Nydia Velázquez

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this resolution. You are talking here about violence and terrorism. What about terrorism when you keep Puerto Rico as a colony for over 100 years? For over 100 years all branches of the Federal Government have claimed plenarial or absolute power over Puerto Rico and its people. How hypocritical it is of us, how embarrassing, that the greatest democracy in the world turns a blind eye to our own condition. We seek to export democracy to all parts of the world, from Ireland to Kosovo. We celebrate where it takes hold, in South Africa and so much of Eastern Europe. But what about our own backyard? We do not have the integrity to look ourselves in the mirror and ask the difficult question. We do not have the courage to get our own house in order. Today it is not about whether clemency should be granted, and many of us know it. This is a political issue and many of us know it. The only reason for this resolution is to embarrass the President and the First Lady. All Members need to do is to look at our history. Allow me to provide some historical perspective which will hit closer to home. In 1979, Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle approved of President Carter's decision to commute the sentence of four Puerto Rican nationalists. Can anyone in this Chamber explain to me what is the difference between the release of four nationalists in 1979 and the release today of these 11 prisoners, political prisoners? Do Members know what the difference is? It is that in 1979 we were not facing a senatorial race in New York. That is the difference. Not only that, but Members from both sides of the aisle congratulated President Carter for that humanitarian gesture. The Republican leader at the time, Representative John Rhodes of Arizona, said the following on this very floor on September 7, 1979. I quote: ``Mr. Speaker, the action of the President in releasing the prisoners meets my approval. I do think that enough time has elapsed.'' Those were the words of the Republican leader. In addition, other Republican Members of Congress, Members who are still in this body, expressed similar statements. Mr. Speaker, I include for the Record the comments made by one of the cosponsors of this resolution, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman). Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the gentleman from Puerto Rico for his statement and for his support of this initiative. I join in commending the President for undertaking this humanitarian gesture. In like manner, I hope that President Fidel Castro will honor the promises he made to our congressional delegation which visited with him in January of this year, at which time he stated that when the United States undertakes a humanitarian gesture releasing Puerto Rican prisoners, that he would entertain a reciprocal humanitarian gesture and release the American prisoners presently being held in the Cuban jails, some of whom have been imprisoned for as long as 15 years. I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this resolution. Mr. Speaker, we have old, unfinished business before this body. We are here to debate a resolution that has not gone through the committee process and ran through the Committee on Rules in the night. This resolution is factually incorrect, is a mirror of how this Congress and the United States Government has dealt with the political status of Puerto Rico. But that will be debated, and that discussion will take place during general debate. Why is it that the majority does not want a true discussion on this issue? Because the majority does not want to understand this issue. This is not about terrorism, and we will discuss the true intent of this resolution during general debate. It has to do a lot with what is going on in New York politics. We are having a Senatorial race in New York. That is the true answer of this question of this resolution that we are debating today. But the truth is that these individuals, these distinct political prisoners, have been prisoners not once, but twice. I rise in strong opposition of this, and we will present to my colleagues a historical perspective of the whole issue of the political question of Puerto Rico. We have had time, over 100 years of keeping a colony. That is a violation. That is a violation of the civil rights of the people of Puerto Rico. It is ironic, it is shameful for this body that does not recognize the right of the Puerto Rican people to self-determination. My colleagues will bring back to me the fact that last year we were debating the legislation of the gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young), a legislation that again tried to impose a political decision upon the people of Puerto Rico.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Nadler-Shays-Crowley amendment, but I am going to direct my comments on the housing provisions of this bill that I strongly propose. Let me be clear about what is at stake and what message is being sent to this Nation's working poor. What is at stake is dignity and fairness to this Nation's millions of Americans who live in public housing. It is outrageous that at a time when this economy is posing record gains, we are now experiencing the greatest income disparity between the wealthiest Americans and the poorest Americans. By cutting half a billion dollars in public housing capital that should go to repairing our Nation's crumbling public housing stock, the Republican majority is telling this Nation's poor that everyone but them should benefit from the current economic boon. Is it too much to ask that we give our sick and poor a little compassion? I