Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to use this opportunity to ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to observe a moment of silence for a great man who is no longer among us, Ebrahim Zakeri. The late Mr. Zakeri was a great champion of freedom that not only helped the Resistance Movement to establish freedom and democracy in Iran, but he also fought for human dignity, global peace, and security. As the Chairman of the Security and Counter-terrorism Committee of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, Ebrahim Zakeri was truly a resistance hero and a symbol of devotion, struggle and selflessness for the cause of Iran's freedom, as well as global peace and security. His mother was also executed at the age of 70 after suffering extreme torture in Evin Prison. My colleagues in the House remember, that last August, I circulated information about the Iranian regime's nuclear program and the two new nuclear sites that Iran was using to threaten world peace and security. The information was made available by the committee that Ebrahim Zakeri chaired. Ebrahim Zakeri was an assistant professor in the Department of Communications at Tehran University. He was imprisoned by the Shah from 1972 to 1975. About one year after his release from prison, he was rearrested and sentenced to life imprisonment. He was among the last group of prisoners to be freed by the people at the time of the Revolution in 1979. He was a candidate for parliamentary elections in Abadan after the revolution that overthrew the monarchy. Despite a strong propaganda campaign against the Mojahedin and ballot rigging, the regime was forced to announce that he received the second highest number of votes in the election. He then served in different posts at the National Liberation Army of Iran (NLA). Ebrahim Zakeri was a member of the General Command of the NLA and became a member of the National Council of Resistance of Iran in November of 1992. In 1993, he was appointed Chairman of the Security and Counter-terrorism Committee of the NCRI. Since then, his committee has exposed many of the Intelligence Ministry's terrorist plots, as well as Tehran's efforts to obtain nuclear weapons. In a word, his 31 years of struggle serve as a lesson and a guide for the young people of his country, and will always be honored by our nation and certainly by my colleagues in the U.S. Congress. I express my condolences to the Iranian people and to the Resistance's President- elect, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, for 17 years, Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh has been serving the Sikhs in this country and worldwide, first as President of the International Sikh Organization, a post in which he still serves, and later as President of the Council of Khalistan, which came into being when Sikhs declared their independence from India on October 7, 1987. He has been a tireless worker for the rights of Sikhs and other minorities in India, such as Christians, Muslims, Dalits (the dark-skinned ``Untouchables,'' the aboriginal people of South Asia), and others. Many of us in Congress have helped to expose the tyranny and terrorism that India has practiced against these groups and Dr. Aulakh has been a friend and an invaluable source of information to us. Sikhs are a separate nation and they ruled Punjab from 1710 to 1716 and again from 1765 to 1849. They are working to reclaim their lost sovereignty. They face persecution and terror for doing so. Dr. Aulakh's efforts and the support of those who back him have been crucial in bringing the Sikh struggle to the attention of the international community. He has worked with us in this House to the true and accurate history of the Sikh struggle and the struggles of other minorities in India. In these efforts he has been opposed by the Indian government, which has spent large amounts of money to counteract his efforts and spread disinformation. They even started a rumor on the Internet that he was dead. He has a tough job trying to achieve freedom for the Sikh Nation against the opposition of the Indian government. Even in the U.S. Congress, the Indian government has formed the Indian Caucus, which has 139 members, to support India and deflect our attention away from the oppression and terror there. He has done a yeoman job in exposing the brutal oppression of the Indian government against the Sikh Nation which has killed over 250,000 Sikhs since 1984. Another 50,000 Sikhs were arrested by the police, tortured, murdered, and then declared ``unidentified bodies'' and secretly cremated. He has brought to the attention of Congress that even at present, 52,268 Sikh political prisoners are rotting in Indian jails as political prisoners, according to the Movement Against State Repression. Dr. Aulakh has been tireless in promoting self-determination, which is the cornerstone of democracy. He has been a relentless advocate for the cause of Sikh freedom and the independence of their homeland, Punjab, Khalistan. Like those of us in Congress, Dr. Aulakh knows and appreciates the privilege of service. Service is essential to the Sikh religion as it is to all religions. Accordingly, Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to salute Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, this evening I rise in strong support of the work that our U.S. Armed Forces are doing in Iraq and throughout the Middle East. However, I cannot support the resolution offered by my friend, Mr. Hunter. I truly believe that war is not the answer to this question facing the world community. I truly believe that Saddam Hussein is an evil dictator and should not be allowed to oppress his people or threaten the rest of the world. Having said that, I would note that we should have given diplomacy a chance to work and more importantly, given the inspectors a chance to do their job to avert this military action. As a New Yorker, no one understands the reality of terrorism more than me and the people of Brooklyn; we all lost family and friends that day and were all thankful for the outpouring of support we received from the nation and the world in wake of the September 11th tragedies. Having said that, after seeing my city attacked with my own eyes that day I believe that the actions of this administration are wrong and short sighted. Once again, Mr. Speaker I stand with our troops this evening, but cannot commend those who would not work with the world community to find a peaceful solution to the problems that face our ever-shrinking world. Tonight I say thank you to our troops and know that I am praying for their safe return to America, but cannot vote for this resolution because I do not believe this to be a just war.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Jessica Elizabeth Wilkes- Mobley. Jessica is one of Brooklyn's brightest young stars. She is an honor student, having ranked second in her sophomore class at Catherine McAuley High School. Currently, Jessica is continuing her strong academic showing by remaining on the Principal's list in her junior year. Her lifelong goal of being a pediatrician was furthered by her participation in the June 2002 National Leadership Forum on Medicine in Chicago. Jessica was also nominated as a National Math Award winner and had her biography published in the 2001 United States Achievement Academy National Awards Yearbook. Jessica was also nominated as a United States National Honor Roll Member and Who's Who Among American High School Students. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the recipient of the St. Johns University Women in Science Society for Mathematics. Jessica is a member of Our Lady of Charity R.C. Church where she works with the church elders. She is also a member of Youth Discipleship and the Liturgical Dance Group. In addition to her academic studies and church work, Jessica also enjoys reading and cheerleading in her spare time. Mr. Speaker, Jessica Elizabeth Wilkes-Mobley is truly a young lady who is going places and who is already an academic success story. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lilly Cox-Kellar for her significant contributions in business, as a community leader and family stalwart. Ms. Cox-Kellar has been a powerhouse of innovation and commitment, her discipline and hard work has led to a record achievement of many ``firsts'' for an African American who opened the doors for so many others. Just to highlight a few of her accomplishments, Lilly was the first African American to be hired at the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) where she worked as Executive Secretary to the Treasurer. She was the first minority to hold a position with Hirshe, Rotman and Druck, an international public relations firm. As a Human Resources and Benefits Specialist, she was the first minority staff person recruited by Cogan, Berlin and Weill, a major Wall Street firm with a national staff of more than two thousand employees. As Director of Chapter Relations for the National Audubon Society, Lilly was responsible for the administrative oversight of more than five hundred chapters nationwide. In the majority of these position, she was afforded the opportunity to hire additional African Americans. In addition, to her management and human resources skills, Lilly worked as a housing consultant to First Baptist Church of Crown Heights, Church of St. Mark Episcopal, Bridge Street A.W.M.E. Church, Berean Missionary Baptist Church, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement and Northeast Brooklyn HDFC/Wayside Baptist Church to develop 524 units of senior housing. However, Lilly felt she could do more. Lilly ventured out on her own and opened LWC & Associates, a housing development consulting firm, which evolved into the current LWC Management Corp., now a real estate management and development corporation. Through this multi-faceted company working primarily with churches and community-based organizations, over $56 million worth of housing has been developed for senior citizens, low and moderate income persons and families, and the formerly homeless. She is most gratified when housing is developed for senior citizens and the homeless. In her effort to promote housing development, she also owns Brisa Builders Corporation, a general contracting/construction manager firm. Her firm is currently involved with 230 units of senior housing under construction in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Lilly, as a person of deep convictions, is grounded in her faith and family. She believes in the spirit of ``community'' and ``having a quality education'' for our youth. She is a lifetime member of the NAACP, committed exclusively to their educational programs. Lilly also shares her wealth of knowledge and information regularly as she develops, directs and facilitates workshops, seminars and other training for non-profit organizations, boards of directors and volunteers. Lilly has also served as a guest lecturer at the Harvard Divinity School, lecturing on ``The Urban Church and Community Development.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Lilly Cox- Kellar for her leadership specifically with community based development and the many other contributions to her community. Her endeavors and accomplishments deserve our praise and appreciation.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I was disturbed to read an article in the Hindustan Times saying that Indian police are collecting data on Christians in Gujarat. Gujarat is the site of the massacres of Muslims last March in which 2,000 to 5,000 Muslims were killed. Hasn't Gujarat seen enough trouble? According to the report, the All-India Christian Council submitted a memorandum to the state police chief detailing the survey. The police are seeking information on family sizes, job profiles, sources of funds, and even whether the person is a first-generation Christian and/ or has converted. At least 25 Christian institutions have been questioned in just a few days. The article quotes Bishop Gregory of Rajkot as saying that he was asked ``about the number of Christians and institutions here.'' Father Cedric Prakash of the United Christian Forum for Human Rights predicts that ``this survey may be a buildup to the anticonversion bill.'' India has already outlawed conversions to any religion but Hinduism in two states. Recently the ruling BJP has begun an effort to make that national. This is outrageous, Mr. Speaker. It is a major violation of religious freedom, which is one of the main pillars of a democracy. Instead, India is again acting like a Hindu fundamentalist theocracy. In 1997, a Christian festival on the theme ``Jesus is the answer'' ended when the police fired their guns at it to close it down after they received complaints that the festival was converting people. Missionary Graham Staines and his two sons, ages 8 and 10, were murdered while they slept in their jeep. The murderers surrounded the jeep and chanted ``Victory to Hannuman, `` according to contemporaneous news reports. None of these people has been held accountable. Now an American missionary, Joseph Cooper, has been expelled from India after being severely beaten by Hindu nationalists. Since 1998, Christian priests have been murdered, nuns have been raped, churches have been burned as they were in the Old South during segregation, Christian schools and prayer halls have been violently attacked. Since India's independence in 1947, its forces have murdered over 200,000 Christians. They have also murdered over 250,000 Sikhs since 1984, over 85,000 Kashmiri Muslims since 1988, and tens of thousands of Dalits, Bodos, Assainese, Manipuris, Tamils, and other minorities. Many lowercaste Hindus are converting to Christianity and other religions and now the BJP is passing laws to prohibit this. Mr. Speaker, these are the acts of a theocratic tyranny, not a real democracy. We must impose the sanctions appropriate for a violator of religious freedom. We must also stop our aid and trade with India until it begins to allow the exercise of basic human and religious rights. And we must support selfdetermination for all the people of South Asia as the best way to bring real freedom, peace, stability, and prosperity to that troubled region. Mr. Speaker, I would like to place the Hindustan Times article into the Record at this time. [From the Hindustan Times, Mar. 9, 2003] Gujarat Christians Allege Survey of Families (By Rathin Das) Ahmedabad, March 8.--The Gujarat Police have reportedly started a discreet survey of Christians in some parts of the state, seeking information on family sizes, job profiles and sources of foreign funds. The All-India Christian Council, which submitted a memorandum to the state police chief on Friday, is planning to move the High Court over the issue next week. State Director General of Police K. Chakravarthy told the Hindustan Times that no statewide survey had been ordered. He added, however, that some information might have been sought from some people on the orders of district police chiefs. A senior home department official echoed the state police chief. He told the Hindustan Times that no survey of Christians had been ordered. ``It may be a survey about foreign funds and its use, but that is applicable for institutions of all communities,'' he said. But despite official denials, community leaders alleged that policemen came calling at some houses in Ahmedabad, Sabarkantha, Banaskantha and Kutch districts over the past few days and asked about the antecedents and assets of Christian families. Community leaders also said at least 25 Christian institutions and families had been questioned over the past few days. Police personnel who visited Christian institutions, they said, wanted information on the number of Christians in the area and other details, like the sources of their funds. Bishop Gregory of Rajkot, who was questioned by the police on Friday, said: ``I was asked about the number of Christians and institutions here.'' The police also asked him to contact the nearest police station if he needed help, Bishop Gregory told this correspondent. The police have also asked some Christians whether they converted voluntarily or under pressure, and whether they were first-generation Christians. ``This survey may be a build-up to the anti-conversion bill the government wants to introduce in the state assembly during this session,'' said Father Cedric Prakash of the United Christian Forum for Human Rights. One church leader in Saurashtra was asked whether Christians would hold demonstrations if the anti-conversion bill is introduced in the assembly, sources said. Individual Christians are scared to speak to the press as many of them are in government employment. In the wake of the attack on Christians and the burning of churches in the Dangs district around Christmas 1998, the state intelligence department had ordered a similar survey, but abandoned it after a petition was filed in the Gujarat High Court. Minority report: July 1998--Copies of the New Testament burnt in a Rajkot school; Oct 1998--Christian congregation attacked in Vadodara; Dec 1998--Government threatens to stop grants to Christian schools; Dec 1998--Churches razed in Dangs district; Jan 1999--PM visits Dangs, calls for national debate on conversions; Feb 1999--Secret survey ordered, first of Christians, later of Muslims; Jan 2000--Government lifts ban on employees joining RSS.