Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of a very special man of God who has recently left us, Bishop Willie B. McNeil. After a rich and full life serving his community, his church, and his God, Bishop Willie B. McNeil passed away on December 11, 2001. He was born September 10, 1919, the second of nine children to the late John and Mary McNeil in Pritchard, Alabama. He completed his early education at the St. James Catholic School. His formal education came from the ``Knee College'', where he graduated from ``the old man to the new man''. In 1944, he met and began a courtship with Dora James. On February 18, 1945 they were married and had seven children. Bishop McNeil was saved and received the gift of the Holy Ghost at the Old Holiness Church in Pritchard, Alabama. He later moved to New york and God found favor with him and called him to the ministry of the Apostolic Faith. He became Assistant Pastor of the Old Truth Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, in Brooklyn, NY, where the late Elder D. Freeman was Pastor. In 1963, Bishop McNeil established his own church, The House of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith. He later changed the name of that church to Holy Cross Remnant Church of Jesus of the Apostolic Faith. For 54 years, Bishop W.B. McNeil has been and continues to be a source of wisdom and inspiration. Through his teaching and preaching about God, Bishop McNeil inspired Pastor Clarence Keaton, who loved him like a father; the Bishop became the grandfather of the True Worship Church Worldwide Ministries. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Mother Dora McNeil, and his seven children, Catherine McNeil, Frances McNeil, Willie McNeil, Jr., Anthony McNeil, Michael McNeil, Crystal McNeil, Stephen McNeil and his spiritual son, Rev. Dr. Clarence Keaton. Preceding him in death were two brothers, the late Rufus McNeil, the late Melvin McNeil, and two sisters, the late Mable Peterson and the late Catherine Richardson. He is also mourned by one of his brothers, John McNeil, and two sisters, Dorothy Pease and Mattie Reed as well as a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews and his church family, and all the members of the Holy Cross Remnant Church of Jesus of the Apostolic Faith. The late Bishop McNeil is one of the greatest servants that God has placed on this earth and will truly be missed. As such his family is more than worthy of receiving this recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of this truly remarkable man of God.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3487, the Nurse Reinvestment Act. While today's bill is a start toward the Nation's nursing shortage problems, we still have a series of outstanding issues which have not been addressed in this bill. Chief among them is the 100,000 nursing personnel shortage for long-term care facilities. The shortages include RNs, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Certified Nurse Assistants (CNAs). Recent General Accounting Office (GAO) report indicates that ``With the aging of the population, demand for nurse aides is expected to grow dramatically, with the supply of workers who have traditionally filled these jobs will remain virtually unchanged.'' Other reports suggest that the current nurse workforce issues are part of a larger healthcare workforce shortage that includes a shortage of Nurse Aides. Additionally, we must address the lack of minority representation in the nursing profession as well as resources to ensure that we have sufficient Advance Practice Nurses to provide primary preventative care in underserved communities. I look forward to working with my colleagues to address these concerns as part of the Reauthorization of the Health Professions Act next session. None of the above issues can be solved simply by ``Market Forces.'' If it was a question of simple economics, then we would not have a 100,000 personnel shortage. The Healthcare Industry needs our intervention to make sure that our Nation's patients have workers who are sufficiently trained to their health care needs. Let's support the Reinvestment Act today with the acknowledgement that much more remains to be done.

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, let me thank the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps) for yielding me time. I would like to thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) and the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps) for moving this legislation forward. We have been doing a lot of talk about the nursing situation but we have not done very much. So I am happy to come tonight in terms of the fact and be supportive of the Nurse Investment Act. I think that the time is here to take action. People are living longer now, so the fact that people are living longer we need more nursing personnel. We, right now, are 100,000 short nationwide in our nursing homes. And, of course, this is a small step in the right direction. Sure it is not a solution to the total problem, but it sure begins to move us in the right direction. In my earlier life, I was on the administrative staff of Beth-Israel Hospital in New York and I had the opportunity to work very closely about nurses. And I know in terms of the kind of job that they do on behalf of patients. But then it became very close to me. On September 11, I had the opportunity to visit a few hospitals in New York during the crisis there. And to watch to see in terms of the functions, the way the nurses carried themselves, and I tell you it is very difficult work; but I want you to know that they were performing in grand style. I think that we need to do everything that we can to encourage people to stay in nursing, encourage people to come into nursing. And I think this has to be a greater Federal commitment. I think that we have to begin to look at the salary scale, look at the kind of training they have and to see what we can do. Look at a situation that we might be able to provide scholarships in large way, a loan forgiveness. We need to find ways to make certain that we are being very friendly to that profession. I think it has not been treated fairly. I think that this legislation helps us to begin to look at it in a way that we should look at it. But the point is do not think this legislation is a solution. Let us look at what we can do with this now and then come back and do more. I want to thank my friend, the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps) for staying there and working on this, and, of course, my friend, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) and saying that we must stop talking about it and begin to do something. And now we are doing something.