Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, Sikh activists Kanwarpal Singh Dhami and Dr. Jagjit Singh Chohan were recently arrested by the Indian Government on charges of sedition. Their crime was to speak in support of a sovereign Khalistan. Dr. Chohan also flies the Khalistani flag from his residence. When did free speech become a crime in a democracy?

The Sikh homeland of Khalistan declared itself independent from India on October 7, 1987.

These arrests are a follow-up to the arrests of groups of Sikh activists last year on Republic Day in January and again in June on the anniversary of the Golden Temple for making speeches in support of freedom for Khalistan and raising the flag of Khalistan. These events were led by Dal Khalsa. Recently, Dal Khalsa was put under watch by order of the Chief Minister of Punjab after its leader, Satnam Singh, and the leader of the Shiromani Khalsa Dal, Daljit Singh Bittu, announced that they are joining forces to achieve sovereignty for Khalistan.

Mr. Speaker, these are the kinds of tactics that totalitarian governments use, not democratic ones. A real democracy would not arrest people for making speeches. This is underlined by the fact that, according to the Movement Against State Repression, India admitted to holding 52,268 Sikh political prisoners. Tens of thousands of other minorities are also held as political prisoners, according to Amnesty International. How can such things happen in the world's largest democracy?

The time has come to stand up against India's tyranny. We should end our aid to India, especially since India uses 25 percent of its development budget for nuclear development, and we should stop our trade until all people enjoy basic human rights. And we should declare our support for free and fair plebiscites in Kashmir, as India promised in 1948, in Punjab, Khalistan, in Nagaland, and wherever people are seeking freedom. The essence of democracy is the right of self- determination and that basic right is being denied to minorities in India. The best thing we can do to support stability, freedom, and human dignity in the subcontinent is to stop rewarding the tyrants and throw our full support behind those seeking freedom.

Mr. Speaker, the Council of Khalistan has issued a very good release on the arrests of Dr. Chohan and Mr. Dhami. I would like to insert it in the Record at this time. Thank you.

Desire for Khalistan Alive and Well in Punjab

Washington, D.C., Mar. 21, 2006.--Slogans of ``Khalistan

Zindabad'' filled the air at the Holla Mohallah festival in

Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, led by Dal Khalsa and the Shiromani

Khalsa Dal. The two organizations pledged to unite to

liberate the Sikh homeland, Khalistan, which declared itself

independent from India on October 7, 1987.

Dal Khalsa, led by Satnam Singh, president of Dal Khalsa,

and Daljit Singh Bittu, pledged to ``provide a fresh platform

for the Sikhs who were depressed with the incompetent and

incapable leadership of various factions of the Akali Dal,''

according to The Telegraph, an Indian newspaper. Satnam Singh

said the organizations would reach out to people to involve

them in ``the struggle to uphold our honor and dignity,'' the

newspaper reported. The Punjab government led by Chief

Minister Amarinder Singh has directed the police that both

groups be put under watch.

Dal Khalsa has sponsored numerous marches in Punjab in

support of a free Khalistan, the Sikh homeland that declared

its independence from India on October 7, 1987. It was the

organizer of the two events at which Sikhs were arrested for

making speeches and raising the Khalistani flag.

History shows that multinational states such as India are

doomed to failure. Countries like Austria-Hungary, India's

longtime friend the Soviet Union. Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia,

and others prove this point. India is not one country; it is

a polyglot like those countries. It is doomed to break up as

they did.

``The uniting of these two organizations is very good for

the Sikh nation and its aspirations,'' said Dr. Gurmit Singh

Aulakh, President of the Council of Khalistan. ``The Indian

government continues to persecute and kill our Sikh

brethren,'' he said. ``Unity is essential for the liberation

of Khalistan,'' he said. ``As Professor Darshan Singh, a

former Jathedar, said, `If a Sikh is not for Khalistan, he is

not a Sikh','' Dr. Aulakh noted: ``This shows that the drive

for freedom is still alive in Punjab,'' he said. ``What kind

of democracy watches people for demanding freedom? Why don't

they watch the Black Cats who have killed thousands of Sikhs

with the protection of the Indian government?'' he asked.

