Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Morris Choral Society of Morristown, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary in the summer of 2013.

The creation of the Morris Choral Society can be likened to that of the birth of a Phoenix bird. Tragically, in 1972, the United Methodist Church, located on the Morristown Green, burned down and as a result the proceeding Methodist congregations were held at Temple B'nai Or for the next two years as the Church was rebuilt. R. Wayne Walters, a bass soloist who performed at both the Temple and Church, decided to conduct a special Friday evening service dedicated to the generosity of the Temple and its Rabbi, Z. David Levy. In order to perform this service, chorus members from the surrounding area churches were assembled. Due to the success of the performance, Rabbi Levy asked Walters to keep this wonderful group of people together and continue performing. Eventually, under Walters's leadership, this collection of singers was incorporated under the name of Morris Choral Society in the summer of 1973, effectively rising out of the ashes and spawning a new organization.

Since the society has been formed, it has maintained a dual mission statement attempting, ``To make available to all residents of the Morris area varied choral musical programs and to give residents an opportunity to perform in the choral organization.'' Those who have been affected by the Morris Choral Society would say that its contributions to society have gone much farther than initially intended by positively impacting the choral outlook throughout Northern New Jersey. Additionally, MCS has garnered much public attention through appearances on television programs, such as NBC's ``First Estate'' program, and its two major concerts that are performed in Morris County each year. Through continuing interest, the society has grown in size and is open to new members via auditions.

Furthermore, the Morris Choral Society conducts numerous, smaller performances during Morristown's holidays and special occasions. These shows generally occur during the Independence Day celebrations, the Holly Walk, the Fall Festival on the Green, and the First Night concert. Incredibly, MCS is now internationally recognized after memorable performances in England in 1990, Ireland in 1994, Scotland & Wales in 1996, France in 1998, and Italy during the summer of 2000. Through international travel and a growing interest in different music, the Society has obtained an astounding repertoire of songs dating from the Renaissance period to the present.

Besides annual events, the Morris Choral Society has performed alongside many famous musicians during its lifetime. Unforgettable nights include performing with Judy Collins during her Christmas Show, and with Dave Brubeck in La Fiesta de la Posada in the Community Theatre. MCS has also sung Beethoven's Ninth Symphony under the celebrated Leon Hyman, collaborated with Jazz Pianist Rio Clemente, and performed a sold-out concert at the Morristown Community Theater in front of over 1,300 viewers.

Consistently trying to excel, the Society has emphasized versatility in music styles ranging from contemporary American, to classical Broadway theatre, to even some international folk songs articulated in their native languages. Expanding to different venues and compiling diversified music is what keeps MCS ahead of most other musical organizations in the area.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and your colleagues to join me in congratulating the Morris Choral Society as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Morris Museum in Morris County, New Jersey, which is celebrating its Centennial in 2013.

The Morris Museum began as a small exhibit in the Morristown Neighborhood House located on Flagler Street in Morristown. With the collections rapidly growing, by 1927 the exhibit had encompassed seven rooms. At this time the exhibit contained 19th century articles, European and Asian artifacts, along with rocks, minerals, and fossils. Looking to expand to a larger venue, the exhibit moved to the Maple Avenue School and stayed until 1956 where it was officially incorporated in 1946. This venue enabled the Morris Museum to create better programs for children and coordinate these programs with the curriculum being taught in surrounding schools. These programs included use of dioramas, panels, and an outreach program centered on Native American civilization.

Having expanded out of its four prior locations, in 1964 the museum moved to its current location at the historic Twin Oaks Mansion, formally owned by the Frelinghuysen family. This gave the organization the opportunity to expand programs to all ages and add to its visual art exhibits. By 1970, the gallery was enlarged significantly through facility additions and the 312 seat Bickford Theatre was added. The museum received the prestigious honor, in 1973, of being the first New Jersey museum to be recognized by the American Association of Museums. Finally, by 1990 the name had been changed to the current title of the Morris Museum and had expanded to a total of 75,524 square feet.

The Morris Museum mission has continuously been, ``to elevate the cultural consciousness, excite the mind and enhance the quality of life by advancing the understanding and enjoyment of the visual and performing arts, natural and physical sciences and humanities.'' It does this through state-of-the-art programs it provides to the public. Such programs include Tot Tours and ArtWALK, are designed to instill an early love for art in toddlers and their caregivers, as well as the ``Museum Loan Program,'' which lends over 1,400 exhibit kits to schools, libraries, and district organizations. The Morris Museum also provides an excellent Transportation Program designed to transport children in underprivileged areas, such as Newark, Elizabeth, Jersey City, and Dover, to view the galleries and participate in hands-on activities. Adults can also benefit through the Adult Outreach Programs, which include Adult Tour Programs and Senior Fridays aimed at assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Services include exhibition tours, appealing discussions, and free refreshments.