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar is about to be put to death in India for a crime even India admitted he didn't commit. I thank my friend Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan, for bringing this shameful case to my attention. The Council of Khalistan put out a very informative press release on the case. The chief judge of a three-judge panel from India's Supreme Court found Mr. Bhullar not guilty of the crime of which he was accused, involvement in a bombing. The judge ordered Mr. Bhullar's release. Instead, the Indian government tortured Mr. Bhullar until he signed a fake confession. Now they are trying to put him to death. Unfortunately, this is just the latest episode in India's abuse of minorities, which has been well documented in Congress by many of my colleagues and me. This brutal atrocity against justice must be stopped. The Bush Administration should demand Mr. Bhullar's release, or at least a new trial. In addition, they should impose sanctions on India, cut off its aid and trade, and put this Congress on record in support of self-determination for the Sikh Nation of Khalistan and the other 16 minority nations seeking their freedom from India. This should be done in the democratic way, through a free and fair plebiscite. It is time for India to start acting like a democracy, and it can start by sparing the life of Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar. Mr. Speaker, I would like to enter the Council of Khalistan's press release on Bhullar into the Record at this time for the information of my colleagues and the public. [Council of Khalistan--Press Release, Feb. 25, 2003] Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar's Life Must Be Spared Indian Constitution Only Protects Majority Hindus Minorities Eliminated, Directly or by Courts Washington, D.C.--The impending execution of Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar shows that the Constitution of India only protects the majority Hindu population, according to Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan, which leads the Sikh struggle for independence from India. Dr. Aulakh called on the President of India to stop the execution. Bhullar was accused of a 1993 bomb blast near the Youth Congress office in Delhi in which 20 people were killed. Congress leader M.S. Bitta lost a leg in that attack. The presiding Judge of a three-Judge bench in the Supreme Court of India found Professor Bhullar, a political activist, `Not Guilty' and directed that he be released. However, Professor Bhullar was convicted based on a forced confession obtained through torture, which was retracted. On that basis India wants to impose capital punishment on Professor Bhullar. Sajjan Kumar and H.K.L. Bhagat, who personally incited the murder of thousands of Sikhs in Delhi, got off scot-free without any punishment. Even by Indian standards, this is an outrageous miscarriage of justice. ``The Bhullar case is merely the latest example of how India eliminates minorities,'' said Dr. Aulakh. Indian police arrested human-rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra after he exposed their policy of mass cremation of Sikhs, in which over 50,000 Sikhs have been picked up, tortured, and killed, then their bodies are declared unidentified and secretly cremated. Then Mr. Khalra was murdered in police custody. His body was not given to his family. Similarly, the police murdered former Jathedar of the Akal Takht Gurdev Singh Kaunke. His body was not handed over to his family. Last spring the Indian police stood aside under orders while militant Hindus murdered 2,000 to 5,000 Muslims in Gujarat. Australian missionary Graham Staines was murdered a few years ago by VHP activists. Staines and his two young sons were burned to death while they slept in their jeep. Their killers surrounded the jeep and chanted ``Victory to Hannuman,'' a Hindu god. After the murder, Staines's widow, who was working with lepers, was expelled from India. No one is ever punished for these atrocities. Nuns have been raped, priests have been murdered, and Christian churches have been burned by the fanatic, fundamentalist Hindu nationalist militants. ``It is clear from these actions that India is not the democracy it claims to be,'' said Dr. Aulakh. ``Instead it is a tyrannical Hindu theocracy where minorities die or disappear,'' he said. ``There is a consistent pattern of Indian government efforts to protect its tyrannical rule over the minorities of South Asia.'' The Indian government has murdered over 250,000 Sikhs since 1984, more than 200,000 Christians since 1948, over 85,000 Muslims in Kashmir since 1988, and tens of thousands of Tamils, Assamese, Manipuris, Dalits (the aboriginal people of the subcontinent), and others. More than 52,000 Sikhs are being held as political prisoners. The Indian Supreme Court called the Indian government's murders of Sikhs ``worse than a genocide.'' On October 7, 1987, the Sikh Nation declared the independence of its homeland, Punjab, Khalistan. No Sikh representative has ever signed the Indian constitution. The Council of Khalistan is the government pro tempore of Khalistan, the Sikh homeland. The Sikh Nation demands freedom for its homeland, Khalistan. ``Only in a free and sovereign Khalistan will the Sikh Nation prosper. In a democracy, the right to self- determination is the sinc qua non and India should allow a plebiscite for the freedom of the Sikh Nation and all the nations of South Asia,'' Dr. Aulakh said.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, we really appreciate the gentleman taking the time to inform the people of how important this situation is and that we should not move forward. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong concerns about the movement of this country towards war with Iraq. I challenge anybody to say, ED, you are unpatriotic because you are opposing the war. Mr. Speaker, let me be clear: I support our troops. I served in the military. When my country called, I answered. So I stand here as someone who understands the duty of military service and the willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and it is precisely because I do support our troops and their families that I cannot understand the unwillingness to send them into harm's way without a clear and present danger to the people of the United States of America. It is for that reason that in October 2002 I voted against the authorization to allow the President to use United States Armed Forces in Iraq without prior congressional approval. Nothing has happened since that time which would cause me to change my position. Some people would say, well, what about the weapons of mass destruction? Well, there are a lot of weapons of mass destruction. When I look at the fact that we have an educational system that is in shambles, to me that is a weapon of mass destruction. When we have 41 million people with no health insurance in the United States of America, to me that is a weapon of mass destruction. When we have people that have no jobs and no way of getting jobs, to me that is a weapon of mass destruction. When we have no prescription drug program for our senior citizens in this Nation, that is a weapon of mass destruction. So I come tonight to make an appeal, knowing that time is running out. But I hope that we will be able to continue to have some dialogue and that we will be able to bring our troops home. Yes, I am in support of the troops. Yes, I am in support of the troops' families. And I am hoping we can bring them home without any further delay. We need to continue to discuss this. We need to continue to talk. I am not convinced that the United States of America is in harm's way. When I listened to experts on terrorism, Tom Ridge, who heads Homeland Security, whom I have tremendous respect for, has indicated that we will place the people of the United States of America in jeopardy because of terrorism if we attack. I think that when we hear the cry coming from experts around the Nation who are pointing this out, and have pointed it out so clearly, we should listen to those experts and to go another way. So I am hoping and praying that, some way or another, that this situation can be diverted, and that we will not send our people into harm's way. So as I conclude tonight, Mr. Speaker, I am not willing to risk the lives of Americans at home and abroad to fight a war without clear rationale, a clear purpose and a definite end game. The administration has not made this clear, and I pray the leadership of this Nation will consider and do what is right by bringing our soldiers home.