March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E783 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

A TRIBUTE TO CYNTHIA Y. the development of their respective annual submitted and received approval for nearly CUMMINGS training conferences. Locally, she is Board 800 projects totaling $2.9 billion, more than 10 member of Brooklyn Kindergarten Society and percent of the Recovery Act highway funds. HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS remains active in the Cornell Black Alumni As- Construction is underway across the coun- OF NEW YORK sociation and involved in the Decatur- try: Silver Spring, Maryland: $2.1 million IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Stuyvesant Block Association. You often will project to resurface and improve safety along see Cynthia greeting you at the door during a 1.1-mile section of New Hampshire Avenue; Thursday, March 26, 2009 the annual Brownstoner’s of Bedford- Syracuse, Utah: $15 million project to widen Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today Stuyvesant house tour. State Highway 108; and Richmond, Vermont: in recognition of Cynthia Cummings, Executive Cynthia has testified before the General $1.7 million project to rehabilitate a bridge Director of Community Parents, Inc. and com- Health and Welfare Committee of the New over the Winooski River. munity activist. York City Council and was a panelist for the In addition, the Federal Transit Administra- Cynthia Cummings is the Executive Director Citizen’s Committee on welfare reform. She tion has awarded grants to the Kentucky, Mis- of Community Parents, Inc. (CPI), a non-profit has presented at The National Center for souri, and Maine State DOTs to purchase community based organization, serving 275 Family Literacy Conference and at the Na- more than 500 vehicles, including trolleys, children and families in Bedford Stuyvesant tional Association for the Education of Young buses, vans, and ferries and construct almost and Far Rockaway. Additionally, she presides Children on the Importance of Family Literacy. 50 bus shelters. over the Administration for Children’s Services As a Johnson and Johnson Management Fel- Amtrak has approved $938 million of capital Head Start Training Institute at Berean Baptist low, she continues her study of organizational improvement projects: including $105 million Church, offering professional, career and cre- management annually at the Anderson School project to replace a moveable bridge over the dential programs. Continuing accomplishments of Business at UCLA. She also continues her Niantic River; and $82 million to rehabilitate 68 include securing and renovating a permanent activism as a participant in the CORO Leader- passenger cars. facility in Far Rockaway. ship NY program. The Federal Aviation Administration has Immediately following completion of her de- She is the recipient of Councilmember An- identified $913 million of the $1.1 billion of air- gree in Human Development and Family Stud- nette Robinson’s Spirited Leadership Award, port projects, including runway, taxiway, ies at Cornell University in 1975, Ms. was honored by the Mid-Bedford Heights apron, and terminal improvements. Cummings begun her career as the Teacher/ Lions Club and Vanguard Independent Demo- All across America, the Recovery Act is cre- Director of Moravian Head Start in Harlem, cratic Association and received a proclamation ating good, family-wage jobs to restore our na- where she developed her administrative skills from Councilmember Albert Vann for her civic tion’s infrastructure and economy. operating the program now known as Arthur efforts. An avid horticulturist, one often will see f and Thelma Adair Community Centers. She her lovingly tending to her home gardens. Her decided to pursue her studies further at New creative, artistic expression further is nurtured H.R. 1746, THE PRE-DISASTER York University in Community Health Edu- through dance training and performing with MITIGATION ACT OF 2009 cation as she worked at SUNY Health Science Mo’ Jazz, a blithe troupe of athletic and cre- Center on the National Study on Sickle Cell ative women over, let’s say, forty. HON. JAMES L. OBERSTAR Disease. Her interest and work in the health Cynthia is married to her soul mate, Richard OF MINNESOTA industry resulted in her being included in sev- Cummings, a pianist and composer, and she IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES eral research publications. remains blessed to have in her life, her moth- Thursday, March 26, 2009 She maintained an important connection er, Ellen Lewis, who recently celebrated her with her community as chairperson of Commu- 99th birthday. Representing the ascending Mr. OBERSTAR. Madam Speaker, I rise nity Parents Head Start, while then employed generation are her two daughters, Diarra, a today in strong support of H.R. 1746, the at Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield. In Columbia University graduate, following pro- ‘‘Pre-Disaster Mitigation Act of 2009’’, a bill to 1991, her predecessor passed the torch and fessional ballet and modern dance associa- reauthorize the Federal Emergency Manage- Ms. Cummings relinquished the chair of CPI to tions, and Imani a graduate of The University ment Agency’s (‘‘FEMA’’) Pre-Disaster Mitiga- assume the role of Executive Director. The of Tampa, who now resides in sunny Cali- tion (‘‘PDM’’) program, a program to help com- program grew under her leadership, achieving fornia currently pursuing a second career in munities across the nation protect against nat- the NAEYC accreditation and expanding its acupuncture. ural disasters and other hazards. I thank services into Far Rockaway, Queens. Concur- f Ranking Member MICA, and the gentlewoman rently, Ms. Cummings has spearheaded many from the District of Columbia (Ms. NORTON) partnerships to improve quality and to en- TRANSPORTATION CONSTRUCTION and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. DIAZ- hance services for Head Start children and UNDER THE RECOVERY ACT BALART), Chair and Ranking Member of the families. CPI was selected as a promising Subcommittee on Economic Development, practices site for the National Head Start Fam- HON. JAMES L. OBERSTAR Public Buildings, and Emergency Manage- ily Literacy Project and was featured in News- OF MINNESOTA ment, for joining me in sponsoring this bill. week Magazine. The organization was fea- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The Pre-Disaster Mitigation program pro- tured as one of 14 programs selected by the vides technical and financial assistance to Administration for Children’s Services New Thursday, March 26, 2009 state and local governments to reduce injuries, York City Head Start Best Practices sites. Mr. OBERSTAR. Madam Speaker, I rise loss of life, and damage to property caused by Most recently, in collaboration with Bank today to report that the American Recovery natural hazards. Examples of mitigation activi- Street College, the agency was selected as an and Reinvestment Act is getting construction ties include the seismic strengthening of build- Emotionally Responsive Practices site for con- workers off the bench and back on the job. ings, acquiring repetitively flooded homes, in- tinued research on best practices. The Recovery Act provides $64.1 billion for stalling shutters and shatter-resistant windows Among her professional affiliations are, transportation and infrastructure investments in hurricane-prone areas, and building ‘‘safe chairperson of DC 1707 Local 85 Head Start within the jurisdiction of the Committee on rooms’’ in houses and buildings to protect Employees Welfare Fund, representing the in- Transportation and Infrastructure. Nearly $40 people from high winds. terests of approximately 3,000 members. She billion of those funds have been distributed to Action on this bill today is crucial because, also is a trustee of The Head Start Manage- States by existing highway, transit, and clean under current law, the Pre-Disaster Mitigation ment Welfare Fund. Additionally, she is an ac- water statutory formulas. Of the $27 billion program will sunset on September 30, 2009. tive member of the National, Regional and provided for highway infrastructure formula Therefore, Congress must take quick action to State Head Start Associations contributing to funds, in the past three weeks, 33 States have continue this vital program.

∑ 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 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K26MR8.001 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E784 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 In 1988, the Committee on Transportation to FEMA, the 1997 mitigation investment the winter months. Without them, steel mills and Infrastructure authorized FEMA’s Hazard saved $24.6 million. That investment rep- would shut down for want of iron ore and elec- Mitigation Grant Program. This effective pro- resents a return of 107 percent after just one trical generation would halt for want of the gram provides grants to communities to miti- flood. coal necessary to power generators. People gate hazards, but only provides grants to Another success story comes from Story could not just lose their jobs—but their lives. ‘‘build better’’ after a disaster. At the time, no County, Iowa. There, six homes that had been During the 2006–2007 winter season, trans- program existed to help communities mitigate flooded in 1990, 1993, and 1996 were bought portation of 10,400,000 tons of iron ore on the risks from all hazards before disaster strikes. out with $549,662 in FEMA mitigation grants. Great Lakes supported 100,000 jobs at Min- In the 1990s, under the leadership of FEMA In 1998 when a flood struck again, FEMA esti- nesota and Michigan iron ore mines and lower Administrator James Lee Witt, FEMA devel- mates that $541,900 in damages to the homes Lakes steel mills and 300,000 jobs at supplier oped a pre-disaster mitigation pilot program was avoided. This mitigation project paid for industries. That same winter, 6,400,000 tons known as ‘‘Project Impact’’. Congress appro- itself in just one flood, and the estimated sav- of coal were shipped on the Great Lakes to priated funds for Project Impact in each of fis- ings do not include the costs of warning, res- keep the region supplied with electricity. How- cal years 1997 through 2001. The Committee cue, or evacuation. ever, we don’t have the icebreaking capacity on Transportation and Infrastructure first au- Mitigation is an investment. It is an invest- on the Great Lakes that we have had histori- thorized the current Pre-Disaster Mitigation ment that not only benefits the Federal Gov- cally. During the spring of 2008, U.S.-flag ves- program in the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. ernment, but state and local governments as sels operating on the Great Lakes suffered The PDM program reduces the risk of nat- well. Projects funded by the PDM program re- more than $1.3 million in damages to their ural hazards, which is where the preponder- duce the damage that would be paid for by hulls because the Coast Guard did not have ance of risk is in our country. The devastating the Federal Government and state and local sufficient assets to keep the shipping lanes ice storms that struck the middle of the United governments in a Major Disaster under the open. States (including Missouri, Tennessee, Okla- Stafford Act. However, mitigation also reduces People who are not from the Great Lakes homa, Arkansas, and Kentucky) earlier this the risks from smaller, more frequent, events region probably do not realize that there is ice year and the floods currently on the Red River that state and local governments face every on the Lakes and their interconnecting chan- in the Midwest are examples of the tragic, real day, as not every storm, fire, or flood warrants nels from early December until April. Some impact of natural disasters that occur in our the assistance of the Federal Government. years, the Coast Guard has been breaking ice nation every year. Over the last decade, nat- The Pre-Disaster Mitigation program, in the St. Mary’s river until mid-May. Think of ural disasters have cost our nation an average through property improvements, takes citizens these icebreakers as the snow plows for Great of nearly $30 billion per year. out of harm’s way, by elevating a house, or Lakes shipping. It is the Federal Government’s Mitigation has been proven to save money. making sure a hospital can survive a hurricane responsibility to keep these marine highways Studies by the Congressional Budget Office or earthquake. In doing so, it allows first re- open so the needs of the public can be met. and National Institute of Building Sciences sponders to focus on what is unpredictable in In 2006, the Coast Guard took delivery of show that for every dollar spent on pre-dis- a disaster rather than on what is foreseeable the new icebreaker MACKINAW. Unlike the aster mitigation projects, future losses are re- and predictable. old MACKINAW, this vessel is a combined duced by three to four dollars. In 2005, the H.R. 1746 reauthorizes the PDM program buoytender-icebreaker so that it can execute Mutihazard Mitigation Council, an advisory for three years, at a level of $250 million for Coast Guard missions year-round. Five of the body of the National Institute of Building each of fiscal years 2010 through 2012. The Coast Guard’s icebreakers on the Lakes are Sciences, found ‘‘that a dollar spent on mitiga- bill increases the minimum amount that each close to the end of their useful lives. Further, tion saves society an average of $4.’’ The State can receive under the program from the buoytenders on the Lakes are having dif- Council found that flood mitigation measures $500,000 to $575,000, and codifies the com- ficulty breaking ice of the thickness that is yield even greater savings. According to a petitive selection process of the program as commonly found on the Lakes. September 2007 CBO report on the reduction currently administered by FEMA. The $153 million authorized in H.R. 1747 in Federal disaster assistance that is likely to The bill also eliminates the existing sunset authorizes the funding to build a sister ship to result from the PDM program, ‘‘on average, fu- in the program. As the evidence clearly the MACKINAW. The design of the MACKI- ture losses are reduced by about $3 (meas- shows, this program works well and is cost ef- NAW is proven and the vessel has shown that ured in discounted present value) for each $1 fective. It should no longer be treated as a is it up to the job of breaking ice on the Lakes spent on those projects, including both federal pilot program with a sunset. Rather, state and during the winter and tending buoys during the and nonfederal spending.’’ local governments should have the certainly of spring, summer and fall months. Not only will While empirical data is critical, perhaps knowing this program will be available in the this funding ensure that our nation’s vital in- more telling are real-life mitigation ‘‘success future so they can conduct vital longer-term dustries are supplied during the winter—con- stories’’. One of the best examples of mitiga- mitigation planning. struction of this icebreaker will create jobs at tion is the town of Valmeyer, Illinois. The town Last year, the House passed a virtually U.S. shipyards and the related supplier indus- was devastated by the great flood of 1993. identical bill, H.R. 6109, but the other body did tries at a time when job creation is so vital to With $45 million in Federal, state, and local not take action on this bill. While a one-year an economy losing some 600,000 jobs per funding, the town relocated to bluffs 400 feet extension was included in the Department of month. above the site of the former town. When faced Homeland Security Fiscal Year 2009 Appro- For all of these reasons, it is critically impor- with floods last year, the residents of that town priations Act to keep this vital program alive, tant that we provide the Coast Guard with the were out of harm’s way, as the Chicago Trib- Congress must act. If we do not, this worthy resources necessary to build a replacement une reported in a story aptly titled ‘‘Valmeyer program will sunset on September 30, 2009. icebreaker for the Great Lakes region. Illinois—Soaked in ’93, Town now High and I urge my colleagues to join me in sup- f Dry’’. The June 19, 2008 story quotes an 86- porting H.R. 1746, the ‘‘Pre-Disaster Mitigation year old resident named Elenora Anderson. Act of 2009’’. TRANSPORTATION BUDGET AU- THORITY IN THE FY 2010 BUDGET Her home was destroyed by the 1993 flood f but as she said, ‘‘I’m sure glad I don’t have to RESOLUTION worry now that we’re high enough here on the H.R. 1747, THE GREAT LAKES hill.’’ ICEBREAKER REPLACEMENT ACT HON. JAMES L. OBERSTAR This month, we have seen the communities OF MINNESOTA of North Dakota and my home state of Min- HON. JAMES L. OBERSTAR IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nesota damaged by floods. Many of these OF MINNESOTA Thursday, March 26, 2009 same communities were devastated by floods IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in 1997. However, because of mitigation after Mr. OBERSTAR. Madam Speaker, the the 1997 floods, the communities face far less Thursday, March 26, 2009 Budget Resolution, as ordered reported last risk. Even before this year’s floods, mitigation Mr. OBERSTAR. Madam Speaker, I today night by the House Committee on the Budget, investments had paid off. For example, in introduce H.R. 1747, the ‘‘Great Lakes Ice- provides a solid foundation for the surface Grand Forks, after the 1997 floods, FEMA breaker Replacement Act’’. U.S. industries in transportation authorization act. I thank Chair- spent $23 million to acquire vulnerable homes the heartland of the United States are totally man SPRATT and the Committee on the Budg- in the flood plain. In 2006, a flood came within dependent on Great Lakes icebreakers to et for their leadership and vigorous support for two feet of the 1997 flood level, and according keep them supplied with raw materials during transportation and infrastructure programs.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.002 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E785 If the Budget Resolution is applied over the the Year Award from National Director of spearheaded a 72-year struggle for women’s six-year period from fiscal years 2010 to 2015, Membership of NANBPWC Inc. She has re- suffrage, ending with the ratification of the the Resolution assumes a base allocation of cently been appointed to serve as Member- 19th amendment on August 18, 1920. $324 billion for highway, highway safety, and ship Director of the Northeast District of This provision in the Omnibus Public Lands transit programs, including $312 billion of con- NANBPWC Inc. Act would pay tribute to a milestone event in tract authority. Importantly, this allocation re- From 1997 to 2000 Ms. Bute was given the the women’s rights movement by allowing for stores $82 billion over the six-year period of opportunity to work with at-risk youths as an the construction of a trail in the Women’s highway contract authority that had been cut Educational Specialist for Mental Health Juve- Rights Historical Park in Seneca Falls, New from the Congressional Budget Office base- nile Justice Diversion project in Brooklyn N.Y. York, and permitting the establishment of a line, which assumed fiscal year 2009 rescis- She was also a recruiter for Hugh O’Brian network of historical sites relevant to women’s sions would recur in all future years. Youth Leadership Program in various High history. In addition, the Resolution establishes a Re- Schools in Brooklyn N.Y. The park would serve as a physical re- serve Fund to allow this base allocation of In 2004, Ms. Bute became a member of the minder of women’s historical contributions to $324 billion to be adjusted upward as nec- Stuyvesant Heights Lions Club and in 2006 equality of rights and opportunity, values essary to accommodate higher funding levels she received the Lion of the Year award from which are central to the legacy of the United to the extent they can be supported by the the club president. In 2007 Ms. Bute was States. I ask my colleagues to join me in cele- Highway Trust Fund. nominated as Club President and still holds brating these accomplishments by ensuring The Resolution also assumes the Airport that title to this day. She is also a Board Mem- that the landmarks of the women’s rights Improvement Program is funded at $4.0 billion ber of the Bridge Street Child Development movement are remembered and preserved. in FY 2010, $4.1 billion in FY 2011, and $4.2 Day Care in Brooklyn NY. Ms. Bute has re- f billion in FY 2012, consistent with H.R. 915, cently joined the American College of Coun- FEDERAL LAND ASSISTANCE, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009, as or- selors. MANAGEMENT AND ENHANCE- dered reported by the Committee on Transpor- Ms. Bute is a mother of two children, Felicia MENT ACT tation and Infrastructure on March 5, 2009. Allen and the late Gregory Bute and three lov- This is an increase of $840 million over the ing grandchildren Jason Allen, Geninne Allen SPEECH OF baseline funding level for this program over and Shanay Bute. Ms. Bute regards her many HON. ANNA G. ESHOO the three-year period from FY 2010–2012. accomplishments and children as gifts from OF CALIFORNIA The Resolution rejects the Office of Man- God. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES agement and Budget’s proposal to change f how programs funded by contract authority are Wednesday, March 25, 2009 treated for budget scoring purposes. This pro- OMNIBUS PUBLIC LAND The House in Committee of the Whole posal, had it been adopted, would have con- MANAGEMENT ACT OF 2009 House on the State of the Union had under verted the mandatory contract authority that consideration of the bill (H.R. 1404) to au- SPEECH OF currently funds our highway, highway safety, thorize a supplemental funding source for catastrophic emergency wildland fire sup- transit and airport grant programs to a simple HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY pression activities on Department of the In- authorization of appropriations for budget scor- OF NEW YORK terior and National Forest System lands, to ing purposes. I am pleased that the Budget IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES require the Secretary of the Interior and the Resolution continues to recognize the unique Wednesday, March 25, 2009 Secretary of Agriculture to develop a cohe- nature of trust-funded programs by rejecting sive wildland fire management strategy, and this ill-advised proposal. Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased for other purposes: to support H.R. 146, the Omnibus Public Land f Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Chair, I rise today to ex- Management Act of 2009. The rivers, moun- press my strong support for H.R. 1404, the A TRIBUTE TO HUMENA BUTE tains, parks and forests of the United States Federal Land Assistance, Management and are a fundamental part of our national herit- Enhancement (FLAME) Act and I salute Chair- HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS age, and it is crucial that these resources are man RAHALL for bringing this important bill to OF NEW YORK protected for future generations to enjoy. the floor today. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The majority of the bills in this monumental Last year a series of wildfires devastated legislation had been considered and enjoyed Thursday, March 26, 2009 counties across California, including Santa strong bipartisan support in previous Con- Cruz County in my Congressional District. The Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today gresses, and the passage of these provisions fires burned 1.4 billion acres of land across in recognition of Humena Bute, an educator for public land management, forest preserva- the State and cost over $1 billion to contain. and youth advocate. tion, and other crucial conservation measures Experts expect a similarly difficult fire season Ms. Humena Bute worked for the NYC De- is long overdue. I would like to take this op- in California this year. Over the past decade partment of Education from 1970 until her portunity to commend the work of Senate Ma- wildland fires have increased in size and early retirement in 1995. While employed with jority Leader HARRY REID, Speaker of the quantity, and projections indicate that this the Department of Education she advanced to House NANCY PELOSI, the bill’s sponsor Sen- trend will continue due to climate change, Special Education Records Manager in School ator JEFF BINGAMAN, and Representative NICK drought, and other factors. District 19. She received her Bachelor of RAHALL in keeping this legislation moving for- The skyrocketing costs of fighting wildland Science degree in Community and Human ward. fires have forced the Forest Service and De- Services from Empire State College in 1997. I would also like to congratulate my friend partment of Interior to ‘‘borrow’’ funds from She applied for and received a per-diem sub- Congresswoman LOUISE SLAUGHTER for the in- non-fire programs, distracting these agencies stitute teacher certificate in 1998, and has clusion of her provision on the Women’s from their core missions. Wildland fire activi- worked in various NYC schools in Brooklyn to Rights National Historic Park in this important ties now account for 48 percent of the Forest present. legislation. It is fitting that, as we work to pro- Service budget and more than 10 percent of In 2000, Ms. Bute became a member of the tect the landmarks that help to make this the Interior Department budget. Brooklyn Club of the National Association of country great, we commemorate the central This bill will create the FLAME Fund to help Negro Business and Professional Women’s role women have played in our Nation’s his- cover the costs of fighting fires after the Club Inc (NANBPWC). She became a Life tory. money appropriated by the federal govern- Member in 2005. During the past eight years On July 19, 1848, a group of women activ- ment runs out. Agencies may use this fund Ms. Bute has held the office of Recording ists including Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia only if the Secretary of Interior or the Sec- Secretary, Vice President (Membership Chair) Mott, and Mary Ann M’Clintock organized the retary of Agriculture deems the fire large and has voluntarily served on the Battered first Women’s Rights Convention at Wesleyan enough or dangerous enough to warrant using Women’s Shelter project, the Thanksgiving Chapel in Seneca Falls, New York. The docu- the fund. Basket Committee and the Founders Day ment produced at the Convention, entitled the The FLAME Act requires the Secretaries of Celebration Committees from 2003–2005. Ms. Declaration of Sentiments, articulated the then Interior and Agriculture to submit a report to Bute received an Appreciation Award from radical idea that certain rights accrued to Congress containing a comprehensive The Brooklyn Club president in 2002. In 2007 women, such as the freedom to own property wildland fire management strategy. The Gov- Ms. Bute received the Membership Chair of and the right to an education. That meeting ernment Accountability Office (GAO) found

