Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Andy Linenberg and Mrs. Jacquie Huynah-Linenberg, students at the Rutgers School of Law in Camden, New Jersey, who spent their 2010 spring break volunteering for the Housing Unit at Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (SLLS).

Mr. Linenberg and Mrs. Huynah-Linenberg participated in the APIL (Association for Public Interest Law) Alternative Spring Break and provided pro bono legal service to an elderly woman who had lived in a public housing facility in New Orleans. She was facing eviction but thanks to Mr. Linenberg and Mrs. Huynah-Linenberg's hard work the woman was able to avoid eviction and remain in her home.

Mr. Linenberg received his Juris Doctor in May 2010 and by working for this deserving client, he reconfirmed his dream of improving the lives of others by helping them enforce their rights.

Mrs. Huynah-Linenberg earned her MBA degree and plans on returning to New Orleans to provide legal support for citizens still coping with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Mr. Andrew Linenberg and Mrs. Jacquie Huynah-Linenberg for their efforts in promoting and advancing justice to those who need it most.

Madam Speaker, September 11th, 2001 remains a day of

both indescribable tragedy and awe-inspiring heroism in our Nation's history. As we mourn for the victims of the terrorist attacks that day, we also reflect upon the heroism displayed by so many.

No one will ever forget the courage seen on 9/11; courage seen in the actions of firefighters and police officers, such as SFC Ricardo Esteves of the New Jersey State Police who is here today, Pentagon employees, and everyday citizens; courage seen by the choices these heroes made--to rush to the aid of others, to enter into burning buildings, to resist the hijackers of Flight 93. The bravery displayed on that fateful day will forever be remembered in our Nation's history. Future generations of Americans, committed to the promise of a better world, united by the sacrifices of previous generations, will remember the heroes of September 11th.

Since that tragic day, we have witnessed the very best our Nation has to offer in the men and women who serve in our Nation's military. Our troops have demonstrated, time and again, in countless missions around the world, their devotion, dedication, and perseverance in the face of adversity. All of us are immensely proud of them as they exemplify our highest examples of courage and commitment.

Nine years ago, America was thrust into conflict; yet, we have come through this ordeal more determined and stronger than ever as a Nation--just as we have always done in times of great trials and catastrophes.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Bertha ``Bert'' Manecio, a resident of Lumberton, New Jersey and dedicated volunteer at the Memorial Hospital Thrift Shop in Mount Holly, New Jersey.

Bert began her volunteer services at the Thrift Shop in 1970. Before her ``retirement'' in May 2010 she had volunteered for forty years and donated over 10,700 hours of her time. Bert helped maintain the shop by tagging and pricing donated garments and helping at the register. She has always given her total support and welcomed any changes with enthusiasm and excitement. She has been a valuable asset to the program and her selfless efforts must be recognized.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you please join me in congratulating Bert for her outstanding and dedicated community service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Judith Bernice Seeman Del Rossi and Mr. Francis Joseph Del Rossi on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary.

Judith and Joseph were married at St. John's Catholic Church in Collingswood, New Jersey, on June 11, 1960. Together, they raised three children: Angeline Rita, Mary Frances, and Francis Joseph. As longtime residents of Pennsauken, New Jersey, Frank taught at Pennsauken High School for 37 years, where he also coached the school's basketball team. Judy served in many Parent Teacher Association leadership roles while her children were young. She recently retired from her job at the Claridge Casino after more than 20 years of service.

Today, Judy and Frank are residing in Marlton, New Jersey. Their 50 years of marriage is a true testament to the loyalty and love they demonstrate in all aspects of their lives.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me on congratulating Judith and Joseph Del Rossi upon the occasion of their 50th anniversary. For their commitment and generosity to family, friends, and each other, they are to be commended.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the U.S. Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation, one of the largest uniform karate organizations in the world, practicing the official martial arts system created by legendary martial artist, the late Grandmaster Hwang Kee.

With over 5,000 members this martial arts system places emphasis on personal growth and values as directed by Grandmaster Hwang Kee. He not only wanted his students to be able to avoid outside physical conflict, but he wanted them to be able to avoid inner conflict as well. Most importantly, these students have developed the ability to improve themselves, their community, and the world for years to come.