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased that the Congress will act today to preserve the gains that we have made in the development of pediatric drugs. I want to congratulate my colleagues, the gentleman from Pennsylvania, Mr. Greenwood, and the gentlelady from California, Ms. Eshoo, on their hard work in promoting the reauthorization of pediatric exclusivity. Before the passage of ``The Better Pharmaceuticals for Children's Act in 1997'', many children were denied access to medicines because drugs were not produced in dosable forms that could be used by pediatric patients. It was not very encouraging to be a pediatrician prescribing medicine to children. It was mostly guesswork. This legislation provided an incentive for research-based pharmaceutical companies to conduct studies on pediatric indications for medicines. The Act included additional market exclusivity for pediatric studies on new and existing pharmaceuticals. The January 2001 Status Report to Congress from the Food and Drug Administration stated that, ``the pediatric exclusivity provision has done more to generate clinical studies and useful prescribing information for the pediatric population than any other regulatory or legislative process to date.'' We should not return to pediatric medicine as it was practiced before 1997. By renewing this law, which will now include a fund to conduct studies on off-patent drugs and reduce the time by which the labeling information reaches consumers, we will ensure that we can continue innovations in the practice of pediatrics and the development of new drug therapies for our children. I know our doctors and their young patients and their parents are pleased that we are moving forward rather than backward in terms of pediatric medications. The March of Dimes, The National Association of Children's Hospitals and the American Academy of Pediatrics all support this legislation and I would urge my colleagues to join them by voting for S. 1789.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Margaret Felder in recognition of her commitment to her church and women's leadership activities. Margaret Felder was born in Lexington County, South Carolina. She is the oldest of six children. At the age of 12, her family moved to Brooklyn. Margaret is a product of the New York City Public School System. She graduated from Clara Barton Vocational High School with a major in nursing. After a short period in the nursing profession, Margaret decided to give up nursing and turn to a career in business. She has worked at Sullivan, Papain, Block, McGarath, and Cannavo P.C. for the past thirty-three years as an Administrative Assistant. Margaret is a devoted mother to Stephanie, Claude, Monique, Ebony, her late son, Eliot, daughter-in-law Grace and grandchildren Jean- Pierre and Rayquan. She gives her loving mother, Elaine, a great deal of credit for helping her in this regard. She gives leadership to her family and is aware of the support and love from each of them. Margaret has been a devoted member of the Berean Baptist Missionary Baptist Church. She is currently active in the Ladies Usher Board, Sunday School secretary, Youth Church Leader, Sisterhood, Summer Day Camp, American Baptist Women ministry, the Bible Institute and the Drama Ministry. One of her favorite scriptures is Psalm 37:7 ``be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him''. Mr. Speaker, Margaret Felder is a loving mother, grandmother and devoted member of the Berean Baptist Missionary Church. 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 spiritual woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Marcus R. Habeeb in recognition of his dedication and commitment to creating funding opportunities for those in need. Marcus R. Habeeb is a proud product of New York's education system. As he tried to decide on a career path, he received a paralegal certificate from Adelphi University. Once he recognized that the law was not for him, he changed his focus and received a Finance degree from Baruch College, followed by a Master's of Business Administration from the same institution. Over the past twenty years, Marcus has developed and broadened the scope of his expertise. Beginning in 1980, as an Accounts Receivable/ Computer Operator, Marcus has steadily increased his responsibility and broadened his portfolio. He followed his first job, with a position as an Assistant Controller, where he was responsible for the financial management of a fine jewelry manufacturer. A few years later, he moved on to a position as a Chief Financial Officer, for a company in a difficult financial situation. Marcus was able to work with the bank and other creditors to recover potentially large losses. He moved from this position to Senior Vice-Presidency for a financial institution. While there he built a small Asian bank into a very important player on Wall Street. In his next position, he expanded his scope of responsibilities yet again, as the Operations Manager for Hometrust Mortgage Bank. While there, Marcus began to focus increasingly on marketing strategies, investor relations, and home mortgages. He has used this experience, most recently, in creating his own business, P & R Funding. Finally, Marcus is able to bring together all of the knowledge that he has accrued over his twenty year journey to independence to focus on developing financing and business products for those in need. Marcus is also the proud husband, of fifteen years to Annie, and the father of two children. Mr. Speaker, Marcus R. Habeeb has dedicated himself to business and his community. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving this recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Raymond T. Peebles in recognition of his commitment to using his architectural skills to keep building his community in a positive direction. Raymond T. Peebles is a long time resident of Brooklyn. He is also a registered architect in New York and Connecticut. He sees his profession as serving the various communities of New York City. Established in 1972, his firm, Peeble Architect PC, has worked with community groups in the design of new housing developments, churches, and the renovation and rehabilitation of brownstones. Over the years the firm has expanded its expertise to include health facilities, cabarets, and multi-use structures. To fulfill the demand for childcare centers and houses of worship, Mr. Peebles created a division of his firm exclusively for the design and construction of churches and day care centers. Community groups that have worked successful with Mr. Peebles include the Northeast Brooklyn Housing Development, West Harlem Group Assistance, Prince Hall Mason and Miracle Makers, Inc. Raymond is active in professional organizations such as the American Institute of Architects where he is a corporate member, and the Brooklyn Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He also serves on the Metrotech Advisory Board, and the Mayor's Small Business Advisory Board as well as the Association of Minority Businesses & Contractors. Raymond is also active in his community serving on Community Board #9 and on the Board of the Magnolia Tree Earth Center. His goal is to establish an entrepreneurial environment for creative self-development with the community. Mr. Speaker, Raymond T. Peebles is a successful businessman who has a vision for his community and he is acting on that vision. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly community oriented business leader.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of James Butler in recognition of his lifetime of outstanding service. Jim Butler, is the President of a 10,000 member union, Local 420 Municipal Hospital Workers Union, DC 37, AFSCME, AFL-CIO. He has had a lifelong interest in the living and working conditions of the people around him. For over 40 years he has played a leadership role in the struggle to improve those conditions. Since beginning his career at Local 420 as a union organizer in 1954, Butler has been a tireless fighter for better pay, health, education and other benefits for hospital employees. Gains for workers in these areas are the most obvious marks of his leadership. ``I never felt better,'' said President Butler,'' than when we were able to win respect for hospital workers.'' Over the last several years, Jim Butler and his local have waged a battle against threats to privatize public hospitals in New York City. The Local saw their efforts pay off with a victory in stopping the privatization of Coney Island Hospital, and the recent victory in saving Brooklyn Central Laundry, and 200 member jobs with no layoffs. Jim Butler is currently engaged in a boycott at several hospitals against the contracting out of employee cafeterias to fast food operation such as McDonald's and Burger King. No less important, however, are his contributions to the community which the hospital workers serve. Butler has been the driving force behind the union's frequent demonstrations and rallies for social justice. Under his leadership, Local 420's political action also makes itself felt in voter education and registration drives. Annually the Local registers thousands of voters and directly involves hundreds of union members in political campaigns. The Local was a key supporter in the historic campaign to elect the first African-American Mayor of the City of New York, the Honorable David N. Dinkins. Jim Butler has long been part of the struggle for equal opportunity for minorities within the labor movement through active membership in the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, PUSH, NAACP, Urban League, and SCLC Labor Committees. He served on the executive board of CBTU's New York Chapter. He also served as a member of the New York Consumer Assembly's Board of Directors. Butler is the recipient of numerous awards and honors from civil rights, labor and community organizations, including the Labor Committee of the NAACP, the New York and Jamaica (Queens) chapters of the NAACP, the CBTU New York Chapter, Memphis Municipal Workers Local 1733, the Coalitions of Labor Unions Women, New York State's Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, the Hispanic Labor Committee, the Harlem YMCA, Queensborough Women's Clubs, the Negro Labor Council, the Community Leadership Network, and Central Baptist Church's honoree for Outstanding Christian Leader. Jim Butler has been the President of Local 420 for 27 years and on August 18, 1999 he was elected as a International Vice President to the ``mother union'', AFSCME. Jim resides in Astoria, Queens, NY with his wife, Eloise. Mr. Speaker, because of his dedication to helping health care workers and fighting for social justice, JIm Butler is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable leader.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Stephen V. Barbaro in recognition of his commitment to his community. Stephen V. Barbaro was born and raised in New York City. He went to Midwood High School. After graduation he went on to receive his bachelor's degree from St. John's University. Following college, he received his Juris Doctorate from Brooklyn Law School. He is married to Margaret L. Pecoraro. Margaret is also an attorney. They are the proud parents of three wonderful children, Stephanie, Katherine, and Stephen Joseph. Stephen has been a practicing attorney for almost twenty years. He is a partner in Alter & Barbaro, Esq., a well-known law firm with offices in Canarsie and Brooklyn Heights. He is engaged in a general practice, which include real estate, landlord tenant law, and general litigation. Together with his partner, Mitch Alter, Stephen has been involved in numerous community activities and programs. They have a high school internship program; a minority scholarship program; and a computer literacy program. Their voluntary activities are designed to provide young people with increased opportunities as well as a chance to learn real world skills. Mr. Speaker, Stephen V. Barbaro has been a dedicated community businessman and active volunteer during his twenty years of practicing law. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly dedicated man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, on November 8 the House adopted the VA, HUD and Independent Agencies Appropriation Conference Report. This bill included an allocation of $500,000 for Take the Field, a tremendously worthwhile and effective program aimed at rebuilding the outdoor athletic fields of all New York City's public high schools. I would like to thank the distinguished Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, Mr. Young, my distinguished colleague from Wisconsin, Mr. Obey, my distinguished colleague from New York, Mr. Walsh, the Chairman of the Veterans Affairs, HUD and Independent Agencies Subcommittee, and also the Ranking Minority Member, from West Virginia, Mr. Mollohan, for their efforts in making this allocation possible. I would also like to commend three extraordinary business and community leaders, Preston Robert Tisch, Richard Kahan and Tony Kiser, who founded this public/private partnership and have worked selflessly and relentlessly to promote its success. Thanks to their efforts, Take the Field is already off to a promising start. Seven outdoor athletic facilities--at least one in each borough--have already been rebuilt. Take the Field is committed to rebuilding 52 of 60 outdoor facilities over a four-year period. The average cost of each field reconstruction project is $2 million, bringing the total cost just over $100 million. The $500,000 allocation that this bill provides will actually provide $2 million for Take the Field, thanks to the City of New York, which has provided this tremendous undertaking with a three to one challenge grant. In the next few years, Take the Field can reverse more than a quarter of a century of neglect and deterioration of our public school athletic fields and provide students with access to a broad range of athletic activities that can improve their health, motivate their desire for academic excellence and keep them away from drugs and violence. The allocation contained in this bill will help accomplish this.