Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, the Riverdale YM-YWHA is fortunate to have had Marti Michael at its helm. Deeply rooted in Jewish culture, the Riverdale Y is open to all within the community and promotes an environment of inclusion and diversity.

Marti's involvement with the Riverdale Y started long before she became its Executive Director and even before the first bricks were laid. While working at UJA-Federation in the early 1980s, Marti worked with the Riverdale community to raise the necessary capital to build the Y.

Marti has worked for the Riverdale Y for 28 years, and since taking the helm as Executive Director, she oversees a thriving community center that offers athletic, artistic and enrichment for children, adults and seniors. The Riverdale Y also offers after-school programs at PS24 and Kinneret, and Marti wants to expand that scope even farther.

The Riverdale Rising Stars' Broadway Gala will honor Marti for all that she has done at the Riverdale Y, particularly her dedication to the performing arts. There is something magical about the theater. Audiences become enraptured by the performances as actors make their characters come to life.

Children and teens who participate in theater programs through the Riverdale Y grow too. Marti enjoys watching once-shy children and timid teens develop greater confidence in themselves. There is indeed magic in the theater and all that Marti does to encourage our youth to flourish.

Her devotion to the Riverdale Y and the greater community is inspiring. I am pleased to have the opportunity to recognize Marti Michael's leadership and achievements. We are saddened that she is leaving but I wanted this opportunity to thank her for all that she has done and continues to do in our beloved community.

Mr. Speaker, countless communities across our great nation thrive thanks in part to the selfless service and dedicated commitment of individuals like Al and Dee DelBello. The DelBellos epitomize the very meaning of the words ``public service.''

I have known Al and Dee for many years. Al is a distinguished public servant who represented our community with dignity and integrity. His record of hard work and commitment to ensuring that government serves all is truly remarkable; he's a leader whom I have strived to emulate.

Al started serving our country in the National Guard after graduating from Fordham Law School. He returned to New York once he completed his service, and later ran for City Council in Yonkers. His sense of civic duty did not end there. He was elected as Mayor of Yonkers in 1970, served as the Westchester County Executive for three consecutive terms, and then became Lieutenant Governor in 1982.

While serving in public office, Al worked together with those on both sides of the aisle to the benefit of his constituents. Al was fundamental in building a medical center in Westchester, creating the first State Office for the Disabled and an Office for Women, and establishing a countywide bus system, among other things. Al continues to serve his fellow New Yorkers as the Chairman Emeritus of the Westchester County Association.

Dee DelBello joins her husband in being an exemplary public servant, dedicating her life to lend a helping hand. Dee received her Master's Degree from Seton Hall University, and while her husband was in office, she advanced the cultural aspects of Westchester County through her amazing work advocating for the arts.

Dee impressively served as Commissioner of the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct for 17 years, and continuously breaks the glass ceiling for women with her service on the advisory board of The Women's Business Development Center, her membership in The National Association for Female Executives, and as a co-founder of Women in Communications.

Al and Dee DelBello have both won numerous awards throughout the years for their immense work on behalf of all New Yorkers, and I want to continue recognizing them by expressing my gratitude and appreciation for all of the contributions they have made.

Mr. Speaker, few professions are as rewarding, or demanding, as nursing. Ayris Evans Granby knew that this was her calling from a young age, and has worked diligently to establish herself as one of the leading practitioners in her community.

Ayris, the third of nine children, was born and raised in New York. Her dream finally came true, when she was accepted into the Harlem Hospital School of Nursing. Her passion later led her to teach nursing, including as an instructor and the chair of the Central School of Practical Nursing where she was instrumental in developing a curriculum that trained nurses' aides to be practical nurses. She later became the Assistant Director of Nursing at her alma mater, the Harlem Hospital School of Nursing.

Ayris has also served as the Associate Director of Nursing, Acting Director, before rising to Associate Executive Director for Hospital Administration. As the Associate Executive Director for Hospital Administration, Ayris was responsible for the development and implementation of key programs at Harlem Hospital,

such as credentialing for all professional nurses working in enhanced roles.

