Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to discuss a problem that many of us, and many of our constituents, often face, a problem that be easily resolved with legislation that I, joined by Representatives Anna Eshoo and George Miller, have reintroduced. HR 2057, The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, ensures that motoring consumers have the ability to choose where, how and by whom they have their vehicles repaired and serviced, even those recently out of warranty. Vehicles that are 1994 and newer are equipped with computers that control most of the vehicles' systems, from air bags and brakes, to tire pressure, oil changes, electronics, ignition systems and keys. In fact, there are more computers on today's vehicles than were on the Apollo 11 moon mission. Independent repair shops, which comprise a large number of the small businesses in all of our districts, are experiencing a great deal of difficulty in locating and obtaining the information, tools and software needed to completely repair late model vehicles. These shops often must turn away their valued customers, forcing them to return to new car dealerships, which, on average, are 34 percent more expensive. Not only is that a loss of business for the over 200,000 independent repair shops in our nation, but it is a financial burden for our constituents. I have heard several complaints in my office of problems that independent repair shops have experienced in repairing later model vehicles. One independent aftermarket technician in New York was attempting to diagnose a Subaru and was told that the car company would not sell the independent repair shop the proper tools needed to diagnose and repair a drivability problem. Another New York repair shop was told they would have to wait up to two days to obtain the software from Ford needed to update the computer on a Ford Escape. The repairer had to pay for towing and then pay the new car dealership a fee. I have another example from Massachusetts. But you get the point. 82% of car owners and 94% of independent repair shops indicate that they favor the passage of this bill. It allows repair shops to offer their clients better service and doesn't cost the taxpayers or the government any money. Instead, it's a way that we can provide affordable choices to car owners who continue to struggle in this difficult economy. The car companies have argued that this bill would lead to infringements on their intellectual property. HR 2057 does NOT request or require proprietary information and I have inserted language to ensure that. Similar legislation has been passed in the California state legislature, and there were no breaches of proprietary information; the only result was that emissions systems were repaired faster and better. It's time that Congress keep our motoring constituents in the drivers' seat when it comes to repairing their vehicles, and it's time we helped ensure the economic survival of the small, independent repair shops that have been so good to our constituents. Please join with me, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo and Congressman George Miller, to give our constituents a choice of where to repair their cars.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in memoriam of Specialist Kevin O. Hill, a distinguished and honorable constituent of Brooklyn. He died on October 4, 2009 in Dehanna, Afghanistan and was a member of the 576th Engineer Company, 4th Engineer Battalion based in Fort Carson, Colorado. A third generation Military man, preceded by his father, Oslen, Jr. and his grandfather Oslen, Sr., Specialist Hill had dreams of being a Secret Service agent and felt that the military training and experience could only serve him well in pursuit of that goal. He was a quiet leader, choosing to lead by example more often than words. After completing his education at Monroe College, Specialist Hill joined the Army. While in Afghanistan he worked with the Engineer Battalion to disable IEDs and roadside bombs before they could do harm to his fellow soldiers and the civilians that he was there to help. His mother praised him as a hero, and I stand here to do the same. Specialist Hill paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country and my condolences go out to his mother, Mahalia Hill, his father, Oslen Hill, his grandfather Oslen Hill, Sr., his sisters Chinyere and Shantel and his entire family in this time of grave loss. Our country is indebted to his family and we are all mourning their loss. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in remembering the dedication and selflessness of Specialist Kevin O. Hill.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Juanita Theresa Williams Levell, an educator in my Congressional District. As a young woman working and attending college, Juanita met and fell in love with Bryan Lloyd Levell in June of 1960. They were married one year later. Bryan was a New York City Police Officer serving with the 79th Precinct and was one of the first set of officers to serve in the newly created Patrol Brooklyn North. They were blessed with four children, Antoinette Jacobii Levell Brown, twins Adrian Mary Levell Peart Straker, the late Andrea May Levell Franklin, and one son Bryan James Levell. Mrs. Levell used to say having four children in five years was like having her own classroom. A graduate of the New York City public school system, she completed her undergraduate degree at Brooklyn College and received her Master's degree in Linguistics from Long Island University. Armed with her faith, a wonderful mother and supportive extended family, Juanita pushed ahead to achieve her goals. She began working in the New York City public school system as a teacher of English as a Second Language commonly known as E.S.L. Juanita was serving in a school that had students from well over 50 countries speaking over 100 languages. She has taught from elementary through high school, as well as adult education. Her participation in conferences, seminars and workshops for over 30 years has kept her current and well qualified in her profession. Juanita retired in 2008 from her full-time teaching position but continues to work part-time as an English teacher. The connection to her community and her faith has been a steady part of Juanita's life from her work in the church, in school and in her neighborhood. Juanita has been a member of civic and social groups from childhood to the present. She has been active with Cornerstone Baptist Church, the Jewels S.C., NAACP, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.-Delta Rho Omega Chapter, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. (Brooklyn Chapter), American Association of University Women, Verona Place-Macon Street Block Association, United Federation of Teachers, National Council of Negro Women, Brooklyn Historical Society, Schomburg Center for Cultural Learning, Brooklyn College Alumni Association, Association of Blacks in Education--NY, Business and Professional Women's Organization of Cornerstone Baptist Church, Women's Caucus for Congressman Towns, and AARP. