Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, the Federal Customer Service Enhancement Act will require Federal agencies to set higher performance standards in delivering customer service. Sometimes we complain about how we are treated, but do not take any action. This legislation is a step in the right direction, and we are doing something about the attitude of government employees. We have worked with the GAO, OMB, and the minority, and in particular the gentlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. Foxx) to improve this bill. We have also incorporated the language from H.R. 2324, a bill sponsored by the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Duncan), who shares the same birthday with me. This bill is important to highlight the importance that the Congress puts on better customer service. I support its passage and urge my colleagues to do the same. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks.

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brooklyn resident Ms. Joan Caccamo. Joan received her bachelor of science degree in Management from St. Francis College in Brooklyn in 1983; she later earned a master's degree with a specialty in Administration and Supervision from Fordham University. Joan taught Business Education and Computer Science for 12 years and worked as a high school director of development and is currently employed as the assistant director of recreation, intramurals and athletics as well as a senior woman administrator at Brooklyn College. Joan continues to give back to her community. She is currently the department president of the American Legion Auxiliary who has chosen for her special project the Special Olympics of New York. Under her leadership, members of the American Legion have donated more than $40,000 to the project. Joan has traveled throughout New York State visiting 62 counties promoting Special Olympics, veterans', children's, and community issues. Joan's accomplishments are many and include; the Empire Girl's Program service as housemother, vice-chair and chair of the Veterans' Affairs and Rehabilitation, certified leadership instructor, and the winner of the Public Relations Chair National Award. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Joan Caccamo who has given more than 40 years of volunteer service. I'd also like to honor her for her accomplishments as a teacher and caring member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Ms. Joan Caccamo.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, on Friday, June 29th, 2007, the United States and the Republic of Panama signed the Trade Promotion Agreement, which is the result of the tireless negotiations between both the United States and Panama. After the agreement is signed, Congress will have an opportunity to comprehensively review it, an opportunity that I wholeheartedly welcome. This agreement will increase much needed access to medicines for developing countries, strengthen provisions in labor, environment and national security. This agreement also sees to it that significant cuts are made to trade barrier tariffs. Additionally, this bill seeks to improve on the growing commercial relationship between both countries on the growing Panamanian market which has a strong affinity for American goods, demonstrated by the 67 percent trade deficit Panama currently holds with the U.S. Small businesses stand to benefit from this agreement as well. The elimination of Panamanian tariffs on our goods will lower the transaction costs. This would create a mutually beneficial relationship between small business sellers in the United States and buyers in Panama. This agreement is about more than the commercial exchange of goods and services. I would like to note that our relationship with Panama is a long standing one since its independence from Colombia in 1903. We have an uncompromising commitment to providing opportunities for the people of Panama to work towards a better future while providing American businesses the opportunity to expand their market access in another country. I would be remiss if I did not mention the $5.25 billion expansion of the Panama Canal which will create additional unique opportunities. Three of the four contracts for this project have already been awarded to U.S businesses. Madam Speaker, I submit for your further consideration the text of the proposed U.S. Panama Trade Promotion Agreement. I look forward to a productive and informative discussion about it in the weeks and months to come.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and work of Dr. Elias Blake, Jr., former president of Clark College in Atlanta, GA. Dr. Blake was an impassioned advocate for education, social justice and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. His passing is a profound loss to the struggle for higher education in the African-American community. Dr. Blake led Clark College from 1977 until 1987. During that decade, he developed and implemented a plan that resulted in placing the college on a sound financial path, major improvements in faculty training and curriculum, securing national accreditations for many academic programs, seeking out and retaining the best and brightest minds to enhance their academic and life skills, and enhancing science, mathematics and musical scholarships while making jazz music a signature experience at Clark College. Madam Speaker, I cannot in this short time do justice to the life and achievements of Dr. Elias Blake, Jr.; however, it is fitting that as his final accomplishment he was working on a study of Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark decision of the United States Supreme Court that overturned segregation in our Nation's public schools. A lifelong advocate for jazz music, Dr. Blake worked with such notables as Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, Billy Taylor, and many others to encourage younger musicians in their musical pursuits. My heart goes out to the family of Elias Blake, Jr. and I want them to know that I appreciate the life and work of Dr. Blake and that he will be greatly missed. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Dr. Elias Blake, Jr. for his continuing dedication to the world's children as well as those children in our community. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Dr. Elias Blake, Jr., former president of Clark College.