Nydia Velázquez

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 774, the Women's Business Center Amendments Act of 1999, legislation that I introduced in committee with the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Talent), the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Millender-McDonald), the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Kelly), the gentlewoman from Illinois (Mrs. Schakowsky), the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Bono), the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell), the gentlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs. MC Christensen), the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy) and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa). It is fitting that this bill, which will help America's women entrepreneurs succeed, is before the House during Women's History Month. I thank the Members of the Committee on Small Business for their support of this bill. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the chairman of the Committee on Small Business, the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Talent), for all of his hard work on this legislation and for being such a strong supporter of the women's business center program. My colleagues, the face of American business is changing. Over the past 2 decades, we have seen phenomenal growth in the number of women- owned businesses. In 1976, women owned just 6 percent of this country's businesses. Today, that number has grown to over 35 percent. That is over 8 million businesses nationwide. By the year 2000, it is expected that one out of every two businesses will be owned by a woman. That is a remarkable transformation and one which will help more Americans achieve the American dream. In order to help women achieve this goal, however, we must provide them with the skills necessary to compete in the global economy of the 21st century. This is why the women's business center program is so important. These centers provide a broad range of services, including training and counseling, to women in the area of finance, management and marketing. Currently, the program serves an average of 2,000 women in 36 states and results in economic development, new jobs, increased earning potential and a larger pool of skilled entrepreneurs. Thanks to this program, countless women entrepreneurs have opened or expanded their own business. The women's business center program becomes even more important when you realize its potential for helping women move from welfare to work. Women on public assistance often want to start their own business but lack the training and support necessary to accomplish this goal. Women's business centers show them how to turn their skills and knowledge into a viable business. By providing business counseling and technical assistance, women's centers are helping women entrepreneurs break the cycle of poverty and become economically self-sufficient. This is one of the many remarkable stories of this program. Today's legislation, H.R. 774, does two important things to help the women's business center program. First, it increases the authorization level to $11 million for fiscal year 2000. This increase of $3 million over the previous authorization level will ensure the continued growth of this initiative. One of the original goals of this program was to give women in all 50 states access to the business training and programs that they need to become their own boss. By providing an additional $3 million, not only will we be helping existing centers but we can open new facilities in currently underserved areas. That means that more women will be able to work toward the goal of self- employment. The second part of this legislation reduces the requirement in the fifth year of funding. Currently, women's business centers are required to raise two non-Federal dollars for every Federal dollar they receive. In some cases, centers have been forced to cut back on valuable services because they have not been able to raise the money needed to drawdown the full amount. Reducing the fifth year match to a one-to-one ratio, one Federal dollar for every one non-Federal dollar, will allow these valuable entrepreneurial training services to continue without interruption. This is a step that will benefit everyone. The legislation before us today represents an important investment in the future of our country. As more and more women decide to become their own boss these centers will provide them with the resources and training they need to achieve this goal. No one can deny that women have come a long way in this country, but more needs to be done. With women entrepreneurs playing a critical role in the economic health of our Nation, we must make sure that they have access to the tools they need for success. The public-private partnership of the women's business center program helps meet this critical need and today's legislation represents an important step in making sure that we continue to move forward with this program and empowering our Nation's women. I strongly support this legislation and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Schakowsky).