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Darren Pearson in recognition of his community service as well as his successful real estate businesses in Brooklyn and Queens, NY. Mr. Pearson's businesses include a full-service real estate firm, apartment building management, and construction and maintenance. Before becoming involved in real estate, Darren worked as an account executive for Amergold Corp. He also worked for Vanguard Oil as a fuel salesman in the commercial and barge departments. His duties included fuel sales to Con Edison, PSE&G, and LILCO. He was subsequently promoted to director of public relations for Vanguard and was responsible for the home oil transfer program, which provided oil to needy families at either a discount or no cost. His success in that position led to his promotion to vice president of procurement and industrial sales for Vanco Oil Co., a subsidiary of Vanguard. Darren is active in the Brooklyn and Manhattan communities. He is the chairman of the Men's Caucus for Congressman Towns, a member of 100 Black Men, Inc., and New York State Senator David Patterson's Progressive Professional Network. As a young businessman, Darren hires and trains college-bound students as trainees in real estate management and office administration. Mr. Speaker, Darren Pearson is a young entrepreneur committed to working with his community and promoting opportunities for others. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving this recognition, and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this remarkable man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Ernest A. Sampson, III, in recognition of his dedication to his community. Ernest A. Sampson, III, was born in New York City. He is the youngest of three children born to Fay and ``the late'' Ernest Sampson. He received his early education in the New York City Public School System. He graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx, and went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Funeral Service Administration from St. John's University in 1986. During his junior year, he attended the American Academy McAllister Institute. During his senior year, he apprenticed at his grandfather's funeral home ``The James H. Willie Funeral Home, Inc.'' Ernest is a Master Mason hailing from African Lodge 459#63 in Brooklyn, NY. He receives his religious instruction from the Lord Jesus Christ through Archbishop Roy E. Brown, Pastor of Pilgrim Assemblies International. Ernest with the support of his mentor, James H. Willies, established Sampson Funeral Service in March of 1993. Being committed to community service, he conducts numerous seminars, educating people on city burial programs and what do when the Lord calls someone home, Ernest has also spoken at several public schools to young children on their career day. In early 2001, Ernest cited by the Mayor and Councilwoman Annette Robinson as a ``Man Of Courage.'' Ernest is the proud husband of Debbie Sampson and the proud father of Ernest IV, Sheniqua, Alyssia, Tiara and his spiritual daughter, Alexis. Mr. Speaker, Ernest A. Sampson, III is a hard working man of God, dedicated to his family and his community. As such he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Father James E. Goode, OFM, Ph.D. in recognition of his dedication and commitment to his community, his faith, and in his work in the battle against AIDS. Father James E. Goode, OFM, Ph.D. is the leading Black Catholic Evangelist in the United States. He is known as the Dean of Black Catholic Evangelists having preached the first Black Catholic Revival in America (1974). The first Black Catholic Revival was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Father Goode has preached all over the world and is one of the most sought after African American Catholic priests. Father Goode and Rev. Jesse Jackson preached at the Vatican during the Black American Voices in Rome celebration, an event that was sponsored by the Vatican and the City of Rome. Father Goode was an elected member of the New York City Community School Board in District 16 for two terms. He was the former President of the San Francisco Housing Authority Commission. He also headed the first San Francisco Mayor's Task Force on Drug Addiction and served as a Commissioner for Children, Youth and Families. He was also a Commissioner for the San Francisco Delinquency Prevention Commission, as well as the San Francisco AIDS Council. Father Goode is a native of Roanoke, Virginia and a proud Franciscan Friar of the Order of Friars Minor, Province of the Immaculate Conception in New York City (ordained May 13, 1974, NYC). He has earned his Doctor of Philosophy, with a major in Psychology, from Union Graduate School, his Master of Theology, from the University of the State of New York, St. Anthony Theological Seminary, his Master of Divinity, from the University of the State of New York, St. Anthony Theological Seminary, his Master of Arts in Educational Psychology: from the College of Saint Rose, Albany, New York, and his Bachelor of Arts, from the University of the State of New York, Immaculate Conception Seminary. He was the Founding Pastor of the Faith Community of Black Catholics, Our Lady of Charity (1974) in the Diocese of Brooklyn. Under his leadership this declining parish came alive and became authentically Black and Catholic. Our Lady of Charity became a model for Black Catholic worship, education, community outreach and ecumenism. Father Goode assisted the larger Black Catholic Community of Brooklyn by serving on many boards and councils. He was the first chairman of the Office of Black Ministry in the Diocese of Brooklyn. By God's grace and mercy and through Father Jim Goode's gift of preaching and healing, thousands have come home to the Catholic faith. His motto: ``Blessed Assurance Jesus is mine and no matter how hard the task or how difficult the moment I am ready to go in your name''. He is a longtime activist and leader of Social Justice and Peace. His untiring efforts to combat and correct some of society's most urgent problems have been his life's mission. This activism has led him to develop the 1st Annual AIDS Summit for Black Catholics on Saturday, December 1, 2001. The theme of the conference is: ``Lift every life, help is on the way.'' Mr. Speaker, Franciscan Father Jim Goode's entire priestly life has been dedicated to the spiritual and psychological growth and development of his people. He is a voice for the voiceless in their quest for human rights. 