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Juanita Theresa Williams Levell.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Deacon William Dewalt. Deacon William Dewalt was born in Galveston, Texas in 1930. He attended Dixon High School in Shepherd, Texas, where he played basketball. During his school days, he was voted ``All-Around Boy'' by his fellow basketball teammates. While in high school, he met Gloria Jean Mitchell, who later became his wife, and together they had seven children. After school, William joined the United States Army and served for two years. He was stationed in Korea. William and Gloria settled in New York City in the mid 1950s. He secured employment with the United States Postal Service as a Letter Carrier. After thirty years of service, he retired in 1989. In 1954, Deacon Dewalt joined the Union Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Aaron A. Wood and was ordained to the Deacon Ministry. He has served in this capacity for more than 50 years. Deacon William Dewalt is a man of few words, however, when he gives his word one can truly count on him. One might say that he held on to his title given so many years ago by his teammates--``All-Around Boy'', and became an ``All-Around Man''. He believes in helping in anyway that he can and he helps without thinking twice. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Deacon William Dewalt, a faithful servant and ``All-Around Man''.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Sharonnie M. Perry, a great community activist. Sharonnie has lived her life by one of her favorite mottos, ``I Have Come To Serve And Not To Be Served.'' She has served for over 35 years as a community activist, beginning in her early days fighting against decentralization of public schools. As founder of ``Parents on the Move'', a self-help organization for homeless parents and children, she advocated for affordable housing, education and employment for the homeless population across New York City. In 1982, Sharonnie saw a need which became one of her greatest passions to date. She has traveled across the country conducting workshops and speaking out for quality health care and services for our brothers, sisters and children living with HIV/AIDS. Sharonnie was born in the village of Bedford Stuyvesant. She is the mother of two sons, Da-Shawn and Jah-Son, and the proud grandmother to Jaylin and Jah-Son, Jr. She is a woman of faith and believes if you put God at the head and Jesus at the center of your life that you won't fail. Sharonnie attributes her victories and successes, first and foremost to the Creator, her parents, family, her mentors, spiritual advisors and friends. Sharonnie has been recognized across the country for her activism on behalf of the underserved people in our communities. In summarizing her commitment to family, church and community, she always says, ``If I Can Help Somebody Along The Way, Then My Living Would Not Have Been In Vain''. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sharonnie M. Perry.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the observance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. In observance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, I express my appreciation to the nearly 55 million Americans with disabilities who have made significant contributions to the American workforce. As a proud sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act, I salute this milestone legislation and other comprehensive efforts to create equal access to employment opportunities. I am proud of efforts like AbilityOne, a laudable, federally-managed program that is the largest source of employment for the blind and those with severe disabilities. I was also a proud co-sponsor of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that is providing vital stimulus dollars to programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to help educate disabled children and youth. This October, as we rededicate ourselves to increasing employment opportunities for disabled Americans, let us also honor the value, skills and contributions individuals with disabilities have made to the American workforce.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Steven Mauriello, Deputy Inspector of the 81st Precinct and honorable public servant. Deputy Inspector Mauriello is a graduate of St. Johns University in Queens, New York, where he attained a Bachelors Degree with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. He is currently attending the Police Management Institute of Columbia University at West Point. Deputy Inspector Mauriello became a member of the New York City Police Department in the year 1989 and, upon his graduation from the Police Academy, was assigned to neighborhood stabilization unit number six as a police officer, patrolling the 25th, 28th and 32nd Precincts in northern Manhattan. Shortly thereafter, he was assigned to the 34th Precinct in Washington Heights, New York, as a patrol officer. In 1993, he was assigned to the Manhattan North Narcotics Division and, on achieving the rank of Sergeant in 1994, he was assigned to the 79th Precinct and Brooklyn North Warrants Unit. Upon his promotion to Lieutenant in 2000, Deputy Inspector Mauriello was assigned to the 88th Precinct and 90th Precinct until his promotion to the rank of Captain in 2003. As Captain, he was assigned to the 77th Precinct and 94th Precinct before becoming the commanding officer of the Patrol Borough Brooklyn North Anti-Crime Unit. In 2007, Deputy Inspector Maurriello was assigned to the 81st Precinct in the capacity of Executive Officer. In 2008, he was elevated to Commanding Officer of the 81st Precinct, and then was promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector in which he presently serves the residents of the Bedford- Stuyvesant community. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Steven Mauriello.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of The Reverend Doctor Cheryl G. Anthony, a visionary leader and inspiration to all. Reverend Doctor Anthony is an anointed Woman of God. She holds a Master's degree in Theology and Religious Education, as well as a Doctoral degree in Sacred Theology. She is an alumnus of Harvard University Divinity School Leadership Institute. She is also a graduate of Cornell University's Family Development Institute, and a certified trainer providing specialized services to underserved populations throughout New York City. The Doctor Anthony realizes that all of her accomplishments have been made possible by the Almighty Father. Not only an artisan and visionary, Dr. Anthony is the Founder, CEO and Pastor of the renowned and awarded JUDAH International Christian Center, Inc. (JUDAH), in Brooklyn, New York. A twenty-five year veteran committed to community and human development, Dr. Anthony and JUDAH have been recognized nationally by former President Bill Clinton as well as former President George W. Bush as a progressive and cutting- edge leader and outstanding organization in the