December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2603 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

TRIBUTE TO CIRCLE SEAL Monty Hoppel, Miles and Bob have created his truck driving career for his Dad’s business. CONTROLS 60TH ANNIVERSARY one of the most successful teams in the his- Paul and his family moved to Rapid City in tory of the Texas League. 1950 where he started a 25-year career as an HON. KEN CALVERT Under the direction of Miles, Bob, and over-the-road, sleeper, truck driver for United Monty, the RockHounds have twice won the OF CALIFORNIA Buckingham Transport. He also drove for Texas League Championship and have been AMOCO Oil Co. of Rapid City from 1975 to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES honored as the Double-A organization of the 1990, when he retired. Tuesday, December 18, 2007 year. In choosing the RockHounds as the re- He loved fishing, hunting, traveling and Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today cipients of the President’s Trophy, Minor camping in the Black Hills as well as and to honor and pay tribute to Circle Seals Con- League Baseball has recognized the many throughout the American West, Mexico, and trols, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in years of hard work and deep community in- Canada. In 1965, he helped organize the Corona, California. On November 29, 2007, I volvement as the best in the nation. ‘‘Black Hills Hillbillies’’, a camping club associ- was proud to attend the anniversary celebra- The RockHounds would not be the team ated with the Red Dale National Campers tion. they are today without the people of the Per- Club, serving as the Head Scout for the Hill- Circle Seal has a long, proud tradition of mian Basin who have generously rewarded billies and hosting a number of National Ral- quality manufacturing in southern California. their efforts with over 270,000 clicks of the lies in South Dakota, as a 36-year member. Circle Seal’s home for the last 15 years is also turnstile this year alone—a franchise attend- Paul and Isabelle spent 10 years wintering my hometown—Corona. The state-of-the-art ance record. in Apache Junction, AZ, meeting many new facility has 300 employees and provides In addition to fielding a great ball club, the friends in the RV Park and taking bus trips in equipment for military and commercial aircraft, RockHounds management works tirelessly to Arizona, California and Mexico. Paul and Isa- U.S. Navy ships, the Space Shuttle, and other raise money for the community—especially belle raised two daughters, Paula Kay rocket and missile applications. local schools and youth sports organizations. LaPorte, who is married to John LaPorte, and The evolution of the industrial defense base Led by the hugely successful West Texas Deborah Ann Phelps, who is married to Mike has allowed the U.S. government to get out of Sports Banquet and Memorabilia Auction, the Phelps. They have four grandchildren and four the manufacturing business and let contrac- RockHounds participated in over 80 fund- great-grandchildren. tors, who can do it better and cheaper, pro- raisers this year and helped to raise over Madam Speaker, we are so fortunate to live vide essential platforms and components. $100,000 this year for programs in the Per- in this great country where freedom is some- Without Circle Seal’s expertise, our F–18s, mian Basin. thing that we rarely have to think about and Global Hawks and V–22s don’t get off the The President’s Trophy is the most coveted often take for granted. It is simply a way of life ground. Right now, our troops are relying on award in Minor League Baseball as it is given for us, and we are truly blessed to live in a the products made by Circle, and the pride the in recognition of ‘‘overall franchise excel- country whose citizens willingly volunteer to employees take in their work is a part of the lence’’. It takes into account the success of put themselves in harm’s way to defend and success on the battlefield. I thank Circle Seal the franchise, its relationship with the sur- protect our great Nation. I am proud to honor Paul for his dedicated for all their hard work and their relentless pur- rounding community, and its contributions to service to our Nation. Paul is an American suit of excellence. baseball. On all of these measures, the Mid- Circle Seal’s past successes have ensured land RockHounds are a model team and I am hero who left his home to defend our Nation, a continued relationship with the U.S. govern- honored to represent the organization and its and then returned home to be a valued mem- ment—I’m proud to see that the company also fans here in Washington. ber of his community, showing his children contributes to the C–17, the KC–767 Tanker Madam Speaker, it is with great pride and and grandchildren how to live meaningful lives and the Navy LCS programs. Their dem- tremendous respect that I recognize the of service. Paul truly is the embodiment of all onstrated reliability and quality are exactly achievements of the Midland RockHounds the values that have molded America into the what the government needs. I look forward to today. Their successes on and off the baseball great Nation it is today. May God bless Paul a continued strong relationship with Circle field have made the Permian Basin a better and his family, may God bless our precious Seal and, again, I commend the company on place to live and I can think of no team more veterans, and may God bless America. their anniversary and—most importantly—the deserving to earn the 2007 John H. Johnson f President’s Trophy. people who make Circle Seal a valued and in- CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 1585, tegral part of the community. f NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- f TO HONOR PAUL VICTOR TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 LINSTROM TRIBUTE TO THE MIDLAND SPEECH OF ROCKHOUNDS HON. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY OF COLORADO OF ILLINOIS HON. K. MICHAEL CONAWAY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF TEXAS Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Wednesday, December 12, 2007 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mrs. MUSGRAVE. Madam Speaker, I rise Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in Tuesday, December 18, 2007 today to honor Paul Victor Linstrom who was opposition to H.R. 1585, the National Defense Mr. CONAWAY. Madam Speaker, I rise born May 31, 1926, in Whitewood, SD. Paul Authorization Act. Although this bill includes today to salute my hometown baseball team, attended school in Sturgis, SD. He joined the some very important provisions, like the pri- the Midland RockHounds, as they received the Navy in August of 1943, finishing his high vate security contracting language I fought so John H. Johnson President’s Trophy honoring school GED and naval training at the U.S. hard to include, I am unable to support this them as the best team in Minor League Base- Naval Training Station at Farragut, ID. He was legislation because it authorizes $41.8 billion ball. listed as a graduate of the class of 1944 at to continue the war in Iraq. It is unfortunate The Midland RockHounds, owned by Miles Sturgis High School. He was assigned to the that this funding was part of this bill because Prentice and Bob Richmond, are a community Pierre Victory troop transport ship as a signal- otherwise I would have been proud to vote for institution in the Permian Basin. Miles and Bob man and spent his military tour in the South this legislation. Nevertheless, I am very proud both have a deep passion for America’s pas- Pacific. Paul was honorably discharged from of the provisions to increase oversight and time, and it shows in the success of the the Navy in July 1946. transparency over private security contractors, RockHounds. Together with their management Paul married Isabelle Gerhard on Sep- which Representative PRICE, Senator OBAMA team, headed by longtime General Manager tember 21, 1946, in Sturgis, where he started and I worked so hard to include in this bill.

∑ 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 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.012 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2604 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 This bill contains important provisions to special young man who has exemplified the data for scientific and societal benefit testifies regulate private security contractors, including finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by to the Nation’s sound investment in a public nearly all of the provisions from H.R. 897, the taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of good. Iraq and Afghanistan Contractor Sunshine Act, America, and in earning the most prestigious My home State of Colorado has two compa- which I introduced in February to give Con- award of Eagle Scout. nies that demonstrate the excellent commer- gress access to the basic information nec- David has been very active with his troop, cial applications that have developed from the essary for us to do our job of providing gravely participating in many Scout activities. Over the initial Federal investments made in space- needed oversight of private contractors. The many years David has been involved with based remote sensing exemplified by the Defense Authorization Act would give Con- Scouting, he has not only earned numerous Landsat program. DigitalGlobe in Longmont gress access to information about contractors merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- and GeoEye in Thornton have both become in Iraq and Afghanistan including a description ily, peers, and community. international leaders in the remote sensing of each contract, the value of each contract, Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join fields. the total number of personnel employed on me in commending David Relic for his accom- I think it is important for this body to express contracts and the total number of contractors plishments with the Boy Scouts of America our collective thanks to the many scientists, killed or wounded. I am happy to see these and for his efforts put forth in achieving the engineers, and program personnel who have provisions from my legislation included in to- highest distinction of Eagle Scout. contributed to Landsat’s success over the past day’s bill. f three and a half decades. As a result of their The series of lethal incidents involving pri- efforts, Landsat data has become an indispen- vate security contractors in Iraq over the past INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION sable source for a host of beneficial applica- 2 months have made it crystal clear that we CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF tions that have improved our quality of life and must provide oversight of private contractors. SPACE-BASED OBSERVATIONS OF enhanced our economic vitality. In addition, This National Defense Authorization Act would THE EARTH BY LANDSAT SPACE- Landsat data are important scientifically. For increase oversight by the Department of De- CRAFT AND LOOKING FORWARD example, the U.S. Climate Change Science fense and the Department of State by man- TO SUSTAINING THE LONGEST, Program has recognized the significance of dating that they create clear regulations to CONTINUOUS RECORD OF CIVIL the Landsat program, noting that ‘‘Landsat govern contractor conduct, investigate any vio- EARTH OBSERVATIONS OF THE data are invaluable for studying the land sur- lent incidents like the September 16th LAND face and how it affects and is affected by cli- Blackwater shooting, and clarify contractors’ mate.’’ use of force. HON. MARK UDALL However, while today’s resolution recog- Further, any new contract signed 180 days OF COLORADO nizes the benefits we have accrued from past after the bill is enacted would have to contain IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES investments in the Landsat program, it is clear that more can be gained from this program in a clause saying that contractors must comply Tuesday, December 18, 2007 with the new regulations and that all contract the years to come. I urge my colleagues to personnel performing private security contracts Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Madam Speaker, join me in ensuring that the benefits that are understand that they must comply with U.S. today I am introducing a House resolution to possible from civil space-based land observa- laws and the laws of the host country, orders celebrate 35 years of space-based observa- tions, as well as from commercially available issued by the combatant command, rules on tions of the Earth by Landsat spacecraft, an remote sensing systems, continue to be real- the use of force, and any investigation into accomplishment that has helped revolutionize ized. By supporting the research, technology, violent incidents conducted by DOD. If they do our understanding of the Earth’s land surface education, and tools required to improve not comply, their contract could be terminated. as well as enable a wide range of applications Landsat data collection and applications, we This will create a powerful tool that the United of Landsat data that have had significant soci- can look forward to further scientific advance- States could use to ensure that private secu- etal benefits. ments and societal benefits from this critical rity contractors follow the law and are held re- The Landsat program began with the launch national asset. sponsible for their actions. of the first civilian Earth observation satellite Madam Speaker, in closing, I again want to The National Defense Authorization bill also on July 23, 1972, by the National Aeronautics salute all those who helped make Landsat goes a long way toward restoring troop readi- and Space Administration, NASA. The sat- possible and who work to maintain its contin- ness. It includes a badly needed 3.5 percent ellite, originally known as the Earth Resources ued successful operation, and I hope that my pay raise for servicemembers and prohibits in- Technology Satellite, was later renamed colleagues will join me in supporting this reso- creases in TRICARE and pharmacy user fees. Landsat 1. Since the first Landsat satellite, five lution. The bill also includes the Wounded Warrior follow-on spacecraft have been successfully f launched to continue the space-based collec- Act to address the problems experienced by PERSONAL EXPLANATION wounded and injured servicemembers that be- tion of land data. This series of Landsat sat- came apparent earlier this year at Walter ellites has established the longest, unbroken Reed. record of data on the global land surface. HON. JOHN R. CARTER I also support the increase in the number of The extensive three and a half-decade OF TEXAS visas for the brave Iraqis who have worked record of Landsat data has allowed scientists IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES with the United States and have been targeted to study changes to the Earth’s land cover Tuesday, December 18, 2007 over time, including changes influenced by for their efforts. Mr. CARTER. Madam Speaker, on Decem- While I cannot vote for the bill because it in- both human and natural causes. The applied uses of the data have served numerous pur- ber 17, 2007, I was unable to be present for cludes $41.8 billion for the war in Iraq without two rollcall votes due to technological com- a withdrawal deadline, I would like to thank poses, including natural resource manage- ment, land use planning, cartography, and plications with my vote notification system. Chairman SKELTON for addressing so many of If present, I would have voted accordingly my concerns about bringing accountability to food security, to cite just a few examples. The data collected through the Landsat pro- on the following rollcall votes: rollcall No. private contracting and to the wars in Iraq and 1163—‘‘aye’’; rollcall No. 1164—‘‘aye.’’ Afghanistan. gram are being used by many Federal agen- cies including NASA, the Department of the f f Interior and its U.S. Geological Survey, the PERSONAL EXPLANATION RECOGNIZING DAVID LOUIS RELIC Department of State, the Environmental Pro- FOR ACHIEVING THE RANK OF tection Agency, the Department of Defense, HON. ELTON GALLEGLY EAGLE SCOUT the Department of Agriculture, the Department OF CALIFORNIA of Justice, the Department of Transportation, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and the Department of Homeland Security and HON. SAM GRAVES Tuesday, December 18, 2007 OF MISSOURI its Federal Emergency Management Agency, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES among others. In addition, academic institu- Mr. GALLEGLY. Madam Speaker, I was un- tions, State, county, and local governments, able to make the following rollcall votes on Tuesday, December 18, 2007 private industry, foreign governments, and December 17, 2007: Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly non-governmental organizations are users of H. Res. 856, Resolution expressing heartfelt pause to recognize David Louis Relic, a very Landsat data. The broad application of these sympathy for the victims and families of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.015 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2605 shootings in Omaha, Nebraska, on Wednes- music played over a radio, and fewer still who United States Code, certain general and per- day, December 5, 2007. On the Motion to have not tuned in to hear news, traffic or manent laws related to public contracts. This Suspend the Rules and Agree (rollcall No. emergency information. The American radio bill was prepared by the Office of the Law Re- 1163), I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ tradition is akin to apple pie or baseball. It is vision Counsel, as part of its functions under H. Res. 851, Resolution honoring local and part of the American consciousness, and, with 2 U.S.C. § 285(b). State first responders, and the citizens of the the help of HD radio, will remain so. This bill is essentially identical to H.R. 5414, Pacific Northwest in facing the severe winter Even so, the past few decades have seen favorably reported by the Committee on the storm of December 2 and 3, 2007. On Motion huge changes in how people consume music. Judiciary in the 109th Congress, updated to to Suspend the Rules and Agree (rollcall No. Terrestrial radio once dominated new music incorporate enactments that took place after 1164), I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ awareness. This fact meant that if a consumer the earlier bill was prepared. H. Res. 873, Resolution waiving a require- wanted to buy a song, they were likely to hear This legislation is not intended to make any ment of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to it on the radio first. Radio therefore had a dra- substantive changes in the law. As is typical consideration of certain resolutions reported matic promotional impact on music sales. with the codification process, a number of from the Committee on Rules. On Ordering However, even at the outset of mass music non-substantive revisions are made, including the Previous Question (rollcall No. 1165), I broadcasting in the United States, when Con- the reorganization of sections into a more co- would have voted ‘‘no.’’ gress exempted terrestrial radio from paying herent overall structure, but these changes are H. Res. 873, Resolution waiving a require- artists a royalty, terrestrial radio was making not intended to have any substantive effect. ment of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to money off of artists’ work and paying nothing The bill, along with a detailed section-by- consideration of certain resolutions reported for it. section explanation of the bill, can be found on from the Committee on Rules. On Agreeing to As time went on and records lost market the Law Revision Counsel Web site at http:// the Resolution (rollcall No. 1166), I would share to 8-tracks, cassettes, CDs, and now uscode.house.gov/cod. have voted ‘‘no.’’ MP3s, and terrestrial radio lost market share The Committee on the Judiciary hopes to H. Con. Res. 271, Sine Die Adjournment to cable radio, internet radio and satellite act on this bill after providing an opportunity resolution of the 1st Session of the 110th Con- radio, consumer dependence upon terrestrial for public review and comment. In addition to gress. On Agreeing to the Resolution (rollcall radio gradually decreased. Terrestrial radio no sharing concerns with the Committee, inter- No. 1167), I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ longer serves the same promotional role for ested persons are invited to submit comments H. Res. 878, Resolution providing for con- music sales that it once did, but terrestrial to Ken Paretzky, Senior Counsel, Office of the sideration of the Senate amendment to H.R. radio is still exempt from paying a royalty to Law Revision Counsel, U.S. House of Rep- 2764, State, foreign operations appropriations, artists. Additionally, the other music platforms resentatives, H2–304 Ford House Office Build- FY 2008. On Ordering the Previous Question do pay for the right to broadcast music. ing, Washington, DC, 20515–6711, (202) 226– (rollcall No. 1168), I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ The ‘‘Performance Rights Act’’ encourages 9061. H. Res. 878, Resolution providing for con- parity in music broadcasting by requiring ter- sideration of the Senate amendment to H.R. restrial broadcasters to pay for the music they f 2764, State, foreign operations appropriations, use. Stations that gross over $1,250,000 will TRIBUTE TO DR. RICHARD AMOS FY 2008. On Agreeing to the Resolution (roll- negotiate with artists to pay a fair royalty. call No. 1169), I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ ‘‘Small’’ stations, those grossing under that H.R. 4286, To award a congressional gold amount, can opt to pay a flat rate of $5,000. HON. ROBERT E. (BUD) CRAMER, JR. medal to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in recogni- Public broadcasters can elect to pay a flat rate OF ALABAMA tion of her courageous and unwavering com- of $1,000. Talk radio that only uses music inci- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mitment to peace, nonviolence, human rights, dentally is exempt from paying as are religious Tuesday, December 18, 2007 and democracy in Burma. On Motion to Sus- services. All together, approximately 77 per- pend the Rules and Pass (rollcall No. 1170), cent of all radio will have to pay artists virtually Mr. CRAMER. Madam Speaker, it is with I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ nothing to use music. This bill is not the great honor that I rise today to recognize Dr. H.R. 2764, Department of State, Foreign boogeyman that detractors will make it out to Richard Amos upon his departure as Deputy Operations, and Related Programs Appropria- be. to the Commanding General of the U.S. Army tions for FY 2008. On agreeing to Senate However, this bill is, I believe, unfinished. Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM) at amendment with 1st House amendment (roll- The songs that individuals consume via terres- Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL. Dr. Amos call No. 1171), I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ trial, satellite, cable, and internet radio contain is stepping down at the end of this year to H.R. 2764, Department of State, Foreign the same notes and the same voices regard- pursue opportunities outside of Federal serv- Operations, and Related Programs Appropria- less of which platform does the broadcasting. ice. tions for FY 2008. On agreeing to Senate Yet they pay different rates, sometimes vastly Madam Speaker, this is the second time amendment with 2nd House amendment (roll- different rates. We need to look further into that I have risen to honor Dr. Amos in the call No. 1172), I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ these disparities, and I look forward to working CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, a rare tribute in my H. Con. Res. 254, Resolution recognizing with Chairman HOWARD BERMAN and others on 17 years in Congress. Dr. Amos, a native of and celebrating the centennial of Oklahoma correcting any inconsistencies in current law. Huntsville, has served as the Deputy to the statehood. On the Motion to Suspend the The arguments that supported exempting Commanding General since 2004. In this posi- Rules and Agree (rollcall No. 1173), I would terrestrial radio from paying a performance tion, he is the top civil servant at Redstone. have voted ‘‘aye.’’ right have been eroded by the passage of He is responsible for managing over 11,000 f time and technological innovation. We all military and civilian employees and tasked yearn for the nostalgia of yesteryear and with providing our Nation’s warfighters with the SUPPORTING THE ‘‘PERFORMANCE American terrestrial radio is a big part of that, most up-to-date technology and tools. RIGHTS ACT’’ but our recollections of the past do not support Dr. Amos was promoted to the Senior Exec- injustices into the future. Radio has changed. utive Service in 2000 and previously served as HON. DARRELL E. ISSA Terrestrial radio should pay for the right to use the Director of the System Simulation and De- OF CALIFORNIA the music from which it benefits. velopment Director at the Aviation and Missile Research Development and Engineering Cen- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f ter (AMRDEC) also located at Redstone. Tuesday, December 18, 2007 INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION Throughout his tenure, he has diligently Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in TO CODIFY TITLE 41, U.S. CODE worked to serve our soldiers and ensure the support of the ‘‘Performance Rights Act,’’ Army is able to meet the ever-changing needs which was introduced today. This legislation, HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR. of our country. long in the making, has the simple goal of re- OF MICHIGAN Madam Speaker, today his family, friends, quiring that those who generate revenue from IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and colleagues throughout the North Alabama the use of music, pay for the use of music. defense community celebrated his Federal Terrestrial broadcasters have a strong and Tuesday, December 18, 2007 service and accomplishments. I rise to join meaningful relationship with the American Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, Ranking them in their tribute and to thank Dr. Amos for public. There are few of us who do not have Member LAMAR SMITH and I are introducing a his many years of Federal service. I wish him wonderful memories that are accompanied by bill to codify into positive law as title 41, the very best for the future.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.020 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2606 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 IN TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY OF the finest qualities of citizenship and leader- THE ‘‘PERFORMANCE RIGHTS ACT’’ VESTER EUGENE SHULER ship by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts OF 2007 of America, and in earning the most pres- HON. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE tigious award of Eagle Scout. HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN OF COLORADO Justin has been very active with his troop, OF CALIFORNIA participating in many Scout activities. Over the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES many years Justin has been involved with Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Scouting, he has not only earned numerous Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Mrs. MUSGRAVE. Madam Speaker, I rise to merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, today, I join pay tribute to the memory of Vester Eugene ily, peers, and community. my colleagues in both the House and the Sen- Shuler whose warm heart and love of music Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join ate in introducing ‘‘The Performance Rights touched many lives in Colorado. Gene was me in commending Justin Schultz for his ac- Act’’ of 2007. This legislation is a first step at born in Choestoe, GA, and first came to Colo- complishments with the Boy Scouts of Amer- ensuring that all radio platforms are treated in rado when he was 13 years old to work in the ica and for his efforts put forth in achieving the a similar manner and that those who perform sugar beet fields in Weld County. He traveled highest distinction of Eagle Scout. music are paid for their work. back and forth between Georgia and Colorado f This narrowly tailored bill amends a glaring frequently in his early years and later raised inequity in America’s copyright law—the provi- CONGRATULATING THE COLORADO sion in section 114 that exempts over-the-air his family in North Park Colorado. ROCKIES ON WINNING THE NA- Gene spent summers working in Colorado broadcasters from paying those who perform TIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP while attending school in Georgia. He proudly the music that we listen to on AM and FM served in the United States Army and was SPEECH OF radio. For as long as I have been working on sent to Germany in 1945. During his tour of the intellectual property subcommittee, I have duty he was a mechanic who supervised a ga- HON. MARK UDALL been troubled by this policy that sets America rage. He returned home to Georgia to marry OF COLORADO apart from every other developed country in his sweetheart Loujine Young on July 17, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the world. The purpose of the bill is to take a 1948. Monday, December 17, 2007 necessary step towards platform parity so that The young couple soon headed west and Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise any service that plays music pays those who spent time working and living with Gene’s today in support of this resolution congratu- create and own the recordings—just as sat- brother Grady and his wife Ethel. They later lating the Colorado Rockies on their National ellite, cable, and internet radio stations cur- moved to North Park where Gene worked as League Championship and first-ever franchise rently do. a welder and mechanic with Ozark Mahoney. appearance in the World Series. I understand that this legislation raises A labor strike closed the mine and sent the The entire Colorado delegation joined me in some difficult political issues. Several people young family to California to spend some time introducing the resolution, and it is now co- have expressed some very legitimate con- with relatives. They soon returned to North sponsored by more than 50 other Members of cerns—like the need to accommodate small Park, living in Cowdrey, Pine Springs and fi- Congress. I greatly appreciate their support. broadcasters, the possibility of jeopardizing nally Walden. Gene worked for the Wilford The Rockies defied the odds this year by the revenues earned by songwriters and Garage, Cooper Motors and the Sigma Coal making it to the World Series, capturing the music publishers, or expanding the scope of Mines. best hopes of Coloradans and giving us all a the law governing music played in restaurants Music played a large part of Gene’s life. As reason to cheer for their success. Despite a and other public venues. So let me begin by a young boy Gene stuttered. He began play- tough loss to a great team in the Boston Red clarifying how we have narrowly tailored this ing music at a young age; it gave him a way Sox, we remain proud of the Rockies’ efforts legislation— to say things he couldn’t make out in words. and astonished at their historic rise to the top (1) The bill repeals the current broadcaster He realized that he could do with music what of the National League. exemption—but it does not apply to bars, res- he couldn’t do with words. He knew when it Toward the close of the season, the Rock- taurants and other venues, or expand copy- was time to start the music and what music ies were the underdogs in the National right protection in any other way. everyone loved to hear. If you knew him at all, League pennant race. The challenge of mak- (2) The bill provides an accommodation of then he knew your favorite song. He truly ing the playoffs seemed as large and daunting protection for small and non-commercial loved the time he shared with the people he as the mountain range for which the Rockies broadcasters by setting a low flat annual fee cared about. were named, but the team maintained an opti- with no negotiation, litigation or arbitration ex- Gene and Loujine raised 2 children, Carl mism and competitive spirit that kept them penses. Nearly 77 percent of existing broad- Shuler and Gwen Hanson. They were blessed alive long after commentators had written casting stations in this country—including col- with 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grand- them off. Winning 21 of their last 22 games lege stations and public broadcasters—will children. They enjoyed traveling and visited prior to the World Series—an unprecedented pay only a nominal flat fee, rather than having Georgia, Florida, Texas, California, Wyoming, feat in baseball history—the Rockies rolled to pay a percentage of their revenues as roy- Arizona and many places in between. over expectations and swept the Arizona alties. Gene’s life was a lesson in how to enjoy Diamondbacks in the NLCS. (3) The bill extends copyright protection to life, honor God, care for others, face difficul- The World Series proved to be a bigger artists, musicians, and the sound recording la- ties with courage, and make a positive impact challenge than the Rockies could surmount, bels—it does not harm or adversely affect the on the world. I am proud to honor Gene, a and they lost in four games to a very talented revenues rightfully paid to songwriters and precious veteran, who is the embodiment of all Red Sox team. Despite the losses, the Rock- other existing copyright owners. the values that have molded America into the ies carried themselves with dignity and true For over 20 years I have been convinced great Nation it is today. May God bless his sportsmanship, giving Coloradans something that fairness mandates that all those in the family, may God bless our veterans, and may to be proud of. creative chain from the artist, musicians and God bless America. As the father of two young athletes I can others who bring the recording to life—get compensated for the way they enrich our lives. f say that the way the Rockies carried them- selves is a tremendous example for our young The U.S. is the only developed country in the RECOGNIZING JUSTIN COLBY people. We would have loved to have seen world that does not require privately owned SCHULTZ FOR ACHIEVING THE the Rockies bring home a victory this year, over-the-air radio stations to compensate RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT but, as Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez those performers who create the music that said during the ALCS, there’s always next broadcasters use to attract the audience that HON. SAM GRAVES year. I know I am not alone in looking forward generate their ad revenues. Because of music, OF MISSOURI to watching some great Rockies baseball in radio is able to profit. Not compensating those IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the future. who create the music is unfair and ultimately I urge all our colleagues to join me in con- harmful to music creation that benefits every- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 gratulating the Colorado Rockies on a great one—including the broadcasters. Furthermore, Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly season and in thanking them for serving as the law requires all other platforms in the U.S., pause to recognize Justin Colby Schultz, a great examples of professional athletes prac- including satellite and Internet radio, to com- very special young man who has exemplified ticing sportsmanship. pensate the copyright owner.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.024 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2607 Songwriters and music publishers rightly do the Nation and in countries around the world, Furthermore, for non-commercial/public get paid when their song is played on the American music is heard throughout the broadcast stations (irrespective of size) the radio, but the artist whose voice or musical tal- streets. People are consuming more music rate is capped at $1,000 per year per station. ent brings in the ad revenue for the station Finally, for those stations that broadcast than ever. Yet the music industry is in crisis. religious services or make ‘‘incidental use of never receives a penny from the station. That The total value for the music industry at retail musical sound recordings’’ such as brief mu- means that under existing law, when you hear declined from $14.5 billion in 1999 to $11.5 sical transitions in and out of commercials ‘‘White Christmas’’ on the radio this holiday billion in 2006. So, any claim that radio should or program segments, or brief performances season, the estate of Irving Berlin will get paid get a free ride because so-called ‘‘free airplay’’ during news, talk and sports programming for the words and music that he wrote. But the contributes to record sales just isn’t true. there is an outright exemption. estate of Bing Crosby will not—even though it Record sales have fallen 18 percent since Section 4. Availability of per program license is the tone and texture of his voice that sym- 2000. This section allows terrestrial radio sta- bolizes Christmas for so many. This disparity In 1995 Congress took a step forward and tions to obtain program licenses for sound makes no sense. Therefore, in an effort to established a limited performance right for dig- recordings (at separately set rates), in lieu of begin the journey towards parity among plat- ital sound recordings. Yet, the performance blanket licenses. In some cases, a radio sta- forms and fairness to artists, the bill as intro- right Congress created with one hand was tion may not make many featured uses of duced will affect three areas where there is taken away with other, by exempting all terres- music, for example a mixed-format station. In such cases, rather than requiring a station currently disparate treatment: trial broadcasts. Platform parity—Never in the past have to pay a general blanket license fee in the Cable, satellite, and Internet radio services same amount paid by a station that pri- there been more engaging technological plat- are granted a statutory license to broadcast marily makes featured uses of music, this forms which offer music to consumers at al- music as long as they pay the defined fee de- section requires the Copyright Royalty most any time, in any format. Especially with termined by the Copyright Royalty Board. This Board to establish a ‘‘per program license’’ the roll-out of HD, ‘‘hybrid digital,’’ radio which bill extends the statutory licensing requirement so that such stations can choose only to pay will provide greater choice, it becomes harder to terrestrial broadcasters to avoid an unfair for the music they use, which may be less to justify an exemption for any one platform. advantage. I do note however, that as we dis- costly than the general blanket license. This Both the radio station, regardless of the plat- cuss reform of the section 114 license—other parallels the licenses offered by the perform- form, and the performer benefit from the play- ance rights organizations for performing the issues will likely arise such as, the standard to underlying musical copyright. ing of music over the air. But only one party, be used in determining royalty rates, the Section 5. No harmful effects on songwriters the station, gets to keep the revenue it gen- sound recording complement, and treatment of erates. While stations use music to get their ephemeral copies. Finally, this section protects the song- ad revenue, they gladly leave others to pay We are fortunate that with the evolution of writers from the impact of providing this new performance right. In the first instance, the artist for another use of the music. It is new technologies there are many legal music certainly true that on all platforms there are the bill adopts the songwriters’ suggestion to distribution services currently available. Cable, remove the prefatory language which merely differing degrees of promotion that may benefit Internet, and satellite platform providers all expressed ‘‘the intent of Congress’’ not to di- the artist. That is why the Copyright Royalty compete to provide consumers their choice of minish the royalties of the songwriters. Fur- Board takes into consideration any pro- music, anytime, in any place, in any format. thermore, it includes the express indication motional element and adjusts the compensa- While I am encouraged by the many options, that nothing in the Act shall adversely af- tion to the artist appropriately. I am concerned that the government seems to fect the royalties to songwriters. While calling the performance right a ‘‘tax’’ be giving preference to one platform over the I do not want to suggest that this bill is a might make for good rhetoric, it is also good others by exempting over-the-air broadcasters ‘‘perfect’’ solution. But it is an appropriate rhetoric to call it ‘‘corporate welfare’’ when the from compensating owners of the music which starting place. I know there are other parts of U.S. Code compels copyright owners, artists, they use to grow their business. This bill section 114 that need to be reformed as well, and musicians to give broadcasters their seeks the appropriate balance between pro- and therefore will begin to examine additional music for free. It is simply time to eliminate moting the creativity of music and fostering in- provisions in the coming months. Furthermore, this anachronistic and unjustified subsidy. novation. Following is a section-by-section I remain open to suggestions for amending the International parity—During a recent meet- summary of the legislation: language to improve its efficacy or rectify any ing in Nashville President Bush was asked Section 1. Short title unintended consequences. about this issue. When he was told that broad- This bill attempts to strike a balance be- casters in every country in the world except This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Performance Rights Act.’’ tween providing adequate protection to our for China, Iran, North Korea, and Rwanda pay musicians and artists and continuing to sup- a performance right, he rightfully observed, ‘‘it Section 2. Equitable treatment for terrestrial broadcasts port new innovative technologies. My goal is sounds like we’re keeping interesting com- This section repeals the exemption for ter- to preserve the legitimate marketplace by pro- pany.’’ restrial broadcasters and makes conforming Because America does not have an ade- viding a technology neutral structure or at changes by deleting references to the word least one with parity for all services that ap- quate performance right, our own artists and ‘‘digital’’ from the types of audio trans- musicians cannot receive royalties when their propriately pay for the music. I hope the par- missions that are subject to a performance ties can work together to reach further con- music is played on radio stations outside the right. With these changes, all terrestrial U.S. In many countries between 20–50 per- (over-the-air) broadcast transmissions, in- sensus on how to achieve parity between cent of the music played abroad is ‘‘American- cluding analog audio transmissions, would be technologies and provide rightful compensa- made’’ and because of the lack of reciprocity, subject to sound recording performance tion to our artists and musicians. we are denying our performers millions of dol- rights thereby providing parity for the tech- We hope that with introduction of this com- lars in revenue. nologies currently covered under the section panion bill in the House to the Performance 114 license. Rights parity—Songwriters have long been Rights Act in the Senate, Congress will act compensated for the songs that are played on Section 3. Special treatment for small and non- quickly to level the playing field between tech- commercial Public Broadcasting stations; the radio—as they should be. However, just nologies and ensure rightful compensation to and religious stations and certain uses performers. as there would be nothing for musicians to This section would create an accommoda- play without notes, and nothing for the artist to tion for certain qualifying broadcasters from f sing without the words, there is also nothing the negotiation and arbitrated rate-setting. HONORING THE LIFE OF GRACE for a DJ to play without a recorded song. Instead, such broadcasters would pay a pre- CARLTON ALLEN Our kids know the song ‘‘Breakaway’’ be- scribed flat fee or would retain their current cause Kelly Clarkson recorded it—but few exemption. know that it was written by Avril Lavigne. Does For small broadcasters who make revenue HON. KATHY CASTOR less than $1.25 million and therefore are con- it make sense for Lavigne to get paid but for OF FLORIDA Clarkson not to get paid? The fact that Patsy cerned about the uncertainty of the rate and the impact on the growth and viability of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Clines’ estate is not compensated for over-the- their business—this section sets a flat an- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 air performances of her singing ‘‘Crazy’’ nual royalty fee of $5,000 per year for any in- seems crazy. Shouldn’t performers be paid as dividual station (even those part of a larger Ms. CASTOR. Madam Speaker, I rise today well? radio network) with no litigation, negotia- to honor the life and legacy of Grace Carlton One of America’s greatest treasures is its tion, arbitration, royalty board proceeding Allen, and to commend her contributions to intellectual property. In cities and towns across or licensing costs. the University of South Florida.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.028 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2608 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 ‘‘Amazing Grace,’’ as she was nicknamed had been present, I would have voted as fol- and make a substantial and positive impact in by former Tampa Congressman Sam Gibbons, lows: the community. was born in North Dakota in 1908. She at- December 17, 2007: Rollcall vote 1163, on Mr. Bristow is a graduate of The Citadel tended the University of South Dakota and the motion to suspend the rules and agree to the with 31 years of experience working with com- University of Minnesota, where she graduated resolution—H. Res. 856, expressing heartfelt munity businesses. He now serves as vice with degrees in English and Secondary Edu- sympathy for the victims and families of the president and resident construction lender for cation. After graduation, Allen taught high shootings in Omaha, Nebraska, on Wednes- Security Federal Bank. In addition to his work school English and secondary education. day, December 5, 2007—I would have voted with local businesses, Mr. Bristow is a life-long She met her husband, John Allen at the ‘‘aye.’’ member of the Mount Hebron United Meth- University of Minnesota, and they married in Rollcall vote 1164, on motion to suspend odist Church where he has taught Sunday 1933. The couple moved to Gainesville, Flor- the rules and agree to the resolution—H. Res. school for 22 years. Over the last decade, he ida in 1948, where her husband was ap- 851, honoring local and state first responders, has served as Scoutmaster for Troop 331 of pointed President of the University of Florida, and the citizens of the Pacific Northwest in the Indian Waters Council of the Boy Scouts and from 1954 to 1955, Grace served as the facing the severe winter storm of December 2 of America. University of Florida’s interim First Lady. and 3, 2007—I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ For his years of public service, Mr. Bristow In 1957, John was named as the first presi- Rollcall vote 1165, on ordering the previous has received numerous honors and recogni- dent of a yet unnamed and newly established question—H. Res. 873, waiving a requirement tions including the Order of the Silver Cres- university in Tampa. Grace and her husband of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to con- cent from South Carolina Governor Mark San- moved to Tampa, where they would remain for sideration of certain resolutions reported from ford—the State’s highest honor given for vol- the rest of their lives. As classes weren’t the Committee on Rules—I would have voted unteer and community service. scheduled to start until 1960, the Allens them- ‘‘nay.’’ I am grateful for Mr. Bristow’s service to his selves, shaped what would later be known as Rollcall vote 1166, on agreeing to the reso- community. I want to recognize and thank his the University of South Florida. lution—H. Res. 873, waiving a requirement of wife Fran and their three sons—Jeremy, An- The summer before the University opened clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consid- drew, and Ryan—for their years of support, its doors, ‘‘Amazing Grace’’ invited all of eration of certain resolutions reported from the and wish them many more years of happi- USF’s wives and female staff members to her Committee on Rules—I would have voted ness. home. With this group of women, she estab- ‘‘nay.’’ f lished the USF Women’s Club, which remains Rollcall vote 1167, on agreeing to the reso- active on campus today as a social, cultural, lution—H. Con. Res. 271, providing for the INTRODUCTION OF H.R. 1413 and philanthropic organization. In 1994, the sine die adjournment of the first session of the USF Women’s Club endowed the Grace Allen 110th Congress—I would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ HON. NITA M. LOWEY Scholarship, and within the first ten years of Rollcall vote 1168, on ordering the previous OF NEW YORK being established, it awarded 119 full tuition question—H. Res. 878, providing for the con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES scholarships for excellence in academics, sideration of the Senate amendment to the bill Tuesday, December 18, 2007 leadership, and service. (H.R. 2764) making appropriations for the De- Another endowed fund of the USF Women’s partment of State, foreign operations, and re- Mrs. LOWEY. Madam Speaker, I rise in Club was given to the University in Mrs. Al- lated programs for the fiscal year ending Sep- strong support of H.R. 1413, which would cre- len’s name to provide funds to the university’s tember 30, 2008, and for other purposes—I ate a pilot program testing the effectiveness of library. would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ physically screening 100 percent of airport The Allens were one of the first families to Rollcall vote 1169, on agreeing to the reso- workers with access to secure and sterile live in the Tampa neighborhood of Carroll- lution—H. Res. 878, providing for the consid- areas at seven airports across the country. wood, where Grace also made her mark. She eration of the Senate amendment to the bill I want to thank Homeland Security Chair- started a tradition where residents set lumi- (H.R. 2764) making appropriations for the De- man BENNIE THOMPSON, Ranking Member naries outside of their homes on Christmas partment of State, foreign operations, and re- PETER KING, Representative GINNY BROWN- Eve. Pilots have been known to divert their lated programs for the fiscal year ending Sep- WAITE and the other members of the Home- planes over the neighborhood to see the lights tember 30, 2008, and for other purposes—I land Security Committee for their support of each year. would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ this legislation. I also want to thank Rosaline When John retired from the University in Rollcall vote 1170, on motion to suspend Cohen, Michael Stroud and Matt Washington 1970, the Board of Regents named USF’s ad- the rules and pass—H.R. 4286, to award a from the majority staff of the committee, Coley ministration building after John and Grace in congressional gold medal to Daw Aung San O’Brien and Jennifer Arangio from the minority recognition of their lasting contributions to the Suu Kyi in recognition of her courageous and staff, and Justin Wein from my staff. university community. In 1996, USF awarded unwavering commitment to peace, non- Meticulously screening passengers but giv- Grace the honorary degree of Doctorate of violence, human rights, and democracy in ing workers open access is like installing an Humane Letters. Burma—I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ expensive home security system but leaving Until her death on December 16, 2007 at f your back door wide open. the age of 99, Grace remained an active In 2001, Congress recognized that while we member of and advocate for the University of IN RECOGNITION OF JIMMY were investing significant resources in screen- South Florida’s community. She is remem- BRISTOW ing passengers and their baggage, we needed bered as a powerful spokesperson for aca- to close the backdoor of airports as well. demic excellence, and as a caring, spirited HON. JOE WILSON That’s why we passed the Aviation and Trans- woman by the countless friends, staff mem- OF SOUTH CAROLINA portation Security Act which required the bers and students whose lives she touched. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Transportation Security Agency to screen all The Tampa community honors the life of airport workers. Grace Allen for her outstanding contributions Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Yet, nearly six years after September 11th to the University of South Florida and the Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam and passage of legislation requiring the phys- Tampa Bay area. Her life serves as an inspi- Speaker, I wish to recognize James E. ical screening of all airport workers, astonish- ration and will continue to influence the lives ‘‘Jimmy’’ Bristow of West Columbia, South ingly TSA has failed to implement this basic of people in our community for years to come. Carolina for his many years of public service policy or set a deadline for doing so. f to the people of South Carolina and the coun- At Heathrow Airport, the busiest inter- PERSONAL EXPLANATION try, and congratulate him on a successful year national airport in the world, 100% of workers of leadership as President of Ruritan National. are screened, yet TSA refuses to acknowl- HON. SUE WILKINS MYRICK Ruritan National is a national civic organiza- edge the national security benefits of following tion made up of 33,000 members with 1,178 the same procedures here at home. OF NORTH CAROLINA clubs in 25 States. Since its founding in 1928, We know there is criminal activity taking IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Raritan has built a strong reputation as one of place at some of our airports. Just this year Tuesday, December 18, 2007 our Nation’s leading community service orga- alone, there have been frightening security Mrs. MYRICK. Madam Speaker, I was un- nizations. Under the excellent leadership of breaches at Orlando International Airport, the able to participate in the following votes. If I Mr. Bristow, Ruritan has continued to grow arrest of a former airport worker as part of a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.032 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2609 terrorist plot involving John F. Kennedy Airport sity baseball coach and the assistant varsity the contribution that agriculture makes to all of in New York, a gaping lapse in security in baseball coach. As JV basketball coach, he society, including putting food on the tables of Phoenix, and the arrest of illegal immigrants led the St. Raymond’s Ravens to Catholic families throughout the entire country. working at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport with ex- High School All-City championships in 2003 Every year, the North Florida Fair Associa- pired and false security badges. and 2005. tion honors farm families in counties through- And if there is criminal activity, certainly we While at St. Raymond, Tony was diagnosed out North Florida that display leadership should be considering the possibility of ter- with multiple sclerosis, a disease that may through farming techniques and agricultural rorist activity taking place. We cannot wait for have crippled his body, but never his mind or production. The Farm Family of the Year the next security breach to occur for us to take spirit. Last summer, he served as best man at award conveys the importance of farm fami- action. his beloved brother Frank’s wedding in New lies’ contributions to some of society’s largest H.R. 1413 attempts to deal with the very York before moving to Florida for medical needs including food, clothing, and building real and serious threats that face commercial treatment. He returned to St. Ray’s to be hon- supplies. Recognition of their work, as con- aviation today. By passing this legislation and ored by faculty, alumni, and friends at a ben- veyed by this award, encourages others in the appropriating funds to implement it—which are efit dinner in mid-October. community to become involved and support included in the FY08 Homeland Security Ap- Madam Speaker, this is a difficult time for all local agriculture as well. propriations bill—we are acting on the rec- those who knew and loved Tony Iurilli. It is my Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United ommendations of the 9/11 Commission to pre- hope that they will be strengthened by the States Congress, I would like to offer my sin- vent and protect against any possible insider memory of his selflessness, his bright smile, cere commendation to a family that is a role threats. and his wonderful spirit. model for all of us. A deep sense of civic con- I know some in labor and industry favor the Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join tribution and values has been instilled in all of use of alternative methods and technologies, me in recognizing Tony’s all too brief, but the Kenneth Pridgen family. It is my hope that such as biometrics to increase security at our wonderful life of commitment and community this family tradition continues for many future airports. I am not opposed to biometric tech- service. generations. nology; however, those technologies do not f f exist for full implementation today in the avia- tion sector, and as we have seen with the RECOGNIZING TYLER EVAN AR- ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANS- TWIC card, the delays could last years in roll- THUR FOR ACHIEVING THE RANK PARENCY IN MEDICARE MAR- ing out this measure across aviation. OF EAGLE SCOUT KETING ACT OF 2007 This legislation is not aimed at any specific group of workers, the vast majority of whom HON. SAM GRAVES HON. KATHY CASTOR are hard-working, law-abiding citizens. Instead OF MISSOURI OF FLORIDA it is a bipartisan approach to measure the fea- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sibility and effectiveness of closing this loop- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Tuesday, December 18, 2007 hole in our airport security. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1413, Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly Ms. CASTOR. Madam Speaker, I am proud and I yield back the balance of my time. pause to recognize Tyler Evan Arthur, a very today to introduce the Accountability and f special young man who has exemplified the Transparency in Medicare Marketing Act of finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by 2007. This legislation will serve as a com- TRIBUTE TO ANTHONY IURILLI taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of panion bill to S. 1883, introduced in the Sen- America, and in earning the most prestigious ate by Mr. HERB KOHL. HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY award of Eagle Scout. With recent reports from the Government OF NEW YORK Tyler has been very active with his troop, Accountability Office addressing the failure of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES participating in many Scout activities. Over the CMS to audit Medicare Advantage providers many years Tyler has been involved with along with recent reports of marketing abuses Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Scouting, he has not only earned numerous and fraudulent practices aimed at seniors, this Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- legislation is timely and imperative. pay tribute to the life and accomplishments of ily, peers, and community. We have heard reports that many Medicare Anthony Iurilli, who passed away on Sunday, Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join providers seek to mislead seniors for private November 25, 2007 at age 38 after a long bat- me in commending Tyler Arthur for his accom- financial gain. In fact, seniors are frequently tle with multiple sclerosis. plishments with the Boy Scouts of America confronted with such practices as cold calling, Mr. Iurilli, known as Tony, exemplified the and for his efforts put forth in achieving the misleading sales pitches to purchase unneces- ideals that many of us aspire to: commitment highest distinction of Eagle Scout. sary products, or being pushed to enroll in pri- to education, a love of community service, and f vate Medicare Advantage programs that are devotion to his family and friends. not within their best interests. Tony was blessed with extraordinary athletic RECOGNIZING THE WALTON COUN- WellCare Health Plans, which is talent. He was a 1986 graduate of St. Ray- TY 2007 OUTSTANDING FARM headquartered in my hometown of Tampa, mond High School for Boys in the Bronx, FAMILY OF THE YEAR was raided by the FBI in October for sus- where he lettered in both baseball and basket- pected fraudulent practices. WellCare is ball. In his senior year, he was named to the HON. JEFF MILLER among the largest national providers of Medi- All-City Baseball Team by three New York OF FLORIDA care and Medicaid managed care plans with metropolitan newspapers—Newsday, the NY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2.3 million members nationwide. Daily News and the NY Post, and he was Three quarters of states have reported com- awarded a New York Yankees Scholarship to Tuesday, December 18, 2007 plaints about inappropriate or confusing mar- Pace University. There, he was the starting Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, it keting practices which lead Medicare bene- shortstop on the baseball team for four years, is a great honor for me to rise today to extend ficiaries to enroll in private plans without ade- graduating in 1990 with a solid B average. congratulations to the Kenneth Pridgen family quately understanding the consequences of Tony’s priorities were faith, family, school, for being selected the Walton County 2007 their decision or that Medicare Advantage is and community. After college, he worked as Outstanding Farm Family of the Year. More optional. Director of Recreation for HIV/AIDS patients at than one generation of involvement in agri- Some seniors have lost access to their reg- Bronx Lebanon Hospital, and he taught Amer- culture has led this farm family to serve as a ular doctors after signing up for a private plan ican history, health, and physical education at model of stewardship to society through a vi- that their doctor does not accept. However, St. Helena’s elementary school in the Bronx. tally important industry. when sold the plan, the private company as- He then returned to his alma mater, St. Ray’s, The Pridgen family is more than deserving sured that this would not occur. to teach American history and health edu- of this year’s award. Kenneth’s father was Frighteningly, some providers have been ac- cation, and to foster the athletic abilities of stu- himself raised working in agriculture, and he cused of selling to seniors with dementia and dents who followed in his path. He coached passed on the significance of their industry to using scare tactics to force beneficiaries to en- the school’s varsity and junior varsity bowling his son, who in turn has involved his family in roll. Others have been offered cash incentives teams, and he served as the head junior var- this work. Kenneth and his family recognize for enrolling.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.036 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2610 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 All of these scams and efforts to mislead tion that led to the first federal bridge inspec- coursework. Bartow’s IB School placed third seniors for private financial gain are a result of tion requirements. among the 100 other gold medal schools. This the lack of standardized regulations and real Madam Speaker, I wish I could announce is quite an accomplishment and I commend accountability. It has been reported that the today that our nation wisely learned the lesson the school for leading the way in excellence government pays private Medicare Advantage of the Silver Bridge Collapse. Unfortunately, and for their commitment to empowering insurers an average of $9,000 a year for each the more recent collapse of the I–35 bridge in young minds. person enrolled. Private insurance agents re- Minneapolis shows just how much our infra- Bartow High School has a rich history of ceive between $350 and $600 commission for structure has decayed because of inadequate providing a high caliber education. Distin- each person they enroll. With nearly nine mil- investment. While I am glad that the appro- guished from other high schools in Polk Coun- lion Americans currently enrolled in these pri- priations bill we passed last night includes in- ty and from most high schools in Florida, its vate plans, the profits going to these insurers vestment in bridges, I am convinced that much origin began in 1887 as the Summerlin Insti- and away from America’s health care system more work needs to be done. tute. Bartow High School is proudly 117 years is astronomical. On this 40th anniversary, let us take a mo- old and because of its history and tradition, Without a standard method used for regula- ment to remember the 46 people killed in the many of its former students have gone on to tion, the financial gain of private insurers will Silver Bridge collapse. Even 40 years after the achieve great success. continue to rise at the health expense of sen- disaster, their absence is felt by their families Included in this list are distinguished leaders iors and the personal and financial stress of all and communities. Let us resolve today to from various professions. Spenssard Holland Americans. honor their memories by doing all we can to served as Florida’s Governor in the 1940s and We must implement transparency require- ensure that the bridges, tunnels and roads as a U.S. Senator from 1946–1970. Army ments that will ensure companies are held ac- that make up our nation’s byways are safe General James Alward Van Fleet served as a countable and publicly identified, in the event and secure. commander and led major campaigns in WWII and the Korean War, and President Truman of marketing abuses. The Accountability and f Transparency in Medicare Marketing Act of once remarked that he was America’s ‘‘great- 2007 will address all of these issues. It will TRIBUTE TO THE CITY OF est general.’’ In addition, Kenneth Jerome create standardized marketing practices to be MCLEANSBORO, ILLINOIS Riley was honored as a Rhodes Scholar Can- enforced by the National Association of Insur- didate while attending Florida A&M University ance Commissioners (NAIC). These standard HON. JOHN SHIMKUS and went on to play as an NFL defensive back for the Cincinnati Bengals. practices will exclude telemarketing and cold OF ILLINOIS In 1996, Bartow High School embarked on calling, deceptive selling and other abusive IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES its next endeavor when the school was se- practices. Tuesday, December 18, 2007 This bill will create transparency by requiring lected by the International Baccalaureate that all violations be reported to the Secretary Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I rise today World School program to offer the Inter- of Health and Human Services and in turn re- to honor the city of McLeansboro, Illinois upon national Baccalaureate Diploma program. Stu- ported to Congress. receiving the Governor’s Cup Award for efforts dents that attend the IB School are challenged Additionally, this legislation will require the to build a youth playground in the city park. with increased expectations in both academic NAIC to create a committee to study and The Kids Kingdom Playground was made and community involvement, and because of make recommendations to the Secretary and possible thanks to a donation by the Jerry and this they graduate ready to compete and enter Congress on the establishment of standard- Bobbye Sloan Hand-in-Hand Foundation as into a fast-paced world that offers endless op- ized benefit packages for Medicare Advantage well as thousands of volunteer hours. I have portunities. The IB School’s mission is ‘‘to ensure each plans. had the opportunity to visit the Kids Kingdom student has the opportunity to achieve his or This legislation will help us to continue our Playground with Coach Sloan and I can attest her potential and creatively influence society effort to make Medicare safe, beneficial and that this is an excellent addition to the park for by providing students with an advanced inter- accountable to our seniors, family care givers the McLeansboro community. national curriculum.’’ Today, it is my honor to and all Americans. It will enforce regulations This project is a shining example of the will- commend Dr. Edwin Vetter and his staff of ex- that will demand ethical and helpful tactics. It ingness of a community to work together for traordinary educators, including some who will alleviate private insurers unfairly benefiting the greater good. I extend my gratitude to shaped my classroom experience, for their from the hard-earned dollars of all American those who made this playground a reality. I dedication and hard work. It is clear that the families. Further, we will provide seniors and am pleased to congratulate the city of commitment by both staff and students sur- family care givers with the protection and care McLeansboro and all those who made the passes their mission, as the IB School con- that they deserve. It is our responsibility to Kids Kingdom Playground possible. tinues to be recognized for its performance, keep fraud and unethical practices from plagu- f not only in the State of Florida, but across the ing our health care system, and the Account- HONORING THE INTERNATIONAL nation too. As an alumnus of Bartow High ability and Transparency in Medicare Mar- BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM AT School, which hosts the IB school, I look for- keting Act of 2007 seeks to help us step up BARTOW HIGH SCHOOL ward to their many future accomplishments. to this duty. f f HON. ADAM H. PUTNAM RECOGNIZING COREY DYLAN COMMEMORATING THE 40TH ANNI- OF FLORIDA JEPSON FOR ACHIEVING THE VERSARY OF THE COLLAPSE OF IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT THE SILVER BRIDGE Tuesday, December 18, 2007 HON. SAM GRAVES HON. CHARLES A. WILSON Mr. PUTNAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the International Baccalaureate OF MISSOURI OF OHIO IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES School at Bartow High School in Florida’s 12th Congressional District for being recognized as Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Tuesday, December 18, 2007 a gold medal school in U.S. News & World Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly Mr. WILSON of Ohio. Madam Speaker, I Report’s first ever ranking of America’s Best pause to recognize Corey D. Jepson, a very rise today to commemorate one of the worst High Schools. special young man who has exemplified the infrastructure disasters this Nation has ever U.S. News & World Report analyzed over finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by seen. On December 15, 1967, at about 5 18,000 public schools across the United taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of p.m., the Silver Bridge collapsed. It spanned States in an effort to find the top 100 public America and in earning the most prestigious the Ohio River from Gallia County in my dis- schools. They used a three-step analysis to award of Eagle Scout. trict to Mason County West Virginia. That dis- sort through the many schools taking into con- Corey has been very active with his troop, astrous accident killed 46 people. Most of sideration how each school’s students per- participating in many Scout activities. Over the them had just left work and were headed formed on state tests, evaluating how well many years Corey has been involved with home. This horrible tragedy, which was the re- each school’s disadvantaged students per- Scouting, he has not only earned numerous sult of the failure of a single eye-bar sup- formed, and looking at whether the school was merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- porting the bridge, spurred Congressional ac- successful in providing college-level ily, peers, and community.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.040 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2611 Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join During this session, Homeland Security’s Moving to Albany in August of 1980, the me in commending Corey D. Jepson for his Subcommittee on Intelligence that I chair has Gaskins helped found an additional Church accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of held numerous hearings and received invalu- home in the Faith Community of the Black America and for his efforts put forth in achiev- able input from subject matter experts on what Apostolate. This later expanded to include St. ing the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. first steps to take to address the twin prob- Joan of Are and Sacred Heart Churches of the f lems of over- and pseudo-classification. Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, where The bill we’re introducing today reflects that both serve as Ministers of the Eucharist. INTRODUCTION OF THE ‘‘REDUC- input. Committed to serving the community, ING OVER-CLASSIFICATION ACT The goal is simple: make the Department of Conrad and Frances continued to stay active OF 2007’’ Homeland Security the ‘‘gold standard’’ when and involved after retirement. Conrad coached it comes to preventing over-classification and basketball and swimming while Frances HON. JANE HARMAN to limiting the use of sensitive but unclassified worked for the American Red of America OF CALIFORNIA markings. Cross and is a Staff Officer with the United IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The only way to ensure that the Department States Coast Guard Auxiliary. They are gets it right going forward is to promote an en- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 blessed with three children and five grand- forceable and understandable strategy that ap- children. Ms. HARMAN. Madam Speaker, today all plies to everyone. It is my honor to recognize Conrad and Democratic members of the Homeland Secu- DHS is an excellent place to start and—if it Frances Gaskin and provide my heartfelt con- rity Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information gets a handle on its own burgeoning over- and gratulations to them on this wonderful event in Sharing & Terrorism Risk Assessment are in- pseudo-classification addiction—can become a their lives. I would like to extend my best wish- troducing legislation that will put the Depart- ‘‘best practices’’ center and the test bed for es to the Gaskins and their family on their ment of Homeland Security on the path to bet- the rest of the Federal Government. 50th wedding anniversary. Accordingly, our bill will require the Sec- ter information sharing by turning back the tide f of over-classification that imperils our ability to retary of Homeland Security to develop a make America safer from terrorism. strategy that will: allow the classification of HONORING CPL TANNER O’LEARY The ‘‘Reducing Over-Classification Act of documents only after unclassified, shareable 2007’’ (ROC Act) gives Congress the tools to versions of intelligence have been produced; HON. STEPHANIE HERSETH SANDLIN develop a new ‘‘sensitive and shared’’ infor- curtail the federal government’s widespread OF SOUTH DAKOTA and mushrooming practice of classifying prac- mation program that will provide protections IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tically everything that moves. for certain sensitive and unclassified informa- Almost three and a half years ago, the 9/11 tion for limited periods of time under narrowly Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Commission made clear the urgent need to tailored circumstances; propose new incen- Ms. HERSETH SANDLIN. Madam Speaker, eliminate the over-classification of intelligence tives and disincentives to encourage Depart- I want to take this opportunity to honor the life information by the Federal Government. ment personnel to classify documents properly of CPL Tanner O’Leary, who died December The Commissioners found that over-classi- and to use ‘‘sensitive and shared’’ markings 9, 2007, while serving his country in support of fication interferes with the sharing of critical in- sparingly; create training programs and audit- Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. formation between the Federal Government ing mechanisms for all Department employees Tanner, who was a member of the 82nd Air- and its State, local, and tribal partners on the in order to ensure that the Strategy is being borne Division based in Fort Bragg, N.C., front lines of our nation’s homeland security implemented properly; establish an inde- graduated from Timber Lake High School in efforts. pendent Department declassification review 2003. He joined the Army in 2005. He grad- Sadly, the numbers tell us that we’re still not board to expedite the declassification of docu- uated from infantry training in May 2005 and heeding the 9/11 Commission’s warning. ments when the need for public access out- airborne school in June 2005. According to the Information Security Over- weighs the need to classify; and propose leg- The lives of countless people were enor- sight Office at the National Archives, the num- islative solutions to ensure that the Strategy is mously enhanced by Tanner’s compassion ber of new classification actions jumped from implemented in a way that not only promotes and service. He represented the best of the eight million in 2001 to 14 million in 2005. Dur- security but also fosters both information shar- United States, South Dakota, and the Army. ing the same period, the quantity of declas- ing and the protection of privacy and other His life continues to inspire all those who sified pages dropped from 100 million in 2001 civil rights. knew him and many who did not. Our Nation to 29 million in 2005. Our Subcommittee plans to move this legis- and the State of South Dakota are far better To make matters worse, we learned this lation early next year and hopes our col- places because of his service. past year that some agencies were with- leagues in the House will join us in the effort Today, we remember and honor Tanner’s drawing archived records from public access to ensure that the Federal Government gets noble service to the United States and the ulti- and reclassifying them. accurate and actionable information to those mate sacrifice he has paid with his life to de- Together with the exponential growth in the who need it in a timely fashion. fend our freedoms and foster liberty for others. amount of material that is classified, we’ve f I would like to express my condolences to seen the level of spending on classification go THE 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY the family and friends of CPL Tanner O’Leary. up considerably. OF CONRAD AND FRANCES GASKIN His commitment to and sacrifice for our coun- In 2001, $4.5 billion was spent on classifica- try will not be forgotten. tion but by 2004, we were spending $7.1 bil- f lion. HON. MICHAEL R. McNULTY OF NEW YORK In addition, there has been a troubling pro- INTRODUCTION OF THE SANTA FE IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES liferation of new policies and labels to limit the QUADRICENTENNIAL COMMEMO- distribution of sensitive but unclassified infor- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 RATIVE COIN ACT mation across the Federal Government. Mr. MCNULTY. Madam Speaker, I rise At the Federal level alone, there are over 28 today to honor Conrad and Frances Gaskin on HON. TOM UDALL distinct policies for the protection of this their 50th wedding anniversary OF NEW MEXICO ‘‘SBU’’ information. Both first generation African Caribbean IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Unlike with classified records, there is no Americans, Conrad and Frances met in ele- monitoring of or reporting on the use of SBU mentary school and were married on Sep- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 information markings or its consequences. tember 14, 1957 at St. Augustine Roman Mr. UDAll of New Mexico. Madam Speaker, The proliferation of these SBU ‘‘pseudo- Catholic Church in the Bronx. Conrad served I rise today to introduce the Santa Fe classifications’’ interferes with interagency in- in the United States Air Force before eventu- Quadricentennial Commemorative Coin Act. formation sharing—increasing the cost of infor- ally working for the New York State Teacher’s The minting of a commemorative coin will mation security and limiting public access. Retirement System. After receiving her doc- serve as a historic national tribute to the ever- It’s also an obstacle to sharing information torate from Fordham, Frances went on to distinct City Different. with our first preventers and first responders in found and serve as a professor for a program Santa Fe was officially elevated by the the field—precisely what the 9/11 Commission in nursing at the Hostos Community College at Spanish settlers from a plaza to a capital city warned against. the City University of New York. in 1610 and has continued to be a meeting