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 774, the Women's Business Center Amendments Act. As we stand at the dawn of the 21st century and think about the future, this bill embodies the potential that the next millennium holds for all of us. It is a bill that will help women continue to realize their full potential and take a bold step into the future, and now is the time to act. As our economy continues to bloom, the need for more and more skilled businesswomen and entrepreneurs becomes of paramount importance. Women's business centers are vital in assuring that all segments of our economy are able to take advantage of the current time of prosperity. By providing women entrepreneurs with the training they need to move to economic independence, we help communities throughout our country grow. In my district in North Brooklyn, many women entrepreneurs and small businesses are poised to start or expand their businesses. All they need is access to some of the technical information and training services that are available through SBA. Today, by expanding the women's business centers, we will take a step toward unlocking that untapped potential in neighborhoods throughout the country. The type of work done by women's business centers is a catalyst for success. Women's business centers take the promise of potential and turn it into the reality of results, and I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this measure. It is an initiative that will have a lasting positive impact for the economic strength of our communities, both now and in the future.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baird) for yielding this time to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 818, the Disaster Mitigation Pilot Program. Traditionally, business owners have only been able to get help after a natural disaster has struck and caused damage to their business. For many small businesses, this assistance comes too late to save them from economic ruin. The loss of revenue and time needed to recover causes countless businesses to fail. Instead of being able to rebuild, many communities are faced with a loss of jobs as many businesses permanently close after a disaster. We have seen this happen again and again over the past few years. Hurricanes, floods and wildfires have threatened economic stability and the future of communities across this Nation. However, until today, businesses have only been able to get help after it is too late. Today's legislation will change this story. Mr. Speaker, today we are taking an important step in being proactive rather than just reactive to natural disasters. H.R. 818, the Disaster Mitigation Pilot Program, authorizes $75 million to be used by SBA in cooperation with FEMA over the next 5 years to help businesses in disaster-prone areas take preventive measures to avert or minimize damage should disaster strike. By enabling businesses to take preventive measures which mitigate the damages caused by floods, hurricanes and other disasters, this program would allow them to recover much faster. Therefore, instead of going out of business, they will be able to get back to business much quicker than ever before. The Disaster Mitigation Program is a common-sense approach to helping businesses cope with disasters. The program also makes fiscal sense. Some estimates show that every dollar spent on mitigation saves $2 in money that will otherwise have to be spent on post-disaster response. Not only will businesses and taxpayers come out ahead, but the American economy will as well. Finally, I would like to thank the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baird) and the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Talent). Their constituents face the threat of natural disaster, and their insight and hard work on this legislation have been a great help to all of us. I strongly support H.R. 818, and I urge my colleagues to vote for this important piece of legislation.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would like to thank the gentleman from Missouri for moving forward this bill in a bipartisan process and including me in this process. I rise in strong support of H.R. 68, the Small Business Investment Company Technical Corrections Act. As a cosponsor of last year's bill and an original cosponsor of this legislation, I strongly support the improvements we will consider to the Small Business Investment Act and the Small Business Investment Company program today. These changes will only serve to make the SBIC program more efficient and responsive to the needs of small entrepreneurs. There is no question that the value of SBICs has been felt across this Nation. SBICs have invested nearly $15 billion in long-term debt and equity capital to over 90,000 small businesses. Over the past years, SBICs have given companies like Intel Corporation, Federal Express and America Online the push they needed to succeed. And because of SBICs, millions of jobs have been created and billions of dollars have been added into our economy. Even as America experiences the longest period of economic growth in decades, there are still many disadvantaged urban and rural communities that are being left behind. One way of bringing economic development and prosperity to more Americans is through the SBIC program. In fact, SBICs are such a powerful tool that the President's new economic development initiative for these distressed communities, which he announced in the State of the Union address, is based on the solid framework of the SBIC program. By passing today's legislation, we are answering the President's challenge and making it easier for small businesses, especially in those targeted urban and rural areas, to access the capital that they need. Today's legislation ensures that the next Fed Ex's and AOLs of this country continue to have a fighting chance. The proposal is simple. It will make five technical corrections to the Small Business Investment Company Act that will help SBICs and small businesses alike. By streamlining the process and increasing flexibility, SBICs will be able to creatively finance more businesses. The changes under discussion today will provide SBICs and small business with important tools like equity features. This proposal will not only improve a business' cash flow but will also create a sound investment for the SBIC. Recently we have also seen the SBIC program expand into new areas. Last year we witnessed the creation of two women-owned SBICs and the establishment of the first Hispanic-owned firm. By increasing funding levels, we can build on the growing popularity of the SBIC program and make it a vehicle for achieving greater investment returns from historically underserved markets, such as women, minorities and inner cities. Additionally, by giving the SBIC program greater flexibility and ensuring investment guarantees, small businesses will be assured lower interest rates. The bill also confirms that most small businesses, regardless of their chosen business form, are eligible for SBIC financing. Finally, we would clarify SBA's role in ensuring equitable distribution and management of its participating securities to SBICs of all sizes. These changes are part of an ongoing process that will enable us to provide creative financing to more small businesses more efficiently. I am pleased to join the distinguished chairman in support of the proposed correction, and I urge the adoption of this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis).