faith-based community, addressing holistic faith-based development and empowerment. Dr. Anthony's stellar leadership includes holding the exclusive distinction as the first and only woman elected as chairperson of the Board of the Central Brooklyn Churches, Inc. Her passion for addressing the needs of women and girls has led her to establish and organize the ``Women of Faith Advocating Change (WFAC)'' partnership comprised of clergy, elected officials and community leaders in Brooklyn. WFAC's mission is to provide clergy-led leadership in developing faith strategies to combat health disparities for African American women and girls. She is vice president of the Labor-Religion Coalition of New York State; past chair of the Bedford-Stuyvesant/Crown Heights HIV Care Network steering committee and member of the Board of Directors of the Fordham University Bertram M. Beck Institute on Religion and Poverty. She is the creative force behind the award winning ``Wholistic Approach to Community Wellness Program'' (WACW), a national faith-based best practice model, which assists religious leaders, government representatives and community stakeholders grappling with social challenges. Dr. Anthony possesses the unique ability to gracefully and skillfully blend professional ethics, business acumen, social and cultural activism in order to proclaim a living Gospel. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing The Reverend Doctor Cheryl G. Anthony, a woman called into the Kingdom to serve her generation through the power of God.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2009. I urge all Americans during Domestic Violence Awareness Month to understand the different faces of domestic violence, as it is not defined only by battery against women and children, but also includes domestic sexual assault, teen dating violence, and non-physical emotional abuse, such as name calling and intimidation. Domestic violence, regardless of type, disrupts the lives of men and women of all ages. Young children and adolescents are especially at risk for complications as exposure to violence can lead to behavioral and emotional problems. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act), which I proudly co-sponsored, provides $225 million to the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women, targeted at developing and supporting the capacity of state, local, tribal, and non-profit entities involved in responding to violence against women and also in helping them find alternative housing. I am also pleased that the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)--its passage in 1994 strongly by then Senator Joseph R. Biden Jr.--and the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) also received Recovery Act funding to boost the federal VAWA and VOCA funds that are already allocated to state and local governments each year. Furthermore, in my home state of New York, Governor David Paterson signed a bill into law last month that takes a stronger response against domestic violence offenders and expands protection orders for victims. With this advancement in New York's state law, New York is leading the nation in strengthening our judicial system to stamp out domestic violence and abuse. Though we may be taking great strides at the federal and state levels in addressing domestic violence, we cannot ignore that the problem originates in the home. If you feel you are or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. Working together, we can all play a vital role in creating awareness about domestic violence and working toward ending this intolerable behavior.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Councilman Bill de Blasio, a tenacious leader in the community and an inspiration to all of New York. Bill de Blasio understands the importance of education. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Urban Studies from New York University; he then attended Columbia University and earned a Master of Arts degree in International and Public Affairs. Councilman de Blasio began his impressive political career in New York City government in the 1989 David Dinkins mayoral race. Following the campaign, Mr. de Blasio served as an aide in Dinkins' Administration, where he worked on projects such as the Safe Streets, Safe City initiative to reduce crime throughout New York City. While working at City Hall under Mayor Dinkins and later with the City Council, he learned first hand how city government works. He used this knowledge in the passage of key legislation establishing New York City's domestic partnership program. Later, Mr. de Blasio would eventually manage Hillary Rodham Clinton's successful run for Senate. From working for the parents of Community School District 15, where he helped spearhead some of the most comprehensive reforms in the city, such as capping first grade class size at 20 students and establishing universal Pre-Kindergarten; to serving as the highest-ranking official in the New York/New Jersey region for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Mr. de Blasio fights the tough fights and wins. As a member of the New York City Council, he continues to serve the people of New York, and specifically the residents of Brooklyn's 39th Council District. Mr. de Blasio's most recent accomplishment is becoming the New York City Democratic Party's Public Advocate-Elect. Throughout Mr. de Blasio's career, the common thread that runs through is his desire to better the quality of life for all New Yorkers by improving public education, creating affordable housing and fighting discrimination based on race, religion, physical disability or sexual orientation. He has been instrumental in directing increased federal funding for affordable housing, senior citizen housing and economic development in the region. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing New York City Councilman Bill de Blasio, who is expected to be our City's Public Advocate. He is a dynamic community leader and true public servant.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Reverend Andre Ramon Soleil, a seasoned lawyer, artist and entrepreneur with an extraordinary life story. Reverend Soleil was raised in New Hope Baptist Church, Niagara Falls, New York, a church founded by his great-grandparents during the great migration of African-Americans northward to New York from North Carolina in the early 1900s. He was a member of the choir, an usher and a Sunday school teacher. At age 12, Andre confessed Jesus as Lord, was baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit. At 13, Pastor Belk recognized God's call on Andre's life and began training him for ministry as an ``acolyte''. Mr. Soleil is a talented artist and his drawings, paintings and craftworks have been displayed at cultural events and museums since his pre-teens. Mayor Michael O'Laughlin honored the 15-year-old Soleil by appointing him to the Niagara Falls Council of the Arts for his role in many school and community productions in semi-professional and professional regional productions of The Wiz, Pippin, and