Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. I join the Jewish communities of my district in Brooklyn, the entire American Jewish community, and the State of Israel in recognizing this barbaric chapter of world history. Over 60 years ago, the Nazi regime in Germany began the wholesale slaughter of the European Jewry. This occurred with little public outrage in the United States and the international community. The world, as well the American government under President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, refused to act to save European Jewry and that silence undoubtedly contributed to the death of six million Jews, a million of whom were children. When we hear the number six million, we shudder. The enormity of that number is paralyzing. Merely trying to count to six million would take months. Imagining the Nazi death machine executing so many human beings is daunting. Particularly for those of us who have not survived the Holocaust, absorbing the reality of that destruction from survivors is so essential to passing on the history of the Holocaust. The moving museums and heart wrenching memorials dedicated to the Holocaust across the United States are vital in educating today's youth about the horrors of the Holocaust, and I want to commend all organizations and groups that are committed to this important work. It is additionally critical that European countries preserve the glaring remnants of the Holocaust that still exist today. Whether they are death camps, mass gravesites, cemeteries, synagogues or other holy sites from pre-Holocaust Europe, European governments have an obligation to preserve those sites for future generations. Sadly, numerous European countries including Lithuania, Ukraine and Romania have on occasion shirked their responsibilities in this regard. While we remember the absolute devastation the Holocaust wrought on the Jewish community, we also mark the strength of those who heroically resisted the Nazis including those who fought in the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and at the Sobibor extermination camp. I am privileged to represent a large but dwindling population of Holocaust survivors in my district. Many of these survivors rebuilt their lives with nothing more than the shirt on their back. Today, based on the strong foundations of those Holocaust survivors, the beautiful Jewish communities of Williamsburg, Midwood and Canarsie have flourished. These communities represent the best of Jewish life and have been instrumental in resurrecting religious life in the aftermath of the Holocaust by creating synagogues, yeshivas, and other religious institutions. Madam Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the efforts of organizations that have taken extraordinary steps in servicing and caring for the Holocaust survivor population in my district: The Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty; The United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg; The Council of Jewish Organizations of Flatbush; The Jewish Community Council of Canarsie; The Conference of Jewish Material Claims Against Germany; Peasch Tikvah and all the Bikkur Cholim organizations. Their selfless work for Holocaust survivors continues to serve as an inspiration to me and I am honored to recognize their hard work. Madam Speaker, I join my colleagues here today in remembering the Holocaust. Though there are still Holocaust deniers today, it is imperative that we never forget.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, April 13 is a very important day in the Sikh community. It is called Vaisakhi Day, the anniversary of the consecration or the Khalsa Panth in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh. It is celebrated in Sikh families around the world. There is a parade here in DC and later one in New York. I rise today to offer Vaisakhi Day greetings to the Sikh community. Recently, the Council of Khalistan issued Vaisakhi greetings to the Sikh Nation. In the letter, Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan urges the Sikh nation to work for the liberation of Khalistan, the Sikh homeland that declared its independence from India on October 7, 1987. The Indian govemment has subjected the Sikhs and other minorities, such as Christians, Muslims, and others, to major atrocities. Over a quarter of a million Sikhs have been murdered by the government since 1984. More than 90,000 Kashmiri Muslims, over 300,000 Christians in Nagaland, and lens of thousands of other minorities have lost their lives at the hands of the regime and its operatives. The Movement Against State Repression reports that more than 52,000 Sikhs are being held as political prisoners without charge or trial, as well as tens of thousands of other minorities. Freedom is the birthright of all peoples and nations, and Dr. Aulakh points out that Guru Gobind Singh conferred sovereignty on the Sikh Nation. That birthright has been suppressed. Dr. Aulakh also pointed out the ongoing activities in support of Khalistan in Punjab and elsewhere. On behalf of the Sikh nation, Dr. Awatar Singh Sekhon recently submitted a memorandum on the oppression of the Sikhs and the need for independence to the United Nations Human rights Commission in Geneva. Former Member of Parliament Atinder Pal Singh ran in the recent Punjab elections on a platform supporting Khalistan. He also organized a seminar on Khalistan. Sikh leaders were arrested on two separate occasions just for making speeches in support of Khalistan and raising the Khalistani flag. Jagjit Singh, President of Dal Khalsa, was quoted in the Deccan Herald as saying that ``the Indian goverument can never suppress the movement. Sikh aspirations can only be met when they have a separate state.'' Yet lndia prefers to continue its repression, stationing half a million troops in Punjab alone. Only independence will allow the Sikhs and the other oppressed minorities to live in freedom, prosperity, security, and dignity, which is their birthright. It is clear that as long as they remain under India's rule, they cannot get just and fair treatment. The atrocities will continue. This is unacceptable, Madam Speaker. We should be on record in support of self-determination for Khalistan and throughout the subcontinent. We should also stop our aid and trade with India until it learns to respect the human rights of all people. This is in accord with American principles and these are practical steps we can take to bring real freedom to South Asia. [April 4, 2007] Vaisakhi Day Message to the Sikh Nation Dear Khalsa Ji: WAHEGURU JI KA KHALSA, WAHEGURU JI KI

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I was distressed to learn that Dr. Gurcharan Singh, a Sikh scholar from Long lsland, was killed March 31 in a hit-and-run traffic accident. Professor Singh was on his way to the Gurdwara (the Sikh place of worship) at the time. The driver has not yet been found. Professor Singh was a professor at Marymount Manhattan College and a leader In the Sikh community in New York. He was a father and grandfather. According to WNBC-TV, he was ``a counselor to New York's Sikh community and a philanthropist devoted to bringing people of different faiths and nationalities together.'' He was also an activist in support of Sikh freedom, serving as an advisor to the Council of Khalistan, which leads the effort to free the Sikh homeland, Khalistan, from Indian occupation. In that capacity, he would accompany the Council's President, Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, when he would go to the U.N. Human Rights Commission. Prior to teaching at Marymount, Dr. Singh had been a professor at Columbia University. He taught political science and international studies. The Council of Khalistan issued a press release about Dr. Singh's passing. It was also reported on WNBC Channel 4 in New York, on Yahoo News, on several Sikh and South Asian news outlets, and around the Internet. On behalf of all my colleagues, I wish to extend the sympathies of the U.S. Congress to Dr. Singh's family, friends, and students. I'm sure that everyone joins me in this. I know that he will leave a void that will be very difficult to fill. Madam Speaker, the best tribute we could pay to Dr. Singh is to continue his work, as Dr. Aulakh points out. This Congress can help by stopping aid to India and trade with that country until all people there enjoy human rights and by going on record in support of self- determination for Dr. Singh's Sikh Nation and for the Nagas, Kashmiris, and all the people seeking freedom in India. Self-determination is the essence of democracy. Plainview Scholar, Leader Mourned After Hit-And-Run Death Gurcharan Singh, 77, Taught at Columbia, Marymount Manhattan College Plainview, N.Y.--A family and a community were mourning Saturday night the death of beloved professor and role model killed by a hit-and-run driver on Long Island, NewsChannel 4's Aimee Nuzzo reported. Gurcharan Singh, 77, a scholar and a professor, was also a counselor to New York's Sikh community and a philanthropist devoted to bringing people of different faiths and nationalities together, according to family and friends. ``He is the gem of our community,'' said friend Paul Kandhari. ``If there was a family problem, he'll be there. If the father and son have a problem, he'll be there.'' The Plainview father of three and grandfather was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver while walking from his home to church Friday night. Dr. Singh was crossing Old Country Road in Plainview just after 8 p.m. headed for the Sikh temple, when a red or maroon car traveling westbound ran a red light, struck him and kept going, police told Nuzzo. Singh was airlifted to Nassau University Medical Center with multiple fractures and head trauma, but he did not survive. ``My father was a very selfless man who served his community and society with all his heart, and we'd really love any assistance in finding the individual who did this,'' said Surinder Singh, the victim's son. Anyone with information about the mishap was asked to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. Once a professor at Columbia University, Singh taught political science and international studies at Marymount Manhattan College for more than three decades and continued to teach part-time, Nuzzo said. A statement from Marymount Manhattan College said the ``community is deeply saddened by the news of Professor Singh's death. He served as a devoted teacher at the college for many years, and his loss will be felt by all of our faculty, staff, students and alumni. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.'' Dr. Singh's friends said they have no doubt the selfless humanitarian would have forgiven the hit-and-run driver who took his life. They said they hoped that would help whoever is responsible to come forward.