Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor Regina Kim in recognition of her assistance to victims of domestic violence and abuse. For the past 16 years Regina Kim has reached out to thousands of helpless, desperate, and battered women. As the Executive Director of the Korean Family Counseling and Research Center, Regina assists women victims of domestic violence, physical and mental harassment, and substance abuse with her compassion and dedication. Through counseling and a 24-hour hotline, crisis intervention services, victim advocacy and public education, the Center's mission of helping women and girls taking charge of their lives is put in practice every day. Regina's round-the-clock dedication to those in need is both inspiring and heartwarming. The Korean Family Counseling and Research Center was the only counseling center for New York's Korean community when it was founded 31 years ago. Today, the rapid growth in Korean immigration to our city has increased the important role of the center. By providing hope and encouragement to countless women and their families, Regina has won admiration from her colleagues, the local community, as well as people in Korea. In 1992, she was presented the Social Services Recognition Award by the Korean government for her contribution to the Korean-American community. She has also been honored by the City of New York with an award for Distinguished Leadership in the field of Social Services and an award for Exemplary Leadership, Commitment, and Advocacy on Behalf of all New Yorkers. Regina was educated at the Chong-gu College in Dae-gu, Korea and at the St. Stephens Outreach Network (Social Welfare). She is an active member of The Advisory Council on Democratic and Peaceful Unification and the Civil Air Patrol. This organization also presented her with an award for Distinguished Social Services. Mr. Speaker, Regina Kim has helped thousands of women who have been victims of domestic violence and abuse. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the educational and athletic achievements of Master Yeon Hwan Park. Master Park is an 8th dan (degree) black belt, and coach of the USA Olympic National and Pan American Tae Kwon Do teams. He is the world's premier authority on Tae Kwan Do and his knowledge is without parallel in this martial arts discipline. Master Park has been featured in the New York Times, Newsday and has graced the covers of virtually every martial arts publication. Master Park is renowned for having translated his fighting ability into teaching ingenuity, something few successful competitors have been able to do. He brought his techniques and the austere conditions of his native Korean training halls to the African nation of Lesotho. He trained their secret service and special police agents for 2 years. He, also, trained and led their Tae Kwon Do team to the Seoul Olympics. The women's team took first place and the men's team finished second. Master Park has established himself as a great teacher and an outstanding community leader. He has done much to bring Tae Kwon Do to national prominence. Presently, he is President of the NY State Tae Kwon Do Association. And, he has served the United States as an Olympic coach and as a coach at the Pan American Games. Though Mr. Park has been busy in the sport that he loves, he has not forgotten the welfare of the community. He promotes the fundraising programs for the March of Dimes, The American Cancer Society, the American Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and many other organizations. He has also served as the president of the Korea American Association of Long Island and is a current member of the Nassau County Youth Board. Mr. Park graduated from Korea University with honors in history. He studied at the United States Olympic Academy XII at Penn State University. He has published many books including ``Tae Kwon Do for Children'' and ``Tae Kwon Do DINOSAURS''. He has been honored by Nassau County, the United States Olympic Committee, Korea University, and the World Tae Kwon Do Federation, and many others. He and Sunwoo (also known as Connie) were married in 1982 and they have two sons, Edward and Elliot, and one daughter, Nina. Mr. Speaker, Master Yeon Hwan Park's worldwide contributions to the sport of Tae Kwon Do and his New York community make him more than worthy of receiving our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Reverend Gun Ha Song in recognition of his business accomplishments and spiritual leadership in the community. Reverend Song came to the United States in 1979. He founded the Good Pickin' store in 1982 and he continues to manage it successfully today. Reverend Song is the president of the Korean Association of Brooklyn. Reverend Song's passion is his faith. He leads his congregation in Brooklyn. In preparation of his pastoral duties, Reverend Song has studied extensively, earning advanced degrees in the area of religious thought. He has earned a Masters Degree of S.B.E. Christian Education. He received an additional Masters Degree from Chongshin Theological Seminary. Finally, Reverend Song also holds a Doctor of Christian Education from Cumberland University. Mr. Speaker, Reverend Gun Ha Song came to this country about 25 years ago and has made several contributions to this country through his entrepreneurial spirit and spiritual leadership. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of St. Blase ``KC'' Charles in recognition of his significant cultural and economic development contributions to the community. St. Blase Charles, better known as KC, hails from the twin island Nation of Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean. He has been an entertainer for more than 30 years. Famous for his Caribbean-style rendition of the ``father of soul,'' Mr. James Brown, KC is also affectionately known as the ``Local James Brown'' throughout the entertainment circles in North America and members of his international fan club. Along with his own musical group, the International Band, KC has performed at major events and famous places including the West Indian Labor Day Parade in Brooklyn, the Harlem Day Parade, Manhattan's Annual Halloween Parade, the MGM and Sahara casino in Las Vegas, and the Royal Caribbean and Carnival cruises, just to name a few. KC's summer concerts were launched in 1989 at his garage at East 87th Street in East Flatbush, Brooklyn where he held a huge block party on Memorial Day. In order to accommodate the growing crowd that came to the yearly event, in 1991, KC moved his Caribbean style street festival to Ditmas Avenue near his East 87th Street garage. The event covered ten blocks. The event continued at Ditmas Avenue until 1996, when KC took his show and a loyal following of thousands to its new home on Atlantic Avenue. Spanning 10,000 square feet and a maximum occupancy of 4,300, the Hideaway is a spacious outdoor venue located at 2494 Atlantic, in an industrial section of Brooklyn. Since 1998, the Hideaway, which is owned and managed by KC, has been hosting its hallmark Summer Concert Series featuring today's leading soca, calypso, and reggae musical acts from around the Caribbean and here in the United States. Along with top performers, the Hideaway showcases some of the most popular Caribbean- American DJs. It is also equipped with a fully licensed bar, a professional sized stage, and an elevated VIP lounge where performing artist and special guests can view and enjoy the shows. KC's Hideaway has become a major attraction for thousands of Caribbean music lovers from around the world who are drawn to Brooklyn, the Caribbean Capital of the United States, year after year to celebrate the West Indian Labor Day Carnival season, which begins in May. The venue stages around 66 shows a year and the number of concertgoers has steadily increased over the past three years. The concert grew from an audience of about 80,000 for the season in 1998, to approximately 165,000 for this season. Mr. Speaker, St. Blase ``KC'' Charles has developed and created a major cultural event in his community, which has brought thousands of people to Brooklyn each year to celebrate their Caribbean heritage. