April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E713 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

HONORING ED MOODY I recall Morgenthau’s words here because and I watched in awe as 95 percent of the he saw first hand the atrocities wrought on the people over the age of 18 went out and voted. HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN Armenians, and he had been told by Turks The Armenian people had been denied free- OF TENNESSEE that they understood quite well that they had dom for so many years and, clearly, they were handed down a death sentence to the Arme- very excited about this new opportunity. Al- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nian people. The Turks not only knew of what most no one stayed home. They were all out Thursday, April 24, 2008 they were doing, but spoke quite freely of it. in the streets going to the polling places. I Mrs. BLACKBURN. Madam Speaker, this Eighty years later, however, many are still un- watched in amazement as people stood in line Thursday evening in Franklin, Tennessee, our willing to recognize the killing for what it was: for hours to get into these small polling places community will gather to honor an extraor- genocide. and vote. dinary American. I ask my colleagues to join The U.S. has long been a global leader in Then, after they voted, the other interesting me in congratulating Ed Moody as he receives promoting human rights around the world. On thing was that they did not go home. They had the Community Service Award from the issue of the Armenian genocide, however, brought covered dishes with them, and all of Williamson Christian College. we lag behind. The French, Swiss, Swedish, these polling places had little banquets after- Ed Moody was born and raised in Kingston Germans, and even the Russian governments ward to celebrate what had just happened. Springs, Tennessee. After serving in the Pa- recognize the Armenian genocide properly. As What a great thrill it was to join them the cific Theater in World War II, he joined his a global leader in human rights, it is impera- next day in the streets of Yerevan when they brother in a tire re-treading business on Main tive for the U.S. to stand on principle and rec- were celebrating their great victory. Ninety- Street in Franklin. That business would even- ognize the annihilation of the Armenians. eight percent of the people who voted cast tually relocate to Columbia Avenue and be- However, it is no less important today to their ballots in favor of independence. It was come an institution in our community, Moody’s recognize the Armenian genocide for what it a wonderful experience to be there with them Tire & Auto Service. is. The deafening silence that came in its when they danced and sang and shouted, Not content with running a business and wake set the stage for a century that saw ‘Ketse azat ankakh Hayastan’—long live free raising a family, Ed embraced Rotary Inter- genocides occur in Europe, Africa, and Asia. and independent Armenia! That should be the national and its motto of ‘‘service above self.’’ While the Armenian genocide was the first of cry of freedom-loving people everywhere. In his 56 years of membership, Ed Moody has the 20th century, the blind eye cast to the f been a living example of Rotary’s principles of slaughter of Armenians was a point used by EARTH DAY encouraging service, promoting ethical con- Hitler who asked his joint chiefs of staff, ‘‘Who duct, applying the ideal of service in personal, . . . speaks today of the [their] annihilation?’’ SPEECH OF business, and community life, and advancing To the critics who say that we should not understanding, goodwill and peace. dwell on history, I say it’s much harder to get HON. BETTY McCOLLUM Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join tomorrow right if we get yesterday wrong. The OF MINNESOTA me in celebrating the life of Ed Moody and world’s strength to oppose killing today is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES congratulating him and his family on this occa- made greater by accountability, for actions Tuesday, April 22, 2008 sion. We would all do well to follow his exam- present, but also past. It’s weakened by denial ple of leaving a small piece of the world better of accountability of past acts. Not recognizing Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- than we found it. the Armenian genocide, as such, does just er, I rise today to recognize Earth Day. f that. On Earth Day, we celebrate the limitless f gifts of our natural world—the incredible life- ARMENIAN GENOCIDE giving forces that sustain us through every sin- THE OCCASION OF THE 93RD ANNI- gle day of the year. It is all too easy to take HON. EDWARD R. ROYCE VERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN the air we breathe, the water we drink, the GENOCIDE OF CALIFORNIA earth we walk for granted. Today, we pause to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES recognize what precious gifts these are. We need this reminder now more than ever. Thursday, April 24, 2008 HON. MICHAEL R. McNULTY OF NEW YORK Our environment is fragile, threatened by glob- Mr. ROYCE. Madam Speaker, on April 24, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES al climate change, exploding demand for re- 1915, the Ottoman Empire set out on a cam- sources, and other serious challenges. Our fu- paign to exterminate the Armenian people. Be- Thursday, April 24, 2008 ture depends upon how we respond. Con- tween 1915 and 1923, the numbers were hor- Mr. MCNULTY. Madam Speaker, I join today gress, the President, and every nation on the rific. One and a half million Armenians were with many of my colleagues in remembering globe must commit to charting a new course murdered and 500,000 deported from their the victims of the Armenian Genocide. Today, toward sustainable and earth-renewing lives. homelands. At the end of these eight years, April 24th, is the 93rd anniversary of this Earth Day reminds us that we must act to the Armenian population of Anatolia and West- human tragedy. protect our environment not just out of obliga- ern Armenia was virtually eliminated, becom- From 1915 to 1923, the world witnessed the tion or self-preservation, but because it is sim- ing one of the 20th century’s darkest chapters. first genocide of the 20th Century. This was ply the right thing to do for the next genera- While acknowledging the role played by the clearly one of the world’s greatest tragedies— tion. We owe our children and grandchildren Ottoman Empire in killing Armenians, some the deliberate and systematic Ottoman annihi- our strongest efforts to clean up pollution, pre- have laid doubt to the claim of genocide, citing lation of 1.5 million Armenian men, women, serve our wild spaces, and reduce the human the subsequent deportation of the survivors as and children. footprint on our globe. merely a movement of a people from one land Furthermore, another 500,000 refugees fled As Americans, we also owe a unique debt to another. Henry Morgenthau, the U.S. Am- and escaped to various points around the to Planet Earth. Our nation is responsible for bassador to the Ottoman Empire from 1913– world—effectively eliminating the Armenian 25% of the world’s energy consumption—far 1916, saw it much differently. In his memoirs, population of the Ottoman Empire. more than our fair share. If we continue con- Morgenthau recalls that the Turks, ‘‘never had From these ashes arose hope and promise suming at this rate as nations like India and the slightest idea of reestablishing the Arme- in 1991—and I was blessed to see it. I was China increase their resource demands, our nians in (a) new country’’ knowing that ‘‘the one of the four international observers from planet will change forever in ways that will se- great majority of those would . . . either die of the United States Congress to monitor Arme- riously impact all of our lives. thirst and starvation, or be murdered by the nia’s independence referendum. I went to the The United States must lead the urgent ef- wild Mohammedan desert tribes.’’ communities in the northern part of Armenia, fort to find a different path. We must find ways

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.001 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E714 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 to responsibly use the resources of our earth Bartikowsky has been especially active with EARTH DAY while simultaneously renewing our environ- the Jewish Community Center (JCC) where he ment and making it stronger. We are more has served as president, a member of the SPEECH OF than up to the task—Americans have always board of trustees and the board of directors. HON. HEATH SHULER been pioneers and innovators, and nature has He is a supporter of the JCC’s Fitness Center, OF NORTH CAROLINA always played a vital role in that frontier spirit. JCC Camp, JCC Basketball Banquet and the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Our ancestors tamed the wilderness; now it is JCC 5:30 Club. our challenge to sustain and preserve it. Tuesday, April 22, 2008 In the 110th Congress, the House has He also serves on the board of Temple Mr. SHULER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to passed historic legislation to protect our plan- Israel where his grandfather was the first support H. Res. 1117, supporting the goals et. We have acted to improve vehicle fuel effi- president in 1924. He is a past president of and ideals of Earth Day. On this day we are ciency, promote renewable sources of energy the Wilkes-Barre Lions Club and Jewish Fam- reminded of the importance of protecting our and invest in new energy-efficient tech- ily Services and has been a member of Ma- environment for generations to come. nologies. In addition, we have proposed legis- sonic Lodge 655, Caldwell Consistory, and Established in 1970, Earth Day commemo- lation to slow, stabilize and ultimately reverse Irem Temple for 50 years. He is also a sup- rates the birth of the modern environmental greenhouse gas emissions. I urge the Bush movement. Thirty eight years ago today, 200 porter of Wyoming Seminary. Administration to partner with Congress and million Americans from coast-to-coast took to the American people to enact these bold pro- Bartikowsky has been honored by the the streets to demonstrate the importance of posals. Knights of the Saber, JCC 5:30 Club, Wyo- environmental stewardship and conservation. One of the greatest joys of my life has been ming Valley Family Service Association and Their voices are still heard today, as we con- sharing in the wonder of the natural world with the Jewish Family Service. He was also fea- tinue to celebrate Earth Day globally. my family, my friends, and especially my chil- tured in articles in the Outlook and Pennsyl- We must act responsibly and expediently to dren. Whether a simple walk outside or a trek vania Heritage magazines. protect our environment by addressing global to the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge, these warming. Scientists worldwide agree that glob- experiences have renewed my spirit. Anna Cervenak graduated from Forty Fort al warming is a reality and its consequences Future generations deserve the same op- High School and College Misericordia where will be devastating and far-reaching. portunity. This will only be possible if we fully she earned a bachelor of social work degree. Protecting our environment is not only cru- embrace Earth Day’s challenge to recognize She went on to Marywood University where cial for this generation, but for the many gen- the immense value of our environment and she earned a master’s degree in social work. erations to come. By implementing environ- our planet. As we celebrate sprouting leaves, A member of Alpha Sigma Lambda, Social mentally responsible policies today, we will en- sunlight, spring, and all the splendor of nature, Work Honor Society, she was elected to sure that our children and grandchildren will we also commit to ensuring that we can en- Who’s Who Among Students in American Uni- have clean water to drink and clear air to thusiastically enjoy every Earth Day to come. versities and Colleges. breathe. f We must focus on developing renewable Cervenak started her career at Bell of Penn- energy, reducing our dependence on fossil CONGRATULATING ANNA sylvania while still in high school. She worked fuels, expanding access to sustainable re- CERVENAK AND MAX as an operator, in engineering, employment sources, and increasing environmental con- BARTIKOWSKY, HONOREES OF and as the company’s public speaker. When sciousness. This Congress has taken great THE GREATER WILKES-BARRE she retired from Verizon in 2007, she was Di- strides to these ends, but there is still much SOCIETY OF FELLOWS, ANTI- rector of Community Relations/Public Affairs. work to be done. DEFAMATION LEAGUE I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting A past president of Junior Achievement, she the goals and ideals of Earth Day. May we HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI is currently a member of its board of directors. continue to make environmental issues a top OF PENNSYLVANIA She is also a member of the board of directors priority of the 110th Congress. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of Penn’s Northeast, Great Valley Technology f Alliance, Pittston Chamber of Commerce, Thursday, April 24, 2008 Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Indus- HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVER- Mr. KANJORSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise try, Athena Award Committee, Victim’s Re- SARY OF EAGER FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY today to ask you and my distinguished col- source Center, Catholic Youth Center, Catho- leagues in the House of Representatives to lic Social Services, King’s College President’s pay tribute to Anna Cervenak and Max Council, Luzerne County Community College HON. TAMMY BALDWIN Bartikowsky, recipients of the Anti-Defamation Foundation, Penn State-Wilkes-Barre, Step- OF WISCONSIN League’s Distinguished Community Service IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Award. By-Step, Boy Scouts of America, Blond Asso- This award is presented to persons who are ciation, Circle 200 and the Mountain Laurel Thursday, April 24, 2008 dedicated champions of human rights and Center for the Performing Arts. Ms. Cervenak Ms. BALDWIN. Madam Speaker, I rise have distinguished themselves by civic, philan- also chaired the Blue Ribbon Committee to today to honor the Eager Free Public Library, thropic and other extraordinary activities. save Tobyhanna Army Depot, Burn Founda- EFPL, for 100 years of service to the people Max Bartikowsky was born and raised in tion and the Jewish Family Service Advisory of Evansville, WI. Since the doors first opened Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. His celebrity Board. a century ago, the Eager Free Public Library began at an early age, being the impish inspi- has been an invaluable and vital part of the Her awards include Athena Award, Top 50 ration for a shoeshine boy character called community. ‘‘Little Max’’ created by the famous cartoonist, Business Women in Pennsylvania, Top Busi- During the 1890s, Wisconsinites embarked Ham Fisher, who originated the ‘‘Joe Palooka’’ ness Women in Northeastern Pennsylvania, on a movement to secure free public libraries comic strip once syndicated in over 900 news- Arthritis Foundation Community Leader of the around the State. However, few were as pas- papers nationwide. Fisher was also a native of Year, Susan B. Roebling Distinguished Citizen sionate and dedicated to the cause as Mr. northeastern Pennsylvania. Award, Wyoming Valley Woman’s Pathfinder Almeron Eager. Eager’s passion for libraries Bartikowsky graduated from Wyoming Semi- Award, NEPA Boy Scouts Woman of the Year was evident when he passed away in 1902. In nary after which he attended the University of Award. his will, Mr. Eager bequeathed $10,000 to the Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and Wilkes city of Evansville to construct a free public li- Madam Speaker, please join me in con- College. He served in the U.S. Navy from brary in his name. The library’s cost would gratulating Mr. Bartikowsky and Ms. Cervenak. 1951 to 1955. He went on to complete the end up exceeding $10,000 but his surviving Gemological Institute of America’s Diamond Their extraordinary community service to family members contributed money to cover Grading Class after which he took an active northeastern Pennsylvania is both legendary the remaining cost. After several years of role as the third generation in the Bartikowsky and inspiring. They have clearly made a sig- searching for the proper site, the first con- family jewelry business. Today, he is president nificant contribution to the improvement of the struction shovel finally pierced the ground in and CEO of Bartikowsky Jewelers, currently regional quality of life and, for that, we are all May 1907 and the library was dedicated in celebrating 121 years in business. grateful. June 1908. The prairie school style of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.004 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E715 building would become a trademark design of In 1969, Dr. Ronald Nutt received a PhD in the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Moses- Claude and Stark, the architects of the EFPL. Electrical Engineering at the University of Ten- Saunders Power Project in the 1950’s, there One hundred years later, the library still nessee. In the nearly 40 years which followed, was no choice but to come up with a plan for stands tall, in large part thanks to the vision of he pioneered technology which has saved ‘‘artificially’’ regulating this outflow. Unfortu- Almeron Eager. As a communitarian, Mr. countless lives and brought distinction to East nately, the current water level regulation plan, Eager knew that free public libraries are the Tennessee and the University of Tennessee. known as ‘‘1958 D with Deviations,’’ has re- cornerstone of our democracy. A library brings Even those who have never heard of sulted in significant negative environmental im- hope and knowledge to our children, fosters Positron Emission Tomography (PET) prob- pacts on fisheries and wildlife throughout the intellectual freedom, and makes important in- ably know someone who has been helped by region I represent in Congress. For example, formation readily available to all citizens. The it. PET is a non-invasive technique which can the current regime has resulted in the sub- mission of EFPL, and so many others, to pro- map the entire body with molecular imaging. stantial derogation of at least 33,000 acres of vide equal access to resources makes free Pioneered and internationally marketed by wetlands, allowing a thick cattail monoculture public libraries critical to fulfilling the promise Dr. Nutt, PET is a critical tool today in medi- to expand and replace large areas of bio- of a democratic society. cine, and the method is widely used in the diverse meadow marsh, resulting in the loss of Not only do our free public libraries provide fields of oncology, cardiology, and neurology. habitat for a wide range of aquatic, avian, and intellectual enrichment but they also serve as PET has saved countless lives by innovatively upland species. an important community gathering place. detecting tumors, improving biopsies, and Since 2000, the IJC’s International Lake On- Through a wide range of programs including helping to determine the stage of a disease. tario St. Lawrence River, LOSL, study has discussion groups, computer classes, and The effect of PET scanning was so extraor- spent more than $20 million in taxpayer family events, EFPL has worked tirelessly to dinary, Dr. Nutt was named Distinguished Sci- money to develop an approach to water level give every citizen the opportunity to fulfill their entist of the Year in 1999 and received the regulation that would best suit the environ- potential and become an active participant in TIME Magazine Medical Innovation of the mental and economic needs of this vital nat- our democracy. Year honor in December 2000. ural resource. And, over the years, the IJC For the past 100 years, these overarching Dr. Nutt’s lifetime of developing this tech- has devised plan after plan to achieve that goals have been the foundation of the library’s nology has led to many other discoveries. He goal—soliciting extensive public comment to distinguished reputation and unwavering com- is the holder of dozens of patents in the field fully vet these proposals with the residents mitment to equality and education. I am proud of electrical engineering, with many more still who are most affected. Yet, for all of that ef- to join the residents of Evansville in honoring pending. Prior to his work on PET technology, fort, the IJC has chosen to waste years of re- the family of Mr. Almeron Eager and cele- Dr. Nutt took a products business from a sin- search and millions of dollars in taxpayer brating the 100th anniversary of the Eager gle employee to a $10 million a year business money, in addition to ignoring significant Free Public Library. in the 1980s. Today, he sits on the board of amounts of public comment, by proposing a f directors of several companies and continues brand new water levels regime ‘‘Plan 2007.’’ to be a leader his field. Moreover, I am very concerned that the lack HOLDING NORTH KOREA Dr. Nutt is not only an example of American of transparency in the IJC final development of ACCOUNTABLE ingenuity, but his work is also the benchmark ‘‘Plan 2007’’ was created in the shadows and for success in his field. His professional ac- with little or no outside input. HON. CLIFF STEARNS complishments are equal in scope only with It is clear to anyone living in this region that OF FLORIDA his personal character and continued devotion the wrong approach to water level regulation IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to family, community, and many worthy can have significant negative impacts. We Thursday, April 24, 2008 causes. have all seen firsthand the devastating con- Mr. STEARNS. Madam Speaker, in 2006 Madam Speaker, in closing, I urge my col- sequences that the existing regime has had the world was alarmed when North Korea test- leagues to join me in celebrating the career of on the environment. The status quo is simply ed a nuclear device. Since then, North Korea Dr. Ronald Nutt on the occasion of his 70th unacceptable. We need a comprehensive and has been pressured to reveal details about its birthday. His work is far from over, but his im- effective approach to regulate the water levels nuclear program, but it has blatantly defied pact is already certain. of both Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence transparency deadlines and Six-Party talks f River. Thus, like many residents along the have yielded few results. lake and river, I invested time and effort to INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION support the approach I believed best met the North Korea has recently re-declared its in- TO OPPOSE THE IJC’S PROPOSED tent to provide a ‘‘complete and correct’’ dec- environmental and economic requirements of WATER LEVEL MANAGEMENT the region—Plan B+. I believe B+ appro- laration of all its nuclear programs, but while PLAN the U.S. awaits this declaration, we shouldn’t priately balances sound environmental prin- reduce the necessary pressure required to ciples with the needs of both residents and hold North Korea accountable to its promises. HON. JOHN M. McHUGH recreational boaters, while, at the same time, The U.S. should not ease sanctions on OF NEW YORK providing benefits for the Moses-Saunders North Korea until we have sufficient IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Power Project. Virtually every regional and environmental verification measures in place. Specifically, Thursday, April 24, 2008 North Korea should not be removed from the organization that has examined this process Mr. MCHUGH. Madam Speaker, I rise today list of state sponsors of terrorism until it accu- agree that Plan B+ is based on sound sci- to introduce a resolution concerning the Inter- rately declares the number of nuclear weap- entific principles and is the one approach that national Joint Commission, IJC, and water ons and the amount of fissile material it has. best meets all the needs of the various stake- level management on Lake Ontario and the We must continue to insist on full trans- holders. Unfortunately, despite the public vet- St. Lawrence River. I am deeply disappointed parency and not acquiesce to deceitful North ting of three proposed plans, on March 28, that it has come to the point where such ac- Korean rhetoric. 2008, the IJC released ‘‘Plan 2007,’’ which tion by Congress is necessary. had not previously been submitted to the pub- f I have the distinct privilege of representing lic for comment or fully evaluated by the sci- HAPPY BIRTHDAY FOR DR. the entirety of the American span of the St. entific community and the State of New York, RONALD NUTT Lawrence River, as well as a significant por- as the proposed water level management plan tion of Lake Ontario. As a native of the area, for Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of Plan 2007 does little to improve the existing OF TENNESSEE the selection of an appropriate water level water level management plan, both in terms of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES management plan to my constituents who live, environmental protection and hydropower gen- work, and vacation along Lake Ontario and eration. Further, lessons learned from the Thursday, April 24, 2008 the St. Lawrence River. LOSL Study will be used for the Upper Great Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today The Great Lakes represent the largest sup- Lakes Study to examine water levels on the to honor a Tennessean on his 70th birthday ply of fresh water on the planet and this vast St. Claire River and Lakes Ontario and Huron. whose scientific accomplishments have had supply of fresh water flows out to the saltwater Therefore, today, along with the Gentle- an incalculable impact on the medical commu- of the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Lawrence woman from Western New York, Mrs. SLAUGH- nity and our Nation. River. However, following the completion of TER, a co-chair of the Great Lakes Task Force

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.007 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E716 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 and trained biologist, I am introducing a reso- and supporters, I am writing in support of that maintained the wetlands and dunes of lution which calls on the Secretary of State to your resolution expressing the sense of the Lake Ontario’s coast prior to advent of not approve Plan 2007. It further asks that the U.S. House of Representatives that the Inter- water level regulation 50 years ago. The Secretary ensure that any plan which is adopt- national Joint Commission (IJC) should IJC’s own 6-year study demonstrated that adopt an appropriate water level manage- restoration of these age-old cycles could pro- ed provide adequate environmental protection, ment plan for Lake Ontario and the St. Law- vide clear ecosystem benefits, and also eco- maximize hydropower generation, and fully rence River. nomic benefits to the people of the basin. considers the views of the public and affected On April 17th, American Rivers named the An alternative regulation plan that state governments. St. Lawrence River as one of our Most En- achieves these benefits—Plan B+—was devel- For the record, I am including letters of sup- dangered Rivers of 2008. This annual report oped by the IJC study. The approach to port for this resolution from Alcoa-Massena highlights the rivers of our nation that are water management of Plan B+ is to mimic Operations; Alliance for the Great Lakes; facing the most uncertain futures. This year, Lake Ontario’s natural hydrologic rhythm American Rivers; Audubon; Audubon New the International Joint Commission has an while dampening the extremes of high and opportunity to revise the deleterious 50-year- low levels that can lead to economic dam- York; Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper; Citizens old water management plan for the Moses- ages. Campaign for the Environment; Ducks Unlim- Saunders Dam. The current plan has se- By suggesting a pathway toward the much ited—Great Lakes Region; Environmental Ad- verely degraded river health and is threat- greater environmental improvements of Plan vocates of New York; Freshwater Future; ening the river’s lucrative tourism and recre- B+, the IJC recognizes the scientific basis for Georgian Baykeeper for Georgian Bay Asso- ation economy, and quality of life. The IJC the broad support this plan has received ciation and Foundation; Great Lakes Sport must adopt a plan that provides 21st century from the State of New York and from federal Fishing Council; Great Lakes United; Inter- solutions that benefit the millions of people and state/provincial agencies and NGOs in the U.S. and Canada. national Association for Great Lakes Re- who depend upon the river. Research conducted by more than 180 sci- Your resolution takes an important step search; International Water Level Coalition; entists from the U.S. and Canada discovered toward adoption of a regulation plan that Izaak Walton League—New York Division; that the current plan, which severely limits provides ecosystem benefits, addresses the Michigan United Conservation Clubs; Midwest natural water level fluctuations, has signifi- concerns of the public and the State of New Environmental Advocates; National Wildlife cantly impacted the river environment. York, and increases the economic benefits Federation—Great Lakes; Save the River/ These conditions can be reversed by allowing from hydropower production for all New Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper; The Nature the river to have a more natural flow as is Yorkers. The Nature Conservancy thanks Conservancy—New York; The New York State proposed by Plan B+, a plan currently before you for your initiative in developing this res- olution, and we will join with partner orga- Conservation Council; Thousand Islands Land the IJC. Plan B+ is widely supported by fed- eral and state agencies, including the U.S. nizations to bring concerned citizens to the Trust; and Wisconsin Council of Trout Unlim- Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Environ- public hearings in support of your efforts. ited. mental Protection Agency, Environment Sincerely, I urge my colleagues to join with Mrs. Canada and the New York Departments of KATHLEEN MOSER, SLAUGHTER and me as cosponsors of this res- Environmental Conservation and State, as Acting State Director. olution. I will continue to work with my col- well as numerous scientists, environmental leagues and my constituents by using every groups, and federal, state and local law- AUDUBON NEW YORK, legislative tool at my disposal to ensure that makers. Albany, NY, April 21, 2008. Hon. LOUISE SLAUGHTER, the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario con- Thank you for introducing this resolution and for your leadership in ensuring that the House of Representatives, Rayburn House Office tinue to be vibrant natural resources for future most appropriate water level management Building, Washington, DC. generations. plan is chosen for the Lake Ontario-St. Law- Hon. JOHN MCHUGH, ALCOA PRIMARY METALS/ rence system. House of Representatives, Rayburn House Office GLOBAL HARD ALLOY EXTRUSIONS, Sincerely, Building, Washington, DC. Massena. NY, April 22, 2008. REBECCA R. WODDER, DEAR CONGRESSWOMAN SLAUGHTER AND Congressman JOHN M. MCHUGH, President. CONGRESSMAN MCHUGH, On behalf of Audu- Rayburn Office Building, bon New York and the National Audubon So- Washington, DC. THE NATURE CONSERVANCY, ciety, we write to you today in strong sup- DEAR CONGRESSMAN MCHUGH: As a major Albany, NY, April 21, 2008. port of your resolution calling for a strong, North Country employer dependent upon hy- Congressman JOHN MCHUGH, environmentally sustainable water level dropower for our production operations, we House of Representatives, Rayburn HOB, Wash- management regulation to be developed for have a strong interest in the future of the St. ington, DC. Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. Lawrence River and have closely followed Congresswoman LOUISE SLAUGHTER, This strong and timely resolution sends a the debate over various water level regula- House of Representatives, Rayburn HOB, Wash- clear message that the environmental needs tion plans. ington, DC. of the Great Lakes Ecosystem must be ade- We concur with you that it is imperative a DEAR CONGRESSMAN MCHUGH AND CON- quately addressed and protected before any plan be adopted by the International Joint GRESSWOMAN SLAUGHTER: On behalf of the such regulation developed by the Inter- Commission that takes into account envi- 65,000 members of The Nature Conservancy national Joint Commission (IJC) is ap- ronmental considerations and the concerns in New York, I write in strong support of proved. of the public, while at the same time maxi- your resolution on an environmentally sound As you are aware, the Great Lakes are an mizing hydropower production. As you rec- and economically beneficial regulation plan amazing natural resources that is critical ognize, all three of these issues—environ- for Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence not only to the region’s birds and other wild- mental considerations, public concerns re- River. life, but to the economy and quality of life of garding recreational uses and hydropower— The 650-mile coastline of Lake Ontario and the 42 million people that live within its wa- are closely linked to the economy of this re- the upper St. Lawrence River constitutes the tershed. More than 300 different bird species gion. A St. Lawrence River water level man- largest coastal environment in New York call the Great Lakes their home, but due to agement plan should clearly address these State. Lake Ontario and the upper River har- a host of factors, especially the loss of coast- concerns in consideration of the economic bor more than 64,000 acres of coastal wet- al wetland habitat, the populations of many future of the North Country. lands, extensive barrier beaches, and other of these species are in serious decline. We fully support your resolution regarding coastal habitats that have been shaped over Specifically in the Lake Ontario/St. Law- a water levels management plan that takes thousands of years by the ebb and flow of the rence River ecosystem, as your resolution these three issues into account. lake and river. points out, over the last fifty years since the Sincerely, Sound water management is an essential IJC began regulating water levels we have WESLEY OBERHOLZER, step in preserving the ecological health of observed a fifty percent loss of coastal wet- Primary Location Manager, freshwater ecosystems like Lake Ontario. lands in the region. The loss of these impor- Alcoa Massena Operations. Healthy ecosystems enhance our quality of tant habitats not only reduces nesting avail- life, and provide the foundation for a healthy ability for many species of birds, but also re- AMERICAN RIVERS, economy. duces food availability through the loss of Washington, DC, April 22, 2008. After six years of study, with stakeholder important fish spawning grounds. Hon. JOHN M. MCHUGH, consultation and exemplary science, the It is very unfortunate that the IJC has House of Representatives, Rayburn House Office International Joint Commission (IJC) has an missed this important opportunity to reverse Building, Washington, DC. historic opportunity to exercise principles of the decades of decline, and develop a regula- Hon. LOUISE MCINTOSH SLAUGHTER, sound water management in the regulation tion that restores a more natural flow and House of Representatives, Rayburn House Office of Lake Ontario/St. Lawrence. fluctuation of water levels in Lake Ontario Building, Washington, DC. However, the proposed new regulation plan and the St. Lawrence River, which is needed DEAR REPRESENTATIVES MCHUGH AND released for public comment by the IJC— to sustain these important coastal eco- SLAUGHTER: On behalf of our 65,000 members Plan 2007—does not restore the 30-year cycles systems. By ignoring the findings of their six