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, the biggest challenge facing our Nation's business is access to capital. For small businesses, access to capital means access to opportunity, and by passing the Small Business Investment Company Technical Corrections Act today, we can take an important step toward giving small businesses a chance to take advantage of that opportunity. The SBIC program has an impressive history of helping small businesses grow and expand. The work done by SBIC is especially critical now as everyday more and more private venture dollars are sent overseas to help support companies that compete with U.S. businesses. The SBIC program helps level the playing field for American business by focusing solely on helping domestic small businesses. These are companies that create the bulk of American jobs. Furthermore, SBICs fill a unique gap by providing capital to companies that need smaller loans which are not generally made by large banks or lending institutions. The competitiveness that SBIC provides our small businesses helps strengthen our American economy. The changes that will result from H.R. 68 will provide SBICs with the flexibility to offer more loans, increase the amount of available funding and lower interest rates. Today's measure will help SBICs build on their already impressive work and pave the way for future small business success stories. I urge everyone to support the Small Business Investment Company Technical Corrections Act. Vote yes on H.R. 68. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Moore). (Mr. MOORE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks)

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today not only in opposition to these impeachment articles, but to express my outrage and sadness over a process driven not by fairness, but by a small minority obsessed with impeachment. Instead of putting politics aside and coming together in a bipartisan manner to do what is right for our Nation, today we begin the final steps in a process that, from the start, has never been about fairness. Rather, it has been to accomplish a predetermined result, to impeach the President of the United States. No one is disputing that what the President did was wrong and he should be held accountable. That is why an overwhelming majority on both sides of the aisle want to vote on censure. But we will not be given the opportunity to vote on that today. To bar this body from that option is inexcusable and it is outrageous. The majority has said that they are simply voting their conscience. But what about the conscience of the American people, who overwhelmingly said that the President should not be impeached, but be censured? I ask myself, how did this body get to the point where the conscience of so many Members is so different from the conscience of the American people?

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, to many, money laundering may seem like the stuff of spy novels. But, to my constituents, money laundering by drug cartels is a plague on the community. The fact of the matter is that money laundering has become big business, which is why it is drawn to financial centers like New York City. But in doing so, it has settled in areas like Jackson Heights, Queens in my district. The unfortunate reality is that these criminals do not bring investment dollars and a better way of life for my constituents--they bring guns, fear and death. To date, Congress has done little as a partner in this war. The time was long overdue for Washington to reach out even more and form partnerships with those on the front lines. Finally this year, the Banking Committee held a hearing to highlight the work of the El Dorado Task Force in New York City. El Dorado is a network of federal, state and local law enforcement officers and prosecutors who focus on fighting money laundering in Jackson Heights, Queens and Washington Heights, Harlem. El Dorado has targeted money remitter services that are used more and more frequently by drug cartels to launder money abroad. In fact, the task force identified 12 large scale businesses in the New York Metropolitan area that were used to wire hundreds of millions of dollars in illegal drug proceeds overseas. These companies are affiliated with hundreds of smaller businesses ranging from travel agencies to beeper and cellular telephone outlets, which are found in predominantly poor immigrant neighborhoods throughout the city. The result was that communities like Jackson Heights were becoming magnets for drug cartels to funnel their illicit proceeds from drug sales to drug source countries. That is how I became involved almost four years ago. Hoping to reclaim their neighborhoods, I was approached by several constituents during a community meeting in Jackson Heights. They told me that Roosevelt Avenue was becoming overrun by envios, or money wire services, that drug dealers were using to launder money to Medillin and Cali. They wanted my help, because they saw their neighborhoods being overrun by drugs, violence and more crime. Joining forces with District Attorney, Richard Brown, I formed a working group to put an end to this type of crime. First of all, everyone agreed that the best way to attack the drug cartels was to get them where it would hurt them the most--their profits. In order for cartels to reap profits, proceeds must be laundered. That is