Ed Towns

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Pastor Mary Allen for her devotion and work with her church and within her community. Pastor Mary Allen is a loving wife and proud mother of two beautiful children, Minister Monica Allen and Minister Clinton Allen. She has been married to Bishop Clenso Allen for 45 years and they celebrated their wedding anniversary on May 3, 2011. Prior to her extensive involvement with her church, Pastor Mary Allen was an employee at Chase Manhattan Bank for 17 years. She eventually left the business world to pursue a calling in prayer and righteousness. Pastor Mary Allen has taken up leadership roles as the head of the Daughters of Naomi Women Empowerment Fellowship in her church and as the Director of the Calvary Outreach Ministry. Pastor Mary Allen uses all at her disposal to engage the needy and spread her ministry to them. In 1995 Pastor Mary Allen attained a higher level of ministry as she was ordained as an Elder. She pursued this higher level of ministry after God called her to proclaim His word and spread her faith among her peers. She is presently serving as co-Pastor under the leadership of her husband Bishop Clenso Allen. Pastor Mary Allen has acquired several accolades over the years because of her work with the church. On June 15, 2008 she received her Doctor of Divinity Degree from International Christian University in Chesapeake Virginia. In March 2010 she was named by District Attorney Charles Haynes along with 30 other women as Outstanding Women in Brooklyn, New York. Pastor Mary Allen continues to spread the word of the Lord and works fervently within her community to help the needy. Her favorite Scripture can be found in the book of Philippians 4:13, ``I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me''. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the life and accomplishments of Pastor Mary Allen.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, let me just sort of set the record straight and explain things. When President Obama came into office, we were in debt, and we were also involved in two wars. And when President Clinton left office, there was a surplus. So we need to make certain that we keep our facts in line. So I stand here this morning with the Out of Poverty Caucus to voice my opposition to the Cut, Cap, and Balance Act passed by this body yesterday. Furthermore, I'm very disturbed that many of the policies being promoted by some of my colleagues are unjust and they are just plain wrong. Cutting back on Medicare and Social Security is unfair to the senior citizens who have worked hard all of their lives and should not have to worry at this point whether they can afford to go to the doctor or buy the medicine that they need. Let me add, I am baffled at times by the fact that many of my colleagues refuse to even consider how unjust their proposals are. Yes, we must reduce our debt burden. I agree with that. But it is unjust to balance the budget on the backs of the poor and most vulnerable citizens in our Nation. The wealthy must join in the sacrifice. They must be included. According to a report by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, two-thirds of the income gains in the United States from 2002 to 2007 went to the top 1 percent of the income earners. Many of my colleagues are saying give them more tax breaks. They're not even asking for more. But they're saying give them more. Many of the Members of this body believe it's all right to balance the budget by taking food out of the mouths of babies, by cutting WIC programs. Imagine how terrible it must be for a mother or father to send their kid to bed hungry at night. That is why I stand for the Out of Poverty Caucus and say enough is enough.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to oppose H.R. 2553, the Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2011. This bill would add controversial policy riders that have not been negotiated and would cause undue harm to critical FAA programs that support thousands of public and private sector jobs. I urge my colleagues to pass a clean FAA extension so that capital accounts which support Grants-in-Aid for Airports, Facilities and Equipment can continue to remain functional. Without this much needed funding stream these programs would be shut down, and approximately 4,000 employees would be furloughed. With a 9.2% unemployment rate nationwide Congress must act in a bipartisan manner to help stabilize and enhance job creation. Again I urge my colleagues to come to a reasonable consensus and support a clean extension of airport and airway funding.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge this Administration to join in the efforts to reach a reunification agreement on the island of Cyprus. For many years, international organizations have been engaged in the efforts to bring about a negotiated compromise to the dispute in Cyprus and a reunification of the island. These negotiations have been focused around coming to a solution which benefits both Cypriot communities. On July 7, 2011, the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders met with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon in Geneva in a new effort to reach a deal on reunification. Secretary Ban Ki-Moon is pushing both sides to come to an agreement before Cyprus takes up a steering role in the European Union. This was the third round of three-way talks that Secretary Ban Ki-Moon has held with Cyprus Leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu. I stand today to ask the Administration to take an active role to bring about a solution that would benefit both Cypriot communities. This ongoing disagreement is not helpful and reunification of Cyprus will only benefit the world community. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Philip Gordon, testified that ``resolution of the Cyprus problem will have a tremendous impact on the region by strengthening peace, justice, and prosperity on the island, advancing Turkey's European Union accession, improving NATO-EU cooperation and removing a source of friction between two NATO Allies, Greece and Turkey.'' I wholeheartedly agree and urge the Administration to take action to ensure that an accord is achieved that would lead to an independent government with both Greek and Turkish Cypriot governmental engagement.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Miss Susie Mushatt Jones for her love of life and service to her children. Miss Susie as those close to her call her, was born in Lowndes County, Alabama, as the third of 11 children. Being raised in the segregated south, Miss Susie developed a warm and kind heart from the love her mother and father expressed. Throughout her life she has been led by a basic principle of giving all that she has, while living an upbeat life. Miss Susie looks favorably and positively on her early life. After graduating from high school, she taught for two months before going to New Jersey in 1922. In New Jersey, Miss Susie worked for a wealthy white family which gave her the opportunity to travel from coast to coast. Using her resources, Miss Susie was able to send two of her nieces to college while sending lavish gifts to other family members. While traveling between coasts Miss Susie looks back fondly on her time spent in Hollywood where she was able to meet movie stars such as Clark Gable, Cary Grant, and George Raft. Before retiring in 1965, during the height of the civil rights movement, she took a job with a Westchester County family that offered her great resources that would further support her family. Recently Miss Susie lost her vision, but has managed to still be an active member in her community, carrying on with an infectious laugh and upbeat attitude. She remains an active member of The Vandalia Houses tenant patrol, sitting in the lobby asking guests to sign in. Miss Susie Jones has lived a full and joyful life, and celebrated her 112th birthday this week. She is believed to be the oldest living New Yorker! The Vandalia Senior Center funded by NYC Department for the Aging and sponsored by Millennium Development will be hosting a party later in the month to honor this milestone. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the life of Miss Susie Mushatt Jones.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ms. Wilma Carthan for her service to and excellence throughout her community as a model citizen. Ms. Wilma Carthan is an individual who understands and fully utilizes the opportunities provided by the Great Society programs. Ms. Carthan is a revered community leader who successfully raised six children as a single mother, and tirelessly worked her way from welfare recipient to social service executive. Over a period of fifteen years anti-poverty programs assisted Ms. Carthan in obtaining a high school diploma, a Bachelor's Degree and a Masters Degree. A career which started as a neighborhood community action worker steadily changed into social worker positions. She became administrator of youth programs and eventually Director of Community Affairs, Marketing and Patient Advocacy at the Brownsville Multi- Service Family Health Center, one of the nation's oldest community health centers. Because of her insights, team-work skills and bountiful grass roots wisdom, Wilma Carthan has been called upon to serve in many research studies, group counseling and community planning efforts. At Syracuse University she assisted in the study of violent criminal behavior, was a co-author of a book on criminology entitled Pro-Social Gang: Implementing Aggression Replacement Training. She served on the New York City Board of Education Board of Examiners and also was on teams evaluating Title I reimbursable programs. For two decades she served as chairperson of the Board of the 200 Central Avenue Day Care Center. She is the recipient of numerous honors and awards but the most appropriate and revealing one is the unofficial title conferred upon her once as ``The First Lady of Brooklyn Community Action''. As she celebrates this 75th birthday Wilma Carthan is probably most proud of the success of her sons and daughters who, despite the hardships of poverty, have all become productive family builders with more than a dozen grandchildren now climbing the ladder to self- sufficiency as they fulfill their American dream. More than can be communicated with hundreds of slogans and thousands of words Wilma Carthan's life sends a message of revelation and how the highest returns are realized through our government's investment in our neediest citizens. With great admiration and appreciation we salute Wilma Carthan. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the work of Wilma Carthan.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize ``Kid'' Kelly Colome. Kelly Colome was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico to hard working parents who traveled from Dominican Republic in search of a better life. His father, who had a partial college education, took a job as a cook to support his young family. Kelly's mother was a hard working Christian mother who always made sure to take her four children to school, church, and family activities despite her constant suffering from chronic asthma since childhood. Kelly learned the value of hard work and efforts from having to go to school with his older brother at the age of 3. He fought and worked hard with his mother on progressing and skipping a grade to attend the same school as his brother. In 1988, his parents moved with the family of six to Washington Heights, New York, where his father found a good art school for his son Kelly to continue his education and love for art and design. In 1990, Kelly was accepted to the High School of Art and Design without having taken any formal art classes. He joined the