Floor Statements

I don't rise to talk about and to give accolades to Congressman Cleaver because he has served the Congressional Black Caucus so well. And the reason I don't is because I can't imagine that he won't continue to serve us as he has this capacity to do.

I know that Congresswoman Judge Fudge is going to do a remarkable job, but there is a uniqueness about Reverend Cleaver, Pastor Cleaver, City Councilman Cleaver, Mayor Cleaver, Congressman Cleaver. God has given these terrific assets to be able to take complex, emotional problems and to talk to you like he's known you all of your life as he helps you to work with him to try to find some solution.

Every time I hear him give a talk, I vision him in his church talking about those things that give inspiration to so many people that have lost hope, and especially now, as many have lost their homes and lost jobs.

As we struggle in this Congress today, in trying to bring some balance in terms of our deficit, our spending, as well as our raising the revenue, I cannot help but look at the reverend, Congressman, chairman in terms of the words of Matthew, when Jesus made it abundantly clear that, although the rich were not asking Jesus for comfort as related to providing for the sick and the naked and the poor and the underprivileged, somehow Jesus had said what Emanuel Cleaver follows, that it's not what we do here in the Congress for Members of Congress, indeed, it's not what we do for the rich and the middle class, but the basic question we all have to decide is: What did we do for the lesser among us, the vulnerable, the sick, the aged, and the poor?

Certainly, Emanuel Cleaver provides a conscience for all of us that are privileged to serve in this august body.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Harlem's community leader Dorothy Mae Skinner, who passed away on Monday, November 26, 2012. I first met Dorothy in my early years in the U.S. House of Representatives in her role as a community activist, concerned resident, and devoted parent.

Dorothy was very engaged in the war on drugs in the 1970's and 1980's and became active with the New York City Police Department 30th and 32nd Precincts and community councils. Dorothy was both friend and foe of the neighborhood drug dealers, for they all loved her but knew she was leading the fight against them, a fight she handily won. As President of the Block Association, she organized block parties, jazz mobiles, Halloween parties in Hamilton Park, and coordinated activities with the Police Athletic League (PAL).

Dorothy Mae Skinner joined the Board of Directors of the West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc., one of Harlem's oldest and largest community based development organizations, which was established more than 30 years ago to revitalize the under-invested West and Central Harlem communities--riddled with dilapidated and abandoned buildings.

Dorothy served as Chairperson of West Harlem Group Assistance Board of Directors for over 20 years and served as the Secretary until her passing. She helped guide the vision of WHGA to recreate a community in which all responsible residents, community-based organizations, and other stakeholders are mobilized and firmly committed to working together willingly and cooperatively. This ensured that Harlem was positioned to enter the 21st century as a safe, socially stable, healthy, economically sound, well-educated and informed, and politically strong community.

Dorothy Mae Skinner was born on June 22, 1926, to the late Herman and Gladys Harris. She was the eldest of 12 children born to that union. With that size family, Dorothy grew up with a great sense of family values, which continued with her own family. Dorothy met and married Robert Skinner on December 24, 1946. They were married for 34 years and were blessed with 6 children: (Butch) Robert, (D.G.) Dorian, Roberta, Rene, Diane, and Cheryl, whom she nurtured and cherished. She is pre- deceased by her eleven siblings and her husband, Robert.

Dorothy loved to travel and it did not matter if it was local or long distance. She continued to preach and teach family values, as she believed in family outings. Every weekend during the summer she would either take her children away, or send her children to the movies or penny arcade. Most people reserve a hotel room when going on vacation, but Dorothy would rent an apartment for a week to accommodate her children and their friends. She also organized yearly dude ranch trips during the summer and Ski trips during the winter.

Educated in the NYC public schools, Dorothy was a determined young woman who received her GED at age 35 and continued her education and attended City College of New York. She truly believed in education and was employed by the NYC Department of Education for a number of years, nurturing and caring for many young lives, until her retirement at age 65. Many years later, as she would often sit on her stoop, former students, now grown, would stop by and chat with her.

Dorothy was very involved in the Mt Pisgah Baptist Church where she served for several years as Deaconess. She was known to many as Mrs. Skinner, Dorothy, Grandma, or Grandma Dee. Dorothy enjoyed scratchoff and sometimes made a pretty penny too, which kept her scratching.

Mr. Speaker, great women like our beloved Dorothy are precious gifts we temporarily have in this world, but their assistance, contributions and accomplishments are far remembered and everlasting. I ask you, my colleagues, to join me in celebrating the life of Dorothy Mae Skinner.

Well, I thank you for this opportunity. It's always difficult when Members' political careers are interrupted. We're going to miss Betty Sutton on our side, and of course we're going to miss Mr. Kucinich for all the great work he's done.

I remember, Congressman LaTourette, when your former Member, Lou Stokes, was on the floor and he demonstrated his friendship in a way that certainly most Members on both sides will never forget. And Mr. Austria is leaving.

One of the main reasons why I did come to the floor is because of Jean Schmidt. When I first heard that she was defeated, they told me that her opponent had said that I endorsed her and that's the reason she lost the race. So I wanted to make it abundantly clear that while I did not endorse her politically, I certainly would have said what a nice lady she has been in being kind and gentle and Republican at the same time, and I thought that was quite an achievement.

Ms. Schmidt has managed to disagree with so many of the differences we have in policy; and yet the first thing that you would ever see on her face is a smile, asking you how you are feeling and having a genuine concern about that. I personally will miss you and miss the greetings that we had for each other and sharing each other's family experiences. It's really a classic example in showing what this great body used to be and what it can become when people can just take a few minutes and realize that we may all come from different political philosophies, but we are still the brothers and sisters and children of God.

I also want to thank Judge Fudge for giving me this great opportunity in speaking with her great Buckeye delegation. Thank you so much.

Mr. Speaker, my Colleagues and I were pleased to learn that the government of Taiwan (Republic of China) has pledged to donate $1.3 million to the United Way International, Habitat for Humanity International, the states of New Jersey and New York, and New York City for post-Sandy relief.

During October of this year, Hurricane Sandy devastated much of New York, New Jersey and other parts of the Northeastern United States. Many lives were lost from these storms as were houses and many personal belongings. Having my congressional district in New York City, I witnessed a lot of this destruction firsthand.

These two charities mentioned above, among many other relief agencies, have done an excellent job in collecting funds for the victims. They were at the frontlines in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and need our help to rebuild themselves. The contributions from Taiwan will continue to provide these organizations the financial support that they need to continue to be effective.

A ceremony marking the transfer of funds to the charities will be held in Washington, D.C. on December 6, 2012. Taiwan's donation is a most generous act by the people and Taiwanese government. Taiwan gave generously to the victims of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and was a major donor to the Twin Towers Fund as well as the Pentagon Memorial Fund. Taiwanese friendship for us is everlasting and commendable.

This is another example of the continuing warm relations between the people of Taiwan and the people of America. We are grateful of their compassion in these difficult times.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor, recognize, and celebrate the 100th Birthday of New York City's own Mrs. Onie Bell Norwood, a true Harlem Legend.