Today, the museum possesses an average attendance of 438,000 visitors per year and contains a diverse assembly of people from 15 counties and different socio-economic and ethnic groups. Permanent displays include geology, animals, model railroads, historical crafts, pottery, carving, basketry, and textiles of all cultural backgrounds. In addition to these displays is the exhibition of 150 pieces from the expansive and world renowned Murtogh D. Guinness collection of mechanical musical instruments and automata. The Museum also includes natural science, paleontology, and anthropology exhibits for those interested in expanding their scholastic knowledge.

As of 2012, The Morris Museum has won numerous awards such as an award for Excellence in Tourism by the Department of Travel and Tourism, Outstanding Arts Organization by the Arts Council of the Morris Area, and has been recognized by the NJSCA as a Major Arts Institution for the past seven years in a row. Identified as a major influence on society, the museum has clearly exemplified the arts in a positive manner throughout its lifetime.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and your colleagues to join me in congratulating the Morris Museum as it celebrates its Centennial.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor The Peck School in Morristown, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 120th Anniversary in 2013.

Originally created as a school for women, Peck School was opened on Franklin Street under the name Miss Sutphen's School for Young Ladies in 1893. After nearly 23 years, the school had become one of the most prestigious in Morris County with over 100 students and 9 teachers. However, in 1917, the school was purchased by Lorraine T. Peck and the name was changed to the Peck School in 1918. In 1920 the school was relocated to Elm Street where it would stay for another quarter of a century. By 1946 the school had assumed its current colors of white and blue and in 1948 moved into where it currently resides, on South Street in the Lindenwold Mansion and adjacent property.

Over the next decade, The Peck School saw rapid expansion and improvement. In 1950 the Mother's Association was created opening up the door to more programs including parent-teacher conferences, Parents Visiting Day, the Student Council, and the Alumni Association. Due to enrollment exceeding 200 students for the first time, the school constructed a new gymnasium/auditorium in order to accommodate the influx of young men and women. Moreover, in 1959 the school was split into two divisions. The first division would include Kindergarten to 4th graders and the second division would include 5th to 8th graders.

As the times changed, Peck School did the same by constantly adapting to the needs of its students, faculty, and parents. With the dawn of technology in the 1980s, Peck was able to add computers to the school, creating new facilities for technological related studies. These facilities included the addition of the ``Bridge'' and ``Fine Arts'' wings in 1984. These new sections of the school offered comprehensive group studies on computers, woodworking, and foreign languages. Additionally, the Mother's Association was renamed the Parents' Association to mirror the increased paternal involvement in student academic activities.

After celebrating its 100th Anniversary with the opening of the Deetjen Kindergarten Building in 1993, the school decided to embark on even further expansion. These ground-breaking improvements consisted of the Caspersen-Tomlinson Upper School in 1995 and the F.M. Kirby Lower School on 1998. With new space and resources, Peck integrated an All- School Technology Plan, establishing the school as a quintessential model for computer-based curriculum at the elementary and middle school levels. Finally, in 2006, Peck opened the massive 35,000 square foot Eckert Huff Building complimented by the new 32,000 square feet Athletic Center in 2007.

Today, over 330 students attend the Peck School and study a diverse set of curriculums comprising of communication arts, drama, English, library studies, math, music, physical education, reading, science, history, technology, family life, visual arts, woodworking, and foreign languages. The school also contains an Individual Development and Community Responsibility Program designed to teach character development and life skills. Additionally, Peck houses one of the most competitive private-school 5th to 8th grade athletic programs in Northern New Jersey.

In its 120 years, Peck School has grown from an organization of 6 children to a nationally recognized institution focused on the development of young minds into successful adolescents.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and your colleagues to join me in congratulating The Peck School as it celebrates its 120th Anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Saint Patrick Parish in Chatham, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 125th Anniversary in January of 2013.

The Township of Chatham gained a local, stable Irish population in response to the terrible potato famine in Ireland, in the 1840s. These Catholic families picked up and settled in Chatham, regularly attending mass in a local Madison Parish. However, these immigrants decided they needed a local parochial school for their children since all other options were deemed to be too far. The St. Patrick Catholic School was incorporated in 1875, followed by the completion of a new building for parishioners in 1887, marking the birth of the St. Patrick Parish. After renovations due to fires in the early 20th century, the Parish built a new church in 1955. As the church continued to grow, it decided to establish a new Parish Center in 1989 which would house a rectory, convent and youth ministry in addition to providing resources for program expansion. This center, in 2009, was named after the late, beloved Father Hinds.

The demographics of the once predominantly Irish church have grown significantly to include members of many different heritages such as Italian, Polish, Asian, and Hispanic that reside in Chatham. The parishioners have also begun several ministry programs such as Environmental Stewardship, Christmas in a

Box, Basket Bonanza, Cooking at Eva's Village in Paterson, and a Health Ministry providing information and assistance. The church is also very well known for its annual social events consisting of a St. Patrick's Day Celebration, an Oktoberfest Celebration, and a ``Breakfast with Santa'' that aim to bring families and friends together to enjoy the holidays. With the help of Msgr. Tom Coletta, St. Patrick Parish has become a sister church to Our Lad of Victories Parish in Paterson. The Catholic places of worship have garnered a shared spirituality through combined Masses, retreats, ministry training, and youth activities.