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Lucy Schwartz in recognition of her passionate dedication to improving her community through civic participation. Born in the East New York section of Brooklyn, Lucy was the fourth of five children. A first generation American, both of Lucy's parents were born in Russia. She began her political activities at the tender age of 15, stuffing envelopes for the American Labor Party (ALP). Later, when her family left the ALP to become Democrats, Lucy began volunteering for the Democratic Party. Lucy attended Thomas Jefferson High School where she met her husband Murray who she married at age 21. Their first son Stephen was born in 1942 and their second son was born five years later. Concerned about her children's education, in 1952, Lucy started and became the first president of the parent's association for a brand new elementary school PS 273. Before meeting with the school's principal to discuss a possible parent's association, Lucy purchased a Roberts rules and Order book and received a book from the United Parent's Association on how to start an association. These two books became her bibles. From 1953 to 1956, Lucy was president of the Boulevard Community Center. During her term, she helped form a nursery school. With the help of Meade Esposito, she also started a youth program in the community center. She would become President of this program as well as the Teenage Day camp at Tilden High School. Lucy, with Meade's assistance, was also a major fundraiser for the United Leukemia Society. Motivated by the lack of street lightening on Linden Boulevard in Brooklyn and after being ignored by the local district leader, Lucy and her friends in the parent's and tenants' association decided to become more politically active. The group decided to form their own Democratic club, called the Thomas Jefferson Democratic Club. In 1960, the group had their first political victory when Lenny Yoswein was elected to the New York State Assembly. Lucy became the ``Mother Hen'' of the newly formed Democratic club, mentoring and providing guidance to countless young Democrats, including myself. The Thomas Jefferson Club has been Lucy's love. She has held several volunteer positions such as the supervisor of the placement of inspectors on polling day, financial secretary, journal chairperson, and chairperson of the annual dinner/dance. In addition to the Club, Lucy also keeps her fellow co-operative owners up to date on current government programs that affect their lives. When she is not volunteering, Lucy enjoys gardening. She has read extensively on this topic and has developed a green thumb. Wherever Lucy is, you can be sure that there is a green garden growing as well. Mr. Speaker, Lucy Schwartz has been tireless in her devotion to civic participation and her community. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today. I hope that all of my colleagues will join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Carol Ying in recognition of her dedication to improving the educational opportunities for the students in her community and enlightening them with her teachings. Born in Jamaica, West Indies, Carol immigrated to the United States in January 1985. She enrolled in the fifth grade at a private catholic school called St. Augustine-St. Francis Xavier where she won an award for the fifth grader of the year. After three years at the school, she wanted to explore a public school and enrolled in Samuel J. Tilden High School. Again, she excelled in her academics and received a PTA award given to the most outstanding high school freshmen. Her achievements at the High School allowed her to graduate within three years and attend Long Island University. She was a Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) student at the institution. Carol was always fascinated with mathematics and showed exceptional ability in the subject. Although she started out as a Computer Science major, she would eventually change her major to Mathematics Education. During the summer of freshman year, she discovered that she had a passion for teaching mathematics after teaching a class of high school students. Carol was inspired by the many great math teachers she has encountered in her academic career. After graduating from Long Island University, Carol returned home to teach mathematics at Samuel J. Tilden High School. During her seven years at Tilden High School, she served as a dean for a year as well. She continued to challenge herself by enrolling in a Master's program at CUNY Brooklyn College, receiving a degree in Mathematics Education. Later, she furthered her academic credentials when she earned a Certificate in Administration and Supervision. In the process, her supervisors and colleagues, who saw her capacity as a leader, encouraged her to do more than teach. This inspired her to pursue a position as an administrator. Carol is currently working in the New York City public school system as an Assistant Principal at South Shore High School. She is also in charge of supervising the Mathematics Department. Carol is very passionate about her job and enjoys working with students and faculty to advance students' achievements in Mathematics. Mr. Speaker, Carol Ying is committed to increasing the educational opportunities of members of 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Christine Renee Randall in recognition of her commitment to helping community members gain new workplace opportunities. Christine was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She is the daughter of two educators, the late Julius T. Randall, Jr., formerly a Director of Cooperative Education, and Ann Knight Randall, an Associate Professor of Library and Information Sciences at Pratt Institute. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Howard University, with a major in French and a minor in Public Relations, and received a Master of Business Administration from Hofstra University. In 2002, Christine joined the Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation as the Director of the RITE Center, a community technology center in Brooklyn. The Center provides free and low cost technology training for a broad range of community residents, including adolescents, entrepreneurs, and senior citizens. Its goal is to help clients utilize computer technology for job preparation, entrepreneurship training, research, and communications. Christine believes that 21st Century technology offers incredible workplace opportunities for community residents. She firmly holds that everyone has the potential to learn these new skills. Christine's expertise in marketing and public relations has already yielded fantastic results for the Center. Through new partnerships and outreach activities, she has helped the Center double its attendance in the past year. This accomplishment has already earned recognition and additional support for the RITE Center and the Greater Harlem Real Estate Board Development Fund. Previously, Christine worked for the Draft Worldwide Advertising Agency and Madison Square Garden. Additionally, she founded Constant Interaction, a marketing consulting firm. She is a member of the Direct Marketing Association, African Americans in Advertising, and the Howard University Alumni Association. Christine worships at St. Paul's Community Baptist Church and Concord Baptist Church where her family has long established ties. Mr. Speaker, Christine Renee Randall is dedicated 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Jeanette Turner in recognition of her passionate commitment to her community. Jeanette was born and raised in Brooklyn New York. Educated in the New York City Public School System, she was able to attend college and pursue a career in nursing through the Higher Education Extension Program. She earned an Associate in Applied Science from the Bellevue School of Nursing of New York City Community College and a Bachelor of Science from Hunter College. She also received a Master of Arts in Nursing from New York University. Additionally, Jeanatte has a certificate from the Alcohol Council of New York Education and Training for Historical Approaches and Current Trends to Substance Abuse. For more than 20 years, she dedicated herself to providing quality health care for veterans while working in patient services at the New York Harbor Health System of the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She worked at the Health System from 1977 to 1998. Always recognizing that veterans are individuals with their own unique needs, she emphasized a holistic approach to client care. Under the leadership of Dr. Thomas B. Horvath, Chief of Staff of the Special Unit, she helped and supervised the implementation of the Mentally Impaired Chemical Abuse (MICA) program. Jeanette