Ayris was appointed as a nursing consultant for the New York State Department of Health after she left Harlem Hospital. She served for five years before returning to the private sector as the Director of Nursing for a nursing home. In addition, Ayris has assisted a number of undergraduate students from several colleges and universities secure field placements throughout the years. The Division of Health Care Administration and Planning, Meharry Medical College, Fisk University, Herbert H. Lehman College, Rutgers University, and Livingstone College are among the colleges and governmental agencies that have recognized her for her work. She also won the ``Pierre Toussaint Medallion'' from the New York Archdiocese for Community Service.

Ayris is married to her high school sweetheart, Samuel Granby, Jr., and the pair is blessed with two children. Ayris and Samuel founded Granby's Funeral Service, Inc., together, and as their business grew, so did their commitment to the community. The pair developed a scholarship program to provide financial assistance to college-bound students and those seeking to attend a vocational school.

The Friends of the United Negro College Fund Choir, the Board of Directors of the Crawford Community Day Care Center are among the groups where Ayris so generously and selflessly donates her time. She's also volunteered as a workshop leader and instructor for the Community Service Society of New York, where she advised community residents of their rights and responsibilities in Medicaid health programs.

Ayris Evans Granby is truly a remarkable woman who has done much to enrich the lives of others. It is my sincere wish that her legacy continues to inspires others.

Mr. Speaker, for 100 years The Manor Club in Pelham Manor, has fostered friendship among women in Pelham and its surrounding communities. Originally formed as a men's social club in 1882, The Manor Club has since become a women's club and is now the oldest one in Westchester County.

When new members enter the front door, they are not welcomed by strangers, but by women who will become their friends.

The spirit of friendship is at the core of The Manor Club's mission. The Manor Club has over 300 members from all walks of life, and prides itself as a place where new friendships are formed, and old ones are renewed.

The Manor Club has hosted many famous artists, writers, political leaders and leading experts in their respective fields to present their work at The Manor Club. Many of the Club's programs are open to the public.

The Manor Club is truly a venue for all. I congratulate them on their 100 years of friendship and service in the Pelham Manor community.

I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing The Manor Club of Pelham Manor for their legacy of camaraderie, and their many contributions to their members and community.

Mr. Speaker, communities are built on the strength of its people and its institutions. Riverdale is such a strong community because of the service and dedication of residents like Elaine Katz. Elaine is a quintessential member of the community who should serve as a role model for us all.

The Riverdale community has enjoyed the gift of Elaine's service since she moved there 15 years ago. Her commitment to the Riverdale Temple is particularly noteworthy. Elaine strives to place the needs of others before her own, and often shies away from the spotlight. Instead, she chooses to be a guiding light for others. Her wisdom and foresight have enriched the Riverdale Temple in numerous ways.

Elaine is a member of the Board of Trustees and Assistant Financial Secretary. She's organized many outreach community programs for the Riverdale Temple, and serves as President of the Women of Reform Judaism.

Elaine's service to the community extends beyond the Bronx borders. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Lower Eastside Service Center in Manhattan, a non-profit organization that assists New Yorkers with mental health and chemical dependency issues. Elaine's commitment to the Lower Eastside Service Center began over 29 years ago.

She is blessed with four loving grandchildren and three children. Elaine was married for 54 years before her husband passed away.

The Riverdale Temple is honoring Elaine Katz at their Student Sponsorship Breakfast. It

is my pleasure to congratulate her on her recognition at the event. Both the Riverdale community and I appreciate her exemplary service. The Riverdale community and the lives of the people she has touched would not be the same without her selfless devotion.

Mr. Speaker, New Rochelle, a community in my Congressional district, celebrates a wonderful blend of cultures. It is a symbol of our nation's cultural past and bright future, a nation that when united we can overcome incredible challenges in the service of others. However, such a future would not be possible without the support of religious institutions which work tirelessly in the service of individuals who experience hardships, and to bridge the divides that sometimes exist within our communities.

Temple Israel of New Rochelle lives by the motto, ``Building our home, together,'' and it is clear the community embodies this notion. Temple Israel is at the forefront of the New Rochelle community. Its proud tradition of unifying many people of various backgrounds, working together to develop an inclusive environment, is their hallmark.