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.005 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E786 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 that the federal land management agencies After graduation from Canarsie H.S., Linda of Homeland Security to establish strict guide- lack such a plan and the USDA Inspector indulged her desire for inquiry and obtained a lines for Customs and Border Patrol, and Im- General found that the Forest Service lacks degree in Medical Laboratory Technology in migration and Customs Enforcement’s elec- any system to ensure that the highest priority Applied Science from N.Y.C Community Col- tronic device seizure policy. fuel reduction projects are being funded first. lege. Linda went on to obtain an A.A.S. and a It is important to ensure that Customs and This report by the Secretaries of Interior and B.S.N. in Nursing. Linda continued her edu- Border agents have the tools necessary to go Agriculture will address the recommendations cation and earned a dual degree; she earned after potential terrorists. made by both GAO and the USDA Inspector a Master’s of Science in Nursing and a Mas- This bill allows for the appropriate search, General. ters of Public Health and received the Out- review, retention and sharing of information on To ensure that the money is going to where standing Community Leadership Award from an individual’s electronic device as it is nec- it is most needed, the bill requires that yearly Hunter College. essary for security purposes. reports be made available to the public on the She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, Inter- Equally important is the need to protect the use of the FLAME Fund. It also requires the national Honor Society, American Public rights of travelers, and especially American Secretaries to conduct a review of wildland fire Health Association and Public Health Associa- citizens. incidents that result in expenses greater than tion of NYC. She held P.T.A. positions in her My legislation ensures that when an individ- $10,000,000 and requires the Secretaries to children’s school, is an active member of ual’s property is seized at a point of entry, notify Congress whenever the FLAME Fund A.C.O.R.N. and was one of three women who there is a well-defined procedure in place that drops to a level estimated to cover just two were instrumental in the development of a will protect their privacy and electronic data, months worth of expenditures. Kwanzaa community event. She has held po- especially the doctor-patient and attorney-cli- The FLAME Act establishes a wildfire grant sitions as Director of Nursing at a licensed ent privileges. program within each department that will as- agency, Patient Service Manager at Hillside This legislation also requires the Depart- sist communities in preparing for wildfires. Manor LTHHCP and a staff nurse and then a ment of Homeland Security to post information Grants will go towards purchasing firefighting community outreach nurse for St. Johns Epis- about individuals’ rights related to border equipment and training programs for local fire- copal Hospital. Linda currently works at the searches in visible areas near the search fighters. The money will also be used for edu- Visiting Nurse Service of New York Lombardi points, so that individuals will understand their cation and public awareness of wildfires and Program as a Manager of Clinical Support rights if their property is seized. to development community wildfire protection Services in the boroughs of Brooklyn and I urge my colleagues to support this impor- plans. Queens. Linda has been an NYU adjunct clin- tant legislation. This bill is necessary so that agencies no ical faculty for the clinical rotation in the Com- f longer have to move funding around to make munity Health course since 2007. Linda has up for the increased costs of wildfire suppres- dedicated her life to nursing, health and IN RECOGNITION OF MEADOWLARK sion programs. The fund will provide a safety wellness which shows through her profes- LEMON net in the event of catastrophic fires, such as sional and community activities. those that occurred in California last year. It Linda believes that through faith in God and HON. JOE WILSON will also ensure that the Federal Government healthy choices people can prevent a mul- OF SOUTH CAROLINA has an effective and comprehensive plan for titude of diseases. In her promotion of the pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES wildland fire management. fession of nursing, and belief that there are Thursday, March 26, 2009 I’m proud to support this bill and I urge my young, intelligent and vibrant minds within her colleagues to support this important legisla- community, she has participated in a commu- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam tion. nity career day, appeared on a Brooklyn cable Speaker, born in Lexington, South Carolina, f show and mentored two young women who Meadowlark Lemon came from humble begin- nings only to follow his love of basketball and PERSONAL EXPLANATION are now R.N.’s. Linda is the current Health Ministry Director at Solid Rock S.D.A. church, entertaining to tremendous success as a who promotes ongoing health emphasis activi- member of the widely popular Harlem Globe- HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY ties. Linda has assisted in the administration trotters. The ‘‘Clown Prince of Basketball’’ as OF CALIFORNIA of NIH/Loma Linda Health Study II surveys he is known has given of his time to not only IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES from 2004–2007 at Solid Rock Church. She entertain on the court but to serve his commu- Thursday, March 26, 2009 has taught as a Sabbath School teacher in the nity off the court. Through his ministry pro- gram, Meadowlark Lemon is helping young Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, on March youth division for more than 20 years and is people prepare for their future, learn the tools 25, 2009, I was unavoidably detained and was active with the Adventurer’s and youth at the necessary to get a job, and have the con- not able to record my vote for Rollcall No. church and in the community. fidence to compete and be successful in their 151. Linda believes that she is a living testimony own lives. Had I been present I would have voted: of God’s blessing and healing power and is Rollcall No. 151—‘‘yes’’—Providing for the very committed to nurturing the spirit, mind Role-models like Meadowlark Lemon play a consideration of the Senate amendments to and body of every person she comes in con- vital role in our community because they em- H.R. 146, the Omnibus Public Land Manage- tact with. Linda believes in excellence and that body the can-do spirit of the American Dream. ment Act. knowledge is power and whatever knowledge They show the youth of today that no matter the circumstances, their lives are precious and f she has is to be shared. Linda has often de- scribed the essence of her being as ‘‘one who filled with potential to make their hopes a re- A TRIBUTE TO LINDA BRADLEY shares’’ in every aspect of her life. ality. Meadowlark Lemon’s story is a perfect f example of someone who did just that and HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS has chosen to give back to others. INTRODUCTION OF THE BORDER OF NEW YORK I am grateful for his service and commend SECURITY SEARCH ACCOUNT- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Meadowlark Lemon on his lifetime of success. ABILITY ACT OF 2009 Thursday, March 26, 2009 f Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today HON. LORETTA SANCHEZ RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE WORLD WILDLIFE FUND in recognition of Linda Bradley, a champion of OF CALIFORNIA EARTH HOUR MOVEMENT Nursing and health and wellness promotion. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Linda Bradley was born in Brooklyn, New York to Lola Balance and the late Jerry Bal- Thursday, March 26, 2009 HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS ance. Linda is the oldest of four siblings, her Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. OF FLORIDA brother and sisters are Denise, Michelle and Madam Speaker, I come to the floor today to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Jerry, Jr. She is wife of Calvin Bradley, mother call attention to the Border Security Search of four children Nicole, Calvin III, Michael and Accountability Act of 2009, which I will be in- Thursday, March 26, 2009 Johnathan and grandmother of Amir. Linda troducing in the House today. Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, was always a curious child and now is very With the support of 16 bipartisan, original I rise today to recognize the importance of active in her community. cosponsors, the bill will call on the Department Earth Hour 2009, sponsored by the World

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.007 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E787 Wildlife Fund (WWF). The WWF has been a vocating for their children in the city public Show’’ (Channel 31), ‘‘McCreary Report’’ major advocate for our earth and addressing schools. The program received recognition (Channel 5), Fox 5-Dayside with Linda Vester the environmental threats we face. Earth Hour throughout the state, and from the former and in the publications Caribbean Life, Daily 2009 is an opportunity for individuals all Commissioner Tom Sobol, New York State News, Brooklyn Paper, New York Newsday across globe to join together in responding to Education Department. The Parent Training and Medgar Evers Radio Station. the rapid deterioration of our earth’s climate. Institute became a model for the development f On March 28, 2009 at 8:30 pm (EST), the of parent participation in programs in Mount world will come together to participate in the Vernon and Hempstead New York. HONORING RECIPIENTS OF THE first global vote for action on climate change. Shannon returned to the Department of IGOR I. SIKORSKY AWARD FOR With their light switch as their ballot, hundreds Education in 1996 as the Borough Deputy to HUMANITARIAN SERVICE of millions of people in more than 75 countries the Chancellor (Rudy Crews). She was re- will cast a powerful, visual vote for action by sponsible for the development and implemen- HON. RAU´ L M. GRIJALVA turning off their lights for one hour. tation of projects and assisting the Super- OF ARIZONA Earth Hour was first celebrated two years intendents and Principals in obtaining re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ago in Sydney, Australia in partnership with sources for their schools. Thursday, March 26, 2009 the WWF, when 2.2 million people and thou- In 2002, Shannon became the Parent Sup- sands of businesses turned off their lights for port Officer for District 17, Region 6 where she Mr. GRIJALVA. Madam Speaker, I rise one hour. In March 2008, Earth Hour went empowered parents, trained them in how to today to honor the recipients of the 2009 Igor global with more than 50 million people in over advocate for their children, and to learn how to I. Sikorsky Award for Humanitarian Service. 400 cities participating, including an estimated navigate the school system. In 2007, Shannon The recipients of this award have exhibited 36 million Americans. became the District Family Advocate for Dis- bravery in the face of grave danger during an Earth hour 2009 has expanded its reach trict 22, where she continues to empower par- event in my home state of Arizona. with the support of nearly 1,000 cities around ents to become parent leaders and partners in Last August, during the summer monsoon the world, including U.S. cities Atlanta, Chi- their children’s education. She also conducts season in Arizona, Havasu Canyon suddenly cago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Las professional development trainings, seminars flash flooded, and as the canyon flooded, Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New and conferences that will develop the skills of nearly 400 people had to be evacuated from York, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, St. Louis, the parents to become successful leaders in the area. Havasu Canyon, which leads into and Washington, DC. Additionally, inter- their schools. the Grand Canyon, is a popular daytime stop- national cities committed to the cause include Shannon is also the host/producer of the over site for rafters floating the Colorado Beijing, Copenhagen, Dubai, Hong Kong, Lon- award winning show, ‘‘Keeping It Real with River. At that time, sixteen boaters on a pri- don, Moscow, and Paris. Shannon’’, a talk show and entertainment that vate rafting trip became stranded on a ledge Madam Speaker, by participating in Earth began in 1998. The show has aired on Brook- above the raging floodwaters. Hour here in the U.S., it sends a message that lyn Community Access Television (BCAT) and The rescue team, consisting of a Grand Americans care about climate change and various networks for ten years. ‘‘Keeping it Canyon National Park ranger, five members of stand with the rest of the world in raising Real With Shannon’’ reflects on a wide variety the helitack crew, and a pilot from the Papillon awareness about this escalating crisis. With of topics such as Domestic Violence, Police Grand Canyon Helicopters, using a special every flick of a light-switch, a vote is cast for Brutality, Education, Male/Female Relation- short-haul technique, transported the stranded meaningful action. I urge my colleagues take ships, Health and Community issues. The boaters to the Colorado River bank where part in this historic event by turning off their show addresses the issues of the growing they could be airlifted to a rescue center. lights and taking a stand for our environment community and promotes local artists as well The Igor I. Sikorsky Award for Humanitarian on March 28. as professional artists. Past guests have in- Service is sponsored each year by Sikorsky f cluded Terrie M. Williams, Publicist/Author, Aircraft in honor of its founder and is pre- Bad Boy Michael Baisden, KISS FM Radio sented to those who best demonstrate the A TRIBUTE TO LOTTIE DOBSON- Personality Dominic Carter, NY1 News Re- value of civil rotorcraft to society by saving SHANNON porter Colleen Babb and Frank Laghezza from lives, protecting property and aiding those in the District Attorneys’ office, legendary R&B distress. The award can be made for a par- HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS singers the late Isaac Hayes and Maxine ticular mission, or for a consistently out- OF NEW YORK Brown, Baby Washington, The Ink Spots and standing manner for a period of time. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES renowned gospel singer Vicki Winan. I commend the recipients of the award this ‘‘Keeping it Real With Shannon’’ is the 2002 year for their tremendous bravery in the face Thursday, March 26, 2009 winner of the National Hometown Video Fes- of an extremely dangerous situation. I know Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today tival Award. It won first place for best in public that those who were rescued that day, along in recognition of Lottie Dobson-Shannon. access programming for talk show and enter- with their families, will be grateful to them for- Lottie Dobson-Shannon is an educator with tainment. She was recognized for her award ever for their actions that day. the Department of Education, Office for Family winning show with a Proclamation from Brook- The recipients of the award were: Jay Engagement and Advocacy. She was born in lyn Borough President Mary Markowitz. Lusher, John Yurcik, Sean Naylor, Nate Beck- North Carolina and moved to New York at the Shannon personifies the qualities of intel- er, Ali Ulwelling, Brandon Torres, and Bryce age of nine. She was raised in Bedford- ligence, endurance, compassion, and a strong Barnett. Stuyvesant, in Brooklyn, New York. faith that characterize black foremothers who f Shannon began her career in 1972 at the held the family, church, and community to- Department of Education and worked her way gether through all adversities. Shannon is a ANNOUNCING THE BID ON CUL- to a management position. In 1987, she be- woman of distinction who has accomplished TURE BANNER PROJECT UNVEIL- came the Project Director of the New York great professional and educational victories, ING IN CELEBRATION OF WOM- City Board of Education Mentoring Program, while maintaining a household and rearing a EN’S HISTORY MONTH where she is still a mentor in the Women in daughter who is a graduate of Morgan State Government Mentoring Program. She involved University. She strongly believes that Christian HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL corporate, government, and cultural institutions fellowship should be practiced in all aspects of OF NEW YORK in mentoring young high school students life. Shannon attended college and obtained IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES throughout New York City. The program three degrees, including a Masters. thrived under her leadership and became the Shannon served on the Board of Directors Thursday, March 26, 2009 prototype for Matilda Cuomo’s statewide men- for several Corporate and Community Based Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today toring program. Organizations. She has won numerous awards to recognize the Artists whose designs were In 1990, Shannon became the Executive Di- and citations from national and local organiza- selected through the BID on Culture banner rector for the Parent Advocacy Center of tions including being recognized by DA design competition. The banner designs for Medgar Evers College. She coordinated staff, Charles Hynes, the Brooklyn Borough Presi- BID on Culture will be displayed in March raised funds and developed and conducted an dent and NYS Governor Mario Cuomo. She 2009 as part of Women’s History Month, cele- award winning Parent Training Institute that was featured on (ABC) ‘‘Like it Is’’ with Gil No- brating the contributions of women to Harlem was directed at teaching parents skills in ad- bles, ‘‘Metro Magazine’’ (WYNE), ‘‘The Hotline and to communities of color, in the fields of