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Anthony F. Martin who was born in the Bronx, NY. to parents Joseph and Sylvia in 1945. He is a product of the New York City Public School System, graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1963. Anthony Martin's family purchased a home in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn making them the first African-American family on their block. It was at the local recreation center where ``Tony'' learned to swim and play basketball. Anthony Martin played basketball with many of the all-time greats including the Jackson brothers, Vaughn Harper and a host of other New York athletic powerhouses. After playing basketball in college he began playing in the summer leagues with the Brooklyn 76ers, Rucker and the WBLS Sure Shots. Anthony Martin's athletic talents were recognized by the New York Institute of Technology where he was offered a full scholarship. As a member of the institute's first graduating class, he received a bachelor of science degree in accounting in 1967. His accomplishments at NYIT were many: captain of the basketball team; treasurer and vice president of the Varsity Club; vice president of the Finance Accounting Management Association and class representative of the Association of Computing Machinery. He also served as a member of the New York All Metropolitan College Team. Anthony Martin joined the New York City Board of Education as an elementary school teacher after graduating from NYIT. He was also employed with the New York City Parks' Department as a recreation director. While working both jobs he managed to earn two master's degrees from Long Island University and City College. His career also included his current job as a guidance counselor at Erasmus Hall and Paul Roberson High School until his retirement in February of 2007. Anthony Martin met the love of his life in 1973 on the campus of Medgar Evers College. He and Deborah Young formed a long lasting relationship which blossomed into love and holy matrimony. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the accomplishments and achievements of Anthony F. Martin and his selfless and unwavering dedication to the children of New York City. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Anthony F. Martin who has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes him most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, recently an arrest warrant was issued by the government of Punjab for Dr. Sukhpreet Singh Udhoke, a practicing physician, International Secretary General of Dal Khalsa USA, and Editor-in-Chief of the Sikh publication Shamshir-e-Qaum. Warrants were also issued for two of his associates. This is a blatant violation of the basic rights of freedom of speech and freedom of the press. Freedom of speech and freedom of the press are two of the rights that are basic to democracy, yet they can be suppressed at will in ``the world's largest democracy.'' Dr. Udhoke's crime was to publish articles in his magazine that criticized the Chief Minister of Punjab, Parkash Singh Badal, and advocated freedom for the Sikhs. For this, he is under the cloud of an arrest warrant. He has had to go underground to avoid arrest. Madam Speaker, this is frighteningly familiar. It is reminiscent of the tactics of the Soviet Union, Nazi Germany, or any of the other totalitarian police states around the world which America has always opposed. How can any Member of Congress support such a blatantly authoritarian country? I would strongly advise the Indian government to withdraw the arrest warrant against Dr. Udhoke. If it does not, it will confirm that it is the tyrannical, authoritarian, repressive regime that the minorities charge that it is, rather than the democracy it proclaims itself to be. This is unfortunately just the latest chapter in a long line of repression against minorities. We have detailed for many years the tens of thousands of Christians, Sikhs, Muslims, Dalits, and other minorities who have been murdered at the hands of the Indian government, as well as the tens of thousands of political prisoners who are held in India, according to Amnesty International. Laws have been passed that prohibit anyone from converting from Hinduism to any other religion. Booklets have been published on how to implicate Christians and other minorities in false criminal cases. Sikhs have been arrested for marches and speeches. A Christian priest was forced to drink his own urine. And the arrest warrant for Dr. Udhoke shows that the repression goes on. Madam Speaker, India's Constitution, like ours, guarantees freedom of speech and the Indian courts have ruled that peacefully advocating independence for Khalistan (or any other minority nation) is not a crime. So what was the basis for Dr. Udhoke's arrest? I thank Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan, for bringing the Udhoke case to my attention. The Council of Khalistan has issued a press release condemning the arrest warrant against Udhoke. I recommend it strongly to my colleagues. It shows the truth about how democracy is really practiced in India. The need for the Sikhs of Khalistan, the Christians of Nagaland, the Muslims of Kashmir, and the other minorities within India's artificial borders to claim their God-given right to be free could not be clearer. If they can be arrested for articles they publish, how can they count on the government to protect any of their rights? It is time for us to speak up and take action. We can help by stopping aid and trade with India until the basic human rights and civil rights of all people are observed. India can start by withdrawing the arrest warrant for Dr. Udhoke and his associates. We should also put the United States Congress on record publicly in support of self- determination for the Sikhs of Punjab, Khalistan, the Muslims of Kashmir, the Christians of Nagalim, and all the people seeking freedom in South Asia in the form of a free and fair vote on their status. Isn't that the democratic way? Arrest Warrant for Udhoke Must Be Withdrawn Washington, DC, June 28, 2007.--The Council of Khalistan today demanded that the arrest warrant for Dr. Sukhpreet Singh Udhoke, International Secretary General of Dal Khalsa USA and Editor-in-Chief of the periodical Shamshir-e-Qaum, and two of his associates be withdrawn. The arrest warrant was issued by the government of Punjab after Dr. Udhoke printed articles about the persecution of the Sikh Nation and how the Sikh religion is being attacked by the RSS and its political arm, the BJP. He criticized Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal in his articles. The Akali Dal government of Badal is in a political alliance with the BJP. Dr. Udhoke and his associates' persecution has been condemned recently by the World Peace Forum. Dr. Udhoke is a medical doctor who takes care of the sick as well as being an activist for the interests of the Sikh religion and the Sikh Nation. Dr. Udhoke, a resident of the Amritsar district, has been forced underground. He is charged with treason and antinational activities. His magazine, which was on the stands for sale, was removed by the Badal government. This action is a threat to freedom of speech, of the press, and of religion, which are basic democratic and civil rights. Badal is the Chief Minister. As such, he is responsible for law and order. Yet he was quick to