Temple Israel draws upon the faith and leadership of its clergy to support civil rights causes and fundraise for those in need, while also helping families within the community who are experiencing difficulties. Temple Israel is a congregation that relishes the opportunity to serve. Temple Israel of New Rochelle recognizes the broad spectrum of beliefs, ideals and cultures within our community, by celebrating this diversity within the programs it runs to aid our community. The synagogue recognizes a comprehensive understanding of beliefs, customs and traditions within Reform Judaism. This shared approach, of social and religious inclusion, ensures that Temple Israel remains a leader within our municipality, proactively working to unite the community, searching for our commonalities, rather than our differences.

Leading by example is central to Temple Israel, whose early childhood and adult education programs have led the way for the growth and development of our youth, and created further opportunities for members of the community to deepen their understanding of faith. These programs are crucial to providing a safe and secure environment in our communities.

I commend Temple Israel of New Rochelle, Rabbi Scott Weiner, the Temple Israel leadership and its members for their service to the community and legacy of religious inclusion. Together, they are the deserving recipients of Mary Lou McNaney Founder's Award from Hope Community Services.

Mr. Speaker, communities are built upon the shared values and good will of neighbors. Samuel Granby, Jr., known to his friends as ``Granby,'' has continually demonstrated his selfless commitment to his community and to enhancing the lives of others. He lives by the principle, ``Service to Mankind.''

Granby was introduced to mortuary science while serving our great nation. He was responsible with transporting deceased personnel to the morgue, even though he had suffered from second and third degree burns as the result of a lightning strike. He received an honorable discharge from the United States Army in 1955, and later graduated from the McAllister School of Embalming.

Granby married his high school sweetheart, Ayris Evans, and the pair is blessed with two children, Ayris and Rev. Lamont. Granby and his wife also have three wonderful grandchildren.

An entrepreneur at heart, Granby dreamed of owning his own funeral service. Granby operated his funeral business out of the Wiley's Funeral Home, before opening Granby's Funeral Service, Inc., on April 27, 1984. Granby's is truly a family enterprise; his wife and children have helped him manage and grow the business.

After 37 years of service, Granby retired as a general supervisor for the United States Postal Service in 1988. He was very popular with his coworkers and would train his staff for other opportunities within the

Mr. Speaker, education is the bedrock of our society. Education teaches our children to dream and allows them to achieve their ambitions. Teachers are thus one of our most valuable assets.

Albert Einstein once noted that, ``it is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.'' Their passion, drive and dedication to their students is inspirational. We entrust them with the responsibility of shaping our leaders, which is why today I must commend one such individual, John Musto.

John is the Assistant Principal for Student Affairs at St. Raymond's High School for Boys. He began his 23-year tenure there as a history teacher and later became Chairman of the department, before becoming an assistant principal.

John is driven by a desire to give back to the community that has afforded him such opportunity and fond memories. He was instilled with the values of service and volunteerism by his father and the deep respect he fostered toward volunteers within Morris Park Community Association, who patrolled the neighborhood to ensure the community was a safe place to grow up. John has continued to demonstrate this sense of commitment through his volunteer service as a basketball coach at St. Francis Xavier for the past three decades.

Along with his wife Liz, John is the proud father of three daughters: Sabrina, Gabriella and Olizia. His family undoubtedly shares in his pride in our community and for his life of commitment to service. Much of what is accomplished within our community by devoted individuals is also a reflection of the strong support they receive from their families.

Mr. Speaker, teaching is not a job, it is a vocation. I join with the Morris Park Community Association in honoring John at their 40th Annual Dinner Dance. I wish John Musto every success in the future, as he continues to work to shape the lives of our nation's youth into tomorrow's leaders.

Mr. Speaker, our young nation includes many communities that are older than America itself. I am pleased to recognize one of those communities, the Town of Eastchester, as it celebrates its 350th Anniversary.

Eastchester is truly a town steeped in history. A number of America's famed daughters and sons have a connection to Eastchester, including Anne Hutchinson, Aaron Burr, and John Adams.

Eastchester's origins can be traced back to Thomas Pell, who sold his land to original ten farm families migrated from Fairfield, Connecticut, in 1664. The Pell Deed, signed on June 24, of that year, verifies the sale and serves as proof of the Town's founding.