Mrs. Onie Belle Norwood has lived a century in the United States of America and in that time has been privileged to witness its magnificent transformation. ``Old age'' is a term she's heard but not yet experienced as she is able to navigate the city streets better than individuals half her age and has a memory capable of challenging any young mind.

``Elegant'' and ``witty'' are just two of the words that come to mind when friends are asked to describe Mrs. Norwood and she is known to freely share from her wealth of ``experience driven'' information.

In 1912, William Taft was president of the United States, Emmet O'Neal was governor of Alabama, segregation was a way of life, and, on November 16, Onie Belle Carter was born in the ``Heart of Dixie,'' known as Union Springs, Alabama. She was the eldest daughter of the eight children born to the late Mr. & Mrs. Willie Carter. They were a hardworking family that pulled together to make ends meet. While many things seemed impossible, Onie Belle would soon discover that ``all things are possible.''

While the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote (1919) was ratified and the Ku Klux Klan boasted a membership of over 4.5 million members, Onie accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at First Baptist Church in Alabama. She worked hard and served as secretary for the Sunday school and the BYPU. After the death of her father as a young girl, Onie was forced to leave school and take on the responsibility of helping her mother provide for her sisters and brothers. It was the Red Summer of 1919 where race riots broke out across the country including in Chicago, Illinois, Washington, D.C. and Knoxville, Indianapolis. In 1920, less than 400 miles away, a Black-run town called Rosewood was being attacked and burned to the ground. Understanding the importance of an education, Onie traveled to Montgomery, Alabama to attend the H. A. Loveless Middle School.

In 1938, Fiorello LaGuardia was mayor of a bustling city called New York, where, just four years earlier, the now famous Apollo Theatre held its first live show, and Onie Belle, a twenty-six year old country girl from Alabama accepted an invitation for ``live-in'' work in Kew Gardens, Queens, New York so she could send money back to her mother. Onie and her mother prayed that God would protect her in this huge city.

Onie was a warm, friendly person who kept her business to herself. She was drawn to the Thursday ``socials'' that were a ``meeting time'' for many day workers, porters and laborers. That same year she met and married Clarence Norwood.

The sounds of Harlem echoed in Onie's ear and she enjoyed visiting the Apollo Theatre every week where the place was ``jumpin'' with the sounds of Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington and Nat King Cole. In 1939, Billie Holiday first performed a song entitled ``Strange Fruit'' in New York City which protested the horrid act of lynching. Some of the more popular cabarets and clubs in Harlem such as the Cotton Club, Connie's Inn, and Smalls Paradise were frequented by Whites and did not allow Blacks. Onie found herself in the midst of a changing nation. Onie sought to survive through hard work, diligence and determination.

On March 19, 1941, the 99th Pursuit Squadron became the first African-American active combat unit and Onie joined the war effort working for the Department of Defense making duffle bags and suspender belts for soldiers. After the war, she secured employment in factories making belts. On June 25th, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802, the ``Fair Employment Act'', to require equal treatment and training of all employees by defense contractors. In that same year, Mitchell v US, the Interstate Commerce Clause is used to successfully desegregate seating on trains. The country was changing and thirty something year old Onie was changing with it. The Civil Rights movement was in full swing and forcing America to deal with life-changing decisions.

Feeling her soul was not satisfied, Onie joined St. John's Baptist Church on West 152nd Street in Harlem under the pastorate of Rev. Dr. Wilson Major Morris in 1950. She has been an active member every since serving under the second pastor, Rev. Walter C. T. Willoughby and the present pastor, Rev. Dr. John Luster Scott. She is often heard saying how she ``loves her Pastor and her Church family.'' Onie's magnetic personality attracts many young and old. Her favorite ``suitors'' are Christopher Williams, William ``Sonny'' Gamble and Ernest DeVerger. Presently retired from the Chimera Belt Factory, she still enjoys going to Church, taking pictures, shopping and listening to music.

A long time Harlemite, she has seen a century of great changes take place in her life, the Church, the Nation and African-American people, including the granting of the right to vote to women and the great Civil Rights Movement. She has seen the Ku Klux Klan membership dwindle to less than 8,000; 81 African-American mayors including John McGowan (1984) of her hometown of Union Springs, Alabama and David Dinkins (1988) of New York City; 3 ``first'' African-American governors; nearly 100 Members of the House of Representatives; 4 African-American Senators and one African-American President, her favorite, President Barack Obama. She has lived through 19 US presidents, 3 pastors and a multitude of African-American leaders and innovators. She keeps her favorite Bible verse close, Psalm 121, which begins, ``I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.'' On November 16, 2012 Onie Belle Norwood will be 100 years old. Blessed indeed, she has seen her prayers answered--a God who kept her safe in New York City.

I ask my colleagues and our Nation to join me in this special Congressional Recognition of the 100th Birthday of a true patriot and Harlem legend Mrs. Onie Bell Norwood.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember the life and legacy of Joseph Fleming, fondly known to many as Papa Joe, Joe Cool, The People's Lawyer, The Master Negotiator and Harlem's General Counsel. On Monday, September 10, 2012, Harlem's honorary elite gathered at the Sanctuary of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church to celebrate the life of our dear beloved attorney and friend, Joseph Fleming, Esq.

It was a special gathering of people that knew Joseph as clients, as activists, as educators, as business partners, as media personalities, as religious leaders, as entertainers and promoters, as elected officials and as family members and friends. In his very short time here on this earth, my dear friend Joe Fleming lived a complete and compact life of excellence and accomplishment, which included being the best husband in the world, a wonderful loving and complete father, a devoted son, a trusted friend and confident, an author, inventor, entrepreneur, role model, track runner, singer, a man who loved to party and dance with the ladies, but a man who gave all of his unyielding heart to his only true love and partner Temple-Jene.

Great men like Joseph Fleming, Esq. are precious gifts we temporarily have in this world, but their assistance and contributions are far remembered and everlasting. Although Joe will be missed, his legacy now lives through his wife, Temple-Jene, his son, Joseph Harris, his three daughters, Lavon Robin, Lateefah Shariene and Terilyn Marshelle, his grandson, Nathaniel Joseph Williams, his God-daughter, Nyah Cha' Ron Uhuru and through Maschil Entertainment, whose mission is to create, produce, and promote music and artists who ``make music with a conscious message''. That is indeed a great comfort to all who knew this amazing, articulate, soft spoken, serene and outspoken man, who lived life positive despite pain and discomfort as an example to all of us.

Mr. Speaker, on a very personal note, when I remember Joe Fleming, I think about myself as D'Artagnan who joined Athos (Joe Fleming), Porthos (Leon Ellis) and Aramis (Reggie Williams), the Black Musketeers, inseparable friends who live by the motto ``all for one, one for all'' (``tous pour un, un pour tous''). The friendship and kinship of these amazing three Amigos, The Black Musketeers is a story that bears and dares to be written in the mortals of Harlem's history, which will tell a story of three very best friends who were always there for me and the community we love so deeply.

I am honored to include the Obituary of our dear beloved Musketeer, Joseph Fleming, Esq.