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Steven Ruffin in recognition of his tireless efforts to strengthen the community through his work as a member of the New York City Police Department. Steven Ruffin was born and raised in the Bedford Stuyvesant community in Brooklyn. He is the oldest of four children. His interests include jazz, Afro-centric art, sports and working with the community. He was appointed to the New York City Police Department on January 21, 1985 and was assigned to the Neighborhood Stabilization Unit, where he performed foot patrol within the 73rd, 75th and the 81st precincts. In January 1985, Officer Ruffin was assigned to the 79th precinct. He performed patrol duties there for ten years. Later, in 1995, he was assigned as the Explorer/Auxiliary Coordinator, making him responsible for the supervision of the Explorer and Auxiliary members. For the past four years, Officer Ruffin's experience and expertise has resulted in improved community relations. He has accomplished this by developing a prosperous partnership between the community and the 79th precinct, which has been instrumental in closing the gap between the community and police. He encourages his fellow officers to become more involved and concerned with the neighborhood in the area they serve and protect. Officer Ruffin has also successfully collaborated with local officials, neighborhood organizations, schools, and churches in Bedford Stuyvesant to strengthen the community. He has also played an active role in organizing youth programs, parades, demonstrations, rallies, and various events. For all of his contributions, Officer Ruffin has received numerous awards for his community service. Mr. Speaker, Steven Ruffin has dedicated both his professional and personal life to strengthening the community. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Archbishop Wilbert S. McKinley in recognition of his spiritual leadership in the community. Archbishop Wilbert S. McKinley is the senior pastor of The Elim International Fellowship. The doors of the church were opened for ministry on July 26, 1964. As the founding pastor, Archbishop McKinley has served the church faithfully for forty years. Archbishop McKinley has an overwhelming passion to introduce people, especially men, to the Church and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Archbishop McKinley believes that these teachings hold the key to every door. He is especially called to reach black men with the message of hope through Jesus Christ and with the necessity of embracing one's spiritual, national and racial identity. Archbishop McKinley has been a gift to the Church. In addition to his pastoral duties, he is a leader who is committed to sharing his time and talent with others. Mr. Speaker, Archbishop Wilbert S. McKinley has been a spiritual leader in his community for more than forty years. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Anthony Joseph in recognition of his entrepreneurial success in the marketing and communications field. As a product of New York City public school system, Anthony parlayed his academic achievement and his experience as an All-City championship football player into a walk-on position on the Boston University squad. Anthony promoted campus parties and events to subsidize his tuition. After graduation, he quickly turned a temp job in The New York Times' finance department into a staff position in the paper's marketing department. With just one experience as an employee with the New York Times, Anthony combined his knowledge of urban landscape with his marketing expertise to incorporate the fastest rising marketing/communication company in the urban field. Anthony laid the foundation for his urban success by moonlighting with Vital Marketing Group VMG while still at the Times. Through contacts at a major apparel and an advertising agency, Anthony was able to participate in business meetings where he was able to present strategies, which, over time, turned into contracts with Tommy Hilfiger, Hush Puppies, and Wolverine Boots. Eventually, Anthony's growing client base necessitated his departure from the Times. He partnered with the African-American media company that established the billboard beachhead on Harlem's 125th Street, utilized by so many entertainment companies at the time. Together they formed VMG, with Anthony leading the charge. After merely four years of business, its roster counts big-timers such as the U.S. Army, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Coca Cola, Remy Martin, Foot Action, Posner Cosmetics and Universal Records to name a few. It has an income of over $7 million in annual revenue. Vital Marketing's unusual methodology and its consistent success can be credited in great part to its founder and president, Anthony Joseph. The Queens-bred son of a Jamaican mother and Puerto Rican father, Anthony, understood the significance of culture early on as it related to marketing. In May 2001, VMG was presented with the Black Enterprise Rising Star Award, in honor of the high revenues garnered by VMG's high profile clients. A year later, VMG offered further proof that they were on the assent when they turned a cold call and a year of conversation into a multimillion dollar contract with the U.S. Army via advertising giant Leo Burnett. Mr. Speaker, Anthony Joseph has created a successful company through his own hard work and ingenuity. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Glenore M. Anderson in recognition of her civic participation and business success. Glenore is a living testimony to the power of hard work and effort. A banker by profession, it took Ms. Anderson eleven years to move up the corporate ladder to her current position as Vice President/Branch Manager of the Broadway and Driggs Street Office of HSBC Bank, one of the largest branches of HSBC Bank USA in Brooklyn, NY. Born on the island of Trinidad and Tobago in the West Indies, Glenore immigrated to the United States in the summer of 1992. She moved here with her family after successfully completing her studies in her home country. A few short months after taking up residence in New York City, she was hired as a customer service representative with Marine Midland bank, which later became HSBC Bank USA. She quickly moved through the ranks and excelled as a sales representative, sales manager, OIC (officer in charge), and Vice President/Branch manager. Glenore continues to exemplify this spirit of excellence in her current position as the Branch Manager. She continuously works toward motivating her staff of 16 by employing a ``hands on'' approach. In so doing, she demonstrates her abilities as a team player and team leader. She believes that it is important for her staff to see that she can do whatever task is required of them. Due to this type of cohesive effort and leadership skills, the operation of the branch has been very successful, which boasts assets totaling $105 million. In addition to her expertise in banking, Glenore has also earned accolades for her efforts to strengthen the community. As such, she was honored with the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry award for Women History makers of 2000; the Network Journal award for 40 Under Forty Achievers of 2001; and an award from the New Deeper Life Tabernacle in 2003. During the month of February in 2001, 2002 and 2003, she brought this sense of community to the branch by hosting a celebration of Black History Month. The celebrations took the form of an art exhibit mounted in conjunction with Art Groupie.Com, which featured the works of four African/Caribbean American artists. Married and the mother of one, Glenore receives strong support from her family and friends who believe whole-heartedly in her potential to reach the stars. Mr. Speaker, Glenore M. Anderson has excelled in the business world while still finding time to contribute to her community. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Greater Free Gift Baptist Church in recognition of the church's 50th year of existence, serving as a place of spiritual leadership in the community. The Free Gift Baptist Mission was first organized on May 9, 1954 in the Home of Reverend J.W. McCray on 714A Monroe Street in Brooklyn, New York. The church leaders included Deacon Lee Gains who was chairman of the deacon board; Deacon Brodie who was treasurer; Sister Gertrude Ortory was who the church clerk; and Deacon Roosevelt Kirkland who served as chairman of the trustee board. There were about 25 charter members. On the following Sunday, worship services were also held at 494 Lexington Avenue, where Reverend Wayne was pastor. In June of that same year, the church occupied its premises at 77 Sumner Avenue. On October 24, 1955, an Advisory Council meeting of the Eastern Baptist Association was held for the purpose of recognizing Free Gift Baptist Church as a regular Baptist church. In September 1956, the pastor, members, and many visitors and friends marched from 77 Sumner Avenue to 1058 Myrtle Avenue. In June 1959, Reverend Daniel Webster Batts was called to serve as pastor of the church. In 1961, the Free Gift Baptist Church due to legal reasons changed its name to Greater Free Gift Baptist Church. Under new leadership, congregants continued worshipping at 1058 Myrtle Avenue. In 1962, membership was instructed to look for larger and better quarters, and through the help of the Almighty, church members located its present site at 146 Stockton Street. On December 12, 1991, the church lost its pastor Reverend Dr. Daniel Webster Batts and for three years while under the leadership of the Deacon Board, the church searched for a new pastor. Finally, on February 26, 1995, the church installed its current pastor, Reverend William Raymond Whitaker, Jr. and since then the ministry has continued to grow. Under Reverend Whitaker's leadership, the church now has a ministerial staff consisting of three ministries, a nurses unit, the Greater Free Gift Bible Institute, which includes a General Bible Class and Child and Youth Evangelism Classes, an in-house library, a remedial reading assistance class, a basic computer training class, two vans, the D.W. Batts Fellowship Hall as well as the formation of the Drama and Dance Ministry and Serenity on Stockton Street. In May 2003, the main sanctuary and the D.W. Batts Fellowship Hall were renovated. Mr. Speaker, the Greater Free Gift Baptist Church has served as a religious sanctuary for 50 years, inspiring spiritual growth, knowledge and understanding in the community. As such, the church is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable congregation.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Medgar Evers College for adding a Baccalaureate degree program in Social Work to its curriculum. Social Work is an invaluable profession for creative and positive change in our communities, and I commend Medgar Evers for fulfilling this vital social need. The announcement of this degree program coincides with National Social Work Month. Being a social worker myself, I know the vital role this profession plays in empowering individuals and enhancing social well-being. Social workers are able to reach the most disaffected members of our communities. People who otherwise would have fallen through the cracks are taught to identify and manage the underlying environmental forces behind their social problems. There are approximately half a million social workers actively involved in helping individuals with various needs in areas such as health, mental illness, diversity, children, families, aging, poverty, human rights, and social injustice. Despite the far-reaching benefits of social work it is a profession in need of new members. Nearly three fourths of all social workers were born before 1960, and their median age is 50. Programs like the one being started at Medgar Evers are essential for preparing a new generation of social workers to address the complex problems facing society today. Social workers are on the front lines, battling the many social problems plaguing our communities. The very nature and goal of social work is to help people. I cannot think of a profession more worthy of praise or more significant in impact. Medgar Evers College faithfully serves the community by fulfilling its mission of meeting ``the educational and social needs of Central Brooklyn through the development and maintenance of high quality, professional career-oriented undergraduate degree programs in the context of liberal education.'' The creation of a degree in Social Work is another step forward in this fine educational tradition. I know that my own education in social work has been invaluable in both my personal and professional lives, and I am happy that Medgar Evers is supporting this noble and important profession. Mr. Speaker, Medgar Evers College is working hard to serve its community through the addition of a Social Work degree to its curriculum. As such, it is worthy of receiving our recognition today, and I urge all of my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable institution.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Henry Bolus in recognition of his service to New York City and his country as well as his accomplishments in the beauty industry. Henry was born to Henrietta and Roy Bolus on February 19, 1934, in City Hospital of New York, located on Welfare Island now known as Roosevelt Island. He was one of 5 children. Henry's solid education was obtained through the New York City public school system, from kindergarten straight through Brooklyn College. Long coupled with his wife, Henry has gone from teenage friend of Josephine, to a loving husband of more than 50 years, and the cherished and respected father of their two children: Michael Henry and Sabrina Jo. Henry is the warm and generous father-in-law of Ana Alicea; the cheerful, playful, and caring grandfather of three, Michael Luis, Ana Margarita, and Hector Luis; and lastly the proud great grandfather of Jasmine. At the urging of his young children, Henry went from never having a single pet, to happily living with cats and dogs. Throughout his adult life, Henry has had a long history of dedicated and exemplary volunteer service to the community. He has touched and enriched the lives of many. From an altar boy in the Catholic Church, he found his way to becoming a member of the Knights of Columbus. He volunteers each week as an usher at the 10:30 a.m. Mass at the Shrine Church of St. Jude in Canarsie. Voluntarily enlisting in the U.S. Army, Henry proudly served his country during the Korean conflict. First as a private infantryman, and later as a paratrooper, he served in the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team of the U.S. Army. His service, in support of our country's efforts to thwart the spread of communism into South Korea and perhaps beyond, led to his being the humble recipient of a 2003 New York City Council Proclamation which cited his exceptional service to this great Nation. Henry went from a street-corner shoeshine boy, to an electrical appliance stock clerk, to a beauty equipment salesperson, and finally to a designer of many of Brooklyn's beauty salons & barber shops. His dedication to his clients and the beauty industry earned him the ``Cosmetology Man of the Year'' Award. Henry has also become a valuable community activist. Working quietly in the background, yet always willing to help, he has provided transportation for those in need; helped setup health fairs for numerous civic organizations; and assisted in the resurrection of the Canarsie Memorial Day Parade. He has also served on numerous civic and special community associations, such as the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America, the Brooklyn Canarsie Lions Club Inc., the United Parents Fraternal, and Informed Voices of Canarsie, Etc. He has the distinct honor of having served as the only African-American on the 69th Precinct Community Council, in its 35-year history. For his hard work and commitment to the Canarsie Community, he received an award from the Friends United Block Association (FUBA) in 2001. For helping to establish the NYC branch of North Carolina A&T College Alumni, he was awarded an Associate Alumni membership. As a longtime, 43 years resident of New York City Housing, he established the NYC Bayview Housing Sports Day. This is a festive day of multiple sports events, dancing, food, and awards for the children of the community. Mr. Speaker, Henry Bolus has dedicated his life to serving his country and his community through his active participation in a vast array of civic organization. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Josephine and Henry Bolus in recognition of their 50th wedding anniversary. Josephine and Henry first met back in 1948 as junior high school students in lower Manhattan. Their courtship was interrupted when Henry began his service in the Korean war. He was stationed in Japan but had to return home due to a family illness. While home, Henry proposed to Josephine, and the couple got married on May 11, 1954 in Harlem, NY at Mount Zion Lutheran Church. Henry returned to Japan to continue his service to our country. He would later return, and he and Josephine would start their family in Brooklyn, NY. Henry and Josephine have two children, Michael and Sabrina, three grandchildren, Michael, Ana Margaret, and Hector, and one great- grandchild, Jasmine. On May 1, 2004, Josephine and Henry will come together in front of friends and family to renew their vows in celebration, love and commitment to each other. Mr. Speaker, Josephine and Henry Bolus have dedicated their lives to each through 50 years of wonderful marriage, serving as an example to us all. As such, they are more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable couple.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Anthony Joseph in recognition of his entrepreneurial success in the marketing and communications field. As a product of New York City public school system, Anthony parlayed his academic achievement and his experience as an All-City championship football player into a walk-on position on the Boston University squad. Anthony promoted campus parties and events to subsidize his tuition. After graduation, he quickly turned a temp job in The New York Times' finance department into a staff position in the paper's marketing department. With just one experience as an employee with the New York Times, Anthony combined his knowledge of urban landscape with his marketing expertise to incorporate the fastest rising marketing/communication company in the urban field. Anthony laid the foundation for his urban success by moonlighting with Vital Marketing Group VMG while still at the Times. Through contacts at a major apparel and an advertising agency, Anthony was able to participate in business meetings where he was able to present strategies, which, over time, turned into contracts with Tommy Hilfiger, Hush Puppies, and Wolverine Boots. Eventually, Anthony's growing client base necessitated his departure from the Times. He partnered with the African-American media company that established the billboard beachhead on Harlem's 125th Street, utilized by so many entertainment companies at the time. Together they formed VMG, with Anthony leading the charge. After merely four years of business, its roster counts big-timers such as the U.S. Army, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Coca Cola, Remy Martin, Foot Action, Posner Cosmetics and Universal Records to name a few. It has an income of over $7 million in annual revenue. Vital Marketing's unusual methodology and its consistent success can be credited in great part to its founder and president, Anthony Joseph. The Queens-bred son of a Jamaican mother and Puerto Rican father, Anthony, understood the significance of culture early on as it related to marketing. In May 2001, VMG was presented with the Black Enterprise Rising Star Award, in honor of the high revenues garnered by VMG's high profile clients. A year later, VMG offered further proof that they were on the assent when they turned a cold call and a year of conversation into a multimillion dollar contract with the U.S. Army via advertising giant Leo Burnett. Mr. Speaker, Anthony Joseph has created a successful company through his own hard work and ingenuity. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Archbishop Wilbert S. McKinley in recognition of his spiritual leadership in the community. Archbishop Wilbert S. McKinley is the senior pastor of The Elim International Fellowship. The doors of the church were opened for ministry on July 26, 1964. As the founding pastor, Archbishop McKinley has served the church faithfully for 40 years. Archbishop McKinley has an overwhelming passion to introduce people, especially men, to the Church and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Archbishop McKinley believes that these teachings hold the key to every door. He is especially called to reach black men with the message of hope through Jesus Christ and with the necessity of embracing one's spiritual, national and racial identity. Archbishop McKinley has been a gift to the Church. In addition to his pastoral duties, he is a leader who is committed to sharing his time and talent with others. Mr. Speaker, Archbishop Wilbert S. McKinley has been a spiritual leader in his community for more than 40 years. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Glenore M. Anderson in recognition of her civic participation and business success. Glenore is a living testimony to the power of hard work and effort. A banker by profession, it took Ms. Anderson 11 years to move up the corporate ladder to her current position as vice president/branch manager of the Broadway and Driggs Street Office of HSBC Bank, one of the largest branches of HSBC Bank USA in Brooklyn, NY. Born on the island of Trinidad and Tobago in the West Indies, Glenore immigrated to the United States in the summer of 1992. She moved here with her family after successfully completing her studies in her home country. A few short months after taking up residence in New York City, she was hired as a customer service representative with Marine Midland bank, which later became HSBC Bank USA. She quickly moved through the ranks and excelled as a sales representative, sales manager, OIC (officer in charge), and vice president/branch manager. Glenore continues to exemplify this spirit of excellence in her current position as the branch manager. She continuously works toward motivating her staff of 16 by employing a ``hands on'' approach. In so doing, she demonstrates her abilities as a team player and team leader. She believes that it is important for her staff to see that she can do whatever task is required of them. Due to this type of cohesive effort and leadership skills, the operation of the branch has been very successful, which boasts assets totaling $105 million. In addition to her expertise in banking, Glenore has also earned accolades for her efforts to strengthen the community. As such, she was honored with the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry award for Women History makers of 2000; the Network Journal award for 40 Under Forty Achievers of 2001; and an an award from the New Deeper Life Tabernacle in 2003. During the month of February in 2001, 2002 and 2003, she brought this sense of community to the branch by hosting a celebration of Black History Month. The celebrations took the form of an art exhibit mounted in conjunction with Art Groupie.Com, which featured the works of four African/Caribbean American artists. Married and the mother of one, Glenore receives strong support from her family and friends who believe whole-heartedly in her potential to reach the stars. Mr. Speaker, Glenore M. Anderson has excelled in the business world while still finding time to contribute to her community. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of St. Blase ``KC'' Charles in recognition of his significant cultural and economic development contributions to the community. St. Blase Charles, better known as KC, hails from the twin island nation of Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean. He has been an entertainer for more than 30 years. Famous for his Caribbean-style rendition of the ``father of soul,'' Mr. James Brown, KC is also affectionately known as the ``Local James Brown'' throughout the entertainment circles in North America and members of his international fan club. Along with his own musical group, the International Band, KC has performed at major events and famous places including the West Indian Labor Day Parade in Brooklyn, the Harlem Day Parade, Manhattan's Annual Halloween Parade, the MGM and Sahara casino in Las Vegas, and the Royal Caribbean and Carnival cruises, just to name a few. KC's summer concerts were launched in 1989 at his garage at East 87th Street in East Flatbush, Brooklyn where he held a huge block party on Memorial Day. In order to accommodate the growing crowd that came to yearly event, in 1991, KC moved his Caribbean style street festival to Ditmas Avenue near his East 87th Street garage. The event covered ten blocks. The event continued at Ditmas Avenue until 1996, when KC took his show and a loyal following of thousands to its new home on Atlantic Avenue. Spanning 10,000 square feet and a maximum occupancy of 4,300, the Hideaway is a spacious outdoor venue located at 2494 Atlantic, in an industrial section of Brooklyn. Since 1998, the Hideaway, which is owned and managed by KC, has been hosting its hallmark Summer Concert Series featuring today's leading soca, calypso, and reggae musical acts from around the Caribbean and here in the United States. Along with top performers, the Hideaway showcases some of the most popular Caribbean- American DJs. It is also equipped with a fully licensed bar, a professional sized stage, and an elevated VIP lounge where performing artist and special guests can view and enjoy the shows. KC's Hideaway has become a major attraction for thousands of Caribbean music lovers from around the world who are drawn to Brooklyn, the Caribbean Capital of the United States, year after year to celebrate the West Indian Labor Day Carnival season, which begins in May. The venue stages around 66 shows a year and the number of concertgoers has steadily increased over the past three years. The concert grew from an audience of about 80,000 for the season in 1998, to approximately 165,000 for this season. Mr. Speaker, St. Blase ``KC'' Charles has developed and created a major cultural event in his community, which has brought thousands of people to Brooklyn each year to celebrate their Caribbean heritage. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Katie Davis in recognition of her dedication to her community through both her professional and volunteer activities. Katie Davis is someone who is energetic and inspirational and continues to serve as a respected dynamic leader in the community. However, after serving thirty-three and a half years in public service, she is retiring from her position as the Deputy Director for Support Services at Kingsboro Psychiatric Center, Brooklyn, NY, effective April 29, 2004. Katie graduated from Hunter College Magna Cum Laude, earning a B.S. in Community Health. Later, she received a Master's degree in Public Health Administration at Columbia University. She began her public service as a Registered Nurse at Kings County Hospital Center, and later was employed as Associate Director for Clinical Service for 9 years at Harlem Hospital Center. Katie is the wife of Hervin L. Davis and mother of Charlene and Jacqueline Davis, who continues to serve as an inspiration in spite of her untimely death. As a young woman who overcame her mental disability, Jacqueline served others until her untimely passing in her early 20s. Katie is a long-time member of the Antioch Baptist Church in Brooklyn where the Reverend Robert M. Waterman is pastor. She is known in the community and among the Antioch Baptist Church family as a spirited and committed Christian. She has faithfully supported many church activities over the years and currently serves as Co-Chair of the Antioch Capital Campaign. Katie genuinely cares about those in her community and is always working with others to serve those in need. Throughout her career, Katie has continued to be actively involved in activities and programs to improve the educational and social conditions of her community. She is energetic and strategic in her approach, getting others involved in addressing key issues that affect the young and the elderly. Long noted for her active leadership throughout the community, she continues to promote and encourage young people and adults to seek an education, as demonstrated by her current position as President of Medgar Evers College Community Council. The Council awards several scholarships annually to eligible students attending Medgar Evers College who exhibit outstanding academic performance and potential leadership qualities. Katie's dedication and clever leadership skills are consistently recognized at Kingsboro Psychiatric Center. She volunteers her time as a facilitator of the Advisory Committee for the Emerson-Davis Family Center. This special center houses single-parent families, separated by homelessness, parental mental disability or substance abuse, who are reunited by the Emerson-Davis Family Center in Brooklyn, New York. While ``Emerson'' refers to the Center's street address, ``Davis'' honors Jacqueline Davis, Katie's deceased daughter. Mr. Speaker, Katie Davis has dedicated herself to helping people and families in need through her distinguished professional career and her community-based work. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I was disturbed to read that Jagdish Tytler, India's Minister of State for Non-Resident Indian Affairs, was coming to the United States to speak to the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin. While there are many fine people of Indian origin, Jagdish Tytler is a person who is unfit to visit this country. He is the person most responsible for the genocide against Sikhs in Delhi in November 1984. To bring Jagdish Tytler to America is to give our implicit blessing to that massacre. After the assassination of Indira Gandhi, Tytler and others organized bands of Hindus who grabbed Sikhs and burned them to death. He was one of the people responsible for getting the Sikh police locked in their barracks so that they could not intervene. Meanwhile, the state-run radio and TV screamed for more Sikh blood. In all, over 20,000 Sikhs were murdered. Mr. Speaker, why is such a person being granted entry to the United States? And why is he in India's Cabinet? Unfortunately, rewarding people who carry out such activities is too common in India. We do not have to grant it our implicit approval. As you know, over a quarter of a million Sikhs have been murdered at the hands of the Indian government since 1984. The Indian government has also killed more than 300,000 Christians in Nagaland, over 87,000 Muslims in Kashmir since 1988, and thousands upon thousands of other minorities as well. They continue to hold tens of thousands of political prisoners, according to Amnesty International. This includes over 52,000 Sikhs, some of whom have been held in illegal custody without charge or trial for 