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.011 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E788 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 government, arts and culture, business, edu- and YSP, and the book Jumping the Broom: first responder who not only assisted during cation, and religion. The African American Wedding Planner, the search and rescue efforts following Sep- BID on Culture is a new initiative developed among others. Shimoda’s exhibit and presen- tember 11th, 2001, but also assisted the New through the partnership between the 125th tation schedule includes Bank Street College, Orleans Fire Department and the citizens of Street Business Improvement District and the The National Black Arts Festival, The Mt. Louisiana during the aftermath of Hurricane Harlem Arts Alliance to help build a commu- Vernon Library, Mt. Vernon NY, the Center for Katrina. nity-based vision of Harlem’s heritage, its role Book Arts, and the Donnell Library in New Formerly a resident of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, as a vibrant cultural center, and to promote York City. She serves on the crafts panel for and currently a resident of Blue Point, Long Is- the continued revitalization of 125th Street as the Artists’ Fellowships of the NY Foundation land, John is valiantly struggling to survive a the commercial and artistic heart of Harlem. for the Arts, has taught beading at Brooklyn nearly three-year battle with Stage 4, meta- BID on Culture Banners will extend the Academy of Music and Harlem School of the static colon cancer. John, age 43, and his wife brand of 125th Street as the center of culture Arts, assisted Sonya Clark and Joyce Scott at Jennifer have a 21⁄2 year old son named Jack. in Harlem, a diverse community with an unpar- Penland School of Crafts, NC and Ralph In the firefighting tradition of ‘‘leaving no alleled history of contribution to the nation in Lauren with his 1998 beaded jewelry collec- man behind,’’ John’s friends and fellow fire- all fields of human endeavor. Let me recog- tion. fighters at Engine 234 / Ladder 123, Engine nize the five selected artists whose banner de- The 125th Street Business Improvement 220 / Ladder 122, the Blue Point Volunteer signs will be displayed on the 125th Street District (BID) is a non-profit organization fund- Fire Department and the New York City Fire- Corridor. ed primarily from an additional tax assessment fighter Brotherhood Foundation are working Andrea Arroyo, a Mexican born, New York- collected from the property owners within the hard to see that John and his family are sup- based artist whose work has been exhibited in defined boundaries. Organized in compliance ported as his battle grows more difficult. twenty-four individual and more than eighty with state and city laws, the property and busi- Like John, many of the brave first respond- group shows in galleries and museums. An- ness owners determine the services and pro- ers who served at Ground Zero are now strug- drea is in the public collections of The Smith- grams needed for the district. The BID will uti- gling with debilitating diseases as a result of sonian Institution, National Museum of Amer- lize the competition to bring visibility to its their courageous efforts. As a nation, we ican History, The Library of Congress, the streetscape improvement efforts and to en- made a promise to help all those who suffered Mexican Museum in Chicago and numerous liven the community’s central business district. as a result of the heinous acts of September private collections in the US, Mexico, Europe The Harlem Arts Alliance (HAA) is a non- 11th. We must keep that promise. We must and Japan. Her public art projects include profit membership service organization com- ensure that those brave first responders re- commissions for the Metropolitan Transpor- mitted to nurturing the artistic growth and or- ceive the medical care and other support they tation Authority of New York, the New York ganizational development of artists and arts need. School Construction Authority, City Arts and organizations primarily in Harlem and its sur- Today, we in Congress honor John McNa- the Florida Art in State Buildings Program. rounding communities. Comprised of over 400 mara for his service to New York and to our Laura Gadson is a native New Yorker raised individual artists and arts organizations, HAA nation. in Jamaica Queens. A graduate of Fiorella is the only service organization of its kind in LaGuardia High School of Music and Art, she Harlem and plays an essential role by helping f received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree to build the resources, network and capacity of A TRIBUTE TO MARSHA T. DUPONT from the City College of New York. She has its richly diverse membership. Counted among been a teaching artist since age 14 for a vari- its members are young emerging artists as ety of public and private New York City institu- well as established and internationally recog- HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS tions. Ms. Gadson’s craftwork is in the private nized artists. Also represented are small OF NEW YORK collections of Susan Taylor, Iyanla Vanzant grassroots organizations and major cultural in- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and other collectors. Her work has been ex- stitutions in Harlem and beyond. Major funding Thursday, March 26, 2009 hibited in the New York State Museum in Al- for HAA is provided by the Upper Manhattan bany, The Cork Gallery at Lincoln Center, Co- Empowerment Zone Corporation, the New Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today lumbia University and she currently has two York City Department of Cultural Affairs, and in recognition of Marsha T. DuPont. quilts on a National Tour until 2010. A Harlem the New York City Council. Marsha was born in Brooklyn, NY, to Dea- brownstone has been her home studio and Barbara Askins, President of the 125th con Clyde Tarrant, Sr. and the Late Catherine personal gallery since 1993. Street BID says the BID on Culture project Britt Tarrant. She is the only girl child out of Obatola Wilhelmina Grant, a native New ‘‘seeks to maximize the value of the 125th three children born; her siblings are Clyde Yorker and resident of Harlem is an assem- Street corridor by initiating efforts to secure Tarrant Jr., and the Late Bruce Tarrant. blage artist, creating pieces from discarded the future of cultural presentation and produc- She received her education from Public objects. Obatola was formerly the Director of tion in Harlem and to encourage the ongoing School 11 and Rothchild Junior High School Programs and Administration at the National revitalization of 125th Street as a premier arts both of Brooklyn, New York. Marsha received Jazz Museum in Harlem and before that the and culture entertainment destination.’’ a scholarship from Fashion Industries Voca- Director of Community Outreach for SHARE, Michael Unthank, HAA Executive Director, tional High School, where she graduated val- Self-Help for Women with Breast or Ovarian says that ‘‘over the past 10 to 15 years, edictorian and Female Athlete of the Year, Cancer. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English 125th Street Corridor has emerged as a class of 1972. She continued her education at- Language Arts from Hunter College and ex- major destination anchored by not just local tending and graduating from LaGuardia Com- pects to graduate in June from Hunter with a and national chain retail outlets but also by munity College and Fashion Institute of Tech- Masters of Science in Urban Affairs. She has major cultural institutions such as the Studio nology where she majored in pattern making exhibited at Bank Street College, Union Theo- Museum in Harlem and the Apollo Theater.’’ and fashion design. She later changed her ca- reer and attended and graduated from the logical Seminary, the Simmons Gallery and f the New York Public Library. Grace Downs Vocational Air Career and Hotel Sharon Lewis, a graphic designer, originally TRIBUTE TO JOHN McNAMARA Management College in Glen Cove, Long Is- from Detroit, Michigan, now based in New Ro- land. Marsha was employed by the Inter-Con- chelle, New York, Sharon is a Production As- HON. TIMOTHY H. BISHOP tinental Hotel for 10 years as Reservations sociate at DMD Insight, a boutique agency OF NEW YORK Manager. She changed employment to the specializing in integrated marketing for arts IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Drake Swissotel Hotel in New York City where and culture, architecture, design, philanthropic she also worked as Reservations Manager for and financial services clients. She has a BFA Thursday, March 26, 2009 17 years. She received numerous awards and in Industrial Design from Columbus College of Mr. BISHOP of New York. Madam Speaker, departmental training certificates and she was Art and Design and her career focus has been I rise today to bring to the attention of my col- also cited as Employee of the Month and print design in the fields of publishing, adver- leagues and the entire nation the service and Manager of the Year. Marsha was loved and tising and law. sacrifice of firefighter and 9/11 first responder respected by her staff and fellow co-workers; Shimoda, a Harlem-based artist, whose John McNamara. she was always giving career opportunities to work has been featured on television on The A 10-year veteran of the New York Fire De- others. Cosby Show, HGTV–Crafting Coast to Coast, partment, John is currently assigned to Engine Marsha’s love and flare for fashion and in the magazines Essence, Braids and Beauty, Co. 234 in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. He is a decorating encouraged her to form a company

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.013 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E789 ‘‘Duchess Unlimited’’ where she worked as a helped orchestrate the Armenian Genocide. IN RECOGNITION OF MATILDA M. Wedding Coordinator and coordinated anniver- Like the Nazis, Pasha kept detailed population GARCIA IN HONOR OF WOMEN’S saries and other types of social events at cost. figures of the Ottoman Empire’s Christian eth- HISTORY MONTH Marsha joined the Mt. Ollie Baptist Church nic minority, the Armenians. in 1959 under the leadership of the late Rev. Before 1915, 1.2 million Armenians lived in HON. KATHY CASTOR R.D. Brown. She sang in the Junior Choir, what today is modern Turkey. By 1917, the OF FLORIDA was an original member of the Buds of Prom- number was down to 284,000 Armenians. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ise, a member of the Junior Usher Board and Bardakci received these original lists of popu- Thursday, March 26, 2009 later joined the Young Adult Choir. Rev. lation figures from Pasha’s wife, Hayriye Talat, Brown appointed Marsha to the Senior Trust- in 1983. However, he waited to include them Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Madam Speaker, ee Board to ‘‘observe.’’ She was the youngest in his book until he felt Turkey was ready to in recognition of Women’s History Month, I female trustee. This was a major accomplish- receive them. rise today to honor Matilda Martinez Garcia, a ment for Marsha, for little did she know that As the New York Times reported in Novem- devoted advocate for Hispanic Americans in God was preparing her for the future. In 1989 ber of 1920, Talat Pasha used to say, ‘‘the Florida. Ms. Garcia exemplifies the power of she was elected as the first female Chair- only way to dispose of the Armenia question women to make a difference in their commu- person of the Board and is still serving in that is to kill the Armenians.’’ As Ambassador to nities. capacity today. She has given 20 years of the Ottoman Empire, Henry Morgenthau made Ms. Garcia is a third generation Floridian service to the trustee board. many courageous efforts to stop the ethnic whose grandfather came from Spain to Tampa At present Marsha works as the Director of cleansing of the Armenians, as well as alert via Cuba. Ms. Garcia serves as a liaison be- Housing/Food & Beverage for the Office of Americans to the genocide that was taking tween the Tampa government and the His- Conventions and Meetings for the National place. Morgenthau, who dealt with Talat in panic community as a council member of the Baptist Convention USA, Inc. She was ap- Istanbul, believed strongly that Pasha was Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Council. She also pointed to this position by the President of the fully responsible for the killings of the Arme- serves on several boards including the May- Convention in 1995. She is a member of the nians. or’s Hispanic Advisory Council, LULAC and religious Conference Management Association These figures in Bardakci’s book provide the University of Florida’s Mental Health Insti- and Coalition of Black Meeting Planners. She further evidence that those who masterminded tute. is also a member of the National Council of the genocide against the Armenians were ob- Ms. Garcia is a member of the Tampa His- Negro Women. sessed with exterminating all the Armenian panic Heritage Board of Directors, which is Marsha began her work as a member of the people. Talat Pasha’s meticulous figures bring comprised of Hispanic Americans with varied Brooklyn District of the New York State Chap- to mind the Nazis who kept records of 17 mil- roots who share pride in being Hispanic. The ter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, lion victims, including the Jews who were organization serves to share rich Spanish lan- Inc. in the 1970’s under the leadership of exterminated during the holocaust. In aggre- guage, culture, and traditions with the commu- Bishop Albert L. Jamison, Sr. as Chapter rep- gate, the Nazis kept 50 million pages of docu- nity during Tampa’s Hispanic Heritage Cele- resentative. Marsha gave great support and ments now available for the families of those bration. dedication to the late Brother Larry Brown and who lost loved ones, scholars, and the public. Ms. Garcia served as the Former State Di- the late Minister Allen D. Jamison as Borough Unfortunately, Bardakci does not believe rector of The League of United Latin American Presidents of the Brooklyn District. After their that the Armenian Genocide took place. Like Citizens. LULAC’s mission is to advance the passing she then was appointed Borough his government, he is an outspoken denier. economic condition, educational attainment, President. The Brooklyn District took on new However, he believes that Turkish people political influence, health and civil rights of the life and direction under her leadership. should be exposed to historical documents. Hispanic population of the United States. In Marsha is also a Charter Member of the fa- Bardakci is correct that Turkey needs docu- 2007, Ms. Garcia spoke at a LULAC conven- mous Tri-boro Mass Choir of which she credits ments. This week’s Times article astutely tion seminar on the historic and ongoing con- the choir’s annual prayer and fasting shut-in notes the chilling silence that swept over Tur- tributions that Latina leaders have made to the as her introduction to her spiritual growth and key in response to these figures. Turkey civil rights struggle in the U.S. and the devel- her enhancement to her personal relationship needs to come to terms with its past. opment of LULAC as a civil rights organiza- with God. It is with sadness that it may take the fig- tion. Women’s leadership has long been a cor- Marsha was appointed by Bishop Jamison ures of the man who orchestrated the geno- nerstone of the Latino community. as his Executive Director to the Chairman of cide to convince the Turkish government and As a member of the Florida Institute for the Board for the Gospel Music Workshop of the Turkish people that 90 years ago the Otto- Community Studies (FICS) Board of Directors, America, Inc. also she is the Administrative man Empire committed genocide against the Ms. Garcia speaks to children about her life Assistant to the New York State Chapter. Armenians. I am hopeful that Turkey will soon growing up in Tampa as the child of Spanish Her love for her church family and retired unclench its hold on its people’s memory and immigrants and the challenges facing the His- Pastor and his wife, Rev. Dr./Mrs. Spurgeon openly discuss the Armenian genocide; in- panic community. E. Crayton is consistently enthusiastic; the stead of using words like ‘‘alleged’’ or funding In 2001 the Department of Child and Family bond between them has always been a posi- a multi-million dollar lobby in the United States Studies created the Matilda Garcia Initiative, tive one. to distort fact. or ‘‘Latin American Research Scholars Ex- Her love and dedication for church work is It has taken a while, but Americans look change,’’ to ensure continued collaboration be- untiring. Her motto: ‘‘If I can help somebody back constantly on our own history. We ques- tween the Department of Child and Family as I pass along then my living shall not be in tion why we enslaved millions of Africans. We Studies and Latin American researchers and vain.’’ question why we slaughtered millions of Na- practitioners. The Matilda Garcia Initiative pro- f tive Americans. We discuss it in our schools. vides the Institute with a means for strength- We reflect on our history. Doing this helps our ening the level of exchange with Latin America OTTOMAN EMPIRE DOCUMENTS nation deal with its past and enables us to through the funding of these and other activi- ARMENIAN GENOCIDE learn and heal. ties. Ms. Garcia’s support has encouraged a Not only does Turkey deny the Armenian new vision of future collaboration between the HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. Genocide, it asks Americans to deny it as Department of Child and Family Studies at OF NEW JERSEY well. It asks the United States Congress not to FMHI and a wide variety of Latin American IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES honor the victims of the genocide. The Arme- academic institutions and organizations. nian Diaspora exists today because of the In 2002, The Community of Tampa Bay Thursday, March 26, 2009 genocide. Why should Armenian-American proudly awarded Ms. Garcia the Silver Medal- Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, recently, voices be silenced? Why are the voices of lion Humanitarian Award. This award is given the New York Times reported on a recently those who want to end the vicious cycle of to members of the community who have published book The Remaining Documents of genocide being hushed? Why do we allow helped to promote dialogue and respect Talat Pasha by Turkish author Murat Bardakci. ourselves year after year to be threatened by among cultures, religions, and races. The book details Pasha’s methodical reor- Turkey? At the age of 89, Ms. Garcia attended the dering of the disappearance of nearly 1 million These are our constituents who lost loved 2008 Democratic National Convention as Flor- Armenians in a 2-year period. Pasha served ones in the Genocide. We must honor their ida’s oldest delegate. At the convention Ms. as interior minister to the Ottoman Empire and memory and not be bullied by Turkey. Garcia inspired Florida’s delegates with her