Joseph Fleming was born January 4, 1951 in Richmond,

Virginia to Mary Terry Fleming and the late Rev. Leroy

Fleming, Sr. His family moved to Mt. Vernon, New York in

1953, and later to the Bronx in 1957. Joseph is a product of

the New York City School System, P.S. 103, Olinville Jr. High

School, and Evander Childs High School. He graduated from New

York University School of Liberal Arts at its Uptown Bronx

Campus in 1973, where he received his B.S. Degree in

Economics and Political Science. While attending NYU, Joseph

was the Founder and one of the Directors of the Educational

Development and Community Enrollment Program, a program

designed to enroll and mentor students with promise, but

without the grades. He was also President of the Black

Students Organization.

Joseph loved the law. At an early age, after watching Perry

Mason, he decided he was going to be a lawyer. Upon receiving

his Juris Doctor from New York University in 1976, Joseph

began working as an Associate in the Law Offices of Reginald

F. Lewis. It was an opportunity of a lifetime to be able to

gain firsthand experience with one of the top African

American attorneys on Wall Street. Within a couple of years,

Joseph knew that his passion for the law would only be truly

satisfied by having his own firm. In January of 1978, Joseph

started his private practice, Joseph Fleming, Esq., which was

located in his home on Central Park West. In the beginning he

only had a handful of clients, but word began to spread about

this young attorney who could get the job done. In 1986, he

moved his home office downtown nearer the Court Houses, first

to Hudson Street, and then in subsequent years, as his

practice grew, he maintained offices in the Wall Street area

on John Street. The Law Offices of Joseph Fleming was a

general practice law firm committed to providing superior

legal representation in a personalized and cost effective

manner. Many who sought professional advice and counsel from

Joseph were also fortunate to have a personal relationship

with him. He often gave out his cell phone number so that he

could be reached directly by his ``client/friend'' anytime of

the day or night. During his 34 years of having fun

practicing law, Joseph never advertised his practice. You had

to be his client by referral only.

Attorney Fleming's practice concentrated in the following

areas of expertise: Federal Civil Litigation, General Civil

Litigation in all courts including Commercial Litigation,

Personal Injury, and Medical Malpractice; Corporate,

Commercial, and General Business matters; Real Estate

transactions on all levels from the sale and purchase of

property to major corporate mergers, acquisitions, and

development; Entertainment, Media and the Arts; Estates,

Wills and Trusts, Not-for-Profit Corporation Law, and

Trademark and Copyright. Joseph served as legal counsel to a

wide range of professionals, corporations, not-for-profit

corporations, and individuals. Although his practice was

spread worldwide, the majority of his clients were from the

Village of Harlem. Joseph also provided opportunities to many

law students and young attorneys. Whatever he could do, he

expected them to do the same, from making photocopies,

interacting with clients and other attorneys, to standing

before Judges and Clerks. He gave young men and women a full

and true experience of what it was to be an attorney in all

facets.

Joseph was admitted to practice in the United States

Supreme Court; the United States Court of Appeals for the

Federal Circuit; the Second Circuit Court of Appeals; United

States District Court for the Eastern District of New York;

United States District Court for the Southern District of New

York; United States Tax Court; and the New York State Supreme

Court, Appellate Division First Judicial Department. He was a

member of the New York State Bar Association and a founding

member of the Society of African American Law Firms. Joseph

was also one of the founding members and Chairman of the

Board for the Education of People of African Ancestry. He had

been an adjunct Professor at John Jay College for Criminal

Justice.

Joseph was most proud of his victory in the case of

Professor Leonard Jeffries v. the City University of New

York, where he successfully defended Dr. Jeffries in his

First Amendment suit against the College. He was also proud

of his skillful legal prowess in successfully recovering the

property of Malcolm X, from an eBay auction and a near

storage facility sale, and returning the property to the

Shabazz Family.

Joseph was so much more than an attorney and counselor. He

was one of the best husbands in the world, a wonderful loving

father, devoted son, trusted friend and confident, an author,

inventor, entrepreneur, role model, track runner, singer, a

man who loved to party and dance with the ladies, and Temple-

Jene's handyman. Among his many entrepreneurial activities,

in 1974 he served as the publisher of one of the first

African American fashion magazines. ``Black In Vogue'', which

was the first fashion publication to give credit to models

and photographers directly on the page of the photo magazine.

Attorney Fleming was named to Who's Who in Black New York

City in 2009. He was an Officer in his son's company, Maschil

Entertainment, Inc., and was Executive Producer and co-host

of Maschil's critically acclaimed live art, music show

``LoveJonesNYC''. He worked with other giants in the

entertainment industry including Dr. Benjamin Chavis and

Russell Simmon's Hip Hop Summit, Doug E. Fresh, Lion King's

Sophia Nicole, and his son, J-Harris; as well as a number of

other celebrities and up and coming artists.

Joseph was amazing! He had been battling several cancers

over the years, starting in 1999, culminating with his

transition in 2012. Joseph's faith in God was so strong!

Without God, none of the above could have happened!

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Harlem's General Counsel, Joseph Fleming, Esq. It is my hope that his example will serve as a testament that, with hard work and genuine character, we can achieve our greatest dreams.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Harlem's historian and Black Filmmaker, William ``Bill'' Miles. William Miles was born in Harlem, New York, and has used his deep knowledge and experience of Harlem to produce films that tell unique and

often inspiring stories of Harlem's history. Based in New York City at THIRTEEN/WNET New York Public Media, William Miles produced many films dedicated to the African-American experience that have been broadcast nationwide over the Public Broadcast System, PBS. Bill Miles' interest in creating historical documentaries was nurtured through 25 years of restoring archival films and early feature classics for Killiam Shows, Inc. and the Walter Reade Organization in New York City.

Bill Miles breakthrough film was Men of Bronze, which opened at the New York Film Festival in 1977 and was later broadcast on PBS. This film tells the story of the black American soldiers of the 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the Harlem Hellfighters, who, because of segregation in the U.S. Army, fought under the French flag in World War I. The regiment spent more time in the front-line trenches than any other American unit, fighting alongside French, Moroccan, and Senegalese soldiers. First organized in 1916 as the 15th New York National Guard Infantry Regiment and manned by black enlisted soldiers with both black and white officers, the 369th Infantry is known for being the first African-American regiment to serve with the American Expeditionary Force during World War I. The regiment was nicknamed the Harlem Hellfighters and the Black Rattlers, in addition to several other nicknames. Federalized in 1917, it prepared for service in Europe and arrived in Brest in December. The next month, the regiment became part of the 93rd Division (Provisional) and continued its training, now under French instructors. In March, the regiment finally received its Federal designation and was reorganized and reequipped according to the French model. That summer, the 369th was integrated into the French 161st Division and began combat operations. Dubbing themselves ``Men of Bronze,'' the soldiers of the 369th were lucky in many ways compared to other African Americans in 1918 France. They enjoyed a continuity of leadership, commanded throughout the war by one of their original organizers and proponents, Colonel William Hayward. Unlike many white officers serving in the black regiments, Colonel Hayward respected his troops, dedicated himself to their well-being, and leveraged his political connections to secure support from New Yorkers. Spending over six months in combat, perhaps the longest of any American unit in the war, the 369th suffered approximately fifteen hundred casualties but received only nine hundred replacements. Unit histories claimed they were the first unit to cross the Rhine; they performed well at Chateau- Thierry and Belleau Wood, earning the epithet ``Hell Fighters'' from their enemies. Exhibiting extraordinary valor, the 369th, an integral part of the Fourth French Army, fought on the front until the Armistice. During the Meuse-Argonne Offensive the 369th showed exceptional bravery, especially on September 29, 1918, during the liberation of Sechault, when a third of the regiment suffered casualties. Whereas African American valor usually went unrecognized, during its service, the regiment suffered 1500 casualties and took part in the following campaigns: Champagne-Marne, Meuse-Argonne, Champagne 1918 and Alsace 1918. One Medal of Honor and many Distinguished Service Crosses were awarded to members of the regiment. The most celebrated man in the 369th was Pvt. Henry Lincoln Johnson, a former Albany, New York, rail station porter, who earned the nickname ``Black Death'' for his actions in combat in France. In May 1918, Johnson and Pvt. Needham Roberts fought off a 24-man German patrol, though both were severely wounded. After they expended their ammunition, Roberts used his rifle as a club and Johnson battled with a bolo knife. Johnson was the first American to receive the Croix de Guerre (Cross of War) awarded by the French government. By the end of the war, 171 members of the 369th were cited for their heroism and decorated with the Croix de Guerre and Legion of Honor. Upon their return to the United States, the Harlem Hellfighters were honored by the City with a victory parade up Fifth Avenue. During World War II, the 369th distinguished itself at Okinawa, and later fought in the Korean, Vietnam, Persian Gulf Wars and the War on Terror in Afghanistan. The unit serves today as the 369th Sustainment Brigade.