Jesus Christ Superstar, to name a few. In 1985, Andre Soleil came to New York at 17 and attended Parsons School of Design, majoring in illustration and painting. In 1989, Andre Soleil's son, Donauld, was born. While looking for work after the closing of ``Little Wing'', Reverend Soleil took a part time job at the New York Public Interest Group, Inc. Soon after Reverend Soleil was promoted to Department Director, he began his career in activism, law and politics. Reverend Soleil was appointed by then Manhattan Borough President Ruth Messinger to Manhattan's Community Board 12. Mayor Giuliani next appointed Mr. Soleil to the position of Executive Liaison in the Mayor's Office of Legislative Affairs to the Public Health, Human Rights, General Welfare and Cultural Affairs Committees of the New York City Council. Subsequently, Governor George Pataki appointed Mr. Soleil to the Executive Chamber staff as Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs. A year later, in 1996, Reverend Soleil completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from LaSalle University, cum laude. Mr. Soleil attended City University of New York School of Law at Queens College from 1999 to 2002, where he then became President of the Class of 2002 and Editor-in-Chief of the New York City Law Journal in 2000. In 2000, America's Black Law Student Association elected Andre National Executive Director of the National Black Law Student's Association's 73 Chapters and 8,000 members; and in 2001, these students elected him to the Board of Governors of the National Bar Association. In 2002, Reverend Soleil graduated, achieving his Juris Doctorate and his Master of Arts degree in Business Administration and Media Management, with honors from Metropolitan College of New York. In 2003, Reverend Soleil returned to the work of Jesus Christ and His church. In 2004, Bishop Dr. Wesley J. Wiley and the Elders of the Resurrection Temple of Our Lord ordained Mr. Soleil as a Reverend. Rev. Soleil then entered Columbia Evangelical Seminary to obtain his Doctorate of Ministry. In 2003, Reverend Soleil was admitted to the Bar of the State of New York and founded his law firm, Soleil & Company, P.C., which was opened out of his apartment's living room. In six years, Soleil & Company, P.C. now employs four attorneys, six staff members, and is known for innovative litigation, criminal defense and mortgage/foreclosure defense work. Soleil & Company, P.C. has taken Mayor Bloomberg to task as lead counsel in the matter of Cohen v. Bloomberg, a citizens' lawsuit to block the Mayor's destruction of the term limits law, and has developed a reputation for innovative legal practice in criminal, real-estate, civil rights and family law practice. Rev. Soleil founded Christian Way, Ltd. in 2007, a non-profit advocacy and research group dedicated to the development, protection and promotion of Christianity as a way of life. He also hosts a daily early-morning radio bible study program, ``Breakfast with the Bible,'' that is carried by Massachusetts and Texas based radio and Internet broadcasts. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Reverend Andre Ramon Soleil.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Teresa Coaxum, a tireless leader in the community. Born and raised in Walterboro South Carolina, Ms. Coaxum began her career at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina at the age of 16. Shortly after her first semester she moved to New York and completed her Bachelor's degree and later her Master's degree at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Ms. Coaxum would later graduate from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government's Senior Managers in Government Executive Program. Always one to know the true importance of education, Ms. Coaxum is also a graduate of Coro Leadership New York XV. In Ms. Coaxum's former job, she served as Project Manager of Community Relations under Brooklyn District Attorney, Charles Hynes. There she addressed the needs of residents in Crown Heights, Prospect Heights, Bedford-Stuyvesant, Stuyvesant Heights, East Flatbush, and Bushwick by successfully coordinating community agencies, organizations, churches and elected officials in major initiatives such as ComALERT (Community and Law Enforcement Resources Together), a district attorney program that assists people on probation and parolees in getting jobs, training and education in Crown Heights and Bedford Stuyvesant. Ms. Coaxum has worked tirelessly to empower New York residents through her commitment to community and human services. In her current position, she works countless hours directing community outreach and planning in NYC, assisting in the management of Senator Schumer's eight regional offices, as well as advising the Senator and his Washington, D.C. staff on key policy issues. Ms. Coaxum is a lifetime member of the NAACP. She serves on several committees such as John Jay College of Criminal Justice Alumni Association as the 2nd Vice President, Interfaith Medical Center Auxiliary, Church Women United, Community Board 8, Partnership for Youth and Community Empowerment, Brooklyn Blizzard Youth Organization, The Women's Caucus for Ed Towns, and Brooklyn Young Democrats. In recognition of her loyalty and service, Ms. Coaxum was selected as one of The Network Journal's ``Top 40 under 40 Dynamic Leaders'' in June 2009, and as one of City Hall News' ``Rising Stars 40 under 40''. She received the John Jay College Alumni of the Year Award, various community service awards from Concord Family Services and the 77th, 79th, 81st, 83rd Precinct Community Councils. Among her many honors and recognitions, she has also received The Harriet Tubman Humanitarian Award and Proclamations from Senator Carl Andrews and Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, as well as Special Recognition from Congressman Edolphus ``Ed'' Towns, and Citations from Assemblyman Vito Lopez, New York City Councilmembers Erik Dilan and Diana Reyna, and former Councilman James E. Davis for dedication and hard work in the community. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing this relentless and dynamic community leader.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Erma A. Winslow, a dedicated educator and community servant. Erma Winslow is a retired administrator and guidance counselor for the New York City Board of Education. Ms. Winslow was a counselor and assistant to the principal at Joan of Arc Junior High School, a guidance counselor at Junior High School 258, and a guidance counselor at Richmond Hill High School. While working for the Board of Education, Ms. Winslow was committed to providing quality counseling to elementary, middle, and high school students. Ms. Winslow's areas of expertise are in education, special education, guidance and counseling, curriculum development, recreation, library and media services. Ms. Winslow holds a Master's Degree in Health Education from Columbia University, a Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Fordham University, and a Bachelor's Degree in Health and Recreation from Talladega College in Alabama. She was founder and chair of Bedford Stuyvesant Community Block Association. She is also the recipient of a community service award and a guidance counselor award for her tireless service to the New York City Board of Education. Erma has successfully counseled junior high and high school students, assisting them in meeting their academic, personal and social needs, so they could be active in the communities in which they live. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Erma A. Winslow.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Lance Goodwin, a devoted community servant who has done so much for our community by establishing Trucked Out, Inc., a parent organization for a number of clubs. Lance's vision expanded to form Trucked Out Divas SUV Club and Trucked Out SUV Social Club. These clubs partner with politicians, police precincts, churches, and community organizations for the betterment of their neighborhoods. Mr. Goodwin attended New York City public schools and graduated from George Westinghouse High School. Upon graduating, Mr. Goodwin opted to work so that he could have an income which would make him more independent. After several jobs, he landed an ideal job with the phone company Bell Atlantic, now Verizon. It was during this time that he started the Trucked Out SUV Club with the help of friends. He envisioned him and his friends making a difference in the lives of those they encountered on a daily basis. The members of Trucked Out SUV Club consider themselves to be blessed to be able to afford their vehicles in which they ride and established a model of responsible living for their peers. Lance also saw the need for strong male influences in the lives of children at his son's High School PTA meetings. Trucked Out's members are all firm believers in the saying ``each one teach one''. Trucked Out has sponsored a variety of community events over the years and will continue to do so every year, most notably, their Back to School Giveaway, a Halloween Party for the women in need of shelter. Trucked Out gives out over one thousand toys each holiday season and hosts several teen parties at its clubhouse so our teens have a place to go and enjoy themselves without fear of violence. Trucked Out is also a sponsor of the New York Warriors kid's football team. Whether it is to protest an act of violence, a crime against a member of the community, a vigil to remember the life of someone or to go to a funeral to give support to a grieving family, Trucked Out will continue to help out in any way it can in our communities. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Lance Goodwin.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Edna M. Johnson, a model citizen and extraordinary leader in the community. Edna Johnson was born and raised in a small steel mill town in Clairton, Pennsylvania, the youngest of nine children. Ms. Johnson began singing at the age of seven and, because of her love of music, Ms. Johnson began singing in several different locales, including church and eventually as member of the group ``Naomi Shelton and the Gospel Queens''. After graduating from Clairton High School, she relocated to New York City. She found solace with her church family when she joined Broadway United Church of Christ, where she served as Deacon, Trustee and Steward. Never forgetting the importance of education that her parents instilled in her, Ms. Johnson's church family assisted her with attending Pace University. She would later receive her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Ms. Johnson has always understood the importance of service, working as a parent organizer in the public schools and as a tenant organizer. She was the first to successfully implement the Neighborhood Revitalization Program with New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development. While living in Manhattan, she became chairperson of the Tenant Association in Clinton Towers for five years. She also chaired the 79th Precinct Community Council for six years, where she helped facilitate a more cohesive relationship between the people and the local police. Always eager to serve, she is currently a member of Community Board 3 and has received several citations for perfect attendance. In her first year on the Board, she was Chairperson of the Police, Fire and Safety Committee. Ms. Johnson now serves on the Health Hospital and Social Science Committee. She also serves as first Vice President for Northeast Brooklyn Housing Company Inc. and Second Vice President for the African American Planning Commission Inc. Ms. Johnson currently serves as Special Assistant to the Honorable Edolphus ``Ed'' Towns, navigating federal agencies on behalf of hundreds of constituents and serving as a liaison to the broader community. In recognition of her services, she has received citations from Congressman Edolphus Towns, City Councilmember Annette Robinson, The New York City Police Department, The 79th Precinct Council, The Brooklyn Job Corps, A.I.D.P. at P.S.26, Hebron Baptist Church, Greater Cross Road Baptist Church, Bridge Street Development Corporation, The Bedford Stuyvesant Community Block Association and The National Night Out Committee. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Edna M. Johnson, a tireless community organizer, and dedicated servant of the public.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of James ``Rocky'' Robinson, Jr., founder of the Bedford Stuyvesant Volunteer Ambulance Corps (BSVAC) and an inspiration to the community of Brooklyn. James (``Rocky'') Robinson, Jr. was born on July 15, 1940, in Marietta, North Carolina, to Betty and James Robinson. When he was still an infant, his family moved to Brooklyn, New York, where Rocky was raised. After attending Eastern District High School in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, Rocky served five years in the United States Army. His army duty included serving as a member of the Honor Guard, posted at the Arlington National Cemetery, where he stood guard during the visits of Jackie Kennedy and her children to John F. Kennedy's grave. After leaving the military, Rocky joined New York City's Emergency Medical Service (EMS) where he served the city for more than 30 years, before retiring in 2000. His career with EMS was marked by many accomplishments. In 1977 he was promoted to Lieutenant, and in 1994 he became a Captain. Through his work with EMS, Rocky witnessed the crisis in emergency medical services in New York's minority communities. To respond to these crises, in 1988 Rocky co-founded the Bedford- Stuyvesant Volunteer Ambulance Corps (``BSVAC''), America's first minority volunteer ambulance corps. The remarkable story of Rocky and BSVAC has been told in print, on the radio and on television. BSVAC first began operations with no ambulance and no volunteers, at a point when the response time in Bedford-Stuyvesant for city ambulances averaged about 30 minutes. In the beginning, Rocky and his partner, Spec. Joe Perez, responded on foot