how the Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Strategy Act was conceived. The idea was to bring together every person and entity involved in the war on drugs from state and local police and prosecutors to federal agencies. In order to better coordinate these efforts to fight money laundering, the Department of Treasury was made the lead agency, in conjunction with the Department of Justice. The two agencies were charged with developing a national strategy that would coordinate efforts between all federal, state and local financial institutions, law enforcement, and prosecutors. Since cartels change their mode of laundering illegal proceeds as quickly as law enforcement officials catch up with them, the definition for money laundering was key. The original definition of money laundering included many predicate offenses, that might cause confusion when developing the national strategy. For that reason, the Administration requested and the Senate agreed to change the definition of money laundering. As it is now defined in H.R. 1756, money laundering is more narrow, while giving the Secretary of the Treasury the ability to keep up with the different ways that money can be moved in, out and through any financial institution in the United States. However, the definition of money laundering in this legislation has always included related state and local statutes, and it still does. The goal of the strategy is to coordinate a response to money laundering between federal, state and local law enforcement and prosecutors. The intention was never to give the Secretary of Treasury new powers over other agencies or for the Department of Treasury to usurp the authority of other agencies involved in our war on drugs. However, some concerns were raised by the Chairman of the Commerce Committee with respect to the Securities and Exchange Commission. As author of this bill, I will state clearly and unequivocally for the record that it is not the intention of this legislation to give the Secretary of the Treasury any new or additional powers over the SEC. It is purely our intention that all agencies involved work together and coordinate a federal response against money laundering. Since agencies like the SEC, although not political in nature, regulate entities that are subject to a lot of money laundering, the SEC needs to participate in developing the strategy and combating these crimes. Additionally, state and local law enforcement voiced their concern about not having enough resources to fight huge crime syndicates. They made it clear that they wanted to be at the table in order to include their experience. For that reason, the definition of money laundering stipulates that state and local statutes on money laundering are to be considered when developing the national strategy. Also, the theme throughout the legislation is a coordinated response with localities, to help them deal with the problem of money laundering. In fact, the designation of high risk money laundering areas is meant to highlight that certain communities experience more severe problems with money laundering and need more help. The grant section of the legislation is specifically meant to provide additional money to local law enforcement officials and prosecutors--especially those with a proven track record of joining forces with other localities--to help them combat money laundering. These localities should be the recipients of the grant money--not federal or state officials. The goal of H.R. 1756, the Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Strategy Act of 1998, is the formation of better partnerships and more equitable distribution of resources in our war on drugs. Greater attention can now be given to fostering participation by smaller local law enforcement agencies, by making additional resources available and giving them a greater ability to share information with each other and the federal government. Together, we will be able to hit drug cartels where they feel it the most. Together, we will win this war on drugs.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by again thanking the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Leach), the gentleman from New York (Mr. LaFalce), and the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Bachus) for all their work on this legislation. Also I would like to recognize the work that for the last four years my legislative director, Catherine Cruz Wojtasik, has been doing on this legislation. This bill proves that crime fighting is a bipartisan issue. Today's Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Strategy Act is the same anti- money laundering legislation that passed the House last week. Technical changes were made by the Senate that will broaden the definition of money laundering. These changes are endorsed by the Treasury Department, the Justice Department, the FBI and the local district attorneys in New York City. In the expanded definition we allow Federal, state and local law enforcement officials to keep up with the changing trends in money laundering. It will provide police officers and prosecutors with the tools that they need to effectively combat large and sophisticated crime syndicates. The Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Strategy Act is an important step in helping communities fight drug traffickers that launder money in their neighborhood. I urge all Members to support this bill. 