January 28, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E159 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

OUR MILITARY MUST BE ENVI- in South Carolina for selecting Judge Gossett erans in the 5th District, many of whom are in RONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE from a large pool of highly qualified applicants. need of medical attention, it is important for TOO Her intelligence and temperament are the the community to donate blood and help meet ideal qualities that we should seek in judicial that need. HON. BOB FILNER candidates. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in OF CALIFORNIA On a personal note, I am particularly grate- recognizing LifeSouth Community Blood Cen- ful for her success which is complemented by ters for their commitment to the local commu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the achievement of her husband, my former nity. Without their blood collection, processing Wednesday, January 28, 2009 State Senate Chief of Staff, Jeff Gossett, who and dissemination efforts, area hospitals Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I have intro- is the first Republican Clerk of the South would face severe shortages of life-saving duced the Military Environmental Responsi- Carolina Senate in over 100 years. They are blood. I commend LifeSouth for their efforts bility Act (H.R. 672). The purpose of this bill is raising three outstanding children: Jackson and thank them for helping the veterans of to require the Department of Defense to fully Keith Gossett, Ainsley Cooper Gossett, and Hernando County at this year’s veteran benefit comply with Federal and State environmental Anna Katherine Gossett. fair. laws. Congratulations, Judge Paige Gossett. f Military exemptions from requirements and f enforcement provisions under environment, RECOGNIZING LIFESOUTH COMMU- HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS public safety, and worker protection laws harm OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS the environment and human health. Our con- NITY BLOOD CENTERS IN stituents who border military bases should HERNANDO COUNTY, FLORIDA have the same protections as other municipali- HON. MARK E. SOUDER ties. HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE OF INDIANA This bill will not compromise military readi- OF FLORIDA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ness. Environmental laws currently include ex- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, January 28, 2009 emptions for the military in the event of ‘‘para- mount interest of the United States’’. These Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Mr. SOUDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today exemptions have only been used a handful of Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. in support of H. Res. 39, and especially in times, and the President would retain that au- Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor support of the work being done in Fort Wayne, thority over this legislation. LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. in Indiana, at Bishop Dwenger High School. Americans believe that their government Hernando County for their work improving the According to the 1972 statement by National should be accountable to them and play by lives and welfare of area residents. Conference of Catholic Bishops: ‘‘The edu- the same rules that they have to follow. Much In life and death emergencies, when every cational efforts of the Church, therefore, must of the cynicism and apathy of recent years second counts, it is vitally important that be directed to forming persons-in-community; can be traced directly to public perception that healthcare providers and emergency respond- for the education of the individual Christian is government officials and agencies are not ac- ers have access to safe and ready supplies of important not only to his solitary destiny, but countable to anyone. We can only begin to re- blood for transfusions. LifeSouth Community also the destinies of the many communities in store faith in government and participation in Blood Center is currently the only blood pro- which he lives.’’ democracy by ensuring that the federal gov- vider for many of our area hospitals, including Madam Speaker, Bishop Dwenger has been ernment works under the same laws and regu- ones at Oak Hill, Brooksville Regional and improving the Fort Wayne community since it lations as private businesses and individuals. Spring Hill. Their hard work ensures that med- welcomed over 200 students in the fall of f ical professionals in Hernando County have 1963. They now enroll over 1,100 students the blood necessary to save lives and help our and the school has accumulated an impres- CONGRATULATIONS JUDGE PAIGE local community. sive list of both academic and athletic accom- GOSSETT Throughout the country each year there will plishments. be almost five million Americans who need In 2004, the Department of Education rec- HON. JOE WILSON blood transfusions. In Hernando County alone, ognized Bishop Dwenger as a No Child Left OF SOUTH CAROLINA LifeSouth collects 13,000 units of blood annu- Behind Blue Ribbon School, an accomplish- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ally, utilizing more than 300 blood drives with ment that places them among the top 10 per- their Bloodmobiles to meet the demand. The cent of schools nationwide. Two years later, Wednesday, January 28, 2009 local donor center is open 363 days a year Bishop Dwenger was recognized as one of the Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam and employs thirty people to collect, process top 50 Catholic schools in the nation. Speaker, I wish to congratulate my long time and distribute the blood to area hospitals. The school’s drive for excellence goes be- friend, Paige Jones Gossett, as she receives Whether you have ever needed a blood yond the classroom. Madam Speaker, the stu- the Oath of Office and takes the bench as transfusion yourself, or just know someone dents are involved in community service activi- United States Magistrate Judge for the District who has, it is organizations like LifeSouth that ties to fulfill the school’s commitment ‘‘to social of South Carolina. help ensure you will be taken care of in an awareness through service to others.’’ With Known by her nickname Cricket, she is a emergency. For area residents who donate over 80 percent of Dwenger students involved Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of blood, please know that all of the blood col- in at least one extracurricular activity, they South Carolina Honors College, finished as lected in Hernando County stays within the have won state championships in football, the third highest rated graduate in her law County, so your donation will help your friends gymnastics, Spell Bowl and more. school class, and received nearly every aca- and neighbors. When you donate blood it is In an increasingly competitive economic en- demic award available. Prior to her election as not an exaggeration to say that you are truly vironment, a quality education is a prerequisite a South Carolina Administrative Law Judge in giving the gift of life. for future success. Madam Speaker, I ask my 2006, she had over ten years of private prac- This January 31, I will be hosting my annual colleagues to join me in support of Bishop tice experience as a partner in the Willoughby veteran benefit fair. LifeSouth has agreed to Dwenger and Catholic schools across the & Hoefer law firm in Columbia. take part in the event and is bringing one of country. These institutions are essential in pre- I also want to congratulate Chief Judge their Bloodmobiles to the site to collect much paring well-rounded individuals who will be David C. Norton and the other District Judges needed blood. With more than 105,000 vet- among the future leaders of our country.

∑ 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 Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K28JA8.012 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS E160 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks January 28, 2009 TRIBUTE TO HARLAND MIESER HONORING STATE REPRESENTA- HELP OUR BORDER COMMUNITIES TIVE TREY MARTINEZ FISCHER HON. IKE SKELTON AND FAMILY HON. BOB FILNER OF MISSOURI OF CALIFORNIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. CHARLES A. GONZALEZ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, January 28, 2009 OF TEXAS Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker and col- take this moment to recognize the career of leagues, I rise today to speak about a very im- Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Harland Mieser of Lafayette County, Missouri. portant bill that I just introduced, the Save Our Mr. Mieser served as Associate Commissioner Mr. GONZALEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise Border Communities Act (H.R. 670). The bill of Lafayette County for 18 years. today to congratulate Texas State Representa- would reimburse police, firefighters and other Mr. Mieser has been an outstanding public tive Trey Martinez Fischer and his wife Eliza- first responders for services associated with official, serving as a member of the West Cen- beth Provencio on the arrival of their first born, U.S. Ports of Entry. tral Missouri Solid Waste Management District Francesca Maria Provencio Fischer. Local law enforcement and first responders Region F, the Waverly Regional Youth Center Francesca Maria was born on January 4th, are bearing the brunt of protecting our bor- Liaison Council, Inc., Lafayette County Inter- 2009 at 6:01 a.m. and I’m proud to report that ders. The federal government has not reim- Agency, Prairie Rose Resource Conservation Francesca Maria and her mother are both bursed border towns for border-related inci- and Development Council, Pioneer Trails Re- healthy and doing well. dents and its drain on local police, firefighters gional Planning Commission, and the Highway As both Trey and Elizabeth now know, and first responders is increasingly unbear- 13 Coalition Committee. His public service cul- words cannot quite describe the joy and thrill able. minated with position as Lafayette County of being a new parent. I am certain that In Imperial County, California, the already Commissioner. From 1991–1994 he served as Francesca Maria will grow up in a loving envi- strained local police department has an- the Eastern Associate Commissioner in Lafay- ronment and learn from the great example set nounced that due to the high volume of bor- ette County and then from 1997–2008 he by her parents of duty, responsibility, and der-related requests, it will no longer respond served as Southern Associate Commissioner compassion. to most calls from the U.S.-Mexico Port of of Lafayette County. Entry. The local police department stated they As Mr. Mieser retires from his current post, The journey they are embarking upon to- gether will prove to be an unparalleled life ex- cannot afford to process and transport the nu- I trust that the Members of the House will join merous individuals with out-of-county mis- me in thanking him for his outstanding leader- perience, and I wish their entire family the best for a healthy and happy lifetime together. demeanor warrants to the local jail. Now, in- ship in the Missouri community. stead of being brought to justice, these individ- f uals are set free. f CELEBRATING THE 80TH ANNIVER- It is about time the federal government pays SARY OF THE BOK TOWER GAR- IN TRIBUTE TO THEODORE BIKEL its fair share. I urge my colleagues to join me DENS in ensuring all our border communities are fully reimbursed for protecting our nation’s bor- HON. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ ders by supporting the Save Our Border Com- HON. ADAM H. PUTNAM OF FLORIDA munities Act. OF FLORIDA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Wednesday, January 28, 2009 Wednesday, January 28, 2009 INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION Mr. PUTNAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Madam ALLOWING INTERSTATE SHIP- to recognize the upcoming 80th anniversary of Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Theodore MENT OF UNPASTEURIZED MILK the Bok Tower Gardens. President Calvin Bikel on receiving the Creative Leadership Coolidge first dedicated the Bok Tower Gar- Award from the National Jewish Theater and HON. RON PAUL dens for visitation on February 1, 1929. the American Theater Festival. Throughout his OF TEXAS Edward Bok, a Pulitzer Prize winning au- life, Mr. Bikel has displayed an unwavering IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES thor, commissioned the building of the gar- commitment to arts awareness, human rights, Wednesday, January 28, 2009 dens and bird sanctuary in the early 1920s in and Jewish activism, and his service to our Lake Wales, FL. The gardens were originally nation is truly inspiring. No stranger to the Mr. PAUL. Madam Speaker, I rise to intro- designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., atop Sunshine State, Theodore Bikel was the co- duce legislation that allows the shipment and a 14-acre area on Iron Mountain, one of the creator, co-author and co-star of the success- distribution of unpasteurized milk and milk highest points in Florida. The gardens have ful play Sholom Aleichem Lives, performed in products for human consumption across state expanded to cover nearly 700 acres today. early 1997 in several Florida theatres. He is lines. This legislation removes an unconstitu- Architect Milton Medary was commissioned also the writer and star of Sholom Aleichem: tional restraint on farmers who wish to sell or to design and construct the tower in 1926. The Laughter Through Tears, which recently had otherwise distribute, and people who wish to tower stretches 205 feet into the sky and is in- its world premiere in Washington, D.C. Addi- consume, unpasteurized milk and milk prod- tended to be the focal point of the gardens. It tionally, on his long list of accomplishments, ucts. is primarily made of marble and includes a 60- Mr. Bikel created the role of Baron Von Trapp My office has heard from numerous people bell carillon at the top. in the original Broadway production of The who would like to obtain unpasteurized milk. Mr. Bok died on January 9, 1930, less than Sound of Music and starred as Tevye in Fid- Many of these people have done their own re- a year after the completion of the tower. He is dler on the Roof more than 2,000 times. search and come to the conclusion that now buried at the base of the tower. His Bikel’s career began in Tel Aviv, Israel, where unpasteurized milk is healthier than pasteur- dream of creating and preserving a place of he co-founded the Cameri Theatre, and per- ized milk. These Americans have the right to beauty and peace is still alive today, a true formed classical and modern drama in He- consume these products without having the and long-lasting gift to our State. It has played brew. Some of his most prominent honors in- Federal Government second-guess their judg- host to concerts, weddings, educational and clude receiving an Emmy Award in 1988, hav- ment about what products best promote charity events, as well as numerous other im- ing held the position of senior vice president of health. If there are legitimate concerns about portant community benefits. It is also a won- the American Jewish Congress, and accepting the safety of unpasteurized milk, those con- derful place for a family get together. both a Doctor of Humane Letters from Hebrew cerns should be addressed at the state and The Garden Sanctuary and Tower were Union College and the title of MAGGID from local level. designated as National Historic Landmarks on the World Union for Progressive Judaism. As I urge my colleagues to join me in pro- April 19, 1993. The Bok Tower Gardens serve Mr. Bikel marks his 85th birthday this June moting consumers’ rights, the original intent of as one of Florida’s most beautiful natural set- with a celebratory concert at Carnegie Hall, I the Constitution, and federalism by cospon- tings. I urge my colleagues to join me in cele- feel grateful for this talented individual whose soring my legislation to allow the interstate brating the anniversary of this great Florida artistic vision and civic activism have pro- shipment of unpasteurized milk and milk prod- landmark. foundly touched the lives of all Americans. ucts for human consumption.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A28JA8.004 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS January 28, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E161 DTV DELAY ACT Election Day. The NTIA’s ‘‘Final Phase’’ plan even greater risk of significant dislocation with- did not echo the GAO’s alarm bells, but rather out immediate action. The Bush Administration SPEECH OF stated the following: has simply left us with so little time to make HON. EDWARD J. MARKEY ‘‘This Plan demonstrates that the Coupon the needed adjustments on a national basis OF MASSACHUSETTS Program has both sufficient funds and sys- absent a short, one-time delay. tem processing capabilities to achieve this IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES So, although this is the last place we all goal . . . . and to do so without the creation wanted to be, and in spite of the fact that we Tuesday, January 27, 2009 a large backlog. Also, NTIA has built flexi- toiled mightily to make this effort work, it is my Mr. MARKEY of Massachusetts. Mr. Speak- bility into the Program to respond to var- judgment that a short delay is in the public in- er, I want to commend you for quickly putting ious or unexpected events. Moreover, based terest in order to protect consumers. I urge on actual, cumulative redemption data, this Senate legislation (S. 328) before the NTIA would not exhaust the authorized $1.34 passage of this emergency DTV legislation. House for immediate consideration. This is a billion in coupon funding despite increased f bill that is responsive to the slate of digital tel- demand leading up to the analog shut-down LAW ENFORCEMENT STATUS FOR evision issues confronting consumers and the on February 17th, and, in fact, may return as LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS television industry. much as $340 million to the U.S. Treasury.’’ In several weeks, without immediate action, That’s from the NTIA just over two months millions of Americans may remain unprepared ago. ‘‘No problem,’’ the agency is saying. In HON. BOB FILNER for the digital television transition. Mr. Speak- essence the agency is telling Congress, ‘‘We OF CALIFORNIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES er, as you know, I have had a long interest in have a plan to deal with the surge and we the digital television transition. I held the very don’t need any more money. No large back- Wednesday, January 28, 2009 first hearing on ‘‘High Definition TV’’ in Octo- log. And we’ll have hundreds of millions of dol- Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I recently re- ber of 1987—more than 20 years ago. In lars left over.’’ introduced, along with my colleague JOHN 1990, I battled hard and successfully as then- Now, why is this important? It is important MCHUGH, The Law Enforcement Officers Eq- Chairman of the House Telecommunications because we were actually in session in No- uity Act (H.R. 673). The purpose of this bill is and Finance Subcommittee to get the Federal vember. We could have acted during the simply to give law enforcement status to all Communications Commission to switch from ‘‘lame duck’’ session if the Bush Administra- federal law enforcement officers! pursuing an ‘‘analog’’ HDTV standard to a tion had said, ‘‘yes, we will likely have a short- Many federal officials—for example, the Bor- ‘‘digital’’ standard. Moreover, I fought to build fall’’, or ‘‘please, Congress, let’s err on the der Patrol—are classified as ‘‘law enforcement into the Telecomm Act in 1996 the appropriate side of caution and budget a couple hundred officers,’’ for the purposes of determining sal- way in which broadcasters could utilize ‘‘spec- million more just in case . . .’’. Yet NTIA told ary and retirement benefits. But many other trum flexibility’’ to multiplex the digital signal us all just the opposite. The agency said ev- officers—such as Immigration and Customs into several video programming channels or erything was fine and they didn’t need addi- Enforcement (ICE) Inspectors, Veterans’ Af- offer wireless interactive television or informa- tional money for coupons. fairs Police Officers, U.S. Mint Police Officers, tion services. And I pushed unsuccessfully in In late December, I asked for an urgent sta- Internal Revenue Officers, Customs and Bor- the context of the 1997 budget battles to pro- tus update on the program. That’s when NTIA der Protection Seized Property Specialists, hibit the sale of ‘‘analog-only’’ televisions by wrote back to me—on December 24th—stat- and police officers in about two dozen other the year 2000—an amendment that was op- ing that a waiting list was going to begin in agencies—do not have equal pay and benefits posed by every Republican in our Committee January of this year because the coupon pro- status. markup in 1997. The result was over a hun- gram was hitting its funding ceiling. The agen- The tragic irony, Madam Speaker, is that dred million analog-only sets were sold into cy indicated that to solve this issue and spend the only time these officers are classified as the marketplace even as the government was up to the $1.34 Billion in the underlying statute law enforcement officers is when they are stipulating it intended to turn off the analog TV for coupons that another 250 million dollars at killed in the line of duty. Then their names are signal. The failure to mandate ‘‘dual tuner’’ a minimum might be needed. And that amount inscribed on the wall of the National Law En- TVs sooner has compounded the difficulty of would not necessarily reflect the actual de- forcement Officers Memorial right here in Washington. this transition immeasurably by increasing the mand for coupons the agency was newly pro- Let me say that again. It is only when they base of TV receivers that need converter jecting. The waiting list now represents ap- are killed that they are called law enforcement boxes to receive digital TV signals. proximately 3 million coupons. officers, and that is a tragic irony. Most recently, for the last two years as the In an attempt to respond quickly, I reached My district encompasses the entire Cali- Telecommunications and Internet Sub- out the first week we returned here in January fornia-Mexico border and is home to two of committee Chairman, I convened six DTV to Ranking Member JOE BARTON (R–TX) and the busiest border crossings in the entire hearings, requested and received three Gov- said if we work together on an accounting fix world, so I am very familiar with the work of ernment Accountability Office (GAO) reports, we could start to address the waiting list issue our nation’s border inspectors. They wear bul- and wrote numerous oversight letters to the and get the coupons flowing to consumers letproof vests, they carry firearms, and, unfor- FCC, to NTIA, and to industry and consumer again and buy some time. I want to thank tunately, have to use them. Most importantly, representatives in headlong pursuit of ensur- Rep. BARTON for his willingness to proceed on these inspectors are subject to the same risks ing a successful digital television transition on such a bill. as other officers with whom they serve side- February 17th. But that effort has simply become overtaken by-side. However, they are not eligible for At the last DTV hearing that we held the by events. If we passed it and also gave NTIA early retirement and other benefits, which are second week of September—just after the Wil- a couple hundred million dollars for additional designed to maintain a young and vigorous mington, North Carolina switch-over test—the coupons in a measure that passed through the law enforcement workforce that we need to GAO testified: House and through the Senate today, and ar- combat those who pose life-threatening risks ‘‘NTIA is effectively implementing the rived to the President’s desk this evening, we to our society. converter box subsidy program, but its plans simply wouldn’t be able to address the back- The Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act to address the likely increase in coupon de- log and get coupons out to people who have will provide well-deserved pay and retirement mand as the transition nears remain unclear. requested them by February 17th. benefits to the officers protecting our borders, . . . With a spike in demand likely as the Not every media market will be as unpre- transition date nears, NTIA has no specific our ports of entry, our military and veterans’ plans to address an increase in demand; pared as others on February 17th. I know that installations and other sensitive government therefore, consumers might incur significant in the Boston market, our local commercial buildings. The costs of these benefits would wait time before they receive coupons as the and noncommercial broadcasters, as well as likely be off-set by savings in training costs transition nears and might lose television our local cable operators, have worked dili- and increased revenue collection. The bill will service during the time they are waiting for gently to be ready on February 17th and I also reduce turnover, increase yield, decrease the coupons.’’ commend them for their model efforts. Yet recruitment and development costs and en- In response, I asked the Acting NTIA Ad- even in Boston, it is important to note that a hance the retention of a well-trained and expe- ministrator to give the Subcommittee a contin- recent test brought a flood of calls to con- rienced workforce. gency plan for dealing with the expected surge sumer call centers from citizens confused Madam Speaker, the simple fact is that in coupons within 30 days. Now, that contin- about or unprepared for the switchover. Many these officers have dangerous jobs and de- gency plan did not arrive in 30 days. Instead, other media markets, in part due to the demo- serve to be recognized as law enforcement of- it arrived to us on November 6th—just after graphic makeup of such markets, will have an ficers, just like others with whom they serve,