to the calls they heard on their police radio. Eventually, BSVAC established a record-breaking ambulance service that has responded to over 400 emergency calls a month with an average response time of less than four minutes. Through BSVAC, Rocky has worked tirelessly to help the Bedford- Stuyvesant community. Rocky designed a comprehensive emergency medical training program including trauma troopers, First Responders, and youth corps. To date, thousands of local residents have been trained to save lives in emergencies. In addition, hundreds of young people have completed the youth corps program (basic EMT training); almost 100% of the graduates have become EMTs or have otherwise pursued careers in medicine as a nurse, physician's assistant, or doctor. Although he has concentrated his efforts on Bed-Stuy, Rocky has reached out to other minority communities, from Harlem to Los Angeles, providing emergency medical training and assistance in setting up programs. Closer to home, in 1993, Rocky responded to the first World Trade Center incident with BSVAC; he also responded on 9/11 when BSVAC volunteers saved a firefighter's life. Rocky's ability to inspire led him to being chosen to address the Republican National Convention in Houston, Texas in 1994. For his remarkable accomplishments and ongoing efforts, Rocky has received numerous awards, including: Robin Hood Foundation Hero of the Year Award, New York City Award, American Institute for Public Service Jefferson Award, Points of Light Award (Awarded by George Bush), and Maxwell House Hero Search Award. Among the many honors he has received, Rocky was selected to carry the Olympic torch down Fifth Avenue in New York City, en route to Atlanta, in 1996. Rocky's status as a hero was even recognized by the children of Wilkes Country Elementary School in North Carolina, who named him as their black hero in 1998. (Choosing him by a landslide over the other candidates, including Michael Jordan). Of all the honors and awards that Rocky has earned, he describes his greatest reward as the satisfaction he enjoys from seeing young people succeed in medical careers after training with BSVAC. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing James ``Rocky'' Robinson, an ``on-call,'' unselfish community servant.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Barbara Messier for her record of extraordinary service to New York's Tenth Congressional District. Barbara Messier, born in Canton, Ohio, graduated from the St. Luke Nursing School in Cleveland and began her nursing career in the Apple Creek State Hospital. While at Apple Creek, she first got experience in psychiatric nursing, working under a group of extraordinary leaders in the field. She continued her work in psychiatric nursing after moving to New York, working with Dr. Jochanan Weisenfreund at St. John's Episcopal Hospital and later at the Interfaith Medical Center. Mrs. Messier was instrumental in revitalizing Interfaith's Department of Psychiatry from an unlicensed, 25-bed inpatient unit, to a full fledged, top-quality department. As the Assistant Vice President of the Department of Psychiatry, she is also responsible for Bedford- Stuyvesant Community Mental Health Center's programs, serving patients in a variety of innovative capacities. She also serves as the Clerk of Session at the Oceanside Presbyterian Church, and teaches adult Bible classes there. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Barbara Messier.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Jack Lefkowitz for his record of extraordinary service to New York's Tenth Congressional District. Jack Lefkowitz is the President and Chief Executive Officer of New York MedScan, providing high quality diagnostic imaging services in a comfortable hospital outpatient environment. He greatly contributes to the quality of life for Brooklyn's neediest patients, working through the organization Yad Ephraim to prepare and deliver home-cooked meals tailored to the needs of each patient. Mr. Lefkowitz chairs Maskil El Dat, providing financial aid, meals, transportation, babysitting, and emotional support for impoverished Jewish families. I applaud Jack Lefkowitz's philanthropic activities, contributing both professionally and privately in our communities. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Jack Lefkowitz.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Edouard Guillaume, MD, for his record of extraordinary service to New York's Tenth Congressional District. Dr. Edouard Guillaume was born in Gonaives, Haiti, studied medicine at the University Hospital of Haiti, and completed his formal training in Internal Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in Chicago, Illinois and Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He currently focuses on hematology and oncology. Dr. Guillaume today heads Interfaith's acclaimed Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program, where he is well known as a ``pain specialist''. He was honored by the Sickle Cell Thalassemia Patients Network (SCTPN) in 2005 for his dedicated and distinguished service to patients affected with the disease. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Edouard Guillaume.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Jacques Guillaume, MD, for his record of extraordinary service to New York's Tenth Congressional District. Dr. Jacques Guillaume was born in Haiti, studied both law and medicine at the State University of Haiti, then continued his studies here in the United States. Here he has combined his twin passions--law and medicine--to address the inequalities of justice and the inadequacies of health care in low-income communities. Dr. Guillaume has also held several managerial positions in the medical field, including Director of the Residency Training Program at the Catholic Medical Center, Director of OB/GYN at Mary Immaculate Hospital and St. Joseph. He currently serves as the Chair of the Gynecology Department at the Interfaith Medical Center. Dr. Guillaume is a recognized leader in the OB/GYN community, publishing many articles in peer-reviewed journals. He frequently appears on television and radio programs to discuss health conditions. He clearly has a strong love of science and a real sense of justice. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Jacques Guillaume.