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.011 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E717 year, $20 million study and proposing ‘‘Plan Commission to adopt a water management TAXPAYER ASSISTANCE AND 2007’’, the IJC is proposing to maintain the plan for the St. Lawrence River and Lake SIMPLIFICATION ACT (H.R. 5719) status quo and change little from the cur- Ontario that takes into consideration envi- rent management plan. ‘‘Plan 2007’’ will not ronmental needs and the concerns of the restore the natural cyclical rhythms of Lake public and affected States and urges the Sec- HON. BETTY McCOLLUM Ontario and the St. Lawrence River as was retary of State to reject any plan that does OF MINNESOTA proposed in ‘‘Plan B+’’, the widely supported not do so. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Since the completion of the Moses-Saun- management proposal developed in the IJC Thursday, April 24, 2008 Study that would provide significant envi- ders hydropower dam 50 years ago, the Lake ronmental improvements to the region. Ontario and St. Lawrence River ecosystems Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Audubon New York and the National Audu- have suffered consistent losses to their glob- Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Tax- bon Society applauds your attention to the ally significant biodiversity due to unnatu- payer Assistance and Simplification Act (H.R. ral and damaging water levels regulation. need to restore the coastal ecosystems of 5719). I want to thank Chairman RANGEL and Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, The current, 50 year-old regulation scheme Subcommittee Chairman LEWIS for bringing and strongly supports your resolution call- has artificially constrained water levels, re- ing for the adoption of a regulation that pro- sulting in considerable damage to more than this legislation to the floor which modernizes vides ecosystem benefits, and addresses the 50% of the region’s coastal wetlands and sig- IRS functions by responding to recommenda- concerns of the public and the State of New nificant impacts to many fish species and tions by the Taxpayer Advocate. York. We thank you for your strong efforts nesting water birds. The Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification on this critical issue, and look forward to After more than five years of study funded Act helps to simplify the tax process and pro- by $20–million taxpayer dollars, the IJC has working with you and our partners through- tect taxpayers from abuses. It strengthens pro- out the region to ensure a sound environ- the information necessary to select a sci- entifically-based and publicly supported tection from identity theft and tax fraud by re- mental plan is implemented. management plan that would deliver signifi- quiring the IRS to notify taxpayers if it sus- Sincerely, cant environmental improvements to the re- pects identity theft. H.R. 5719 also makes the ALBERT E. CACCESE, gion. Instead, the IJC has turned its back on Executive Director. tax process simpler by eliminating an outdated the Lake and River environment by pro- JOHN FLICKER, requirement for detailed records of calls made posing a plan—Plan 2007—that continues, on employer-provided cell phones. It strength- President. and perhaps even worsens, the environ- mental destruction of the Lake and River. ens outreach to ensure that working families DUCKS UNLIMITED, In a time of unprecedented momentum to- entitled to the Earned Income Tax Credit re- Ann Arbor, MI, April 17, 2008. wards restoring the Great Lakes-St. Law- ceive the refund they have earned and pro- Congressman JOHN MCHUGH, rence system, the actions by the IJC that vides protections from predators. House of Representatives, Rayburn HOB, Wash- would reverse restoration programs are un- H.R. 5719 helps to ensure tax fairness by ington, DC. acceptable. closing an offshore loophole that allows gov- Congresswoman LOUISE SLAUGHTER, We applaud your efforts to ensure that the House of Representatives, Rayburn HOB, Wash- environment of the St. Lawrence River and ernment contractors, who receive millions or ington, DC. Lake Ontario are protected from further billions in taxpayers’ dollars, to set up compa- DEAR CONGRESSMAN MCHUGH AND CON- damage. By introducing and supporting this nies in foreign countries to avoid paying Social GRESSWOMAN SLAUGHTER: On behalf of the resolution, you are sending a strong signal Security and Medicare taxes. For example, 16,000 Ducks Unlimited members in New to the International Joint Commission that defense contractor KBR, has reportedly avoid- York, I would like to thank you for your ini- the status quo. which has resulted in the sig- ed paying over $100 million in Social Security tiative on developing the resolution regard- nificant losses of wetlands throughout the and Medicare taxes by creating shell compa- ing the water level management plan for River and Lake ecosystem, is not acceptable. Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. As Sincerely, nies in the Cayman Islands. you know, DU has been engaged in this issue Jennifer Caddick, Executive Director, This important bill also puts an end to the for many years, and strongly encouraged the Save The River/Upper St. Lawrence use of private debt collection agencies to col- International Joint Commission to adopt Riverkeeper; Joel Brammeier, Vice lect Federal income taxes and ensure that this Plan B+ for future water level management President for Policy, Alliance for the critical government function is performed by of the Lake Ontario/St. Lawrence system. In Great Lakes; April H. Gromnicki, Esq., public servants on behalf of American tax- our scientific opinion. Plan B+ delivered the Director, Ecosystem Restoration, Au- payers. Despite aggressive tactics, contractors best overall environmental, economic and dubon; Albert E. Caccese, Executive Di- only brought in a little more that half of what social benefits to all affected interests. rector, Audubon New York; Julie M. In our opinion, Plan 2007 as presented by Barrett O’Neill, Esq., Riverkeeper and it cost the IRS to implement the program. IRS the IJC does not go far enough to remedy the Executive Director, Buffalo Niagara agents can do this more efficiently and ending past management regime, nor look forward Riverkeeper; Dereth Glance, Executive this program prevents the possible misuse of enough to ensure multiple future benefits for Program Director, Citizens Campaign confidential taxpayer information. Our constitu- the majority of affected people and re- for the Environment; Gildo M. Tori, Di- ents deserve to know that the person con- sources. DU is mobilizing our membership to rector of Public Policy, Ducks Unlim- tacting them on behalf of the Federal Govern- be present at the public information sessions ited; Katherine Nadeau, Water & Nat- ment is a public-servant, who is held to the and public hearings scheduled by the IJC so ural Resources Program Associate, En- that our voice will be heard. vironmental Advocates of New York; highest standards of accountability and con- Therefore, Ducks Unlimited supports your Jill Ryan, Executive Director, Fresh- fidentiality, not a person whose paycheck de- bi-partisan House Resolution calling for the water Future; Mary Muter, Vice Presi- pends solely on the number of collections they IJC to increase the level of environmental dent, Environment, Georgian Bay- make. protections and benefits, fully consider the keeper for Georgian Bay Association I urge my colleagues to support the Tax- views of the public and State of New York and Foundation; Thomas Marks, NY payer Assistance and Simplification Act. when selecting the new plan, and maximize Director, Great Lakes Sport Fishing f hydropower production (in line with Plan Council. B+). Again, thank you for your leadership on John Jackson, Director, Clean Produc- IN RECOGNITION OF THE GRAND this issue, and rest assured that Ducks Un- tion, Great Lakes United; Robert A. OPENING OF THE DEPARTMENT limited will be following this important en- Sweeney, PhD, Executive Director, OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMU- International Association for Great vironmental issue very closely. NITY-BASED OUTPATIENT CLINIC Sincerely, Lakes Research; Nancy Foster, Sec- IN OKALOOSA COUNTY, FLORIDA RAY WHITTEMORE, retary, International Water Levels Co- Director of Conservation Programs. alition; Les Monostory, President, New York Division, Izaak Walton League; HON. JEFF MILLER APRIL 22, 2008. Robert M. Borchak, Director at Large, OF FLORIDA Michigan United Conservation Clubs; Hon. JOHN MCHUGH, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES House of Representatives, Karen M. Schapiro, Executive Director, Washington, DC. Midwest Environmental Advocates; Thursday, April 24, 2008 Hon. LOUISE M. SLAUGHTER, Andy Buchsbaum, Regional Executive Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, it House of Representatives, Director, National Wildlife Federation; is a great honor for me to rise today to recog- Harold L. Palmer, President, New York Washington, DC. nize the grand opening on April 25, 2008, of DEAR CONGRESSMAN MCHUGH AND CON- State Conservation Council; Aaron R. GRESSWOMAN SLAUGHTER, We, the under- Vogel, Executive Director, Thousand the Department of Veterans Affairs Commu- signed organizations, are writing to express Islands Land Trust; Bill Pielsticker, nity-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in our support for the house resolution you’ve Legislative Chair, Wisconsin Council of Okaloosa County, located in the First Con- developed that urges the International Joint Trout Unlimited. gressional District in Northwest Florida.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.015 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E718 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 This momentous occasion has been a long ple. From 1915 to 1923, the Ottoman Empire COMMEMORATING THE 93RD ANNI- time coming for the ever-growing veterans’ launched a systematic campaign to extermi- VERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN population along Florida’s Emerald Coast. nate Armenians. In eight short years, more GENOCIDE With the highest veterans’ population of any than 1.5 million Armenians suffered through congressional district in the Nation, many of atrocities such as deportation, forced slavery HON. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ the residents of Okaloosa County and the im- and torture. Most were ultimately murdered. OF CALIFORNIA mediate areas have had to drive significant Many of our companions in the international IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES distances for some of the most basic out- community have already taken a final step to- patient care from the VA. This area was identi- wards healing and reconciliation. The Euro- Thursday, April 24, 2008 fied years ago as an underserved area for VA pean Parliament and the United Nations have Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of California. healthcare, and was marked as a priority loca- recognized and reaffirmed the Armenian Madam Speaker. I wish to commemorate the tion for future VA construction. Now completed Genocide as historical fact, as have the Rus- 93rd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. and ready to receive patients, this CBOC will sian and Greek parliaments, the Canadian On April 23, 1915, the world suffered its first alleviate travel time and provide efficient ac- House of Commons, the Lebanese Chamber deliberate act of systematic mass murder of cess to VA healthcare for those veterans. of Deputies and the French National Assem- people of one culture by another—and the un- Beautiful beaches, warm weather, and bly. It is time for America to join the chorus speakable crime of genocide was born. The friendly neighbors encourage many to call the and acknowledge the Armenians who suffered massacre and mistreatment of approximately Florida panhandle ‘‘home.’’ With five military at the hands of the Ottoman Empire. And let 1.5 million Armenians in the waning years of installations in my district alone it is little won- me stress that I am not speaking of the gov- the Ottoman Empire epitomizes the depths of der that active and retired military and nearly ernment of modern day Turkey, but rather its inhumanity that the human race is capable of. 110,000 veterans make up a tremendous por- predecessor, which many of Turkey’s present Out of this wretched episode of history, we tion of my constituency. While many already day leaders helped to remove from power. have made a determined effort to move be- saw the need for improved access to VA care, As I have in the past, as a member of the yond hatred, to recognize mistakes, and to it took a coordinated effort from many inter- Congressional Armenian Caucus, I will con- prevent similar events from occurring in the fu- ested parties to make this event a reality. tinue to work with my colleagues and with the ture. It is our obligation to learn from lapses in There was no doubt that this facility is what Armenian-Americans in my district to promote moral judgment and forge safeguards for all our area’s veterans needed and deserved. investment and prosperity in Armenia. And, I oppressed, vulnerable, and subjugated peo- A co-sharing agreement between VA and sincerely hope that this year, the U.S. will ples. the Department of Defense has been a huge have the opportunity and courage to speak in I would like to express my sympathy to the factor in bringing about this moment. By using support of the millions of Armenians who suf- survivors and descendents of the Armenian land on Eglin Air Force base, in close prox- fered because of their heritage. Genocide. I hope we can all take time to re- imity to the base hospital, veterans using the f flect on this solemn day of remembrance. VA clinic have access to various DoD re- f sources and active servicemembers stationed COMMEMORATING THE 93RD ANNI- there have access to part of the clinic’s spe- VERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN HONORING TURKEY’S SHARED cialty care. In addition, the use of DoD land GENOCIDE COMMITMENT TO SPREADING ensures that VA does not have to deal with DEMOCRACY AND DEFEATING finding and acquiring land, resulting in the best HON. FRANK R. WOLF EXTREMISM deal for taxpayers and veterans alike. OF VIRGINIA Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. ED WHITFIELD States Congress, I would like to recognize the Thursday, April 24, 2008 OF KENTUCKY efforts of all who worked toward bringing this IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. WOLF. Madam Speaker, I rise today in important facility to Okaloosa County, Florida. Thursday, April 24, 2008 We have an eternal debt of gratitude to our remembrance of the 1.5 million men, women servicemen and women, and this much-need- and children who were killed and the 500,000 Mr. WHITFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise ed VA clinic is one way that we can begin to survivors who were expelled from their homes today to recognize a strong friendship that has say thank you for ensuring that the liberty con- during the Armenian Genocide. Today marks proven enormously important since the begin- tinues to shine a bright light over our country. the 93rd anniversary of the beginning of a sys- ning of the Cold War. Time and time again, tematic effort carried out by the Ottoman Em- the Republic of Turkey has stood firmly with f pire, which ultimately resulted in the elimi- the United States as we have pursued our COMMEMORATING THE ARMENIAN nation of ethnic Armenians from their historic shared goals in a region where we have few GENOCIDE homeland. steady allies. Turkey, a fellow NATO country, On April 24, 1915, the Ottoman authorities is a vital partner in our fight against extremism HON. MICHAEL E. CAPUANO arrested approximately 250 Armenian intellec- and an example of a vibrant democracy in a OF MASSACHUSETTS tuals and community leaders in Istanbul. Fol- region burdened with inequality. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lowing this episode, the military proceeded to Turkey’s assistance in supporting combat round up hundreds of thousands of Armenians operations in Iraq and Afghanistan has been Thursday, April 24, 2008 and force them to march hundreds of miles instrumental in our efforts to bring opportunity Mr. CAPUANO. Madam Speaker, I rise into present day Syria, denying them food and and prosperity to millions of people. Its prox- today to commemorate the 93rd anniversary water along the way. Those that were not imity to both countries has made it an ideal of the Armenian genocide and to celebrate a slaughtered and survived the treacherous jour- place to coordinate logistics and center supply people who despite murder, hardship, and be- ney were brutally raped and beaten along the routes. Over 74 percent of the air cargo that trayal have persevered. way. reaches American forces in Iraq passes Throughout three decades in the late nine- The root of this occurrence can be attributed through Incirlik Air Base in Southern Turkey, teenth and early twentieth centuries, millions to an official policy of discrimination, which and around 4,000 trucks carrying fuel, food, of Armenians were systematically uprooted culminated in genocide. I urge my colleagues and water cross into Iraq from Turkey every from their homeland of three thousand years to read Samantha Powers widely acclaimed day. and deported or massacred. From 1894 book, A Problem From Hell: America and the The Turkish government also has provided through 1896, three hundred thousand Arme- Age of Genocide, which clearly describes this over $50 million for reconstruction efforts in nians were ruthlessly murdered. Again in as genocide. Iraq, and another $100 million for Afghanistan. 1909, thirty thousand Armenians were mas- May we all take a moment to remember the Turkey has committed over 800 troops and sacred in Cilicia, and their villages were de- victims of the Armenian Genocide, one of the assumed command of the North American stroyed. most horrible tragedies of the 20th century. Treaty Organization (NATO) Regional Com- On April 24, 1915, two hundred Armenian We remember, not so that we may dwell on mand Center in Kabul. Their Provincial Recon- religious, political, and intellectual leaders the events of the past, but so that we may struction Team has trained over 1,900 mem- were arbitrarily arrested, taken to Turkey and renew our personal commitments to never bers of the Afghan army, treated 650,000 pa- murdered. This incident marks a dark and sol- stand idly by and let such a tragedy happen tients at two fully equipped hospitals and four emn period in the history the Armenian peo- again. clinics, and educated 37,000 young minds at