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.044 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2612 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 place and home to all cultures ever since. due to a tragic car accident. His career in before the fire department arrived and just be- Santa Fe, to this day, continues to be a gov- banking took him across the United States fore the passenger compartment of the car ernment, cultural, religious, and social center. and he eventually landed in Camden, Arkan- was fully consumed by fire. Throughout its history, it has attracted settlers, sas, where he served as Executive Vice Presi- Their bravery goes above and beyond what traders, artists, historians, and tourists, all dent of Heartland Community Bank of Cam- we are asked of as citizens of this country. coming to see what Santa Fe and the sur- den, and Senior Vice President of Farmers Their courage illustrates the compassion of rounding communities have to offer. Bank and Trust of Camden. Iowans willing to risk their own lives for a The Santa Fe area has long been home to Although Henry Pryor had a career in busi- neighbor in need. For this I offer them my ut- native peoples, centuries prior to European in- ness, his calling and real passion was in com- most congratulations and thanks. cursions. In fact, some of the tribal commu- munity development. The City of Camden and I commend Chief Tom Courtney, Captain nities in the area today have been there for its residents were extremely fortunate to gain Warren Leeps, Officer Sara Stinson and Vol- over one thousand years. Arriving centuries from his selfless gifts of time and energy to unteer Firefighter Jeff Ode for their bravery. I later, though still over 400 years ago, the make his community a better place to live. As am honored to represent each of them in Con- Spanish settlers were integral to the European a member of the Ouachita County Historical gress and I wish them the best in their future exploration and settlement of this continent. Society, he was instrumental in preserving his- endeavors. This legislation honors both the tribal commu- toric properties in Camden such as the Clifton- f nities and Spanish settlers. Greening Street Historic District. He took a Throughout the city are structures of great keen interest in seeing businesses flourish RECOGNIZING ZACHARY RYAN historical importance. Built in the 17th Century, throughout Camden and Ouachita County WALSH FOR ACHIEVING THE the Palace of the Governors was the seat of through his service as president of the Cam- RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT government for generations and is now the den Area Chamber of Commerce. In addition, oldest continuously used public building in the he was a graduate of the Leadership Camden HON. SAM GRAVES United States. It currently serves as the area program and he served on numerous OF MISSOURI State’s history museum, ensuring that current area boards and commissions. As a local IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and future generations will be able to learn community leader, he also recognized the vast Tuesday, December 18, 2007 about the events that shaped New Mexico’s importance of regional festivals and the impact past, present, and future. they had on residents and businesses, Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly The creation of the commemorative coin will through his proud service as chairman of the pause to recognize Zachary R. Walsh, a very help in the preparation and celebration of this Annual Camden Daffodil Festival. special young man who has exemplified the monumental quadricentennial. The proceeds I send my deepest condolences to his wife finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by from the sale of the gold five dollar and silver of 21 years, Angela Woodward Pryor of Cam- taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of one dollar coins will be split, with half going to- den, Arkansas, and to his numerous nephews, America and in earning the most prestigious wards the 400th Anniversary Committee to nieces and cousins. award of Eagle Scout. support programs to promote the under- Henry Pryor will be missed by his family, his Zachary has been very active with his troop, standing of Santa Fe and its legacies. The church, his community and all those who knew participating in many Scout activities. Over the rest will go to the Department of Interior to en- him and called him a friend. His focus on the many years Zachary has been involved with sure the preservation of Santa Fe, enhance community and his spirit of service to others Scouting, he has not only earned numerous national and international programs, and im- and to his community will never be forgotten. merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- prove archaeological research activities I will continue to keep his family in my deepest ily, peers, and community. throughout the area. These are especially im- thoughts and prayers. Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join portant as we continue to learn more about all f me in commending Zachary R. Walsh for his of the communities that have settled in the accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of area for centuries. TRIBUTE TO RECIPIENTS OF THE America and for his efforts put forth in achiev- I want to take a moment to thank Senators SULLIVAN BROTHERS’ AWARD ing the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. JEFF BINGAMAN and PETE DOMENICI who are OF VALOR f working on this in the Senate, as well as co- UNITED STATES-CUBA CULTURAL sponsors Representatives HEATHER WILSON HON. TOM LATHAM EXCHANGE LETTER TO PRESI- and STEVE PEARCE for their support here in OF IOWA DENT BUSH—ACKNOWLEDGE- the House. We must all work to preserve the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MENT legacy of America’s first European commu- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 nities and the people who came long before, and I am proud the entire delegation has Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL joined together to mark this remarkable mile- to recognize three members of the Decorah, OF NEW YORK stone. Iowa Police Department, Chief Tom Courtney, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Captain Warren Leeps, and Officer Sara For the rich blend of cultures steeped in Tuesday, December 18, 2007 centuries of heritage, it is only fitting that the Stinson, and Volunteer Decorah Firefighter Congress recognize the 400th anniversary of Jeff Ode, as recipients of The Sullivan Broth- Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today the Nation’s oldest capital originally known as ers’ Award of Valor for saving another’s life by to acknowledge the U.S.-Cuba Cultural Ex- La Villa Real de la Santa Fe de San Francisco risking their own. change’s letter to President Bush and to enter de Asis. I urge my colleagues to join me in The Sullivan Brothers’ Award of Valor Pro- into the RECORD a copy of their letter. passing this legislation. gram was established in 1977 to recognize On November 27, 2007, the U.S.-Cuba Cul- peace officers and firefighters, who while serv- tural Exchange sent a letter to President Bush f ing in an official capacity, distinguished them- that expressed their desire to establish rela- IN MEMORY OF HENRY PRYOR selves by performing a heroic act while fully tions with Cuban artists and urged him to take aware of a threat to his/her personal safety. steps to normalize interaction with Cuba. The HON. MIKE ROSS The strict nomination process includes back- letter was signed by several artists including OF ARKANSAS ground investigations, and the final determina- Harry Belafonte, Danny Glover, Carlos IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tion is made by the Governor of Iowa. Santana, and Sean Penn. As of December 11, In January of 2007, Olive Sims crashed her 2007, the letter has been signed by one thou- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 car into a ditch along Division Street in sand four hundred and twelve people. Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to Decorah. Chief Courtney, Captain Leeps, Offi- I applaud the U.S.-Cuba Cultural Exchange honor the memory of Henry Pryor of Camden, cer Stinson and Volunteer Firefighter Ode re- for urging President Bush to change the U.S. Arkansas, who passed away December 9, sponded to the report and quickly traveled to policy towards Cuba and for raising aware- 2007, at the age of 50. the scene. Upon their arrival, they discovered ness about how the policy impacts the artist Henry Pryor was a consummate profes- the engine compartment of the vehicle was community. Further, I support their movement, sional who made a positive impact on the peo- engulfed in flames and that Olive was still in- which would allow people from both countries ple and businesses he worked with throughout side. Putting their own lives in danger, they to exchange and experience performing and his life, which was abruptly and sadly cut short acted quickly to remove Olive from the vehicle literary arts.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.049 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2613 Art in any form including, but not limited to 3. initiate, by working with appropriate IN APPRECIATION OF DANIEL V. dance, music, and poetry provides a mecha- members of Congress, a process that can re- KISH nism where by people are able to express sult in the development of normal bilateral themselves, which ultimately represents their relations between our countries. Supporters of Cultural Exchanges with HON. DON YOUNG culture, identity, and voice. In addition to rep- OF ALASKA Cuba: resenting a culture, the selling of artistic goods IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES provides a source of income for artists and Louis Head—Cuba Research and Analysis Group—Co-founder US-Cuba Cultural Ex- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 substantially contributes to an economy, espe- change. cially in the U.S. Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. Madam Speaker, I The artists issue is part of the broader impli- Bill Martinez—Martinez & Associates—Co- rise today to honor Daniel V. Kish and the 28 founder US-Cuba Cultural Exchange. cations with the travel ban and trade embargo, years of service he has provided to the State which hurts the U.S. economically, politically, Cynthia Semon—Media consultant/music of Alaska and the Nation. promoter—US-Cuba Cultural Exchange. and socially. It is estimated that the U.S. econ- In the summer of 1978, a young long-haired James Early—Cultural Policy Specialist— college student dressed in muddy work boots omy loses millions of dollars annually due to U.S.-Cuba Cultural Exchange. the trade embargo. The lack of diplomatic re- wandered into my office looking for an intern- Harry Belafonte—actor/singer. lations prevents any effort to democratize ship. Why he chose my office in particular, I Cuba. There is no way to quantify the cost Danny Glover—actor. do not know, though I suspect it had some- paid by Cuban Americans who can’t visit their Sean Penn—actor. thing to do with an attractive young lady work- loved ones freely. Carlos Santana—musician. ing at the front desk, but he appeared willing The United States-Cuba policy is a failure, (Plus more than 1,400 other signatories). and eager to work. Thus, after telling him to period. Change is needed now. I urge my col- get a haircut and a pair of loafers, I put him leagues to support my bills, H.R. 624 and H. f to work. R. 654, which would lift the embargo and trav- My staff and I were immediately impressed el ban. VETERANS GUARANTEED BONUS by Dan’s strong work ethic, his innate under- U.S.-CUBA CULTURAL EXCHANGE, ACT OF 2007 standing of even the most complex issues, Albuquerque, NM, November 27, 2007. and his natural ability to communicate to my President GEORGE W. BUSH, SPEECH OF constituents—both in writing and in spoken The White House, word—the practical impacts of the various leg- Washington, DC. HON. CLIFF STEARNS islative proposals before the Congress. DEAR PRESIDENT BUSH: We wish to bring to OF FLORIDA In fact, when Dan returned to Indiana’s Wa- your attention the accompanying letter, bash College at the end of that summer to fin- dated October 26, 2007, received from Alicia IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Alonso, Prima Ballerina and Director of the ish his studies, he left our office with an unex- Cuban National Ballet, and also Goodwill Monday, December 17, 2007 pected void to fill. The following year Dan had Ambassador for the United Nations Edu- completed his undergraduate degree, and we cational, Scientific and Cultural Organiza- Mr. STEARNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in had an open position to fill. Thanks to the tion (UNESCO). Ms. Alonso has toured exten- support of this bill that corrects a desperately good judgment and recommendation of the sively in the United States and her work has ill-advised regulation hurting our Nation’s he- young woman who drew Dan into our office long been admired by the American per- roic men and women in uniform. This Defense the previous summer, I tracked him down and forming arts community, cultural critics and Department policy has resulted in several vet- the public. asked him to come to work for me full-time. In We are writing you as representatives of erans being denied their full bonuses or being the years since then, Dan has earned himself the cultural sphere in the United States. We asked to repay funds they are entitled to, sim- a well-deserved reputation as one of the most write you as American citizens. We write to ply because their injuries prevented them from talented, dedicated, and knowledgeable staff- express our dismay at your administration’s serving out their full term of service. ers on the Hill. continuing hostility towards Cuba. We write Unfortunately, this is not a new problem. Dan has stuck with me through thick and to express our opposition to policies that Back in October of 2004, Brian Ross of ABC thin. He has always kept my best interests, keep us divided from our Cuban counter- and the best interests of the State of Alaska, parts, preventing cultural interchange be- News reported that Army Specialist Tyson tween our two countries. We believe the time Johnson, who was injured by an exploding at heart. His devotion to me, the State of Alas- has come to move towards cooperation and mortar round in Iraq, later received a letter de- ka, and the Nation has been unparalleled. constructive relations with Cuba. manding repayment of his enlistment bonus Dan’s unwavering commitment to and under- The present policies deny such possibilities while he was still recuperating in the hospital. standing of strong Republican ideals, free of friendship and cultural sharing. We fur- market policies, and responsible development ther note that cultural interchanges and re- Two months ago, National Public Radio highlighted the story of Army Specialist Ronald of our Nation’s resources have been an inspi- lationships are also modes of communication ration to hundreds of Hill staffers and Mem- and expression. In denying us the possibility Hinkle, who suffered a traumatic brain injury of engaging in such exchanges and relation- after an IED explosion cut short his military bers alike, and he has served as the moral ships, we are being denied our fundamental career. Not only was Specialist Hinkle owed compass by which the Resources Committee rights as guaranteed by the 1st, 5th and 14th $2,500 in back salary, but two months after has sailed throughout his tenure. Dan’s writing throughout the years has been Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. NPR’s story aired, he was notified that a This reality seems to run counter to other equally inspiring. He is by far the single most $3,000 enlistment bonus would not be paid positions expressed by your Administration. impressive writer I’ve come across in 35 because he ‘‘failed to fulfill his contract.’’ In September 2006, for example, Laura Bush years. His talent and ability to get to the root inaugurated your Administration’s ‘‘Global In yet another case, Tommy Guinn, who is of an issue in two or three eloquent sentences Cultural Initiative,’’ stating that ‘‘One of a respected 14-year Army veteran, ended his the best ways we can deepen our friendships is unmatched. While Dan’s use of words has term of service early when a helicopter acci- always been powerful, it has often been hu- with the people of all countries is for us to dent in Pakistan left him paralyzed. Thank better understand each other’s culture by en- morous as well. A strong supporter of a free joying each other’s literature, music, films God he made it home safely to his family, but market economy, Dan once wrote a letter to and visual arts.’’ the military kept $1,000 out of his re-enlist- the Secretary of the Treasury recommending As citizens, artists, scholars, educators and ment bonus. that the $1 coin bear the likeness of Dolly Ar- cultural workers from all artistic practices, This is not the treatment our returning war- thur—the owner of a historic bordello in Ketch- academic disciplines, advocacy and service riors deserve. I am proud to support this bill organizations in the arts, we hope you will ikan, Alaska—suggesting that unlike Susan B. read and consider the words of Alicia Alonso that finally changes this flawed policy. The Anthony, she ‘‘was truly a woman who knew as we call upon your Administration to: Veterans Guaranteed Bonus Act makes the the value of a dollar.’’ This unique sense of 1. open a respectful dialogue with the gov- bonus payments automatic and requires the humor has brought smiles to my face and ernment and people of Cuba in accord with Secretary to pay any remaining portion of many others for nearly three decades. established protocols supported by the com- bonus payments within 90 days of medical But most of all, Dan Kish will be remem- munity of nations; discharge. During this season of Peace on bered for the genuine respect and apprecia- 2. end the travel ban that prevents U.S. citizens from visiting Cuba and allow for Earth and goodwill towards men, let us show tion he has always had for what he called ‘‘the Cuban artists and scholars to visit the goodwill to those on the frontlines protecting Working Man.’’ Although his mind was often United States, thus eliminating the censor- our peace. I urge my colleagues to support occupied in debates over esoteric federal poli- ship of art and ideas, and this bill. cies, his heart has always belonged to the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.053 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2614 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 fight for the working men and women of Amer- accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of gramme office and the damage to the U.N. ica who get dirt under their fingernails rather America and for his efforts put forth in achiev- High Commissioner for Refugees office in Al- than paper cuts on their pinkies. Dan tirelessly ing the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. giers, the capacity of the world body to carry reminded us that American prosperity, national f out its operations in Algiers has been seriously defense, and world leadership depend on the diminished. working men and women who operate the drill COMMEMORATING COBB COUNTY’S We subsequently learned that the Decem- rigs, mine metals and minerals, harvest trees 175TH ANNIVERSARY ber 11 attacks were the work of al-Qaeda in and crops, raise livestock, and pull the levers the Maghreb, a North African affiliate of al- and press the buttons that control the dams HON. DAVID SCOTT Qaeda. This same organization claimed re- responsible for irrigating the land and OF GEORGIA sponsibility for several previous attacks in Al- powering our communities. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES geria and Morocco, using tactics similar to those employed by their al-Qaeda brethren in God has blessed our country with a bounty Tuesday, December 18, 2007 of resources, and Dan was always ready with Iraq, where they indiscriminately wreak upon a sermon to remind us that His gifts are there Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I civilians and military targets. These inhumane for us to use wisely. Dan’s wise words will not rise today in order to recognize the 175th an- attacks are intended to sow insecurity and di- be forgotten. niversary of the founding of Cobb County, GA. visiveness, and, as in Iraq, can impede While hiring Dan was one of the best deci- On December 3, 2007, residents of Cobb progress in the social and economic spheres. sions I’ve made in my 35 years in Wash- County came together to celebrate a commu- The attacks illuminate al-Qaeda’s deter- ington, I think Dan would agree that coming to nity that has managed to remain united mination to continue to spread its destructive work for me was the most important decision through many trying times. It was the spirit of aims globally by perpetuating violence against of his life. After all, it’s where he met his beau- community that held Cobb together after many innocent civilians. But they should also rein- tiful wife, Pam, the young lady who lured the bloody battles of the Civil War took place force the imperative of the community of civ- long-haired college student into my office 29 here, or when the murder of Leo Frank in ilized nations to stamp out terrorism in all its years ago. I would be remiss if I did not also 1913 threatened to pull the community apart. forms. thank Pam Kish for everything she has done This deep reverence for community is one of Algeria is a Mediterranean Partner of the over the years, not only as a former staffer, the primary reasons that Marietta, one of Organization for Security and Cooperation in but as a loving wife. Cobb’s largest cities, was the first city in Geor- Europe (OSCE), within whose ambit the Hel- The State of Alaska and the Nation as a gia to be awarded the All American Cities sinki Commission carries out its mandate. The whole owe a debt of gratitude to Dan Kish for Award by the National Civic League. OSCE has among its highest priorities a com- his 29 years of service, and this House is a Today, Cobb County continues to meet the mitment to combating terrorism, and the Alge- better place because of his good work. Ronald challenges that face our Nation with strength, rian Government has been unwavering in its Reagan once wrote, ‘‘Some people work an resilience and innovation. Several cities in efforts to defeat terrorism, a goal that the entire lifetime and wonder if they’ve ever Cobb County have partnered with cities United States shares. made a difference.’’ I know I speak for many around the world, developing trade relation- Through our recent experience with ter- in this body when I say there is no question ships that keep Cobb County and Georgia rel- rorism, Americans understand the pain now that Dan Kish has made a tremendous dif- evant in the global economy. Cobb County is suffered by the Algerian people for the loss of ference during his tenure and will be sorely proud to be the home of Home Depot’s head- so many innocent lives and the injury of nu- missed. quarters as well as several other companies merous others. Today, we affirm our support While Dan is moving on, his impact on and that keep Georgia’s, as well as America’s, for the people and Government of Algeria in contribution to our work in Congress is time- economy strong. As our Nation has grown their continued struggle against extremism and less. I can think of no one who is more widely more diverse, so has Cobb County. Cobb violence. respected and admired for his intrinsic under- County has demonstrated how much progress That is why, together with my good friend standing of and devotion to the things that can come from people working together as Congressman BILL DELAHUNT, Chairman of the make this Nation so great. neighbors and partners rather than focusing House Foreign Affairs Committee, Sub- I am forever grateful that Dan’s path on those things that keep communities di- committee on International Organizations, crossed with mine that day, 29 years ago so, vided. Human Rights, and Oversight, I am intro- while I stand here today honoring Daniel V. Cobb County is a place that all Americans ducing today’s resolution, which condemns the Kish for his years of service, his departure is can be proud of and look to as an example of senseless acts of violence against the Alge- bittersweet. Words cannot express my per- what every community should strive to emu- rian people and the United Nations on Decem- sonal gratitude to Dan for his work, his coun- late. I am proud to represent Cobb and com- ber 11. This resolution also expresses our pro- sel, and most importantly, his friendship. mit these statements to the CONGRESSIONAL found sympathy for the victims of the bomb- Thank you, Dan. I wish you and Pam the best RECORD so generations can reflect on what ings; the support of the U.S. House of Rep- in the next chapter of your life together. has been, is, and will continue to be an exem- resentatives for the Algerian people in their f plary community. continued efforts to secure peace for their na- f tion; and support for the Algerian authorities in RECOGNIZING RYAN KEITH bringing the perpetrators of the attacks to jus- INTRODUCING A RESOLUTION CON- BUEHRIG FOR ACHIEVING THE tice. Chairman DELAHUNT’s commitment to ad- RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT DEMNING THE RECENT TER- vancing peace, human rights, and security are RORIST ATTACKS IN ALGERIA laudable and long-standing. I am deeply proud HON. SAM GRAVES to work with him on this resolution. OF MISSOURI HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF FLORIDA TRIBUTE TO SYLVIA PRESSLEY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, December 18, 2007 WOODS Mr. GRAVES. I proudly pause to recognize Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Ryan K. Buehrig, a very special young man Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN who has exemplified the finest qualities of citi- as Chairman of the Commission on Security OF SOUTH CAROLINA zenship and leadership by taking an active and Cooperation in Europe, otherwise called IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES part in the Boy Scouts of America and in earn- the Helsinki Commission, I rise to introduce a ing the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. resolution which condemns in the strongest Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Ryan has been very active with his troop, terms, the terrorist bombing of the Algerian Mr. CLYBURN. Madam Speaker, today I participating in many Scout activities. Over the Supreme Court and United Nations offices in rise to honor one of South Carolina’s own, many years Ryan has been involved with Algiers, Algeria on December 11, 2007. Sylvia Pressley Woods, affectionately known Scouting, he has not only earned numerous These deplorable attacks upon civilian tar- as the ‘‘Queen of Soul Food.’’ In August of merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- gets took the lives of 37 people, including 17 1962, Sylvia put her charismatic personality to ily, peers, and community. United Nations employees, and injured numer- the test and purchased the restaurant, which Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join ous others. As a consequence of the destruc- then was only a small luncheonette, from her me in commending Ryan K. Buehrig for his tion of the United Nations Development Pro- own boss.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.058 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2615 Almost 50 years later, Sylvia’s has become Queen of Soul Food line of canned and bot- teed Bonus Act of 2007. I am proud to be a the landmark of 126th St. and Lenox Avenue tled foods impressed Pathmark supermarket cosponsor of this legislation because I believe and the one place where everyone knows they CEO Jim Donald. He told Crain’s New York the men and women who bravely serve our can get a taste of authentic Southern Soul Business that ‘‘Sylvia and Van Woods run country deserve everything they are promised food. The restaurant also serves to remind the their company with their heart and soul.’’ Syl- when they sign up for the military. This bill en- community’s residents that hard work, deter- via’s hot sauces, candied yams, mustard sures those forced to leave military service be- mination, and love of family can lead to suc- greens, kidney beans, and 13 other items are cause of a combat injury will receive the bo- cess. available in supermarkets nationwide. nuses they are entitled to. Moreover, this bill Sylvia’s Restaurant, a Harlem soul-food Sylvia’s Soul Food cookbook was also pub- recognizes that the men and women injured in landmark, attracts busloads of tourists from all lished in 1992. It was followed in 1999 by the battle, in Iraq and Afghanistan, would much over the United States and around the world. more extensive Sylvia’s Family Soul Food rather be with their brothers and sisters in the Sylvia’s is a frequent stop for celebrities and Cookbook, which included Woods’s personal field than in a hospital nursing their wounds. politicians. With the launch of a line of pre- reminiscences and numerous family photo- The least we can do is afford them with the pared supermarket foods, the empire of res- graphs along with recipes gathered in a giant benefits, pay, and assistance to which they taurateur Sylvia Woods has expanded to South Carolina family cook-off. are already entitled. touch the culinary lives of people all over the The good reputation of the ‘‘Sylvia’s’’ name I would like to thank Congressman ALTMIRE country. has put Sylvia Woods’s cookery on a path to for his tireless work on this legislation. It is a Woods herself has a remarkable story that growth, with the restaurant’s many admirers fine example of how the Democratic Congress encapsulates much of 20th-century African- hoping to get in on the action. Additional full- is keeping its promises to our dedicated men American history. She was born Sylvia service restaurants are planned for the future, and women valiantly fighting on behalf of our Pressley in Hemingway, South Carolina, on increasing the Sylvia’s stable of 200 employ- country. I ask my colleagues to join me in sup- February 2, 1926. Her father, Van Pressley, ees and bringing the soul-food creations of porting the Veterans Guaranteed Bonus Act. died three days after she was born from the Hemingway, South Carolina, to even more f after effects of chemical-weapons injuries he American diners. With all four Woods children sustained while fighting in World War I. When involved with the business, it represents a RECOGNIZING LINDA KITAZAKI she was three her mother departed for New family tradition of the best—and tastiest—kind. York City in search of a chance to make Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring HON. TED POE money that would put her family on a solid fi- South Carolina’s own, mother, restaurateur OF TEXAS nancial footing. and enterprising businesswoman, Mrs. Sylvia IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Woods recalled with affection the warmth Woods. and closeness of her rural southern commu- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 f nity. Nevertheless, she has painful memories. Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, heroes are peo- CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 1585, ‘‘I didn’t like any part of farm life,’’ she told Na- ple who devote their lives to serving others NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- tion’s Restaurant News. ‘‘I didn’t understand and making our world a better place in which TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 why people would not let me drink out of the to live. Linda Kitazaki was one of those peo- same water fountain, but they would trust me SPEECH OF ple. to cook for them and to take care of their Linda was the executive director of Mothers dearest things, their babies.’’ Her grandfather HON. JOE BACA Against Drunk Driving Southeast Texas. I was hanged after being wrongly accused of OF CALIFORNIA knew her for over 20 years in my work as a participating in a grocery-store robbery when IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES judge in Texas. She was an advocate in every her mother was just an infant. Wednesday, December 12, 2007 sense of the word who worked passionately to Sylvia Woods worked in a Queens hat fac- fulfill MADD’s vision to stop drunk driving, sup- tory for a time, as well, but a turning point Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in sup- port the victims of this violent crime and pre- came in 1954 when a cousin told Woods that port of H.R. 1585, the Conference Report on vent underage drinking. Those who know her she planned to quit her job at a lunch counter Defense Authorization Bill. best describe her as compassionate, powerful, at 126th Street and Lenox Avenue, around the As we approach the Holiday Season and we gracious and inspirational. corner from the famed Apollo Theater and go back to our families, we cannot forget that Linda became affiliated with MADD back in within walking distance of the Woods’s 131st not everyone is so fortunate. 1988 because of a near fatal crash involving Street apartment. Woods, who had rarely even Our loyal soldiers are serving proudly and teenagers who were drinking and driving. The seen the inside of a restaurant, took the job not all will be with their loved ones. with trepidation and without any thought of I want to speak directly to them and to their situation was especially troublesome to Linda ever running one herself. But she impressed families in my District because these are the because the teenagers had been given alco- the owner, a fellow South Carolinian, with her true faces of the war. hol by a parent. Because of her dedication to This bill supports our service members by energy. When he ran into financial trouble with making a difference, she became the Adminis- increasing military pay across the board, be- an investment in a black resort in upstate New trator for the Harris County Chapter of MADD. cause the empty stomachs of a family hurt no York, he offered to sell her the restaurant. With the assistance of Penny Ellsworth, who matter where you are. After her mother took out a $20,000 loan joined MADD because her son was killed by This bill protects our soldiers by providing backed by her family farm, Sylvia Woods be- a drunk driver, the two reorganized the Harris the equipment needed, because today—our came the owner of Johnson’s Luncheonette in County Chapter. soldiers deserve the best there is. MADD Harris County became the Southeast 1962. This bill includes the Wounded Warrior Act With four children, Van, Bedelia, Kenneth, Texas Region Affiliate Office. With Linda at which reinforces the fact that the tragic condi- and Crizette, born between 1949 and 1967, the helm, the small office grew to serve 10 tions at Walter Reed must end. Woods had little time to think of expansion, counties and became one of the most promi- I ask my colleagues to not ignore the reali- nent within the organization. Not only does the but Sylvia’s became known far and wide for its ties of the war and review their priorities—we fried chicken, collard greens, peach pies, and office provide services to the victims of drunk must give our troops on the frontline what they drivers, it also conducts outreach and edu- other soul-food standards. The restaurant need and rightfully deserve. moved two doors down from its original loca- cation in order to prevent future tragedies. The tion in 1968 and gradually grew to occupy f idea of preventing young people from making most of the Harlem block on which it rests. VETERANS GUARANTEED BONUS bad decisions that would impact them for the Sylvia’s now can seat 450 and boasts a next- ACT OF 2007 rest of their lives truly resonated with Linda. door catering operation. As a result of Linda’s leadership, her MADD Diners suggested that Sylvia’s open new SPEECH OF office became very strong and has 10 staff branches in other cities, but Woods and her members and countless volunteers. She start- HON. JOHN D. DINGELL ed new programs and initiatives. She was son, Van decided on a different course—one OF MICHIGAN considered a maverick in new fundraising inspired by the customers who would come in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES at holiday time with empty jars and ask wheth- methods in the Houston area which were then er they could buy Sylvia’s barbecue sauce. Monday, December 17, 2007 replicated for national success in the organiza- Launched in 1992 and featuring a picture of Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tion. Her passion and commitment won her Woods herself on the label, the Sylvia’s support of H.R. 3793, the Veterans Guaran- Employee of the Year recognition.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.062 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2616 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 She also played a key role in developing the Bump, bump bump bump bump . . . Christians throughout the world, making Chris- Take the Wheel Program, which focused all of Bump, bump bump bump bump . . . bump, tianity the largest religion in the world and the the organization’s resources and programs bump bump bump bump . . . religion of about one-third of the world popu- Whether, upon football fields of green . . . or into Harris County because it had the highest lation. on so Heroic Battlefields of Honor Seen And yet, Mr. Speaker, in recent decades number of drunk driving deaths in Texas. By ... partnering with law enforcement, businesses, All Along His Watchtower, ‘‘They could get there have been some who have undertaken government, community and religious leaders, no relief’’ ... efforts to diminish the significance of this great the program seeks to save lives by encour- Striking Hard, Striking Fast! religion, and these efforts are no more appar- aging personal responsibility in the use of al- A bold heart, That is his motto, That is his ent than during this time of Christmas. cohol and educating the public about the dan- path! It is not hard to look out over this great gers of drunk driving. Dying twice, when . . . The Dark Riders in country of ours and find those who, for one On Dec. 13, 2007, Linda passed away un- the distance, they began to approach reason or another, have engaged in a highly- expectedly. She leaves behind a legacy of ... politicized and highly-publicized crusade to rid compassion and exceptional service. On Dec. When Brent, began to howl . . . ‘‘I’m not the public square of any reference to the reli- ready now!’’ 19, 2007, friends and family will gather to cel- gious underpinnings of the Christmas holiday. The Nort Catolacki Kid, These are individuals who have subscribed to ebrate the remarkable life of this extraordinary ′ ′′ 6 9 . . . built for power and speed . . . 9 a radical interpretation of our Constitution’s community servant. The State of Texas and sacks in one football game . . . a man free exercise and establishment clauses and our Nation owes much to Linda Kitazaki for who would not heed! making our streets and highways safer. Until, on battlefields of horror he would have sought to impose their secular views and And that’s just the way it is. bleed . . . In The Real Game of Life, all beliefs on the nation as a whole. for our Country ’Tis a Thee! In many respects, it is this ongoing effort to f Giving up his fine leg, as he did . . . bring about the secularization of Christmas— PERSONAL EXPLANATION Brent Hendrick, an Army Man . . . and all of our everyday lives for that matter— A Real American Hero, who before us now that motivated me to bring this resolution be- stands . . . fore the House today. HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO Strength In Honor, who respects so com- Regardless of how others may define it, Mr. OF CONNECTICUT mands . . . cheating death, as towards Speaker, Christmas is a religious holiday. It is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES evil he ran . . . the day on which Christians—those who iden- Into that dark valley of death, for our nation Tuesday, December 18, 2007 tify themselves as believers in the salvation to so bless . . . Striking Hard, Striking from sin offered to them through the death Ms. DELAURO. Madam Speaker, due to fast . . . all in death’s path! and resurrection of their savior, Jesus Christ, ′ ′′ 1 medical reasons I missed a suspension vote But, when you’re 6 9 . . . and have a 17 ⁄2 the Son of God, and who, out of gratitude for shoe . . . and the vote on the motion to postpone con- the gift of salvation, commit themselves to liv- sideration of the veto message for the Chil- You can kick some glutenous maximus too! Now isn’t that true! As this patriot’s ing their lives in accordance with the teachings dren’s Health Insurance Program Reauthoriza- of the Holy Bible—celebrate the birth of their tion Act. Had I been present, I would have heart comes into view! Could we, would we . . . ever such magnifi- savior. For Christians, the birth of Jesus is voted ‘‘aye’’ on rollcall No. 1154 and ‘‘aye’’ on cence find so too? cause for great celebration. As the Son of rollcall No. 1155. All ready, operations . . . he’s had 65! God, Jesus was sent to earth, by our Heav- f But, this Heroes Heart . . . will not wilt, will enly Father, to become a human being, live a PERSONAL EXPLANATION not die! sinless life, be crucified on a cross for our Like Arnold, he’ll be back . . . Back . . . sins, and rise from the dead three days later. Back . . . Back in Iraq . . . with his The purpose of this, as you well know, Mr. brothers in arms . . . or he’ll resign! HON. SOLOMON P. ORTIZ Speaker, was to save sinners from eternal OF TEXAS And The Wind Cries Hero! Do Do Do Do . . . death—the price to be paid for their sin. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES And so, Mr. Speaker, the birth of Christ, as I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing Tuesday, December 18, 2007 celebrated by Christians on Christmas is a our appreciation for this soldier’s dedication to truly important and significant day because it Mr. ORTIZ. Madam Speaker, due to per- the United States Armed Forces and to this is celebrated as a recognition of God’s re- sonal medical reasons, I was unable to vote Nation. His service and sacrifice is a shining demption, mercy and Grace. during the following roll call votes. Had I been example of the quality of men and women The importance of Christmas, however, present, I would have voted as indicated who serve this great Nation at home and does not end with the tenets of Christianity. below. abroad. Because Christmas is one of the most impor- Rollcall No. 1163: ‘‘yea.’’ f tant holidays on the Christian calendar, I be- Rollcall No. 1164: ‘‘yea.’’ RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE lieve that its annual passage should serve as Rollcall No. 1165: ‘‘yea.’’ an opportunity for all Americans, Christian or Rollcall No. 1166: ‘‘yea.’’ OF CHRISTMAS AND THE CHRIS- TIAN FAITH not, religious or not, to recognize the important Rollcall No. 1167: ‘‘yea.’’ role played by Christianity in the formation of Rollcall No. 1168: ‘‘yea.’’ SPEECH OF our nation and in the founding of our civiliza- Rollcall No. 1169: ‘‘yea.’’ tion. Rollcall No. 1170: ‘‘yea.’’ HON. STEVE KING It is no coincidence, Mr. Speaker, that court- Rollcall No. 1171: ‘‘yea.’’ OF IOWA houses throughout this country proudly display Rollcall No. 1172: ‘‘yea.’’ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Ten Commandments. It is no accident Rollcall No. 1173: ‘‘yea.’’ Tuesday, December 11, 2007 that, in this very chamber, it is the face of f Moses, the human author of those divinely Mr. KING of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I would like dictated commandments, that looks down ALL ALONG HIS WATCHTOWER to begin by thanking the Ranking Member of upon you, keeping close watch on all that the Foreign Affairs Committee, the gentle- transpires in this chamber. Mr. Speaker the HON. HEATH SHULER woman from Florida, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, for framework of our laws and the fabric of our OF NORTH CAROLINA her support and help in getting this important society is heavily dependent upon the maxims IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES measure to the House floor for a vote. of Christianity, and I believe that as we Chris- Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to address the tians begin our annual celebration of the birth Tuesday, December 18, 2007 House today to discuss the importance and of our savior, the one from whom Christianity Mr. SHULER. Madam Speaker, I rise today relevance of Christmas, the Christian holiday derives its name, it is wholly appropriate for to present the following poem entitled All celebrating the birth of our savior Jesus Christ. us, as a nation and as members of this Along His Watchtower, which was written by As this resolution notes, there are approxi- House, to take the time to acknowledge the Mr. Albert Carey Caswell in honor of Brent mately 225 million Christians in the United contributions that the Christian religion has Hendricks, of the 172nd Striker Brigade from States, making Christianity the religion of over made to our country and our way of life. Forest City, North Carolina. Mr. Hendricks lost three-fourths of the American population. Be- Mr. Speaker, I think we all can agree that his leg when an IED blew up his humvee. yond that, there are approximately 2 billion virtually any American, whether Christian,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.067 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2617 atheist, agnostic, or otherwise, when con- our past—to some of the things which have President and CEO of GP Industrial Contrac- fronted with the fact that he has in some way gone into the making of our Nation.’’ tors, Inc. In 1940, President Franklin Delano Roo- wronged his neighbor, will rightly respond in He began his professional career as a one universal way—knock on his door, con- sevelt said of Christmas, ‘‘it is well for all hu- draftsman for Bethlehem Steel, performing fess to him, repent, and ask for forgiveness. manity to remind itself that while this is in its piping, mechanical, electrical, and structural The neighbor would then forgive them as name a Christian celebration, it is participated drafting. He worked for fifteen years on elec- Christ has taught us. True and simple as this in reverently and happily by hundreds of mil- trical instrumentation, mechanical and pipe de- may seem, it is important to ask why we as lions of people who are members of other reli- signing, residential, and commercial construc- Americans naturally react in such a way. The gions, or belong actively to no church at all. tion, and has been a senior designer, project answer of course is that in this ‘‘conditioned The reason is not far to seek. It is because engineer, project manager, and project super- behavior’’ we see very clearly the positive ef- the spirit of unselfish service personified by intendent. Each job garnered Mr. Petry the fect that Christianity has had on the develop- the life and the teachings of Christ makes ap- necessary skills for his company to secure ment of our country and culture. peal to the inner conscience and hope of massive projects such as the Toyota Center, There are few places in the United States— every man and every woman in every part of Minute Maid Park, and other high profile if any—that you can visit where the laws ‘‘do the earth.’’ projects around the country. not steal’’ and ‘‘do not murder’’ do not apply. President Eisenhower called the nation to Likewise, there are few households in this reflect during his remarks at the lighting of the Mr. Petry received his bachelor’s degree great country in which moral character is de- Nation’s Christmas Tree on December, 15th from Lamar University in 1997, and one year veloped in young children without the invoca- 1967 when he said, ‘‘In a few days we shall later, he founded GP Industrial Contractors. tion of the ninth and tenth amendments re- all celebrate the birth of His Holiness on earth. He partnered with an acquaintance who garding lying and coveting that which belongs We shall recreate in our minds, once more, owned Gulf Copper Manufacturing Company to others. the ancient coming of that Spirit who remains to form a company specializing in building re- Mr. Speaker, we as Americans live in a alive for millions in our time. We shall ac- fineries and petrochemical plants. Piping, steel moral society and in a country that is gov- knowledge the Kingdom of a Child in a world fabrication, carpentry, maintenance, and engi- erned by moral laws. While many of these of men.’’ neering, are just a few of the services his laws obviously cannot be found in any explicit He went on to say, ‘‘That Child—we should company offers. sense within the pages of the Holy Bible, remember—grew into manhood Himself, Mr. Petry attributes all of his success to when we survey the content of that book—the preached and moved men in many walks of God, and doesn’t think twice about giving back document that outlines how it is the Christians life, and died in agony. But His death—so the to the community. With a focus on youth edu- are to live their lives here on earth—we do Christian faith tells us—was not the end. For cation, he shared his knowledge as an instruc- find much in the way of foundational principles Him, and for millions of men and women ever tor at Lamar University, teaching AutoCAD, that has come to guide not just the develop- since, it marked a time of triumph—when the surveying and drafting. He and his wife re- ment of our laws, but also the foundation of spirit of life triumphed over death. So—if this cently donated money to create an endow- our nation. Christmas season in a time of war is to have ment scholarship at Lamar State College, for It was from the Bible and the example of real meaning to us, it must celebrate more nursing and engineering students in Port Ar- Jesus that Pilgrims first established govern- than the birth of a Baby.’’ thur. Currently, he hosts the Roosevelt Petry, ment on this continent, from which the Found- During his Radio Address to the Nation on Jr. Business Hour on KSAP 107.1—the ers outlined the political thought that shaped Christmas Eve, 1983 President Reagan point- Breeze, in Port Arthur, TX. After Hurricane our nation, and by which Congress first in- ed out that ‘‘It’s been said that all the kings Rita, Mr. Petry’s GP Industrial Contractors tended to educate our children. Furthermore, who ever reigned, that all the parliaments that were there to help the small gulf coast com- as the scholar David Barton and others have ever sat have not done as much to advance munity of Sabine Pass pick up the pieces, as- tirelessly pointed out, it was from the Bible the cause of peace on Earth and good will to sisting in rebuilding. that early American leaders derived concepts men as the man from Galilee, Jesus of Naza- like private ownership, the free-enterprise sys- reth.’’ He has served the community as Commis- tem, an industrious work ethic, and workfare As the words of these great men—these re- sioner of the Port Arthur Housing Authority; rather than welfare. As a result, the life and vered and honored presidents of the United Chairman of the Port Arthur Economic Devel- teachings of Jesus Christ have permeated States of America have clearly demonstrated, opment Corporation; Member of the Port Ar- every aspect of life in America. He has it is not a stretch to say that the precepts and thur Citizen Advisory Committee; Member of shaped our culture and transformed every principles of Jesus have so completely per- the National Society of Black Engineers; great leader to rise from our population. As a meated the culture of this nation that even an Board of Directors for Junior Achievement; testament to this, each of our American Presi- American atheist would be hard pressed to and Board of Directors for the United Way. He dents has acknowledged God’s hand on this separate his worldview from the impact of the also serves on the Military Academy Selection Christian nation that is the United States. If first Christmas. Board for our Congressional District. there never had been a Jesus Christ, there Though we are not all Christians, Mr. Over the years, Mr. Petry’s hard work and would never have been an America. Speaker, we are all Americans. By virtue of community involvement have resulted in sev- In an address to the nation President Tru- that simple fact, I will again reiterate my belief eral honors and awards, including Score’s man once said that, ‘‘In love, which is the very that it is not only appropriate but, more impor- 2007 Business Man of the Year Award; 2006 essence of the message of the Prince of tantly, is necessary during this special time of Port Arthur Economic Development Corpora- Peace, the world would find a solution for all year to remember not only the birth of Jesus tion’s Business of the Year Award; 2004 its ills. I do not believe there is one problem Christ, the savior of the world, but also to rec- Houston Minority Business Council’s Emerging in this country or in the world today which ognize the important impact that the Christian Ten Award; 2002 Lamar State College Port could not be settled if approached through the faith has had on the foundation and develop- Arthur’s Industrial Business of the Year Award; teaching of the Sermon on the Mount. The ment of our society, our nation, and our civili- 2004 Make Ready, Inc. 4th Annual Humani- poets’ dream, the lesson of priest and patri- zation. tarian Award; and he was featured in the Na- arch and the prophets’ vision of a new heaven f tional Society of Black Engineers in 2000. and a new earth, all are summed up in the message delivered in the Judean hills beside RECOGNIZING ROOSEVELT PETRY, This Port Arthur native has shown that your the Sea of Galilee. Would that the world would JR. environment and circumstances don’t predict accept that message in this time of its greatest your future. Hard work and perseverance have need!’’ HON. TED POE been the lifeblood of Mr. Petry’s success. Port He went on to say that, ‘‘This is a solemn Arthur’s future is brighter because of Mr. OF TEXAS Petry’s continuing commitment and involve- hour. In the stillness of the Eve of the Nativity IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES when the hopes of mankind hang on the ment in our community. Roosevelt Petry peace that was offered to the world nineteen Tuesday, December 18, 2007 seizes the opportunities that come his way centuries ago, it is but natural, while we sur- Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, today I am and has a positive attitude and zest for life. vey our destiny, that we give thought also to proud to recognize Mr. Roosevelt Petry, Jr., And that’s just the way it is.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.072 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2618 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 AWARDING CONGRESSIONAL GOLD what it takes to be a true gentleman. I think global warming by 2009. The resolve to face MEDAL TO DAW AUNG SAN SUU this passage by John Walter Wayland de- down the White House was best perhaps best KYI scribes Paul Gillmor and how he lived his life. articulated by the delegate from Papua New It reads as follows: Guinea—who, addressing the U.S. delegation SPEECH OF ‘‘The True Gentleman is the man whose in the final diplomatic showdown, declared, ‘‘If HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY conduct proceeds from good will and an acute you cannot lead, leave it to the rest of us. OF ILLINOIS sense of propriety, and whose self-control is Please get out of the way.’’ equal to all emergencies; who does not make Madam Speaker, our distinguished former IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the poor man conscious of his poverty, the ob- congressional colleague, Al Gore, has pro- Monday, December 17, 2007 scure man of his obscurity, or any man of his vided our Nation and our global community Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, today we inferiority or deformity; who is himself humbled with great leadership. At a time when our own award a Congressional Gold Medal to Daw if necessity compels him to humble another; Administration has let us down, Vice President Aung San Suu Kyi, in recognition of her coura- who does not flatter wealth, cringe before Gore has reminded the world that, in his geous commitment to peace, nonviolence, power, or boast of his own possessions or words, ‘‘political will is a renewable resource.’’ human rights, and democracy in Burma. achievements; who speaks with frankness but I commend the text of the Vice President’s Mr. Speaker, the images we have seen from always with sincerity and sympathy; whose historic address to my colleagues. To date, Burma over the past year have been nothing deed follows his word; who thinks of the rights this landmark in the global climate discussion short of horrifying. Soldiers firing automatic and feelings of others, rather than his own; has not been published in its entirety any- weapons into unarmed crowds and the and who appears well in any company, a man where, but I am honored now to place a ver- charred body of a Buddhist monk, slain, lying with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe.’’ batim transcript of it in the CONGRESSIONAL face down in a pool of water stained with Mr. Speaker, I think that my colleagues RECORD. Al Gore’s words should inspire all of blood, are just two examples of the oppression would agree that Paul Gillmor lived the life of us to work to fill in the ‘‘large open space’’ that that continues to plague Burma. a true gentleman as a father, a husband, a our current administration has left in the place In the face of this horror, a hero has friend and a public servant. where U.S. leadership normally resides. emerged. For close to 20 years, Nobel Lau- With that said, I appreciate today’s effort to SPEECH AT THE UNITED NATIONS CLIMATE reate Aung San Suu Kyi has continued to fight move this well-deserved legislation forward, CHANGE CONFERENCE, BALI, INDONESIA, DE- for freedom and equality in Burma in the face and I urge everyone to honor and remember CEMBER 13, 2007 of tremendous adversity. She has been ar- our friend and colleague, Paul Gillmor. (By Al Gore) rested on numerous occasions, held under f I am not an official of the United States, house arrest, and even had an attempt made and I am not bound by the diplomatic nice- on her life. In spite of this, Suu Kyi continues COMMENDING THE STATEMENT OF ties. So, I am going to speak an inconvenient VICE PRESIDENT AL GORE AT truth. My own country, the United States, is to speak out and to urge democracies principally responsible for obstructing throughout the world to come to Burma’s aid. THE U.N. CLIMATE CHANGE CON- FERENCE IN BALI progress here in Bali. We all know that. Her message is a simple one: ‘‘Use your lib- We all know that. But, my country is not erty to promote ours.’’ the only one that can take steps to ensure Today, as we award the Congressional Gold HON. TOM LANTOS that we move forward from Bali with Medal to Suu Kyi, we stand with her to de- OF CALIFORNIA progress, and with hope. Those of you who mand democratic change in Burma. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES applauded when I spoke openly about the diplomatic truth here have a choice to make. I believe that while change will not come Tuesday, December 18, 2007 overnight to Burma, it will come. And when it You can do one of two things here. You can feel anger and frustration and direct it at does, it will be my great pleasure to join my Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, at a water- shed moment in global diplomacy last week, the United States of America, or you can colleagues in welcoming Aung San Suu Kyi to make a second choice. You can decide to Washington so that we can thank her in per- our distinguished former Vice President, Al move forward and do all of the difficult work son for her historic and courageous stand for Gore, stepped in to fill an enormous U.S. vac- that needs to be done and save a large open liberty. uum in leadership. At the world summit on blank space in your document and put a global warming in Bali, Indonesia, this new footnote by it. And when you look at the f Nobel laureate once again took on the nec- footnote, write the description of the foot- PAUL E. GILLMOR POST OFFICE essary role of the nation’s conscience in the note. This document is incomplete, but we BUILDING effort to save our planet from a looming cli- are going to move forward anyway on the mate catastrophe. With a candid and clear- hope—and I am going to describe for you SPEECH OF why I think you can also have the realistic eyed address, Vice President Gore provided a expectation—that that blank will be filled HON. DAVID L. HOBSON powerful bridge of hope to world leaders who in. OF OHIO were struggling to make real progress in set- This is the beginning of a process designed to culminate in Copenhagen two years from IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ting a roadmap toward a treaty designed to stave off the most devastating impacts of glob- now. Over the next two years, the United Monday, December 17, 2007 al warming. States is going to be somewhere it is not Mr. HOBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to In his speech, Vice President Gore coura- now. You must anticipate that. Targets must pay tribute to a dear friend and former col- geously confronted the ‘‘inconvenient truth’’ be a part of the treaty that is adopted in Co- penhagen. And the treaty, by the way, league, Congressman Paul Gillmor, by sup- that right now, at this moment in history; the should not only be adopted in 2009: I urge you porting the designation of the U.S. Postal principal obstruction to progress in the global in this mandate to move the target for full Service Office located at 175 South Monroe effort to confront the Earth’s greatest existen- implementation of this treaty to a point two Street in Tiffin, Ohio, as the ‘‘Paul E. Gillmor tial threat is the United States of America. He years sooner than presently contemplated. Post Office Building’’. urged the assembled delegates in Bali to over- Let’s have it take effect fully in 2010, and not While we all miss our friend, this designa- come their anger and frustration at this obsta- 2012. We can’t afford to wait another five tion will serve to honor him for his distin- cle, vowing that ‘‘over the next two years, the years in order to replace the provisions of United States is going to be in a place it is not the Kyoto Protocol. guished career in public service in both the So we must leave here with a strong man- U.S. House of Representatives and the Ohio now.’’ The Vice President also offered a solu- date. This is not the time for business as Senate, and for living his life as a true gen- tion, suggesting that rather than trying to move usual. Somehow we have to summon, and tleman. the Bush Administration, the climate summit each of you must summon a sense of urgency The reference to being a ‘‘true gentleman’’ simply should circumvent it by leaving ‘‘a large here in Bali. These are not political prob- is something that will have a special meaning open space’’ in the document to be filled in lems, they are moral imperatives. But our to members of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon frater- when U.S. leadership is finally restored. capacity to strip away the disguise and see nity, and it’s something that I would like to Inspired by the Vice President’s address, them for what they really are and then find the basis to act together to successfully ad- enter into the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD as a the U.N. delegates finally and resolutely dress them is what is missing. tribute to Paul Gillmor. rebuffed the administration’s effort to block The greatest opportunity inherent in this Paul and I were both members of the SAE’s consensus on a ‘‘Bali Roadmap’’ by reaching climate crisis is not only to quickly deploy during our time at Ohio Wesleyan University, a consensus that commits all nations to nego- the new technologies that will facilitate sus- and our fraternity has a motto that describes tiate a new, scientifically valid deal to fighting tainable development, to create the new jobs

