[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 74 (Tuesday, June 7, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HARLEM RENAISSANCE DAY OF COMMITMENT
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HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL
of new york
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, June 7, 2005
Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the hard work and
achievements of the Abyssinian Development Corporation and its Harlem
Renaissance Day of Commitment in which I was pleased and honored to
participate this morning. This organization has been a committed and
active champion of the Harlem community, has worked diligently to
promote the best of Harlem, and has created an environment that has
facilitated the new Harlem Renaissance.
The Abyssinian Development Corporation is a major not-for-profit
organization that works on housing development, family services,
economic revitalization, educational development, and civil engagement
in Harlem. Starting in the small basement office of the Abyssinian
Baptist Church, the Abyssinian Development Corporation has grown in
prominence and respect for its handling of complex issues of social,
economic, and political challenges facing Harlem. Today, the
organization boosts a dedicated staff of 95 employees and community
investment projects of over $300 million.
Under the auspice of Reverend Calvin O. Butts Ill, the Abyssinian
Development Corporation has been a faithful advocate for the Harlem
community. Through the Central Harlem Local Development Corporation, it
has promoted economic development and has attracted various businesses
and corporations into Harlem. It has also been mindful of the need to
provide essential services to the community and has addressed issues
such as the improvement of education. The Thurgood Marshall Academy for
Learning and Social Change has operated a successful Head Start
program. These programs have been beneficial to the development and
revitalization of Harlem and the Abyssinian Development Corporation
continues to defend the interests of the community,
Today, the Abyssinian Development Corporation hosted a day focused on
community leaders and Harlem culture. They paid tribute to the economic
work and leadership of several dignitaries and dedicate time to draw
attention to local and historical attractions within the community. A
street festival, gospel celebration, and neighborhood tour will further
highlight the various aspects of Harlem culture.
The Abyssinian Development Corporation has done a superb job of
standing up for the people of Harlem and fighting for their interests.
I hope that my colleagues here today will join me in applauding the
efforts of this group over the last two decades. I submit for the
Record the following CaribNews article on the work of the Abyssinian
Development Corporation in the Harlem Renaissance Day of Commitment.
Harlem Renaissance Day of Commitment
June 7, 2005.--The Abyssinian Development Corporation
(ADC), an innovative not-for-profit organization dedicated to
renewing and reclaiming the spirit of community in one of New
York City's oldest and storied neighborhoods, announces its
eleventh annual Harlem Renaissance Day of Commitment on June
7, 2005. The daylong celebration highlights ADC's
accomplishments, diverse programs and services while
showcasing the revival of Harlem.
This year's Renaissance Honorees include: Robert Rubin,
Chairman of the Executive Committee, Citi-group, Inc; Michael
Lee-Chin, Chairman and Chief Executive Office, AIC, Limited;
Ralph Lauren, Chairman & CEO of Polo Ralph Lauren
Corporation; and Paula Madison, President and General Manager
of NBC4 in Los Angeles.
The Leadership Breakfast is ADC's opportunity to honor
those who have continually and faithfully donated their time,
resources and efforts to furthering the growth and
revitalization of Harlem.
The day begins with a Leadership Breakfast, hosted by Rev.
Calvin O. Butts III. The breakfast features more than 700 of
New York's business, civic and political leaders and is held
at the beautiful Great Hall of Shepard Hall, City College in
the historic Hamilton Heights section of Harlem. The
Leadership Breakfast (set to begin at 7:30 a.m.) will be
preceded by a 7 a.m. VIP and press reception. Co-Chairs Rev.
Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor, The Abyssinian Baptist
Church; Edward Lewis, Co-founder, Publisher and CEO, Essence
Communications; Saundra Parks, Chairman and Creative
Director, The Daily Blossom; and Marianne Spraggins,
President, Buy Hold America will preside over both the
Leadership Breakfast and the presentation of the 2005
Renaissance Awards, during a celebration that will include
Gospel Music and Southern-infused Cuisine.
Following the Leadership Breakfast is a tour of Harlem's
historic neighborhoods, including Astor Row, Mt. Morris Park,
Sugar Hill, and Striver's Row. Guests will see first-hand the
various projects and programs of ADC throughout Harlem. The
tour concludes at Odell Clark Place and 138th Street,
allowing participants to visit Abyssinian Baptist Church. In
the afternoon, ADC hosts a Street Fair on Odell Clark Place,
complete with free food, music, games, amusement rides,
entertainment and health information. The culminating event
of the Harlem Renaissance Day of Commitment is an evening
reception, A Taste of Harlem by Candlelight, at the Great
Hall. The evening will feature entertainment from famed
rhythm revue DJ Felix Hernandez, live music from
``Soulnites,'' and a sample from some of Harlem's and New
York City's leading restaurants and caterers.
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