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K26MR8.005 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E790 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 youthful sense of humor and her passion Education and was assigned to the Commu- public library to more than 700 members oper- about changing American politics. nity District 19 office located in the East New ating four buildings, two museums and a Madam Speaker, Matilda Garcia is a highly York section of Brooklyn. growing research library. regarded woman who has touched the lives of Currently, Natalie is employed by Starrett In 1941, the Society purchased the War- many in Tampa. I am proud to call her my City at Spring Creek. As the Assistant Man- den’s House Museum and today it is one of neighbor, and I join many others to applaud ager of Collections, Natalie interacts daily with Minnesota’s oldest buildings and the second her lifelong contribution to the Tampa Bay Starrett’s legal department. And when life ap- oldest continuously operating house museum. community. pears to throw tenants a financial curve ball, The Society purchased the Boutwell Cemetery f Natalie’s ability to aide people with finding a and the Hay Lake School in 1978 and shortly method of paying their rent becomes para- thereafter the school’s neighbor, the Johannes INTRODUCING THE ENERGY EFFI- mount. Erickson Log House, was donated for the So- CIENT AND ENVIRONMENTALLY Her compassion and concern for her con- ciety’s care and restoration. All three buildings FRIENDLY AUTOMOBILE TAX stituents demonstrated though her patience are on the National Register of Historic CREDIT ACT and efforts on their behalf immediately make Places. the tenants realize the necessity to become The Society provides educational programs HON. RON PAUL more responsible for the well-being of their and historical expertise with the ultimate goal OF TEXAS families. She makes an official matter under- of collaborating with the community, facilitating IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES standable by providing a caring voice. historical discussion and providing an oppor- As the ‘‘First Lady’’ of the Alpha Riders MC, tunity for all Washington County residents to Thursday, March 26, 2009 Inc., located in East New York, Natalie was learn and enjoy their area’s history. Minnesota Mr. PAUL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to challenged by a motorcycle accident that left is so rich with history, heritage, and tradition. introduce the Energy Efficient and Environ- her seriously injured and hospitalized for four This work is such a tremendous service to us mentally Friendly Automobile Tax Credit Act, months. She attributes her rapid recovery to all. legislation that will help Americans reduce pol- God and a dedicated staff at the Wartburg Lu- Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize lution and the amount they pay for gas. My theran Home For The Aging, where she and and congratulate the Washington County His- legislation accomplishes these important goals the Alpha Riders still today volunteer their time torical Society on their 75th Anniversary. Their by providing Americans a tax credit of up to each month to others in need of love and as- efforts have demonstrated the importance of $2,000 when they sell or trade in a car and sistance. historical preservation and resulted in a strong obtain a vehicle that has at least a 20% higher Natalie has been married to Barry ‘‘Mr. B’’ sense of community heritage throughout average fuel economy than the sold or traded- Addison for thirty-one years and they are the Washington County. in car. The bill also creates a federal tax de- proud parents of Ebony, Barry II and very f duction for any state or local taxes paid on the proud grandparents of Lil Andre. purchase of the more fuel-efficient automobile f INTRODUCING A RESOLUTION REC- and makes interest on loans to purchase the OGNIZING THE CRUCIAL ROLE more fuel-efficient automobile tax deductible. TRIBUTE TO SALLY GORDON OF ASSISTANCE DOGS IN HELP- This legislation will help Americans reduce ING WOUNDED VETERANS LIVE the amount they pay to fill up their cars by HON. ADRIAN SMITH MORE INDEPENDENT LIVES, AND making it easier for them to obtain more fuel- OF NEBRASKA SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND efficient cars. I hope my colleagues would IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IDEALS OF CREATING A TOWER agree that Congress should provide free mar- Thursday, March 26, 2009 OF HOPE DAY ket incentives to make it easier for Americans Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, I to exchange their current cars for cars that rise today in honor of a wonderful lady and a HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS create less pollution. true Nebraska treasure. Today, Sally Gordon OF FLORIDA Providing tax deductions and tax credits to will be celebrating her 100th birthday in a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES make it easier for Americans to purchase fuel- place which has come to know and love her— Thursday, March 26, 2009 efficient automobiles is a win for American The Nebraska State Capitol. consumers, a win for the environment, and a Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, Sally was the Nebraska Legislature’s first fe- win for those of us who favor free market solu- I rise today to introduce a resolution that ac- male Sergeant-at-Arms when she was first tions to pollution and high gas prices. I urge knowledges the admirable role of assistance hired in 1983—and she has been putting Ne- my colleagues to support this legislation. dogs in helping our wounded veterans live braska lawmakers in their place ever since. more independent lives, expresses gratitude to f In this day and age, such dedication to pub- the Tower of Hope, and supports the goals lic service is rare and her amazing stamina A TRIBUTE TO NATALIE ADDISON and ideals of creating a Tower of Hope Day. has put many of her colleagues to shame over We currently have over 170,000 troops de- the years. ployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Thousands of HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS She truly exemplifies the word ‘‘elegant’’ those brave service men and women have OF NEW YORK and I have been blessed to have had the op- been seriously wounded in combat. Many of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES portunity to work with her during my time in these courageous soldiers suffer from brain in- the Nebraska Unicameral. Thursday, March 26, 2009 juries, single and double amputations, and Sally, may your force never diminish and Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today other traumatic wounds. As a result, they are your voice never fade. in recognition of Natalie Addison, the Assistant Happy Birthday. required to spend weeks, months, and years Manager of Collections at Starrett City and in hospitals recovering from their injuries. resident of Brooklyn. f Madam Speaker, we must not forget that Natalie, a native of Queens, was raised in HONORING WASHINGTON COUNTY these brave men and women are still in gen- the Queensbridge Housing Projects. She at- HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S 75TH AN- uine need of assistance to continue their re- tended and graduated, with a concentration in NIVERSARY covery. Assistance dogs will help to empower business subjects, from Washington Irving veterans in need of assistance to live a more High School in Manhattan. Pursuing her inter- HON. MICHELE BACHMANN comfortable and independent life. est in the field of business after high school The Tower of Hope is dedicated to providing OF MINNESOTA graduation, Natalie excelled at the Berk Busi- wounded soldiers with service dogs. The IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ness School. Natalie was a high achiever who Tower of Hope was created following the Sep- graduated with the honor of Valedictorian for Thursday, March 26, 2009 tember 11th terrorist attacks in an effort to Accounting and Business Management. Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, I rise to bring about hope and happiness to our Continuing to advance on her employment honor the Washington County Historical Soci- wounded veterans. Among other things, these path, Natalie worked for the Equitable Life In- ety and their dedicated preservation of the his- dogs assist wounded veterans with the nec- surance Company. Always interested to ex- tory of Washington County and Minnesota. essary everyday tasks such as using the pand the application of her knowledge, she Founded on April 11th, 1934, the Society stairs, retrieving items, pulling wheelchairs, transferred to the New York City Board of has grown from 75 members meeting in the and even turning lights on and off. In addition

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.016 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E791 to these essential life tasks, service animals Today, we will introduce legislation that islature, where she made history as the offer priceless companionship and uncondi- builds on this success by setting efficiency youngest woman ever elected to the Florida tional love. standards for outdoor lighting. House at the age of 26, and later the Florida Madam Speaker, we are at a point in our Outdoor lighting currently consumes ap- Senate. I was proud when she joined me in history where the demand for our troops is proximately 4.4% of all the electricity produced Congress in 2005 as the first Jewish Con- high and the nature of their work puts them in in the United States. Most of this lighting is gresswoman ever elected from Florida. DEBBIE grave danger on a daily basis. We must not currently provided by outdated and inefficient works tirelessly for the people of South Florida overlook the great sacrifices that our soldiers technologies. and has dedicated her life to public service. In make each and every day in the name of free- Our bill sets efficiency standards to phase just four short years, she has made herself dom. It is unacceptable that fewer than 75 vet- out these inefficient technologies (which in- known on Capitol Hill as a leader on the erans from Iraq and Afghanistan have service clude incandescent and halogen lights), pav- House Committee on Appropriations and the dogs because they cannot afford them or are ing the way for more efficient and cost-effec- Committee on the Judiciary and as a Chief unaware of their benefits. Currently, such tive lights (such as super-efficient light emitting Deputy Whip for her party. brave men and women have to wait up to two diodes, or LEDs). The first standard will be set DEBBIE takes special interest in ensuring years to receive an assistance animal. Our in 2011, the second in 2013, and the last in that Americans and people around the world soldiers deserve nothing less than our stead- 2015. The Department of Energy would then are treated fairly and with respect. She is a fast support and access to services that im- have the authority to set rules that raise effi- leader in the Jewish Community, an advocate prove their quality of life. ciency standards even further. of human rights and has introduced and The Tower of Hope has been dedicated to The bill also requires outdoor lights to come passed key legislation protecting Florida’s substantially improving the lives of veterans. with bi-level controls, which permit users to working families, women and children. Despite Through tireless and devoted work, the Tower alter the amount of light emitted. You don’t many legislative victories throughout the year, of Hope has raised funds for training assist- need the same level of brightness at dusk as DEBBIE’s greatest accomplishment is her fam- ily. Aside from prioritizing the needs of her ance dogs and labored to educate people you do in the middle of the night. This is im- constituents, she also makes life at home a about the benefits of such animals. Most of all, portant, because these controls will give cities, priority as a loving wife to Steve Schultz, her the Tower of Hope has been able to award counties, and other users more control over husband of 17 years, and an exceptional grants to veterans, allowing them to enjoy their own energy usage, empowering them to mother of twins Jake and Rebecca and young- these dogs’ services at no cost. This resolu- maximize their own energy conservation ef- est daughter Shelby. tion lauds the outstanding work of the Tower forts. We recently learned that DEBBIE success- of Hope and expresses gratitude to all the vol- Finally, like in 2007, we protect the efforts of unteers and donors who have made these fully battled breast cancer after finding a lump early innovators such as California, which has during a routine self-examination last year. In programs possible through their generosity. already passed an outdoor lighting standard. Additionally, this resolution supports the goals an effort to create awareness of breast cancer Our bill allows California to fully implement its among young woman she has shared her and ideals of creating a Tower of Hope Day. law before imposing nationwide preemption. Madam Speaker, throughout the years, this story and introduced the EARLY Act, legisla- The energy savings that will flow from these tion that develops and implements a national great nation has been shaped by our willing- efficiency improvements are stunning. A lead- ness to help our neighbors in their greatest education campaign to increase awareness of ing industry group estimates that this bill could the threats posed by breast cancer in young time of need. This giving spirit that defines our eventually reduce energy usage from outdoor country is embodied in the Tower of Hope. We women of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds. lighting by more than 25%, saving more than DEBBIE’s story is an inspiration to women owe it to our veterans and the history of this $6 billion in electricity costs every year. That’s country to support the development of a pro- across the nation and she represents what the equivalent of more than 50 coal fired can be accomplished through hard work, dedi- gram that inspires hope and strengthens our power stations. tradition of compassion to those who need it cation and perseverance. She is undoubtedly And like our 2007 legislation, we are proud one of the most influential Members of Con- most. that this bill is a bipartisan, consensus effort I urge my colleagues to extend a helping gress and I know that a bright future lies forged after extensive discussions between ahead. hand to America’s veterans by supporting this leading environmental and industry groups. resolution. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN has been a public The United States will not be able to get its servant for more than two decades and this f arms around the twin, daunting challenges of year marks her 20th in the United States Con- INTRODUCTION OF THE OUTDOOR global climate change and dependence on oil gress. In 1989, she was the first Hispanic LIGHTING EFFICIENCY ACT until we pursue efficiency and energy con- woman and first Cuban-American elected to servation wherever it is technologically fea- the House of Representatives. She began her HON. JANE HARMAN sible. career as an educator in Miami, FL and was We believe that this bill, like its 2007 coun- OF CALIFORNIA elected to the Florida State Legislature in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES terpart, is a vital and necessary piece of the 1982, becoming the first Hispanic woman in solution. We urge its swift passage. the Florida House. She later served in the Thursday, March 26, 2009 f Florida Senate. Ms. HARMAN. Madam Speaker, in 2007, ILEANA’s list of accomplishments runs long, Congressman UPTON and I introduced legisla- HONORING DEBBIE WASSERMAN but she is best known for ensuring that the tion—which became law as part of the Energy SCHULTZ AND ILEANA ROS- needs of the diverse community she rep- Independence and Security Act—that will rev- LEHTINEN resents are met. She takes a particular inter- olutionize the way Americans light their est in education, safety for Florida’s families homes. HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART and protecting our environment. In her role as Our legislation bans the famously inefficient OF FLORIDA the Ranking Member on the House Committee 100-watt incandescent light bulb by 2012, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES on Foreign Affairs she has worked to advance phases out remaining inefficient light bulbs by Thursday, March 26, 2009 democracy around the world, promote human 2014, and requires that light bulbs be at least rights and improve our nation’s relationships three times as efficient as today’s 100-watt in- Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of Florida. abroad. She continues to be a strong voice for candescent bulb by 2020. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the the oppressed people of Cuba and an advo- That bill was the product of bipartisan and work and lives of two remarkable colleagues cate for peace in the Middle East. In 2008 bicameral efforts to forge a consensus be- from the South Florida Delegation, Congress- ILEANA’s work was recognized by the State of tween industry and environmental groups. The woman DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ and Florida when she was inducted into the Florida result was not only broadly accepted, it was Congresswoman ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN. With Women’s Hall of Fame, a great honor in our groundbreaking. The Alliance to Save Energy unprecedented courage, a love of family and state. estimates that the provisions will eventually a strong commitment to service, these women Alongside a successful 25 year career in save $18 billion in energy costs every year, have made history in our community, our state public service, has been Ileana’s dedication to and prevent the emission of 100 million tons and our nation. Today I take the time to honor her family. She is a loving wife to husband of carbon dioxide annually by 2030. That’s the their work and thank them. Dexter Lehtinen, mother of Amanda Michelle equivalent of taking 20 million cars off the I had the pleasure of serving with DEBBIE and Patricia Marie and stepmother of Kath- road. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ in the Florida State Leg- arine and Douglas. By her side each day are

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.020 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E792 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 her parents, Enrique and Amanda Ros, who got there, two of his fellow firefighters were he is to be honored in Kansas City, Missouri left Castro’s communist regime in search of stuck behind a downed power line. Although, by family, friends, and acquaintances. I am freedom, when Ileana was just seven years as a trained fire engineer, Mr. Pine was re- privileged to be a part of this ceremony. old, so that their daughter could take advan- quired to stay at the controls of his pumper Mr. Curls is one of the original Founders of tage of the opportunities this country has to truck, he went into the blaze and saved the Freedom Incorporated, an African-American offer. two men. He was their hero. political organization which at one time could Although DEBBIE and ILEANA come from dif- Mr. Pine showed amazing strength and generate nearly 70,000 votes. Freedom Inc. ferent backgrounds and different political par- courage until the very end. Tragically, he lost was and has been very influential in delivering ties, they share a common goal and that is to his battle with cancer on August 19, 2008 at votes for a candidate or a cause. The organi- improve the lives of South Floridians. They age 29. I send my deepest condolences to the zation has been at the forefront in serving as seize all opportunities to work together with family and friends of Mr. Pine and am proud a catalyst for change in civil rights, public ac- the rest of the South Florida Delegation for the to announce that his name will be added to commodations, and the election of candidates best interest of the diverse community which the Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Colorado at all levels of government. Freedom Inc.’s of- we represent. They truly are an inspiration to Springs on September 19, 2009. Mr. Pine was fice has been visited by City Councilpersons, woman of all ages. a kind, loyal and genuine man who inspired Jackson County Executives, Mayors, Missouri It is an honor and a privilege to call these those around him. May he be remembered State Senators and Representatives, Gov- outstanding women my friends and serve with along with the other heroes in Colorado who ernors, Congresspersons, Senators, Presi- them in Congress. As we celebrate Women’s have given their lives protecting this country. dents, and those who have Presidential aspi- rations. History Month, I ask you to join me in con- f gratulating our colleagues Congresswomen For nearly fifty years, Mr. Curls has dedi- DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ and ILEANA ROS- IN HONOR OF FRANKLIN CENTRAL cated his life to the Greater Kansas City com- LEHTINEN on their invaluable contributions to HIGH SCHOOL FOR THEIR OUT- munity, promoting and improving political em- our nation and their remarkable achievements. STANDING PUBLIC SERVICE powerment and the civil rights of people of color. His children, grandchildren, and great f HON. ANDRE´ CARSON grandchildren have followed in his footsteps in TRIBUTE TO FIRE ENGINEER acknowledging their responsibility of giving OF INDIANA WILLIAM ‘‘BILLY’’ D. PINE back to the community. His son, State Senator IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Phil B. Curls, Sr. was the President of Free- HON. JOHN T. SALAZAR Thursday, March 26, 2009 dom Inc. when I was Chairman. It was a pe- riod when Freedom Inc. was recognized as OF COLORADO Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Madam Speaker, one of the most potent political organizations IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES today I rise to honor the faculty and students of Franklin Central High School for their dedi- in the United States and brought about the Thursday, March 26, 2009 cation as dynamic and sharing members of election of the first African-American Con- Mr. SALAZAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today their community. Earlier this month, FCHS stu- gressman from the Fifth District of Missouri, to honor the memory of fire engineer William dents raised over $24,000 for Riley Hospital U.S. Representative Alan Wheat. ‘‘Billy’’ D. Pine, an American hero who for Children in Indianapolis, Indiana. The stu- The ‘‘kids’’ have also held many public of- fices. Two of them were and one is presently touched the lives of many. Born on July 3, dents raised the money at their inaugural a Missouri State Representative, one was a 1979 in Yuma, Colorado, Mr. Pine lived a dance marathon. city councilwoman, and two have been School brave and courageous life putting out fires in This program was a six hour event with 325 Board members in the Metropolitan Kansas his community. students participating. In addition to the danc- Known as the lovable firehouse prankster City area. ing, the dance marathon included a dodge ball Since the mid-1950s, Mr. Curls has been in- with an infectious smile and contagious laugh, tournament and a girl’s basketball free throw Mr. Pine was both admired and respected by volved in real estate sales and appraisals, contest that raised $6,000. The faculty and most notably in the African-American commu- his fellow firefighters. After joining the Pueblo staff set an excellent example by raising an nity of Kansas City. He fought against ‘‘restric- Fire Department in 2004, he quickly became additional $3,500 to contribute to their stu- tive covenants’’ whereby residential homes active in the Union and planned firehouse ac- dents’ efforts. All in all, the inaugural dance could not be sold in certain areas to minori- tivities. Mr. Pine was a ‘‘firefighter’s firefighter’’ marathon was an extremely successful pro- ties. He was part of a class action lawsuit and his coworkers quickly became his second gram that surpassed its intended goal of which resulted in the United States Supreme family. $15,000. Court outlawing such covenants. Mr. Pine was committed to both his work The Riley dance program was originally es- In all of his activities, Mr. Curls dem- and his family. He met his wife, Janice, shortly tablished in 1991 in memory of Ryan White, onstrates his dedication and commitment to after moving to Pueblo in 2003. The two were an AIDS activist and Riley patient. Since the the greater good of others. He is actively in- set up on a lunch date by a mutual friend and program’s inception, thousands of Indiana’s volved with his high school graduating class, immediately became inseparable. They mar- high school and college students have com- the ‘‘Class of 1937,’’ which has been very ried in July 2005 and, the following April, wel- mitted themselves to raising funds for Riley. It close to this day. He was honored by Jackson comed the birth of their daughter, Sydney Tay- is a program that Riley has come to depend County, Missouri as one of its ‘‘Legacy Award- lor. Mr. Pine loved being a father and was on to facilitate research and provide treatment ees’’ for its 175th anniversary as a political dedicated to providing a good life for his fam- to children in need of vital health services. subdivision. He also has been honored by fel- ily. I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking low Missourian U.S. Representative WILLIAM However, on October 4, 2006, when Sydney Franklin Central High School for their dedi- LACY CLAY of St. Louis and myself as an was only 6 months old and he only 27, the un- cated public service. awardee of the ‘‘Missouri Walk of Fame’’ des- expected happened. When Mr. Pine rolled f ignation, as one of the pioneers of Kansas over in bed to help his wife with her home- City’s African-American political struggle. work, a tumor burst, causing his intestine to RECOGNIZING THE 90TH BIRTHDAY Throughout his life, he has believed in the erupt. After being rushed to the hospital, Mr. OF MR. FRED A. CURLS saying ‘‘make it happen.’’ He has put his prin- Pine was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer ciples into practice, and the effects of his ef- and immediately began chemotherapy. While HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER forts have ‘‘made it happen’’ throughout the his family and friends struggled with the OF MISSOURI Kansas City metropolitan area. He has had shocking news, Mr. Pine stayed strong. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES broad shoulders all his life and has held us on Throughout chemotherapy, Mr. Pine re- those shoulders all these years to promote Thursday, March 26, 2009 mained dedicated to the fire department. On equality in all walks of life. good days, he would go in to work. On bad Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, I proudly For those reasons and more, it is indeed an days, his coworkers would cover his shifts and rise today in recognition of the 90th birthday of honor and a privilege to recognize Mr. Fred send him the paycheck. In April 2008, Mr. Mr. Fred Curls, a pioneer for civil and political Curls on his 90th Birthday celebration. Madam Pine was able to return to work full-time and rights and a resident of the Fifth District of Speaker, please join me in expressing our ap- fought in one last fire. When a deadly Missouri, which I am honored to represent. On preciation to Mr. Fred Curls and his endless brushfire swept through Olney Springs on April March 31, 2009, Mr. Curls will be 90 years commitment to serving the residents of Kan- 15, Mr. Pine responded to the call. When he young. This weekend on March 26th and 27th, sas City and the State of Missouri. Whatever