St. Patrick Parish is recognized as one of the strongest religious institutions in Morris County. Having encountered much adversity through the years, the members of the Parish have always been able to guide themselves through the hardships with their strong bond of community and unwavering faith. The St. Patrick Catholic School has provided the Chatham Catholic community with an excellent opportunity to obtain education and faith for young men and women of the community.

Former St. Patrick pastors: Bishop Dominic Marconi of Newark, Monsignor Ronald Amandolare, and Monsignor John J. Carroll frequently celebrate mass with the church to honor its parishioners and their departed, good friend Father Edward Hinds. This collaboration has been led by current pastor, Father Robert Mitchell. The contagious, unbreakable connection can be defined by Father Mitchell's description of the members of his parish: ``All who find a home at St. Patrick's share a common bond that unites them through joys and sorrows, challenges, surprises and the success and failures of life. This makes real the wisdom of our founding members and the generosity of those who followed.'' Through this message, the community has built long-lasting relationships.

Mister Speaker, I ask you and your colleagues to join me in congratulating the Saint Patrick Parish as it celebrates its 125th Anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, every year, more high school seniors from the 11th Congressional District trade in varsity jackets for navy pea coats, Air Force flight suits, and Army brass buckles than most other districts in the country. But this is nothing new--our area has repeatedly sent an above average portion of its sons and daughters to the nation's military academies for decades.

This fact should not come as a surprise. The educational excellence of area schools is well known and has long been a magnet for families looking for the best environment in which to raise their children. Our graduates are skilled not only in mathematics, science, and social studies, but also have solid backgrounds in sports, debate teams, and other extracurricular activities. This diverse upbringing makes military academy recruiters sit up and take note--indeed, many recruiters know our towns and schools by name.

Since the 1830's, Members of Congress have enjoyed meeting, talking with, and nominating these superb young people to our military academies. But how did this process evolve? In 1843, when West Point was the sole academy, Congress ratified the nominating process and became directly involved in the makeup of our military's leadership. This was not an act of an imperial Congress bent on controlling every aspect of Government. Rather, the procedure still used today was, and is, a further check and balance in our democracy. It was originally designed to weaken and divide political coloration in the officer corps, provide geographical balance to our armed services, and to make the officer corps more resilient to unfettered nepotism and handicapped European armies.

In 1854, Representative Gerritt Smith of New York added a new component to the academy nomination process--the academy review board. This was the first time a Member of Congress appointed prominent citizens from his district to screen applicants and assist with the serious duty of nominating candidates for academy admission. Today, I am honored to continue this wise tradition in my service to the 11th Congressional District.

The Academy Review Board is composed of six local citizens who have shown exemplary service to New Jersey, to their communities, and to the continued excellence of education in our area. Many are veterans and Academy graduates. Though from diverse backgrounds and professions, they all share a common dedication that the best qualified and motivated graduates attend our academies. And, as true for most volunteer panels, their service goes largely unnoticed.

I would like to take a moment to recognize these men and women and thank them publicly for participating in this important panel. Being on the board requires hard work and an objective mind. Members have the responsibility of interviewing upwards of 50 outstanding high school seniors every year in the academy review process.

The nomination process follows a general timetable. High school seniors submit personal information directly to the Military Academy, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy once they become interested in attending. Information includes academic achievement, college entry test scores, and other activities. At this time, they also inform me of their desire to be nominated.

The academies then assess the applicants, rank them based on the data supplied, and return the files to my office with their notations. In late November, our Academy Review Board interviews all of the applicants over the course of two days. They assess a student's qualifications and analyze character, desire to serve, and other talents that may be hidden on paper.

This year the board interviewed over 50 applicants. Nominations included 10 to the Naval Academy, 10 to the Military Academy, 8 to the Merchant Marine Academy and 7 to the Air Force Academy--the Coast Guard Academy does not use the Congressional nomination process. The recommendations are then forwarded to the academies by January 31, where recruiters reviewed files and notified applicants and my office of their final decision on admission.

As these highly motivated and talented young men and women go through the academy nominating process, never let us forget the sacrifice they are preparing to make: to defend our country and protect our citizens. This holds especially true at a time when our nation is fighting the war against terrorism. Whether it is in Afghanistan or other hot spots around the world, no doubt we are constantly reminded that wars are fought by the young. And, while our military missions are both important and dangerous, it is reassuring to know that we continue to put America's best and brightest in command.

Academy Nominees for 2013, 11th District Congressional District

Merchant Marine Academy

Kyle J Asman, Livingston, Livingston H.S.

Duncan J. Brown, Brookside, West Morris Mendham H.S.

Justin C. Diesso, Sparta, Pope John VIII H.S.

Clay C. Dundas, Sparta, Blair Academy.

