26240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE December 5, 2000
and that the meetings were just a smoke FLORENCE COUNTY FORESTRY AND SHAWANO, WI, November 29, 2000. screen to make us believe we were getting PARKS, NATURAL RESOURCES CEN- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE MARK GREEN: I have input. TER, been reading, with growing concern, about Florence, WI, November 30, 2000. the Administration’s efforts to restrict the In looking at the job loss numbers, I be- To: Representative Mark Green. use of our public lands and waterways. While lieve they aren’t accurate. I feel this because From: David S. Majewski, Administrator, I applaud the government’s desire to ensure every job lost has a trickle down effect that Florence County Forestry & Parks, Flor- that our natural resources are there for fu- travels through the whole community and ence, Wisconsin. ture generations to enjoy, unilaterally cut- the whole state. Subject: Federal Roadless Initiative. ting off access to these lands is misguided, As I understand there is a need to com- wrong and in some cases, dangerous. The summary also states on page S–27 that ment on the proposed ‘‘Roadless Initiative’’ For example, if the goal of the Forest Serv- timber production has been reduced from 12 and send the comments to your office. ice Roadless Initiative is to preserve these Billion board feet in 1987 to 3 Billion board The present Administration is trying to lands for our children and grandchildren to feet in 1999. This disturbs me because these ram through an effort on behalf of the ‘‘pres- enjoy by not building roads and trails into areas are already greatly effected by the dra- ervationists’’ that will affect many people these areas, how can they be expected to matic reduction already put in place through and communities. Most of the people in this enjoy them when they cannot get to them? the last 12 years. Many of these areas are group live far away from the lands that are By definition, the lands and adjacent wa- mere skeletons of what they were in the proposed in this effort and it does not impact terways maintained by the federal land man- times of proper forest management. The their day to day lives or affect their liveli- agement agencies are public lands. They are hood. maintained with funds provided by tax dol- western states are fine examples of this. The This proposal is a smokescreen, to create lars as well as entrance and user fees. Yet, Forest Service’s idea to fix the problem is to more wilderness in the very near future. It is the public, as well as Congress, governors, throw money at the problem. This is never a an attempt to stop timber management in local land managers and fire and rescue per- way to fix a problem. (The plan is described these areas. It will affect the economy of sonnel, were not involved in the creation of on page S–10.) The way to fix the problem, is many communities surrounding these Na- these policies. Much of the Forest Service to not create it in the first place. This could tional Forests. It will also cause many seri- land has been statutorily designated as mul- be done by properly managing the resources ous problems for forest protection, which in- tiple-use land. By cutting off access to large we are letting go to waste. clude control of insects, disease, and fire. portions of the land in its care, the Forest The proposal is not good for the health of Service is defying a decades old congres- In closing I think we should give our forest the forests, the economy of the areas, or the sional mandate. back to foresters to manage. This means we many recreational opportunities that are Further, this type of thinking, returning should have foresters in every level of the presently available when the forests are our natural areas to what is being described Forest Service to help develop plans of ac- managed for multiple use. It is also not good as a pre-European state is very dangerous. tion, instead of people with no idea of how stewardship of the land. As you know, much of our forest land in the properly managing a forest. During a meet- The Public Forests in the Lake States western United States is burning out of con- have been managed very conservatively ing in Crandon, WI, one of the planners said, trol (in part as a result of other poorly de- since the early 1900’s, the ‘‘Early Logging this was the best way to develop a plan with signed policies). Without roads and Era’’. Keeping healthy diverse aged forests is firebreaks, the already difficult jobs of fire- public input. I feel this job should be given better for our environment than over-aged fighters and other rescue personnel would be to trained foresters, because to let the public unhealthy forests. The Forests are used by a made even more difficult, if not impossible. decide is leaving the decision to people with wide variety of recreation users and the cur- I do not believe that all public lands should no education on the subject. These people rent management provides for a sustained be available for all uses. We all share a re- are ruled by whims, not any knowledge on economy for these rural communities and sponsibility to treat our natural areas care- proper management. the Nation. The current multiple use man- fully and safely. However, if we all work to- Sincerely, agement also provides for healthy forests gether we can create a policy regarding our EDWARD PIONTEK, JR., and very good habitat for a wide variety of public lands and waterways that is fair, rea- Vice President. wildlife. Many of the present wildlife species sonable and physically and environmentally could not exist without it. safe. This initiative will: restrict if not elimi- Please help us achieve this balance for this PINE RIVER TRANSPORT, LTD., nate timber management, cause deteriora- generation and those to come. Long Lake, WI, November 30, 2000. tion of health forests, constrict all rec- Sincerely. Inventoried Roadless Area in Florence Coun- reational opportunities, and inhibit habitat KEVIN KING. ty for the majority of the present wildlife. This The 18,000 acre closure to timber cutting initiative will not preserve these Forests for f when coupled to all the other forest service future generations but will cause more envi- TRIBUTE IN MEMORY OF FORMER set asides is going to further exacerbate the ronmental damage when insects, diseases, CONGRESSMAN HENRY B. GON- and fires rage through these areas. rapid drop in volume harvested from the Thank you, for the opportunity to provide ZALEZ Nicolet National Forest. these comments. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under This in addition to the new Administration Sincerely, the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- Rules on hours and the 95% reduction in the DAVID S. MAJEWSKI. uary 6, 1999, the gentleman from Texas amount of sulfur in diesel fuel will make the (Mr. RODRIGUEZ) is recognized for 60 continued operation of this trucking com- GOODMAN FOREST INDUSTRIES, LTD., Long Lake, WI, December 1, 2000. minutes as the designee of the minor- pany very questionable, as fuel costs will Re Florence County Roadless Area ity leader. soar. I attended a meeting today of the MI–WI Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, on Good management of our National Forests Timber Producers Association and found Saturday, I paid my last respects to a can provide all the multiple use benefits that that the 18,000 acre ‘‘Roadless’’ area in Flor- man that I knew since the age of 12, a we all value so highly. At the present time ence County has been heavily logged in re- man that I respected and admired im- ‘‘Mother Nature’’ in the form of fire, wind cent years and is well roaded. mensely, Henry B. Gonzalez. I have Who is the Forest Service trying to fool on and disease has taken over the management called this special order so that we this? We in the industry believe in ‘‘multiple of the forests from the Forest Service. use’’ of our forest lands, however we can not may honor Henry B., a friend and a It is my understanding that the so called tolerate any more ‘‘lockout’’ set asides to former colleague. ‘‘Roadless Area’’ in Florence County is actu- occur. Stumpage prices are already sky- I would like to express my condo- ally fully roaded and is far from the inacces- rocketing because of the fact the Forest lences to his wife, Senora Gonzalez; my sible pristine areas referred to by Chief Service is not even offering 50% of its oper- good friend and colleague, the gen- ating plan on the Nicolet National Forest. Dombeck. tleman from Texas (Mr. CHARLES GON- Please let me know if you think Congress ZALEZ); and the entire Gonzalez family. We need some sort of common sense re- can intervene. If not, then industry will have My heart and prayers are with them in stored versus this high handed rule making no choice but to take the U.S. Forest Service this time of sorrow. of the Clinton-Gore administration. to court to stop this ridiculous set asides for- Sincerely, mation. Henry B. was one of the hardest RICHARD CONNOR, Jr. Sincerely, working men I have ever known. My fa- RICHARD KRAWZE. ther often referred to him as ‘‘El
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 December 5, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 26241 Compadre,’’ the godfather. He was a man, he helped to usher over 71 bills Education case. Among his other achieve- true friend to all San Antonions and all through the legislative process. He was ments in the Senate were a slum clearance Texans and throughout the country. an advocate for making more credit law and the passage of a bill for the creation ´ From my father’s radio I grew up lis- available to small businesses, helping of a medical school. In 1958 Gonzalez unsuc- cessfully ran for Governor of Texas; although tening to the words of Henry B. My find safe places for people to put their an unlikely candidate, he wanted to offer an dad’s Compadre was famous for his savings, and reauthorizing the Federal alternative to the race between Governor blazing honesty, strong convictions, housing loans and laws. Daniel and former governor W. Lee O’Daniel. compelling oratory, and undying dedi- In 1997, from the floor of the United During the 1960 presidential campaign, cation to public service. States House of Representatives, our John F. Kennedy requested Gonza´ lez’s help Long hours working at a Southside Compadre introduced me to the coun- in organizing Viva Kennedy Clubs through- San Antonio gas station as a young try as I was sworn in to the Congress. out the country. Gonza´ lez and U.S. Senator man gave me the opportunity to meet As he introduced me to his colleagues Dennis Cha´ vez of New Mexico served as na- tional co-chairman. dozens of people every day when I used of more than 30 years, I recalled with Gonza´ lez was elected to the U.S. House of to fill gas tanks. When I worked at the great pride his leadership throughout Representatives in a special election to fill gas station and people came by, I the years that he had espoused. I also the vacancy caused by the resignation of checked their oil and washed their win- thought back to that one day when Paul J. Kilday (D–TX), who had been ap- dows. I still vividly recall the day al- some 40 years before that I had had a pointed to the Court of Military Appeals. In most 40 years ago when I was working chance to meet him for the first time 1961 he was elected with over half of the there at that gas station on Pleasanton and marveled at how far our commu- votes. Subsequently he has faced little chal- Road and a special customer drove up nity and Nation had come because of lenge in reelection bids; he has generally won with at least eighty percent of the vote and asked me to fill up his tank. When this single man. and a number of times he has run unopposed. I realized that it was Henry B. Gon- It is with deep sadness that we say Although he has supported and initiated leg- zalez who had parked next to me, I was good-bye to a true American hero. islation for the welfare of Hispanics, he has filled with pride and excitement. Henry B. dedicated his life to public never run on a Hispanic platform. Even at that age, as a teenager, I service and we