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.077 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2619 and to lift standards of living. The greatest acknowledged in the New York CARIB News private sector union in New York and the opportunity is that in rising to meet the cli- December 10 story, ‘‘Honoring The Legacy of largest property service union in the coun- mate crisis, we in our generation will find Adam Clayton Powell Jr.’’ Local 32BJ—the try. the moral authority and capacity for long f term vision to get our act together in this largest private sector union in New York and world and take on these other crises, not po- the largest property service union in the coun- MISSED VOTES litical problems, and solve them. We are one try—has evoked the memory and legacy of people, on one planet. We have one future, Mr. Powell in its campaign to organize private HON. ADAM SMITH one destiny. We must pursue it together, and security guards. The more than 60,000 New OF WASHINGTON we can. York security officers deserve a living wage IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The great Spanish poet from Sevilla Anto- that meets their needs and those of their fami- nio Machado wrote, ‘‘Path walker, there is lies. This battle is the most recent offshoot of Tuesday, December 18, 2007 no path. You must make the path as you JANUARY 22, 2007 walk.’’ Mr. Powell’s influence on social and economic There is no path from Bali to Copenhagen justice. It is in his spirit that these hard-work- Mr. SMITH of Washington. Madam. Speak- unless you make it. It’s impossible given the ing Americans fight for the benefits due them, er, due to events in my district, I was unable positions of the powerful countries, includ- and I wholeheartedly join them in this cam- to vote on rollcall No. 42: Passage of H. Res. ing my own, and the instructions from which paign. 475. Had I been present, I would have voted they are not going to depart. But you can HONORING THE LEGACY OF ADAM CLAYTON ‘‘yes.’’ make a new path. You can make a path that POWELL, JR. JANUARY 22, 2007 goes around that blank spot. And you can go NEW YORK, NY.—In a major step forward forward. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- There are two paths you can choose. They for Local 32BJ’s city-wide campaign to orga- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 43: lead to two different futures. Not too long nize security officers, Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Table the appeal of the ruling of the Chair for from now, when our children assess what you Butts welcomes Local 32BJ President Mike H. Res. 476. Had I been present, I would have did here in Bali, what we in our generation Fishman and Reverend Johnny Ray Young- voted ‘‘yes.’’ did here in this world. As they look back- blood to the Abyssinian Baptist Church for its annual commemoration of the life and Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- ward, at 2007, they will ask one of two ques- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 44: tions. I don’t know which one they will ask, work of Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. This is the first time the union’s security Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree to H. I know which one I prefer they ask, but trust Res. No. 52. Had I been present, I would have me, they will ask one of these two questions. officer campaign is being brought to the at- They’ll look back and either they will ask, tention of Abyssinian’s members. voted ‘‘yes.’’ ‘‘What were you thinking? Didn’t you hear ‘‘Honoring the legacy of Adam Clayton Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- the IPCC four times unanimously warning Powell means continuing his fight for social trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 45: the world to act? Didn’t you see the glaciers and economic justice,’’ said Mike Fishman, Motion to suspend the rules and Agreed to melting? Didn’t you see the North Polar ice Local 32BJ President. H.R. 390. Had I been present, I would have ‘‘It is unfair that these men and women cap disappearing? Didn’t you see the deserts voted ‘‘yes.’’ growing and the droughts deepening and the risk their lives protecting million dollar buildings, but don’t make enough to support Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- crops drying up? Didn’t you see the sea level trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 46: rising, didn’t you see the floods, didn’t you their families.’’ More than 60,000 men and women in New Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree to H. pay attention to what was going on? Didn’t York, most of whom are African-American, you care? What were you thinking?’’ Res. 29. Had I been present, I would have Or they will ask a second question, one work as private security officers. Although voted ‘‘yes.’’ they keep our city safe, many of them earn that I much prefer them ask. I want them to FEBRUARY 8, 2007 look back on this time and ask, ‘‘How did less than $10/hr, receive no affordable health care and little, if any, state-of-the-art secu- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- you find the moral courage to successfully trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 87: address a crisis that some many have said rity training. ‘‘As leaders in this city in the fight for so- Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 547, and was impossible to address? How were you amendment to include language which encour- able to start the process that unleashed the cial and economic justice the support of Rev- moral imagination of humankind to see our- erent Butts and Reverend Youngblood is ages the Assistant Administrator to utilize selves as a single global civilization?’’ And vital to the success of our campaign,’’ Land Grant Institutions, Historically Black Col- when they ask that question, I want you to Fishman added. leges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Insti- tell them that you saw it as a privilege to be ‘‘Local 32BJ’s campaign to raise wage and tutions and other minority serving institutions alive at a moment when a relatively small living standards is about more than 60,000 se- curity officers—it is about New York itself,’’ among other resources to undertake research group of people could control the destiny of for programs covered by the bill. Had I been all generations to come. Instead of shaking said Reverend Calvin Butts. ‘‘The union’s campaign is our community’s present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ our heads at the difficulty of this task and campaign because it represents a unified Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- saying, ‘‘Woe is us, this is impossible, how call-to-action to pay men and women not can we do this?’’ We’re so mad at the ones trict. I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 88: only what they deserve, but what they need, that are making it harder; we ought to feel Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 547, an to support their families—regardless of a sense of joy that we have work that is amendment to add a new paragraph to sec- color. worth doing, that is so important to the fu- tion 3, Biofuel Infrastructure and Additives Re- ‘‘Labor and African-American leaders have ture of all humankind. We ought to feel a search and Development, to include issues a long history of working together—includ- sense of exhilaration that we are the people ing organizing campaigns led by Dr. Martin with respect to where in the fuel supply chain alive at a moment in history when we can Luther King on behalf of sanitation workers additives optimally should be added to fuels. make all the difference. That’s who you are. and by Adam Clayton Powell on behalf of Had I been present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ You have everything you need. We have ev- pharmacists in Harlem. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- erything we need, save perhaps political will. ‘‘Nothing is more important in the union’s but political will is a renewable resource. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 89: Thank you very much. security officer campaign than fighting for Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 547, an respect,’’ said Rev. Youngblood. ‘‘Armed f amendment to add a new paragraph to sec- with respect for ourselves and from the com- tion 3 which includes issues with respect to munity, and empowered with hard-earned re- HONORING ADAM CLAYTON POW- certification by a nationally recognized testing ELL, JR. THROUGH ECONOMIC spect from employers, we will win this fight for economic and social justice.’’ laboratory of components for fuel dispensing AND SOCIAL JUSTICE FOR SECU- The recent event took on added signifi- devices that specifically reference compatibility RITY OFFICERS cance because the union’s campaign has been with alcohol blended and biofuels that contain gaining momentum, and now represents greater than 15 percent alcohol. Had I been HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL more than 6,000 security officers in New present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ York—double the number from just a few OF NEW YORK Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- years ago. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 90: With new campaigns visible at Jet Blue Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 547, an Tuesday, December 18, 2007 and Fordham University, which both use Summit, a low-wage security contractor, the amendment to add a new section 7 entitled Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today campaign has picked up steam in recent Additional Funding. Had I been present, I to draw attention to an event honoring my pio- months. would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ neering predecessor, former Congressman With more than 85,000 members, including Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., of New York, and 60,000 in New York, Local 32BJ is the largest trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 91:

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.080 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2620 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 the Motion to Recommit with Instructions of Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on S. Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. H.R. 547. Had I been present, I would have 676. Had I been present, I would have voted 3325. Had I been present, I would have voted voted ‘‘no.’’ ‘‘yes.’’ ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- OCTOBER 15, 2007 trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 92: trict. I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 450: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Passage of H.R. 547. Had I been present, I Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 961: would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Res. 418. Had I been present I would have Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. FEBRUARY 28, 2007 voted ‘‘yes.’’ Res. 738. Had I been present, I would have Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- JULY 23, 2007 voted ‘‘yes.’’ trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 111: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 687: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 962: Con. Res. 52. Had I been present, I would Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. have voted ‘‘yes.’’ 404, as amended. Had I been present, I would 2089. Had I been present, I would have voted MARCH 12, 2007 have voted ‘‘yes.’’ ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 136: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 688: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 963: Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Motion to suspend the rules and agree to H. Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Amended on H.R. 85. Had I been present, I Res. 553. Had I been present, I would have 20, as amended. Had I been present, I would would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ voted ‘‘yes.’’ have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- OCTOBER 17, 2007 trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 137: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 689: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. Motion to suspend the rules and agree to H. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 980: Res. 136. Had I been present, I would have Res. 519. Had I been present I would have Passage of H.R. 2095. Had I been present, I voted ‘‘yes.’’ voted ‘‘yes.’’ would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- OCTOBER 29, 2007 trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 690: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 138: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- On ordering the previous question on H. Res. Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1010: 558. Had I been present, I would have voted Res. 89. Had I been present, I would have Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. ‘‘yes.’’ voted ‘‘yes.’’ 3224, as amended. Had I been present, I Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- AUGUST 1, 2007 would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 187: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 781: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1011: amended on H.R. 802. Had I been present, I Motion to adjourn. Had I been present. I would Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ have voted ‘‘no.’’ Res. 573, as amended. Had I been present, I Madam speaker, due to events in my dis- SEPTEMBER 4, 2007 would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 188: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 847: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1012: Amended on H.R. 137. Had I been present, I Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ 694, as amended. Had I been present, I would Res. 747. Had I been present, I would have Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- have voted ‘‘yes.’’ voted ‘‘yes.’’ trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 189: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- NOVEMBER 5, 2007 Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 848: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Amended on H.R. 580. Had I been present, I Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1034: would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ 3020, as amended. Had I been present, I Closing Portions of the Conference on H.R. would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ 3222. Had I been present, I would have voted MAY 14, 2007 Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 849: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 342: Motion to Instruct Conferees on H.R. 2669. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1035: Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass on Had I been present, I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. H.R. 1124. Had I been present, I would have SEPTEMBER 17, 2007 513, as amended. Had I been present, I would voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 867: Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 343: Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1036: Motion to suspend the rules and agree to H. 3246, as amended. Had I been present, I Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. Res. 223. Had I been present, I would have would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Res. 744. Had I been present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 868: NOVEMBER 7, 2007 trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 344: Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree (H. 1657, as amended. Had I been present, I trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1058: Res. 385). Had I been present, I would have would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Con. Res. 236, as amended. Had I been MAY 16, 2007 trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 869: present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. NOVEMBER 13, 2007 trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 358: 3527. Had I been present, I would have voted Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Call in Committee Quorum. Had I been ‘‘yes.’’ trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1082: present, I would have voted ‘‘present.’’ OCTOBER 1, 2007 Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- 3315. Had I been present, I would have voted trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 359: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 924: ‘‘yes.’’ Motion that the Committee Rise (H.R. 1585). Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree on H. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Had I been present, I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ Res. 185. Had I been present, I would have trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1083: JUNE 11, 2007 voted ‘‘yes.’’ Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- 1593, as amended. Had I been present, I trict. I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 448: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 925: would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass on Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- H.R. 2356. Had I been present, I would have 2276. Had I been present, I would have voted trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1084: voted ‘‘yes.’’ ‘‘yes.’’ Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- 3403, as amended. Had I been present, I trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 449: trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 926: would have voted ‘‘yes.’’

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.083 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2621 Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- Since then, the Partnership has grown from puters and in-car video to all Atascadero Po- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1085: simple advertising into a drug prevention and lice Department patrol vehicles. He improved Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. treatment resource. Parents and caregivers the efficiency of law enforcement in 3461, as amended. Had I been present, I can request materials and teaching aids that Atascadero by creating a special enforcement would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ they can use to effectively address drug and team, upgraded the capabilities in dispatch, NOVEMBER 14, 2007 alcohol abuse with their children. A major new made technical improvements to the radio re- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- initiative now unfolding integrates the latest peater system, and implemented a crime free trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1095: science and research with the most effective multi-housing program and a new traffic safety Motion to Adjourn. Had I been present, I traditional media and digital communication program. Chief Couch also succeeded at im- would have voted ‘‘no.’’ techniques to give parents the tools, resources proving the police department retention and DECEMBER 6, 2007 and support they need to help their children recruitment process and the department’s rela- Madam Speaker, due to events in my dis- lead healthy lives. This effort—the first ever for tions with the community it serves by expand- trict, I was unable to vote on rollcall No. 1141: the Partnership—will include a Web-based ing community outreach and education pro- Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. interactive information resource center, parent- grams. 2085. Had I been present, I would have voted to-parent support network, a national toll-free Community service is a central priority for ‘‘yes.’’ call center and user-friendly online/offline Chief Couch even in his off-duty life. Chief f tools. Couch is a member of the Atascadero Kiwanis Time and time again, the Partnership proves Club. He also serves on the local board of di- PERSONAL EXPLANATION that the media industry can play a very posi- rectors for both the Women’s Shelter and the tive role in influencing our young people to Salvation Army. Finally, in addition to serving HON. LUIS V. GUTIERREZ turn away from drugs. Fueled by their edu- as chief of police. John is the chief driver and OF ILLNOIS cational programs and grassroots community mechanic of the bus for the Atascadero Bible IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES outreach efforts, the use of illicit drugs across Church. Tuesday, December 18, 2007 the country has fallen by almost a third. Ado- Chief Couch and his wife Margie have been lescent drug use alone is down by 19 percent Mr. GUTIERREZ. Madam Speaker, I was married for 25 years and have raised two chil- in just the past 4 years and 32 percent since unavoidably absent from this Chamber last dren, Brittany and Jared. its inception. night and this morning. I would like the Dedicated to serving his community in a va- To celebrate the accomplishments and lon- RECORD to show that, had I been present. I riety of ways, Chief Couch’s leadership at the gevity of the organization, the Partnership will would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall votes 1163 Atascadero Police Department will he sorely kick off its 20th anniversary at its annual gala through 1176. missed and difficult to replace, but his well-de- being held on November 27, 2007 at the Wal- f served retirement will give him the ability to dorf Astoria in New York City. The Partnership spend more time with friends and family. I PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE ‘‘PART- will honor William C. Weldon, chairman and commend his service to the City of Atascadero NERSHIP FOR A DRUG-FREE CEO of the Johnson and Johnson Corpora- and I hope that Chief Couch enjoys his transi- AMERICA’’ ON THEIR 20TH ANNI- tion. tion into the next stage of his life. VERSARY In light of this momentous occasion, I con- gratulate the staff and volunteers of the Part- f HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL nership for a Drug-Free America on 20 years CONGRATULATIONS TO MIDLAND OF NEW YORK of influential service to our Nation. I ask my HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES colleagues to join me in commending them for continuing on with their vision to raise aware- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 ness on how we can prevent substance abuse HON. DAVE CAMP Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, today I rise in our communities and make America a safer OF MICHIGAN to ask my colleagues to take a moment to and sober place to live. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES honor one of our most successful and impor- f tant educational campaigns, the Partnership Wednesday, December 19, 2007 for a Drug-Free America, for 20 years of out- TRIBUTE TO JOHN COUCH standing service. Mr. CAMP of Michigan. Madam Speaker, Best known for its national drug-education today I rise to congratulate and pay tribute to HON. KEVIN McCARTHY the Midland High School football team for campaigns, the Partnership for a Drug-Free OF CALIFORNIA reaching the Michigan High School Athletic America continues its mission to reduce illicit IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES drug use in America by uniting communica- Association 2007 Division Two State Cham- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 tions professionals, renowned scientists, and pionship game. This was the team’s third trip parents. Mr. MCCARTHY of California. Madam to the state finals since 1990. What began in 1986 as a 3-year endeavor Speaker, I rise today to honor John Couch, a The Midland Chemics led most of the hard- to ‘‘unsell’’ drugs to the American public, has community leader from Atascadero, California, fought final game against Detroit Martin Luther turned into the largest public service campaign on his retirement after 17 years of serving the King High School. However, King took the in our Nation’s history. The pro bono work of city, most currently as chief of police. lead in the fourth quarter and held off Midland. some of the country’s best advertising agen- Chief Couch grew up in North Dakota. After The game marked the end of a successful cies across all forms of media has allowed the graduating high school in 1970, Chief Couch season, in which the Chemics finished with an Partnership’s anti-drug message to reach the enlisted in the United States Army and was 11–3 record. public on local and national levels for the past stationed in Vietnam, serving with the 114th A week earlier it was Midland who pulled off two decades. Assault Helicopter Company. He completed the impressive come-from-behind victory, de- The organization first entered the wider pub- his service with the Army in 1973 and enrolled feating Lowell High School. They scored 24 lic consciousness in 1987, with its ‘‘This is in California State University, Sacramento, unanswered points in the second half to win Your Brain on Drugs’’ broadcast and print pub- where he earned his degree in criminal justice 31–27 and earn their spot in the title game. In lic service announcements, which used the administration in 1977. Alter his graduation, the playoffs they also defeated Davison, Bay analogy that if a person’s brain were an egg, Chief Couch worked for the city of Santa Clara City Central, and Arthur Hill en route to the using drugs would be like frying that egg. An- Police Department for 13 years and achieved finals. other PSA featured a television, a trip to Paris, the rank of sergeant. Since 1990, Chief Couch The accomplishments of these student ath- and a new car all disappearing right under the has served in the Atascadero Police Depart- letes are a testament to the years of hard nose of a cocaine user. Still another that year ment. work and dedication leading up to their playoff focused on how a drug-induced high is like Chief Couch was elevated to the rank of run. I commend them on a successful season. diving into an empty swimming pool. All these chief on October 7, 2004. During his tenure, On behalf of the 4th Congressional District commercials and print campaigns were he has instituted many, improvements to the of Michigan, I congratulate the Midland High praised in a speech given to those involved police department. For example, Chief Couch School Football team on their achievements executively with PDFA by then-President facilitated the purchase of additional motor- and wish them all the best of luck in their fu- George H.W. Bush in late 1989. cycles for the Traffic Division and added com- ture endeavors.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A18DE8.084 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2622 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 RECOGNIZING DANIELLE ‘‘DANIE’’ This victim had a shattered jaw and severed fairs Division, and GAO’s Defense Capabilities VANDERPOOL carotid artery, with the bullet initially going into and Management team, Congress has imple- the heart. The victim is still in critical condition, mented numerous recommendations resulting HON. TOM LATHAM but without the firefighters and medical per- from his work. He has also led the work on re- OF IOWA sonnel going into an area where a gunman ports to improve the readiness and capabilities IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES could still be present, performing their skills of active and reserve forces, oversight of mili- flawlessly even with the extreme injuries in- tary operations including the use of contrac- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 volved, the victim would not have had a tors on the battlefield, reliability of cost report- Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today chance. ing, transparency over military compensation to recognize Danielle ‘‘Danie’’ Vanderpool as a On behalf of the House of Representatives, costs, defense planning in such areas as infra- dedicated volunteer, assisting veterans at the I commend Patrick Michael, Gerry Goniwicha, structure and force protection, and efforts to Iowa Paralyzed Veterans of America in Des Keith Humphries, Joshua Rickabaugh, Chris transform the Department of Defense’s busi- Moines. Shearer, Keith Peacy, Jason Lambert, Joshua ness operations, including the need for a Chief Danie, a nine-year-old from Indianola, Iowa Monroe, flight nurse Julie Heyer, and flight Management Officer. has volunteered for the dinner and a movie medic Stu McVicar for their amazing actions. Madam Speaker, Butch Hinton’s tenure at night every Monday night for the past 3 years. f GAO has been characterized by success on After dinner she cleans off the tables, helps every level. He has served as an example of set up chairs and serves popcorn, putting STATEMENT ON THE RETIREMENT a truly exceptional public servant. I am sure smiles on veterans’ faces. Danie was inspired OF BUTCH HINTON my colleagues will join me in wishing him well to volunteer by her wheelchair-bound grand- in his retirement. mother, Shonnae Lundy, who also volunteers HON. IKE SKELTON f at the IPVA. OF MISSOURI Danie has left a lasting positive impact on IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HONORING MAYOR FRED TURNAGE many veterans and their families. The late Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Jimmy Hauck, a U.S. Navy veteran, nick- HON. G.K. BUTTERFIELD named Danie the ‘‘Popcorn Girl.’’ Jimmy took Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me OF NORTH CAROLINA a liking to Danie as she always kept all the take this means to pay tribute to a dedicated IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and loyal public servant, Henry L. ‘‘Butch’’ Hin- popcorn bowls full. She truly exemplifies the Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Iowa spirit of neighbors helping neighbors. ton. On January 4, 2008, Mr. Hinton will retire It is a great honor to represent Danie following a distinguished 37-year career with Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, for Vanderpool in Congress. I commend Danie’s the United States Government Accountability the past 34 years, Rocky Mount, North Caro- willingness to volunteer and I wish her all the Office, GAO, capped by 13 years as the Man- lina has known only one mayor—Fred best in her future endeavors. aging Director of the agency’s Defense Capa- Turnage. During his tenure, he showed time f bilities and Management team. and time again that he was one of our State’s Mr. Hinton began his career with GAO in finest and most effective leaders. HONORING 10 MEMBERS OF THE 1970, rising through the ranks to lead one of Part of what makes him such a great leader NORTH CHICAGO FIRE DEPART- its major divisions—the National Security and is that he truly understands how to be a public MENT International Affairs Division, and after an or- servant. Mayor Turnage wanted to improve ganizational realignment, one of its key the quality of life of every single person living HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK teams—the Defense Capabilities and Manage- in Rocky Mount; he always had big plans for OF ILLINOIS ment team. He is an acknowledged subject improving the city for the people; and, he al- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES matter expert on a wide variety of national se- ways worked as hard as he could to achieve curity programs and policy issues dealing with his goals. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 defense planning and budgeting, force struc- Mayor Turnage successfully navigated the Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ture and readiness, weapon systems acquisi- city through its darkest time in the aftermath of honor 10 members of the North Chicago Fire tions, homeland defense, military and civilian Hurricane Floyd in 1999. The storm dumped Department for going beyond the call of duty personnel, logistics, infrastructure, and busi- 20 inches of rain on a region already satu- to save the life of a 10th district resident. ness and force transformation. In addition, he rated by two previous storms. Floyd engulfed On November 26 of this year, the fire de- has an in-depth understanding of the Federal neighborhoods, communities and entire towns partment was dispatched to the scene of a legislative and regulatory processes. with floodwaters and killed 16 people in the gunshot victim. Once notified that the victim Through the years, I have had the privilege Twin Counties. had received a gunshot wound to the face, a of working with Mr. Hinton in my capacity as Almost a tenth of the city was flooded; Flight for Life helicopter was immediately both chairman and ranking member of the 1,000 structures were destroyed with damage called. With the gunman presumed to still be House Armed Services Committee. As a result estimated at $400 million; and, hundreds of in the area, paramedics Patrick Michael and of his work on highly sensitive and complex residents were evacuated from their homes. Gerry Goniwicha went to the aid of the victim issues related to military readiness, threats to During those dark days, Mayor Turnage pro- despite considerable risk to their lives. Patrick national and global security, the global war on vided the strong leadership needed to give and Gerry quickly moved the injured person to terrorism, the base realignment and closure people a sense of comfort and the belief that the ambulance and began to clear an airway process, and human capital management, he the community could rebuild and be stronger and stop the bleeding. has been a two-time recipient of the Comp- than it was even before the storm. As the paramedics worked, additional per- troller General’s Award for exceptional effort Under his leadership, Rocky Mount suc- sonnel were called to help the victim and es- and achievement of results in support of the cessfully moved forward with a plan to rebuild, tablish a landing zone for the helicopter. Para- Congress and the American taxpayer. He has expand and strengthen the city beyond what it medics Joshua Rickabaugh and Joshua Mon- also received GAO’s Integrity Award, two GAO had been prior to the storm. Grants, private roe came to the assistance of the ambulance Distinguished Service Awards, and GAO’s funds and city budget commitments paid for crew to help with patient care and transpor- Meritorious Service Award. the new Imperial Centre, Rocky Mount Sports tation to the helicopter. GAO was created in 1921 with the mandate Complex, YMCA, Braswell Memorial Library, At the landing zone site, Commander Keith to audit, evaluate, or investigate virtually all several parks and the train station. Humphries met with paramedics Chris Shear- Federal Government operations—wherever During his three decades at the helm of the er, Keith Peacy and Jason Lambert to set up they might take place. In other words, the city, Mayor Turnage helped to successfully a safe place for the helicopter to land. The GAO serves as a ‘‘watchdog’’ over the tax- navigate the community as it moved from a to- firefighters successfully established a landing payers’ money—guarding against fraud, bacco and textile city to one that relies on di- zone in very tight quarters and the patient was abuse, and inefficient allocation of public verse factories, small businesses and tourism. quickly transferred to the helicopter. Once in funds. Mayor Turnage has presided over more the helicopter, Flight for Life nurse Julie GAO evaluations under Mr. Hinton’s guid- than 700 City Council meetings and he’s Heyer, and flight medic Stu McVicar took over ance and leadership have saved taxpayers bil- missed just six in his 34-year tenure. Two of treatment until the team reached the Level I lions of dollars. During his career as head of those absences occurred because he was out Trauma Center at Lutheran General Hospital. GAO’s National Security and International Af- of town on city business.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.003 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2623 He grew up in Rocky Mount, graduated from PanPaphian Association of America for its tre- States as his new home, he never lost the what was then Rocky Mount Senior High in mendous contributions to our cultural and civic connection with his native country, and be- 1954 and moved on to Wake Forest Univer- life. Founded two decades ago by Hellenic came involved in several organizations such sity. He graduated from law school in 1961 Cypriot Americans of Paphian ancestry, the as the Cyprus Federation of America, the and returned to Rocky Mount to work as an Association has carried out its vital edu- PanPaphian Association, and Kalavasos Fra- attorney. He then worked as assistant clerk of cational and humanitarian mission while help- ternity, which he serves as acting president, court for about 18 months before he opened ing promote peace and understanding on the and also participates in the Pancyprian soccer his own law firm. In those days there were no occupied island of Cyprus. team and the Cyprian dance group. One of his district attorneys, so he ran successfully for The PanPaphian Association of American is most noteworthy contributions to civic life is prosecuting attorney for Nash County. holding its annual dinner-dance this month, at his generous and selfless devotion to the Ra- In 1971, he was elected to the City Council. which its members will honor Mr. Nikos chel Cooper Foundation, which enables chil- At age 37, two years later, he was elected Tziazas with the Evagoras Pallikarides Award. dren with congenital heart disease from Cy- Rocky Mount’s youngest mayor. Born in Paphos, Mr. Tziazas immigrated to the prus and other countries to be flown to the In December, Mayor Turnage turned over United States in 1979 after graduating from U.S. for urgent medical care. Although he re- the gavel and the city had its first new mayor high school and serving more than two years cently lost his beloved wife Olympia, Mr. Mi- in 34 years. Mayor Turnage, and his wife, in the Cypriot National Guard as an artillery of- chaels remains devoted to her memory and to Norma, have been strong and steady leaders ficer. While in college, he became an active his daughter, Martha, and her husband, Andy. for their community, and they have succeeded member of the Zenon Association; general Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished in making their community a better place for secretary and a member of the soccer team at colleagues rise to join me in paying tribute to everyone there. the Eleftheria Football Club; and an active the PanPaphian Association of America and Please join me in recognizing the great ac- member of the Cypriot Students Association. all its good works. complishments of Rocky Mount’s mayor, Fred After graduating from St. Francis College with f Turnage. a degree in management and finance in 1986, f Nikos Tziazas started his first company, Na- HONORING THE WEST GENESEE tional Mortgage Finders, and simultaneously HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM PERSONAL EXPLANATION began coaching soccer at the Eleftheria HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY Pancyprian Youth association. In 2006, he be- HON. JAMES T. WALSH came president of its soccer club. Under his OF NEW YORK OF CALIFORNIA leadership, the club became one of the largest IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and most successful in the Cosmopolitan Jun- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 ior Soccer League and in the community of Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, on De- persons of Hellenic descent. In 2005 he Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, cember 18, I was unavoidably detained and served as president of the Panpaphian Asso- I rise today in tribute to the West Genesee was not able to record my votes for rollcall No. ciation. Currently Nicos Tziazas is president of High School Football Team, 2007 Class AA 1174–1182, had I been present I would have Lyons General Insurance Agency, and re- New York State Football Champions. The voted: mains active in youth activities as president of West Genesee Wildcats defeated Monroe- Rollcall No. 1174, ‘‘yes’’—Providing for the the Eleftheria Pancyprian Youth Soccer Club. Woodbury Crusader by a score of 42–21, consideration of the Senate Amendment to the He is a devoted to his wife, Kalina, and his earning West Genesee High School’s first House Amendment to the Senate Amendment children, Kristothea and Nicholas. state football championship title. to H.R. 6. Energy Independence and Security The PanPaphian Association is bestowing On behalf of the people of New York’s 25th Act. its Distinguished Fellow Cyprian Award on Congressional District, I congratulate these Rollcall No. 1175, ‘‘yes’’—Providing for the Despina Axiotakis. She was born in Asgata, young men on their outstanding athletic consideration of the Senate Amendment to the Limassol on Cyprus, where her father, achievement and praise head coach Steve House Amendment to the Senate Amendment Kyriacos Ioannou, was well known as the Bush, and Assistant Coaches Joe Corley. to H.R. 6, Energy Independence and Security ‘‘Palikari’’ for exhibiting tremendous feats of John Lawrence, Tim Lane, Corey Brooks, and Act. strength. With her family, she immigrated here Dana Eells on their team’s success. I look for- Rollcall No. 1176, ‘‘yes’’—Veterans Guaran- in 1956. After her education at the Traphagen ward to another exciting year when the Wild- teed Bonus Act. School of Fashion, she entered the business cats take the field to defend their title in 2008. Rollcall No. 1177, ‘‘yes’’—Energy Independ- world and today serves as president of Joe Kesler, Dave Hildman, Matt McCabe, ence and Security Act. Axiocom Productions, a firm specializing in Joe Fazio, Ryan McConnell, George Eunice, Rollcall No. 1178, ‘‘yes’’—Terrorism Risk In- public relations. Jim Marks, James Grecco, Nick Aiken, Tim surance Revision and Extension Act. Despina Axiotakis became active in the po- Moran, Jeremy Jones, Kyle Nojaim, Nick Col- Rollcall No. 1179, ‘‘yes’’— Sudan Account- litical arena, serving the presidential cam- lins, Pat Shanley, Mike Carter, Jeremy Con- ability and Divestment Act. paigns of Governors Michael Dukakis and Bill nors, Tim Town, Mike Simiele, Yaw Awuah, Rollcall No. 1180, ‘‘yes’’—Expressing the Clinton. She has served on the Board of Di- Mike Mercer, Ben Waldron, Sirron Wright, unconditional support of the House of Rep- rectors of the Greek Children’s Fund and the Mike Delaney, Marcus Armstrong, Josh Cruz, resentatives for the members of the National Church of the Assumption in Windham, New Tom Flynn, Will Furdyn, AJ Reese, Scott Guard. York. While serving as president of the Asgata Erikson, Nate Wells, Rich Longo, Mark Fer- Rollcall No. 1181, ‘‘yes’’—Providing for the Association Cyprus Woman’s Division, she guson, Nick Pedrotti, Christos Dimkos, Mike concurrence by the House in the Senate founded the Asgata Youth and Dance Division Gagnon, Nick Cammuso, Nick Rinaldi, Kevin Amendments to H.R. 3997, with an amend- that included teaching the group Hellenic and Heron, Stefan Cavedine, Mike Severance, ment. Cypriot dances. In addition, she was the editor John Gacek, Vinny Lananna, Ossamia Mere, Rollcall No. 1182, ‘‘yes’’—U.S. Capitol Po- of the ‘‘Asgata Newsletter’’ for more than eight Craig Simmons, Ben Wysokowski, Stephen lice and Library of Congress Police Merger Im- years. She serves as general secretary of the Pooler, Tony Pedrotti, Doug Ayer, Jake plementation Act of 2007. Cyprus Federation of America, a position she Fietkiewicz, Dan Kolinski, Jeff Mancuso, Kevin f has held for more than 15 years. At the same Petrick, Luke Cometti IN RECOGNITION OF THE time she has served as executive director of f PANPAPHIAN ASSOCIATION OF the Cyprus United States Chamber of Com- AMERICA ON THE OCCASION OF merce. Despina is devoted to her husband, THE NATIONAL DIABETES ITS ANNUAL DINNER-DANCE John, their 2 children, Lucas and Irene, and COORDINATOR ACT their 5 grandchildren. HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY The PanPaphian Association is honoring as HON. JAY INSLEE its ‘‘Member of the Year’’ Mr. Michael Ioannou OF NEW YORK OF WASHINGTON Michaels. Born in Kalavasos, Cyprus, he immi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES grated to the United States at the age of 21 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 and began working on ships as a welder. Mr. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Madam Michaels eventually started his own construc- Mr. INSLEE. Madam Speaker, yesterday I Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the tion company. Although he adopted the United introduced The National Diabetes Coordinator

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.006 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2624 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 Act, H.R. 4836. As some of my colleagues MOURNING THE DEATH OF CON- the House Committee on Financial Services who have worked on issues relating to diabe- GRESSWOMAN JULIA MAY CAR- and the Committee on Transportation and In- tes may be aware, the Federal Government SON frastructure. Her 10 years in the House were spends over $80 billion per year treating dia- a testament of perseverance, devotion and in- SPEECH OF betes and its complications. exhaustible compassion. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Since 1980, the number of Americans suf- HON. AL GREEN OF TEXAS commend the life and mourn the passing of fering from diabetes has doubled to more than IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Congresswoman JULIA CARSON. 20 million, and that number is projected to f double again by 2025. Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, A TRIBUTE TO REVEREND LEARY The serious complications stemming from I wish to mourn the passing of Congress- E. BONNETT diabetes—including heart disease, high blood woman JULIA MAY CARSON, a committed and pressure, stroke, blindness, amputation and valued voice for justice, who passed away on renal disease—are well documented and even HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS December 15, 2007. Congresswoman CARSON OF NEW YORK more importantly, they are largely preventable was born on July 8, 1938 in Louisville, Ken- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES with proper management and treatment. tucky. She grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana Wednesday, December 19, 2007 To that end, H.R. 4836 would establish a where she would lead a remarkable life com- National Diabetes Coordinator to coordinate mitted to justice for all. Congresswoman CAR- Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today research and prevention activities throughout SON was loved by many for her effervescent to pay tribute to Reverend Leary E. Bonnett. the federal government, including agencies personality and fighting spirit. She served her Reverend Bonnett, a native of Guyana, com- pleted the General Certificate of Education such as the Department of Veterans Affairs constituents of the 7th Congressional District of Indiana for 6 terms in the United States and high school examinations through the Uni- and the Department of Defense. House of Representatives. She was the first versity of London before migrating to the We need this kind of comprehensive ap- African-American and woman elected to serve United States. proach to get our hands around what is rapidly Indianapolis in Congress. Reverend Bonnett earned his Bachelor of becoming an all-encompassing epidemic. A In her youth, Ms. CARSON overcame obsta- Arts Degree in Economics from Queens Col- recent study found that one out of every eight cles created by race, gender and poverty as lege of the City University of New York. He Federal health care dollars is spent treating the child of a single teenage mother. She at- went on to pursue a Master of Arts Degree in people with diabetes. The total amount of tended and graduated from Crispus Attucks Human Resources Development from Webster money spent on diabetes is nearly equal to High School in 1955, a deeply segregated University in St. Louis, Missouri as well as a the entire budget for the U.S. Department of school in Indianapolis. However, her battles Master of Divinity Degree from New York with injustice motivated her to pursue degrees Education, roughly $80 billion. Theological Seminary. Reverend Bonnett is in higher education at Martin University and currently completing work towards a Doctor of While we expend vast resources on this ef- Indiana University-Purdue University Indianap- Ministry Degree at United Theological Semi- fort, of that $80 billion, less than 1 percent is olis. Her career in public service began in nary in Dayton, Ohio. specializing in spirituality spent on direct diabetes prevention. When you 1965, when she was hired as a staff assistant and leadership for the 21st century. also consider that 18 of 21 Federal agencies and aide to Congressman Andrew Jacobs, Jr., Reverend Bonnett enlisted in the U.S. Army spend money on diabetes, there is a clear her mentor and predecessor in the 7th District after college in order to fulfill a deterred draft need for a National Coordinator to establish a of Indiana. She worked diligently on casework commitment granted to full-time students dur- strategy to prevent and reduce diabetes and and other important legislative matters until ing the Vietnam War. He attended Officers its complications. 1972, when she ran and won a seat in the In- Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia diana State House of Representatives. She and was commissioned as a Second Lieuten- We have seen evidence that this approach served in the Indiana State House from 1972– ant. After 13 years of distinguished military can work. A recent Agency for Healthcare Re- 1976 and in the Indiana State Senate from service, he separated from active duty with search and Quality, AHRQ, study dem- 1976–1990. In 1990, she was elected as a rank of Major. His military decorations include onstrated that Medicare and Medicaid could trustee for Center Township in downtown Indi- the U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal; the U.S. save $2.5 billion a year by presenting diabetes anapolis. As trustee, she was a just leader Army Achievement Medal; and the U.S. Army and its complications with appropriate primary and a voice for reform. Her thoroughness and Commendation Medal. care. The city of Asheville, North Carolina fiscal responsibility helped her manage the Reverend Bonnett is the former Executive saved $2.000 per employee with an innovative welfare rolls by providing assistance to those Director of a parochial day school in the Rock- diabetes management program. The NIH- that needed it and removing those that did away section of Queens. While there he sponsored Diabetes Prevention Project proved not. As a result, she transformed the office’s streamlined the curriculum to meet New York that we can prevent and delay diabetes and $20 million debt into a $6 million surplus. She State standards. In addition, Reverend its complications by 58 percent. served as trustee for 6 years prior to her elec- Bonnett served with the Salvation Army pro- tion to Congress. viding therapeutic crisis intervention to at-risk A National Diabetes Coordinator will provide In 1996, after a competitive campaign, Con- youths. After the attacks of September 11, the Federal leadership necessary to maximize gresswoman CARSON replaced her mentor and 2001, he joined a team of family support spe- the funds the Federal Government is currently predecessor Andrew Jacobs, Jr., as the rep- cialists with the American Red Cross to pro- spending to save money and lives. Further, a resentative for Indiana’s 7th District. On Janu- viding benefits and support to family members National Diabetes Coordinator with specific re- ary 3, 1997, she missed her congressional in- who lost loved ones or were injured in the ter- sponsibilities to work across agencies to pre- auguration due to health problems. Her con- rorist attack. vent and reduce diabetes and its complica- gressional tenure was replete with obstacles Reverend Bonnett is currently the Director tions will be a model for how the U.S. can from failing health to closely competitive cam- of Christian Education at the Berean Mis- deal with other chronic diseases such as heart paigns, but her tenacity and love for her dis- sionary Baptist Church in Brooklyn. He is the disease. trict would not let anything impede her sincere Founder and Executive Director of Silence dedication to her constituents. She never As we consider how to move forward in the The Guns, an educational organization dedi- stopped caring for her district and she never cated to eliminating handgun usage among fight against diabetes, I encourage my col- lost a race. One of her most notable achieve- America’s children. He is also the author of leagues to think of these statistics: one in ments in the House was passing a measure two books; Failure is Not the Problem: and three kids born today will get diabetes, and awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to Joy Cometh in the Morning. that figure rises to one in two in minorities. Rosa Parks. Another milestone accomplish- Reverend Bonnett resides in Brooklyn with Further, 32 percent of the Medicare program ment was a bill she cosponsored with Senator his wife, Dr. Terry Jan Blackett-Bonnet. He is spent on the 18 percent of beneficiaries with RICHARD LUGAR to remove blocks on child has three children, Kimbia, Amilcar and Haron. diabetes. We need Federal leadership pro- health insurance created by government agen- Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize vided in H.R. 4836 to help reverse these cies. She always sponsored legislation that Reverend Bonnett’s selfless contributions and trends and make a difference for future gen- helped the poor and homeless, veterans, and his works as a mentor to the children of erations. faithful American taxpayers. She served on Brooklyn.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:14 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.009 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2625 Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to As a leader in heavy oil production, Chevron a fresh and different perspective. Her dedica- join me in paying tribute to Reverend Leary E. has established an International Heavy Oil tion and commitment to improving the city is a Bonnett. Center at Kern River in order to collaboratively true measurement of her leadership and care f develop and deploy heavy oil production tech- for her community. Jane’s guiding presence nologies worldwide, as well as to become a on the council will certainly be missed, but the RECOGNIZING KERN RIVER OIL hub for heavy oil development. These techno- legacy she leaves will inspire many to dream FIELD’S TWO BILLIONTH BAR- logical advances developed at Kern River, as big reach high and achieve great accomplish- REL OF OIL PRODUCED well as at other fields, will increase the ability ments. of the industry to maximize the Earth’s oil re- I know that my colleagues in the United HON. KEVIN McCARTHY serves’ potential and help satisfy our energy States Congress join me in commending Jane OF CALIFORNIA demands. Burleson for her leadership and service to Fort IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES What started out in 1899 as one hand-dug Dodge, Iowa. I consider it an honor to rep- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 well, Kern River has developed into one of the resent Jane in Congress and I wish her the Mr. MCCARTHY of California. Madam Speak- largest oil fields in the United States with more very best in her future endeavors. er, I rise today to recognize an important mile- than 9,000 producing oil wells. Again, I rise stone achieved in oil production in my district today to recognize the importance of Kern f as the Kern River Oil Field recently produced River producing its two billionth barrel of oil its two billionth barrel of oil. and to join with Chevron in celebrating this HONORING LT. THOMAS CHRISTEN- Over 100 years ago in 1899, ‘‘black gold’’ milestone. I look forward to continued produc- SEN AND FIREFIGHTER JEREMY was discovered at Kern River when a father- tion at this field for many years to come. BROWN OF THE WAUKEGAN FIRE son team hand-dug a 45 foot deep discovery f DEPARTMENT well. This oil discovery set off a boom in Kern County leading to population growth and the TRIBUTE TO FULTON-MIDDLETON discovery of more and more oil fields in the re- HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK gion. In 1903, Kern River, in addition to other OF ILLINOIS oil fields discovered at the turn of the region, HON. DAVE CAMP IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES made California the top oil-producing state in OF MICHIGAN the Union. In fact, in 1904, Kern River pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, December 19, 2007 duced more than 17.2 million barrels of oil, Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to which, at that time, was more oil produced Mr. CAMP of Michigan. Madam Speaker, honor Lieutenant Thomas Christensen and than in the entire State of Texas. Firefighter Jeremy Brown of the Waukegan In the early 1900’s, oil production peaked at today I rise to congratulate and pay tribute to Fire Department. nearly 50,000 barrels per day, and then de- the Fulton-Middleton High School football creased to an average of about 10,000 barrels team for reaching the Michigan High School As Hazardous Device Technicians, Lt. per day. However, due to human ingenuity, Athletic Association 2007 Division Eight State Christensen and Firefighter Brown were the hard work, the advent of the steam injection Championship Game. It was the team’s first driving force behind the City of Waukegan’s (or ‘‘steamflooding’’) oil production process in finals appearance since winning the 1998 effort to secure a grant from the Illinois Ter- the early 1960’s, and cogeneration in the State championship. rorism Task Force for an Andros F6A Robot 1980’s, today, Kern River produces approxi- The Fulton-Middleton Pirates lost a hard- and transport vehicle to better respond to haz- mately 82,000 barrels of oil per day. fought final game to Crystal Falls Forrest Park ardous device incidents. With its production of the two billionth barrel High School. In the defensive battle, they Currently there are only 12 bomb squads in of oil, Kern River joins only two other fields in pulled within one score of the Crystal Falls Illinois. The Waukegan squad services Lake a select, elite class of oil fields in California Trojans late in the fourth quarter, but were un- and McHenry counties in northeastern Illinois. that have produced over two billion barrels of able to get back the ball to attempt a game- Last year, the squad responded to more than oil. Just to put this into perspective. two billion tying drive. It was the Pirates only loss of the 40 bomb calls. The most notable was a bank barrels of oil, once refined, on average, yields season. On the road to the final game, the Pi- robbery where the suspect claimed to have an more than 43 billion gallons of gasoline. Sub- rates defeated Fowler, New Lothrop, Our Lady explosive device which he left on the teller sequently, the Kern River Oil Field is the of the Lakes, and Climax-Scotts in the play- counter after fleeing the crime scene. fourth largest field in the lower United States, offs. With the F6A Robot and transport vehicle, the third largest field in California, and the The Pirates accomplishments pay testament the Waukegan Fire Department is better second largest field in Kern County. to the years of hard work and dedication of equipped to respond to bomb related calls. Today, Chevron North America Exploration these student athletes. I commend them on a This equipment would not be possible without and Production owns and produces nearly all successful season. the diligence of Lt. Christensen and Firefighter of the oil at Kern River. A vital economic back- On behalf of the 4th Congressional District Brown. The two men conceived the idea, de- bone of Kern County, Chevron at Kern River of Michigan, I congratulate the Fulton-Mid- veloped the justifications and specifications employs more than 345 individuals and has dleton High School football team on their and oversaw the construction. upwards of 800 contractors working at the achievements and wish them all the best of Lt. Christensen and Firefighter Brown rep- field, and creates countless secondary and luck in their future endeavors. resent an outstanding division that was first tertiary oil and non-oil related jobs in the com- f formed in 1971. The team consists of several munity. In addition. Chevron at Kern River certified bomb squad members who put their contributes more than $24 million in property RECOGNIZING FORT DODGE, IOWA lives on the line on a daily basis for north- taxes to the County of Kern on an annual CITY COUNCILWOMAN JANE eastern Illinois. basis, and is a community leader in supporting BURLESON various education and charitable causes. I am proud of the achievements of these Kern River is a heavy crude oil field, mean- HON. TOM LATHAM fine first responders. ing the oil is a thick, viscous liquid that needs OF IOWA f to be heated and pumped out of the ground. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Generally, primary heavy oil recovery extracts between 5–10 percent of the oil from the Wednesday, December 19, 2007 TRIBUTE TO BERNIE FECHTEL ground, while hot waterflood recovery proc- Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today esses increase that recovery rate to between to recognize Fort Dodge, Iowa City council- HON. IKE SKELTON 15–25 percent. Yet, the steamflood recovery woman, Jane Burleson, for her 24 years of process can increase recovery rates to 50–80 distinguished public service to the people of OF MISSOURI percent. With the steamflood technological re- Fort Dodge. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES covery advances of Chevron at Kern River. In 1982, the citizens of Fort Dodge elected Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Chevron has been able to maximize produc- Jane as the first woman and first African tion of the vast oil reserves of this field and American to serve on the council. Jane over- Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me has extended the life of this field for decades. came many barriers to serve and contributed take this moment to recognize the work of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.011 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2626 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 Bernie Fechtel of Jefferson City, Missouri. A PERSONAL EXPLANATION surplus food distribution program; an annual 5- successful businessman in central Missouri, Kilometer Run to Help Fight Drug Abuse; Mr. Fechtel served as the Chairman of the HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY Italian Heritage Cultural Month festivities co- Board for the Jefferson City Chamber of Com- OF CALIFORNIA ordinated with the office of the Queens Bor- merce in 2007. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ough President, St. John’s University, and During his time as Chairman, the local several other community-based organizations; Chamber was awarded the Missouri Chamber Wednesday, December 19, 2007 soccer camps, clinics, and tournaments for of Commerce and Industry’s ‘‘Chamber of the Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, on De- area youth; weekly cultural and entertainment Year’’ award in recognition of the Chamber’s cember 17, 1 was unavoidably detained and events every summer in Athens Square Park effectiveness and efficiency in implementing was not able to record my votes for rollcall in Astoria; classes in Italian language and cul- its economic goals. Jefferson City is the fifth Nos. 1163–1173. ture, English as a second language, and city in history to receive this distinguished Had I been present I would have voted: civics. While devoting her time and attention to award. Rollcall No. 1163—‘‘yes’’—Expresses heart- this incredible range of activities, Angie Mark- Mr. Fechtel will continue to serve the Jeffer- felt sympathy for the victims and families of ham has also remained devoted to her family son City Chamber of Commerce in 2008 as the shootings in Omaha, Nebraska, on as a beloved wife and mother. it’s Chairman-Emeritus. I trust that Members of Wednesday, December 5, 2007. In recognition of her many outstanding con- the House will join me in thanking Bernie Rollcall No. 1164—‘‘yes’’—Honoring local tributions to the community, Angie Markham Fechtel for his outstanding leadership and vi- and State first responders, and the citizens of has been honored by numerous organizations sion. the Pacific Northwest in facing the severe win- and leaders. She has been honored by the ter storm of December 2 and 3, 2007. Queens Borough President’s office, by State f Rollcall No. 1165—‘‘yes’’—Same Day Rule. Senator George Onorato, by State Assembly- A TRIBUTE TO MRS. MARGARET Rollcall No. 1166—‘‘yes’’—Same Day Rule. man Michael Gianaris, and by New York City Rollcall No. 1167—‘‘yes’’—Sine Die Ad- BEULAH COLVERT ALLEN Councilman Peter Vallone, Jr., as well by nu- journment resolution of the 1st Session of the merous government agencies and civic asso- 110th Congress. ciations. HON. G. K. BUTTERFIELD Rollcall No. 1168—‘‘yes’’—Providing for In being honored by the Taminent Regular OF NORTH CAROLINA consideration of the Senate amendment to Democratic Club, Angie Markham’s achieve- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES H.R. 2764, State, foreign operations appro- ments were recognized by one of the largest Wednesday, December 19, 2007 priations, FY 2008. and most vibrant political and civic organiza- Rollcall No. 1169—‘‘yes’’—Providing for tions in our nation’s greatest city. The Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise consideration of the Senate amendment to Taminent Club represents voters in the neigh- today to pay tribute to one of America’s most H.R. 2764, State, foreign operations appro- borhoods of Astoria and Long Island City in deserving citizens, Mrs. Margaret Beulah priations, FY 2008. the New York State Assembly’s 36th District Colvert Allen, who will be celebrating her Rollcall No. 1170—‘‘yes’’—To award a con- and is led by its able District Leaders, the 100th Birthday on August 2, 2008. Although gressional gold medal to Daw Aung San Suu Honorable Gloria DeMarco Aloise and the Mrs. Allen was born in Statesville, NC, she Kyi in recognition of her courageous and un- Honorable George Onorato. The Taminent presently resides in Congressman Bobby wavering commitment to peace, nonviolence, Club proudly carries the banner of the world’s Scott’s Congressional District, so we are both human rights, and democracy in Burma. oldest political party in one of the most diverse equally pleased and proud to share her as our Rollcall No. 1171—‘‘yes’’—Department of counties in the United States of America. Bor- friend and constituent. State, Foreign Operations, and Related Pro- ough of Queens. Over the years, Mrs. Allen has assumed grams Appropriations for FY 2008—Amend- Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished many different roles. She was a dedicated ment No. 1. colleagues join me in recognizing the out- homemaker and was also employed for sev- Rollcall No. 1172—‘‘no’’—Department of standing contributions to our cultural and civic eral years as a substitute teacher, seamstress, State, Foreign Operations, and Related Pro- life made by Angie Markham. supervisor of arts and crafts at her area com- grams Appropriations for FY 2008—Amend- f munity recreation center, and a food service ment No. 2. worker at the Veterans Administration Hos- Rollcall No. 1173—‘‘yes’’—Recognizing and HONORING THE BISHOP LUDDEN pital. celebrating the centennial of Oklahoma state- HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM Madam Speaker, Mrs. Allen has dedicated hood. 75-faithful years of her life as a member of the f HON. JAMES T. WALSH Saint Paul A.M.E. Church. She has served as OF NEW YORK IN TRIBUTE TO ANGIE MARKHAM steward and stewardess and on several dif- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ferent committees including the Committee of Concern, which she chaired for many years. HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Mrs. Allen was also very involved in her com- OF NEW YORK Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, munity’s Y.W.C.A. and the elementary and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I rise today in tribute to the Bishop Ludden high school Parent Teacher Association. High School Football Team, 2007 Mass C By all accounts, Mrs. Allen is a ‘‘wonderful Wednesday, December 19, 2007 New York State Football Champions. The mother.’’ Due to her husband’s early death, Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Madam Bishop Ludden Gaelic Knights defeated the Mrs. Allen was forced to rear five children as Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Angie Mark- Dobbs Ferry Eagles by a score of 21–16, a single parent. Marion A. Christian, John C. ham, a great American who serves as the Ex- earning Bishop Ludden’s first state football Allen, III, Charles C. Allen, Beverly A. Hender- ecutive Director of the Federation of Italian- championship title. son and Lynne C. Allen are the Allen children. American Organizations of Queens, Inc. Angie On behalf of the people of New York’s 25th All of the Allen children completed college and Markham is devoted to her family and her Congressional District, I congratulate these have reared successful children of their own. community. In recognition of her selfless dedi- young men on their outstanding athletic Madam Speaker, over her lifetime, Mrs. cation to the well-being of others, she was achievement and praise head coach John Allen has lived through some of the most sig- honored by the Taminent Regular Democratic Cosgrove, and Assistant Coaches Mike Rog- nificant historical periods of our time. Like so Club of the Borough of Queens in New York ers and Bill Cloonan on their team’s success. many of the great historical monuments she City at its 76th Annual Dinner Dance. I look forward to another exciting year when has stood the test of time and has survived Next year will mark two full decades of dis- the Gaelic Knights take the field to defend Reconstruction; lynching; World War I; the tinguished service by Angie Markham as Ex- their title in 2008. Great Depression; World War II; the period of ecutive Director of the Federation of Italian- Steven Barrett, Eric Beauford, James segregation; the Civil Rights Movement; Vot- American Organizations of Queens, Inc. As Braithwaite, Connor Brown, Casey Christo, ing Rights Movement; School Desegregation the leader of the Federation, Angie Markham Conor Cosgrove, Christopher Davis, Mark and other momentous times. She is indeed a has developed and managed countless worth- Deangelis, Yaroslav Fentsor, Nicholas walking history reference and we take great while initiatives that have provided essential Ferrante, Daquan Grobsmith, Christopher Har- pride in recognizing her for being blessed with services to the community. These include an ding, Michael Hogan, Eugene Law, Jiyhouh such longevity. annual Columbus Day Parade in Queens; a Ly, William McGrath, Julio Ortiz, Omar