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A28JA8.009 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS E162 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks January 28, 2009 side by side, and who share the same level of and medical facilities from Maine to the north be directed to forming persons-in-community; risk. I encourage my colleagues to join me all the way to Puerto Rico to the south. for the education of the individual Christian is and Mr. MCHUGH in co-sponsoring, the Law The heart of Florida Blood Service’s oper- important not only to his solitary destiny, but Enforcement Officers Equity Act. The valiant ations is its volunteers. Last year, 100,000 also the destinies of the many communities in officers who protect us deserve no less. blood and platelet donors rolled up their which he lives.’’ f sleeves to donate one pint at a time to save Madam Speaker, since its founding the St. the life of complete strangers near and far Charles Borromeo school has been enriching IN TRIBUTE TO JEWEL PEDI away. This includes some remarkable individ- the lives of individuals across Northeastern In- uals who have made blood donation their pas- diana. With its emphasis on the traditions and HON. ELTON GALLEGLY sion. Frank Knight, III has donated 96 gallons principles of the Catholic faith, the school OF CALIFORNIA of blood, Bobbie Bernstein 86 gallons, and my seeks to infuse in its students a sense of obli- former District Director and now the Vice gation to their community. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mayor of Clearwater, George Cretekos, has Elementary and Middle School are the early Wednesday, January 28, 2009 donated 36 gallons of blood. steps many individuals take on their way to Mr. GALLEGLY. Madam Speaker, I rise in Florida Blood Services has an outstanding academic achievement and lifelong learning. tribute to my longtime friend Jewel Pedi, a staff and Board of Directors that manages With its focus on math, computer training and person of enormous intelligence and drive, donor recruitment, collection, distribution and science, St. Charles Borromeo equips stu- who is retiring at the tender age of 83 to quality control programs. Don Doddridge is the dents with the skills needed to thrive in a 21st spend well-earned time with her family. Chief Executive Officer and this year also century economy. Furthermore, by requiring all More than 30 years ago, Jewel founded serves as President of America’s Blood Cen- seventh and eighth grade students to study a FOOD Share with a small group of like-mind- ters. He has devoted his entire working career foreign language, the school helps prepare ed members of the Ventura County, CA, com- to promoting the need for blood donation and students for the globalized marketplace. munity. The structure she built should ensure to ensure the safety of the procedure and the As the mission of St. Charles Borromeo its survival for many years to come. quality of the products. It has been a pleasure states, ‘‘all children deserve a safe, loving, Jewel’s dedication comes from a compas- to work with Don and his staff over the years and respectful environment where children sion rooted in her faith. That faith led her to on a number of federal issues related to blood and faculty can grow spiritually and academi- work 3 years with state lawmakers on farm collection. This includes Don’s work to focus cally.’’ Madam Speaker, I second these bills; to build coalitions with some 200 other national attention on ensuring that blood col- thoughts and am grateful for the contributions non-profit agencies; and to step up to help lection is a key part of our nation’s disaster the faculty and staff at St. Borromeo make in those in need during the Northridge earth- contingency planning and that plans are in the lives of young people. I urge my col- quake, southern California’s numerous place to be able to distribute blood products to leagues to join me in support of this resolution wildfires, the La Conchita landslide, and hurri- areas in crisis. He has also seen that Florida and the efforts of Catholic schools across the canes across the Nation. Blood Services and other national blood banks country. are available to provide critical blood products Along the way she has been honored with f the American Red Cross 4th Annual Clara to those serving in uniform here and abroad. Barton Award; the city of Ventura Humani- Finally, Madam Speaker, I want to com- HONORING REVEREND CLAUDE tarian of the Year Award; the P.W. Gillibrand mend Florida Blood Services for instilling in BLACK JUNIOR Company, Inc., Humanitarian of the Year our nation’s youth the need to serve others, in Award, among others. this case as blood donors. Through its unique high school leadership program, Florida Blood HON. CHARLES A. GONZALEZ Jewel is moving to Bullhead City, AZ, to be OF TEXAS closer to her children. While retiring from her Services recruits high school students to orga- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES current calling, her faith is leading her to an- nize and sponsor blood drives in high schools other. A pastor, Jewel will perform weddings; throughout the four-county Tampa Bay area. It Wednesday, January 28, 2009 and, she said, she will see if another calling was a real honor for me last April to be asked to speak to its High School Leadership Con- Mr. GONZALEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise awaits her. today just days after the historic inauguration Madam Speaker, I know my colleagues will ference where they brought together more than 400 students who had led efforts in their of our country’s 44th President to honor a join my wife, Janice, and me in thanking Jewel similarly honorable and trailblazing individual, for making Ventura County a stronger and schools. Together, students at these school- based drives donated 27,000 units of blood. Reverend Claude Black Jr. of San Antonio. On more compassionate community and in wish- Sunday, January 18th, 2009, Rev. Black will Madam Speaker, I would ask my colleagues ing her Godspeed in her retirement. be honored at Realizing the Dream’s second to join me in paying tribute to Florida Blood annual Holiday Commemoration of Dr. Martin f services and their volunteer donors of all Luther King, Jr. with the organization’s Testa- ages. Like blood donors all across America, NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH ment of Hope Award. I join the organization in they ‘‘Give the Gift of Life’’ every day to com- HONORS FLORIDA BLOOD SERV- offering my congratulations for all his achieve- plete strangers out of a sense of service and ICES VOLUNTEERS AND STAFF ments and contributions to our country. compassion. We honor all these heroes during this National Blood Donor Month. Born in a segregated San Antonio in 1916, HON. C. W. BILL YOUNG Rev. Black’s lifelong commitment to civil f OF FLORIDA rights, justice, and equality is well-deserving of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS this recognition and honor. From leading OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS marches for civil rights to attending the White Wednesday, January 28, 2009 House’s Conference on Civil Rights in 1966 Mr. YOUNG of Florida. Madam Speaker, SPEECH OF with President Lyndon Johnson, he has al- The foundation of our nation is built upon one ways been at the forefront of the fight for person helping another in their time of great- HON. MARK E. SOUDER equality. And as the first African American est need. This month we honor those volun- OF INDIANA Mayor Pro Tem of San Antonio in 1974, he teers who ‘‘Give the Gift of Life’’ during Na- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES paved the way for future African Americans to tional Blood Donor Month. seek elected office and rightfully participate in Wednesday, January 21, 2009 Florida Blood Services, which I have the our democracy. privilege to represent in St. Petersburg, Flor- Mr. SOUDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today Rev. Black is a hero and inspiration to all ida, provides life-saving blood products for the in support of H. Res. 39, and specifically in Americans. His efforts to better our society are 14 counties of the Tampa Bay, Northwest support of the work being done at St. Charles not only worthy of this recognition but also our Florida and Southern Alabama areas, sup- Borromeo in Fort Wayne, Indiana. sincere gratitude. I am honored to call him a plying 61 hospitals and ambulatory care cen- According to the 1972 statement by National constituent, congratulate him for this recogni- ters. This fine organization also tests and Conference of Catholic Bishops: ‘‘The edu- tion, and thank him for all he has done on be- screens blood for 30 East Coast blood centers cational efforts of the Church, therefore, must half our community and our country.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K28JA8.013 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS January 28, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E163 LET DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE HONORING THE HEROIC ACTIONS retary-treasurer for more than 15 years. She AND CIVILIAN POLICE COORDI- OF THE PILOT, CREW, AND RES- fought tirelessly for the people with whom she NATE CUERS OF US AIRWAYS FLIGHT worked, always believing that no matter what 1549 one’s station in life might be, that everyone HON. BOB FILNER deserved to be treated fairly and justly. SPEECH OF OF CALIFORNIA Although her professional career was IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. STEVEN R. ROTHMAN marked by her commitment to working fami- OF NEW JERSEY lies, it was the love of her own family that de- Wednesday, January 28, 2009 fined her life. Whether it was caring for her IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I recently in- grandson Lucien Dube, or at the track watch- troduced the Department of Defense and Civil- Monday, January 26, 2009 ing her son Tim race, anyone who knew ian Law Enforcement Coordination Act of 2009 Mr. ROTHMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise Debra could tell you that these were the mo- (H.R. 675). My bill would amend federal law to today in support of House Resolution 84, leg- ments that brought joy to her life and that permit Department of Defense law enforce- islation to honor the heroic efforts of Flight great smile to her face. While we lament her ment officers to better coordinate and cooper- 1549’s Captain Chesley B. Sullenberger III, his passing, we know that her memory will live on ate with civilian law enforcement agencies. I flight crew, the First Responders and private in her beloved family, including her husband drafted this legislation in cooperation with the citizens that prevented a catastrophic engine Patrick, to whom she was married for 25 Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) because failure on a commercial aircraft from resulting years. many DOD law enforcement officers in my dis- in a single loss of life. This has been a trying week for those of us trict have informed me that they are prohibited Just five minutes after lifting off on January who had the privilege to call Debra our friend. from basic coordination and cooperation with 15, 2009, Captain Sullenberger’s aircraft was She left us too early, but as we grieve her we civilian agencies near DOD facilities. We need struck by a flock of birds, resulting in the loss must remember the joy that she brought to the to ensure that federal, state, and local law en- of two of his engines. The instant those en- lives of all she touched. I ask my colleagues forcement are able to work together to appre- gines failed, Captain Sullenberger, his crew, to join me in mourning the loss of Debra Jor- hend criminals and to prevent and solve the passengers entrusted to his care, and resi- dan. crimes. I hope that my colleagues will join me dents of the 9th Congressional District of New in co-sponsoring this important legislation. Jersey who were in the plane’s potential flight f f path were at grave risk. And yet, rather than HONORING PURPLE HEART give in to panic, Captain Sullenberger wrestled RECIPIENT FRANCIS J. SEYFRIED CONGRATULATING THE GRAM- his damaged aircraft into a controlled water BLING STATE UNIVERSITY FOOT- landing—an act described in the Wall Street BALL TEAM Journal as ‘‘one of the rarest and most tech- HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE nically challenging feats in commercial avia- OF FLORIDA HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER tion.’’ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF LOUISIANA When his plane hit the water Captain Wednesday, January 28, 2009 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sullenberger and his flight crew—including Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Wednesday, January 28, 2009 First Officer Jeffrey Sikes and Flight Attend- ants Doreen Welsh, Donna Dent, and Sheila Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise Dail—worked quickly and calmly to evacuate American hero and Purple Heart recipient, Mr. today to congratulate the Grambling State Uni- their passengers, not stopping until every Francis J. Seyfried. A proud member of our versity (GSU) Tiger Football Team for becom- man, woman and child was out of harm’s way. Nation’s military during World War II, Staff ing the State Farm Bayou Classic Champions, Outside, they were aided by a growing flotilla Sergeant Seyfried was killed over the North the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) not just of Coast Guard and police boats, but Atlantic when his plane evaded enemy fire, Champions and the Sheridan National Black civilian ferries as well. crashed into another aircraft, and his para- College Champions for 2008. Once Flight 1549 was emptied of pas- chute landed in the frigid Atlantic waters By defeating Southern University 29–14 in sengers, Captain Sullenberger walked up and below. the 35th Annual State Farm Bayou Classic on down the aisles of the sinking aircraft twice, Born on November 22, 1921 in Brooklyn, November 29, GSU won the SWAC West Divi- only exiting when he was absolutely certain New York, Mr. Seyfried joined the Army Air sion and earned the opportunity to meet Jack- that he had discharged his duty to completely Corps on January 30, 1943. Stationed in Eu- son State University (JSU) in the SWAC evacuate the plane. His grace under pressure, rope, he and his fellow soldiers were assigned Championship Game. This battle provided the as well as that of the rescue workers and flight to perform bombing runs over enemy lines. It Tigers a rematch against the victors of last crew, ensured that an emergency in the air did was during his 43rd such attack on December year’s game. not become a disaster on the ground. 31, 1944 that Mr. Seyfried lost his life in battle. On December 13, GSU secured their 10th Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Commonly known as the Piggyback inci- consecutive win of the 2008 football season, join me in supporting House Resolution 84. dent, the midair collision of two military planes making the Tigers the new champs of this The courage, level-headed professionalism caused a sensation amongst military members competitive conference. This win marked the and sheer heroism of the Captain and crew of at the time. Returning from a bombing run Tigers 22nd time to capture the SWAC Foot- Flight 1549 are an inspiration to all Americans. over Hamburg, Germany, Staff Sergeant Seyfried’s aircraft was evading enemy fire ball Championship. In addition, GSU head f coach Ron Broadway was named the SWAC when his plane collided with another Allied air- Coach of the Year. HONORING DEBRA JORDAN craft. The two planes stuck together, with the Shortly following this victory, the Tigers engine of one plane dug completely into the were crowned the Sheridan National Black HON. JOE COURTNEY engine of the other. Instead of separating and College Champions—marking their 14th time OF CONNECTICUT crashing separately, the two planes continued to win this national title in the school’s history. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES flying together in piggyback fashion. While ten This outstanding recognition is the second of the crew members from the two planes did earned by Broadway in three years. Wednesday, January 28, 2009 manage to escape safely, Staff Sergeant The Tigers finished the season with an im- Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise Seyfried was lost in the frigid North Atlantic pressive 11–2 record—matching the record of today with a heavy heart to mark the passing waters off the German coast. the 2005 GSU Football Team, which also of a true champion for the working families of Madam Speaker, soldiers like Francis J. earned these titles. eastern Connecticut. Debra Jordan of Plain- Seyfried should be recognized for their service I would like to recognize the accomplish- field, beloved daughter, wife and mother, to our Nation and for their commitment and ments of the players, coaches, students and passed away on January 25, 2009 after a long sacrifices in battle. I am honored to present staff that were instrumental in these triumphs. and courageous battle with cancer. Mr. Seyfried’s family with his long overdue Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Debra was a consummate professional who Purple Heart. While he has passed on from me in congratulating the 2008 GSU Tiger cared deeply about the rights of working men this life, his family, friends and loved ones Football Team for all of their successes and women. She was an active member of should know that we truly consider him one of achieved during this season. UNITE HERE, serving as local 217’s sec- America’s heroes.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K28JA8.007 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS E164 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks January 28, 2009 LET’S REMEMBER OUR VIETNAM and federal government and helps coordinate DTV DELAY ACT HEROES member advocacy efforts. The Chamber of Commerce provides a SPEECH OF HON. BOB FILNER forum for future leaders from the Brandon HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE OF CALIFORNIA area to grow and develop. It is also a great OF DELAWARE IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES advocate for minority and women-owned busi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nesses in the Brandon community. Wednesday, January 28, 2009 In the past 10 years, membership in the Tuesday, January 27, 2009 Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I have just Brandon Chamber has almost doubled, which Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposi- re-introduced legislation intended to honor the is a tribute to both the employees at the tion to S. 328, the DTV Delay Act. service and sacrifice of many of the members Chamber and the economic vitality of the com- Since 1996, our nation’s first-responders of the United States Armed Forces who fought munity. As Brandon has grown in size and have been calling for more broadcast spec- in Vietnam, the ‘‘In Memory Medal for Forgot- flourished as a thriving metropolitan area, the trum to be made available for better and more ten Veterans Act’’ (H.R. 671). Brandon Chamber has kept pace and helped effective communication among emergency Those so recognized are veterans who have facilitate the city’s transition into a bustling services. Tragically, the lack of such spectrum died as a result of their service in the Vietnam commercial center. was cited by experts as partially leading to War but who do not meet the criteria for inclu- During these challenging economic times, I many unnecessary deaths among those re- sion on The Wall of the Vietnam War Memo- know the Brandon community will look to and sponding to the 2001 terrorist attacks in New rial in Washington, D.C. The Vietnam Vet- benefit from the guidance and expertise of the York City. In fact, completing the digital tele- erans Memorial Fund has a program called ‘‘In folks at the Chamber. vision transition so that this spectrum may be Memory’’ which has raised money for a plaque Under the skillful leadership of Chamber used by police, firefighters, and emergency that has been placed near The Wall. The President Tammy Blackwell and the hard work personnel was the main communications-re- plaque honors ‘‘those who served in the Viet- of her team, I am confident the Chamber will lated recommendation of the 9/11 Commis- nam War and later died as a result of their continue to effectively serve, protect, and pro- sion. service’’. No names are on the plaque, but all mote the businesses and economic interests In 2005, after years of delay, Congress fi- names are kept in the ‘‘In Memory Book’’ at a of the Brandon community. Congratulations nally established February 17, 2009 as the kiosk near The Wall, and families can order a and best wishes on reaching this historic mile- date when the country will switch to all-digital copy. stone. broadcasting and eliminate the disruptions to My bill adds to this recognition by pre- public safety communications. Unfortunately, senting the families of these veterans with a f after more than a decade of preparing for the medal, to be known as the ‘‘Jesus (Chuchi) transition, the bill before us today would delay Salgado Medal’’ to be issued by the Secretary DTV DELAY ACT the digital transition for another three months. of Defense. Chuchi Salgado was an out- Like many Delawareans, I am concerned standing individual who lived in my Congres- SPEECH OF about the management of the digital transition sional district, whose exposure to Agent Or- HON. JIM MATHESON process and the shortfall in the number of ange ultimately led to his death. His relatives converter box coupons available. It is critical OF UTAH continue to live in my district. that we act quickly to provide additional re- Because of the boundaries that have been IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sources to address these complications and set for the names to be placed on The Wall, Tuesday, January 27, 2009 ensure our constituents are prepared for the Chuchi and many, many other Vietnam vet- Mr. MATHESON. Mr. Speaker, I’d like to transition date. Still, public safety services and erans are not honored in this manner. Now, thank Chairman WAXMAN for addressing prob- broadcasters have spent millions of dollars with new veterans coming back from Iraq and lems with the transition to digital television preparing for the February 17th transition date Afghanistan, we are all taking a second look which was due to happen next month. and postponing the deadline again will only and a closer look at how veterans from past The simple fact is that millions of Americans create more confusion and delay the imple- wars have been treated. While we must care are not prepared for the digital switch. mentation of this vital 9/11 Commission rec- for the newer veterans, we must also take this In Salt Lake City, Nielsen Media Research ommendation. opportunity to do right by veterans of Vietnam, reports that nearly 9 percent of households f along with those of other past wars and con- are completely unprepared. Salt Lake ranks as IN MEMORY OF BETH SHARON flicts. the sixth least-ready out of 56 surveyed. I invite my colleagues to join with me in SAMUELS The coupons authorized by Congress 4 honoring these veterans. It is critical that we years ago—to help families acquire the hard- remember those who have fought so gallantly HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN ware they need to view programs once the and sacrificed their lives for our freedom. OF CALIFORNIA digital change is made—aren’t getting to the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f customers. COMMEMORATING THE 50TH ANNI- Millions of Americans are currently waiting Wednesday, January 28, 2009 VERSARY OF THE BRANDON to receive the coupons. The agency charged Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, this month CHAMBER OF COMMERCE with distributing them has fallen behind. marks the second anniversary of the passing My office has been attempting to assist con- of Beth Sharon Samuels, an extraordinary HON. ADAM H. PUTNAM stituents with the program for several months. Angelino who lost her life to cancer in January I know of cases where coupons have expired OF FLORIDA 2007 at the age of 31. before they even reach consumer mail boxes. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Beth grew up in Los Angeles, attending the That’s ridiculous. Yeshiva University High School of Los Ange- Wednesday, January 28, 2009 I’d like to thank Chairman WAXMAN for work- les and graduating as valedictorian. She went Mr. PUTNAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today ing with the Senate to address concerns I on to study at a women’s seminary in Israel to recognize and applaud the Brandon Cham- raised about the coupon program. This is a before graduating from Columbia University ber of Commerce as it celebrates its 50th an- Senate bill, but it is important to acknowledge with a degree in mathematics. She then com- niversary. the work of the Energy and Commerce Com- pleted a three-year program at the Drisha In- Since its establishment in 1959, the Bran- mittee in trying to fix DTV problems. stitute in Bible and Talmud, a Ph.D. in math at don Chamber of Commerce has contributed The last thing families need right now is the Yale, and earned an assistant professorship at greatly to economic growth and development prospect of additional monthly bills in order to the University of California, Berkeley. In the in the Brandon area and has served as a valu- watch television. meantime, she gave birth to a daughter able resource for local businesses. Finally, I am pleased to see that this bill al- Danelle and later to daughter Natalia while un- The Brandon Chamber of Commerce offers lows for emergency services to begin using dergoing intensive chemotherapy treatments. programs and services that foster meaningful some analog space. It also provides flexibility Beth remains with us, even with increasing partnerships between businesses as well as by allowing broadcasters who are ready-to-go distance from her passing. We remember her between businesses and educational facilities. to switch to digital service earlier than June, passion for learning and zealous commitment It also monitors developments in local, State, which is a good idea. to charity, her open spirit and fierce dedication