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 man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Vivian Yvette Bright in recognition of her tireless work and dedication on behalf of her church and her community. Vivian Yvette Bright wears numerous hats. She is committed to the never-ending fight for her community and the development of our youth. She believes that it is important to try and do as much as you can for as many as you can for as long as you can. This is illustrated by her exhaustive list of associations. Vivian is a life member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and past President of Delta Alpha Zeta Chapter; life member of the National Council of Negro Women; Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Cypress Community Day Care Center; Trustee of Addiction Research & Treatment Center/Urban Research Institute; member, Board of Directors of the Brooklyn NAACP; Community Board #5 Vice President and Chair of the Land Use Committee; President of the Leadership Council of Open Communities of Brooklyn, Inc.; Business Manager of the Concerned Women of Brooklyn--among many other affiliations. In addition, since 1989, she has served as the Business Administrator and Director of the Community and Family Life Center of the Berean Missionary Baptist Church. Vivian has also received countless awards for her outstanding work-- some of which include: Brooklyn Navy Yard Community Leadership; the Lucille Rose Humanitarian Award--NAACP; Governor Carey International Year of the Child Award; New Horizons Village Homeowners Leadership Award; as well as a long list of awards from New York's many distinguished elected officials. Vivian is a remarkable woman with unbelievable stamina; her many successes and honors come from hard work and a strong education. She received her Masters of Science in Human Resources Management from the New School for Social Research; she graduated in the first class of the Pratt Institutes Community Economic Development Program; and also holds a BS in accounting; Vivian is also listed in ``Who's Who of American Women''. On top of her many other accomplishments, Vivian is a proud wife and mother receiving constant support from her husband of 42 years, Lonnie Bright and their children, Gary, Teresa, Marvin, Jamal, and Tiffany. Mr. Speaker, Vivian Yvette Bright is a tireless leader in her community. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Denise Peterson-Pendarvis in recognition of her long term commitment to her community. Denise Peterson-Pendarvis attended New York City Public Schools, namely P.S. 287, P.S. 307; Junior High School 265 and Fort Hamilton High School. Later, Ms. Peterson-Pendarvis obtained a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. In 1992, she received her Juris Doctor Degree from Seton Hall Law School in Newark, NJ. Ms. Peterson-Pendarvis is currently a Government Relations Liaison at KeySpan Corporation. In this position she represents the corporation in its work with federal, state, and local governments. Prior to joining KeySpan, she worked for the New York City Board of Education as a Special Education Suspension Hearing Officer. She also worked as a Court Attorney for the late Civil Court Judge Ralph Sparks, Judge Kathym Smith and the Pro Se Attorney at Bronx County Landlord/Tenant Court. Ms. Peterson-Pendarvis also worked for many years as an assistant in my office. In addition, to her full-time job, Ms. Peterson-Pendarvis is the President of the Board of Directors of Ryerson Towers where she has resided for the past twenty years. She is responsible for inter alia, overseeing operations and management of the $5 million corporation. She serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors of the Marcus Garvey Nursing Home; and recently joined the Board of Directors of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Health Complex. She is also a board member of the Clinton Hill Consortium of Homeowners Inc. a newly formed organization that advances the concerns of the cooperators of the Clinton Hill/Fort Greene area. In 1978, Ms. Peterson-Pendarvis became interested in ``politics'' and its relationship to the community. Since that time, she has coordinated numerous successful campaigns for all levels of elective office. Denise has proven leadership, organizational, and advocacy skills. She is constantly assisting those who may be less fortunate. She remains aware of where she came from and appreciates those who supported and guided her along the way. Mr. Speaker, Denise Peterson-Pendarvis is a tireless worker and community leader. 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 Audrey Lee Jacobs in recognition of her outstanding service to the community. Audrey Lee Jacobs, MBA, JD is the President and CEO of Lyndon Baines Johnson Health Complex, Inc. In her short tenure, LBJ has made significant gains. Due in large part to Ms. Jacobs' strong business acumen, commitment and leadership, LBJ has earned an 11% increase in patient visits and produced a profit in fiscal year 2000--the first such increases in a number of years; established financial and operational, established a staff development and training program with Medgar Evers College and Wyckoff Heights Medical Center. This child of Brooklyn's 10th Congressional District, having spent a number of years working throughout the United States for several of the world's largest corporations, is pleased to have returned to serve the community in which she was born. Ms. Jacobs attended the New York City public school system, graduating from Andrew Jackson High School as one of the top students in her class. She attended Vassar College on a full scholarship and majored in psychology. Along the way, Ms. Jacobs developed a keen interest in business as she watched her entrepreneurial parents establish and run their own small businesses. When asked why she chose a business career, Ms. Jacobs remarked, ``I have always found business to be an exciting, challenging and rewarding environment where I could use all of my talents and enjoy myself at the same time''. She began her career in marketing working for several multi-national corporations, including Mobil Oil Corporation and AT&T. In 1985, with those experiences under her belt and the desire to expand her knowledge in business, Ms. Jacobs entered one of the top business schools in the country, the University of Texas at Austin. In 1988, when she was awarded the Master in Business Administration degree from the University, she decided to enter a law school instead of immediately re-entering the corporate world. In the fall of 1988, Ms. Jacobs enrolled in the law school of her choice, Columbia University School of Law. Having studied corporate law, Ms. Jacobs ``cut her teeth'' at two prestigious Park Avenue law firms. Shortly after receiving the Juris Doctor Degree from Columbia in 1991, Ms. Jacobs joined the mayoral administration of David N. Dinkins. Serving as an assistant to the president of the NYC Health & Hospital Corporation. When the Dinkins administration ended, Ms. Jacobs returned to the practice of law. Though the years, Ms. Jacobs has been active in the alumni associations of Vassar and Columbia Law School; and she has raised funds for many community and political organizations. She has acted as a mentor to countless youth and has served as a volunteer lawyer with legal clinics representing the poor. Mr. Speaker, Audrey Lee Jacobs is a Brooklyn success story. She has spent many years building an exemplary academic record and professional career and now she has come home to Brooklyn to share her success with her home community. As such she is more than worthy of receiving this recognition 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 Jehnel Denise Bannister in recognition of her religious commitment and service to her community. Jehnel Denise Bannister was born on January 28, 1967. She was raised by her mother, Dolores