Madam Speaker, please join me today in recognizing the outstanding work of the U.S. Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Reverend

Richard W. Jones, a longtime resdent of Willingboro, New Jersey who recently passed away at age 85. Reverend Jones was a true leader in the community serving as Sheriff's Officer in Burlington County for 24 years and the inspirational Pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church for 49 years. He was also a loving husband, of 52 years, to his wife, Ethel.

While Reverend Jones was conferred with a doctorate of human letters from Thomas Edison State College in 2001, perhaps his greatest legacy will remain his work at Tabernacle Baptist Church. His hard work and enduring faith led to the completion of his church's sanctuary and the expansion of the education wing in 1995, which is rightfully named the R. W. Jones Family Life Center. He was also responsible for the expansion of his church's multipurpose room, that included a gymnasium, aerobics room, locker room, cafeteria, and banquet room which was dedicated in 2008 as Unity Hall.

Reverend Jones was a humble man who affected not only the people in his congregation but those he met throughout his life. During his pastorship, he ordained more than 60 deacons and provided guidance to thousands of local residents.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring a man whose life serves as a role model to many people and whose church will continue his legacy for a long time to come.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the late Peggy Spiegler, who tragically lost her battle to melanoma two years ago.

Peggy was a loving daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. She was an extremely passionate teacher and was a great friend to the many people in her life. Despite being diagnosed with stage-four melanoma in February of 2008, the disease never weakened Peggy's spirit. Throughout her life, Peggy touched the lives of so many people with her amazing strength and positive outlook on life.

Last year, Peggy's family and friends decided to host `Peggy's Walk,' an annual walk held in her honor to raise money for melanoma research. For their inaugural event, they raised more than $40,000. During this year's walk on June 26th in Cooper River Park, Peggy's friends and family will aim to raise even more.

Peggy Spiegler was an inspirational human being that touched the lives of so many throughout her community. I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in remembering this remarkable woman and commend her friends and family for their outstanding efforts in raising awareness for this deadly disease.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Richard Mann for his dedicated service to our students, the Cherry Hill Community, and the residents of Camden County.

For 37 years, Mr. Richard Mann has dutifully served the students of Cherry Hill as a physical education instructor. A community servant in every aspect, Mr. Mann worked for the citizens of Camden County as an employee of the Voorhees Recreation Department for 25 years, and managed the Cherry Hill Skating Center for 26 years.

Mr. Mann has been honored for his character, skill and commitment to students at the local and state levels. Among his many achievements is the receipt of the New Jersey Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Honor Award for 2009.

Mr. Mann has contributed to the social and academic growth of students and staff. Most of all, to colleagues he has been a trusted mentor, role model and friend.

Madam Speaker, I hope that you will join me in honoring and celebrating the career and service of Mr. Mann to the students and staff of the J. F. Cooper Elementary School, the Cherry Hill community and all of Camden County.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Albert J. Olizi for his outstanding service as District Governor of District 16C of the Audubon Lions Club for 2009-2010.

Mr. Olizi is a graduate of LaSalle College and Temple University School of Law. He maintains a local law practice with offices in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. As an active member of the Lions club for many years, Mr. Olizi's outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has been named ``Lion of the Year'' multiple times, was honored with the International President's Recognition Award in 2007, and has held multiple positions within his local club, including President.

Throughout his term as District Governor, Mr. Albert Olizi has dedicated an enormous amount of time, energy, and dedication to fulfill the roles and responsibilities of the position.

Time and again, he has proven to be an outstanding leader for the Lions of District 16C.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me on congratulating Mr. Albert Olizi. The people of your community, the people of New Jersey, and the people of America thank you for your service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lance Corporal Ryan M. Welch of Medford, New Jersey and to welcome him home from his recent tour of duty in Afghanistan.

After graduating from Shawnee High School in 2008, Ryan enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He completed his basic training at Parris Island in South Carolina and went to Infantry Training at Camp Geiger, North Carolina. In 2009 he was assigned to MCB Hawaii Kaneohe Bay Oahu, Hawaii where he was meritoriously promoted to Lance Corporal. Lance Corporal Welch also received a Meritorious Mast during training exercises at Pohakuloa Training Area in July 2009 for demonstrating outstanding performance of duty during Exercise Lava Viper.

Lance Corporal Welch completed his first deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During his deployment he served bravely in combat action during Operation Moshtarak in Marjah, Afghanistan. He served as an Infantry Rifleman in Jump Platoon, Headquarter and Service Company, 1st Battalion 3rd Regiment from Marine Corps Base Hawaii and as security for visiting dignitaries and performed general patrols and security for Nawa District, Hellmand Province in Afghanistan.