The Indian government has murdered over 250,000 Sikhs since

1984, more than 300,000 Christians since 1948 as well as tens

of thousands of Christians throughout the country, over

90,000 Muslims in Kashmir since 1988, 2,000 to 5,000 Muslims

in Gujarat, tens of thousands of Muslims elsewhere in India,

and tens of thousands of Assamese, Bodos, Dalits, Manipuris,

Tamils, and others. An Indian newspaper reported that the

police in Gujarat were ordered to stand aside in that

massacre and not to get involved, a frightening parallel to

the Delhi massacre of Sikhs in 1984. The Indian Supreme Court

called the Indian government's murders of Sikhs ``worse than

a genocide.''

Indian police arrested human-rights activist Jaswant Singh

Khalra after he exposed their policy of mass cremation of

Sikhs, in which over 50,000 Sikhs have been arrested,

tortured, and murdered, then their bodies were declared

unidentified and secretly cremated. He was murdered in police

custody. His body was not given to his family. The police

never released the body of former Jathedar of the Akal Takht

Gurdev Singh Kaunke after SSP Swaran Singh Ghotna murdered

him. No one has been brought to justice for the Khalra

kidnapping and murder or for the murder of Jathedar Kaunke.

Yet according to a report by the Movement

Against State Repression (MASR), 52,268 Sikhs are being held

as political prisoners in India without charge or trial, some

since 1984!

Missionary Graham Staines was murdered along with his two

sons, ages 8 and 10, by a mob of militant, fundamentalist

Hindu nationalists who set fire to the jeep, surrounded it,

and chanted ``Victory to Hannuman,'' a Hindu god. None of the

people involved has been tried. The persons who have murdered

priests, raped nuns, and burned Christian churches have not

been charged or tried. The murderers of 2,000 to 5,000

Muslims in Gujarat have never been brought to trial.

``Only in a free Khalistan will the Sikh Nation prosper and

get justice,'' said Dr. Aulakh. ``India should act like a

democracy and allow a plebiscite on independence for

Khalistan and all the nations of South Asia,'' Dr. Aulakh

said. ``We must free Khalistan now.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dr. Kathleen Cashin, a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community.

Dr. Kathleen Cashin's career as an educator commenced more than 30 years ago. She was a teacher, staff developer, reading consultant, and program manager in the New York City public schools. Her expertise in school leadership and her compassion for staff and children enabled her to successfully lead P.S. 193, The Oil Hodges School, as principal, for 16 years.

As Superintendent of Community School District 23, Dr. Cashin continued her commitment to children. Her ability to lead supervisors, foster professional growth, and engage parents and the community was reflected in the educational resurgence of the District 23 community.

Presently, as Regional Superintendent of Region 5, Dr. Cashin continues to create an environment that offers growth opportunities for students and their families. She is committed to fostering professional growth on the part of all staff, as well as engaging parents and community leaders in all components of the educational program.

Dr. Cashin's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Brentwood College, a Master of Science degree in Education from Brooklyn College, and a Professional Diploma and Doctorate from Fordham University.

Outside of school, Dr. Cashin leads an active life. She is an athlete who enjoys jogging, swimming, and skiing. Possessing boundless energy, Dr. Kathleen Cashin has dedicated herself to educating children and ensuring that every child receives an equal opportunity to develop into a contributing member of society.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Dr. Kathleen Cashin, as she offers her talents and community services for the good of our local communities.

Mr. Speaker, Dr. Kathleen Cashin's selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Dr. Kathleen Cashin for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Claudette Elliot, a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community.