Aidan R. Groll, Boonton, Boonton H.S.

Patrick T. Keyes, Parsippany, Seton Hall Prep.

Gabriella S.L. Roselle, West Caldwell, James Caldwell H.S.

Ryan F. Wood, Budd Lake, Home Schooled.

Air Force Academy

Mathieu L. Gaydos, Randolph, Randolph H.S.

Louis R. Kete, Morristown, Delbarton School.

Yonjun D. Kim, Montville, Osan DOD Dependents H.S.

Jennifer E. Lam, Mountain Lakes, Mountain Lakes H.S.

Christian S. Longhi, Succasunna, Seton Hall Prep.

Liam F. McEnearny, Basking Ridge, Ridge H.S.

Philip J. Zurek, Denville, Academy of Math, Science &

English.

Military Academy

Dominique A. Fortes, Parsippany, Parsippany H.S.

Michael J. Herbert, Jr., Whippany, Seton Hall Prep.

Gregory R. Horne, Denville, Morris Knolls H.S.

Adam B. Kratch, Millington, Seton Hall Prep.

Jared H. Love, Florham Park, Episcopal H.S.

Kirsten V. Mayer, Morris Twp., Morris Catholic H.S.

Ryan T. Mellody, Millington, Seton Hall Prep.

Michelle E. Miller, Chester, West Morris Mendham H.S.

Joseph M. Presti, Kinnelon, Kinnelon H.S.

Joshua W. Tomlinson-Aaron, Flanders, Pope John VIII H.S.

Richard-Vinh Nguyen-Le, Dover, Morris Knolls H.S.

Naval Academy

Charlotte K. Asdal, Chester, West Morris Mendham H.S.

Cameron M. Ellis, Stanhope, Lenape Valley H.S.

Aaron J. Hanko, Montville, Trinity Christian Academy.

Benjamin R. Keegan, Flanders, Mt. Olive H.S.

Thomas D. Kim, Livingston, Seton Hall Prep.

Connor O. Lam, Chester, West Morris Mendham H.S.

Thomas P. Mahala, Far Hills, USN Foundation.

Michael E. McGlone, Boonton, Seton Hall Prep.

Luis N. Rodriguez, Denville, Academy for Math, Science &

English.

Rahul Singh, Hackettstown, Mt. Olive H.S.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Township of Livingston, Essex County, New Jersey, which is celebrating its bicentennial in 2013.

Livingston's history can date back all the way to the year 1699, where settlers from Newark decided they wanted to move west. By 1702, the land that has come to be known as Livingston, as well as over eight currently neighboring municipalities, was officially purchased from the Lenape Native Americans. By 1740, many disputes over land ownership had

begun in response to a lack of deed of purchase. William Livingston, a prominent proprietor, defended many victims of eviction and left a powerful mark on the area. His actions on behalf of the residents of the area, gave the eventual town of Livingston its name.

Following the Revolutionary War, the addition of permanent settlers to the area gave the people reason to file for incorporation as a township. On February 5th, 1813, Livingston was officially incorporated under the Township Committee system. Much of the original boundaries have been changed through the years, breaking off into towns such as Roseland and Millburn. Major industries of Livingston, during its early years, included lumber and farming. After the Civil War had concluded, Livingston became a chief producer of dairy and a commonplace for shoemakers to make their living. With only one major transportation route in and out of the town, the difficult travel method became a problem as easier accessible towns began to progress.

However, the population did eventually grow as the abundance of automobiles increased, providing easier access into the town. As a suburb of Newark, the end of the Second World War provided the town with a remarkable new group of people. By 1970 it had reached over 30,000 residents.

When the first schools were officially built 1898, they provided opportunity for children to stay in town to receive an education. This began to attract a great deal of families. During this period of expansion, the town began to take its shape. A volunteer fire department was established in 1922, followed by the creation of a Chief Police position in 1929. Two hospitals were opened in consecutive years between 1959 and 1960 complementing the construction of a library in 1961 and a municipal complex in 1963.

Volunteerism has been a cornerstone of Livingston and its citizens. Currently, there are over forty volunteer organizations that help the town function on a daily basis. Some of these organizations include the Livingston Municipal Alliance Committee, Veterans of Foreign War Posts, Holiday Committee, Neighborhood Grievance Committee, a Consumer Affairs Office, the Planning Board, the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and the Committee for Diversity. Additionally, as reiterated above, the Fire Department is a completely volunteer-based group of individuals along with Auxiliary Police and the First Aid Squad.

Livingston is the notable birthplace of several famous individuals including Governor Chris Christie, actor Jason Alexander, talk show host Chelsea Handler, Cleveland Cavaliers coach Byron Scott, and Super Bowl XLII hero, David Tyree.

As of 2013, over 28,000 people currently reside in Livingston. It provides a comfortable atmosphere for New York City commuters to come home to. With exceptional schools, services, and diversity, new residents continually flock to the township in order to take advantage of the benefits.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Township of Livingston as it celebrates its 200th anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Arts Council of the Morris Area, located in Morristown, Morris County, New Jersey, which is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2013.