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.017 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2627 Osbourne, Joseph Rathbun, John Rooney, MOURNING THE DEATH OF ARTHUR I. JACKNOWITZ, PRO- Patrick Rosanio, Benjamin Searle, Nathaniel FORMER CONGRESSMAN AUGUS- FESSOR AND DISTINGUISHED Stewart, Connor Sweeney, Jake Szelewski, TUS FREEMAN ‘‘GUS’’ HAWKINS CHAIR, DEPARTMENT OF CLIN- Devin White, Wendall Williams, Joevon Works ICAL PHARMACY CONCERNED ABOUT CMS COMPOUNDING POL- f HON. AL GREEN ICY THE MEDIA OWNERSHIP ACT OF TEXAS HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF NEW YORK HON. JAY INSLEE Wednesday, December 19, 2007 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, December 19, 2007 OF WASHINGTON Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I would like I wish to mourn the passing of former Con- to call my colleagues’ attention to a compelling Wednesday, December 19, 2007 gressman Augustus Freeman ‘‘Gus’’ Hawkins, letter written by Arthur I. Jacknowitz, Pharm. a committed public servant and civil rights D, Professor and Distinguished Chair in the Mr. INSLEE. Madam Speaker, as much of leader, who died on November 10, 2007. Con- Department of Clinical Pharmacy at West Vir- America now knows, yesterday in a split deci- gressman Hawkins was born on August 31, ginia University’s School of Pharmacy at the sion, the Federal Communications Commis- 1907, in Shreveport, LA. He later moved to Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center in sion (FCC) voted to approve new media own- California where he would eventually serve 14 Morgantown, WV. Writing on behalf of more ership rules that in many ways are far worse than 650 pharmacies and 359,000 Medicare for the public interest than anything previously terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, beneficiaries in West Virginia, Professor revealed by FCC Chairman Martin. advocating for his constituents in South Los Jacknowitz expressed his deep concern over Prior to yesterday’s vote. Chairman Martin Angeles. Prior to his passing, he was the old- est living former member of the House of Rep- the adverse impact that CMS’s new policy ex- had attempted to portray his proposal as a cluding compounded inhalation medications resentatives at the age of 100. ‘‘moderate compromise’’ that would allow one from Medicare beneficiaries would have in company to own both a daily newspaper and In his youth, Mr. Hawkins was a scholar and West Virginia and across the Nation. a low-rated broadcast TV station in only the civil rights activist. In 1931, he received his Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent 20 largest media markets. But research from undergraduate degree in Economics from the to enter Professor Jacknowitz’s letter into the Free Press—collected in the Devil in the De- University of California, Los Angeles. One RECORD. tails report—exposed how the loose and am- year later, he continued his academic pursuits WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY, biguous ‘‘waiver’’ standards in the proposal left SCHOOL OF PHARMACY, and studied political science at the University a giant loophole for companies to sidestep the Morgantown, WV, October 30, 2007. of Southern California. In addition to his intel- ban in any market and for any station. KERRY WEEMS, ADMINISTRATOR, lectual skills and political savvy, Mr. Hawkins Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 200 The final rule, rewritten in the middle of the was a primary leader in progressive and civil Independence Avenue, SW, Room 314 G, night before the hearing, retains all of the rights campaigns in the urban areas of Los Washington, DC. original loopholes and adds additional loop- DEAR ADMINISTRATOR WEEMS: Compound- holes that appear to allow cross-ownership Angeles. His desire to eliminate injustice in his ing pharmacists play an essential role in mergers in virtually any market. community propelled him to challenge a Re- many patients’ lives by enabling physicians to prescribe customized medication therapy While I had held out hope that the FCC publican incumbent in the California State As- sembly. He defeated his opponent and quickly to best meet their needs. Indeed, for the would delay this vote given the outpouring of growing number of people with unique thera- public commentary opposing the rule changes, became the 62nd district’s voice for civil rights peutic requirements that cannot be ad- it is clear that the Chairman of the FCC is not and equality regardless of race, creed, or dressed with commercially available prod- listening. I see no other choice than to push color. He remained in the California State As- ucts, a compounded product may be the only for congressional action, and to that end, yes- sembly from 1935 to 1963. viable treatment option. Compounding of medications for patient terday I introduced H.R. 4835, the Media In 1963, Mr. Hawkins was elected to serve Ownership Act of 2007, in the House to stop use has been a significant component of the California’s 21st Congressional District in the practice of pharmacy and medicine since the these new cross-ownership rules from going U.S. House of Representatives, making him beginnings of our profession. Virtually all forward. the first African American elected from the practicing pharmacists will be involved with compounding activities at some point during I am pleased to have been joined by my State of California. He firmly demonstrated his Washington State colleague Representative their career. In fact, it is estimated that the commitment to public service by supporting DAVE REICHERT in this bipartisan effort, and it 30 to 40 million prescriptions are com- is my hope that we can move swiftly to pre- legislation that would improve housing stand- pounded each year. Pharmacists are the only health care professionals that have studied vent these new rules from going into effect. ards, labor, education, and conditions for the working poor. He made history by sponsoring chemical compatibilities and can prepare al- This effort is the companion to work being ternate dosage forms. In fact, each state re- done in the Senate Commerce Committee the equal employment section of the Civil quires that pharmacy schools must, as part where a bipartisan group of Senators have led Rights Act of 1964 that created the Equal Em- of their core curriculum, instruct students the effort against these changes. ployment Opportunity Commission. In addition, on the compounding of pharmaceutical in- When Chairman Martin was before the En- he fought consistently to raise the minimum gredients. Compounding pharmacies are li- wage and he and Senator Hubert Humphrey censed and regulated by their respective ergy and Commerce Committee earlier this state boards of pharmacy, rather than the month, I asked him how he could ignore the (D–Minnesota) crafted the Humphrey-Hawkins FDA. public outcry he heard when he visited Se- Act of 1978, which was designed to combat With this mind, I am writing to you as a attle, Washington, where—despite less than 5 unemployment and inflation. During his 28 Professor of Pharmacy and on behalf of more days notice—thousands turned out and stayed years in the House, he served as the chair- than 650 pharmacies and 359,000 Medicare until 1 a.m. on a Friday night to voice their man of the Committee on Education and beneficiaries they serve in our state of West concerns. I asked him how we could believe Virginia to express my concern about the Labor, and the chairman of the Committee on Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services that he had thoughtfully considered the Administration. He was also one of the found- (CMS) new policy excluding compounded in- public’s concerns, when less than 3 days later, ing members of the Congressional Black Cau- halation medications from Medicare bene- the Chairman published an op-ed in the New cus, which was founded in 1971. When he re- ficiaries. CMS issued this new policy without York Times outlining his plan for media con- tired in 1991, he had created over half a cen- explanation or medical rationale driven by solidation. the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) tury’s worth of landmark legislation on both the Clearly, Chairman Martin is not listening to posture and legal position regarding State and Federal level. compounding. It is a reversal of your agen- the American people, and now we need to Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to cy’s long-standing policy on inhalation step up and ensure that their voices are medications. By excluding compounded inha- heard. I hope my colleagues here in Congress remember the legacy and mourn the passing lation medications for Medicare bene- will join me in this eftort, and I hope this legis- of former Congressman Augustus Freeman ficiaries stating that they are no longer lation moves swiftly. Hawkins. medically necessary you are discriminating

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.020 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2628 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 against compounded medications in general. RECOGNIZING ROBERT NEWELL As a member of the Significant Incident I believe that this new policy may have far- WISNER Group on the Waukegan Police force, Officer reaching and serious consequences for Medi- Alexander is a leader and a role model for care beneficiaries who rely on nebulizer medications. Eliminating compounding will HON. TOM LATHAM local law enforcement in the 10th Congres- severely restrict access to these critical OF IOWA sional District of Illinois. medications for Medicare beneficiaries and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I am proud to count this heroic American as their prescribing physicians. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 a constituent and a friend. The FDA’s legal position on compounding medications, its aggressive enforcement poli- Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker. I rise today f cies against several compounding phar- to recognize the retirement of Robert Newell macies and the agency’s intervention and in- Wisner, after 41 years as an Iowa State Uni- TRIBUTE TO ROBERT AND fluence on CMS’s recent policies on com- versity Extension economist. ROSALEE WELLING pounded medications establishes a dangerous Since February of 1967, Robert Wisner has precedent for all pharmacy compounding provided a remarkable service to the agricul- throughout the United States. Ignoring the HON. IKE SKELTON recent Federal court decision Medical Center tural community in Iowa and across the globe. Pharmacy v Gonzales. 451 F. Supp.2d 854, 865 He is extremely innovative in his methods of OF MISSOURI (W.D. Tex. 2006), the FDA reasserted its legal presenting market outlooks and analyzing IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES position ‘‘that all compounded drugs are un- marketing and risk-management strategies. approved new, and therefore illegal, drugs Robert’s publications on risk management and Wednesday, December 19, 2007 under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic genetically-modified crop marketing have been Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me Act (FDCA)’’. Contrary to the FDA’s posi- widely used in Japan and China and have tion, the Federal Court held that ‘‘com- take this moment to recognize the exemplary pounded drugs, when created for an indi- benefited countries in Europe as well. He pio- and extended service of Bob and Rosalee vidual patient pursuant to a prescription neered work on revenue assurance contracts Welling, who will receive the Distinguished from a licensed practitioner, were implicitly and regularly educated crop insurance agents Service Award from the University of Central exempt from the new drug definitions con- about different risk management tools. Missouri. tained in the Act’’. Robert also has a gift in relating his work to Bob received his juris doctorate from St. As a result of the FDA’s position and the common farmer. He has converted his Louis University School of Law. Following law CMS’s new policy on compounding, more highly complicated market research and anal- school he spent 2 years in the United States than 29,000 citizens of West Virginia suf- ysis into an easily understandable format. Army and then moved to Warrensburg, MO, to fering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Robert is known for checking up-to-the-minute Disease (COPD) that depend on these medica- begin a 50-year career in law. In 1985, Bob information, seconds before presentations, to tions as well as the hundreds of compounding received the Missouri Bar President’s Award. give his audience the most accurate statistics. pharmacies and their employees, will be ad- Bob served as president of the Missouri versely affected. For this reason, I am asking He has worked hard to gain the confidence of that CMS rescind the recent policy excluding farmers by conducting over 2,200 extension State Board of Education and as a member of compounding medications. meetings and authoring more than 1,500 pub- the Board of Directors of the National Associa- Thank you, for you consideration. lications. Robert is a trusted source of expert tion of State Boards of Education. He was a Sincerely, agricultural economic information and for this I former chair on the board’s Governmental Af- ARTHUR I. JACKNOWITZ, offer him my utmost congratulations and fairs Committee and was a mentor in the as- Professor and Distinguished Chair, thanks. sociation. Bob has also presided as chair of Department of Clinical Pharmacy. I know that my colleagues in the United the Regional Council for Children’s Mercy States Congress join me in commending Rob- Hospital in Kansas City, MO. f ert Wisner for his leadership and service to Currently, Bob is a member of Children’s CONGRATULATIONS TO ST. the farmers of America. I consider it an honor Mercy Hospital Planned Gift Council and FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL FOOT- to represent Robert in Congress and I wish board member of its nonprofit subsidiary, BALL TEAM him a long, happy and healthy retirement. Family Health Partners. He is also serving as f a gubernatorial appointee to the Missouri Mili- tary Preparedness and Enhancement Com- HON. DAVE CAMP HONORING OFFICER ARMANDO AL- mission. EXANDER OF THE WAUKEGAN OF MICHIGAN Rosalee graduated from the University of POLICE DEPARTMENT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Central Missouri with a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in speech Wednesday, December 19, 2007 HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK pathology and audiology. Following graduate Mr. CAMP. Madam Speaker, today I rise to OF ILLINOIS school, she served as a physical education congratulate and pay tribute to the St. Francis IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and health teacher in the Raytown School Dis- High School football team for reaching the Wednesday, December 19, 2007 trict and then as a speech pathologist at the Children’s Therapy Center. She then joined Michigan High School Athletic Association Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 2007 Division Seven State Championship the University of Central Missouri and taught honor Officer Armando Alexander of the Wau- until her retirement in 2002. game. It was their fifth State finals appearance kegan Police Department for his selfless act of in 10 years. heroism. While at the university, she served for 13 The St. Francis Gladiators lost a hard-fought On February 3. 2007. Officer Alexander was years as director of the Early Childhood Com- state championship game to Mendon High assisting with closing a local bar. At 2:49 a.m., munication Special Education Preschool, School. It was the end to an impressive play- Officer Alexander heard gunfire erupt in the spent 6 years as the coordinator of Clinical off run in which they outscored their oppo- parking lot next to the establishment. Without Services in the Welch-Schmidt Center for nents 188–8 in the four games leading up to regard for his own personal safety, he ran to- Communication Disorders, and was guest lec- the finals. They finished their season with a ward the gunfire where he witnessed two sub- turer in the Department of Phonetics at the 12–2 record. jects firing shots at a victim in a parked car. University of Helsinki, Finland. The Gladiators accomplishments are a tes- The victim was shot three times before the Today, Rosalee is director emeriti of the tament to the years of hard work and dedica- suspects fled. Officer Alexander then chased University of Central Missouri Alumni Associa- tion of these student athletes. They have the suspects on foot through a residential de- tion Board and the Foundation Board. She proudly carried on their school’s tradition of velopment and construction site. He appre- also serves as a tutor in the Johnson County excellence. I commend them on a successful hended one of the suspects and recovered the Adult Literacy Program. season. firearm used in the crime. The second suspect The Wellings are known in the State of Mis- On behalf of the 4th Congressional District was later arrested. souri for their outstanding civic involvement of Michigan, I congratulate the St. Francis Officer Alexander’s outstanding efforts took and volunteer service. I trust that Members of High School football team on their achieve- two dangerous gang members off the streets the House will join me in wishing Bob and ments and wish them all the best of luck in of my district and made Waukegan, Illinois, a Rosalee Welling and their family the best in their future endeavors. safer place. their future endeavors.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.024 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2629 IN TRIBUTE TO NICK TENAGLIA Manlius, F–M, High School Girl’s Cross Coun- Madam Speaker, I am proud to express my try Team, 2007 Nike Team National Cham- support for the Federal Food Donation Act. HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY pions. The F–M Girl’s Cross Country Team Our country must no longer tolerate the pres- OF NEW YORK won at the State, regional, and national levels ence of widespread hunger and I believe that to earn their second consecutive national this legislation will play a critical role in com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES championship title, and become the first team bating hunger. I am proud to express my full Wednesday, December 19, 2007 ever to win back to back Nike National Cham- support for this legislation and I thank my Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Madam pionships. friend and colleague, Mrs. EMERSON, for her Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Nick Tenaglia, On behalf of the people of New York’s 25th sponsorship of the bill and for her leadership a native son of Astoria in Queens who has Congressional District, I congratulate these in fighting hunger. dedicated his energies throughout his life to young women on their outstanding athletic serving others. In recognition of his selfless achievement and praise head coach William f dedication to his community, Nick Tenaglia Aris, and assistant coaches John Aris and was honored by the Taminent Regular Demo- David Davis on their team’s success. I look A TRIBUTE TO DADY BELFORT cratic Club of the Borough of Queens in New forward to another exciting year when the Hor- York City at its 76th Annual Dinner Dance. nets defend their title in 2008. A lifelong Astoria resident, Nick Tenaglia The team members are Kathryn Buchan, HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS has distinguished himself both for his service Katie Buchan, Mackenzie Carter, Courtney to the community and for his proficiency as an Chapman, Hannah Luber, Molly Malone, and OF NEW YORK outdoorsman and nature lover. After grad- Jocelyn Richards. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES uating from Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Elemen- f tary School and LaSalle Academy, he chose a Wednesday, December 19, 2007 career in the building trades. Nick Tenaglia SUPPORTING THE FEDERAL FOOD joined the Carpenters Union, where he served DONATION ACT Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today an apprenticeship for four years. In 1985, he to pay tribute to Dady Belfort. Dady, one of joined the staff of the New York City Depart- HON. AL GREEN four children, was born in Les Cayes on the ment of Environmental Protection, and eight Island of Haiti to Rose Nostalie and Joseph OF TEXAS years later was promoted to Supervisor. Santiford Belfort. In 1977, she migrated to the It was fitting that Mr. Tenaglia made his pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES United States enrolling in Erasmus Hall High fessional home at the municipal agency Wednesday, December 19, 2007 School. After her high school graduation in charged with protecting the beautiful and di- 1980, she attended Kings Borough Community Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, verse natural environment of the New York College and is currently enrolled at John Jay I am proud to support the Federal Food Dona- City metropolitan area, because he is an avid College, pursuing a Master’s Degree in Crimi- tion Act, an important piece of legislation that and skilled angler and marksman. In 1997 and nal Justice. 1998, Nick Tenaglia was named the New York will help address the scourge of hunger in City Fresh Water Fishing Champion, and he America. Dady became a police officer for the City of has also earned awards from the Commis- Each year, 35 million Americans, including New York in 1989. Since joining the force, she sioner of the New York City Department of 12 million children, go hungry, even though we has received numerous citations during her 18 Parks and Recreation. He regularly partici- live in the richest nation in the world. In many years of service. In 2002, she became the pates in New York State Rifle and Pistol Club ways, the situation is getting worse, as in- force’s Community Affairs Officer and in 2005 competitions. In his spare time, he can fre- creasing costs for food, energy and housing she was promoted to Detective. quently be found at his property in the Pocono mean that increasing numbers of working fam- Dady is very active in her community. She Mountains. ilies have difficulty affording sufficient food. is a regular participant in the New York Cares In being honored by the Taminent Regular According to a report by the U.S. Conference coat drive as well as numerous toy drives. Democratic Club, Nick Tenaglia’s achieve- of Mayors, 80 percent of cities studied re- Dady walks each year in the Our Lady of Mi- ments were recognized by one of the largest ported increases in requests for emergency raculous Medal Parish’s walk-a-thon for the and most vibrant political and civic organiza- food assistance during the last year. Despite Knights of Columbus, and the walk for breast tions in our nation’s greatest city. The this increase in need for food assistance, too cancer at Jones Beach. She is a member of Taminent Club represents voters in the neigh- little has been done to ensure that food banks, the Canarsie Lions Club, and the Haitian borhoods of Astoria and Long Island City in pantries and other charitable organizations American Law Enforcement Fraternal Organi- the New York State Assembly’s 36th District have sufficient resources to address the needs zation. Dady coordinates with various organi- and is led by its able District Leaders, the of their hungry clients. zations’ outreach programs to help the less Honorable Gloria DeMarco Aloise and the The Federal Food Donation Act will help al- fortunate by collecting food for the homeless, Honorable George Onorato, a distinguished leviate the shortage of food among organiza- adopting a family for the holidays, and fre- New York State Senator. The Taminent Club, tions that work to serve the hungry. This im- quently assisting at the Gerald R. Ryan Out- which Mr. Tenaglia serves as a Member of the portant bill will amend the Federal Acquisition reach Center Soup Kitchen. Board of Directors and as Sergeant-at-Arms, Regulation to provide that contracts will con- proudly carries the banner of the world’s old- tain provisions encouraging the donation of As a young girl, Dady has always wanted to est political party in one of the most diverse excess, apparently wholesome food to non- make a difference in her community. She lives counties in the United States of America. Bor- profit organizations working to combat hunger. her life by one simple saying, ‘‘Happiness is ough of Queens. The bill will ensure that excess food acquired not an individual matter. When you are able to Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished for the use of the federal government does not bring relief or bring back the smile to one per- colleagues join me in recognizing the out- go to waste and instead goes to help feed the son, not only that person profits but you also standing contributions to the community made hungry. profit. The deepest happiness you can have by Nick Tenaglia. The Federal Food Donation Act represents comes from the capacity to help relieve the suffering of others. So if we have the habit of f an important step forward in the effort to com- bat poverty. I am hopeful that the bill will also being peaceful, there is a natural tendency for HONORING THE FAYETTEVILLE spur more organizations in the private sector us to go into the direction of service.’’ MANLIUS HIGH SCHOOL GIRL’S to follow suit and to ensure that they make Dady is married to Cecil Ramsay and they CROSS COUNTRY TEAM good use of excess food. Additionally, I am have three children; Rodnny, Samantha and hopeful that Congress will soon pass legisla- Christopher. HON. JAMES T. WALSH tion strengthening the Food Stamp program by substantially increasing benefits and easing Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize OF NEW YORK this pillar of New York who has set the bar ex- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES access to the program for eligible bene- ficiaries, to help ensure that the 25 million tremely high for individual service to her com- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Americans who receive Food Stamp benefits munity. Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, each year receive sufficient assistance to pre- Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to I rise today in tribute to the Fayetteville vent them from becoming hungry. join me in paying tribute to this Dady Belfort.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.002 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2630 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 TRIBUTE TO MAJOR GENERAL Asia. This lucrative company allowed Mr. best senior Vietnamese employees for the im- DAVID H. HUNTOON, JR. Paraskevaides to engage in the work he en- portant post of chauffer and body guard, Mr. joyed most: helping others. George quickly be- Dong was his immediate recommendation. HON. TODD RUSSELL PLATTS came recognized in Cyprus as a champion of Mr. Dong served as person chauffer and OF PENNSYLVANIA Cypriot issues and sick children. body guard to the principal officer of American IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES His death on December 5, 2007 at the age Consulate, while at the same time supervising of 91 has left a gaping hole in the hearts of all the guard personnel. He filled these roles Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Cypriots the world over. He was the voice of from October 2, 1970, until the final evacu- Mr. PLATTS. Madam Speaker, today I rise all that is true and good about the island na- ation on April 29, 1975. He was cited for gal- to recognize the achievements of Major Gen- tion. President of the Republic of Cyprus, lantry on a number of occasions, and also for eral David H. Huntoon, Jr., currently serving Tassos Papadopoulos, said of the passing of safe-guarding the life of Consul General as the 46th Commandant of the United States George Paraskevaides. ‘‘He was a model of Francis T. McNamara. Army War College, located in my Congres- humanity, dignity and kindness. He offered a He has a citation for personally attacking sional District at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsyl- lot in a selfless way to those who needed help three Viet Cong machine gun positions and vania. Gen. Huntoon became the 46th Com- and was a benefactor for Cyprus, serving his destroying each of them with small arms and mandant of the Army War College in August country with patriotism. He leaves behind him hand grenades. In a moment of sheer bravery, 2003. His service in this post will come to a charity work for which he will be dearly re- Nghia Van Dong placed himself between Con- close in January, when he will be reassigned membered as a man of high moral standards.’’ sul General McNamara and a group of Viet- to Fort Myers. I could not concur more with this sentiment. namese Marines, taking several bullets and The resume of Gen. Huntoon is long and George Paraskevaides is recognized the saving the life of the Consul General. In total. distinguished, fitting for the Commandant of an world over for his good works and philan- Mr. Dong was wounded ten times over the institution with a long and distinguished his- thropy. He has received innumerable awards course of the war. tory. Gen. Huntoon was commissioned in including the Medal of Exceptional Contribu- At the close of the Viet Nam War, Nghia 1973 from the Military Academy at West Point. tion, the highest honor of the Republic of Cy- Van Dong came to the United States. Settling He served thirteen years as an infantry officer; prus, Order of the British Empire (O.B.E.) by in Fairfax, Virginia, Mr. Dong found employ- he served in the Directorate of Plans at Fort Queen Elizabeth II, the Order of Oman III, ment in Hospital Services, working at both Bragg during Operation Desert Shield and Class Civil by Sultan Qaboos of Oman, the Dewitt and Mount Vernon Hospitals. In 2005, Desert Storm and Operation Just Cause; and Rotary Foundation Medal. and the Medal of Mr. Dong retired from Mount Vernon Hospital he has served as a National Security Fellow at Merit of the Lions International Club of Food Service after 26 years of employment. the Hoover Institute, as an Executive Officer to Nicosia, the St. Paul’s Medal by the Greek Or- Mr. Dong and his spouse Hanh are active in the Chief of Staff of the Army, and as the Di- thodox Archbishop of North and South Amer- the local Vietnamese Church and have been rector of Strategy at the Pentagon. ica, and the St. Marcus Medal by the active for years as they enjoy the fruits of their As the Commandant of the Army War Col- Pontifice. He is an Archon of the Ecumenical long marriage—their 15 grandchildren. Al- lege, Gen. Huntoon has been dedicated to Patriarchate of Constantinople and was also though recent illness has kept him from many training strategic leaders in the war against honored with the Holy Cross of the Ecumeni- activities, Mr. Dong has always enjoyed fish- terrorism. He speaks of the need to restore cal Patriarchate. In addition, the works of the ing, drinking coffee, and playing the lottery. He the peace shattered on 9/11. He speaks with George and Thelma Paraskevaides Founda- has also been active in local veterans’ groups. reverence of both family and the military fam- tion has been recognized for having formed Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to ily. and he has worked to bring the community links with Shriner’s Hospital in Springfield. MA, thank Nghia Van Dong for his service during of Carlisle into the folds of his daily command. and Children’s Heart Fund Hospital in Min- the Viet Nam War, and his outstanding legacy It has been a privilege and an honor to get neapolis and has provided numerous scholar- of public service here in Northern Virginia. I to know Gen. Huntoon and his family over the ships for less fortunate Cypriots. ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating past few years. I want to thank him for his Paraskevaides founded the Cyprus Kidney As- the life of Mr. Dong. dedicated service to the mission of the United sociation, the Surgical and Transplant Founda- f States Army War College and to the defense tion and the Cyprus Heart Association. of our great Nation. I wish him and his family Madam Speaker, while the list of awards is HONORING BONNIE PALECEK the best in their future endeavors. impressive. I am sure the biggest award that f George Paraskevaides won in his life was the HON. EARL POMEROY love and affection of his wife, Thelma, and his OF NORTH DAKOTA HONORING THE LIFE AND ACCOM- family. He will be missed but never forgotten. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PLISHMENTS OF GEORGE May his memory be eternal!. PARASKEVAIDES Wednesday, December 19, 2007 f Mr. POMEROY. Madam Speaker, I rise HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS HONORING NGHIA VAN DONG today to honor a colleague and dear friend of OF FLORIDA mine as she retires as Executive Director of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. TOM DAVIS the Council on Abused Women’s Services/Co- alition Against Sexual Assault in my State of Wednesday, December 19, 2007 OF VIRGINIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES North Dakota. I have had the privilege of Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise knowing Bonnie Palecek for over 25 years and today to the honor the life and accomplish- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 have seen firsthand the leadership and de- ments of George Paraskevaides, a humani- Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I voted service she has provided in protecting tarian of unmatched proportions. Mr. rise today to honor Nghia Van Dong for his victims of violence. Paraskevaides was one of the most renowned service during the Vietnam War. Bonnie Palecek has been with the North Cypriot philanthropists of his day. His life story Nghia Van Dong was born in Hai Phong, Dakota Council on Abused Women’s Services/ reads like a classic tale of rags to riches. Born Viet Nam, during the end of the Indochina Coalition Against Sexual Assault for nearly 30 in Athens, Greece in 1916, George War. Following the Geneva Conventions which years. Bonnie established the Council on Paraskevaides moved with his family back to brought the conflict to a resolution, Mr. Dong Abused Women’s Services in 1980, and has Cyprus where he excelled in school and ulti- joined fellow refugees in repatriating to the led this network to now connect over 20 do- mately graduated from the Polytechnic Insti- Republic of South Viet Nam. This trip would mestic violence prevention and intervention tute in Milan, Italy. After World War II, Mr. prove fruitful, as Mr. Dong met his future wife programs across the State. Under her leader- Paraskevaides, together with Stelios Ioannou, Hanh on the ship which carried him to Saigon. ship, this coalition is the voice for thousands formed the most preeminent architectural engi- At the start of the Viet Nam War, Nghia Van of women and children affected by violence. neering firm in Cyprus, Joannou & Dong knew that his country needed him. He Bonnie has tirelessly advocated for domestic Paraskevaides. quickly signed up to help with the war effort, violence victims and their families and has George Paraskevaides’ keen intellect and and was assigned to the U.S. Army Special been the driving force behind passing count- unmatched work ethic, allowed Joannou & forces for a period of ten years. When Consul less pieces of legislation in North Dakota to Paraskevaides to become one of the most General McNamara asked the Commander of protect victims of domestic abuse. After 30 prolific firms in the Middle East, Africa, and the Special Forces to recommend one of his great years, she will be difficult to replace.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.033 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2631 I know that Bonnie Palecek will be sorely customers. The Department of the Treasury eral of New Hampshire; Anne Milgram, missed by all who have known her dedication would alone decide who would receive Fed- Attorney General of New Jersey; Gary to serving victims of sexual and domestic vio- eral licenses and whether the licensees were King, Attorney General of New Mexico; complying with their terms. This would rep- Roy Cooper, Attorney General of North lence. I offer her my congratulations and best resent the first time in history that the Fed- Carolina; Wayne Stenehjem, Attorney wishes for her continued success and happi- eral government would be responsible for General of North Dakota; Marc Dann, ness in the coming years. issuing gambling licenses. Attorney General of Ohio. f A Federal license would supersede any W.A. Drew Edmondson, Attorney General state enforcement action, because § 5387 in of Oklahoma; Hardy Myers, Attorney LETTER FROM THE NATIONAL AS- H.R. 2046 would grant an affirmative defense General of Oregon; Tom Corbett, Attor- SOCIATION OF ATTORNEYS GEN- against any prosecution or enforcement ac- ney General of Pennsylvania; Patrick ERAL (NAAG) OPPOSING H.R. 2046, tion under any Federal or State law to any C. Lynch, Attorney General of Rhode THE ‘‘INTERNET GAMBLING REG- person who possesses a valid license and Island; Henry McMaster, Attorney ULATION AND ENFORCEMENT complies with the requirements of H.R. 2046. General of South Carolina; Larry Long, This divestment of state gambling enforce- ACT OF 2007’’ Attorney General of South Dakota; ment power is sweeping and unprecedented. Robert E. Cooper, Jr., Attorney Gen- The bill would legalize Internet gambling eral of Tennessee; Greg Abbott, Attor- HON. BOB GOODLATTE in each State. unless the Governor clearly ney General of Texas; Mark Shurtleff, specifies existing state restrictions barring OF VIRGINIA Attorney General of Utah; William H. Internet gambling in whole or in part. On IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sorrell, Attorney General of Vermont. that basis, a State may ‘‘opt out’’ of legal- Robert McDonnell, Attorney General of ization for all Internet gambling or certain Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Virginia; Rob McKenna, Attorney Gen- types of gambling. However, the opt-out for eral of Washington; Darrell V. McGraw, Mr. GOODLATTE. Madam Speaker, I am types of gambling does not clearly preserve Jr., Attorney General of West Virginia; submitting for the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD a the right of States to place conditions on J.B. Van Hollen, Attorney General of letter from the National Association of Attor- legal types of gambling. Thus, for example, if Wisconsin; Bruce A. Salzburg, Attor- neys General (NAAG) signed by 45 Attorneys the State permits poker in licensed card ney General of Wyoming. General opposing Representative BARNEY rooms, but only between 10 a.m. and mid- FRANK’s legislation, H.R. 2046, the ‘‘Internet night, and the amount wagered cannot ex- f Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act of ceed $100 per day and the participants must ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND 2007.’’ In this letter, these Attorneys General be 21 or older, the Federal law might never- theless allow 18-year-olds in that State to SECURITY ACT OF 2007 declare that the Unlawful Internet Gambling wager much larger amounts on poker around SPEECH OF Enforcement Act of 2006, which provided an the clock. additional Federal enforcement tool against Furthermore, the opt-outs may prove illu- HON. TOM DAVIS sory. They will likely be challenged before Internet gambling and which was signed into OF VIRGINIA the World Trade Organization. The World law last year, has ‘‘effectively driven many il- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES licit gambling operators from the American Trade Organization has already shown itself Tuesday, December 18, 2007 marketplace.’’ The NAAG letter then goes on to be hostile to U.S. restrictions on Internet gambling. If it strikes down State opt-outs to detail the opposition of 45 top law enforce- Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I as unduly restrictive of trade. the way will rise to support the Renewable Fuels, Con- ment officials to H.R. 2046. I request that the be omen to the greatest expansion of legal- entirety of this letter be included in the ized gambling in American history and near sumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of RECORD immediately following my remarks, in- total preemption of State laws restricting 2007. It is an initial step towards a new energy cluding the list of all the signers of this letter. Internet gambling. policy. Some will say this bill goes too far, oth- NATIONAL ASSOCIATION H.R. 2046 effectively nationalizes America’s ers will claim it does not go far enough. While OF ATTORNEYS GENERAL, gambling laws on the Internet, ‘‘harmo- opportunities to overhaul our energy policy Washington, DC, November 30, 2007. nizing’’ the law for the benefit of foreign were missed, this bill does include a starting Hon. NANCY PELOSI, gambling operations that were defying our point for true reform. Speaker, House of Representatives, laws for years, at least until UIGEA was en- Any attempt to transform the direction of our Washington, DC. acted. We therefore oppose this proposal, and energy policy must include an increase in any other proposal that hinders the right of Hon. HARRY REID, CAFE standards. Increasing fuel efficiency is Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, States to prohibit or regulate gambling by Washington, DC. their residents. something I have fought many years for. We Hon. JOHN BOEHNER, Sincerely, have the technology to do it, we have the will Minority Leader, House of Representatives, John S. Juthers, Attorney General of to do it and now, with this bill, we have made Washington, DC. Colorado; Bill McCollum, Attorney the commitment to do it. This provision is the Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, General of Florida; Douglas Gansler, cornerstone for revamping our energy policy. It Minority Leader, U.S. Senate Attorney General of Maryland; Troy not only addresses our reliance on imported Washington, DC. King, Attorney General of Alabama; oil, but will also help stem the creation of TO THE LEADERSHIP OF THE U.S. HOUSE OF Talis J. Colberg, Attorney General of green house gasses. Alaska; Terry Goddard, Attorney Gen- REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATE: We, the At- I agree with the inclusion of a Renewable torneys General of our respective States, eral of Arizona; Dustin McDaniel, At- have grave concerns about H.R. 2046, the torney General of Arkansas; Edmund Fuels Standard; however, as we have learned ‘‘Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforce- G. Brown. Jr., Attorney General of over the past few years, the manner in which ment Act of 2007.’’ We believe that the bill California; Richard Blumenthal, Attor- it is executed raises its own set of questions. would undermine States’ traditional powers ney General of Connecticut; Joseph R. Our current thirst is for corn based ethanol. Of to make and enforce their own gambling (Beau) Biden III, Attorney General of 5 billion gallons of biofuels produced domesti- laws. Delaware. cally last year, 4.9 billion were derived from On March 21, 2006, 49 NAAG members wrote Linda Singer, Attorney General of the corn. Placing a limit on the amount of com to the leadership of Congress: ‘‘We encourage District of Columbia; Thurbert E. ethanol eligible to be applied in meeting the Baker, Attorney General of Georgia; the United States Congress to help combat RFS is a necessary step. Yet, I have doubts the skirting of state gambling regulations by Alicia G. Limtiaco, Attorney General enacting legislation which would address of Guam; Mark J. Bennett, Attorney as to whether that limit is too high and wheth- Internet gambling, while at the same time General of Hawaii; Lawrence Wasden, er more should be done to ensure the devel- ensuring that the authority to set overall Attorney General of Idaho; Lisa Mad- opment of other biofuels. Also, most studies gambling regulations and policy remains igan, Attorney General of Illinois; Ste- give corn based ethanol an energy balance of where it has traditionally been most effec- phen Carter, Attorney General of Indi- 1.2. Would it not be a better long term policy tive: at the state level.’’ Congress responded ana; Paul Morrison, Attorney General to shift our focus towards a more efficient by enacting the Unlawful Internet Gambling of Kansas; Charles C. Foti, Jr., Attor- source of biofuel? Enforcement Act of 2006, UIGEA, which has ney General of Louisiana; G. Steven Finally. I am concerned about the effects effectively driven many illicit gambling op- Rowe, Attorney General of Maine. this mandate could have on the Chesapeake erators from the American marketplace. Lori Swanson, Attorney General of Min- But now, less than a year later. H.R. 2046 nesota; Jim Hood, Attorney General of Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Task Force and I proposes to do the opposite, by replacing Mississippi; Jeremiah W. (Jay) Nixon, have worked tirelessly to clean up this trou- state regulations with a Federal licensing Attorney General of Missouri; Mike bled waterway. Spurred on by government program that would permit Internet gam- McGrath, Attorney General of Mon- subsidies, farmers in the watershed have been bling companies to do business with U.S. tana; Kelly A. Ayotte, Attorney Gen- drastically increasing their corn acreage. Due

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.036 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2632 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 to the intrinsic nature of corn farming, any in- across the state, and continue her outstanding RECOGNIZING KINGLAND-HANSON crease will heavily impact the health of the work in the classroom. watershed and could undo many of the great HON. TOM LATHAM achievements we have made in the past few f OF IOWA years. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fifty years from now our energy makeup FEDERAL FOOD DONATION ACT OF should be fundamentally different. At that point 2007 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 we should no longer be relying on fossil fuels Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to drive our economy. Yet, the fact remains SPEECH OF to recognize Carolyn Kingland-Hanson as the we must rely on them today. Neither the tech- recipient of the Golden Apple Award for her nology nor the infrastructure exists to do oth- HON. JERRY MORAN commitment and enthusiasm as a teacher in erwise. In the intervening years we must not OF KANSAS the Hampton-Dumont School District in Iowa. only develop a green energy sector, but we IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Carolyn says she is humbled by the honor must also shift from foreign sources of energy and believes all her fellow teachers at Hamp- to domestic ones. Therefore, we must not Monday, December 17, 2007 ton-Dumont are equally deserving of the hinder the development of our oil and natural Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, today award. gas fields. I am pleased this bill discarded the the House of Representatives is considering Carolyn has taught high school English and troublesome tax package that would have an important piece of legislation. H.R. 4220, literature for 22 years and has a gift in working been a disincentive on domestic production. the Federal Food Donation Act of 2007 is a with teens. She is able to transform difficult lit- Madam Speaker, contrary to what its cham- step in the right direction towards feeding the erature into exciting and easy to learn lessons. pions claim, this bill does not fundamentally hungry in our nation. It is unacceptable that Carolyn turns her classroom into a stage as change our Nation’s energy policy. While I will here in the richest nation in the world Amer- students have the opportunity to act out vote for this bill, I look forward to working with ican children go to bed hungry while perfectly scenes and dances that are in the books they my colleagues to finish the job that has been good food goes to waste. I am proud to be a are studying. Her recipe for success is her left undone. sponsor of this bill—a bill that will not solve all love of, and commitment to, her students. Her f hunger, but will solve some people’s hunger. passion for literature and the teaching profes- I want to thank Mrs. EMERSON for intro- sion will continue to have a significant impact RECOGNIZING OHIO’S 2008 on her students for years to come. TEACHER OF THE YEAR ducing the Federal Food Donation Act. The bill will help the efforts of nonprofit organizations I congratulate Carolyn Kingland-Hanson on serving the hungry. Agencies and contractors her well-deserved award, and I’m certain that HON. JIM JORDAN are encouraged to donate safe and whole- she will continue to touch the lives of many OF OHIO some food to nonprofit organizations that pro- students in her community. It is a great honor IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES vide assistance to food-insecure people, while to represent Carolyn in Congress, and I wish Wednesday, December 19, 2007 avoiding another mandate or further layer of her continued success. bureaucracy. In order to help protect donors, f Mr. JORDAN of Ohio. Madam Speaker, I the bill provides that executive agencies and rise today to honor a remarkable teacher from HONORING A NORTH CHICAGO contractors making donations are protected Ohio’s Fourth Congressional District. POLICE OFFICER Her name is Deborah Wickerham. A teacher from civil or criminal liability for 32 years, Ms. Wickerham has taught at While donating unused food is a good step HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK in combating hunger in America, the fight is Chamberlin Hill Intermediate School in the OF ILLINOIS not over. Findlay City School system since 1992, cur- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rently teaching both deaf and hearing fifth graders in her inclusion classroom. f Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Mr. KIRK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor In 2001, Ms. Wickerham achieved National TRIBUTE TO NOUVEL CATHOLIC Detective Luis Rivera of the North Chicago Board Certification, and currently works as a CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL facilitator and mentor to help other teachers Police Department Tactical Narcotics Team. achieve certification. In addition to this and to Besides fulfilling his duties as a narcotics and her regular duties at Chamberlin Hill, she HON. DAVE CAMP gang investigator since May 2005, Detective spends many after-school hours tutoring stu- OF MICHIGAN Rivera also serves on the North Chicago Po- dents who struggle with homework, organiza- lice Department Major Crime Evidence Team, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tional skills, and test preparation. as a firearms instructor, tech officer, bike pa- She has received numerous awards and Wednesday, December 19, 2007 trolman and former SWAT officer. Beyond his recognition throughout her teaching career, in- tireless dedication to the department, Detec- Mr. CAMP of Michigan. Madam Speaker, cluding the Presidential Award for Elementary tive Rivera has consistently displayed an ex- today I would like to congratulate and pay trib- Science Excellence, the Vernier National traordinary commitment to his community. ute to Nouvel Catholic Central High School for Science Teacher of the Year Award, the Ro- In January of this year while working under- winning the Michigan High School Athletic As- tary Golden Apple Award, Jaycees Teacher of cover, Detective Rivera purchased 4 ounces sociation 2007 Division Six Football State the Year honors, and the 2007 VFW Regional of cocaine from a criminal resulting in four ar- Championship. It is the team’s second con- Teacher of the Year title. rests and the seizure of 116.6 grams cocaine, secutive state title. Today, I am proud to announce to the one Chevy Blazer and $4,977. Detective Ri- House that Deborah Wickerham has been The Nouvel Panthers Defeated Blissfield vera also developed a narcotics gang con- named the 2008 Ohio Teacher of the Year by 12–7 in the state final game on November 23. spiracy case on members of the Four Corner the Ohio Department of Education. The win was a fitting cap to a successful sea- Hustler street gang operating in North Chicago According to her colleagues, Ms. son. The Panthers finished with an impressive that came to a conclusion on February 28, Wickerham’s secret to success is her ability to 10–3 record. The ability of the Panther players 2007. Through the use of confidential inform- demonstrate, through her dedicated work in to regroup after these losses and ability to win ants and undercover officers, 39 indictments the classroom, the most important mission of the close games down the stretch is a clear were issued on 12 of the Four Corner Hustler teachers: to help even child succeed. indication of the dedication these young men street gang members by the Lake County We all recognize the increasing challenges have for their sport. States Attorney office. This investigation halt- facing today’s students. Now more than ever, This tremendous group of student athletes ed violence in the area. they need the benefit of dedicated teachers has proudly carried on their school’s tradition In June he developed an informant that infil- like Ms. Wickerham. of excellence. trated a crew that was robbing local drug deal- Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join On behalf of the 4th Congressional District ers. While gathering information to make a me in congratulating Deborah Wickerham in of Michigan, I congratulate the Nouvel Catholic case, the leader of the group and member of earning this distinction, through which she will Central football team on this milestone the Gangster Disciples street gang committed serve as a spokesperson for Ohio teachers, achievement and wish them the best of luck in a home invasion, resulting in the violent death make public appearances and speeches their future endeavors. of a young female along with 2 males who

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.041 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2633 were seriously wounded. Lake County Major Council, and numerous community organiza- Gerald Modell has been associated with the Crimes Taskforce investigated the crime and tions. creation and operation of many charitable and had murder warrants. Detective Rivera then Next year will mark two full decades of dis- philanthropic causes, mostly in the medical developed an operational plan to take the sus- tinguished service by Antonio Meloni as Exec- field. He currently serves on an Advisory pect into custody. The detective used his in- utive Director of Immigration Advocacy Serv- Board at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in formant to lure the suspect to a location on ices. In this capacity, he has developed and New York City and is the founder and former July 3, 2007, to discuss doing another rob- managed countless worthwhile initiatives that vice president of the Mental Illness Founda- bery. Members of the North Chicago SWAT have provided essential services to new arriv- tion. team arrested the suspect upon his arrival. als to our nation’s greatest city. While devoting Today the Modells have six pawnshop loca- Last August Detective Rivera used an in- his time and attention to this incredible range tions in operation throughout New York City: formant to infiltrate another armed robbery of activities, Antonio Meloni has also remained the Diamond District; Gramercy Park; Spanish crew along with an undercover ATF agent. On devoted to his beloved family, including his Harlem; Brooklyn Heights; Brownsville; and October 25, 2007, the North Chicago Tactical wife Denise and his two children Michael and Bay Ridge. Annually, Modell makes tens of Narcotics Team. agents from ATF and their Angela. thousands of loans to the public for their short- SWAT officers as well as Waukegan Net In being honored by the Taminent Regular term financing needs. Agents conducted a sting on this crew, arrest- Democratic Club, Antonio Meloni’s achieve- Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize ing four Gangster Disciples and the recovery ments were recognized by one of the largest and thank the Modell family for their nearly of a hand gun. All 4 subjects were charged and most vibrant political and civic organiza- 115 years of service to the residents of New through the United States Attorneys office. tions in our nation’s greatest city. The York. Detective Rivera is truly taking criminals off Taminent Club represents voters in the neigh- Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to the streets, making our community safer. Our borhoods of Astoria and Long Island City in join me in paying tribute to the Modell family. district is fortunate to have police officers, like the New York State Assembly’s 36th District f the detective, who risk their lives every day. I and is led by its able District Leaders, the A LETTER FROM GOVERNOR ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Honorable Gloria DeMarco Aloise and the MITCH DANIELS OF INDIANA him today. Honorable George Onorato, a distinguished f New York State Senator. The Taminent Club proudly carries the banner of the world’s old- HON. MARK E. SOUDER IN TRIBUTE TO ANTONIO MELONI est political party in one of the most diverse OF INDIANA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES counties in the United States of America. Bor- HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY ough of Queens. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 OF NEW YORK Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished Mr. SOUDER. Madam Speaker, I wish to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES colleagues join me in recognizing the out- submit into the RECORD a letter from Indiana Wednesday, December 19, 2007 standing contributions to our cultural and civic Governor Mitch Daniels expressing his con- life made by Antonio Meloni. cerns regarding H.R. 2046, the Internet Gam- Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Madam f bling Regulation and Enforcement Act, which Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Antonio would legalize Internet gambling and under- Meloni, a tireless, energetic and effective civic A TRIBUTE TO THE MODELL mine the ability of states to make and enforce activist. Antonio Meloni is devoted to his com- FAMILY their own gambling laws. I share Governor munity and his family, and in recognition of his Daniel’s opposition to this bill, and will fight to selfless dedication to the well-being of others, HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS make sure H.R. 2046 does not pass the he was honored by the Taminent Regular OF NEW YORK House. Democratic Club of the Borough of Queens in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STATE OF INDIANA, New York City at its 76th Annual Dinner OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, Dance. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Indianapolis, Indiana, November 9, 2007. A resident of Astoria for forty-two years, An- Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today Re Internet Gambling Regulation and En- tonio Meloni has distinguished himself for his to pay tribute and honor the work and accom- forcement Act of 2007 (H.R. 2046) outstanding service to the community. He has plishments of the Modell family. The Modell Hon. HARRY REID, been a leader in local crime-fighting and family migrated from Russia in the 1870s set- Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, neighborhood beautification efforts, working tling on the Lower East Side of New York City. Washington, DC. with at-risk youth in the Second Chance Task They soon began peddling clothing, jewelry, Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, Force, serving as an instructor in women’s Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, and other odds and ends from a pushcart. Washington, DC. self-defense courses, and working to prevent George Modell opened a store at 79 Hon. NANCY PELOSI, and clean up the urban blight of graffiti. Mr. Cortland Street in 1893. The business moved Speaker, House of Representatives, Meloni has been extraordinarily active in nu- to Nassau Street during the 1930s when Washington, DC. merous civic organizations, ranging from the George’s son Louis joined and established Hon. JOHN BOEHNER, Astoria-Long Island City Kiwanis Club; the their pawnbroking business. Louis successfully Minority Leader, House of Representatives, 114th Precinct Community Council; the local expanded and assumed leadership of the Washington, DC. New York City Community Emergency Re- company during World War II. In 1956, Ger- DEAR SENATOR REID, SENATOR MCCONNELL, SPEAKER PELOSI AND REPRESENTATIVE sponse Team; the Variety Boys and Girls ald, Louis’ eldest son had completed his stud- BOEHNER: As Governor of the State of Indi- Club; the Knights of Columbus; the Church of ies at Columbia University and was commis- ana, I wish to express my concerns about a the Immaculate Conception, where he serves sioned into the army as an officer. In 1959, he bill currently in the U.S. Congress known as as a Minister of Welcome; the Astoria Civic joined the Modell Jewelry & Pawnbroker busi- the Internet Gambling Regulation and En- Association, which he currently serves as Vice ness. forcement Act of 2007 (‘‘H.R. 2046’’), which President; and Queens Community Board 1, Gerald Modell opened a second location in would legalize Internet gambling and under- on which he has chaired the Public Safety 1960 on West 47th Street, in the heart of the mine the ability of states to make and en- force their own gambling laws. Committee for many years, among many other ‘‘Diamond District,’’ where Modell began to ex- In contrast with limited, state-regulated organizations. Of Antonio Meloni’s many ac- tend financing to the diamond and jewelry in- forms of gambling such as horse tracks and complishments in service to the community, dustry. In 1965, Gerald expanded by starting riverboat casinos, gambling via the Internet one of which he is particularly proud is the de- a diamond importing company operating in is available from virtually any location (e.g., sign and completion of the ‘‘Greater Love Antwerp, Tel Aviv, and Bombay. homes, offices, schools) twenty-four hours Than This’’ memorial to veterans of our na- Gerald Modell’s son Eric graduated from the per day in an anonymous environment. Re- tion’s armed forces, a monument that is lo- University of Virginia’s McIntire School of search and studies have indicated that Inter- cated next to the existing World War I Memo- Commerce in 1997. After a 3-year career as net gambling is more accessible to minors, more attractive to college-age individuals, rial in Astoria Park. In recognition of his many a management consultant at more susceptible to fraud and other criminal civic contributions, Mr. Meloni has been hon- PricewaterhouseCoopers, Eric joined the fam- activity, and harder to regulate. These are ored over the years by former New York City ily business in 2000. Today Eric is the execu- some of the reasons why Indiana recently up- Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, the New York State tive vice president and is committed to ex- dated its gambling laws to specifically pro- Crime Prevention Coalition, the New York City panding the business even further. hibit Internet gambling. Using the Internet

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.046 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2634 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 to engage in gambling in Indiana, or with a lected to receive the Milken National Educator Blind Rehabilitation Clinic in Leeds, which cov- person located in Indiana, is a felony under Award. ered the entire eastern seaboard (as far east Indiana law. The Milken National Educator Award is as the Mississippi River) and Puerto Rico. Last year, in response to the growth of the Internet gambling problem, Congress passed given to outstanding elementary and sec- When the Blind Rehab Clinic was finally the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforce- ondary school teachers, principals, and other closed, Phil continued his work in public serv- ment Act of 2006, UIGEA, which has effec- education professionals. The recipients must ice in the Northampton VAMC’s Human Re- tively driven many illicit gambling opera- demonstrate exceptional educational talent sources Department and later in Pittsfield, MA tors from the U.S. marketplace. But now, through their instructional practices and stu- where he was given the task of opening a less than a year later, H.R. 2046 proposes to dent learning results in the classroom and the sheltered workshop for veterans. He will end do the opposite, by replacing state regula- school. They must also represent themselves his long, award-winning career as manager of tions with a federal licensing program that as leaders who engage and inspire students, the sheltered workshop in Leeds VAMC, would permit Internet gambling operators to engage in business with U.S. customers. The colleagues, and the community. where he has worked to expand the influence Department of Treasury would alone decide Ms. Mabrooka Chaudhry, a social studies of the work of veterans throughout western who would receive federal licenses and teacher at Atholton High School in Columbia, Massachusetts. whether the holders of those licenses were Maryland, has proven her ability in all of these Phil’s achievements and prominence has complying with their terms. This would rep- areas. She empowers her students to debate touched millions of people here in Wash- resent the first time in history that the fed- and explore ideas in a safe, student-centered ington, DC, as well: he was consulted in the eral government would be responsible for environment. Through online discussion development of our Metro system. He was issuing gambling licenses. groups and extensive writing assignments, she also consulted in the development of the elec- Furthermore, a federal license under H.R. 2046 would supersede any state enforcement encourages students to articulate their ideas tric car and was called upon by Australia and action because, as written, this bill grants a while improving their overall academic per- several African nations on handicap accessi- ‘‘safe harbor’’ defense against any prosecu- formance. Her students consistently perform bility issues. tion or enforcement under any state or fed- well on the district’s quarterly assessments in Phil’s dedication to helping the blind extends eral law to any person who possesses a valid U.S. History, and 100 percent of her 2005–06 to his life outside of the office as well. He has license and complies with the requirements students earned a three or above on the AP been a member of Lions International since of H.R. 2046. In other words, any gambling American Government exam. She is currently 1986 and has held several leadership posi- operator who obtains a license from the serving as the U.S. History Curriculum Team tions, including president. The Lions Club is Treasury Department and follows the re- quirements of H.R. 2046 would be excused Coordinator, and has facilitated the Multicul- an advocate for bettering the lives of those from criminal charges. tural Club, the Human Rights Awareness Club with vision problems and Phil has worked tire- Essentially, the bill would legalize Inter- and the Muslim Student Association. lessly to further their cause on the local, State, net gambling in each state, unless the gov- Ms. Chaudhry’s love of her profession and national and international levels. Besides his ernor of a state clearly specifies the exist- the students that she teaches is evidenced by work with the Lions Club he has been an ac- ence of a current state restriction e.g., an ex- the energy she puts into her work and the tive member of his church, Saint Mary’s, for isting state law) barring Internet gambling. achievements of her students. As someone 28 years and has also served in leadership On that basis, a state may ‘‘opt out’’ of the who has been active and keenly interested in positions in Business Networking International. legalization of Internet gambling or certain types of gambling. However, this opt-out education policy throughout my professional He is also an active blood donor, having do- provision is problematic because it does not life, I have the utmost respect for teachers like nated 152 pints of blood over the past 37 clearly preserve the right of states to place Ms. Chaudhry; she represents the passion years. conditions on legal types of gambling. H.R. and commitment of so many others across Phil is a respected leader in his community 2046 also does not grant Indiana any right to Maryland and the Nation who are working ex- and a dedicated family man. He has been a challenge a licensing decision by the Treas- tremely hard to educate our children. As we loving husband to Christine for 34 years and ury Department or bring an enforcement ac- work to rewrite the No Child Left Behind Act, father to Erica. While he will miss his work, tion against a gambling operator who cir- the Congress ought to be doing all it can to Phil is looking forward to working more in his cumvents Indiana’s prohibition on Internet gambling. provide these dedicated men and women with antique business, traveling with his wife and In addition, even if Indiana exercises this a law and the resources to empower this com- playing golf. We are all grateful for his service opt-out and Indiana’s ban on Internet gam- mitment and passion. and wish him the best in his retirement. bling remains in effect, the opt-out provision Madam Speaker. I want to again offer con- f of H.R. 2046 will likely be challenged before gratulations to Ms. Mabrooka Chaudhry, who the World Trade Organization (‘‘WTO’’) as a has been recognized as an outstanding edu- TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM HAROLD violation of U.S. trade agreements. In recent cator and will receive the Milken National Edu- DENSMORE years, the WTO has ruled against the U.S. in cator Award. disputes pertaining to free trade in gambling services. Accordingly, if the WTO strikes f HON. KEN CALVERT OF CALIFORNIA down the state opt-out provision as unduly TRIBUTE TO PHILIP GIERS restrictive of trade, then it is likely that we IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES will see a significant expansion of legalized Wednesday, December 19, 2007 gambling in the U.S. and the preemption of HON. DAN BOREN state laws prohibiting or restricting Internet OF OKLAHOMA Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today gambling. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to honor and pay tribute to an individual I ask that you reject H.R. 2046 and any whose dedication and contributions to the other proposals that would undermine Indi- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 community of Riverside, California are excep- ana’s ban on Internet gambling. Mr. BOREN. Madam Speaker, I rise today tional. Riverside has been fortunate to have Sincerely, to recognize the service and dedication of dynamic and dedicated community leaders MITCHELL E. DANIELS, Jr., Governor, State of Indiana. Philip Giers on the occasion of his retirement. who willingly and unselfishly give their time Philip has worked at the Veterans Adminis- and talent and make their communities a bet- f tration for 37 years and on January 3rd he will ter place to live and work. William ‘‘Bill’’ RECOGNIZING MABROOKA retire after an impressive career. Fresh out of Densmore is one of these individuals. On Jan- CHAUDHRY FOR RECEIVING THE college, he began his service in West Haven, uary 12, 2008 he will be honored at a retire- MILKEN NATIONAL EDUCATOR CT at the brand-new Blind Rehabilitation Cen- ment dinner. AWARD ter. Philip, a highly skilled woodworker, taught Bill was born October 17, 1945 in Turlock, industrial arts to the blind. He then received California and he was raised in the small town HON. JOHN P. SARBANES his Masters degree in Special Education and of Newman, California with a population of OF MARYLAND started teaching cane travel and electronic 2,500. He graduated from the prestigious Uni- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mobility aids for the blind, where he became versity of California, Berkeley in 1967. Bill also instrumental in the development of laser cane attended Hastings College of the Law from Wednesday, December 19, 2007 use and binaural sensory aid. In June of 1975, 1967 to 1969. Bill served his country honor- Mr. SARBANES. Madam Speaker, I rise Phil and his wife, Christine, moved to North- ably in the United States Coast Guard from today to recognize Ms. Mabrooka Chaudhry, ampton, Massachusetts where he became 1969 to 1973. In 1973, he was employed by an outstanding educator who has been se- Chief of Blind Rehabilitation at the Eastern the Riverside County Department of Veterans