Claudette Elliot is a quiet maverick and community trailblazer. Born in Trinidad West Indies, Claudette and her family emigrated to the United States of America in the mid-1960s where she pursued her dream of higher education. A staunch advocate of education, Claudette obtained an associate degree in business administration at Kingsborough Community College, a bachelor's degree in business management at Long Island University and a professional diploma in paralegal studies at Baruch College. During her 30 plus years of employment, Claudette worked in both the private and public sector. Presently, she is employed by the New York City Housing Authority where she tirelessly serves the residents of the Brownsville community.

Her socially conscious political work has brought her into contact with a number of organizations that have greatly benefited from her talents. Claudette is committed to public service in the East New York community and has served in various capacities. Claudette volunteers her service as the financial secretary to the Van Siclen Block Association that she incorporated. Also, she initiated and organized several fundraisers to achieve the goals for the block association residents and homeowners. As the treasurer of East New York Concerned Citizens, Inc., Claudette has spearheaded and coordinated various social events, which benefited the residents and seniors of the East New York community. In addition, she served as a committee member of the Beaux Arts Ball 2005 in memory of Ossie Davis.

Mr. Speaker, Claudette Elliot is a dedicated person who tirelessly serves our community and because of her devotion we bestow this honor upon her.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Claudette Elliot for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mary Ann Hawthorne, a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community. It behooves us to pay tribute to this outstanding leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Born, raised and entirely educated in the state of New York, Mary Ann Hawthorne has found a unique way to give back to her state's education system. Ms. Hawthorne earned her Bachelors in Education from Bernard Baruch College in New York City in 1972. During her first two years as a teacher, Ms. Hawthorne simultaneously worked her way through Graduate school and earned a Masters in Business Education from Long Island University. Four years later, Ms. Hawthorne received her Professional Diploma and Masters of Science in Administration and Supervision of Education.

Deeply committed to the education of New York's youth, Ms. Hawthorne worked as a teacher, an Assistant Principal, and a Principal. Today, Ms. Hawthorne is the Community Superintendent for District 11, as well as Local Instructional Superintendent for Region 2. Ms. Hawthorne has acted as a wonderful role model to children and fellow educators alike.

Ms. Hawthorne's achievements in education are endless. In September 2001, Ms. Hawthorne was selected by the National Association of Secondary School Principals to serve as an Assessor for new principals. In January 2003, President Bush and Secretary of Education Rod Paige honored Ms. Hawthorne at The White House upon her selection as one of the top eight principals in the United States.

Mr. Speaker, Mary Ann Hawthorne's is a product of the New York education system and a true inspiration to the community around her. She continues to work to improve education in New York and for that I ask that we recognize and give thanks to Mary Ann Hawthorne for her wonderful contribution to our community.

Mr. Speaker, Mary Ann Hawthorne selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Mary Ann Hawthorne for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mary Harvell.

Mary Harvell is a pillar in our community who has tirelessly served on our behalf for many years. She was born in the small town of Glenville, Georgia. She is the seventeenth child out of eighteen born to Wilbert and Leressie Brown. As a young girl, Mary dreamed about migrating to New York City. Fortunately, she got her wish and relocated to the ``Big Apple'' as a young child. She attended public schools in Bedford-Stuyvesant and went on to attend Midwood High School and Brooklyn College where she majored in Sociology.

While studying at Brooklyn College she met and later married Charlie Harvell. From their illustrious union three beautiful children were produced. Today, she is a happy grandmother of five. Mary is also committed and deeply connected to her spiritual family, including her brother, the Bishop Harry Brown of Brunswick, Georgia. She is a member of the New Jerusalem Holy Church of Brooklyn, New York, where the Pastor Lester Charles Smith presides. Mary is very active in her church and has served in various capacities including the Book Ministry, as a Bible Study teacher, and as a member of the Hospitality Committee. Likewise, she also volunteers at the Annual Church Health Fair, which serves the East New York community and assists with the Church Food Pantry, which feeds the community spiritually and physically.