put out an arrest warrant for Dr. Udhoke for exercising his freedom of speech, but he had to be pressured into prosecuting Ram Rahim, the fraudulent baba who was impersonating Guru Gobind Singh, and he has not yet arrested him. This shows what the Badal government's priorities and allegiances are. He is more concerned with arresting those who defend the interests of the Sikh Nation and the Sikh religion than those who violate it. Ironically, despite Badal's begging and pleading, Ram Rahim supported the Congress Party in the recent elections in Punjab. ``The arrest warrant against Dr. Udhoke shows that there is no freedom of speech in Punjab or in India,'' said Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan. ``As the late General Narinder Singh said, `Punjab is a police state.' Only a free Khalistan will allow Dr. Udhoke and all Sikhs to enjoy freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and all the rights of free people, rights that are the birthright of all people,'' he said. ``Badal's conduct is shameful for a Sikh leader,'' said Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan. ``He is the leader of a government of the Akali Dal, which was organized to protect the interests of the Sikh Nation, yet he is in bed with the Indian government that is oppressing the Sikhs. Badal is under the complete control of the Indian government, rather than working for the Sikhs. We must free ourselves of corrupt, anti-Sikh leaders like Badal and his friends by liberating Khalistan.'' he said. ``As former Akal Takht Jathedar Professor Darshan Singh said: `If a Sikh is not a Khalistani, he is not a Sikh.''' A report issued by the Movement Against State Repression (MASR) shows that India admitted that it held 52,268 political prisoners under the repressive ``Terrorist and Disruptive Activities Act'' (TADA) even though it expired in 1995. Many have been in illegal custody since 1984. There has been no list published of those who were acquitted under TADA and those who are still rotting in Indian jails. Additionally, according to Amnesty International, there are tens of thousands of other minorities being held as political prisoners in India. The MASR report quotes the Punjab Civil Magistracy as writing ``if we add up the figures of the last few years the number of innocent persons killed would run into lakhs [hundreds of thousands.]'' The Indian government has murdered over 250,000 Sikhs since 1984, more than 300,000 Christians in Nagaland, over 90,000 Muslims in Kashmir, tens of thousands of Christians and Muslims throughout the country, and tens of thousands of Tamils, Assamese, Manipuris, Dalits, Bodos, and others. The Indian Supreme Court called the Indian government's murders of Sikhs ``worse than a genocide.'' ``The Sikh masses and the Akali Dal must rise to the occasion and establish new leadership that works for the interest of the Khalsa Panth and abides by Sikh tradition,'' said Dr. Aulakh. ``Badal and his government have betrayed the Sikh Rehat Maryada, Sikh principles, and Sikh tradition. Their leadership must be rejected for the interests of the Khalsa Panth,'' he said. ``Remember Guru Gobind Singh's words: `In grieb Sikhin ko deon patshahi.' It is time to realize Guru Sahib's blessing. Only a free Khalistan will put a stop to occurrences like the arrest of Dr. Udhoke,'' he said. ``Without political power, religions cannot flourish and nations perish. The time is now to launch a Shantmai Morcha to free Khalistan.''

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, recently the government of Punjab erected a statue to honor Beant Singh, the late Chief Minister of Punjab, who presided over the murders of over 50,000 Sikhs and the secret cremations of Sikhs in Punjab at the behest of the Indian government. Longtime Sikh activist and former member of Parliament Simranjit Singh Mann showed up with some associates to protest the honor given to this brutal, barbaric ruler. During the protest, they tried to hang a picture of Dilawar Singh, who killed Beant Singh, on the statue. Dilawar Singh is considered by the Sikhs to be a martyr. For this act of protest, they were arrested. Mr. Mann is also one of the people who was arrested in 2005 for the crime of making speeches in support of Khalistan, the independent Sikh homeland, and raising the flag of Khalistan. I fail to see what crime was committed in any of these acts. Coupled with the recent arrest of Dr. Sukhpreet Singh Udhoke for publishing articles critical of the Chief Minister, Mann's arrest makes it clear that for minorities such as the Sikhs, free speech, free assembly, and a free press do not exist in India. For minorities such as Christians, Sikhs, Muslims, and others, India is far from the democracy it claims to be. For them, it's a police state just like the Soviet Union or Nazi Germany. Mann's arrest and Udhoke's arrest violate India's constitution as well as all the principles of freedom and democracy. We cannot stand idly by and let these arrests go by without taking any action. What can we do? We can and should cut off our aid and trade with India until all people there are allowed to enjoy basic human rights and civil rights. We can and should publicly demand self-determination for the Sikhs of Punjab, Khalistan, the Muslims of Kashmir, the Christians of Nagalim, and all the people seeking freedom in South Asia in the form of a free and fair vote on their status. Self-determination is the essence of democracy. Unfortunately, ``the world's largest democracy'' denies this essential right to its minority citizens. We have a strong voice. Let us raise it in support of these minorities. The Council of Khalistan has issued a very informative press release on the arrest of Mr. Mann and his associates. Simranjit Singh Mann Must Be Released Washington, DC, June 28, 2007.--The Council of Khalistan today demanded the immediate release of former Member of Parliament Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann and his associates who tried to hang a picture of Beant Singh's assassin on the late--Chief Minister's statue in Jalandhar. Beant Singh, who received less than 7 percent of the vote, was installed as Chief Minister by the Indian government. He presided over the murders of more than 50,000 Sikhs. He was the person who instituted the policy of secret cremation, in which young Sikhs were arrested, murdered in police custody, then declared unidentified'' and secretly cremated and the families never received their bodies. This barbaric policy was exposed by human-rights activist Sardar Jaswant Singh Khalra. As a result of his report, Khalra was arrested and murdered while in police custody. His body was also secretly cremated and was never given to his family. Recently, the Punjab government under Parkash Singh Badal erected a statue of Beant Singh in Jalandhar. Sardar Mann and his associates were arrested when they tried