was involved in creating all aspects of the program from counseling to job placement. Additionally, she assisted physicians in providing annual physical and psychiatric examinations. Working with the community, Jeanette helped veterans obtain food, clothing, shelter, and financial assistance. Her work with the Veterans Outreach Center made sure that 250 veterans received referrals for veteran's benefits. She also developed a special patient education program and coordinated with the recreational services office to bring live entertainment for veterans, their families, and staff. Jeanette has been committed to improving the health care of her community in her other professional experiences as well. She served as the Director of Service and Rehabilitation in the Brooklyn office of the American Cancer Society, providing rehabilitation services for families with oncology problems in the tri-state area. At Kings County Hospital, she worked with children in the outpatient pediatric unit, emergency room and on the medical and surgical units. For her hard work and dedication, Jeanette was awarded the ``We Care'' Award from Kings County Hospital, a Special Commendation Award from the Acting Director of Kingsboro Psychiatric Center, and a Certification of Excellence from Department of Veterans Affairs. Her chief of staff also nominated her for the ``Hands and Heart'' Award. In 1996, She was the guest speaker during African American heritage month at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Ryerson Street Outpatient Clinic. Additionally, she is a member of several community and civil organizations including the Brooklyn Canarsie Lions Club Foundation, Joseph Riley-Blacks in Government Chapter, St. Paul Community Baptist Church, Thomas Jefferson Democratic Club, and Order of Eastern Star Chapter 719--Deborah Grand Chapter. Mr. Speaker, Jeanette Turner has dedicated her life to improving the health care for children, families and veterans in her community. As such, she is more the worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleague to join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Kalman and Devorah Strobel upon their selection to be the honorees at the 24th Annual Dinner of the Young Israel of Avenue J, in Brooklyn, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Strobel have truly defined community service. Having given generously of their time, finances, and business acumen, our local Brooklyn neighborhoods have truly been blessed to be the beneficiaries of such selflessness. Mr. and Mrs. Strobel have played an integral role in the success of the Young Israel for over twenty years as well as many other crucial local Jewish institutions. The Strobel's dedication to Tifereth High School for Special Children is only one example of the breadth and depth of their efforts to better our neighborhoods. Their efforts have provided a guiding light into the true meaning of the Hebrew word ``chesed'' translated into English as kindness. Being of a soft spoken nature, Mr. & Mrs. Strobel have proven that actions speak louder than words. Although never ones to seek accolades for their work, the community and the Young Israel will forever be indebted to them. Addionally, I wish to congratulate the Strobel's children, Suri, Miraty, Rivky, and Meir Eli, and granddaughter Chaya Leah so fortunate to have Kalman and Devorah as their role models. May you continue to grace our community with your inspiring presence for many years to come.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of the Honorable Evelyn M. Dixson in recognition of her dedication to her community and her enormous contribution to her church. Evelyn is a member of the Cornerstone Baptist Church, President of the Cornerstone Baptist Church Federal Credit Union, and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Cornerstone's Sandy F. Ray Senior Housing. Always involved in efforts to improve her community, Mrs. Dixson is a past president of the Brooklyn Club of the National Association of the Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc. She also served two four-year terms as the organization's president, which had never been done in the history of the organization. Presently, she is an advisor to the Club. Evelyn is a former member of the Board of Directors of Elected Officials of New York State and a charter member of the Stuyvesant Heights Lions Clubs International. The club made her a Melvin Jones Fellow, the highest honor one can achieve as a member of the Foundation. Evelyn was one of the founding members of the Committee for Medgar Evers College and is a member of the Bridge Street A.W.M.E. Community Advisory Board. The Pratt Area Community Council honored Mrs. Dixson by naming one of its affordable housing projects in 1994, ``The Evelyn Dixson Houses,'' which are seven newly rehabilitated buildings in Brooklyn. In recognition of her many contributions and her participation in the improvement of the Bedford Stuyvesant community, she has received numerous awards, including the Thomas S. Boyland Award for leadership and commitment to the cause of Black Americans from the New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators, Inc. She was also honored by Brooklyn Borough President Howard Golden with a Certificate of Achievement for outstanding leadership and service. Other awards include the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs' Sojourner Truth Award, the Salvation Army's Humanitarian and Service Award, and the Key Women of America's Church Woman of the Year award. Evelyn has also been honored by the Medgar Evers College Women's Center, Lions and Lioness Clubs, Friends of Shaw University, the National Council of Christians and Jews, and the Council of Churches of the City of New York. A former teacher, she also studied at Bank Street College in New York City and at the New School for Social Research in New York City, specializing in Early Childhood Education. Evelyn was also an executive administrative assistant for the Taxi and Limousine Commission of New York City. One of her most outstanding accomplishments of her professional career was being elected to eight consecutive two-year terms as State Committeewoman (District Leader) of the 56th Assembly District. She was also a delegate to the 1980 National Democratic Convention. Mr. Speaker, with her numerous awards and professional memberships, Evelyn M. Dixson has shown that she is clearly dedicated 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor of Lystra Moore-Besson in recognition of her contribution to her family and her community. Lystra was born to Henry and Alice Moore in Trinidad & Tobago. She immigrated to the United States in 1975 to further her education. In 1980 she graduated from Brooklyn College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. After graduation, she pursued a career in banking. She is presently Vice-President and Branch Manager of HSBC Bank USA and holds her securities licenses from NASD. During her twenty-years in banking, she has received several awards including the ``Chairman's Award for Sales Excellence'' at HSBC Bank USA. She also sits on the African American Diversity Sub-Committee for Mentoring and Career Development. Throughout her banking career, she has mentored employees and neighborhood youth, both personally and professionally. Lystra is deeply involved in her community. She has been a member of the Brooklyn Canarsie Lions Club since 1995. She was elected Treasurer in her first year, a position she still holds. She also serves on the Board of Directors and is the funding co-advisor of the Brooklyn Canarsie Leos Club, which lends its support to the Guide Dog Foundation and the Vacation Camp for the Blind. She is on the Board of Directors of Canarsie By Choice and has supported the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, National Conference for Community Justice, and National Association for Breast Cancer. Lystra has also lent her banking expertise to the community through various financial seminars in credit, insurance, investment, and homeowners' information. Small businesses have also benefited from her personal counseling and expertise. Lystra has also participated in several civic causes, working with the Office of Senator John Sampson and helping to elect Hillary Rodham Clinton to the Senate. Lystra is married to Ian Besson. They have three daughters Habika Zwena, Zakiya, and Tabia, and a grandaughter Lystra Daniella. Mr. Speaker, Lystra Moore-Besson is devoted to serving her community. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition. I hope that all of my colleagues will join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Phyllis Taliaferro in recognition of her commitment to providing mental health treatment in the community. Phyllis is a member of a proud African American family of Taliaferros. The most notable of whom is Booker Taliaferro Washington. Since 1898 Phyllis's family has maintained the Lucy Taliaferro Estate in Colonial Beach, Virginia. Phyllis's great-grandmother purchased the property. Prior to World War II, Phyllis's family moved to Baltimore where she was born. Following the war, Phyllis along with her parents and sister moved to New York. Phyllis is a graduate of Amityville Memorial High School on Long Island. She earned her bachelor's degree at Morgan State University and received her master's degree in Social Welfare at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. She has also studied at the University of Ghana at Legon and at St. Ann's Psychiatric Hospital in Rosekilde, Sweden. In the United States, she took post-graduate courses at the Lenox Hill Hospital Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy program and at Beth Israel Hospital. She has held faculty positions in the State University of New York Agricultural and Technical College and at Old Westbury and Euro College. In her professional life, she is focused on improving mental health treatment for women and children. She runs a group for women called ``He Ain't All That.'' She has been honored by the Visiting Nurse Service, the Society for Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, and the New York Black Psychologists. She is a Past President of the New York Association of Black Psychologists. Phyllis is also the executive producer of the ``The Phyllis Taliaferro Show--The Psychology of Everyday Life'' on Brooklyn Community Access Television. Previously, on Starrett City Television, she was a producer and host of ``Perceptions and Insights.'' Additionally, she made frequent appearances on Dr. Jeff's early television show,'' ``A Hipper Shrink'' and Dr. Brown's show, ``Psych on Call.'' Phyllis has had guest spots on several radio shows as well as including ``The Dr. Watkins Show,'' ``The Gary Byrd Show;'' and ``Hit It.'' In addition to her work in the mental health field, she is actively involved in several local civic organizations. She is a member of the National Women's Political Caucus, the Brooklyn Women's Caucus, the National Political Caucus of Black Women in Politics, and the Central Committee for Al Sharpton. She is also a member of Church Women United and the auxiliary at Kings County Hospital. Mr. Speaker, Phyllis Taliaferro is dedicated 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Yolanda J. Martin in recognition of her dedication to helping those in need. Yolanda was born in the town of Puerto Armuelles in the Republic of Panama. However, she spent her formative years of elementary and high school in the city of Colon. She immigrated to the United States in 1981 and has been a resident of Brooklyn ever since that time. Yolanda has a strong desire to improve her community by assisting the less fortunate. She believes that we must provide children and adults with the necessary resources to become educated and gain financial independence. Through education and financial development, she feels communities can empower themselves. She has shown a consistent dedication to these ideals through both her professional and personal life. At fourteen, Yolanda joined the Boy Scouts Explorer unit where she was exposed to Emergency Medical rescue trainings. This experience cultivated her fascination with the medical field. Yolanda has become a State certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Nurses Assistant, C.P.R. and First Aid Instructor, and HIV/AIDS Educational Instructor. As a way of giving back to the community, she worked as an EMT from 1990 to 1995, responding to 911 calls with a volunteer ambulance service. She volunteered an average of 20 to 30 hours a week. Yolanda began her professional career in the United States working with mentally disabled people for the State of New York State from 1982 to 1985. For the next three years, she worked at the New York State Division for Youth. Yolanda followed this experience by working for the Board of Education as a bilingual Paraprofessional in Special Education. More recently, she has founded three childcare services: Parents United for a Better Society Inc., child care center number one and child care center number two, and Minnie's Family Group Day Care, where she serves as the Executive Director and CEO. The center offers the community 95 slots for day care, after school programs, summer programs, and universal pre-kindergarten for children up to 13 years old. Adult training and parenting classes are provided to the parents and others in the community as well. Yolanda is presently working on creating an additional day care center that will provide 178 childcare slots and a senior citizen day care program in the East New York area of Brooklyn. Yolanda participates in a wide array of community activities. She helps distribute food to disadvantaged families in the community and assists undocumented residents with referrals to the appropriate agencies that can address their needs. Yolanda is the President and founder of a women's support group called Innovation and serves on the Board of Directors for the New York Lions Club. She is also a member of the Panamanian Black Chambers of Commerce, the Prospect Park Alliance group, the Interfaith Medical Center Auxiliary, and the PNM group of North America. When Yolanda is not working with others in the community, she spends time with her children and family. She has three children, Ronald, Kendra, and Courtney. Yolanda is known for her excellent cooking as well as her interior decorating ability. She also enjoys the performing arts, horseback riding, and grooming horses. Mr. Speaker, Yolanda is devoted to improving 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. The internationally renowned Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir was founded in 1973. As part of the ministry of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church in Brooklyn, New York, the 250-voice choir is recognized worldwide for the magnitude of its sound and the soul-filled inspiration of its music. Since its formation three decades ago, the choir has emerged as a major influence within the Christian/gospel music industry. With a multi-ethnic and economically diverse membership, the choir truly represents the best of New York and America. Some members have been singing with the choir for more than 25 years. Despite their differing backgrounds, the entire choir operates like a close knit family. This level of cooperation is possible because of the individual commitment of the members and the inspired leadership of its director, Carol Cymbala. I want to commend the choir on its ability to apply the harmony of music to the ministry of life. On February 23, 2003, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir won a Grammy Award for Best Gospel Choir or Chorus for its album ``Be Glad''. With this most recent recognition, the group has become one of a few choirs which has attained the acknowledgment of both the popular music business and the Christian music industry. As a five-time winner of the Grammy Award and two-time winner of the Dove Award, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has performed in some of the most celebrated venues in New York City, including Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, and the Paramount Theater. In a rare testament to the power of its music, the choir has played to a sold-out audience at Madison Square Garden. With New York City and Brooklyn as its home, the choir continues to greatly impact the local community, including my district, the 10th Congressional District of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend this choir not only on its most recent Grammy Award but on its 30 years of dedicated music ministry. In these difficult and uncertain times, I sincerely hope that the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir continues to use music to bring a message of good news and hope to Brooklyn and the world.