Mary strongly believes that our seniors are the pillars of the community and visits several senior citizen homes and also assists with the transportation of seniors at her church. Additionally, this busy lady volunteers for Assemblyman Darryl Towns. What is so amazing is that Mary makes the time to volunteer all while being employed at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. At Interfaith, she serves as the Secretary in the Purchasing Department where she processes orders from sales representatives, prepares the Purchasing Department payroll, and oversees the ordering of office supplies for the entire medical center. Mary has worked at Interfaith for 34 years, which affords her the opportunity to fulfill her personal mission: ``If I can help somebody, then my living will not be in vain.''

Mr. Speaker, Mary Harvell has helped many people and we duly note that hers is a life well lived and that we appreciate all that she does for our community. She has consistently demonstrated a level of commitment to our community that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Audrey Marie Baker Jackson, a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community. I am honored to pay tribute to this outstanding leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Audrey Marie Baker Jackson was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, as one of twin daughters of Marie and Henry Baker. Ms. Baker Jackson is a distinguished product of the New York City public school system. Upon graduation from Eastern District High School, Ms. Baker Jackson won a National Defense Foreign Language Fellowship in Chinese to study at Columbia University. Proving her vast knowledge of foreign languages, Ms. Baker Jackson graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in linguistics and a minor in Chinese from Queens College (CUNY). She also earned a Masters in Science in Educational Administration and Supervision from Pace University. While at Pace, Ms. Baker Jackson was recommended and accepted to Phi Delta Kappa.

Upon graduation, Ms. Baker Jackson became a Special Education teacher and worked in various administration capacities in District 75 (Special Education). In 1999, she joined District 8, located in the Bronx, as Director of Pupil Personnel. Ultimately, Ms. Baker Jackson was named principal of the School for Theater, Arts, and Research (STAR) Academy in Hunts Point.

Ms. Baker Jackson retired in 2003, but has remained an advocate for the education of children and assists parents in obtaining resources and services for their children. Since retirement, Ms. Baker Jackson has worked as an adjunct professor at City College (CUNY) teaching an introductory Special Education graduate course. She is also creating a consulting company that will assist educational publishing companies in their evaluation of education software and Web-based learning materials.

Audrey Baker Jackson has been a loyal and devoted patron of our community. She has worked diligently to improve special education resources. Her passionate and sensitive character deserves our thanks and for that I ask that we applaud Ms. Baker Jackson's outstanding achievements in our community.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Audrey Baker Jackson, as she offers her talents and community services for the good of our local communities.

Mr. Speaker, Audrey Baker Jackson's selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Audrey Baker Jackson for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Maria Johnson, a member of the Brooklyn community and a distinguished member of the healthcare profession.

Mrs. Johnson has been a professional registered nurse for 15 years, working in various areas of nursing, such as oncology, medical-surgical nursing, visiting nursing and intensive care, and for the past 10 years, as a public health school nurse in the department of Health and Mental Hygiene Office of School Health. Her passion is geared to helping and impacting people.

Mrs. Johnson is currently a supervising nurse for the Office of School Health in District 23 and 19 in Brownsville and East New York, Brooklyn. She supervises a staff of 35, consisting of nurses, public health advisors and assistants. Her goal is to provide optimal health services to children especially in under-serviced areas. She is passionate about providing public health teaching to the school health community, and making a difference by upholding the standards of service. Her commitment to encouraging and empowering people to become more knowledgeable about public health services helps public health professionals develop organizational systems that work well in providing care to students. She keeps her staff focused and enthusiastic so that they not only see their very difficult role as the school nurse, advisor or assistant as just a profession, but as a purpose by which they are driven. Two years ago, she inspired her staff to create a Secret Santa for various needy children in the community.

Mrs. Johnson is a graduate of Long Island University with a Baccalaureate degree in nursing. She was the first nurse to be nominated as employee of the month in the Department of Health.

Mrs. Johnson attributes her success first to God and a strong foundation from her parents, and the support from her husband and children. She is an active member of her church where she and her husband provide lay biblical counseling for pre-marital couples. She enjoys reading, dancing, craft projects and decorating.