Autry, and is the older of two children. She graduated from St. Augustine's College in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1989 where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. Jehnel is currently employed as a Vocational/ Recreational Counselor for the Project Return Foundations Women's Day Treatment Program. In 1991, she became a member of the New Canaan Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Richard J. Lawson. Jehnel is also very active in her community in many other ways; she is a member of the A.L.C. Coral Ensemble, the Putnam Avenue Block Association, and a supervisor of the Youth United in the Body of Christ (which is a body of young Christians trying to make a difference in her church and her community). Jehnel enjoys working and making a difference in the lives of young people. She believes that it is important to bridge the gap between the youth and the older members of the church. Jehnel's favorite scripture is ``I can do all things through Christ who strengths me''. (Philippians 4:13) Jehnel believes that whatever God has for her is for her, so she does not worry about people and circumstances. Jehnel just continues to trust in God. Mr. Speaker, Jehnel Denise Bannister is a young woman of faith who is committed to her church and her community. As such, I believe that she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly spiritual woman.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Edna Fulton in recognition of her outstanding service to the Bedford Stuyvesant community. Edna Fulton is a lifelong resident of Brooklyn and a product of the New York City Public School System. She is the daughter of Beatrice Keyes, and the mother of three children, Willie, AyTasha and Darrell and the grandmother of E'lise, Chel'Si and Darrell Edward. She graduated from Eastern District High School and went on to attend Brooklyn College and the College of New Rochelle. In 1972, she began her career with Citibank as a bank teller and over the years, with the support of family, friends, and her valued customers, was elevated to Branch Manager and to Assistant Vice-President, the position she retired from in 1998. The walls of Edna's home are lined with many awards presented to her over the years as a testament to her concern, love, dedication, professionalism and hard work. Though many of the awards are corporate recognitions from Citibank saluting her for a job well done, the plaques and certificates from community based organizations acknowledging her service and support hold a special place in her heart. Over the past thirty years, her relationship with her customers and the community have allowed her to become known as dependable, reliable, and ``ready, willing, and able'' to assist, to serve, to counsel and to advise, always with a smile and a word of encouragement. In 1999, Edna was approached by the Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation to serve as the Bursar/Customer Service Representative for the various programs and services, to include the Youth Arts Academy, Abra ka Zebra Gift Shop and the RITE Center for computer training. Ms. Fulton loves being able to once again serve her beloved community of Bedford Stuyvesant. Edna also is a member of the St. Paul Community Church. As a working woman, and with all the ``hats'' she wears as a daughter, a mother, and a grandmother, she always makes time to serve and support the endeavors of her community. Mr. Speaker, Edna Fulton has been a shining light in each of the many roles that she has filled. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving this recognition 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 Nicole Chris-stina Mason in recognition of her selection as the Concerned Women of Brooklyn's Youth of the Year. Nicole Chris-stina Mason was born in Brooklyn on October 8, 1984 and she has been raising eyebrows ever since. She is currently a junior at Boys and Girls High with a B average in the honors program. As she looks to the future, Nicole is preparing for the challenges and opportunities that will be offered in college. She is planning attending either Ohio State or the University of Florida to study Computer Engineering next fall. In addition to focusing on her schoolwork, Nicole is involved in numerous other activities. At Boys and Girls High School, during the spring semester, Nicole is a part of the softball team. She has been on the team now for three-years and hopes to continue playing in college. Also, during her lunchtime, Nicole volunteers in the school snack store. When she is not in school, Nicole works part-time at McDonald's to save money for college. During Nicole's young life she has already received numerous honors: in junior high school, Nicole received the Principal Award for being on the honor roll for both years of Junior High School; she received an athletic award, a leadership award, a Presidential Education Award signed by then President Bill Clinton, and a Science Award from the United Federation of Teachers Science Committee for my Science Award winning 1st place in the science fair. More recently, at Boys and Girls High School she has received awards in math and computer as ``student of the month'', a Martin Luther King Jr. Award, an Achievement Award, several Honor Roll plaques, and also had her picture and biography in the United States Achievement Academy 2000 National Awards book for Foreign Language. Outside of school, she has received a Choir Member of the Year Award from Berean Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Speaker, Nicole Chris-stina Mason is a rising star. She has received numerous awards and is just beginning what will be a life full of success. This weekend she is being honored by the Concerned Women of Brooklyn as their Youth of the Year. As such, she is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this young woman on the cusp of stardom.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Mr. Neil J. Moore in recognition of his service to New York City's healthcare community. Neil J. Moore has spent his entire career with the New York City Health and Hospital Corporation since starting as a High School Cooperative Intern in 1979. He has established a true commitment to public service. Today, he is a results oriented executive with broad- based knowledge in all areas of hospital finance. He is presently the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at the North Brooklyn Health Network which includes Woodhull Hospital and Cumberland Diagnostic and Treatment Center. He has served in numerous capacities at other Health and Hospitals Corporation facilities including Kings County Hospital, East New York Diagnostic and Treatment Center and Dr. Susan Smith McKinney Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He received a Masters of Public Administration degree from Long Island University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources from St. Joseph College and has also completed studies towards an MBA degree. In addition, he completed an executive development program