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.020 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E719 the more than 30 schools it has constructed. existing morning reports. Therefore, the rec- support for homeowners in western Wisconsin, In Iraq, Turkey’s training programs for both ommendation for the award of the Purple being a leader to housing services around the Shiite and Sunni officials alike has been able Heart was denied. country and most importantly, upholding their to fill an important void in encouraging co- It is a shame that Mr. Huskey is still without motto of ‘‘Neighbors Helping Neighbors.’’ operation and reconciliation between the two the Purple Heart Medal, despite the fact that f rival factions. the Department of Veterans Affairs has found Of course, our common bond goes deeper Mr. Husky to be service-connected for both HONORING REID COLLIANDER AND than mere military and political cooperation in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and scars REID’S LEMON-AID RIDE FOR RE- Iraq and Afghanistan. We have in Turkey an from the residuals of shrapnel embedded in SEARCH ally that has proven it shares our commitment his legs and knees. to spreading democracy, both within its own It is for these reasons that I ask my col- HON. PETER J. ROSKAM borders and amongst its neighbors. Their 70 leagues to join me in honoring Mr. Torrel OF ILLINOIS million citizens have rejected an extremist Huskey. Without the service and sacrifice of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES version of Islam in favor of a secular, demo- Mr. Huskey, and all of the men and women of Thursday, April 24, 2008 the ‘‘greatest generation,’’ our Nation would cratic government. Turkey also has been a Mr. ROSKAM. Madam Speaker, it is my not be the resilient and flourishing country it is valuable contributor to United Nations peace- great pleasure to rise today to recognize an today. By continuing his mission, despite keeping missions intent on halting the blood- outstanding young man from my Congres- being wounded, Mr. Huskey lent great credit shed in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Sudan. sional District, Reid Colliander, for his hard to himself, the Army Motor Transport Brigade Madam Speaker, Turkey has earned our re- work and dedication to raising money for Chil- and the United States of America. spect, friendship, and gratitude, and deserves dren’s Memorial Hospital Brain Tumor Re- recognition for its crucial assistance over the f search. last 60 years. I look forward to strengthening HONORING NEIGHBORHOOD HOUS- Reid was diagnosed with a brain tumor this important relationship as we continue ING SERVICES OF RICHLAND when he was just 7 years old. As a benefactor working toward our mutual interests. COUNTY of brain tumor research, he underwent brain f surgery and over 3 years of rehabilitation. Today Reid is happy, healthy, normal, and ac- TRIBUTE TO TORREL HUSKEY HON. RON KIND OF WISCONSIN tive in basketball and baseball. Reid’s journey did not end when he was IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. DENNIS MOORE cured. In 2005, he formed Reid’s Lemon-AID OF KANSAS Thursday, April 24, 2008 stand, which seeks to raise money for brain IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. KIND. Madam Speaker, I rise today to tumor research at Children’s Memorial Hos- Thursday, April 24, 2008 honor Neighborhood Housing Services, NHS, pital in Chicago, Illinois, and develop a lifestyle of Richland County for the 25 years of service for local youth of charity and service. To this Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I this agency has provided to its communities. date, Reid has raised over $45,000. rise to honor the service and sacrifice of my As America’s first Rural NHS, Richland County As part of Lemon-AID, Reid, along with constituent, Mr. Torrel Huskey. Mr. Huskey is has partnered with numerous entities in the friends and family, visits several local commu- a 91-year-old World War II veteran living in areas of housing, insurance, and construction, nities to build awareness on the critical need Kansas City, Kansas. In 1943, Mr. Huskey allowing this agency to offer comprehensive for the funding of brain tumor research and to was assigned to the 3496th Quartermaster services and assistance to area residents. gain support for his organization. Brigade as a truck driver on the ‘‘Red Ball Ex- NHS of Richland County is able to revitalize More than 100 children, ranging in age from press,’’ ferrying men, supplies and equipment communities and address current needs. Re- 5 to 12, have participated in various Reid’s to the front lines of battle as part of Operation cent initiatives have addressed the mortgage Lemon-AID fundraising events, learning citi- Overlord. crisis and the August 2007 flood in western zenship and much more along the way. During these missions, Mr. Huskey often Wisconsin. With interest rates rising and prop- One such event is the second annual Reid’s dodged obstacles such as barbed wire and erty values decreasing, many hardworking LemonAid Ride for Research event. During land mines and repeatedly came under attack families have had an increasingly difficult time this event, more than 100 kids will lead as from enemy small arms fire, mortar fire, artil- making their mortgage payments, thus now many as 700 cyclists on a 5K bike ride lery barrages and strafing runs by the German more than ever it is especially important that through downtown Glen Ellyn, Illinois this Sat- Luftwaffe. It was during one of these attacks our local communities have the necessary re- urday April 19th. that Mr. Huskey was wounded from enemy sources to provide affordable housing for This family fun bicycle ride is working to hit mortar fire. those who need it most. Reid’s ultimate goal, $1 million for research of With shrapnel embedded in his legs, and at NHS of Richland County responded to this brain tumors. the insistence of his commanding officer, Mr. need and in 2007 when in spite of this down- Reid Colliander truly has turned what was Huskey bandaged his own wounds and car- turn in the housing market they assisted 81 once a tragic moment in his life to an out- ried on with his duties. He continued driving, households with loans and maintained a near standing service project, benefiting many chil- despite his wounds, risking death or perma- zero percent foreclosure rate. NHS also cre- dren who are stricken with brain tumors. nent injury because that was his job—to keep ated the Responsible Homeownership, R– To honor Reid, I encourage my colleagues the wheels of the battlefront moving forward HOME, initiative. This project is a comprehen- to sign onto H. Res. 424, a resolution that as the Allies raced to the Rhine. sive mortgage loan program created to better calls for the recognition of National Brain Can- When the ‘‘Red Ball Express’’ ended in Sep- serve the needs of consumers with little or no cer Awareness Month in May. tember 1944, Mr. Huskey was assigned the credit history. In addition to the above endeav- Madam Speaker and Distinguished Col- arduous task of locating hastily buried com- ors, when the flood of August 2007 hit, NHS leagues, please join me in congratulating Reid rades and transporting them to the U.S. was part of local flood recovery effort in pro- Colliander and all that he has done for brain gravesites sprinkled throughout France, Bel- viding critical assistance to families. tumor research. gium and elsewhere in Europe. Foreclosure prevention, homeownership f In June 2006, I was contacted by Mr. seminars, flood recovery assistance and es- RECOGNIZING THE 90TH ANNIVER- Huskey’s oldest daughter, Lynda McClelland, tablishing renewable energy systems are just SARY OF TILSNER CARTON COM- with a request for assistance to obtain the a few of the programs contributing to the suc- PANY IN ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA Purple Heart medal for her father. cess of Richland County’s Neighborhood After nearly 2 years of researching medical Housing Services. Since 1983, NHS of Rich- HON. BETTY McCOLLUM records, reviewing morning reports and hear- land County has responded and assisted over OF MINNESOTA ings before the Army Board for the Correction 3,000 households by building 39 affordable, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of Military Records, I learned that Mr. energy-efficient homes, repairing more than 40 Huskey’s files were destroyed during the 1973 homes in the tornado stricken town of Viola, Thursday, April 24, 2008 fire at the National Personnel Records Center. Wisconsin and constructing a 25-unit apart- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam There exists no record of Mr. Huskey’s injuries ment complex for low-income seniors. Speaker, I rise to honor Tilsner Carton Com- or treatment for the wounds he sustained in I applaud Neighborhood Housing Services pany of St. Paul, which is celebrating its 90th action either in his medical records file or in of Richland County for providing invaluable anniversary this year.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.024 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E720 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 For such a long-lasting business, Tilsner (November 1998-July 2002); Principal Assist- HONORING THE 2008 ST. PAUL CEN- Carton Company’s beginnings were decidedly ant to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (July TRAL HIGH SCHOOL MINUTEMEN modest. Isadore Tilsener started collecting and 2002-April 2003); Deputy Director General, GIRLS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS reselling used boxes from liquor stores around Department of International Organizations, St. Paul in 1918 to earn a living. As time MOFA (2003); Director, Political Division, HON. BETTY McCOLLUM passed, Tilsner Carton Company began man- TECRO (2005) and currently serves as Direc- OF MINNESOTA ufacturing its own boxes with a same day de- tor of the Congressional Liaison Division, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES livery that became its trademark. Tilsner’s son, TECRO, a post Dale has lead with honor and Mike, took over Tilsner Carton Company as distinction since 2006. Thursday, April 24, 2008 his son Joel Tilsner would do in 1986. Joel Though he will be missed in the halls of Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam continues to operate the business and owns Congress, I trust Dale will continue to be an Speaker, 1 year ago, I rose to congratulate 100 percent of the company. effective representative of the Taiwan govern- the 2007 St. Paul Central High School Minute- The corrugated box business has changed ment in his new post in Kansas City. I am men girls basketball champions. Today, I have radically since Isadore Tilsner opened his confident Dale will continue to strengthen the the privilege again—congratulations to the warehouse in a garage 90 years ago. A few relations between Taiwan and the United 2008 St. Paul Central High School Minutemen large manufacturers dominate today’s market, States in his new post, a task as important as girls basketball team for winning the State but Tilsner Carton Company has continued to ever as America continues to trade and do championship! The Minutemen girls team suc- prosper through its responsive customer serv- business with our friends and neighbors cessfully defended their title by defeating the ice, speedy production, and diversity of prod- around the world. We will forever call upon the same team, the number one top-seeded Min- ucts. The company pays good jobs in our dedicated service of people like Dale to foster neapolis South Tigers, in the final State cham- community as its customer base has grown better, stronger and more valuable relation- pionship class 4A on Saturday, March 15, both in size and geographic reach—today the ships between the United States and its allies. 2008, at the Target Center. business ships product displays all the way to So today, Madam Speaker, I rise to com- Although the St. Paul Central High School Puerto Rico. mend and congratulate my friend Dale Wen- girls basketball Minutemen were trailing by 9 Madam Speaker, I am proud to recognize chieh Jieh for his service to his country and points at half-time, they fought back hard and Tilsner Carton Company and its three genera- also to the United States of America. I will al- overpowered their opponents in the second tions of family ownership, and it is my honor ways treasure my friendship with Dale and half with their outstanding talent, power, speed to submit this statement for the official CON- wish him, his charming wife and two beautiful and resiliency. The Minutemen went on to GRESSIONAL RECORD. daughters the best of luck as they journey beat their opponents with the final scores of f west to their new home in Kansas City. 49–44 over the Tigers. I am so proud of these fine young athletes CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND and wish to extend my heartfelt congratula- f WORK OF DALE WEN-CHIEH JIEH tions to them and the entire Central High HONORING THE THIRTEENTH School community. These back-to-back cham- HON. LINCOLN DAVIS QUADRENNIAL CONVENTION OF pionship titles bring the school’s record to four OF TENNESSEE THE SLAVONIC BENEVOLENT State championship titles, including 1976 and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ORDER OF THE STATE OF TEXAS 1979. Last year, the Minutemen had a perfect Thursday, April 24, 2008 season record of 32–0 and set a new record in post-season of Minnesota girls basketball Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS of Tennessee. Madam HON. JOHN R. CARTER championship history with the final score of Speaker, this month, our nation’s Capitol will OF TEXAS 81–63 over the Minneapolis South Tigers. This lose a good friend in Dale Wen-chieh Jieh, Di- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES year, the Minutemen are ranked third in the rector of the Taipei Economic and Cultural conference and were defeated by the Tigers Representative Office (TECRO). Dale will be Thursday, April 24, 2008 once during the regular season, but in the leaving Washington for his new post as Direc- post-season the Minutemen once again tor-General, Taipei Economic and Cultural Of- Mr. CARTER. Madam Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the Thir- proved that they are the champions. fice in Kansas City, Kansas. Dale has served Madam Speaker, on behalf of the students, as Director of the Political Division since July teenth Quadrennial Convention of the Slavonic Benevolent Order of the State of Texas teachers and staff of Central High School as 15, 2005, as well as Director of the Congres- well as the entire St. Paul Public Schools Dis- sional Liaison Division since July 1, 2006. Dur- SPJST, which will be held on June 8–11, 2008. For 111 years, SPJST has served as a trict, please join me in honoring the 2008 St. ing the last three years in Washington, D.C., Paul Central Minutemen girls basketball State Dale has made many friends in the adminis- fraternal organization and an educational tool for Czech immigrants to learn the democratic champions. tration and on Capitol Hill. He is well known f for his scholarly demeanor, warm personality process, the value of free speech, and the im- and quick grasp of the issues. He is truly a portance of voting in their newly adopted TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE diplomat’s diplomat. homeland. YVONNE BRATHWAITE BURKE Born in Taiwan, Dale was destined for aca- Today, there are more than 47,000 mem- demic excellence. He attended the National bers of the SPJST in 120 lodges throughout HON. BARBARA LEE the state of Texas. In recent years, SPJST Cheng-chi University in Taiwan and the Grad- OF CALIFORNIA has expanded to include youth activities and uate Institute of International Relations in Ge- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES neva, earning his Master of Arts in Inter- community service programs. As a result, national Relations at the Free University of many SPJST projects and members have Thursday, April 24, 2008 Brussels, Belgium. In addition to Mandarin been recognized by the Texas Fraternal Con- Ms. LEE. Madam Speaker and Ms. KIL- Chinese, Dale is fluent in English and French. gress for their service and contribution to com- PATRICK of Michigan, I rise today on behalf of Dale joined Taiwan’s government service in munities throughout Texas. SPJST has pro- the Congressional Black Caucus to honor the 1980’s. He was a Specialist for the Taiwan vided its members with identity and support Yvonne Brathwaite Burke, one of our own who External Trade Development Council (1986– throughout the years. In lodges all over the served as a Representative of California’s 1987); Assistant to the Vice Foreign Minister State of Texas, members are committed to 37th Congressional District from 1973 to 1979, (1987–1989); Third Secretary, Taipei Eco- helping those in need by working in hospitals, and is retiring at the end of this year, after an nomic and Cultural Office in Chicago; Second providing scholarships, and supporting drug impressive 50-year career as a public servant Secretary, Taipei Economic and Cultural Of- abuse programs and other charities. The in the State of California. fice in Thailand (June 1993-August 1995); members of SPJST have upheld the tradition On the occasion of Mrs. Burke’s retirement Second Secretary on home assignment, De- of helping people to care for their families and from public office, we wish to extend to her partment of African affairs, Ministry of Foreign their communities. sincere congratulations for the decades of Affairs; Section Chief, Department of Inter- With its great commitment to its members, dedicated service that she has given to her national Organizations, MOFA (June 1997-No- communities, and organizations that it serves, nation, her State, and her County, most re- vember 1998); Director, European Union Af- SPJST embodies the value and tradition of the cently as Chair of the County of Los Angeles fairs, Taipei Representative Office in Belgium great State of Texas. Board of Supervisors, the largest county in the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.027 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E721 nation with a population of over 10 million. For co-workers, family, friends, and associates in requested $70 million in economic assistance the past 15 years, she has served with distinc- wishing her health, happiness, and continued for Armenia and $10 million for Nagorno- tion as the Supervisor of the Second District, good fortune in her future endeavors. Karabakh. representing nearly 2.5 million residents. In conclusion, Yvonne Brathwaite Burke’s Legislation passed in the 109th Congress Indeed. Mrs. Burke has blazed a path for exemplary record testifies that she is a woman and signed into law to reauthorize the Export African-American women in public service that of indomitable compassion, courage, char- Import Bank included important language pro- had its genesis during her high school years acter, and faith. We believe that she will be re- hibiting the Bank from funding railroad projects when, as a teenager, she got involved in pub- membered for the beneficial changes she in the South Caucasus region that deliberately lic speaking and competitive contests, earning made in people’s lives. exclude Armenia. scholarships to the University of California- f American tax dollars should not be used to Berkeley and later to the University of Cali- support efforts to isolate Armenia, and these fornia-Los Angeles. COMMEMORATING THE 93RD ANNI- provisions would prevent that by ensuring that In 1953, she was the first African-American VERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN U.S. funds are not used to support the con- woman to be admitted to the University of GENOCIDE struction of a new railway that bypasses Ar- Southern California Law School since its menia. A railway already exists that connects founding in 1928. Upon graduation from Law HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY the nations of Turkey, Georgia, and Azer- School, inasmuch as many private law firms OF NEW YORK baijan, but because it crosses Armenia, an ex- showed no interest in hiring women as attor- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pensive and unnecessary new railway had neys, particularly African Americans, she Thursday, April 24, 2008 been proposed. Allowing the exclusion of Ar- opened a law practice, specializing in civil menia from important transportation routes rights and laws regarding housing, immigra- Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Madam would stymie the emergence of this region as tion, eminent domain, and the licensing of res- Speaker, as a proud member of the Congres- an important east-west trade corridor. idential care homes for children and adults. sional Caucus on Armenian Issues, and the On this solemn day, our message is clear: Mrs. Burke was active in the Civil Rights representative of a large and vibrant commu- the world remembers the Armenian genocide, Movement, with memberships in various local nity of Armenian Americans, I rise to join my and the governments of Turkey and the United and national organizations, and served as a colleagues in the sad commemoration of the States must declare—once and for all—that staff attorney on the McCone Commission that Armenian genocide. they do, too. investigated the causes of the 1965 Watts Today we declare once again that the Turk- f Riots in Los Angeles. She became a spokes- ish and American governments must finally person for the underrepresented and, through acknowledge what we have long understood: HONORING KATHRYN FLYNN a grassroots campaign, won her first political that the unimaginable horror committed on office in 1966 as a California State Turkish soil in the aftermath of World War I HON. TOM UDALL Assemblywoman, a position she held for the was, and is, an act of genocide. OF NEW MEXICO next six years. The tragic events began on April 24, 1915, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In 1972, Mrs. Burke was the first African- when more than 200 of Armenia’s religious, Thursday, April 24, 2008 American woman, west of the Mississippi political and intellectual leaders were arrested River, to be elected to the U.S. House of Rep- in Constantinople and killed. Ultimately, more Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Madam Speak- resentatives and, one year later, she was the than 1.5 million Armenians were systematically er, I rise today to congratulate Kathryn Flynn, first Member of Congress to give birth while in murdered at the hands of the Young Turks, of Santa Fe, New Mexico. She is being hon- office. In 1978, she ran for Attorney General of and more than 500,000 more were exiled from ored on May 2, 2008, with it 2008 Heritage California winning the Democratic nomination, their native land. Preservation Award for individual achievement but subsequently losing in the general elec- On this 93rd anniversary of the beginning of from the New Mexico Cultural Properties re- tion. The Governor of California in 1979 ap- the genocide, I join with the chorus of voices view committee. pointed her to a vacancy on the Fourth that grows louder with each passing year. We For the past 17 years, Kathryn has been Supervisorial District in Los Angeles County. simply will not allow the planned elimination of committed to preserving the history and legacy She also was appointed by the Governor in an entire people to remain in the shadows of of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal 1982 to serve on the Board of Regents of the history. The Armenian genocide must be ac- and its enormous impact on New Mexico and University of California. In 1984, Mrs. Burke knowledged, studied, and never, ever allowed the Nation. She has labored tirelessly to lo- was selected to serve as Vice Chairman of the to happen again. cate, restore and document the undertakings U.S. Olympics Organizing Committee. before Two years ago I joined with my colleagues of the Works Project Administration, WPA, and becoming the first African-American elected to in the Caucus in urging PBS not to give a plat- the Civilian Conservation Corps, CCC, in New the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors form to the deniers of the genocide by can- Mexico. Functioning on shoestring budgets, in 1992. celing a planned broadcast of a panel which Kathryn enlisted New Mexico volunteers to Notably, Mrs. Burke served as the Vice included two scholars who deny the Armenian help in this effort and then went nationwide, Chair of the 1972 Democratic National Con- genocide. This panel was to follow the airing state by state, to convince others to do the vention, and she played a significant role in of a documentary about the Armenian Geno- same. This resulted in the formation of the Na- the 2000 Democratic National Convention in cide. Along with Representative ANTHONY tional New Deal Preservation Association, of hosting an event for hundreds of African- WEINER, I led a successful effort to convince which Kathryn was unanimously elected exec- American elected officials nationwide. Channel Thirteen in New York City to pull the utive director, a position she holds today. She has received innumerable awards and plug on these genocide deniers. Through Kathryn’s leadership, skills, talents honors both as an African American and as a The United States must join the parliaments and passion, hundreds of thousands of dollars woman, including being selected as one of of Canada, France, and Switzerland in pass- have been raised in private and public funds Time Magazine’s ‘‘America’s 200 Future Lead- ing a resolution affirming that the Armenian for conserving New Deal art in New Mexico. ers’’ in 1974, as The Los Angeles Times’’ people were indeed subjected to genocide. This funding has allowed for the restoration ‘‘Woman of the Year’’ in 1996: UCLA’s ‘‘Alum- The House Committee on Foreign Affairs took and conservation of five Santos at the Palace ni of the Year’’ also in 1996, and UCLA’s an important step last year in passing H. Res. of the Governor’s Fine Arts Museum, seven ‘‘Local Legislator of the Year’’ in 2008. She 106, and I am hopeful that this resolution will Helmuth Naumer pastels at the New Mexico has served on the Boards of numerous pres- make it to the Floor. Taxation and Revenue Department, the tigious organizations and corporations. An acknowledgment of the genocide is not Bronson Cutter bronze statue on the Santa Fe While these are just some of Mrs. Burke’s our only objective. I remain committed to en- capitol grounds, seven paintings and etchings significant accomplishments, on behalf of the suring that the U.S. Government continues to in the Taos public schools, and seven murals Congressional Black Caucus, the House of provide direct financial assistance to Armenia. in the Ilfeld Auditorium at Highlands University. Representatives, and the State of California, Over the years, this aid has played a critical Conservation work is currently underway on we extend our deepest gratitude for her impor- role in the economic and political advance- public art works at New Mexico State Univer- tant contributions throughout her illustrious ca- ment of the Armenian people. This year I have sity and Silver City, and numerous other pres- reer. With sincere best wishes, we congratu- joined with my colleagues in requesting no ervation projects have been conducted be- late Mrs. Burke upon her retirement from elec- military aid for Azerbaijan in the FY09 Foreign cause of Kathryn’s remarkable leadership and tive office. We are pleased to join her many Operations Appropriations bill. We also have efforts.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.030 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E722 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 Kathryn’s and the National New Deal Pres- ment since 1978 and is the nation’s largest countries including France, Canada, Austria, ervation Association’s efforts culminated into provider of end-of-life care. The Philadelphia Sweden, and Greece have acknowledged the honoring of the 75th anniversary of the Program of VITAS, which started in 1993, has genocide and passed resolutions similar to H. New Deal. Several meetings in our Nation’s four inpatient units and serves the five-county Res. 106, commemorating those who lost their capital have taken place among many depart- Philadelphia area. lives in Armenia between 1915 and 1923. Yet, ments, including the Library of Congress, var- More than sixty Philadelphia-area volunteers despite the great suffering of the Armenian ious organizations and private citizens, who perform numerous services and serve more people, they have overcome adversity and have joined the association in this noble than 350 patients a day. The volunteers are continue to preserve their culture, traditions, project. During 2008, various events and ac- both young and old and provide a variety of religion and history. The United States and Ar- tivities will be held nationwide to call attention services for the elderly. These services range menia have had a strong, long-lasting relation- to the New Deal and the extraordinary time in from running errands and placing reassuring ship, including U.S. humanitarian and tech- which it took place in our nation’s history. phone calls, to spending quality time with the nical assistance to Armenia totaling nearly $2 It is appropriate that I also call attention to elderly. The volunteers serve patients in their billion to date. With the recent election of Kathryn’s distinguished professional career. own homes, in hospitals, and in nursing President Serge Sargsian, Armenia continues Earning a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation homes. to demonstrate a maturing democracy. Arme- Counseling/Psychology, she served the State Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues nian-American citizens have contributed to our of New Mexico in health and rehabilitation join me today in thanking The Philadelphia society in countless ways and the memory of services, as executive director for the Carrie Program of VITAS volunteers for their exem- their ancestors deserves to be honored. Ac- Tingley Hospital and Foundation, and as exec- plary service to the citizens of Southeastern knowledging the 1915–1923 genocide as a utive director of Open Hands, Inc. She then Pennsylvania. May their work be an inspiration tragic piece of Armenian history is a stepping became Deputy Secretary of State, where she to us all. stone in preventing future atrocities from tak- edited for many years the Blue Book, an in- f ing place around the globe. valuable resource for such information as New Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Mexico history, landscape, government, edu- ARMENIAN GENOCIDE join the in paying tribute today to those who cational institutions, political leaders, Native lost their lives in this horrible event against the Americans and state attractions. HON. ERIC CANTOR Armenian people and honoring the survivors It was in the role of editing the Blue Book OF VIRGINIA who continue to commemorate the memory of that Kathryn ‘‘found her true calling.’’ She IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES their lost family and friends. wanted to include a piece of WPA art for inclu- Thursday, April 24, 2008 f sion in the 1991 edition of the Blue Book, but it was nowhere to be found. The search for Mr. CANTOR. Madam Speaker, today we HONORING THE CAREER AND AC- this artwork led to Kathryn’s realization that remember the 1.5 million innocent victims of COMPLISHMENTS OF CAPTAIN much of what was created during the New the Armenian genocide who horrifically lost JAMES C. HOWE Deal was being lost, not only through physical their lives 93 years ago. The tragedy of the deterioration, but also as a legacy to younger Armenians was the first genocide of the 20th HON. HOWARD COBLE generations. Kathryn wanted to ensure that century, but sadly not the last. Now, in a 21st OF NORTH CAROLINA the New Deal’s history, artistic beauty, public Century rife with renewed ethnic and religious IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES hatreds, the memory of the Armenian victims works and, perhaps most importantly, the en- Thursday, April 24, 2008 couragement and hope that it created in the must remain fresh in our minds. It was Adolf minds and hearts of millions of citizens who Hitler who asked his generals, after deciding Mr. COBLE. Madam Speaker, I take this oc- were out of work during the Great Depression, to brutally attack Poland in 1939, ‘‘Who still casion to honor Captain James C. Howe for be preserved for posterity. talks nowadays about the Armenians?’’ By re- his service to the United States House of Rep- Kathryn Flynn is considered by many as our membering the Armenians on this day, as well resentatives and for his 27 years of service to nation’s leading authority on the New Deal, as the millions of other victims claimed by our country in the United States Coast Guard. and she is well deserving of recognition. I in- genocides worldwide, we can individually and Captain Howe was assigned as Chief of the vite my colleagues to join me in congratulating collectively contribute to the prevention of fu- Office of Coast Guard Congressional and her upon receiving New Mexico’s 2008 Na- ture atrocities and the end of genocide once Governmental Affairs in July 2005, and I am tional Preservation Heritage Award. On behalf and for all. I’d like to thank the Armenian- proud to have had the opportunity to work of all New Mexicans, I extend our deepest ap- American community and the millions of oth- closely with him. In my leadership roles on the preciation for all Kathryn has done to protect ers who have worked to ensure the American Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation and preserve the history and all that the New people never forget the victims of the Arme- Subcommittee and in numerous other venues, Deal created for generations to come. nian genocide. my staff and I have often relied on Captain Howe’s knowledge and understanding of the f f operational missions, the current day-to-day HONORING THE PHILADELPHIA STATEMENT ON THE 93RD ANNI- challenges, and the roles and responsibilities PROGRAM OF VITAS INNOVATIVE VERSARY OF THE BEGINNING OF of the United States Coast Guard. HOSPICE CARE THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE During his career he spent 11 years at sea, conducted over 200 search and rescue cases, HON. JIM GERLACH HON. JERRY F. COSTELLO saved dozens of lives, interdicted nearly 1,000 OF PENNSYLVANIA OF ILLINOIS illegal migrants, and seized 16 drug-laden ves- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sels carrying more than 75 tons of marijuana and cocaine. Thursday, April 24, 2008 Thursday, April 24, 2008 Captain Howe began his career at the Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I rise United States Coast Guard Academy in New today to honor the outstanding community today to honor the memory of the victims of London, CT, where he graduated in 1981. En- service provided by the volunteers of The the Armenian genocide. sign Howe was assigned to his first unit as a Philadelphia Program of VITAS Innovative On April 24, 1915, over 200 Armenian reli- Deck Watch Officer aboard USCGC Active in Hospice Care on the occasion of their annual gious, political, and intellectual leaders were New Castle, New Hampshire, conducting volunteer celebration dinner taking place on murdered in Constantinople by the govern- search and rescue and fisheries patrols in the April 30, 2008. This annual event is part of ment of the Ottoman Empire. This event North Atlantic. He then was assigned as Exec- National Volunteer Appreciation Week from marked the beginning of a systematic mass utive Officer of USCGC Petrel in Key West, April 27 to May 3, 2008. National Volunteer murder of 1.5 million Armenian people and the Florida, which proved to be an extremely ac- Appreciation Week was created in 1974 when displacement of nearly 500,000 refugees. tion-packed tour of duty. In one drug case, his President Richard Nixon signed an executive Today marks the 93rd anniversary of the be- crew seized three smuggling vessels simulta- order to establish the week as an annual cele- ginning of an 8 year siege against the prop- neously, and in another he embarked a seized bration of volunteerism. erty, dignity and lives of the Armenian people. go-fast vessel to hunt down a second go-fast, VITAS Innovative Hospice Care has been a We are here today to fully recognize the im- chasing it at speeds in excess of 40 knots; his pioneer and leader in the hospice care move- pact of this event. More than a dozen other crew also pulled 265 Haitian migrants off a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:04 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.032 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E723 small sailboat found mired in a coral reef in resentatives. It has been my pleasure to work Congressional District, and beat the Colorado the Bahamas. with Captain Howe. On behalf of all who have Rockies in Denver to reach this historic mile- Following these assignments at sea, then- also been fortunate to work with him, we wish stone. Lieutenant Howe served from 1985 to 1988 at Captain Howe, his wife Shira, and his five My hometown Cubbies are one of only two the First Coast Guard District Operations Cen- wonderful children (Margaret, Marc, Mary, teams in MLB history to win 10,000 games. ter in Boston, Massachusetts, as a search and James, and Iris) the best in all of their future This year marks the Cubs 138th season, and rescue coordinator; at night, he earned a mas- endeavors. 100th anniversary of our last World Series ter’s degree from Harvard University Extension f Championship, but like all Cubs fans, I have School. faith that this is our year. Because of his genuine love of the sea and IN RECOGNITION OF THE 93RD AN- Almost 142 years ago today, the Cubs expertise in Coast Guard operations, he NIVERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN played their first game in the National League earned command of the newly-commissioned GENOCIDE as the Chicago White Stockings, and they fin- USCGC Metompkin, homeported in Charles- ished in first place in that 1876 season. In ton, South Carolina. On Metompkin’s first pa- HON. STEPHEN F. LYNCH 1902, the team officially became the Cubs, trol, the cutter sped 140 miles at top speed OF MASSACHUSETTS and northsiders have been rooting for our Cubbies ever since. across 25-foot waves to rescue three fisher- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES men whose boat had been swamped; later, The Cubs’ home, Wrigley Field, is located at Thursday, April 24, 2008 his crew rescued several fishermen whose 1060 W. Addison in my district, and is the old- vessels were destroyed during the height of Mr. LYNCH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to est National League ballpark and second old- Hurricane Hugo. join with Armenians throughout the United est in the majors. Countless memories have In 1991, he was assigned as Public Affairs States, Armenia, and the world in commemo- been created at Wrigley Field as Chicago fam- Officer for the Seventh Coast Guard District in rating the 93rd anniversary of the Armenian ilies and fans across the country have come to Miami, Florida, a position he held until 1995, genocide, one of the darkest episodes in Eu- watch the wins and losses of our Cubs. and during which he acted as media spokes- rope’s recent past. This week, members and Chicagoans are very excited about our man for three mass migrations, two huge oil friends of the Armenian community gather to Cubs this year, with the team playing great spills, a plethora of high-profile migrant and remember April 24, 1915, when the arrest and baseball and sitting in first place in the Central drug cases, and the Coast Guard response to murder of 200 Armenian politicians, aca- with a record of 15–6. Manager Lou Pinella Hurricane Andrew. After leaving the Seventh demics, and community leaders in Constanti- has done a terrific job with an outstanding District, then-Lieutenant Commander Howe nople marked the beginning of an 8-year cam- complement of players, from pitchers Carlos was assigned as Executive Officer aboard paign of extermination against the Armenian Zambrano, Ted Lilly, and Carlos Marmol to USCGC Northland, homeported in Ports- people by the Ottoman Empire. Derrek Lee, Aramis Ramirez, newcomer mouth, Virginia. Between 1915 and 1923, approximately 1.5 Kosuke Fukudome, and last night’s hero, Due to his in-depth understanding and mas- million Armenians were killed and more than Ryan Theriot. tery of naval operations, he was then detailed 500,000 were exiled to the desert to die of Great players have filled Cubs lore over the as the Coast Guard Liaison to the Naval Doc- thirst or starvation. The Armenian genocide years, and we will never forget legends like trine Command in Norfolk, Virginia, where he was the first mass murder of the 20th century, Ernie Banks, Gabby Hartnett, Ron Santo, Billy conceived and wrote from scratch the Coast a century that was sadly to be marked by Williams, Mordecai ‘‘Three Finger’’ Brown, Guard’s first ever tactical manual for counter many similar attempts at racial or ethnic exter- Ryne Sandberg, Mark Grace, and others. Last night’s victory was hard fought, with the drug and migrant interdiction operations. Next, mination, from the Holocaust to the Rwandan Cubs defeating the Rockies in 10 innings to Commander Howe earned command of the genocide and now the ongoing genocide in earn that 10,000th victory. Madam Speaker, 270-foot cutter Tampa, homeported in Ports- Darfur, Sudan. as the Representative of Wrigley Field and all mouth, Virginia, leading his crew to several While today is the day in which we solemnly the residents of the 5th Congressional District notable drug seizures and receiving the high- remember the victims of the Armenian geno- of Illinois, as well as hundreds of thousands of est readiness evaluation ever achieved for a cide, I believe it is also a day in which we can Chicago Cubs fans, I congratulate the Cubs like-sized cutter. celebrate the extraordinary vitality and on this wonderful milestone. I’m looking for- Following command, Commander Howe strength of the Armenian people, who have ward to many more victories and hope to see was selected to attend the prestigious U.S. fought successfully to preserve their culture that ‘‘W’’ flag flying at Wrigley Field throughout Marine Corps War College in Quantico, Vir- and identity for over a thousand years. The the summer and fall. ginia, where he earned a second master’s de- Armenian people withstood the horrors of gree and was named one of two Distinguished genocide, two world wars, and several dec- f Graduates. He then served as the Deputy ades of Soviet dominance in order to establish A TRIBUTE TO JUNIOUS NOR- Chief of the Coast Guard Office of Congres- modern Armenia. Armenia has defiantly rebuilt FLEET, A PIONEERING ARTIST, sional and Governmental Affairs from 2002 itself as a nation and a society—a triumph of MUSICIAN AND AN AMERICAN until 2003. human spirit in the face of overwhelming ad- ORIGINAL After this challenging assignment, Captain versity. Howe was chosen to serve at the highest lev- It is my firm belief that only by learning from HON. BOBBY L. RUSH els of government, working in the Office of the and commemorating the past can we work to- OF ILLINOIS Vice President as a Special Advisor for home- ward a future free from racial, ethnic, and reli- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES land security, focusing on border and transpor- gious hate. By acknowledging the Armenian Thursday, April 24, 2008 tation issues. Finally, Captain Howe was as- genocide and speaking out against the prin- signed as the Chief of the Coast Guard’s Of- ciples by which it was conducted, we can Mr. RUSH. Madam Speaker, on this day it fice of Congressional and Governmental Af- send a clear message: never again. is my esteemed honor to enter into the fairs. f RECORD a heartfelt tribute to a great artist, Captain Howe has earned numerous military musician and a Chicagoan for most of his life, decorations during his 27 years of active duty, CONGRATULATING THE CHICAGO the late Junious Norfleet. America may not including the Defense Superior Service Medal, CUBS ON THEIR 10,000TH FRAN- know Junious Norfleet’s name but they surely four Meritorious Service Medals, five Coast CHISE WIN know his music. Junious, also known as Guard Commendation Medals, and 12 unit ‘‘Bud,’’ was the youngest brother of the famed and team awards. He has also received a HON. RAHM EMANUEL Norfleet Brothers whose artistry—a skillful mix number of other honors, including the Harvard OF ILLINOIS of R&B, jazz and gospel—grew in popularity in University Derek Bok Prize for public service, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the 1950s. Junious provided the jazzy, sultry along with the Thomas Jefferson, Alex Haley, but powerful voice of a tenor whose tone, skill- and Commander Jim Simpson Awards for ex- Thursday, April 24, 2008 ful delivery and showmanship propelled him to cellence in media and public relations. Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise the lead of this pioneering musical group. This week, Captain Howe will leave his post today to congratulate the Chicago Cubs on Junious’ life on Earth ended on March 25, and retire after 27 years of honorable service their 10,000th franchise victory. Last night, the 2008, following complications from a stroke. to the Coast Guard and the Nation. He will be Cubs were away from the friendly confines of He leaves behind his wife, Janet Norfleet, Chi- missed in the United States House of Rep- Wrigley Field, located in the heart of the Fifth cago’s first female postmaster, and thousands