The Arts Council of the Morris Area is a private, non-profit organization founded in 1973. Their mission has been to ``engage and build community through the arts.'' Taking great pride in the importance of the arts, the organization desired to showcase the work of artists to the area. Their lasting goal has been to inspire positive change in people through the realization and appreciation of different forms of artistry.

The Arts Council contains numerous services aimed at making the Morris County area a more vivacious and intellectual place to live through the various programs it puts forth and the support of local artists who donate their work to The Arts Council. The Council also serves as the central resource to help improve artistic learning experiences for children in school and providing general information to the public.

The Arts Council has directly assisted more than 4,000 students in understanding and appreciating art through its programs that utilize professional teaching artists. Additionally, the council has funded a program for Middle School students called ``Telling Our Stories,'' with the goal in mind of improving oral and written communication skills. They hope that this program will improve students' self-esteem, conflict resolution abilities, and problem-solving characteristics. The council also awards two scholarships, for artistic excellence, annually to graduating Morris County high school seniors who have chosen to purse an art concentration in college. These scholarships provide these students with the wonderful opportunities they need to succeed.

Over the past four decades since its beginnings, the Arts Council has grown each year in its recognition, size, and impact on the community. The council has continuously earned honors for the programs and services it provides. Amazingly, over the past 15 consecutive years, the Arts Council has received the ``Citation of Excellence'' award. This award is given to organizations that demonstrate themselves as a ``Major Service Organization'' towards members of their community and has been handed out annually by the New Jersey State Council of the Arts to The Arts Council for its, ``solid history of service excellence, substantial activity and broad public service.'' Moreover, the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders, in their Arts and Humanities Month Proclamation, identified the Arts Council as, ``a leader in developing, supporting and promoting artists, the arts and experiences that enhance and transform the lives of Morris County citizens.'' Undoubtedly respected amongst the entire community, it is easy to see why this council has gained such notice.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Arts Council of the Morris Area, in Morristown, NJ, as it celebrates its 40th Anniversary.

I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Madam Chair, at the onset I want to thank the leadership for helping to bring this important legislation to the floor. I also want to thank Chairman Hal Rogers and the Appropriations Committee for their assistance. One of the untold chapters of this post-Sandy story has been the hard work of the chairman and his staff in preparing both his amendment and mine, which follows. Most importantly, I want to thank the chairman for his eloquent statement in the Rules Committee last night. His heartfelt recognition of the hardship and misery suffered by our constituents in the Northeast meant a great deal to me personally and to our New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut delegations.

I also want to offer some words of appreciation to my colleagues from New Jersey and New York. Their bipartisan diligence and dedication and that of our staffs over the past several weeks should make all of our constituents proud. And then there is Governor Christie, my constituent from Morris County, whose tireless work has helped us get to this day and will help us get this bill across the finish line.

As he always does, he put a very human face on the devastation suffered by families and communities in New Jersey and our neighbors in New York and Connecticut.

My colleagues, people are hurting this afternoon in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut and other areas of the Northeast. The suffering and damage are real and their needs are great. According to many estimates, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and the rest of the east coast sustained nearly $100 billion worth of damage.

The destruction is staggering. 346,000 household units were damaged in New Jersey alone. Tens of thousands of our fellow Americans are still displaced from their homes and their apartments. Municipalities are struggling to provide services. Many are still under emergency declarations, and some municipalities are not habitable. Small businesses are decimated. Many small business men and women are trying to decide whether they can survive and keep their employees on the payroll.

Madam Chairman, the area damaged by Hurricane Sandy represents roughly 10 percent of our Nation's economy. It makes good sense, economic and fiscal, to get our region back on its feet as soon as it can.

I urge support of the Rogers amendment and the Frelinghuysen amendment. Without these vital measures, our constituents in the Northeast face nothing but more delay, more uncertainty, more unemployment, and more misery.

Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. Young, that is correct. The funds we provide in this legislation in my amendment are funds we believe are required to respond to emergency needs for the Army Corps of Engineers related to Hurricane Sandy. By appropriating these funds for this direct purpose, other prior appropriated emergency funds for the Corps should be and are to remain available for other emergency needs in accordance with the direction provided in those previous acts.

Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Madam Chair, I yield myself 1 minute.

Hurricane Sandy devastated the northeast coast in late October, 78 days ago, leaving misery in its wake, disrupting the lives and businesses of millions of our fellow citizens. The storm caused unprecedented destruction--$100 billion in New York and New Jersey alone. My amendment supplements Mr. Rogers' measure in order to bring the total aid package to $60 billion, which is the amount requested by the President and endorsed by Governors Christie, Cuomo, and Malloy.

I want the Members to know that this amendment strips out all provisions in the Senate that were deemed earmarks and all authorizing language.