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 rise today deeply disturbed by the Republican majority's continual disregard for the future of our children. Year after year they attack important education programs and now they refuse to provide funds for school construction and smaller classroom size. Have you not learned? The American people believe in educational opportunities. They want their children to learn and succeed. But for many of our children, a schoolroom is not a place to learn but a place to survive. Like our roads and bridges, our Nation's schoolrooms are crumbling. In my district in New York, children are trying to learn in conditions that we should be ashamed of, crumbling walls, leaking roofs, and overcrowding. How can a child be expected to learn to read and write when the walls are literally falling down around them? Democrats are committed to making sure that every child in this country has a modern, safe school in which to learn. This is a commitment we have made to our children and it is a commitment worth fighting for.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, the popularity of historical sites like Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty attests to the value of this nation's rich immigrant history and the importance Americans place on understanding their heritage. But the story of the immigrant experience does not end at Ellis Island. The Lower East Side Tenement Museum offers us a rare window into how our ancestors adapted to their new lives in this country. In order to help the Tenement Museum to serve the public better, I introduced H.R. 2201, in July 1997. Senators D'Amato and Moynihan followed by introducing the Senate equivalent in November of that year. Our legislation would designate the Lower East Side Tenement Museum as an affiliate of the National Park Service. The Tenement Museum is located at 97 Orchard Street in Manhattan's Lower East Side, the heart of America's immigrant tradition. The building was erected in 1863 and, over the course of 69 years, served as the first American home for thousands of immigrants from around the world. Much of America's immigrant history begins in New York. The museum on Ellis Island explains how families from around the world journeyed to and arrived in the United States. While many newcomers set out to settle our nation's rural frontiers, many more became urban pioneers-- men, women and children who settled in the city. For this reason the next chapter of the immigrant tale, their lives in America, deserves closer exploration and recognition. Thus, in seeking a home for this story, the Museum sought the quintessential expression of urban, immigrant life--the tenement. The Lower East Side Tenement Museum bill recognizes the Museum's efforts to preserve, maintain and interpret the themes of early tenement life, the housing reform movement, and tenement architecture in the United States. Affiliate status would allow this private non- profit museum to fully participate in the programs and activities of the National Park Service while complimenting the Park Services trinity of Ellis Island, Clinton Castle and the Statue of Liberty at no cost to American taxpayers. By making the museum an affiliate of the National Park Service, the immigrant story is personalized--linking Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and a Lower East Side Tenement. As visitors understand this story more fully, they will gain greater insight into who they are and where they came from. I urge all of you to support this national treasure.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this undemocratic, unconstitutional resolution. (Ms. FURSE asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, as the representative of one of this country's largest public housing populations, I strongly oppose this conference report. The public housing provisions in the agreement will only ensure that the difficult lives of the extremely poor become a nightmare. Over the years, the nature of public housing has changed. Clearly, reform has become necessary. But the provisions in this report represent a significant departure from our national commitment to helping those most in need. This report simply gives up on housing the very poor. A year ago, when the Republican leadership brought these provisions to the floor, they left little hope of a bright future for public housing tenants. Democrats fought hard and won on some points of basic fairness. Although this conference report eliminates some of the worst provisions in that bill, it still does not pass the compassion test. Decent and affordable housing will remain out of reach for millions of the neediest families. People affected by this legislation are some of the most vulnerable members of society. Many of these families are working to become self-sufficient. We should be addressing those issues instead of unraveling one of our most vital safety nets. My colleagues, if we are going to reform public housing, we must do so in a reasonable and compassionate way. Preserving rent limits and improved targeting are only a small step. The question we must ask ourselves is whether the poorest families are going to be better off. The answer is clearly no. I urge all of my colleagues to oppose this conference report.