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.035 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E724 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 of adoring family members, friends and fans, who is writing a history of gospel in Chicago. anny and they were fighting for their home- like me, throughout our Nation. Songs on which Junious was featured as lead land. In the words of the Texas Declaration of As a fan and admirer of Junious Norfleet, tenor included ‘‘Through it All’’ and ‘‘What a Independence, the people’s government had when I think of his life as an African American Friend We Have in Jesus.’’ According to his be ‘‘forcibly changed, without their consent, in these United States, I think that, in many wife, ‘‘Wade in the Water’’ was his favorite. from a restricted federative republic, com- ways, it mirrors the challenges, growth and tri- During this time the group cut an album, ‘‘Sha- posed of sovereign states, to a consolidated umphs of our nation. Junious was born in the drach,’’ and were widely known for the song central military despotism.’’ town of Marion, Alabama on March 20, 1926 ‘‘None but the Righteous.’’ The Texas Revolution proved the bonds of to the union of Jake and Indiana Norfleet. He According to published reports, the cast of freedom are stronger than ethnicity, as many was the youngest of 15 children, a ‘‘PK,’’ or the group was fluid and they began touring in preacher’s kid, who grew up in a loving, but the late 1940s. Over time, The Norfleet Broth- Tejanos sacrificed their lives for Texas’ free- disciplined home in the segregated South. ers were joined by other family members and dom at the battles of Gonzalez, Bexar, Goliad, Junious came of age enjoying his childhood. an occasional outsider and, later, the sons of the Alamo, and San Jacinto. The war was not He learned the value of hard work while living the original members also sang with the between Anglos and Hispanics, it was a strug- in a large, rural environment where he was re- group. In 1957, they won the first place prize gle between all Texans and the military dicta- sponsible for the care and upkeep of his own on the Morris B. Sikes Amateur Hour, a local torship in Mexico City. Texans and Tejanos portion of land. There, his parents grew sweet television program. They appeared on several knew then what we know now—freedom re- potatoes, cotton and other produce and he re- television programs and were hired to sing tel- quires sacrifice. Our young people going to or counted many days of happiness from enjoy- evision commercials for a local auto dealer. coming back from fighting in Afghanistan or ing something as simple and refreshing as wa- In 1963, The Norfleet Brothers became the Iraq are very aware of this hard fact of life. termelon on a hot summer day. He did share host of the Emmy award-winning ‘‘Jubilee Texas culture places high honors on heroes with his friends, though, that no children of his Showcase,’’ Chicago’s longest running tele- willing to sacrifice their lives for a better life for would ever have to perform such rigorous, vision program (1963–1984). The Norfleet their fellow man, and Texans are known manual labor. And he, indeed, delivered on Brothers performed as the headlining act for around the world as an honorable people who that promise for his family. 21 years! The group continued to perform at respond to the call of duty. While our young With a father as a minister and the youngest various churches and events. They held their people are answering today’s calls of duty, we of 15 children (ten boys and five girls), the annual gospel concerts at Hartzell Memorial should not forget those who have bravely an- church was always a big part of Junious’ life. United Methodist Church during the 1980s and swered the call in the past. He grew up singing with his older brothers on early 1990s. In 1988, The Norfleet Brothers the family farm in Marion, Alabama. They celebrated their 50th Anniversary in the music In that spirit. I want to highlight the work by would perform at any time, anywhere, so long business with a concert at Olivet Baptist the San Jacinto Chapter of the Daughters of as people were around to listen. Junious was Church in Chicago. the Texas Republic, who made the preserva- handsome and charismatic, the perfect lead Junious is survived by his loving wife, Janet, tion of the San Jacinto Battleground possible for any music group. He possessed a booming and by several children, grandchildren, a host by petitioning the Legislature to purchase the voice that made others stop and take notice. of nieces and nephews, grand nieces, grand acreage and by donating their treasury to As word of the Norfleet Brothers’ talent began nephews and a legion of fans, young and old, complete the sale in 1900. The San Jacinto to spread, they gained their first taste of com- who will miss his charming smile and his won- Chapter of Daughters and the Texans Vet- mercial success by hosting a 15-minute radio derful voice. In addition to this reflection, erans Association did tremendous work to en- program which broadcast every Saturday Junious Norfleet’s legacy will live on as, in re- sure that the legacy lived on, and the impor- afternoon from Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, cent years, his grand nephew, Ronald tance of the park has only expanded since Alabama. It was in Tuscaloosa where The Norfleet, his grand niece, Toni Reed, took the then. Norfleet Brothers recorded their first record. time to gather oral history from Junious that The park not only has the San Jacinto As their singing abilities began to be recog- preserves the rich musical and family legacy Monument to recognize the brave men that nized, in 1948, after some of his older broth- he leaves behind. Reed, a Chicago-based ers completed tours of duty in WWII, The defeated the military dictator General Santa documentary film producer, is working on a Anna, it is also home to the Battleship Texas, Norfleet Brothers began to travel. They sang documentary feature film about her uncle’s re- in churches and town halls in Tennessee, Cin- which is a symbol of Texans’ sacrifices in markable life. World War I and World War II. Thankfully, cinnati, Ohio and Chicago while driving across My prayers and best wishes are forever ex- through federal appropriations and state and the country in their cherished, fiery red Chevy. tended to this large and loving family. I wish local funding, the restoration and preservation Junious along with his brothers, Peter Young, Ms. Reed and her family all the best in shar- of Battleship Texas is moving forward as part Arthur and Joseph, his nephew, Wilson, cous- ing the artistry, courage and musical gifts of of a multi-year effort to collect the necessary in Nathaniel and their friend, George, made Junious ‘‘Bud’’ Norfleet with family, friends and funding for the restoration of this great histor- quite a name for themselves while building an fans throughout the world. ical site. The funding will help with the Battle- adoring fan base. Their notoriety had a bit of f a downside as, after performing in Chicago, ship Texas Foundation’s plans to restore the they found that their red Chevy had been sto- SAN JACINTO DAY Battleship Texas and convert it into a mu- len. But their loss was Chicago’s gain as they seum. This is an important project not only to decided to make Chicago their home. HON. GENE GREEN honor those in our past, but to educate future Never afraid of hard work, Junious and his OF TEXAS Texans who may have to answer future calls brothers worked a variety of jobs while con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to service about our tradition of defending tinuing to sing. A patriotic American, like his freedom. Thursday, April 24, 2008 brothers before him, Junious served, state- As part of our historical preservation efforts, side, in the Army from 1953 to 1956. During Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Madam we are also working on the Buffalo Bayou Na- this time he continued to balance love of Speaker, I rise today to commemorate one of tional Heritage Area, which will stretch from country, love of family and a passionate desire the most important events in Texas history. Buffalo Bayou in East End Houston to San to build a career in music and entertainment. Monday, April 21, Texans celebrated San Jacinto Battleground, including the Ship Chan- Like other talented African American artists at Jacinto Day. In the past I have missed this nel and the Baytown Nature Center. The Herit- that time, Junious and his brothers had to event because I had to be in Washington for age Area will help the history of the establish- struggle with unscrupulous record labels and votes, but this year I was able to be at home ment of the Texas republic. The restoration of managers during an era when Jim Crow seg- in Texas, and actually be at the battleground the Battleship Texas and the establishment of regation remained the law of the land. Still, the where Sam Houston and Santa Anna fought Norfleet Brothers continued their rise to promi- over one hundred and seventy years ago. a Buffalo Bayou National Heritage Area will go nence in the 1950s with a traditional, four-part On that day in 1836, approximately 900 a long way to ensure that new generations of harmony gospel sound that was backed with Texan and Tejano volunteers overpowered a Texans know their tradition of bravery. guitar. The group maintained this structure larger, professional Mexican army of conscript With an understanding of where they came even as gospel moved toward heavier instru- soldiers, after defeats at Goliad and the from, future Texans will continue to respond to mentation and more of a ‘‘shout out’’ style of Alamo. These outnumbered volunteers suc- calls to service, and Texans will continue to be singing, according to author Bob Marovich ceeded because they were fighting against tyr- respected and admired around the world.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24AP8.008 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E725 COMMEMORATION OF ARMENIAN onstrates the need for protection of individual Paul. Mayor Sandberg passed away earlier GENOCIDE liberties and from injustice. this week to the great sadness to all who Years later, Adolf Hitler referenced the Ar- loved him and worked with him. For 30 years HON. PETER T. KING menian genocide, ‘‘the physical destruction of Bill served as North Saint Paul’s mayor and OF NEW YORK the enemy,’’ as an example of the rest of the his extraordinary leadership, warm smile and soft laugh will be missed. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES world forgetting or ignoring. My hope is that we can recognize these stains from the past Mayor Sandberg was profoundly committed Thursday, April 24, 2008 and learn an important lesson from history. to his family, our community, and his country. Mr. KING of New York. Madam Speaker, We must never forget about those in other Having lived in North Saint Paul and raised today I rise to mark the anniversary of the Ar- lands who do not enjoy the freedoms found in my children there, I can say the success and menian genocide which began on this date America. We must not forget to stand for what well-being of our city was in large part due to ninety-three years ago. From 1915–1923 the is right and stand beside widows, orphans, Bill’s hard work and his pride in serving his Ottoman Empire carried out the deportation of and our fellow brothers. neighbors. Bill loved North Saint Paul and his approximately 2 million Armenian men, Madam Speaker, today we honor the lives constituents loved him. women, and children from their homeland of lost during the Armenian genocide and in their All of us who worked with Bill Sandberg which 1.5 million were killed. And to this day, memory pledge to protect liberty and freedom over the years were fortunate and blessed. We are all better for his friendship. In the mid neither the Ottoman nor Turkish governments by preventing similar injustices in the future. 1980s it was Mayor Sandberg who encour- have been held to account for their involve- f aged me to stay involved in politics after I lost ment. my first election and he created the oppor- The 20th century witnessed some of the PERSONAL EXPLANATION tunity for me to enter public life with an ap- worst violence and atrocities in history: the at- pointment to a city committee. Even though he tempted extermination of the Jewish people HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN was a Republican and I am Democrat, it didn’t during the Holocaust, Tutsis slaughtering OF SOUTH CAROLINA matter to Bill who always put public service Hutus in Rwanda, Stalin’s campaign of mass IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and common sense first. He went out of his murder and starvation, the killing fields of Thursday, April 24, 2008 way to work with me and I am a better public Cambodia, and, of course, the Armenian Mr. CLYBURN. Madam Speaker, due to my official because of him. genocide. Millions upon millions of innocent In 1987, I was elected to the North Saint attendance at the funerals of two dear friends people were killed solely because of the color Paul City Council where I served with Mayor in my district, I was absent for all twelve re- of their skin, the tribe they belonged to, or the Sandberg for the next four years. After that, in religion they practiced. corded votes on Wednesday April 23, 2008 the Minnesota State House and in Congress, As you know, too often in the past the world (rollcalls 208–219). I wish to offer the following I have had the honor of representing North has stood by or looked the other way when explanations for how I would have voted. Saint Paul and working closely with the mayor genocide was taking place. And now we see Had I been present: to keep the city strong and vibrant. it happening once again in Darfur. We most On rollcall 208, the motion to adjourn, I Bill Sandberg was also a devoted family stop this horrible violence taking place in would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ man. His love and lifelong companion, Dolo- Sudan at once and make sure genocide is On rollcall 209, Protecting the Medicaid res, was a wonderful person who Bill cared for never repeated anywhere around the world. Safety Net Act of 2008, I would have voted throughout her life. Bill was also blessed by a The call of ‘‘never again’’ must not just be ex- ‘‘aye.’’ loving daughter, Karen, and son-in-law, Jack, claimed but rather acted upon. On rollcall 210, Recognizing the 60th Anni- have two wonderful children who also loved f versary of the founding of the modern State of their grandfather very much. Israel, I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ Madam Speaker, I personally feel a great ARMENIAN GENOCIDE On rollcall 211, Ordering the Previous Ques- personal loss with Bill’s death and I will miss tion, I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ him profoundly. He was a kind, loving man HON. TIMOTHY WALBERG On rollcall 212, the Rule providing for con- who was a blessing in my life and the lives of OF MICHIGAN sideration of SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act, the many who he served over the years. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ f On rollcall 213, the Matheson amendment, I Thursday, April 24, 2008 would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ IN RECOGNITION OF THE WASH- Mr. WALBERG. Madam Speaker, today we On rollcall 214, the Capito amendment, I INGTON HIGH SCHOOL HATCHETS observe the anniversary of the Armenian would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ genocide, a tragic persecution of Armenians On rollcall 215, the Foster amendment, I HON. BRAD ELLSWORTH that was both a systematic and intentional eth- would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ OF INDIANA nic cleansing. On rollcall 216, motion to recommit, I would IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Before this tragedy, Armenians had only lim- have voted ‘‘nay.’’ Thursday, April 24, 2008 ited freedom living under the rule of the Otto- On rollcall 217, passage of SBIR/STTR Re- Mr. ELLSWORTH. Madam Speaker, I rise man Empire. Armenians did not have the lib- authorization Act, I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ today to congratulate Coach Gene Miller and erties that Americans consider to be self-evi- On rollcall 218, ordering the previous ques- the Washington High School Hatchets on their dent. In particular, they were limited in public tion, I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ 2008 3A Division Indiana State Basketball practice of their Christian faith. Because the On rollcall 219, the rule providing for consid- Championship. The title is their fifth State title international community paid little attention, eration of Coast Guard Authorization Act, I in school history and was a fitting conclusion the conditions of Armenians deteriorated would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ to an outstanding season. throughout the 1800s. f The Hatchets defeated the Fort Wayne Har- In the late 1800s, the situation became CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF THE ding High School Hawks in the championship worse. Ottomans began to provoke, exploit, game by a score of 84–60, capping off an im- and murder many Armenians. Europe and HONORABLE BILL SANDBERG, MAYOR OF NORTH SAINT PAUL, pressive 23–2 season. North America took notice, but were weary of Their victory is the culmination of years of MINNESOTA the economic and political consequences of hard work, dedication and sacrifice. The team intervening. and coaching staff have demonstrated out- On this day in 1915, hundreds of influential HON. BETTY McCOLLUM standing talent and an unwavering commit- and important Armenians were taken from OF MINNESOTA ment to achieving their goals. their homes, imprisoned, and stripped of their IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The Washington Hatchets are shining exam- remaining freedoms. The Ottoman military ples of the idea that success in life comes to Thursday, April 24, 2008 marched crowds of Armenians to be deported those who are willing to set goals and work or exterminated. Hundreds of thousands Ar- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam hard to achieve them. They are an inspiration menians were victims of this massacre, and Speaker, it is with great sadness that I come to me and everyone in the Washington, Indi- an exact number of casualties is still unknown. to the floor to speak about my dear friend, my ana community who have followed their The systematic, state-sponsored extermi- mentor, and a tremendous Minnesota civic progress this season. nation of these good, decent people dem- leader, Mayor Bill Sandberg of North Saint Go Hatchets!