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, on April 13 and 14, the Sikhs community celebrated Vaisakhi Day with events in Washington, New York, London, Canada, Australia, and wherever Sikhs live. It was a very proud day for them. The Washington, DC, event was led by Dr. Paramjit Singh Ajrawat, a well-known Sikh activist and supporter of a free Khalistan. Large numbers of Sikhs showed up in these locations to celebrate the day. They called for freedom for the Sikh nation. They raised slogans in support of Khalistan, the Sikh homeland. Freedom is the birthright of all peoples and nations. When America became independent, Punjab was already independent. Dr. Gunnit Singh Aulakh, president of the Council of Khalistan, has called on Sikhs to celebrate Vaisakhi Day by rededicating themselves to achieving the freedom that is their birthright. Madam Speaker, we should put this Congress on record with a resolution in support of self-determination for Khalistan and throughout the subcontinent. Why is India opposed to a free and fair vote on the matter, in the democratic way? We should end our aid and trade with India until I the basic rights of all are allowed to be enjoyed, the way that democratic countries behave. Vaisakhi Day Celebrated With Parades, Events Washington, DC, Apr. 14, 2007.--Vaisakhi Day, the 308th anniversary of the creation and consecration of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh, is being celebrated with parades and events in Washington, London, New York, Canada, England, Australia, and around the world. The Washington parade occurs on April 14 under the leadership of Dr. Paramjit Singh Ajrawat with the cooperation of the local Sikh Gurdwaras. Later in April, the annual Sikh Day Parade in New York will be held. Guru Gobind baptized the first five baptized Sikhs, known as the Panj Piaras, on Vaisakhi Day in 1699, then asked them to baptize him. He declared, ``In grieb Sikhin ko deon Patshahi (``I give sovereignty to the humble Sikhs'') Just two years after his departure from this earthly plane in 1708, the Sikhs established their own independent state in Punjab. At the time that America became independent, Punjab was an independent country already. It was independent from 1710 to 1716 and again from 1765 to 1849, when the British conquered South Asia. Today Sikhs struggle to regain the sovereignty that Guru Gobind Singh bestowed upon them over 300 years ago. Vaisakhi Day is the anniversary of the founding of the Khalsa. On Vaisakhi Day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh baptized the Sikhs and required them to keep the five Ks. He made the Sikhs into saints and soldiers. That memory is celebrated on Vaisakhi Day each year. ``I send Vaisakhi Day greetings to all Sikhs and I urge all Sikhs to take this occasion to fulfill Guru Gobind Singh's vision by working to liberate our homeland, Khalistan, from Indian oppression,'' said Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan, which leads the struggle to achieve independence for Khalistan. Khalistan declared itself independent on October 7, 1987. Over 250,000 Sikhs have been killed since the Indian government attacked the Golden Temple in Amritsar in June 1984. More than 52,000 are being held as political prisoners, some for over 20 years. ``Vaisakhi Day should be a time to renew our commitment to freedom for our Sikh brothers and sisters in Punjab, Khalistan so they can live in prosperity, dignity, and security. Only a free Khalistan can end the repression of the Sikh Nation,'' Dr. Aulakh said. ``Always remember our heritage: Raj Kare Ga Khalsa; Khalsa Bagi Van Badshah. Freedom for Khalistan is closer than ever. Now is the time to claim it''

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Reverend Dr. M. Jwahir Brathwaite. Dr. Brathwaite is a graduate of the Howard University School of Business and Public Administration, the Howard University Graduate School of Divinity, and the United Theological Seminary. She has also received educational certification from the University of Dayton. Dr. Brathwaite serves the community as an associate pastor at the Stuyvesant-Heights Christian Church in Brooklyn, New York. Ordained at the Concord Baptist Church of Christ in 1997, Dr. Brathwaite is a Professor of Religious Studies and Holistic Health and Wellness at the College of New Rochelle's School of New Resources at both the Brooklyn and Harlem Campuses. Dr. Brathwaite has been a fitness-professional for more than 25 years. She has worked with the YMCA in Brooklyn, New York, Washington, DC, and Memphis, Tennessee. She presently serves her community through the YMCA Bedford-Stuyvesant Branch. In addition to teaching for the College of New Rochelle, Dr. Brathwaite has taught fitness health and wellness for Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, Shelby State Community College, and the University of Memphis in Tennessee. Dr. Brathwaite has trained International Dance and Exercise Association instructors and several others who have gone on to teach at places such as: the New York State Conservatory Police, colleges and universities, family fitness ministries, and numerous other fitness facilities. Dr. Brathwaite is the president and founder of Family Fitness Ministries, a ministry focusing on fitness and wellness for churches and their communities. Dr. Brathwaite's training roster includes: Author Zora Neal Hurston; the internationally acclaimed singing group Sweet Honey in the Rock; late film, stage, and television actress Rosland Cash; and a host of Fortune 500 Company professionals. A Christian broadcaster for more than 20 years, Dr. Brathwaite has carried the healing message of God throughout the community through public speaking and outreach. The world of Christian Broadcasting afforded her the opportunity to work with the National Association of Broadcasters' number one religious radio organization in the country, Salem Communications Corp. She also worked with A&M Records where she represented such gospel recording artists as: Richard Smallwood; AI Green; the Clark Sisters; Reverend Shirley Caesar; Rosie Grier; and Sweet Honey in the Rock. Dr. Brathwaite has been recognized numerous times for her community involvement and leadership. She has received awards from the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., the Ford Foundation, Outstanding Women of America, John Burroughs Elementary School, and the International Who's Who of Professional Business Women just to name a few. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize this pillar of our community the Reverend Dr. M. Jwahir Brathwaite for all that she has accomplished. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the Reverend Dr. M. Jwahir Brathwaite.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my friend, constituent and all around great guy, Lt. Colonel John Mulzac. Colonel Mulzac, or Daddy John as he is affectionately called, is an original Tuskegee Airman. He is an original member of the very first group of African-American World War II fighter pilots of the ``99th Pursuit Squadron,'' later incorporated into the ``332nd Fighter Group'' and finally the ``477th Bomber Group.'' After fighting in World War II, Daddy John went on to fly in the Korean War and later the Vietnam War. He was then a member of the Air Force Reserve and then the New York State Air National Guard. Overall, Daddy John has logged more than 15,000 flying hours for the United States Air Force serving from 1942 to 1983. In addition to his service with the U.S. Air Force, Daddy John worked for 20 years as a New York City firefighter. His son Robert Mulzac is continuing the family legacy and is currently a Lieutenant in New York City's Fire Department. In 1970, Daddy John left the New York City Fire Department and became a member of the First Group of U.S. Sky Marshals Flying World with several airlines including TWA. He continued his career as a Sky Marshal through 1972 training other Sky Marshals in Washington, DC. Following 21 years of service as a United States Customs Inspector for New York Kennedy Airport's Area Inspection and Control Division, Daddy John retired. Born on October 11, 1923 in Baltimore, Maryland, Daddy John spent his childhood in Bedford-Stuyvesant, where he now resides with his wife of 61 years, Beatrice. They have been blessed with 8 children, 24 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. It was his wife Beatrice who pinned on Daddy John's pilots wings upon his graduation from Tuskegee Institute in 1944. Daddy John now spends most of his time in real estate and on the computer emailing his 6 grandchildren, who are enrolled in colleges throughout the country. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Lt. Colonel John Mulzac for his years of service and his invaluable contributions to our country. He is a true leader among men. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to a remarkable man, Lt. Colonel John Mulzac.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Olanike T. Alabi, who is the proud daughter of immigrants who came to the United States several decades ago. She is a product of the New York City Public School system, graduating from Midwood High School. She also attended Brooklyn College's prominent Medical Science Institute. She later received her bachelor of arts degree from Temple University, where she carried a double major and a minor. In 1999, she was accepted to the prestigious University of London in Great Britain, where she pursued a master of arts degree. Olanike Alabi is currently employed by Local 1199 of the SEIU United Healthcare Workers East as an assistant to the president. There, she also participates in a voluntary voter-registration program as well as political campaign events. Ms. Alabi has received certificates and awards from such organizations as the Family and Support Resources Group; the Training and Employment Council (TEC) Brooklyn; the Access Fund, an organization dedicated to providing scholarships for students attending institutions of higher learning; a Great Force Partner Award from former Congressman Major Owens; a Woman of the Year Award from State Senator John Sampson; and I have presented Ms. Alabi with a Community Service Award for her outstanding work in the community. Additionally, she has established herself as a fighter for justice. In June of 2003, after being fired from her job as the District Manager for CB No. 2, she filed an Article 78 proceeding at the Kings County Supreme Court and was granted a favorable, unanimous decision from a panel of judges at the Appellate Division, 2nd Department in April of 2005. Her lawsuit resulted in her reinstatement with compensation and the City of New York issuing proper procedures for terminating a community board employee. In June of 2004, she filed a New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) proceeding against a Brooklyn-based property owner and was successful in the venture in March of 2005. She continues to be featured as a public speaker at events celebrating women's history, school graduations, chemical dependency programs, and college fairs, and as a moderator for political debates, some of which were most recently aired on Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN). She was recently elected as the state committeewomen (district leader) of the 57th A.D. Finally, her primary interests include public service, international affairs, labor, industrial relations and education. She enjoys reading, writing and traveling. Her church, organizational board and memberships include: Emmanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn, Board for the Education of People of African Ancestry, the Community Advisory Board of the Cumberland Diagnostic and Treatment Center, League of Women Voters, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Church Women United, Inc., and a host of other local and civic organizations. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Alabi and all of her hard work and the precedents she has set. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Ms. Olanike T. Alabi.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Reverend Sonia Patricia Smith. Reverend Smith is a woman who has always placed her faith and confidence in the Lord. For the last 15 years, Reverend Smith has been employed with the Visiting Nurse Service of New York where she has spent most of her time working tirelessly on behalf of her patients. Whether it is working with the elderly or providing nursing support to those infected with HIV, she is committed to ensuring that her patients receive the highest level of care and respect. She believes that as a medical professional it is not only her job only to heal her patients physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. Because of her dedication to her patients, she was promoted to the management level at VNS. In many ways, Reverend Smith sees the fruits of her labor through her family, whether it is her childhood sweetheart whom she married, Anthony, or her three children. Her eldest son Dr. Oronde Smith is a physician and loving husband to his wife Paula and wonderful father to his daughter Oniya. Reverend Smith's middle son Jonathan earned both his bachelors and masters degrees from Harvard University and is currently a third-year law student at New York University. Reverend Smith's youngest son Matthew is a talented musician and a third-year medical student at Downstate Medical School. Reverend Smith's work with her daughter-in-law Paula demonstrates the compassion she has for others. Several years ago Paula was interested in entering the nursing profession but did not believe she was qualified and decided to terminate her schooling early. Reverend Smith refused to let her quit and tutored Paula helping her through her courses. Today Paula is a registered nurse as well as a nurse practitioner with an M.S. in nursing. Reverend Smith's example with Paula is not the exception, but rather the rule. Reverend Smith has assisted countless individuals by providing help and often doing everything within her power to ensure that they achieve their goals. She has a special place in her heart for women and children, and being the first lady of Gethsemane Baptist Church where her husband serves as pastor. She has reached out to many members of the congregation giving them advice and lending a listening ear. She has worked extensively with the children's ministry or her ``angels'' as she likes to call them, leading the children's church and vacation bible school. Another example of Reverend Smith's commitment is demonstrated when she, along with her husband, organized and led a trip to Disney World for nearly 50 children in the church several years ago. Although neither the children nor their families had the financial means to afford the trip, Reverend Smith raised the funds and the support for this excursion. Reverend Smith has touched countless lives through the work she does, and there is no doubt that she will continue to do so for many years to come. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize all of the good works of Reverend Sonia Smith and her commitment to the most vulnerable in our society, our elderly and our children. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to this wonderful for her kindness and compassion.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Sherine Brown Jennels. Dr. Jennels is a native New Yorker and the daughter of James and Delva E. Brown, sister of Jayson S. Brown. She is an Interdisciplinary Scientist at the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. She is developing science policies and enforcement strategies to promote the public's health and protect the Nation's food supply. In May 2002, Dr. Jennels became the first African-American of Panamanian heritage to obtain a Ph.D. from Harvard University in Biological Sciences in Public Health. Her doctoral research focused on biochemistry of nutrition in the area of cholesterol metabolism, genetic epidemiology, and coronary heart disease risk. Dr. Jennels did her postdoctoral training at the Brigham and Women's Hospital, in Boston, Massachusetts, where she worked on protocol and laboratory development of the OMNI-Heart Clinical Trial (Optimal Macronutrient Intake and Heart-Disease). She was the featured scientist on the website's educational recruitment video. Dr. Jennels presented her graduate research in Florence, Italy, at the sixth International Symposium on Global Risk of Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke. She also presented her research at Scientific Sessions of the American Heart Association, which published those findings. In 2004, Dr. Jennels was accepted as a science fellow to the United States Department of Health and Human Service's Emerging Leaders Program. This fellowship has given her the unique opportunity to work with leading government officials and scientists at the FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition; Office of the Secretary; Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; Office of Minority Health; and the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Jennels is driven to improve the health and wellness for all Americans as a way to address the social conditions affecting the underserved. As a scientist, she considers herself an ambassador of health, nutrition and fitness, especially advocating for minorities experiencing health disparities. Attending Oakwood College crystallized her commitment for service and community. Appreciating the value of her B.S. degree in biochemistry from the historically Black Seventh-day Adventist institution, she also recognized the importance of her college's motto, ``Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve.'' Taking this to heart, she has served as a youth ministry leader, short-term missionary volunteer, and a keynote speaker for several health, youth, and women's events. In 2005, Dr. Jennels developed Operation Love Thy Neighbor, an organization designed to provide resources and support to families displaced by Hurricane Katrina in the Maryland area. This collaborative ministry of the Emmanuel-Brinklow SDA church assisted families and individuals in securing permanent housing, health care, transportation, emotional support, and/or household needs. Dr. Jennels is married to Ernest Leland Jennels, and they reside in Bowie, Maryland. She enjoys traveling, sightseeing, the outdoors, sports, the arts, music, photography, and inspirational reading. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Dr. Jennels for her endless list of accomplishments. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Dr. Sherine Brown Jennels.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Petrucci E. Harris. Petrucci Harris was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and is the younger of two daughters born to Timothy and Bessie Hardy. Her family moved to Long Island, New York, while she was still a child. After graduating from public school in New York, she attended Morgan State University in her hometown of Baltimore. Ms. Harris' first professional job was with the Suffolk County Heard Start Program as a teacher, then a center director and later the county program coordinator. It was the experience of working with economically disadvantaged preschool aged children and their families which provided her with the motivation to return to school. Ms. Harris was granted a fellowship by the National Institutes of Health which assisted her in earning a Masters of Social Work from the State University of New York's School of Social Welfare at Stony Brook. She also studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Department of Urban Health Planning; Ackerman Institute for Family Therapy; New York University Ehrenkranz School of Social Work Post Masters Certificate Program; and the Mind/Body Institute of Harvard Medical School's Continuing Education Program. Petrucci Harris has been employed in various areas of mental and behavioral health throughout her career. This includes the University of Louisville's Medical School Department of Psychiatry; Bingham Child Guidance Clinic; and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine where she was an adjunct faculty member as well as Coordinator of Social Work Services for many years. She worked on many projects for the inclusion of cultural content into the curriculum for immigrant psychiatric residents. Ms. Harris served as a field instructor for graduate students at the New York University Ehrenkranz School of Social Work for several years. She was also an adjunct professor and faculty advisor for students at the NYU Wagner College where she taught the ethno cultural issues in social work practice course. She is currently a field instructor for Rutgers University's School of Social Work. Ms. Harris is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Academy of Certified Social Workers, Diplomat in Clinical Social Work, and a Certified Supervisor of Clinical Social Work. Her commitment to improving the general quality of life through service to others is carried out in her pledge to community service as a Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Ms. Harris lives in Summit, New Jersey. She is the mother of three adult children, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize my fellow social worker for all of her hard work and outstanding achievements. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Petrucci E. Harris.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to honor America's social workers. This month provides us an opportunity to highlight the essential role that social workers play in alleviating some of America's most difficult problems. Professional social workers are found in every facet of community life, including our schools, our hospitals, mental health clinics, senior citizen facilities, elected office, private practices, prisons, among our military personnel, and the list goes on and on. I have had the opportunity to work with some outstanding social workers or to be involved professionally with them. I have been involved with Dr. Roger Witherspoon, who is a great social worker, Mr. Levander Lilly, Ruby Bullock, Betty Williams, Mark Handelman, Ed Pitt, Dr. Joe Jackson, Sam Hodes, and I can go on and on because of my many years of being involved in the field of social work. This year's theme for National Professional Social Workers Month is ``Hope and Health; Help Starts Here.'' This theme reflects the important work being done by social workers in the health care field. Social workers involved in health care often work within a multidisciplinary team which includes doctors, nurses and other medical professionals. This is an approach to ensure quality care for patients and their families. I am grateful for the leadership and expertise that the members of the National Association of Social Workers provide to the people of America and, of course, around the world. Social workers in all disciplines use their collective power every day to strengthen our Nation's families and communities, help individuals overcome adversity, and advance sound social policies. The commitment and dedication of social workers to create a more positive environment for all of our people is to be commended. Last year, the National Association of Social Workers released the results of a national study which warns of an impending shortage of social workers that threatens future services for all Americans, especially the most vulnerable among us, our children and our senior citizens. Throughout history, social workers have addressed the needs of society and brought our Nation's social problems to the public's attention. As one of the 10 proud social workers of the House of Representatives, today I know firsthand how social workers across this country advocate for the humane, fair and beneficial policies for all of our citizens. So I salute all social workers during this National Professional Social Work Month; and I say to my colleagues around the board, social workers make a great contribution to the improvement of the quality of life for so many people in this country.