Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Geoffrey B. Curtiss on the 25th anniversary of his ministry at All Saints Episcopal Parish and the 30th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. The parish will celebrate these important milestones at a service and reception on March 5, 2005, in Hoboken, New Jersey.

During his years as a priest, Rev. Curtiss has gone above and beyond his duties to his parish. With incredible motivation and a sincere desire to improve the lives of others, he has diligently worked to build a network of support services and organizations that have helped revitalize and transform the community. Upon beginning his service in Hudson County, Rev. Curtiss oversaw the consolidation of three, local Episcopal churches into one, now known as the All Saints Episcopal Parish. From the beginning, the church established a precedent for being progressive and accepting and welcoming people from all stages of life and segments of the community. Under Rev. Curtiss's strong leadership and creative vision, the All Saints Episcopal Parish has become more than a place of worship for its nearly 300 congregants; it is well-known for its community outreach initiatives and ministries. In addition to the church, Hudson County benefits from related programs Rev. Curtiss has helped found such as the All Saints Episcopal Day School, the youth ministry known as WOODY, and the Jubilee Family Life Center, which offers an after-school program and summer camp for youth from the Hoboken housing projects.

An influential member of the community, Rev. Curtiss has held numerous leadership positions in the past and continues to be greatly involved. For the Christ Hospital, Rev. Curtiss is the chair of both the Community Relations Committee and the Quality Improvement Committee, vice-chair of the Board of Trustees, and a member of the Transitional Committee. He is the president of the Episcopal Network for Economic Justice and treasurer of the Jubilee Interfaith Organization, which promotes immigrant rights and worker justice.

As president of the Hoboken Clergy Coalition in 1982, Rev. Curtiss was instrumental in the establishment of the Hoboken Shelter for the Homeless. A past president of the Board of Trustees of the Hoboken North Hudson YMCA and past president of the Hoboken Rotary Club, Rev. Curtiss is still an active member of both organizations. He is also a member of the Diocesan Council, the Episcopal Urban Caucus, the Department of Missions Board, the Commission to Dismantle Racism, and the non-profit housing board known as the Union City Renaissance Urban Renewal Associates.

Rev. Curtiss received his bachelor's degree from Gettysburg College and later graduated with a master's degree from the Gettysburg Lutheran Theological Seminary.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Reverend Geoffrey B. Curtiss for his years of dedicated, selfless service to the community. His passion to help those in need and strong leadership cannot be matched--and his work has touched the lives of countless individuals in Hoboken and the greater community. We congratulate him on his important career milestones and we are grateful to have such a positive force supporting and serving the community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor George Bonner for his commitment to serving his community and his country. Mr. Bonner was honored at the annual brunch for the Bayonne St. Patrick's Parade Committee, which was held on February 20, 2005.

In 1999, Mr. Bonner began his service with the United States Army Reserve. As a Sergeant, he bravely served for a year in Iraq and Kuwait. For his efforts, Mr. Bonner was honored with two Army Commendation Medals. He was awarded one medal for his training efforts while under attack and the other for his humanitarian aid.

Mr. Bonner graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in history and social studies. A member of the Bayonne County Donegal Association, he will be working at the parade as an assistant to the Grand Marshall.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring George Bonner for his community involvement and his brave service to our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael Donovan for his extensive participation in community endeavors and demonstrated leadership. Mr. Donovan was honored at the annual brunch for the Bayonne St. Patrick's Parade Committee, which was held on February 20, 2005.

Mr. Donovan has devoted decades to community service. He is credited with helping establish the Irish-American League and served as the League's treasurer for three years. He is a member of multiple organizations, including the Knights of Columbus of Hillside, the John F. Cryan Association of South Orange, and the Morley McGovern Association of Roselle Park. In the past, he has served as Chairman of the New Jersey Irish Festival and Grand Marshall of the Bayonne St. Patrick's Parade. This year, he will be working as an assistant to the Grand Marshall.