Mr. Speaker, as a Korean War Veteran and Member of the 369th Harlem Hellfighters Veterans' Association, I included this comprehensive history of the 369th Regiment as documented in film by our beloved William ``Bill'' Miles because these brave Men of Bronze were game changers that fought as proud Americans to protect and serve our nation.

As I continue to talk about the great work of my dear friend filmmaker Bill Miles, I must also recognize his best known artistic documentary, I Remember Harlem, a four part comprehensive series, which chronicles the history and changes of the Village of Harlem and changes from its beginnings in the early 1600s through the early 1980s. The program's episodes include segments on Harlem's early history and settlement, the Harlem Renaissance, the Great Depression in Harlem, the Civil Rights Movement and political activism in the era of Malcolm X, and the problems and redevelopment of the '70s. Miles spent three years researching materials for I Remember Harlem, which traced Harlem's 350- year history. As a visual counter to the oral histories in the film, Miles unearthed archival photographs and motion picture stock footage along with newsreel films, much of it rare and never before seen by the general public. In early 1982, one year after it was broadcast, I Remember Harlem won an Alfred I. DuPont Columbia University citation and an American Film Festival Award.

Bill Miles, president of Miles Educational Film Productions, Inc. produced and directed The Different Drummer: Blacks in the Military (1983) concentrated on African-American soldiers in recent decades. A three-part documentary that explores the history of blacks in the American Armed Forces. Part One, ``Unknown Soldiers,'' examines the earliest black involvement in the military, from the Civil War to World War I; Part Two, ``The Troops,'' continues that history from World War II to the war in Vietnam; Part Three, ``From Gold Bars to Silver Stars,'' features interviews with today's highest-ranking black officers, who describe their how they rose up the military ladder.

Miles's three-part program Black Champions (1986) dealt with a three- part chronicle of the historic achievements by black athletes in America. The documentary uses rare archival footage to illustrate how many black champions, both famous and little-known, successfully challenged racism to achieve a level of prominence almost always denied them in other areas of American life. ``Who Will Wear the Crown?'' (Part One) examines early black participation in sports, focusing on the athletic departments of segregated Negro colleges during the first half of the century. ``New Times: The Integration of American Sports'' (Part Two) explores black pioneers who became superstars in the white sports arena. ``Looking For Tomorrow: Black Athletes and the Sporting Life'' (Part Three) focuses on the world of corporate sports and the financial and emotional pressures facing black superstars. Important topics included the impressive performances of various black athletes at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Jackie Robinson's integration of Major League Baseball, Althea Gibson's achievements in tennis, and the careers of early black football stars.

Miles co-produced the film on literary legend James Baldwin: The Price of a Ticket, which debuted in 1989 as an episode of PBS's American Masters series. James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket captures on film the passionate intellect and courageous writing of a man who was born black, impoverished, gay and gifted, by using striking archival footage to evoke the atmosphere of Baldwin's formative years-- the Harlem of the 30s, his father's fundamentalist church and the emigre demimonde of postwar Paris. Newsreel clips from the '60's record Baldwin's running commentary on the drama of the Civil Rights movement. The film also explores his quiet retreats in Paris, the South of France, Istanbul and Switzerland--places where Baldwin was able to write away from the racial tensions of America. Writers Maya Angelou, Amiri Baraka, Ishmael Reed, William Styron and biographer David Leeming place Baldwin's work in the African-American literary tradition--from slave narratives and black preaching to their own contemporary work. The film skillfully links excerpts from Baldwin's major books--Go Tell it on the Mountain, Notes of a Native Son, Another Country, The Fire Next Time, Blues for Mister Charlie, If Beale Street Could Talk--to different stages in Black-white dialogue and conflict.

Bill directed Black Stars in Orbit (1990), a documentary that profiles black astronauts and the contributions of African-Americans who worked behind the scenes in the NASA Space Program, featuring Edward J Dwight Jr., Ronald E McNair, Frederick D. Gregory, Patricia S. Cowings, Isaac T. Gilliam, IV, Guion S. Bluford, Jr., Charles F. Bolden, Jr., Mae C. Jemison, Robert H. Lawrence, Jr. Robert E. Shurney, Lee Archer, Jr. and George Carruthers.

Black Stars in Orbit was followed by Liberators: Fighting on Two Fronts in World War II (1992), which Miles co-produced with Nina Rosenblum. Liberators, featuring actors Denzel Washington, Louis Gossett Jr. and Leon Bass is a documentary film account about Black American soldiers in World War II who combated racism in the segregated military and on the home front. In April 1945, some Black American soldiers were among the first `liberators' to enter Nazi death camps, encountering the survivors described by one GI as ``walking skeletons.''

Bill Miles and Nina Rosenblum collaborated and co-directed, The Black West, which is part of a three-volume series of the TBS Emmy award- winning film and Cable Ace nominee series, The Untold West. Narrated by Actor

Danny Glover, The Black West episode depicts the story of African Americans of the early western frontier of the late 19th century. The segment salutes the black cowboys of the western wilderness who fought alongside their Native American and white counterparts during the development of the frontier. The contributions of these nearly forgotten African-Americans are portrayed through realistic re- enactments, including a special segment on cowboy Bill Pickett, one of the best rodeo performers of all time.

Mr. Speaker, Bill Miles' life's work is dedicated to exploring the entire African American Experience including the history, culture and achievements of African Americans from their arrival in America in the 16th century to their achievement as astronauts, aeronautical scientists, and engineers. Mr. Miles has won an Emmy Award, has been nominated for the Oscar, and was inducted into the Black Filmmaker's Hall of Fame. Among numerous other awards garnered both at home and abroad, he has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Independent Video and Filmmakers, AIVF in acknowledgment of his outstanding contribution to the history of African American in the medium of film. I ask you and my colleagues to join me in a very special congressional salute to Harlem's Historian and Black Filmmaker William ``Bill'' Miles, a titan of a man who has documented the history and contributions of African Americans and the Black American Experience with film, a camera and a lens.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor, recognize, and celebrate the United Palace Cathedral's 45th anniversary and 45 years of ministry's services to the community.