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Pallone very much for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate East New York's Transit Technical High School boy's basketball team for winning the PSAL New York City Championship. The East New York Transit defeated Thomas Edison High School of Queens with a score of 52-46. This is only the second time in the school's history that the Transit boys' basketball team made it to the State playoff. The first time was in 1993 when the team still played in the ``B'' division. I would also like to congratulate the staff of New York Transit Tech and its principal, Larry Kalvar, and its basketball coach, Michael Perazzo. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you please join me in honoring the boys' basketball team at East New York Transit Tech High School for its outstanding accomplishment. I also rise to congratulate Brooklyn's Thomas Jefferson High School girls' basketball team for winning the PSAL A-league championship. The girls at Jefferson defeated New Town High School championship team to win the title, finishing with an overall 17-1 record, making this the first girls' basketball team to represent the borough of Brooklyn in the State playoffs. My congratulations also goes out to the Jefferson High School principal, Michael Alexander, and the girls' basketball team coach, Calvin Young, for doing a marvelous job with the team. We need to recognize him as well. I ask that you all please join me in honoring the girls' basketball team at Brooklyn's Thomas Jefferson High School for this outstanding accomplishment. Sometimes we criticize our young people about not doing what we feel is right, but here is a situation where some young people have done a very positive thing, and I think we should pause to salute them for that.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brooklyn resident Ay'Tasha T. Hanton. Ms. Hanton is the proud daughter of Edna M. Fulton, and Willie E. Hanton Sr., stepdaughter of Maudine Hanton, who she affectionately calls ``Mom.'' Ay'Tasha was born in New York City as the only daughter of seven children. Ay'Tasha's father expired when she was 1\1/2\ years old. Without the relationship of her father, she faced many challenges. With the loving support of her mother, family and friends, she matured into a strong, independent woman. A nine-year employee of the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation, Ay'Tasha has extensive knowledge in Finance Administration, Policy and Procedures, Performance Improvement, Graphic Design, Community Affairs and Healthcare Administration. In April of 1998, her career in health care began when she became the Coordinating Manager of Chemical Dependency Outpatient Services and the Mental Health Geriatric Program at Cumberland Diagnostic and Treatment Center serving the Fort Greene Community. As an Assistant to the Sr. Associate Director, Ay'Tasha worked diligently to aide the Chemical Dependency patients who strived daily to maintain sobriety from their addictions. She also worked attentively to aide the Geriatric population as they faced the uneasiness of Mental Health. In October of 2005, Ay'Tasha was reassigned as the NYS OASAS (Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services) Administrator of Chemical Dependency Inpatient and Outpatient Services at Woodhull Medical Center, where she studied the communities' statistics. Recognizing her statistical talents, Ay'Tasha was given additional responsibilities by the Associate Executive Director of the Division of Chemical Dependency for the North Brooklyn Health Network in the newly established Performance Improvement Department, helping the Assistant Director in strategizing ways to support the population suffering from substance abuse addictions. Her most recent opportunity towards climbing the corporate ladder came in March of 2006 when she was assigned to assist the Associate Director of Psychiatry in restructuring Woodhull's Psychiatric Emergency Department. As the Administrative Manager of Psych ED, Consultation and Liaison Services and the Chemical Dependency Inpatient Detoxification Units, Ay'Tasha is also faced with the daily challenge of aiding the Psychiatric patients as well as encouraging, mentoring and challenging her staff to heightened levels, while advocating for the Williamsburg and Bedford Stuyvesant communities. Throughout her HHC career under the umbrella of the Department of Psychiatry, Ay'Tasha has been a member of many committees such as Cumberland's Open Access Team, Billing/Finance, Information Technology and Community Affairs. Ay'Tasha's walls are lined with many awards, certificates, and presentations as a testament of her hard work. She has also received extensive continuing education in Healthcare Professionalism such as Managerial, Administrative Assistant, Graphic Design, and the list continues. Ay'Tasha's most heartfelt accomplishment is her Associate of Arts Degree in Biblical Studies from Bethel Bible Institute. Ay'Tasha is presently seeking her Bachelors Degree in Health Administration. Ay'Tasha understands the importance of children. She nurtures her nieces, nephews, godchildren and a host of other youth. Not only is she an inspiration to children, Ay'Tasha mentors young women in her community. Ay'Tasha encompasses the true identity of a role model in today's society. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the impressive achievements of Ay'Tasha T. Hanton for her commitment to her community. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to this wonderful person and the great things she has done.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Aida T. Wilson. Aida T. Wilson was born in Panama City in the Republic of Panama. She is the eldest of five children born to Olga and Charles Tyrell. After completing high school at Santa Familia School for Dressmaking in Panama City, she was immediately employed by Maloul Brothers for five years in Colon, City of Panama. Ms. Wilson migrated to the United States in 1956 and immediately began to further her education by attending several adult education programs while employed as a seamstress. She was later employed by one of New York City's most prestigious department stores Lord and Taylor. After serving in several positions she became their Merchandising Auditor. She retired in 1994 after 37 years of service with the company. Following one year of retirement, she was hired to work on a part-time basis at Community Board 5 in East New York as a Community Service Aide and has maintained this position for the past 11 years. Ms. Wilson has been a communicant of St. Laurence Church RC for the past 30 years. She has served on their Board of Trustees; as member and past President of the Laurencian Guild (Rosary Society); Chairperson of the Liturgy Committee; Treasurer of the Church AARP Chapter; and presently a Lector at Sunday Masses and a member of the Parish Pastoral Planning Committee. Mrs. Wilson is an active member and Past President of the Brooklyn New Lots Lions Club and Part District Treasurer for the Lions of District 20 K1 (Brooklyn and Queens). For her lionistic activism, she has been recognized with many awards and citations including the Distinguished Service Award for Community Service, Lion of the Year, Knights of the Blind Award and the highest recognition by an association, The Melvin Jones Fellowship. Aida Wilson is married to Lloyd G. Wilson, (retired MTA Motorman). This union brought forth a son Rodney, and a daughter Sharon who have blessed them with six grandchildren: Tyrell and Cherrell Wilson, Jazine Miller, Eryka, Elissa, and Jessica Hill. A step granddaughter Kristin Reid Hill, son-in-law Eric Hill and daughter-in-law Angela A. Wilson. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize this pillar of our community for all of her good works and kind gestures. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Aida T. Wilson.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Eugenia Elizabeth Swinson. Eugenia Swinson, or ``Genie,'' was born in Savannah, GA, to Eugene and Carrie Swinson. She was raised on Long Island's South Shore Bay in New York. Genie and her 9 siblings are products of the Bay Shore Public School District. After graduation, all of them attended college. Genie decided upon C.W. Post College with a major of vocal music. During her studies at Post, she toured Europe her freshman year with the Chamber and Madrigal Ensembles. Upon returning from the tour, she decided to move to California to launch a professional singing career. This turned out be a wise decision because once there she had an opportunity to work with Quincy Jones on the Brothers Johnson debut album as well as tour with Boz Scaggs under the stage name of ``Pepper Swinson.'' There would be many more bands that would come her way. She returned to New York due to illness, however, after recuperating, she moved to Israel to sing. After working in the Givatiem and Tel Aviv, Israel, she once again returned to New York, this time with a new skill. She had mastered the Hebrew language. Almost immediately after arriving in the United States, Genie's health took a turn for the worse. She began a battle with end stage renal disease, due to Systemic Lupus Erythmatosis. This would mean 7 years of dialysis before a successful kidney transplant at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. While in New York, Genie decided to return to C.W. Post College to earn her undergraduate degree in modern languages with a minor in music. She studied Spanish, Hebrew and Arabic. After the transplant, Genie landed a job with the New York City Board of Education as a teacher of Spanish. She received her masters degree in multicultural education from the College of Mount Saint Vincent in Bronx, New York. She is currently a teacher at a Theatre Arts School in the Bronx and also gives private voice lessons in her home. Genie actively continues her studies in languages. Italian and Portuguese are her current passions. ``It's my favorite pastime.'' Not long after her transplant, she was approached by a representative from the New York Organ Donor Network and became a volunteer spokesperson for that organization. She appeared at several speaking and singing engagements on behalf of the Network. At several events she sang ``Another Chance to Give'' (La Vispera de Vida) in both English and Spanish in an effort to bring awareness to the need for organ and tissue donors. It was her position as the official spokesperson for the Network that led her to an opportunity to sing the national anthem before games at both Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden for both professional teams. Today, Genie remains a strong advocate of organ and tissue transplantation. Genie has modeled for Mode Magazine and continues to sing for Wilson Pickett's back up band, The Midnight Movers. Accompanied by jazz pianist Dr. Billy Taylor, she recently sang at a gala given by the Jazz Foundation of America which honored its co-founder Ann Ruckert. ``I am a collector of people,'' said Genie. ``I have the same friends today that I had in the second grade. Naturally, I've added on to that distinctive group, but those friends are still an important part of my life. I like to spend time, reading, studying languages and spoiling my nieces, nephews and God's children. I'm honored to be a part of this distinctive group,'' added Genie. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor Genie for sharing her beautiful talents with the rest of us. Through all of her adversity she continued to grace us with her gift of song. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Eugenia ``Genie'' Swinson.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. I rise today to pay tribute to Brooklyn resident Joyce McDonald. Joyce McDonald was born to parents Willie and Florence McDonald and raised in Brooklyn's Farragut Houses. Joyce is the third eldest of seven children. She was reared in a household where unconditional love was practiced and family values were instilled. Joyce attended P.S. 287, Sands JHS 265 as well as Fashion Industry High School. Her love and compassion for people led her to become a volunteer at Cumberland Hospital as a Junior Nurse's Aide at 16-years- old for the terminally ill. Joyce's teenaged years were not always so hopeful. During her teen years into adulthood, Joyce made many bad choices. Thirty years afterward, she changed direction. Joyce has survived various forms of mental and physical abuses which include rape, attempted suicide, depression and a 25-year heroin addiction. In 1995, Joyce tested positive for HIV and was later diagnosed with AIDS. Despite her diagnosis, Joyce continued to share her life's story and artistic talents with the world. Without any formal art training, Joyce McDonald is currently a world renowned artist. Her work has been exhibited in galleries, schools, universities, shelters, nursing homes and hospitals. Her testimony and art has been shared throughout the country via the media. Joyce has received numerous awards, including: the 2002 Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Award, the 2003 Church of the Open Door Woman of the Year Award, the 2004 Isler's Award from the Women's Empowerment Movement, and the 2004 Governor's Citation from Maryland. In 2005, Joyce was one of nine Magnificent Women of Brooklyn honored by Senator Velmanette Montgomery and received a citation from the New York Assembly. She has also received the Dr. Martin Luther King Award from Emmanuel Baptist Church. Joyce McDonald's talents include being an artist, sculptress, designer, writer, singer, poet and motivational speaker. These are talents she attributes to her family, including her Dad who is now deceased, her Mother, her two married daughters and their spouses and her six grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the impressive achievements of this extraordinary individual, who through her own pain found it within herself to help others. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to this wonderful person and her creative works.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brooklyn resident Deborah Battle Pointer. Deborah Battle Pointer is a true child of the Diaspora with Carolinian, Jamaican and Black Foot Indian roots. She was born and raised in Connecticut and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from SUNY Cortland and a Master's Degree in Education from Cambridge College. The issues of access and equality for all have been important cornerstones in her academic career. For the past 30 years, she has worked in higher education, and served her community as a volunteer while maintaining her involvement in the creative arts. Deborah was the first Associate Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Cornell University, the first black woman to hold the position of Director of Admissions at Columbia University's School of Engineering and former Director of Financial Aid at both Columbia College and SUNY Downstate Medical Center. While residing in Ithaca, New York, she was elected to the Ithaca School Board where she served two terms. Ms. Pointer is a co-founder and Co-Executive Producer of ``Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry,'' a television series shown on the Home Box Office cable network. She was also an Executive Consultant to the Broadway hit show, Def Poetry. The television series aired for the first time in December of 2001 and continues to be a hit on HBO today. Deborah and other Executive Producers of Def Poetry were recognized with a Peabody Award for Excellence in Television for the HBO program and received a Tony Award for the Broadway production in 2003. In October of 2001, under the company name Bone Bristle Entertainment LLC, Deborah and her business partners created a poetry anthology published by Random House, ``Bum Rush the Page.'' The anthology features works of 200 poets and has sold more than 15,000 copies. She has recently published a children's picture book, ``I Am Hip-Hop'' through her non-profit organization Healium Inc. founded by Deborah Pointer and Ronald Grant. Healium Inc. is dedicated to the efforts of ending child abuse. Deborah is currently a consultant to the Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at the Children's Hospital at Downstate where she is involved in development and community outreach. She is also one of a few African-American Christmas and Kwanzaa ornament designers and was featured as an Editor's Choice in ``Decorative Gifts and Accessories'' magazine. Ms. Pointer has authored several magazine articles on financing and college education and has worked on a series of videotapes on financial aid for students. The videotapes aired on Public Broadcasting Stations in the New York tri-state area. For many years she was a consultant to ESPN on selecting the High School Athlete of the Year. Deborah is currently a member of the Brooklyn Borough President's Task Force on BCAT, President of the Rutland Road Block Association and a member of numerous other organizations. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the impressive achievements of Deborah Battle Pointer and her commitment to the children of Brooklyn, New York. I also want to thank Ms. Pointer for sharing her gifts with the rest of us. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to this wonderful and talented woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Agnes E. Green. Agnes E. Green is the eldest of seven children born to David and Agnes Cokley, and the mother of one son, Eric. She is currently the Assistant Director of Public Affairs at Spring Creek Towers and the Editor-in-Chief of its newspaper, The Spring Creek Sun. Born and raised in Brooklyn's Bedford-Stuyvesant and now a resident of Prospect Heights, Agnes is an activist who possesses a strong desire to obtain the greatest good for her community. While living in Crown Heights where her son was raised, she became active in the parent associations and often served as president. Her leadership was rewarded and she became a member on the Executive Board of the citywide United Parents Association and later the Board President. As a parent leader, Agnes gained a reputation as an independent, outspoken voice for all children's entitlement to a quality education and parents' rights to participate in their education. Because of her advocacy, she was asked by leaders of the CSD 17 Presidents' Council to represent them in the race for a seat on Community School Board 17. With the collective energy of parents and community support, she was elected in 1983 and in every Board election thereafter, until the New York City School Board was dissolved in 2004. As a first term Board member, Agnes surprised many by becoming President of the CSB 17 and held other officer and committee chair positions throughout her 17 years as an elected school official. She was appointed by Mayor Edward I. Koch to serve on the newly created AIDS panel for school-aged children in August 1985. She was the first parent representative to serve during one of the most contentious periods in the City's public school history. The panel reviewed the medical status and family history of children diagnosed HIV positive. The end of the School Board did not diminish Agnes' commitment to urging the improvement of public school education. She is a founding member of Black New Yorkers for Educational Excellence, a citywide progressive organization whose mission is to actively work for education as a means of liberation. Agnes, an honor student throughout public school, was also Bushwick High School's first Black and first female to be elected President of the Student Government Association. Her college education began at Brooklyn College and formally ended at New York University where she majored in Broadcast Journalism and minored in English literature. After attending NYU, Agnes was hired by WCBS Newsradio 88 where she worked for 19 years. She began as a News Desk Assistant and quickly rose to Chief News Desk Assistant. Through her many years at WCBS Radio she won numerous awards. Agnes is currently the producer and host of Everyday People and Everyday Voices aired monthly on Brooklyn Community Access Television. Her passions include outdoor music concerts, jazz festivals, live theatrical productions, taking photos, and collecting Black memorabilia. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize this outstanding journalist for all of her work. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Agnes E. Green.