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.049 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2635 where he is now retiring from after 34 years of Dennis Trudeau has served Grovetown as Congressional business begins when the excellent service. He became Director of the mayor for over 20 years, but his service for Mace is set, and ends when it is lifted. There Department in 1989. the greater good has been a lifelong pursuit. is one woman with the great responsibility to Bill has achieved many successes during Mayor Trudeau is a patriot who served his ensure that the Mace is available for this his- his time as Director—not only for the Riverside community, his country, and his world with dis- torical purpose. And, in times of emergency, County Department of Veterans but for the en- tinction. one woman guards the Mace and preserves tire community of Riverside. He founded the Before taking that first oath of office in 1988, its protection. Interagency Coalition on Homeless Veterans he served his resident country of Canada with Ms. Joyce Hamlett is the first African Amer- and hosted ten annual Homeless Veterans distinction in uniform. Trudeau grew up in ican woman to serve as the Keeper of the Care Fairs to publicize the plight of homeless- Canada and enlisted in the Canadian Army as Mace. Her moral upbringing prepared her for ness. Bill remains active as an advocate for soon as he came of age. He was one of the this honorable position. Ms. Hamlett was homeless veterans, serving on the City’s thousand of brave men who stormed the raised by her grandfather in a church commu- Homeless Task Force, the FEMA Local Board, beaches of Normandy and was even taken as nity that fostered the importance of honesty and advocating with the JPA at March Air a prisoner of war. Mayor Trudeau later joined and faith. Indeed, Ms. Hamlett’s strong herit- Force Base for a permanent facility for U.S. the United States Army in July of 1946 and age has served as the guiding force through- vets, and homeless veterans service provider. after retiring from active duty in July of 1967 out her career on Capitol Hill. Bill also founded the Riverside National Ceme- worked with the U.S. Army Signal School until In the early 1980s, Ms. Hamlett departed tery’s (RNC) Memorial Honor Detail, an all-vol- 1984. He is a man of courage, dedication, and Broadway, North Carolina and began her suc- unteer organization providing military honors strength. cessful professional journey alongside her for veteran burials at RNC. Bill founded Vets It is obvious the people of Grovetown be- mother, Betty Pearson, at the Capitol Cafe´. Express, a free transportation service for vet- lieved in Mayor Trudeau or they would not Within five years, Ms. Hamlett rose to cook for erans traveling from Blythe and the Coachella have re-elected him time and time again. In a lawmakers upstairs in the Capitol Hill res- Valley to the VA Medical Center in Loma newspaper editorial one resident wrote, ‘‘He taurant. Linda. He worked to name a stretch of I–10 has lent dignity and restored a sense of pride Her respectable interaction with lawmakers the Veterans’ Memorial Freeway and success- to the residents of Grovetown.’’ As the U.S. continued when she went on to serve as ele- fully advocated for the placement of three VA Congressman of Georgia’s Tenth District, I vator operator under the Architect of the Cap- Outpatient Clinics in Riverside County. Bill consider it an honor to represent this fine itol. During that time, she formed long-lasting also founded the Annual Salute to Veterans’ leader and his dear town in Washington, DC. friendships with many Members of Congress. Parade in the City of Riverside. Mr. Trudeau, we salute you and your serv- In the early 1990s, Ms. Hamlett interviewed Bill has worked on several memorials and ice and wish you the best as you embark on for the position of chamber security, and soon monuments task forces, including the Villegas the next phase of your life. after began to firmly enforce House rules on Memorial, the Riverside County Wall of Honor, the floor of the U.S. House of Representa- the Riverside County Veterans’ Memorial, and f tives. As chamber security, she was well- the monuments and memorials at the River- PERSONAL EXPLANATION known as one who worked hard to safeguard side National Cemetery. As a member of the the principles and rich tradition of the U.S. Veterans’ Advisory Committee, he instituted HON. JIM MATHESON House of Representatives. the annual David Goldware Friend of the Vet- OF UTAH Because of her excellent service, Ms. eran Award, the Legislative Breakfast series, Hamlett was promoted to her current position and regular county-wide veterans’ benefits IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES as Keeper of the Mace. Ms. Hamlett is not workshops. Bill has advocated for and staged Wednesday, December 19, 2007 only Keeper of the Mace, but she is also events at RNC as a way of introducing RNC Mr. MATHESON. Madam Speaker, I missed keeper of a strong moral foundation and keep- to more Inland Empire residents. votes on December 11th and December 12th er of the wisdom and principle represented by Bill has also served on the GoRiverside 2007 in order to attend the funeral of a close Committee to promote the use of public trans- the Mace’s solid-silver eagle. family member, which was held in Utah. Madam Speaker and Members of Congress, portation and he conducted the first county Had I been present and voting, I would have and state veterans’ needs surveys, published I congratulate Ms. Joyce Hamlett, a woman voted as follows: On rollcall vote No. 1142, that continues to blaze new trails with distinc- the results with the help of the San Bernardino ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall vote No. 1143, ‘‘aye,’’ on roll- Veteran Service Officer, and distributed the tion as Assistant Sergeant of Arms for the call vote No. 1144, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall vote No. U.S. House of Representatives. surveys statewide to elected officials and vet- 1145, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall vote No. 1146, ‘‘aye,’’ erans advocates and leaders. Bill continues to on rollcall vote No. 1147, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall f serve on the Evergreen Memorial Cemetery vote No. 1148, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall vote No. Committee to assist in restoration of this his- 1149, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall vote No. 1150, ‘‘aye,’’ THE ECONOMIC RELATIONSHIP BE- toric landmark in the city of Riverside and has on rollcall vote No. 1151, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall TWEEN THE UNITED STATES served two four-year terms on the city of vote No. 1152, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall vote No. AND RUSSIA Riverside’s Planning Commission. 1153, ‘‘aye,’’ on rollcall vote No. 1154, ‘‘aye,’’ Bill Densmore’s tireless passion for veterans on rollcall vote No. 1155, ‘‘aye.’’ HON. LUIS V. GUTIERREZ and community service has contributed im- OF ILLINOIS mensely to the betterment of the community of f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Riverside, California. Bill has been the heart TRIBUTE TO JOYCE HAMLETT: A and soul of our veterans community events WOMAN CONTINUING TO BLAZE Wednesday, December 19, 2007 and I am proud to call him a fellow community NEW TRAILS AS KEEPER OF THE Mr. GUTIERREZ. Madam Speaker, I rise member, American and friend. I know that MACE today to express my concerns about the eco- many community members are grateful for his nomic relationship between the U.S. and Rus- service and salute him as he retires. HON. KENDRICK B. MEEK sia, and to once again call on the Bush Ad- f OF FLORIDA ministration to exert pressure on Russia to rat- SALUTING MAYOR DENNIS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ify its Bilateral Investment Treaty with the U.S. In October I chaired a hearing in the Do- TRUDEAU AS HE PREPARES TO Wednesday, December 19, 2007 RETIRE mestic and International Monetary Policy, Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker and Trade and Technology Subcommittee on the Members of Congress, as a Member of Con- U.S.-Russia economic relationship as it relates HON. PAUL C. BROUN gress, I am moved by Ms. Joyce Hamlett’s to the financial losses U.S. shareholders suf- OF GEORGIA trust in patience, trust in truth and trust that fered as a result of the dissolution of the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES God has planned a great path for her life. I Yukos Oil Company. During the 1990s, Yukos Wednesday, December 19, 2007 rise to ask you to join me in recognizing the was not only the largest private company in Mr. BROUN of Georgia. Madam Speaker, excellent service and continued professional Russia, it was also a model of corporate gov- today I wish to honor and pay tribute to a success of Ms. Joyce Hamlett, newly ap- ernance that set an early example for other faithful public servant in my 10th Congres- pointed Assistant Sergeant of Arms for the Russian companies entering the global mar- sional District of Georgia. U.S. House of Representatives. ket. Its chairman, Mikhail Khodorkovsky, was

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.053 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2636 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 well known in the U.S. and Europe for his RUSSIA’S NEW OLIGARCHY was the real owner of Russian telecommuni- leadership in helping Russia make the transi- FOR PUTIN AND FRIENDS, A GUSHER OF cations assets currently valued at on less tion to a market economy. QUESTIONABLE DEALS than $6 billion. Reiman has amassed this ex- (By Antlers Aslund) traordinary fortune as a state official, partly But the Yukos Company’s vast energy re- through beneficial privatizations, partly The news that Dmitry Medvedev, Vladimir sources and Mr. Khodorkovsky’s Western through privileged licenses issued to his Putin’s nominee to succeed him as president, leanings proved too much for Kremlin companies. A government with any stand- wants Putin to become prime minister of ards would fire such an official, but Putin operatives eager to assert state control over Russia next year opens one option for Putin suppressed this negative information within the energy sector and discipline Russian busi- to retain power after his term ends. Putin Russia and kept Reiman on, showing that he nessmen who supported opposition parties. has little choice but to stay in power as long accepts corruption. In what was widely reported by major news as he can. The Russian daily Kommersant published a A year ago, a famous Russian journalist publications at the time, Russian authorities long interview with Russian businessman asked me: Is it true that Putin has a net for- Oleg Shvartsman on the eve of the recent used arbitrary and possibly extralegal means tune of $35 to 40 billion?’’ (This journalist, of Duma elections. Sensationally, he described to dismantle Yukos and redistribute $100 bil- course, has long been excluded from Krem- how he raided private enterprises to the ben- lion of its assets to state companies overseen lin-controlled media.) efit of KGB officials described his activity as by the Kremlin. At the end of the day, Amer- This fall, the respected Polish magazine ‘‘velvet reprivatization.’’ Kremlin spokes- Wprost published its annual response to ican investors in Yukos lost somewhere be- men have denied the report. Forbes, its list of the richest people in East- tween $7 and $12 billion and Mr. Even more striking was an interview last ern Europe. Besides the well-known business Khodorkovsky, convicted on trumped up tax month with the Kremlin-connected Russian executives, there is Gennady Timchenko, a political observer Stanislav Belkovsky in charges, was condemned to a penal colony. little-known character with a purported for- the German daily Die Welt. Belkovsky, who Quite simply, U.S. and other would-be for- tune of $20 billion. A small oil trader who re- initiated the Kremlin attack on Yukos, sides in Geneva, Timchenko is from St. Pe- eign investors need to know whether the rule claimed that Putin controlled specific shares tersburg, where he belongs to the same luxu- of law will be upheld in Russia. And the Bush of three companies (Surgutneftegaz; rious dacha collective as Putin. Administration needs to be motivated to start Gazprom; and Gunvor. Timchenko’s com- asking the Kremlin some tough questions I first heard of Timchenko in February 2004. Ivan Rybkin, a Russian politician who pany) worth some $40 billion. Putin has not when it comes to protecting the interests of audaciously opposed Putin in the presi- commented on this allegation. U.S. investors. dential election that year, claimed that According to Transparency International, Russia is growing more corrupt even as most From a Russian perspective, instances like Putin was ‘‘one of Russia’s biggest oligarchs’’ and that he operated through other post-communist countries are control- the Yukos situation will create an uncertainty ling their corruption. The fundamental di- among potential investors, which could result three middlemen, including Timchenko. Rybkin charged that the Putin-Timchenko lemma for Russia, and Putin, is that a sys- in a substantial loss of investment and impede group was gobbling up the embattled oil tem so corrupt cannot be very stable. It’s Russia’s integration into the global economy. giant Yukos. He swiftly disappeared under less clear why President Bush does not call In a December 12, 2007, article in the mysterious circumstances and after he re- Putin out on this or even defend the inter- ests of U.S. citizens and corporations. Washington Post, Dr. Anders Aslund of the emerged, was forced to suspend his cam- Peterson Institute for International Economics paign. f writes that the Yukos incident, ‘‘unleashed a Indeed, the privately owned Yukos oil com- pany has been devoured by the state-domi- INTRODUCTION OF THE BEST BUD- great wave of renationalization in the post- nated Rosneft, whose chairman is Igor DIES EMPOWERMENT FOR PEO- communist world,’’ and that the men in the Sechin, Point’s closest adviser and collabo- PLE WITH INTELLECTUAL DIS- Kremlin are, ‘‘taking over one big, well-run pri- rator. The confiscation, which began in 2003, ABILITIES ACT OF 2007 vate company after another, turning them into was publicly justified with not-very-credible less efficient state-owned firms.’’ citations of tax violations. Rosneft’s gain was probably about $100 billion in Yukon as- HON. ROY BLUNT In support of his assertions, Dr. Aslund sets. U.S. investors in Yukos have lost at OF MISSOURI mentions Leonid Reiman, a former KGB offi- least $7 billion; some claim the figure is as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cial, who is now Russia’s Minister of Commu- much as $12 billion. In October, the House Wednesday, December 19, 2007 nications, while still controlling $8 billion in Financial Services Committee’s sub- personal telecommunications assets. committee on domestic and international Mr. BLUNT. Madam Speaker, I am pleased The United States and Russia signed a Bi- monetary policy held a hearing on this, at today to join my colleague from Maryland, the which I testified. lateral Investment Treaty (BIT) in 1992 but the House majority leader; to introduce the Best The Bush administration, however, has not Buddies Empowerment for People with Intel- treaty has not been ratified by Russia. Ratifi- protested this outrageous confiscation of pri- cation of the BIT would provide protection for vate American property. Then-Secretary of lectual Disabilities Act of 2007. As Mr. HOYER U.S. investors against the types of actions State Colin Powell expressed strong support will attest, this is not the first time we have taken by the Russian government in the for Putin in October 2004: ‘‘The Russian peo- come together in a meaningful way in this im- Yukos case. ple came out of the post-Soviet Union era in portant area—and we were both proud when a state of total chaos—a great deal of free- the Special Olympics Sport and Empowerment The failure of Russia to ratify the BIT, has dom, but it was freedom to steal from the Act of 2004 became law in the 108th Con- been a key weakness in the U.S.-Russia eco- state and President Putin took over and re- gress. nomic relationship. Compared to investors stored a sense of order in the country and It’s estimated that between 7 and 8 million from many other nations, U.S. investors are at moved in a democratic way.’’ Putin appre- Americans live with intellectual disabilities, im- a disadvantage. For example, 38 countries— ciated—and might have been encouraged pacting nearly 1 out of every 10 families. For including France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, by—these words. Two months later, Yukon’s these individuals, life is not always wel- Spain and the U.K.—have concluded bilateral main oil field was sold to Rosneft in an auc- tion that Putin’s economic adviser, Andrei coming—and very rarely is it easy. People investment treaties with Russia that have also lllarionov, called ‘‘the scam of the year’’ (for with intellectual disabilities are often excluded been ratified. The presence of these treaties which he was sacked). U.S. shareholders in from society—whether at school, in the work- allows Yukos shareholders from these coun- Yukos have come to realize that the United place or in their communities—simply because tries to sue the Russian government, but that States has no single valid agreement that of their differences. So I was glad to learn of option is not available to U.S. shareholders. safeguards their property rights; European a program called Best Buddies. This organiza- I want to again call on the Bush Administra- investors, though, can sue the Russian state under three treaties. tion. founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy tion to persuade Russia to ratify the BIT. By The Yukos confiscation has not cost Putin Shriver, helps integrate people with intellectual ratifying the BIT, President Putin would send a anything. In fact, he unleashed a great wave disabilities into mainstream society, end their strong message to U.S. investors that invest- of renationalization in the post-communist social isolation, and embark upon productive, ing in projects in Russia is safe, and that the world. His chums from St. Petersburg are fulfilling lives. The Best Buddies program Yukos situation is the exception, not the rule. taking over one big, well-run private com- works with volunteers to establish meaningful pany after another, turning them into less Madam Speaker, I recommend to my col- efficient state-owned firms. One of Putin’s friendships with their non-disabled peers in leagues Dr. Aslund’s article in the Washington close friends from the KGB, Leonid Reiman, order to help increase the self-esteem, con- Post of December 12, 2007, and I request that is his minister of communications. Last fidence, and abilities of people with and with- the article be printed in the CONGRESSIONAL year, an independent arbitration court in Zu- out intellectual disabilities. This is a program RECORD. rich ruled that Reiman, despite his denials, that has enhanced the lives of actual people

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.057 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2637 by providing real and safe opportunities for Congress and I wish her the best in her future Brooklyn for more than 40 years. Anna is the one-on-one friendships and new options for endeavors. current director of the Hope Gardens Multi- employment. f Service Center; a community center that And while these activities may not sound seeks to educate and empower the people of like life-changing events to the average per- OPEN GOVERNMENT ACT OF 2007 Bushwick, Brooklyn. son, for individuals with intellectual disabilities, Anna Gonzalez, formerly Anna Rodriguez, SPEECH OF they make a world of difference. This bill helps attended Clara Barton High School. Ms. Gon- accomplish that goal in a number of significant HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY zalez worked as a nurse during her 20s until cant ways. It authorizes the Secretary of Edu- OF NEW YORK she decided to take time off to raise a family. cation to award grants or contracts with Best IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES She first became involved in community activ- Buddies to conduct and expand its activities— ism at Public School 86, the elementary with an eye on increasing the participation of Tuesday, December 18, 2007 school her children attended. She worked as individuals with intellectual disabilities, as well Ms. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, a parent leader, volunteering to help improve as to promote outreach programs. This bill will I rise today in strong support of the ‘‘OPEN the school and then as a leader of a success- go a long way toward dispelling negative, hurt- Government Act.’’ ful boycott to prevent the school’s rezoning by ful stereotypes and make clear the extraor- Since coming to Congress, I have been local officials. dinary gifts that people with intellectual disabil- working for an improved Freedom of Informa- Ms. Gonzalez’s participation in the boycott ities nonetheless possess and utilize. More im- tion Act process, a critical component to en- was a springboard to her next position as portant, it will help move people with intellec- suring an open and transparent government. Community Associate with the Knickerbocker- tual disabilities from the margins of society to In 1996 Congress passed important legislation Wycoff Service Center, an organization that the mainstream of society. that reflected the changing technological assists residents with their problems and con- I am also pleased to note that this bill is times, the ‘‘Electronic Freedom of Information cerns. Ms. Gonzalez then worked at St. Bar- budget neutral. The $10 million authorization Act of 1996.’’ This important law helped to bara’s Roman Catholic Church, organizing and make FOIA more efficient by providing public in this bill is offset by repealing two programs running youth activities and religious edu- access to information including in an electronic that in the most recent fiscal year were funded cational services. In 1981, she accepted a po- format. at $10.4 million. I know Mr. HOYER and I look sition at the P–60 Senior Center, now the The Oversight and Government Reform forward to working with our colleagues to Hope Gardens Multi-Service Center. Within 6 Committee, of which I am a member, has held enact this bill into law, in the hope that we can months she was promoted to director. help raise the hope and dignity of people with several hearings during the past few years Ms. Gonzalez’s tenure as the Director of intellectual disabilities, and further empower about the FOIA process where we learned Hope Gardens has been marked by huge their full participation in our communities. that it has not progressed as well as we had hoped. Some agencies and departments are growth in the number of services that are f doing a better job of fulfilling freedom of infor- being offered as well as the number of people RECOGNIZING SHARON ADAMSON mation requests while some continue to lag being served. Today, Hope Gardens is an im- behind. portant community resource. However, her Requesters often wait months or years to professional responsibilities did not interfere HON. TOM LATHAM find out the status of their requests or to ob- with her community involvement. Ms. Gon- OF IOWA tain the information. As a result, the backlogs zalez was elected twice, the first time as a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES at agencies and departments continue to write-in candidate, to Community School Wednesday, December 19, 2007 grow. Frequently, the only recourse for the de- Board #32, serving as chair for 2 years. She nial of requested information is to file lawsuits. has also served on Community Planning Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today However, many requesters cannot afford the Board #4 for more than 20 years, serving as to recognize the retirement of Sharon Adam- high costs associated with court cases. chair for more than 6 years. son, coordinator for Boone County CARES The ‘‘OPEN Government Act’’ includes Ms. Gonzalez has been married to Pablo (Child Abuse Resources and Educational many important provisions that I hope will im- Gonzalez for 46 years; is the mother of four Services), and to express my appreciation for prove the process and eliminate many of the children: George, Aida, Jose, and Ralph; and her dedication and commitment to the safety problems that exist in today’s system including the grandmother of seven children: Chris- of the children in Boone County, Iowa. For the an amendment that I offered in committee that topher, Justin, Anissa, Jacob, Megan, Kelsey, past 14 years, Sharon has contributed her would provide for greater disclosure to the and Jeremy. time and talents for the betterment of many FOIA requester about the exemption under Madam Speaker, I cannot say enough about young children, and for this I offer her my con- which a deletion has been made from re- Anna Gonzalez. She is extremely generous gratulations and thanks. quested material. with her time and cares a lot about her com- A native of Charles City, Sharon graduated I have heard from constituents who say that munity. from Moody Bible College in Chicago and re- when they receive a response from the agen- ceived her B.A. in education from Trinity Col- cy, they are unable to determine why certain Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to lege in Deerfield. IL. After receiving her mas- information was redacted. While I recognize join me in paying tribute to this awesome ter’s degree in counselor education she be- that in some cases linking a redaction to an woman. came a guidance counselor at an elementary/ exemption may reveal sensitive information, junior high school in Wisconsin before moving where possible I believe that agencies should f to Boone. While at CARES. Sharon played a specify which exemption applies to which re- key role in the growth of seven programs: daction. PERSONAL EXPLANATION Happy Bear, No More Secrets. Time Out for Passage of today’s legislation is long over- Moms, Parent Education, Children in the Mid- due, and I commend Chairman WAXMAN and HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON dle, Stork’s Nest, and Community CARES. Ranking Member DAVIS and their staffs for She is very proud of Community CARES be- bringing this bill to the Floor today. OF TEXAS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cause it is a community created through ‘‘rad- f ical’’ hospitality which provides a safe place Wednesday, December 19, 2007 where people in need can go. A TRIBUTE TO ANNA GONZALEZ Sharon has made a significant impact on Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. the Boone community by dedicating her career HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS Madam Speaker, on December 19, 2007, I missed votes because of scheduled eye sur- to benefiting and working towards growing a OF NEW YORK gery in Dallas. safe environment for all children. I know that IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES my colleagues in the United States Congress Were I able to attend today’s session in the will join me in commending Sharon Adamson Wednesday, December 19, 2007 House of Representatives, I would have voted for her leadership and service. I consider it an Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall votes Nos. 1183, 1184, 1185 honor to represent her in the United States to pay tribute to Anna Gonzalez, a resident of and 1186.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.060 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2638 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 HONORING LOCAL AND STATE an outstanding educator who has been se- As one of Ohio’s fastest growing commu- FIRST RESPONDERS, AND THE lected to receive the Milken National Educator nities it’s easy to see why Ohio Magazine has CITIZENS OF THE PACIFIC Award. named it one of Ohio’s Best Hometowns. NORTHWEST IN FACING THE SE- The Milken National Educator Award is Home of the Little Brown Jug, Ohio Wesleyan VERE WINTER STORM OF DE- given to outstanding elementary and sec- University, and the Central Ohio Symphony, CEMBER 2 AND 3, 2007 ondary school teachers, principals. and other Delaware has much to offer its residents and education professionals. The recipients must visitors alike. The blending of old and new has SPEECH OF demonstrate exceptional educational talent created an energetic and historic downtown HON. DARLENE HOOLEY through their instructional practices and stu- while preserving the personality of small-town OF OREGON dent learning results in the classroom and the America. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES school. They must also represent themselves I offer my congratulations to Mayor Windell Monday, December 17, 2007 as leaders who engage and inspire students, Wheeler and the members of the Delaware colleagues, and the community. Ms. HOOLEY. Madam Speaker, although community. All have produced a welcoming Ms. Kiara Delle Hargrove, a chemistry place fur Central Ohioans to call home. much work is left to be done as our commu- teacher at Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, nities start to recover from the severe storms makes learning exciting by turning science ex- f that ravaged Oregon and Washington on De- periments into competitions. She places im- cember 2 and 3, 2007, we can reflect and be portance on making sure her students are REMEMBERING HENRY HYDE grateful for the hard work of the thousands of well-rounded individuals by integrating reading our fellow Pacific Northwesterners who helped and writing strategies into her science lessons. neighbors, families, and complete strangers She also differentiates instruction in order to during the storms and their aftermath. Without HON. DAVID DREIER teach a variety of academic levels at once. To their efforts, the damage and loss of life from OF CALIFORNIA ensure that students enter high school with the storm may have been much more exten- the proper skills, Ms. Hargrove teaches reme- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sive. dial math and science study skills to incoming We were all shocked by the devastating im- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 pact that these storms wreaked on Oregon. freshmen through the Summer Bridge Pro- More than 10 inches of rain fell in a 24-hour gram, and serves as the ninth-grade advisor. Mr. DREIER. Madam Speaker, we are all period with wind gusts ranging from 60 to 129 As co-advisor of the Math Engineering and saddened by the passing of our friend and col- miles an hour. Communities along the coast Science Association (MESA), she helps ele- league, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde). were inundated, families huddled in shelters vate the study of math and science among He will be sorely missed not only by his fellow as homes were destroyed and the coast was girls, especially African-Americans, at Members, but by the countless people who cut off from the rest of Oregon as roads and Sudbrook Magnet Middle School. Ms. Har- came in contact with him on a daily basis. grove was chair of the School Improvement bridges were washed out. Among the stark re- One such person is Mr. Bert Caswell, a Team, is co-author of the School Improvement minders of the terrible power of these storms guide with the Capitol Guide Service. I am in- are crippled railroad tracks and bridges in Plan, and has influenced many of her fellow cluding for the RECORD a poem written by Bert teachers to go beyond traditional approaches Tillamook County, damage to the National about the late Mr. Hyde, as well as a recent to teaching. Guard Armory in Dallas and the flooding of article from The Hill discussing his poetry. I most of the town of Vernonia as well as other Ms. Hargrove’s love of her profession and hope all Members will take the time to read communities up and down the coast. the students that she teaches is evidenced by Thankfully, first responders and ordinary citi- the energy she puts into her work and the this poem and remember Henry Hyde. zens moved quickly to help their fellow Orego- achievements of her students. As someone SOMETHING’S, YOU CAN NOT HYDE? nians cope with the storm. Rescuers in one who has been active and keenly interested in Something’s! case used chainsaws and dodged falling trees education policy throughout my professional You can not Hyde! to clear the way for an ambulance. Two life, I have the utmost respect for teachers like That lives with us, so very deep down in- Tillamook men also risked their lives to try and Ms. Hargrove; she represents the passion and side. . .throughout our lives! save a woman whose truck went into the commitment of so many others across Mary- All in what we say and do! All in who we so touch. . .that make us a Nehalem River on Highway 101. These are land and the Nation who are working ex- just two of the numerous stories of bravery by real who’s who! tremely hard to educate our children. As we As in our times, that which so comes into first responders and Good Samaritans who work to rewrite the No Child Left Behind Act, view! stepped up to help those impacted by the the Congress ought to be doing all it can to For it’s all about how you so carry yourself, storm. Selfless Oregonians from across the provide these dedicated men and women with as when you rise! State came to help in what turned out to be a law and the resources to empower this com- For it’s all in what you so do, in others eyes, a spectacular response effort. It has been in- mitment and passion. as your time upon this earth goes by! credible to see the extraordinary efforts of so Madam Speaker, I want to again offer con- For these, are the things that which one can many. gratulations to Ms. Kiara Delle Hargrove who not Hyde! Fast breaking in our lives! I want to personally thank everyone who has been recognized as an outstanding edu- was involved. Their heroic service to our com- To court our hearts, all in our part called cator and will receive the Milken National Edu- life that which so defines! munities has been extraordinary and their ef- cator Award. forts are deeply appreciated. I also want to ex- All in The Game of Life, you were so great f Henry Hyde! tend my deepest sympathy to those whose Henry Hyde, was such The Man. . . family, friends, and loved ones perished in the RECOGNIZING THE COMMUNITY OF Who upon the hardwood and on the floor of storms. It is a tragedy that these individuals DELAWARE, OHIO The House, did so boldy stand! were taken from us in these terrible storms. All because of his great heart, and My thoughts and prayers are with their fami- stance. . .and his gentle hand! lies and friends at this difficult time. HON. PATRICK J. TIBERI From That Land of Lincoln. . . OF OHIO From one court of greatness to another, al- f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ways thinking! RECOGNIZING KIARA DELLE HAR- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 As across the aisle he reached out his hand! GROVE FOR RECEIVING THE Quiet in his calm and caring grace. MILKEN NATIONAL EDUCATOR Mr. TIBERI. Madam Speaker, it is with great For his service to God and Country he now so AWARD pleasure that I rise to recognize the commu- holds his place. . . nity of Delaware, OH. Ohio Magazine recently And for all of those magnificent children, he named Delaware one of Ohio’s Best Home- did stand! HON. JOHN P. SARBANES towns. Oh, Henry Hyde, OF MARYLAND You were, But The Man! For in you we can Praised for its small town atmosphere, ec- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES so understand! lectic character and friendly neighborhoods, Wednesday, December 19, 2007 What it is to be a leader, a patriot, a family Delaware is a charming place to call home. man. . .and God fearing man! Mr. SARBANES. Madam Speaker, I rise Kindness and hospitality are lifelong qualities Yes, In Life. . .Something’s, You Just Can today to recognize Ms. Kiara Delle Hargrove, of this community and its members. Not Hyde!

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.065 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2639 FOR THE RECORD ander and Tom Hanks; Congressional Gold support H. Res. 695, a resolution calling for (By Arie Dekker) Medal recipient Dorothy Height and former the creation of a ‘‘National Fire Fighter Appre- astronaut and Sen. John Glenn (D–Ohio). Congress’s day-to-day proceedings and de- ciation Day’’. I introduced this legislation to bates can be found immortalized in the offi- Caswell wears his patriotism on his sleeve. He makes an ideal tour guide, welcoming cial Congressional Record. The record’s near- celebrate and honor the brave men and Capitol visitors with instant anecdotes about ly 2,000 books, comprising more than 150 vol- women of America’s fire departments. Since their home states’ or cities’ contributions to umes, line the brick walls of the Senate Li- the greater national identity. He will seri- 1735, professional and volunteer fire fighters brary and preserve the words of presidents, ously discuss their college sports teams’ have been an invaluable facet of our commu- ambassadors, legislators and Bert Caswell, a strengths and vulnerabilities, impersonate nities, towns, and cities. Ever vigilant, this Na- 54-year-old Capitol tour guide from Balti- California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R), tion’s fire fighters respond quickly to emer- more. or crack jokes about the highest court in the Caswell may seem like an odd addition to land not being the Supreme Court, but rath- gencies of all kinds and protect and save lives the Record of floor speeches, inaugural ad- er a basketball court up the street. each and every day. From the earliest days of dresses, scholarly essays and research stud- Caswell has worked for the Capitol Guide Benjamin Franklin’s Union Fire Company to ies. But his unflinching patriotism as cap- Service for 21 years, although he did not plan the famous fire departments of New York City, tured in his accessible and unpretentious po- it that way. As an all-American lacrosse etry is consistently submitted to honor star, he played on the national champion Chicago, and Boston, every fire station in this America’s diverse heroes. University of Maryland team in 1975. Before country has a proud history and tradition of ‘‘I never thought I was a writer,’’ Caswell becoming a regular contributor to The Con- distinguished service. Today, over one million said. ‘‘I thought writing was punctuation and gressional Record, he was listed in NCAA fire fighters answer the call of duty and per- spelling, and I can’t do either.’’ record books as a top scorer at the 1975 Divi- But when former Majority Leader Bob Dole sion 1 lacrosse tournament. He later coached form extraordinary acts of selflessness and (R–Kan.) resigned from the Senate to run for the Maryland team for five years. valor without hesitation. president in 1996, Caswell was so moved that He earned two graduate degrees from he wrote the poem ‘‘The Measure of a Man’’ Bowie State College, one in education and In my district alone, the Orange County Fire in Dole’s honor. After the poem was casually the other in administrative management. He Authority serves 22 cities with approximately distributed around Capitol Hill, then-Sen. then taught high school physical education 1,000 fire fighting personnel protecting over Don Nickles (R–Okla.) officially inserted it and science for about 10 years. one million residents. Southern California’s into The Congressional Record. In addition to being included in The Con- ‘‘And from that moment, my life was gressional Record, Caswell’s poetry has been beautiful, yet volatile environment is prone to changed,’’ Caswell said. presented at official ceremonies and posted natural disasters, flash floods, and wildfires. Caswell had written only two poems before in government buildings. Several of his Every year, Orange County fire fighters place and has since composed more than 500 in poems are posted in the amputee ward at the themselves on the front lines of these disas- tribute to lawmakers, presidents, veterans, Walter Reed Army Medical Center. One of entertainers, athletes and others. About 20 of his poems is on display in a memorial to the ters and tirelessly work day and night to res- his poems have wound up in The Congres- police officers who were killed when a gun- cue endangered residents and prevent dam- sional Record, after having been submitted man entered the Capitol in 1998 and opened age to cities and land. Recently, we watched by members from both sides of the aisle. fire. as these fire fighters joined those from several In memory of Sean Taylor, the football ‘‘I see more in three months than most star who was recently killed by intruders in people see in a lifetime,’’ Caswell said, draw- other southwestern states to successfully bat- his Miami home, Rep. Kendrick Meek (D– ing a connection between his job as a tour tle the wildfires that raged across Southern Fla.) submitted a new Caswell poem to the guide and his passion for writing about California in October. I commend the tremen- Record on Dec. 4 entitled ‘‘Taylor Made.’’ American heroism. He said working at the dous bravery of Orange Country fire fighters Capitol exposes him to people from around Meek’s spokesman Adam Sharon said and am proud to honor each one today on the Caswell and Meek talk as friends practically the world and also gives him a unique first- every day about their comings and goings. hand view of lawmakers, who he says are Floor of the House. He said Meek is impressed with Caswell’s underappreciated for their service. He is cur- As internal and external threats facing this rently compiling his poetry for a book that ‘‘big heart’’ and willingness to go above and country change constantly, the role of the fire beyond his regular duties—not only writing will include anecdotes about the many fa- poetry, but giving Capitol tours to special mous people he has encountered in Wash- fighter has also modified and expanded. Not ington. only do fire fighters defend our homes and visitors like wounded veterans and children ‘‘I have had the privilege of getting to from the Make-A-Wish Foundation. know Bert during my time in Congress,’’ said buildings from fire, the highly trained per- ‘‘The congressman finds that extremely Rep. Joe Wilson (R–S.C.), who has inserted sonnel of the fire department provide emer- commendable,’’ Sharon said. Rep. Pete Sessions (R–Texas) submitted a three of Caswell’s poems into the Record this gency medical services, hazardous material year. ‘‘As a Capitol Hill tour guide, [Caswell] Caswell poem last month to honor Gunnery response, special rescue response, and ter- is instrumental in sharing the rich history of Sgt. Angel Barcenas, a Marine whose legs our beautiful Capitol Building.’’ rorism response. Whether it be a daring res- were amputated last year after sustaining Caswell writes his poetry on a small laptop cue of a family trapped in a burning house, injuries in Iraq. Barcenas had previously so he can write wherever and whenever inspi- preventing a forest fire from spreading, re- served Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. ration strikes. His writing process is simple: sponding to the scene of an accident, or pro- Bush on Marine One, and he recently led a He records what’s on his mind, lets it sit for group of Marines, police officers, and fire- a while, and returns typically only once to viding medical assistance at the location of a fighters in a formation run to ground zero in double-check his work. He said the average terrorist attack, fire fighters significantly impact New York City. poem takes no more than 30 minutes to com- the lives of Americans every day. And, in ‘‘Poetry has been a medium for not only plete. some cases, fire fighters have paid the ulti- documenting history but also upholding the ‘‘Mostly everything the first time comes principles that have made our nation great— out great,’’ he said. ‘‘And then I go back and mate price and given their lives to protect their principles such as courage, honor and perse- tweak it. Normally the first draft’s pretty surrounding communities. We will never forget verance,’’ Sessions said in an e-mailed state- good.’’ these fallen heroes. ment. ‘‘I applaud Bert for using his gift of He does not have a favorite poet or style of poetry to honor America’s bravest.’’ poetry. He actually avoids reading other po- In light of the exceptional service of fire Listening to Caswell talk about his poetry etry to keep his own work pure. fighters across this nation and with full rec- is like taking a crash course in American ‘‘I don’t read other people’s work, hardly, ognition and great respect of their quiet cour- because I don’t want it to change my words,’’ history and culture. He has written about age and valor, I ask that you join me in sup- sports legends, political leaders, war vet- Caswell said. erans, firefighters, entertainers, civil rights f port of this resolution to express the desire of leaders and Holocaust survivors. the House of Representatives for the estab- ‘‘I write about heroes, people that inspire HONORING AND APPRECIATING AMERICA’S FIRE FIGHTERS lishment of a ‘‘National Fire Fighter Apprecia- me,’’ he said. ‘‘I really am impressed with tion Day’’ to be observed annually. While we the people who have power and fame, and yet they wield it and they make the world bet- HON. JOHN CAMPBELL can never thank these men and women ter. And that’s what it’s really all about.’’ OF CALIFORNIA enough, this proposed national day of honor is Caswell’s subjects include sports stars IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES a fitting tribute to those that keep sentinel Steve Young, Cal Ripken Jr. and Mario watch over our lives and property. Andretti; civil rights leaders Rosa Parks and Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Martin Luther King Jr.; reporter David Mr. CAMPBELL of California. Madam Madam Speaker, I’m proud to honor Amer- Bloom; entertainers Bob Hope, Jason Alex- Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to ica’s fire fighters today.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.070 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2640 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 WILDLIFE FOREVER CELEBRATES the founding of Crystal City in Zavala County TERRORISM RISK INSURANCE PRO- 20 YEARS OF HABITAT AND in the great State of Texas. GRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT WILDLIFE PRESERVATION OF 2007 In 1907, two land developers, Carl F. Groos and E.J. Buckingham, set about developing SPEECH OF HON. JIM RAMSTAD this town on the site of the 10,000-acre Cross OF MINNESOTA HON. MICHAEL E. CAPUANO S Ranch, which they purchased in 1905. In IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF MASSACHUSETTS 1908 the arrival of a railroad set the founda- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tion for the city’s development as a proc- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Mr. RAMSTAD. Madam Speaker, Congress essing, packing, and shipping center for vege- has devoted considerable resources and effort tables, and in particular the locally grown spin- Mr. CAPUANO. Mr. Speaker, after the 9/11 to protecting the environment over the past terrorist attacks, many insurance companies ach. few decades. excluded terrorism events from their insurance Wildlife Forever, based in Brooklyn Center, Originally named for its crystal clear artesian policies, leaving businesses vulnerable to the Minnesota, has been a visionary partner in our wells, today Crystal City is known as the threat of future terrorist attacks. In response, nation’s efforts to conserve America’s wildlife ‘‘Spinach Capital of the World.’’ Texas Gov- Congress passed the Terrorism Risk Insur- heritage through conservation education, pres- ernor James V. Alfred bestowed the title on ance Act, TRIA, in 2002 and extended it in ervation of habitat and management of fish the city after the First Annual Spinach Festival 2005 to create a federal backstop to protect and wildlife. was held there in 1936. Staking claim to its against terrorism related losses. Today, I rise to salute Wildlife Forever as it As a result, TRIA has helped make ter- spinach status, Crystal City is also home to a celebrates its 20th anniversary and thank all rorism insurance available and affordable to the members and volunteers for all they do to larger than life statue of Elzie C. Segar’s Pop- businesses, particularly those in our major protect our precious environment. eye. The well known sailor that is ‘‘strong to urban areas. If TRIA were allowed to expire at Since 1987, Wildlife Forever has provided the finish ‘cause he still eats his spinach’’ also the end of this month, many major develop- funding to more than 800 projects in all 50 serves as the Annual Spinach Festival mas- ment projects across the country would come states through private special interest con- cot. Crystal City’s landmark Popeye statue to a halt, putting many jobs and economic de- servation groups, state game and fish depart- was erected in 1937 and dedicated ‘‘To All the velopment opportunities at risk. ments and federal agencies. Species that World’s Children.’’ Although I am disappointed that the stronger have received direct benefit from Wildlife For- House version of this legislation did not get ever grants include the American bald eagle, The Spinach Festival centers on the agricul- enacted, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. billfish, black bear, blacktail deer, bluebirds, tural heritage of the region and is held every 2761 so that this important program will con- bluegill, Canada geese, catfish, coyote, second weekend in November. The three day tinue for years to come. crappie, ducks, elk, gray whale, great gray festival attracts over 60,000 people to Crystal f owl, grizzly bear, herons, kestrels, largemouth City and celebrates the production and con- bass, Massasaqua rattle snake, moose, mule sumption of spinach. Throughout its history, CONGRATULATIONS TO ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL ON THEIR deer, muskie, otter, peregrine falcon, pheas- the festival has been recognized in issues of ant, prairie chicken, quail, ruffed grouse, salm- 2007 5A STATE FOOTBALL CHAM- National Geographic, Texas Highway, and PIONSHIP on, sea bass, Sonoran pronghorn, songbirds, Texas Monthly magazines, and by the pub- striped bass, trout, trumpeter swan, walleye, lishers of the Special Event Industry and white-tailed deer, wild turkey—the list goes on HON. JO BONNER Event Business News. In 1945 the California and on. OF ALABAMA Partnerships are key to Wildlife Forever’s Packing Corporation, later the Del Monte Cor- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES success. Project highlights over the last 20 poration, built an extensive canning plant just Wednesday, December 19, 2007 years include: Acquisition of 32,340 acres of northwest of Crystal City. Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, it is with land for public recreation; Wetland Restoration Today, Crystal City still serves as the center tremendous pride and personal pleasure that I of more than 29,400 acres; Construction and for Texas’s ‘‘Winter Garden’’ region, an area rise today to honor St. Paul’s Episcopal placement of more than 9,224 bird and water- named for its year-round production of vegeta- School on their 2007 5A Alabama State Foot- fowl nesting structures; Research utilizing bles by irrigation. ball Championship. radio telemetry and global positioning system In 1947, William S. Mann founded St. Paul’s This community of over 7,000 people has a with elk, grizzly bear, white-tailed deer, black Episcopal School in Mobile, Alabama. St. historically significant past. During World War bear, bighorn sheep, moose, goshawks and Paul’s began with a class of 20 kindergartners coaster brook trout; 125,747,367 public im- II, Crystal City was home to the largest alien and has grown to an enrollment of more than pressions with a ‘Stop Invasive Species’ mes- internment camp housing American civilians of 1,600 students, making St. Paul’s the largest sage; Stream improvements and riparian re- German, Italian and Japanese ancestry. On Episcopal school in North America. While per- pair of over 240 miles; Land Management November 1, 1947, more than two years after haps best known for their outstanding faculty practices including controlled burns, prairie the end of World War II, the Crystal City in- and top-notch college-preparatory curriculum, restoration, shrubbery plantings, and reforest- ternment camp was formally closed. St. Paul’s is also fast becoming acknowledged ation efforts of more than 325,310 acres; Fish In the 1960s, Crystal City was also at the around the State for having one of the best hatchery support producing a yield of athletic programs as well. In fact, just last year center of the beginning of the Mexican-Amer- 30,371,109 fish stocked in public lakes and St. Paul’s was recognized by the Birmingham streams; Placement of more than 130 Watch- ican civil rights movement. In 1969, a conflict News as having the best overall sports pro- able Wildlife interpretive signs. arising from the ethnicity of cheerleaders re- gram in the entire State of Alabama. Madam Speaker, our Nation sends its sulted in 200 Mexican-American students First-year head coach Mike Bates led the thanks and gratitude to Wildlife Forever Presi- staging a walk-out from the high school, that 14–1 Saints to his school’s first-ever football dent and Chief Executive Officer Doug Grann soon spread to the middle and elementary State championship. Even though St. Paul’s and his entire team for all they do to protect schools. The U.S. Department of Justice be- has a rich and proud history of winning cham- the environment. came involved in the dispute and ultimately pionship trophies in many other sports, this f negotiated a settlement that paved the way for most recent honor on the gridiron brings the TRIBUTE TO CRYSTAL CITY IN bilingual education and better testing pro- number of State championships won by St. Paul’s teams to three this year. Madam ZAVALA COUNTY, TEXAS grams. Speaker, these three championships mark the HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ Crystal City’s rich—and sometimes turbu- school’s 134th, 135th, and 136th respectively lent—past has made it what it is today, a shin- OF TEXAS in St. Paul’s storied history. Indeed, the St. Paul’s Saints proved they IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing example of a truly American community. are a team of champions in their victory on I am proud to represent the people of Crys- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 December 7, 2007, at Legion Field in Bir- tal City and to recognize the city upon its Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise to mingham as they defeated Briarwood Chris- recognize the historic 100 year anniversary of 100th anniversary. tian in a thrilling 14–13 victory.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.073 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2641 The entire St. Paul’s family is excited and ground investigations, and the final determina- University of the West Indies in Mona Cam- proud of what these young men have accom- tion is made by the Governor of Iowa. pus, Jamaica. In 1997, she earned her Mas- plished. Whether on or off the field, the stu- On June 10, 2007, Officer Nielson received ter’s degree in Public Administration from New dent athletes of St. Paul’s continue to set posi- an emergency alert indicating that a distraught York University. tive examples for those who will follow them. woman had jumped into the river above the Shernet feels that her mission in life is to Many of the young men who played on this Reasoner Dam. Officer Nielsen quickly re- provide and facilitate the delivery of service for year’s team will become stars in their own sponded to the call and rescued the woman, the underserved. Her recognition of these en- right in college and perhaps, one day, in the who remained combative during his lifesaving deavors began as early as age 19 while work- pros. However, make no mistake, they are all effort. ing as a student-teacher intern in one of the champions in the game of life. Officer Nielsen’s bravery goes above and violence ridden areas of Kingston, Jamaica. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join beyond what we are asked of as citizens of Shernet moved from Jamaica to the United me in congratulating St. Paul’s Episcopal this country. His courage illustrates the com- States approximately 20 years ago and shifted School on their extraordinary football season passion of Iowans: willing to risk their own her career focus to healthcare. Within this field and State championship. This team and the lives for a neighbor in need. For this I offer she has worked at resolving dilemmas in var- entire school deserve public recognition for him my utmost congratulations and thanks. ious healthcare settings. Shernet currently this tremendous accomplishment. I commend Officer Tom Nielsen for his brav- serves as the Associate Director of Psychia- I extend my congratulations to each mem- ery. I am honored to represent him in Con- try’s Division of Chemical Dependency for the ber of the team and coaching staff: gress and I wish him the best in his future en- Health and Hospitals Corporation at the ST. PAUL’S ROSTER deavors. Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center and its surrounding network. In this capacity, NAME, GRADE, AND JERSEY NUMBER f Shernet has been instrumental in developing, Strickler Adams, 12th, 17; Glen Adams, 9th, ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND 19; Tyler Andrews, 10th, 46; Mark Barron, revising and implementing policies that serve 12th, 4; Deige Barry, 12th, 33; Ryne Baxter, SECURITY ACT OF 2007 as advocacy for persons in recovery from drug 12th, 68; Matt Bowden, 11th, 31; Mic Brown, and alcohol abuse. This she does while re- 12th, 75; Angelo Bruno, 11th, 42; and Scott SPEECH OF solving patient complaints and ensuring that Byrd, 12th, 50. HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY the facility and staff meet regulatory and Alan Carrol, 10th, 51; Davis Coker, 10th, 18; stakeholders expectations regarding service. OF NEW YORK Joe Cotton, 11th, 58; Scott Crow, 11th, 81; Her prior capacities as research analyst at the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Daniels Duhe, 11th, 21; Adam Dyas, 10th, 25; Brooklyn Hospital Center helped her promote Chad Dyas, 11th, 40; Paul Elcan, 12th, 67; Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Dominic Francia, 11th, 11; and Gaines Gib- the use of evidence-based practices in son, 12th, 15. Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, healthcare. There, Shernet spearheaded im- Joe Gilmore, 11th, 56; Brett Granger, 12th, I rise in support of the Energy Independence provement in the hospital’s patient education 29; Carson Hale, 11th, 16; Destin Hood, 12th, 1; and Security Act. I’ll let some of the numbers practice as well. Zain Husain, 12th, 3; Trevor Jones, 12th, 74; stand on their own: Not only has Shernet spent her entire ca- Tyler Kennedy, 12th, 63; Zach King, 10th, 62; This historic legislation will increase vehicle reer serving as an advocate for the under- Josh Lancaster, 12th, 54; and Scott Martin, fuel standards to 35 miles per gallon in 2020, served, but she is heavily involved in commu- 12th, 14. nity organizations. She is a founding member Ivan Matchett, 12th, 5; AJ McCarron, 11th, the first such increase in over 30 years. In 10; Corey McCarron, 9th, 43; Andrew McGee, 2020, these fuel standards will give con- of the Vander Park Glenwood Lions Club, and 10th, 30; Clint McKinnon, 12th, 83; Bill sumers in my State of New York an estimated she is also a member of an organization of Ja- McRae, 12th, 35; Andrew Miller, 12th, 8; Jo- $894 million in annual net consumer savings. maicans (JON-J) that provides services to seph Minus, 11th, 64; Williams Morrissette, The bill is also expected to save consumers youths, immigrants and anyone in need. 12th, 24; and Bishop Mostellar, 10th, 37. across the country $400 billion through 2030 Shernet is also an active member of the Harrison Myles, 12th, 22; Patrick Myles, by energy efficiencies in buildings, appliances United Methodist Church, where she works in 10th, 20; Hunter Nelson, 11th, 44; Dulan Nich- various fundraising capacities and volunteers olas, 10th, 55; William Oneal, 12th, 28; Luke and lighting. Additionally, according to analysis by the Union of Concerned Scientists, provi- in the church’s soup kitchen. Phillips, 12th, 23; Marcus Porter, 11th, 53; Madam Speaker, I would like to once again Marcus Powell, 10th, 41; Thomas Praytor, sions in the bill will support the creation of 12th, 72; and Gray Rentz, 12th, 26. nearly 150,000 jobs, nationwide—a full 8,200 recognize the selfless contributions that Matt Rippy, 11th, 9; Grant Rogers, 12th, 12; in New York alone. Finally, by 2030, the legis- Shernet Neufville-Gray has made to the Mason Thames, 10th, 78; Mike Thomas, 11th, lation will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 24 Brooklyn community. 52; Walton Thompson, 11th, 61; David Turner, percent. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to 10th, 80; Louis Watson, 12th, 2; Lee Wingard, All these numbers—increased efficiencies, join me in paying tribute to this outstanding 10th, 60; Billy Wyatt, 12th, 65; John Wyatt, woman and the great things for which she 10th, 27; and Ryan Zarzour, 12th, 6. savings, and jobs and reduced global warm- ing—and many more add up to the new direc- stands. COACHING STAFF tion this Congress is taking in energy policy. I f Head Coach: Mike Bates. Assistant Coaches: Muskingum Barnes, thank the Speaker and all my colleagues for AWARDING CONGRESSIONAL GOLD Ron Danley, Tim Hardigree, Tyler Siskey, their hard work on this challenging legislation. MEDAL TO DAW AUNG SAN SUU Thomas Smith, and Shane Sullivan. f KYI f A TRIBUTE TO SHERNET SPEECH OF RECOGNIZING TOM NIELSEN NEUFVILLE-GRAY HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH OF NEW JERSEY HON. TOM LATHAM HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF IOWA OF NEW YORK Monday, December 17, 2007 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, like Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 so many of my colleagues, I am proud to be Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today an original cosponsor of H.R. 4286, to award to recognize Humboldt, Iowa Police Officer to pay tribute to the efforts of Shernet a Congressional Gold Medal to that heroine of Tom Nielsen as a recipient of The Sullivan Neufville-Gray to positively change the health the Burmese people and the world, Daw Aung Brothers’ Award of Valor for saving another’s care community in the Brooklyn, New York San Suu Kyi. life by risking his own. area. It is fitting for Ms. Suu Kyi to receive this, The Sullivan Brothers’ Award of Valor Pro- Shernet Neufville-Gray is a divorced mother the highest and most distinguished civilian gram was established in 1977 to recognize of two daughters, Chloe, age 16, who is a leu- award we have to offer. She is a courageous peace officers and firefighters, who while serv- kemia survivor and Quimani, age 11. Born and leader, a former Nobel Peace Prize recipient ing in an official capacity, distinguished them- raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Shernet is a who has spent 12 of the past 18 years behind selves by performing a heroic act while fully product of a family that instilled the value and bars. For what? For daring to advocate for a aware of a threat to his/her personal safety. importance of education. In 1988, Shernet re- peaceful, democratic system for Burma, in- The strict nomination process includes back- ceived her Bachelor of Arts degree from the stead of violent, military rule.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.005 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2642 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 The military refuses to recognize the will of wishes for her future endeavors in our mission ards imposed on broadcasters. The idea that the Burmese people—made exceedingly clear to the United Nations. broadcasters are public fiduciaries has been in past elections, and most recently in the f lost. I believe relaxed ownership rules and demonstrations we all saw this Fall. The peo- rubber-stamped postcard license renewals ple plead for human rights and an end to the INTRODUCING THE BROADCAST LI- have contributed to this degradation. The pub- junta’s power. Instead, these thugs have CENSING IN THE PUBLIC INTER- lic interest standard was created out of a com- cracked down even harder with their cus- EST ACT promise between civic groups and broad- tomary persecution and bloodshed. casters. Broadcasters wanted editorial control, The Congressional Medal of Honor was HON. ANNA G. ESHOO while civic groups in the 1920s wanted broad- originally awarded to military leaders for OF CALIFORNIA casters to be regulated as common carriers. achievement in battle. Ms. Suu Kyi and the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES As a compromise, broadcasters were given Burmese people are currently waging their Wednesday, December 19, 2007 editorial control but were also required to own battle—a peaceful one—based on demo- serve the ‘‘public interest, convenience and cratic ideals that all Americans share with Ms. ESHOO. Madam Speaker. I think there necessity.’’ When a broadcaster receives a li- them. Let’s honor Ms. Suu Kyi for this peace- is a lack of quality civic dialog taking place in cense they are investing in public responsi- ful struggle, and send a message to her brutal our country today. Our news has become ho- bility and service. This responsibility should captors and to the world, that we stand with mogenized and formulaic and there is a per- not be reduced to a postcard. Broadcasters her and her people. sistent dumbing down of national issues. The must demonstrate that they are meeting the corporatization of media and the massive con- f needs of their community. We need to reinvig- solidation of our media outlets have made orate the public interest requirement on broad- TRIBUTE TO CHERITH NORMAN broadcasters less responsive to their local au- casters. diences. This has eroded public discourse in I’m introducing legislation today entitled the HON. FRANK R. WOLF our country, and this has an impact on the Broadcast Licensing in the Public Interest Act. OF VIRGINIA health of our democracy. This legislation attempts to put new life in the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Last month Congress held a joint session to public interest standard. First, the bill reduces hear French President Nicolas Sarkozy. In his Wednesday, December 19, 2007 a broadcast license term from 8 years to 3. remarks he celebrated the life of the great The 3-year term will bring greater oversight Mr. WOLF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to French political philosopher Alexis de and scrutiny to license renewals. Second, the express my deep appreciation for Cherith Nor- Tocqueville. In his seminal work Democracy in bill requires broadcast licensees to dem- man’s service to our country as senior con- America, de Tocqueville marveled at the diver- onstrate that they have made a dedication to gressional adviser in the Bureau of Legislative sity and number of newspapers and journals the civic affairs of its community and to local Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. I have in America. He believed that there was a sym- news gathering. The bill also mandates that had the privilege of getting to know Cherith biotic relationship between a democracy and broadcasters air locally produced program- during her time as senior congressional ad- the media when he said that there ‘‘is a nec- ming and make a commitment to provide a viser in the State Department’s Bureau of Leg- essary connection between public associations public presentation of the views of candidates islative Affairs on budget and appropriations and newspapers: Newspapers make associa- and issues related to local, statewide or na- issues. She is one of the best congressional tions, and associations make newspapers.’’ A tional elections. Finally, the bill obligates that liaisons from the State Department that I have healthy democracy, according to de broadcasters provide quality educational pro- worked with during my entire time in office. I Tocqueville, needs a strong diverse media. gramming for children. If enacted, this legisla- have been deeply impressed by her work ethic The diversity that de Tocqueville extolled has tion would strengthen the public interest stand- and commitment to serving the United States been in precipitous decline, a fact that has not ard and force greater scrutiny on license re- government. She is conscientious, dedicated, been lost on the 70 percent of Americans that newals. and quick-thinking, and has been a tremen- believe that media consolidation has gone too I urge members of this House to cosponsor dous asset to both me and my staff. far. this legislation and revive the public interest Cherith worked for Senator JIM DEMINT for Two major conglomerates control two-thirds standards on broadcasters. 6 years while he was a U.S. Representative of the national radio market. Increasingly, f and also during his congressional campaign. ‘‘local broadcasts’’ are voice tracked or re- She worked at the State Department for 4 corded remotely and passed off as live local SUDAN ACCOUNTABILITY AND years, serving as a political appointee since broadcasts. Four out of ten commercial TV DIVESTMENT ACT OF 2007 2003 in the Bureau of Legislative Affairs. Dur- stations surveyed in 2003 aired no local public ing her time at the State Department, Cherith affairs programs; 92 percent of the election SPEECH OF has served as interlocutor between the appro- coverage aired by the national networks in the HON. SPENCER BACHUS priators and the department on critical spend- 2 weeks before Election Day 2004 was de- OF ALABAMA ing issues; planned countless congressional voted to the Presidential contest, leaving only IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES member and staff trips overseas; coordinated 8 percent for local elections and referendums. with the White House, National Security Coun- Slightly less than 2 percent of stories were de- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 cil, the Office of Management and Budget and voted to the U.S. House or Senate races, and Mr. BACHUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong other Executive Branch agencies to present an additional 2 percent examined ballot initia- support of this legislation, and urge its imme- the President’s international affairs budget to tives or referenda. These are but a few star- diate passage. We are voting on language Congress each year; advised senior State De- tling facts that demonstrate the crisis. very similar to legislation that passed the partment officials on policy and funding strat- The perils of media consolidation are not House 418–1 at the end of July, which sup- egy for international programs and State De- just theoretical—they’ve manifested in a failure ports the decision of state and local legislators partment operations, and, in a courteous, con- of broadcasters to serve in the public interest. and fund managers to divest from companies scientious and efficient manner, facilitated At 2 a.m. on January 18, 2002, there was a doing business in Sudan. However, the bill be- clear communication between Congress and train derailment in Minot, ND. All six commer- fore us today does not require the government the State Department. cial radio stations in Minot were owned by the to create or be the source of a ‘‘black list’’ of Cherith is moving to New York to serve on same broadcaster, yet when emergency re- such companies. For that reason, the Senate the staff of Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad in sponders tried to reach somebody at the sta- version is much more acceptable to the Ad- the U.S. mission to the United Nations. tions to air emergency warnings and instruc- ministration. Cherith’s strong work ethic and selfless atti- tions, nobody responded. Clear Channel was Some have said that today’s legislation is tude have been the hallmarks of her service to voice tracking its broadcast in Minot. Over too little, too late. This certainly may not be our government and to the department, and I 240.000 gallons of a hazardous material—an- the case for more than a million innocent men, believe that she will serve the State Depart- hydrous ammonia—were leaked. One person women, and children who have somehow sur- ment very well in this new capacity. I know I was killed. 110 were immediately treated, and vived the genocide and slaughter. We can’t re- am joined by many of my colleagues in the more than 1,000 people needed medical care write history or save lives already lost in House of Representatives in expressing our in the months that followed. Darfur. However, we can and must resolve to appreciation for her work here in Washington, The consolidation we’ve witnessed has coin- do better going forward. This legislation has our sadness at her departure, and our best cided with the erosion of public interest stand- the potential to give hundreds of thousands of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.079 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2643 peaceful and unarmed men, women, and chil- to 9 to win the Championship. They say that CONGRATULATING PRESIDENT- dren in Darfur an increased chance of sur- defense wins championships—the Saints’ de- ELECT LEE MYUNG-BAK viving the genocide. fense allowed only 5.1 points per game, the Economic and financial considerations have fewest points allowed in all of college football. HON. JOE WILSON been used to both block and water down our They shut out opponents five times during the OF SOUTH CAROLINA Sudan capital markets legislation in the past. year including once during the playoffs. But it IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Economic and financial considerations are im- wasn’t just a powerful defense that earned this Wednesday, December 19, 2007 portant, but in a loving nation can never be Championship—a well-balanced offense used as justification for turning a blind eye to scored an average of 26.4 points per game. I Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam genocide. Closing our financial markets to would like to congratulate Coach Mike Van Speaker, today America’s great ally, the Re- those who participate directly or indirectly in Diest, his team, his school and their fans on public of Korea, elected a new President. To the slaughter of innocent human beings is well a truly remarkable season. Next year, the provide congratulations and in recognition of within our ability and ought to be a bedrock Saints will be building on the longest win the achievement of President-Elect Lee principle. America is a loving nation, and al- streak in college football at fifteen games. I Myung-bak, I wish to submit the following arti- cle from the Associated Press regarding to- lowing our financial markets to be utilized by ask that the team roster be added to the day’s presidential election in South Korea. an evil regime which conducts religious and record with my comments. LEE CLAIMS WIN IN SOUTH KOREA ELECTION racial genocide is inconsistent with our values Team Roster: John Camino, Brian Sloan, (By Burt Herman) and principles. John McKenna, Zack Gill, Justin Smith, Chase Mr. Speaker, this legislation will help put SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (AP)—Former Gill, Travis Browne, Zach Richardson, Cody Hyundai CEO Lee Myung-bak claimed vic- strong pressure on a government that has Zimmerman, Wilson Bowlby, Shane Van Diest, tory Wednesday in South Korea’s presi- consistently engaged in genocidal actions, Marcus Miller, Andrew Lopez, Bryce Picard, dential election, as voters overlooked fraud both directly and as an enabler of paramilitary Jon Von Eschen. Zach Schaal, John Barnett, allegations in hopes he will revive the econ- factions that are harassing and killing people Will Barnett, Gary Wagner, Brian Murphy, omy. in the Darfur region and elsewhere in Sudan. Stevie Sloan, Jeren Starr, Thomas Dolan, Lee’s two main rivals both conceded defeat It is vital to keep the pressure on the Khar- Cody Lamb, Kody Swartz, Gabe Le, Zach after returns and exit polls showed him win- toum government, both because of the ‘‘bait- ning nearly double the votes of his closest Thiry, Jeff Deal, Nick Milodragovich, Christian competitor. and-switch’’ game it has been playing with the Prosperie, Mike Waldenberg, Tyson Bogumill, ‘‘Today, the people gave me absolute sup- rest of the world for years, pretending to make Jake Whetzel, Body Whetzel, Pat Regan, port. I’m well aware of the people’s wishes,’’ strides to end the genocide and then going James Byrd, Kurt Stoll, T.J. Lehman, Tucker said Lee, of the conservative Grand National back on its word when the world’s outrage is Vezina, Corey Peterson, Shawn Holland, Greg Party. ‘‘I will serve the people in a very temporarily spent. The latest outrage involves Bosick, Jake Orrino, Chanler Buck, Colton humble way. According to the people’s wish- refusing to allow the deployment of non-Afri- es, I will save the nation’s economy that Sherley Sean Herrin, Brandon Day, Kyle faces a crisis.’’ can United Nations peacekeeping troops, due Ferebee, Travis Schmidt, Ellis Beckwith, Ryan The National Election Commission said in two weeks, which it previously had agreed Egan, Matt Tummel, Thomas Robinson, Mac Lee had 48.6 percent of the vote with 98 per- to accept. Gordon, Tyler Espinosa, Scotty Rice, Bubba cent of ballots counted. Liberal Chung Dong- The objective of this legislation is one that Bartlett, Greg Thompson, Marshall McEwen, young was a distant second with 26.2 percent. I wholeheartedly embrace, and that I have Tyler Pasha, Nick Gilchrist, Phil Lenoue, Ted The victory margin was by far the largest in sought to achieve in legislative proposals of Morigeau, Andy Fjeseth, Owen Koeppen, any South Korean presidential election. my own in previous Congresses. Passage will Lee, a former Seoul mayor who turned 66 Trever Hass, Spencer Savage, Rick Young, on election day, has led the race for months. be a strong expression of Congress’s outrage Garret Garrels, Nick Petrusha, Ron Baze, His victory ends a decade of liberal rule in over the continued genocide in Darfur. I urge Doug Adams, Alex Pfannanstiel, Bryson Pelc, the South, during which the country em- its immediate passage. Ben Wahl, Conrad Addison, Kolten Knatterud, barked on unprecedented reconciliation with I want to thank the staff that worked on this Dan Layton, Kerry Cicero, Chad McMillan, rival North Korea that has led to restored important effort. From Chairman FRANK’s staff, Conor Fox, Justin Howe, Brent Williams, Mike trade and travel across the heavily armed frontier dividing the peninsula. Jim Segel, Scott Morris, Daniel McGlinchey Pafthausen, Mike Vickhammer, Ryan Gilmore, and Nancy Alexander; from Representative ‘‘I humbly accept the people’s choice,’’ Adam Brockway, Scott Holbrook, Donald Chung told reporters late Wednesday. ‘‘I BARBARA LEE’s staff, Chrisos Isentas; from Phipps, Leonard Thurmond, Bryan Camino. hope (president)-elect Lee Myung-bak will do Representative DONALD PAYNE’s staff, Noelle David Whitmoyer, Kipp Curtis, Lat Wipplinger, a good job for the country.’’ Lusane; from Representative ILEANA ROS— Tyler Sanders, Mac Kirk, Dan Lovin, Roman Candidate Lee Hoi-chang, who was trailing LEHTINEN’s staff, Gene Gurevida and Yleen Morris, Isiah Linnell, Luke DenHerder, Kyle in third with 15.7 percent of the vote, con- Poblette; from Representative FRANK WOLF’s gratulated Lee Myung-bak on his win. Moore, Kris Drumheller, Zach Zosal, Casey ‘‘I hope he would uphold the people’s staff, Molly Miller; from Representative CHRIS- Sternhagen, Cole Whitmoyer, A.J. Allen, Gar- yearning for a change in government and TOPHER SMITH’s staff, Sherry Rickert; and Joe ret Thompson, Ryan DeKruyf, Mike Ogrin, correct what the outgoing government has Pinder, Kevin Edgar, and Anthony Cimino Mason Siddick, Will Hamilton. done wrong in the past,’’ he told reporters. from my own staff. President: Dr. Thomas Trebon; Athletic Di- The office of liberal President Roh Moo- f hyun congratulated Lee. rector: Bruce M. Parker; Sports Information Di- ‘‘We respect the people’s choice shown in CONGRATULATING CARROLL rector: Brandon Veltri; Head Football Coach: this election,’’ presidential spokesman COLLEGE FIGHTING SAINTS Mike Van Diest; Assistant Coaches: Nick Cheon Ho-seon said in a statement. Howlett, Jim Hogan, Jarrod Wirt, Gary Cooper, Hundreds of supporters watching results on Tyler Emmert, Nick Hammond, Mark Lenhardt, a giant TV in front of the Grand National Tim LeRoy, Jed Thomas. Party’s headquarters burst into song HON. DENNIS R. REHBERG Wednesday evening as returns showed Lee OF MONTANA winning. f Lee has pledged to take a more critical IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PERSONAL EXPLANATION view of Seoul’s engagement with North Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Korea and seek closer U.S. ties. Efforts to Mr. REHBERG. Madam Speaker, I don’t end North Korea’s nuclear weapons ambi- HON. JO BONNER tions stand at a critical juncture, with the know if you’ve had a chance to see this communist country set to disclose all its week’s Sports Illustrated Magazine. On the OF ALABAMA programs for eventual dismantlement by a cover is a picture of Brandon Day, a football IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES year-end deadline. player for the Carroll College Fighting Saints— State Department spokesman Tom Casey Wednesday, December 19, 2007 who on December 15 won their fifth National congratulated Lee on his victory. Title in six years. Carroll College plays in Hel- Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, on Tues- ‘‘We have a long history of cooperation and friendship with South Korea and fully expect ena. Montana as a part of the National Asso- day, December 18, 2007, I was absent for two that’ll continue with this new government,’’ ciation of Intercollegiate Athletics. This year, votes due to an important meeting regarding a he said. ‘‘Certainly, we’ve got a number of they had a perfect 11 and 0 record in the reg- significant economic development need in my important issues on our bilateral agenda in- ular season and survived the playoffs to de- district. Had I been present, I would have cluding our mutual cooperation in the six- feat the Sioux Falls Cougars by a score of 17 voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall Nos. 1179 and 1180. party talks.’’

