[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 8] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 11830] [From the U.S. 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. ____________________