Born and raised in Bayonne, Mr. Donovan valiantly served his country in the Navy. He was stationed on the destroyer tender USS Everglades and the destroyer USS Eugene A. Green. Now retired, Mr. Donovan used to work as an industrial photographer and an audio visual technician for the Exxon Company in Linden, New Jersey.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Michael Donovan for his strong commitment to service and his outstanding work in the community of Bayonne.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kevin Moran for his years of leadership and community service. Mr. Moran was honored at the annual brunch for the Bayonne St. Patrick's Parade Committee, which was held on February 20, 2005.

An active member of the community, Mr. Moran has worked with many local organizations. In the past, he was the assistant coordinator of the Summer Youth Employment Program (CETA), which helped find employment for 800 disadvantaged youth. He also served as the administrator of the Lincoln School Community Education Program where he organized the After School Enrichment and Summer Day Camp programs. An advocate of parental involvement, Mr. Moran is committed to participating in activities with St. Peter's Prep, Vroom School, and Holy Family Academy.

Born and raised in Bayonne, Mr. Moran graduated from St. Peter's College with a degree in history and earned a master's degree in educational administration from Kean University. For 23 years, he worked as an educator and served on a variety of committees. He taught at Marist High School, St. Anthony's High School, and the Henry E. Harris School. Since 2000, he has served as principal of the Dr. Walter F. Robinson School.

Mr. Moran is a devoted husband and father of two children. He and his wife, Rosalie, are actively involved in Ireland's 32. He will serve as an assistant to the Grand Marshal for the 2005 parade.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kevin Moran for his extensive work with community organizations and his demonstrated commitment to serving others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gina Ahearn for her years of community involvement and demonstrated leadership. Ms. Ahearn was honored at the annual brunch for the Bayonne St. Patrick's Parade Committee, which was held on February 20, 2005.

A member of the Irish American League for eight years, she has held a variety of positions within the organization, including President, Vice President, Contestant Coordinator, and member of the Parade Committee. In 1999, she was named Irish Woman of the Year. An assistant to the Grand Marshall for the 2005 parade, Ms. Ahearn's community participation also includes coaching the Holy Family Cheerleading Squad. When she is not helping these various groups, she works as a substitute teacher.

Born and raised in Bayonne, Ms. Ahearn holds a degree in business from Rutgers University and a master's degree in education from Kean University. She and her husband are the proud parents of one daughter.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Gina Ahearn for her outstanding leadership and dedication to serving the Bayonne community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Thomas Walsh for his years of outstanding service to his community and country. Mr. Walsh was honored at the annual brunch for the Bayonne St. Patrick's Parade Committee, which was held on February 20, 2005.

Serving as an assistant to the Grand Marshall this year, Mr. Walsh previously spent twelve years working as the publicity chairman for the parade. Since 1993, he has been the coordinator of the event. An active member of the Bayonne community, Mr. Walsh has been affiliated with numerous organizations, including the National Defense Transportation Association, the Bayonne Elks Club, and the Bayonne PAL Board of Directors.

Mr. Walsh graduated from Trenton State College with a degree in English. Later, he worked in Bayonne as a public information officer before becoming a public affairs specialist for the U.S. Navy Military Sealift Command, Atlantic, and the U.S. Army Fort Hamilton Military Community. Throughout the years, Mr. Walsh has utilized his public relations skills to assist organizations such as Hudson County Cerebral Palsy, the Hudson County Association of Retarded Citizens, and the Bayonne Friends of the Handicapped with publicity.

During his time with the Armed Forces, he received ten Outstanding Performance and Special Act Awards. For the past seven years, he has been teaching at the Police Athletic League Day Care Center where he assists students with school assignments and manages field trips and other recreational events. Mr. Walsh also helps the center by writing funding proposals and press releases. When he is not working with children, he participates in the Military Sealift Command Retirees Association.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Walsh for his strong leadership and tireless efforts to help others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Adam Czuba on being named Sir Knight of the Year by the Knights of Columbus (K of C). Mr. Czuba was recognized at the annual Knight of Honors event on February 26, 2005, in Bayonne, New Jersey.

The Sir Knight of the Year award is a special distinction given to the K of C member who has faithfully and commendably executed his role as a Fourth Degree Knight, has been most helpful in aiding the Past Faithful Navigator, and has demonstrated a thorough understanding and respect for the ideals of the Order.

