one handgun was linked to multiple violent and deadly crimes. She is affiliated with numerous organizations, including the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communications, the National Association of Black Journalists, and the National Association of Female Executives. She is also the Chair of the Board of Managers at the North Brooklyn YMCA in New York City. Godwin was born in Panama City, Florida but grew up in Queens, New York and is a graduate of Bayside High School. She graduated from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in broadcast journalism. Godwin currently resides in Poconos, Pennsylvania with her two children Kimberly and Kirsten. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Kim Godwin for her outstanding contribution to the field of journalism.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor Ian R. Lifshutz for his extensive work representing physicians and other health care providers in New York. Mr. Lifshutz is a graduate of St. Johns School of Law admitted to practice law in New York, New Jersey, Florida and Connecticut. He has experience in Health Care Law, representing physicians and other health care providers and institutions in all matters of health care transactions. Mr. Lifshutz is responsible for assisting providers in matters relating to Fraud and Abuse and Medicaid/Medicare compliance plans and audits, the purchase and sale of health care practices, HIPAA and state based patient privacy, management, MSO, and billing companies, shareholder agreements, formation, dissolution and operation of corporations and other professional partnerships, asset protection as a means to limit physicians' exposure to malpractice claims and other civil liability, and leases and real estate transactions for healthcare facilities and medical practices. Among the many issues he handles, Mr. Lifshutz is most versed in Anti-Kickback and ``STARK'', state and federal prohibition against self-referral law as well as professional misconduct and ``Fee Splitting'' issues, and Medicare and Medicaid insurance policy. Mr. Lifshutz has structured many health care facilities in New York, New Jersey and Florida, including proper pension structuring in order to maximize pension benefits. He has negotiated complex transactions for surgery centers and Article 28 facilities, and structured complex Asset Protection for physicians and others in the field of health care. He has lectured at the Bronx County Medical Society and N.Y. Chiropractic College, as well as hospitals, regarding HIPAA compliance, asset protection, risk management and professional misconduct, fraud and abuse and regulatory issues surrounding health care professionals. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Ian Lifshutz for his contributions to the Brooklyn legal and healthcare communities.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the underlying bill. At a time when Americans' top priority is job creation--when Americans are desperately calling on us to work together to turn our economy around--some are instead launching the most comprehensive and radical assault on women's health in our lifetime. This shameful attack on women's ability to obtain complete health information and services does a disservice to women, families, and all Americans. To begin with, according to the stated purpose of the bill, which is to prevent federal funds from being used to cover abortion services, the bill is already gratuitous. Recent legal challenges to the Affordable Care Act have revealed that it contains ``strict safeguards at multiple levels to prevent federal funds from being used to pay for abortion services beyond those in the case of rape or incest or where the life of the woman is endangered,'' rendering this legislation unnecessary. This type of extreme and redundant legislation will prove insightful to jobless Americans wondering why they have yet to see meaningful economic turnaround. H.R. 358 would effectively prevent women from obtaining private insurance coverage for abortion services. By banning coverage of abortion in health exchanges, the bill will ensure that no one will be able to purchase abortion coverage--including women who do not receive federal assistance. The bookkeeping burden that would be required for insurers to offer separate policies, with and without abortion coverage, is simply too high. Insurance providers are surely not interested in providing both, when most women cannot afford to pay for the abortion coverage option out-of-pocket anyway. Proponents of the legislation suggest that insurance companies could simply offer an ``abortion rider.'' Women would have to plan for an unplanned pregnancy by purchasing supplemental insurance. This is unlikely, considering that most cannot afford to purchase even a single insurance policy. Furthermore, history has shown that insurers are reluctant to offer ``riders'' even when given the option to do so. As health exchanges grow as they are expected to, these restrictions will only affect more and more women looking for affordable and adequate health insurance. Furthermore, the bill seeks to dramatically expand dangerous refusal provisions which contradict prevailing standards of care. Such expansion ignores the basic tenant of ethical health care, which requires that patients be presented with all of their medical options when making health care decisions. This bill would allow professionals with only a tangential connection to abortion services, such as a hospital receptionists or claims adjusters at insurance companies, to obstruct the medical process due to their beliefs. This would effectively tip the balance against patients seeking effective and comprehensive health care. The `non-discrimination' provision in fact discriminates against abortion providers, as it provides no protection for their beliefs. A one-sided non-discrimination provision is not nondiscriminatory at all. We cannot allow this expansion, which would create a culture of refusal where anyone could obstruct access to abortion services for any reason. Most disturbingly, a late addition to the Pitts bill would allow the expansive refusal provision to trump important patient protections guaranteed by the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, as well as similar protections in state laws requiring emergency care providers to save a woman's life. This would be an unprecedented expansion of the right to refusal. We simply cannot allow for the possibility that a pregnant woman suffering from a medical emergency would see her right to medical care overridden by health professionals' moral views, which do not always place her health and safety first. Unfortunately, we have already seen what happens when professionals place their views over the health of the patient. In one case several months ago, a woman almost died over an unviable fetus as medical professionals exercised their right of refusal and waited for the fetus to die, delaying treatment for the mother. We cannot allow women to unwittingly seek emergency treatment at medical facilities that do not value their safety first. We cannot override existing EMTALA patient protections. Finally, language in the Pitts bill extends far beyond abortion, and could allow insurers to refuse to provide other vital health services that are part of the minimum standards for health coverage set by the Affordable Care Act. This bill would open the door to refusal of effective reproductive services concerning contraception and infertility, for example. As we look to preventative services to avoid more expensive future treatments, this bill could prevent access to screening for sexually transmitted diseases and cervical cancer. At a time when many Americans are struggling to make ends meet, put food on the table, and pay their mortgages, it is unfathomable that we could consider restricting access to these essential, safe, and effective health services. To reiterate, the Affordable Care Act contains ample protection against federal funding for abortion. The Pitts bill, in addition to being discriminatory, would create undue hardship on women and families as they attempt to make private health care decisions. It is dangerous to the health of pregnant women, and all women. At a time of staggering unemployment and economic hardship, this bill, unnecessary and unfair as it is, is not the kind of leadership Americans are looking for from Congress. To vote Yes on this bill is to roll back the strides we have been making toward equitable and effective health care for all Americans, and that is unacceptable. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote No on this Bill.