to hang a picture of his assassin, Dilawar Singh, on it. ``The arrest of Simranjit Singh Mann and his associates is another blow to freedom of speech and freedom of assembly in India. basic rights of free people,'' said Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan. ``If a group of people can't even hold a peaceful demonstration without being arrested, then what rights do they really have? Where is India's often and loudly proclaimed commitment to democracy? Mann and his associates must be released immediately.'' Mann was previously arrested in 2005, along with other Sikh activists, for making speeches in support of Khalistan and raising the Khalistani flag. He came to prominence after the Indian government's military attack on the Golden Temple and 37 other Gurdwaras in June 1984, in which over 20,000 Sikhs were killed, including Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Mann resigned from the police, saying that he could not serve a government that would attack the Golden Temple. In 1989, Mann wrote to the chief Justice of India, ``reiterating my allegiance to the Constitution and territorial integrity of India,'' according to Chakravyuh: Web of Indian Secularism by Professor Gurtej Singh IAS, which reprints the letter. He also served as a Member of parliament from Punjab around that time. In the mid-1990s, Mann was arrested for peaceful political activities by the Indian government and the Council of Khalistan secured his release. In 2000, Mann came to the United States with the blessing of the Indian government, escorted through the United States and Canada by Amarjit Singh of the Khalistan Affairs Center. He spoke to a group on Capitol Hill in Washington DC and while speaking in New York, he said that the office of the Council of Khalsitan in Washington, DC should be closed. Since then, he has continued his political activism in Punjab, Khalistan. Neither Amarjit Singh nor the Khalistan Affairs Center has uttered a word of protest against Mann's arrest. Mann's grandfather gave a siropa to General Dyer, the British general who was in charge of the army that massacred over 1,300 Sikhs at Jalianwalia Bagh. A few years ago, Queen Elizabeth apologized to the Sikhs for the massacre during her visit to Punjab. ``The arrest of Simranjit Singh Mann and his associates shows that there is no freedom of speech in Punjab or in India,'' said Dr. Aulakh. ``This underlines the need for a free, sovereign, independent Khalistan. In a free Khalistan, no one would be arrested for peaceful political activity,'' he said. ``In a free Khalistan, no one would erect a statue to honor those who carry out genocide against the Sikh religion and the Sikh Nation. These arrests should make it clear to Sikhs that even if you cooperate with India. they will use you and throw you away,'' said Dr. Aulakh. A report issued by the Movement Against State Repression (MASR) shows that India admitted that it held 52,268 political prisoners under the repressive ``Terrorist and Disruptive Activities Act'' (TADA), which expired in 1995. Many have been in illegal custody since 1984. According to Amnesty International, there are tens of thousands of other minorities being held as political prisoners in India. The Indian government has murdered over 250,000 Sikhs since 1984, more than 300,000 Christians in Nagaland, over 90,000 Muslims in Kashmir, tens of thousands of Christians and Muslims throughout the country, and tens of thousands of Tamils, Assamese, Manipuris, Dalits, Bodos, and others. The Indian Supreme Court called the Indian government's murders of Sikhs ``worse than a genocide.'' ``The arrests of Simranjit Singh Mann and Dr. Sukhpreet Singh Udhoke show that it is urgent to liberate Khalistan from Indian rule as soon as possible,'' said Dr. Aulakh. ``The time is now to launch a Shantmai Morcha to free Khalistan.''

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, on Saturday, June 30, the United States and the Republic of Korea are expected to sign a Free Trade Agreement, the result of months of negotiations between our two countries. After the agreement is signed, Congress will have an opportunity to comprehensively review it, an opportunity that I wholeheartedly welcome. The U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement holds both substantive and symbolic importance. for nearly a million Korean Americans, a large number of whom are my constituents, New York is home to many businesses, large and small, which focus on trade between the United States and the Republic of Korea. The governments of our two countries did not pursue this agreement without the encouragement and input of several important organizations. Among these were the U.S.-Korea FTA Business Coalition, the U.S.-Korea and Korea-U.S. Business Councils, the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea and the Federation of Korean Industries. I would also like to recognize the efforts of my good friends at the Korea International Trade Association with whom I had the pleasure of meeting its Chairman and representatives on several occasions. Madam Speaker, barely a half century ago, the Republic of Korea was an impoverished casualty of imperialism and war; it has now grown to be the 11th-largest trading nation in the world. The Republic of Korea is also the seventh largest trading partner of the United States, with nearly $80 billion in trade volume between our counties each year. Credit for such remarkable development belongs in large part to the efforts of private businesses that saw potential in what cynics initially saw as a war-torn ``basket economy.'' These businesses today, and the many others that followed, create jobs, produce desirable goods and services, offer investment opportunities, and provide mutual benefits in both of our countries. Let me emphasize that, for all the obvious benefits that a free trade agreement between the United States and the Republic of Korea will provide, however, the language of any agreement must be scrutinized carefully to assure that American and Korean labor standards are upheld, that our environment is safeguarded, and that consumers are fully protected. I am a strong proponent of these important considerations. Madam Speaker, I look forward to examining the text of the proposed U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement and to a productive and informative discussion about it in the weeks and months to come. I welcome the anticipated signing of the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement this Saturday and encourage my colleagues to offer their own expressions of welcome and support for this historic event.