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Ms. Lillian Roberts. Lillian Roberts is currently the Executive Director of District Council 37 of the AFSCME, AFL-CIO union. She represents 121,000 public workers in New York City, 50,000 of them retirees, 1,000 titles and 56 locals. She is also Vice President of the New York State AFL-CIO, Vice President of the NYC Central Labor Council and Secretary of the Municipal Labor Committee. Lillian became a union activist as a Nurse's Aide working in a Chicago hospital in the 1950s. She spearheaded the creation of five locals and led an organizing drive at four Chicago hospitals. Lillian came to New York City, built DC 37's hospital division and became Associate Director of DC 37. She distinguished herself by her skill as an organizer and her ability to connect with rank-and-file members. She established the DC 37 Education fund, the largest union- based adult education program in the country that offers union members a four-year degree with the College of New Rochelle. This program has become a model for unions nationwide. During the late 1970s and 1980s, Lillian brought into the union thousands of workers in federally funded jobs. She found that experience to be a blueprint for creating unionized jobs for welfare recipients. She also developed the DC 37 Municipal Employees Legal Services program, which provides legal services to members and the DC 37 Personal Services Unit, which offers counseling to those with personal problems. In 1981, Lillian became the first African-American woman named New York State Commissioner of Labor. During her 6-year tenure, she lead the 7,500 employee body to increase the annual job placement level by 5 percent, obtained federal approval of a state plan for a Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health Program, and computerized unemployment insurance offices and the Job Service program. Lillian was first elected DC 37 Executive Director in 2002 after serving as consultant to the union she helped build. She was re-elected to a 3-year term in January of 2004. In January of 2007, Ms. Roberts was overwhelmingly re-elected for her 3rd term. Lillian currently leads the union where she had been a previous Associate Director and consultant. In the 1960s and 1970s, she played a major role in organizing new members into DC 37 and establishing an array of benefits that became the envy of the Nation's labor movement. With housing costs rising, Lillian approached Mayor Bloomberg with a proposal to give DC 37 members and municipal workers an affordable way to meet the City's requirement that they live in the 5 boroughs. The result is the innovative DC 37 Affordable Housing Program. This program allows DC 37 members and city workers preference for 5 percent of units in city-sponsored lotteries for affordable homes and apartments, down payment grants through the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development, and homebuyer training and education through Neighborhood Housing Services. Lillian's leadership is rooted in the lessons she learned while growing up on welfare on Chicago's South Side and fighting for better working conditions as a Nurse's Aide. Growing up as 1 of 5 siblings in conditions of poverty, she was instilled with a deep concern for the needy and a passion for fighting social injustices. Lillian has been a member of numerous boards including: Board of Trustees of the College of New Rochelle; the State University of New York, the National Equal Rights Committee and the National Committee for Labor Israel. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize this labor activist. for all of her accomplishments and her empathy for area workers. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Lillian Roberts.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brooklyn resident Aurora Brown. Ms. Brown is a native New Yorker and a third generation West Indian who sites education as the strength of her lineage. The Amsted's (family name) were the first black school teachers in Virginia. Ms. Brown taught scholastic and college preparatory classes to youth for employment opportunities. Her students have successfully gone on to colleges and universities such as Morehouse, Spelman and Hampton through her mentoring. As the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of S&B Cleaning Services, Inc., Ms. Brown's mission to incorporate was derived from previous experiences of managing several janitorial companies and being employed by federal affiliates including 26 Federal Plaza, New York, New York. Ms. Brown received The Council City of New York Proclamation Award in December of 2005 and the Partner in Education Award from the Occupational Training Center of New York in June of 2004. Known for her generosity and fairness when dealing with clients and employees, she makes it her business to oversee personally the human resources development of employing disadvantaged and handicapped individuals. Ms. Brown's work ethic serves as encouragement for women to venture out and become business owners. She states, ``through long hours, trials, and tribulations, moments were grueling, but definitely worth the effort.'' She also admits the company motto was her driving force when faced with opposition and adversity. Tedious daily functions of operating a business, she makes time to give to her community as a facilitator of public functions, contributing donations, fundraising for the welfare of child care. Ms. Brown, in conjunction with public officials and local affiliates, has donated toys to the Young Minds Daycare Center for the 2005 holiday season. Her personal choice for donations in 2006 was Family Life Foster Care. Ms. Brown has others to thank in establishing herself, such as family, friends, and associates, but likes to acknowledge that her Executive Vice-President Edwin Santiago is a key component in the developmental operation of rapid growth of this organization; she also takes pride in acknowledging that her employees are the backbone of S&B Cleaning Services, Inc. There is much more you can expect to see that Ms. Brown has yet to reveal. Just like her company motto ``There's not much we don't do.'' Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Ms. Aurora Brown for her accomplishments in business. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Ms. Aurora Brown.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brooklyn, New York resident Melinda DelRosario. Melinda DelRosario was born in Panama City in the Republic of Panama. She attended the Instituto Nacional in the Republic of Panama and became the youngest member of the senior choir and usher ministry at Rio Abajo Methodist Church. Upon migrating to the U.S. Ms. DelRosario attended Eramus High School in Brooklyn, New York. In pursuit of a nursing career she earned a BSN Degree at St. Joseph College in Brooklyn, New York graduating with Phi Beta Kappa honors. Upon graduation from St. Joseph College, she assumed various administrative positions in home care and hospitals, among them; Kings Brook Jewish Medical Center as an Administrative Supervisor/ Administrator on duty. Currently, Melinda oversees the Nurse Connection Program with Village Care of New York in conjunction with Roche Pharmaceutical Company. Ms. DelRosario is an HIV Nurse and consultant. She also instructs doctors and nurses in the administration of fuzeon therapy for HIV positive patients. In addition, Melinda provides in home instruction to patients and counseling to families. Besides working as a healthcare provider, Melinda has been a prolific community activist and commonly known for her spirit of cooperation and punctuality. Twenty-five years ago, she became a member of ``The Diggers.'' This is an organization led by Mr. Roman Foster who researched historical facts on the building and construction of the Panama Canal. This research resulted in the production of a documentary which provided narratives and anecdotes with the contributions of West Indians and the Caribbean works in Panama during the Canal's construction. Melinda James-DelRosario was also a member of the Madison Democratic Club; the former Secretary of the Panamanian Nurses Association and the Caribbean Nurses Association; Travel Coordinator with MIPOPA which is an organization group headed by Dr. Carlos E. Russell which advocates the rights of Panamanians to vote abroad. She is a member of Panama Vote 2004, an organization led by Dr. George Priestly, which raised funds to support the candidacy of President Martin Torrijos and Probisida, an organization dedicated to providing assistance to HIV positive patients. Melinda is also a civic minded, community oriented individual who embraces the concept of caring and sharing in issues affecting those who have been disenfranchised. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Melinda James-DelRosario for her good works and accomplishments in our community. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Melinda James-DelRosario.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brooklyn, New York resident, Ms. Claudette Audige. Claudette Audige was born on December 7, 1962, in Kingston, Jamaica. She has been a resident of New York for more than 21 years. Ms. Audige is the wife of Andre Audige and the mother of 3 beautiful children, Chase, Chad and Jodie. Claudette Audige has been an experienced loan consultant for more than 20 years. She is noted for her wisdom and compassion for encouraging home ownership. She has inspired and helped many people to save their homes as well as purchase a home. Most of Mrs. Audige's extensive community involvement has been with young people. She was a counselor at Good Samaritan Church, in the Bronx, and St. Michaels, in Sheldon, New York. Her community activities include participation in the McDonald's sing along concert series, a drug awareness campaign, and the neighborhood gang violence awareness program. The assistance she provides for children goes beyond the call of duty since she works closely with the youth in her community. She is sensitive to the needs of homeowners and it is out of that compassion that led her to become a financial consultant. In addition, the high rate of housing foreclosures among her friends and family was another incentive for her to embark on this profession. Claudette gives workshops to new homeowners and advises them of their financial status. Due to her own past financial hardships, she has developed a flair for assisting people to accumulate wealth through the power of prayer and financial wisdom. Financial empowerment guides and motivates Mrs. Audige to teach others to accumulate wealth and prosperity. This extraordinary woman goes above and beyond the call of duty and is commendable to the standards befitting the praised, virtuous woman described in Proverbs. Her motto is ``if I can help someone let not my living be in vain.'' Claudette Audige strives to educate the young and the old to possess the knowledge of financial wisdom. She believes that everyone can own a home with the proper education. Madam Speaker. I would also like to recognize the impressive works of Claudette Audige as well as her commitment to the Brooklyn community. Madam Speaker. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to this wonderful woman for all that she does for current and prospective homeowners.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, a delegation headed by the Chairman of the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), The Honorable Hee-Beom Lee, will visit Washington during the week of March 12 for a series of meetings with business leaders, government officials, members of this House, the Senate, journalists, and members of the Korean-American community in the metropolitan area. The purpose of the delegation's visit is to commemorate the U.S.