The United Palace Cathedral has been an important institution of the Northern Manhattan community with an esteemed reputation of devotion to our families and youth. The congregation has opened its doors, providing service and hope, to the poor, middle class and immigrant communities. The church has united the community and provided a welcoming place to practice the Christian faith.

United Church, under the leadership of our pastoral beloved founder REVEREND IKE, is a place of worship for thousands of people of various races, faiths, and social strata. It is also a classic, architecturally grand, international, inter-cultural Center for the Arts.

The square block United Building Complex, containing the Palace Auditorium, was purchased by the United Christian Evangelistic Association in 1969, under the direction of Dr. Frederick Eikerenkoetter (``Rev. Ike''), Founder and Pastor of the United Church. It fronts on four streets, occupying a full block on Broadway, 175th Street, and Wadsworth Avenue.

The building was the last of the ``Wonder Theatres'' erected between 1925 and 1930. These ``Wonder Theatres'' were so named because of their extravagant design and were placed in strategic areas of Manhattan. Intended as a stage theatre, it opened February 15th, 1930, and housed vaudeville shows for uptown residents. With the decline of vaudeville and the growing popularity of moving pictures, the theatre was quickly converted to a deluxe movie house and renamed Loew's 175th Street Theatre. The Church provides an impressive roster of youth programs ranging from tutoring classes for elementary to high school students to the Collegiate Society for the elder students. These programs have become vital in the fostering of young talent. United Palace has joined in a concerted community effort to keep our children off the streets by providing simulative, spiritual and cultural alternatives. The United Palace Cathedral demonstrates the power and fortitude of our community. Their congregation serves as a positive outcome produced by uniting in the face of adversity.

The United Palace Cathedral believes and affirms: The Omnipresence of God--God is absolute good, everywhere present--The Divinity of Humankind--The Power and Value of Thought--Practicing the Presence--The Law of Demonstration. Knowing the Ancient Wisdom Principles, Universal Law and the laws of life, also called Truth, is not enough, we must also live and practice the Truth we know. ``But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and God's righteousness; and all these things will be added unto you.'' (Matthew 6:33)

As a Spiritual and Multicultural Community, we: Believe that spiritual power lives within us, eager to be discovered and expressed; Emphasize universal spiritual principles and welcome people of all races, religion, social backgrounds, lifestyles and economic levels; View religion as an open-ended search for Truth rather than as a closed system of pre-established beliefs; Embrace Jesus Christ as the perfect expression of our own indwelling spiritual potential, and his teachings as a guide to our own spiritual empowerment; Recognize and embrace the importance of spiritual community in supporting and empowering our personal journey.

This parish has demonstrated the power and fortitude of community. They refused to allow the loss of a physical space to destroy the bonds that they share with each other. The congregation serves as a beautiful portrayal of the positive outcome produced by uniting in the face of adversity.

I ask my colleagues and our Nation to join me in this special Congressional Recognition of the United Palace Cathedral as they celebrate the 45th anniversary and 45 years of spiritual service and strength in the face of Adversity.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life of West Harlem's beloved businesswoman, managing director, visionary, community resident and advocate Patricia Jones, who unexpectedly passed away on Friday, November 16, 2012. On Tuesday, November 27, friends, residents and community leaders gathered at Convent Avenue Baptist Church to reflect and celebrate the life of our beloved Pat Jones, who was a faithful and dedicated public servant to residents, non-profits and businesses throughout West Harlem and the City of New York.

It is with great sorrow that my wife Alma and I joined members of the West Harlem Local Development Corporation, Community Planning Board 9, elected officials representing the New York State Legislature and the New York City Council in mourning the unforeseen death of our beloved Pat Jones who left an unforgettable and indelible mark in all of our political and community hearts and minds. We are truly thankful for her decades of service to our community, and for the many memories that I will personally cherish forever.

Great women like our beloved Pat Jones are precious gifts we temporarily have in this world, but their assistance, contributions and accomplishments are far remembered and everlasting. Pat was a dear friend and was known to many of us as a brilliant hardworking community leader who dedicated her life work to fighting for and expanding historic and landmark preservation, positive community, public safety, health care, environmental justice and education.

Patricia Arlene Jones was born on July 17, 1953 in Flushing, Queens, New York. She was the youngest of four children of Darline Clark Jones and Herman Lee Jones. Pat's family affectionately called her Trisha. Young Trisha was baptized by the late civil rights Preacher, Reverend Timothy P. Mitchell at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Flushing, Queens. Trisha graduated from Flushing High School, where she was a member of the Arista Club, a student organization dedicated to educational excellence. She matriculated to Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan majoring in Mathematics. Pat graduated from Michigan State in 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration.

Pat was recruited by Price Waterhouse Coopers where she worked as an audit manager for over five years. She moved on to JP-Morgan & Company where she managed over 100 finance employees and eventually rose to become the first African American woman to serve as a Managing Director. During her tenure, Pat also served as a manager of diversity, establishing mentoring programs for African American employees, and establishing a women's speaker series featuring powerful professional women, including former U.S. Senator, First Lady and current United States Secretary of State, the Honorable Hillary Rodham Clinton, and former National Security Advisor and United States Secretary of State, the Honorable Condoleezza Rice. Managing Director Jones retired from JP-Morgan after 17 years of service. Pat was also a Certified Public Accountant and played key leadership roles in organizations such as American Women for Economic Development and the American Institute of CPAs. Highly respected for her achievements in business, Pat was mentioned in the 1981 edition of Outstanding Young Women of America.

Pat, an accomplished businesswoman and retired Managing Director, volunteered and joined Manhattan Community Board 9 in 2001 to advocate and serve on behalf of the West Harlem community, where she owned her home and which she loved so much. Pat's dedication, professional skill and wit led her to be elected 2nd Vice Chair of the Board, serving 3 terms from 2004 to 2007. In 2008, Pat was elected Chair and served for two consecutive terms, from 2008 to 2010, receiving the admiration and support of her fellow board members. Pat concurrently co-chaired the Manhattanville Rezoning Task Force, as well as Chair of the 197-A Planning Committee. I am also proud to say that Pat Jones was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, which is one of nine federal zones established by President William Jefferson Clinton, by legislation I authored and sponsored in the House of Representatives.

More significantly, history will remember Pat Jones as the co-author and chief navigator of the historic Community Benefits Agreement between Columbia University and the City of New York on behalf of West Harlem and Community Planning Board 9. After successfully negotiating the 197-A Plan for Community Board 9 through the New York City Planning Commission approval process, Pat Jones was elected to fill one of the Community Board seats on the West Harlem Local Development Corporation.