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month 2009. Since the birth of this country, Hispanics have played a tremendous role in the nation's social, economic, and political movements. Today, more than 47 million people of Hispanic origin live in the United States and represent the nation's fastest growing ethnic population. At this time, more than half a million Hispanic men and women reside in my home state of New York. During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich history and culture of Hispanic Americans. Hispanic Americans from all 50 states and territories are honored for their contributions to our society, which make up a critical part of America's identity and background. Hispanic Americans continue to share in the sacrifice and civic duties of their fellow U.S. citizens, and in fact, the Puerto Rican military participation rate is the second highest in the country. Last month, I was joined by Representatives Pierluisi, Wasserman Shultz and Mica in co-sponsoring legislation, H.R. 3718, to make residents of Puerto Rico fully eligible for the refundable portion of the child tax credit. The bill broadens the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that currently excludes from the child tax credit Puerto Rican families with less than three children. At this time, the child tax credit is available to U.S. citizens in the 50 states, including residents of Puerto Rico who move to a state. Expanding the child tax credit to Puerto Rican families with one child or more will inject critical funds into Puerto Rico's economy by directly boosting the incomes of the island's working families. Puerto Rico has been in an official recession for over three years, and its unemployment rate is 15.1 percent, which is significantly higher than the national average of 9.8 percent. Denying Puerto Rican families' access to proven United States economic recovery measures is unproductive and unjust, and it is time to afford U.S. citizens who are living in Puerto Rico the benefits of the child tax credit. In conclusion, National Hispanic Heritage Month 2009 is marked by President Obama's successful appointment of the first Hispanic Associate Justice to the United States Supreme Court, the Honorable Sonia Sotomayor. The nomination and appointment of our fellow New Yorker to the Supreme Court earlier this year is one in which our nation should take pride-- for it broke down ethnic and gender barriers that will forever open the doors to future generations of Americans. I congratulate Justice Sotomayor on her appointment. As this year's National Hispanic Heritage Month comes to an end, please join me in proudly honoring Hispanic Americans for their countless contributions to our nation.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Thank you very much, Chairman Skelton. As chairman of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, I rise in support of the conference agreement on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010. Title 19 of the bill makes important updates to the retirement system for Federal employees. These changes will improve the retirement system's effectiveness as a recruiting and management tool at a time when we need to attract the best and the brightest of the Federal workforce. The reforms eliminate inconsistency in the way part-time service, breaks in service, and unused sick leave are considered in calculating retirement benefits. It helps civilian workers at the Department of Defense, the largest employer in the Federal Government. I also support the repeal of the National Security Personnel System. This system implemented by DOD has been a near-total failure, and I support making a fresh start. I also support the report's continued funding for programs at historically black colleges, universities, and minority-serving institutions to ensure that students are trained to meet our Nation's defense research and technological needs. I thank Chairman Skelton and the other conferees for their support. I urge all Members to support this conference report. Again, I want to thank all of the staff members who made this possible.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This October 2009, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and honor those women who lost their lives to the disease, along with those who are fighting the disease and those who are survivors. For the past quarter century, October has been dedicated to the awareness and education of breast cancer. This monthly observance, most notably marked by the color pink which is now recognized worldwide as the color of breast cancer awareness, has also allowed us to trace the tremendous milestones in science and innovation that are producing promising results to combat the disease, such as proven better treatment and lower fatality rates. I am currently a co-sponsor of H.R. 1691: The ``Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act of 2009'' introduced in this Congress by my colleague from Connecticut, Rep. Rosa DeLauro. The legislation requires health plans to provide coverage for a minimum hospital stay for mastectomies, lumpectomies, and lymph node dissection for the treatment of breast cancer and coverage for secondary consultations. Currently, the legislation is before the House Committees on Energy and Commerce, Ways and Means and Education and Labor. I urge my colleagues to take steps toward bringing this legislation for a vote on the House floor as soon as possible. This year alone, more than 190,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among women in the United States, and an estimated 40,170 women are expected to die from the disease. With those statistics in mind, I encourage all women over the age of 40 to put their health first this month. That may mean taking precautionary steps, such as doing yearly mammograms and other early detection procedures. On this silver anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I honor those women who are currently fighting the disease and extend to them my warmest blessings for a speedy recovery.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I am pleased today to join my friend and colleague from Kentucky, Congressman Whitfield, in introducing legislation authorizing the Federal Trade Commission to conduct international technical assistance activities. On April 2, 2007, The Antitrust Modernization Commission, a non- partisan Commission established by an act of Congress, submitted a report to Congress and the President, containing a comprehensive set of recommendations for modernization of our nation's antitrust laws. Included in the report was a recommendation that Congress ``provide budgetary authority, as well as appropriations, directly to the Federal Trade Commission and the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice to provide international antitrust technical assistance.'' While recognizing that progress has been made toward convergence, or standardization, of antitrust laws from country-to-country, in discussing the need for Congress to authorize and fund technical assistance activities, the Commission pointed to three primary reasons for the need of for a sustained technical assistance program. The Commission concluded that: ``First, companies may be subject to conflicting and inconsistent laws, creating uncertainty as to the legal standards applicable to their business arrangements. Second, companies must comply with the procedural requirements of multiple jurisdictions, potentially increasing their costs significantly, particularly with respect to notification requirements for mergers. Third, different countries may ultimately impose different, and inconsistent, remedies with respect to the same conduct or transaction.'' Technical assistance programming involves sending antitrust