guess that the ``compassionate conservatism'' that so many Republican presidential candidates talk about has not made it to this body, because there is no compassion in forcing 600,000 Americans to go without a bed. In New York State alone, that is almost 8,000 families with children who must sleep in the streets, and then you try to lecture us on family values? Worst of all, HUD recently reported that there are 5.3 million households who are in need of affordable housing. Despite this alarming information, this bill fails to fund any Section 8 vouchers for families in need. I urge all my colleagues to support the Nadler amendment, but even if we adopt the Nadler amendment, it is still not enough to fix this flawed legislation, and I suggest we go back to the drawing board and bring forward a proposal that ensures that all Americans benefit from this Nation's prosperity.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, reserving the right to object, but I will not object, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1658, the Veterans' Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999. This Nation will provide opportunity for our Nation's veterans by providing them with the resources and assistance that are necessary for establishing their own businesses. Mr. Speaker, I withdraw my reservation of objection.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2614, legislation that will update and improve the Certified Development Company, also known as the 504 program. The proposed changes to this program are thoughtful changes that will help more businesses gain access to the capital they need. The 504 program is one of the most important small business loan programs administered by the Small Business Administration. It represents access to capital for countless entrepreneurs who might otherwise not have a chance to turn their dreams into reality. Since 1980, over 25,000 businesses have received more than $20 billion in fixed asset financing through the 504 program. I believe that the proposed changes to the 504 program are reasonable and designed to update the program. By increasing the debenture size, granting the Premier Certified Lenders Program permanent status, adding women-owned businesses to the policy goals, and making the loan liquidation program permanent, we will be strengthening an already exemplary program. These steps also continue the committee's commitment to improve and update the program by making it more responsive to the needs of lenders and small businesses alike. This is a model program and I strongly support this legislation. There is a lot of talk today about economic development and providing opportunity for all Americans. This comes from a realization that, despite the recent economic growth, many of our communities lag behind. There are still too many neighborhoods that are not enjoying the economic growth felt by many in our communities. We need to not only provide jobs, but jobs with a living wage, so that families can pull themselves out of poverty. Small businesses represent the engine of our economy and they have the ability to provide these jobs. I have seen firsthand what effect the 504 program can have on a community. Recently I visited Les Fres Ford, a recipient of a 504 loan in my district. This business will use the 504 loan to build a new service center which will allow them to better serve their customers and expand their business. It will also bring up to 50 new jobs to the community. These are good-paying jobs that will help families in the communities I represent. The changes made by H.R. 2614 will allow this program to continue assisting entrepreneurs in one of the most critical areas in business expansion, finance assistance for building and equipment purchases. These are critical ingredients for business growth, and the 504 programs make sure that small businesses continue to grow. When a business is able to expand, everyone benefits. Mr. Speaker, I urge the adoption of this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the time in support of H.R. 2615 be equally divided between myself and the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Talent).

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2615, legislation to improve and update the General Business Loan Guaranty, or 7(a), program. With the passage of today's legislation, we will grow the 7(a) loan program in a reasonable and thoughtful way that expands the program, while continuing our commitment to those businesses that need access to start-up capital. Although SBA administers numerous programs that provide financial and technical assistance to small firms, the 7(a) program is the agency's flagship loan program. It is far and away the agency's largest and most important both in terms of numbers of loans and program level supported. Under 7(a), loan guarantees are provided to eligible small businesses that have been unsuccessful in obtaining private financing on reasonable terms. The proceeds from a 7(a) loan may be used for virtually any business purpose and have made the difference for countless entrepreneurs. Under a 7(a) partnership between Government and nearly 7,000 banks and non-bank lenders that participate, small businesses are ensured the access to capital they need. Since the program's inception, more than 600,000 7(a) loans totaling $80 billion have been made to help this Nation's small businesses. One of the important items in this legislation is the increase in the loan guarantee from $750,000 to $1 million. It has been over a decade since we increased the loan guarantee. As a matter of fact, if we were to index the current guarantee using the Consumer Price Index, we