Pat took on the leadership role as Chair of the West Harlem Local Development Corporation (WHLDC) at a very difficult and contentious time during the negotiating process. Many long mornings, afternoons and evenings shepherding through the complex personalities and agendas was no easy task by any means, but somehow Pat was able to move the WHLDC above and beyond those personalities and agendas, which led to one of the most significant Community Benefits Agreements ever achieved in the City of New York and in the nation that will positively enhance and improve the quality of health, environment, education and affordable living for all the residents of Community Board 9, West Harlem and beyond.

The origin and purpose of the West Harlem Development Corporation are connected with the 25-year expansion project of Columbia University in the City of New York. This educational mixed-use complex that began in 2009 will eventually span 17 acres and will include academic, commercial, cultural, and community facility space as well as open space. It is bounded by West 125th Street to the south, West 133rd Street to the north, Broadway on the east, and Twelfth Avenue on the west. The integrated teaching and academic research campus would create 6.8 million gross square feet in 16 buildings at a projected cost of $6.28 billion.

A consequence of this expansion project is the Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) which is a legally enforceable document between a real estate developer and a community that binds the developer to provide agreed-upon benefits. The West Harlem Community Benefits Agreement Between the West Harlem Local Development Corporation and the Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York was signed on May 18, 2009, initiating phase one of the Columbia University's Manhattanville Expansion project.

In 2005, Community Board 9 of New York City voted to approve the creation of the local development corporation to engage in negotiations with Columbia University on behalf of the community of West Harlem. It was initially incorporated on March 16, 2006 as the D9 Local Development Corporation, a nonprofit New York State entity. Subsequently, an amendment was filed to change the name to West Harlem Local Development Corporation (WHLDC).

Through Pat's effective and determined leadership, and with the support of our elected body of public officials, the WHLDC was able to negotiate a total of $300 million in CBA benefits for housing, employment and economic development, education, environment, transportation, arts and culture, community facilities and historic preservation, which included $150 million from the City of New York to preserve affordable housing.

It also included $150 million from Columbia University, which included the creation of a $20 million Affordable Housing Fund; up to $4 million in related legal services; a $30 million commitment for a planned Demonstration Community K-8 Public School to be established in conjunction with Teachers College; $76 million in Columbia University's financial contributions to a benefits fund that will be paid out in installments over sixteen years, which allows the WHLDC to determine the programmatic uses of these funds; $20 million worth of access to Columbia University services and facilities to be apportioned over twenty-five years (``In-Kind contributions''); and a commitment from Columbia University to provide ``Advice and Guidance'' to the WHLDC on a range of issues and programs.

During Pat's amazing community career she served as Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Children's Arts Carnival, Treasurer of the Hamilton Heights-West Harlem Community Preservation Organization, Member of the Board of the Harlem Venture Group, Treasurer of the Hamilton Heights Homeowners Association (HHHA) and Chair of HHHA's Annual House and Garden Tour Committee.

Let me share with you a poem Patricia Jones authored in the 4th Grade, entitled I am Thankful. ``I am thankful for many things. One is that I have a nice home and wonderful parents in them. Some children overseas don't have homes as we do, and some do not even have parents. I am thankful for the schools we have in New York because some children in other countries don't have schools and need the education badly. Many people in the United States are grateful for the world peace we have. In some countries people have to do what their leaders say to do, and they don't have the right to do what they want to, and to tell their feelings. I am very grateful for all the things that I have, and I hope that many people all over the world have the things that I have.''

Mr. Speaker, Pat Jones was a strong black woman, who understood the true meaning of commitment, sacrifice, hard work and effort. She now takes her place alongside our other Freedom Sisters of extraordinary women who, while less prominent in the media, shaped much of the spirit and substance of civil rights, social and economic justice in America, just as our beloved Pat Jones, whose important historic contribution to the West Harlem community will surely be missed. I ask you and my colleagues to join me in this very special congressional salute to West Harlem Advocate, Patricia Arlene Jones.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Harlem Arts Alliance, Inc. as they celebrated their Sixth Annual Arts Advocacy Week 2012 at The City College of New York Aaron Davis Hall, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, The Manhattan Neighborhood Network's El Barrio Firehouse Community Center, The Studio Museum in Harlem, The ImageNation and The Dwyer Cultural Center. From Monday, October 1 through Sunday, October 7, the Harlem Arts Alliance (HAA) presented a seven day series of mostly free events, designed to elevate the platform for Harlem's illustrious arts and cultural scene and to renew enthusiasm and support for its great cultural institutions and artists. HAA recognizes the correlation between a community's vitality and economic health and its vibrant cultural life and is committed to fostering the development of Harlem's artists, arts institutions and cultural organizations for the benefit of artists, residents, local businesses and tourists alike.

The HARLEM Arts Alliance (HAA) is a not-for-profit arts service organization committed to nurturing the artistic growth, capacity, and development of artists and arts organizations based primarily in Harlem and the greater Harlem communities. With a membership of over 750 individual artists and arts organizations, HAA plays an essential role by helping to build the resources, network, and capacity of its richly diverse association. HAA also maintains strong partnerships with numerous arts organization and institutions throughout New York State, the region, and the nation to maintain vital collaborative efforts to promote the arts in communities.

This year's theme ``Harlem at the Crossroads: Sustaining Our Arts and Cultural Resources,'' highlights the need to maintain and preserve some of the city's most stellar arts organizations, artists, individuals and entities and to help them to secure and sustain the critical resources needed to continue their missions. HAA Chairman Voza Rivers and Executive Director Michael Unthink have billed this year's advocacy week as the Harlem Arts Summit. The undertaking involves the collaboration of key Harlem arts institutions, artists and arts leaders creating an exciting array of events showcasing the Uptown arts landscape.

On Monday, October 1, the Harlem Arts Summit honored three extraordinary cultural icons who have contributed greatly to African American Arts and Culture, the Village of Harlem and our great nation: activist and actor Danny Glover, legendary theatrical producer Vy Higginsen and pioneering arts producer and consultant Mikki Shepard.

Danny Lebern Glover was born in San Francisco, California, the son of Carrie (nee Hunley) and James Glover. His parents, postal workers, were active in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

(NAACP), working to advance equal rights. Glover's mother, daughter of a midwife, was born in Louisville, Georgia and graduated from Paine College in Augusta, Georgia. Danny Glover grew up with a love for sports, like his father. As a teenager and a young adult, he suffered from epilepsy, but he claims to have ``developed a way of concentrating so that seizures wouldn't happen.'' Using this technique, which he describes as ``a type of self-hypnosis'', Glover says he has not suffered a seizure since age 34. Danny Lebern Glover is an American actor, film director and political activist. He is well known for his roles as Mr. Albert Johnson in The Color Purple, as Michael Harrigan in Predator 2, as corrupt cop James McFee in Witness, as Detective Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film franchise (where he coined the catchphrase ``I'm too old for this shit''), as Detective David Tapp in Saw, and as George Knox in Angels in the Outfield. He has also appeared in many other movies, television shows, and theatrical productions. He is an active supporter of various humanitarian and political causes.