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.022 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E793 we, as African-Americans, may attain in the Findiesen, Connor McClure, Max Carpenter, support services. With a current national un- political arena, Fred Curls and those who la- Brett Nicholas and Mack Santora. employment rate of 8.1 percent, which is high- bored to act on our behalf as political pioneers The team is led by Head Coach Harry er in the construction sector (21.4 percent) have helped to change the course of history Welch; Assistants Rod Baltau, Chris Colaw, and manufacturing sector (11.5 percent), pro- with the election of our first African-American Mark Davidson, Jay Noonan, Mel Taylor, Fr. viding long term stability in the tax code for President, Barack Obama. He is a true role Reggie Payne-Wiens, Brent Ward, and Butch the PTC would help create sustainable, good- model not just to the African-American com- Ward; Athletic Trainer Dave Tomlinson; and paying jobs. In fact, in 2008, AWEA estimates munity in Missouri, but to the entire community Team Managers Kira Cahill, Anna Maria the wind industry invested over $7.8 billion in at large. Carabini, Emily Furman, and Valerie Wu. wind turbines, primarily made of steel, which f It is an honor to represent such a fine group translated into purchases of more than $3 bil- of young people with a strong dedication to lion of steel and cast iron components. THE OVERSEAS VOTING team work and academics. I know each one of Additionally, a report published in 2007 by PRACTICAL AMENDMENTS ACT them will treasure the memories of their cham- the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence pionship season and I commend them, and Berkeley National Laboratory found that a 5- HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY the entire St. Margaret’s community, for this to 10-year extension of the PTC, relative to OF NEW YORK truly great achievement. one- or two-year extensions, could reduce the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f cost of wind projects by up to 15 percent, re- sult in better transmission line planning, en- Thursday, March 26, 2009 INTRODUCTION OF THE WIND IN- hance private research and development Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, I rise CENTIVES FOR A NEW DECADE spending, and significantly increase domestic today along with Congressman MICHAEL M. ENERGY ACT OF 2009 manufacturing of wind equipment thereby, cre- HONDA (D–CA) to re-introduce the Overseas ating American jobs. In addition, this report Voting Practical Amendments Act which would HON. KEVIN McCARTHY goes on to indicate that by extending the PTC protect the voting rights of the millions of OF CALIFORNIA through 2020, wind energy has the potential to American citizens currently living overseas. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES increase in the United States from about 3 The Overseas Citizens Voting Act of 1975 percent to 17 percent of our electricity supply Thursday, March 26, 2009 guaranteed the right to vote for military per- by 2030. sonnel and U.S. citizens living overseas. How- Mr. MCCARTHY of California. Madam Unfortunately, since its creation in 1992, the ever, a quarter of our men and women in the Speaker, I am pleased to introduce the Wind PTC has been allowed to expire three times, armed forces stationed overseas didn’t even Incentives for a New Decade (WIND) Energy only to be retroactively renewed and ex- receive a ballot for November’s election. More Act of 2009, which would extend the produc- tended. In addition, Congress has very nearly than half of overseas Americans that tried but tion tax credit (PTC) over the next decade to allowed this credit to expire many times, but could not vote, were unable to because their demonstrate that we are committed to then has passed 11th hour extensions of the ballots were late or did not arrive. powering our nation with more alternative and provision. The 3-year extension of the PTC in- Right now, far too many overseas Ameri- clean electricity. cluded in the recently-enacted stimulus bill is cans are being disenfranchised by a tangle of Electricity prices have soared more than 26 a good start; however, given the history of ex- bureaucratic red tape. The problems are percent nationally since 2000. Wind energy tending this credit, such uncertainty in this many, including delivery issues, general lack and other renewable energy resources are a process is a major disincentive to long-term of awareness of available voter assistance crucial component to ensuring that Americans wind and renewable energy development. This programs, and archaic state voting laws. Our have access to clean, reliable, diversified, and situation has led to a boom-bust cycle in wind bill proposes simple, inexpensive fixes that will affordable electricity. According to the U.S. energy rather than a consistent, longterm in- help ensure the votes of every overseas Energy Information Administration, wind en- vestment in one of our nation’s limitless green American are counted. ergy today accounts for approximately 3 per- energy resources. For instance, information f cent of electricity produced in the United compiled by AWEA shows that each time the States. However, wind energy capacity has PTC was allowed to expire but then was reac- TRIBUTE TO ST. MARGARET’S the potential to significantly increase in the tively renewed and extended, the subsequent EPISCOPAL SCHOOL, CALIFORNIA United States in the future—but only if we year wind energy installations decreased 73 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS have a stable investment climate. percent—93 percent compared to the prior A clean, reliable, and renewable energy year. HON. KEN CALVERT source, wind-generated electricity produces no Kern County, which I represent, is a model OF CALIFORNIA carbon dioxide or greenhouse gas emissions. of renewable energy resources, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In fact, in 2007, the American Wind Energy Tehachapi, California, is a leader in wind en- Association (AWEA) estimated that wind en- ergy development. In fact, the Tehachapi Wind Thursday, March 26, 2009 ergy displaced more than 28 million tons of Resources Area, located in the Tehachapi Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today carbon dioxide from being released into the at- Mountains of eastern Kern, has attracted wind to honor and pay tribute to a school in my mosphere. A 2007 report compiled by the energy developers because, if you have ever congressional district, St. Margaret’s Episcopal American Solar Energy Society indicates that been there, the wind blows nearly all the time School, that not only excels in academics but widespread use of wind has the potential to through the mountain tops and valleys. Under- is also distinguished on the football field. The displace up to 1,780 million metric tons of car- scoring the vast wind energy potential in this St. Margaret’s football team won the 2008 bon dioxide by 2030. area, over 3,500 wind turbines have already California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) By extending the PTC through 2020, my bill been installed, which produce electricity to Small Schools State Championship. In the would create long-term fiscal stability primarily power more than 250,000 homes and create championship game, St. Margaret’s defeated in the wind energy market. This certainty is more than 650 jobs (both directly and indi- Hamilton Union (Hamilton City) 59 to 7. vital to wind energy project planning and de- rectly) in the local communities. In addition, The football team is an outstanding example velopment. By providing a long-term credit, Kern County produces over 30 percent of the of hard work, determination and perseverance. wind energy developers can attract investors total wind-generated power in California, and They were undefeated in the 2008 season and and plan out schedules for project develop- accounts for about 5 percent of the total wind have earned the title ‘‘Champions.’’ The mem- ment, thereby creating an efficient and cost-ef- power generated in the United States. Even bers of the winning football team include: fective process for allocating resources and with all of this, it is my understanding there is Team Co-Captains Jeremy Baileys, Alex encouraging investment in this industry. This still opportunity for significant expansion of Brolick, David Mothander, and Chase Smith alone has the potential to reduce the costs as- wind power in the Kern-Tehachapi area, which along with teammates John Murayama, Mat- sociated with many of these projects thereby some estimates put as high as bringing an ad- thew Duenes, Conner Edgcomb, Michael making wind-generated electricity more com- ditional 6,000 megawatts of wind-generated Schmall, Austin Holden, Brennan Smith, Kent petitive with other types of electricity that is electricity online. A long-term extension of the Iizuka, Chris Adams, James Murayama, Travis generated. PTC would help ensure that the Tehachapi Anderson, Davis Edwards, JT Carpenter, The wind energy industry currently employs Wind Resources Area, as well as the United Adam Miyawaki, Justin Oh, Leo Garcia, Jeff over 85,000 individuals and indirectly employs States’, vast potential for wind energy can be Askin, Colfax Selby, Alfredo Valencia, Will tens of thousands more in industry-related developed in a reliable and timely manner,