Madam Speaker, please join me and a grateful nation in welcoming home Lance Corporal Welch. We are eternally thankful to him for his service to our great country.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor LCpl Ryan M. Welch of Medford, New Jersey and to welcome him home from his recent tour of duty in Afghanistan.

After graduating from Shawnee High School in 2008, Ryan enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He completed his basic training at Paris Island in South Carolina and went to Infantry Training at Camp Geiger, North Carolina. In 2009 he was assigned to MCB Hawaii Kaneohe Bay Oahu, Hawaii where he was meritoriously promoted to Lance Corporal. Lance Corporal Welch also received a Meritorious Mast during training exercises at Pohakuloa Training Area in July 2009 for demonstrating outstanding performance of duty during Exercise Lava Viper.

Lance Corporal Welch completed his first deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During his deployment he served bravely in combat action during Operation Moshtarak in Marjah Afghanistan. He served as an Infantry Rifleman in Jump Platoon, Headquarter and Service Company, 1st Battalion 3rd Regiment from Marine Corp Base Hawaii and as security for visiting dignitaries and performed general patrols and security for Nawa District, Hellmand Province in Afghanistan.

Madam Speaker, please join me and a grateful nation in welcoming home Lance Corporal Welch. We are eternally thankful to him for his service to our great country.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Temple Sinai in Cinnaminson, New Jersey for providing a place of religious education, worship, and community service. Temple Sinai has served as a loyal establishment for the South Jersey Jewish community for 25 great years.

The traditions of Temple Sinai, a family growing, learning, worshipping, and working together, are still upheld today. These valuable practices are due to the wonderful leadership by Rabbi Steven Fineblum, teachers, and most importantly, dedicated members to the synagogue.

In recognition to the many years of dedicated religious practice and service to the community, I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating Temple Sinai on its 25th anniversary.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Joseph Caruso, a resident of Delanco, New Jersey and dedicated volunteer at Catholic Charities, Emergency and Community Services.

Joe has been volunteering with Emergency and Community Services for the past two years as a trained tax preparer. As one of two tax preparers, Joe has provided free tax preparation for hundreds of seniors and low-income residents of Burlington County.

In addition to his tax services, Joe took on the temporary duties of the Pantry Manager. Through his dedication and commitment to the program's goals, he reorganized the food pantry, handled all food and household donation pick-ups, developed a food inventory tracking system, provided routine maintenance of the pantry's refrigerators and freezers, and advocated with donors to secure additional food items for the pantry program.

Joe does whatever is necessary to make sure that our hungry neighbors do not go without food and quietly goes about his work not expecting or wanting any accolades. He has been a valuable asset to the program and his selfless efforts have to be recognized.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you please join me in congratulating Joe for his outstanding and dedicated service to the less fortunate in our South Jersey communities.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Catholic Charities, Emergency and Community Services (ECS), a non- profit organization that has been feeding hungry Burlington County residents for the past 29 years.

The ECS food pantry program is available to any county resident in need of food and no one is turned away because of their income or life circumstances. The food pantry serves consumers throughout Burlington County and distributes food to over 9,800 households, or 32,700 individuals annually.

Madam Speaker, I hope you will join me in honoring Emergency and Community Services on their nearly three decades of hard work and extraordinary commitment in ensuring that those individuals and families in Burlington County have the food they need to carry on with their daily lives.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Howard R. Cathers Jr. who passed away on May 28, 2010 at the age of 90. Howard was a devoted and loving husband, father of four, grandfather of eleven, and great-grandfather of twenty-four.

Mr. Cathers served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy during World War II, in Okinawa, Japan, and was a member of Browns Mills Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6805 and the Seabees.

Howard was a resident of Browns Mills for forty-eight years. He was a stationary engineer for Buttonwood Hospital, drove a school bus for the Pemberton Township Board of Education, and he and his late wife, Frances, worked for the Burlington County Times as newspaper carriers. Howard was also a member of Browns Mills Senior Citizen Club and St. Ann's Church. In his retirement he enjoyed making miniature doll house furniture.

Madam Speaker, I hope you will join me and a grateful nation in paying tribute to the life of this honorable man for his many contributions to his community and to our great country.