[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 94 (Tuesday, July 18, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1445]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY OF IRENE L. JAMES, ESQ.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 18, 2006

  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues here in the House of 
Representatives to join me as I rise to honor the memory and legacy of 
Irene L. James who passed away on Tuesday, July 4, 2006. Her death 
leaves a deep void in the Greater Newark community.
  Irene was known for her caring spirit and her service to others. She 
was creative, passionate and intelligent. Her intellect led her to 
Rutgers University in Newark where she earned both her under-graduate 
and law degrees. Over the years, she would hold several roles that 
allowed her to utilize her talents to enrich the lives of others. A 
prolific writer, Irene was able to secure grants and/or technological 
enhancements for many programs and institutions. In fact, Irene is 
credited with procuring a three million dollar grant from the Robert 
Wood Johnson Foundation to create a ``fighting back'' sight in Newark. 
This program's mission was to help decrease the demand for alcohol, 
tobacco and other drugs for women and children. Irene served with 
distinction in administrative positions at Essex County College, 
CHOICES, Inc., Newark Welfare and Newark Fighting Back.
  During her life, Irene touched many lives with her kindness, 
thoughtfulness and humor. She will be remembered for making a 
difference in the lives of those fortunate enough to benefit from her 
years of public service. Irene was a profound believer in social 
justice and was able to associate with many others who felt likewise.
  As Irene's life was celebrated during her ``Home going'' service on 
Wednesday, July 12, 2006, many recalled the impact she made in the 
community, her competency and professionalism. They remembered that she 
came from a family of achievers, including my Chief of Staff, Maxine 
James, her father, Mack James, sister, Jeanette Parham and her brother, 
Michael James.
  Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues join me in letting Irene L. James' 
family, friends and associates know that her memory will always be 
honored and cherished.

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