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.025 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E794 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 which not only benefits Kern County, but Cali- With the mutual condemnation of these at- has indeed earned its designation as Surf fornia and the United States. tacks from both sides of the political spectrum, City, USA. It is time for Congress to take decisive ac- I am hopeful that Martin McGuinness and Yes, Huntington Beach has much to be tion to help ensure that Americans have reli- Peter Robinson will take the lead in reinforcing proud of. The city has so much to offer that able and affordable renewable electricity. A their commitment to peace in the province. people from every corner of the world have long-term extension of the PTC would help en- Events like these recent attacks represent traveled to visit or settle in this beautiful city. sure that we can maximize the potential of our the past in the North of Ireland. We must be And who can blame them? Huntington Beach American renewable energy resources, such focused on developing the economy in the boasts one of the most beautiful coastlines in as wind, and create thousands of new, skilled North of Ireland, educating children, and train- the country, amazing weather, and friendly jobs, both in manufacturing and engineering in ing workers—not reverting to the bloody vio- and innovative people. Several times, the FBI this country. lence of the past. has cited the city as being one of the safest f Madam Speaker, I hope my colleagues will communities in the United States. join me in denouncing this recent disturbing VIOLENCE IN NORTHERN IRELAND and senseless violence in Northern Ireland. Huntington Beach continues its quest for of- With all of the progress made since the Good fering a great quality of life and advocating the HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. Friday Agreement in 1998, the people of advancement of freedom, fun, and human OF NEW JERSEY Northern Ireland will only accept peace as the progress. Establishments such as Central IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES answer. We must not allow these murderers to Park, the Huntington Harbour, the Bolsa Chica Thursday, March 26, 2009 be successful in disrupting that goal. Ecological Preserve, among others, are a tes- timony to this dedication. As this great city, Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise this f Surf City, USA, celebrates its centennial, let evening to join political leaders of Northern HUNTINGTON BEACH 100TH us look to its example and work to emulate its Ireland in condemning the recent murders of ANNIVERSARY success. I congratulate Huntington Beach on two British soldiers and a British police officer its centennial. I’m sure the next hundred will in Northern Ireland. Two dissonant republican groups, the Con- HON. DANA ROHRABACHER be just as grand. tinuity I.R.A. and the Real I.R.A., have claimed OF CALIFORNIA responsibility for the attacks. The first, on a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Saturday evening, occurred when two British Thursday, March 26, 2009 FAREWELL, BEST WISHES, AND soldiers guarding a base outside of Antrim Mr. ROHRABACHER. Madam Speaker, I THANKS TO AMY SCHICK were gunned down. Two pizza delivery work- rise today to congratulate the City of Hun- ers were also tragically injured in the attack. tington Beach on its one hundredth anniver- The second attack came on a recent Monday sary. One of the most beautiful, comfortable, HON. JOHN W. OLVER when gunmen shot a member of the Police successful, clean, and vibrant cities of Amer- Service of Northern Ireland on duty near Bel- OF MASSACHUSETTS ica has transformed itself from a tiny oil-pro- fast. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES This small group of political dissidents is not ducing and cow-grazing piece of land, into the representative of the overall peace and unity vibrant metropolis it is today. The home to Thursday, March 26, 2009 that so many have worked so hard for since nearly 200,000 people, Huntington Beach, CA the Good Friday Agreement was signed in has become a great example of what cities Mr. OLVER. Madam Speaker, the Transpor- 1998. They should not be allowed to return us across America should strive to be. tation, Housing and Urban Development Ap- to the days of the Troubles. Anybody who has ever strolled along the propriations Subcommittee bid farewell earlier I call on anyone with information on those boardwalk, played volleyball in the sand, this week to Amy Schick who has served as who perpetrated these attacks to come for- surfed the waves, trekked out over the pier the Subcommittee’s Congressional Fellow ward so that justice can be served. Foolish at- and watched the sun set know that they are over the past year. Ms. Schick returned to the tacks such as these will not put a stop to the experiencing something special. But leisure is Office of Occupant Protection and Impaired peace process that has been gaining momen- not the only thing valued in Surf City, USA. Driving at the National Highway Traffic Safety tum over the last ten years in Northern Ire- The city has established a commitment to Administration, where she will have her next land. education with 35 elementary schools, five assignment as part of the Presidential Man- With the news that three political dissidents high schools, as well as two community col- agement Fellow program. were arrested this past weekend, I hope all leges within the city’s limits. The people of The Transportation Subcommittee was fortu- can work towards bringing justice to these Huntington Beach are also very hard workers nate to have Amy as a part of the Sub- senseless murders. The arrests stirred riots by who have labored to contribute a great deal to committee team. She did a superb job re- those supportive of the individuals being pros- their city, state, country, and world. The city searching a variety of transportation issues; ecuted. No matter what their political alle- plays host to a diverse range of industry, from preparing hearing and briefing materials; and, giance, these rioters should allow the police to low-tech to high-tech aerospace, among them managing the thousands of project requests do what is necessary to charge those that The Boeing Company. The city is also home that were submitted to the Subcommittee dur- committed these crimes. to part of the upper stage of the Saturn V ing the fiscal year 2009 appropriations proc- Since the power-sharing government was rocket, which was engineered and built by ess. In addition, Amy had lead staff responsi- reinstated in May 2007, the political process Douglas Aircraft (later McDonnell Douglas), bility for oversight of the budgets of the Sur- has taken great strides forward. The people of which took the first American flights to the face Transportation Board and the Architec- Northern Ireland must pull together and en- moon. tural and Transportation Barriers Compliance sure that the cowards who committed these I must point out another aspect to this city Board. crimes aren’t successful in allowing their that is near and dear to my heart, as the Amy’s organizational skills and unwavering wrongs to be a political statement. After years Chairman of the unofficial, yet powerful, positive attitude set a high standard for the of aggression, peace has clearly prevailed House Surfers Caucus. Visit Huntington Subcommittee. Her outstanding commitment over violence in Northern Ireland and these Beach, and within a short distance of each to public service was evident not only in how heinous attacks will not change that. other, you will find the International Surfing I stand in solidarity with those who silently Museum, the Surfing Hall of Fame, the Surfing she performed her duties on the Sub- protested these murders last Wednesday in Walk of Fame, Quicksilver, and my personal committee but also through her dedication and Belfast. These thousands of protesters across favorite, Jack’s Surfboards. Every year, thou- brave service in the United States Army Re- the province demonstrate that no amount of sands gather on its beaches for the yearly serves. senseless violence will fracture the unity of the U.S. Open of Surfing Contest. Although I’m I am profoundly grateful for Amy’s service to people in the North of Ireland. not a competitor, it does not prevent me from the Subcommittee over the past twelve Furthermore, it is important that violence not getting up early in the morning, whenever I months and I am confident that she will go on beget violence. Retaliation by those in the can, to join other surfers in the area, beyond to achieve great things at the Department of Protestant community will only exacerbate this the breakline, and hopefully catch a wave or Transportation. I, along with my Subcommittee disgraceful spell of terrorism. Peace will ulti- two. Surfing adds a unique and important fla- staff, wish Amy all the best in her future en- mately prevail in Northern Ireland. vor to the local culture, and Huntington Beach deavors.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.028 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E795 PERSONAL EXPLANATION HONORING THE LIFE OF FRANK of both was remarkable. Director of the RAFLO Loudoun Office of Transportation Services Terrie Laycock, who started work with county government in 1977 as an aide to HON. ADAM SMITH HON. FRANK R. WOLF board members, worked closely with Raflo, OF WASHINGTON OF VIRGINIA who served on the county board from 1972 to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 1986, including as chairman in 1985. ‘‘You IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, March 26, 2009 never questioned that his motives were any- Thursday, March 26, 2009 thing other than for the good of Loudoun Mr. WOLF. Madam Speaker, I want to share County: No politics, no personal advance- Mr. SMITH of Washington. Madam Speaker, with our colleagues today the recent passing ment, it was always from his perspective for of Frank Raflo of Leesburg, Virginia. He died what he felt was best for the county,’’ she I mistakenly missed the vote on rollcall No. said. 162: On passage of H.R. 1404, the Federal on March 15, 2009, at the age of 89. A long-time resident of Leesburg, Frank was He was a dedicated Democrat and an equal- Land Assistance, Management and Enhance- ly dedicated Kiwanian, a charter member of ment Act. Had I been present, I would have a giant in his community who made public the Leesburg Kiwanis Club, and founder of voted ‘‘yes.’’ service a priority. He was a member of the the Kiwanis Halloween Parade in Leesburg. town council for several years, as well as Growing up in Leesburg, Raflo attended Rollcall No. 125, On motion to suspend the serving as mayor for two years. During his Leesburg High School where he always was rules and pass H.R. 987. Had I been present, tenure as mayor, Frank oversaw the effort to at, or near, the top of his class. That keen in- I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ build an airport in Leesburg. He was also a tellect led to his being accepted into the Col- lege of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Rollcall No. 126: On motion to suspend the member of the Loudoun County Board of Su- from which he graduated as a Phi Beta rules and pass H.R. 1217. Had I been pervisors for 14 years, including a year as Kappa student. present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ chairman in 1985. As a businessman, Raflo and his wife, Rollcall No. 127: On motion to suspend the Frank served his community in unelected Frances, operated a women’s dress shop on rules and pass H.R. 1284. Had I been positions as well. He was one of the charter South King Street, a characteristic partner- ship in all his endeavors that that lasted present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ members of the Leesburg Kiwanis Club in 1957. The club holds the annual Kiwanis Hal- until Raflo’s death. Loudoun Museum Execu- tive Director Karen Quanbeck remembered f loween Parade that local children look forward her days on The Fashion Board at Loudoun to year after year. With his wife Frances, County High School. TRIBUTE TO STUDENT ATHLETES Frank championed parks and outdoor spaces Raflo created the group, comprised of jun- in Loudoun County. They were influential in ior and senior girls who would model fash- the creation of the W&OD Trail in Leesburg, ions from his store at charity fashion shows, HON. DANIEL B. MAFFEI and a park along the trail was subsequently typically on weekends, Quanbeck recalled. dedicated for them. In more recent years, ‘‘It takes a lot to get teenage girls out of bed OF NEW YORK at 6 a.m. on weekends, and make it fun.’’ She Frank wrote a column in the local paper, the recalled Raflo as ‘‘very jolly and very sup- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Leesburg Today. portive of the girls on the board. He was al- The town of Leesburg and the Common- Thursday, March 26, 2009 ways interested in us and what we were wealth of Virginia will greatly miss the service going to do with our lives.’’ Mr. MAFFEI. Madam Speaker, I rise today of their friend, Frank Raflo. His legacy will not A strong believer that local government soon be forgotten. was the most effective form of public service to talk about some great achievements by stu- to be found, Raflo served two terms on the dent athletes in my district. I would like to share an in memoriam of Frank Raflo that ran in the Leesburg Today on Leesburg Town Council from 1949–1951 and 1953–1955, as well as serving as mayor from This past weekend Jamesville-DeWitt boys’ March 18, 2009: varsity basketball team, which is my home- 1961–1963. Whether or not people agreed with him, town, defeated Peekskill 77–75 in Overtime to [From the Leesburg Today, Mar. 18, 2009] FRANK RAFLO: IN MEMORIAM, 1919–2009 ‘‘they always knew where he stood,’’ his son win the Class A Boys’ High School basketball Alan said this week, recalling the tales of (By Margaret Morton) championship. many battles that came home with his fa- Small in physical stature, but towering in The 25th congressional district winning ther during his years of public service. intelligence, integrity and love of commu- Raflo enjoyed a long working partnership ways continue at the New York Public schools nity, Frank Raflo, who died Sunday at age with the late B. Powell Harrison, who, while championship with Bishop Kearney boys’ var- 89, was one of the pantheon of legendary never an elected official, shared many simi- sity basketball team defeating Seton Catholic Loudoun leaders during the second half of lar ideas about the future of Leesburg and 65–48 to bring home the Class B Boy’s High the 20th century. the county. Harrison’s widow, Agnes Har- School basketball championship. All this week, tributes poured in for a man rison, recalled the long partnership between whose breadth of interests was phenomenal. the two men, who worked together on many And the women of the 25th district got into A generous dispenser of advice for others projects to better both the town and the the act when Newark girls varsity basketball making their way in the world, Raflo re- county. Their offices were next door to each team defeated Albertus Magnus 75–68 to take tained all his long life a curiosity into what other, and, both being notable talkers, ‘‘they the Girls’ Class A basketball championship. made people and institutions tick. would meet on the street on the corner and Blessed with a sharp brain, with a pene- Coach McKenney at Jamesville-Dewitt, discuss many, many things,’’ she said. ‘‘If ev- trating eye for fiscal detail and a consuming eryone who lived in Leesburg were as public Coach Boon at Bishop Kerney, Coach Kirnie interest in all that went on around him, minded as Frank Raflo it would be an even at Newark and all of the student athletes are Raflo lived an extraordinary life in which he better place than it is,’’ she said. to be congratulated on these great achieve- had a number of careers-businessman, jour- Alan Raflo similarly recalled his father ments. I wish them all the best of luck as they nalist and columnist, author, radio commen- talking to everybody he met on the street in move on to the New York State Federation tator and local elected government rep- his retirement. When once he asked him Championships this weekend in Glens Falls. resentative. whom he was waving to, his father replied, In his later years, Raflo’s column, Just ‘‘Oh, I wave to everybody.’’ Last, but certainly not least, I am proud to Being Frank, in Leesburg Today, in which he Both Agnes Harrison and longtime friend say that the Syracuse Orange men’s basket- dispensed his particular brand of down-home Mac Brownell recalled the courage shown by ball team won both of their NCAA tournament wisdom, had a loyal following. Readers were both Raflos in the face of family tragedy, games this past weekend and have advanced drawn to his often whimsical but always having lost two of their children in car acci- to the sweet 16 this weekend. To coach knowledgeable observations on a variety of dents. ‘‘They suffered serious sadness and subjects, ranging from the quirks of human Boeheim, and all of the players, I can’t tell you disappointment, but they kept going. They beings, government malfeasance, the price of were a brave couple,’’ Harrison said. how many people come up to me in halls of coffee, hemlines going up or down, how to ‘‘I always had great respect for Frank. I Congress to talk about how great you are. I find good tomatoes or a good shovel, whether saw a side of him that so touching, that peo- will be cheering for you as you compete for a a sale price was a true sale or not, and so on. ple didn’t often see, particularly the way he berth in the Final Four. In addition, Raflo wrote a number of books spoke about children. He had a very tender detailing Leesburg’s and Loudoun’s history, heart,’’ Brownell said. All of the student athletes that compete among the best known being Within The Iron Laycock also spoke of Raflo’s interest in bring my district and the whole United States Gate. those who were less fortunate, whether from great pride and I applaud you on your efforts. Serving on both the Leesburg Town Coun- a financial standpoint, or if they had phys- Keep up the good work, and Go Orange! cil and the Board of Supervisors, Raflo’s love ical or mental disabilities. ‘‘He was always

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.032 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E796 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 looking out for those who often don’t have After serving on the Leesburg Town Coun- working and if anyone was ‘government,’ he opportunity.’’ Raflo felt that whenever pos- cil, Raflo ran for the Board of Supervisors, was it,’’ Brownell recalled. ‘‘I always sible patient should be brought out of mental where he served from 1972 to 1986. He also thought of him as my best friend,’’ Brownell institutions, ‘‘deinstitutionalizing’’ them served on the Virginia Commission for Local said, laughing, as he recalled a common de- and returning them to their communities. Government for many years, having been ap- scription of the two colleagues as ‘‘Frank as ‘‘He felt strongly that if people could stay pointed by both Democratic and Republican the bantam rooster and me as the old setting near their families or where they’d grown up, governors to that post, where his experience hen.’’ they would have a better quality of life,’’ in local government planning and budgets Hard working as he was, Raflo always had Laycock recalled. aided other communities around the com- time to help others. Waddell first met Raflo Among the many awards and honors Raflo monwealth. in 1963 several years after coming to live in received in his lifetime was one he received Raflo’s son recalled his father was a firm the county. That year, he became chairman in 2003 and treasured highly-the highest believer in ‘‘planning for growth,’’ and his of the Loudoun County Democratic Com- award granted by the Kiwanis Club. Neatly earlier work in Leesburg would ‘‘culminate mittee. In 1967, Waddell ran successfully for suited during his government days, Raflo in his years serving on the Board of Super- the Board of Supervisors, joining Brownell as would always wear his Kiwanis button on his visors in the 1970s and 1980s. He was an early freshmen members. ‘‘He was a great help to lapel. advocate of capital improvements and ade- me in my campaign as Democratic chairman The lifelong public service of Frank and quate public facilities planning to service and also as a member of the board.’’ Frances Raflo also was recognized by the growth, particularly water and sewer, as well Raflo’s assistance did not stop there, as Town of Leesburg in the naming of the park as ensuring quality and sufficiency of water. Waddell recalled he helped him in his initial along Harrison Street at the W&OD Trail in ‘‘He worried about approving houses if the campaign for the state senate and afterward. their honor. infrastructure were not there,’’ according to Waddell said he recalled to Raflo years Former Farmwell Middle School principal his son. Several colleagues agreed, citing his later going to the dress shop on King Street Rocky Fera called him ‘‘Mr. Kiwanian.’’ frequent comments on community planning for help on speeches or statements, and Raflo Fera accompanied Raflo on a 1992 Kiwanis that ‘‘you will grow to the capacity of your would say, ‘‘Charlie, come on downstairs to trip to Lithuania, from whence Raflo’s fam- toilets’’ and ‘‘if you can’t flush, you can’t my office,’’ then proceed to translate ily originated. build it’’—highlighting the essential role in Waddell’s ideas into correct prose on his Describing Raflo as ‘‘a bit of gadfly, with utility service in community development. trusty Underwood typewriter. his fingers in everything and as smart as can His interest in being prepared to manage ‘‘He was a detail man on the budget, which be,’’ Fera joined the Kiwanis in the 1970s and growth responsibly led him to join other was his specialty. He always said, ‘It must be got to know Raflo well. county leaders on a trip to England to look necessities, not niceties,’ ’’ Waddell remem- When Lithuania broke away from the So- at planning progress there in 1972. The trip viet Union, ‘‘Frank pitched to the club: ‘We bered. Describing Raft as a ‘‘brilliant man,’’ was organized by Powell Harrison, founder of who could be a little abrasive and controver- need to take the notion of service clubs to the Piedmont Environmental Council. this new nation.’ ’’ Fera’s responsibility on sial at times, ‘‘there was a lot of substance Raflo’s interest in tying adequate infra- in what he did,’’ Waddell said. A favorite the trip was to ‘‘take care of Frank, keep structure to housing approvals presaged re- saying of Raflo’s was ‘‘hold on to your tax him out of trouble, and not let him go off on peated efforts by county boards into the bills, they’ll never get any smaller.’’ some tangent.’’ 1990s to seek state enabling legislation to It was a great trip, Fera said, saying he ‘‘He cut out a niche for himself, he made a adopt the local growth controls, each meet- difference in the last half of the 20th cen- thought of Raflo as a father figure. ‘‘He was ing without success. tury.’’ just a fine man. I looked up to him.’’ Among the champions of that effort was It’s not widely known that Raflo was in- Raflo’s love of his hometown was deep. A Supervisor Jim Burton (I-Blue Ridge). ‘‘We strumental in the creation of the W&OD scrappy fighter, he was ‘‘such a fierce de- had many good conversations about it,’’ Bur- Trail and securing parks for Loudoun Coun- fender of Leesburg on all levels, pulling no ton said. ‘‘I had a lot of respect for him.’’ punches to make sure the town’s position Burton recalled the deliberations of the ty, including Algonkian Park. got protected,’’ Loudoun attorney Liz Whit- Leesburg Restaurant lunch group, of which Purcellville Councilman and longtime ing recalled. Raflo was a member, as the town’s political, member of the Northern Virginia Regional Leesburg Realtor Tom Jewell, owner of judicial and business leaders met each day at Park Authority Board of Directors Jim Carter Braxton Real Estate Company and a the diner’s large table, ‘‘solving the problems Wiley recalled he and Raflo were the first longtime admirer, said Raflo ‘‘brought Lees- of the world.’’ two appointed members from Loudoun to burg out of the Dark Ages’’ and was the most In her years providing assistance to board that board. important county leader during the second members, Laycock recalled Raflo’s frustra- ‘‘He was the father of regional parks in half of the last century. ‘‘He always had his tion with constant comments by staff mem- Loudoun,’’ Wiley said, noting that Raflo and facts together. He never went into a meeting bers that the board had to have studies and Brownell were responsible in 1972 for NVRPA unprepared.’’ analyses before they could decide on various coming to the county. One of Raflo’s signal victories was con- topics. Raflo’s response was to ‘‘come into Wiley was then chairman of the county’s struction of Leesburg Airport at Godfrey the board meeting, pulling a kid’s wagon be- advisory board for parks and recreation. Field. As mayor, Raflo presided over the con- hind him, with a stack of studies in it. He ‘‘The supervisors kept promising us $100,000 troversial effort to build the airport, in part- loved to do theatrics to prove his point.’’ per year for parks, but it never came nership with council members George Jim Brownell, who served on the county through,’’ Wiley said. Then, the park author- Hammerly and Stanley Caulkins. Although board for 30 years called Raflo ‘‘such an in- ity offered to do regional parks for the coun- the faction supporting the airport was de- teresting fellow’’ and ‘‘the hardest working ty. To Wiley’s frustration, the supervisors feated by future Mayor Kenny Rollins and member of the board in my time.’’ turn down that offer, too. his supporters in May 1963, the airport did ‘‘He was always real good with figures, and ‘‘So, in a huge fury I publicly resigned,’’ get built-just. very intense with it. He always wanted to be Wiley recalled. The next day, he got a call ‘‘Leesburg got within one day of not hav- right,’’ Brownell laughed as he recalled from Brownell. ‘‘I met with him and with ing an airport,’’ Caulkins recalled with a Raflo’s constant visits to then Director of Frank. They had decided it was a good idea chuckle. ‘‘We signed the contract with Finance Kirby M. Bowers for information. after all, and we both got appointed to the Earthwork Construction and the FAA, and Bowers, who will retire as county adminis- [NVRPA] board.’’ That was in 1973. Raflo be- the next day we were voted out of office.’’ It trator April 1, Tuesday recalled Raflo as a came a ‘‘great park advocate,’’ Wiley said, was after that ousting, and before the new tough budget reviewer. ‘‘Men I was budget and the governmental spokesman for council took office, that ‘‘we decided the manager he was in my office almost every Loudoun until his resignation in 1986. town had to have a manager and could not day.’’ Raflo was very much involved with both elect a whole new slate at once,’’ Caulkins ‘‘Frank would go to see him and find out land purchases—for the W&OD and said. The new structure, in place today, con- what was going on, so often, that Kirby fi- Algonkian Park. sisted of electing mayors every two years nally had to go to [then] County Adminis- ‘‘We had some great conversations, we rode and council members for four, staggered, trator Phil Bolen and say, ‘Mr. Raflo’s al- back and forth together to NVRPA meet- terms. ways here. I can’t get my work done!’ That ings,’’ Wiley said. ‘‘He was extremely effec- Caulkins praised Raflo as being ‘‘very, very led to a resolution that no one supervisor tive, a great communicator, who got along dedicated, and community spirited,’’ noting should go to see a department head ‘‘about with everyone, and always meant what he he was responsible for getting $50,000 for the anything,’’ Brownell said. said.’’ new wing of Loudoun Memorial Hospital, in- Former Loudoun Supervisor and, later, As dear to his heart as parks became, troduced the first two-way radios in State Senator Charles Waddell recalled Raflo Democratic politics was a true avocation. Loudoun, and the first ambulance in used to do the same with Bolen, constantly Longtime Democratic activist and former Loudoun—‘‘a big old Cadillac.’’ going to him with ‘‘big ideas’’ on policy member of the Loudoun Electoral Board Til In addition, Raflo was the first town busi- change. ‘‘Phil’s standard reply was, ‘Frank, Bennie termed Raflo ‘‘a true Democrat, who nessman to permit the use of credit cards in do you have five votes?’ ’’ He rarely did, stuck by his principles, never bent, even his store, Caulkins said, recalling the almost Waddell said. when under pressure to do so.’’ She recalled universal derision then greeting the innova- ‘‘He was as honest as the day was long. He that the Young Turks of the party some- tion. had no hidden agendas. He was very hard times would ‘‘poo poo his ideas,’’ and showed