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Leona Williamson Mosley of Brooklyn, NY, on her 100th birthday. Ms. Williamson Mosley is a woman deeply committed to family and faith. She was born on June 23, 1907, in Clinton, NC. She is one of eight children born to her parents, Lewis and Hattie Williamson. Ms. Williamson Mosley grew up in a crowded household and worked hard to help her family. She spent many years working in her family's tobacco fields. Ms. Williamson Mosley married Daniel Webster Mosley and moved to New York to start their lives together. From this union came six children-- three boys and three girls--which included one set of twins. She worked odd jobs while raising her children, however, once they became teenagers she went to work full time at Brooklyn Hospital where she retired in 1969. Ms. Williamson Mosley keeps the church as a constant in her life. She joined the Concord Baptist Church in the 1940's and to date is a fixture in that very same church. She has made tremendous contributions to her community with her tireless work through her church. Ms. Williamson Mosley's legacy will continue to live on in her extended family. She has 17 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren and one great-great-great grandchild. She currently resides with her namesake, her daughter Leona who is her last living child. Madam Speaker, it is with pleasure that I recognize and honor Ms. Williamson Mosley as she celebrates her 100th birthday. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Leona Williamson Mosley, a true national treasure.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the work and achievements of Analeitha E. Simpson. As a child growing up in St. Mary, Jamaica, Analeitha's parents instilled in her the values of hard work and dedication. Analeitha was quick to take the lessons learned from her parents, and communicate them to her peers in St. Mary. Analeitha became deeply involved in her community while attending high school. As a teenager, she provided food and basic necessities to both the sick and prison inmates in Jamaica through the help of her local church. She was instrumental in forming an after school program at her house where she created a study group for her fellow high school classmates. The program also provided a homework assistance program for younger students, including an initiative for the donation of used text books for those who could not afford to purchase new ones. Analeitha spent 1 year at the University of the West Indies after graduating high school. During that time she entered a leadership program that helped to create a state of the art recreational center for students at The August Town Primary School. Analeitha says that her time at the university allowed her to lay the foundation of who she was and what she would become. Analeitha moved to New York City in 1999. Following the move, she became a liaison for patients and family members at the Critical Care Department of New York's Presbyterian Hospital. She later moved on to the Department of Neurological Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College--New York Presbyterian Hospital, where she established several departmental policies and practices that have helped to facilitate patient care in an effective and timely manner. Analeitha's drive to help others has resulted in her current enrollment in nursing school at Medgar Evers College. She is now developing a program to help promote healthy lifestyles for the elderly. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the selfless efforts of Analeitha E. Simpson to improve the health, education, and general welfare of all who cross her path. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Analeitha E. Simpson.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 16th birthday of Nia Elena Henry. Nia was born in Brooklyn, NY, and attended pre-school at the Montessori Academy in Park Slope. She stayed at the Montessori Academy throughout elementary school, after which she attended the Crown School for Law and Journalism. At the Crown School Nia discovered her affinity for filmmaking. She demonstrated an ability to lead, and was selected to be a ``Prefect'' of a community service team. While serving this position, Nia orchestrated a project in which she visited and delivered gifts from her schoolmates and New York Assemblyman Clarence Norman to a disabled woman. During the summer of seventh grade, Nia enrolled in a cultural arts program called Ifetayo. Through the program, Nia was able to take African and Modern Dancing classes, as well as participate in a program called ``Rites of Passage,'' which she continues to attend. Nia was able to apply her filming abilities in order to make a movie about the death of her grandfather. She also volunteered to complete a cinematic project about Guatemala. Ms. Henry currently attends the Benjamin Banneker Academy for Community Development where she became a student of the Chinese language during her freshman year. She also helped to complete a school movie made for media communications. Nia is a student with broad horizons and great ambitions. Her desire to help others is reflected in her ultimate career goal, which is to become a doctor. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the 16th birthday of Nia Elena Henry, who has achieved much more in 16 years than most are able to accomplish in a lifetime. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Nia Elena Henry.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the work and achievements of Darnell P. Smith. Darnell began to demonstrate his leadership abilities at a very young age. While attending Brooklyn Technical High School, he was named President of the 81st Precinct Youth Council. Darnell went on to attend Hampton University, where he earned the admiration and respect of his peers by founding the African Studies Cluster of Hampton University, and serving as Vice President of the Student Government Association. Darnell Smith continued to serve his community as a probation officer and the founder of WeCare2Cure Inc. He still works with WeCare2Cure Inc, where he is committed to providing education, employment and affordable healthcare opportunities throughout the community of Brooklyn. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the selfless efforts of Darnell P. Smith, who continues to work to improve the lives of the residents of Brooklyn. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Darnell P. Smith.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Angel Rosario. Angel was born in 1960 in Brooklyn, New York. He graduated from John Jay High School in 1979, where he earned All-City Honors in baseball in 1978 and 1979. After high school, Angel played baseball at Long Island University where he was named a collegiate all-star in 1982. In 1997, Angel graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Community Health from Empire State College. While working towards his degree, Angel became heavily involved with the New York City Department of Health HIV Bureau. He worked with the Bureau for 9 years, from 1990 through 1999; he spent 7 of those years in the Managed Care field. Currently, Angel serves as a Marketing Director for Healthfirst which operates in hospitals that are under the direction of the Health Hospital Corporation. Angel has kept himself busy by working closely with his community for the past 25 years. He oversees Summer Day Programs, Beacon Programs and After School Programs. He works with both senior citizens as a Social Service Worker, and with children in a group home for teens. Angel says this is the type of work that makes him happy and encourages him to continue to involve himself with communities in need. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the work of Angel Rosario, as his passion for helping people in need has significantly impacted those in his community. Madam Speaker, Angel Rosario's work service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes him most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the work and achievements of Chamberlain S. Peterside, Ph.D. Chamberlain is the CEO and founder of the New Era Capital Corporation, a New York City-based financial services group. Chamberlain worked previously as a Certified Financial Manager with Merrill Lynch, Global Private Client Group and HSBC Bank in New York City, where he assisted high net-worth clients and institutional investors in developing strategies for managing their portfolio. Chamberlain graduated with a Ph.D. in Finance and Economics from Friendship University in Moscow. He carries with him more than 15 years of diverse business development, management consulting and financial advisory experience from his work in Africa, Europe and the United States. Upon graduation, Chamberlain began his career as a business consultant in his own firm, Value Adding Consulting Group, Inc, with offices located in both Moscow and London. He advised domestic and foreign companies on the intricacies and modalities for expanding their operations in the new markets of Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. Chamberlain received the ``40 Under 40'' achievement award in June of 2001 from the Network Journal in New York for outstanding academic, professional and community service accomplishments. He has also served as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Finance and Business Management at ASA Institute of Business Management and Advanced Technology. Currently, through New Era, Chamberlain is instrumental in developing and financing multi-million dollar telecommunication, hospitality, real estate, and oil and gas industries in Africa. He writes on many economic issues in regard to business development, and has appeared on the CNN program ``In the Money,'' where he discussed the need for a new approach in regard to economic reform efforts in Africa. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the work of Chamberlain S. Peterside, Ph.D.. for his countless academic and economic accomplishments. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Chamberlain S. Peterside.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and honor the work and achievements of Gail Reed-Barnett, Ed.D. Dr. Reed-Barnett was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. From a young age, Gail's parents made certain that she understood the value of an education, a lesson that she would carry with her throughout her life. Dr. Reed-Barnett's educational priorities are reflected in the academic paths she chose. She received her Bachelor's in Psychology at Medgar Evers College and a Master's in Education at Long Island University. She then went on to receive her Doctorate of Education from Nova Southeastern University with a concentration in Child, Youth and Family Studies. Dr. Reed-Barnett is currently a secondary school counselor and administrator, in addition to serving as an Administrative Adjunct at Medgar Evers College for the College ``Now'' Program. She has taken her passion for education and used it to teach young people in her community the love and dedication that ought to be devoted to higher learning. She is aware of the need for committed and dedicated educators and the importance of parental involvement in helping a child achieve maximum academic success. She has been instrumental in bringing many innovative programs to her school community as it relates to developing the ``whole child,'' and building relationships between children and their families. Dr. Reed-Barnett believes that true power lies in knowing how our educational and judicial system works and making it ``work for us, not against us.'' This belief has been primary in driving Gail to become an active and visible participant in the Brooklyn community. She is a member of Community Board 17 and also serves on its Youth Services Planning Committee. She has worked with State Senator, Kevin Parker, on educational issues and policies. She has also presented valuable information to parents, holding various community workshops on the ``No Child Left Behind Act.'' Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the work of Gail Reed- Barnett, Ed.D, for her tireless efforts to educate and empower the youth of our country. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Gail Reed-Barnett.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a masterful drummer and an all around great musician, Mr. Harvey Mason. Harvey Mason was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He began taking formal drum lessons at the age of 7, playing in school bands and finally buying his first drum set at age 16. Harvey Mason's talents were so captivating that an Atlantic City club owner obtained a special license allowing the teenager to play at the club hassle free. Harvey Mason continued his education at Berklee School of Music, later going on to the New England Conservatory of Music and studied performance, composing, arranging, percussion and mallets on a full scholarship. Harvey Mason toured Europe with the great Errol Garner before moving with his family to Los Angeles. He played with George Shearing and did one semester of practice teaching at Hoover High School in Glendale to complete his Bachelor's of Arts Degree. In 1986, Harvey went to Southwestern Law School and in 1988 to UCLA. Harvey Mason's precision time keeping and versatility have placed him as one of the most in-demand and most recorded session drummers of all time. He has been hired by a host of recording artists including: Barbara Streisand; James Brown; Herbie Hancock; Reba McIntyre; Sergio Mendes; and the London Symphony Orchestra. Harvey Mason signed a 5-year deal with Clive Davis at Arista Records in 1976 as a solo artist. There he recorded 5 stylistically diversified albums that captured the complete arc of his musical artistry. These albums showcased the writing, arranging, and performances by both A- list artists and gifted newcomers including: Earth, Wind and Fire; Kenny Loggins; and Marvin Gaye. He has also composed songs recorded by artists ranging from Donald Byrd to the Brothers Johnson. He added to his credits a television commercial for Mattel Toys and a percussion piece for Quincy Jones' ``The Color Purple.'' Harvey Mason is a founding member of the contemporary jazz group Fourplay, using this as a platform to flex his writing, playing and arranging skills with partners Bob James, Nathan East and Larry Carlton who later replaced Lee Ritenour. The accomplishments of Harvey Mason are many. It is difficult to sum them all up in such little time. However, today, though I cannot list them, I would like to recognize all of those achievements. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to this wonderfully gifted musician.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Reverend Ida R. Miranda. Reverend Miranda is a woman who has always placed her faith and confidence in the Lord. Reverend Miranda was born in Corentyne, Guyana, South America, the ninth child of Richard Leonard and Rosalind King. She received her education in Guyana and went on to work as a teacher in Guyana Public Schools. Reverend Miranda and her husband, Frank Miranda (deceased) migrated to the United States in 1962. She proceeded to continue her education attending Elizabeth Seton College and graduating with an Associate's Degree in Accounting. In 2000, she earned a Bachelor's Degree from the College of New Rochelle and a Certificate Degree from the New York Theological Seminary. Reverend Miranda was employed by A&T Importers for 25 years and she later worked for the James A. Cole Company. Reverend Miranda is a longstanding member of the historic Berean Baptist Church of Brooklyn. It was there she was ordained a minister and where she currently serves as an Associate Minister. She a Senior Sunday School Teacher and sits on the Board of Trustees. Reverend Miranda loves to work with children and for many years has served as a counselor for the Berean Youth Lay League. Reverend Miranda served on the Board of East New York's Diagnostic and Treatment Center as well as the Board of Leadership Council which offers assistance to the Cypress Day Care Center. In addition to her ministry, Reverend Miranda serves as the Treasurer of my Women's Caucus and volunteers her time as a Tax Aide for the AARP Foundation. Reverend Miranda is the mother of Marcelle, Mark, Pamela and Paul and a proud grandmother of five. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize all of the good works of Reverend Ida R. Miranda who believes in her community and works tirelessly both in the U.S. and Guyana to further her ministry as a wise and caring counselor to all. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to this wonderful woman for her kindness and compassion.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and honor to the work and achievements of Douglas McArthur Nelson. Douglas, a Brooklyn transplant, is a native of Eau Gallie, FL. Upon his arrival to Brooklyn, he attended Junior High School in East New York, Brooklyn, and was later recruited by New York City Public School's legendary football coach Moe Finkelstein at Thomas Jefferson High. Douglas was the star running back on the varsity team that won the P.S.A.L. He was later a starting fullback for 3 years at the University of Iowa. Douglas McArthur Nelson began his career in law enforcement for the Iowa Department of Corrections and Parole. He transferred those skills to Crisis Intervention, Addiction Counseling, and Juvenile Habilitation. He was able to enhance his talent for leadership during his 20 years of active involvement in church and community services in both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. Douglas McArthur Nelson returned to Brooklyn 16 years ago and has continued to fulfill his mission for human services in Crisis Intervention, Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling, Employee Mentoring, Coaching and Leadership Development for a large treatment facility. Douglas McArthur Nelson currently serves as the Program Director for the Berean Community Family Life Center, BCFLC, which was created as a non-profit community development corporation by the historic Berean Baptist Church in Brooklyn. Douglas McArthur Nelson left the private sector in July of 2006 to work for the Berean Baptist Church's First Lady Angela Farr Griffin, the Executive Director of the BCFLC and Dr. Arlee Griffin, Jr., who is the President of American Baptist Churches, Pastor of Berean and President of the BCFLC's Board of Directors. Douglas is the Chairman of the Deacon Ministry of Berean Baptist Church and is active with the Men's Caucus for the Unity Democratic Club. Douglas McArthur Nelson is strong, gentle and devoted husband to Lynn and father of Ruperta, Denise, and Adrian. His 5-year-old granddaughter has lovingly dubbed him ``the weakest link.'' He is an avid gardener, poet, and artist. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Douglas McArthur Nelson for his contributions to our community and for his years of service at Berean Baptist Church. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Douglas McArthur Nelson.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Brooklyn banker and businessman Jonathan Gist. Jonathan was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. He is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School and attended City University of New York's Baruch College for 2 years. Jonathan Gist enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps following college and was trained as a Weapons Specialist. He was later promoted to Staff Sergeant, and after 4 years of service received an honorable discharge. After leaving the military, Jonathan moved to Wall Street taking a job with Dean Witter, Reynolds. Jonathan Gist's Wall Street experience was the catalyst for him to launch a career into the banking industry. In 1985 he joined one of the major players in banking, Citibank. Today he remains a part of the Citibank team where he is employed as a Bank Manager. Jonathan Gist is also a caring community activist. He has been working with the Beacon Program for the past 10 years. This program occupies the time of children once they leave school for the day with such activities as sports, tutoring and arts and crafts. Jonathan is also a part of the organization Green Thumb that assists local residents in beautifying their neighborhoods with plants, flowers, and trees. Jonathan Gist has taken charge of his neighborhood as the President of the Schenck Avenue Block Association. In this capacity he ensures that area children have a place to play, learn to grow plants, and are escorted on educational field trips. Jonathan Gist is the third child of four children and has been married to his wife Darlene for 20 years. Together they have five children; Jonathan, Jr., Justin, Jamel, Jalen, and Jhkia. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Jonathan Gist who has been unselfish and caring with all of the members of our community. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Jonathan Gist.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and honor Dr. Louis D. Camilien. Dr. Camilien, a Brooklyn transplant, is a native of Haiti. While his parents remain in the country where he was raised, Dr. Camilien migrated to the U.S. and has lived in Brooklyn since 1979. Dr. Camilien began his medical career while still in his native country of Haiti, graduating from State University of Haiti Medical School. He later performed obstetrics and gynecological training at Kings County and Downstate Hospitals in Brooklyn. Dr. Camilien has become extremely active in the community since coming to Brooklyn. He is a mentor for doctors at Downstate; testifies for the Student Loan Forgiveness program; and he is the vice-chairman of the Brooklyn Prenatal Network which addresses maternal child disparages and high infant mortality rates in Bedford Stuyvesant, East New York and Brownsville. Dr. Camilien has been an advisor to elected officials in the matters of maternal children since 1992. He counsels mayors and state officials in Albany, New York on issues involving maternity care. Dr. Camilien is also the past president of the Brooklyn Gynecological Society and has been named one of the best doctors in the New York for several years. Dr. Camilien currently resides in Manhattan and has two sons, Garvey and Stanley. I would like to recognize Dr. Louis Camilien as one of New York's most respected physicians. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Dr. Louis Camilien.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Brooklyn businessman and immigration advocate Marc Grant. Marc came to New York from Guyana, South America in the late 1980s while he was still a small child. His parents had come to the U.S. in previous years. Marc Grant attended George Wingate High School in Brooklyn and upon his high school graduation he entered Brooklyn College. After leaving college he decided to pursue a career in retail. However, Marc was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug and in 1994 he launched his very own business, MagMa Distribution, named after both he and his mother, distributing detailing supplies to auto bodyshops and carwashes. The company became extremely profitable with sales of $125 million. Marc Grant decided to get out of the auto detailing distribution business and launch another business, the Success Connection Team. The Success Connection Team is a seminar company that educates people in North America on ways they may increase their net earnings of up to $600 per month without working any additional hours. These seminars also inform clients of the tax breaks passed by Congress for small home-based businesses as well as assist organizations and individuals in reaching their financial goals. Marc Grant has experience in both traditional and non-traditional business ventures. He is a highly sought after public speaker and the former host of the Success Connection Team radio program. Marc Grant gives back to his community in his role as Marketing Director for the ``By-Ways and Hedges Real Life Times Immigration Newspaper.'' His work with the paper is an attempt to bring more awareness to the issue of immigration. Marc believes that everyone who comes to this country should have his quality of life or better. A motto he has passed on to his young son Marc, Jr. I would like to recognize Marc Grant, who has been unselfish in sharing his business skills and knowledge with all members of our community. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Marc Grant.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and honor the work and achievements of Captain Corey Pegues. Corey, born and raised in Queens, New York, was a student of the public school system. He graduated from high school in 1986, and subsequently enlisted in the United States Army. As a member of the Army, Corey assumed the position of Medical Specialist after receiving training at Fort Sam Houston. Corey was assigned to a Calvary Unit in Fort Drum, New York, and remained there until his honorable discharge in 1991. After leaving the U.S. Army, he enlisted in the New York State National Guard, and remained with the National Guard for 14 years. As an example of Corey's devotion to civil service, he also decided to enroll in the New York City Police Academy while still serving in the National Guard. Corey was able to maintain the same exceptional quality of work that has defined his career, while serving in both the National Guard and the New York City Police Department. The NYPD promoted Corey to the rank of Sergeant in 1998, and Lieutenant in 2002. Captain Pegues assumed many positions within the NYPD, including Lieutenant Platoon Commander, Special Operations Lieutenant and Administrative Lieutenant. In 2006, the NYPD once again promoted Corey; this time, to the rank of Captain. After 11 months, Corey was transferred to a new police station where he now serves as Commanding Officer. For the past two years, in addition to his role as a law enforcement official, Captain Pegues has also served his community as an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at Monroe Community College. Corey also serves as the President and Founding Member of the Long Island Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives--a nationally recognized organization that consists of many chapters across the country. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the work of Captain Corey Pegues for his constant desire to protect and serve the citizens of the United States. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Captain Corey Pegues.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Chairman, I thank the Gentleman. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this amendment which also goes to the heart of my concerns that certain technologies were excluded from receiving loan guarantees. Nuclear power emits no greenhouse gases and needs to be part of the solution towards addressing the concerns of climate change. In some cases, companies have stated that without loan guarantees, plans for new nuclear plants will be abandoned in favor of other forms of generating capacity to meet the growing demand for baseload electricity. This will not serve our nation's energy security and environmental interests. The Export-Import Bank has billions of dollars of loan guarantees available for financing these types of projects overseas. Some people joke that it would be easier to build a nuclear plant in Mexico rather than in New Mexico. Mr. Chairman, I ask if I could work with you to address these concerns as we move towards a conference with the Senate and I yield back to the Gentleman from Michigan.