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November 16, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 29811 their families have been struck with this deadly In the U.S., there are currently 123,000 per- But there is hope, if only Congress will set disease. sons under age 20—most of them children— aside the necessary resources to track down Funding for diabetes treatment, prevention suffering from diabetes. We know these chil- promising leads and research proposals. Early education, and research is extremely vital and dren because they live in every community in detection and preventive medicine is crucial in indispensable. I cannot emphasize enough America. One such child is Charlie Coates, a assisting Americans become better aware and how important it is to fully fund these pro- precocious young boy from Highstown, New educated about diabetes. If we can teach pa- grams in order to find a cure for diabetes, and Jersey, who visited my office in Washington, tients to know the warning signs and symp- to find ways to prevent or delay the onset dia- D.C., along with his father, David Coates. toms of diabetes, we can lower the risks of betes through early identification of individuals Charlie has diabetes, and Charlie’s future, and further infection an complications. who are at high risk. the futures of thousands of children just like With the information technology revolution Although research continues to try to iden- him, depend in part on the decisions made upon us, I believe a cure is in sight. I voice my tify the causes of the disease and ways to here in Congress and in Bethesda, Maryland, enthusiastic support for H. Res. 325, and urge prevent it, it can only go so far with limited the headquarters of the NIH. Diabetes affects every one of my colleagues to do the same. funding. The Diabetes Research Working virtually every tissue and organ in Charlie’s Mr. Speaker, I have no further re- Group was established by Congress and se- body, and it can create serious medical com- quests for time, and I yield back the lected by the National Institute of Health to de- plications for him. His mother and father have balance of my time. velop a comprehensive plan for all NIH funded to be constantly vigilant to make sure Charlie’s The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. diabetes research efforts. It has stated that diabetes is kept under control with insulin. SHIMKUS). The question is on the mo- there may be possible cures, solutions, and Right now, the average life expectancy of a tion offered by the gentleman from opportunities for discovery in diabetes re- person with diabetes is 15 to 20 years less Florida (Mr. BILIRAKIS) that the House search that are not being pursued due to the than for those without the disease. Indeed, the suspend the rules and agree to the reso- lack of funding. In the Diabetes Research stakes for children like Charlie are very high in lution, House Resolution 325. Working Group’s summary of its report and this fight. Children like him need a medical The question was taken. recommendations, there are over 70 major breakthrough, and they need it now. Ms. DEGETTE. Mr. Speaker, on that recommendations for research. There is no We are at a crucial decision point in the war I demand the yeas and nays. reason why these recommendations should on diabetes. Will we try to wage this war on The yeas and nays were ordered. not be funded. the cheap, with proverbial sticks and rocks? The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- We desperately need to increase funding for For the sake of 16 million Americans, I sure ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the and awareness of this disease. Diabetes af- hope not. Or will we use the full array of life- Chair’s prior announcement, further fects everyone; it does not discriminate based affirming and life-saving technology at our na- proceedings on this motion will be on age, race, or creed. That point was pain- tion’s disposal, and fund the fight at the level postponed. fully expressed to me in a letter from a con- recommended by the Diabetes Research stituent named Michael Hoefling who is 13 Working Group? f years old. He writes, ‘‘I really want a cure for As a nation, we need to refocus and rededi- RECOGNIZING AND HONORING diabetes so I don’t have to test my blood cate ourselves to finding the cure for diabetes. AND EXPRESS- sugar all the time, and then I can do whatever Despite great progress to date at the NIH, we ING CONDOLENCES OF THE I want without worrying, like playing sports and are still not designating diabetes among our HOUSE TO HIS FAMILY ON HIS having more freedom.’’ For Michael and the top priorities. For instance, from FY 1980 DEATH 16 million other Americans living with this dis- through 1999, NIH-funded diabetes research ease, Congress must provide that freedom by as a percentage of the total NIH budget has Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I move funding diabetes research and prevention. never exceeded 4.1 percent, despite the fact to suspend the rules and agree to the I urge my colleagues to join me in support that diabetes-related illnesses during the same resolution (H. Res. 370) recognizing and of H. Res. 325. period represented 12 to 14 percent of the honoring Walter Payton and expressing Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, health care expenses in the . the condolences of the House of Rep- today I rise in support of H. Res. 325, a reso- Right now, only $30 per year in federal re- resentatives to his family on his death. lution expressing the will of the House that the search is spent per person affected with dia- The Clerk read as follows: Federal Government has an important respon- betes. That is less than a family might spend H. RES. 370 sibility to appropriately fund vital life-saving for a movie and a pizza! Affected persons Whereas Walter Payton was born in Co- and life-affirming research to treat and cure di- need more care and relief than $30 per per- lumbia, , on July 25, 1954; abetes. As a co-sponsor of this resolution, and son per year can buy. Whereas Walter Payton was a distin- as a member of the Congressional Diabetes Diabetes costs our nation an estimated guished alumnus of Jackson State Univer- Caucus, I believe the goal of understanding $105 billion annually in health care costs. In sity, home of the Jackson State Tigers and the causes of diabetes, and thereby discov- the nationally renowned Sonic Boom of the addition, seniors are also at a great risk for di- South; ering a cure, is both attainable and appro- abetes. Fully one out of every four Medicare Whereas Walter Payton was known by all priate for our nation. dollars is spent on caring for diabetes, totaling as ‘‘Sweetness’’; Diabetes affects 16 million Americans and is about $28.6 billion per year and making diabe- Whereas Walter Payton serves as the high- one of the leading causes of blindness, ampu- tes and its related complications Medicare’s est example of his Christian faith and his tations, kidney disease, and heart disease. single largest expense. And the human costs sport in countless public and private ways; Researchers at the National Institutes of of diabetes are simply incalculable. Whereas Walter Payton was truly a hero Health (NIH), at our hospitals and medical Diabetes is not a discriminatory disease. It and role model for all Mississippians who had centers, and at our nation’s research-based is a lifelong condition that affects people of the privilege of watching him play the game pharmaceutical companies, are all working every age, race, income level, and nationality. he loved so much; Whereas Walter Payton was viewed by his hard to find a cure for diabetes. But they need The number of Americans with diabetes has friends and former classmates as a fun-lov- the full support of Congress, because the increased nearly 700 percent in the past 40 ing, warm, and smiling man with a joy for problem is simply too big for any one segment years, leading the Centers for Disease Control life, his family, and his sport; of our society to conquer on its own. and Prevention to call it the ‘‘epidemic of our Whereas Walter Payton played the game of Through this resolution, Congress is putting time.’’ Nearly 123,000 children and persons football with unparalleled determination, itself on record advocating the funding level of under 20 suffer from some form of diabetes. passion, and desire; $827 million dollars recommended by the Dia- The cost would most likely be lower if diabe- Whereas Walter Payton, an extraordinary betes Research Working Group. This is the tes were detected earlier. Too frequently this Mississippian and the National Football amount of NIH funding deemed to be nec- epidemic goes undiagnosed: 5.4 million Ameri- League’s greatest of all time, essary to wage a full-fledged war on diabetes. cans have the disease but do not know it. died leaving us great memories of personal and athletic achievements; I hope the National Institutes of Health (NIH) About 197,000 Americans die each year from Whereas Walter Payton received national takes a careful look at this vote on H. Res. the complications of diabetes, and there are acclaim as a running back and was the Chi- 325 as they compile their research priorities in approximately 800,000 newly diagnosed cases cago Bears’ first pick, and was chosen fourth the coming years. each year. overall, in the 1975 draft;

VerDate jul 14 2003 10:04 Jul 13, 2004 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR99\H16NO9.002 H16NO9 29812 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE November 16, 1999 Whereas Walter Payton played 13 seasons may have 5 legislative days within son Jarrett addressed the media 2 in the ; which to revise and extend their re- weeks ago, we could see the same poise Whereas Walter Payton played a critical marks on House Resolution 370. in them that the world saw in Walter role in helping the Bears win Super The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Payton. Bowl XX in 1986; Whereas Walter Payton was inducted into objection to the request of the gentle- Lucky are those whose lives were the Hall of Fame in 1996; woman from Illinois? touched by this special man. Like most Whereas Walter Payton was inducted into There was no objection. Chicagoans, I feel that somehow I knew the Professional Football Hall of Fame in Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Walter Payton; that he was one of us 1993; myself such