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.083 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2644 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 RECOGNIZING CRAIG OLTHOFF supporter of many of the programs at St. Mat- his coaching squad included Terry Covington, thew’s Community A.M.E. Church of which Drew Hambright, Chris Jackson, Frank HON. TOM LATHAM she is a member. Currently, the church is pre- Lassiter, Kenny Lockner, Brad Melton, Mike paring to open an after school program center. Mitchener, Chris Myers, and Jeff Snuffer. They OF IOWA Upon its completion, Andrea plans to be a were ably assisted by team managers Kaitlyn IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES regular participant of the skills enhancement Lockner, Rachel McKinney, Amanda Sum- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 program. She is also a member of the New mers, and Amanda Thomas. York City Board of Education’s ‘‘Speaker in But it was the players who finally led the Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to rec- Warriors to the promised land. Members of the ognize the retirement of Craig Olthoff, a long- the Classroom’’ program. Each year, she visits day care centers, schools and colleges to 3–A champs include Ethan Willis, Jonathon time U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Corriher, A.J. Smith, Donald Britt, Ryan Blair, Service Agency employee, and to express my share information about various and unique careers in health care. Jared Orton, Houston Spake, Nathan Jasper, appreciation for his dedication and commit- Brandon Hill, Kenneth Lindsey, Chris Sparks, ment to the agricultural community of Iowa. Andrea is a member of the Women’s Con- cerns Committee at Queens Hospital Center Wes Satterfield, Tucker Street, Chris For the past 30 years Craig has been em- Bradsher, Matt Maness, Connor Meehan, ployed by the Farm Service Agency. He and participates in developing projects to ad- vance cultural awareness among hospital Scottie Thomas, Justin Torrence, Rod Shaw, served as the Hardin County executive direc- Michael Wade, Doug Bernard, Olanders tor from 1978 to 1989, when he was then pro- staff. Her diligent work in this area earned her the Mayor’s Award in 2001. She is also a Sellars, Johnny Mitchell, P.J. Wright, Brad moted to district director. As district director, Brenner, Macon Rippy, Billy Williamson, Gary rape, domestic violence advocate and an out- Craig oversaw 11 county offices in north cen- Strader, Kyle Norris, Levon Curtis, Nathan reach educator of the health care proxy law, tral Iowa. I offer him my utmost congratula- Bell, Kevin Lewis, Kyle Haizlip, Josh Baulding, breast cancer awareness, and HIV/AIDS tions and thanks for his dedication to providing Casey Roberts, Todd Ludwig, Joe Ahlgren, transmission. reliable service to Iowa Farmers. Christian Saconn, Robert Fields, Mac I know that my colleagues in the United Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Mitchener, Blake Bledsole, Chris Sizemore, States Congress join me in commending Craig the impressive achievements of Andrea R. Jered Welborn, Josh Warren, Donald Olthoff for his leadership and service to the Adams, who has spent her life giving so much Schietzelt, Jay Johnson, Matt Apple, Shawn USDA Farm Service Agency and the farmers to others. I also want to thank Ms. Adams Huffines, Richard Miller, Laramie Stallings, in his district. I consider it an honor to rep- helping the children of Brooklyn, New York. Nick King, Corey Brothers, Bradley Dickey, resent Craig in Congress and I wish him a Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Jamal Dark, Zack Palm, Allen Black, Tony long, happy and healthy retirement. join me in paying tribute to this exceptionally Bejos, Jeremy Gooding, Tyler Clayton, Martin kind woman. f Dailey, Dace Crawford, Ashton Tinin, Wayne f Stanfield, Joe Reinheimer, Ronnie Mimms, A TRIBUTE TO ANDREA R. ADAMS, Jordan Gaines, Bill Blanchard, Jeremy Ray, MPA FOURTH TIME A CHARM FOR Avery Booker, Josh Medlin, Alex Mitchell, WESTERN ALAMANCE George Wentz, Ben Smith, Brent Oliver, and HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS Orvin Guiffaro. All of these players assisted Western OF NEW YORK HON. HOWARD COBLE Alamance in a record-setting performance. Six OF NORTH CAROLINA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES State records were broken during the title IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, December 19, 2007 game, including most combined points scored Wednesday, December 19, 2007 (98) in a championship contest. The only num- Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today ber that the Warriors will remember is four. to pay tribute to Andrea R. Adams. Andrea Mr. COBLE. Madam Speaker, the old Because on the fourth try, Western Alamance was born on Staten Island, New York and is adage, ‘‘If at first you don’t succeed, try, try finally brought home the trophy. a product of the City’s public school system. again’’ wasn’t written specifically with the Even amid all of the jubilation, there was After receiving her G.E.D., she enrolled in Western Alamance High School football team some sadness associated with the team. Two York College in Jamaica, New York and St. in mind, but as its players and fans will tell days before the championship, the brother of Joseph’s College in Brooklyn. Andrea later at- you, that statement perfectly captures the offensive coordinator Jeff Snuffner died of tended Long Island University, graduating with fighting spirit of the Warriors. On December 8, cancer. Quarterback Donald Britt told the a Master’s of Public Administration and a cer- 2007, Western Alamance won the North Caro- Times-News, ‘‘When we heard Coach tificate in Health Care Administration. lina 3–A high school football championship on Snuffner’s brother died, something went off in its fourth try in the title game. The Warriors Andrea has worked in the health care field us. We just wanted to do it for him. We want- completed a perfect 16–0 season by defeating for 25 years. She has held various positions, ed to go out there 110 percent, every play.’’ North Gaston 62–36. among them: Medical Secretary; Technical Coach Capps told the Burlington newspaper Specialist; Health Educator; Hospital Training Having lost three straight state champion- that just before the game, he and his offensive Director; Community Outreach Liaison; Execu- ship games, the Warriors of Western coordinator hugged and told the other how tive Assistant; and currently, Director of Volun- Alamance were used to playing in a big game much they loved each other. ‘‘I’m sitting there teer and Auxiliary Services. setting. As Head Coach Hal Capps told the five minutes before the game,’’ told the Times- Andrea is credited with spearheading the Times-News, however, there was something News, ‘‘crying like a baby. That’s what life is Gateway to Health Sciences School at different about this year’s squad. ‘‘North Gas- all about. It’s about loving and caring about Queens Hospital 12 years ago. She imple- ton is an outstanding football team, out- people and having relationships. When some- mented this unique learning hospital/high standing,’’ Coach Capps told the Burlington thing doesn’t go right, you pick each other up school collaboration to lure inner city youth to newspaper, ‘‘but this team was on a mission, and go on.’’ occupations in the health profession. The hos- they were not going to be denied.’’ The Warriors did more than go on. They pital’s on-site project opened the door to her Senior receiver Levon Curtis, who was went all the way to be named as North Caro- present and most rewarding task; counseling named the game’s Most Outstanding Player, lina 3–A high school football champions. On young people allowing them to see the poten- was part of those past title game losses, and behalf of the citizens of the Sixth District of tial of a rewarding a career in the health care he told the Times-News, ‘‘We did it. I didn’t North Carolina, we congratulate Western field. As the hospital’s Volunteer Director, she know it would ever happen. I’ve got to get it Alamance Principal Terri Spears, Athletic Di- also assists second career adults referred through my mind, we did it.’’ Curtis certainly rector Carter Gerlach, Head Coach Hal from health career schools, and senior citizens did it by scoring four touchdowns, two through Capps, and all of the players, coaches, staff, seeking a rewarding volunteer experience. the air and two on the ground. In all, Curtis family, and fans, as well as the outstanding Andrea is a member of the National Asso- caught seven passes for 153 yards and Warriors marching band. The team is a true ciation of University Women’s Saturday Tuto- rushed for another 96 yards. inspiration to all of us who work hard to ac- rial Program. This program assists children in Coach Hal Capps will be the first to tell you complish our goals. The Warriors proved that improving their reading, math, penmanship, that finally winning that elusive state cham- sometimes old adages are true because they and communications skills. Andrea is an active pionship took a total team effort. Members of never gave up.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.089 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2645 TRIBUTE TO THE FREDONIA handicapped veterans should have bathrooms, Employees who go above and beyond the AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY showers and toilet facilities they can actually normal call of duty receive special recognition, use. This project will also meet needs of a such as the Spirit of Caring award for nurses HON. PHIL ENGLISH growing group of women veterans. It will pro- dedicated to excellent care and the Frist Hu- OF PENNSYLVANIA vide patient privacy where it has been inad- manitarian Award for workers who engage in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES equate. And it will make the staff work more community service and extraordinary acts of efficiently by simply making the layout of the kindness. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 building better for work. In addition, an en- In 1984, Dr. Jack Hughston, known as the Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Madam closed connecting bridge will be built between ‘‘father of sports medicine,’’ and Dr. Thomas Speaker, today I rise to recognize the accom- the Medical Center and VA Regional Office Frist Sr. founded the hospital. Today, the hos- plishments of the Fredonia American Legion buildings so there will be more fluid access pital famed for its sports medicine is a 100- Auxiliary. The members of this organization between what goes on at the hospital and bed orthopedic facility performing spinal sur- have loyally served the Fredonia area and its what goes on at the benefits administration. geries and joint replacements. veteran community for many years and their The Atlanta VA Medical Center has an ac- Madam Speaker, I want to call special at- good deeds deserve to be acknowledged. tive affiliation with the University of Emory tention to the special people providing vision- All of the Legion’s activities work toward its Medical School. This project will keep this re- ary leadership and top-notch medical care to mission to improve the quality of life for Fredo- lationship on sound footing. Hundreds of med- the patients in the Greater Columbus area. nia’s veterans and their families. ical doctors and students with Emory make They embody the spirit of hard work and com- To raise money for veteran family events, contributions at the hospital and see firsthand passion that keep America great. such as their annual Children’s Christmas the result of sacrifices made from generation On behalf of the 3rd Congressional District Party, the Legion has held various events to generation. Unfortunately, with the number of Georgia and this House, I congratulate throughout the year including a Chinese auc- of our boys and girls coming home from war Hughston Orthopedic Hospital on this well-de- tion, craft show, bingo night and several bas- growing as we speak, these physicians are served recognition. ket raffles. going to be caring for so many more people f As part of their community service efforts, with so many more health problems. members collected donations to give to local I want to applaud the efforts of my col- SUPPORT FOR RECOGNITION OF PLUTO AS A PLANET needy families during the holiday season. league from Georgia, Senator JOHNNY The Legion hosted an ‘‘Americanism’’ Essay ISAKSON, for working to pass this bill through Contest at local grade schools to promote pa- the Senate. I know on this issue, the issue of HON. JERRY WELLER triotism among the country’s youth. The win- caring for our veterans, all of us from Georgia OF ILLINOIS ners included third-grader Olivea Wright from and on a bipartisan basis in the House and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Oakview Elementary and sixth-grader Kelsey Senate can agree that no expense should be Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Greathouse from Commodore Perry Elemen- spared in order to ensure the best care tary. modem medicine can provide. Mr. WELLER of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I On Veterans Day and Memorial Day, mem- We have more work to do on this and so rise today to express my support for the re- bers held honorary services with special guest many other issues. It is my hope we can come newed recognition of Pluto as a planet. speakers to pay tribute to U.S. veterans in the together on more bills in the coming year, The planet Pluto was discovered on January Fredonia area. much larger bills, which benefit those who 23, 1930, by Clyde Tombaugh. Although just From September 2006 to June 2007, the wear the uniform, as well as kids and seniors 24 years of age with no formal education be- Fredonia American Legion donated an impres- who need better health care. yond high school, Mr. Tombaugh discovered this new planet by painstakingly and system- sive $18,700 in coupons to 37 commissaries f around the world. atically examining and comparing photo- The officers of the Legion include: Mary TRIBUTE TO HUGHSTON graphic plates he had made of the night skies Ellen Flynn, President; Sandy Lurtz, 1st Vice ORTHOPEDIC HOSPITAL over New Mexico. For this achievement, Mr. President; Ruth Foust, 2nd Vice President; Tombaugh received a prestigious award from Dorthy Young, Secretary/Treasurer; Shirley HON. LYNN A. WESTMORELAND the Royal Astronomical Society along with a Kirsch, Chaplain; Darlene Hoffman, Historian OF GEORGIA scholarship to the University of Kansas, which and Sergeant-at-Arms; Mary Jane Lockcock, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES allowed him to continue his formal education. Clyde Tombaugh went on to make a large Sergeant-at-Arms. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 I hope my colleagues will join me at this number of additional contributions to our time in recognizing the service of the Fredonia Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam Speaker, knowledge of the universe and to receive American Legion and in congratulating its ef- the city of Columbus in Georgia’s 3rd Con- many more awards and honors before his forts. gressional District boasts a stellar health care death on January 17, 1997. I am proud to f community that enriches the well-being and note that Mr. Tombaugh was born on Feb- quality of life for Muscogee and surrounding ruary 4, 1906, on a farm near Streator, IL, in MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECT counties. LaSalle County—a community which I am AT ATLANTA VETERANS AF- This year, Georgia Trend magazine singled privileged to represent in the Congress of the FAIRS MEDICAL CENTER out one of those health care facilities, United States. Hughston Orthopedic Hospital, for its Honor Unfortunately, on August 26, 2006, the HON. JOHN LEWIS Roll, naming it one of the 15 best places to International Astronomical Union, IAU, meeting OF GEORGIA work in the state. in Prague and relying on the votes of only a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Long known for its excellent patient care, handful of its approximately 10,000 members, Hughston’s secret is now out: It also provides made the decision to downgrade the status of Wednesday, December 19, 2007 excellent employee care. Pluto. Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Madam Speaker, One of the founders of the hospital summed This decision was met with protests from today, almost last, but certainly not least, Con- up the organization’s ethos by saying, ‘‘It’s not eminent scientists and astronomers all over gress takes action on a bill to authorize a bricks, mortar and equipment that makes a the world. Perhaps foremost among those in major medical facility project that will create hospital—it’s people.’’ the international scientific community strongly modern inpatient wards at the Department of Employee input helps the hospital keep its disagreeing with the IAU decision was Dr. S. Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Atlanta, edge in providing the best possible care. Alan Stern. Named earlier this year by Time Georgia. This is an investment of $20.5 million Every month, the President’s Council con- magazine as one of the ‘‘One Hundred Most to provide a standard of care our Nation guar- venes to allow employees to voice sugges- Influential People in the World’’, Dr. Stern is antees for veterans across America. This is a tions or concerns directly to the CEO, Don also one of the lead consultants for the New relatively small bill but it is part of keeping a Avery. Horizons Mission. very big promise. We should always keep that Hughston employees receive 100 percent The New Horizons Mission is an unmanned promise. tuition reimbursement, flexible working sched- spacecraft launched in January of 2006, which This project will renovate 3 inpatient floors ules, day care discounts and a special HOPE is projected to reach Pluto and the outer edge to meet ADA accessibility requirements. Our fund to aid employees suffering hardships. of our solar system in the year 2015. This

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.093 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2646 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 spacecraft is carrying some of the ashes of Since its inception on October 19, 1977, As Co-Chairman of the Congressional Clyde Tombaugh. Community Bridges has worked to provide in- Human Rights Caucus Russia Working Group, In closing, I urge my colleagues to express novative human services to enhance our di- I would point out that the same legal system their support for the reversal of the Inter- verse community. Today the family of pro- that has undermined the civil and human national Astronomical Union’s decision and the grams (Child and Adult Care Food Program; rights of former YUKOS head Mikhail official reinstatement of Pluto as the ninth and Child Development Programs; La Manzana Khodorkovsky and his business partner Platon outermost planet in our solar system. Community Resources; Lift Line: Live Oak Lebedev, also caused the company’s downfall. f Family Resource Center. Meals on Wheels; In the YUKOS case, the Russian courts failed and WIC Nutrition Program) serves nearly to adhere to basic principles such as private RECOGNIZING THE AMERICAN AS- 30,000 Santa Cruz County community mem- property rights protection, independent judges, SOCIATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE bers each year. due process and equal application of the law. ADMINISTRATORS ON THE OCCA- Through its services, the group nurtures the YUKOS, once Russia’s largest oil company, SION OF ITS 75TH ANNIVERSARY entire life from beginning to end. Starting was forced to declare bankruptcy in August childhood, Community Bridges fosters a better 2006, when it could not pay claimed back HON. JOHN L. MICA life by providing childcare, after-school pro- taxes. After a series of auctions, YUKOS’ re- OF FLORIDA grams, and teen mentoring to ensure that chil- maining assets fell into the hands of the state- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES dren develop the skills they need to succeed owned company, Rosneft. On November 22, in school and life. For those later in life Com- 2007, Russia’s Federal Tax Service an- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 munity Bridges helps residents maintain their nounced it had completed YUKOS’ bankruptcy Mr. MICA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to dignity and independence by providing meal procedure and that the company had ceased recognize the 75th Anniversary of the Amer- delivery, transportation, and literacy and lan- to exist as a legal entity. ican Association of Motor Vehicle Administra- guage education. In contrast to their experience in the Rus- tors. The AAMVA will be holding their 2008 With an eye on healthy living, Community sian judicial system, Khodorkovsky and annual meeting in Orlando, Florida. Bridges combats childhood obesity and pro- Lebedev have won several court rulings in In 1932, growth in the motor vehicle popu- motes community wellbeing by providing nutri- other countries. The first favorable decision lation, increasing interstate travel, and an in- tion education programs, breastfeeding sup- came in August 2006, when a Dutch court re- crease in death and injuries on the highways port for new mothers, and food reimburse- fused to give the Russian receiver of YUKOS, highlighted the need for a national organiza- ments. Moreover, Community Bridges helps Eduard Rebgun, full control of its Dutch unit. tion for uniform interstate laws and programs. reduce the risk of child abuse and keeps fami- In August 2007, the Supreme Court of Swit- In response, representatives of the States, lies strong by providing parenting classes, fos- zerland ruled that the case against recognizing this need for uniform and recip- tering educational attainment, and connecting Khodorkovsky and Lebedev was politically mo- rocal administration of motor vehicle laws, families to health insurance programs and tivated and refused to release bank docu- formed the American Conference of Motor Ve- other important resources. ments to Russia in connection with the case. hicle Administrators. Subsequently in 1933 the They not only seek to address unmet Shortly afterwards, in October 2007, the Eu- group renamed itself the American Association human service needs in our county, but also ropean Court of Human Rights ruled that Rus- sia had violated the rights of Lebedev during of Motor Vehicle Administrators, or AAMVA. focus on supporting existing efforts to serve his arrest and pretrial detention, and the Rus- AAMVA has been the recognized North the community by working with other local sian government was ordered to pay him com- American authority for driver licensing and care providers. Community Bridges promotes civic engagement by actively seeking commu- pensation. motor vehicle administration. AAMVA’s U.S. However, in the most recent and significant and Canadian members have worked collabo- nity input and providing leadership training op- portunities for local residents. By building part- ruling on October 31, 2007, a Dutch court ratively to support and improve motor vehicle ruled the YUKOS receiver did not have the administration, safety, identification security nerships with local organizations they ensure the greatest efficiency and accessibility of right to sell off the firm’s foreign assets in a and law enforcement. bankruptcy auction in August. The court nul- AAMVA has served as a liaison with other services for Santa Cruz County residents. The broad reach and integrated structure of Com- lified all actions taken in that auction. The levels of government and the private sector, court also ruled that YUKOS was denied a fair and its development and research activities munity Bridges affords the agency the unique ability to swiftly identify and address commu- trial to establish how much back taxes it owed have provided guidelines for more effective to the Russian government. public service. nity needs as they emerge. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to express The Dutch court ruling is important because AAMVA has fostered a tradition of service in it highlights three vitally important issues: First, the motor vehicle and law enforcement profes- appreciation for the critical role Community Bridges serves in providing a safety net for the the ability of Russian officials to appoint their sions, providing outstanding service to the own managers to run YUKOS; second, the community through superb customer service most vulnerable members of our community and helping to improve the quality of life for bankruptcy of YUKOS and the process used initiatives, information technology, safety, and to achieve it; and third, the validity of the origi- the best in public affairs and consumer edu- the children, families, and seniors in Santa Cruz County. nal tax claim against YUKOS. cational programs throughout North America. This decision, like many others before it, I would like to commend the many achieve- f raises concerns about the legitimacy of the ments of AAMVA and encourage AAMVA to COURT RULINGS ON YUKOS Russian court rulings in the YUKOS case. continue its tradition of excellence in service to MANAGEMENT When the European Court of Human Rights motorists through its advocacy of improving along with courts in Switzerland, the United highway safety. HON. ROGER F. WICKER Kingdom, the Netherlands and other jurisdic- f OF MISSISSIPPI tions all reach the same conclusion, it strongly IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES indicates that there is something very wrong in HONORING COMMUNITY BRIDGES the application of the rule of law in Russia. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY I want to share details of the October 31st Mr. WICKER. Madam Speaker, I would like Dutch court judgment relating to this case, and HON. SAM FARR to share information with my House col- would like to submit for the RECORD the ‘‘Deci- OF CALIFORNIA leagues about the application of the rule of sion’’ section of that ruling. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES law and free market economics in Russia. JUDGMENT While economic growth has been positive Wednesday, December 19, 2007 District Court of Amsterdam, civil law di- since the 1998 financial crisis, Russia’s legal vision, case number/docket number: 355622/ Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to and political system has regressed, threat- HA ZA 06–3612. honor Community Bridges of Santa Cruz ening the development of a diverse economy Judgement dated 31 October 2007 in the County, which will gather to celebrate its 30th based on market principles and the rule of case of 1. David Andrew Godfrey, resident in London (United Kingdom); 2. Bruce Kelvern anniversary later this month. Community law. The Russian government’s 2003 expro- Misamore, resident in Houston, Texas Bridges, a family of non-profit programs, pro- priation of the YUKOS Oil Company raises (United States of America); 3. the private vides otherwise unmet care to the citizens of concern about the stability of the economy company with limited liability YUKOS Fi- Santa Cruz County and is a vital component and continues to remind us that investing in nance B.V., with registered seat in Amster- of our community. Russia is still very risky. dam; claimants, procurator litis: Mr. R.J.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.096 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2647 van Galen versus 1. Eduard Konstantinovich HONORING THE CAREER AND for winning this year’s Class 3A Florida State Rebgun, in his capacity of trustee in the ACHIEVEMENTS OF NEIL NOLF Championship at the Citrus Bowl last week. bankruptcy of the legal entity under the law of the Russian Federation OAO YUKOS Oil Trailing 10–7 against St. Augustine, the Company, having chosen domicile at Rot- HON. LOUISE McINTOSH SLAUGHTER Naples High Eagles turned an errant snap into terdam; 2. Leendert Jacob Hogerbrugge, OF NEW YORK a game-winning touchdown to win the game Resident at Leiden; 3. Sergei Savelyevich IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 17–10. The win keeps the Eagles’ 15–0 sea- Shmelkov, resident at Moscow (Russian Fed- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 son record spot-free and makes it the first eration); defendants, procurator litis: Mr. undefeated season in school history. P.N. van Regteren Altena. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Madam Speaker, I rise Claimants jointly hereinafter to be called today to celebrate the exemplary career of Mr. Vince Lombardi once said, ‘‘...You’ve got Godfrey et al. and separately Godfrey, Neil Nolf, a talented public servant and good to play with your heart, with every fiber of your Misamore and Yukos Finance. Defendants friend, who is retiring at the end of the year body. If you’re lucky enough to find a guy with jointly hereinafter to be called Rebgun et al. after decades of public service at the Niagara a lot of head and a lot of heart, he’s never and separately Rebgun, Hogerbrugge and going to come off the field second.’’ Shmelkov. OAO Yukos Oil Company herein- Falls Air Reserve Station. Since assuming his after to be called Yukos Oil. post as Public Affairs Officer in 1987, I have The young men of the Eagles Football Team have proven what Coach Lombardi THE DECISION had the privilege of working with Mr. Nolf on many issues of critical importance to the resi- said, and what he meant. Any of us who have The District Court: Passes a declaratory judgment that all dents of the 28th Congressional District of played competitive sports understands the val- Shareholders’ Resolutions in regard to New York, especially those that involved im- uable lessons of hard work, teamwork and Yukos Finance, in so far as taken by Rebgun proving the lives of the dedicated service men commitment. These memories and lessons will in his capacity of trustee of Yukos Oil, in- and women at the Air Base. His was a life stay with these players for the rest of their cluding but not limited to the decision to dedicated to public service and his vision and lives and are made all the sweeter by their in- dismiss Godfrey and Misamore as directors leadership will be sorely missed. credible season. of Yukos Finance B.V. dated 11 August 2006 Neil Nolf’s life has been driven by a deep/ Madam Speaker, I know the people of and the alleged decisions to appoint rooted sense of commitment to his community Southwest Florida join me in offering our Shmelkov and Hogerbrugge as directors of and service to his country. Born and raised in heartiest congratulations to the Naples High Yukos Finance, are null and void; western New York, Mr. Nolf graduated from Passes a declaratory judgment that all de- School Football Team, their coaches, students Buffalo State College in 1975 and began work cisions taken by Shmelkov and/or and fans. We couldn’t be more proud of their at the Social Security Administration in Buf- Hogerbrugge in their supposed capacity of di- accomplishments this season. rectors of Yukos Finance B.V. are null and falo. Mr. Nolf then left his home in western void; New York to begin work for the FBI in Wash- Orders Rebgun to lend his immediate and ington, DC. From there, he fortunately re- f unconditional cooperation to the reversal of turned to western New York to begin a very the (consequences of the) Shareholders’ Res- successful career at the Niagara Falls Air Re- CONGRATULATING THE FOOTHILL olutions he made in Yukos Finance, subject serve Station. While working full time, Mr. Nolf HIGH SCHOOL AGRICULTURAL to a penalty of 10,000 Euros for each indi- enlisted as a reservist with the 914th Airlift TEAM vidual violation and of 1,000 Euros for each day that such violation continues, to a max- Wing in 1979, discovering and honing the imum of 500,000 Euros; unique leadership skills that have come to de- HON. JIM COSTA Forbids Rebgun to exercise any rights with fine his lifetime of service. respect to the shares of Yukos Finance or to Never content with settling for the status OF CALIFORNIA have these rights exercised, subject to a pen- quo, as Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Nolf has IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES alty of 10,000 Euros for each individual viola- been responsible for transforming the Air Re- tion and of 1,000 Euros for each day that such serve Station into the efficient facility that it is Wednesday, December 19, 2007 violation continues, to a maximum of 500,000 today. Overseeing the construction of a new Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to Euros; training facility, an officers and airmen quar- Orders Shmelkov and Hogerbrugge, both congratulate the Foothill High School Agri- ters, a military entrance processing site, and a jointly and severally, to lend their imme- culture Team of Bakersfield, California on re- much needed runway extension, he was able diate and unconditional cooperation to the ceiving first place in the Parliamentary Proce- to the ensure that the 914th Airlift Wing had reversal of the (consequences of the) mana- dure Event at the 80th annual National Future the critical equipment and facilities required to gerial decisions taken in Yukos Finance, Farmers of America Leadership Conference. whether individually or jointly, subject to a be one of the most successful units in the penalty of 100,000 Euros for each individual country. His leadership has also been signifi- The team defeated competition from groups violation and of 100,000 Euros for each day cantly tested in recent years, with the 914th representing 45 states, receiving the country’s that such violation continues, to a maximum Airlift Wing being the most deployed reserve top Ag education honors. Abigail ‘‘Abby’’ Ryan of 100,000 Euros; unit in the Nation since the beginning of the was also named the national Outstanding Pre- Forbids Shmelkov and Hogerbrugge to ex- siding President. Winning the state title earlier ercise any rights with respect to their al- Iraq War in 2004. leged representative authority in Yukos Fi- The Air Base, its surrounding communities, this year, the students went on to capture a nance or to have these rights exercised, sub- and indeed the Nation as a whole, owe a debt title at the national competition. ject to a penalty of 100,000 Euros for each in- of gratitude to Mr. Nolf. His legacy will live on Foothill High team members included Abi- dividual violation and of 100,000 Euros for at the Air Base, and I look forward to seeing gail Ryan (President), Amber Sawyer (Sec- each day that such violation continues. to a the Air Base continue to grow and flourish, retary), Vern Clark, Amanda Shuminski, maximum of 100,000 Euros; adding much to the security and the economic Leanne Clark, and Wes Pounds. I would also Orders Rebgun, Shmelkov and Hogerbrugge viability of our Nation. I am honored today to like to recognize the Foothill High Agriculture jointly and severally to pay the procedural have the opportunity to pay tribute to his serv- costs on the side of Godfrey et al., estimated Coach Josiah Mayfield. ice, and I wish Neil the best as he embarks on up to this judgment at 332,87 Euros in dis- Undoubtedly, the Parliamentary Procedure the next chapter of his storied life. bursements and 1,808 Evros in local counsel’s skills developed will promise success to stu- salary: f dents in years to come. Some of these skills Orders Shmelkov to pay the costs incurred in connection with the Russian translation TRIBUTE TO NAPLES HIGH included the ability to run orderly meetings on of the Writ of Summons, being 10,882,06 SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM agricultural issues by introducing motions, de- Euros; bating topics and voting, demonstrating their Declares the aforementioned orders and in- knowledge of the principles of democratic as- junctions as well as the orders to pay the HON. CONNIE MACK sembly. OF FLORIDA procedural costs immediately enforceable; It gives me great pride to honor the Foothill Dismisses all other applications. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES High Ag Team and congratulate the Principal, This judgment was passed by Mr. W. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Tonkens-Gerkema, Mr. C.S. Naarden and Mr. Brenda Lewis, the Coach, Josiah Mayfield and A.W.H. Vink and delivered in open court on Mr. MACK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to these outstanding Ag students for receiving 31 October 2007. honor the Naples High School Football Team this distinguished award.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.100 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2648 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 A TRIBUTE TO KEN REID AND of a woman who was about to commit suicide. IN RECOGNITION OF CHIEF OF PO- DEBRA MADISON-REID The woman planned to jump from the LICE RALPH MENDOZA’S OUT- Foresthill Bridge, which at 730 feet tall is the STANDING SERVICE AND DEDI- HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS third highest bridge in the country. CATION TO THE CITY OF FORT OF NEW YORK Upon arrival, Deputy Williams and Officer WORTH IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ketterer were met by Mr. Michael Owens, who was attempting to calm the woman until help Wednesday, December 19, 2007 HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS arrived. When the officers approached the OF TEXAS Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today woman, they realized she had climbed over IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to pay tribute to Ken Reid and Debra Madi- the rail of the bridge and was hanging by her Wednesday, December 19, 2007 son-Reid. Ken and Debra have known each hands while her feet dangled beneath her. Ex- other their entire lives. They played together hibiting extraordinary bravery, Deputy Williams Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise as children in the streets of Bushwich where reached through the rail and grabbed the today in recognition of Fort Worth Chief of Po- Debra resided and where Ken would visit rel- woman’s left arm while the two other men as- lice Ralph Mendoza. After more than 35 years atives who lived on the next street. While the sisted in attempting to pull the woman to safe- with the Fort Worth Police Department, and al- two of them were enrolled in high school, ty. In doing so, all three men risked their own most eight years as the top cop, Ralph Men- Debra’s family moved to the same block as lives by leaning over the side of the bridge doza will retire in February 2008. During Mendoza’s tenure, the city of Fort Ken’s best friend. safety rail in order to rescue the woman from Worth saw reductions in crime and advances Ken and Debra lost contact after high certain harm. in technology. Serving as the first Hispanic school though Ken had made countless at- I would like to commend Deputy Jeff Wil- Police Chief of Fort Worth, Mendoza is tempts to win the heart of his long-time friend. liams for his heroic efforts. A graduate of Si- praised by other city officials, calling him an After high school, Ken enrolled at Hofstra Uni- erra College who currently resides in Rose- ‘‘outstanding chief’’ and applauding his efforts versity, pursuing a degree in Broadcast Engi- ville, CA with his wife Maria, Deputy Williams as Police Chief that led to a reduction in the neering. Following graduation, he accepted a is an asset to his community and deserves to crime rate for the city. position at New York Telephone Company, be praised for his selflessness and bravery. now Verizon. The very first day he reported for Additionally, others go on to say that Fort Worth ‘‘is indeed a better place’’ because of work, he opened the door and saw Debra and f they were once again connected. They were Mendoza’s efforts, which helped to make the married in Brooklyn, New York on October 18, RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF OSSIE city the ninth-safest in the country. Mendoza began his career with the Fort 1982. DAVIS Worth Police Department in 1972 as part of Years later, Debra and Ken found them- the now-defunct cadet program. He graduated selves without a tenant for the top floor of their HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL from the police academy in 1974 and later be- brownstone. With no prospects in sight, they OF NEW YORK came the department’s first Hispanic lieuten- realized they had to get creative very fast. Ken ant, deputy chief and chief. He was appointed has always purchased gift certificates to area IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES acting chief in August 1999, and was named spas; meanwhile, Debra was able to persuade Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Police Chief in January 2000. Ken to host several of their own spa parties at Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today I am sure the decision to retire was not an places like the Presidential Suite at the Em- to recognize the life of Ossie Davis, an Amer- easy one for Chief Mendoza. I join his col- bassy Suites Hotel in Manhattan. Eventually, ican actor, World War II veteran, writer, and leagues in wishing him all the best as he looks they would convert the top floor of their brown- civil rights activist. forward to spending more time with his wife, stone into a day spa. Raiford Chatman Davis, better known as children and grandchildren. The Spa Club in Bed-Stuy opened its doors Ossie Davis was born on December 18, 1917 It is with great honor that I recognize Chief December 30, 2006 and has become a place in Cogdell, Georgia as the fifth child of Laura Ralph Mendoza for his decades of hard work that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. Their Cooper and Kince Davis. The name Ossie de- and selfless dedication given to the citizens of clients include government officials, members rived from a pronunciation of his first and mid- Fort Worth, Texas. I am proud to represent of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, mem- dle initials, RC. him in Washington, and his service will set a bers of the New Jersey Nets organization, He began studying in 1939 at Howard Uni- standard of devotion and true leadership, one local church congregates and other community versity, but decided to withdraw to pursue his that will never be forgotten. organizations. dream of being an actor. He relocated to New f There are plans in the works to expand The York City and began acting with the Rose Spa Club throughout the entire building within SUDAN ACCOUNTABILITY AND McClendon Players in Harlem. He served as a the next 2 years. There are also plans to have DIVESTMENT ACT OF 2007 surgical technician for the Army during World a location in the Atlantic Yards within the next War II from 1942 to 1945. After returning from 5 years. SPEECH OF Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the war, he continued to pursue his dream of HON. TOM UDALL both Ken Reid and Debra Madison-Reid for acting and debuted in the 1950 film No Way Out. He was an exceptional actor and ap- OF NEW MEXICO their contributions to our community and pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES viding a place for us to nourish our minds, peared in many movies, television shows and Tuesday, December 18, 2007 bodies and souls after a hard day. stage plays. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to He married Ruby Ann Wallace, also known Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, join me in paying tribute to this beautiful cou- as Ruby Dee, in 1948. She was also an ac- the continuing tragic situation in Darfur is an ple who have the type of story of which mov- tress and civil rights activist. Their contribution attack on humanity and I believe that Con- ies are created. to the civil rights movement was significant gress, that the President, that the international and inspiring. They played a key role in plan- f community, and everyone concerned about ning the historical 1963 March on Washington their fellow men and women has a responsi- TRIBUTE TO DEPUTY JEFF WIL- for Jobs and Freedom and served as emcees. bility to work toward ending this genocide. LIAMS AND OFFICER MICHAEL They were friends of Martin Luther King, Jr., Local and State governments around this KETTERER Malcolm X, and Rev. Jesse Jackson and Nation are expressing their outrage over the worked side by side with them to advance the ongoing genocide, as they should be. S. 2271 HON. JOHN T. DOOLITTLE rights of African Americans. Mr. Davis had the encourages these actions by allowing these OF CALIFORNIA honor of delivering the eulogy for Martin Lu- governments to divest from companies that ther King, Jr. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES continue their financial ties with Sudan. As we In 2007, their album ‘‘With Ossie and Ruby: support these communities as they take a Wednesday, December 19, 2007 In This Life Together,’’ won a Grammy Award stand, it is vital that the Federal Government Mr. DOOLITTLE. Madam Speaker, on Au- for Best Spoken Word Album. Mr. Davis do so as well. S. 2271 provides this support gust 18, 2007, Placer County Sheriff’s Deputy passed away on February 4, 2005. His con- by barring Federal contracts with companies Jeff Williams and California Highway Patrol tributions to the performing arts and civil rights doing business with the Sudanese govern- Officer Michael Ketterer responded to the call movement will live on for years to come. ment.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.105 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2649 Mr. Speaker, the United States must con- soccer teams. Accordingly, I now ask my col- counsel and leadership to the City of Golds- tinue to play leadership role in protecting the leagues to join me in commending them for boro’s Board of Education and the Goldsboro civilians in Darfur and working towards a their hard work and accomplishments. public schools. peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. Too f Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join many lives have already been lost and this sit- me in honoring Attorney Louis Jordan. The uation will continue to worsen unless we fulfill IN RECOGNITION OF THE CLEVE- City of Goldsboro, the State of North Carolina our commitment by supporting and strength- LAND CHAPTER OF THE and the United States of America have suf- ening the international mission in Darfur. KNIGHTS OF RIZAL fered a great loss. f f HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH CONGRATULATING THE CHAZY EA- IN HONOR OF THE VETERANS ME- OF OHIO GLES AND LYME INDIANS 2007 MORIAL SENIOR CENTER IN RED- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES NEW YORK STATE GIRLS SOCCER WOOD CITY CLASS D CO-CHAMPIONS Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise HON. TOM LANTOS HON. JOHN M. McHUGH today in recognition of the Cleveland Chapter OF CALIFORNIA OF NEW YORK of the Knights of Rizal, and to celebrate their IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES contributions in service to the Filipino commu- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 nity of Cleveland. Mr. McHUGH. Madam Speaker, I rise today The Knights of Rizal are named after Dr. Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to extend my congratulations to the Chazy Jose Protacio Rizal, martyred in 1896 in the to share news about a remarkable organiza- Central Rural School District’s Eagles and the midst of the fight for Filipino independence tion serving many of the constituents in my Lyme Central School District’s Indians upon from Spain. Dr. Rizal was an inspiration to a home district. The Veterans Memorial Senior sharing the 2007 New York State Class D whole country and to celebrate his contribu- Center in Redwood City recently celebrated its Girls Soccer Championship. This was the first tions to the fight for independence for the Phil- recognition as the first—and only—accredited State girls soccer championship in school his- ippines. senior center in San Mateo County, the third tory for both schools, which are located in my The Cleveland Chapter of the Knights of in California and just the 148th of the 15,000 Upstate New York Congressional District. Rizal was founded fifteen years ago and has senior centers in the United States. The senior On November 17, 2007, Chazy and Lyme served the Filipino community with dedication center’s accreditation status is bestowed by became the New York State Class D Co- and distinction. the National Institute of Senior Centers Champions when they played each other to a Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join (NISC), a unit of the National Council on the 0–0 tie after two overtime periods and 110 me in recognizing the Cleveland chapter of the Aging. minutes. In the game, Lyme goalkeeper Alex Knights of Rizal. I commend the Knights of Accreditation is the official recognition that a Weston, who was named the tournament’s Rizal for their commitment to the Filipino com- senior center is meeting its mission in a na- outstanding goalkeeper, made 12 saves while munity and the greater community of Cleve- tionally accepted professional fashion. It is Chazy’s K.C. Olds set a State record with her land. based on compliance with nine standards of 20th shutout of the season. Olds, who tied the f senior center operations developed by NISC. Section VII career record with 371⁄2 shutouts, Accreditation is unique to the senior center ON THE PASSING OF LOUIS was also a Third Team All-State selection. field and demonstrates outstanding leadership The Chazy Eagles finished their season at JORDAN and commitment to high quality programs and 23–1–1 under the tutelage of Coach Joe services to older adults. Dumoulin, who was named Class D Coach of HON. G. K. BUTTERFIELD Madam Speaker, the Veterans Memorial the Year. Other members of the team included OF NORTH CAROLINA Senior Center is to be commended for its vi- assistant coaches Saania Duprey, Karissa IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sion, collaborative relationships, volunteer pro- House, and Cory Thompson and players Wednesday, December 19, 2007 grams, outreach programs, wide range of Brigid Daul, a two-time Third Team All-State health and fitness programs, plus support selection; Liz Favreau; Jessica Garrant; Co- Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I re- services. Its mission is to provide inclusive Captain Brittany Godreau; Heather Guay; Co- spectfully pause today with a heavy heart as programs that enhance the body, mind and Captain Madelaine Guay, a two-time First I share with my colleagues the sad news of spirit focusing on health and wellness through Team All-Conference selection and a First the passing of my good friend Attorney Louis a variety of social events, expressive arts, nu- Team All-State selection; Astrid Kempainen; Jordan who was a native of Warren County, trition, fitness, educational, and recreational Caitlyn Lapier; Devin Latremore; Jennifer NC and lived in Goldsboro, NC. Louis slipped classes; plus social services support. And it Lavigne; Co-Captain Samantha Lavigne; Ali away from us last night leaving his wife Nancy does this very well. Mitchell; Megan Ryan; Victoria Reynolds, a James Jordan and their two adult children, On December 1, 2007, the Center cele- Second Team All-State selection; Morgan Kevin and Kelly. brated its 25th Anniversary with a gala event Roussy; Marie Trombly; Shauni Trombly; and A good number of years ago, both Louis featuring a theme of ‘‘Honoring Our Legacy Gabby Weeden. and I attended North Carolina Central Univer- and Looking Into Our Future.’’ I rise today to The Lyme Indians finished the season 22– sity. It was there that we became roommates recognize them on achieving this milestone, 1–1 under Coach Mary Guyette, who is set to and subsequently grew to be very close and to thank them on behalf of a grateful na- retire after 20 years of coaching. Other mem- friends. After graduation, I returned to my tion for all the good they do. bers of the team included assistant coaches hometown of Wilson and Louis settled in Madam Speaker, on behalf of my constitu- Ashley Barbour and Kristin Robbins; and play- Goldsboro. For more than 35 years, Louis pro- ents and the House, I thank the Veterans Me- ers Jennifer Augustus; Morgan Bocciolatt; vided a tremendous service to the Wayne morial Senior Center on Madison Avenue in Meredith Borden; Jessica Brown; Tiffany County community through his community-ori- Redwood City for its 25 years of service and Brown; Katrena Lane; Rachel Matraw; Jas- ented practice of law. note the exemplary work that Linda M. Griffith, mine Noll; Hilary Rust, a Second Team All Madam Speaker, with many years between its director, has done to achieve this pres- North selection; Olivia Speno, a Second Team us and our law school days, our paths once tigious accreditation. All North selection; Brittany Sharlow; Cortney again crossed. I was a sitting Superior Court f Strasser; and Tiffany Wright. Of note, Nikkia Judge and Louis was a practicing attorney Raso and Terra Towne were named CoMost who argued many cases before me. He was TRIBUTE TO ALEXANDER MARTIN Valuable Players of the Frontier League. In never one to shy away from a fight and was addition, Raso, a First Team All-State selec- equipped to slay any legal giant. Louis rep- HON. SAM GRAVES tion, was named Class D girls soccer Player resented his clients well. OF MISSOURI of the Year by the New York State Sports- Louis later became an ordained minister IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES writers and Coaches Organization while and through his ministry exhibited his true Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Towne was named Second Team All-State. dedication, commitment and loyalty to his Madam Speaker, I am honored to represent community. He was a great mentor to the Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly the Chazy Eagles and the Lyme Indians girls youth of the community and contributed great pause to recognize Alexander Martin, son of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.108 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2650 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 Bob Martin and Kelly Martin of Kearney, Mis- INTRODUCTION OF FOUNTAIN ence will be critical to determining the options souri. Alexander is a very special young man CREEK WATERSHED FEASIBILITY for restoring the health and stability of the who has exemplified the finest qualities of citi- STUDY ACT Fountain Creek watershed. zenship and leadership by taking an active The idea of such a multipurpose project on part in the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 374, HON. MARK UDALL the Fountain is not new. It was first proposed and by earning the most prestigious award of OF COLORADO in 1970 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Eagle Scout. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES after the 1965 flood that inundated commu- nities along the Fountain Creek, including par- Alexander has been very active with his Wednesday, December 19, 2007 troop, participating in many scout activities. ticularly the city of Pueblo. The proposal was Over the years Alexander has been involved Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Madam Speaker, supported by the States of Colorado and Kan- with scouting, he has earned 28 merit badges today with my Colorado colleague, Represent- sas and local officials, and was even the pre- and held numerous leadership positions in- ative JOHN SALAZAR, I am introducing a bill to ferred option of the Army Corps for addressing cluding assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, authorize a feasibility study regarding a multi- flooding in the Fountain. Like Senator scribe, and assistant senior patrol leader. Al- purpose project in the Fountain Creek water- SALAZAR, I think a similar proposal should be exander was also a past member of the Tribe shed in Colorado. The bIll is in the House evaluated again, in light of changed conditions of Mic-O-Say and earned his Brotherhood in companion to a similar bill, S. 2384, the and increased flows in Fountain Creek result- Order of the Arrow. Fountam Creek Feasibility Study Act, intro- ing from urban development in the Colorado duced by Senator Ken SALAZAR. Springs metro area. For his Eagle Scout project, Alexander dem- As Coloradans know, Fountain Creek is a onstrated his ability to effectively lead and or- Senator SALAZAR has laid out a vision to re- major tributary to the Arkansas River. Its wa- vitalize Fountain Creek and connect the com- ganize by putting all that he learned into con- tershed, which encompasses some 927 structing a storage basement for his church munities along its bank in a regional project. square miles, supports a wide variety of plants The feasibility study called for in S. 2384 and rectory in Liberty, Missouri, with the help of his and wildlife and directly affects many residents scout and adult helpers. Alexander spent more this House companion would be an essential of our state—in fact, according to the 2000 first step. I agree with Senator SALAZAR on the than 140 hours of diligently planning, design- census, more than 500,000 people live in the ing, and installing two storage units in order to desirability of taking that step, and the bill I am watershed’s boundaries. But the effect of introducing today is intended to assist in mak- maintain supplies for important committees Fountain Creek’s flows extends beyond the and organizations within the church. ing it happen. watershed’s boundaries. Water from the wa- f Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join tershed serves municipal, industrial and agri- me in commending Alexander Martin for his cultural uses. Creeks within the watershed IN HONOR OF MIKE LIPSKI accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of contribute about 15 percent of the—drinking America and for his efforts put forth in achiev- water for Colorado Springs and are a source HON. CHARLES W. ‘‘CHIP’’ PICKERING ing the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. of irrigation for over 100 farms and ranches. OF MISSISSIPPI The fertile farmland there produces wheat, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f com, hay, oats, and vegetable crops; there are Wednesday, December 19, 2007 also many working livestock ranches along HONORING SCOTT SPERLING ON Fountain Creek. But the watershed has its Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, as we HIS 50TH BIRTHDAY problems, and in recent years, issues related begin to wrap up this year’s work in Congress, to Fountain Creek have tended to divide local I wish to recognize a valued Mississippian HON. RAHM EMANUEL residents who otherwise would be united by its who recently left my staff to pursue opportuni- ability to serve as an important link for com- ties in the private sector back home in Mis- OF ILLINOIS merce and recreation. sissippi. Mike Lipski served as my military leg- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Decades of neglect, increased waterflows islative assistant and special projects director, resulting from urban development in the north- and later, as my Legislative Director here in Wednesday, December 19, 2007 ern part of the watershed, increased Washington, DC. Mike’s heart has always Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise stormwater discharges, and sewage spills been with his home on the Mississippi gulf today to extend my warmest congratulations to have all contributed to the problems and the coast; now he has returned there and taken a Mr. Scott Sperling on the occasion of his fif- controversies. The watershed is subject to fre- position as director of sector administration at tieth birthday. Scott is a man known for his in- quent flood damage, erosion, and sedimenta- Northrop Grumman. Mike’s service to Mis- tellect and business acumen, and I am fortu- tion. In 1999 a major flood caused millions of sissippi and our country spans a lifetime of nate to call him a friend. dollars of damage to public and private prop- hard work. Scott is currently Co-President of Thomas erty, and destroyed the foundations of numer- Mike’s two-decade service in the Navy H. Lee Partners and Trustee and General ous homes and roads. Indeed, earlier this year stretches from his time as a surface warfare Partner of various THL Equity Funds and is there was minor flooding from the Fountain in officer on the USS Oliver Hazard Perry to also President of TH Lee Putnam Capital. Ad- the Pueblo area. Farmers and ranchers near service as a Navy Civil Engineer Corps officer, ditionally, he keeps busy as Director of Hawk- the downstream end of the watershed in par- including time at the Pentagon on the staff of eye Holdings, Thermo Fisher Corp., Univision ticular have suffered substantial losses of pro- the Chief of Naval Operations. He brought to Communications, Inc., Warner Music Group, ductive farmland. Degradation of the water my office experience as executive officer of and several private companies. quality and thus aquatic and wetland habitats Navy’s Engineering Field Activity Southeast in Jacksonville, Florida, as well as a stint as a In addition to his business commitments and is accelerating due to wastewater spills, loss Navy Legislative Fellow serving on Senator accomplishments, Scott is also a director of of natural vegetation, and high water volume. TRENT LOTT’s National Security staff. several charitable organizations including the Simply put, Fountain Creek watershed’s eco- On my staff, Mike utilized, promoted, in- Brigham & Women’s / Faulkner Hospital logical conditions are unstable and under con- creased, and protected the defense commu- Group, The Citi Center for Performing Arts stant threat. Senator SALAZAR’S bill, and this House com- nity’s value, not only for security, but also as and Wang Theater and Harvard Business panion to it, aim at laying a foundation stone an engine of the economy. He demonstrated School’s Rock Center for Entrepreneurship. for the work of restoring Fountain Creek and his commitment to the needs of our war fight- Scott started on his illustrious career path turning the corridor between Colorado Springs ers—past, current, and future—with his work after earning a B.S. from Purdue University and Pueblo into an environmental, agricultural, on veterans legislation; support and funding and an MBA degree from Harvard University. and recreational ‘‘crown jewel’’ for Colorado. for our troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around Scott and his wife Laurene have four chil- Under the legislation, the Army Corps of Engi- the world; and preparation and planning for dren, Michael, Jenny, Zach, and Melanie. It neers would be required to conduct a study of military training and base infrastructure around seems as if each Sperling is more intelligent the feasibility of constructing one or more Mississippi and specifically at Meridian’s Naval than the next, and much of the credit for that dams and reservoirs to provide more reliable Air Station and our National Guard facilities. should probably go to Laurene. flood and sediment control, to conserve fish He served as the point person in my office Madam Speaker, it is a pleasure to wish a and wildlife and preserve their ecosystem, and during the most recent round of BRAC, base happy 50th birthday to my dear friend, Scott to improve the water quality throughout the realignment and closure. He coordinated Sperling. watershed. The Corps’ expertise and experi- statewide efforts of military and community