high school baseball team and began practicing the sport of boxing simultaneously. He was able to pay for his boxing membership costs with his part time Saturday job at Isabella Geriatric Center on the Meals on Wheels neighborhood elderly meals program. Later that year, he continued practicing only boxing because he was more passionate towards this sport and the personal challenges involved with practicing the sport. In 1994, he graduated from high school at the age of sixteen. He studied advertising design at New York City College of Technology while practicing boxing, working part time, and still finding time to socialize with family and friends. In 1997, he obtained an Associate's degree and in 2001, he earned a Bachelors of Technology in Communications Design. The birth of his first child in 1999 helped him mature as a young man and he obtained a fulltime job as a dietary worker at the senior citizens center where he had been employed for almost ten years. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Colome for his extraordinary accomplishments and spirit which reflect the best our nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Martin Stroman. Elder Martin Stroman has been a member of the St. Paul Community Baptist Church since November 1997. He joined after being convicted by the revolutionary and biblical based theology of the Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood. He has been active in a host of ministries. He has been working in the field of addiction treatment for the past nineteen years. He has been exposed to various treatment modalities. Some of them had a religious perspective, others have been spiritually based and many are clinically driven. Elder Stroman's professional profile is as follow: educator, trainer, motivator, administrator, program developer, advisor, adjunct professor, entrepreneur and twenty year background in chemical dependency and substance abuse treatment. Elder Stroman has a Bachelors of Science Degree in Human Services along with many Certificates and Citations relating to his field of work. He is affiliated with the Bedford-Stuyvesant Alcoholism Treatment Center Community Advisory Board as well as Kingsborough. With the joint 350 CASAC Certificate Program the mission statement reads: ``Educated communities, save communities. Our commitment is to provide education and training to improve the quality of life in our community and the world. Educated providers, empower educated clients. We are dedicated to changing client thinking and believing.'' Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Stroman for his extraordinary accomplishments and spirit which reflect the best our nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Norma Bang. Norma is a native New Yorker, born and raised in Red Hook, Brooklyn. She graduated from John Jay High School in Park Slope Brooklyn, New York in 1978. Norma has worked in various positions throughout her career including seven years working in New York's Garment center, two years working on Wall Street in Bank Operations, and twelve years as a Facilities Manager for a large non-profit organization, Homes for the Homeless. Norma joined Related Companies in December 2002 as a Property Manager of Gateway Center in East New York, Brooklyn. Norma's successful operations of Gateway Center and her excellent relationship with the tenants and the local community is a valuable contribution to Related's development efforts in the New York area. Norma currently resides in Queens, New York along with her husband of twenty years, Kenneth and three children Brian & Brandon ages seventeen and Nia age twenty. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mrs. Bang for her extraordinary accomplishments and her spirit which reflect the best our nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Pastor Grayling Ferrand. Pastor Ferrand serves on Friends of Recovery, a statewide grass root advocacy board because of his passion and firsthand knowledge of those impacted or affected by the disease of addiction. He is committed towards reducing the adverse effects of alcoholism and drug addiction via advocating for better prevention, treatment and recovery services in the New York State area and abroad. He was born in Harlem, New York and is the eldest son of eight siblings. He joined in matrimony with Talisa S. Ferrand and together they have one daughter and five grandchildren. Pastor Ferrand earned a Masters Degree and received an Honorary Doctorate Degree from the Bible Faith School on May 18, 2008. He worked at Reality House Inc, obtained his CASAC, and became part of the NYS OASAS faculty helping individuals facing drug and alcohol addiction. He also worked as a Program Director in other treatment programs. In 2010 he received a Human Services Board Certified Practitioner certification. He is the author of three books entitled: ``We Fall Down But We Get Up'' (the Prodigal Son), Life After Death (The Do's & Don't) and Nos Caemos Pero Nos Levantamos (El Hijo Prodigo). Pastor Ferrand's Christian journey was influenced by many of the socio-cultural and political dynamics impacting society during the time of the Civil Rights Movements and Black Panthers. He was also raised in the Baptist faith. In 1999 Pastor Ferrand began attending the Temple of Blessings C.O.G.I.C. under the leadership of Pastor David Grayson Jr. where he became an armor bearer and then a Deacon. In September 2000, Pastor Ferrand was ordained by Overseer Frieda Harrison of the Jehovah Jireh Ministries. He and his wife then organized the ``Reaching Across the World Ministries, Inc. (RAWM)'', with the mission of providing human services that are geared toward reducing social ills impacting humanity. Pastor Ferrand expanded services at RAWM's to include a 350 Hour Educational Training Program, licensed by the NYS Office of Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Services, the North Carolina Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board and the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors. He continues to provide annual summer youth employment, counseling, self help groups, job interviewing skills, college internships for undergraduates and graduates as well as a host of other human services. As a result of his servitude, he has received numerous proclamations and other accolades. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Pastor Grayling Ferrand for his extraordinary accomplishments and his spirit which reflect the best our nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Rev. Dr. Anthony M. Graham. At the age of twelve, Anthony Graham was inspired to join the ministry. It was at that time that he began preaching in his local assembly. At the age of seventeen, he graduated from Andrew Jackson High School and entered the United States Army. After six years in the military, serving in Washington State and Korea; he enrolled in York College, where he met his lovely wife Leslie-Ann. They have been married for 20 years with three children, Amara, Anthony Jr, and Amira. Dr. Graham is listed in Who's Who in American Universities & Colleges. He graduated with a B.S. in accounting from York College, a M.B.A. from St. John's University, a Doctor of Ministry from Bakke Graduate University and a PhD from Georgetown Wesleyan University. Dr. Graham, who was selected as the Claude A. Ries Pastor of the Year for 2005 by Houghton College, is a tenured High School teacher in the New York Public School System. He is an accomplished pastor, teacher, and conference speaker. Dr. Graham serves as Senior pastor of the New Hope Family Worship Center, an inner-city multicultural ministry. This church was planted twenty years ago and started with twelve members. It now has a weekly average attendance of 500 people. New Hope has several ministries, including an after-school program, computer literacy program, G.E.D. program, compassion Ministries (providing food and clothing to the needy). In his district he is also recognized as a leader. He was elected on four occasions as a delegate to General Conference for his district, has served as Chairman of the Metropolitan Zone for five years and has been a member of the District Board of Administration for fourteen years. He has traveled and ministered in several parts of the world, including Australia, Barbados, Canada, China, Colombia South America, England, Guyana, Jamaica, India, Korea, Russia, St. Thomas, Trinidad & Tobago, and in many parts of the United States. He frequently ministers in the areas of revival, Christian development, financial stewardship, team building and principles for success in life. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the accomplishments of Rev. Dr. Anthony M. Graham.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Santos Crespo. Santos Crespo, a Bronx native, started in the labor movement in 1975 when he and other co-workers helped to organize the Substance Abuse Counselors in the New York City Board of Education. He would be elected shop steward in his district after they became members of the New York City Board of Education Employees Local 372, District Council 37, AFSCME, and served for over 10 years as its Executive Vice President. Today, he is presently the President of the largest municipal employees union in New York City, District Council 37, AFSCME, and the President of the largest local union within DC 37, representing over 26,000 employees within the New York City Department of Education, Local 372. Santos is also a founding member and currently the chairperson of the DC 37 Latino Heritage Committee, served for 6 years as President of the New York City Chapter of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA), a member of the New York City Hispanic Labor Committee and he also serves on LCLAA National Executive Board. He is a member of the New York City Chapter of Coalition of Black Trade Unionist (CBTU) and a former Teaching Fellow for the Organizing Institute of the AFL-CIO. Santos has received numerous awards; Humanitarian Assistance Award for his assistance during the recovery efforts at the World Trade Center tragedy, The New York Daily News Viva New York as a 2004 Latino Influential, The New York Dominican Officers Organization for Outstanding Service in the Labor Movement and the New York LCLAA Labor Award, The New York Hispanic Labor Committee Friambrerra Labor Award and The New York State Puerto Rican/Hispanic Legislative Task Force Somo El Futuro Labor Award, and the 111th Congress paid tribute to his leadership and commitment in the labor community by entering his accomplishments into the records of the House. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Crespo' extraordinary achievements

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Sergeant Francisco Estrada. Sgt. Estrada was born on February 8, 1960 in Ponce, Puerto Rico. His father, too, was a policeman and he grew up hearing stories of his father's bravery and dignity while on patrol. These stories inspired him to protect and serve his community. With the help and support of fellow officer Sgt. Victor Perez, Sgt. Estrada worked with the Coney Island community of Searise Towers as a Peace Officer from 1987 to 1992. Afterwards, he became a New York City Hospital Police Officer for Bellevue Hospital. Shortly after in January 1993, he was diagnosed with diabetes. After taking medical leave, the Sergeant gained a civil service position at Woodhull Hospital Police Department. In May 2001, Estrada was given a certificate of appreciation from the New York City Detectives Endowment Association for assisting the NYPD with the Brooklyn Strangler case. After finally achieving the rank of Sergeant in 2002, Estrada finally had the opportunity to teach other officers the skills he acquired. With undying support of his wonderful wife and family and driven by the love of his city, the Sergeant served proudly in New York City for thirty years. In 2009, with much consideration and remorse, Sgt. Estrada retired, citing the medical strain caused by his diabetes. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sergeant Estrada for fighting both crime and disease with nobility and professionalism.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert E. Cornegy, Jr. Robert E. Cornegy, Jr. is the son of the late Reverend Dr. Robert E. Cornegy, Sr., Pastor of the Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Bedford- Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, and (the late) Ellen Journey Cornegy. Both of his parents were active members of the church for a quarter of a century, and it is their spirit of servant leadership that continues to inspire and guide him. Rob is married to his beautiful wife Michelle, and he is the father of six wonderful children (Robert E. Cornegy III, Nicholas Ethan, Nia Imani, Nala Catherine Ellen, Noah and N'Kosi). As a dedicated and passionate community advocate, Rob recognized the needs of the community and used his own funds to purchase and rehabilitate a brownstone where he created ``The Cornegy Residence'': an 18-bed shelter for men suffering from substance abuse and mental health related issues. Rob has a long history of service implementation and delivery focusing on mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness. He gained valuable hands-on experience by implementing an innovative service- delivery program that increased the number of inmates serviced dramatically while working at the Rikers Island Prison Complex. Rob holds a Professional Certificate in the treatment of individuals suffering from substance abuse issues; earned a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Management and holds a Master's degree in Organizational Leadership from Mercy College. He is currently a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church and is the former Director of the Christopher Wallace memorial foundation and Director of the Regional Resource Prevention Center for the Children's Aid society. Rob is also an adjunct professor of Marketing at Brooklyn College. Rob is a community organizer, advocate, and political activist with more than 20 years experience working in underserved communities around New York. He has also worked in various high-capacity political roles ranging from Campaign Manager to Chief of Staff for numerous elected officials in the New York State Assembly and Senate. In 2009 Robert ran for City Council for the 36th District serving Bedford Stuyvesant and Crown Heights. Currently, Rob is State Committeeman/District Leader of the 56th Assembly District serving Bedford Stuyvesant, Crown Heights and parts of Bushwick. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Cornegy for his extraordinary accomplishments and his spirit that reflect the best our Nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jose R. Sanchez. Jose R. Sanchez, is President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian American Hospital, Chicago's only Latino hospital. Jose has a 30-plus year career as a health care executive and possesses a wealth of knowledge of the health care industry. As President and CEO of Norwegian American, Jose is dedicated to enhancing the quality of services provided to more than 112,000 patients annually. Among his first priorities was to lead the management executive team to critically assess and refine the quality of all systems, structures and services that are currently in place. Jose is committed to pursuing collaborative and innovative solutions to combat the health care challenges of the communities the hospital serves: Humboldt Park, West Town, Wicker Park, Logan Square and Austin. Before joining Norwegian American Hospital, Jose was the Senior Vice President of the Generations +/Northern Manhattan Health Network, one of the largest health care networks in the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation. During his tenure, he oversaw three acute care hospitals of which two were level one trauma centers, and 34 community- based health centers in East Harlem, Central Harlem and the South Bronx in New York City. Jose is the architect of the Urban Health Conference, an annual national forum in existence since 2001 that brings together more than 300 health care providers to focus on the disparities in health care for minority populations and strategies to eliminate them. He serves as Chairman of the East Harlem Business Capital Corporation Board of Directors, which provides microlending and business development services for community businesses. In addition, he is a member of the Board of Boricua College in New York. The college was designed to serve the educational needs of Puerto Ricans and other Hispanics. In October 2009, Jose was named among the ``Most Influential Latinos'' in the United States by Hispanic Business Magazine, a New York Times Co. syndicated publication. Jose has been a licensed social worker since 1979. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the City College of New York and a Master of Social Work from Adelphi University. In 2002, he was conferred an honorary doctorate degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. This honor recognized his measurable accomplishments and steadfast commitment to improving the health status of the poorest and most disadvantaged populations in New York City. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Jose R. Sanchez for his extraordinary accomplishments and his spirit that reflect the best our nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Felicia Lemons. Felicia Lemons is a Human Rights Specialist for the New York City Commission on Human rights. She spent her formative years growing up in Linden Plaza, Brooklyn, New York. Her family then moved to Cambria Heights, Queens where she expanded upon the value of family and love of community. Both her parents, Hank and Sadie Lemons emphasized the importance of education, social justice and helping one's neighbor. During a bible study meeting at the House of the Lord Church in Brooklyn, the Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry approached Felicia with an opportunity to work in his outreach ministry. He recruited her to advocate for formerly incarcerated women, as well as minister the gospel of Jesus Christ to the community at large. While under the mentorship of Pastor Daughtry, she trained in all matters of social justice, gender discrimination and serviced the ``least of these'' in the neighborhood. Also while in training, Felicia attended Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus. Felicia was on the Dean's List for seven consecutive semesters and is a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society. Graduating Magna Cum Laude, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. From Long Island University under the advice of Pastor Daughtry and Rev. Dr. Syl Shannon, National Convention Chaplain for Alpha Phi Alpha, Felicia pursued a Masters in Divinity Degree from Duke University. While working on her Masters, she served marginalized communities as a volunteer for Center for community Help in Durham, North Carolina. Felicia returned to New York to work for Commissioner Patricia Gatling at the NYC Commission on Human Rights. Serving as a Human Rights Specialist, she directs her talent and passion to educated and advocate for people transitioning back into the community from prison. In doing so, she works closely with organizations such as Alpha School Project in Brooklyn, Women's Prison Association, Young Women's Leadership program of August Martin High School, New York State Division of Parole, as well as Community Liaison for the Commission on Human Rights. From this work, she has coauthored ``Turning the Game Around,'' a comprehensive resource guide to Employment discrimination under the Human Rights Law for returning citizens of incarceration who desire to have a successful transition in New York City. Felicia continues to persist in her work. She believes to leave one person behind of a million under her watch, is to lose the battle at large. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mrs. Lemons for her extraordinary accomplishments and her spirit which reflect the best our nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alan D. Cohen. Alan was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He is one of four siblings and is a proud graduate of the New York City school system. He received his bachelor's degree from Brooklyn College and holds a master's of Science, Special Education from New York University. He is a Cahn Fellow at Columbia University. Alan has 34 years of educational experience having filled many roles as a teacher, administrator and principal for the New York City Department of Education. He is currently a Network Leader providing support and supervision for principals in 32 New York City schools and prior to that completed seven years as principal of P.S. 69 in the Bronx. In the past he has had various responsibilities in the New York City system, including teaching, mentoring teachers and aspiring principals, high school admissions and supervising student support services. He also implemented a Reggio Emilia inspired early childhood program and spent time in Italy studying as a member of the North American Reggio Emilia Alliance and International Association Friends of Reggio Children. Recently, he has spent his mummers as a group leader at the Principal's Center Summer Institute of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. He also serves as an advisory board member at the Principal's Center. He is also the recipient of the 2007 Time Warner Principals of Excellence Award and the 2006 Outstanding Educator of the Year Award from Education Update. Alan's focus is on enhancing a dynamic child-centered curriculum, fostering professional development and creating a strong sense of community. He will be returning to his passion as a building principal in September, at the Portledge School in Locust Valley, New York. Alan is the ideal educator to build on the traditions and foundations and has the professional background and the enthusiasm to establish Portledge as a leader in early childhood and elementary education. Alan looks forward to a long future of educating the children who will be our leaders of tomorrow. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Mr. Alan D. Cohen for his extraordinary accomplishments and his spirit which reflect the best our nation has to offer.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Christopher Banks. Christopher Banks is the Executive Director and CEO of the East New York United Concerned Citizens, Inc. Born twenty-seven years ago in Brooklyn, NY to immigrant parents from Trinidad and Tobago, his first- hand witness to the struggles of disenfranchised individuals in his community greatly influenced his dedication to public service and advocacy. Mr. Banks attended the New York City High School for Leadership and Public Service, and CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice where he pursued a degree in political science. He founded the East New York United Concerned Citizens, Inc. making his dream of creating a social service and non-profit organization come true. Over the past ten years, Mr. Banks has focused his advocacy on the areas of youth, seniors, block associations and tenant associations to provide services to the East New York community. He has worked in partnership with organizations such as NYC Citizens Committee, East New York Development Corporation, Linden Houses Tenant Association, Emerald Green Tenants Association, The Justice Fund, The East New York Council for the Aging, the National