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Gloria Miller in recognition of her dedication to improving the health of her community and uplifting those in need. Born in Jamaica, W.I., Gloria at the age of 16 traveled to London England to study and begin a career in nursing. Her commitment and strong desire, then as it is now, was to educate, inform, and help others in the community. She immigrated to the United States in March 1968 and began working at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, New York. While working at the hospital, Gloria attended Lincoln Hospital School in the Bronx. After graduating, she was elevated to the position of Head Nurse. She furthered her education at St. Francis College where she earned a degree in both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Next, Gloria took administrative courses in Long Term Care at the New York City Technical College in Brooklyn. Eventually, she received a Master of Public Administration from New York University with distinction. She accomplished all of this while working full time, caring for her two children, and planning numerous health fairs for St. Gabriel's Church. In 1980, Gloria, now an Administrative Supervisor at Kings County Hospital, focused her energy on improving treatment for the drug dependent community, instituting a program to closely monitor dosage of medication and evaluation of patient progress. As part of the program, she also upgraded the hospital's system for documenting or recording nurses' interventions or admissions notes. She also encouraged greater participation in the hospital's drug addiction classes by holding teaching sessions in the hospital's lobby. Special emphasis was placed on intervention for drug addicts and alcohol dependent clients who were pregnant. In 1989, Gloria moved to Coney Island Hospital where she focused on the facility's ``Drug Free Clientele Program.'' As a clinical therapist, she identified clients with drug and alcohol problems and referred them to an in-house drug free program. She shared her work with the March of Dimes Foundation, which used some of the information as part of a paper on birth defects. In the late 1990s when Gloria retired, her main focus became helping her daughter who is following in her mother's footsteps by working as a nurse at Coney Island Hospital. However, Gloria continues to be an asset to her community through her volunteer work. She volunteers at Samuel J. Tilden High School, where she conducts conflict management intervention groups and sessions on alternative ways of dealing with angry students. She also helped establish a scholarship fund for two consecutive years for four students entering the health administration field of study from Tilden. Gloria's volunteer service also extends to several other community- based organizations such as the Caribbean Women United for Social and Political Action (CWUSPA) and the Caribbean Women's Association. Additionally, she has served as Secretary and Chairperson for the Social Service Committee on Community Board 17. Gloria holds the position of 1st Vice-President at Dr. Susan McKinney Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Auxiliary and has been the Chairperson of the Community Advisory Board for the past three years. As Chairperson, she served as a member of the NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation Council of Community Advisory Board. She is an active member of the St. Augustine's Episcopal Church and is one of the founding members and the first president of the Health Guild. During her presidency, she raised $23,000 for the church. She also holds a certificate from the New York Theological Seminary for assisting her priest with his Doctorate of Divinity Degree. Currently, she assists the priest-in-charge in coordinating annual services to honor the 67th precinct with the goal of fostering a better relationship between the police and community. Mr. Speaker, Gloria Miller has dedicated her life to helping her fellow community members. 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Evelyn Medora Moss in recognition of her commitment to her community. Born in the Republic of Panama to George Leopole and the late Imogene Elisa Ashley, Evelyn came to the United States in the early 1960s. She is truly one of Panama's and America's success stories. Realizing early on that education was a key for a successful future, Evelyn attended the University of Panama and received a degree in Home Economics in 1959. After graduating, she took a job as a home economics teacher for Christ Church Episcopal School in Colon, Republic of Panama. In the early 1960s, when she moved to the United States, Evelyn used her aptitude for numbers to start a new career. In 1962, she obtained a job as an Assistant Bookkeeper for White Mark Stores in New York City. She continued there until 1968 when she took a job at Ebasco Services where she worked for the next 25 years. She began as a Lead Accounting Clerk and would work her way up to Corporate Manager of Accounts Payable. In 1994 Evelyn joined Raytheon Engineers and Constructors as an Accounting Supervisor. Currently, she works for Washington Infrastructure Services as an Assistant Accountant. Never losing sight of the importance of education, Evelyn attended Brooklyn College during this time, receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1977 and her Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 1978. Later, she completed courses at the Businesswomen's Training Institute, focusing on leadership issues. She also participated in the Institute's Advanced Studies' program. Evelyn has also become a member of several professional organizations including the National Association of Black Accountants, the National Association of Female Executives, the National Association of University Women (NAUW), Harry S. Truman New Way Democratic Club in Brooklyn, the National Political Congress of Black Women, Brooklyn College Alumni Association, and the Women's Empowerment Movement. She has been honored with several awards and distinctions for her accomplishments. The list includes: NAUW's 1987 Women of the Year Award, Women's Empowerment Movement's 2001 Outstanding Member of the Year, and NAUW's 2002 Distinguished Member award. She has also been listed in Who's Who in America, Who's Who in Finance, Who's Who in the World, and Two Thousand Notable American Women. Evelyn notes that her most important achievement is her son Marc Anthony. The other important aspect of her life is her role as an active member of Trinity Church on Wall Street in New York City. She served for three years as Vice-President of the Congregation Council and is currently President. She has also performed several other functions including layperson, head usher, and congregation representative to the vestry. Mr. Speaker, with her numerous awards and professional memberships, Evelyn Medora Moss has shown that she is clearly dedicated her community. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Roxanne Persaud in recognition of her commitment to her community. Roxanne was born in Georgetown, Guyana. The eldest child of Kenrick and Yvonne Persaud, she immigrated to the United States after graduating from high school. Upon arriving in the United States, she immediately enrolled in an adult after school program. Currently, she holds degrees in Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Education. Roxanne is in the process of completing her Master of Science Degree in Information Systems. In August 1984, Roxanne began a part-time job at Pace University's Undergraduate Registrar's office. With no previous background in this area, she set out to learn all of the functions and task of the office. Today, she is the Senior Degree Audit Coordinator. Roxanne is the Treasurer of the Organization for Social and Health Advancement in Guyana (OSHAG), a member of the 69th Precinct Community Council in Canarsie, Brooklyn, and an advisor for the Caribbean Students Association at Pace University, New York City campus. In addition, she is a member of the Thomas Jefferson Democratic Club. In November 2002, Roxanne and members of OSHAG visited Guyana with a team of doctors representing Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn. Representatives from the American Cancer Society as well as HIV/AIDS specialists from representing Young Adult Institute were on the team. While in South America, the doctors conducted a medical workshop for Guyananese doctors on current cancer treatments and hosted a two-day conference for health care professionals, university students, and other members of the public. Throughout the trip, team members also provided other outreach services to the public as needed. Finally, the group cosponsored a cancer walk in collaboration with the Guyana Cancer Society. The team will be returning to Guyana again in 2003 to continue this mission. On March 30, 2003, Roxanne and the members of OSHAG in collaboration with a Volunteer Youth Corp in Guyana will be launching a Big Brother/ Big Sister mentoring initiative in Guyana. This will be the first of its kind in the South America region. In addition to volunteering, Roxanne enjoys traveling and reading when she finds the time. She is thankful for her parents, siblings, colleagues, and Henry and Josephine Bolus' support, which has been essential in helping her accomplish so much. Mr. Speaker, Roxanne Persaud is committed to community service and improving the lives of those in her own community and abroad. 