Danny began his activist career while attending San Francisco State University, as a member of the Black Students Union, which, along with the Third World Liberation Front and the American Federation of Teachers, collaborated in a five-month student-led strike to establish a Department of Black Studies. The strike was the longest student walkout in United States history and it helped to established not only the first Department of Black Studies, but also the first School of Ethnic Studies in the nation. Danny's long history of union activism includes support for the United Farm Workers, UNITE HERE, and numerous service unions across the nation. He challenged former President George W. Bush, when he was Governor of Texas for leading a penitentiary system that executed more people than any other state, people who were predominately African Americans and Hispanics. His activism continues today as an outspoken critic of the War in Iraq; and as a humanitarian for the arts, the Jazz Foundation of America and board member of the TransAfrica Forum. Danny Lebern Glover was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Humanitarian Award.

Vy Higginsen's accomplishments are vast and her impact on the media and culture in New York City is immense. This Harlem native, who was born and raised on 126th Street, is a noted author, playwright, radio, and TV personality. Vy has a remarkable reputation as a trailblazer. Her list of pioneering achievements include first African-American female radio personality in the prime time New York City market on WBLS; first woman to host a morning show on New York radio at WWRL; first woman in advertising sales at Ebony magazine; first African- American woman to produce a drama on Broadway with Joe Turner's Come and Gone by August Wilson; and first African-American female writer, producer, director of the longest-running, Off-Broadway musical in the history of American theatre with Mama, I Want to Sing, which had an unprecedented 2,200 performances over eight years from 1983 at Heckscher Theatre in East Harlem. It was also a national and international hit with performances across the United States, Japan and Europe, including a six-month run in London's fashionable West End.

Vy has won numerous honors for providing excellent products and services to African-American audiences. In addition to her success behind the microphone at several major New York stations, notably WBLS- FM, WWRL-AM and WRKS-FM, she's also excelled in publishing. Always the visionary, one of her first publications was a 1970s magazine providing opportunities for black photographers, graphic designers and media salespeople to hone their crafts. Unique NY Magazine, which she published and edited, was a lifestyles magazine designed for African- Americans and tourists. Another of her successful publishing ventures was ``This Is My Song: To pass the legacy of gospel music on,'' an illustrated book for children. In 1996, Vy Higginsen founded Mama Foundation for the Arts as a conduit for her philanthropic work. The non-profit is dedicated to nurturing talented black singers, musicians, and arts administrators. As the Foundation's executive director, she's the primary force behind its programs including the acclaimed, Gospel for Teens. Product spokesperson, public relations professional, keynote speaker, and ordained Interfaith Minister, the list of Vy Higginsen's credits go on. Vy Higginsen was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award.

Arts Producer and Consultant Mikki Shepard is the current Executive Producer for the world famous Apollo Theater. In this capacity, Mikki is part of the senior executive staff and creates institutional policies and oversees programming, marketing and development. Her past consultant work in the arts focused on organizational development, institutional program development and assessment, strategic planning and implementation. Mikki's clients included: The Ford Foundation, Heinz Endowments, Media Democracy Fund, New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Jacob's Pillow, Opera America, Future of Music Coalition, and the National Black Arts Festival.

Mikki was the Director for the Arts and Humanities at the Rockefeller Foundation and Artistic Director/Executive Producer of 651ARTS. As Producer, Mikki Shepard presentations includes 100 Years of Jazz and Blues Festival, Women In Jazz, Lost Jazz Shrines and an international new works program, Africa Exchange. She also produced and created for the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) over 25 major performing arts events, such as DanceAfrica, Steps In Time, a Tap Dance Festival, DanceBlack America, a festival and PBS special celebrating 300 years of black dance in America. Mikki also currently serves as the Chair of the Boards of the Mertz Gilmore Foundation; and on the Boards of the Brooklyn Community Foundation, Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), the Creative Capital Fund and the Association of Performing Arts Presenters. Mikki Shepard was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/ Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Arts Leadership Award.

I would also like to congratulate and recognize Mr. Fred Powell, who was the recipient of the Harlem Arts Summit/Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012 Business Award. Fred was honored for his contributions and business collaboration with local arts groups over the years.

The Festivities continued into the evening with the Harlem Arts Summit 2012's opening reception kick off and panel discussion entitled ``A Conversation with Harlem Arts leaders:

Today's Challenge, Tomorrow's Promise,'' introduced by accomplished actress, director, producer and Harlem resident, Tamara Tunie (Law and Order SVU) and moderated by multimedia journalist, Katti Gray at Aaron Davis Hall.

In a unified effort to continue building Harlem's legacy as a cultural Mecca, Harlem Arts Summit 2012 is presented by the HARLEM Arts Alliance in collaboration with key Harlem organizations including Columbia University, Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, 125th Street Business Improvement District, Studio Museum in Harlem, Aaron Davis Hall/City College of New York, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Harlem Business Alliance, Harlem Stage/The Gatehouse, Caribbean Cultural Center, Harlem Community Development Corporation, New Heritage Theatre Group, MIST Cinemas and Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN)--El Barrio Firehouse Community Media Center.

Major support for the Summit is provided by the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, New York State Council on the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts. Let me take this opportunity to thank all of our Harlem Arts Advocacy Week community sponsors, supporters and collaborators as we celebrated ``Harlem at the Crossroads: Sustaining Our Arts and Cultural Resources'' during the Sixth Annual Harlem Arts Advocacy Week 2012.

Mr. Speaker, the Harlem Arts Alliance under the great leadership of Chairman Voza Rivers and Executive Director Michael Unthink has contributed daily to the survival and enhancement of Harlem's beloved cultural artist and arts organizations. During these economically challenging times for our arts and cultural organizations, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting the Harlem Arts Alliance as they continue their advocacy for the arts on behalf of the Village of Harlem and a very grateful nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor, recognize, and celebrate Mr. Bob McCullough SR., recipient of the Marcella R. Brown Foundation's Founders Award.

My good friend Bob McCullough Sr., is the Founder & Co-Founder of several community organizations such as the Rucker Pro Tournament Summer Professional Basketball League, Harlem Professional Inc., National Association of Each One Teach One Inc., John Hunter Camp Fund, Rucker Professionals Hall of Fame, Bob Douglass Hall of Fame, 133rd & 134th streets Alumni Association and the Pelham Fritz Basketball League.

I am glad that the Marcella R. Brown Foundation has chosen to recognize Bob for all his service and devotion. The Marcella R. Brown Foundation Inc. is a well regarded organization that seeks to provide assistance to youth who want to pursue a higher education. They give financial support in the form of scholarships, and provide opportunities for youth to get valuable work experience with non-profit organizations and select governmental agencies.

Bob McCullough is a legendary Benedict College athlete who holds a spot in the upper echelon of all-time great basketball players in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. A heralded New York schoolboy athlete, he was recruited by Coach John E. Brown and scored 2,135 points for a 28.4 points per game career average during his three years with the Benedict College Tigers.

McCullough displayed textbook-pure shooting and was quicker than everybody guarding him. He made studder-steps dribbling down the court then, faded back for odd-angle 10 to 17-foot jumpers that invariably went in the basket. In 1964-65, he was the second leading scorer in the nation averaging 36.4 points per game. He netted over 45 points on four occasions, 49 points twice and a single career high of 51 points against South Carolina State Bulldogs.

As a freshman in 1961-62, Bob canned 54, 56, and 64 points in exhibition games. In 1963-64, he was the star of Benedict's national scoring championship basketball team that averaged 101.2 points per game. McCullough was the first black athlete to be selected for the All-Southern Textile Basketball All-Star Team in Greenville, SC.