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K28JA8.008 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS January 28, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E165 to women’s Torah study. Beth’s legacy will Hammond, Indiana. His business was founded came the attorney for the Okaloosa County continue to grow through her students, friends, on providing compassionate care to the Commission and the City attorney to the City and, of course, her beautiful daughters. friends and families of the departed during of Valparaiso, Florida. In 1972, Judge Tolton I give my condolences to her parents, Elana their time of need. It was this principle that al- was elected to the Florida House of Rep- and Zachary, her husband, Ari, her daughters, lowed the Burns family to expand to Gary, Ho- resentatives where he served for 4 years be- Danelle and Natalia, and her extended friends bart, and finally to Crown Point in the 1980s. fore resigning to accept yet another job in and family on this solemn occasion. Today, the family owned and operated busi- public service: Circuit Judge for the First Judi- f ness provides the same exceptional services, cial Circuit of Florida. and I commend Terry, Sally, Jim, Patrick, and When he retired on January 1, 2007, at the HOBART CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Jimmy Burns, and their entire staff on con- age of 69, Judge Tolton’s 30 years on the AWARD WINNERS tinuing the legacy of Mr. Burns. bench made him the longest-tenured judge in Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you the history of Florida’s First Judicial Circuit. HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY and my other distinguished colleagues join me The 30 years encompassed some of the big- OF INDIANA in honoring the Hobart Chamber of Commerce gest trials in Florida, including the conviction IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2008 Business Award Winners, Volunteers of of former Florida Senate President W.D. Wednesday, January 28, 2009 the Year, and also in congratulating the Burns Childers. Additionally, Judge Tolton served as family and their team on the 100th anniversary President of the Blue Ridge Institute for Juve- Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with of Burns Funeral Home. For their dedication nile and Family Law Judges and was Chair- great pleasure that I stand before you today to and commitment to the community of Hobart man of the Judicial Ethics Advisory Com- recognize the Hobart Chamber of Commerce as well as Northwest Indiana, they are all wor- mittee. award winners for 2008 and to congratulate thy of the honors bestowed upon them. Judge Tolton is survived by his wife, the one of its member businesses, Burns Funeral f former Shari Deason, as well as his children, Home, as they celebrate a momentous mile- William Jeremiah Tolton III, Lizabeth Tolton stone, 100 years of excellent service. These FAIR TAXES FOR SENIORS Silk, and Timothy Tolton and his grandchild, outstanding recipients will be honored during Liam Silk. My wife Vicki and I send our most the Chamber’s annual awards and installation HON. BOB FILNER sincere condolences to the family as they banquet, which will take place on Thursday, OF CALIFORNIA grieve the loss of this exceptional father, January 29, 2009, at the Avalon Manor in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES judge, and civic leader. Merrillville, Indiana. Judge Tolton’s longstanding career in public Wednesday, January 28, 2009 The Hobart Chamber of Commerce utilizes service will benefit the Northwest Florida com- members of the community in order to im- Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I recently re- munity for many years to come. Madam prove and develop business, industry, and the introduced my bill, the ‘‘Fair Taxes for Seniors Speaker, on behalf of the United States Con- professions. Each year, the Chamber mem- Act’’ (H.R. 674), which will provide a one-time gress, I am proud to recognize the exceptional bers and friends gather together to honor the increase in the capital gains tax exemption on life of the Honorable William J. Tolton, Jr. Business Award Winners, Volunteers of the the sale of a home for citizens who are 50 f Year, and to commemorate specific accom- years of age or older. Passing this bill will give plishments within the community. many seniors the additional money they need TEXAS FIGHT Continuing a tradition that goes back well for nursing home care, medical costs, and over 50 years, the Chamber will honor its other retirement expenses. HON. TED POE 2008 Business Award Winners. The Large The Fair Taxes for Seniors Act doubles the OF TEXAS Business of the Year award recipient is Saint current exemption by providing a one-time in- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mary’s Medical Center. The hospital continues crease to $500,000 for a single person and $1 Wednesday, January 28, 2009 to be a leader in providing outstanding health million for a couple that can be excluded from services to the community. For the fourth con- the sale of a principal residence for taxpayers Mr. POE of Texas. Madam Speaker, Coach secutive year, Saint Mary’s Medical Center who have reached the age of 50. Because Mack Brown and the Texas Longhorn football has also won the 2008 Distinguished Hospital they will be able to keep more, an added ben- team had a great football season. The for Patient Safety. The Small Business of the efit is that family members and perhaps the Longhorns played tough all year, winning 12 Year award recipient is Sebo’s Nursing and government will be relieved of the burden of games, and losing only once. Among their Rehabilitation Center. This outstanding facility caring for these individuals as they grow older. wins, I would like to especially congratulate has grown into a 138-bed facility offering clin- I hope that my colleagues will join me in co- them on their victory on a neutral field over ical services, specialty programming for Alz- sponsoring this important legislation. Oklahoma; a rivalry that has existed since heimer’s and Dementia patients, rehabilitation f 1900. With Texas beating Oklahoma again, it services, and many other amenities. The New further extends the all-time series lead to 58 Business of the Year award is being pre- RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF THE wins for UT to only 40 for OU. sented to 54 Main Bistro. The owners, Dave HONORABLE WILLIAM JEREMIAH For the University of Texas winning titles, and Linda Papp, renovated an 1895 Victorian TOLTON, JR. championships, and individual awards are home and turned it into a local favorite that is nothing new. The Longhorns have a rich tradi- known for its weekly changing menu. Each HON. JEFF MILLER tion of conference titles, National Champion- business is dedicated to providing excellent OF FLORIDA ships, and Heisman trophy winners. You can business to the community and for that rea- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ask any player and they will tell you that just son, they are to be commended. having the opportunity to play for the Univer- The Hobart Chamber of Commerce will Wednesday, January 28, 2009 sity of Texas is the dream of every football honor the Herrick Family with the Volunteers Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I player in the great state of Texas. UT players of the Year award. Dr. James Herrick, his wife rise today in recognition of the Honorable Wil- are almost all from Texas, but occasionally an Janet Herrick, and their daughter Cheryl Her- liam Jeremiah Tolton, Jr., known to his friends out of state player has the privilege of making rick have been dedicated volunteers in Hobart as ‘‘Jere,’’ who passed away on Friday, Janu- his way onto the Longhorn team. for many years. The family continues to be a ary 23, 2009. Judge Tolton’s lifetime of service This year there was once again controversy staple in the community, donating their time in both the civic and social realm set a prece- surrounding the BCS. There were several and effort to numerous special events, fund- dent of excellence in the Northwest Florida teams including Texas that had legitimate raisers, the Kiwanis Club, Little League, and area and he will be greatly missed. claims to be the team playing for a National the community’s school system, to name a Throughout most of his 71 years, Judge Championship. I personally think Texas and few. For their selfless commitment to their Tolton’s life was spent bettering the civic and the ‘‘BCS National Champion Florida Gators’’ community, I congratulate the Herrick family social realm. After earning a B.A. and J.D. should have a real national playoff game and on this prestigious award. from Washington and Lee University in Lex- determine the National Championship. Only The Hobart Chamber of Commerce will also ington, Virginia, Judge Tolton moved to Fort through a playoff system can we have a true congratulate Burns Funeral Home as they cel- Walton Beach, Florida where he began prac- National Champion every year. NCAA Division ebrate their 100th anniversary. In 1908, James ticing law. The succeeding years were marked II and Division III have a football playoff sys- E. Burns opened his first funeral home in with frequent promotions as Judge Tolton be- tem that works quite well.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A28JA8.020 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS E166 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks January 28, 2009 While Texas beat Oklahoma, they were In 1948, a stamp was issued honoring these lain of the Year; and an 8-year president of snubbed for the Big 12 Conference title game, four chaplains as true examples of ‘‘Interfaith the Samaritan Center for the homeless. which meant they had no chance to play for in Action.’’ They were recognized by Congress In 1990, I had the honor of nominating Dr. the National Championship. In addition to this, and the President with a special Medal of Witman to offer a prayer to open a session of many felt Colt McCoy should have been given Honor for their selfless acts of courage, com- the House of Representatives as guest Chap- more consideration for the Heisman trophy. passion and faith. lain, which he did on May 2, 1990. With everything that the Longhorns had to en- The heroism of these brave men should Dr. Witman retired as Senior Pastor of the dure, it could have been enough for any team serve as an example of love for others without Simi Valley Unified Methodist Church in 1997, to just throw in the towel and give up. How- regard to race, religion or creed, and an ac- but he never ended his ministry, fellowship, ever, Coach Mack Brown kept his team fo- knowledgment of the potential for human com- service, and friendship to the people of the cused and committed to their motto, ‘‘Texas passion. This message rings true today more city. Fight.’’ UT went on to play a very good Big 10, than ever! Madam Speaker, I know my colleagues will Ohio State team in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. In That is why I have reintroduced a resolution, join my wife, Janice, and me in thanking the a thrilling game, Colt McCoy led a which remembers the Four Immortal Chaplain Rev. Dr. Frank Witman for his nearly four dec- ‘‘Heismanesk’’ last minute drive and con- and requests the President issue a proclama- ades of selfless service to the community, and nected with Senior Quan Cosby for a 26-yard tion calling on the Federal Government, will join the Simi Valley community in con- touchdown that gave Texas the win, 24–21. States, localities, and the people of the United gratulating him for earning the Strathearn Life- You need to only look at the upbringing of States to observe a day in their honor with ap- time Achievement Award. quarterback Colt McCoy and receiver Jordan propriate ceremonies, programs, and activities. f Shipley to see the character the Longhorns It is important their story of extraordinary are made of. Both Colt and Jordan’s fathers faith, courage, and selflessness is heard and HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS were teammates and roommates while playing should guide the way we live out lives with OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS football at my Alma Mater, Abilene Christian compassion for others, in the spirit of the four SPEECH OF University. Brad McCoy was a receiver and Chaplains. I invite my colleagues to join with Bob Shipley was a running back. After Bob me in honoring the Four Immortal Chaplains HON. MARK E. SOUDER and Brad graduated from ACU they kept in by supporting this important resolution. OF INDIANA touch, raising their two families together. The f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES two families regularly attended church to- Wednesday, January 21, 2009 gether, went fishing, and other family activi- IN HONOR OF THE REV. DR. ties. Both Brad McCoy and Bob Shipley in- FRANK WITMAN Mr. SOUDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today stilled work ethic, faith