Mr. Czuba became a Third Degree Knight in 1975 and has spent decades serving the Council and the Assembly. He achieved the rank of Fourth Degree Knight in 2001 and currently serves in the Color Corps. As a dedicated member of the K of C, Mr. Czuba has helped coordinate multiple events and activities for the Order, such as the flea market, bowling league, country western dances, and numerous charity events.

Born and raised in Bayonne, Mr. Czuba has worked for 22 years at the Keystone Folding Box Company. In addition to his involvement with the K of C, Mr. Czuba has served as a Cub Master for the Boy Scouts and is a member of the Hudson County Animal League.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Adam Czuba for his recognition as Knight of the Year, his dedicated work with the K of C, and his outstanding service to the community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tom Sumowski on receiving the Emergency Medical Technician, EMT, of the Year award by the Knights of Columbus, K of C. Mr. Sumowski was recognized at the annual Knight of Honors event on February 26, 2005, in Bayonne, New Jersey.

For 5 years, Mr. Sumowski has diligently worked at the McCabe Ambulance Service. A quality EMT, he was recently promoted to the rank of Captain. Known for his dedicated service and compassion, he has earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends.

Born and raised in Bayonne, Mr. Sumowski graduated from Seton Hall University and the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Tom Sumowski for his exceptional service to the people of Bayonne. As a result of his tireless work in the medical field and his commitment and enthusiasm, he continues to play a vital role in the community and has positively affected countless lives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Larry McReynolds for his outstanding leadership and remarkable accomplishments in the field of health care administration. After almost 5 productive years, Mr. McReynolds moved on from his position as executive director of the Jersey City Family Health Center on Friday, January 28, 2005.

A New Jersey resident since 1991, Mr. McReynolds has proven himself to be a valuable asset to health care organizations. During his impressive career, he has held a variety of positions with Clara Maass Medical Center and the Saint Barnabas Healthcare System. Since 2000, he has served as executive director of the Jersey City Family Health Center where he has been instrumental in the expansion and development of a wide range of health programs and initiatives.

Under his strong guidance, the health center has expanded many of its services that aid the underserved or low income populations in the community, including an AIDS treatment center and the Healthcare for the Homeless Program. Additionally, it has established a pharmaceutical program that helps patients access medication, the Reach Out and Read Program for inner-city kids, and many outreach initiatives aimed at helping the Hispanic community. While serving as executive director, Mr. McReynolds has seen the health center almost double its budget and staff size. Other

positive developments include receiving a March of Dimes grant for research purposes and obtaining funding for a program to assist parolees with re-entry into the community. With the help of contributions from the State, the Susan B. Koeman Foundation, and the banking industry, the Jersey City Family Health Center has established a mobile mammography program. I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. McReynolds, and he has been instrumental in making much needed health care services a reality. I am proud to have secured funding for a pilot program at the health center, and thanks to him and his team, the community enjoys the benefits of a successful program for minorities with cancer.

Apart from working in administration, Mr. McReynolds has taught as an adjunct professor at New York University where he was the author of a course textbook in the Wagner Graduate School of Public Service.

Born and raised in Indiana, Mr. McReynolds spent much of his undergraduate career studying and traveling abroad before graduating from Wheaton College with a degree in English literature. He also holds a master's degree in hospital administration from the Washington University School of Medicine.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Larry McReynolds for his impressive ability to spearhead and develop worthwhile health care programs, his drive to improve access to vital patient services, and his passion to help those in need. His work has touched the lives of countless individuals in Jersey City and the greater community. I am confident that he will continue to have great success in his new position as the executive director of the Sunset Park Health Center Network at the Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, and I wish him all the best.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) on its tenth anniversary of training at Emerson High School in New Jersey. The JROTC hosted a dinner celebrating the event on February 10, 2005.

The JROTC has spent a decade instructing, guiding, and inspiring students to push themselves both physically and mentally. Throughout their rigorous training, they learn valuable skills such as discipline, commitment, and perseverance. The JROTC also instills in the students a sense of honor and citizenship. By participating in the program, students grow in strength and character and are well-prepared for a wide range of pursuits after high school.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the JROTC for its years of outstanding work and positive leadership training in Emerson, New Jersey.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Stephen R. Gregg, a distinguished Congressional Medal of Honor winner whose life was devoted to serving the community and his country. Mr. Gregg was remembered at a memorial service on February 11, 2005, in Bayonne, New Jersey.