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.035 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E797 irritation with Raflo’s tendency to tell sto- and our goal here today is to find a way to en- cation, and you will succeed. For undocu- ries. sure that we don’t waste their potential. mented immigrant children, this turns out to be ‘‘They’d strum their hands on the table My own interest in this issue was intensified a cruel hoax. These young people are in many and dismiss him because it was all so whim- when a family near my district wrote to me ways, first generation Americans. They were sical, but he was so often proved true.’’ asking for help for a young undocumented stu- Raflo would say that the Democratic Party raised here by immigrant parents. They don’t was sliding down the tube in Virginia, ‘‘and dent. This young woman was brought to the remember their parents’ country of origin or it did,’’ Bennie said, recalling that Raflo United States by her mother when she was a feel any tie to it any more than first-generation kept telling the party it would have to do small child. She attended public schools in American citizens do. When we first intro- things differently if it were to succeed. California, where she was an honors student duced this legislation, I frequently received let- ‘‘He was always looking into the future, in high school, received awards for her out- ters from students who told me that they grew and had enormous experience. And he was standing community service, and graduated up believing they were U.S. citizens. They had often right.’’ with a near perfect grade point average. When no knowledge that they’d been brought here il- Raflo was the son of Joseph Raflo and it came time for her to go to college, she Fannie Bulitsky Raflo. He was predeceased legally until they applied for federal financial found that she was ineligible not just for fed- aid for college and they were turned down be- also by his daughter Joe Raflo; son Philip eral financial aid, but for in-state tuition as Raflo; and brother Harry Raflo. He is sur- cause their social security number doesn’t vived by his wife Frances Atwell Raflo; sons well. But this young woman was one of the match their name. Their parents never told Paul Raflo of Stevensville, MD, and Alan rare undocumented students in this country them. Raflo of Blacksburg; grandson John-Paul fortunate enough to get help from a private We are not the only ones who see the need Raflo; and great-grandchildren Josephine, source. She participated in a community men- to act. The plight of these students has been Luke, and Delaney. Funeral services were toring program through which she met a cou- addressed by several state legislatures around held at 11 a.m. Thursday at Congregation ple who came to consider her a part of their the country. More than a dozen states have Sha’are Shalom in Leesburg, followed by in- family after working with her for many years. enacted laws to provide in-state tuition at pub- terment at Union Cemetery. Memorial con- They couldn’t bear to see this young woman lic colleges and universities for students who tributions may be made to be sent to Lees- give up her dreams simply because the fed- burg Kiwanis, PO Box 445, Leesburg, VA eral government wanted to punish her for the have attended high school in their state. In the 20178, Attention Bob Wright; Leesburg Vol- absence of federal action, they’ve done what unteer Fire Company, PO Box 70, Leesburg, decision her mother made to bring her to this country illegally. This young woman, with the they can to help students in their communities. VA 20178; or Capital Hospice, 209 Gibson St. We’ve heard from guidance counselors and NW, Suite 202, Leesburg, VA 20176. help of her community and friends, was able to go to college in California and graduated teachers who work with undocumented stu- f with honors. She was then admitted to grad- dents and they tell us that once these stu- THE INTRODUCTION OF THE uate school, but was unable to attend because dents learn that they are, for all purposes, AMERICAN DREAM ACT OF 2009 the program to which she was admitted could barred from attending college, their academic not give her the tuition waiver it customarily of- performance begins to slip, and their drive to HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN fers to students of her caliber. This young excel devolves into disinterest. This is the time woman was extraordinarily lucky to get the when dropout rates begin to soar, and it is the OF CALIFORNIA help she did in paying for her undergraduate time that we should step in and ensure that IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES education, but in the end, she was in the these students reach their potential to become Thursday, March 26, 2009 same place she was before she entered productive citizens of our country. school. She was undocumented and had no It makes no sense to me that we maintain Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise this a system that brings in thousands of highly- afternoon to talk about the American Dream reasonable means to adjust her status. Shortly before I encountered this young skilled foreign guestworkers each year to fill a Act, a bill that I have introduced today with my gap in our domestic workforce, and at the long-time partners in this endeavor, Rep- woman’s family, an outstanding young man in my district was brought to my attention be- same time do nothing to provide an oppor- resentatives LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD and LIN- cause he wanted very much to get an appoint- tunity to kids who have grown up here, gone COLN DIAZ-BALART. We are joined in our effort ment to one of the military academies and to school here, and want to prepare them- by a bipartisan group of dedicated original co- serve his country. He was a successful high selves for these jobs or serve their country in sponsors. I believe that all of us have come to school student and would have made an ex- the military. This is the illogical outcome of our this effort for the same reason—to keep our cellent appointment. But shortly into the proc- current immigration laws that the Dream Act country from squandering the promise of thou- ess, it was determined that though he had will fix. I encourage my colleagues to join us sands of young people who have been raised lived in the United States for most of his life, in this effort. here, worked hard in school, and would like to he was undocumented and wouldn’t have Finally, Madam Speaker, I want to add that pursue higher education or serve their country been able to accept the nomination. A few the issues addressed in the American Dream in the military. These students face tremen- weeks after this occurred, I was at a dinner Act are just a fraction of the problems in our dous obstacles in reaching their potential be- where I happened to be seated next to the immigration system. The Dream Act came cause, through no fault of their own, they exist Secretary of the Army. I related the situation about because our immigration laws are, and in a legal limbo with no way to adjust their im- to the Secretary over dinner, and we dis- have been for some time, broken. It is very migration status. cussed what a waste it was to have to turn important that we pass this piece of legislation In America, we value every young person. away a young man with such promise and this year. But it is my fondest hope that we will We reward hard work and good moral char- dedication. A few days later I got a letter from put together a comprehensive immigration re- acter. We value the drive to continue one’s the Secretary expressing interest in finding a form package that includes the Dream Act as education, and we don’t penalize children for way to let young people like my constituent it was introduced today, and it is my intention the misdeeds of their parents. But current fed- who feel the call to serve their country, do so. to work for and pass that comprehensive im- eral law punishes many children for the deci- These are the young people who motivated migration reform package this year. sion that their parents made to bring them to me to introduce this bill, and there are stu- f this country. Now, when these young people dents like them in nearly every congressional finish high school, their choices are few: they district in the country. Every year I see private CRIMINAL CODE MODERNIZATION can try to find work illegally in order to support bills that Members have introduced for con- AND SIMPLIFICATION ACT OF 2009 themselves or they can hope to somehow stituents in this same situation because there continue their education while under a legal is no other relief available to them in our bro- HON. F. JAMES SENSENBRENNER, JR. cloud. They consider themselves Americans ken immigration laws. I could have done the OF WISCONSIN because this country is the only home they’ve same for my constituents too, but I quickly IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ever really known, but their lives are filled with came to realize that there was a much bigger Thursday, March 26, 2009 uncertainty and their future is limited so long issue to address. I would ask my colleagues as they have no legal status. who introduce these private bills to broaden Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Madam Speaker, This is a travesty. It means that their com- their focus. Instead of seeking to help just one the Criminal Code Modernization and Sim- munities—the communities that they have young person, we should fix the underlying plification Act revises the criminal code to up- grown up in and call home—will never fully problem. date, simplify and consolidate many of the reap the benefits of their abilities. We have set It is almost a mantra in this country. Parents criminal provisions in Title 18 of the United up obstacles to their success at every turn, tell their children: work hard, get your edu- States Code. It has been over 50 years since