-Korea business and trade relationship as well as support the progress of talks designed to lead to a Free Trade Agreement between the United States and the Republic of Korea. Founded in 1946 with 105 members, KITA now represents more than 80,000 Korean businesses seeking to sell their products and services overseas, and in turn buying products and services from foreign countries. KITA, which owns office buildings in Washington and New York City, participates in the World Trade Centers Association, which has more than 300 members in 101 countries. It works closely with virtually all World Trade Centers to promote trade by providing facilities and services on a reciprocal basis. In addition, to promote bilateral economic cooperation, KITA sponsors the Korea-U.S. Economic Council, the Korea-Japan Industry and Trade Committee, and the Korea-Hong Kong Business Roundtable. In its efforts to promote freer trade, not only between the U.S. and Korea, but around the world, KITA organizes various functions and events to enhance mutual understanding on trade issues, seeking to resolve private-sector trade disputes through dialogue. It also works together with its overseas counterparts and international economic organizations to provide member firms with opportunities to interact fully with the international community. Moreover, KITA places special emphasis on developing and maintaining cooperative relationships with overseas trade promotion organizations as well as major international organizations to facilitate trade and investment on a reciprocal basis. These cooperation activities include trade information exchange, organizing trade promotional events, joint research, and provision of facilities. Barely half a century ago, the Republic of Korea was an impoverished casualty of imperialism and war; it has now grown to be the 12th- largest trading nation in the world. Korea is also the largest trading partner of the United States, with over $70 billion in business between our countries each year. Credit for such remarkable development belongs in large part to the efforts of the Korea International Trade Association. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to extend their good wishes to Chairman Hee-Beom Lee, and welcome the delegation of the Korea International Trade Association as it visits Washington, D.C. I hope you join me in wishing them a pleasant and productive stay in our Nation's Capital.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, recently, Dr. Awatar Singh Sekhon, Managing Editor of the International Journal of Sikh Affairs, wrote to President Bush about the dangerous situation in India, where democratic rights for minorities are under continuing threat. He also published the letter in his magazine. Dr. Sekhon noted that the interests of the United States and its allies, such as Canada, are likely to be damaged by continuing close cooperation with India. As he observed, although India proudly portrays itself as ``the world's largest democracy,'' it is a country where, as he writes, ``democracy has been used to deny freedom, national and human rights, and basic human dignity to the majority.'' That majority includes Christians, Sikhs, Muslims, Dalits, and other minorities. He notes that in India, the Brahmin class, which is 15 percent of the population, uses the most brutal oppression to suppress and rule the minorities. The caste system is still rigorously enforced, despite being made illegal in 1950. It is used to keep the people down, backed by violent repression. He notes that in 1948, the Indian government promised the people of Kashmir a plebiscite on their status. Punjab was promised sovereignty at the time of Indian independence. Those promises have not been kept and any effort to claim what was promised has been met with brutality that has resulted in the murders of over 250,000 Sikhs, over 300,000 Christian Nagas, over 90,000 Kashmiri Muslims, Muslims and Christians elsewhere in the country, and tens of thousands of other minorities. Yet our policymakers insist on treating India both as a democratic country and as an ally, despite its longstanding and still current friendship with Russia, as well as its coziness with the mullahs of Iran, to whom it has sold heavy water and other components. Dr. Sekhon cites the attack on the Golden Temple as another example of India's effort to eliminate the minorities and subsume them into a Hindu state. Madam Speaker, I call on all my colleagues, especially those who are promoters of India, to read this devastating letter. It is quite damaging to India and it is right on target. It will give you essential information on the lack of basic liberties in that country. We can makce a difference, Madam Speaker. Instead of cozying up to India and trying to cut deals with them in the name of stability, it is time to stop our aid and our trade to pressure India to allow all its people to enjoy basic human rights. And it is time to put the U.S. Congress on record in support of self-determination for all the peoples and nations of the subcontinent through a free and fair plebiscite on their status. Isn't that the fair and responsible way to handle questions like this? Isn't that the way democracies do it? Why is India afraid of real democracy? Madam Speaker, I would like to insert Dr. Sekhon's excellent letter into the record. Again, I urge eveyone to read it. It will prove very informative. International Journal of Sikh Affairs, January 24, 2007. Hon. George W. Bush, President, United States of America, The White House, Washington, DC. south asia: interests, permanent allies, world peace and the role of the united states in the region I am a citizen of Canada and a member of the Canadian Sikh community. I retired from service in public health as a microbiologist, research scientist, administrator and academic a few years ago. I am now active in work for human rights. These rights are not peculiar to a people or country; they protect the entire human race. I am expressing below my concerns over the likelihood of damage to long-term interests of the United States of America, its allies, the NATO forces, Canada in particular. The pain of sufferings families of North America, in Europe, the Middle East and South Asia is hard to ignore. The irony is that the more the U.S. tried to ameliorate conditions, the worse they have become. The people of North America know very well the objectives of the United States (U.S.) and the hurdles faced in leading the world during much of the 20th and in the current 21st centuries. The people of the U.S. and their elected leaders have devoted a lot of time, money and precious resources in manpower and management for the good of the mankind to make the world better and safer. Despite all the good intentions of the democratic world it has been struggling to find a basis for lasting world peace. I believe that the long-term interests of the United States and the world at large are complementary. The U.S. leadership is good for the world. Yet, increasingly fewer people believe that to be true. Is there anything amiss? I firmly believe that the United States and its allies eagerly want to prevent the sufferings of friendly peoples whose governments they have influence over. While we find the stern hand of the U.S. military operating against enemies, there is little effort to impose the same principles of human freedom and dignity on ``friends''. Much of South Asia is democratic; India boasts of being the largest democracy in the world. Yet it is in India--more than anywhere else--where democracy has been used to deny freedom, national and human rights, and basic human dignity to the majority. As the Hon. Dana Rohrabacher, (R-Cal) had said as far as the minorities (the Sikhs, Muslims in general, Muslims of the Internationally Disputed Areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Christians, Dalits, Adivasasis or the indigenous native people, and other non-Hindu, non-Brahmin) are concerned, India is a Nazi Germany for them (Tim Phares 2006 Int J Sikh Affairs 16(1),40-42 ISSN 1481-5435). Congressman Rohrabacher's assessment is accurate and well justified; it can be the focal point of a new beginning with India. The question is: how could a country, which is the world's largest democracy, sustain caste apartheid and pogroms against minorities without facing recrimination? It is done by mis-definition and misrepresentation the world is too busy to try and unravel. India is not a nation and has not even tried to become a nation during the 60 years that it has been ``free''. It has relied entirely on brute military force to crush any people that demanded its rights. The fact is the Muslims are a majority in Jammu and Kashmir, the Sikhs are a majority in the Punjab and Hill tribes of Assam are mostly Christian. The People of Jammu and Kashmir were promised a plebiscite that was endorsed by the United Nations. The Sikhs were promised their separate state Khalistan by the Congress leaders in exchange for rejecting Pakistan's offer of the same. The Tribal peoples of Assam were also promised ``freedom'' if they sided with the Congress Party against the British. Now that these peoples demand what was promised, India has unleashed the most diabolical genocide and an international campaign to demonize their stuggle. The British Raj lasted as long as it did because it was founded on recognition of India as multiple nations. How can a country call itself a democracy when it discards its very foundation--the right of national self- determination? India aspires for its leaders--M.K. Ghandi and J.L. Nehru-- to be recognized with other great leaders of the democratic world like George Washington, Franklin D Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln, J.F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, and William Jefferson Clinton. But it cannot even begin to secure that position until it can show that they stood up for the oppressed within the country and without. India has invaded each one its neighbours, overtly or covertly; if it gave in to any demand, it sought to hurt twice as much elsewhere. The Untouchables or Dalits--who are a majority in several states of India and constitute 65 % of its population--were promised ``reservation'' of seats in the parliament, in education and jobs. Even after 60 years, it is still denied to backward castes and to Muslims. India uses ``democracy'' as means to fudge issues and deny rights by never ending arguments in circles. That is the experience of the people in the country and neighbours who live in dread of roads being closed or rivers being diverted. The devious policies and broken promises is the hallmark of India today. The Sikhs have been the worst victims. They founded the first secular and sovereign state in South Asia by Sikh monarch Ranjit Singh in 1799 that was ``annexed'' by treaty to the British Empire on 14th March, 1849. In June 1984, the Darbar Sahib Complex which includes the Supreme Seat of Sikh Polity, The Akal Takht Sahib, Amritsar (mistakenly known as Golden Temple of Amritsar), which is the Vatican of the Sikh faith, was assaulted by the Indian Army killing 20,000 devotees who were inside the temple and their leader Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was martyred. When the Sikh guards of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi avenged the assault assassinating her, the worst pogrom was unleashed upon the Sikhs all over India that resulted in 250,000 Sikhs--mostly young men and their families--who were mercilessly killed, Indian diplomats talk about the tradition of non-violence in India of which Mahatma Gandhi is considered to be a universal symbol. But the truth is that India is violent but only to the weak; when confronted with strong and powerful the Brahmin response is obsequious folding of hands. This manner of greeting appears to be show of humillty. But it is actually a statement that the person being greeted is of low birth and is untouchable. On 15th of August 1947, the British handed over political power to the ``unelected'' Hindu leadership. But the Hindus/ Brahmins (neither a religion nor a culture) were only 15 % of the