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.040 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E726 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 THE COMMEMORATION OF THE an essay published last month in the Pueblo failed to address a serious issue that will ARMENIAN GENOCIDE Chieftain newspaper. only worsen upon completion of the project. Ms. Snyder is a student at Colorado College Clean-up of Fountain Creek should be first in Colorado Springs. Her topic is a proposed on the list of projects to tackle. Colorado HON. EDWARD J. MARKEY Springs brings in the majority of its water OF MASSACHUSETTS water-delivery project called the Southern De- from the Western Slope of Colorado. Seventy IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES livery System, which would pipe water to that percent actually comes from Fryingpan-Ar- city from the Pueblo Reservoir—part of the Thursday, April 24, 2008 kansas water storage projects across the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project—with return flows Great Divide. This means fresh, crisp moun- Mr. MARKEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today back to the Arkansas River via Fountain tain water. Yet the city passes on poor-qual- to commemorate the 93rd anniversary of the Creek. ity water and disregards the negative effects Armenian genocide. Because of the complexity of the project, I the flows have on a natural ecosystem and In September of 1919, President Woodrow joined others in asking the Bureau of Rec- downstream municipality. Wilson spoke of his vision of a future Armenia. lamation to provide additional time for com- Pueblo has begun to speak up and demands He said, ‘‘Armenia is to be redeemed . . . So ment on it—a request that I am happy to say that Colorado Springs dam Fountain Creek to control the overall flow of the creek. A that at last this great people, struggling has been granted. through night after night of terror, knowing not dam would control flooding as well as miti- I think Ms. Snyder’s essay, written in con- gate the negative effects from erosion and when they may come out into a time when nection with a class in Western Water Policy, sedimentation. they can enjoy their rights as free people that reflects well on her and on the quality of in- Yet Colorado Springs Utilities has cited they never dreamed they would be able to ex- struction at Colorado College. cost as the primary reason for not damming ercise.’’ For the benefit of all our colleagues, here is the creek. How is cost an object when the The Armenian people finally have the ability the full text of her essay: utility is prepared to shovel out $1.1 billion to enjoy the rights that President Wilson [From the Pueblo Chieftain, Mar. 16, 2008] for more water? It seems selfish and unfair of a municipality to not only ignore a problem hoped they would have so many years ago, SPRINGS NEEDS TO CORRECT FOUNTAIN CREEK such as Fountain Creek but to propose a and for that we are all thankful. PROBLEMS huge project that only worsens the situation. The nights of terror that President Wilson (By Theresa Snyder, Colorado College spoke about, the Armenian genocide, was the Student) Colorado Springs is considered the ‘‘big first genocide of the 20th century. It was the bully’’ in this ongoing water issue. It’s time First things first . . . for them to take a step back. opening chapter of what was arguably the In a time when water is becoming increas- First things first: Colorado Springs offi- most violent period of human history. In the ingly scarce, Colorado Springs has failed to explore its many options for responsible cials should address the issues at hand such decades following this initial genocide, the as Fountain Creek. They should become re- world witnessed genocidal acts against the water use. The Springs, which has experi- enced rapid population growth in the past 40 sponsible water users before they gain access Jews and against the Roma in World War II, years, is expected to grow by an additional to more of the precious commodity. and subsequently in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bos- 250,000 people by 2025. Though they may have the legal rights to nia-Herzegovina, and in too many wars to list To supplement water supply for this urban follow through with the Southern Delivery here. Today, the world is witnessing genocide development, a $1 billion project known as System, it’s unfair and irresponsible to ig- yet again in Darfur. the Southern Delivery System has been pro- nore the current mess and follow through There is no more important way to commit posed by Colorado Springs Utilities. The with a project that brings more detrimental ourselves to preventing the genocides of the project includes storing water in Lake Pueb- effects. future than to commemorate and never forget lo and running a 43-mile long pipeline from Pueblo Dam to Colorado Springs. f the genocides of the past. As such, I would The city, while possessing all the required like to note my continuing support for House water rights to use the additional 78 million NATIONAL MINORITY CANCER finally passage of H. Res. 106, the Affirmation gallons a day from Lake Pueblo, currently is AWARENESS WEEK of the United States Record on the Armenian completing an Environmental Impact State- Genocide Resolution. In my view, it is long ment as required by the National Environ- past time for the United States to officially rec- mental Policy Act of 1969. Drafts of the HON. KATHY CASTOR ognize the massacre of one and a half million statement led the citizens of Pueblo to won- OF FLORIDA Armenians in early in the 20th century for der about their future as downstream water users. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES what it undeniably was: a genocide. The focus of Pueblo’s concern is Fountain Thursday, April 24, 2008 Countries all around the world have adopted Creek. This watershed begins as Monument similar resolutions to ensure that the atrocities Creek in Colorado Springs, flows south and Ms. CASTOR. Madam Speaker, I would like committed against the Armenian people are joins Fountain Creek, continues to Pueblo to express my strong support of National Mi- properly recognized as genocide. Canada, and eventually joins the Arkansas River in nority Cancer Awareness Week. This week in- France, Switzerland, Greece, and Poland have Pueblo. creases awareness about the effects of cancer passed resolutions affirming the recognition of The creek has long been used to channel return flow wastewater from Colorado in minority communities and is dedicated to the Armenian genocide. Properly recognizing Springs. As a result of the Southern Delivery emphasizing the importance of early cancer the Armenian genocide here in America is es- System, return flows from the city into detection. sential to ensure that all past genocides are Fountain Creek would greatly increase. Today, minorities are more likely to be diag- never forgotten and all future atrocities are Anyone who walks along the creek can see nosed and die from cancer in comparison to never permitted. This House must afford the the obvious problems with erosion, sedi- the rest of the United States population. Ac- proper recognition to the Armenian genocide. mentation and water quality already present cording to the American Cancer Society, Afri- in the creekbed. Current return flows from We must do so not only because of our sol- can American men have a 37 percent higher emn obligation to recognize those that were Colorado Springs have altered this pre- viously intermittent stream to a year-round cancer death rate than white men, and death lost, but also because of our duty to those that flow, and are to blame for the multitude of rates for African American women are about can still be saved. other problems in Fountain Creek. 17 percent higher than rates for white women, f Increased sedimentation along the creek despite the fact that African American women bed produces stretches of dirt with no trace A STUDENT’S THOUGHTFUL ESSAY have lower cancer incidence rates than white of vegetation. Other sections of the river women. have channelized as severely as 20 feet below previous flow lines. The result is a creek Disparities in breast cancer for minority HON. MARK UDALL women are among the most common. Studies OF COLORADO that looks sprawled in some areas and like a small canyon with steep, abrupt walls in oth- have highlighted that African American women IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ers. are 1.9 times more likely to be diagnosed with Thursday, April 24, 2008 The Southern Delivery System would only an advanced stage of breast cancer than Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Madam Speaker, increase average flows and consequently the white women. Hispanic women are 1.4 times sedimentation and erosion that results in an more likely to be diagnosed with an advanced every present and former college student unappealing creek with muddy water. Where knows that writing a solid essay or research does all of this poor-quality, heavy-sediment stage of breast cancer than white women. It is paper is not easy. water go? Downstream to Pueblo. clear that, although there have been efforts to So, I think it’s appropriate to recognize the As Colorado Springs Utilities officials pre- eliminate disparities in breast cancer related careful effort displayed by Theresa Snyder in pare to launch a $1 billion project, they have care, substantial disparities remain.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.045 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E727 Today, in accordance with National Minority number of outstanding entries to this year’s who found work at the restaurant. Once you Cancer Awareness Week, I introduce, the competition. Fitly works from ten different high became part of Paul’s and Roseann’s ex- Eliminating Disparities in Breast Cancer Treat- schools were submitted to our panel of re- tended family, you never left. ment Act of 2008. This legislation will promote spected local artists. In addition to the restaurant, Paul was build- the implementation of standardized health Manami is an exchange student from Japan ing a business repairing musical instruments, care practices for breast cancer patients and who is spending a year attending high school which grew out of his 1940s-style swing band, help to eliminate inequities based on race, in my district in Pennsylvania. I am certain that Paul Mole´’s Late Night Big Band. Paul played education, income, and health insurance sta- her family in Japan and her host family here trumpet with 19 other professional musicians tus. in the United States are both proud of her ar- at community events and professional venues. In order to eliminate unacceptable gaps in tistic talents as well as this accomplishment. Paul Mole´’s a man with a huge heart ac- treatment quality, it is necessary that we cre- Manami’s artwork wilI represent the 14th cented by a lively sense of humor and a love ate real incentives and requirements for doc- Congressional District of Pennsylvania in the of life. He is survived by Roseann, his wife of tors to provide the best care. All patients national exhibit of high school students’ art- 38 years; two grown sons, Peter and Paul; should receive the best treatment for their work that will be displayed in the United two grandchildren; and too many friends to conditions. Quality care should be provided for States Capitol over the coming year. I am cer- count. Madam Speaker, I know my colleagues everyone, not just patients that know to ask tain Manami had no idea that one of her draw- will join me offering our condolences to for it. ings would hang in the U.S. Capitol when she Roseann, Peter, Paul and the rest of the Mole´ f applied to study in the United States. family, and all who knew him and called him I encourage my colleagues as well as any a friend. TRIBUTE TO THE MOUNT CARMEL visitor to Capitol Hill to view Manami’s artwork, Godspeed, Paul. MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH along with all of the other winning artwork that will be on display in the Capitol tunnel. It is f HON. NANCY E. BOYDA amazing to walk through this corridor and see OF KANSAS the interpretation of life through the eyes of HONORING MERCY HEALTH SYS- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES these young artists from all across our coun- TEMS FOR RECEIPT OF THE 2007 try—and in Manami’s case, from across the MALCOLM BALDRIDGE NATIONAL Thursday, April 24, 2008 globe. QUALITY AWARD Mrs. BOYDA of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I I would like to recognize all of the partici- rise to commend Mount Carmel Missionary pants in this year’s 14th Congressional District HON. DONALD A. MANZULLO Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas on its one- High School Art Competition, ‘‘An Artistic Dis- OF ILLINOIS hundredth anniversary. covery.’’ I would like to thank these impressive Mount Carmel is a fixture in the city of To- young artists for allowing us to share and cel- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES peka. It has thrived within the Capital City of ebrate their talents, imagination, and creativity. Thursday, April 24, 2008 Kansas throughout many adversities, both na- The efforts of these students in expressing Mr. MANZULLO. Madam Speaker, I rise tional and local. The past 100 years has of- themselves in a powerful and positive manner today to honor Mercy Health System for re- fered our Midwestern State many challenges. are no less than spectacular. I hope that all of ceiving the highly prestigious Malcolm Baldrige The Great Depression, two World Wars and a these individuals continue to utilize their artis- Award yesterday at a special White House Dustbowl to name a few. We have needed a tic talents. and I wish them all the best of luck ceremony with the President. This award was place of refuge when things seemed their in their future endeavors. created by Congress in 1987 in honor of worst. Whatever the cause for prayer hap- f pened to be, Mount Carmel’s doors have al- former Commerce Secretary Malcolm Baldrige ´ ways been open to Kansans in need. They IN MEMORY OF PAUL MOLE who had a passion for instilling quality and ex- have been a provider of faith, hope and com- cellence in U.S. products and services. The fort . . . three products which come free and HON. ELTON GALLEGLY award recognizes those in the private sector that help improve quality and productivity. It can never be overproduced. OF CALIFORNIA honors U.S. companies and non-profits for or- I would be remiss to not mention the happi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ness born within this church as well. Babies ganizational innovation and performance ex- Thursday, April 24, 2008 have been baptized in recognition of life’s be- cellence. ginnings. Countless weddings and social gath- Mr. GALLEGLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to Mercy Health System started 18 years ago erings have taken place within its walls. pay tribute to Paul Mole´, a family man, a Ma- as a stand-alone hospital and transformed into Friends and loved ones have gathered around rine, an entrepreneur and a long-time friend to a vertically integrated health system with 63 to say ‘goodbye.’ my wife, Janice, and I, as well as our children, facilities serving 24 communities throughout It has been a meeting point for good com- who died too young this week at age 60. southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. munity members. It has been a rallying point I met Paul more than 30 years ago while I Mercy now sees over 1 million patients annu- for those who make up the backbone of our was mayor of Simi Valley, California. A retired ally, and employs 3,856 partners, 285 of Kansas communities. Marine and Purple Heart-decorated Vietnam whom are employed physicians. Mercy has I offer my sincerest congratulations to Mount War veteran, Paul served as the Marine bu- added nearly $1.1 billion in industry economic Carmel Missionary Baptist Church and I truly gler at Veterans Day and other veteran com- sales, which has created an additional indirect hope they are there to serve the good people munity events in Simi Valley and elsewhere 1,200 jobs in their service area. In the 16th of Kansas for another hundred years. throughout Ventura County. He founded the District of Illinois, Mercy has a 77-bed acute- care hospital in Harvard, Illinois, along with 17 f Marine Corps League Ventura County Detach- ment 597 to help active and retired Marines. health care clinics in McHenry County, Illinois. HONORING MANAMI KITAZAWA The restaurant he and his wife, Roseann, It is obvious that Mercy Health System did purchased from Roseann’s parents in 1974 not reach these achievements by resting on its HON. MICHAEL F. DOYLE and which they renamed Paul’s Italian Villa, laurels. They have met the challenge of OF PENNSYLVANIA became a mainstay of community activity. Not growth by developing a holistic approach to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES only was it a meeting place—official and unof- quality and a commitment to organizational ex- ficial—for the Marine Corps League, it served cellence. Their actions back up their Four Pil- Thursday, April 24, 2008 as the collection site for the annual Toys for lars of Excellence: Quality, Service, Mr. DOYLE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to Tots campaign for disadvantaged children, Partnering, and Cost. I am impressed by their recognize the artistic ability of a young woman which Paul helped organize every year. servant-leadership model as exemplified by from my Congressional District, Manami In addition, the Royal High School football Javon Bea, President and CEO of Mercy Kitazawa of Woodland Hills High School. team carbed down on spaghetti at the res- Health System. Manami is the winner of the 2008 14th Con- taurant and were treated to Marine cheers Madam Speaker, I am proud to represent gressional District of Pennsylvania’s High from Paul before every game. Like many in the employees and the patients of the Mercy School Art Competition, ‘‘An Artistic Dis- Simi Valley, my tie to the restaurant is also Health System. They richly deserve to share covery.’’ Manami’s artwork, an intricately de- personal—my daughter, Shannon, was one of in the high honor of the Malcolm Baldrige tailed charcoal drawing, was selected from a the many Simi Valley teens and young adults Award.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.049 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E728 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 BELLEVUE: THE #1 CITY IN schools, and excellent health care. Nearly INTRODUCTION RESOLUTION AMERICA FOR SMALL BUSINESS 60% of locals over 25 have at least a bach- REGARDING TSA RAIL SECURITY elor’s degree. The city expects to add 15,500 jobs by 2010, up 11.5% from 2006. Bellevue’s HON. DAVID G. REICHERT strategic location helps tire growth. GMI, HON. SHEILA JACKSON-LEE OF WASHINGTON whose revenue rose from $6 million in 2002 to OF TEXAS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES $28 million last year, is based near its sup- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pliers—Hitachi, Symantec, Sun Micro- Thursday, April 24, 2008 systems—as well as customers such as Boe- Thursday, April 24, 2008 Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise to ing and Starbucks. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam congratulate the City of Bellevue, Washington, ‘‘Many of our employees came from our Speaker, I rise today to introduce a resolution clients,’’ Overstreet says. regarding the role of the Transportation Secu- for being named the best place in the Nation The city is also a font of tech talent, to live and launch a business by Fortune thanks to the Microsoft campus in nearby rity Administration in securing our Nation’s rail Small Business. Anyone who has visited in the Redmond. Many former Microsofties have and mass transit lines. This resolution reaf- past decade couldn’t help but notice the abun- launched startups in Bellevue. Current em- firms the Congressional mandate provided for dance of construction cranes throughout the ployees pour wealth into a growing service in the Implementing Recommendations of the downtown area. They would also quickly real- sector. 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 that the Trans- ize that Bellevue embodies the true spirit of Overstreet points out that many small portation Security Administration enhance se- American innovation. I’m proud to represent businesses in Bellevue operate globally—not curity against terrorist attack and other secu- surprising considering that 40% of the popu- rity threats to our Nation’s rail and mass tran- this city that lies within the Eighth Congres- lation is nonwhite or foreign-born. ‘‘We do sional District of Washington. have a glittering downtown now,’’ he says, sit lines. Bellevue is a worthy recipient of this honor, ‘‘but it’s the diversity that attracts entre- I am pleased to have Homeland Security with its growing downtown and natural beauty preneurs like me.’’ Committee Chairman BENNIE THOMPSON, as thanks to its proximity to the Cascade Moun- an original cosponsor of this resolution. Chair- tains and breathtaking Mount Rainier. Citizens f man THOMPSON has been a leader in our ef- can enjoy the 90 city parks or nearby views of COMMEMORATING THE SURVIVORS forts to secure against terrorist threats to our Lake Washington. With multiple high-tech cor- OF THE 93RD ANNIVERSARY OF Nation’s rail and mass transit lines. porations in the city, Bellevue draws a tal- THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE Each weekday 11,300,000 passengers de- ented, high-tech workforce that embodies the pend on our Nation’s mass transit lines as a entrepreneurial spirit that grows our economy means of transportation. and creates jobs. HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN Our Nation’s mass transit lines serve as a As we celebrate the achievements of small OF NEW YORK target for terrorist attack as evidenced by the businesses across the Nation during ‘‘Small IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 11, 2004, attack on the Madrid, Spain, Business Week,’’ it is my hope that cities Thursday, April 24, 2008 mass transit system, the July 7, 2005, attack on the London, England, mass transit system, across the country follow Bellevue’s lead and Mr. ACKERMAN, Madam Speaker, I rise embrace their entrepreneurial spirit. Small and the July 11, 2006, attack on the Mumbai, today to commemorate the survivors of the Ar- India, mass transit system. businesses are the backbone of our economy, menian genocide. Today marks the 93rd anni- and provide the key to our economy’s resil- The Transportation Security Administration versary of the Armenian genocide which has, through the development of its National ience in uncertain economic times. Today, I’m began in 1915 and lasted until 1923. Over the proud to honor the City of Bellevue for its Explosives Detection Canine Team Program, course of 8 years 1.5 million Armenians in the furthered its ability to provide security against achievements in creating one of the finest Ottoman Empire were murdered and over places in America to live and work. terrorist attacks on the Nation’s transportation 500,000 were forced into exile. On this day we systems by preventing and protecting against I ask for unanimous consent to insert the should take a moment to think of the survivors following article into the record. explosives threats. and commend them for the bravery they con- It is imperative that our Nation’s rail and THE NO. 1 CHAMPION: BELLEVUE, WASH. ABUN- tinue to show in the face of the memories they DANT TECH TALENT. GORGEOUS VIEWS. (BUT mass transit lines remain secure from terrorist carry of that awful time. COSTLY HOMES AND TAXES.) attack as they are critical to the functioning of We are told to never to forget the egregious (By Mina Kimes, March 26, 2008) our Nation’s economy and serve as a means acts that human beings commit against other of transportation on a daily basis for millions of BELLEVUE, WASH. (FORTUNE Small human beings, especially when they come in Business)—Earl Overstreet, Chief Executive hard-working Americans. the form of a calculated mass extermination of Officer of General Microsystems (GMI) in f Bellevue, travels fewer than five times a a single people. In remembering the Armenian year for business. But he visits the Mercer genocide it is important to keep in mind that JOURNEY THROUGH HALLOWED Slough Nature Park, across the street from we are not pointing fingers at Turkey. Modern GROUND NATIONAL HERITAGE his office, every day on his lunch break. He day Turkey is no more the Ottoman Empire AREA walks across a wooden bridge, gazes at Belle- than today’s Germany is the Third Reich. But vue’s rising downtown—and then turns away. we must not banish the truth from the world HON. FRANK R. WOLF Over the past ten years Overstreet has stage. What was done to the Armenian people watched the city evolve from a bedroom OF VIRGINIA was atrocious, nothing less than a crime community into an urban center of sky- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES scrapers and 117,000 inhabitants (the latest against humanity. As such, it is our responsi- population figures, according to the local bility to accurately describe what happened Thursday, April 24, 2008 chamber of commerce), but he’s more eager between 1915 and 1923 and admit that what Mr. WOLF. Madam Speaker, Pursuant to to point out blackberry bushes and red-tailed was done to the Armenian people was geno- the Republican guidelines on earmarks, I sub- hawks. cide. mit the following statement for the RECORD re- ‘‘When you’re surrounded by mountains As each year passes the number of sur- garding S. 2739, the Consolidated National and nature,’’ he says, ‘‘you can’t help but be vivors of the Armenian genocide diminishes content.’’ Resources Act, which includes the Journey Overstreet, 60, and his wife, Barb, the further. And while there is nothing that can be Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage firm’s CFO, spend free time hiking, done to alter the past, we can and should en- Area. kayaking, and biking around the area. While sure that generations to come know how the Requesting Member: Congressman Frank new businesses are cropping up quickly, Armenian people suffered at the hands of the Wolf. most office buildings are still enveloped by Ottoman Empire. It is also important that this Bill Number: S. 2739. greenery—the city boasts 90 parks and 50 day be marked to commemorate the survivors Provision: Title II, Section 2010. miles of trail. ‘‘Taxes [including a 0.1496% of the Armenian genocide so that their fight for Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Journey business tax on gross receipts] and property survival is honored and revered rather than Through Hallowed Ground Partnership. costs are high,’’ says Overstreet, ‘‘but it’s a forgotten and ignored. Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 77, premium for the living conditions.’’ Waterford, VA 20197. The median home sale price hovers at Madam Speaker, I ask that all of my col- Description of Request: The legislation au- $500,000 (the metro area averages about leagues to join me in commemorating the sur- thorizes the appropriation of up to $1,000,000 $400,000), but Bellevue, lying 20 minutes from vivors of the Armenian genocide on its 93rd a year for the purpose of carrying out a man- Seattle, also boasts low crime rates, great anniversary. agement plan, which must first be approved

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.054 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E729 by the secretary of Interior. The manage- 93RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE to recognize the Armenian genocide in the ment plan will describe comprehensive poli- ARMENIAN GENOCIDE United States. Unfortunately, this bill has yet cies, goals, strategies, and recommendations to come before the full House for a vote. Sup- for telling the story of the Journey Through porters of this resolution are constantly told Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area HON. JIM COSTA and encouraging long-term resource protec- OF CALIFORNIA that now isn’t the time to recognize the geno- tion, enhancement, interpretation, funding, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cide, that scholars, not Congress, should de- termine if this event was genocide, or that management, and development of the Area. Thursday, April 24, 2008 The authorization is limited to $15 million passage of this resolution will hurt our relation- total. The legislation also requires a non-fed- Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ship with Turkey. I could not disagree more eral cost share match for each dollar con- commemorate the 93rd anniversary of the with these statements. tributed by the federal government. The start of the Armenian genocide, which was the First, there is never a ‘‘right time’’ to recog- Partnership must also submit an annual re- first genocide of the 20th century and sadly, nize genocide. Ninety-three years have port to the secretary for each fiscal year for the template for a cycle of genocide that con- passed since the start events occurred, and which the local coordinating entity receives federal funds under this subtitle, which tinues to this very day. we cannot wait around for a convenient mo- specifies the performance goals and accom- It is, by any reasonable standard, estab- ment to recognize this truly catastrophic histor- plishments of the local coordinating entity lished history that between 1915 and 1923 the ical event. Secondly, the scholars have spo- and other related information, including Ottoman Empire systematically killed an esti- ken and the historical record is clear and thor- uses of funds and amounts of non-federal mated 1.5 million Armenians and drove hun- oughly documented. And finally, we have seen funds leveraged in the effort. The Partner- dreds of thousands of others into exile from over and over again that Turkey’s warning of ship is authorized, for the purposes of pre- their ancestral homeland. The record of this disastrous consequences are dramatically paring and implementing the approved man- atrocity is well documented in the United overstated. In fact, in nearly every instance, agement plan for the National Heritage States Archives and has been universally ac- Area, to use federal funds made available Turkey’s bilateral trade has gone up with each under the legislation to make grants to po- cepted in the International Association of of the countries that have recognized the Ar- litical jurisdictions, nonprofit organizations, Genocide Scholars and the broader historical menian genocide—including Canada, Italy, and other parties within the National Herit- and academic communities. France, Russia, and Belgium. age Area; enter into cooperative agreements However, there is still debate around the Genocide is not something that can simply with or provide technical assistance to polit- world, including here in our Nation, on whether be swept under the rug and forgotten. We ical jurisdictions, nonprofit organizations, this incident actually qualifies as genocide. On need leaders around the world to not only rec- federal agencies, and other interested par- April 26, 1915, the New York Times reported ognize it, but to condemn it so the world can ties; hire and compensate staff, and other on the first reported purges of Armenians in truly say, ‘‘Never Again.’’ The United States purposes related to the national heritage area. Ottoman Turkey. Later in 1915, the Times ran cannot continue its policy of denial regarding a front page article about a report from the the Armenian genocide, and I encourage pas- The Journey Through Hallowed Ground Committee on Armenian Atrocities discussing sage of H. Res. 106 to recognize the Arme- Partnership is the designated local coordi- nating entity for this national heritage area. exactly what was happening to Armenians in nian genocide in our Nation. The Partnership is comprised of over 150 Turkey. ‘‘The report tells of children under 15 f years of age thrown into the Euphrates to be partners, including every elected body with- 93RD ANNIVERSARY COMMEMO- in the four-state region, including Virginia. drowned; of women forced to desert infants in West Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, their arms and to leave them by the roadside RATING THE ARMENIAN GENO- the convention and visitor associations of to die; of young women and girls appropriated CIDE each of the included 15 counties, and the di- by the Turks, thrown into harems, attacked or rectors of tourism from each of the four else sold to the highest bidder, and of men HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY states. murdered and tortured.’’ OF NEW YORK The legislation does not permit the Part- One can debate specific historical incidents, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nership to use any federal funds provided but growing up in Fresno, California, the land Thursday, April 24, 2008 under the Act to acquire any interest in real of William Saroyan, I heard stories shared by property. In addition, Section 408 of the Act Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise sets forth numerous safeguards for private grandparents from the Kezerian, Koligian and today to recognize and commemorate the property and makes unmistakably clear that Abramhian families about being forced to 93rd Anniversary of the Armenian genocide. nothing in the Act abridges the rights of any leave their homes, the stories of the long Since being elected to the U.S. Congress, I property owner (whether public or private), marches, and the random murders. Clearly, have come to the floor of the House every including the right to refrain from partici- they believed there was a systematic ap- year to solemnly remember the atrocities that pating in any plan, project, program, or ac- proach to eliminate the Armenian communities began on April 24, 1915—when the Ottoman tivity conducted within the National Herit- in places that had been their homes and farms age Area. government ordered the deportation of 2.5 mil- for centuries. My Armenian friends believe this lion Armenians and oversaw the murder 1.5 systematic approach was among the first million Armenian men, women, and children. f genocides of the 20th century, and so do I. Today, as I stand for the 10th time in rec- Around the world, in the single, longest last- PERSONAL EXPLANATION ognition of the Armenian genocide, I do so ing and far-reaching campaign of genocide de- with one major distinction from years past. nial, Turkey seeks to block recognition of this This year is different because the House For- HON. JIM COOPER travesty. It’s against the law to even mention eign Affairs Committee has formally recog- the Armenian genocide in Turkey. The Arme- nized the Armenian genocide. Last October, OF TENNESSEE nian Genocide involved the issue of man’s in- under the leadership of the late Chairman justice to mankind, and it continued to occur IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tom Lantos, the Committee passed House throughout the 20th century in the Holocaust, Resolution 106. Thursday, April 24, 2008 Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia, and now in As a member of the Foreign Affairs Com- Darfur. As leaders, we must confront this and mittee, I was proud to have been a part of this Mr. COOPER. Madam Speaker, I was ab- not allow Turkey to continue to stand alone vote. And, as a strong supporter of the Arme- sent on Tuesday, April 22, and much of and ask us to believe that the Armenian geno- nian community, I will be proud when the full Wednesday, April 23rd for personal reasons. cide was not genocide. House of Representatives considers H. Res. Had I been present Tuesday for votes, I would In standing up to this policy of denial, we, of 106. have voted ‘‘yes’’ on each of the three votes course, honor the martyrs of the genocide and In 2003, during my first visit to Armenia, I taken: H.R. 5151, H.R. 831, and H. Res. 981. we encourage our Turkish allies and friends to planted a tree at the genocide memorial and Had I been present Wednesday for votes, I come to terms with their past. And, in a very paid homage to those who perished and suf- would have voted ‘‘no’’ on the motion to ad- powerful and significant way, we reinforce our fered. It was a somber day, just like today’s journ and ‘‘yes’’ on both H.R. 5613 and H. own vital role, as Americans, in leading the anniversary of the Armenian genocide. We not Con. Res. 322. I would also have voted ‘‘yes’’ international community toward unconditional only participate in these events to remember on ordering the previous question and pas- opposition to all instances of genocide. the past, but also so we never forget. sage of the rule, H. Res. 1125, and ‘‘yes’’ on Last October, the House Foreign Affairs We must never forget the horrific events all three amendments to H.R. 5819. Committee passed H. Res. 106, a resolution that took place 93 years ago. We must never