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.037 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E798 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 the criminal code was last revised. The exist- defying uniform definition. Therefore, because law;’’ United States v. Udofot, 711 F.2d 831, ing criminal code is riddled with provisions that the Government has a duty to provide clear 835–37 (8th Cir. 1983); United States v. are either outdated or simply inconsistent with notice to the public regarding what behavior Gravenmeir, 121 F.3d 526, 529–30 (9th Cir. more recent modifications to reflect today’s constitutes a crime, use of the ‘‘willful’’ lan- 1997); United States v. Tracy, 36 F.3d 187, modern world. I introduced this Act in both the guage in statutes should be avoided. 194–95 (1st Cir. 1994), cert. denied, 115 S. 109th and 110th Congresses. This new The U.S. Supreme Court explained that the Ct. 1717 (1995). version incorporates criminal laws enacted term ‘‘willful . . . is a word of many meanings, Under the doctrine of ‘‘willful blindness,’’ a during 2007 and 2008. its construction often being influenced by its defendant may have knowledge of a fact if the This measure is intended to continue the context.’’ Spies v. United States, 317 U.S. defendant deliberately closed his eyes to what dialogue and process for rewriting the criminal 492, 497 (1943). See also United States v. would otherwise have been obvious to him. code, with the hope that other Members, the Murdock, 290 U.S. 389, 395 (1933) (‘‘Aid in United States v. Hauert, 40 F.3d 197, 203 (7th Senate, the judiciary, the Justice Department, arriving at the meaning of the word ‘willfully’ Cir. 1994), cert. denied, 115 S.Ct. 1822 1995) criminal law professors, and other interested may be afforded by the context in which it is (ruling that the older ‘‘ostrich’’ instruction is not professionals will provide input and seek to used.’’). The looseness of the definition is error, but not preferred); United States v. develop a more comprehensive re-write. demonstrated in the many different interpreta- Ramsey, 785 F.2d 184, 190 (7th Cir.), cert. With the increasing federalization of local tions of the word ‘‘willful’’ in federal statutes. denied, 476 U.S. 1186 (1986); United States crimes, there is a need to review and revise Courts have described ‘‘willful’’ as meaning v. Arambasich, 597 F.2d 609, 612 (7th Cir. Title 18 to ensure that such federalization is a high degree of culpability, such as a bad or 1979); United States v. Gabriel, 597 F.2d 95, minimized and tailored to appropriate crimes evil motive. E.g., United States v. Harris, 185 100 (7th Cir.), cert. denied, 444 U.S. 858 where State and local prosecutions may not F.3d 999, 1006 (9th Cir. 1999) (‘‘[T]he act to (1979). United States v. Dockter, 58 F.3d adequately serve the public interest. Federal be criminal must be willful, which means an 1284 (8th Cir. 1995). prosecutions constitute only seven percent of act done with a fraudulent intent or a bad pur- Eliminated Criminal Offenses that Have Not the criminal prosecutions nationwide. We need pose or an evil motive.’’). But cf., e.g., Nabob Been Used in Last 30 Years or Are Subsumed to ensure that the federal role continues to be Oil Co. v. United States, 190 F.2d 478, 480 by Other Criminal Offenses—As described limited and that the State and local offenses (10th Cir. 1951) (holding that ‘‘such an evil below and for each section, the revised code are not subsumed within an ever-expanding purpose of criminal intent need not exist’’ for eliminated sections that had not been used by criminal code. a ‘‘willful’’ violation). The term can mean that the Justice Department. Even in the absence Through the years, the criminal code has a person must have actual knowledge that his of any significant use, some offenses were grown with more and more criminal provisions, actions were prohibited by the statute. E.g., kept even if they were not used but for policy some of which are antiquated or redundant, Ratzlaf v. United States, 510 U.S. 135, 141– reasons need to be maintained to deter the some of which are poorly drafted, some of 42 (1994) (interpreting ‘‘willful’’ to require ‘‘both commission of the crime (e.g. Assassination of which have not been used in the last 30 ‘knowledge of the reporting requirement’ and a a Supreme Court Justice). years, and some of which are unnecessary ‘specific intent to commit the crime,’ i.e., ‘a Also, in reviewing the existing code, there since the crime is already covered by existing purpose to disobey the law.’ ’’ were many specific crimes that were already criminal provisions. Courts and commentators have decried the covered by more general provisions. Typically, This bill cuts over 1/3 of the existing criminal confusion that follows use of the word ‘‘willful’’ the more specific provisions were added to the code; reorganizes the criminal code to make it in statutes. The lower courts repeatedly cite code after the general provision was enacted, more user-friendly; and consolidates criminal the fluctuating meaning of the term ‘‘willfully,’’ and there was no substantive difference in the offenses from other titles so that title 18 in- which has ‘‘defied any consistent interpretation newer and more specific offense. cludes all major criminal provisions (e.g. drug by the courts.’’ United States v. Granda, 565 This project required significant resources crimes in title 21, aviation offenses and hijack- F.2d 922, 924 (5th Cir. 1978). Judge Learned and assistance from the Legislative Counsel’s ing in title 49). Hand criticized use of the term ‘‘willful’’ in stat- Office, and in particular, Doug Bellis, the Dep- To the extent possible, and for the most utes: ‘‘It’s an awful word! It is one of the most uty Counsel of that Office, and Caroline part, I applied a policy-neutral intent, meaning troublesome words in a statute that I know. If Lynch, Chief Republican Counsel, Sub- that changes were made to streamline the I were to have the index purged, ‘‘willful’’ committee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland code in an effort to assist policymakers, practi- would lead all the rest in spite of its being at Security, both of whom devoted substantial ef- tioners (judges, prosecutors, probation offi- the end of the alphabet.’’ Model Penal Code forts to preparing this bill and should be com- cers) and other persons who rely on the code and Commentaries, § 2.02, at 249 n.47 (Offi- mended for their extraordinary efforts. to implement criminal law enforcement and cial Draft and Revised Comments 1985) (citing f compliance. However, two general policy A.L.I. Proc. 160 (1955)). Indeed, the drafters changes were made: (1) attempts and conspir- of the Model Penal Code, for example, delib- HONORING KARIN BROWN acies to commit criminal offenses are gen- erately excluded the term ‘‘willfully’’ in the defi- erally punished in the same manner as the nition of crimes, stating that the term ‘‘is un- HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART substantive offense unless specifically stated usually ambiguous standing alone.’’ Model OF FLORIDA otherwise; and (2) criminal and civil forfeiture Penal Code § 2.02 explanatory note at 228 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and restitution provisions were consolidated (Official Draft and Revised Comments 2005). Thursday, March 26, 2009 unless a more specific policy was adopted for The revised criminal code employs a a crime. straight-forward approach—where possible, Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Creating a Uniform Set of Definitions for the the term ‘‘knowingly’’ is used to define the req- Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a very Entire Title—In reviewing the code, there were uisite intent for every crime, except for those special lady from the State of Florida, Karin instances where terms were defined dif- criminal offenses that require some additional, Brown. She has dedicated her life to being an ferently. In most cases there was no evident and more specific, intent. Each offense starts exceptional educator, community activist and policy basis for different definitions. To elimi- with ‘‘knowingly’’ and then adds, if necessary, fighter for Florida’s children. nate this problem, a common set of definitions some additional intent requirement (e.g. spe- Karin currently serves as the President of was established in the first section of the re- cific intent crime). the Florida Parent Teacher Association, an or- vised code. The term ‘‘knowingly,’’ means that the act ganization to which she has dedicated many Revising the Intent Requirements—The Su- was done voluntarily and intentionally and not years of service at both the local and state preme Court has consistently criticized Con- because of mistake or accident. It would be in- level. A wife to Bill Brown for nearly 40 years, gress for imprecise drafting of intent require- correct to suggest that the term means that mother of five and grandmother of three, she ments for criminal offenses. In numerous oc- the actor must realize that the act was wrong- has made it her life mission to create a casions, improper drafting has lead to confu- ful. See e.g., Bryan v. United States, 524 U.S. healthy relationship between students, parents sion in the courts, requiring further modifica- 184 (1998), the Court explained: [T]he term and teachers and ensuring a stable environ- tions to clarify Congress’ intent. ‘‘knowingly’’ does not necessarily have any ment in the classroom and at home for chil- Courts and commentators alike have de- reference to a culpable state of mind or to dren. Her civic involvement includes serving nounced the use of ‘‘willful’’ in statutes be- knowledge of the law. As Justice Jackson cor- on various community advisory boards, gov- cause of the word’s inherent ambiguity. The rectly observed, ‘‘the knowledge requisite to erning boards, task forces and as a liaison to term ‘‘willful’’ can have different meanings in knowing violation of a statute is factual knowl- organizations all focusing on child develop- different contexts and thus is a vague term edge as distinguished from knowledge of the ment, education and well being.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.039 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E799 During my years in the Florida State Sen- FEDERAL LAND ASSISTANCE, RECOGNIZING 188TH ANNIVERSARY ate, I worked closely with Karin when she was MANAGEMENT AND ENHANCE- OF GREEK INDEPENDENCE Vice President of Protect America’s Children MENT ACT in passing the Jennifer Act. This legislation, SPEECH OF which I sponsored and became law in 1997, SPEECH OF HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY makes any credible threat or attempted as- OF NEW YORK sault of a minor 16 years of age and under a HON. RAU´ L M. GRIJALVA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES third degree felony. In 1982 Karin and her husband found out OF ARIZONA Tuesday, March 24, 2009 that they were expecting their fifth child. The IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, as an doctors also handed Karin a life-threatening original cosponsor of H. Res. 273 and a co- diagnosis of Arterial Vinous Malformation on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 chair and co-founder of the Congressional the left side of her brain. Karin and her son Caucus on Hellenic Issues, I rise today to cel- survived and one year after giving birth, she The House in Committee of the Whole ebrate the 188th anniversary of Greece’s dec- successfully overcame more than nine hours House on the State of the Union had under laration of independence from the Ottoman of brain surgery. She does not see her handi- consideration of the bill (H.R. 1404) to au- Empire. thorize a supplemental funding source for cap as an ailment; on the contrary, it moti- Against incredibly difficult odds, the Greeks catastrophic emergency wildland fire sup- vates her to continue serving the community defeated one of the most powerful empires in pression activities on Department of the In- and working for children. history to win their independence. terior and National Forest System lands, to Following 400 years of Ottoman rule, in As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I require the Secretary of the Interior and the March 1821 Bishop Germanos of Patras ask you to join me in congratulating Karin Secretary of Agriculture to develop a cohe- raised the traditional Greek flag at the mon- Brown, a woman who lives her life with cour- sive wildland fire management strategy, and astery of Agia Lavras, inciting his countrymen age, a will to live, and a genuine passion to for other purposes: serve others. to rise against the Ottoman army. Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Chair, I rise in opposi- The Bishop timed this act of revolution to f tion to the Goodlatte Amendment and I urge coincide with the Greek Orthodox holiday cele- my colleagues to join me in opposing this brating the archangel Gabriel’s announcement EARMARK DECLARATION harmful amendment. that the Virgin Mary was pregnant with the di- vine child. While I strongly support the FLAME Act, I Bishop Germanos’s message to his people HON. MARY BONO MACK am opposed to this amendment because it was clear: a new spirit was about to be born OF CALIFORNIA would undermine current protections for forest in Greece. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES workers as well as preventing proper environ- The following year, the Treaty of Constanti- Thursday, March 26, 2009 mental review of projects. It would do this by nople established full independence for dramatically expanding existing good neighbor Greece. Mrs. BONO MACK. Madam Speaker, pursu- authority that only applies to certain projects New York City is home to the largest Hel- ant to the Republican Leadership standards on National Forests in Colorado and Utah right lenic population outside Greece and Cyprus. on earmarks, I am submitting the following in- now. Western Queens, which I have the honor of formation regarding earmarks I received as representing, is often called Little Athens be- part of H.R. 2638, the Consolidated Security, Specifically, this amendment would waive cause of the large Hellenic population in that Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appro- provisions of the National Forest Management neighborhood. priations Act, 2009: Act protecting taxpayer interests. It would give New Yorkers celebrate Greek Independence Requesting Member: MARY BONO MACK discretion over projects on National Forests to Day with a parade on Fifth Avenue in Manhat- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 state foresters, eliminating federal oversight tan, along with many cultural events and pri- Account: Department of Education, National and accountability, and it would limit the vate gatherings. Projects; Innovation and Improvement public’s knowledge of when timber is sold. These events, hosted by the Federation of Hellenic Societies and other Hellenic and Entity Requesting: Reading Is Fundamental, I am also concerned that the amendment, if Philhellenic organizations and friends, remind Inc.,1825 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite successful, would put into question federal us of the Hellenic-American community’s 400, Washington, DC 20009 labor standards and current wage protections many contributions to our nation’s history and Description of Earmark: $26 million is pro- for forest workers. culture. vided to Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. (RIF). My subcommittee held a hearing last year I am also pleased that President Obama is RIF is one of our nation’s oldest and largest continuing the tradition of holding a White children’s literacy organizations. RIF partners which shined a light on how pineros, literally men of the pines, were not being adequately House celebration in honor of Greek Inde- with thousands of schools, public agencies, pendence Day. compensated or paid for their work under ex- nonprofit organizations and corporations My fellow co-chair Representative BILIRAKIS throughout our country and provides millions isting law. Delegating this to the state or some and I sent a letter last month urging the Presi- of underserved children with free books and subcontractor or the state without assurances dent to recognize this truly important day. reading encouragement from over 20,000 lo- for workers is foolish. Relations between the United States and cations. Over the past 4 decades, RIF has Directly to this issue, the GAO released a Greece remain strong with a shared commit- provided books to more than 300 million chil- report yesterday recommending caution on al- ment to ensuring stability in southeastern Eu- dren. RIF encourages reading both inside and rope. I hope permanent solutions can be outside of school by allowing youngsters to lowing broader authority until the federal gov- ernment could ensure greater ‘‘transparency, found for ending the division of Cyprus and select books to keep at home. finding a mutually agreeable name for the competition, and oversight.’’ RIF’s Inexpensive Book Distribution Pro- Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. gram: This program provides books for low-in- I agree with the GAO and believe that this Additionally, I strongly support the inclusion come children and youths from infancy to high amendment is just too broad and would waive of Greece in the Visa Waiver Program. school age and supports activities to motivate too many existing laws that protect workers Greece is the only member of the original fif- them to read, through aid to local nonprofit and the environment. teen European Union nations not to belong to groups and volunteer organizations. the Visa Waiver Program. In sum, I want to voice my strong support Spending Plan: Nearly 89 percent of RIF’s I, along with my colleagues, will continue to for the FLAME Act, which will enable our pub- 2007 federal funds were used to purchase work to ensure that the process for Greece’s books and RIF was able to use this as lever- lic lands agencies to finally get ahead of the entry into the Visa Waiver Program continues age to raise an additional $8.6 million from vicious cycle of budget-consuming cata- to move forward. local communities to support book ownership. strophic fires, and begin the process of work- Additionally, I have recently reintroduced With the help of Congress, RIF was able to ing to protect communities and restore the na- legislation which urges Turkey to respect the provide more than 16 million books to 4.6 chil- tion’s lands. I urge opposition to this amend- rights and religious freedoms of the Ecumeni- dren last year. ment and support for the underlying bill. cal Patriarchate.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.042 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E800 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 26, 2009 It is time for this suppression of religious rehabilitation exercise and pharmacology, psy- enterprise brought affordable, high-speed wire- freedom to come to an end and for Turkey to chosocial intervention and referral, nutritional less Internet to a rural seven county region, move in the direction of freedom and democ- aspect of injuries and illnesses and health which is larger than the state of Delaware. Mr. racy. care administration), administrative (direct and Shah developed the plan and built the coali- I ask the nation to join me in celebrating administer BS/MS Degree Program and Ad- tion of support to make this project a reality. Greece’s independence. vanced Master’s Degree program in Athletic By providing a united vision and strong ad- Additionally, it is my sincere pleasure to pay Training and Sports Sciences, maintain guide- vocacy, Mr. Shah helped level the playing field tribute to New York’s Hellenic-American com- lines and standards set forth by the accred- for the 212,000 residents of these seven coun- munity for its many contributions to our city iting agency, work with the Clinical Coordi- ties. Now, this region is in a better position to and nation. nator to establish and maintain affiliations, spur economic development and entrepreneur- ‘‘Zeto E Eleftheria!’’ (Long Live Freedom!) conduct and publish research/ scholarly activi- ship among its residents. f ties in areas of expertise, advise students, de- Mr. Shah’s outstanding effort is an example velop and implement internal/external mar- for all Kentuckians to follow. I thank Mr. Shah A TRIBUTE TO TRACYE RAWLS- keting strategies for the Athletic Training Edu- for his commitment to the people of western MARTIN cation Programs, assist in the recruitment of Kentucky. faculty, continue to encourage good citizen- f HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS ship and professional conduct among all stu- OF NEW YORK dents and faculty so as to promote the best in- TRIBUTE TO LEROY BROOKS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES terest of athletic trainers, maintain continuing Thursday, March 26, 2009 education credits, participate/coordinate and HON. TRAVIS W. CHILDERS conduct committees within the Division, OF MISSISSIPPI Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today School of health Professions, the University IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in recognition of Tracye Rawls-Martin. and the Brooklyn Committee), service (active Thursday, March 26, 2009 Tracye Rawls-Martin, proud daughter of member with the local, regional and national Henry Sr. and Shirley M. Rawls, wife of Arnold athletic training organizations, Athletic Training Mr. CHILDERS. Madam Speaker, I rise V ‘‘Woody’’ Martin, stepmother to Britt’ney D. Students Club/Members and Faculty noted on today to recognize Supervisor Leroy Brooks Clarence and ‘‘Nana T’’ to Woody’s oldest national website, Instructor for American Heart from my home state of Mississippi. Supervisor daughters’ son, Charles Lovell 3rd. Association, Book Reviewer for Lippincott Wil- Brooks will be celebrating 25 exceptional Tracye Rawls-Martin, MS ATC is a Certified liams and Wilkin publishing company, partici- years of committed public service. Athletic Trainer and one of 5 African American pant in several health events for children, i.e. Mr. Brooks has served as a Supervisor in Athletic Training Education Program Directors TEAM L.I.U-Teenagers Educated About Asth- Lowndes County, Mississippi for the past 25 in the United States. She is ‘‘mother,’’ advisor ma Management). years. During that time he has dedicated his and professor to more than 16 Athletic Train- In addition, Tracye Rawls-Martin is an entre- efforts to improve the quality of life for the ing Students within the BS/MS Degree Pro- preneur and a top executive for one of the people of Lowndes County. He is the longest gram in Athletic Training & Sports Sciences at world’s largest direct selling telecommuni- serving Supervisor in Lowndes County history, Long Island University Brooklyn Campus. She cations providers. On a part time basis she and I wish to thank him for his career and began her academic career as a Dance Edu- has reached the first earned executive position dedication to our great state of Mississippi and cation major and progressed to a Pre-Physical in the company. She is well on her way to the Lowndes County community. Please join Therapy major and finally fell in love with an helping hundreds and thousands of individuals me in congratulating Mr. Brooks for this ac- Athletic Training major. After completing two achieve financial freedom and continue to live complishment. semesters in the Pre-Physical Therapy pro- out their life long dreams whether it is to have f gram at Kingsborough Community College, more time with their families or to explore the she decided it was time to move on to a more PAYING TRIBUTE TO SULLIVAN beaches of the world. COUNTY, NEW YORK exciting and productive field—the field of Ath- Tracye will continue to pursue her passions letic Training and Sports Sciences. The field of and would like to contribute her success to the Athletic Trainers was made for her because it Lord, her family and her students. She will not HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY is designed for Health Care Professionals who rest until she has fulfilled her life’s long mis- OF NEW YORK specialize in prevention, assessment, treat- sion—to take care of children of all ages, to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ment and rehabilitation of injuries and ill- feed them, clothe them, teach them and love Thursday, March 26, 2009 nesses that occur to athletes and the phys- them; in the end to develop a place they can ically active. All Certified Athletic Trainers call home and a place they can always return Mr. HINCHEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today must have at least a bachelor’s degree in ath- to a ‘‘University for Children.’’ to honor and pay tribute to the County of Sul- letic training, which is an allied health profes- livan in New York State on the occasion of its f sion, must pass a comprehensive exam before Bicentennial. I am delighted to add my voice earning the ATC credential, must keep knowl- A TRIBUTE TO MR. JITEN SHAH to those recognizing this milestone, and I am edge and skills current by participating in con- proud to join the residents of Sullivan County tinuing education and must adhere to stand- HON. BRETT GUTHRIE in commemorating this significant anniversary. ards of professional practice set by a national OF KENTUCKY Created from neighboring Ulster County on certifying agency. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 27, 1809, Sullivan County was named The combination of dance education & ath- in honor of American Revolutionary War lead- letic performance was a winning combination Thursday, March 26, 2009 er, Major General John Sullivan. Since that for her personality because she loves helping Mr. GUTHRIE. Madam Speaker, I rise today time, Sullivan County’s natural beauty and people, teaching, watching and participating in to honor Mr. Jiten Shah for his service to abundance have greatly influenced its devel- sports. In addition to nurturing her students western Kentucky. He has effectively served opment. Early settlers focused their efforts on through academic requirements for the pro- as the Executive Director of the Green River tapping the generous natural resources of the gram, she has had the honor and privilege of Area Development District (GRADD) since region and building vibrant timber, bluestone, working with over 1000 athletes worldwide; 1987, where he has worked to create eco- and tanning industries. These early commer- high school, junior college, division one colle- nomic opportunity for this mostly rural region. cial activities were replaced by growing agri- giate athletes, semiprofessional and profes- Recently, Federal Computer Week recog- culture and tourism sectors starting in the mid- sional. Her current responsibilities as Director nized Mr. Shah as one of the magazine’s Fed- Nineteenth Century. Sullivan County also of Athletic Training Education Programs at eral 100 of 2009. This award recognizes the served as an important transportation corridor Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus in- top executives from government, industry, and and link between the Hudson and Delaware clude teaching (18 credit hours teaching a va- academia who had the greatest impact on the Rivers. Transportation projects such as the riety of sports medicine topics which include government information systems community in Newburgh-Cochecton Turnpike, the Delaware risk management, injury prevention, orthopedic 2008. & Hudson Canal, and the New York & Erie examination & diagnosis, medical conditions Mr. Shah was the driving force for the cre- Railroad helped to develop the region and fuel and disabilities, acute care of injuries and ill- ation of ConnectGRADD, Inc., a regional the expansion of metropolitan New York sev- nesses, therapeutic modalities, conditioning, broadband internet network. This extraordinary enty miles to the County’s south.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 04:33 Mar 27, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26MR8.045 E26MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 26, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E801 The first of Sullivan County’s grand hotels HONORING COLONEL MARY BETH gether to craft this crucial legislation, which was constructed in 1846 and over the next BEDELL stands as a testament to his commitment to century, hundreds of additional hotels, camps, fighting for the most vulnerable Americans. I bungalow colonies, and resorts were con- HON. SAM GRAVES commend him for his leadership on this impor- structed. During the peak decades of Sullivan OF MISSOURI tant issue and thank him for his friendship. The Act’s premise is simple and just: Un- County’s resort industry, the communities in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Catskills surged each summer with an in- documented students deserve the same op- flux of families looking to enjoy Sullivan Coun- Thursday, March 26, 2009 portunities as the 2.8 million others who grad- ty’s tremendous beauty and many offerings. Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, I rise today uate from this country’s high schools every The County became increasingly popular as a to recognize U.S. Army Colonel Mary Beth Be- year. We cannot afford to waste our invest- vacation destination for Jewish families, who dell. Colonel Bedell is from Willow Springs, ments in these talented, motivated young peo- helped to build up the entertainment and hos- Missouri and has served our country with ple who are products of our schools and our pitality industry that came to define the Catskill dedication and valor for 37 years. Colonel Be- communities. Indeed, in this era of region. Sullivan County became widely known dell has served tours in Vietnam, Operation globalization, America will struggle to maintain as part of the Borscht Belt, and its resorts and Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, its competitive advantage if we continue to de- hotels helped to launch the careers of many of and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her other post- prive some of our most promising students the this country’s most beloved comedians and ings include Fort Sam Houston, in San Anto- chance to earn a college education. entertainers in the decades following the Sec- nio, Texas in 1972, Fort San Francisco, Leigh- The American Dream Act offers a prudent, ond World War. ton Barracks, Wuerzburg, Germany from 1991 equitable solution to the challenges that un- to 1994, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri from documented students face in attempting to Sullivan County is renowned for its profound 1994 to 1997, Fort Drum, New York from 1997 gain admission to our colleges and univer- beauty and tremendous natural assets, includ- to 2000, Walter Reed, Washington D.C. from sities. First, it provides a path to legalization ing the picturesque Catskill and Shawangunk 2000 to 2004, and Fort Sam Houston, San and citizenship to students who entered the Mountains and Delaware River Valley. The Antonio, Texas from 2004 to 2009. U.S. before the age of 16, have lived here for Delaware River Valley in Sullivan County is During this time, her husband, Dennis Be- 5 years, and have completed two years of designated by the National Park Service as dell, and their children, Kergin, Carl, and higher education or military service. Second, part of the Upper Delaware Scenic and Rec- Brian, supported her as she served the Army because they often face severe economic reational River and recognized for its incred- without hesitation. The people of Missouri and hardships, the bill also eliminates a federal ible recreational, historic and cultural re- the United States thank Colonel Bedell and provision that discourages states from allowing sources. This River corridor, located in close her family for their mutual service and sac- undocumented students to pay in-state tuition. proximity to the New York metropolitan area, rifices. The fight to fix a policy that squanders the continues to attract many thousands of visitors Madam Speaker, I proudly ask all my col- intellectual gifts of so many is part of a much who are drawn by the area’s fishing, hunting, leagues to join me in commending the career wider struggle. Our immigration system is bro- boating, golfing, and other activities. of Colonel Mary Beth Bedell, who has exem- ken. It divides families, enables the persecu- Tourism remains a vital part of the economy plified the qualities of dedication, leadership, tion of workers and denies immigrants basic for Sullivan County today. As the birthplace of and service throughout her tenure with the US legal protections. The American Dream Act is fly-fishing, the County continues to attract Military. a critical component of comprehensive immi- gration reform. As we work with President sportsmen from around the world to the area’s f Obama’s administration over the coming famous trout streams. The Town of Bethel in INTRODUCTION OF THE AMERICAN months to overhaul our immigration system, Sullivan County, once the site of the legendary DREAM ACT we should ensure that The American Dream Woodstock Music Festival in August 1969, Act is a critical component of our plans. now hosts the stately Bethel Woods Center for The millions of high school students who the Arts, which attracts nationally renowned HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD comprise the Class of 2009 are mere months performers. Sullivan County has worked dili- OF CALIFORNIA away from graduation. Among them are thou- gently to build upon its historic legacy and its IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sands of kids who have the potential to be- impressive surroundings and revitalize its Thursday, March 26, 2009 come doctors, lawyers and even members of economy with new industries, including green Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I Congress but face insurmountable legal obsta- technology and a new generation of hospitality rise today to join my colleague Representative cles. We have a moral obligation to remove businesses. HOWARD BERMAN in introducing the American these impediments so that all of our young Madam Speaker, I am delighted to offer my Dream Act, a bill that would enable thousands people can accomplish their goals. Moreover, congratulations and best wishes to the resi- of ambitious young people to attend college this nation cannot afford to waste the invest- dents and businesses of Sullivan County as and fulfill their God-given potential. ment we have already made in these young they celebrate this Bicentennial and as they The Act is the product of Congressman people and inhibit their potential by denying continue to build upon the region’s rich history BERMAN’s tireless efforts on behalf of undocu- them the opportunity to earn a college degree. to ensure that Sullivan County remains an ex- mented students. Recognizing the senseless- Please join me in supporting the American traordinary place to live and to visit. ness of wasting their promise, we worked to- Dream Act.

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