in God, and leadership in support of H. Res. 39, and especially in qualities into their two boys. HON. ELTON GALLEGLY support of Bishop Luers High School in Fort The character of these two resonates OF CALIFORNIA Wayne, IN. through the whole Longhorn team. They are IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Madam Speaker, Catholic schools are an in- Texas—a team committed to each other, their credible asset to our country. Throughout coaches, and the University. Wednesday, January 28, 2009 much of our history, Catholic schools have Madam Speaker, University of Texas foot- Mr. GALLEGLY. Madam Speaker, I rise in provided a solid moral and intellectual edu- ball is as much of a part of America as the honor of my longtime friend, the Rev. Dr. cation to millions of students, and served as a flag and apple pie. It is almost a religion in the Frank Witman, who is being honored this crucial stabilizing force for many immigrants to burnt orange state of Texas. week with the prestigious Simi Valley, Cali- our great Nation. Catholic schools have been I commend the Longhorns and coaches for fornia, Chamber of Commerce Strathearn Life- able to build communities of character in a a great season. I look forward to another suc- time Achievement Award. way unique to much of the rest of our edu- cessful year in ’09 along with the 59th win None are more deserving of this recognition cational system, testified to by the untold over Oklahoma. Hook’em Horns! than Dr. Witman. amounts of service that have been performed And that’s just the way it is. Dr. Witman planted himself in Simi Valley by their graduates. f when he arrived in the summer of 1969 to as- Bishop Luers is no different. In its mission HONORING THE FOUR IMMORTAL sume the post of senior pastor of the United statement, Bishop Luers pledges to equip CHAPLAINS Methodist Church of Simi Valley. The third- each graduate with the spiritual, academic, generation United Methodist Church minister and social tools they need to serve God and immediately anchored his roots, which grew others—that they may be light to the world, so HON. BOB FILNER and spread with every year. that, in the words of Matthew, others ‘‘may OF CALIFORNIA Dr. Witman served on the board of directors see your good deeds and glorify your heav- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of the Simi Valley Rotary Club, which he enly Father.’’ Wednesday, January 28, 2009 joined in mid-1969, and was the recipient of Madam Speaker, Bishop Luers does this in- Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker and col- the Paul Harris Award, one of the highest hon- credibly well. The school has many successful leagues, I rise today to speak about an impor- ors Rotary bestows upon an individual. graduates, an excellent graduation rate, and tant resolution that I have reintroduced that In 1972, he led the Simi Valley Ministerial impressive athletic achievements. In fact, honors the legacy of the Four Immortal Chap- Association to join with the Businessmen Bishop Luers has been named one of the Na- lains who sacrificed their lives over 65 years Against the Card Club Ordinance to defeat or- tion’s leading Catholic high schools by the na- ago. (H. Res. 86) ganized gambling in Simi Valley. tional Catholic High School Honor Roll. The On February 3, 1943, the U.S. Army Trans- Six years later, Dr. Witman founded the men and women of Bishop Luers who each portation Service troopship Dorchester was chaplain program for the Simi Valley Police day serve students and families deserve our torpedoed in the North Atlantic by a German Department and, for more than 30 years, he deep gratitude. submarine. Of the 900 passengers and crew, has served as the department’s senior chap- Let me also take a moment briefly to note 597 were military personnel, and four of those lain. Dr. Witman has provided comfort, coun- the incredible work Catholic schools have men were the ship’s chaplains—Methodist seling, prayers, and support during most of the done and continue to do for minorities, often chaplain George Lansing Fox, Rabbi Alex- city’s traumatic and tragic events, including the non-Catholic, and often for very low cost. In- ander Goode, Dutch Reformed minister Clark untimely death of Officer Michael Clark. His deed, in many poor neighborhoods, the Catho- V. Poling and John P. Washington, a Roman support of the city and its police officers lic school is the only good option available to Catholic priest. Each chaplain distributed life earned him the department’s Volunteer of the parents. In this way, Catholic schools play a vests as the ship went down and then gave up Year Award in 1997, the department’s Lifetime crucial role in the pursuit of justice by building their own when supply ran out. As the ship Service Award in 2007, and recognition from communities that respect the dignity of all peo- went down into the icy waters, survivors in the the Simi Valley City Council in 2008. ple. They deserve our support. nearby rafts could see the four chaplains with Dr. Witman also was a charter member of Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues their arms linked and braced against the slant- the Steering Committee for Leadership Simi join with me in honoring Bishop Luers and ing deck. According to eyewitnesses, the Valley; a charter member of the Simi Valley other Catholic schools across the country. It is chaplains were heard offering prayers for the Hospital Board Strategic Planning Committee; no exaggeration to say that such schools are soldiers who had died in the wreckage. Simi Valley Hospital’s 1995 Volunteer Chap- critical to the future of our country.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A28JA8.022 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS January 28, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E167 THE INTRODUCTION OF CENTER Assembly, and a university professor and writ- save for a home, retirement, or to start their TO ADVANCE, MONITOR, AND er, he has been on the cutting edge of social own businesses. PRESERVE UNIVERSITY SECU- change since 1960. Helping Americans improve themselves by RITY SAFETY ACT OF 2009 (H.R. Bond has experienced firsthand overt dis- reducing their taxes will make our country 748) crimination and racial prejudice, and he has stronger. I, therefore, hope all my colleges will spent a lifetime standing up against those who join me in cosponsoring the Tax Free Tips HON. ROBERT C. ‘‘BOBBY’’ SCOTT would deny him and others equal opportunity Act. OF VIRGINIA because of the color of their skin. He was a f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES founder of the Student Nonviolent Coordi- nating Committee (SNCC) and was active in CLEAN AIR FOR OUR BORDER Wednesday, January 28, 2009 protests and registration campaigns through- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, out the South. He overcame opposition from HON. BOB FILNER today I rise to introduce the Center to Ad- members of the Georgia House of Represent- OF CALIFORNIA vance, Monitor and Preserve University Secu- atives, and fought all the way to the United IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rity (‘‘CAMPUS’’) Safety Act of 2009. The pur- States Supreme Court in order to take his Wednesday, January 28, 2009 pose of this legislation is to enable our institu- rightful seat. And he led a challenge delega- tions of higher education to easily obtain the tion from Georgia to the 1968 Democratic Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I have intro- best information available on how to keep our Convention that successfully unseated Geor- duced The Foreign Air Impact Regulation campuses safe and how to respond in the gia’s regular Democrats. (FAIR) Air Act (H.R. 677). The purpose of this event of a campus emergency. The bill cre- Bond has served since 1998 as Chairman bill is to combat air pollution along our borders ates a National Center for Campus Public of the Board of the NAACP, the oldest and and to ensure that our communities are not Safety (‘‘Center’’), which will be administered largest civil rights organization in the United unfairly penalized. through Department of Justice. The Center is States. In 2002, he received the prestigious Our border communities are being besieged designed to train campus public safety agen- National Freedom Award. The holder of twen- by toxic pollutants from neighboring countries. cies in state of the art practices to assure ty-five honorary degrees, Bond is a distin- This is making the air quality along our border campus safety, encourage research to guished professor at American University in worse than ever—and leaves our communities strengthen college safety and security, and Washington, DC, and a professor of history at with little recourse to improve the situation. serve as a clearinghouse for the dissemination the University of Virginia. The FAIR AIR Act says that if pollution from of relevant campus public safety information. Bond currently serves as Chairman of the another country causes non-attainment of air The Director of the Center will have authority Premier Auto Group PAG (Volvo, Land Rover, pollution regulations, then the EPA and the to award grants to institutions of higher learn- Aston-Martin, and Jaguar) Diversity Council Secretary of State should work together to ing to help them meet their enhanced public and is on the boards of People for the Amer- lower it! Furthermore, the effective date of re- safety goals. ican Way, the Southern Poverty Law Center classification should be delayed until the Sec- Over the past few years we have seen nu- and the Council for a Livable World, and the retary of State and local leaders develop a merous tragedies occur at colleges and uni- advisory board of the Harvard Business plan with the neighboring country to improve versities, including the disastrous events that School Initiative on Social Enterprise, among the air quality. occurred at Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois others. We cannot put this international problem on University. Unfortunately, because these Throughout his life and career, Dr. Bond the backs of those who simply happen to live events were the first of their kind for the has effected change and remained steadfast along the border. There truly needs to be a bi- schools, the Administrators were not fully as an activist for social justice and civil rights national cooperative solution to address this knowledgeable on the best practices to pre- for African-Americans and other minorities. He important issue. We all breathe the same air vent the tragedies and how to respond in the has led the nation by example, and I congratu- and it is only with bi-national cooperation and aftermath. We therefore must assist our insti- late him for the honor he will receive in North working together to achieve better air quality tutions of higher learning to keep campuses Carolina on January 31. standards for all! safe. f f The CAMPUS Safety Act will help institu- IN HONOR OF SHERBURNE COUNTY tions of higher learning understand how to THE TAX FREE TIPS ACT SHERIFF BRUCE ANDERSON ON prevent such tragedies from occurring, and THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIRE- how to respond in case they do. HON. RON PAUL MENT I urge my colleagues to cosponsor and sup- OF TEXAS port this important legislation to ensure that IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the institutions of higher education have ac- Wednesday, January 28, 2009 HON. MICHELE BACHMANN cess to information on how to keep their OF MINNESOTA schools safe. Mr. PAUL. Madam Speaker, I rise to help IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES millions of working Americans by introducing f the Tax Free Tips Act. As the title suggests, Wednesday, January 28, 2009 RECOGNIZING JULIAN BOND this legislation makes tips exempt from federal Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, I rise income and payroll taxes. Tips often compose today in honor of Bruce Anderson, who retires HON. DAVID E. PRICE a substantial portion of the earnings of wait- as Sheriff for Sherburne County, Minnesota, OF NORTH CAROLINA ers, waitresses, and other service-sector em- on Friday, January 30th. As County Board IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ployees. However, unlike regular wages, a Chairman Arne Engstrom has said, Bruce An- service-sector employee usually has no guar- derson ‘‘raised the bar so high for sheriffs in Wednesday, January 28, 2009 antee of, or legal right to, a tip. Instead, the our state.’’ Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Madam amount of a tip usually depends on how well Bruce Anderson, raised in Elk River, Min- Speaker, I rise to congratulate Julian Bond, an employee satisfies a client. Since the nesota, first started with the Sheriff’s Office in who will be recognized as the 2009 Humani- amount of taxes one pays increases along 1975, when he forfeited a football scholarship tarian of the Year by the North Carolina State with the size of tip, taxing tips punishes work- to the University of Minnesota to take a job as Conference of the NAACP. I am proud to be ers for doing a superior job! a dispatcher-jailer with Sherburne County. He among those honoring him at the organiza- Many service-sector employers are young was just 19 years old, but he knew he wanted tion’s 25th Annual Humanitarian Awards Ban- people trying to make money to pay for their a career serving his community in law enforce- quet on January 31, 2009. education, or single parents struggling to pro- ment. From his student days to his current chair- vide for their children. Oftentimes, these work- Fourteen years ago, he took his experience manship of the National Association for the ers work two jobs in hopes of making a better with the office to a new level when he was Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Ju- life for themselves and their families. The Tax elected to serve as the County’s Sheriff. His lian Bond has been at the forefront of move- Free Tips Act gives these hard-working Ameri- professionalism and dedication earned him re- ments for civil rights and economic justice. As cans an immediate pay raise. People may use election three more times, without any opposi- an activist jailed for his convictions, a veteran this pay raise to devote more resources to tion. When he told the County Board that he of more than 20 years in the Georgia General their children’s, or their own, education, or to would be retiring, his announcement was