An important question she often asks herself is, what I have done today to affect others and make a difference. Her famous motto is ``Keep a smile on your face and let your spirit shine through,'' which is often placed on her staff's schedule.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Maria Johnson, as she offers her talents and community services for the good of our local communities.

Mr. Speaker, Maria Johnson's selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Helen Jordan, a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community. It behooves us to pay tribute to this outstanding

leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Helen Jordan has been a MSW caseworker that counseled substance- abusing mothers, an administrative supervisor and a Program Director at the New York Urban League's child welfare programs. For almost twenty years, she has worked with and for the families in East Flatbush, East New York and Brownsville communities of Brooklyn. The New York Urban League's mission ``. . . to promote opportunities and to help African Americans, individuals, families and communities achieve their full potential . . .'' is the mission that Helen has adopted for herself.

Born in New York City, 75 years ago, to Addie and Pearlie Thomas of South Carolina, Helen is the oldest of three children. Her father and mother, janitors for various Harlem tenements, taught Helen that education was the key to liberation and she never let go of the vision of a college education. Helen earned a Bachelor's degree in Social Welfare and a Master's degree in Social Work at Adelphi University's School of Social Work after she had married Eugene Jordan and their four children Stephanie, Eugene III, Vance and Kevin, were adults. She has 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she thinks that no one should ever stop learning. Helen still attends conferences and workshops related to her work. God has worked many wonders in her life including the privilege of being the Program Director at Service to Families and the Chairperson of the Brownsville-East New York Child Welfare Neighborhood Network and she gives Him all the praise and honor. She is a member of the Greater Allen Cathedral in Jamaica. NY.

Helen has had memberships in several organizations that advocate for children and families to be the very best that they can be such as The Black Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect, which educated communities and organizations about the results of child abuse and neglect; National Association of Social Workers; National Association of Black Social Workers; National Black Child Development Institute, an organization that educates educators about the importance of a child's education; Coalition of Brooklyn Program Directors; New York Foster Care Reform Initiative, an organization that seeks to transform the educational training of foster care parents; African American Task Force Against Violence Towards Women; Neighborhood Family Services Coalition; and the Institute for Community Living, Inc.'s Neighborhood Advisory Board. She is also a member of the 369th Kermit Drowery Ladies Auxiliary.

``Giving back'' is very important to Helen. She has been a field instructor and a faculty advisor to many social work students at various graduate schools. She has also been an adjunct professor at Adelphi University's School of Social Work's Manhattan Center.

At 75 years of age, Helen says that although there is a lot of work being done to improve the lives of our children and their families, there is still so much more work to be done, that she has no idea when she will retire.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Helen Jordan, as she offers her talents and community services for the good of our local communities.

Mr. Speaker, Helen Jordan's selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Shirley Ann McRae, a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community. It behooves us to pay tribute to this outstanding leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Shirley Ann McRae earned her Bachelor's degree in Organizational Management from Nyack College. She also earned Advanced Certificates in Labor Relations from Cornell University's New York State School of Industrial and Labor Relations. Prior to retirement, Ms. McRae worked for MTA's New York City Transit. She was the Senior Director of Employee Programs and Registrations within the Employee Development Unit of the Office of Human Resources.

Shirley Ann McRae is passionate about community service. She has gone above and beyond the call of duty. Since 1996, Ms. McRae has been an active member of Brooklyn Community Board #2; serving as Chairperson of the Board for the last 4 years. Preceding her appointment to Chairperson of the Board, Ms. McRae was involved in many community board committees including a leadership position as Chairperson of the Open Space Subcommittee.

Ms. McRae currently serves on the board of directors for the Brooklyn Bridge Park Coalition and was also on the executive board of directors of the Atlantic Center Homeowner's Association since its creation and acted as the board's president for the last 6 years. Ms. McRae is a member of the Fort Greene Association, the Central Fulton Street Business Improvement District Steering Committee, the Community Action Board representing Region #10--Brooklyn Neighborhood Development Areas 1, 2, and 4.