The Eastchester Covenant, signed in 1665, outlines a civil code of conduct agreed upon by the first families. The spirit of their Covenant lives today; neighbors help neighbors, friends show their concern for others, and volunteers work together to ensure the community continues to thrive.

Governor Richard Nicolls, acting as the colonial agent on behalf of James, Duke of York, signed the Royal Patent, or Land Grant, of 1666, which established the initial town boundaries. Three of the original ten farmers--Philip Pinckney, James Everts and William Haiden--were named in this document.

Two other documents--the Indian Deed of 1700 and the Long Reach Patent of 1708--enabled the fledgling community to continue to grow. The Long Reach Patent, in particular, transferred over 3,000 acres of land to Eastchester from Queen Anne. Much of that land is included within the borders of modern Eastchester.

Eastchester is now a thriving, suburban community nestled within Westchester County. Residents of Eastchester, along with the incorporated Villages of Tuckahoe and Bronxville, are celebrating the Town's founding with a year-long celebration honoring Eastchester's storied past.

It is my hope that residents will commemorate the Town of Eastchester's 350 year anniversary with much friendship and joy, as they work together to build an even stronger future.

It has been a pleasure to represent this historic Town in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, far too many of our young men and women in the armed services have witnessed the horrors of war. So noble is the sacrifice they have made while serving our country in uniform. Patriots like Joseph Benardo proudly served, so that others would not have to.

Joe was just 22 years old when he was sent to fight in Europe. A first-generation American, he felt compelled to defend his homeland and to fight for the freedom of people everywhere.

Joe was in the first wave of troops who stormed Omaha Beach in the historic invasion on June 6, 1944. He and two other soldiers were hit by a mortar; Joe was severely wounded during the invasion. A medic found Joe and whisked him to a military hospital, where he remained until the war's end.

A very strong history of service runs within the Benardo family. Joe, the oldest of Samuel and Alegra's three children, is a Purple Heart recipient. His brother Jack won a Bronze Star, and the youngest brother Leo served stateside during the Korean War. Ian, Joe's only grandchild, served in the Israeli army.

Joe is equally committed to his country as he is to his family, for he understands both are the very foundations of our society.

A Bronx boy at heart, Joe never left his hometown, save for his service abroad. He and his brothers lived in close proximity to each other, so that their bond would remain strong. Joe and his late wife Lillian raised two sons, Steven and Sheldon, who still call the Bronx home. Like their mother, Steve and Sheldon chose to serve our country by educating Bronx youth.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Omaha Beach invasion, a day that helped alter the course of history. We owe our lives, liberty, and freedom to those who have served honorably in the armed forces. It is a debt that we, as a nation, can never fully repay.

Joseph Benardo has much to be proud of when he celebrates his 95th birthday in September. He has created an enduring legacy of valor, service, and sacrifice that can be felt by the lives of whom he has touched.

Mr. Speaker, all vibrant communities are underpinned by strong civic associations. I would like to recognize the Association of Riverdale Cooperatives & Condominiums for their steadfast commitment to the Riverdale community and for 30 years of service.

The Association of Riverdale Cooperatives & Condominiums was formed in 1984, with the mission to educate local condominium and cooperative owners on issues directly related to cooperative living.

As the Association expanded, it developed additional services and programs to ensure better management of residential property, such as civic engagement through political advocacy.

The Association of Riverdale Cooperatives & Condominiums succeeded in its efforts to convince ConEd to install natural gas supply lines in Riverdale and diversified communication sources by bringing Verizon to the Riverdale market.

I commend the Association of Riverdale Cooperatives & Condominiums for 30 years of service to the Riverdale community and to the greater Bronx. I am confident the organization will continue to grow and that its continued outreach will benefit future generations of cooperative and condominium owners.

Mr. Speaker, Sheryl and Aaron Fleishaker have long played a vital role in Beth El Synagogue of New Rochelle, New York.

From painting scenery for youth plays, to filling Mishloach Manot baskets for Purim, and helping to feed over 250 USYers at the last two Kinnusim hosted by Beth El, Sheryl has demonstrated her commitment to do whatever is necessary to support youth programs. She has served as the Youth Activities co-chair and PTA president for four years, and has been a member of the Board of Trustees.