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.057 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E730 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 forget those who were wrongly imprisoned, PROTECTING THE MEDICAID in the Capitol. His work also decorates the those who suffered and died, or those who SAFETY NET ACT OF 2008 Senate Reception room, the Office of the Vice lost their families and loved ones. And, most President and most notably, the President’s importantly, we must never forget that we SPEECH OF room which for many represents Brumidi’s su- must never let such atrocities occur again. HON. MICHELE BACHMANN preme effort. Madam Speaker, today, as we commemo- OF MINNESOTA Constantino Brumidi emigrated to the United States in 1849 and took up residence in New rate the 93rd Anniversary of the Armenian IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES York City where he plied his trade as a portrait genocide, I urge the House to prevent history Tuesday, April 22, 2008 painter. That was soon followed by more im- from repeating itself by finally recognizing the Mrs. BACHMANN. Mr. Speaker, today, the portant commissions in St. Stephen’s Church. past. House is considering H.R. 5613, Protecting Those works include a fresco of the Cru- the Medicaid Safety Net Act of 2008. This leg- cifixion as well as works depicting the Mar- f islation would place a moratorium on certain tyrdom of St. Stephen and the Assumption of rules promulgated by the Centers for Medicare RECOGNIZING THE 60TH ANNIVER- St. Mary. But it was on a return trip from Mex- and Medicaid Services, CMS. While I applaud ico that Brumidi stopped in Washington, DC SARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE CMS for looking for ways to reduce the bur- MODERN STATE OF ISRAEL and toured the Capitol building. He found in it den on taxpayers and to root out fraud which a canvass that inspired him for the remainder is regrettably rampant in the Medicaid pro- of his life. Brumidi suggested to Quartermaster SPEECH OF gram, some of these proposed rules simply go General Montgomery C. Meigs that the walls too far. They shift too great a cost to the of the Capitol be decorated and Meigs agreed HON. VIRGINIA FOXX States and leave many vulnerable Americans giving Brumidi the commission as well as more vulnerable still. And so I will support this OF NORTH CAROLINA making him a captain in the cavalry. temporary stay to give the administration time Brumidi’s first work was in the meeting room IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to consider ways to meet its goals in a less of the House Agriculture Committee. He re- draconian manner. ceived $8 a day, but was soon given a raise Tuesday, April 22, 2008 To be sure, the Medicaid program has been to $10 a day by then Secretary of War Jeffer- abused. For instance, a CMS Inspector Gen- Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, as a proud co- son Davis since his work was receiving such eral report found $3.8 million in undocumented favorable mention. Along with the raise came sponsor of House Concurrent Resolution 322, services in the targeted case management which recently passed the House of Rep- further commissions in the Capitol which in- program, one which is impacted by these very clude the Apotheosis of George Washington in resentatives, on the occasion of the 60th anni- rules. And CMS’s regulations would certainly versary of the modern State of Israel, I wish the dome as well as other allegories and combat instances of waste and fraud. How- scenes from American history. to take an opportunity to reflect on this truly ever, implementing a 1-year moratorium will monumental event. Since the time of its cre- Brumidi died in 1880 but we have the ben- give CMS an opportunity to review the regula- efit of seeing his work everyday we are here. ation 60 years ago, Israel has served as an tions and give States and local providers an example of democracy and equal rights for her And Americans who travel to our Nation’s opportunity to prepare for pending implemen- Capitol can also enjoy Brumidi’s work, yet few neighbors. Israel has also proved to be stead- tation, each knowing that real reform is on the fast ally to the United States in a variety of know him or his story. That’s why I believe all horizon. While I believe it is important to rein members should support two important bills ways, particularly within our country’s diplo- in entitlement spending, these rules, as cur- matic efforts in the Middle East. pending before the House that will honor rently formulated and immediately imposed, Constantino Brumidi and his work here in the Since its founding in 1948, the modern would jeopardize needed care for some of the Capitol. The first is H.R. 1609 introduced by State of Israel has served as a democratic an- most vulnerable populations of Americans. Representative BILL PASCRELL. H.R. 1609 chor in the Middle East. Like the United That being said, I am pleased that to ad- would posthumously award a Congressional States, the Israeli Declaration of Independ- dress abuses of the Medicaid program, H.R. Gold Medal to Constantino Brumidi and au- ence protects freedom of speech, freedom of 5613 provides for anti-fraud enforcement activ- thorize the striking of duplicate medals for sale religion, a free press, free elections, and many ity in the interim. The bill also provides for the to the public. The second is H.R. 1313, intro- other tenets of a free society. Israel estab- Department of Health and Human Services to duced by Representative GUS BILIRAKIS to di- lished a democracy in the midst of a politically hire an independent contractor to produce a rect the Joint Committee on the Library to ob- tumultuous region and by guaranteeing the report by March 1, 2009, on the proposed reg- tain a statue of Constantino Brumidi for dis- basic rights of her citizens, sets herself apart ulations and their impact on States. Moreover, play in the Capitol Visitors Center. Both of from her authoritarian neighbors. all of these costs, as well as the foregone sav- these bills will honor the memory of a great Israel prides herself on women’s rights and ings resulting from this moratorium are fully artist and so I ask all my colleagues to join me equal pay for women in the workforce. The offset, meaning H.R. 5613 will not increase in supporting them both. first female Prime Minister, Golda Meir, was the national debt. The Medicaid program has helped millions f elected in 1969, just 21 years after the forma- of America’s neediest individuals, including tion of modern Israel. Women now serve as LIVINGSTON HIGH SCHOOL 100- seniors, foster kids and the disabled, gain ac- the foreign minister, speaker of the Knesset, YEAR CELEBRATION cess to quality care, and while there have in- and chief justice of the Israeli Supreme Court. deed been instances of misallocated funds, Furthermore, Israel has recognized the neces- HON. KEVIN BRADY H.R. 5613 finds balance between regulatory sity of providing equal rights regardless of OF TEXAS restraint and financial flexibility, and it main- gender or race and deserves to be com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tains a strong partnership with the States. mended. f Thursday, April 24, 2008 Not only is Israel an example for her neigh- Mr. BRADY of Texas. Madam Speaker, I bors as a thriving democracy, where citizens’ COMMENDING CONSTANTINO BRUMIDI rise today to honor and congratulate the city of rights are protected through the rule of law, Livingston and the Livingston Independent she has also been an avid supporter in the School District, as they celebrate the 100-year global war on terror. The U.S. and Israel are HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN anniversary of Livingston High School. Since OF NEW YORK continually working together to develop so- graduating its first class of three students in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES phisticated military technology and improve 1908, Livingston High School has been a Israel’s defense systems and soldier protec- Thursday, April 24, 2008 place devoted to the single purpose of edu- tion. In the interest of global freedom I hope, Mr. ACKERMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise cating young people. and am confident that, this friendship will con- today to pay tribute to a great artist whose Since the city was established in the 1840s, tinue in the future. love of liberty inspired him to adorn the United education of youths has been of great public It is with great joy that I extend my best States Capitol with beautiful frescoes. That importance. In fact, the earliest recorded free wishes for the 60th anniversary of the modern man, of course, is Constantino Brumidi. school system in Livingston was established in State of Israel and wish them a prosperous fu- Brumidi’s work adorns one House com- 1849 and funded by the Trinity Masonic Lodge ture. mittee room and five Senate committee rooms No. 14. Classes were held on the first floor of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.060 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E731 the Lodge building until the late 1880s. A ago, when President Kennedy signed the ingly to maintain the safest work environments school term during that time only lasted 3 Equal Pay Act of 1963, women who worked possible. months so as to enable the students to assist full-time, year-round made 59 cents on aver- Madam Speaker, I congratulate the York- their families with farming activities. age for every dollar earned by men. In 2006, Adams County Central Labor Council for its The first structure solely devoted to public women earned 77 cents for every dollar strong commitment to promoting safety in the education was built in 1888 and was located earned by men; the figures are even more un- workplace and look forward to joining them in on Jackson Avenue. The high school, which at settling for women of color. This data dem- honoring injured and deceased workers every- that time allowed students to attend grades 9 onstrates that the wage gap has narrowed by where. and 10, was not initiated until 1906. Even less than half a cent per year. An 18 cent in- though the size of that first graduating class crease over 35 years indicates a significant f was small in number, their accomplishments wage disparity between working men and were far and reaching. The first female to women that leaves a great deal of work for the RECOGNIZING GERALDINE graduate, Mrs. Myra Lewis (Green), became a employers and decision makers of today. ‘‘JERRE’’ MCPARTLIN schoolteacher and taught in Livingston and In the state of Texas, between 2004 and Raymondville. Mr. Brown L. Meece went on to 2006, the average annual salary of men with attend Texas A&M University and later be- a college degree or more was $63,000, while HON. RAHM EMANUEL came Vice-President for both Global and Sin- their female counterparts only received an av- OF ILLINOIS clair Oil Companies. After graduating from Liv- erage annual salary of $45,000 with the same IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ingston High School, Mr. Ralph Feagin at- credentials. In comparison, during that same Thursday, April 24, 2008 tended the University of Texas and later time frame, the national average annual salary served as Executive Vice President of Electric for men with a college degree or more was Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise Bond and Share Company in New York City $66,000, while their female counterparts re- today to honor Geraldine ‘‘Jerre’’ McPartlin for and later in his life he became a partner at the ceived only $50,000. Therefore, the state of receiving ‘‘The 2008 Sister Huberta McCarthy, law firm of Baker, Botts, Andrew, and Whar- Texas is about 5 percent below the national R.S.M. Woman of Mercy’’ award. Mrs. ton. average in narrowing the wage disparity be- McPartlin is the fifth woman to have the honor Today, Livingston High School is home to tween men and women. of receiving the ‘‘Woman of Mercy’’ award, approximately 1200 students that attend the A great woman and former congresswoman and I congratulate her on this achievement. ninth through the twelfth grade. Students at from Texas, Barbara Jordan once said that, ‘‘If This award has been presented by Mercy the school have the ability to enrich them- the society of today allows wrongs to go un- Hospital and Medical Center’s Women’s Board selves academically, culturally, and athletically challenged, the impression is created that in honor of Mrs. McPartlin’s work carrying forth by participating in many different clubs and ex- those wrongs have the approval of the major- the mission of Mercy Hospital throughout her tracurricular activities. ity.’’ To take the late Ms. Jordan’s advice: we professional and private life. Livingston High School has worked hard to who live in today’s society must not allow the In 1852 Mercy Hospital and Medical Center prepare its students for the rigors of a college wrongs created by wage discrimination con- was founded as the State of Illinois’ first hos- education. Additionally, Livingston High School tinue to discount minorities and women. pital and Chicago’s first chartered hospital. For serves as an off-campus center for Angelina I ask my colleagues and employers nation- the last 155 years, Mercy has helped treat College which enables the students to earn wide to take up the fight of eliminating the countless Chicagoans from all backgrounds, college credits while still in high school. wage disparity between men and women as income levels, and educations seeking med- Looking back at the 100-year history of Liv- we all honor the 10 year anniversary of Equal ical care. ingston High School there is much to be proud Pay Day. Jerre, as she is known to her friends and of. Graduates of Livingston High School have f family, was raised on the West side of Chi- excelled in all areas of life and made many cago and educated at Resurrection Grammar positive contributions to our country. We can YORK-ADAMS COUNTY CENTRAL School and Siena High School by the Sisters rejoice, however, because with great teachers LABOR COUNCIL 19TH ANNUAL of Mercy. She began her career working with and administrators there are many more posi- WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY the local labor movement as a business agent tive years ahead for Livingston High School. for the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Em- Madam Speaker, our Nation’s high schools HON. TODD RUSSELL PLATTS ployees Union. This union serves thousands are places that prepare the youth of our great OF PENNSYLVANIA of workers in the hospitality and food service country to led prosperous lives, and it is an industries in the Chicagoland area. In 1985 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES honor to represent a high school that has such she became the First Vice-President of the a distinguished record on doing just that in the Thursday, April 24, 2008 Chicago Federation of Labor, and in 1995 was U.S. House of Representatives. I urge you to Mr. PLATTS. Madam Speaker, I rise to named ‘‘Labor Woman of the Year’’ by the join the in congratulating Livingston High commend the York-Adams County Central Chicago Federation of Labor. School on 100 years of excellence in edu- Labor Council, for helping to bring safety Jerre has given her time to a long list of cating the youth of Polk County. awareness to the issue of worker safety. worthwhile charities, including Concern World- f Every April for the past nineteen years, the wide USA, Misericordia, and Mercy Home for York-Adams Central Labor Council has cele- Boys and Girls. She has been a member of IN HONOR OF EQUAL PAY DAY brated Workers Memorial Day by sponsoring the Mercy Women’s Board for several years, public events to recognize workers who have as well as Vice President of the Women’s HON. AL GREEN been killed or injured on their job. Board from 2003–2005. OF TEXAS While the workplace fatality rate has de- Amazingly, she has managed to give so IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES creased significantly since the passage of the much of her time and energy to others while Occupational Safety and Health Act, OSHA, in also being devoted to another sizable organi- Thursday, April 24, 2008 1970, we must remain vigilant in working to zation—her family. Jerre has 12 children, 23 Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, ensure that workers are employed in safe en- grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren, and I wish to acknowledge and honor the 10 year vironments. As a Member of the House Edu- I am as impressed with the size of her family anniversary of Equal Pay Day, a national day cation and Labor Committee, I believe that en- as her commitment to service. of recognition instituted by President Clinton in suring worker safety should be one of Con- Madam Speaker, because of Jerre 1998 to raise awareness about the wage dis- gress’ top priorities. McPartlin’s tireless commitment to our com- parity and discrimination between men and Congress must appropriate adequate fund- munity, she has touched the hearts and lives women. ing for OSHA so that representatives can of thousands of Chicagoans. On behalf of the America has made some strides in nar- carry out safety inspections and enforce safety people of the Fifth Congressional District of Il- rowing this disparity in the workplace, but the regulations within workplaces across the Na- linois, I thank her for her service to the people fight for equal pay for equal work still remains tion. It is imperative that employers under- of Chicago and wish her the best of luck in prevalent and pertinent today. Thirty-five years stand OSHA regulations and comply accord- her future endeavors.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.064 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E732 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 SCHEDULE FOR THE SELECT COM- 93RD COMMEMORATION OF THE genocide. Unfortunately, the strong Turkish MITTEE TO INVESTIGATE THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE lobby is making it difficult for this House to VOTING IRREGULARITIES OF AU- take a firm stance for the truth. GUST 2 HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. Recognizing the Armenian genocide will OF NEW JERSEY bring closure to a people and send the mes- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sage that crimes against humanity cannot be HON. WILLIAM D. DELAHUNT silenced. Thursday, April 24, 2008 OF MASSACHUSETTS f Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to commemorate the 93rd anniversary of the HONORING THE SERVICE OF DR. Armenian genocide. As the first genocide of ERNEST MUNTZ Thursday, April 24, 2008 the 20th century, it is morally imperative that Mr. DELAHUNT. Madam Speaker, the Se- we remember this atrocity and collectively de- HON. HEATH SHULER lect Committee would like to give the Mem- mand reaffirmation of this crime against hu- OF NORTH CAROLINA bers a brief update on the activities of the Se- manity. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In 1915, Henry Morgenthau, America’s am- lect Committee to Investigate the Voting Irreg- bassador stationed in Istanbul described a Thursday, April 24, 2008 ularities of August 2. The Select Committee ‘‘systematic attempt to uproot peaceful Arme- Mr. SHULER. Madam Speaker, I rise today held a series of briefings and hearings de- nian populations.’’ He warned Washington of to honor the service of Dr. Ernest Muntz. Dr. signed to inform the members of the Select the government’s plan to ‘‘crush the Armenian Muntz left Wheaton College during his second Committee of the mechanics of conducting a race.’’ year to join his fellow countrymen in defending record vote on the House floor, the electronic After these warnings from Morgenthau, the freedom around the globe. Seeing his country voting system, and the precedents and proce- U.S. Government took action and responded in peril, simultaneously fighting a war on two dures relevant to the voting process. The Se- to the Armenian genocide. During a time when fronts, Dr. Muntz enlisted in the Army Air lect Committee has been conducting a thor- hundreds of thousands were left orphaned and Corps in 1942 because he believed that it was ough investigation of rollcall 814. including the starving, a time when a nation was on the ‘‘the right thing to do.’’ motion to reconsider that vote (rollcall 815). verge of complete extermination, the United During Dr. Muntz’s time of service in the The Select Committee has completed 18 staff States took the lead and proudly helped end Army Air Corps, he played a key role as a interviews and 4 Member interviews, perused these atrocities. In fact, Americans helped cryptographer in the Pacific Theater. He re- almost 5000 pages of documents related to launch an unprecedented U.S. diplomatic, po- ceived and deciphered messages as part of rollcall 814, and engaged in discussions on litical and humanitarian campaign to end the the Army Airways Communications System, possible recommendations of changes to the carnage and protect the survivors. saving lives with each decoded message. He rules and procedures of the House as man- Yet, 93 years later, the United States has retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1975 with dated by the Select Committee’s authorizing not officially recognized the Armenian geno- the rank of full Colonel. resolution (House Resolution 611). In the next cide. We owe it to the Armenian-American After the war, Dr. Muntz decided to com- month, the Select Committee will hold two community, to the 1.5 million that were mas- plete his education at Wheaton College, grad- public hearings relative to its investigation, one sacred in the genocide and to its own his- uating in 1948. He continued his education at public hearing relative to its recommendations, tory—to reaffirm what is fact. the University of Rochester, earning his doc- and one public meeting on its final report. The Last October, the Foreign Affairs Committee torate in history in 1960. Dr. Muntz held var- Select Committee intends to file its final report passed the Armenian Genocide Resolution, ious professorships and contributed his knowl- by the end of May. giving full recognition to the genocide, but, edge and passion for academia to institutions since then, the bill has stalled due to the deep of higher education. He had a distinguished f pocketed and well oiled Turkish lobby. career as a full professor of history at the Uni- By not recognizing the Armenian genocide versity of Cincinnati and then dean of the Ray- OBSERVING THE ARMENIAN for what it was, the government sponsored, mond Walters College. GENOCIDE systematic killing of a people, we fall prey to I am honored to have Dr. Ernest Muntz as the Turkish government’s threats. At the ex- my constituent, and I hope that today’s gen- pense of truth, we buckle to Turkey out of eration of young men and women will follow HON. TIMOTHY J. WALZ geo-political convenience. the shining example of patriotism and scholar- Refusing to recognize the Armenian geno- OF MINNESOTA ship that he has set. cide only erodes our international reputation f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES as human rights leaders. By remaining silent, we encourage Turkey to continue denial. 93RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE Thursday, April 24, 2008 While we look the other way, the Turkish gov- ARMENIAN GENOCIDE Mr. WALZ of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, ernment continues to prosecute those who today we mark a sad anniversary, the 93rd speak out about the Armenian genocide in HON. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART anniversary of the Armenian genocide, April Turkey. This cannot continue. We must stop OF FLORIDA 24, 1915 was the day that over two hundred pandering to Turkish government. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fortunately, there are citizens of Turkey Armenian political and intellectual leaders Thursday, April 24, 2008 were arrested by Ottoman authorities. Subse- who refuse to deny the facts of the Armenian Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. quently, the systematic killing of Armenians re- genocide. The Human Rights Association of Madam Speaker, every year we mark the an- sulted in well over one million deaths. This Istanbul opposes the government muzzle. niversary of a terrible event that took place horrible mass killing is well-recognized and They recognize that state denial is the con- over the years of 1915–1923, during the First well documented, including in the United tinuation of genocide, depriving the decedents of the Armenians the right to mourn their loved World War, when 1.5 million Armenians were States’ national archives, and it has been con- ones. slaughtered and over half a million survivors firmed by the International Association of We cannot let denial continue. By doing so, were forced to leave a homeland they had in- Genocide Scholars. we show the international community that not habited for over two millennia. Today marks It is important to commemorate those who only is genocide accepted, but that we are in- the 93rd anniversary of the Armenian geno- lost their lives. And it is important to recognize different. Recognizing the Armenian genocide cide. the Armenian genocide for what it was. At the is crucial to helping end the cycle of genocide I am a cosponsor of H. Res. 106, a resolu- time, the United States government and its that has continued to plague civilization. If no tion which simply affirms a historical fact. The citizens acted with generosity and diplomatic one is held accountable, if America and the United States National Archives and Record support in response to the mass killing. To- International community fail to act, then we Administration holds extensive records, open day’s observance is a continuation of that re- allow these atrocities to continue. to the public, which meticulously document the sponse. And only by recognizing and studying A large majority of our colleagues want to Armenian genocide. Furthermore, the post- past cases of genocide will we have a chance support this resolution. Members want to reaf- World War I Turkish government indicted lead- of preventing them in the future. firm the United States’ record on the Armenian ers who were involved in these killings which

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.068 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E733 it labeled a ‘‘massacre.’’ On May 24, 1915, the by the Tulare High School’s SOPAS Club. of the sovereign and independent State of Allied Powers of England, France, and Russia Both brothers have served as president of the Israel. issued a statement charging the Ottoman gov- SPDES and both are members of the TDES, Over the last 60 years. Israel has built a na- ernment of committing a ‘‘crime against hu- Land O’ Lakes Tulare Division, the Dairy tion, forged a new and democratic society, manity.’’ President Ronald Reagan in procla- Farmers of America, and the St. John’s of Tip- and created thriving economic. political, cul- mation number 4838, dated April 22, 1981, ton Men’s Club. tural and intellectual life. For six decades now, said, ‘‘like the genocide of the Armenians be- On April 25, Mario and Joe will be honored the United States and Israel have maintained fore it, and the genocide of the Cambodians, as ‘‘Farmers of the Year’’ at the annual a special relationship and the U.S. continues which followed it—and like too many other Kiwanis Luncheon in Tulare, CA. On behalf of to regard Israel as a strong and trusted ally persecutions of too many other people—the myself and Mr. COSTA, it is an honor to recog- and an important strategic partner. lessons of the Holocaust must never be for- nize their hard work and dedication to commu- On the House floor this week, H. Res. 322, gotten.’’ nity. Mario and Joe serve as a constant re- reaffirmed Congress’s support for Israel and The Armenian genocide resolution is offen- minder of the values of this Nation and the un- the bonds of friendship and cooperation which sive to some simply because it characterizes breakable spirit of the American people. have existed between the United States and that massacre as ‘‘genocide.’’ We do not use f Israel and commits to strengthening those that term loosely, but violence on such a tre- bonds. I too support Israel, its continued sta- mendous scale has earned that terrible title. L. NATHAN WINTERS RECEIVING bility, democratic principles and its important These deaths were not caused by the inevi- GIRL SCOUTS AWARD OF DIS- role in the Middle East by extending the warm- table hostility of war, but by systematic murder TINCTION est congratulations and best wishes to the aimed at eliminating a people. We gain noth- State of Israel and the Israeli people for a ing by pretending it was anything less. HON. SOLOMON P. ORTIZ peaceful, prosperous, and successful future. The United States Holocaust Memorial Mu- OF TEXAS f seum includes a quote from Adolf Hitler who IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2008 RETIREES FOR NORTH CEN- justified his own atrocities by saying, ‘‘[w]ho, Thursday, April 24, 2008 after all, speaks today of the annihilation of TRAL AREA SCHOOLS, MENOM- the Armenians?’’ Shortly thereafter, the world Mr. ORTIZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to INEE COUNTY, MICHIGAN would learn of the horrors of the Holocaust. congratulate Mr. L. Nathan Winters of Har- I wonder whether the horrors of the Second lingen, TX, for receiving the Award of Distinc- HON. BART STUPAK World War may have been averted had peo- tion from the Girl Scouts of Greater South OF MICHIGAN ple loudly and with conviction condemned the Texas. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Winters has been a valuable member of Armenian genocide of the First World War. Thursday, April 24, 2008 We cannot erase the events of history, and we our community and is known for his hard work ignore them at our peril. In the United States, and dedication to the Girl Scouts and numer- Mr. STUPAK. Madam Speaker, I rise to rec- we are still dealing with the consequences of ous nonprofit organizations. When serving on ognize four dedicated educators at the North slavery—a blight on our own historical record. the board of directors he was instrumental in Central Schools in Menominee County, Michi- But we cannot be committed to the principle of acquiring Camp Bayview to serve girls all over gan. These four individuals will be retiring at ‘‘never again’’ if we do not acknowledge the South Texas. He also served as president of the end of the current school year and I ask evil that first committed us to make that vow. the Girl Scouts Tip of Texas Council, which that you, Madam Speaker, and the entire U.S. f later merged with the Paisano Council. House of Representatives, join me in honoring Not only is Mr. Winters dedicated to the ad- their decades of service to educating children. RECOGNIZING MARIO AND JOE vancement of the Girl Scouts, but he is also Deborah Bedogne came to North Central SIMOES FOR THEIR ACCOM- a remarkable husband, father, and grand- Area Schools (NCA) in 1985 after teaching at PLISHMENTS father. Marquette Area Public Schools. She has The Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas served as a guidance counselor and taught HON. DEVIN NUNES serves more than 9,200 members in the 4- many different courses throughout her tenure OF CALIFORNIA county area, including girls in low-income pub- at North Central. Her assistance in helping IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lic schools, housing authorities, the Texas Mi- students choose their career path has im- grant Council, and Boys and Girls Clubs. pacted many lives, as has her dedication to Thursday, April 24, 2008 We are now in an era where more women the district and the students. Debbie’s guid- Mr. NUNES. Madam Speaker, I am honored serve as leaders in our government, corporate ance will be greatly missed by the NCA com- to join with my colleague, Mr. COSTA, to recog- board rooms, and communities. The Girl munity. nize these two brothers, Mario and Joe Scouts of America have done extraordinary Janice Hafeman started her career in edu- Simoes, for their accomplishments as both im- work in molding young women into positions cation in the North Central community with the migrants and farmers. where they go on to achieve great things. Northern Menominee Community School pro- After the death of their mother when they Their mission is to build girls of courage, con- gram in 1989. She later came to North Central were only 9 years old, Mario and Joe, aged fidence, and character, who—as women, lead- Area Schools in 1994 and has served as a 15, along with their father and younger sister, ers, sisters, and mothers—will make the world Teacher of Special Education and Adult Basic emigrated from Portugal in search of a better a better place. Education. Both in and out of the classroom life for their family. Their first jobs were with I commend the good work done by the Girl Janice treated all of her students with the ut- the Manuel Faria and Sons Dairy in California. Scouts of America, and the Girls Scouts of most respect and kindness. In 1970, some 20 years after coming to Amer- Greater South Texas Council for awarding Mr. Donald Palmer began his career at North ica, Mario and Joe bought their first dairy farm L. Nathan Winters their Award of Distinction. Central Area Schools in 2006 after serving as from this same family. Today, Mario and Joe, f Superintendent of Hesperia Community along with their extended families, own more Schools in Hesperia, Michigan. Although Mr. than 10,000 cows and farm around 3,000 RECOGNIZING THE 60TH ANNIVER- Palmer’s time with NCA schools was short in acres between them. SARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE years, in was great in impact, including a col- These brothers, born only 12 minutes apart, MODERN STATE OF ISRAEL umn that he wrote in the Escanaba Daily embody the hard work and perseverance that Press about his role as superintendent of are so emblematic of the first American immi- SPEECH OF schools. Throughout his career he has served grants. They have always shared a special HON. NICK J. RAHALL II as a teacher, principal and a Superintendent bond that has pushed them to share both their OF WEST VIRGINIA at several schools throughout the State of lives and livelihoods with each other. They IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Michigan. even share the same wedding anniversary, al- Mark Veeser was a dedicated and loyal though Joe was married four years after Tuesday, April 22, 2008 teacher at North Central Area Schools for 31 Mario. Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to years. He has taught in the very same com- Because of their active involvement in the recognize the 60th Anniversary of the founding munity that his mother, Nell Veeser, and agricultural community, Mario and Joe were of the State of Israel. On May 14, 1948, the brother, Greg Veeser, also taught. His wife both named as the 2007 Dairyman of the Year people of Israel proclaimed the establishment Barbara continues to teach there as well. Mark