would actually have a loan guarantee that is higher than what is under consideration today. I believe what we are doing is reasonable and necessary if the program is to continue to serve our Nation's small businesses. To safeguard against the risk that increasing the guarantee will harm those seeking smaller loans, we have capped the total loan amount that can be made under the 7(a) program at $2 million. This is in combination with other provisions of the legislation that will ensure that the 7(a) program will be available to all who need it. I would also like to voice my strong support for the small loan provisions contained in this legislation. The committee has made sure that small loans are still a priority by adopting such changes as reducing the program's cost to the borrower of loans of $150,000 or less from three percent of the loan to two percent, making certain that small businesses will keep more of their money. We are also creating incentives for lenders to continue to make small loans by giving those lenders additional funds guaranteed by the SBA through an increasing guarantee from 75 percent to 80 percent and a rebate that could be as high as $600 per loan. These proposals will ensure that the program continues its mission. If the 7(a) program is going to continue to serve this Nation's small businesses, it must keep in step with the changing financial landscape. The changes made by H.R. 2615 create a balanced approach that updates the 7(a) program while affirming our commitment to small businesses that small loans are still accessible. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 2615. I just would like to take a moment to respond to the points made by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Manzullo). I am just as concerned that we continue our commitment to small loans to address this. To address this, the committee has placed several provisions aimed at encouraging small loans. These provisions offer incentives for 7(a) lenders to continue to make smaller loans, especially loans under $150,000. These incentives include the increase in the loan guarantee amount from 75 to 80 percent for loans under $150,000 in section 1; the reduction of borrower's fees from three percent to two percent on loans up to $120,000 in section 5; and the fee-splitting provision in section 5 that will allow up to 25 percent of the borrower's fees on loans under $150,000 to go to the 7(a) lenders rather than to SBA. Without the increase in the loan guarantee that pays for these incentives, we will be faced with a choice, either increase the program's subsidy rate, which will require additional funds are appropriated, and given the current state of the Commerce-Justice-State appropriations bill we will consider this week, that is unlikely; or eliminate these important small business loan provisions. And I believe that that will be short-sighted. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would just like to echo the comments made by the gentleman from Missouri. You have to continue updating a program. What works in the 1980s does not necessarily work in the 1990s. No bank would allow its loan program to go a decade without updating it. If we are going to make SBA a cutting edge financial institution of the 21st century, we must continue to improve these programs. It just makes sense. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, the Velazquez-Bachus amendment designates $3 million within the funds appropriated for the Treasury Department for fiscal year 2000 to provide grants to State and local law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to investigate and prosecute money laundering and related financial crimes. I would like the record to reflect also that the most influential Members of the House with respect to anti-money laundering policies support this amendment, including the gentleman from Iowa (Chairman Leach), the ranking member, the gentleman from New York (Mr. LaFalce), the gentlewoman from New Jersey (Mrs. Roukema), and my cosponsor, the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Bachus). This grant program is authorized by legislation that I sponsored in the 105th Congress, the Money Laundering and Financial Strategy Act of 1998. I am offering this amendment for the same reason the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Bachus) and I have worked for years to get a money laundering strategy bill through Congress, because money laundering is one of the most destructive criminal elements that face our country. About 5 years ago I began working with law enforcement officials in my district to address the growing problem of money laundering in the neighborhoods I represent and throughout New York City. These neighborhoods are home to many hard-working low-income families. The tragedy is that they are also home to hundreds of money wire services that transfer up to $1.3 billion in illegal drug proceeds to South America. The success of drug dealers, arms dealers, and organized crime organizations is based upon their ability to launder money. Through money laundering, drug dealers transform the monetary receipts derived from criminal activity into funds with a seemingly legal source. For a moment, just consider the sheer size and changing nature of money laundering enterprises. In just the United States alone, estimates of the amount of drug profits moving through the financial system have been as high as $100 billion. It is staggering. Now consider the burden of local law enforcement officials. They need our help. In fact, since the passage of the Money Laundering and Financial Strategy Act, my office has received calls from local and State law enforcement