population; how could they be the successors of the British Empire in India. Once installed in power, they have relied on a combination of hate (for people of foreign faiths or of low birth), guile and stratagem far mor complex than any Machiavelli. The record of their rule over India speaks eloquently how Hindus/Brahmins have been master-mind in persecution of faith minorities and the low caste majority of native peoples who are deemed to be inferior by birth in their unique faith. Through Article 25 of the Indian Constitution 1950, the Sikh, the Buddhists and Jains and all the Untouchables, all of who are victims of oppression and apartheid, are denied their separate identity and deemed to be Hindus. The Sikh faith founded by Guru Nanak Sahib was a rebellion to reject the caste ``apartheid'' enforced by the Hindus of Brahmin caste. The irony is that when freedom came, the Sikhs were declared to be Hindus (long haired Hindus) albeit of the renegade variety, against the teachings of its founder, Guru Nanak Sahib, and the Sikhs' Holy Scripture, Adi Guru Granth Sahib. It is difficult to portray the anger, revulsion and frustration felt by the Sikhs in this unwelcome embrace of Hinduism (which is neither a religion nor a culture according to the verdict of Punjab and Haryana High Court, 1984). Brahmin rule in post-15th August, 1947, India has interest only in maintaining the apartheid system; its objective is the prosperity of urban dwelling upper castes--the so called 200 million middle class. Suave Indian diplomats routinely underlines that the USA and India are natural allies. Even American politicians and diplomats have started to harp on the same theme. It is time, this was questioned. What makes them natural allies? During the years of the Cold War, India was the friend of The Soviet Union, not of America. Why? It is because both were internally and internationlly imperialist. Now, India needs an imperial patron to underpin its own imperious. It needs the U.S. Is that the role the USA sees for itself in the world? As supporter of local imperialists? Surely the power and prestige of the USA is such that it must aim higher: obtain lasting universal peace and harmony; amity between faiths; unfettered democracy; free trade. Tied to apron strings of India, the USA is bound to drift into petty machinations to deny freedom to some and equality to all. lndia's imperialism is founded on delaying tactics and betrayal. All the problems in the South Asian region are product of Brahmin spin or stratagem. The media makes wild forecasts of India of the future. It is supposed to be a huge market for consumer goods. Whose? Peoples' Republic of China? Some people have become very rich in India. Diaspora Indians are clever and are also becoming rich. But for the majority, India is a hellhole and will always remain so. Caste based India has structural, infrastructual and social problems that it cannot overcome until it abandons its ``poverty imperialism''. However, India is country of 1.1 billion people who deserve better. If India allowed the right of self-determination to the Sikhs, to the peoples of Jammu and Kashmir and Assam, it would still be the second largest country with population more than all of Europe. However, it would no longer need to maintain hostility with neighbouring states and would be in a position to remove strife, tension and hate from its social scene. India must give the native peoples their national rights and create autonomous states of India that would facilitate a compact of states within each the interplay of diverse ethnic and caste interests would create grass root harmony. For the United States to articulate its interests in far off lands and develop mechanisms to secure those interests, its diplomats and politicians have to be conversant with the history and customs of those lands. Historically, the Sikhs of Punjab and the people of Afghanistan have never been ``subservient'' to any foreign ruler. That was true in the 19th Century as it is today. There are nearly 20 nations within the ``Indian union'', which are struggling to regain their lost sovereignty and independence ever since the British Indian Empire was hurriedly partitioned in 1947. The end of the British Empire marked the end of the imperial era in the whole world. India's efforts to build and expand its empire are the biggest threat to peace and stability of Asia. Consider Mr. President, if 20 or so nations, including the Sikhs of Punjab, Christians of Nagaland, the tribal people of Assam and Manipur, the south Indian states most notably Tamil Nadu, were to become ``sovereign'' states, what a huge change for the better it would be for the region and the world. That is the only way to replace the polity of hate and oppression with polities of peace and harmony underpinned by secure undefended borders. Large is not fashionable; not just for women. I hope I have given some points to ponder. The USA can lead the world with a global vision. There are not many regions where so much is old and archaic ready to crumble and hit dust. Many Americans are fond of India but they do not know why? The present rulers of India would like your help in building their empire. But that is not the best interest of the people of India. India is one country that needs benign intervention to dismantle the social and political structures to be replaced by structures founded on national self- determination. That would be good for business; that would be good for world peace; that is the calling of greatness. Best wishes and warmest regards. Sincerely, Awatar Singh Sekhon, Ph.D, FlBA, RM (CCM), Associate Professor (Retired), Medical Microbiology and Immunology; Director (Former), National Centre for Human Mycotic Diseases Canada; Managing Editor and Acting Editor in Chief.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, recently elections were held in Punjab. The voters turned out the Congress Party government and restored the Shiromani Akali Dal to power. This means that Parkash Singh Badal returns as Chief Minister. The Congress Party claims to be secular, but the fact is that it presided over the massacre of Sikhs that took the lives of over a quarter of a million Sikhs. It was the party that carried out the military attack on the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the center and seat of the Sikh religion. On the other hand, the Akali Dal has historically been the pro-Sikh party. However, during the tenure of Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Punjab did reclaim its water rights and cancel the agreements that allowed diversion of that water to other states. The bill implementing the cancellation explicitly declared the sovereignty of Punjab. As you know, Madam Speaker, Punjab, Khalistan declared its independence on October 7, 1987. Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan, has written to Chief Minister Badal urging him to keep his campaign promises of a better economic life for Punjab fanners, of clean government, and to reclaim the capital city of Chandigarh for Punjab. He also urged Mr. Badal to declare again the independence of Punjab, Khalistan and to work for a free and fair vote. The essence of democracy is the right to self-determination. As such, a free and fair vote on the issue of independence is called for if India still wishes to be looked upon as the democracy it claims to be. The Indian government is sending out its sycophants to spin the Punjab elections as having ``debunked'' the Khalistan movement, but in fact, quite the opposite is the truth of the matter. I call on this Congress to stand up for freedom and join in urging the Punjab Legislative Assembly to declare independence again, and to urge India to allow a free and fair plebiscite on the matter of independence for Khalistan, for the Christians of Nagaland, and for Kaslunir, as promised in 1948, as well as all others who seek their freedom. I also call for a stop to American aid and trade with India until basic human lights are respected and everyone there is allowed to live in freedom, dignity, prosperity, and security. Madam Speaker, I would like to place the Council of Khalistan's letter to Chief Minister Badal into the Record at this time with the permission of the House. Council of Khalistan, Washington, DC, February 28, 2007. Hon. Paraksh Singh Badal, Chief Minister of Punjab, Chandigarh, Punjab, India. Dear Chief Minister Badal: Congratulations on your victory in the Punjab elections and your return as Chief Minister. You promised the return of clean government to Punjab. That would be a welcome relief for the people of Punjab. You also promised free electricity and Rs4 per kilo for wheat flour and Rs20 per kilo for lentils for the poor. We welcome these promises and urge you to implement them as soon as possible. I call upon you to get Chandigarh back for Punjab. As you know, Punjab built Chandigarh to be its capital and it rightfully belongs to Punjab. It is time to get it back. We also urge you to maintain. Captain Amarinder Singh's water policy. His government cancelled the unfair agreements that allowed the diversion of Punjab's water to nonriparian states. In that bill, the Legislative Assembly explicitly declared the sovereignty of Punjab. Unfortunately, the Congress Party, which presided over the massacre of Sikhs, is an anti-Sikh party. The Akali Dal has historically been the pro-Sikh party. Yours is the party that called on the Sikh Nation to prepare ourselves for ``the long struggle to liberate Khalistan.'' You are presiding over a Sikh political and religious institution that controls the gurdwaras in Punjab. Remember that Professor Darshan Singh, an Akali and former Jathedar of the Akal Takht, has said, ``If a Sikh is not for Khalistan, he is not a Sikh.'' Each morning and evening, we pray, ``Raj Kare Ga Khalsa,'' the Khalsa shall rule. Do you say this prayer sincerely? Wil1 Delhi let you implement the new price structure you promised? They have done everything in their power to keep the Sikhs oppressed, including imposing President's rule on Punjab nine times. They have been responsible for the murders of a quarter of a million Sikhs, according to figures compiled by the Punjab State Magistracy and published in The Politics of Genocide by Inderjit Singh Jaijee. The Movement Against State Repression reports that over 52,000 Sikhs are being held as political prisoners without charge or trial, some since 1984! The late General Narinder Singh said that ``Punjab is a police state.'' You have promised to end ``the dark and corrupt legacy of despotic dictatorship.'' There is only one way to do so. That is to declare the sovereign independence of Khalistan. The Legislative Assembly can do this and should do it. This would elevate you immediately from Chief Minister to Prime Minister. Self-determination is the essence of democracy. Why can't India do the democratic thing and allow the people of Punjab, Khalistan to vote in a free and fair plebiscite on the question of independence? What are they afraid of? Again I congratulate you and urge you to work to end the oppression of Sikhs and keep the interests of the Sikh Nation foremost in your mind as you embark upon your term as Chief Minister. I urge you to work to regain the sovereignty that is our birthright. Sincerely, Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President, Council of Khalistan.