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.072 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E734 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 Veeser not only shared his gift for teaching ning of the Armenian genocide. I rise today to PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION with the students of North Central Area commemorate this terrible chapter in human OF H.R. 2830, COAST GUARD AU- Schools, he also shared his gift of coaching history, and to help ensure that it will never be THORIZATION ACT OF 2008 with hundreds of NCA students throughout the forgotten. years. For 28 years he coached the Jets in SPEECH OF many capacities. The lessons he taught his On April 24, 1915, the Turkish government HON. SHEILA JACKSON-LEE began to arrest Armenian community and po- players on and off the field will live on forever. OF TEXAS Coach Veeser led the following teams: 19 litical leaders. Many were executed without IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES years with Varsity Football, 7 years with Junior ever being charged with crimes. Then the gov- Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Varsity Football, 4 years with Girls Track, 3 ernment deported most Armenians from Turk- years with Junior High & Freshman Boys Bas- ish Armenia, ordering that they resettle in Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, ketball, 3 years as a referee and one year Ottoman Syria. Many deportees never I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 1126, the Rule providing for consideration of H.R. each with Junior High Girls Basketball and reached that destination. Varsity Boys Track. 2830, the Coast Guard Authorization Act of Madam Speaker, the dedicated men and From 1915 to 1918, more than a million Ar- 2007. I also strongly support the underlying women who devote their careers to educating menians died of starvation or disease on long legislation, which will provide our Nation’s the next generation seldom receive the praise marches, or were massacred outright by Turk- Coast Guard with the resources it needs in they deserve. I ask that you and my col- ish forces. From 1918 to 1923, Armenians order to successfully execute all of its mis- leagues here in the United States House of continued to suffer at the hands of the Turkish sions. Representatives join me in thanking these four military, which eventually removed all remain- I would like to thank my colleagues, Con- gressmen OBERSTAR and CUMMINGS, for intro- outstanding individuals for their service and in ing Armenians from Turkey. wishing them well in their retirement. ducing this bill, as well as the Chairman of the We mark this anniversary of the start of the f Homeland Security Committee, Congressman Armenian genocide because this tragedy for THOMPSON, for his leadership on this important REMEMBERING VIRGINIA TECH the Armenian people was a tragedy for all hu- issue. Madam Speaker, I was pleased to work AND COLUMBINE manity. It is our duty to remember, to speak with Chairman THOMPSON and offer an out and to teach future generations about the amendment during our Homeland Security HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH horrors of genocide and the oppression and Committee markup to this important legisla- OF OHIO terrible suffering endured by the Armenian tion, which I felt improved the bill. My amend- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ment mandated the creation of a strategic plan people. Thursday, April 24, 2008 to utilize assistance programs to assist ports We hope the day will soon come when it is and facilities that are found by the Secretary Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, Wednes- not just the survivors who honor the dead but not to maintain effective anti-terrorism meas- day, April 16, 2008, was the anniversary of the also when those whose ancestors perpetrated ures. I am also offering an amendment on the tragic events on the campus of Virginia Tech House floor today calling on the Secretary of that took the lives of 32 people and wounded the horrors acknowledge their terrible respon- Homeland Security to examine the challenges many more. Sunday, April 20, 2008 marked sibility and commemorate as well the memory and delays faced by transportation workers the 9th anniversary of the Columbine High of genocide’s victims. seeking to obtain TWIC cards at enrollment School massacre. These events rank second Sadly, we cannot say humanity has pro- sites and mandates the development of and third among the deadliest school shoot- gressed to the point where genocide has be- timelines and benchmarks for implementing ings in the history of the United States. At the come unthinkable. We have only to recall the the findings of this assessment. same time, from the wreckage has emerged a ‘‘killing fields’’ of Cambodia, mass killings in As a member of the Homeland Security strong desire to prevent violence of this mag- Rwanda, ‘‘ethnic cleansing’’ in Bosnia and Committee, I believe protecting our Nation by nitude in the future. air, land, and sea to be critical to our national I am proud to be the sponsor of H.R. 808, Kosovo, and massacres and wholesale de- security interests. This bill, the Coast Guard to establish a Department of Peace and Non- struction of villages in Darfur to see that the Authorization Act of 2007, sets forth various violence, because this bill seeks to make non- threat of genocide persists. We must renew provisions that will be beneficial to our mari- violence an organizing principle in our society. our commitment never to remain indifferent in time interests, and consequently to our na- This cabinet-level department would address the face of such assaults on innocent human tional security. Included in the provisions are the myriad forms of violence that affect our beings. the establishments of grants for international Nation and the global community. As the dis- We also remember this day because it is a maritime organizations, the establishment of asters at Columbine and Virginia Tech have the Merchant Mariner Medical Advisory Com- shown, violence has deep and lasting con- time for us to celebrate the contribution of the mittee, and codified various provisions relating sequences that must be addressed by looking Armenian community in America—including hundreds of thousands in California—to the to Coast Guard personnel matters. at root causes and endeavoring to find pre- For some years now, I have been con- richness of our character and culture. The ventative solutions that are both dynamic and cerned about the diversion of Coast Guard re- comprehensive. The Department of Peace and strength they have displayed in overcoming sources from their historic missions of search Nonviolence would provide a systematic tool tragedy to flourish in this country is an exam- and rescue and marine safety, to homeland to accomplish this admirable goal. ple for all of us. Their success is moving testi- security missions. Since the creation of the We can all agree that violence in our mony to the truth that tyranny and evil cannot Department of Homeland Security, and the schools, among youth and adults alike, is an extinguish the vitality of the human spirit. Coast Guard’s inclusion in the Department, ongoing problem that must be addressed. one of the greatest challenges has been en- H.R. 808 is a way to address not only violence The United States has an ongoing oppor- suring that the funds that the Coast Guard in our schools but the violence that exists in tunity to contribute to a true memorial to the have traditionally received in order to perform our homes, workplaces and institutions past by strengthening Armenia’s emerging de- there duties remain intact so that they can ful- throughout our communities both nationally mocracy. We must do all we can through aid fill the responsibilities that American citizens and internationally. and trade to support Armenia’s efforts to con- rely on them to perform, namely ensuring the f struct an open political and economic system. safety of our nations seas, lakes, rivers, and COMMEMORATING THE 93RD ANNI- With the arrogance of absolute impunity, ports. VERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN Adolf Hitler famously urged his commanders We have to ensure that the Coast Guard GENOCIDE to attack Poland with no fear of history’s judg- will get their full funding needed to carry out their responsibilities, and that is precisely what ment because, as he put it, ‘‘Who remembers HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN this legislation does. This act authorizes ap- the Armenians?’’ The answer is, we do. And propriations for FY2008 for the Coast Guard. OF CALIFORNIA we will continue to remember the victims of Furthermore, this act also authorizes the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the 1915–23 genocide because, in the words FY2008 levels of Coast Guard active duty mili- Thursday, April 24, 2008 of the philosopher George Santayana, ‘‘Those tary personnel and average military training Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, April who cannot remember the past are con- student loans, allowing for sufficient human re- 24th, marks the 93rd anniversary of the begin- demned to repeat it.’’ sources for the Coast Guard to achieve its

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.076 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E735 designated goals. This bill explicitly authorizes participate in the cooperative technology pro- to ensure their progress and accountability, we end-strength by 1,500 members to 47,000 and gram and institutions of higher education with will make this Nation a safer place accessible increasing Coast Guard funding to $8.4 billion institutional research and academic program to labor and operations alike. which has not been done since the 1970’s. resources and experience. These and other Long before the horrific events of Sep- The act also includes provisions regarding measures included within this bill are abso- tember 11, 2001, citizens of America relied shipping and navigation, vessel size limits, lutely imperative as the Office of Workforce upon the Coast Guard to ensure the safety of maritime drug law enforcement, fishing vessel Planning has recently revealed that only 5 per- our waterways, and we depend on them still. safety, liability limits for natural gas deepwater cent of the officer corps is African American Therefore, I urge my fellow members of Con- ports, claims against the Oil Spill Liability Trust and only 12 percent of the officer corps is gress to also support the Coast Guard Author- Fund, dry bulk cargo residue, merchant mar- comprised of ethnic minorities, while in the last ization Act of 2007 and ensure this rich and iner matter, and security. 3 years the numbers of minority ascensions necessary tradition remains a thriving and Mr. Speaker, every year, 95 percent of the have actually decreased. useful part of not only our national defense goods coming into the United States arrive at The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2007 strategy but also to protect us and the envi- our nation’s seaports. These goods are also increases oversight and efficiency of the ronment from those threats by sea. shipped from ports around the world, some TWIC program, which was originally mandated I strongly urge my colleagues to join me in from developed countries and others from de- six years ago, yet continues to flounder. To supporting this rule and the underlying legisla- veloping countries. I am particularly concerned date only 230,000 out of an estimated 845,000 tion. about ports in developing countries. Devel- applicants have enrolled in the TWIC program, f oping countries have limited resources which while the deadline for enrollment is September means their ability to maintain effective anti- 25, 2008. While this provision of the Coast RECOGNIZING THE 60TH ANNIVER- terrorism measures is limited. Guard Authorization is both timely and impor- SARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE We can not allow terrorists to exploit this tant, there is still more which must be done in MODERN STATE OF ISRAEL limitation. Rather, we should work with devel- order to ensure that the program is both effec- oping countries and others to build up their tive and efficient, which is why I have offered SPEECH OF anti-terrorism measures. This assistance will an amendment. HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE benefit all of us. The developing countries will I would like to reiterate only few of the ob- OF OHIO gain the support they need, and we will close stacles that workers have faced in my state of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES a potential gap in our own supply chain. Every Texas as well in my district of Houston. For gap we close is one less gap that can be ex- example, a marine worker enrolled at the Tuesday, April 22, 2008 ploited by terrorists. I am pleased that this bill Houston Port enrolled on December 13, 2007. Mr. SPACE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to requires the Department of Homeland Security To this date, he still does not yet have a TWIC recognize the 60th anniversary of the Nation to develop a strategic plan to utilize existing card. He remained on hold for 4 hours and 10 of Israel. assistance programs to assist foreign ports minutes and was finally told by the operator I join a bipartisan group of my colleagues in and facilities that are found by the Secretary that he would have to return to Houston to be support for H. Con. Res. 322—a measure rec- not to maintain effective anti-terrorism meas- fingerprinted again after APR. Incidentally, a ognizing the 60th anniversary of the founding ures. This bill furthermore authorizes the representative of Higman Marine Services, of the modern State of Israel and reaffirming Coast Guard to lend, lease, and donate equip- Inc., asked the same question about their em- the bonds of close friendship and cooperation ment and provide technical training to non- ployee, and she was told that he should not between the United States and Israel. This compliant foreign ports or facilities. The mul- return until June. This blatant inconsistency in measure passed the House of Representa- tiple layers of security enhancement author- service and information is simply unaccept- tives earlier this week by a vote of 417 to 0. ized in this legislation will minimize the ability able. Furthermore, another transportation As a member of the Democratic Israel of terrorists to target to maritime commerce worker went to the Beaumont center about 3 Working Group, I am proud to commend Israel and negatively impact the global supply chain. weeks ago to pick up his TWIC after being no- and her people on the occasion of this signifi- I am pleased that the Coast Guard Author- tified it was ready. He traveled from Hemphill, cant milestone. ization Act of 2007 includes specific provisions TX (117 miles), and was told that the card We and the international community are relating to Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). was accidentally shipped to Houston and he grateful to Israel for her contributions in the Within this legislation, MSIs are defined as a could drive there (85 miles) to pick it up. He fields of agriculture, technology, and medicine historically Black college or university, a His- presently does not have his card. The list of to name a few. Furthermore, Israel is a true panic serving institution, a Tribal College or incidences in which workers have to contin- democracy in an unstable region of the world, University, a Predominantly Black institution, ually overcome structural impediments is too and the nation has long been an ally of the or a Native American-serving institution. Sec- long for me to name. It is from my concern for U.S. tion 901 of this important legislation states that these workers that I have introduced my Again, I join my colleagues in commending the Commandant shall establish a manage- amendment. Israel and in looking forward to a future of ment internship program for students at MSIs, My amendment calls for the Secretary of continued friendship. enabling them to intern at Coast Guard head- Homeland Security to compile an assessment f quarters or Coast Guard regional offices in an of the enrollment sites for transportation secu- effort to support the development of civilian, rity cards issued under section 70105 of title SUNSET MEMORIAL career-midlevel, and senior managers for the 46, United States Code within 30 days of en- service. This legislation furthermore instructs actment. The assessment should, at minimum, HON. TRENT FRANKS the Coast Guard to work with the National As- examine: The feasibility of keeping those en- OF ARIZONA sociation for Equal Opportunity in Higher Edu- rollment sites open 24 hours per day, and 7 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cation, the Hispanic Association of Colleges days per week, in order to better handle the Thursday, April 24, 2008 and Universities, and the American Indian large number of applicants for such cards; the Higher Education Consortium to create this in- feasibility of keeping those enrollment sites Mr. FRANKS of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I ternship program and authorizes $2 million to open after September 25, 2008; and the qual- stand once again before this House with yet be appropriated to this program. ity of customer service, including the periods another Sunset Memorial. It is April 24, 2008, Mr. Speaker, I have long stressed the im- of time individuals are kept on hold on the in the land of the free and the home of the portance of including this nation’s MSIs in the telephone, whether appointments are kept, brave, and before the sun sets today in Amer- effort to secure our nation. Section 903 of this and processing times for applications. ica, almost 4,000 more defenseless unborn legislation states that the Commandant shall My amendment furthermore calls on the children were killed by abortion on demand. establish a Coast Guard Laboratory of Excel- Secretary of Homeland Security to develop That’s just today, Madam Speaker. That’s lence-MSI Cooperative Technology Program timelines and benchmarks for implementing more than the number of innocent lives lost on at three minority serving institutions to focus the findings of the assessment as the Sec- September 11 in this country, only it happens on priority security areas for the Coast Guard, retary deems necessary. By identifying the every day. such as global maritime surveillance, resil- areas in which enrollment sites for homeland It has now been exactly 12,876 days since ience, and recovery. It also calls on the Com- security cards are ineffective and inefficient the tragedy called Roe v. Wade was first mandant to encourage collaboration among and creating a timeline through which to im- handed down. Since then, the very foundation the minority serving institutions selected to plement necessary changes and benchmarks of this Nation has been stained by the blood

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.081 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E736 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 of almost 50 million of its own children. Some It is April 24, 2008, 12,876 days since Roe Bethesda Hospital’s inter-disciplinary teams of of them, Madam Speaker, died and screamed v. Wade first stained the foundation of this Na- trained professionals develop individualized as they did so, but because it was amniotic tion with the blood of its own children, this in treatment plans for patients that may not only fluid passing over the vocal cords instead of the land of the free and the home of the include behavioral, cognitive, occupational, air, no one could hear them. brave. physical, respiratory, and speech therapies, And all of them had at least four things in f but also a variety of recreational therapies common. First, they were each just little ba- such as art therapy, pet therapy, and virtual bies who had done nothing wrong to anyone, CELEBRATING THE 125TH ANNI- therapy. and each one of them died a nameless and VERSARY OF BETHESDA HOS- Bethesda Hospital has been widely ac- lonely death. And each one of their mothers, PITAL IN SAINT PAUL, MN claimed for its award-winning programs and whether she realizes it or not, will never be services. In particular, the Brain Injury of Min- quite the same. And all the gifts that these HON. BETTY McCOLLUM nesota as well as The Commission on Accred- children might have brought to humanity are OF MINNESOTA itation of Rehabilitation Facilities have paid now lost forever. Yet even in the glare of such IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tribute to the hospital’s outstanding service in tragedy, this generation still clings to a blind, Thursday, April 24, 2008 the area of brain injury. invincible ignorance while history repeats itself Building on its specialty in treating brain in- and our own silent genocide mercilessly anni- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam juries, Bethesda Hospital continues to respond hilates the most helpless of all victims, those Speaker, today I rise to recognize Bethesda to the serious health care needs we face. Cur- yet unborn. Hospital on its 125th anniversary in Saint rently, Bethesda Hospital is collaborating with Madam Speaker, perhaps it’s time for those Paul, MN. Since its founding in 1883, this hos- the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, Min- of us in this Chamber to remind ourselves of pital has been a leader in our community in nesota National Guard, the Department of De- why we are really all here. Thomas Jefferson providing quality health care services through fense, and the Veterans Affairs Central Office said, ‘‘The care of human life and its happi- a compassionate and holistic framework. Be- in Washington, DC to identify ways that Be- ness and not its destruction is the chief and thesda Hospital is now the largest long-term thesda Hospital can serve the veterans and in- only object of good government.’’ The phrase acute care hospital in the region and has jured soldiers across our nation who are re- in the 14th amendment capsulizes our entire earned a national reputation for excellence turning from Iraq and Afghanistan. I am so Constitution, it says, ‘‘No State shall deprive and innovation in health care. pleased that Bethesda Hospital plans to an- any person of life, liberty or property without In 1883, Bethesda Hospital was established swer the call and serve our troops and vet- due process of law.’’ Madam Speaker, pro- by Reverend A. P. Monten, D.D., pastor of the erans who have served us so honorably. Be- tecting the lives of our innocent citizens and first Swedish Lutheran Church in Saint Paul, thesda Hospital has the expertise to conduct their constitutional rights is why we are all along with the sponsorship of the Tabitha So- critical predeployment baseline cognitive skills here. ciety of the Swedish Lutheran Minnesota Con- testing and follow-up post deployment testing The bedrock foundation of this Republic is ference. Rev. Monten and his fellow Swedish to evaluate our veterans’ health conditions and the clarion declaration of the self-evident truth Lutherans converted a single family home track their recovery. that all human beings are created equal and near Lake Como in Saint Paul into a hospital Madam Speaker, in honor of the legacy of endowed by their Creator with the unalienable with 20 beds to serve individuals who were caring that the dedicated donors, staff, pa- rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happi- impoverished and sick. tients, and volunteers at Bethesda Hospital ness. Every conflict and battle our Nation has Today, Bethesda Hospital stays true to its have created, I am pleased to submit this ever faced can be traced to our commitment deep roots, still helping those with illnesses re- statement for the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD to this core, self-evident truth. It has made us cover, regardless of their ability to pay. Be- recognizing the 125th anniversary of Bethesda the beacon of hope for the entire world. thesda Hospital has also remained in Saint Hospital. Paul these past 125 years. It has expanded its Madam Speaker, it is who we are. f And yet today another day has passed, and capacity since its modest origins, now pro- we in this body have failed again to honor that viding 262 beds for patients, employing 740 INTRODUCTION OF THE CITIZEN foundational commitment. We have failed our staff, and treating about 1400 patients on an AND COMMUNITY PREPARED- sworn oath and our God-given responsibility annual basis. NESS ACT OF 2008 as we broke faith with nearly 4,000 more inno- Bethesda Hospital has grown greatly cent American babies who died today without throughout its history. In 1892, Bethesda HON. HENRY CUELLAR the protection we should have given them. moved from its Lake Como neighborhood to OF TEXAS Madam Speaker, let me conclude in the downtown Saint Paul at 9th and Wacouta IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES hope that perhaps someone new who heard Streets, near the Union Depot. This new facil- this Sunset Memorial tonight will finally em- ity featured two operating rooms on the third Thursday, April 24, 2008 brace the truth that abortion really does kill lit- floor which were known to be the best oper- Mr. CUELLAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today tle babies; that it hurts mothers in ways that ating rooms in the whole state. to introduce the Citizen and Community Pre- we can never express; and that 12,876 days Despite additions to Bethesda’s facility at paredness Act of 2008, which reaffirms the spent killing nearly 50 million unborn children 9th and Wacouta, it eventually outgrew that lo- Federal Government’s commitment to helping in America is enough; and that the America cation. By 1932, after an intense fundraising our communities prepare for and respond to that rejected human slavery and marched into campaign to construct a new hospital, it re- acts of terrorism, natural disasters and other Europe to arrest the Nazi Holocaust is still opened at what is still its current home, just emergencies. courageous and compassionate enough to steps away from the State Capitol. I am glad to be joined today in introducing find a better way for mothers and their unborn As Saint Paul and its surrounding area has this bipartisan bill by the Ranking Member of babies than abortion on demand. changed over the years, Bethesda Hospital my Subcommittee—the Subcommittee on So tonight, Madam Speaker, may we each has also adapted to meet the community’s de- Emergency Communications, Preparedness remind ourselves that our own days in this veloping needs. During the closing and con- and Response—the gentleman from Pennsyl- sunshine of life are also numbered and that all solidation of hospitals in 1986, Bethesda vania, CHARLIE DENT. too soon each one of us will walk from these joined together with St. John’s and St. Jo- I am also pleased to have Homeland Secu- Chambers for the very last time. seph’s Hospitals to merge under the newly rity Committee Chairman BENNIE THOMPSON, And if it should be that this Congress is al- created HealthEast Care system. Three years as well as Congresswoman SHEILA JACKSON lowed to convene on yet another day to come, later, Bethesda was officially designated as a LEE, as original cosponsors of this legislation. may that be the day when we finally hear the Long-Term Acute Care Hospital to focus on They are true leaders in the area of emer- cries of innocent unborn children. May that be treating patients who require extensive and gency preparedness and have been instru- the day when we find the humanity, the cour- rigorous therapy to recuperate. mental in the drafting of this bill. age, and the will to embrace together our Bethesda Hospital is now a specialty hos- If a disaster—whether large or small—oc- human and our constitutional duty to protect pital serving a wide-range of patients of all curs in a community, local responders and dis- these, the least of our tiny, little American ages and illnesses, such as student football aster-relief organizations will be there to help, brothers and sisters from this murderous players with concussions, car accident sur- but citizens need to be ready as well. scourge upon our Nation called abortion on vivors, and patients dealing with multiple scle- In fact, when individual citizens, families and demand. rosis, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. communities are prepared, the fear, anxiety,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.086 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E737 and loss that accompany disasters is substan- to assist them in preparing for acts of ter- COMMEMORATING THE 93RD ANNI- tially minimized. rorism and other emergencies. VERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN It is imperative that citizens know what to do Addressing the issue of citizen prepared- GENOCIDE in the event of an emergency and be ready to ness continues to be a major issue for our Na- either shelter in place or evacuate their tion. HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN homes. In fact, the National Governors’ Association OF MARYLAND People must be ready to care for their basic 2007 State Homeland Security Directors Sur- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES needs should they be displaced for a period of vey, which polled the 56 State and territorial time. homeland security advisors, cited citizen pre- Thursday, April 24, 2008 As we move toward the 3-year anniversary paredness as one of the top 5 priorities for Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I rise of Hurricane Katrina and the 7-year anniver- their States. today to commemorate the 93rd anniversary sary of 9/11, we must not lose sight of the les- It is now time to stop paying lip service to of the Armenian Genocide, in which 1.5 million sons learned from these disasters. the issue of citizen and community prepared- Armenian men, women, and children were While I recognize that the most effective ness and to start acting. killed by Ottoman authorities during World War emergency preparedness programs and mes- In closing Madam Speaker, let me say that I. sages are delivered locally and not from our citizens’ lack of preparedness is often On April 24, 1915, the Ottoman government Washington, we must ensure that the Depart- cited as an impediment to an effective emer- began its genocidal plan by arresting and mur- ment of Homeland Security is working with gency response. I believe this legislation will dering over 250 Armenian intellectuals and po- State and local partners, providing them with make strides to change that fact and I urge litical figures in Istanbul. In the interior of the the tools they need to get the message out. my colleagues to support it. Ottoman Empire, where the bulk of the Arme- Following the tragic events that occurred on f nian population lived, the government then ar- September 11, 2001, Federal, State and local rested and killed village leaders. Meanwhile, SBIR/STTR REAUTHORIZATION ACT government officials agreed that the formula most able-bodied Armenian men, who had for ensuring a more secure and safer home- SPEECH OF been conscripted into the Ottoman army, were land consists of preparedness, training, and separated into labor battalions and subse- citizen involvement in supporting first respond- HON. MARK UDALL quently murdered. Next, in various provinces, ers. OF COLORADO gendarmes and the army massacred Arme- As a result, the Citizen Corps Program and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nian villagers outright, while in other prov- Ready campaigns were created. Wednesday, April 23, 2008 inces, the remaining Armenian population of To date, with limited resources available, women, children and the elderly were forcibly The House in Committee of the Whole over 2,000 communities in all 56 States and House on the State of the Union had under deported over the mountains and into the territories have established Citizen Corps consideration the bill (H.R. 5819) to amend scorching deserts of Syria, without food and Councils to help inform and train citizens in the Small Business Act to improve the Small water. Many of the female deportees were emergency preparedness, and promote vol- Business Innovation Research (SBIR) pro- raped and killed en route, while other deport- unteerism. gram and the Small Business Technology ees died of starvation and dehydration. By the However, I think these programs can be im- Transfer (STTR) program and for other pur- end of 1915 the centuries-old Armenian civili- proved. poses: zation of eastern Anatolia no longer existed. The legislation I am introducing today for- Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Madam Chairman, U.S. diplomats who were stationed in mally authorizes the Citizen Corps Program I rise in support of H.R. 5819, the SBIR/STTR Anatolia at the time were some of the main and provides it with the necessary funding to Reauthorization Act. Enactment of this bill will eyewitnesses and chroniclers of that horrific be effective. extend important programs that improve Amer- period. U.S. Consul Leslie Davis, stationed in It also authorizes key Citizen Corps compo- ican competitiveness in the world, and I urge Harput in eastern Anatolia, wrote the following nents administered by the Department of its adoption. in a cable to U.S. Ambassador Henry Morgen- Homeland Security—Fire Corps and CERT. The State of Colorado houses a strong and thau, dated July 24, 1915: ‘‘It has been no se- Fire Corps promotes the use of volunteers vibrant collection of cutting-edge small busi- cret that the plan was to destroy the Armenian to assist fire and rescue departments in non- nesses, and businesses in my own district em- race as a race, but the methods used have operational roles such as fire safety outreach, ploy SBIR awards to promote advanced re- been more cold-blooded and barbarous, if not youth programs, and administrative support. search in aeronautic, biotechnology, and other effective, than I had first supposed.’’ He also The Community Emergency Response important industries. This bill will ensure that wrote in this same cable: ‘‘I do not believe Team, CERT, program concept was devel- small businesses and research firms will con- there has ever been a massacre in the history oped and implemented by the Los Angeles tinue to have access to the capital that en- of the world so general and thorough as that City Fire Department in 1985 and has since ables them to compete with large firms both at which is now being perpetrated in this region spread to over 1,000 communities nationwide. home and abroad. Ultimately, this bill is about or that a more fiendish, diabolical scheme has Under the CERT Program citizens are train- increasing competition and ensuring that good been conceived in the mind of man.’’ ing citizens in basic disaster response skills, ideas are not lost for a lack of resources. This cable, and many others of a similar na- such as fire safety, light search and rescue, This bill also modernizes the SBIR and ture, is housed in the U.S. National Archives team organization, and disaster medical oper- STTR programs in order to better suit the only a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol and ations. needs of small businesses, ensuring that small the White House. They provide unambiguous, As our Nation continues to glean lessons businesses that receive funding from venture documentary evidence of what occurred. Yet from the catastrophic events of Hurricane capital firms are allowed to receive SBIR there are those who still refuse to properly Katrina, the Federal Government must ensure grants. Though some suggest that this policy characterize what happened to the Armenian that preparedness efforts help our Nation’s undermines the spirit of the program, the re- people during World War I as genocide. Al- most vulnerable populations. ality for many small businesses is that their though the word ‘‘genocide’’ was not invented To that end, this legislation requires the most consistent sources of funding are from in 1915, what these diplomats described was Secretary to work closely with organizations venture capital firms and the SBIR program. indeed genocide of a people. representing the elderly, the disabled, the This bill proposes sensible limits on the partici- I am deeply disappointed that many of our hearing and visually impaired, communities pation of venture capital firms so that small current officials avoid characterizing what oc- with language and income barriers, and chil- businesses can continue to rely on these two curred as ‘‘genocide.’’ This avoidance does a dren to promote preparedness. important sources of funds. disservice to the memory of the victims and This legislation will also create a pilot pro- As co-chair of the House Science, Tech- their descendants, and hurts our moral stand- gram to enhance citizen preparedness at pri- nology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) ing in the world. I hope that one day soon, this mary and secondary schools, as well as on Education Caucus and a representative of a legislative body and the U.S. Administration university or college campuses, by providing district with a major research institution, I sup- will properly characterize what happened to training, exercises, and public awareness port this legislation because it will help keep the Armenian population of the Ottoman Em- campaigns. America more technologically and economi- pire. Finally, my bill directs the Secretary to carry cally competitive. I commend the committees Many of the survivors of the Armenian out a public affairs campaign utilizing diverse for their hard work on this legislation, and I genocide settled in the United States. Bearing media outlets to get the word out to the public look forward to its enactment. painful physical and emotional scars, they