Madam Chairman, I'll close by reminding our colleagues of the proud tradition of Congress' cite in the recent letter that many of us received from the Governors of the States affected. Madam Chair, in late December, the Governors of the affected States wrote to each House Member, and I quote:

The congressional delegations of our three States have

always been there to provide critical votes to these aid

packages, because that is what America is all about--when one

of us is in need, we step up to the plate to lend a helping

hand.

It's time to lend that helping hand, and I urge the support of my amendment.

Madam Chair, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, the gentlelady from New York (Mrs. Lowey).

Madam Chair, I yield 1 minute to my colleague and good friend, Chris Smith, the Representative from New Jersey.

I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York City and Long Island, Congressman King.

Madam Chair, I thank the gentleman for that courtesy. We highly appreciate it.

I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. LoBiondo) who probably represents more of New Jersey than any of our other Members.

Madam Chair, I'm pleased to yield 1 minute to Mr. Grimm of Staten Island.

Madam Chair, I'm pleased to yield 1 minute to the Representative from New York State, Carolyn Maloney.

Madam Chair, I'm pleased to yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Lance).

Madam Chair, I'm pleased to yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Serrano).

Madam Chair, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Runyan).

Madam Chair, I'm pleased to yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Sires).

I yield 1 minute to another Member of Congress from New Jersey (Mr. Pascrell).

Madam Chair, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Crowley).

Madam Chair, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Clarke).

Madam Chair, I yield myself the balance of the time.

Madam Chair, I do have a point of clarification before I yield back my

time. The amendment includes $22,220,000 for the Federal Highway Administration's emergency relief program. It's our intent that the $100 million cap applies to only the funds in this act, and not to previous emergencies.

In closing, Madam Chairman, as I said earlier, I ask all Members to lend the Northeast a hand, help us put lives and families and communities back in good order. Those that have suffered, continue to suffer, have had personal misery and loss, we remember them as we pass this bill today. And I want to thank all the Members for stepping forward to be supportive of this legislation.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Amendment No. 2 Offered by Mr. Flores

Madam Chair, I rise to claim the time in opposition.

I am pleased to yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Runyan).

Madam Chair, I yield the balance of my time to my colleague from New Jersey (Mr. Holt).

I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Chairman, I'm very pleased to support the gentleman's amendment. I commend him for his effort. This is directly Sandy related. We thank you for your work on this.

Madam Chair, I claim time in opposition to the amendment.

I'm pleased to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fattah).

Madam Chairman, I'm pleased to yield 2 minutes to my colleague from New Jersey (Mr. Holt).

Madam Chair, I'm pleased to yield the balance of my time to Mr. Blumenauer of Oregon.

I thank the gentlewoman for yielding.

In the hundreds of thousands of people that have been displaced in the Northeast are a lot of people who have lost their apartments and houses that don't have the money to hire lawyers. Their conditions are such they've lost everything that they have--their possessions, their apartments, the houses that they've invested in throughout their lives--and many of these people do not have the financial means to protect their interests.

I know people have a hate-on for the Legal Services Corporation of America--and they've had their problems, and our Appropriations Committee has dealt with reining them in when they've acted inappropriately--but at a time when people are in such desperate straits and misery, to deny the poorest of the poor recourse when fat people can be taking advantage of them, or they're looking for some sort of food and shelter and they're seeking legal counsel to make sure that they can protect their rights and their families, I'm opposed to this amendment, I think, for good reason.

Will the gentleman yield?

I want to thank the gentleman and Mr. Campbell, the cosponsor, for this clarification. I'm pleased to accept it. Thank you very much.

Will the gentlewoman yield?

Ms. Velazquez, removing mold is critical to restoring the lives and livelihoods of New Yorkers, New Jerseyans, and those in Connecticut living in public housing affected by the storm.

We will work to see that in the final bill funding is made available for mold abatement, and we thank you for your focus on this very important issue that often escapes public notice unless you're directly affected. So I want to commend you for that effort.

Will the gentleman yield?

I want to thank the gentleman from Kansas for putting forward this amendment. I am pleased to accept it. I just want to assure you that in both the Rogers amendment and my amendment we have plenty of transparency, and we have lots of reports, and I think your added protections of the taxpayers' dollars are very much in order.

Madam Chair, I rise in opposition to the gentleman's amendment.

I yield as much time as he may consume to Mr. Moran.

I reserve the balance of my time.

Madam Chair, let me associate my remarks with those of Mr. Moran. And certainly, we want to commend the gentleman from Michigan for wanting to save money.

I think, in many communities, certainly in the Northeast, but I'm sure in your home State, there are certain historical structures that define the very essence of those communities. You refer to the fact that the communities are supportive. In many cases, it's the nonprofits that are supporting them.

And I asked the staff--and this is why it's in the bill--when we looked at Katrina relief and all the historic structures that were within that affected area, which was vast, we also provided this window.

Of course, in the Northeast we are often essentially focused on our Revolutionary path. But unless we provide to these nonprofits and to communities, in some cases governmental entities, this waiver, a lot of these historical buildings will be lost forever. And I think that time is of the essence.