A patron of the arts, Ms. McRae also serves on the board of directors for the Brooklyn Academy of Music Local Development Corporation and the Creative Outlet Dance Theatre of Brooklyn.

Shirley Ann McRae continues to give wholeheartedly to the Brooklyn community. Her dedication and time given to our community are a phenomenal achievement. She has truly made a strong positive impact and for that I ask that we recognize and give thanks to Shirley Ann McRae for her wonderful contribution to our community.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Shirley Ann McRae for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mercedes Desormeaux Narcisse, Esq., a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community. It behooves us to pay tribute to this outstanding leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Mercedes Desormeaux Narcisse was born in Haiti and moved to Brooklyn as a teenager. From high school on, Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse was completely educated in New York. Growing up, she attended South Shore High, Tilden High, New York City Technical College and St. Joseph College.

Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse is currently the CEO and owner of Statewide Medical and Surgical Supplies Inc., located in the heart of Brooklyn. Preceding her exceptional accomplishments at Statewide, she was in charge of medical and surgical supplies for over 10 years. In addition, Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse is a registered Nurse and worked in the profession of home care, emergency room/trauma, neurology, and renal/ oncology for over 15 years. In that time she was employed at several major hospitals in Queens and Brooklyn.

Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse holds extensive certificates for Orthotic fitting, ACLS, Chemotherapy, Peritoneal Dialysis, HIV Therapy, Wound Care, Infection Control and non-violent crisis intervention.

Mercedes Desormeaux Narcisse is an active participant in the community. She is currently president of the 41st Assembly District Democratic Club, which she has been a member of for the last five years. Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse is also President of Canarsie by Choice and has played a vital role in revitalizing the Avenue L Merchant Association. Additionally she sits on various boards and committees including Community Board 18, the Lions Club, Canarsie Bridges and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. Of particular importance to Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse is her local ``Toys for Tots'' chapter called ``Brooklyn Toys for Tots.'' Working closely with New York City Councilman, Lew Fidler, and his Chief of Staff, Bryan Lee, at the 41st Assembly District Democratic Club, the Brooklyn Toys for Tots collected over 1,700 toys for the area's less fortunate children.

Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse's actions have not gone without recognition in the community. In 2005, the Friends of New York City Assemblyman, Nick Perry, honored Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse for her outstanding service to the community. Ms. Patricia Trim and her ``Trim for Tots'' organization also honored Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse for her continuing work in the community and continuing to ``work in making life easier for underprivileged kids.''

Mercedes Desormeaux Narcisse has played the role of loving mother, caring nurse, successful businesswoman and compassionate community member. Her vivacious and affectionate character has won the hearts of many. Today, we applaud Ms. Desormeaux Narcisse for her devoted and unselfish character. Her commitment and empathy for our community is above and beyond and for that I ask that we recognize this phenomenal woman today.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Mercedes Desormeaux Narcisse for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dr. Manana Petrov, a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community. I am honored to pay tribute to this outstanding leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Dr. Manana Petrov was born in the former Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War. Upon graduation from high school, Dr. Petrov enrolled in Rostov Medical Institute. When Dr. Petrov's family was forced to move to the Georgia Republic, she transferred and graduated from the Tbilisi Medical Institute. Dr. Petrov worked as a physician in the former Soviet Union until she, her husband and her daughter immigrated to the United States. Driven by the need to put food on the table, Dr. Petrov passed all of her medical exams within a year of immigrating to the U.S. Following the completion of her medical exams, Dr. Petrov began her residency at the Brooklyn Hospital working tirelessly to support her family.

In 1997, Dr. Petrov successfully passed her licensing exam and is currently Double-Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Care. She has been serving as the attending physician at Brooklyn Hospital for the last 9 years. During her time at Brooklyn Hospital, Dr. Petrov has served as an outstanding role model for aspiring doctors and was nominated as the ``Best Teaching Attending.'' Additionally, in 2000, she was appointed Medical Director of Hospice of New York and in 2003, she was named the Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine at the Brooklyn Hospice Center. Also in 2003, Dr. Petrov opened her own practice in Brooklyn, NY and is faithfully serving her patients to this day. Dr. Petrov has also worked for the last 5 years as an Associate Program Director in an Internal Medicine Program and boasts two publications in medical journals.