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.006 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2651 leaders to effectively communicate the na- and for his continued service to our country by CONGRATULATING THE CHAZY EA- tional mission value of our bases and defend building a memorial to veterans from Denton GLES UPON WINNING THE 2007 them in the face of downsizing and cuts. County, Texas. NEW YORK STATE BOYS SOCCER CLASS D CHAMPIONSHIP In my office, Mike provided calm and rea- Working along with Mr. Monty Slough, Mr. soned counsel and was a trusted advisor and Cork identified the names of nine fallen serv- effective implementer of my legislative agenda ice members and created a personal way to HON. JOHN M. McHUGH and appropriation priorities. He successfully memorialize their service. Without prompting OF NEW YORK worked with economic development interests or financial support, Mr. Cork began building a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to bring new and better jobs to Mississippi and granite tiled memorial to Denton County sol- implement strategic community development Wednesday, December 19, 2007 diers, sailors, airmen and marines who died in plans at our universities and industrial clus- Mr. MCHUGH. Madam Speaker, I rise today ters. He has a strong vision for our State and service in Iraq or Afghanistan. to congratulate the Chazy Central Rural creative ideas to reach those goals. Mr. Cork has taken up the honorable but School District Eagles upon winning the 2007 Hurricane Katrina presented unique chal- unfortunate task of paying respect to fellow New York State Boys Soccer Class D Cham- lenges to all levels of leadership in Mississippi, veterans who pay the ultimate price while pionship. Of note, this was the third state boys from alderman to Congressman; from mayor serving our country. In his own eloquent words soccer championship in the last four years for to Governor. As we coordinated emergency Dee said, ‘‘It would be nice to see no one else Chazy, which is located in my upstate New response efforts on all levels of government, on it, one is too many.’’ York congressional district. On November 18, 2007, the Eagles won the Mike Lipski served as my liaison to MEMA, The mobile memorial built by veterans Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, New York State Class D Championship when Monty Slough and Dee Cork is an example of and slept on a cot at their headquarters for they defeated the Poland Tornadoes by a why we hold our nation’s veterans in such several days, when he wasn’t on the coast score of 1–0. In that game, Stetson Fields high esteem. I believe the character displayed with a satellite phone making immediate scored late in the second half after taking a by Mr. Slough and Mr. Cork should be high- needs assessments and providing logistical pass from Co-Captain Jason Baker. Chazy, lighted as an example of American civic duty coordination and advice. Mike traded his cot with a 14–2 shot advantage that pressured the and community support; I rise here today to and sat-phone for a tie and clipboard and re- Tornadoes’ defense all game long, was then show them that courtesy. turned to Washington where he worked close- able to preserve their lead, with goalkeeper ly with me in developing and implementing It is with great honor that I recognize Mr. Jacob Beeman recording the shutout. Katrina reform measures: Federal contracting Dee Cork for his dedication to veterans and The Eagles completed the 2007 season with reform, housing and infrastructure policy, Fed- their families. I thank him for his work, I sup- a record of 24–1–0 and with team Co-Captain eral relief and emergency recovery funding. port his mission, and I am honored to have Nolan Ryan as the holder of the state record His knowledge and experience with the Corps the opportunity to recognize him today. for career goals; in his career, Ryan scored of Engineers provided a unique resource both 173 goals, 59 assists, and 405 points. The during reform and in oversight as committees f Chazy Eagles were coached by Rob McAuliffe investigated the Government response to Hur- and assistant coaches Ian Brassard and Matt ricane Katrina. PROVIDING FOR CONCURRENCE BY Devins; Brian Norcross is the Athletic Director. Mike’s wife, the former Jill Daria Wiltzius, HOUSE WITH AMENDMENT IN Other team members were scorekeeper has stood by him throughout his military ca- SENATE AMENDMENTS TO H.R. Lindsey Seymour and players, Ben Baker, Jor- reer and his public service in my office. His 3997, HEROES EARNINGS ASSIST- dan Barriere, Kenny Bulriss, Tyler Bulriss, transfers around the world have provided them ANCE AND RELIEF TAX ACT OF Jonah Curtin, Tyson Duprey, Brad Hansen, both amazing international experiences but 2007 Shea Howley, Steven LaBombard, Co-Captain now Mike has convinced his Wisconsin girl to Kyle LaFountain, Andrew LaPierre, Perry settle in Mississippi. Our State is a better Latremore, Eric Martin, Nathan Racine, Kyle SPEECH OF place with the two of them as strong and hon- Reynolds, Kaleb Snide, Gaelan Trombley, and orable citizens. Jill is an outstanding educator HON. TOM UDALL Chris Vliege. Madam Speaker, it is an honor and hopes to pursue her Ph.D. now that they to have the opportunity to recognize them for are settled in Mississippi. I know Mike’s family OF NEW MEXICO their significant accomplishment. in Long Beach is very proud of him and his IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f successful career is a tribute to his parents: John and Eleanor. Tuesday, December 18, 2007 IN RECOGNITION OF DAN CICORA Now Mike will have time to sail, canoe, fly fish, and indulge his outdoor passions, but I Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH have no doubt he will be integral in rebuilding the Heroes Earnings and Assistance and Re- OF OHIO and leading the coast to a full recovery. lief Tax (HEART) Act of 2007 is an important IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES piece of legislation that goes a long way to- Mike Lipski left a formative mark on the Wednesday, December 19, 2007 shape and operation of my office. We will miss ward helping the financial difficulties faced by his good nature, warm friendship, determined American soldiers. This bill helps honor those Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise work ethic, and dry humor. I am proud of his who are serving so bravely during this time of today in honor of Dan Cicora, and to celebrate service and the positive difference he has war. his service to the veterans of Cuyahoga Coun- made for our State and the country. I am The HEART Act would make permanent the ty. Dan began his service to our country in grateful to call him my friend. I thank him for inclusion of combat pay as earned income, 1969. As a soldier in the United States Army, his service to this office and to Mississippi and ensuring that soldiers’ families receive much Dan served in Vietnam with the 2nd Battalion, wish him the best of fortune in his new en- needed tax relief. It also would help thousands 32nd Artillery. Dan graduated cum laude from deavors. of veterans and their families to become Ohio University in 1975, and in 1979 began f homeowners through low-interest home loans, his work with the Veterans Administration as a would support those small business employers RECOGNIZING DEE CORK AND THE benefits counselor. Dan’s extraordinary dedi- who continue to pay National Guardsmen and DENTON COUNTY VETERANS ME- cation to veterans and his sincere desire to Reservists when they are called to serve, and MORIAL serve our community has marked every posi- expands other tax credit and tax relief provi- tion he has held with the VA, and he has won sions to help ease any financial difficulties numerous accolades for his efforts. In May HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS faced by these soldiers. OF TEXAS 1983 Dan received the VA Central Office Pub- Those who answer the call of duty should IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lic Service Award, he has received five sug- be rewarded for their actions by being assured gestion awards, and twenty-three awards for Wednesday, December 19, 2007 they will not be unduly and negatively affected performance, quality and contribution. Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise due to their patriotism. I support this legislation Since 2003 Dan has served as the Con- today to thank Mr. Dee Cork for his years of and join the many veterans’ organizations in gressional Liaison for the VA Cleveland office. service in the United States Armed Forces, encouraging its passage into law. In this capacity Dan has helped my office

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.113 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2652 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 serve literally hundreds of veterans; he has COMMENDING THE STATEMENT OF ears echoes the words of an ancient prophet: been an invaluable asset to my office. I, as VICE PRESIDENT AL GORE AT ‘‘Life or death, blessings or curses. There- well as hundreds of Cleveland’s veterans and HIS ACCEPTANCE OF THE NOBEL fore, choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.’’ their families, are indebted to Dan for his pro- PEACE PRIZE IN OSLO We, the human species, are confronting a fessionalism, compassion, and dedication. planetary emergency—a threat to the sur- Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join HON. TOM LANTOS vival of our civilization that is gathering OF CALIFORNIA ominous and destructive potential even as me in honoring Dan Cicora, on the occasion of we gather here. But there is hopeful news as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES his retirement, for over twenty-eight years of well: we have the ability to solve this crisis service to the veterans of Cuyahoga County. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 and avoid the worst—though not all—of its I wish him only the best as he begins to write Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, last Octo- consequences, if we act boldly, decisively a new and exciting chapter in his life. May oth- and quickly. ber, the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize was be- However, despite a growing number of hon- ers in our community draw inspiration from his stowed on a man who has dedicated his life orable exceptions, too many of the world’s example. to making this planet a more livable place for leaders are still best described in the words all of us and future generations. Vice Presi- Winston Churchill applied to those who ig- f dent Al Gore has steadfastly served the peo- nored Adolf Hitler’s threat: ‘‘They go on in ple of the United States and the citizens of the strange paradox, decided only to be unde- A TRIBUTE TO MRS. BELLA world in his life’s work, and I commend him for cided, resolved to be irresolute, adamant for RUSSELL his leadership, foresight, and dedication in ad- drift, solid for fluidity, all powerful to be im- potent.’’ dressing the crisis of climate change. So today, we dumped another 70 million For our part, and under the visionary leader- tons of global-warming pollution into the HON. G. K. BUTTERFIELD ship of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congress has thin shell of atmosphere surrounding our planet, as if it were an open sewer. And to- OF NORTH CAROLINA taken a serious, groundbreaking step towards reducing our country’s dangerous dependence morrow, we will dump a slightly larger IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES on foreign oil by passing the Energy Inde- amount, with the cumulative concentrations pendence and Security Act, which today be- now trapping more and more heat from the Wednesday, December 19, 2007 sun. came law. I am proud to have authored the As a result, the earth has a fever. And the Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise international provisions, and could not be fever is rising. The experts have told us it is today to pay tribute to one of America’s most more proud of my colleagues for supporting a not a passing affliction that will heal by deserving citizens, Mrs. Bella Russell who will forward-looking piece of legislation that meets itself. We asked for a second opinion. And a be celebrating her 100th birthday on January the tremendous challenge of combating cli- third. And a fourth. And the consistent con- clusion, restated with increasing alarm, is 1, 2008. Mrs. Russell resides in Warren Coun- mate change head-on. At long last, we are making a meaningful investment in new tech- that something basic is wrong. ty within my Congressional District and is the We are what is wrong, and we must make nologies that will yield clean, renewable en- grandmother of our friend and colleague, Con- it right. ergy. gressman ALBERT RUSSELL WYNN. Last September 21, as the Northern Hemi- Vice President Gore’s Nobel acceptance sphere tilted away from the sun, scientists Although Mrs. Russell was born in the speech last week in Oslo, Norway epitomizes reported with unprecedented distress that County of Warren, she moved to Camden, NJ the way in which he has been able to lead by the North Polar ice cap is ‘‘falling off a as a young child where she attended the pub- example on this crucial topic. His words of cliff.’’ One study estimated that it could be lic schools. In later years, Mrs. Russell mar- truth and clarion call to action inspire us all to completely gone during summer in less than take care of this Earth we call home, and I am 22 years. Another new study, to be presented ried John Wesley Russell and through this by U.S. Navy researchers later this week, marriage, three children were born. She is honored to enter his eloquent speech into the warns it could happen in as little as 7 years. now the matriarch of this wonderful family with CONGRESSIONAL RECORD. Seven years from now. 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and Al Gore. Your Majesties, Your Royal High- In the last few months, it has been harder 7 great-great grandchildren. nesses, Honorable members of the Norwegian and harder to misinterpret the signs that our Nobel Committee, Excellencies, ladies and world is spinning out of kilter. Major cities From the State of New Jersey, the family re- gentlemen. in North and South America, Asia and Aus- located to North Carolina where they acquired I Have a purpose here today. It is a purpose tralia are nearly out of water due to massive a 200-acre farm. While Mr. Russell operated I have tried to serve for many years. I have droughts and melting glaciers. Desperate the farm, Mrs. Russell dedicated much of her prayed that God would show me a way to ac- farmers are losing their livelihoods. Peoples complish it. in the frozen Arctic and on low-lying Pacific time as a homemaker and occasionally as- Sometimes, without warning, the future islands are planning evacuations of places sisted on the farm. She was also very actively knocks on our door with a precious and pain- they have long called home. Unprecedented engaged in her community and served as 4– ful vision of what might be. One hundred and wildfires have forced a half million people H Club Leader for more than 10 years. nineteen years ago, a wealthy inventor read from their homes in one country and caused his own obituary, mistakenly published a national emergency that almost brought Madam Speaker, Mrs. Russell has dedi- years before his death. Wrongly believing the down the government in another. Climate cated 70-faithful years of her life as a member inventor had just died, a newspaper printed a refugees have migrated into areas already of Russell Union RZUA Church. She has harsh judgment of his life’s work, unfairly inhabited by people with different cultures, served as Church Mother for 50 years and labeling him ‘‘the Merchant of Death’’ be- religions, and traditions, increasing the po- took great pride in organizing church clubs cause of his invention—dynamite. Shaken by tential for conflict. Stronger storms in the this condemnation, the inventor made a fate- Pacific and Atlantic have threatened whole and groups. ful choice to serve the cause of peace. cities. Millions have been displaced by mas- Madam Speaker, over her lifetime, Mrs. Seven years later, Alfred Nobel created sive flooding in South Asia, Mexico, and 18 Russell has lived through some of the most this prize and the others that bear his name. countries in Africa. As temperature ex- significant historical periods of our time. Like Seven years ago tomorrow, I read my own tremes have increased, tens of thousands political obituary in a judgment that seemed have lost their lives. We are recklessly burn- so many of the great historical monuments to me harsh and mistaken—if not premature. ing and clearing our forests and driving more she has stood the test of time and has sur- But that unwelcome verdict also brought a and more species into extinction. The very vived Reconstruction; lynching; WorId War I; precious if painful gift: an opportunity to web of life on which we depend is being the Great Depression; WorId War II; the pe- search for fresh new ways to serve my pur- ripped and frayed. riod of segregation; the Civil Rights Move- pose. We never intended to cause all this de- ment; Voting Rights Movement; School De- Unexpectedly, that quest has brought me struction, just as Alfred Nobel never in- here. Even though I fear my words cannot tended that dynamite be used for waging segregation and other momentous times. She match this moment, I pray what I am feeling war. He had hoped his invention would pro- is indeed a walking history reference and we in my heart will be communicated clearly mote human progress. We shared that same take great pride in recognizing her for being enough that those who hear me will say, ‘‘We worthy goal when we began burning massive blessed with such longevity. must act.’’ quantities of coal, then oil and methane. The distinguished scientists with whom it Even in Nobel’s time, there were a few I ask my colleagues to join me in paying is the greatest honor of my life to share this warnings of the likely consequences. One of tribute to Mrs. Bella Russell, a most deserving award have laid before us a choice between the very first winners of the Prize in chem- American. two different futures—a choice that to my istry worried that, ‘‘We are evaporating our

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.015 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2653 coal mines into the air.’’ After performing choose our fate, and the remaining question of poverty, hunger, HIV-AIDS and other 10,000 equations by hand, Svante Arrhenius is only this: Have we the will to act vigor- pandemics. As these problems are linked, so calculated that the earth’s average tempera- ously and in time, or will we remain impris- too must be their solutions. We must begin ture would increase by many degrees if we oned by a dangerous illusion? by making the common rescue of the global doubled the amount of CO2 in the atmos- Mahatma Gandhi awakened the largest de- environment the central organizing principle phere. mocracy on earth and forged a shared resolve of the world community. Seventy years later, my teacher, Roger with what he called ‘‘Satyagraha’’—or Fifteen years ago, I made that case at the Revelle, and his colleague, Dave Keeling, ‘‘truth force.’’ ‘‘Earth Summit’’ in Rio de Janeiro. Ten began to precisely document the increasing In every land, the truth—once known—has years ago, I presented it in Kyoto. This CO2 levels day by day. the power to set us free. week, I will urge the delegates in Bali to But unlike most other forms of pollution, Truth also has the power to unite us and adopt a bold mandate for a treaty that estab- CO2 is invisible, tasteless, and odorless— bridge the distance between ‘‘me’’ and ‘‘we,’’ lishes a universal global cap on emissions which has helped keep the truth about what creating the basis for common effort and and uses the market in emissions trading to it is doing to our climate out of sight and shared responsibility. efficiently allocate resources to the most ef- out of mind. Moreover, the catastrophe now There is an African proverb that says, ‘‘If fective opportunities for speedy reductions. threatening us is unprecedented—and we you want to go quickly, go alone. If you This treaty should be ratified and brought often confuse the unprecedented with the im- want to go far, go together.’’ We need to go into effect everywhere in the world by the beginning of 2010—two years sooner than probable. far, quickly. We must abandon the conceit that indi- We also find it hard to imagine making the presently contemplated. The pace of our re- vidual, isolated, private actions are the an- massive changes that are now necessary to sponse must be accelerated to match the ac- swer. They can and do help. But they will celerating pace of the crisis itself. solve the crisis. And when large truths are not take us far enough without collective ac- Heads of state should meet early next year genuinely inconvenient, whole societies can, tion. At the same time, we must ensure that to review what was accomplished in Bali and at least for a time, ignore them. Yet as in mobilizing globally, we do not invite the take personal responsibility for addressing George Orwell reminds us: ‘‘Sooner or later a establishment of ideological conformity and this crisis. It is not unreasonable to ask, false belief bumps up against solid reality, a new lock-step ‘‘ism.’’ given the gravity of our circumstances, that usually on a battlefield.’’ That means adopting principles, values, these heads of state meet every three In the years since this prize was first laws, and treaties that release creativity and months until the treaty is completed. awarded, the entire relationship between hu- initiative at every level of society in multi- We also need a moratorium on the con- mankind and the earth has been radically fold responses originating concurrently and struction of any new generating facility that transformed. And still, we have remained spontaneously. burns coal without the capacity to safely largely oblivious to the impact of our cumu- This new consciousness requires expanding trap and store carbon dioxide. lative actions. the possibilities inherent in all humanity. And most important of all, we need to put Indeed, without realizing it, we have begun The innovators who will devise a new way to a price on carbon—with a CO2 tax that is to wage war on the earth itself. Now, we and harness the sun’s energy for pennies or in- then rebated back to the people, progres- the earth’s climate are locked in a relation- vent an engine that’s carbon negative may sively, according to the laws of each nation, ship familiar to war planners: ‘‘Mutually as- live in Lagos or Mumbai or Montevideo. We in ways that shift the burden of taxation sured destruction.’’ must ensure that entrepreneurs and inven- from employment to pollution. This is by far More than two decades ago, scientists cal- tors everywhere on the globe have the the most effective and simplest way to accel- culated that nuclear war could throw so chance to change the world. erate solutions to this crisis. much debris and smoke into the air that it When we unite for a moral purpose that is The world needs an alliance—especially of would block life-giving sunlight from our at- manifestly good and true, the spiritual en- those nations that weigh heaviest in the mosphere, causing a ‘‘nuclear winter.’’ Their ergy unleashed can transform us. The gen- scales where earth is in the balance. I salute eloquent warnings here in Oslo helped galva- eration that defeated fascism throughout the Europe and Japan for the steps they’ve nize the world’s resolve to halt the nuclear world in the 1940s found, in rising to meet taken in recent years to meet the challenge, arms race. their awesome challenge, that they had and the new government in Australia, which Now science is warning us that if we do not gained the moral authority and long-term vi- has made solving the climate crisis its first quickly reduce the global warming pollution sion to launch the Marshall Plan, the United priority. that is trapping so much of the heat our Nations, and a new level of global coopera- But the outcome will be decisively influ- planet normally radiates back out of the at- tion and foresight that unified Europe and enced by two nations that are now failing to mosphere, we are in danger of creating a per- facilitated the emergence of democracy and do enough: the United States and China. manent ‘‘carbon summer.’’ prosperity in Germany, Japan, Italy and While India is also growing fast in impor- As the American poet Robert Frost wrote, much of the world. One of their visionary tance, it should be absolutely clear that it is ‘‘Some say the world will end in fire; some leaders said, ‘‘It is time we steered by the the two largest CO2 emitters—most of all, say in ice.’’ Either, he notes, ‘‘would suf- stars and not by the lights of every passing my own country—that will need to make the boldest moves, or stand accountable before fice.’’ ship.’’ But neither need be our fate. It is time to In the last year of that war, you gave the history for their failure to act. Both countries should stop using the oth- make peace with the planet. Peace Prize to a man from my hometown of er’s behavior as an excuse for stalemate and We must quickly mobilize our civilization 2000 people, Carthage, Tennessee. Cordell instead develop an agenda for mutual sur- with the urgency and resolve that has pre- Hull was described by Franklin Roosevelt as viously been seen only when nations mobi- vival in a shared global environment. the ‘‘Father of the United Nations.’’ He was These are the last few years of decision, lized for war. These prior struggles for sur- an inspiration and hero to my own father, but they can be the first years of a bright vival were won when leaders found words at who followed Hull in the Congress and the and hopeful future if we do what we must. No the 11th hour that released a mighty surge of U.S. Senate and in his commitment to world one should believe a solution will be found courage, hope and readiness to sacrifice for a peace and global cooperation. without effort, without cost, without protracted and mortal challenge. My parents spoke often of Hull, always in change. Let us acknowledge that if we wish These were not comforting and misleading tones of reverence and admiration. Eight to redeem squandered time and speak again assurances that the threat was not real or weeks ago, when you announced this prize, with moral authority, then these are the imminent; that it would affect others but the deepest emotion I felt was when I saw hard truths: not ourselves; that ordinary life might be the headline in my hometown paper that The way ahead is difficult. The outer lived even in the presence of extraordinary simply noted I had won the same prize that boundary of what we currently believe is fea- threat; that Providence could be trusted to Cordell Hull had won. In that moment, I sible is still far short of what we actually do for us what we would not do for ourselves. knew what my father and mother would have must do. Moreover, between here and there, No, these were calls to come to the defense felt were they alive. across the unknown, falls the shadow. of the common future. They were calls upon Just as Hull’s generation found moral au- That is just another way of saying that we the courage, generosity and strength of en- thority in rising to solve the world crisis have to expand the boundaries of what is tire peoples, citizens of every class and con- caused by fascism, so too can we find our possible. In the words of the Spanish poet, dition who were ready to stand against the greatest opportunity in rising to solve the Antonio Machado, ‘‘Pathwalker, there is no threat once asked to do so. Our enemies in climate crisis. In the Kanji characters used path. You must make the path as you walk.’’ those times calculated that free people in both Chinese and Japanese, ‘‘crisis’’ is We are standing at the most fateful fork in would not rise to the challenge; they were, of written with two symbols, the first meaning that path. So I want to end as I began, with course, catastrophically wrong. ‘‘danger,’’ the second ‘‘opportunity.’’ By fac- a vision of two futures—each a palpable pos- Now comes the threat of climate crisis—a ing and removing the danger of the climate sibility—and with a prayer that we will see threat that is real, rising, imminent, and crisis, we have the opportunity to gain the with vivid clarity the necessity of choosing universal. Once again, it is the 11th hour. moral authority and vision to vastly in- between those two futures, and the urgency The penalties for ignoring this challenge are crease our own capacity to solve other crises of making the right choice now. immense and growing, and at some near that have been too long ignored. The great Norwegian playwright, Henrik point would be unsustainable and unrecover- We must understand the connections be- Ibsen, wrote, ‘‘One of these days, the younger able. For now we still have the power to tween the climate crisis and the afflictions generation will come knocking at my door.’’

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.011 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2654 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 The future is knocking at our door right or her individual specialty, and demonstrating tary School; James Newman of Taft High now. Make no mistake, the next generation educational outreach beyond the walls of the School; Thomas O’Brien of Flower Career will ask us one of two questions. Either they classroom. Academy High School; Marguerite O’Connell will ask: ‘‘What were you thinking; why Teachers everywhere play a critical role in didn’t you act?’’ of Foreman High School; Alicia Peshel of Or they will ask instead: ‘‘How did you find our children’s lives, and these sixty-eight indi- Mitchell Elementary School; Johonna Pollack the moral courage to rise and successfully viduals have exemplified that spirit and moti- of Saucedo Elementary Scholastic Academy; resolve a crisis that so many said was impos- vation, guiding students with patience, com- Holly Pruett of O.A. Thorp Elementary Scho- sible to solve?’’ passion, concern, and most of all, dedication lastic Academy; Ana Romero of Mckinley Park We have everything we need to get started, to their profession. Elementary School; and Selma Saidane of save perhaps political will, but political will Madam Speaker, I am proud tp honor these Kellogg Elementary School. is a renewable resource. distinguished educators on their award of Na- Richard Sasso of Hinsdale South High So let us renew it, and say together: ‘‘We tional Board Certification. I have no doubt that have a purpose. We are many. For this pur- School; Julianne Soble of Solomon Elemen- pose we will rise, and we will act.’’ their efforts have had a tremendous impact on tary School; William Spain of Amundsen High countless children throughout the Chicago- f School; Darlene Stone of Donoghue Elemen- area, and that they will continue their profound tary School; Jennifer Trejo of Taft High TRIBUTE TO JOSEPH MICHAEL effect for years to come. School; Patrice Turk; Yoni Vallecillo of Senn HERMAN I wish to congratulate: High School; and Kristen Wilkens of Best Cynthia Ahn of O.A. Thorp Elementary Practice High School. Scholastic Academy; Cynthia Anderson of HON. SAM GRAVES f Highcrest Middle School; Wendy Anderson of OF MISSOURI Audubon Elementary School; Rolando CONCERNS ABOUT BORDER IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Argumedo of Nobel Elementary School; Anita PATROL ACTIONS Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Aysola of Walter Payton College Preparatory Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly High School; Rosemary Barilla of Sauganash HON. MARK UDALL Elementary School; Pamela Barreda of pause to recognize Joseph M. Herman a very OF COLORADO McPherson Elementary School; Becky special young man who has exemplified the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by Benkiser of Mitchell Elementary School; Jes- taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of sica Bezares of Avondale Elementary School; Wednesday, December 19, 2007 America and earning the most prestigious and Patricia Bonness of Vaughn Occupational Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Madam Speaker, award of Eagle Scout. High School. like many of our colleagues I have seen re- Joseph has been very active with his troop, Daniel Caldwell of Northside College Pre- cent news reports about the use of pepper participating in many scout activities. Over the paratory High School; Elizabeth Campe- spray by Border Patrol officers who have been many years Joseph has been involved with Montcalm of Sullivan High School; Paul the targets of attacks by people on the other scouting, he has not only earned numerous Carrera of Lane Technical High School; Jen- side of our southern border. merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- nifer Catron of Depriest Elementary School; I am sure that we all agree that the officers ily, peers, and community. Holly Clark of Roosevelt School; Jennifer can and should defend themselves, but like Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join Cline; Alan Demski of Taft High School; Adlin others I am concerned about the extent to me in commending Joseph Michael Herman Dominguez of Roque De Duprey Elementary which use of pepper spray or other chemical for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts School; Edward Dziedzic of Whitney M. Young agents could have unintended consequences. of America and for his efforts put forth in Magnet High School; and Catalina Fernandez In that connection, I think we should care- achieving the highest distinction of Eagle of Vaughn Occupational High School. fully consider a recent editorial in the Gazette, Scout. Laura Floyd of Mayer Elementary School; a daily newspaper published in Colorado f Anna Franczyk; Tiffany Frayer of Moos Ele- Springs, Colorado. mentary School; Mary Galligan of O.A. Thorp As the editorial puts it: CELEBRATING THE TEACHERS OF Elementary Scholastic Academy; Christopher The Mexican Consulate has complained, THE ILLINOIS’ FIFTH CONGRES- Gamble of Whitney M. Young Magnet High and rightly so. The United States is not at SIONAL DISTRICT WHO RE- School; Valerie Gemskie of Walter Payton war with Mexico, and it makes sense to CEIVED NATIONAL BOARD CER- College Preparatory High School; Donna maintain friendly relations with our south- TIFICATION IN 2007 Goode of Solomon Elementary School; Laurie ern neighbor. Green of Bridge Elementary School; Francese Border Patrol officials argued that the HON. RAHM EMANUEL Guerrero Borrull of Roosevelt High School; agents need to protect themselves, and that and Samara Guzman of Newberry Elementary the smugglers should be blamed for hiding OF ILLINOIS behind innocent people. Well, there are bet- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Math & Science Academy. ter ways to protect against criminals than to Deidre Habetler of Dever Elementary Wednesday, December 19, 2007 saturate entire neighborhoods with tear-gas School; Arthur Helbig of Casals Elementary canisters. For starters, the Border Patrol Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise School; Patricia Jones of Haugan Elementary could engage in cooperative efforts with the today to recognize sixty eight distinguished School; Sarah Kissell; Renee Kreczmer of Tijuana police or the Mexican federal au- teachers from Illinois’ Fifth Congressional Dis- Sauganash Elementary School; Phyllis Kuziel- thorities to go after the rock-throwers. trict who have been honored with National Perri of Hitch Elementary School; Wendy I think that is a suggestion well worth ex- Board Certification by the National Board for Lambie of Gray Elementary School; Joan ploring. Professional Teaching Standards. Leber of Talcott Elementary School; Carrie For the information of all our colleagues, National Board Certification is the highest Lewin of Donoghue Elementary School; and here is the complete text of the editorial: level of certification in the teaching profession, Martin Lombardo of Foreman High School. [From the Colorado Springs Gazette, Dec. 18, and these teachers have earned this distinc- Eileen Luciano of Sumner Elementary Math 2007] tion through their service, commitment, and & Science Community Academy; Erin BORDER PATROL SHOULD STOP TEAR-GAS excellence in teaching. Luzadder of Palatine High School; Katrin ATTACKS Those who are honored with this award are Machaj of Lane Technical High School; Dona What would Americans think if Mexican widely considered to be at the peak of their Maldonado of Hamline Elementary School; officials routinely fired pepper spray and profession, providing countless opportunities Gladys Maldonado of Haugan Elementary tear gas into California neighborhoods as a for children to learn and excel. National Board School; Martha Maly of Jenner Elementary way to root out, say, smugglers who were op- Certified teachers are also statistically proven Academy of The Arts; Mary Martin of Haw- erating from the U.S. side of the border? How to increase financial opportunities within their thorne Elementary Scholastic Academy; Tricia would we, as Americans, feel if our houses districts, strengthen the teaching practice, and Mcgann of Sheridan Elementary Math & were damaged, our neighborhoods evacuated and our children endangered because of the improve student learning. Science Academy; James Mcintosh of Roo- aggressive tactics of the Mexican police or Applicants for this award may spend up to sevelt High School; and Traci Meziere of Cen- military? three years proving themselves, while under- tral Elementary School. Most Americans would no doubt be out- going peer reviews by 12 separate teachers, Michelle Nash of Hammond Elementary raged. American officials would likely de- passing competency and skill testing within his School; Jennifer Nelson of New Field Elemen- mand that Mexico cease and desist from such

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.011 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2655 behavior. The anger would be perfectly justi- Medicaid budget: $850 million in budget relief TERRORISM RISK INSURANCE PRO- fied. at a time when Mississippi was straining under GRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT Mexican officials are not attacking the the pressures of disaster recovery. OF 2007 United States, but U.S. Border Patrol agents are attacking the Colonia Libertad neighbor- While working in Washington, she met a hood of Tijuana. Mexicans have every right young man from Texas named Spencer Ritch- SPEECH OF to be as angry as we would be if the roles ie and they married in March of 2005. But were reversed. rather than carrying her away to the Lone Star HON. TOM UDALL In response to smugglers who are pelting State, she converted him into a Mississippian. OF NEW MEXICO Border Patrol agents in order to create a di- He is now in law school at the University of version, the Americans are stepping up their IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mississippi, where she works in Oxford. efforts. ‘‘Agents have used pepper spray in Tuesday, December 18, 2007 the past, but usually aimed directly at the Mary Mills’ hard work and success is a trib- smugglers,’’ the Los Angeles Times reported ute to her parents, Sam and Leila Lane. I Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Madam Speak- Friday. ‘‘The new tactics, which saturate know they and her brothers, Samuel and Ben, er, In 2002, we enacted the Terrorism Risk In- large areas, have forced dozens of temporary are very proud of her. surance Act in an attempt to stabilize the evacuations and sent some residents to hos- economy following the tragic events of Sep- pitals.’’ Madam Speaker, Mary Mills Ritchie left a The Mexican Consulate has complained, formative mark on my health care agenda and tember 11, 2001 and to protect against eco- and rightly so. The United States is not at on our office. We will not forget her good na- nomic catastrophe should another attack war with Mexico, and it makes sense to ture or her eagerness to learn and work. She occur. This important program is set to expire maintain friendly relations with our south- possesses a rare grace and presence. This at the end of the year, and it is essential that ern neighbor. unique spirit carries her compassion and com- we reauthorize TRIA. Border Patrol officials argued that the mitment to help, teach and serve others. She The legislation before us is not the strong agents need to protect themselves, and that bill we passed in September or the com- the smugglers should be blamed for hiding continues to bless the lives of all who know behind innocent people. Well, there are bet- her. I thank her for her service to this office promise we passed last week, and it is not a ter ways to protect against criminals than to and to Mississippi. perfect bill. It extends TRIA by only 7 years saturate entire neighborhoods with tear-gas and does not include the strong new provi- canisters. For starters, the Border Patrol f sions that were included in the other bills we could engage in cooperative efforts with the passed. However, this legislation does do one Tijuana police or the Mexican federal au- RECOGNIZING MONTY SLOUGH vital thing: it works to ensure the stability of thorities to go after the rock-throwers. AND THE DENTON COUNTY VET- our economy should another national crisis We understand that the issue of illegal im- ERANS MEMORIAL occur. For this very important reason, I sup- migration is extremely contentious, but even those advocating tougher U.S. enforcement port this legislation today but hope we can measures should agree that there need to be pass a stronger bill in the future. limits to the policy. It’s hard to make the HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS argument that Mexicans are trampling our OF TEXAS f sovereignty while we so eagerly trample theirs. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN REMEMBRANCE OF ANGELO WEDO f Wednesday, December 19, 2007 IN HONOR OF MARY MILLS Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise RITCHIE today to thank Mr. Monty Slough of Little Elm, HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH Texas for his years of service in the United OF OHIO HON. CHARLES W. ‘‘CHIP’’ PICKERING States Armed Forces, and for his continued IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF MISSISSIPPI service to our country by building a memorial Wednesday, December 19, 2007 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to veterans from Denton County, Texas. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 After checking records at the Department of Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise Veterans Affairs, Monty identified the names today to honor the life of Angelo Wedo, a Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, as we of nine fallen service members and created a former shoemaker’s helper and railroad work- wrap up this year in Congress, I want to honor personal way to memorialize their service. er, who served ten years as mayor of Brook Mary Mills Ritchie, who left my staff earlier this Without prompting or financial support, Mr. Park, Ohio. year to return to Mississippi. She was a dedi- Slough began building a granite tiled memorial Born in Windber, PA, Angelo was the son of cated member of my staff who honorably to Denton County soldiers, sailors, airmen, Italian immigrants. After graduating with a de- served my office and the people of Mis- and marines who died in service in Iraq or Af- gree in accounting from Lehigh University, An- sissippi. ghanistan. gelo moved to the Cleveland area, where he Mary Mills came to my office as our staff as- Mr. Slough has taken up the honorable but worked as an accountant for Pre-form Marine sistant in 2003, after graduating from the Uni- unfortunate task of paying respect to fellow Products before and after his stint as mayor. versity of Mississippi earlier that year, and veterans who pay the ultimate price while In 1961, Angelo was elected Brook Park city Jackson Preparatory School in 1999. She serving our country. In his own eloquent words treasurer. He served as Ward 4 councilman demonstrated her abilities to understand and Monty said, ‘‘This isn’t going to bring them from 1966 to 1970 and as council president affect public policy and with her dedicated back, but they sure as hell are not going to be for two years before becoming mayor. work ethic, her role grew to Legislative Assist- forgotten.’’ ant for health care policy. Angelo served as mayor from 1972 to 1981 She managed this legislative portfolio at a The mobile memorial built by veterans and is credited for playing an integral role in critical time, as we worked with seniors and Monty Slough and Dee Cork is an example of establishing the city’s first recreation center. In communities to implement the Medicare Re- why we hold our Nation’s veterans in such appreciation of his commitment to recreation form Act of 2003 that provides prescription high esteem. I believe the character displayed facilities, a city park was named in his honor. drug benefits to needy Americans. She served by Mr. Slough and Mr. Cork should be high- Angelo was the devoted husband of Sondra as my liaison to the Centers for Medicare & lighted as an example of American civic duty and the loving father of Greg, Michelle, Tony, Medicaid Services and assisted pharmacists, and community support; I rise here today to Valerie, and Vicki. He was the cherished hospitals, and other health care providers in show them that courtesy. grandfather of six grandchildren. Mississippi move through the Washington bu- It is with great honor that I recognize Mr. Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join reaucracies. Monty Slough of Little Elm, Texas for his dedi- me in honoring Angelo Wedo, an enthusiastic Following Hurricane Katrina, she played a cation to veterans and their families. I thank member of the Brook Park community and critical role as we inserted language in the him for his work, I support his mission, and I dedicated servant of local government. May Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 that provided am honored to represent him in the 26th Dis- his commitment to Brook Park serve as an ex- funds for 81⁄2 months of Mississippi’s state trict of Texas. ample to all of us.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.120 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2656 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 TRIBUTE TO AARON DAVID is allowed to keep its arguably questionable more informed any such discussion will be. HUDSPETH activities secret. That’s why it is deplorable that the Justice I completely agree with that succinct sum- Department wants to quash congressional mary of the situation, and urge the and judicial inquiries into the destruction of HON. SAM GRAVES videotapes that may—or may not—have doc- OF MISSOURI Intellligence Committees to proceed with their umented the use of inappropriate techniques inquiries. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES by government operatives. For the information of all our colleagues, I In a democratic system the government is Wednesday, December 19, 2007 am attaching the complete text of the Ga- supposed to serve the interests of the people Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly zette’s editorial: and eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. pause to recognize Aaron David Hudspeth a [From the Colorado Springs Gazette, Dec. 18, But the people cannot maintain vigilance very special young man who has exemplified 2007] over ‘‘their’’ government if the government is allowed to keep its arguably questionable OPEN GOVERNMENT—CONGRESS MUST the finest qualities of citizenship and leader- activities secret. ship by taking an active part in the Boy Scouts INVESTIGATE TAPES’ DESTRUCTION of America and earning the most prestigious Although the circumstances are suspicious f surrounding a decision by the CIA to destroy award of Eagle Scout. CONGRATULATING STRATON Aaron has been very active with his troop, videotapes of the interrogations of two al- Qaida suspects by CIA interrogators, it is KARATOSSOS participating in many scout activities. Over the virtually impossible to know whether those many years Aaron has been involved with tapes contain evidence of ‘‘enhanced interro- HON. CHARLES W. ‘‘CHIP’’ PICKERING scouting, he has not only earned numerous gation’’ techniques that rise to the level of OF MISSISSIPPI merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- torture. What is certain is that all the inves- ily, peers, and community. tigations into how and why those tapes were IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join destroyed, and who ordered their destruc- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 me in commending Aaron David Hudspeth for tion, should proceed with all deliberate Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, the ath- his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of speed. Last week CIA Director Gen. Michael Hay- letic tradition at Mississippi State University America and for his efforts put forth in achiev- den gave secret testimony to the Senate In- has celebrated the lives and accomplishments ing the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. telligence Committee regarding the hun- of many student and staff leaders over the f dreds of hours of videotaped interrogation of years. Recently another has been added to two men identified as members of al-Qaida, this list when Straton Karatassos was inducted INVESTIGATION NEEDED ABOUT Abu Zubaydah and Abd ai-Rahim al-Nashiri. TAPE DESTRUCTION He acknowledged that the tapes had been de- into the Mississippi Athletic Trainers’ Associa- stroyed sometime around 2005. tion Hall of Fame. HON. MARK UDALL The House and Senate intelligence com- Straton has a lifetime of experiences and mittees and other congressional committees stories as a manager and trainer of athletic OF COLORADO have vowed to undertake investigations into teams. While working with the Georgia South- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the circumstances under which those tapes ern baseball team in 1973, he made his first Wednesday, December 19, 2007 were destroyed. This is an appropriate use of visit to Mississippi State University for a game, the legislative branch’s power to oversee the Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Madam Speaker, activities of the executive branch, especially and later that year returned as a graduate stu- many Americans are rightly concerned about when allegations of illegal activity are in- dent. Now, three decades later, Straton has reports that the Central Intelligence Agency volved. become inseparable from the MSU athletic destroyed tapes documenting the interrogation On Friday, however, the Justice Depart- family. He was named State’s head trainer in of two suspected Al Qaida terrorists. ment asked the relevant congressional com- 1981, later served as assistant athletic director This morning’s newspapers report that the mittees to postpone their investigations for sports medicine, and now works as assist- while preliminary investigations by the Jus- decision to destroy the tapes may have come ant athletic director for athletic development tice Department and the CIA itself are under within the Bulldog Club. after the matter had been discussed with legal way. U.S. Attorney General Michael advisers at the highest level in the Bush ad- Mukasey also announced that the Justice While he is a native of Savannah, GA, we ministration. Department would not comply with congres- like to claim him as a true son of Starkville. He I do not know how accurate those reports sional requests for information at this time. and his wife, Harriet, of Batesville, MS, are may be. But I agree with an editorial in yester- This stonewalling is inappropriate and central to the Bulldog community, and he is as day’s Gazette, the daily newspaper of Colo- only feeds suspicion. Congress is an equal much part of the teams at Mississippi State as rado Springs, that Congress should investigate branch of government under the Constitu- are the players. tion. As such, it has full authority to con- this matter. Madam Speaker, I hope the Congress joins duct investigations into the activities of ex- me in congratulating Straton Karatassos for a In the words of the Gazette: ecutive branch employees. The House and Senate intelligence com- At the same time, the Justice Department lifetime of service to sport and saluting him in mittees and other congressional committees is urging a federal judge not to hold a hear- his induction into the Mississippi Athletic Train- have vowed to undertake investigations into ing into the destruction of the tapes. U.S. ers’ Association Hall of Fame. the circumstances under which those tapes District Judge Henry Kennedy is presiding f were destroyed. This is an appropriate use of over a case involving 12 Yemeni prisoners the legislative branch’s power to oversee the being held at the detention camp at Guanta- EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR MEM- activities of the executive branch, especially namo Bay on Cuba. Defense lawyers have BERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD when allegations of illegal activity are in- urged such a hearing, noting that in 2005 volved. Kennedy as the presiding judge in SPEECH OF On Friday, however, the Justice Depart- Zubaydah’s and al-Nashiri’s cases ordered ment asked the relevant congressional com- that all evidence involving that case be pre- HON. TOM UDALL mittees to postpone their investigations served, and want to determine whether the OF NEW MEXICO while preliminary investigations by the Jus- destruction of the Zubaydah and al-Nashiri IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tice Department and the CIA itself are under interrogation tapes violated that order. way. U.S. Attorney General Michael It is possible for reasonable people to differ Monday, December 17, 2007 Mukasey also announced that the Justice as to whether torture is ever justified. We Department would not comply with congres- agree with Sen. John McCain, who knows Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, sional requests for information at this time. something about torture from his experience the men and women who put on the uniform This stonewalling is inappropriate and as a Vietnam prisoner of war, that the of the National Guard have acted with extreme only feeds suspicion. Congress is an equal United States should maintain the moral bravery and integrity. Through the wars in Af- branch of government under the Constitu- high ground by abjuring torture. Most expe- ghanistan and Iraq, these soldiers have fought tion. As such, it has full authority to con- rienced interrogators also note that torture valiantly, without question and without reserva- duct investigations into the activities of ex- is not a reliable way to acquire accurate in- tions, and they embody the entire spirit of ecutive branch employees. * * * formation. In a democratic system the government is A broad, informed debate on appropriate service. supposed to serve the interests of the people interrogation techniques is appropriate In New Mexico, the National Guard has and eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. given widespread suspicion that the U.S. has played an historic role in defending our Nation. But the people cannot maintain vigilance used techniques that are tantamount to tor- Members of the New Mexico National Guard over ‘‘their’’ government if the government ture. The more information available, the served as ‘‘Rough Riders’’ on San Juan Hill