time as I may consume. and we were better off for that. Whereas Walter Payton holds the National Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of To his wife Connie, his son Jarrett, Football League record for career yards— House Resolution 370, which recognizes his daughter Brittney, and to all his 16,726 yards; and honors Walter Payton and ex- friends, we are proud to send the Na- Whereas Walter Payton holds the National presses the condolences of the House of Football League record for career rushing at- tion’s condolences, and to remind them tempts—3,838 attempts; Representatives to his family on his how much Walter Payton meant to the Whereas Walter Payton holds the National death; and I want to thank the gen- American people. His sweetness re- Football League record for yards gained in a tleman from Mississippi (Mr. PICK- mains with us forever. single game—275 yards in a game against the ERING) for introducing this important Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of on November 20, 1977; resolution. my time. Whereas Walter Payton holds the National We are here today to honor the life of Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield Football League record for seasons with 1,000 Walter Payton, number 34 for the Chi- myself such time as I may consume. or more yards—10 seasons, 1976 to 1981 and cago Bears. The tragic and all too early Mr. Speaker, over the last several 1983 to 1986; end to his life November 1 cannot ob- Whereas Walter Payton holds the National weeks, this Nation has endured numer- Football League record for consecutive sea- scure his greatness, not just as a foot- ous reports of tragedies and deaths. sons leading the league in rushing at- ball player but as a human being. It is Last week I came to the floor to ex- tempts—4 seasons, from 1976 to 1979; not just his eight NFL records, from press condolences on behalf of this Whereas Walter Payton holds the National career rushing yards to number of 1,000 body for the unexpected death of the Football League record for most career yard rushing seasons to yards gained in great Payne Stewart, and in a few min- games with 100 or more yards—77 games; a game. It is not just his 28 Chicago utes I will do the same for Joe Serna, Whereas Walter Payton holds the National Bears’ records. The Bears often had Jr., the recently decreased mayor of Football League record for combined net great individuals. Walter Payton yards in a career—21,803 yards; Sacramento, California. Whereas Walter Payton holds the National meant so much more to the team than I followed the news reports of the 217 Football League record for combined at- just individual statistics. people who died on board Egypt Air tempts in a career—4,368 attempts; I still remember attending the 1963 Flight 990, and the gunman in Hawaii Whereas one of Walter Payton’s greatest NFL championship game in Chicago who shot and killed his office workers. achievements was the founding of the Walter where the Bears beat the New York Gi- But in all of these stories of death and Payton Foundation, which provides financial ants 14 to 10. Unfortunately, this would despair is a story of life and how we and motivational support to youth and helps be the last time any of us would see the choose to live each and every day of it. children realize that they can raise the qual- Bears in the playoffs, that is until Wal- Walter Payton began his football ca- ity of their lives and the lives of those around them; ter Payton arrived. He began to carry reer in 1975 at the age of 21. He was 5 Whereas the Walter Payton Foundation’s the Bears with his work ethic, deter- feet 10 and 200 pounds. As the Bears’ greatest legacy has been the funding and mination, and relentless pursuit of ex- first-round choice out of Jackson State support of children’s educational programs, cellence. Sometimes it seemed that he in Mississippi, he was an awesome as well as programs assisting abused or ne- was the only weapon the Bears had. human being. Payton, the NFL’s career glected children; and And, finally, he led the Bears back up rushing leader, was called ‘‘Sweetness’’ Whereas Walter Payton died on November to the top in XX in 1986. because of the gritty and defiant way 1, 1999, of liver disease: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representa- Over the years that Walter Payton he ran the ball. His sweetness extended tives— played, Chicago saw a renaissance in off the field, where he was known for (1) recognizes and honors Walter Payton— its sports teams. The White Sox and his humor and consideration of others. (A) as one of the greatest professional foot- the Cubs made the playoffs, and Mi- House Resolution 370 recognizes Wal- ball players; chael Jordan began to take the Bulls to ter Payton for his career triumphs and (B) for his many contributions to Mis- the top. But Walter Payton was the for establishing the Walter Payton sissippi and the Nation throughout his life- first and the brightest, and the Bears Foundation, which provides financial time; and owned Chicago because of him. and motivational support to youth and (C) for transcending the game of football and becoming a timeless symbol of athletic More importantly, Walter Payton helps children realize that