20 years. A democratic country should be embarrassed to have carried out acts like these, and I call on Prime Minister Singh to begin to rectify India's record by releasing the political prisoners and by removing Mr. Tytler and others involved in atrocities from his government. This will be a good first step towards restoring democracy for all the people. America is the beacon of freedom. It is a country dedicated to the principles of freedom and equal rights. While we have not always been perfect in our efforts to follow these principles, they form the foundation of America. We embarrass ourselves and our principles by allowing the likes of Jagdish Tytler to come and make speeches in our country. As long as people like Mr. Tytler are in the government, it is confirmation that there is no place for Sikhs and other minorities in India. Until it repudiates this and allows all people to exercise their full rights, we should provide no aid to India. And we should put ourselves on record in support of a free and fair vote on independence for the Sikh homeland, Khalistan, and for all the other nations seeking their freedom. And we should keep the leaders who practice brutality and commit atrocities out of our country.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, earlier this month I made a statement congratulating the Council of Khalistan on its commemoration of the twentieth anniversary of the massacre of Sikhs at the Golden Temple in June 1984. At that time, I intended to insert the Council of Khalistan's flyer into the Record. I even said that I was including it in the Record. Somehow, it did not get included. Therefore, I would like to place it in the Record at this time. 20th Anniversary of the Golden Temple Massacre, June 3-6, 1984 sikhs must have freedom in sovereign homeland ``If the Indian government attacks the Golden Temple, it will lay the foundation stone of Khalistan.''--Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. From June 3 throughout 6, 1984, the Indian government brutally invaded the Golden Temple and 150 other Gurdwaras around Punjab. Over 20,000 people were killed in these attacks, including such Sikh leaders as Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who was the strongest spokesman for Sikh rights and Sikh freedom. More than 100 young boys, ages 8 to 13, were taken outside into the courtyard and asked whether they supported Khalistan, the independent Sikh homeland. When they answered with the Sikh religious incantation ``Bole So Nihal,'' they were summarily shot to death. The Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh scripture, handwritten in the time of the ten Sikh Gurus, was shot full of bullet holes by the Indian military. Sant Bhindranwale warned that if the Indian government invaded the Golden Temple, it would ``lay the foundation stone for Khalistan'' and it did. how can this happen in a democracy? ``The Indian government, all the time they boast that they are democratic, that they are secular. They have nothing to do with a democracy, nothing to do with a secularism. They just kill Sikhs to please the majority.''--Narinder Singh, spokesman for the Golden Temple, on NPR August 1997. U.S. Representative Dana Rohrabacher (R-Cal.) has said that for the minorities such as Sikhs and Kashmiris ``India might as well be Nazi Germany.'' a pattern of repression against the sikh nation Over 250,000 Sikhs murdered since 1984. 52,268 Sikh political prisoners, according to the Movement Against State Repression More than 50,000 Sikhs disappeared in Indian government's secret cremations. Their remains have never been given to their families. Indian government paid over 41,000 cash bounties to police to kill Sikhs Gurnihal Singh Pirzada, a senior officer in the IAS, arrested after allegedly being seen at a meeting of gathering of Punjab ``dissidents.'' Pirzada denies attending such a meeting, but points out that it would not be illegal if he did. Jaswant Singh Khalra kidnapped by police and murdered in police custody after exposing Indian policy of arresting Sikhs, torturing them, murdering them, cremating the bodies, as ``unidentified.'' Gurdev Singh Kaunke, former Jathedar of the Akal Takht, highest Sikh religious leader, murdered by police official Swaran Singh Ghotna, who has never been punished. The Indian newspaper Hitavada reported that the Indian government paid the late Governor of Punjab, Surendra Nath, the equivalent of $1.5 billion to foment and support covert state terrorist activity in Punjab and Kashmir. This is the state of freedom in Punhap, Khalistan under Indian rule. ``The mere fact that they have the right to choose their oppressors does not mean they live in a democracy.''--Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-NY).

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood in recognition of his spiritual leadership and contributions to the community. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood is without a doubt, one of the leading theologians of his time. His commitment to the call of spiritual healing, racial parity, social justice and economic equity for all people has garnered him national recognition as a preacher, national leader, public advocate, motivator, writer and teacher. Now in his 30th year serving as senior pastor of St. Paul Community Baptist Church and 3rd year as senior pastor of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, both located in Brooklyn, New York, he has completed more than a quarter of a century pastoring to God's people. In May of 1990, Youngblood received his Doctorate of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, where he studied with an elite group of preachers from across the country as a Samuel D. Proctor Fellow. Dr. Youngblood earned his Masters of Divinity degree from Colgate-Rochester Divinity School in Rochester, New York, and his bachelor's degree from Dillard University in New Orleans. Dr. Youngblood is now single and a father of three sons, Joel Ray, Jason Royce and Johnny Jenell, and the grandfather of Donny Lynn, Joshua, Jalen and Jordyn. Dr. Youngblood has earned national recognition because of his work with East Brooklyn Congregations (EBC), an affiliate of the Industrial Areas Foundation. He is credited through EBC with spearheading the Nehemiah Housing project, which to date has constructed approximately 2,850 owner-occupied single family homes in some of the most devastated communities in Brooklyn. He has served as national spokesman for the group and in 1990, was recognized in the Congressional Record for his trailblazing work with the project. Dr. Youngblood is a subject of the Harper Collins book, ``Upon This Rock: The Miracles of a Black Church,'' written by Samuel G. Freedman. In 1996, Youngblood and the ministry of the St. Paul Community were featured in an article entitled ``Crossing Border'' in the premiere edition of Common Quest magazine. In December of 1995, Dr. Youngblood was also listed in The New Yorker magazine as one of the ``ten most influential'' New Yorkers. He has been profiled on ABC's 20/20, NBC Nightly News, CBS Sunday Morning News, FOX 5's McCreary Live Report, and the Charlie Rose Show. In September 1995, Dr. Youngblood launched what has become one of the premier projects on the Church's annual calendar, now known as the commemoration of the Maafa. Dr. Youngblood is spearheading a national effort to promote the Maafa as a spiritual movement aimed at healing this Nation around the scars of slavery. Since 1998, the St. Paul Community has toured ``The Maafa Suite'' production to venues including Dallas, Mississippi, Seattle, Atlanta, Chicago and Connecticut. In June of 1998, Dr. Youngblood released his own book of poetry entitled, ``I Honor My Father''; a collection of poems inspired by the illness and loss of his father in the same year. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Youngblood has dedicated his life to helping people through his spiritual leadership, public advocacy and civic participation. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Katherine Corbett in recognition of her dedication to educating our children and improving the quality of our educational system as well as her spiritual leadership in her community. Katherine Corbett is a native of Brooklyn, New York who has been married to a seventh grade friend Eddie Corbett for 34 years. She is the mother of four children; Kandice, Eddie Jr., Inez, and Frank. She is the grandmother of Diondre, Keilah, Joshua, and Sheraya. Katherine is honored to be the principal of the Ronald Edmonds Learning Center-Middle School 113 in Brooklyn. During her 12 years as the educational leader, MS 113, she has earned numerous awards, grants and citations. Of her many outstanding achievements, the school remains the only middle school in the United States that has met the criteria to be a National Alliance of Black School Educators Demonstration school since the program began in 1997. In 1998, MS 113 was one of six schools in the United States, out of 54,000, to be designated by the United States Secretary of Education to be a Title One Distinguished School. In the same year, Katherine was recognized by the New York State Department of Education as a Title One Distinguished Educator. Yale University awarded Katherine with the Patrick Daly Award for Excellence in educational leadership. In addition to her service to Middle School 113, Katherine has served the New York State Department of Education and Harvard University as a mentor for principals and low performing schools. In December 2000, Katherine was recruited to serve as one of the members of the Distinguished Faculty for New York City Department of Education's Principals Institute. Throughout the 2002-2003 school year, Katherine served as a mentoring principal for New Leaders for New Schools, a national graduate program for aspiring educational leaders. In addition to her work in the educational community, Katherine serves as the senior pastor of New Life Ministries in West Hempstead, New York. The church serves the community with a number of programs that are designed to build the spirit and soul. Katherine is most grateful to be called, appointed, and chosen to serve humanity as she serves her God. Mr. Speaker, Katherine Corbett has committed herself to educating our children through her work as a principal and as a mentor to other educators. She has also served her community through her work as a pastor. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood in recognition of his spiritual leadership and contributions to the community. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood is without a doubt, one of the leading theologians of his time. His commitment to the call of spiritual healing, racial parity, social justice and economic equity for all people has garnered him national recognition as a preacher, national leader, public advocate, motivator, writer and teacher. Now in his 30th year serving as senior pastor of St. Paul Community Baptist church and 3rd year as senior pastor of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, both located in Brooklyn, New York, he has completed more than a quarter of a century pastoring to God's people. In May of 1990, Youngblood received his Doctorate of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, where he studied with an elite group of preachers from across the country as a Samuel D. Proctor Fellow. Dr. Youngblood earned his Masters of Divinity degree from Colgate-Rochester Divinity in Rochester, New York and his bachelor's degree from Dillard University in New Orleans. Dr. Youngblood is now single and a father of three sons, Joel Ray, Jason Royce and Johnny Jenell, and the grandfather of Donny Lynn, Joshua, Jalen and Jordyn. Dr. Youngblood has earned national recognition because of his work with East Brooklyn Congregations (EBC), an affiliate of the Industrial Areas Foundation. He is credited through EBC with spearheading the Nehemiah Housing project, which to date has constructed approximately 2,850 owner-occupied single family homes in some of the most devastated communities in Brooklyn. He has served as national spokesman for the group and in 1990, was recognized in the Congressional Record for his trailblazing work with the project. Dr. Youngblood is a subject of the Harper Collins book, ``Upon This Rock: The Miracles of a Black Church,'' written by Samuel G Freedman. In 1996, Youngblood and the ministry of St. Paul community were featured in an article titled ``Crossing Border'' in the premiere of Common Quest magazine. In December of 1995, Dr. Youngblood was also listed in The New Yorker magazine as one of the ``ten most influential'' New Yorkers. He has been profiled on ABC's 20/20, NBC Nightly News, CBS Sunday Morning News, FOX 5's McCreary Live Report, and the Charlie Rose Show. In September 1995, Dr. Youngblood launched what has become one of the premier projects on the Church's annual calendar, now known as the commemoration of the Maafa. Dr. Youngblood is spearheading a national effort to promote the Maafa as a spiritual movement aimed at healing this nation around the scars of slavery. Since 1998, the St. Paul Community has toured ``The Maafa Suite'' production to venues including Dallas, Mississippi, Seattle, Atlanta, Chicago and Connecticut. In June of 1998, Dr. Youngblood released his own book of poetry titled, ``I Honor My Father''; a collection of poems inspired by the illness and loss of his father in the same year. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Youngblood has dedicated his life to helping people through his spiritual leadership, public advocacy and civic participation. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Chairman, if I might ask the subcommittee leadership a question related to the public health provisions in the bill. We are all aware of the blood shortages that call our attention to the fact that the United States does not have sufficient blood supplies to meet the country's normal daily blood needs. What is more alarming, however, is that in this new age of terrorism the United States does not have sufficient blood reserves to meet the critical demand that would occur in the event of an emergency or terrorist attack. As the Homeland Security Appropriations legislation moves forward to a House- Senate conference, it is important that we recognize the need to address this pressing national security issue as well. I would ask that the Committee leadership include language in the final measure that would create a National Blood Reserve, based on the recent recommendations of the Interorganizational Task Force on Domestic Disasters and Acts of Terrorism. The recommendations would strengthen our Nation's blood supply and ensure the health and welfare of our citizens.