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.089 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E738 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 nonetheless re-established their lives here, HONORING DR. LON NUELL’S PAS- conversation that you are having that they are worked hard, and became proud American SION FOR THE ARTS AND EDU- an Aggie and what year they graduated, espe- citizens, thankful for the opportunity to live in CATION cially if you are not one. But with all their freedom. Many of their descendants have be- whooping and hissing, comes one tradition come leaders in the fields of science, busi- HON. BART GORDON that I have the greatest respect for—Aggie ness, academia, and the arts, and have OF TENNESSEE Muster. Last week, on April 21st, Aggies all around served their country bravely in military uniform. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES They have also created a vibrant community. the world paid tribute to those that have gone Yet they also bear the pain of what their par- Thursday, April 24, 2008 before them. This time honored tradition ents and grandparents went through and are Mr. GORDON of Tennessee. Madam began in June of 1883 as a reunion of sorts actively engaged in the effort to seek proper Speaker, I rise today to honor my friend, Dr. of former students reliving their college days recognition of what happened to the Armenian Lon Nuell, who passed away March 12. from the ball field to the battlefield. By 1889 it people in 1915. Today, as we recall the Leon Richard Nuell served on the had evolved into a celebration of Texas Inde- events of the Armenian genocide and pay Murfreesboro City School Board for 12 years pendence, and in 1922 it became the official homage to the victims, we also honor the Ar- and taught as an art professor at my alma ceremony it is today that is held every year on menian-American community for its unwaver- mater, Middle Tennessee State University, for April 21st—San Jacinto Day—the day Texas ing commitment to this human rights struggle. 37 years. He was up for re-election to the won its independence in 1836—to account for school board this year and received nearly every Aggie around the world by honoring the f 400 votes posthumously as a testament to his ‘‘Roll Call of the Absent.’’ legacy. According to tradition, ‘‘if there is an A&M HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE Lon did many things to improve the quality man in one hundred miles of you, you are ex- OF FIRST SERGEANT LUKE J. of education for children in Murfreesboro, in- pected to get together, eat a little, and live MERCARDANTE cluding banning the practice of corporal pun- over the days you spent at the A&M College ishment, championing full-time art teachers in of Texas.’’ The most famous example of this HON. DARRELL E. ISSA each city school and establishing the edict was the Muster of 1942 under the com- mand of General George Moore during World OF CALIFORNIA Murfreesboro City Schools Foundation, an or- ganization that fundraises for local schools. War II. Amid fierce enemy fire, General Moore IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Lon was a founding member of Congrega- and 25 fellow Aggies mustered in the trenches Thursday, April 24, 2008 tion Micah in Nashville and the Tennessee on Corregidor in the Philippines. A war cor- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to Holocaust Museum. He facilitated the acquisi- respondent observed the make-shift ceremony honor the life and service of United States Ma- tion of two exhibits to educate the public and the world was introduced to the Aggie rine First Sergeant Luke J. Mercardante. through art—exhibits the Tennessee Holo- spirit. During times of war, Muster is especially Luke Mercardante was the First Sergeant caust Museum is now releasing to tour the poignant. Texas A&M has produced more offi- for Combat Logistics Battalion 24, the logistics United States. Lon was the faculty advisor of cers in the United States military than even element of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. MTSU’s Hillel and helped establish Friends-in- West Point. It has the distinction, other than Luke was 35 when killed in the line of duty on Faith, an interfaith group with members rep- West Point, of having more Medal of Honor April 16th in Kandahar province of Afghanistan resenting almost every religion in Middle Ten- winners than any other university in the United while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. nessee. Prior to his unexpected passing, several States. When General George Patton was in First Sergeant Mercardante’s position re- Europe going to combat in the Third Army, he quired him to serve as a leader, but leadership community programs—Read to Succeed, Suc- cess by 6 and Project Pass—were estab- made a comment about the Texas Aggies and came naturally. He is remembered for his love the soldiers that he had under his command. for country and ability to inspire those around lishing a literacy center in a space provided by First Baptist Church on East Main Street in He said, ‘‘Give me an army of West Point him. Other Marines described him as the ‘‘pic- graduates and I will win a battle. You give me ture-perfect Marine.’’ Murfreesboro. It is fitting tribute that they have named the center the Lon Nuell Family Lit- a handful of Texas Aggies, and I will win the Mercardante enlisted in the Marine Corps in eracy Center. Lon believed in education for war.’’ 1992, graduating from Parris Island as the everyone and in the strength of collaboration. The Aggies’ long tradition of duty and serv- company honor graduate. He later served on Lon will be sorely missed by the community, ice to our great nation dates back their begin- a deserter apprehension team and was re- his friends and family; wife, Christie and three ning, to the days when A&M was an all-male sponsible for apprehending more than 130 de- sons, but his legacy will live on. military academy. Texas A&M trained nearly serters. As a drill instructor at Marine Corps f 4000 troops during World War I and over Recruit Depot Parris Island. Mercardante 20,000 Aggies served in World War II, 14,000 trained more than 1,200 men, turning them AGGIE MUSTER as officers. The entire graduating classes of from civilians into Marines. Later, he served at 1941 and 1942 enlisted in the military. The Camp Lejeune, North Carolina as the training HON. TED POE Aggie War Hymn was written by Aggie Marine chief and brig security for the base. He was OF TEXAS J.V. ‘‘Pinky’’ Wilson while standing guard on assigned to the Virginia Military Institute as the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Rhine River during World War I and it re- assistant Marine officer instructor and was mains the most recognizable school fight song Thursday, April 24, 2008 voted an honorary member of the class of across the country—probably the world. 2007, as well as faculty mentor of the year in Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, I may not ex- Today, Muster is observed in more than 400 2005. actly be the biggest Texas A&M fan around. places worldwide and this year’s ‘‘Roll Call of First Sergeant Mercardante’s personal deco- And, I possibly ruffle a few maroon feathers the Absent’’ honored 970 people around the rations include the Navy and Marine Corps from time-to-time poking fun at the Aggies. world, including those remarkable young men Commendation Medal with 3 gold stars in lieu But, one thing I can say without a doubt is that and women who gave their lives for our coun- of 4th award, Navy and Marine Corps there is no school known to man that has as try today. While this is a time to honor those Achievement Medal with 1 gold star in lieu of loyal a following and dedication to tradition as that have died, it also is a time when Aggies, 2nd award, and the Outstanding Volunteer Texas A&M. Trust me I know, I hear about young and old, come together to reconnect Service Medal. every little quirky thing they do from my friend and celebrate a way of life known only to Luke was engaged to Kimberly Hull and and former case manager, Patti Chapman—or those that proudly call themselves an Aggie. planned to marry when he returned from Af- ‘‘Aggie Mama’’ as her license plate proudly Muster means different things to different ghanistan. He is survived by Kimberly, his reads, and from Congressman Louie Gohmert people. Every Aggie will tell you something dif- mother Gertrude, father Patrick, brothers Pat- from East Texas, with his maroon boots ferent, something personal about what it rick Jr., Frank and Mark, sister Bridget and his adorned with the Aggie logo. means to them as an Aggie. One thing that is children Luke II and Cailin. You can always spot an Aggie, either from consistent in every answer is their dedication On behalf of the people of the United States their personalized license plate, their maroon to tradition. It is the rich heritage of tradition whom he served with courage and valor, we pickup adorned with A&M stickers, or the that sets Texas A&M apart from all the rest. It honor and commemorate the life and service ring—don’t forget the ring! And I have yet to is the Corps, the Aggie War Hymn, the 12th of First Sergeant Luke J. Mercardante. meet an Aggie that doesn’t work in to any Man, Midnight Yell, Bonfire, State pride, and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24AP8.093 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS April 24, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E739 as much as it pains me to say it—it’s TU. It’s When will Americans say enough is enough, RECOGNIZING THE 60TH ANNIVER- the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band, Silver Taps stop the killing! SARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE and ‘‘Hallabaloo, Canek, Canek.’’ It’s the Junc- f MODERN STATE OF ISRAEL tion Boys, Howdy, Gig’em, Reville, the Dixie Chicken and of course, the ring. But above all JOHN ARCHIBALD WHEELER SPEECH OF else—it’s Muster. SPEECH OF HON. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART Gig’em Ags! OF FLORIDA And that’s just the way it is. HON. RUSH D. HOLT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f OF NEW JERSEY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, April 22, 2008 COMMEMORATING THE ARMENIAN Tuesday, April 22, 2008 Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Mr. GENOCIDE Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Israel as Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, on April 13, 2008, it celebrates its 60th anniversary. Israel is not HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN America lost one of its greatest scientific only a close military ally and trade partner, it OF CALIFORNIA minds. Dr. John Archibald Wheeler influenced is also a true friend of the United States. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES generations of scientists (including me) and The United States shares Israel’s commit- his imprint on the field of physics and our col- Thursday, April 24, 2008 ment to peace and freedom. We share a com- lective understanding of the universe we in- mitment to democracy, the Rule of Law and Mr. WAXMAN. Madam Speaker, each year habit cannot be overstated. we share a culture that honors life—not that on April 24, Armenian communities around the Wheeler began his career in the company of glamorizes death. Perhaps more than any world commemorate the start of the Armenian men whose names are well known to history— other people, Israel understands the insidious- genocide. This year marks the 93rd anniver- Niels Bohr and Albert Einstein. Wheeler, who ness of evil and the need for good people to sary of this ominous date in history when Otto- earned his Ph.D. in physics at age 21, went to remain vigilant against it. We share a great man authorities began rounding up leaders of Denmark a year after earning his degree to deal, Madam Speaker. It is no accident that the Armenian community. The arrests were study under Bohr, who at the time was on the the United States and Israel are such great followed by eight years of massacres, death cutting edge of nuclear research. It was only friends. marches, and forced deportations to rid the after Bohr fled Denmark in 1939—just months Despite frequent and cowardly attacks, this Ottoman Empire of its Armenian population. before the Nazi occupation of the country— young country has withstood every missile, At the time, American diplomats, under the that Wheeler learned of the research Bohr and every grenade, every car bomb, every suicide leadership of U.S. Ambassador Henry Mor- others had been conducting into the possibili- bomber. Israel has weathered the violence of genthau, Sr., recorded and reported informa- ties and ramifications of nuclear fission. terrorist groups such as Hamas and tion about these atrocities. While the calls for Ultimately, Wheeler would join Robert Hezbollah, which have vowed Israel’s destruc- international action were soon eclipsed by the Oppenheimer and others on the Manhattan tion and which receive copious funding from tumult of World War I, the State Department’s Project, turning America into the world’s first Iran and Syria. Israel must combat these con- historical records of these accounts are a re- nuclear power. Later, Wheeler would play a stant and cowardly attacks, but rarely does the markable example of the important role our key role the development of thermonuclear world acknowledge the restraint shown by diplomatic corps play as human rights observ- weapons and become an advocate of the war Israel in defending itself, trying always to wage ers around the world. in Vietnam and of the creation of a ballistic this war of survival with reverence for innocent I am pleased to be a cosponsor of H. Res. missile defense system for the United States. life. 106, a resolution affirming the United States But for all his work on weapons of war, his While rockets rain down on Israel from ter- record on the Armenian Genocide, which calls passion was trying to understand the workings rorists operating in Gaza, Israel continues to for our foreign policy to reflect the U.S. record of the universe. allow the delivery of food and medicines relating to this painful chapter of history. As We owe the term ‘‘black hole’’ to Wheeler, across the Gaza border. Although Hamas we mourn the victims of the Armenian geno- who initially resisted the idea of the existence seizes humanitarian aid for its own nefarious cide and pay tribute to the survivors, let us of these stellar phenomena but was ultimately uses and exploits humanitarian vehicles to look forward to the opportunity for the House persuaded of their existence by the mathe- smuggle weapons and explosives, Israel con- to consider H. Res. 106 and stand up to those matical work of Dr. David Finklestein and oth- tinues to allow aid to flow across its border who seek to deny the genocide that took ers. In this, Wheeler demonstrated the traits of with Gaza. While Israel’s enemies purposely place. the best scientists: a willingness to challenge, target the innocent, Israel responds with tac- f and ultimately change, his views based on the tical strikes against terrorists, their weapons facts and evidence. bases, and their command centers to protect THE DAILY 45: 41 PEOPLE SHOT IN When he reached Princeton University’s the innocent. While the forces of extremism 5 DAYS IN CHICAGO mandatory retirement age in 1976, Wheeler and terrorism continue to barrage freedom-lov- was not ready to walk away from the profes- ing people in Israel and around the globe, I HON. BOBBY L. RUSH sion he loved. He moved to Texas, taking up am heartened to see that the forces of evil OF ILLINOIS residence at the University of Texas at Austin have failed to destroy the basic goodness of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and continued his investigation into the work- those who struggle against terror so that they ings of the universe, seeking to understand Thursday, April 24, 2008 may live in peace and freedom. ‘‘how everything fits together.’’ He continued to Mr. Speaker, on the occasion of Israel’s Mr. RUSH. Madam Speaker, the Depart- teach, lecture, and write for many more years, 60th anniversary, I am honored to have this ment of Justice tells us that, everyday, 45 and his influence on at least two generations opportunity to congratulate Israel for its tre- people, on average, are fatally shot in the of physicists will be felt for generations to mendous contributions to the world and to ex- United States. In light of the shocking turn of come. press my profound gratitude for Israel’s un- events in the last five days in Chicago, I can Dr. Wheeler’s wife of 72 years, the late Ja- wavering friendship with the United States. imagine a day in the near future when this nette Hegner Wheeler, passed away in Octo- f number may rise. ber 2007 at age 99. The Wheelers are sur- Yesterday, just seven blocks from my office, vived by their three children, Ms. Lahnston 40 YEARS AFTER ITS FOUNDING, in the heart of my own congressional district, and Letitia Wheeler Ufford, both of Princeton; THE PEACE CORPS CONTINUES this Southside community was left reeling be- James English Wheeler of Ardmore, Pa.; 8 ITS MISSION WITH STRONG SUP- cause five people—five people—were found grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, 6 step- PORT FROM MAINE shot to death in one home! As I mentioned grandchildren and 11 step-great grandchildren. yesterday, 36 people were shot in Chicago I am pleased to join my colleagues in hon- HON. THOMAS H. ALLEN over a 48-hour period of time last weekend. oring John Wheeler through H. Res. 1118. We OF MAINE That’s 41 people shot or killed, in only five can honor him best by recommitting ourselves IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES days, in one American city. Who will tell their to making America the world leader in sci- stories? Who will care about them? entific research and achievements, and I will Thursday, April 24, 2008 Americans of conscious must come together certainly do all I can to make that another of Mr. ALLEN. Madam Speaker, in March, we to stop the senseless death of ‘‘The Daily 45.’’ Dr. Wheeler’s lasting achievements. marked the 47th anniversary of the founding

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:51 Apr 25, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K24AP8.004 E24APPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E740 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 24, 2008 of the Peace Corps. This unique service orga- gime in Khartoum continues to stymie the im- On June 4, 1944, General Eisenhower nization continues to fulfill its mission across plementation of a peacekeeping force, and the spoke to Ernest and thousands of other troops the globe, bringing people together, and en- peace process has ground to a halt. From the over a loud speaker telling them an invasion lightening both American volunteers and the U.N. come frightening new figures—300,000 of France would begin on June 6 and said, people and communities they serve. dead and the vast majority of the region’s pop- ‘‘Soldiers, sailors and airmen of the Allied ex- After President John F. Kennedy estab- ulation, 4.27 million out of 6 million, now ‘‘seri- peditionary force, you are about to embark lished the Peace Corps, 51 Americans ously affected’’ by the conflict. upon the great crusade, toward which we Clearly, patterns repeat themselves. Which stepped forward to assume the challenge to have striven these many months. The eyes of is all the more reason why, in commemorating serve. the world are upon you. The hopes and pray- Today, there are over 8,000 volunteers the 20th century’s first genocide, one cannot ers of liberty-loving people everywhere march serving in over 74 countries around the world. help but feel compelled to redouble our efforts with you. . . . I have full confidence in your They work in areas such as education, busi- to resolve the 21st century’s first genocide— courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. ness development, environment, health and that of Darfur. HIV/AIDS, and agriculture. They live the Mid- The Genocide Convention speaks not only We will accept nothing less than full Victory! dle East, Africa, Asia, Latin America, and of addressing genocide after it has hap- Good Luck! And let us all beseech the bless- Eastern Europe. They are both young and pened—but also of preventing genocide. This ing of Almighty God upon this great and noble seasoned, but all contribute enormous skills, day of commemoration should remind us all undertaking.’’ knowledge, compassion and commitment to that we have a responsibility not only to honor Ernest landed on Omaha Beach with the help people help themselves. Over the years, the victims of genocide and their families, not 531st on June 15th, nine days after D-day. Maine has contributed many volunteers to the only a responsibility to the past, but to the fu- Facing fierce battles along the way, Ernest’s Peace Corps. Current Maine residents now ture. In the face of continuing genocide, we division first encountered the Germans at serving are: have a responsibility for action—not apathy. Isigny, France. During his march to Germany, Cassandra M. Atwood in Tonga, Michael T. In a July 24, 1915 cable, American Consul Leslie Davis said of the genocide of Arme- Ernest participated in the Battle of the Bulge, Berg in Armenia, Clarissa L. Brundage in which started on December 16, 1944. Three Togo, Selina H. Carter in Ecuador, Andrea D. nians, ‘‘I do not believe there has ever been a massacre in the history of the world so gen- powerful German armies with over 500,000 Danielson in Gambia, Shawn C. Donohue in men plunged into the heavily forested Mali, Greg N. Dorr in Malawi, Laura N. Dow in eral and thorough as that which is now being Ardennes region of eastern Belgium and China, John M. Engler in Guatemala, Jeffrey perpetrated in this region or that a more fiend- northern Luxembourg. The Americans were E. Frank in Belize, Rebecca B. Friedrichs in ish, diabolical scheme has ever been con- able to stop them at Malmedy. Togo, Joseph P. Guglielmetti in Zambia, Ben- ceived by the mind of man.’’ Today, those jamin C. Hatch in Mali, Clint O. Benslev in Ro- words strike us not only as tragic—but as out- Ernest dug in his defensive position at mania, Richard E. Higgins in the Philippines, dated. The troubled 20th century showed us, Malmedy not more than 100 yards from where Sarah W. Holt in Ecuador, Matthew P. Krannig again and again and again, that the mind of 86 American prisoners had been massacred in Nicaragua, Jessica E. Lampron in South Af- man is more than capable of such diabolical by the Germans the day before. For 5 days in rica, Karen A. Lee in Swaziland, Joshua D. schemes. a row his unit was under air attack in Malmedy Lincolns in Bolivia, David A. Ludman in Benin, Today, burdened by the memory of those by Americans who thought the city had fallen Ran L. Mastropaolo in the Eastern Caribbean, crimes, we remember and rededicate. Today to the Germans. Ernest eventually marched we return to the origin of genocide, and we Joshua R. Meservey in Zambia, Matthew A. into Germany and met up with Russian sol- honor the dead. Let us find in their memory Mowatt in Kazakhstan, Joel L. Patterson in diers on April 17, 1945. Senegal, James Perlow in South Africa, Nancy not only grief, but new resolution—to speedily Ernest’s unit also went to Buchenwald con- L. Sherrill in South Africa, John W. Shryock in end today’s atrocities, to prevent those of to- centration camp. They found piles of human Bulgaria, Emily E. Silver in Tanzania, Jessica morrow, and to punish all those who would at- J. Sleeper in Vanuatu, Zoe J. Underhill in Ec- tempt or carry out evil on such a scale. bones and piles of eyeglasses five feet tall, as uador, Aaron A. Weiss in Moldova, Cheney J. f well as lamp shades made out of human skin. Wells in Costa Rica and Nicholas B. Wilson in The prisoners that remained were skin and TRIBUTE TO ERNEST LEROY bone. Ernest did occupational duty as a guard Gambia. PETERSON I am proud that Maine, a small state in pop- at a prison in St. Marc, France, before return- ulation, is making such a big difference in the HON. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE ing to the United States. He received an hon- world. My deep gratitude goes to these volun- orable discharge from the Army on November OF COLORADO teers for serving their country, the Peace 14, 1945. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Corps and world peace. For his service to this Nation, Ernest was Thursday, April 24, 2008 f awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the Amer- Mrs. MUSGRAVE. Madam Speaker, I rise ican Campaign Medal, the European-African- 93RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE today to pay tribute to the patriotic public serv- ARMENIAN GENOCIDE Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the World ice and self sacrifice of Ernest LeRoy Peter- War II Victory Medal, the Honorable Service son. Lapel Button, the Sharpshooter Badge and Ernest LeRoy Peterson was born on De- HON. STENY H. HOYER Rifle Bar and the Marksman Badge and Sub- OF MARYLAND cember 28, 1920, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to machine Gun Bar. He was also awarded the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Oscar and Nora Peterson. He was the second eldest son of eight children. As a child, he Croix de Guerre by the French for volun- Thursday, April 24, 2008 moved to the eastern plains of Colorado, teering to go on a special mission to push the Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, today we where his family was involved in farming. Germans back across the Rhine River as well commemorate one of the most tragic chapters In August 1942, he was drafted into the as the Fourrage`re of Belgium for his part in in human history: the Armenian genocide, 531st Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion, 30th the liberation of Belgium. whose 93rd anniversary is marked today. Army Division, as a private. He completed On April 13, 2008, Ernest LeRoy Peterson From 1915 to 1923, officials of the Ottoman basic training at Ft. Bliss, Texas and then ad- passed away at the age of 87. He is survived Empire carried out a systematic campaign of vanced combat training at Camp Coxcomb, by his wife of 57 years, Charlotte, his two chil- massacres and forced deportations of Arme- California. He later advanced to the rank of dren, six grandchildren, and four great-grand- nians from their homeland. All told, 1.5 million sergeant and section chief of Squad 13, children. innocent men, women and children were mur- Eighth Gun Crew. dered in this genocide, and 500,000 became On February 12, 1944, his battalion sailed Madam Speaker, I am honored to pay trib- refugees and displaced persons. out of Boston Harbor aboard the RMS Em- ute to Mr. Peterson and other men and And sadly, we see this pattern—of geno- press of Australia, bound for England. The women who have given so much for our free- cide—repeating itself today. It is no coinci- ship, one of the largest transport vessels, held dom. Like so many other members of the dence that on this very day of commemora- 6,800 troops. Ernie’s bunk was in the swim- ‘‘Greatest Generation,’’ I urge my colleagues tion, the news from Darfur grows only worse. ming pool due to the lack of space. After 10 to join me in expressing my heartfelt gratitude While the world’s worst humanitarian and days on the high seas, the unit debarked at and sincere appreciation for the patriotic serv- human rights crisis continues to unfold, the re- the bomb-scarred city of Liverpool. ice of Mr. Ernest LeRoy Peterson.

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