they can talent, spirited competition, and a role made his mark off the football field in raise the quality of their lives. This model as a Christian gentleman and a loving a way that few athletes do. In truth, he resolution cites Payton as a Christian father and husband; and gave back to Chicago more than Chi- who was viewed by his friends and (2) extends its deepest condolences to Wal- cago could ever have given to him. He former classmates as a fun-loving, ter Payton’s wife Connie, his children Brit- coached high school basketball, read to warm and smiling man with a joy of tany and Jarrett, his mother Alyne, his children in literacy programs, and life, his family and his sport. brother Eddie and sister Pam, and the other made significant charitable contribu- On February 2, when Walter Payton members of his family on their tragic loss. SEC. 2. The Clerk of the House of Rep- tions during and after his NFL career. announced that he was suffering from a resentatives shall transmit an enrolled copy His Walter Payton Foundation funds rare liver disease, he was frail and of this resolution to the family of Walter educational programs and helps count- emotional. I shall never forget sitting Payton. less abused and neglected children at the television and watching him as The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- throughout the country. the tears rolled down his face. Payton ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from He was a successful businessman, al- brought joy into the lives of millions of Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) and the gen- ways open to new ventures, from his fans, but at 45 years old, only 45 years tleman from Maryland (Mr. CUMMINGS) restaurants to an Indy car racing team. old, he needed the gift of life. His liver each will control 20 minutes. But perhaps, most importantly, he was disease could only be cured by an organ The Chair recognizes the gentle- a successful father and husband. When transplant, a transplant he would woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT). his daughter Brittney joined his wife never, unfortunately, receive. GENERAL LEAVE Connie in accepting the Life Award for On November 1, Walter Payton died Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I ask him at the Arete Courage in Sports of a disease malignancy of the bowel unanimous consent that all Members awards in late October, and when his duct. He had undergone chemotherapy

VerDate jul 14 2003 10:04 Jul 13, 2004 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR99\H16NO9.002 H16NO9 November 16, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 29813 and radiation treatment to stem the that we see and watch today on Sun- Walter spent his life giving all he had cancer. But because of the aggressive days. to his profession, the sport of football. nature of the malignancy, and because But it was Walter Payton, it was And through his remarkable gift of tal- it had spread to other areas, a liver sweetness, that first broke through and ent and ability, he gave all, what we transplant, even if a donor were avail- created the greatness and the pride call a real American hero. able, could no longer save Walter that we have in Mississippi. He was a Walter was a role model of fairness Payton’s life. tremendous ambassador and represent- and honesty. With open hands, he often By encouraging the 20,000 fans who ative of our State and one of the great- reached down to the opponent he had attended a memorial service for est running backs of all time. just out-maneuvered to help him off Payton to register as organ donors, I am sad to say that, with his pass- the turf. With a sweet voice, he always Walter Payton’s family used his death ing, we will no longer enjoy his exam- offered praise and encouragement to to highlight the importance of organ ple off the field, but we will have the others in football. And with courage donations and the gift of life. In other memory and the legacy of what he did under fire, he never showed a quitter’s words, it was their effort to try to both on the field and as a person and as attitude, right up to the end. bring out of his death new life. a father. Walter was an American hero. I can I could not help but think of Walter I remember well watching his son in- honestly say that Walter Payton was a Payton when it was reported that in troduce him and speak for his induc- mentor for a lot of young people across my own district of Baltimore, Mary- tion into the Hall of Fame. What pride our Nation. He was from my congres- land, a 60-year-old mother of three would any father have to see a son sional district in Columbia, Mis- from Bowie donated a kidney to a 51- stand and introduce them into the sissippi, but about 20 minutes from my year-old father from California. What place where their peers and where his- home. tory records greatness. But to go to a was special about this situation was I can remember when Walter was son, something never done before, to playing high school football, we heard that it was a Good Samaritan organ make that introduction was a great ex- about this young man that played at donation. Good Samaritan organ dona- ample of the priorities of Walter Columbia High School who was