officials from across the country asking how they can apply for these grants. Let me be clear, this is not funding for another government program. This amendment provides money directly to the States and local law enforcement agencies that are waging the war on crime. There is a lot of talk in this Congress about giving the States and local governments more control and about giving Federal money back to the communities, but now Congress has failed to appropriate a mere $3 million for grants to assist our State and local officials to fight money laundering. How do we expect our local police departments and prosecutors to fight crime networks that have access to more money than some States when we cannot make a $3 million commitment? Money laundering has devastating consequences for our communities because it provides the fuel for drug dealers, terrorists, arms dealers, and other criminals to operate and expand their operations. The dealers that sell drugs on our streets and in our schools rely on money laundering to disguise their illegal profits and continue their operations. Dirty money can take many routes, some complex, some simple, but all increasingly inventive, the ultimate goal being to hide its source. The money can move through banks, check cashers, money transmitters, businesses, and even be sent overseas to become clean, laundered money. The tools of the money launderer can range from complicated financial transactions carried out through webs of wire transfers and networks of shell companies to old-fashioned currency smuggling, and so the tools of law enforcement to combat money laundering must be at least as sophisticated, if not more so. Anti-money laundering legislation and funding for programs to combat money laundering are vital law enforcement weapons in the war on drugs. That is why we must begin to fund these grants and allow the States and local law enforcement officials to begin to even the playing field in their battle against drug dealers. I urge the passage of the Velasquez-Bachus amendment.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, I would like to say to the gentleman that the Treasury Department has informed us that they would be able to find the $3 million within the existing levels for these $3 million grants. I just would like to add that appropriation bills are about priorities. If fighting money laundering in this Nation is not a priority, then we should get our priorities in line.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. I yield to the gentleman from Iowa.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of this bipartisan amendment and urge its immediate adoption. This amendment would slightly modify section 114 to ensure that the banking policies established by Congress are implemented in a fair and consistent manner with respect to all entities, domestic and foreign, conducting a banking business in the United States. The passage of this amendment will enable all banks doing business in the United States to serve the needs of their customers. The language in H.R. 10 grants the Federal Reserve Board authority regarding the overseas operations of a foreign bank. However, it is not clear what exactly the scope of this particular language means and the Federal Reserve has agreed to delete the words ``operations of'' to clarify that the provision expressly applies to the foreign bank itself and not the bank's parent or sister affiliates. This clarification ensures parity with U.S. law. Foreign banks have a large and long-standing presence in New York and they are an important part of our economy in New York and throughout the country. For example, many foreign banks have broker-dealers subsidiaries that provide capital and liquidity to the U.S. securities markets, serving to enhance the ability of U.S. businesses to raise capital. This bipartisan amendment has been cleared by the Federal Reserve Board, is supported by the Conference of State Bank Supervisors, and similar language is included in the version of financial modernization passed by the other body. I urge my colleagues to adopt this amendment.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1568, the Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Talent), the chairman of the Committee on Small Business, for introducing this legislation and for his continuing commitment to our veteran community. I would also like to thank the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy) for her work on behalf of veterans both in the committee and in the House. Throughout America's history, countless men and women have served our country and fought for its ideals as members of our armed services. However, when veterans return to civilian life, they have also encountered barriers to starting or expanding a business. Although there are a number of programs at the SBA to provide assistance, many of these are not specifically targeted at veterans. The legislation before us today seeks to remedy some of the inequalities that our service men and women face upon their return to civilian life. In doing so, H.R. 1568 will provide greater opportunity for the 5.5 million businesses owned or operated by veterans. Additionally, this bill will help the 104,000 service disabled veterans within the business community. This legislation, H.R. 1568, will give a boost to veterans seeking to start their own business by creating a National Veterans Development Corporation to provide training and counseling. Additionally, it establishes a veterans advisory board to counsel SBA on veterans issues and expands veterans' access to capital and Federal contracting opportunities. Often overlooked is the fact that many current small