in Public Policy at New York University. Neil is affiliated with several national organizations, which includes the American College of Health Care Executives, The National Association of Health Services Executives, The National Association of Public Hospitals and the Health Care Finance Management Association. He volunteers his services as the Treasurer for the New York Chapter of the National Association of Health Service Executives. Neil provides mentorship to undergraduates and graduate students from the Institute of Diversity, a program designed to develop aspiring minority health care executives. He is also involved in the Long Island University mentoring program. He has conducted motivational speaking lectures for high school students on many occasions. His goal is to make a difference and to close the gap in the disparities that exist in healthcare by ensuring that more minority students become health care providers. Neil is married to Carol Moore. He and Carol are the proud parents of Oneika, Dionne and Joshua. Mr. Speaker, Neil J. Moore has dedicated himself to the healthcare and education of his community. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving this recognition and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly remarkable man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the outstanding community service of Sharonnie M. Perry. Sharronie Perry was bom in Bedford Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, New York. She is the mother of two sons, Da-Shawn and Jah-Son and the proud grandmother of Jayla and Jah-Son. Serving her church and her community for over thirty years, Sharonnie has distinguished herself as a hard worker committed to service. She is part of numerous community organizations, including Our Lady of Charity Church, The Knights of Peter Claver Auxiliary Court 229 and Solid Ground Ministries where she works closely with Father James E. Goode and Grandlady Carmela Rodriguez. Involving herself in the politics of the community. She has served as a campaign manager for some of Brooklyn's most powerful elected officials from all levels of government. Sharonnie is currently the District Director in my Fulton Street Office as well as the Chairperson of Community Board 5. Following her motto: ``I have come to serve and not be served'', Sharonnie has received numerous awards and acknowledgements for her tireless efforts. By extending her hands to those in need and dedicating her life to her brothers and sister. Sharonnie has brought hope to those on the verge of giving up. As Co-Chair of the Ladies HIV/ AIDS and Homeless Ministry, she helps to provide meals, shelter and the comfort of visitation to those many choose to forget. As the founder of the First Women's Day to be held in the Catholic Church, Sharonnie raised over $75,000 in funds to buy a church van for Our Lady of Charity Church and to make renovations in the Malcolm-Bethune Hall. Sharonnie has evangelized on both the local and national levels. Performing the opening prayer service at the National Convention for the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary for the past six years has been one of her greatest pleasures. She has had the honor of being invited to be the keynote speaker at the Young Black Achievers program and the HIV/AIDS prayer service in the Archdiocese of New York. Using a very personal and ``hands on''' approach, Sharonnie has been invited over and over again to conduct workshops across the City. Most recently, she facilitated the HIV/AIDS workshop for the Office of Black Catholics in the Bronx. Sharonnie, also conducted a workshop in July 2001 for the National Gathering of Black Catholic Women sponsored by the National Black Sister Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Sharonnie Perry's contributions to Brooklyn have definitely improved the quality of life for her neighbors and 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 Vernon K. Jones in recognition of his remarkable career in business and as an entrepreneur. Vernon K. Jones is married to Marcella Jones, a dance teacher at JHS 258, in Brooklyn; they have two sons, Vernon Jr. and Avery. They own a home in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. Vernon has a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting with extensive coursework in Business Management and Marketing, from St. Francis College, in Brooklyn. He used his education to become an Accountant for the Industrial Bank of Japan. After working there for two years he joined Showtime/The Movie Channel as an Accounting Coordinator. Following one year in that position he decided to go out on his own and start his own business. Vernon started a commercial building maintenance company, Reliable Cleaning Corp. His company grew to employ over 25 full time and 15 part time employees. The company was re-organized in 1996, giving employees the opportunity to own and operate their own independent cleaning service business, as an alternative to franchising. Within a four-year period, Reliable, Inc. grew to over 150 accounts. Vernon helped to start over 50 entrepreneurs in their own commercial cleaning business in New York City. Last year, Mr. Jones sold his cleaning business to one of the companies that he helped to start so that he could fully concentrate on the development of his new business venture,'' itsaboute.com, inc''. His new corporation is responsible for creating business concepts and developing these concepts into strong independent businesses. ``Itsaboute.com, inc.'' will own a majority stake in each developed business. This has been a dream of Vernon's since he was a young boy, to own a majority stake in various businesses that he conceptualized. The first company developed by ``itsaboute.com, inc.'' is New York City Teachers, Inc. This company was developed to leverage the power of the teachers in the NYC Public School system. Through Vernon's marketing and business management experience, New York City Teachers, Inc. already have over 6,000 teachers on board with the company. This is remarkable because the company was just launched in May 2001, with the help of his wife, Marcella. Just as in the commercial cleaning business, Vernon is using unorthodox marketing strategies. He is giving all 81,000 NYC public school teachers an equity stake in the Corporation. The goal is to have all of the teachers involved, through a monthly newspaper that will be sent to every teacher's home, which will begin within the next 6 months. He is also in the process of partnering with a Massachusetts company, which has agreed to provide Internet access to all NY Teachers and this will form a strong Online community, very similar to America Online. The online teacher community is ``NYCteachers.com'', and the offline teacher community will be the monthly newspaper, seminars events to honor good teachers, etc. In between running his businesses and spending time with his family. Vernon coaches youth basketball teams during, the summer, fall and winter seasons. This is his way to educate kids about life. Mr. Speaker, Vernon K. Jones is a remarkable businessman, entrepreneur and community leader. As such he is more than worthy of receiving our recognition today. I urge my colleagues to joining me in honoring this truly remarkable man.