I commend you for what you're trying to do, but I oppose your amendment.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Will the gentlewoman yield?

I am very pleased to accept your amendment, and thank you for invoking the words of Abraham Lincoln.

Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

I thank my colleague from New Jersey for yielding.

Madam Speaker, it's been 70 days, and the residents of the Northeast have been--many of them--living in misery and heartache. I'm pleased that we are taking this step to support the National Flood Insurance Program, which has met the needs of Americans across our Nation when there has been flooding crises. We in the Northeast have been facing this crisis now for 70 days. I'm glad that this essential program is going to be supported.

There are about 125,000, from what I understand, Sandy-related claims that can be met by raising this cap, and I think it's good that we're about to do that. This, as others have said, is the first step of what we need to do to sort of rebuild lives, to put aside the misery that so many families and businesses have been suffering for this length of time. It's the right step.

On January 15, we will be considering a much larger supplemental, a total of $60 billion, which will meet the needs--not all the needs--of Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and the region. There are considerable needs. But the National Flood Insurance Program is a good program. It needs supports. This is a good first step. Let's get about it, and let's do it in a bipartisan manner.

Offered By: Mr. Frelinghuysen

Amendment No. 1: Under the heading ``Department of

Agriculture'' (but before the heading ``Domestic Food

Programs''), insert the following:

Office of the Secretary

emergency conservation activities

(including transfer of funds)

For an additional amount, to remain available until

expended, for the Emergency Conservation Program under title

IV of the Agriculture Credit Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2201 et

seq.) for necessary expenses related to the consequences of

Hurricane Sandy and resulting from a major disaster declared

pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and

Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.),

$218,000,000, of which $15,000,000 shall be available for

payments under sections 401 and 402 of the Agriculture Credit

Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2201, 2202), $180,000,000 shall be

available for activities under section 403 of such Act

(Emergency Watershed Protection Program; 16 U.S.C. 2203), and

$23,000,000 shall be available for activities under section

407 of such Act (Emergency Forest Restoration Program; 16

U.S.C. 2206): Provided, That the Secretary of Agriculture

shall transfer these funds to the Farm Service Agency and the

Natural Resources Conservation Service: Provided further,

That such amount is designated by the Congress as being for

an emergency requirement pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(i)

of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of

1985.

At the end of title I, insert the following:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Chabad Center of Northwest New Jersey, Rockaway Township, Morris County, New Jersey as they celebrate their 25th anniversary this year.

Founded in 1988 by a small group of volunteers, Chabad Center of Northwest New Jersey has grown into a regional network of social, religious and charitable programs. The Center is built around the acceptance of every individual on his or her own level, regardless of background, affiliation, age or financial status. By blending traditional values with modern day techniques, the Center has been able to touch many lives through Morris, Sussex and Warren Counties.

At the core of the Chabad Center of Northwest New Jersey is their educational program, offered through the Chabad Educational Center. Their mission is based on the driving principle that the Jewish education system should focus on character development, spiritual consciousness and selfless devotion to the betterment of humanity.

The Center opened in 2008 to provide innovative educational services and cultural enrichment for all ages. Making up the Chabad Educational Center are the state-of-the-art Early Learning Center, Hebrew School, Hebrew High, Adult Education Institute and the first Community Mikvah established in Northwest New Jersey. Each of these allows the Chabad Center of Northwest New Jersey to bring valuable educational and cultural opportunities to all members of their community.

The Chabad Center of Northwest New Jersey also offers Men's and Women's clubs, giving members of their community the opportunity to socialize and perform acts of philanthropy throughout Northwest New Jersey.

Through their educational, philanthropic and community outreach programs, the Center has established itself as a pillar of our local community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating Chabad Center of Northwest New Jersey as they celebrate their 25th anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I missed two votes on Tuesday, November 27, 2012. While I was unable to cast recorded votes on legislation considered by the House, I ask that the record reflect my intentions.

On Tuesday, November 27, the House considered the Senate amendment to H.R. 915, the Jaime Zapata Border Enforcement Security Task Force Act. On rollcall vote No, 609, final passage of H.R. 915 under suspension of the rules, I would have voted ``yes.''

The House also considered H.R. 5997, the Medical Preparedness Allowable Use Act. On rollcall vote No. 610, final passage of H.R. 5997 under suspension of the rules, I would have voted ``yes.''

Further, on November 30, 2012, the House considered H.R. 6429, the STEM Jobs Act. Unfortunately, I failed to cast a vote on final passage and I would like the record to reflect that I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcall vote No. 613, final passage of H.R. 6429.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County, Morristown, New Jersey as they celebrate their 120th Anniversary this year.

The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick is a national network of social organizations of men of Irish ancestry and affinity. Each local organization takes an active role in their community preserving the Irish history and heritage of its members while also participating in acts of charity. The purpose of each local Sons of St. Patrick organization is to provide an opportunity for Irish-Americans to meet in a spirit of comradeship for the common purpose of promoting, cultivating, celebrating and preserving interest in Irish arts, literature, history and culture.