experts from U.S. agencies with institutional expertise in the regulation and enforcement of antitrust laws to foreign capitols to provide guidance and consultation to their foreign counterparts in the development, implementation and enforcement of antitrust law. As noted in the Antitrust Modernization Commission Report, ``the DoJ and FTC provide extensive technical assistance to nascent competition law regimes.'' Funding for such technical assistance programming is derived from USAID. USAID, a foreign aid agency of the Department of State, has as its mission to foster democracy, economic growth and human health in developing nations through a variety of means, including food aid, infrastructure construction, training, and technical assistance across a number of public policy and legal areas, including competition policy. As the Commission notes, ``FTC and DoJ requests for limited USAID funding to support antitrust training efforts accordingly compete with others' demands for basic needs such as food and healthcare support.'' As a result of these competing demands, technical assistance funding to DoJ and the FTC is severely limited and inconsistent from year-to- year. The limited and inconsistent nature of USAID funding for technical assistance presents unique challenges for the agencies involved. According to a University of Missouri study by D. Daniel Sokol and Kyle W. Stiegert, entitled ``An Empirical Evaluation of Long Term Advisors and Short Term Interventions in Technical Assistance'' there are generally two types of technical assistance activities, long term advisors (LTA) and short term interventions (STI). ``LTAs are advisors that spend an extended time period working in-country with a recipient antitrust agency. STIs are technical assistance interventions based on a ``discrete set of issues including concentrated programs that simulate investigations of competition cases, training for judges, or other inputs.'' Both approaches involve the commitment of highly skilled and specialized agency staff. Absent a clear and dedicated funding source for technical assistance activities, agencies are reluctant to commit such resources to building out a robust technical assistance program and to dedicate staff to technical assistance activities. There are other limitations inherent in USAID as the funding source for technical assistance activities that are driven primarily by the mission and foreign aid restrictions placed on the agency. By definition, USAID's mission is to work with emerging democracies and economies. While this mission is important, the countries that receive foreign assistance from USAID, including technical assistance training in whatever form, generally are not those where U.S. businesses are increasingly encountering problems with domestic barriers to entry for trade--countries such as Brazil, India, South Korea and China, which are deemed to be too developed to qualify for USAID assistance. China exemplifies another limitation on use of USAID funding for technical assistance. Because of the nature of Chinese government, it is illegal to provide US foreign aid to China. As a result, even if USAID was inclined to provide funding for technical assistance programming in China, it would be prohibited by law from doing so. With the rapid proliferation of antitrust enforcement regimes around the globe, the future of international commerce is no longer about classic market access issues like tariffs and quotas. The debate is increasingly about divergent regulations and other so-called ``in- country barriers'' to trade. These in-country barriers to entry make it increasingly difficult for U.S. companies to compete effectively around the world. While technical assistance training, alone, will not solve these highly complex problems, its approach, based on trust building, education and cooperation, represents one very important tool to addressing the challenge of international standardization of antitrust laws and competition policy regimes.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dr. Theophine Abakporo, Medical Director of the Department of Emergency Medicine & Pre-Hospital Care at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center and dedicated public servant. Dr. Theophine Abakporo, MD was born in Nigeria in 1964. During his childhood, he was deeply influenced by the devastating experience of growing up in a country at war. He witnessed the effects the war had on his local community--displacement, premature deaths, injuries, disease and poverty. As he grew older, he realized the importance of community organizations and public service. At the age of 23, Dr. Abakporo obtained his MD degree from Jos Medical School in Nigeria. Upon graduation, he was appointed Medical Officer with the Nigerian Army Field Ambulance. Subsequently, he relocated to the United States to pursue his postgraduate medical education. In 1995, he completed his residency in internal medicine at Brookdale University Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. He is board certified in internal medicine and emergency medicine. In response to the increasing need for disaster awareness and management he took further training and certification. He is certified by the United States Department of Homeland Security in healthcare leadership and administrative decision-making in response to weapons of mass destruction (WMD). He is certified by the United States Army in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive incidents (CBRNE). In addition, he is certified by the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) in online medical control. While pursuing his medical career Dr. Abakporo became deeply involved in the health care needs of the inner-city communities in the United States. Dr. Abakporo worked hard and committed himself to participating in the health outreach and other programs related to the well being of the Brooklyn communities such as Ocean Hill, Brownsville, East New York, Bed-Stuy, Bushwick and Ridgewood communities. This strong willingness to help and care for people, contributed to his interest and focus in the field of emergency medicine and pre-hospital care. In 1996, Dr. Abakporo joined Wyckoff Heights Medical Center as an Attending Physician in the Department of Emergency Medicine. His leadership, hard work and dedication earned him a promotion as Assistant Director in 2005. Dr. Abakporo currently serves as Medical Director of the Department of Emergency Medicine & Pre-Hospital Care at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center. In 2008, Dr. Abakporo was honored by the Wyckoff Heights Medical Center's Nursing Administration for his motivation, excellence, dedication and service to the patients and staff. He received the Nursing Recognition Award for Physician Education & Nursing Collaboration. Dr. Abakporo is a member of World Association of Disaster and Emergency Medicine (WADEM); the American Association of Physician Specialists, and the American College of Physicians. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Theophine Abakporo.