He was named to All-American Honorable Mention teams by sportswriters for United Press International and Converse Magazine in 1965, Bob was offered a contract by the Harlem Globetrotters, and was drafted by the Cincinnati Royals of the National Basketball Association. He was dropped from the Royals when All-Star guard Oscar Robinson renewed his contract. In 1967, Bob played with the New Jersey Asbury Park Boardwalkers in the Eastern Professional Basketball League, now known as the CBA. He averaged 22 points and five assists per game and was selected to the All-Rookie Team, and played in the Eastern Professional League East/West All-Star Game with NBA Stars Walter Dukes and K. C. Jones.

McCullough earned a Master of Science degree from Lehman College and studied additionally at New York University, Cornell University and Hunter College. He is a New York Department of Education licensed school teacher, former counselor for Hunter College, and a published researcher who has lectured at conferences on mentoring in the US and abroad. Bob presented in Vancouver, Canada, New Castle on the Thyme, England, and for the National Association of Black Social Workers in New Orleans as well as Los Angeles, California.

In 1976-80, Bob became the Assistant Director and Counselor of the Fordham University Upward-Bound Program, on the Rose-Hill campus. Bronx, New York. Bob is founding member of the East Harlem Abyssinian Triangle Inc. that brought Pathmark to Harlem.

Throughout the years Bob McCullough has received numerous honors and awards as the commissioner of the internationally-known Rucker Summer Professional Basketball League and as co-founder of the National Association of Each One Teach One, a youth developmental mentoring program in Harlem.

Bob McCullough Sr., is the Founder & Co-Founder of several community organizations; Rucker Pro Tournament Summer Professional Basketball League, Harlem Professional Inc., National Association of Each One Teach One Inc., John Hunter Camp Fund, Rucker Professionals Hall of Fame, Bob Douglass Hall of Fame, 133rd & 134th streets Alumni Association and the Pelham Fritz Basketball League.

Bob has played a pivotal role in my Congressional District by providing programs and activities that help foster and develop minds and talents of the community youth. Because of his selfless devotion and unwavering dedication, many of your young people will go on to reach their ambitions. It is in that spirit that I ask all my colleagues and our Nation to join me in this special Congressional Recognition of the Mr. Bob McCullough Sr. recipient of the 2012 Marcella R. Brown Foundation's Founders Award.

I rise on the floor because there have been so many people in my constituency that are wondering about why did I vote in support of China going into the WTO, and at the same time we all are complaining about our failure to abide by the rules.

I want to make it abundantly clear that we're in the same situation. Sandy and I, it was a profile in courage almost to support China, and we have consistently supported our position as most people are supporting the committee's position and the Congress' position as relates to allowing Russia to assume the responsibilities of joining the WTO. While we have no guarantees that she will abide by the rules, at least we do have that she recognizes that there are international rules.

For those people that are just monitoring the behavior of the People's Republic of China, we have to realize that in order to get people to cooperate and to find some discipline in international trade, they have to join. This goes a long way in making certain not only that we create the jobs and improve commercial trade with Russia, but also it encourages the administration now to see what works for the great United States, what really works to improve the quality of trade between all nations, and it gives us another tool to work with.

So I want to thank Sandy and the chairman of the committee for working together as closely as they have, and Mr. McDermott. And I do hope that we will be able to join these countries to say that even in America it's possible to work even with Communists and not sell out our principles of the great qualities of democracy that are prevalent with most people.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish our good friends in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, a Happy Anniversary on October 10th. Known as Double Ten Day due to it being the tenth day of the tenth month, it marks the day that The Republic of China/Taiwan came into existence.

Taiwan will be 101 years old on this day. Young by comparison to other nations in the world, but they have done so much in these relatively few years.

Most impressively, Taiwan has become a thriving democracy during this time. In 1996 they held their first direct President elections. Since then, Taiwan has seen different political parties hold the office of President. A true mark of a democracy.

Taiwan's economy is strong and their unemployment is low compared to much of the world. A lot of this can be attributed to them being recognized as a powerhouse in the electronics field.

Taiwan is also an important world citizen--constantly giving aid and assistance where it is needed throughout the globe. If a natural disaster occurs in another country, Taiwan is often one of the first nations on the scene providing much needed help.

One last note, Taiwan's top diplomat in the U.S. and our longtime friend Jason Yuan is leaving his post here to assume the awesome responsibilities of Chief of the Republic of China's National Security Council. We wish him well in this new role and assure him of our continuing confidence in the special relationship between Taiwan and the U.S.

For these reasons and more I congratulate Taiwan and wish them a very happy celebration on their 101st year.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to recognize the Department of Sociomedical Sciences Doctoral Program/ Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health for its outstanding impact on the success of its Latino student population. The school is a groundbreaking and progressive institution that strives to promote academic excellence and a diversified student, faculty, and staff population.

Since its founding in 1968, the Sociomedical Sciences, SMS, program in Columbia's School of Public Health has evolved into a truly multidimensional institution. Its unique approach to teaching with its use of educators, engineers, and social scientists creates a robust learning model for addressing and ultimately solving today's prevalent health concerns. Columbia University has shown a dedication to maintaining its diverse community while also sustaining a high level of academic excellence. The Mailman School, in particular, has contributed to this mission exceptionally. From 2003 to 2010, 12.8 percent of students enrolled in the SMS doctoral program were Latinos, accurately representing the proportion of Latinos in the United States population.

In addition to the implementation of equal opportunity policies, the Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity, IMSD, has provided funding for graduate research positions and tuition assistance that demolished financial barriers previously hindering enrollment and timely degree attainment. This has provided for an increase in minority student enrollment and further expanded the already vibrantly assorted ethnic community.

A culturally well-rounded student body enhances the world perspective of students both academically and personally. The Mailman School of Public Health has accomplished all that it has educationally, while remaining committed to diversity among its student population, creating an equitable academic environment fostering a more inclusive world perspective. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to recognize this achievement as particularly outstanding and its focus on promoting academic advancement of Latino students.

Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me this opportunity to participate in the Republican Presidential campaign, because that's exactly what this is.

I saw a commercial with a white guy with leather gloves on working and sweating, and, oh, God. It looked like America to me except they had something in there about President Obama wanting people who didn't want to work, that all they had to do was ask for a welfare check, and I think it had something like ``I paid for this commercial,'' or something like, ``I'm proud of it.''

This is the first time I've seen a standing committee manipulate itself to give credibility to a guy who just really doesn't know what this business is all about.

I never thought I'd be in the well talking about States' rights, but I do recognize there are different employment needs of people in Alaska and people in Hawaii, people in New York, people in Mississippi. They just don't all have the same job opportunity.

And the whole idea of asking for Governors, Republican and Democrat, to have the flexibility not to fill out forms, but to say, What's working? How are they putting people to work?

But I think the most important thing that we're forgetting is that not having a job and facing your family each and every day is more than not having a paycheck; it is not having self-esteem.

To believe that people who are used to working hard, having dignity, having pride in their kids, just because the candidate for President made another mistake, that we're going to have to now legislate something to show that we think he makes any sense on that issue, it is wrong, and it ain't going nowhere.