[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 79 (Monday, June 7, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1155-E1156]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  SALUTE TO THE TONY MODICA PIZZA DANCE FOUNDATION AND ONE WORLD-ONE 
                              HEART, INC.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 7, 1999

  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the contributions of 
the Tony Modica Pizza Dance Foundation and One World-One Heart, Inc., 
organizations which exemplifies our nation's direction of unity and 
cultural exchange through inter-generational activities and programs.
  Tony Modica came to this country as an immigrant and became 
successful in the pizza industry. This Foundation is a means for him to 
give back to the community through a program that benefits the elderly 
and the youth. Pizza is a favorite food of both young and old and its 
incorporation into a program which features song, dance and pizza makes 
for an enjoyable experience for all involved. Modica uses the pizza as 
an international symbol of unity. The Foundation has created programs 
that promote unity; and encourages children to stay in school and 
improve their grades. After his lectures, the students and seniors are 
treated to pizza and a lesson in the Foundations' original Pizza 
Dance--a step choreographed to mimic the art of pizza making. The Pizza 
is used as a symbol because of it's varied toppings and delectable 
enjoyment that is recognized by all cultures and ethnic groups. The 
positive messages are enhanced through dance and the enjoyable feast 
and taste of pizza!
  One World-One Heart, Inc. serves to provide access to educational; 
recreational; cultural and intergenerational programs for participants 
from all ethnic, religious, economic and cultural backgrounds. The 
founders, Catherine Laporte and Steven Kaplansky have over 30 years of 
experience of providing non-profit; social and recreational services to 
communities at large.
  One World-One Heart, Inc. has joined with The Tony Modica Pizza Dance 
Foundation to promote unity and cultural appreciation through free 
public activities and have mobilized others to support a unified 
message of respect and appreciation of all people. The combined efforts 
are a great model of how government, not-for-profits; religious and 
private sectors can work together for the good of the public.
  Pizza is undoubtedly the world's most popular food. The positive 
messages are enhanced through song, dance and an enjoyable feast of 
Pizza. The Mayor and City Council have recognized the organization's 
efforts in New York. By taking this program to a national level with 
it's fun spirited message. The Tony Modica Pizza Dance Foundation and 
One World-One Heart, Inc., are positive examples of how private 
citizens and not-for-profit organizations can make a difference in the 
community with the support of business and government.
  I implore my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in 
recognizing the ``Pizza''; ``The Tony Modica Pizza Dance Foundation; 
and One World-One Heart, Inc.'' and in proclaiming June National 
``Taste of Pizza'' Month.

[[Page E1156]]



                          ____________________