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A28JA8.025 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS E168 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks January 28, 2009 marked with the same humility and commit- has ever faced and my thoughts, prayers and So, Madam Speaker, it is with a somewhat ment that Sherburne residents have come to deepest gratitude for their sacrifice goes out to heavy heart that we bid farewell to Kathy as expect of his service. In fact, he thanked the them. There are no words that can relieve Executive Director of the Erie County Demo- Board for their support, thanked the citizens their pain and what words I offer only begin to cratic Committee, although I am certain that for the privilege to serve them, and thanked convey my deepest respect and highest ap- we will see her often. I hope the House will his staff—calling them ‘‘unsung heroes.’’ preciation. join me in wishing Kathy and her husband Tim Bruce Anderson’s tenure as Sheriff was Private Cotting’s family have all given a part good luck and Godspeed in all of their future marked by a number of enormous advances in of themselves in the loss of their loved one endeavors, and again congratulate Kathy on a the Office’s operations. He oversaw an expan- and I hope they know that their son and broth- job superbly done. sion of the County jail and worked out an ar- er, the goodness he brought to this world, and f rangement to house federal inmates there as the sacrifice he has made, will always be re- well. He brought extraordinary technological membered. DISABILITY BENEFITS FOR PEO- PLE WITH HUNTINGTON’S DIS- advances, including updating their radio sys- f tem to digital to better enable Sherburne sher- EASE iffs to communicate with neighboring jurisdic- TRIBUTE TO KATHLEEN CALLAN tions. And, he solved some real mysteries and HON. BOB FILNER crimes, including a high-profile 1992 murder. HON. BRIAN HIGGINS OF CALIFORNIA Bruce’s successor will be Captain Joel Brott, OF NEW YORK IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES who has served in Sherburne County law en- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, January 28, 2009 forcement for 12 years. Captain Brott has said Wednesday, January 28, 2009 that he considers Sheriff Anderson a mentor Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I have intro- and with such tutelage, Sherburne is sure to Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I rise today duced the Huntington’s Disease Parity Act of be in good hands. to ask the House to join me in honoring a 2009 (H.R. 678). The purpose of this bill is to In the meantime, we look forward to seeing great Western New Yorker—one of many who improve Social Security Disability Benefits and what next wonderful adventure in public serv- are intentional Western New Yorkers, those Medicare coverage for people affected by ice awaits Bruce Anderson. Sherburne County who have chosen to live in our region as op- Huntington’s Disease. Commissioner Felix Schmiesing called Ander- posed to natives like myself. I rise today to Huntington’s Disease (HD), is a genetic son’s retirement ‘‘the end of an era’’ but I be- honor Kathleen Callan as she ends her tenure neurodegenerative disease (like Alzheimer’s) lieve it is the start of a wonderful new chapter as Executive Director of the Erie County that causes total physical and mental deterio- both for Bruce Anderson and for the people of Democratic Committee. ration over a 10 to 25 year period. Eventually, Sherburne County, who I am certain he will Kathy is a New Jersey native; a product of every person diagnosed with HD will lose the continue to serve in some new way. the Philadelphia, PA suburbs, educated first in ability to live independently. It is a rare dis- local schools and later at American University f ease, affecting 30,000 Americans, while an- in Washington, DC, where she earned her un- other 200,000 are considered ‘‘at risk’’ of in- TRIBUTE TO PRIVATE GRANT A. dergraduate degree. After high school experi- heriting it from an affected parent. COTTING ences that included internships with then-Sen- Many people with HD who apply for Social ator Bill Bradley and Congressman Rob An- Security disability benefits experience delays HON. KEN CALVERT drews, Kathy and her husband Tim moved to and denials due to the continued use of out- OF CALIFORNIA Western New York in 1995, as Tim studied for dated and insufficient medical criteria. Often, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES his PhD at the University at Buffalo. by the time persons affected by HD are Following a lengthy stint at the Western ‘‘under review’’ for SSA disability, many have Wednesday, January 28, 2009 New York chapter of the American Lung Asso- already lost their employer-provided health in- Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise to ciation which was marked by successful lob- surance benefits. This legislation would ad- pay tribute to a hero from my congressional bying for passage of clean indoor air and anti- dress this problem by directing the Social Se- district, Army Private Grant A. Cotting. Today smoking legislation at the county and state curity Administration to revise its medical cri- I ask that the House of Representatives honor levels, Kathy assumed the Executive Direc- teria for determining disability for people with and remember this incredible young man who tor’s position upon the election of Chairman HD. died in service to his country. Len Lenihan in 2002. The legislation would also remove the two- Grant grew up in Corona, California and at- From January 2003 to just a few days ago, year waiting period for people living with HD to tended Santiago High School for three years Kathy served tirelessly as Executive Director, receive Medicare benefits after receiving So- before graduating from Buena Vista High managing the day to day operations of the cial Security disability benefits. Eliminating this School in 2007. During his senior year, Grant busiest and most successful county Demo- waiting period will ensure individuals will get was part of the ROTC program and hoped to cratic Party organization in upstate New York. crucial care they need in the early stages of have a career in the military. School officials Kathy’s record of successful contributions to the disease. In 2000, the Centers for Medicaid and counselors remember Grant fondly—he candidates for public office runs the gamut of and Medicare Services waived this waiting pe- was a quiet student who never hesitated to offices in New York State. From trustee posi- riod requirement for people disabled by ALS lend a hand to fellow students. tions in the smallest villages of Erie County, to (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s Private Cotting enlisted in the Army after countywide offices like Comptroller and Coun- disease), another degenerative neurological graduation and was assigned to the 515th ty Clerk, to state legislative and congressional condition similar to HD. Sapper Company, 5th Engineer Battalion, 4th officeholders and Justices of the State Su- f Maneuver Enhancement Brigade based at preme Court, several dozen public office- Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. A sapper com- holders—myself included—owe Kathy a tre- IN APPRECIATION OF SPECIAL pany handles demolitions, laying and dis- mendous debt of gratitude for her intellect and AGENT SCOTT SAMMIS OF THE arming mines, and other combat engineering instinct, her dedication and loyalty, and her BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, tasks. On January 24, 2009, Grant was killed tireless commitment to public service. FIREARMS AND EXPLOSIVES in Kut, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Free- For that latter point, Madam Speaker, I do dom. Grant leaves behind his parents, Craig not wish to belabor, but instead to amplify. HON. ALAN B. MOLLOHAN and Amanda, and four younger brothers, Over the past six years, Kathy worked literally OF WEST VIRGINIA Branden, Nick, Scott and Lucas. scores of 80, 90 or 100-hour workweeks, de- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES As we look at the incredibly rich military his- pendent of course upon the time of year and tory of our country we realize that this history the political calendar’s requirements, in order Wednesday, January 28, 2009 is comprised of men, just like Grant, who to ensure that candidates for public office had Mr. MOLLOHAN. Madam Speaker, I rise bravely fought for the ideals of freedom and the services they needed. As myself a former today to acknowledge the valuable contribu- democracy. Each story is unique and hum- Secretary—a lifetime ago, it seems—of the tions that Special Agent Scott Sammis of the bling for those of us who, far from the dangers very party she served so proudly, I can hon- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Ex- they have faced, live our lives in relative com- estly say that no staff member of our local or- plosives (ATF) has made to the House Appro- fort and ease. The news of Grant’s death was ganization ever worked as hard, or as effec- priations Subcommittee on Commerce, Jus- probably the hardest day the Cotting family tively, as Kathy Callan has. tice, Science and Related Agencies this past

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A28JA8.027 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS January 28, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E169 year specifically, and to Members of the Con- ference deliberations with the Senate, Scott people are fully aware of all of the sources of gress and the American people more gen- ensured that the House and Senate tables potential danger to their personal information. erally. merged correctly—a difficult task given that Online security and computer security are Special Agent Scott Sammis came to the the House and Senate Subcommittees use dif- broad subjects that encompass simple security Subcommittee in February of 2008 on a pro- ferent databases. Scott, as always, rose to the measures such as using strong passwords as fessional detail from the ATF. At that time, occasion and volunteered to take on this ex- well as more complicated subjects such as the Special Agent Sammis was Acting Division tremely important, time-consuming task. dangers of unsecured wireless networks. In- Chief of the Liaison Division within the Office In addition, Special Agent Sammis reviewed creasing the awareness of these threats would of Public and Governmental Affairs. Special the congressional budget submissions of sev- greatly benefit individuals whose personal in- Agent Sammis joined the ATF nearly 20 years eral independent agencies, and, at only the formation is at risk online. ago, and was first assigned to the Buffalo, appropriate times, offered his impressions and H. Res. 31 marks January 28, 2009, as New York field office. Soon after being as- observations based on his unique, personal ‘‘National Data Privacy Day’’. Our effort to es- signed to that field office, Scott was the sole experience in the field when questions related tablish this date as National Data Privacy Day case agent on the Love Canal Bomber inves- to law enforcement arose. When the work of would be in conjunction with numerous other tigation. That investigation involved individuals the Subcommittee required late-night or ex- organizations and institutions that are acting to who detonated two pipe bombs and set sev- tended hours, Special Agent Sammis ensured encourage awareness of data privacy issues eral fires in the vacant homes around the con- that the Subcommittee staff did not go without on this day. The Ohio State University in my taminated area, which had recently been de- proper nourishment, offering suggestions from district, for example, is strongly concerned clared habitable again. The individuals were the menus of neighborhood eateries. He kept with data privacy