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.008 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2657 with Teddy Roosevelt, served as prisoners of saw much combat. His deployments included would have been even slower. And the clean- war at Bataan for horrendous years during serving on the USS Haverfield (DER 393) and up would have taken even longer. World War II, and were deployed to Operation the USS New Orleans (LPH–11). While on ac- Today, however, many of these rescue Desert Shield. Whether fighting during a time tive duty, he achieved the rank of lieutenant workers and volunteers suffer severe res- of war, assisting local and State law enforce- commander, a rank he made as an early se- piratory illnesses and diseases as a result of ment, or guarding our borders, New Mexico’s lectee. their exposure to toxic debris and materials at National Guard stands ‘‘ready to fight’’ and ac- Wanting to spend more time with his family, Ground Zero. To add insult to injury, the Bush complishes every mission it receives with dis- Bob returned to Kansas after 11 years of serv- administration has failed to provide them with tinction and with pride. ice. Bob has always put his family first, and is adequate health care and, in some cases, ac- We in the House offer our unconditional a loving and caring husband and father. tually challenged the cause of their illnesses, support of these men and women, and I Throughout the years, he made financial and which doctor after doctor has diagnosed as strongly support this legislation. professional sacrifices to make sure that his stemming from the poisonous air at Ground f relationship with his family came first. Zero. Bob spent 3 years in Salina, working for Our Nation can and must do far better by TRIBUTE TO KEITH MICHAEL Marymount College and the engineering firm our heroes. That is why I strongly support and GREENWOOD of Wilson & Sons. While in Salina, he became have cosponsored the James Zadroga 9/11 interested in our Nation’s energy policies and Health and Compensation Act. This legislation HON. SAM GRAVES alternative energy. He started his own busi- would establish a World Trade Center Health OF MISSOURI ness for alternative energy in Salina before program to provide medical monitoring, treat- ment, and compensation to emergency re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES being appointed to a position with the then Kansas Department of Energy. After leaving sponders, recovery and cleanup workers, and Wednesday, December 19, 2007 his appointment, he moved to Lawrence, KS, other Ground Zero workers suffering serious Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly and spent several years with the University of diseases as a result of their efforts. It would pause to recognize Keith Michael Greenwood Kansas developing various forms of alternative also expand the number of individuals who are a very special young man who has exempli- energy. In 1982, Bob began doing government to be covered by such arrangements and cre- fied the finest qualities of citizenship and lead- relations work for Kansas Power & Light, and ates a nationwide network of health care pro- ership by taking an active part in the Boy was central to the development of their energy viders for treating victims residing outside the Scouts of America and earning the most pres- policies. While at Kansas Power & Light, Bob New York City area. The American people understand that we tigious award of Eagle Scout. became vice president of operations, and have a duty to support our heroes—from Keith has been very active with his troop, helped to create a successful strategy to bring those who saved lives in the aftermath of 9/11 participating in many scout activities. Over the economically efficient power to Kansas. many years Keith has been involved with In 1991, Bob left Kansas Power & Light to to all of our service men and women returning scouting, he has not only earned numerous help create a fuel-cell company based out of from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. It’s sad merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- Connecticut. He then came to work with Black that we need legislation to force the Bush ad- ily, peers, and community. & Veatch, starting with a project to build a ministration to do right by our heroes—but Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join power plant in Florida. He returned to Kansas such is the situation we face. Thus, I will con- me in commending Keith Michael Greenwood in 1994 as head of Black & Veatch’s govern- tinue to fight for passage of the James for his accomplishments with the Boy Scouts ment relations, and has continued in this posi- Zadroga Act, will continue to seek increased of America and for his efforts put forth in tion to the present day. Throughout his time at funding to treat veterans and troops with post- achieving the highest distinction of Eagle Black & Veatch, I have had the opportunity traumatic stress disorder, severe brain injury, Scout. and privilege to work with Bob on a wide and other needs, and will work hard to elect a new President of the United States who will f range of exciting projects. Throughout his life, Bob has always been a do more than pay lip service to the needs of HONORING ROBERT F. RIORDAN man of integrity, honor, and loyalty. Bob’s our heroes. Finally, I wish to applaud the good people at word is his pledge. More importantly, Bob will the Unsung Heroes Helping Heroes organiza- HON. TODD TIAHRT do something or take some action simply be- tion. While they never asked for anybody’s OF KANSAS cause it is the right thing to do. Bob never car- praise, they have earned it—not only through IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ries a grudge, and he never keeps score of their actions on 9/11, but also through their what he has done for others. Through his Wednesday, December 19, 2007 tireless advocacy on behalf of all those strug- service to his country, dedication to his career, gling with serious health problems caused by Mr. TIAHRT. Madam Speaker, I rise today and devotion to his family and friends, he ex- 9/11 and through their assistance to sick and to recognize my good friend, Robert F. Rior- emplifies all that is best about Kansans. injured 9/11 responders. dan, who is retiring after many years of active I would like to wish Bob, and his wife Pam, involvement in the Kansas business commu- all the best as they enter this new chapter of f nity. Bob is set to retire at the end of the year their lives. RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBU- as the head of government relations for Black f TIONS OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE & Veatch, a leader in energy and water indus- INDUSTRY TO THE UNITED IN SUPPORT OF THE JAMES tries, and one of Kansas’s largest businesses. STATES ECONOMY Bob is the eldest of Francis Xavier and Eliz- ZADROGA 9/11 HEALTH AND COM- abeth Parris Riordan’s four sons. He was PENSATION ACT SPEECH OF raised in Wichita and Salina, KS. Despite the HON. DAVID WU loss of his father when Bob was only 13 years HON. STEVEN R. ROTHMAN old, he excelled in academics and sports while OF OREGON OF NEW JERSEY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES at Sacred Heart High School in Salina. At Sa- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cred Heart, he was captain of the basketball Monday, December 17, 2007 Wednesday, December 19, 2007 team, a member of the 1958 American Legion Mr. WU. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of State Champions, and valedictorian of his Mr. ROTHMAN. Madam Speaker, our Na- H.J. Res. 15—Recognizing the contributions of class. tion owes a debt of gratitude to those who the Christmas tree industry to the United Upon graduation from Sacred Heart in 1960, selflessly rushed to Ground Zero to help their States economy. I am proud to be a cospon- he attended the United States Naval Acad- fellow citizens during and immediately fol- sor of this resolution. emy. Bob received his commission as an en- lowing the terrorist attacks of September 11, During the holiday season, it is appropriate sign in 1964 upon his graduation from Annap- 2001. These courageous American men and that we consider this resolution. Many Ameri- olis. He married Pamela Elizabeth Sutton, and women thought of others first and themselves cans participate in the tradition of Christmas together they have three children and three second. Truthfully, if it were not for the fire- and Christmas trees are an important part of grandchildren, with two more grandchildren on fighters, rescue workers, emergency medical this tradition. Many memories associated with the way. Bob served his country for 11 years providers, and volunteers who helped in the Christmas include a beautiful natural tree while on active duty as a naval officer. He days following 9/11, then the death toll may decorated with lights and ornaments with gifts made numerous deployments to Vietnam and have been even higher. The healing process underneath, shared with family and friends.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.126 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2658 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 Whether families purchase a pre-cut tree or In his last year as Director of the B&ECPL, uisite incentives for whistleblowers and to clar- cut the trees themselves—the tree most likely Mr. Mahaney oversaw a $500,000 increase in ify that the law was intended to reach all came from a tree farm. More than 36 million county funding and the passage of the Library frauds on the Government, regardless of the Christmas trees are produced each year, and Protection Act, a local law safeguarding library form of the transaction. The False Claims 98 percent of them come from Christmas trees funds after the county’s annual budget is Amendments Act was passed by Congress farms. Christmas tree farms have a positive adopted, a goal library officials had sought for and signed into law on October 27, 1986. In contribution to our economy. 14 years. addition to addressing incentives, the new law None know the importance of Christmas Madam Speaker, it is my honor to stand also provided for a subpoena-type authority for trees to our economy better than Oregonians. here today to pay tribute to the inspired lead- the Department of Justice so that the Depart- In 2006, Christmas trees accounted for more ership and remarkable contributions of Michael ment could fully investigate allegations raised than $121 million of the Oregon economy. Our C. Mahaney during his 34 years of dedicated by whistleblowers. Congress intended that the number one agricultural commodity is nursery service to the Buffalo and Erie County Public Department of Justice would use this new products, including Christmas trees. While Library System. I thank you, Madam Speaker, ‘‘civil investigative demand’’ authority to obtain many people know Oregon for our forests, it is for allowing me this opportunity to honor Mr. documents and testimony, and then question fitting that we are also first in the Nation in Mahaney’s past service and ask you and the witnesses and experts about this information Christmas tree production. I am proud to rep- rest of our colleagues to join me in wishing to fully comprehend its significance. resent thousands of Oregonians who are part Mr. Mahaney the very best of health and suc- I am very happy to report that, in the years of the Christmas tree and nursery industry. cess in the years to come. since 1986, the amended Act has returned Christmas trees are both part of the Christ- f over $20 billion to the United States Govern- mas and winter holiday season, and important INTRODUCTION OF THE FALSE ment that otherwise would have been lost to to Oregon and the nation’s economy. I com- CLAIMS ACT CORRECTIONS ACT fraud. For the most part, the law has been a mend my colleague, Ms. FOXX, for introducing OF 2007 resounding success. The Government has re- this resolution. ceived full compensation for many of its f HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN losses, and has also imposed financial pen- HONORING RETIRING DIRECTOR OF CALIFORNIA alties on many who have knowingly over-billed OF THE BUFFALO AND ERIE IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Government. It has utilized information COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYS- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 from False Claims Act informants to impose TEM MICHAEL C. MAHANEY Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, I am criminal sanctions, including imprisonment, on pleased to introduce the False Claims Act the worst offenders. The Department of De- HON. BRIAN HIGGINS Corrections Act of 2007, a bill designed to re- fense and the Department of Health and OF NEW YORK turn the False Claims Act to its original intent. Human Services, in turn, have debarred from IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES This legislation is sorely needed today, with Government contracting, and excluded from Wednesday, December 19, 2007 the Department of Defense budget raided by participation in the Medicare program, some of unscrupulous contractors willing to enrich those subject to judgments and convictions. Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I rise today themselves at the expense of our Nation, and Other agencies have taken similar action. As to honor the service of Mr. Michael C. the Medicare program at risk of insolvency a result of this aggressive enforcement action Mahaney, Director of the Buffalo and Erie while organized crime and others pilfer funds by our executive branch, many companies County Public Library System, whose exem- meant for the care of our elderly and disabled. have been motivated to initiate compliance ef- plary service will conclude on January 4, The proposed amendments would correct the forts, and have been deterred from engaging 2008. in the types of fraudulent schemes subject to Mr. Mahaney began his involvement with effect of unduly restrictive judicial opinions by clarifying that Congress intends the law to enforcement activity. the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library reach all types of fraud on the Federal fisc, re- Nonetheless, the law has not been a suc- (B&ECPL) in December of 1973 as a Library gardless of the form of the transaction. The cess in one critical respect: it could be doing Page in the Central Library’s Stack Depart- amendments would also restore the intended far more. If construed according to Congress’ ment. In 1976, he received his Master of Li- incentives for whistleblowers, to act when they original intent, it could be bringing in many bil- brary Science degree from the State Univer- discover fraud against the United States Gov- lions of additional dollars in recoveries from sity of New York at Buffalo, and began work- ernment. those who have cheated at the expense of the ing as a part-time Librarian at the Fairfield, The False Claims Act was signed into law taxpayer. Instead, some courts have mis- Mead and Kensington Branch Libraries before by President Abraham Lincoln in order to com- construed our intent, even in clear language in being appointed to a full-time Librarian posi- bat rampant fraud in Civil War defense con- the law, in a manner that leaves entire cat- tion in the Central Library’s Business and tracts. The Supreme Court has called the law egories of fraud outside the reach of the law. Labor Department. the ‘‘Government’s primary litigative tool for Mr. Mahaney’s love of the library system For example, courts have thrown out cases in combating fraud,’’ a law ‘‘intended to reach all which the Government has administered Gov- and his natural leadership abilities soon pro- types of fraud, without qualification, that might pelled him to more senior positions within the ernment programs, and expended its funds result in financial loss to the Government.’’ through contractors and other agents, as op- B&ECPL, including liaison to the Erie County The statute, which embodies principles devel- Legislature, Library constituents, local and re- posed to direct expenditure. Many courts un- oped in centuries-old English common law, reasonably have barred whistleblowers with gional media and the Library Board of Trust- contains incentives for private individuals to ees, and Chairman of the Library’s long range potentially meritorious claims from pursuing report false claims and fraudulent activity. It cases. For example, the courts have dis- planning committee. He was also an active also allows private parties to sue on behalf of member of the New York Library Association missed cases brought by insiders who know the United States and bring their private re- key details of fraudulent schemes because and American Library Association, frequently sources to support the Government’s inves- representing the Buffalo and Erie County Pub- they can’t plead specific details of the billing tigation and litigation. If the United States in- documentation, such as the dates and identi- lic Library on committees and task forces and vestigates and finds merit to the private party’s at various state and national conferences. fication numbers of invoices—information ordi- allegations, it may intervene in and take con- narily sought and obtained in discovery. Fi- In January 2000, Mr. Mahaney was pro- trol of the lawsuit. moted to the post of Deputy Director, Chief During the first century after its enactment, nally, due to procedural requirements and an Operating Officer of the B&ECPL, responsible however, the law fell into disuse as amend- oversight in our original drafting, the Depart- for the administration of all Library public sup- ments and adverse case law chipped away at ment of Justice has not employed the civil in- port and planning functions and played a crit- the incentives needed to bring whistleblowers vestigative demand authority as hoped. ical role in the development of the Library’s forward. Moreover, the courts had restricted The amendments proposed in this legisla- strategic plan. the law by construing ambiguities in the act tion will remove these debilitating qualifications Following a national recruitment effort in against the Government. It had also become and to clarify that the Act is intended to ‘‘reach January 2003, Mr. Mahaney was chosen over- apparent that, in order for the law to have its all types of fraud, without qualification’’ leading whelmingly by the Library’s Board of Trustees intended impact, the Department of Justice to Government losses. We intend for these to serve as permanent Director of the needed the power to compel testimony and amendments to apply to all future cases as B&ECPL. During this time, he was instru- production of documents to investigate allega- well as all cases that are pending in the courts mental in guiding the community through the tions made by informants. on the date the amendments become law. reorganization of the Library in the aftermath In 1986, Senator CHARLES GRASSLEY and I The Amendments’ most critical goals are of Erie County’s worst budget crisis in history. worked together in an effort to restore the req- the following: Clarifying that the Act covers

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.129 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2659 fraud on Government programs even when TRIBUTE TO AARON N. grew steadily over the years, blossoming into the Government uses agents and other third MENICHETTI the now $3-million-a-year industry with per- parties to administer Government programs formances across the country. and contracts; Clarifying that the Govern- HON. SAM GRAVES Despite these notable achievements, Bill will ment’s new or amended complaint in a qui OF MISSOURI probably be best remembered for founding the tam action relates back to the original qui tam IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Critics and Awards Program, otherwise known complaint to the same extent it would relate as the Cappies. Bill was inspired to institute back if the Government had filed the original Wednesday, December 19, 2007 this regional institution, which honors excep- complaint; Clarifying that plaintiffs do not need Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I proudly tional high school dramatic and musical per- to have access to individual claims data or pause to recognize Aaron N. Menichetti a very formances throughout the Washington, DC, documents to bring a False Claims Act case; special young man who has exemplified the metro area, after being diagnosed with an ag- Amending the Act so that a qui tam case may finest qualities of citizenship and leadership by gressive strain of pancreatic cancer. Every be dismissed in light of prior public disclosures taking an active part in the Boy Scouts of year, high school students gather at the Ken- only upon motion of the Government, and only America and earning the most prestigious nedy Center for a ceremony not unlike the if the case is truly parasitic; Amending and award of Eagle Scout. Tony Awards in New York. I look forward to clarifying the Act to specify how the Act’s chief Aaron has been very active with his troop, the Cappies every year, and hope this tradi- investigative tool—the civil investigative de- participating in many scout activities. Over the tion continues for years to come. mand—may be used to investigate violations many years Aaron has been involved with I was saddened to hear Bill succumbed to of the Act; and clarifying how the Act applies scouting, he has not only earned numerous cancer at his home in McLean, VA, on De- to Federal employees who discover fraud dur- merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- cember 18, 2007. His legacy of both the Cap- ing the course of their employment, by pro- ily, peers, and community. itol Steps and the Cappies will keep his mem- viding the Government authority to move to Madam Speaker, I proudly ask you to join ory alive within the Capitol Beltway for many dismiss the action of any Federal employee me in commending Aaron N. Menichetti for his years to come. May the elected officials in this who brings a qui tam action under the Act accomplishments with the Boy Scouts of body never cease to give Mr. Strauss’ com- without first having provided the Government America and for his efforts put forth in achiev- pany a plethora of material to keep the coun- fair notice and opportunity to pursue such ing the highest distinction of Eagle Scout. try laughing. wrongdoing through its own False Claims Act f Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to action or other appropriate remedy. pay tribute to the life and accomplishments of Fighting fraud against U.S. taxpayers is not HONORING THE LIFE OF BILL Mr. William Arthur Strauss, and express my a partisan issue. When we passed the False STRAUSS deepest condolences to all who knew and Claims Act amendments in 1986, we did so loved him. with a strong bipartisan coalition in both HON. TOM DAVIS [From the Washington Post, Dec. 19, 2007] houses. I’m pleased to continue that tradition OF VIRGINIA BILL STRAUSS, 60; POLITICAL INSIDER WHO by introducing this bill today with Representa- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STEPPED OVER INTO COMEDY tive JIM SENSENBRENNER as my partner. I look Wednesday, December 19, 2007 (By Joe Holley) forward to working with him to make these Capitol Steps founder Bill Strauss was a amendments to the False Claims Act law this Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I Harvard-trained lawyer and Senate sub- Congress. rise today to honor the life of the late Mr. Wil- committee staffer when he broke through liam Arthur Strauss. the chrysalis of Capitol Hill conventionality f I first met Bill Strauss in 1963 when we to become a musical satirist. EXPRESSING SORROW OF THE were both pages here in Washington. Bill Mr. Strauss, who died Dec. 18 of pancreatic HOUSE AT THE DEATH OF THE served at the Supreme Court; I served in the cancer at his home in McLean, recalled the HONORABLE JULIA CARSON, Senate. Our respective careers continued to breakthrough in a phone interview shortly before his death at age 60. MEMBER OF CONGRESS FROM revolve around the Nation’s capital—mine in It was Memorial Day 1981, he said, and he THE STATE OF INDIANA Congress, Bill’s in the executive branch. was hosting a party that ended with a jam Bill boasted an education few can match: an session around the piano. Party-goers riffed SPEECH OF undergraduate degree from Harvard University on parodies of Reagan-era news makers. HON. BOB ETHERIDGE in 1969, a law degree from Harvard, and a Mr. Strauss discovered that night that he master’s degree from Harvard’s venerable had a facility for impromptu silliness and OF NORTH CAROLINA satire. He began to wonder whether, at age IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES John F. Kennedy School of Government. He returned to Washington with his young bride in 34, he might be able to make a living at it, Tuesday, December 18, 2007 even though his only musical training was a 1973, joining the Department of Health, Edu- stint in his elementary school orchestra. Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I raise cation, and Welfare (now Health and Human During the next several months, when not to honor the legacy and accomplishments of Services) as a policy aide. He quickly moved worrying about nuclear proliferation and our recently passed colleague and dear friend up to the Presidential Clemency Board, direct- other weighty matters, he wrote musical JULIA CARSON. ing a report on the impact of the Vietnam War parodies. Enlisting other musically gifted In 1996 JULIA’s deep commitment to those on draft-eligible youth. Senate staffers, he scheduled the group’s she served led her to become the first African- Bill Strauss continued his work for the Fed- debut at the annual office Christmas party of American woman to be elected to the U.S. eral Government, moving to the Department of Sen. Charles Percy (R-Ill.), Mr. Strauss’s em- ployer. House from Indiana. I had the opportunity to Energy in 1977. Subsequently, in 1980 Mr. The group christened itself the Capitol get to know JULIA during our freshman terms Strauss became chief counsel and staff direc- Steps, an allusion to the location of a late- in the 105th Congress and build a relationship tor of the Subcommittee on Energy, Nuclear night amorous moment enjoyed by Rep. with her over the past 10 years that we have Proliferation, and Government Processes. John W. Jenrette (D-S.C.) and his wife, Rita. both served. Julia spent her time in Congress Despite his long service in the Federal Gov- Capitol Steps was a hit from the beginning. working for children’s issues, women’s rights ernment—or, possibly more aptly, as a result For the next few years, the group performed and efforts to reduce homelessness. One of of it—Mr. Strauss discovered at a Memorial regularly for free at parties and in church basements. ‘‘We were clinging to our day her biggest accomplishment in the House was Day party in 1981 that he was blessed with jobs,’’ co-founder Elaina Newport said. passing legislation granting the Congressional the gift of improvisational comedy. Having per- ‘‘Frankly, we were trying not to get in trou- Gold Medal to Rosa Parks, the Mother of the formed successfully to a receptive audience of ble.’’ Civil Rights Movement who was arrested for friends, Mr. Strauss realized he could make a Today, Capitol Steps is still performing, refusing to give up her seat on a segregated living satirizing the goings-on within the Belt- although not in church basements. It’s a $3 city bus in Montgomery, AL. She leaves be- way. million-a-year industry with more than 40 hind an unmated record of service to the peo- During his office’s Christmas party in 1981, employees who sing and satirize at venues Mr. Strauss, along with a group later chris- across the country. ple and an unequaled legacy of leadership. The group’s success was ‘‘totally out of the Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues tened the Capitol Steps, performed his first blue,’’ Mr. Strauss said. ‘‘Neither I nor any- to join me in paying respect to the family of musical parody. Senator Charles Percy (R–Ill), one else was expecting it.’’ JULIA CARSON and in honoring her career in his employer, and the rest of the staff knew in- Mr. Strauss’s more serious side found ex- service to our country. stantly that Bill Strauss had a gift. The group pression in six books he co-authored about

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.131 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2660 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 American generations and as co-founder of The diagnosis prompted him to form the lulosic ethanol. While I am in favor of finding Cappies, a high school critics and awards high school Critics and Awards Program, new markets for agriculture products, what program. He also wrote three musicals— known as Cappies. ‘‘I decided this would be good is finding new markets for agriculture ‘‘MaKiddo,’’ ‘‘Stopscandal.com.’’ and my calling, performing less and concen- ‘‘Anasazi’’—and co-wrote with Newport two trating on starting this program,’’ he said. commodities when the cost of production is books of satire, ‘‘Fools on the Hill’’ (1992) Cappies arranges for high school students too much for our farmers and ranchers? and ‘‘Sixteen Scandals’’ (2002). to attend and review each other’s shows, We should develop a policy that is tech- ‘‘He packed several lifetimes into his 60 with top reviews published in local news- nology neutral and allows the market to de- years,’’ Newport said. papers. Sixty Washington-area schools are velop new sources of renewable energy. The William Arthur Strauss was born in Chi- involved with the program, as well as 17 ad- RFS provisions create an unrealistic mandate cago and spent most of his childhood in Bur- ditional schools in the United States and for advanced biofuels technology that doesn’t lingame, Calif., in the San Francisco area. Canada. Top Cappies winners perform shows yet exist and creates hurdles for the develop- He was a Capitol page in 1963, during his jun- at the Kennedy Center, and student creative ment of second generation biofuels by placing ior year in high school, and graduated from teams, under Mr. Strauss’s oversight, have Harvard University in 1969. He received a law written two musicals. The most recent, restrictions on alternative fuels, renewable fuel degree from Harvard Law School and a mas- ‘‘Senioritis,’’ has been made into a movie plant production, and, most important, limits ter’s degree from Harvard’s John F. Kennedy that is to be released in March. the harvesting of our homegrown feedstocks. School of Government, both in 1973, but ‘‘He had so many different projects in the These restrictions will undoubtedly lead to a knew from his first semester in law school air,’’ said Judy Bowns, his Cappies colleague consumer tax to help bridge the gap in pro- that he did not want to practice law. The for nine years, ‘‘and the amazing thing is duction that will occur if this policy is put into summer his classmates took the bar exam, that they were completed with a standard of place. he and his wife were on a 40-day honeymoon excellence that was mind-boggling.’’ Even with the advancement of cellulosic trip across Africa. Survivors include his wife of 34 years, The couple moved to Washington in 1973, Janie Strauss of McLean; four children, ethanol, the expansion of the RFS would still and Mr. Strauss took a position as a policy Melanie Yee and Rebecca Strauss of McLean, require 15 billion gallons of renewable fuel to aide for the Department of Health, Edu- Victoria Hays of Fairfax County and Eric come from the only current commercially avail- cation and Welfare (now Health and Human Strauss of Reston; and one granddaughter. able option: grain ethanol. Services). He moved the next year to the f Last year, 20 percent of the U.S. corn crop Presidential Clemency Board, where he di- was used for ethanol production and that rected a research team writing a report on ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND amount is expected to rise significantly over the impact of the Vietnam War on the draft- SECURITY ACT OF 2007 eligible generation. the next few years. With feed stocks meeting most of our renewable fuel initiatives, the live- A year later, he and Larry Baskir co-wrote SPEECH OF ‘‘Chance and Circumstance’’ (1978), a book stock sector is facing significantly higher feed about the Vietnam-era draft. Their second HON. BOB GOODLATTE costs. Corn and soybeans’ most valuable mar- book, ‘‘Reconciliation After Vietnam’’ (1987), OF VIRGINIA ket has always been, and will continue to be, was said to have influenced President Jimmy IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the livestock producers. We must ensure that Carter to issue a blanket pardon to draft re- there are not unintended economic distortions Tuesday, December 18, 2007 sisters. to either grain or livestock producers as a re- Mr. Strauss worked at the Department of Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Energy from 1977 to 1979 and then was offered sult of these sectors prospering from other the position of general counsel of the Selec- in opposition to this reckless energy policy, markets. tive Service System. Political objections de- which will do absolutely nothing to make us The benefits of reduced reliance on foreign railed the offer: Someone pointed out that in energy independent, or lower energy costs. energy sources, stable energy prices, and new the preface to ‘‘Chance and Circumstance,’’ This bill sets us on a dangerous path and ties markets for agricultural products should not be he had admitted helping a classmate eat our hands in a regulatory mess to ensure that replaced with a risk of adding even more in- enough to be too heavy for the draft. we cannot produce domestic energy. creased input costs for livestock producers The day Mr. Strauss heard about his rejec- Like my colleagues, I believe we should find and creating even higher food prices for con- tion, he learned of an opening as a com- solutions to address the growing demand for mittee staffer with Percy. When Republicans sumers. took control of the Senate a year later, in energy. The biggest concern facing the farm- In addition to the above mentioned con- 1980, Mr. Strauss became chief counsel and ers and ranchers of this country is increased cerns, I’m also deeply disappointed that the staff director of the Subcommittee on En- input costs from higher fuel prices and fer- Renewable Fuels Standard would essentially ergy, Nuclear Proliferation and Government tilizer. The U.S. fertilizer industry relies upon shut out one of the largest potential sources of Processes. natural gas as the fundamental feedstock for feedstock for renewable fuel, forest biomass. He had grown up listening to political sati- the production of nitrogen fertilizer. The rest of In total, forests have the potential to rists Tom Lehrer and Stan Freberg and had the U.S. farm sector also depends on signifi- written a few political poems in college, but sustainably produce 370 million tons of bio- making a living with Capitol Steps was, in cant amounts of natural gas for food proc- mass for energy every year. This is approxi- Mr. Strauss’s words, ‘‘a big entrepreneurial essing, irrigation, crop drying, heating farm mately two and one-half times the amount of leap.’’ buildings and homes, the production of crop forest biomass we currently consume in tradi- He would never lack for material, how- protection chemicals, and, let’s not forget, eth- tional forest products. This amount of forest ever—from Sen. Gary Hart and ‘‘Monkey anol biofuel production. In addition to the farm biomass could produce 24 billion gallons of Business’’ to Vice President Dick Cheney sector, the forest products industry relies more ethanol per year, according to very conserv- (‘‘The Angina Monologues’’). In the late on natural gas than any other fossil fuel, and ative estimates. This could supplement, not re- 1980s, he perfected his backwards talk rou- energy amounts to the third largest manufac- tine, ‘‘Lirty Dies,’’ just in time for President place, existing forest products markets. Bill Clinton (‘‘Clinton’s Libido Loco’’) and turing cost for the industry . Unfortunately, H.R. 6 would not allow forest Monica Lewinsky (‘‘My Mama Told Me: Unbelievably, this legislation contains no biomass grown on public lands to be used to You’d Better Sleep Around’’). new energy supplies in it and does nothing to meet the Renewable Fuel Standard, unless Made up mostly of Republicans, with a few relieve the burdens of increased costs on pro- the biomass was removed near buildings, pub- Democrats and independents—‘‘to spread the ducers who provide the food and fiber for lic infrastructure, or areas people inhabit regu- blame a bit,’’ Newport said—the troupe, at American consumers. It seems that the major- larly. This greatly reduces the opportunity for Mr. Strauss’s insistence, has always tried to ity’s plan to move toward energy independ- any substantial market in the energy sector for be equal-opportunity satirists. ‘‘Generally people wanted to be in the show,’’ he said, ence includes limiting domestic energy pro- the byproducts of hazardous fuels reduction. even when they were the ones being spoofed. duction and imposing new government man- These markets could help lower the costs of As Capitol Steps was taking up more of his dates that will prove to be costly and burden- reducing wildfire risks and improving forest time, Mr. Strauss was exploring American some to the American people. health on public lands. With the restrictions in history through the cycle of generations. This legislation would dramatically expand H.R. 6, very little of these byproducts could be With co-author Neil Howe, he wrote ‘‘Gen- the Renewable Fuels Standard RFS, by in- used to meet the Standard. Currently, we erations’’ (1991), ‘‘13th Gen’’ (1993), ‘‘The creasing it to 36 billion gallons by 2022. This have serious issues in our public forests, with Fourth Turning: An American Prophecy’’ initiative is extremely ambitious and could be (1998), ‘‘Millennials Rising’’ (1999), over 90 million acres at risk of wildfire, insects, ‘‘Millennials Go to College’’ (2003) and achieved by tapping all sectors of agriculture and diseases. H.R. 6 would do nothing to help ‘‘Millennials and the Pop Culture’’ (2005). including plant and wood waste, vegetable oil, address these concerns. In 1999, Mr. Strauss received a diagnosis of and animal fat and waste which would result Additionally, H.R. 6 stipulates that, with re- an aggressive strain of pancreatic cancer. in the production of 21 billion gallons of cel- spect to private forests, only forest biomass

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.134 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2661 removed from ‘‘tree plantations’’ or biomass cost effective for American consumers. Coal is And the Energy Independence and Security that is considered slash or brush can be used one of our Nation’s most abundant resources, Act makes a commitment to the fuels of the to meet the renewable fuel standard. It would yet the development of coal-to-liquid tech- future, by replacing Middle East crude with also exclude any biomass taken from old nologies is ignored in this bill. Furthermore, Midwest crops. growth forests, forests in the later stages of this legislation does nothing to encourage the By supporting this legislation we can make development, or forests that are considered construction of new nuclear facilities. the first big step towards a more secure and ‘‘ecological communities’’ as defined by State Proponents of this legislation will tout how more environmentally sustainable America. I Natural Heritage Programs. green this bill is; however, if my colleagues urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle With these restrictions, this Renewable really want to promote green energy they to support this legislation, and to continue Fuels Standard discourages efforts to reduce should encourage the production of more nu- working to overcome the obstructionism of the wildfire risk, control insects and disease in for- clear sites, which provide CO2 emission-free President for additional, needed reforms for ests, improve forest health and wildlife habitat, energy. The rest of the world is far outpacing our country and our planet. and create market opportunities for family for- the U.S. in its commitment to clean nuclear f est owners. There is also a tremendous op- energy. We generate only 20 percent of our portunity to utilize existing forest products in- energy from this clean energy, when other PERSONAL EXPLANATION dustry infrastructure to produce renewable countries can generate about 80 percent of fuels. H.R. 6 would do little to encourage that their electricity needs through nuclear. It is a HON. KATHY CASTOR development. travesty that in over 1,000 pages this legisla- OF FLORIDA A renewable fuels producer would likely look tion does not once mention or encourage the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES at all these restrictions on forest biomass and construction of clean and reliable nuclear Wednesday, December 19, 2007 decide not to bother with forestry materials. If plants. Nuclear energy is the most reliable and Ms. CASTOR. Madam Speaker, on rollcall we are to come anywhere close to meeting advanced of any renewable energy tech- vote No. 1173, during consideration of H. Con. the RFS mandates in H.R. 6, we must have a nology, and if we are serious about encour- Res. 254, recognizing and celebrating the cen- substantial amount of forest biomass as a aging CO2-free energy use, we must support tennial of Oklahoma statehood I incorrectly feedstock. I’m deeply concerned that we will nuclear energy. voted ‘‘nay’’, when I intended to vote ‘‘Yea’’. not be able to meet these mandates with the This legislation does nothing to address the restrictions in H.R. 6 on the use of forest bio- energy concerns of our country; and it does f mass. nothing to relieve agricultural producers of SCAPPOOSE-VERNONIA SCHOOL This energy policy, set in place by the Dem- their increasing input costs. This legislation ocrat majority, exemplifies the Democrat motto only makes the situation worse and it is the HON. DAVID WU through and through: tax and spend. This bill product of a flawed process that does not OF OREGON imposes $21 billion in tax increases. The other have bipartisan support. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES side will tell you that these tax increases will This bill is a dangerous policy for our coun- not affect the average hardworking American, try. If we really want to make our country en- Wednesday, December 19, 2007 only the ‘‘big, evil oil companies.’’ Nothing ergy independent, this Congress must pass an Mr. WU. Madam Speaker, as my colleagues could be farther from the truth. The taxes con- energy bill that contains energy. This bill does know, in early December, the Pacific North- tained in this bill will impede new domestic oil not. I urge my colleagues to reject this awful west coast experienced severe storms. The and gas production, will discourage investment bill, let’s start over, and work to find real solu- storms caused devastating damage that iso- in new refinery capacity, and will make it more tions to the energy needs of our Nation. lated towns, left citizens without housing, expensive for domestic energy companies to f transportation, communications, water, heat or operate in the U.S. than their foreign competi- ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND electricity, and tragically caused loss of life. tors, making the price at the pump rise even SECURITY ACT OF 2007 One city in my district, Vernonia, was particu- higher. larly hard hit. The elementary, middle and high Let’s make no mistake: an increased tax SPEECH OF school were all severely damaged. Because of doesn’t just hurt energy companies, it hurts the damage, Vernonia students in grades 6– every American—individual, farm, or com- HON. BETTY McCOLLUM 12 are now going to school in the nearby com- OF MINNESOTA pany—that consumes energy. Increased taxes munity of Scappoose. Although the storm re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES on energy companies are passed to con- covery continues, and will continue for some- sumers. Every American will see these in- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 time, I wanted to share with my colleagues the creased costs on their energy bill. This body Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- following communication from Scappoose High shouldn’t pass legislation that further raises er, I rise today in support of the Energy Inde- School Principal Sue Hays reporting on the energy prices for consumers. pendence and Security Act—a major step to- first day of Scappoose-Vernonia school. Her What is even more disturbing is that these wards securing a new, clean energy policy for message is one of communities coming to- increased costs will be felt by some of our Na- America. gether, neighbors and families helping each tion’s most poor. On average, the Nation’s Last November the American people told other. Simply put, Oregonians at their best. working poor spends approximately 13 to 30 Congress that they wanted a new direction in I will continue to do all I can to assist Or- percent of their yearly income on energy our Nation’s energy policy. Today we have the egon communities and families recover from costs. This average is already too high, and opportunity to vote for a bill that the over- the storms, but I wanted my colleagues in the sadly this legislation will only dramatically in- whelming majority of our constituents agree is House to know that the compassionate, proud, crease the amount of money these workers the most significant Federal energy legislation and hardy Oregon spirit shines on. Here is will have to spend on energy costs. I have in nearly 30 years—a bill that helps our coun- Principal Hays’ message: heard those on the other side of the aisle say try deal with the current energy crisis, prepare ‘‘Dear Scappoose Families, that we must all shoulder the cost to produce for the energy realities of the future, and ad- I wanted to let you know how our first day clean energy. Well, the costs of the clean en- dress the impending climate crisis. of Scappoose-Vernonia School was. It was a ergy in the Renewable Portfolio Standard The Energy Independence and Security Act great day, a very emotional day as the (RPS) alone, as estimated by just one of Vir- contains an increase in fuel economy stand- Vernonia students arrived in seven buses. ginia’s many electric utilities, will increase ards for cars and trucks. Raising CAFE stand- Their teachers greeted them at the cafeteria $200 million for its retail customers. By shifting ards will also reduce America’s dependence doors with open arms. Every comment from to renewable energy sources, that are not as on foreign oil by 1.1 million gallons per day, the Vernonia staff to students was so heart available or as cost effective as traditional cut emissions almost 27 million tons per year, felt. Questions about how is your family? How sources, we will see a rise in energy prices and save Minnesota families up to $1000 is your house? Are you ok? And . . . ‘‘we are across the board and this will be hardest felt every year. so glad you are here...we have missed by working people who cannot afford to shoul- The Energy Independence and Security Act you’’ was repeated with each child. Many hugs der any more costs. sets landmark energy efficiency standards for took place as if these students had not seen While this bill is said to be focused on new appliances, lighting, and buildings. As a result, each other for a lifetime! It was a very emo- energy technologies, it fails to address some American consumers and companies will save tional moment for some of us. of our most promising domestic alternative billions of dollars in unnecessary energy costs, We managed to feed all 300 students that and renewable energy supplies that could be while decreasing their burden on the planet. showed up in record time, and then the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.138 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2662 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 Vernonia students were off to the gym for an As lead investor and president of Dudley Sta- Mr. Speaker, the 5 million dollar increase assembly and to get their new schedules. The tion Corporation he was in the vanguard of mi- Congress approved for the Education for Scappoose students then assisted the stu- nority ownership of major media properties. Homeless Children and Youth program—also dents to their classrooms and gave them guid- His efforts culminated in 1982, when New vetoed by the President. ed tours of our building. Our Scappoose stu- England Television Corporation, a minority-led To the orphaned foster youth who are de- dents came in for lunch shortly afterwards and consortium acquired WNEV–TV, Boston’s nied services when the clock strikes midnight then they headed home for the day. CBS affiliate. Under his leadership as Presi- on their 18th birthday, the President turns his It is now 3:30 and the halls are quiet and dent of the corporation from 1982–1986, both back on them. Homeless, without health insur- the Vernonia student’s grades 6–12 are in the value of the station and its journalistic ance, they become just another statistic to be class listening to teachers and working away quality increased. quoted in the list of ‘‘throwaway’’ youth. on the latest assignment given to them. It is Bertram went on to become the first minority The President denied the sum of a mere like nothing ever happened and they don’t owner of a professional sports franchise as 500,000 dollars to create a national registry on seem to know that they are even in co-owner and managing partner of the Denver child abuse, a provision Congress passed with Scappoose. They do know that there is teach- Nuggets basketball team. In banking, he bipartisan support in the Adam Walsh Act. ing and learning going on, friends have re- showed outstanding leadership as chairman of Currently, Madam Speaker, child abusers united and the teachers that love them are the board of directors of Boston Bank of Com- need only to cross state lines to avoid pros- there to support them and teach them. merce. He also served on the boards of ecution and find employment as teachers or I am so in awe of our staff and students Shawmut Bank and Reebok International, Inc. daycare providers. This national registry would who have handled this situation with grace, A common thread woven through all of his ac- track the offenses of predators to prevent enthusiasm and superb organizational skills. complishments was his ability to expand exist- abuse, and it is unconscionable to deny funds The Vernonia students and staff have been ing boundaries and open opportunities in for this program. very appreciative and they do have ‘‘stories’’ areas that were traditionally closed to African- That is not all that’s been taken from under to tell. I talked to a couple of students today Americans. the tree. It’s just the beginning, I hope you will where one told me he still had 6 feet of water In politics, we worked together on the his- see. in his house. Another student told me he lost toric campaign to elect David Dinkins, the first We demand so much from parents this day everything including his house. The lesson of African American mayor of my beloved city of in age, Madam Speaker. They balance full- the day was ‘‘giving and receiving’’. New York. We shared a view of the world that time parenting with full-time employment, Thank you all for your support and ‘‘class believed in, and struggled for, the empower- often, at the cost of family life. act’’ that your sons and daughters displayed ment of African Americans no matter where They make this sacrifice with the promise of today, even at 7:30 am in the morning! Report they were on the globe. I urge my colleague providing a better future for their children. was that most everyone was on time! to join me in recognizing this great American. They send them to school and trust it will bet- If any of you wish to volunteer to ‘‘man’’ the f ter equip them for tomorrow. donation areas at the high school, please let However, this President has turned a blind us know via email scappoosehighschool@ END OF SESSION eye towards the education of our children. scappoose.kI2.0r.us. Mr. Casey Honl has vol- The President’s priorities translate into unteered to coordinated and supervise the do- HON. DENNIS A. CARDOZA budget cuts for programs like Head Start, who nations! People are now wanting to donate ap- OF CALIFORNIA will be forced to shut their programs door on pliances and furniture, and we are trying to lo- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 34,000 children. cate a facility that we can store the items in. We are still accepting cash donations with Wednesday, December 19, 2007 Despite Congressional intent to increase checks made out to ‘‘Vernonia School Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Speaker, as we funding for the 6.9 million children receiving Project’’. We are hoping to get all students a prepare to adjourn for the holiday season, we special education, the President wants to re- new pair of tennis shoes. I have 60 donated eagerly await the chance to spend time with duce that funding and slash K–12 education from Nike at this time. Lastly, we can’t forget our loved ones. by 1.3 billion dollars. the food drive to fill our own food bank in Radio music and advertisements offer Madam Speaker, the President’s priorities Scappoose as well as sending food to cheery Jingle Bell tunes, the Christmas tree must not be allowed to stand. All children, no Vernonia. The U-haul in front of the school will on the West Lawn has been lit, and we leave matter what their station in life, deserve a be open school hours Wednesday through with a spirit of benevolence, wishing all a quality education and this Congress will con- Saturday am. Thanks again for being such a merry Christmas. tinue to fight to ensure we honor our obliga- great community! You are loved! But unfortunately, Madam Speaker, not all tions to them. And while the President will enjoy many f who like Christmas will have it be merry be- cause of a Grinch mean and scary who vetoes Christmas carols this season, he wants to IN TRIBUTE OF BERTRAM M. LEE our bills with nary a thought. eliminate funding for Universal Newborn Hear- SR. The Grinch stole Christmas, Madam Speak- ing programs. er. He’s robbed from the WHOS, and there’s Madam Speaker, I could go on and on. This HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL not a one weaker. And who are the WHOS? short, but illuminating list, best highlights the differences between the priorities of our two OF NEW YORK Why, any child can tell you—the WHOS are parties. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the children, the hungry, the poor, the ones we should help, not shove out the door. Congress will continue to fight for these vital Wednesday, December 19, 2007 While the tone I take is somewhat light- programs and to ensure that the least among Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise in trib- hearted, the subject matter is serious. The us are well protected. As we adjourn for the ute to Bertram M. Lee Sr., a trailblazing entre- President, at almost every turn, has thwarted holidays and celebrate the season with our preneur who exemplified the truest ideals of our efforts to help the most needy and vulner- families, let us get in the Christmas spirit and courage, fortitude and commitment. Bertram able in our society. rededicate ourselves to the welfare of the believed that there was nothing he could not First, the President has been callous to- most vulnerable. achieve or conquer with personal dedication wards the most vulnerable—our children, es- ‘‘And the Grinch with his Grinch-feet ice cold and faith as his instruments. pecially foster children. in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how Bertram, who died in October 2003, gained The President vetoed a 15 million dollar in- could it be so? It came without ribbons. It national recognition as a successful entre- crease for those children who surrounded by came without tags. It came without packages, preneur and philanthropist. He broke through domestic violence are forced to take the safest boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled the barriers that sought to limit his vision to way out—run. These youth depend on pro- ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch accomplish more than was expected of a per- grams authorized under the Runaway and thought of something he hadn’t before. What son of his background. He launched large, so- Homeless Youth Act that fund homeless shel- if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a phisticated firms and expanded opportunities ters and counseling to diffuse conflict at home store? What if Christmas, perhaps, means a for other Black entrepreneurs and executives and enable them to be reunited with their fam- little bit more.’’ in media and telecommunications industries. ilies. Thank you, happy holidays.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.143 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS December 19, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E2663 PASSING OF JUDGE ERNEST A. ulators and investors. The main benefit of stant check system, designed to help States LOVELESS these notes is their tax treatment. Issuers identify and prevent convicted felons and other have advised buyers that these interests re- dangerous individuals from owning firearms. HON. STENY H. HOYER ceive almost unlimited tax deferral on any gain As it currently stands, millions of criminal OF MARYLAND earned. And, they advise that even when the records are not accessible by the instant IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gain is recognized at the point that the note is check system, and millions of additional records fall through the cracks as a result of Wednesday, December 19, 2007 sold or redeemed, it is taxed as long-term capital gain and not ordinary income. These backlogs and other problems. The bill will help Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today notes can run as long as 30 years and track cure these problems by providing the re- to honor the life and work of a dear friend of an exchange rate, index, or commodity. sources and incentives needed to modernize mine, Judge Ernest Loveless, and to offer my So, with almost unlimited tax deferral, it the system and ensure that the records are up condolences to his family on his passing. seems that many other investments would to date. In the State of Maryland, few judges com- pale in comparison. Already, many investors Improving and enhancing the instant check manded more respect than Judge Loveless. have caught on. These exchange-traded notes system will help prevent future tragedies such First appointed to the 7th Judicial Circuit in have garnered $4 billion of investment in a as the Virginia Tech shootings earlier this 1960, Judge Loveless rose to the position of very short period of time. Some argue that this year, where there is clear reason to know, Chief judge in 1976. Serving on the bench tax treatment is justified, as holders of these after due process, that the individual in ques- until his retirement in 1992, Judge Loveless notes have some credit risk. If the issuer goes tion should not own a gun. left behind a legacy of fair rulings and a more under, the holder may not get paid. The House has passed this bill in each of effective and efficient court. But this favorable tax treatment has not the last two Congresses. Now the Senate has During his 32 years on the 7th Circuit, gone without notice. In a Tax Notes magazine passed it, with changes dealing with the pro- Judge Loveless became known for his man- article aptly titled, ‘‘Too Good To Be True?’’ cedures for restoring gun ownership rights. agement skills. As the populations of Prince one practitioner called this tax treatment, ‘‘The While I continue to have reservations about George’s County and southern Maryland grew Wild West of the tax law.’’ And one columnist the new process for restoring gun ownership in the 1970s, Judge Loveless recognized the in the Washington Post likened this new tax rights to individuals previously diagnosed with need to update the court’s systems to better sheltering opportunity as opening ‘‘Pandora’s mental illness, and will be monitoring its imple- enable it to handle the increased caseload. He Tax Box.’’ It is important to note that this fa- mentation very closely, passage of the under- succeeded in installing new computer sys- vorable tax treatment is premised on the opin- lying bill is extremely important. tems, and he made other necessary changes ion of one law firm. I want to again thank my good friends to help the 7th Circuit keep pace with the More recently, Treasury has stepped in to CAROLYN MCCARTHY and JOHN DINGELL, as changing times. clarify that Exchange Traded Notes tied to for- well as RICK BOUCHER from the Judiciary Known across our State as an expert on ju- eign currencies are debt and do generate tax- Committee, and LAMAR SMITH, our Ranking venile law, Judge Loveless presided over able income to investors. In a companion no- Member, for all their work on this important thousands of adoption cases, even adopting tice, Treasury asked for comments on whether matter. two children of his own. He had the foresight holders of other prepaid forward contracts I urge my colleagues to support this legisla- to hire a resident psychologist to assist with should be required to accrue income during tion. family law matters, a valuable asset to the the term of the contract. It is possible that f court and the cases it handles. Treasury will produce guidance providing ap- On a personal note, I believe it was clear to RECOGNIZING THE DISTINGUISHED propriate clarity in this market, but in the in- all who knew him that serving others was a CAREER OF DR. RICHARD terim, I believe legislative action is warranted. deeply held value for Judge Loveless. Before CHESTEEN The legislation that I am filing today pro- becoming a judge, he served our Nation vides rules for the tax treatment of prepaid de- proudly in the Navy during World War II, and HON. JOHN S. TANNER rivative contracts, which includes Exchange he then went on to serve the people of Mary- OF TENNESSEE Traded Notes. Holders of such instruments will land in the House of Delegates from 1954 to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES be required to include as interest income each 1960. He was active in several civic organiza- year an amount determined by reference to a Wednesday, December 19, 2007 tions in Clinton, MD, and he continued to con- short-term interest rate. The basis in such Mr. TANNER. Madam Speaker, I rise today tribute to the community throughout his life. to recognize the long, distinguished career of Madam Speaker, Judge Loveless was a contract would be adjusted by any income in- an esteemed educator, a dedicated public good and honest man who lived an honorable clusion so that at disposition, any gain or loss servant, a tireless community leader and my life, and he will long be remembered in south- would be properly accounted for just as it would be with any other investment receiving friend, Richard Chesteen, PhD. ern Maryland and Prince George’s County for Richard’s academic career began almost 50 his devotion, his knowledge of the law, and his annual payments. In past Congresses, I have pursued legisla- years ago. He earned his Associate’s Degree fairness. I join countless Marylanders whose from Holmes Junior College, his Bachelor’s lives were touched by Judge Loveless in tion to curb vehicles providing unlimited tax deferral to investors, such as swap funds. I Degree from Delta State University, then his sending my deepest sympathies to his family Master’s Degree and Doctoral Degree in Polit- and friends. believe it is important that our tax laws reach instances where interest is earned or gain rec- ical Science at the University of Mississippi. f ognized, especially where the products are We have been fortunate to have him as a pro- INTRODUCTION OF PREPAID complex or lack transparency. The legislation fessor and faculty leader at the University of DERIVATIVES BILL that I am filing today takes another step in that Tennessee at Martin, in the heart of northwest direction. But I welcome constructive com- Tennessee, since 1969. HON. RICHARD E. NEAL ments from practitioners on both sides of this Dr. Chesteen’s leadership has always stretched beyond the edge of the UTM cam- OF MASSACHUSETTS issue. Above all, if we amend the tax code, we pus. He has held active positions in scores of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES want to get it right the first time. I look forward to discussing this complex government and political organizations in Wednesday, December 19, 2007 issue with my colleagues in the New Year and Weakley and Obion counties and throughout Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Madam Speak- seeking their support for this bill. Tennessee. Richard has served on the Obion er, I rise today to introduce legislation ad- f County Commission, the Obion County Re- dressing the taxation of prepaid derivative gional Planning Commission and the Obion contracts. The appropriate tax treatment of fi- H.R. 2640 County Democratic Party. nancial products is ever evolving, just as the Statewide, Richard was a candidate for gov- market for these products is. Occasionally, HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR. ernor in the 1994 primary, where he earned a Congress or the Treasury must step in and OF MICHIGAN reputation for working on thoughtful solutions clarify how these new offerings should be IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES toward the problems facing our state at that treated under the tax code. And my bill today time. Over the years, he has also served on will do that. Wednesday, December 19, 2007 the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Inter- Recently, a new product called Exchange Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, this bill governmental Relations, the Tennessee Coun- Traded Notes, has caught the attention of reg- makes important changes to the national in- ty Services Association and Tennessee Cares,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 09:05 Dec 20, 2007 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.148 E19DEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC71 with REMARKS E2664 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2007 an organization to help single parents with the FEDERAL FOOD DONATION ACT OF nizations by removing red tape and allowing educational support they need to get back into 2007 excess food that would otherwise be wasted the workforce. These are just a few of an ex- go to those who need it. SPEECH OF tensive list of ways Richard has served our In northeast Indiana demand has increased community and state. HON. MARK E. SOUDER this year and the community has stepped up OF INDIANA its efforts. Millers Poultry in Orland, Indiana Even as he looks toward retirement, Dr. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES has donated thousands of eggs and over Chesteen is not giving up on his dedication to Monday, December 17, 2007 10,000 lbs of chicken to the Community Har- education. He has helped found the Richard vest Food Bank. The local Farmers and Hunt- Chesteen Endowment for Government Intern- Mr. SOUDER. Mr. Speaker, I want to ex- press my support for H.R. 4220—The Federal ers Feeding the Hungry group in northeast In- ships at the University of Tennessee Martin to Food Donation Act of 2007. During this holi- diana has also donated 15,000 lbs of venison. offer more first-hand opportunities for today’s day season, millions of Americans reach into With help from processors like New Haven’s political science students, who will be the their pockets and pantries to help those less Custom Meats and Lengacher Meats in leaders of tomorrow, both in this great cham- fortunate in their communities. Many times Grabill, this venison is easily distributed to ber and in other leadership positions through- these donations go to non-for-profits like the hungry families in the community. out our country. Community Harvest Food Bank in northeast While 25,000 lbs of meat seems like a lot, Madam Speaker, I hope you and our col- Indiana or In-As-Much Ministries in Fort local pantries in Fort Wayne are giving out Wayne, Indiana. These organizations then 10,000 lbs of food per day. I would like to leagues will join me in congratulating Richard hand-out the food to those in need. While the thank those who have helped fill local food Chesteen and his family on his retirement, supply of donations is high this time of year, banks and urge those who have not yet do- thanking him for his tireless service and hon- demand is even higher. This legislation will nated to contact their local food bank or char- oring his work with the new Endowment for allow the Federal Government to help in- ity and give all you can to help those going Government Internships. crease the supply of wholesome food to orga- hungry this Christmas Season.

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