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by thanking the chairman, the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Leach), and the gentleman from New York (Mr. LaFalce) for their help in passing this important legislation. I would also like to thank Queens District Attorney Richard Brown who was helpful in crafting this bill. The Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Strategy Act is the result of many long years of hard work, and Congress' consideration to date marks an important step in the war against crime. As we heard earlier, there have been many successful efforts to combat money laundering. What many of those stories overlooked is that this criminal activity has been a plague in communities, like the one that I represent, for years. There are many great local law enforcement officials who have been working hard and who have been successful at stopping these criminals. To many, money laundering seems like something from a spy novel. To the families and the communities that I represent, these criminal enterprises are a reality. The fact remains that these criminals are attracted to low-income and immigrant communities. That is how I became involved. About 4 years ago, I began working with the Queens District Attorney's Office and residents of Jackson Heights in Queens to address the growing problem of money laundering in that area. There is a section of the Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights that law enforcement officials call Ground Zero. That neighborhood is home to many hard-working, low-income families. The tragedy is that it is also home to hundreds of money wire services that transfers up to $1.3 billion in illegal drug proceeds to South America. While legitimate companies struggle to provide valuable services to the families in those neighborhoods, neighborhoods that do not have access to banks or other financial institutions, criminals set up shop in businesses ranging from beeper outlets to travel agencies to convenience stores. Instead of helping to create jobs, economic development and a better way of life for my constituents, they bring fear, violence and drugs. For that reason, the DA's office approached me for help. Working with them, I conceived the Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Strategy Act. That was 3 years ago. The main goal of my legislation is to provide local law enforcement and prosecutors the hand they need to combat these criminal syndicates. For a moment, just consider the sheer size and changing nature of money laundering enterprises. Then consider the burden on local law enforcement officials. They need our help. Some local police departments and prosecutors are expected to battle crime networks with budgets bigger than some States. They must fight crime syndicates that can relocate anywhere at any time. For that reason, it is time that Washington reach out and become a real partner in this war. My legislation directs the Department of the Treasury, in consultation with the Attorney General, to develop a national strategy to combat money laundering and related financial crimes. The strategy would include goals for reducing money laundering as well as coordinated regulatory efforts to prevent exploitation of the financial sector in the United States. Other elements are operational initiatives to improve the detection of money laundering, and intergovernmental initiatives and actions to fight these crimes. The key component of this legislation is the designation of areas as high risk money laundering areas. Any area designated a high risk area would be eligible for increased Federal law enforcement assistance and access to information sharing. These localities would also be eligible for Federal financial crimes grants. The Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Strategy Act would bring everyone combating these financial crimes to the table for consultation. It would also coordinate and strengthen relationships formed with those fighting on the front lines. Most importantly, greater attention would be paid to areas at high risk of money laundering activity. Participation by local law enforcement and even the private sector in those areas would be fostered. If localities are going to keep winning, we must give them the best tools. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I submitted the following for the Record. Thank you, Major General Sinn for your invitation. Today, more than 53 years after his heroic deed, we present the Bronze Star for valor, one of this Nation's highest military honors, to Mr. Tony Galdi. Our community is proud of Tony, a dedicated family man whose religious faith has given him strength and courage throughout his life. He retired a number of years ago from his family's import business. His days are spent playing chess with friends and pursuing his love of art. Like many who grew up in Brooklyn, Tony still misses the Dodgers but he enjoys watching his new adopted team, the Mets. He is joined today by his wife Delores, their family and close friends. We welcome them all. Tony's story spans decades and continents, but across these divides friendship and loyalty have endured and have brought us to this moment. In 1943, he was inducted into the Army, trained to be an armored gunner and stationed in Scotland. During the summer of 1944, Corporal Galdi was sent to mainland Europe as part of the thousands of troops who were involved in the Normandy invasion. He spent