so fast tions, in which the donor offers an Payton’s life. he could go across the line and turn organ to a recipient who is a complete He was a native of Columbia, Mis- around backwards and look at his op- stranger, are very unusual. Most live sissippi. I am proud to join with my ponents backwards chasing him. organ donors are relatives or friends of colleague, the gentleman from Mis- Many of us followed his remarkable the recipient. sissippi (Mr. SHOWS), who represents career from when he packed out the The donor, Sue Rouch, read about the Columbia and who will join us today in high school stadiums in my district. He desperate need for an organ donor in a speaking of Walter Payton. He was an was a streak of lightning down the newspaper and called various local hos- alumnus of football field then, as he was years pitals offering to become a donor. She in Jackson, Mississippi, where he re- later in the NFL. is quoted as saying, ‘‘It’s a gift. I’m a ceived national acclaim as a running Walter humbly rose to star status in generous person, and giving and receiv- back and was chosen fourth by the Chi- our Nation and never let the attention ing is all part of the same circle of cago Bears in the 1975 draft. change him. He was always Walter. He life.’’ Last Friday, she gave her gift to He then went on to play 13 seasons in touched the lives of everyone, white Rick Sirak. If not for Sue Rouch, a the NFL, winning a Super Bowl and and black, young and old. generous and compassionate human setting the all-time record for most The Bible teaches us about giving being, Rick Sirak may have suffered yards at 16,726. and caring, honesty and integrity. I the same fate as our hero, Walter He was inducted into the college think Walter must have listened well Payton. football Hall of Fame in 1996 and to the to the preachers in the churches that Like Rouch, Walter Payton was a professional football Hall of Fame in he attended as a child and throughout generous and caring man. He was fa- 1993. He was truly a hero and role his life. Walter embodied those values mous and world renowned but he was a model for all of us in Mississippi who that make us great and that we all Good Samaritan who cared for the had the privilege of watching him play need to value ourselves. abused and the needy among us. He the game he loved so much. Walter Payton was good for football, celebrated life and brought joy into the My condolences go out to his wife, he was good for our youth, and he is lives of so many he touched. Connie, and to his children, Brittany good for America. I am indebted to Gregory Brown, coach of the Calumet and Jarrett. Walter Payton for his example. We are Park Rams, a youth league team in Walter Payton will always be remem- all indebted to him for his gift and life. Chicago, stated, ‘‘Walter Payton was a bered for his style, class, and out- Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I re- true greatness, true poetry. We tell our standing reputation on and off the serve the balance of my time. kids to run like Payton on the field football field. He was a great ambas- Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield and act like Payton in your life.’’ sador for our home State of Mis- 3 minutes to the distinguished gen- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of sissippi, and he will be missed by all tleman from Chicago, Illinois (Mr. my time. Mississippians. He may not have been DAVIS). Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I b 1645 the biggest or the fastest, but it was clear he had the largest heart both on thank the gentleman from Maryland Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I am and off the field. (Mr. CUMMINGS) for yielding me the proud to yield 3 minutes to the gen- To Walter Payton we simply say, time. tleman from Mississippi (Mr. PICK- thank you. I also want to thank the gentleman ERING), my esteemed colleague and the Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, it is from Mississippi (Mr. PICKERING) for in- sponsor of House Resolution 370. my pleasure to yield 3 minutes to an- troducing this resolution. I am pleased Mr. PICKERING. Mr. Speaker, I rise other distinguished gentleman from to join with the millions of others in support and as a proud sponsor of Mississippi’s Fourth Congressional Dis- throughout America and the world who this resolution before us. trict (Mr. SHOWS). have been inspired, motivated, and The gentlewoman from Illinois (Mrs. Mr. SHOWS. Mr. Speaker, today I stimulated by the life and the legacy of BIGGERT) and her great State had the would like to take the opportunity and Walter Payton. privilege of watching Walter Payton a minute to tell my colleagues and the Yes, Walter was indeed a great ath- play for the . But in Mis- American people of my thoughts on lete and thrilled millions weekly as he sissippi, he was our native son and he Walter Payton. Walter’s death was un- glided, weaved, bobbed, and zipped up made us all proud in a place that takes timely, and it is important that we and down football fields, chewing up football very seriously, where there is pause to remember this remarkable yardage, scoring , and help- Bret Favre, , the NFL MVPs Mississippian and American. ing to win championships.