Dr. Manana Petrov is an inspiration to not only those in the medical profession, but to our entire community. She has overcome numerous obstacles to realize her dream of becoming a doctor. Dr. Manana Petrov encompasses the true identity of a role model in today's society and for that I ask that we applaud her accomplishments and contribution to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Dr. Manana Petrov, as she offers her talents and community services for the good of our local communities.

Mr. Speaker, Dr. Manana Petrov's selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Dr. Manana Petrov for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Robin Kelly Sheares, Esq., a distinguished member of the Brooklyn community. Robin Sheares was born in Harlem to the late Gloria and Herman Sheares. At the tender age of 6, her family moved to Bedford-Stuyvesant and ever since she has been a member of the Brooklyn community.

A proud graduate of the public school system, Robin has been an attorney for nearly 20

years. She is experienced in housing, criminal and civil law. In her nearly 20 years as an attorney, she has been an administrative law judge, an instructor, as well as an arbitrator. She is active in Brooklyn, working with community-based organizations, religious institutions, and youth mentoring groups.

Robin Kelly Sheares is an active member of the Wayside Baptist Church and her Block Association. At Wayside, she works closely with the Sunday School and Youth Ministry. Robin's other memberships include, but are not limited to, the Metropolitan Black Bar Association, the Brooklyn Women's Bar Association and the Brownstoners of Bedford- Stuyvesant, Inc.

Robin has been dedicated to the Noel Pointer Foundation and the New York Road Runner's Club. Robin is often called upon as a guest lecturer and career day speaker. She has even addressed students at her alma maters, Public School 309 and Junior High School 57. Although, Robin has no biological children, she has nurtured a number of youth and is a strong advocate for children and parents rights as evident by her work with the Brownstoners's Education Task Force and her alma maters: Brooklyn Technical High School and Ithaca College.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Robin Kelly Sheares, as she offers her talents and community services for the good of our local communities.

Mr. Speaker, Robin Kelly Sheares' selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Kim Best Simms.

Kim Best Simms, the eldest child of Albert and the late Martha Best, has actively served our community for many years. She began serving the community via the Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation. While serving at the Corporation, she worked in the community outreach centers where she conducted blood pressure checks and audio screenings, provided housing assistance and employment referrals and helped coordinate community outreach projects. She has received numerous awards including the Special Congressional Award, City Council Citation Award, State Senator Velmanette Montgomery Outstanding Community Service Award, Appreciation Award, NYC Sanitation Achievement Award, and the 79th Precinct Council Outstanding Community Service Award:

Kim Best Simms has been employed with the Department of Sanitation for many years. She is currently a Staff Analyst with the Department of Sanitation and has served in various capacities. In addition, she has also worked for the New York State Department of Mental Health for 13 years. She is a very talented individual with expertise in mortgage financing underwriting, real estate, and secretarial/computer technology, mental health, purchasing procurement, analytical, loan auditing, and management. She has certifications/licenses/degrees in the following areas: Contract Administration, Information Technology, Computer Technology, Specification Writing, Price & Cost Analysis, Real Estate, Guardian and Court Evaluation, AMAP, Foster Parenting, Royal Business College, OES, Amaranth, Citizens Police Academy, Procurement Planning and Management, and National Mortgage Underwriting.

As a Community Advocate, she loves working with people and serving her community. She especially enjoys mentoring teenagers as well as nurturing children. A devoted parishioner of St. Gregory's Church in Brooklyn, Kim is devoted to her church family and excellently serves the community via the church.