the summer fighting in the French campaign with General Patton's Third Army. By the year's end, he joined the Ninth Army and had crossed into Germany. It was in Germany that Tony bravely earned today's honor. It has been said that the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stand during times of challenge. On a cold January day in 1945, Corporal Galdi stood poised on the edge of such a challenge and summoned all his mettle and his courage. Two of Tony's comrades, First Sergeant Jim Hill and Corporal Louis Cristini, went into a mine field to recover a rifle dropped by a soldier killed in action. Minutes after entering the area one of the men triggered a mine, causing a massive explosion. Through the mist and smoke, Corporal Galdi could see that, while both men were still alive, Sergeant Hill's leg had been shattered by the explosion. On that day in January, Corporal Galdi was alone, from family and home. He had to be scared; his friends were injured and dying. But he vanquished his fear and forged on, not for glory but for a cause larger then himself--the lives of his friends. In the midst of this bloody chaos, Corporal Galdi took charge and bravely entered the mine field. Taking his life into his own hands, he sprinted 75 yards across a snow covered field that made detection of the mines impossible. He knew that with each step could lie the same fate as Sergeant Hill's or worse--death. Upon reaching his friends, it was clear that Sergeant Hill was in dire straights. With the assistance of Corporal Cristini, they carried him back to the jeep and rushed him to the nearest field hospital. Sadly, Sergeant Hill died. Because of who he is, Mr. Galdi never thought to tell this story and no one else thought to report it leaving this heroic act unrewarded. It was not until 1980, after the encouragement of his daughter, that he came forward. Account after account by the men who served with Corporal Galdi praised his bravey. Sharp Stafford, Staff Sergeant for the battalion, upon recalling Tony's act years later called his deed``an act of heroism.'' On that day in January, no one doubted that Corporal Galdi deserved one of this nation's highest recognitions. We may all wonder why this has taken so long, but we do know why he is here today--because his friends never forgot what he did for one of their own. On that mine field so many years ago, Tony Galdi performed a truly heroic deed and asked nothing in return. At long last, it is time to honor his unselfish act of bravery. Mr. Galdi, on behalf of all Americans, we thank you for your service, for your courage, for your determination and for your loyalty to your fellow soldiers and country. We are all proud to call you an American. And I am proud to see you receive the Bronze Star for valor.

Mr. VELAZQUEZ

Mr. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mrs. Eleanor Doyle, Senior Clerk at St. John's University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, upon her retirement. Mrs. Doyle has dedicated her twenty-nine year career to the service of the St. John's University community. Her great care and attention to the needs of the University's student body have earned her a special place in the hearts of all those who have met her. Her excellent work, pleasant demeanor, and good sense of humor will surely be missed in the department. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to rise with me today and honor Eleanor for all of her hard work and dedication.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay a special tribute to Togetherness With Love Center, Inc., an organization in my district which has worked to provide social services to low income families. In 1993, Together With Love was founded in Brooklyn, New York by Mr. Cyril Joseph. He originally started this organization as a neighborhood alternative to the often overcrowded municipal soup kitchens in the area. Operating out of a tiny basement shop on DeKalb Ave., Mr. Joseph with the help of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the Jesus Cares Ministries began to distribute food to those in need. Since its founding, Togetherness With Love has added 24 new staff members and has become a vital part of the community I serve. Most of those who enter its doors on a daily basis receive aid on health and immigrant issues, as well as assistance in employment and housing. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in Congress to join me in acknowledging and thanking the men and women of the Togetherness With Love Center for their excellent service and dedication

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, it is amazing to me that a party that claims to be trying to win Hispanic votes attacks us time and time again. Worse yet, today they are attacking our children. I hope that every Latino in this country hears this message loud and clear. We do not count with the Republicans, our children do not count, and our future does not count. Why else would bilingual education come under attack year after year? Already, Republicans tried to slash $75 million for bilingual and immigrant education, 22 percent for fiscal year 1998 funding, and this is in a bill that provides disaster aid to flood victims. Today's move makes perfect sense for a party that plays politics with virtually every issue. Well, I have news for my colleagues across the aisle. Your English Language Fluency Act will