[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 9] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 11795] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]HARLEM RENAISSANCE DAY OF COMMITMENT ______ 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. ____________________