and will be printing articles, arrested by Special Agent Sammis and ulti- a catalog of quotable quips, day-to-day offering daily tips, distributing posters, and ac- mately convicted in U.S. District Court. musings that brought him private amusement. tively working with students, faculty and staff Then in December of 1993, four package His nail pin compressor, electric drill and ham- to raise awareness of personal information pri- bombs detonated throughout New York State, mer were always ready at hand, and for the vacy issues. Commendable efforts such as these encour- killing five people and injuring two. Two other sake of expediency, he insisted on moving of- age the discussion of data privacy in class- packages were intercepted and rendered safe fice furniture in his suit and tie. There was little rooms and living rooms across our country by local law enforcement. Special Agent he would not do gladly. He performed his job and will help individuals better protect them- Sammis had been investigating a large recov- admirably, with good humor and patience. selves against the misuse of their personal in- ery of dynamite from three months earlier, and Simply, Special Agent Sammis covered all the bases, and exceeded everyone’s expectations. formation online and help them develop good was able to connect the two investigations on security habits overall. I’m proud to be a co- the night of the bombings. He subsequently It is with regret that the Subcommittee re- turns Special Agent Sammis to the ATF today. sponsor of this resolution and will work with identified a suspect and obtained a 44-page my colleagues to continue to raise awareness signed confession within 18 hours of the He has represented the law enforcement agents of the ATF with distinction and honor. of digital privacy, and safeguard ourselves in bombings. The two suspects were convicted in the digital area. U.S. District Court. Sammis received ATF’s I personally want to extend my appreciation, f Johnny Masengale Memorial Award for his and that of Ranking Member RODNEY FRELING- work on this investigation. This annual award HUYSEN, Senators BARBARA MIKULSKI and TRIBUTE TO THE APOLLO THEA- was established in memory of Special Agent RICHARD SHELBY, and the Subcommittee staff TER’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY SEA- Johnny A. Masengale to recognize ATF em- for a job very well done. Once again, Scott, SON AND THE CONTRIBUTIONS ployees involved in a special effort or special you have served the Congress and the Amer- OF MR. PERCY SUTTON achievement in an explosives investigation or ican people well. an explosives-related support activity. Special f HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL Agent Sammis and his impressive work lead- NATIONAL DATA PRIVACY DAY OF NEW YORK ing to these arrests were featured on Amer- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ican Justice. SPEECH OF Wednesday, January 28, 2009 In October 1997, Special Agent Sammis was assigned to the Intelligence Division; spe- HON. MARY JO KILROY Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today OF OHIO cifically, the National Church Arson Task to congratulate the Apollo Theater on kicking IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Force. As a project officer in this group, Spe- off its 75th Anniversary Season and its long- cial Agent Sammis utilized his computer skills Monday, January 26, 2009 time success in showcasing many of the world’s greatest entertainers. Additionally, I to set up a database to track the hundreds of Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise in want to pay tribute to my dear friend Percy church fires occurring in the late 1990s. The strong support of H. Res. 31. In this digital Sutton who saved the Apollo Theater and honing of these computer skills would prove age, people from all walks of life are affected made this moment possible. particularly invaluable to the Subcommittee on by data privacy issues, from teenagers who I also congratulate the Apollo Theater Foun- Commerce, Justice, Science and Related maintain profiles on social networking dation president & CEO Jonelle Procope and Agencies. websites to business professionals who board chairman Richard D. Parsons for their Over the following ten years, Special Agent schedule meetings and place orders online. leadership and their efforts in putting together Sammis would be assigned various positions Instant electronic communications have this anniversary celebration. within the ATF, including a position within the brought us closer together and made us pros- Before there was American Idol, there was Resource Management Branch (RMB) of perous in many ways, but they have also cre- Amateur Night at the Apollo which launched ATF’s Financial Management Division and as ated threats to the privacy of our personal in- the dreams of stardom for many of America’s the Resident Agent in Charge of the Rich- formation. greatest entertainers. Among them are some mond, Virginia Field Office. As personal information becomes readily ac- of the legends: Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Upon joining the Subcommittee, Special cessible online, those who endeavor to use and James Brown. Agent Sammis was responsible for managing our personal data to their own advantage are Located in the heart of Harlem on 125th the sizable and complex database of congres- becoming increasingly sophisticated in their at- Street, the Apollo is the musical soul of our sional requests made of the Subcommittee. tempts to obtain it: the harvesting of personal community. For the past 74 years, it has The database included several thousand indi- information from public profiles of social net- thrilled Americans of every race and religion vidual requests made by members of Con- working websites, phishing and scamming e- who have enjoyed unforgettable performances gress. His tenacity, ingenuity and thorough- mails, and passive monitoring of unsecured by new and established artists. This year con- ness brought clarity and order to the cum- wireless networks all provide very real dan- tinues and celebrates that tradition. bersome and time-consuming process of re- gers to our personal information. The threat of I truly wish I could be there to celebrate this viewing and tracking the myriad annual re- identity theft, which can have devastating con- historic event. However, my work on the quests. He worked tirelessly into the early sequences that can take years to undo, re- House Ways and Means Committee focusing morning hours to ensure that the tabular mate- mains very real to many people across the on President Obama’s economic recovery plan rial for inclusion in the Committee reports was country as they use the Internet and go about requires me to be in Washington. complete and accurate and that certification their everyday lives. The Apollo is special place in the entertain- letters were correct and submitted in accord- These threats can be mitigated if individuals ment world where many celebrities who start- ance with the Rules of the House. During con- are vigilant in protecting their privacy, but few ed here come home and ‘‘look back.’’ That is

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:58 Jan 29, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A28JA8.029 E28JAPT1 rfrederick on PROD1PC67 with REMARKS E170 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks January 28, 2009 the case with Dionne Warwick and Chuck Madam Speaker, Lahori Ram was a pas- Case of Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Jackson who starred at the Apollo years ago sionate and progressive leader of the Indo- Co., by the narrow 5–4 vote, greatly impaired and will be with us this week participating in American community. He founded North the ability of women and others to challenge the 75th Anniversary Season Kick-Off. America’s first Sri Guru Ravidass Temple in pay discrimination. The passage and enact- Once again, I congratulate the Apollo The- Pittsburg, California in 1984. He tirelessly ment of this act will restore prior longstanding ater and join in its celebration. Our district is spread his message of equality for all human- law which will enable women and others to proud to serve as the home of the Apollo and kind and encouraged education, hard work challenge instances of pay discrimination with- deeply appreciates all it has done for the com- and love of family, community and country. in 180 days of a discriminatory pay check. For munity. We look forward to a 75th season Lahori Ram was a mentor for Indians want- too long women have performed the same filled with amazing talent and memorable per- ing to get involved in the American political tasks and have been unequally compensated. formances. process and was the first Indo-American to be Unequal pay is not merely a women’s issue f appointed to a statewide commission in Cali- but a disparity that affects all of us. fornia. At the time of his passing, he served Though there is still more work to be done IN RECOGNITION OF THE INSPIRA- on California’s Economic Development Com- in the fight for equality this legislation is an im- TIONAL LIFE OF LAHORI RAM mission. Previously he served on the state’s portant step. Technology, Trade and Commerce Committee f HON. JACKIE SPEIER and the Transportation Commission. OF CALIFORNIA Lahori and Prito Ram bought their first SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS home in San Bruno in 1979. While he built a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, fortune—eventually owning more than 100 Wednesday, January 28, 2009 agreed to by the Senate on February 4, apartment units in the Bay Area—the family 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, our nation remained in their adopted community. His un- tem for a computerized schedule of all lost a shining light when Mr. Lahori Ram expected and sudden passing leaves many meetings and hearings of Senate com- passed away earlier this month. mourning the loss, but soon the mention of his mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- Mr. Ram was born in 1944 in the village of name will bring only smiles as his many tees, and committees of conference. Lalwan, Punjab, India and came to America in friends and relatives remember this good man, This title requires all such committees 1972 with $308 in his pocket. He toiled in the known worldwide for his grace, hard work and to notify the Office of the Senate Daily fields of the Central Valley, picking almonds kindness. I am proud to have represented Digest—designated by the Rules Com- and peaches for seventy-five cents an hour Lahori Ram and prouder still to have been his mittee—of the time, place, and purpose while putting himself through school, eventu- friend. ally earning a Master’s Degree in Economics of the meetings, when scheduled, and f and landing a job with the United States Post- any cancellations or changes in the al Service at San Francisco International Air- LILLY LEDBETTER FAIR PAY ACT meetings as they occur. port. OF 2009 As an additional procedure along When Lahori Ram arrived in America, he with the computerization of this infor- didn’t know a single person. When he left us— SPEECH OF mation, the Office of the Senate Daily far too soon—his friends were legion. Known HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL Digest will prepare this information for printing in the Extensions of Remarks as Uncle Ji to his extended family of Indian OF NEW YORK section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD immigrants and their children, Lahori built a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES real estate empire in the Bay Area by buying on Monday and Wednesday of each and renovating rental properties. Tuesday, January 27, 2009 week. A staunch supporter of his adopted country, Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Meetings scheduled for Thursday, Lahori and his beautiful wife, Pritam Kaur, support of S. 181, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay January 29, 2009 may be found in the raised three delightful children and saw to it Act. Daily Digest of today’s RECORD. that they received a stellar education and em- The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act is critical in braced their parents’ dual affection for both the struggle for financial equality. Even in MEETINGS SCHEDULED America and the ‘‘old country’’ of India. His 2009 women still on average earn 78 cents for FEBRUARY 3 two sons, Jagdev (Jack) and Ajaipaul (Paul), every dollar earned by their male counterparts 10 a.m. are practicing attorneys and daughter Jagdish in a nation where 41 percent of women are Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs (Jackie) is on her way to an MBA. In addition, the sole income providers for their families. To hold hearings to examine modernizing he always had time for his daughters-in-law, Economic equality is not an issue that should the United States financial regulatory Ramitpal and Nelam and doted on his only be based on gender but on fairness and the system. grandchild, Jasmyne. quality of ones hard work. The Supreme Court SD–538

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