have the opposite effect. It will force children into illiteracy. It will ruin their futures. It will hold back their families, and it will hurt our country. According to supporters of H.R. 3892, bilingual education does not work, it is a waste of money, and so on. The fact is, bilingual education does work. By teaching core classes like math and science in a child's native language, while effectively teaching English, we can make sure that children do not fall behind in basic skills. But Republicans will slash funding, eliminate training, weaken programs, and then say that the programs do not work. Opponents of bilingual education are correct on one count: Without real support and commitment, children with limited English proficiency will not get the skills they need to succeed. My colleagues, is this how a nation with over 3 million limited- English-proficient students, should treat those children? Just think of the message that we are sending these children. We are telling them that they are second-rate citizens. They do not even deserve to receive a decent education or the tools they need to have a bright future. I urge all of my colleagues to stand up for our children and their future and vote no.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to the residents of Cadman Towers at 101 Clark Street in Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn on their 25th Anniversary Celebration of the founding of the Towers. For twenty-five years, families have grown and prospered in this supportive and unique community in Brooklyn Heights. Cadman Towers is the eastern border of Brooklyn's historic Brooklyn Heights neighborhood and its residents have added diversity and vitality to this already thriving area. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Cadman Towers and its three hundred residents on this milestone and wish you many happy anniversaries to come!

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Mollohan amendment. Not long ago, minority communities were prevented from being represented through violence and repression. Today's method is far more subtle. Let us be honest. Today's debate is not about the way we should conduct the census. This is a debate about whose voice will be heard and whose voice will be silenced. By not counting minorities, opponents of a fair census can justify slashing resources to these communities. In New York City alone, just looking at seven Federal programs, including Head Start, the city lost more than $400 million as a result of the 1990 undercount. Worst of all, political representation will be denied at every level. Think of the message you are sending to minority communities. You are telling the American people that these communities do not deserve proper representation. My colleagues, conducting an accurate census is a matter of basic fairness and democracy. I urge everyone to vote ``yes'' on the Mollohan amendment.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Sanders- Velazquez amendment. My colleagues, the face of business is changing. We are seeing a phenomenal growth in the number of women-owned businesses. In 1976, women owned just 6 percent of our Nation's businesses. Today, 20 years later, that number has grown to 36 percent. That is over 8 million businesses owned by women. By the year 2000 it is expected that one out of every two businesses will be owned by a woman. These centers provide a broad range of training and counseling services to women in the areas of finance, management and marketing. By tailoring their services to the needs of the local community, Women's Business Development Centers have given women-owned businesses a fighting chance. They have also played an important role in amplifying the voice of women business owners. In New York City, one center is working with women who are welfare recipients to start their own business, and they are succeeding. On the two-year anniversary of the President's signing the welfare bill into law, moving from welfare to work is still a great achievement. Moving from welfare to self-employment is pure inspiration. Women's Business Development Centers help make this dream possible. The Sanders- Velazquez amendment will ensure that this dream is a reality for many, many women. I urge the adoption of this amendment.

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

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise, to pay tribute to a kind and able woman, Harriet Philip. Harrie, as she is known by her friends, was born on the Caribbean island of Trinidad on August 5, 1893. Later in life, she immigrated to the United States and settled in Brooklyn where she is surrounded by friends and family members who love her sense of humor and her particular attitude about her needs and wants. Harrie, an expert artist, crochets, knits, and designs exquisite articles for her loved ones without the use of patterns. She also loves to talk with her friends and family who admire her charming personality. Harrie's uplifting spirit and longevity have been an inspiration to all those around her. Harrie, a follower of the Bahai religion, has raised three sons and one daughter. These children have blessed her with two beautiful grandchildren. It is with great pleasure and personal regard that I ask my fellow colleagues to rise to pay tribute to Mrs. Harriet Philip on her 105th birthday, with wishes of many more to come.