The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County was founded in the spirit of the first truly American St. Patrick's Day celebration

which was held at George Washington's camp at Jockey Hollow, Morristown in 1780. Since that day, the Irish have continued to play an important role in Morris County's social, economic and political fabric.

Originally founded on March 14, 1892, the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County have aimed to create a social group for the large community of Irish-Americans within Morris County while also assisting the county's neediest residents through charitable works. With 300 members today, the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County is open to all men of Irish descent, the group is non-political and non-sectarian.

The Friendly Sons meet monthly to promote faith, heritage and fellowship, they are noted for their charity work including the annual Morris County St. Patrick's Day Parade. Organized by their membership, the parade is attended by over 50,000 people and raises over $10,000 for local charities, including Employment Horizons and Cheshire House. The Friendly Sons have also been integral in the recognition and preservation of several historically important Irish-American buildings and sites throughout New Jersey and New York.

The mission and work of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County has made the group an important asset to Morris County. Their continued support of local charities and preservation of Irish-American history and heritage are to be commended.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County as they celebrate their 120th Anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Madison, Morris County as they begin their 50th Anniversary season this year.

The proud tradition of the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey began in 1963, when Paul Barry and Phillip Dorian formed the New Jersey Shakespeare Festival in Cape May. Their Festival was met with such success that the group was offered a permanent home on the campus of Drew University in Madison, New Jersey in 1972.

The Shakespeare Theatre has been dedicated to bringing the classics of Shakespeare and classical playwrights alive for audiences for 50 years. The Theatre's plays and outreach programs have showcased live theater to diverse audiences throughout the state and have also served as the training ground for the newest talents on the stage.

To improve the theater experience for all patrons, the Theater has undergone a number of lasting and unique changes over its history. The first of these changes was the construction of the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre in 1998. This space arose out of the Shakespeare Theater's desire to create a lasting performing space that could meet the artistic demands of its schedule and provide an intimate setting for patrons to view the performances. This state of the art facility features modern theater lighting, sound and seating as well as complete handicapped accessibility. With just over 300 seats none of which is more than 32 feet from the stage, the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theater provides a truly unique venue to view theater.

Debuting in 2002, the Shakespeare Theater of New Jersey's Outdoor Amphitheater on the campus of the College of St. Elizabeth, allows patrons to view the arts from a whole new perspective. The outdoor space takes its inspiration from the Theater of Dionysus in Athens and hopes to transport viewers back in time through a wide range of classical theatrical offerings and is one of the only theatres of its kind in the United States.

The Theatre's newest addition is a 49,000 square foot renovated factory in Florham Park that will serve as a training and rehearsal space. The new facility will be filled with office spaces, scene and costume shops as well as multiple rehearsal and classroom spaces, greatly enhancing the educational and outreach capacities of the Theatre. This space will allow the Theatre to enhance current stage offerings and provide a future of unique performance and shows.

Through its mission statement and commitment to the arts in New Jersey, the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey has proven to be a pillar of the local community and a large contributor to the arts in New Jersey.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Shakespeare Theater of New Jersey, Madison as they celebrate their 50th season and their continuing contributions to New Jersey's vibrant arts community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor St. Joseph's Slovak Catholic Church of Raritan, Somerset County, New Jersey, which is celebrating 100 years as an important member of the local community.

Since St. Joseph's establishment in 1912, it has been contributing to the religious, cultural and social diversity that has come to define New Jersey. The church was initially founded by immigrants fleeing religious persecution in Slovakia. Many of the early members of the congregation worked in the Woolen Mills, Duke Park and along the railroads crisscrossing the area. Beginning with only a handful of families, the parish of the new St. Joseph's Slovak Catholic Church gathered on October 1, 1912 to form a church society with the goal of raising enough money to build a church where they could practice their faith in their native tongue free from persecution or prejudice.

In 1914, the society raised enough money to purchase a piece of property in Raritan for the construction of a church. The church was formally dedicated in 1915 after a year of construction. Adding to their permanent presence in Raritan, the parish added an adjoining school in 1926. The school initially had a class of 234 students and was focused on providing students with a source of education on their Catholic faith and Slovak heritage.

St. Joseph's provides an exemplary illustration of the benefits of sharing culture and beliefs with others. Religious and cultural centers such as St. Joseph's, provide religious education, philanthropic assistance for those in need, and a greater sense of cultural awareness to the local community while providing a place for people to gather and worship.

The parish of St. Joseph's has been very involved in giving back to the community philanthropically, participating in food bank collections, gathering baby clothing and formula for struggling mothers, and joining other churches in their charitable works. St. Joseph's assistance casts a wide net, helping people from the Raritan area as well as participating in worldwide assistance efforts.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating St. Joseph's Slovak Catholic Church for 100 years of dedicated work on behalf of the Great State of New Jersey.