[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 4]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 5844-5845]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



     IN HONOR OF THE HOBOKEN LITTLE LEAGUE ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 13, 2000

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the Hoboken Little 
League for the 50

[[Page 5845]]

years it has provided young people with access to one of America's 
greatest athletic traditions. Baseball teaches responsibility, 
teamwork, sportsmanship, and nurtures self-esteem.
  Fifty years ago, on April 15, 1950, the Little League began its 
commitment to the young people of Hoboken with four teams. This 
commitment has grown to 12 teams, with 144 boys and girls between the 
ages of 9 and 12 currently participating in what has become one of the 
finest youth organizations in the country.
  Of historical importance: In 1972, Maria Pepe, the first female to 
play Little League Baseball, joined the Hoboken Little League. Maria 
became the force behind the Supreme Court's 1974 ruling that gave women 
the right to participate in any and all sports.
  This great youth organization would not have been possible without 
the dedication and hard work of those who understand the positive 
impact sports have on the lives of our young people. I would like to 
thank everyone who has contributed to the growth and continuation of 
the Hoboken Little League, especially the following dedicated 
individuals: Tim Calligy, James Farina, Charles Casalinos, Anthony 
Cardino, Dominick Miele, and Mike Turner.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Hoboken Little 
League on its 50th anniversary.

                          ____________________