Aaron has also demonstrated his commitment to Beth El throughout the years. He has served on the Board of Trustees for the last 15 years, and is finishing his third year as president. He previously served as vice president and executive vice president. Aaron serves on the Audit and Finance Committee, the Human Resources Committee, and the Fund Raising Committee.

Sheryl and Aaron are the honorees at the annual Beth El Synagogue Center Dinner Dance. They are truly deserving of this honor. I commend them for their years of service and for their commitment to Beth El and the greater Jewish community.

I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sheryl and Aaron Fleishaker for their vital contributions to Beth El Synagogue.

Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Madam Chair, on May 24, 2011, President Obama issued a memorandum on Federal fleet performance that requires all new light- duty vehicles in the Federal fleet to be alternative fuel vehicles, such as hybrid, electric, natural gas, or biofuel, by December 31, 2015.

My amendment echoes the Presidential memorandum by prohibiting funds in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act from being used to lease or purchase new light-duty vehicles, except in accord with the President's memorandum.

I yield to my friend, the gentleman from Iowa.

I thank the gentleman, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, Houses of Worship have played a major role in our communities, offering solace, support, and moral guidance to those in need, thanks to the selfless efforts of members like Mark Shainker.

For over 20 years, Mark has volunteered his time and talent to Temple Israel of New Rochelle to make it a more meaningful place of worship, education and friendship. His service to Temple Israel is truly inspiring. A member of the Board of Trustees, Mark also serves as the Youth Advisor Chair, Brotherhood President, and is a religious school teacher. He has served on numerous committees including clergy searches and clergy transitions.

Mark is perhaps best known for his leadership roles with children's programing, such as the Purim Carnivals, wacky game days and other events. He's also organized several programs and events that benefit both the congregation and the broader community, such as trips to Sammy's and Christmas at the Temple, all of which has earned Mark the affectionate name, ``Temple Camp Counselor.''

A long-time New Rochelle resident, Mark is an accountant and partner in the accounting firm Shainker & Shainker. Mark and his wife Phyllis are blessed with two children, Stephanie and Barry.

I am pleased to acknowledge Mark Shainker for his many contributions to Temple Israel of New Rochelle. It is a pleasure to celebrate a man who has made a big difference in the Jewish community, as well as greater New Rochelle.

Mr. Speaker, religious institutions such as Young Israel of New Rochelle (YINR) play a critical role in ensuring the voices of our community's most vulnerable residents do not go unheard, thanks to the selfless dedication of individuals like Nataly and Stephen Neuwirth. For more than a decade, the Neuwirths have worked to sustain a community built on charity, tolerance and empathy.

Nataly and Stephen are Guests of Honor at Young Israel of New Rochelle's 47th Annual Dinner, and observing their dedicated and steadfast commitment community service, it is easy to see why as Young Israel of New Rochelle chose to honor this couple.

The Neuwirths became active members of the New Rochelle community immediately after moving to the area 11 years ago. They are the proud parents of four sons: Oren, Ely, Benny and Emmanuel. In spite of their busy family life, have found time and energy to give back to the community they love.

Law is a demanding profession, yet Stephen has found the time to serve on the Young Israel New Rochelle Board of Trustees from 2005 to 2011 and led recently a successful effort to retire YINR's mezzanine loan.

Nataly has also been a steadfast member of the YINR community. She's a generous participant of the Women's League where she prepares meals for new mothers, packs YINR's Mischloach Manot and supports the Mikvah Bake Sale.

Nataly and Stephen have also devoted themselves to the cultural growth of the New Rochelle community, supporting YINR's shul and mikvah, sponsoring and hosting scholars in residence, and Shabbat onegs. In the past year both Nataly and Stephen dedicated the new publication, Chumash Mesoras Harav at YINR.

Their exceptional devotion, however, is not limited to the New Rochelle community. Nataly and Stephen have also given time, support and involvement in the important affairs of neighboring communities, most notably Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy. The pair has also participated in the Jarden Westchester triathlon as members of ``Skippy's team,'' to raise awareness for the fight against leukemia.

Nataly and Stephen are exemplary members of the New Rochelle community. Their service and dedication is not only admirable, but their boundless energy and commitment to furthering causes close to them is truly exceptional.