A decorated veteran of World War II, Mr. Gregg began his army service in 1942 and joined the Weapons Platoon, Company L, 143rd Infantry, 36th Infantry Division. After training in Algeria, his unit was sent to Italy, where he suffered shrapnel injuries to his back and leg. During a battle in France, Mr. Gregg, then a technical sergeant, single- handedly slowed the advance of German soldiers. This enabled medics to recover and treat seven wounded soldiers from his platoon. His valiant counterattack also allowed the platoon to successfully reposition itself and continue fighting. Mr. Gregg's bravery, quick thinking, and combat instincts helped save the lives of many fellow soldiers that day and earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor. He was also promoted to second lieutenant and awarded a Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman's Badge, Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Silver Star.

Respected and admired by the community, Mr. Gregg was frequently asked to appear at presidential inaugurations, remembrance events, and on TV shows. For 25 years, he attended Hudson County's ceremonies to honor the fallen at Pearl Harbor. Known by his family and friends for his great humility, Mr. Gregg rarely spoke of his combat experiences at home and said a nightly prayer for his fallen comrades who did not survive the war.

Raised in Bayonne, he attended the Bayonne Technical and Vocational High School and later spent time working at an art gallery in New York and the shipyards in Kearny, before serving in the Armed Forces. After being discharged from the Army, he worked as a deputy Hudson County court clerk and a county court attendant. He later became the Sheriff Department's chief court officer.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Stephen R. Gregg, a man of exceptional character, whose dedicated service and humble nature won him the respect and love of all who knew him. Mr. Gregg was an important figure in the community's military history, and he will be greatly missed.

Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Democratic Caucus, I offer a privileged resolution (H. Res. 111) and ask for its immediate consideration.

Madam Speaker, by direction of the Democratic Caucus, I offer a privileged resolution (H. Res. 74) and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. Chairman, as one of the conferees on the intelligence reform law enacted last December, I want to remind Members that it contained 43 sections and 100 pages of immigration-related provisions. These tough, but smart new measures enacted just 2 months ago include, among others, adding thousands of additional border patrol agents, Immigration and Customs investigators and detention beds, criminalizing the smuggling of immigrants and establishing tough minimum standards for driver's licenses, just as the 9/11 Commission recommended.

Now we need to implement and fully fund these tough measures to ensure our Nation's safety. Unfortunately, the President's budget chose not to fund the 2,000 new border patrol agents or 8,000 additional detention beds that

were called for in the intelligence reform bill. So much for being tough.

H.R. 418 would further undermine these tough measures by repealing several of these provisions. The bill would repeal a GAO study to ascertain any vulnerability in the current asylum system and replace it with new burdens that would be impossible for many true asylum seekers to meet.

Proponents of this legislation have misled us by suggesting that different terrorists have received asylum. No terrorist has ever been granted asylum in the United States.

We further ensured that terrorists would not be granted asylum with the administrative changes of 1995 and the expedited removal system done legislatively in 1996. Now we detain anyone seeking asylum that arrives at our border without documents.

But asylum encourages citizens of other countries to fight for positive change in their own country, without risking U.S. military lives. If their life is endangered, they should have a chance to seek asylum in the United States. Unfortunately, the legislation before us would make that nearly impossible.

Finally, if a person is a terrorist, I do not want to deport them so they have another chance at doing harm to the United States. I want to detain them, prosecute them, imprison them to the fullest extent of the law.

The bill would repeal the tough minimum standards for driver's licenses called for by the 9/11 Commission and included in the intelligence reform law with provisions that federalize all driver's licenses, take away States' rights, place huge unfunded mandates on the States, without advancing the paramount objective of making State- issued identity documents more secure and verifiable. That is why the National Conference of State Legislatures strongly opposes this legislation.

Mr. Chairman, if you truly want to implement tough yet smart measures to ensure our Nation's security, vote down this legislation, and let us fully fund and implement the tough and smart provisions that were included in the intelligence reform bill.

Mr. Speaker, I offer a privileged resolution (H. Res. 62) and ask for its immediate consideration.