business owners also serve in the Reserves or National Guard. When the call to serve comes, they selflessly heed it and leave their business behind. Unfortunately, too often this results in economic hardship. I would like to thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Phelps) for offering an amendment that provides these individuals with the capital and expertise they need to continue their businesses. The call-up during Kosovo has demonstrated the importance of our Reserves, and I commend the gentleman from Illinois for helping our service men and women. This is the time of year in which we celebrate the liberties that members of our armed services have fought so hard to attain for every citizen of this great Nation. This legislation will help ensure that those individuals that have placed their lives in jeopardy for this country will be able to fulfill the American dream. With all they have done for us, this is the least that we can do. I strongly support the goals of this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Mr. Speaker, at this time I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize Mike Klier, one of the Democratic committee staff who worked on this legislation and will be leaving shortly. Mike has been a valuable member of the Committee on Small Business staff and will be sorely missed. On behalf of the members of the committee, I want to thank him and wish him good luck.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I ask you and my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Carmen Diaz for her years of leadership and contribution to the communities of the 12th Congressional District. In 1953 Ms. Diaz came to the United States to fulfill her dream of creating a better life for herself and her family. She began by working hard for $42 a week as a machine operator in a woman's garment factory. She saved money, and was diligent and with great determination, in 1955 she was able to send for her children in Puerto Rico. With herself and two children to feed she continued to toil. She ensured the children were healthy and that they received an education. She also took time to further her own education, making the effort to become a bilingual teacher. Once she received her degree, she began teaching bilingual education which she did for eight years. During this time she became active in the community, working for Community Board 1. She was able to use her experience, education and determination to help other people in the community. Wanting to do more, striving to succeed, she enrolled in Boricua College in Brooklyn. With the same kind of dedication and effort that made her a success, she was able to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology. With that accomplishment, she engaged in increased community work as a social worker. From that point on, she remained deeply committed to civil service, working hard to help people throughout Brooklyn. She played a key role in many organizations including the Los Sures Senior Center and later in the Diana Jones Senior Center. She did this kind of work until last year when she became ill and was unable to continue working. Despite the fact that she can no longer work, she still has an impact on our community. The work she does still helps people, but more importantly, she stands as a role model to thousands of people. She truly embodies the American Dream. She is a great woman and a great American, and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring her.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating special graduates of the 12th Congressional District of New York. I am certain that this day marks the culmination of much effort and hard work which has lead and will lead them to continued success. In these times of uncertainty, limited resources, and random violence in our communities and schools, it is encouraging to know that they have overcome these obstacles and succeeded. These students have learned that education is priceless. They understand that education is the tool to new opportunities and greater endeavors. Their success is not only a tribute to their strength but also to the support they have received from their parents and loved ones. In closing, I encourage all my colleagues to support the education of the youth of America. With a solid education, today's youth will be tomorrow's leaders. And as we approach the new millennium, it is our responsibility to pave the road for this great Nation's future. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives I ask you to join me in congratulating the following outstanding students from the El Puente Academy: Lily Andugar, Indra Camo, Isable Espinal, Ana Hernandez, Evelyn Hernandez, Mia Hilton, Luis Johnson, Miriam Nunez, Maria Perez, Marvin Rodriquez, Luis Ramos, Gerson Santillana, Rodlofo Solis, Omar Torres, Jennifer Valentin, Octovio Vargas, Taiesah Vasquez, and Essany Velazquez.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating special graduates of the 12th Congressional District of New York. I am certain that this day marks the culmination of much effort and hard work which has lead and will lead them to continued success. In these times of uncertainty, limited resources, and random violence in our communities and schools, it is encouraging to know that they have overcome these obstacles and succeeded. These students have learned that education is priceless. They understand that education is the tool to new opportunities and greater endeavors. Their success is not only a tribute to their strength but also to the support they have received from their parents and loved ones. In closing, I encourage all my colleagues to support the education of the youth of America. With a solid education, today's youth will be tomorrow's leaders. And as we approach the new millennium, it is our responsibility to pave the road for this great Nation's future. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives I ask you to join me in congratulating the following outstanding students from P.S. 15, the Patrick F. Daly School: David Watson and Precious Scott.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Youth Award Winners who are being honored by the Hispanic Young Peoples Alternative (HYPA). These young people are being recognized this day for the effort and hard work which has led and will lead them to continued success. In these times of uncertainty, limited resources, and random violence in our communities and schools, it is encouraging to know that they have overcome these obstacles and succeeded. And they have succeeded not only for themselves, but for their community as well. These students have learned that community service is an important part of their education. They have exhibited great maturity and responsibility by taking on the personal challenge of working to make the community a better place. Their contributions are priceless. They understand that--along with education--community service is an important part of gaining new opportunities and going on to greater endeavors. Their success is not only a tribute to their strength but also to the support they have received from their parents and loved ones. In closing, I encourage all my colleagues to join me in congratulating the young people of HYPA and all of the youth of America who are engaged in community service. These young people we honor today will be the leaders of tomorrow. And as we approach the new millennium, it is our responsibility to pave the road for this great Nation's future. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives I ask you to join me in recognizing the following Youth Award winners: Rosalie Nunez, Peter J. Ramos, Emanuel Hernandez, Peter M. Ramos, George Lozado, Steven Amenula, Thomas Nunez, Paticio Cacho Jr., and Jessica Garcia.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, It is with great pride that I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating special graduates of the 12th Congressional District of New York. I am certain that this day marks the culmination of much effort and hard work which has led and will lead them to continued success. In these times of uncertainty, limited resources, and random violence in our communities and schools, it is encouraging to know that they have overcome these obstacles and succeeded. These students have learned that education is priceless. They understand that education is the tool to new opportunities and greater endeavors. Their success is not only a tribute to their strength but also to the support they have received from their parents and loved ones. In closing, I encourage all my colleagues to support the education of the youth of America. With a solid education, today's youth will be tomorrow's leaders. And as we approach the new millennium, it is our responsibility to pave the road for this great Nation's future. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives I ask you to join me in congratulating the following Academic Achievement Award Recipients: Marilyn Li and Daniel Ortiz.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating special graduates of the 12th Congressional District of New York. I am certain that this day marks the culmination of much effort and hard work which has lead and will lead them to continued success. In these times of uncertainty, limited resources, and random violence in our communities and schools, it is encouraging to know that they have overcome these obstacles and succeeded. These students have learned that education is priceless. They understand that education is the tool to new opportunities and greater endeavors. Their success is not only a tribute to their strength but also to the support they have received from their parents and loved ones. In closing, I encourage all my colleagues to support the education of the youth of America. With a solid education, today's youth will be tomorrow's leaders. And as we approach the new millennium, it is our responsibility to pave the road for this great Nation's future. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives I ask you to join me in congratulating the following students from IS 220: Salutatorian, Weva Kalidahanova; Valedictorian, Carol Chan.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating special graduates of the 12th Congressional District of New York. I am certain that this day marks the culmination of much effort and hard work which has lead and will lead them to continued success. In these times of uncertainty, limited resources, and random violence in our communities and schools, it is encouraging to know that they have overcome these obstacles and succeeded. These students have learned that education is priceless. They understand that education is the tool to new opportunities and greater endeavors. Their success is not only a tribute to their strength but also to the support they have received from their parents and loved ones. In closing, I encourage all my colleagues to support the education of the youth of America. With a solid education, today's youth will be tomorrow's leaders. And as we approach the new millennium, it is our responsibility to pave the road for this great Nation's future. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives I ask you to join me in congratulating the following Academic Achievement Award Recipients: Andrew Caceres and Fi Lan Ho.