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of a dynamic community leader, a good friend, and a committed protector of his neighborhood, the late James Worth. He will be sorely missed by all of those who knew him. Over forty years ago, James Worth left his native North Carolina and arrived in Brooklyn. Since that time, he built a fine family with his wife, Ruth and a legacy of hard work and dedication to his community. Among his many achievements, he started a community garden where people would gather and discuss the issues of the day. That garden remains an oasis in a community that faces its share of difficulties. In addition, he was the long time leader of the Georgia Ave. Block Association. James' commitment to his community extended beyond his civic concerns, as he was involved in the political arena as well. If someone was going to represent James' community, James wanted to be sure to check them out first. Mr. Speaker, the late James Worth was a hard working community leader, a dedicated political leader and a true friend to all those who knew him. As such, he is more than worthy of receiving this recognition and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly admirable man who will be sorely missed.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of P.O. Gladys Figueroa in recognition of her twenty-one years of service to the New York City Police Department and the people of New York. Gladys Figueroa was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico. Her parents brought her to New York City in search of a better life when she was four years old. They settled in Williamsburg, Brooklyn where she attended elementary through high school. She graduated from Eastern District High School in 1971. After her first semester at Queens College, Gladys decided to leave school and enter the work force. Gladys has been working since the age of 14 as a summer youth worker. While working, she held various positions: Receptionist, Administrative Aide, Legal Secretary, Cashier, Salesperson, and Waitress. At the same time, she was always looking for something else. She attended various trade schools, such as Airline Training, Massage, Home Improvement, etc. in January 1980, she finally found her home when she joined the ranks of the New York City Police Department. She was assigned to the 79th Precinct where she spent 13 years of her career. Her first assignment was to patrol the streets of Bedford-Stuyvesant. She saw everything that her precinct had to offer; her worst assignments were dealing with domestic violence issues. After five years on patrol she was assigned to the Community Affairs office of the 79th Precinct, where she remained for the subsequent eight years. Her most rewarding task was working with the Youth and Community Councils. In 1994, Gladys was transferred to the Brooklyn North Community Affairs Office. She remained there until her retirement date on September 30, 2001. Gladys is a people person. She enjoyed the various tasks associated with representing the police in a positive way with the community. She assisted in senior citizens programs, the Citizens Academy, and girl's basketball. She was especially fond of working holidays with senior citizens or bringing food to homebound AIDS patients. One of her last assignments was to join the Domestic Violence unit of the 90th Precinct. Her next assignment will be her most significant and most difficult, serving as a full time mom to her pride and joy, 14-year-old Diola, and 12-year-old Alejandro Castillo. Mr. Speaker, Gladys Figueroa has served the people of Brooklyn and New York City for over twenty-one years of proud and dedicated service as a New York City Police Officer. As such, she is more than worthy of 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 Renae Smith in recognition of her outstanding work on behalf of children. Renae Smith comes from generations of those who have been involved and have always contributed to their community in some form or fashion. Throughout the years she has dedicated her time to charitable and volunteer work. She began her involvement in the community during the 1960's as a member of Brooklyn C.O.R.E. While working at Kingsboro Jewish Medical Center, in the Telecommunications Department, she served as a member of the Executive Hearings and Appeals Board on both Hospital and Guild Divisions for 1199 Hospital Union. She also served as a member of the Chapter Hearing and Appeals Board within the Hospital. In addition, Renae has served as a delegate to several departments of Kingsbrook, as well as, borough representative for all Brooklyn Hospitals with an 1199 affiliation. Renae also has worked in real estate marketing and sales in addition to having an appraisal background from New York University. In 1987, Renae, became a member of Saint Mary Episcopal Church joining the Episcopal Church women's group and serving on the Altar Guild. In 1990, Renae served as the Vice President of the Crown Heights Kiwanis Club International. She helped focus the efforts of the club on the needs of children. Under Renae's guidance, the organization became involved with Magnolia Tree--A Tree Grows in Brooklyn Project. The project involved 100 international children working to improve and enhance the beauty by planting trees. Renae became a licensed Foster Parent with the Richard Allen Center on Life Agency in 1994. She received her twin boys in early 1996 and was appointed to the executive board of Foster and Adoptive Parents Association. Continuing to be a Foster Parent in 1996, Renae came to the Central Brooklyn Coordinating Council--CBCC. In 1997, Renae was appointed to the Executive Board for Foster and Adoptive Parents Association locally. Recently, Renae was appointed to serve on the By- laws Committee, for Eureka Grand Chapter in 1998 OESPHA. Renae is currently an Executive Board member of the New York State Foster and Adoptive Parents Association as Chairperson of Community Development. She is a member of International and National Foster Parents Association and a candidate for Regional II Vice-President. Renae is an advisor to the Forestdale Family Service Agency, Little Flower Family Service Agency and Foster and Adoptive Parent Association Board Locals. She has facilitated many workshops on Foster and Adoptive Care in School District 17. Renae is also an Executive Board Member of Community Board 17 serving on the Education and Commerce Committees. She is Chair of the Foster Care Sub-committee under the Social Services Committees. While working tirelessly on behalf of her community, Renae has also raised her daughter. She has been blessed by the success of her daughter and her daughter's dedication to give back to the community in any way that she can. Mr. Speaker, Renae Smith is committed to serving children and 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.