VerDate jul 14 2003 10:04 Jul 13, 2004 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR99\H16NO9.002 H16NO9 29814 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE November 16, 1999 But Walter Payton was much more reer and life of Walter Payton. We re- pursuits, he turned around and gave back to than a gifted athlete. He was a gen- member him as an intense competitor those who could not fend for themselves. He tleman, a good son, a good husband, a on the field and a superb human being founded the Walter Payton Foundation to pro- good father, a good citizen, and yes, in- and citizen. He dedicated himself fully vide financial and motivational support to deed, a role model. to his chosen work, and he set an ex- youth—the foundation continues to fund and He attended a small school, one of ample of humor and grace that we can support children’s educational programs, and the historically black colleges and uni- all admire. to assist abused and neglected children. versities, Jackson State, in the South- I am proud to speak in his memory, When faced with fatal liver disease, he turned west Conference, the same conference and I join my colleagues in urging his illness into a positive force by raising that I had the opportunity to partici- swift passage of this resolution hon- awareness of the need for organ donors. He pate with and in when I attended one of oring a man whose generous life among also helped found and support the Alliance for the same small colleges and univer- us was far too brief. the Children, which serves the very neediest— sities. I want to thank again the gentleman the wards of the State of Illinois. In 1998 Walter proved that it is not always a from Mississippi (Mr. PICKERING) for in- alone, Walter’s foundations provided Christ- matter of where we come from as much troducing this resolution and all the mas gifts for over 35,000 children, helped over as it is sometimes a matter of where gentlemen from Mississippi and the 9,000 churches, schools and social services we are going. He demonstrated to all of gentleman from Maryland (Mr. agencies raised by funds by donating auto- us that there can be inspiration in CUMMINGS) who have spoken so elo- graphed sports memorabilia, established col- death just as there is inspiration in quently about the life of Walter lege scholarship funds for wards of the State life. He helped to raise the issue of Payton. of Illinois, and established a job training pro- organ donation and transplantation, Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in gram for children 18 to 21 ‘‘graduating’’ from even though at the latter part of his support of House Resolution 370, and to cele- the Illinois Department of Children and Family life he knew that he would not be able brate the profound impact of the life of Walter Services system. to use one even if it was available. Payton. Walter is survived by his wife Connie, his I want to commend the city of Chi- This man, who struck fear into the hearts of children Brittany and Jarrett, his mother Alyne, cago, my city, for the outstanding trib- opposing NFL defenses for 13 years, inspires his brother Eddie, his sister Pam, his loyal ute that it paid to Walter Payton when our hearts today. As unstoppable and resilient teammates, his respectful opponents, his le- thousands of people filled up Soldier as Walter Payton was on the football field, he gions of loving fans, and the millions he Field. Yes, Walter was the best on and was caring, as confident as he was uplifting— touched, helped and inspired in some way. He off the field. So, on behalf of the people this irresistible force was also an immovable spent the final 9 months of his life, from the in the Seventh District of Illinois, we object of a good man. day he bravely announced his disease in Feb- celebrate his life and offer condolences Walter Payton exploded into Chicago in ruary, surrounded by these friends and family to his family and say that all of us are 1975. The Bears, having been spoiled by members. He knew he was loved in the twi- a little bit better because Walter some of the greatest running backs of all time, light of his life, and we can feel that love for Payton lived. from , to , to Gale him now that he’s passed on. We should all Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I re- Sayers, were looking for a savior for their be so blessed. serve the balance of my time to close. backfield. Walter’s 66 touchdowns, whopping Walter once, said, ‘‘people see what they Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 6.1 yards per carry, and NCAA scoring record want to see [in me]. They look at me and say, myself such time as I may consume. seemed an answer to the Monsters of the ‘He’s a black man. He’s a football player. He’s Mr. Speaker, I am urging all of our Midway’s prayer. Chicago chose him with its a running back. He a Chicago Bear,’ But I’m colleagues to support this very, very number one pick. Said Walter’s first Bears po- more than all that. I’m a father, I’m a husband. appropriate resolution. I want to thank sition coach, Fred O’Connor, upon seeing his I’m a citizen. I’m a person willing to give his the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. new prodigy, ‘‘God must have taken a chisel all. That’s how I want to be remembered.’’ PICKERING) for sponsoring it and all the and said, ‘I’m going to make me a halfback.’ ’’ That’s how we’ll remember you, Walter, and cosponsors and for all of those who For the next 13 years Walter ran roughshod thank you. have spoken today. over the best athletes in the world. No one Mr. WICKER. Mr. Speaker, earlier this When one looks back at the life of has more yards rushing, more rushing at- month our Nation lost a man who earned a Walter Payton, I can only help but tempts, more rushing yards in a game, more lasting place in the hearts of all Americans think about a song that says, ‘‘The 100-yard games, or more all-purpose yards through his efforts on the football field and in times we shared will always be. The than Walter Payton. He won two MVP awards, his community. This man, who was affection- times we shared will always be.’’ led the best football team of all time to victory ately known as ‘‘Sweetness,’’ distinguished I think Walter Payton brought so in Super Bowl XX, and only missed one game himself as a father, a citizen, and an American much to our lives. One great writer in 13 years (a game he insisted he could have sports icon. Walter Payton’s road to success said, he brought life to life. And there played in). Walter made a career out of fight- started in Columbia, Mississippi, and wound is absolutely no question about that. ing for the extra yard, never taking the easy through the collegiate ranks at Jackson State And so, we take a moment today to not run out of bounds, blocking for his teammates, University and the rough and tumble world of be here because he died, but we take a playing through injuries, and leaping into the the National Football League. After his playing moment to salute him because he endzone. He was Sweetness, yet was tougher days, he devoted his time and energy to im- lived. He took his God-given talent; than and . He was also proving the lives of others. and he made the very, very best of one of the classiest athletes in the history of It is difficult to turn on a television or radio them. the NFL—politely handing the ball to officials these days and not hear of another instance And so, to his wife, Connie, and to his after scoring, and helping opposing players to where a professional athlete has taken a children, Brittany and Jarrett and to their feet after knocking them flat. Ditka, his wrong turn or made a bad decision which dis- his relatives, we say to them, thank coach and friend, dubbed him ‘‘the greatest appoints legions of fans. They have made you very much for sharing Walter Bear of all,’’ and the best football player he’d commercials to proclaim that they are not role Payton with us. He lifted our lives; ever seen. models. Walter never did. They have shied and, on and off the field, he made our But for all his successes on the field, Walter away from placement on a pedestal which lives better. He, indeed, brought life to was better off it. He was a restaurant owner, would hold them to a higher standard. Walter life. an entrepreneur, an investor in forest land and embraced it. They have failed to realize their Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance nursing homes, a professional and amateur influence on children who cheer for them each of my time. race-car driver, a television commentator, a time they suit up. Walter understood it. They Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield motivational speaker, a philanthropist, a father, forgot the communities they once called home. myself the balance of the time. a husband, and a friend. Walter never did. Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 370 While Walter attained amazing financial suc- So the next time your kids hear about the provides a fitting memorial to the ca- cess in his sporting, business, and speaking latest professional athlete’s brush with the law,

VerDate jul 14 2003 10:04 Jul 13, 2004 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 9920 E:\BR99\H16NO9.002 H16NO9 November 16, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 29815 tell them about Walter Payton. After all, what The question was taken; and (two- Sacramentans to gather and enjoy their fam- parent wouldn’t want their child to grow up to thirds having voted in favor thereof) ilies and neighbors, a better public school be like number 34. He was a role model in his the rules were suspended and the reso- system, more jobs, more community police, public life and as a professional athlete and lution was agreed to. and a higher quality of life; and Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., faced many chal- more importantly in his life off the field as a A motion to reconsider was laid on lenges in his life, and eventually succumbed husband, father, and community leader. Wal- the table. to his greatest challenge, the fight against ter, thanks for the memories. f cancer: Now, therefore, be it Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Resolved, RECOGNIZING AND HONORING honor a great football player and person, Wal- SECTION 1. HONORING MAYOR JOE SERNA, JR. MAYOR JOE SERNA, JR., AND ter Payton. As his old Chicago Bears coach, The House of Representatives— Iron Mike Ditka, said the day of his passing, EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES OF (1) recognizes and honors Sacramento some might have been better runners, some THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTA- Mayor Joe Serna, Jr.— might have been better receivers, some might TIVES TO HIS FAMILY AND PEO- (A) as a profoundly successful leader whose have been bigger or faster, but no one was a PLE OF SACRAMENTO drive and energy inspired thousands, better football player than Walter Payton. Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I move to sus- (B) for his many lifetime contributions to Sacramento, the State of California, and the Most everyone knows that Sweetness holds pend the rules and agree to the resolu- the NFL record for rushing yards, total yards, Nation, and tion (H. Res. 363) recognizing and hon- (C) for selflessly devoting his life to the ad- combined yards, and most rushing yards in a oring Sacramento, California, Mayor vancement of others through activism, pub- game, 275. But what made Payton a great Joe Serna, Jr., and expressing the con- lic service, education, and dedication; and football player was his total package—the dolences of the House of Representa- (2) extends the deepest condolences to blocking, the running, the receiving, and the tives to his family and the people of Mayor Joe Serna’s wife, Isabelle, his son, durability—he only missed one game his en- Sacramento on his death. Phillip, and his daughter, Lisa, as well the tire career, during his rookie season when the The Clerk read as follows: citizens of Sacramento, California, for the loss of their dedicated mayor. coaches held him out despite Payton’s insist- H. RES. 363 ence on playing through an injury. He was SEC. 2. TRANSMITTAL OF ENROLLED COPY TO Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., was born in Stock- THE FAMILY OF MAYOR JOE SERNA, also the Bears emergency