Association of Black Business and Professional Women's Brooklyn Club, and a host of other organizations. Mr. Banks was appointed to Community Board #5, serving as one of the youngest members in the capacity of Executive Board Member and Chair of the Transportation Committee. He also served as Co-Chair of the Youth Services Committee, Co-Chair of the Aging Committee and Public Safety Committee. He is currently President of his Block Association, has previously served as President of the Black Business Professional Women's Youth Club and as an Advisory Member of the Pink House Cornerstone Program. Additionally, Mr. Banks has worked for organizations over the past eight years such as the Italian American Civil Rights League and The Federation of Multicultural Programs, and has served as an Adolescent Services liaison for the Youth Services Department. Mr. Banks is a proud member of Changing Lives Christian Center. He is an innovative, charismatic and dynamic young man, on a mission to empower and change the dynamics of his community and the world at large.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Israel Velazquez. As founder and President of Velazquez Associates, Inc., and its subsidiary Velazquez Accounting Services, a New York based accounting and nonprofit development consulting firm that bears his name, Israel Velazquez has worked tirelessly to develop partnerships with community leaders, development corporations, and other public and private partners. For the past thirty years, Mr. Velazquez, known as ``Izzy'' to many, has assembled public and private partnerships in the areas of local community issues, affordable housing and economic development projects in urban cities throughout the United States of American and in several Caribbean islands. Mr. Velazquez holds a Master's in Taxation from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Mass Communications from C.U.N.Y., Hunter College. In 2009, Mr. Velazquez was designated an adjunct Professor in the Gates Foundation and Warren Buffett Enterprises Fellows Program. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Velazquez's extraordinary achievements.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. I move to strike the last word.

Mr. TOWNS. Let me thank Congresswoman DeLauro and, of course, Congressman Farr, for the work that they're doing. Here we go again. I rise in strong opposition to the underlying bill. This bill reduces the amount of funds awarded to public nutrition programs such as SNAP, WIC, and many other programs that lend assistance to families in economically disadvantaged communities. This session of Congress has really been tough on those that are in need. First, our Nation's seniors are threatened with potential cuts to Medicare proposed by the Ryan budget. Now, hunger programs for women and children are being targeted. It is a tough year indeed. But let me tell you, I was not sent to Congress to sit back and watch these crucial programs be cut. I came here to fight for their existence. And I don't plan to stop now. I will not sit idly by as we destroy programs upon which citizens depend on the most to pay for $45 billion in tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires. It is a shame and it is a disgrace. For people to try and stand here and justify as to why we're doing it just does not make any sense at all. If we get rid of tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires for 1 week--just 1 week--I'm talking about 7 days--we would pay for the entire WIC program for 365 days. Mr. Chair, I'm greatly disturbed by the negative impact this bill will have on those individuals who depend on public assistance to feed their families. It is projected that the expected funding cuts will result in 350,000 people losing their WIC benefits. Nearly 50 percent of the babies born in this country each year rely on WIC. On top of that, it is cost-effective, serving nearly 10 million people each year and costing less than $100 per person. I don't understand why we want to stand around here and try to hustle backwards. That's what they say in my neighborhood. We need to make certain that we do what is right and is going to benefit the children. Let's not forget that we're here to serve and meet the needs of our Nation. Supporting this bill would be a great disservice to those who elected us to Congress. Supporting this bill will significantly cut the funding to programs that feed thousands of families. Supporting this bill will lead to the devastation of many hunger programs. There are many families who depend on government funding to put food on the table every day and every night. Voting in support of this bill will only make their lives more than difficult. I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``no.'' This bill does not help those that are in need. It protects the millionaires and billionaires with their greed. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Men's Health Week to urge my colleagues to support the fight against one of our Nation's leading causes of death among men--prostate cancer. There are significant racial and ethnic disparities that demand attention: African Americans have prostate cancer mortality rates that are more than double those in the white population. Underserved rural populations have higher rates of mortality compared to their urban counterparts. Additionally, certain veterans' populations may have nearly twice the incidence of prostate cancer than the general population of the United States. There should be coordination across Federal agencies which are already receiving significant resources focused on prostate cancer programs. This coordination would serve to improve accountability and actively encourage the translation of research into practice. Additionally, this coordination would serve to identify and implement best practices, in order to foster an integrated and monolithic focus