have all benefitted from As a Representative, Gonza´ lez quickly got knew Henry B. and the legacy that he his kindness and his wisdom. attention in 1963. He received substantial was hard at work establishing. Con- Mr. Speaker, I will attach additional publicity when he voted against additional gressman Gonzalez was a role model to documentation on Mr. Gonzalez at this appropriations for the House Committee on Un-American Activities, because it received all of us, a strong man with a strong point for the RECORD. more money than other committees that ´ work ethic fighting for all of us. But at HENRY B. GONZALEZ; UNITED STATES produced more reports and legislation. the time, for me, he was one who need- REPRESENTATIVE, DEMOCRAT OF TEXAS During his first term, Gonza´ lez was as- ed gas; and I took pride in being able to Eighty–seventh–One Hundred Fourth signed to the Committee on Banking and fill up his gas tank at that age. Congresses, November 4, 1961–Present Currency, which in 1977 became the Banking, As the Nation pays tribute to Henry A strong personality who has received na- Finance, and Urban Affairs Committee, B. and the hard-fought battles he tional attention for his various crusades, where he worked for the passage of a number championed, Alamo City mourns the Henry Gonza´ lez was the first Hispanic Rep- of legislative proposals of the New Frontier profound loss of one of the most well- resentative from Texas, and has served in and Great Society including the Housing Act of 1964. He worked on legislation that was known figures in Texas public office. Congress longer than any other Hispanic. He was born Enrique Barbosa Gonza´ lez in San eventually incorporated into the Equal Op- He served proudly in the United States Antonio, Texas on May 3, 1916. His parents, portunities Act of 1964, and supported the Li- House of Representatives, but long be- Leonides Gonza´ lez Cigarroa and Genoveva brary Service Act of 1964, and the Civil fore his famous days in Washington, Barbosa Prince de Gonza´ lez, fled to San An- Rights Act of 1964. In addition, Chairman our Compadre served as a civilian cable tonio from the state of Durango in northern Wright Patman (D–TX) appointed Gonza´ lez and radio censor for military and naval Mexico during the Mexican Revolution in as a special liaison representative on Latin- intelligence, as a Bexar County proba- 1911. Leonides Gonza´ lez had served as mayor American affairs; Gonza´ lez attended the tion officer, the deputy director of the of the town of Mapimi, Durango in Mexico. Inter-American Development Bank Board of ´ Directors conference in Panama in April San Antonio housing authority, and as Henry Gonzalez attended public schools and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1964. During the 1960’s he also campaigned to a city councilman in San Antonio and 1935. He continued his education at the Uni- put and end to the bracero program, which the Texas State Senate fighting for our versity of Texas and San Antonio College. In allowed the use of foreign labor to harvest communities. 1943 he graduated from St. Mary’s University agricultural crops. He criticized the program Henry B. spoke for those who had no School of Law. Shortly after the Japanese for the deplorable conditions under which la- voice of their own. Then State Senator attack on Pearl Harbor, he was called to gov- borers worked. Gonzalez is also known for his famous ernment service and worked as a civilian In the 1970’s Gonza´ lez continued with his filibuster. To this day, as a State Sen- cable and radio censor for military and naval crusades. In 1977 he gained national atten- ator in Texas, he still holds the record intelligence. After graduation he worked as tion as Chairman of the House Assassina- assistant juvenile probation officer, quickly tions Committee that was established to in- for the longest filibuster. And his fili- rising to chief probation officer of the Bexar vestigate the murders of John F. Kennedy buster helped kill several bills, in fact County Juvenile Court. In 1947 he was hired and Martin Luther King, Jr. Animosity de- almost 20 or 30 bills, that were still by the Pan American Progressive Associa- veloped between Gonza´ lez and the attorney pending in the Texas House that would tion as executive assistant. From 1947 to 1951 who headed the probe. Gonza´ lez quit within have overridden and circumvented the he helped his father ran a translation service weeks, due to the fact that in his opinion the Supreme Court decisions regarding seg- in San Antonio. investigation was doomed because powerful regation. In 1953, with the support of Mexican-Amer- forces in organized crime were against it. He Congressman Gonzalez shepherded icans and Anglos, Gonza´ lez was elected to also urged an investigation of the murder of the San Antonio City Council, serving as Judge John W. Wood in San Antonio. When the construction of a medical school in mayor pro-tempore for part of his first term. the indictments were handed down, Federal San Antonio and veterans hospital in In the city council he spoke against segrega- prosecutors thanked Gonza´ lez for his perse- San Antonio, he brought the tion of public facilities, and the council verance. As a member of the House Small HemisFair exposition to the city, he passed desegregation ordinances. In 1956 he Business Committee in the 94th Congress, passed measures protecting San Anto- was elected to the State Senate; he was sub- Gonza´ lez served as Chairman of the ad hoc nio’s vital drinking water supply, sup- sequently reelected and served until 1961. In subcommittee on the Robinson-Patman Act, ported area military installations, and 1957 Gonza´ lez, along with Senator Abraham Anti-trust Legislation, and Related Matters. worked to expose the 1980 savings and Kazen, attracted national attention for hold- He played a key role in salvaging the Robin- ing the longest filibuster in the history of son-Patman Act, which some consider to be loan scandal. the Texas Legislature, which lasted thirty- the ‘‘Magna Carta’’ of small business. During As a partisan firebrand in the United six hours. They succeeded in killing eight the 1970’s Gonza´ lez opposed nuclear power States Congress and chairman of the out of ten racial segregation bills that were and introduced legislation to phase out ex- House Committee on Banking, Henry aimed at circumventing the U.S. Supreme isting nuclear facilities, and continued his B. was tireless at his work. As chair- Court’s decision in the Brown v. Board of work in support of public housing.
