[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

                                 ______
                                 

                         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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