Mr. Speaker, Kim Best Simms is an outstanding leader and pillar of our community and most deserving of this tribute.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Sarah Keys Evans, a distinguished member of hte Brooklyn community. It behooves us to pay tribute to this outstanding leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Sarah Keys Evans was born in rural Washington, NC, in 1929. As the second oldest of seven children, she lived in a small community and is a proud graduate of Mercy Catholic High School. She went on to Perth Amboy, NJ Hospital School of Nursing in 1948, and moved to New York that December. She found a kind home at the Franciscan Handmaids of Mary Convent in Harlem for Career Girls, and remained in New York for 2 years before enlisting in the Women Army Corps in 1951.

Following her honorable discharge as a private first class in 1953, she worked full-time and attended beauty school at night. What followed was a successful 30-year career as a hair stylist, including her ownership of Glamour Nook, Ltd. However, Sarah Keys Evans had no way of knowing that her stand for dignity would lay the foundation for Rosa Parks and the Montgomery, AL, bus boycott.

In August 1952, while traveling home on furlough from the Army in uniform, Sarah Keys Evans was asked to give up her seat on the bus for a white sailor. She refused and was arrested and fined $25.00 for her actions. Her proud stance led to a 3-year legal battle that culminated in the historic ruling that outlawed segregation in interstate bus travel. In November of 1955, the Interstate Commerce Commission reversed the ``separate but equal'' policy and ruled that black passengers who paid the same amount for rail and bus fare as white passengers must receive the same service, without being shunted into seats reserved only for Blacks.

Sarah Keys Evans's brave actions resulted in many well-deserved honors. Her contributions to America's civil rights movement brought an award from the New York State Beauty Culture Association and the Martin Luther King, Jr. ``Living the Dream Award.''

The former Sarah L. Keys married George C. Evans, Jr., a native of Beaumont, TX, in 1958. She has lived in Brooklyn since 1954.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Sarah Keys Evans, as she offers her talents, perseverance and community services for the good of our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, Sarah Keys Evan's selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Sarah Keys Evans for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask today that we recognize Dr. Sheila Tomlin-Reid, a distinguIshed member of the Brooklyn community. I am honored to pay tribute to this outstanding leader and I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing her impressive accomplishments.

Dr. Sheila Tomlin-Reid excelled in her education earning both a Masters of Science Degree in School Administration, Supervision and Leadership from Touro College School of Education and Psychology in New York City and a Masters of Science Degree and Advanced Post Graduate certificate in Guidance and Counseling from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York. In addition, she received a Doctorate in Education from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Dr. Sheila Tomlin-Reid has worked with energy and dedication for many years as an Assistant Principal with the Department of Education at FDNY High School for Fire and Life Safety. Her passion and concern for New York's youth inspired her to found The Tomlin Foundation in 2003. Dr. Reid, who is currently CEO of the foundation, established the foundation to commemorate the life and visions of Elliott and Michael Tomlin. The foundation strives to provide educational scholarships to inner-city youth, which financially assists their goals and educational pursuits. The foundation also provides mentorship programs and health awareness programs to inner-city children and community residents.

Dr. Reid is an active member of the community, especially in the area of health and wellness of women. Dr. Reid is a member of the Professional Women's Speaker Bureau which specializes in seminars, workshops and counseling designed to motivate women to increase self- esteem, personal and professional development, business etiquette and leadership skills. She is also a member of the Women's Caucus of Edolphus Towns Organization and a member of Calvary U.F.W Baptist Church in Brooklyn.

Dr. Sheila Tomlin-Reid is a phenomenal role model to not only the women of our community, but to our community as a whole. She has worked to better the lives of women and young children with contagious persistence. Her passionate and sensitivity deserves our thanks and f(x that I ask that we applaud Dr. Reid's outstanding achievements in our community.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent on this body to recognize the accomplishments of Dr. Sheila Tomlin-Reid, as she offers her talents and community services for the good of our local communities.

Mr. Speaker, Dr. Sheila Tomlin-Reid selfless service has continuously demonstrated a level of altruistic dedication that makes her most worthy of our recognition today.

Mr. Speaker, please join our community in honoring Dr. Sheila Tomlin- Reid for her dedication and outstanding service to our community.