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 26242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE December 5, 2000 In 1981 Gonza´ lez became the Chairman of many other Democrats who put up fierce re- ess. It’s better to be tested and tried and win the Subcommittee on Housing and Commu- sistance to the newly empowered GOP ma- than not to be tried at all.’’ nity Development, where he worked on legis- jority. During a congressional career that has lation to approve a program to assist fami- Ironically, Gonzalez’s most notable spanned nearly four decades and included lies who faced foreclosure on their homes. achievement of late involved him defeating three terms as chairman of the Banking Later he battled the Reagan administration Democrats, and Republicans. In November Committee, Gonzalez has earned a reputa- when it proposed cuts in public housing pro- 1996, he fended off two Democrats who chal- tion for iconoclasm that few can match. Re- grams. lenged him for the ranking spot on Banking publicans remember him for advocating im- With the leadership of Gonza´ lez as Chair- for the 105th Congress. peachment of Presidents Ronald Reagan man of the Banking, Finance, and Urban Af- But one of the factors that kept him in the after the 1983 Grenada invasion and the 1987 fairs Committee, the committee was able to ranking seat was his promise to party col- Iran-contra scandal, and George Bush after enact many pieces of legislation, including leagues that he would give up the seat after the 1991 Persian Gulf War. But Gonzalez also flood insurance reform, major housing initia- two more years and serve in an emeritus ca- has been an affliction to some in his own tives, increasing the accessibility to credit pacity—if Gonzalez, now past 80, tries for a party. His bulldogging of savings and loan to small business, and strengthening anti- 19th full term in the House in 1998. kingpin Charles Keating, Jr. played a part in ending the political careers of three Demo- money laundering laws, bank fraud, and The House Democratic Caucus let Gonzalez cratic senators with ties to Keating. And he other financial crimes. In addition, through have two final years as ranking member gave no quarter when interrogating Demo- his efforts with legislation and through hear- after he made an emotional plea to stay on. cratic wise man Clark Clifford about his role ings, he succeeded in making the Federal Re- The mercurial Texan, who legendary inde- in the world’s biggest bank scandal, involv- serve more publicly accountable. During his pendent streak has long ruffled the feathers ing the Bank of Credit and Commerce Inter- ten year Chairmanship (1971–1981) of the of House leaders, demonstrated a vigor in the national (BCCI). Banking Committee’s Subcommittee on caucus session that noticeably has been Gonzalez’s hands-off attitude toward International Development Institutions, and lacking since the GOP takeover. He emerged Whitewater was rather out of character; in Finance, he sponsored an amendment to a with a plurality of the vote in a three-way the past he had often shown himself to be an number of international banking bills. The race with John J. LaFalce of New York and aggressive investigator. After the Gulf War, ‘‘Gonza´ lez amendment.’’ as it was commonly Bruce F. Vento of Minnesota, second- and for instance, he waged a lonely crusade to known, protects U.S. citizens from expro- third-ranking Democrats on the committee. expose what he saw as the U.S. government’s priation by countries that receive loans from Gonzalez got 82 votes, LaFalce 62 and Vento wrongheaded pre-war attempts to curry international development institutions to 47. LaFalce conceded rather than continuing favor with Iraq and help it strengthen its which the U.S. contributes. the fight into a runoff, sparing the party a military—a policy he said had encouraged During his tenure as Chairman of the clash that made many Democrats uncom- Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein to invade Ku- Banking Committee, Gonza´ lez had to deal fortable. wait. with the collapse of the savings and loan in- The effort to topple Gonzalez arose after But from the beginning, Gonzalez opposed dustry, a crisis he had predicted throughout his repeated absences from committee meet- using his Banking Committee to hold White- the 1980’s. In 1991 he led a restructuring of ings in the 104th caused even longtime sup- water hearings. He condemned Republican the federal deposit insurance system. As porters such as Barney Frank of Massachu- inquiries as a ‘‘witch hunt’’ and an ‘‘array of Chairman he earned a reputation for being a setts to recommend that Democratic leaders half-truths, old rumors, half-baked con- fair leader who allowed equitable participa- push out Gonzalez. spiracy theories and out-right lies.’’ Gon- tion in the creation of bills. ‘‘I think we had a very good six years zalez finally gave in, but when the hearings Gonza´ lez was once again in the national under Henry,’’ said Frank, who had been took place in August 1994, he made prolific spotlight in 1992, when he requested an inves- Gonzalez’s conduit to the House Democratic use of the gavel to enforce a five-minute tigation of the Bush administration’s in- leadership but supported LaFalce’s chal- limit for questioners and limit the scope of volvement in loans to Iraq. lenge. ‘‘But the transition from chairman to the inquiry. In addition to his legislative career ranking member was personally very tough Before he assumed the Banking chairman- Gonza´ lez has served seven times as a House for him.’’ ship, his record as a legislator was dismissed Delegate to the Mexico-United States Inter- Gonzalez’s supporters mounted an active as thin, even as he was revered in San Anto- parliamentary Conference, and has received campaign. Committee colleague Joseph P. nio for his unstinting defense of the numerous awards from universities, includ- Kennedy II of Massachusetts said that Bank- underclass. But in the six years he chaired ing honorary doctorates from St. Mary’s ing Democrats had pulled together to repel Banking, Gonzalez significantly rehabili- University and from Our Lady of the Lake GOP initiatives even though Gonzalez him- tated his image in Washington. He helped re- College. self had slowed. ‘‘What are we going to do, pair one of the biggest financial debacles in take away a ranking membership from a guy the nation’s history—the near-collapse of the savings and loan industry. He also helped HENRY B. GONZALEZ OF SAN ANTONIO— who is a folk hero among Democrats?’’ Ken- avert a lesser crisis affecting banks by shep- ELECTED 1961; 18TH FULL TERM nedy asked. ‘‘This guy defines the Demo- herding an overhaul of the deposit insurance cratic Party’s values.’’ BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION system in 1991. He earns credit for being one Gonzalez helped himself with a masterful Born: May 3, 1916, San Antonio, Texas. of the House’s most committed fighters for speech in which he made the one-last-term Education: San Antonio College, 1937; U. of affordable housing, although victories on pledge that earned him the benefit of some Texas, Austin, 1937–39; St. Mary’s U. of San that front have been few in recent years. And members’ doubt. ‘‘I say to you, I have served Antonio, LL.B. 1943. in the 103rd—a Congress that failed to enact with honor and integrity and success. I have Occupation: Teacher; public relations con- major legislation in several areas it pur- never failed myself and I have never failed sultant; translator. sued—Gonzalez’s committee passed two sig- you,’’ Gonzalez told the caucus behind closed Family: Wife, Bertha Cuellar; eight chil- nificant measures: in interstate banking law doors. ‘‘And so I appeal to you: Do the right dren. and a community development law that mar- thing. Do the fair thing. I appeal to your Political Career: Candidate for Texas ried bank regulatory relief with several sense of justice: One last term as ranking House, 1950; San Antonio City Council, 1953– schemes to encourage lending in distressed member, and I will not disappoint you.’’ 57, mayor pro tem, 1955–57; Texas Senate, communities. The caucus erupted in applause audible in 1957–61; sought Democratic nomination for Gonzalez has been a fighter since the be- the corridors of the Longworth House Office governor, 1958; sought Democratic nomina- ginning of his career, whether pressing solo Building. ‘‘There were probably some votes tion for U.S. Senate, 1961. causes or setting personal quarrels. He is a that he swayed even in that speech, which is Capitol Office: 2413 Rayburn Bldg. 20515; passionate populist, and a sincere if long- unusual around here,’’ admitted LaFalce 225–3236. winded one. He also can be stubborn, short- supporter Floyd H. Flake of New York. Gon- tempered and prone to eruptions of anger. In COMMITTEES zalez received two standing ovations, and 1963, he threatened to ‘‘pistol whip’’ and then Banking & Financial Services (ranking). balloting started immediately after his struck a House Republican who claimed Gon- In Washington: Gonzalez, more than most speech ended. zalez’s ‘‘left-wing voting record’’ served the other senior Democrats who once ruled the Gonzalez’s victory came despite LaFalce socialist-communist cause. In a San Antonio roost in the House, went into a shell with the received the Democratic Steering Commit- restaurant 23 years later, Gonzalez struck a Republican takeover in 1995. The energetic tee’s endorsement by a 22–19 margin, and man who had called him a communist; pros- (if eccentric) former chairman of the Bank- Vento campaigning vigorously. ‘‘It’s very ecutors later dropped misdemeanor charges. ing and Finance Committee was absent or in- difficult to express in words the profound At Home: Like many Texas Democratic in- active at many important committee ses- sense of gratitude I feel at this moment,’’ cumbents, Gonzalez felt some impact from sions in the 104th Congress. An intensely Gonzalez said after the vote. He said he did the big GOP year of 1994. While his Repub- proud man, he showed little interest in wag- not harbor any ill feelings towards LaFalce lican opponent, Balcones Heights City Coun- ing losing battles in committee, unlike or Vento, saying, ‘‘It’s all part of the proc- cil member Carl Bill Colyer, pulled in less
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 December 5, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 26243 than 40 percent of the vote, he nevertheless KEY VOTES—Continued some people. But Henry did it his way. And held the incumbent to his lowest winning- he was as fearless in his crusading, as he was Deny public education to illegal immigrants ...... N margin since his first election in 1961. Repeal ban on certain assault-style weapons ...... N right on most issues,’’ Pickle said. The son of Mexican immigrants, Henry B. Increase minimum wage ...... Y ‘‘He was one of the rarest political char- (as he is known both in Washington and in Freeze defense spending ...... N acters I have ever known. And he was cham- Texas) began climbing the local political lad- Approval welfare overhaul ...... N 1995: pion for civil rights before we even knew der after World War II. He sought office Approve balanced-budget constitutional amendment ...... N what it was,’’ said Pickle, who retired in 1994 while helping his father, the managing editor Relax Clean Water Act regulations ...... N after 30 years on Capitol Hill. of a Spanish-language newspaper, run a Oppose limits on environmental regulations ...... Y Reduce projected Medicare spending ...... N House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt said translation service. Gonzalez made it to the Approve GOP budget with tax and spending cuts ...... N Gonzalez ‘‘always fought the good fight.’’ state Senate in 1957 and quickly drew atten- ‘‘Henry’s passing leaves us all with a void tion by filibustering against Democratic that can’t be filled,’’ Gephardt said. Gov. Price Daniel’s bill to allow the state to VOTING STUDIES Despite a long legislative career, Gonzalez close schools threatened by disturbances sur- Presidential Party unity Conservative was most proud of legislation he shepherded rounding integration. through Congress to help the underprivileged Year support coalition In 1958 Gonzalez ran as the liberal alter- SO gain a foothold to the American Dream. native to Daniel in the Democratic SO SO ‘‘Millions of Americans will sleep tonight gubernational primary. He was beaten by a 1996 ...... 84 16 84 16 67 31 in homes made possible through Mr. Gon- margin of more than 3-to-1, but the defeat 1995 ...... 82 14 82 11 48 44 zalez’s battles for affordable housing and only encouraged his ambition. Three years 1994 ...... 78 19 96 4 22 78 community development,’’ said Ralph Nader, 1993 ...... 90 10 95 5 34 66 later, he sought the Senate seat vacated by 1992 ...... 23 77 94 6 38 63 the Green Party presidential candidate and Lyndon B. Johnson. While Gonzalez carried 1991 ...... 32 67 93 7 16 84 consumer activist. his home base, Bexar County, his statewide ‘‘Mr. Gonzalez’s record will stand forever appeal as a candidate with a Hispanic name INTEREST GROUP RATINGS as a reminder of what legislators can accom- was limited. He ran sixth out of 73 can- plish when they have the courage and didates, gaining 9 percent of the vote. Year ADA AFL–CIO CCUS ACU thought to follow their best instincts,’’ But he soon had another chance. Later in Nader said. 1961, Democrat Paul Kilday resigned from 1996 ...... 80 n/a 38 15 His long list of fights and achievements on 1995 ...... 85 100 20 4 the House to accept a judgeship, and Gon- 1994 ...... 75 100 25 15 behalf of racial minorities, women and work- zalez became the consensus Democratic can- 1993 ...... 80 100 9 8 ing families brought out a ‘‘Who’s Who’’ of didate for the seat. 1992 ...... 80 92 38 4 politicians paying respect. 1991 ...... 75 100 10 0 The special election was a clear liberal- ‘‘Henry B. Gonzalez was one of my heroes,’’ conservative choice. Gonzalez was warmly former Texas Gov. Ann Richards said. endorsed by the Kennedy administration. [From the San Antonio Express-News, Dec. 2, ‘‘He spoke out for people and the needs of John Goode, a former GOP county chairman, 2000] the poor and working class long before it was had the active assistance of Arizona Sen. POLITICAL LEADERS OFFER THEIR TRIBUTES easy to do. Henry B. was a catalyst for the Barry Goldwater and Texas’ newly elected (By Gary Martin) advancement of the rights of Hispanics, peo- GOP senator, John Tower. With strong sup- ple of color and women. Our gratitude is WASHINGTON.—A flag flew at half-staff port in Hispanic areas, Gonzalez won with 55 Wednesday above the U.S. Capitol as former boundless,’’ Richards said. percent. He became the first person of Mexi- Rep. Henry B. Gonzalez’s death was met with On Capitol Hill, where lawmakers were in can-American extraction to be elected to the a national outpouring of sorrow and mourn- adjournment until Monday, fax machines House from Texas. ing. transmitted comments of praise and adula- tion for Gonzalez, who reluctantly left his HOUSE ELECTIONS President Clinton offered the country’s condolences to the Gonzalez family. Washington office because of illness in 1998. Many colleagues were in the Capitol in 1997 Total ‘‘Henry will forever be remembered as a man of conviction and humility who devoted when he left a session of Congress in an am- 1996 General: his life to lifting people up and building bulance. A dental infection had traveled to Henry B. Gonzalez (D) ...... 88,190 (64%) bridges of understanding.’’ Clinton said in a Gonzalez’s heart and damaged a valve. After James D. Walker (R) ...... 47,616 (34%) a 14-month absence, he returned, only to an- Alejandro ‘‘Alex’’ DePena (LIBERT) ...... 2,156 (2%) statement released by the White House. 1994 General: ‘‘Our thoughts and prayers go out to his nounce his retirement. Henry B. Gonzalez (D) ...... 60,114 (63%) wife, Bertha, his children, and his family and His son, Charlie Gonzalez, was elected to Carl Bill Colyer (R) ...... 36,035 (37%) friends,’’ Clinton said. succeed him. Gonzalez, 84, awoke feeling ill and was Charlie Gonzalez said his father struggled Previous Winning Percentages: 1992 (100%); rushed to Baptist Medical Center in San An- with the illness and being away from Wash- 1990 (100%); 1988 (71%); 1986 (100%); 1984 tonio, where he died Tuesday. ington. (100%); 1982 (92%); 1980 (82%); 1978 (100%); 1976 The feisty congressman was the first Mexi- ‘‘It’s been hard these last couple of years, (100%); 1974 (100%); 1972 (97%); 1970 (100%); can-American elected from Texas to serve in being away from Congress,’’ Gonzalez said 1968 (82%); 1966 (87%); 1964 (65%); 1962 (100%); the House of Representatives. Now there are moments after his father died. 1961, special election (55%). six from Texas, including three from San An- A tireless advocate for San Antonio, Gon- tonio. zalez was a New Deal Democrat who worked CAMPAIGN FINANCE ‘‘Congressman Gonzalez was a trailblazer to bring pork barrel projects back to his con- gressional district, helping to establish Kelly Expendi- and a leader for all of Texas,’’ Clinton said. Receipts Receipts from PACS tures In addition to kicking down ethnic bar- AFB as one of the largest aircraft repair de- riers, Gonzalez had a colorful career in the pots in the Air Force, and securing the 450- 1996: House that spanned 37 years. bed Brooke Army Medical Center. Gonzalez (D) ...... $123,375 $46,600 (38%) $86,231 Walker (R) ...... 138,847 450 (0%) 138,735 It was sprinkled with acts of defiance— Pickle said his biggest achievement was 1994: Gonzalez (D) ...... 