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, Sikhs observe the twentieth anniversary of India's brutal attack on the Golden Temple, the seat of their religion, this month. From June 3 to 6, 1984, the Indian military brutally attacked the Golden Temple and 125 other Sikh Gurdwaras all over Punjab. This brutal and devastating attack, carried out by the Indira Gandhi government, which was always proudly proclaiming its commitment to secularism, killed over 20,000 Sikhs. This attack made it clear that even when the secular parties are in power, the minorities in India are not safe and they have no real rights, despite what is written in India's constitution. Whether the Hindu nationalist BJP is in power or the secularist Congress Party is in power, the policy of killing the Sikhs and other minorities in the futile effort to preserve what India considers its territorial integrity marches brutally on. Among those killed in the Golden Temple attack were major Sikh leaders like Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, Bhai Arnrik Singh, General Shabeg Singh, and many others. The Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scriptures, were shot full of bullets from the guns of the Indian military. Sikh boys were taken outside and asked if they supported Khalistan. Then they were shot to death. Khalistan, of course, is the name of the independent Sikh homeland. There is no place for Sikhs or other minorities such as Christians and Muslims in India despite its claims of secularism. On October 7, 1987, Khalistan formally declared its independence. If India is the democratic country it claims to be, why not simply decide the issue in a free and fair plebiscite in Punjab, Khalistan on the subject of independence? Isn't that the democratic way? I was under the impression that in democracies, things were decided by votes. The United States allows the people of Puerto Rico to vote on independence every few years. Canada has held democratic plebiscites on the status of Quebec. In 1947, India promised to settle the Kashmir issue by plebiscite, but it has never allowed that vote to be held. Why not simply put the question to a democratic vote? That is self-determination and self- determination is the essence of democracy. The Sikh Nation was independent from 1765 to 1849. The Sikhs were supposed to receive sovereignty when India became independent. Although the Indian constitution was adopted in 1950, more than half a century ago, to this day no Sikh representative has ever signed it. How can India claim that it holds sovereignty over the Sikh Nation? Unfortunately, the Sikhs are not the only victims of India's repressive tyranny. More than 300,000 Christians in Nagaland have been killed by the Indian government since 1947. They have seen priests murdered, nuns raped, schools, prayer halls, and festivals attacked-- the government even shut down one festival with gunfire--missionaries murdered, beaten, and thrown out of the country, and so many other atrocities carried out against them. Almost 88,000 Kashmiri Muslims have fallen victim to India's brutal tyranny since 1988. Another 2,000 to 5,000 Muslims were massacred in Gujarat with the connivance of the government. And these are just a few of the atrocities committed against minorities by the Indian forces. Mr. Speaker, we must do something to stop these atrocities. If real democracy and real freedom is going to come to all the people of South Asia, the United States must take a stand. It is good that a Sikh is now Prime Minister. He must know the feeling of India's brutality against his people. Therefore, I call on him to use his office to release all of India's political prisoners and bring the persons who carried out these atrocities to justice. We must stop our aid to India until it shows that it is willing to act like a democracy and protect human rights. We are setting up a democratic government in Iraq with a new President and a new Prime Minister. Isn't it time that real democracy finally came to India? In addition, it is vital for the Congress to declare its support for a free and fair plebiscite on the issue of independence for Khalistan. There should also be similar plebiscites for Kashmir, Nagaland, and every other nation that seeks its freedom from Indian rule. India says there is no support for these freedom movements. Well, it is time for India to prove its point by holding a free vote on the matter. This is the only way for the people of South Asia to live in freedom, peace, democracy, and stability. Mr. Speaker, there will be demonstrations around the world this weekend to commemorate the Golden Temple attack. The one in Washington will be led by the Council of Khalistan. I would like to insert their very informative flyer into the Record at this time.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Reverend Doctor Arlee Griffin, Jr. in recognition of his dedication to his community through spiritual leadership and participation in numerous civic organizations. Dr. Griffin is a native of Elizabeth City, North Carolina where he was an honor graduate of Northeastern High School. He received scholarships to attend the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Zoology. Later, he attended Shaw Divinity School, earning a Master of Divinity degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has done additional study at East Carolina University, Oxford University in Oxford, England and New York University. In May 1988, he graduated from Boston University with the Doctor of Ministry degree. In April 1992, Shaw Divinity awarded him the honorary Doctor of Divinity degree. For nearly ten years, Dr. Griffin served as Pastor of the Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church in Greenville, North Carolina. During his tenure, the church experienced unprecedented growth and many new ministries were established, including the Cornerstone Christian Child Care Center. While in North Carolina, Dr. Griffin served in several leadership positions of organizations such as President of Pitt County Black Ministerial Alliance, Moderator and Vice-Moderator of the Old Eastern Missionary Baptist Association, Parliamentarian of the General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, and Trustee of Pitt County Memorial Hospital. He was selected in 1985 as ``Pastor of the Year.'' He served for one year as campus minister at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. In April 1989, Dr. Griffin became the Senior Pastor of the historic Berean Missionary Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York. Pastor Griffin has brought to the church a commitment to the pursuit of excellence in the practice of a holistic ministry. Under his leadership, the Community Service Center has been revitalized, offering a full range of social services including: emergency food distribution; meals to homeless and needy people; Alcohol Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous groups; employment counseling and training programs; and a Senior Citizens Program. In 1996, the church completed Berean Gardens, a $7 million Senior Citizens Housing Complex and recently broke ground on its $7 million Community and Family Life Center. Dr. Griffin serves as President of the Berean Bible Institute, the Berean Housing Development Fund Corporation, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Berean Federal Credit Union. He has also served as President of the American Baptist Churches of Metropolitan New York, Historian of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, and as a member of the General Board of the American Baptist Churches, USA, Progressive National Baptist Convention, and National Council of Churches. He has served as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Baptist Churches Ministers' and Missionaries Benefit Board and is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of Shaw University and AmeriChoice Corporation of New York. He serves as clergy liaison for the 77th Precinct of the New York City Police Department as well. Most recently, he was elected Vice President of the American Baptist Churches, USA, Biennial 2004-2005. Dr. Griffin has done missions work in Senegal and Gambia, West Africa and was a delegate to the First African and African American Summit in the Ivory Coast in 1991. He was selected to be an Official International Election Observer in the first free South African Election in April 1994. He is also an Associate Professor of Church Administration at New York Theological Seminary. Dr. Griffin is married to Mrs. Angela Farr Griffin, a licensed Physical Therapist, who serves as Executive Director of the Berean Community and Family Life Center. They have two daughters: Angel Arlecia and Ariel Arlyce. Mr. Speaker, Reverend Doctor Arlee Griffin, Jr. has committed himself to helping people and families through his pastoral work in the church and his community-based efforts. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable person.