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Mary Ann Benton in recognition for her dedication to her community and her commitment to improving the lives of our senior citizens. Mary Ann is a native New Yorker. She was born in Queens, New York and raised by her maternal grandparents, the late Enrico and Victoria Guigliano. After graduating from John Adams High School in Queens, she attended St. John's College majoring in Accounting, and later transferred to St. Joseph's College where she studied Human Resources Management. Traveling from Queens to Manhattan to work for more than eight years led Mary Ann to find employment closer to home and a job that she truly loves. In early 1980, Mary Ann joined the Wartburg Lutheran Home for the Aging as a receptionist. At Wartburg, Mary Ann approaches her work with compassion and enthusiasm. In 1982, she was transferred to the Fiscal Department as a Bookkeeper and later that year was promoted to Fiscal Coordinator. Continuing to grow within the Wartburg ministry, in 1987, she became the Assistant to the Chief Operating Officer. Next, she became the Human Resources Assistant, and in 1993, Mary Ann was promoted to the Director of Human Resources where she continues to excel. Mary Ann is active with the Society for Human Resources Management, the Council for Human Resources Management, and the Association for Healthcare Human Resources Administrators. Her colleagues and peers in her profession recognize her hard work and dedication. She believes that working with the elderly is a calling from God. She feels blessed to be working in a field and in an organization where she can serve the elderly, support her colleagues, and promote hospitality to the community. She stands as an example of Wartburg's mission and ministry of healing, hospitality, and community through partnership in caring. Mary Ann enjoys reading, bowling, dancing, and meeting new people. She also continues to worship at the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church where she volunteers her time and talents. Mr. Speaker, Mary Ann Benton has devoted her life to serving her community. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today. I hope that all of my colleagues will join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Priscilla Incorvaia in recognition for her tireless energy and dedication to her community. Priscilla grew up on Long Island and attended C.W. Post College where she studied Elementary Education and Training Development. After an internship at Republic National Bank, she was offered a job in their management-training program. During the next fifteen years, Priscilla rapidly moved up the ranks and presently is the Branch Manager of the Starrett City Office in Brooklyn. As far back as Priscilla can remember, she has been involved in various community organizations. She feels that it is important to be involved in organizations at the grass roots level, especially those related to children. She is a firm believer in getting involved in the community where she works and is well known in the various boroughs, especially Brooklyn. Priscilla sits on many advisory boards, including Junior Achievement, the YWCA, the Queens Botanical Gardens, and The Noel Pointer Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides music lessons for gifted underprivileged children where she served as treasurer. She has been awarded the Bronze Leadership Award for Leadership and Support and the Above and Beyond Service Award for her work in Junior Achievement. Priscilla attributes her team spirit to her husband Angelo, a former New York Giants lineman. Mr. Speaker, Priscilla Incorvaia is devoted to serving 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 woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Cynthia Y. Gaskin-Johnson in recognition of her contribution to her family and her community. Cynthia is the youngest of four children born to the late Mr. and Mrs. Ethan Law Gaskin in Colon, Republic of Panama. She graduated with honors as a seamstress from Colegio Abel Bravo and was offered the position of Personal Seamstress for the Director's wife. However, she was unable to accept the job since she immigrated to the United States six months after graduation. Upon arriving in the United States, she was immediately employed by the Bezozi Baby Bonnet Company and remained there for approximately five years. In 1966 she married Rupert (Doc) Johnson, a well-known, and talented musician. Their marriage brought forth a daughter, Deborah, lovingly called Debbie, who has blessed Cynthia with two granddaughters: Natasha and Gabrielle. Cynthia also has two loving children from her husband's previous marriage. In February 1969, Cynthia obtained a job with The Bank of New York where she was employed for 31 years. She began as a Customer Service Telephone Representative and was promoted to Mutual Funds Legal Administrator. Later, she became the Supervisor for the Mutual Funds Redemption area. During her career at the Bank of New York, Cynthia attended the American Institute of Banking (AIB), receiving a certificate in banking. Eventually, Cynthia became a Mutual Funds Account Administrator until her retirement on March 31, 2000. Her retirement was short-lived as she was rehired less than a year later to work part-time for The Bank of New York as a Consultant for the Mutual Funds Custody Department. Cynthia has a deep and personal relationship with God that flourished at the age of 16 when she accepted Jesus Christ as her savior. She is a member of the Mt. Zion Tabernacle Christian Mission of Panama. She serves on the Executive Board as the Executive Recording, Secretary and on the Usher Board as the Treasurer of the Missionary Department. On a monthly basis, the Missionary Department provides food and clothing for homeless people in the Brooklyn community. Cynthia is also an active member of the Sunday School Department and a member of the Church Choir. She enjoys performing in the yearly Easter Drama Cantata. Mr. Speaker, Cynthia Y. Gaskin-Johnson is devoted to serving her community. She enjoys helping those in need and assisting anyone seeking a helping hand. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition. I hope that all of my colleagues will join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Lynn Henderson-Hornes in recognition for her tireless energy and passionate commitment to her community. Lynn has been improving the lives of Fort Greene families for nearly twenty years. As Program Director for Project Teen Aid Family Services, she has helped hundreds of pregnant teens and teen parents raise healthy children and continue their own education. Her deep religious beliefs, passed on to her from her grandparents and parents, permeate every aspect of her life, and have helped provide the energy and commitment needed for this challenging task. She is an active member of the House of David Church, serving as a Sunday school teacher, church clerk, choir member, and president of the Pastor's Aide Auxiliary. She also serves as Treasurer for the church's Center for Community Empowerment. Her service, however, is never limited to her own congregation but is extended to people of all beliefs. A second aspect of Lynn's life involves her love of learning. Throughout her adult life, she has sought out specific training that would help her professionally. She is certified as an Adolescent Counselor and a Human Sexuality and Family Development Trainer. As an advocate for young, low-income families, Lynn realized as soon as she came to Fort Greene that it was important to know the community. She became involved in the Brooklyn Perinatal Network and was a member of the board from 1987 until 2000, serving as Chairperson for the organization's Finance Committee for four years. Additionally, she was appointed by Brooklyn Borough President Howard Golden to the Cumberland Diagnostic and Treatment Advisory Board where she has served as Chairperson since 1999. Lynn was also recently elected chairperson of the New York City Health and Hospitals City-Wide Council of Community Advisory Boards. However, the most important recipients of Lynn's gifts and generosity are her three sons: Michael, Jason and Jonathon and her precious granddaughter Arieanna. Mr. Speaker, Lynn Henderson-Hornes has tireless energy, and sincere concern for the well-being of the community and its residents. 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 woman.