on effective prevention, diagnosis and treatment of this disease. For these reasons, I, along with Rep. Broun, now introduce this bi- partisan piece of legislation. Our bill provides for a time-limited interagency taskforce to ensure that the Federal dollars invested in the fight against this disease are well spent. In 2010, more than 217,730 new patients were diagnosed with, and more than 32,050 men died from this disease. Furthermore, about 1 man in 6 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and roughly 2 million Americans are living with a diagnosis of prostate cancer and its consequences. While prostate cancer generally affects older individuals, younger men are also at risk for the disease. When prostate cancer appears in early middle age it frequently takes on a more aggressive form. Prostate cancer continues to be a serious threat to our Nation's men. I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and use this as an opportunity to show America's men that they have your support.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Republic of Azerbaijan in celebration of the 93rd anniversary of Republic Day on May 28th. Later this year, Azerbaijan will also celebrate the 20th anniversary of its freedom from the Soviet Union and the beginning of diplomatic relations with the United States. Located at the crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe, Azerbaijan was established in 1918 becoming the first democratic and secular republic in the Muslim world before being incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1920. The country regained its independence in 1991. The U.S. and Azerbaijan have developed a strong relationship through the opening of Caspain energy sources for development by American companies, which has also allowed the country to emerge as an essential player in global energy security. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline project has become a vital part of delivering Caspian Sea resources to the U.S. and our partners in Europe, and serves as a prime example of the development of the South Caucuses region. Most notably, in 2009 nearly one quarter of all crude oil supplies to Israel were provided by Azerbaijan, and the country emerged as a leading potential natural gas provider for the U.S. supported Nabucco pipeline. Azerbaijan has continually assisted the United States on matters of international security, supporting and participating in operations in both Kosovo and Iraq as well as being actively engaged in Afghanistan. In addition to recently doubling its military presence in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan has regularly facilitated landing and refueling operations for U.S. and NATO forces in the region. Furthermore, Azerbaijan offered strong and immediate aid to the United States directly following the devastating events of 9/11. Again, it is my distinct pleasure to honor the Republic of Azerbaijan in celebration of the 93rd anniversary of Republic Day, and to recognize the valuable bilateral relationship between the United States and Azerbaijan.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Taiwan's President Ma Ying-jeou. May 20, 2011 marks the third anniversary of President Ma's inauguration as The Republic of China's (Taiwan) leader. Not only should we congratulate President Ma, but we should also thank him for his great efforts at maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits. Before President Ma took office, there was a great amount of tension between Mainland China and Taiwan. Then candidate Ma ran on a platform of easing tension with China and therefore allowing both nations to live in harmony with one another. President Ma made good on his campaign promises and has created a better environment between the two countries than has ever been seen before. The reason we should thank President Ma for reducing military conflict in the Western Pacific is because the United States does not need to engage in any more military fronts right now. We already have military hotspots in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya. We appreciate all of President Ma's hard work and look forward to working with him for many years to come.

Mr. TOWNS

Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, as a long-time friend of Taiwan in the United States Congress, and as a member of the 140-member strong bi-partisan Congressional Taiwan Caucus I rise today to urge my colleagues to join me in supporting an issue I and my Taiwanese American constituents care deeply about. I am a supporter of Taiwan's full membership in international organizations such as the United Nations. Why? Because I believe it is an anomaly that the country of Taiwan, with a population of 23 million, is not represented in the United Nations and its affiliated organizations. I believe that we, the United States, instead of supporting ``meaningful participation'' for Taiwan in international organizations, should instead actively support and promote full membership for Taiwan in international organizations such as the WHO. Health knows no boundaries. Diseases do not stop at the borders of countries. Over the years, Taiwan has been affected by the H1N1 flu. In 2003, Taiwan was struck by an outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, or SARS. A total of 60 people died. It is therefore imperative that Taiwan joins the WHO as a full member, so that the 23 million people of Taiwan can and will have access to the highest level of health information and knowledge. Not only that, but medical professionals in Taiwan will be able to fully contribute their extensive knowledge and expertise to the WHO, to the benefit of the entire global health community. I therefore urge my colleagues to join me in supporting Taiwan's full and equal membership in the United Nations, and in all other international organizations including the World Health Organization.