kicker, , and ton, California, on September 3, 1939; JR. —he once played quarterback in Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., was the loving The Clerk of the House of Representatives 1984 when all of the Bears were husband of Isabelle Hernandez-Serna and de- shall transmit an enrolled copy of this reso- injured. voted father of Phillip and Lisa; lution to the family of Joe Serna, Jr. While many people throughout the nation Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., was the son of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Gerania and Jose Serna and the brother of remember Payton along with the dominant ant to the rule, the gentleman from 1985 ‘‘Super Bowl Shuffle’’ team, true Maria Elena Serna, Reuben Serna, and Jesse California (Mr. OSE) and the gentleman Chicagoans remember the high-kicking Payton Serna; from Maryland (Mr. CUMMINGS) each in the Bears’ lean years, when he carried the Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., grew up the son of an immigrant farm worker, and was widely will control 20 minutes. team on his shoulders. Walter was a source of recognized as ambitious with an irrepressible The Chair recognizes the gentleman pride for Chicagoans in the late 70’s and early drive to succeed; from California (Mr. OSE). 80’s, and the city identified with the hard-work- Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., experienced a piv- GENERAL LEAVE ing, lunch-pail attitude that Payton brought to otal point in his life when he became a suc- the field. cessful football player on the Lodi Flames as Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- Walter was a role model on and off the field. a sophomore qualifying to play on the var- mous consent that all Members may He owned many businesses and started a sity squad; have 5 legislative days within which to charitable organization, the Walter Payton Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., graduated from revise and extend their remarks on H. Foundation. Payton quietly helped collect toys Lodi High School and went to work, where Res. 363. and clothes for children who spent the holi- he later lost his job because he endorsed a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there strike at the trailer manufacturing facility objection to the request of the gen- days away from their own families, usually be- where he was employed, and decided to fur- cause of abuse or other mistreatment. For ther his education, beginning at junior col- tleman from California? some children, the toys were the only gifts lege in Stockton, California, then transfer- There was no objection. they got. ring to Sacramento City College and finally Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself Walter was also a religious man. His former to California State University, Sacramento, such time as I may consume. teammate, , said that Walter where he graduated in 1966; Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. found an inner peace the day of his death Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., joined the Peace Res. 363. This resolution honors the re- when the two read scripture together. Corps in Guatemala, where he became in- cently departed Mayor Joe Serna, a Mr. Speaker, it came as a surprise when volved in the election of a Mayan Indian as good friend of many of us in this cham- Walter was diagnosed with his rare liver dis- mayor of a small town, providing him with a ber. first-hand education regarding the impor- ease. Still, those who followed Walter’s career tance of electoral politics; Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of on and off the field believed that he would Whereas Joe Serna Jr., spent more than a my time. overcome the disease just as he had over- decade working with migrant farm workers Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield come many opponents on the field and in the under the guidance of his role model, Cesar myself such time as I may consume. boardroom. So the big shock came with news Chavez, and organized food workers and co- Mr. Speaker, Sacramento Mayor Joe of his death. The nation grieved the loss of a ordinated election campaigns; Serna, Jr., was the oldest of four chil- sports hero, but Chicago mourned the loss of Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., began teaching dren in a farm-worker family. All four classes on government and ethics at Cali- an icon who touched many. children worked with their parents When Payton was once asked how he fornia State University, Sacramento, and be- came the primary caregiver for his children picking crops and all four went on to wanted to be remembered, he replied, ‘‘I want when his first marriage ended; careers in public service. people to say, ‘Wherever he was, he was al- Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., was elected to the b 1700 ways giving it his all.’ ’’ Mr. Speaker, I have no Sacramento City Council on November 3, doubt that up in heaven, Walter Payton is giv- 1981, where he served until he was elected Joe Serna went from picking grapes ing it his all. mayor on November 3, 1992; and tomatoes as a youngster to becom- Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., was known as an ing the first Latino mayor of a major back the balance of my time. elected official with profound vision for the California city. A follower of the late The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. future and the energy to implement that vi- farm labor leader Cesar Chavez, Serna sion, who could build coalitions, ignite com- SHIMKUS). The question is on the mo- served on the Sacramento-area support munity involvement, and succeed in achiev- tion offered by the gentlewoman from ing his goals; committee for the United Farm Work- Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) that the House Whereas Joe Serna, Jr., leaves a legacy in ers and was a former member of the suspend the rules and agree to the reso- Sacramento of downtown revitalization and Sacramento Central Labor Council. In lution, House Resolution 370. growth, more parks and places for his youth, he served in the Peace Corps

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