116,025 32,650 (28%) 55,382 calling for the impeachment of two Repub- HemisFair 1968. Gonzalez funneled federal lican presidents—and fisticuffs that led to money into the project, prompting the city DISTRICT VOTE FOR PRESIDENT national headlines when he punched a GOP to name the nearby convention center after congressman in 1963 and a restaurant patron him. Total at Earl Abel’s diner in San Antonio 23 years ‘‘He put San Antonio on the map, through later. the HemisFair event,’’ Pickle said. 1996: A maverick lawmaker who sometimes frus- Early in his congressional career, San An- D ...... 82,892 (59%) R ...... 48,485 (35%) trated the leaders of his own party, Gonzalez tonio loyalists would hold an annual dinner I ...... 7,285 (5%) wore his populist and liberal leanings on his to honor Gonzalez, Pickle recalled, noting: 1992: sleeve, often dressed in seersucker or large- ‘‘The program would last on and on and on. D ...... 81,373 (48%) R ...... 57,964 (34%) lapel suits that caused visitors and Gucci- ‘‘On two or three occasions I would just go I ...... 28,970 (17%) dressed lobbyists on Capitol Hill to gawk. to listen to him. About 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. ‘‘I do remember that. They were great they would get around to introducing Henry suits,’’ said a chuckling J.J. ‘‘Jake’’ Pickle, KEY VOTES B.’’ a former Democratic congressman from Aus- Pickle said he was elated when Gonzalez, tin and one of Gonzalez’s closest friends. 1997: Ban ‘‘partial birth’’ abortions ...... N who was known for his lengthy speeches, an- 1996: ‘‘You could always spot Henry. But he nounced at one event that he wouldn’t make Approve farm bill ...... Y wore, and said, what he thought. It offended a speech.
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 26244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE December 5, 2000 Instead, the congressman planned to intro- Gonzalez’s congressional colleagues came about a young Republican in Congress who duce his extended family, which would ‘‘fill from all over Texas and the nation to say learned how to vote by watching Gonzalez up a phone book.’’ goodbye to a man they called a warrior, a and always voting the other way. Pickle sneaked off. statesman, a pioneer, a hero and a national State Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, U.S. Rep. ‘‘By the time I got back to Austin, he was treasure. Maxine Waters, D-California, U.S. Rep. Ciro still introducing his last cousin,’’ he said. They also called him funny, brilliant, a Rodriguez, D-San Antonio, former U.S. Rep. ‘‘We were good friends,’’ Pickle said. ‘‘I ac- maverick and a coalition builder who lived Bill Patman, U.S. Rep. Ken Bentsen, U.S. cepted his odd characteristics, as I know he his life with gusto. Rep. Henry Bonilla, R-San Antonio, and de accepted mine.’’ But the long line of elected officials who la Garza also spoke eloquently about their spoke also described their longtime col- comrade. [From the San Antonio Express-News, Dec. 2, league as a warm and loyal friend. ‘‘Texas is a better place today because 2000] Bill Richardson, secretary of the U.S. De- Henry B. Gonzalez spent 84 years on the face PRAYER, PRAISE AT FUNERAL partment of Energy, told people that Gon- of this earth,’’ Frost said. (By Carmina Danini and Sherry Sylvester) zalez loved Congress and the people of San Both Richardson and Jackson Lee told of Antonio. the time, close to his retirement, when sev- The rich, the poor, the powerful, the dis- ‘‘But he was not just yours,’’ Richardson eral young Democrats believed Henry B. advantaged, the young and old gathered at said. ‘‘He belonged to everybody. He was na- should be replaced as chairman of the House San Fernando Cathedral on Saturday to cele- tional, but he was local.’’ Banking Committee. brate the life of a man they sent to Congress Richardson, who represented President ‘‘We needed 211 Democratic votes,’’ Rich- for 18 consecutive terms. Clinton at the Gonzalez funeral, knelt before ardson said, ‘‘I was a little worried.’’ Henry B. Gonzalez was paid tribute by col- Gonzalez’s coffin before he spoke, calling But Richardson said that Henry B. would leagues, friends and family in a funeral the Henry B. ‘‘a champion of the downtrodden.’’ not allow him to do any campaigning to keep size of which is rarely seen in San Antonio— U.S. Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-Rhode Is- him in the job. and one marked by laughter and applause. land, predicted that Gonzalez’s legacy will When it came time for the Democratic Aired live on television, the Mass was part never die because he had pursued the path of Caucus to vote, Henry B. spoke last. political rally and part toast to the life of a what was right instead of what was easy. ‘‘I’ve never failed myself, and I’ve never remarkable man who was honored in pure ‘‘Like FDR, Henry B. was loved for the en- failed you,’’ Gonzalez said. San Antonio style with ‘‘Amazing Grace’’ emies he made,’’ Kennedy said. Richardson said he won the vote by a 3-to- sung in Spanish to mariachi music. ‘‘He had the privilege of being a thorn in 1 margin. Nearby, about three dozen mourners the side of great privilege.’’ ‘‘It wasn’t even close.’’ watched the Mass on two large screens in the Cisneros called Gonzalez the single most A sorrowful Charlie Gonzalez paid the final City Council chambers. important person in San Antonio’s history tribute to his father with stories, jokes and The 84-year-old Gonzalez, who retired from and one of the great leaders of the 20th cen- poetry. Gonzalez said that he had no ques- public life two years ago after an illness tury. tions about whether or not his father was in brought on by a dental infection, died Tues- ‘‘Hearts were touched and dreams were heaven, saying he believed his father was day afternoon. forged by what Henry B. Gonzalez inspired,’’ probably talking politics with St. Peter. For two days last week, thousands of San Cisneros said. ‘‘We have lost a great one.’’ ‘‘In heaven all the political yard signs will Antonians paid their respects and shared sto- Frost, who served with Henry B. for a say ‘Keep Henry B. in D.C.’ and ‘All the Way ries of the man who transcended his West longer time than any other Texas congress- with LBJ’ and, of course, ‘Viva Kennedy.’ ’’ Side background and captured the public’s man, called Gonzalez ‘‘an extraordinary fig- Gonzalez said he wanted to thank everyone affection with an uncanny ability to connect ure in Texas history.’’ who had ever voted for his father. ‘‘You are with people. Frost said that during his time in Con- the people who made his life possible,’’ he Despite chilly temperatures, throngs of gress, Gonzalez always took the stand he be- said. people stood inside the cathedral, in Main lieved was right. Gonzalez said that he and his family had Plaza and along the four-mile route of the Frost said that unlike many politicians, been comforted in recent days by the knowl- procession to San Fernando Cemetery No. 2, Gonzalez never cast a token vote for the edge that his father had left so much more to where he was buried alongside his parents, other side in an effort to avoid looking ‘‘too the world than he had taken. Leonides and Genoveva Gonzalez. liberal.’’ The congressman shared some of the many The oldest cathedral sanctuary in the ‘‘He never threw a vote, he never trimmed stories he said he has heard since his father’s United States was the perfect setting for the his sails,’’ Frost said. passing from people who said Henry B. had Mass of such a historic figure—a man be- Gonzalez’s congressional colleagues cred- touched their lives. loved by those cramming the old church to ited him for creating housing laws, financial The younger Gonzalez said he had been vis- capacity. regulations that opened the way to home ited by two brothers who had met Henry B. Many of them knew him. Others, like Lina ownership and financial security for poor when he was their juvenile probation officer. Bello, a City Hall secretary in Taxco, Mex- people. ‘‘He straightened us out,’’ Gonzalez re- ico, were visiting but were caught up in the U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, D-Rhode Island, told ported one brother saying. ‘‘He got me out of ceremony. the mourners at San Fernando Cathedral reform school and sent my brother there.’’ San Antonians loved Gonzalez, said former that he had flown to San Antonio on Satur- Gonzalez also read the William Words- U.S. Congressman Kika de la Garza, the day because Henry B. had played a key role worth poem, ‘‘The Character of the Happy Democrat from Mission, because he had ‘‘el in rescuing his state of Rhode Island from a Warrior’’ as his elegy. don de gentes.’’ severe financial crisis. ‘‘He opened eyes, he opened hearts and The Spanish phrase means having the ca- ‘‘He brought hope to a state whose motto that shall be my father’s legacy,’’ Gonzalez pability to win the good will of people. is hope,’’ Reed said. ‘‘We could not have done said. Former Housing Secretary Henry Cisneros it without Henry B.’’ Sitting on a back pew, Maria Palencia said Gonzalez was never a ‘‘jefe politico’’ or Former Congressman Bob Krueger said spoke proudly about the photos she had of political boss. that Gonzalez was able to follow his con- Gonzalez holding her then-3-month-old ‘‘He didn’t control a political machine,’’ science in Congress and speak from his heart granddaughter, Adelita Becerra. Cisneros told mourners, many of whom ar- because he knew he had the support of the ‘‘He went to Ruiz Elementary School, rived at the cathedral three hours early to people of San Antonio. where my daughter was a teacher,’’ Palencia ensure they had a place to sit at the Mass. Former Texas Attorney General Jim said. ‘‘She had taken the baby to school that ‘‘His political code was a bond directly be- Mattox said he was a little ill at ease seeing day.’’ tween him and the people. The only words so many political dignitaries at Gonzalez’s The granddaughter is now 26 years old. that I find to describe this man is that he funeral. Outside the cathedral, people stood three was a tribune of the people,’’ Cisneros said. ‘‘I have a feeling that Henry B., would open deep as the pealing of bells competed with Considered sacred in ancient Rome, the the doors and make sure all the common music by the Mariachis Campanas de Amer- tribunes could defend commoners against un- folks could get in here,’’ Mattox said. ica. fair acts by officials. U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Houston, A few waved as the casket was placed in- Other speakers, many of whom worked thanked the Gonzalez family for allowing the side the hearse. An elderly man who began alongside Gonzalez on Capitol Hill, told of high Mass to become a ‘‘state funeral,’’ and weeping uncontrollably was led away by his his unwavering work on behalf of the voice- Texas state Sen. Gonzalo Barrientos noted daughter. less. that he was in segregated schools when ‘‘We’ll never have anyone like him ever ‘‘He was the champion of the common man Henry B. first went to Congress. He thanked again,’’ the man said. and an extraordinary figure in Texas poli- Gonzalez for making his career possible. tics,’’ said U.S. Rep. Martin Frost, D-Dallas, U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith, R-San Antonio, Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I dean of the Texas congressional delegation. told the crowd about joking with Gonzalez yield the balance of my time to the
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gentleman from Texas (Mr. FROST), our Finally, no one could ever say that There is not a piece of legislation dean and chairman. he benefitted financially from his posi- dealing with consumer rights, financial The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tion, or that he was in any way influ- issues, or housing issues that was not ant to the designation of the minority enced by special interest contributions. greatly influenced or does not bear the leader, the balance of the time is re- He simply did not need the contribu- mark of Henry B. Gonzalez that oc- allocated to the gentleman from Texas tions and probably would not have curred over the last 30 years. (Mr. FROST), and the gentleman from taken them even if he ever did have a Henry B. Gonzalez was the father of Texas may proceed. campaign, which he usually did not. the Community Reinvestment Act. He Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Most of us spent hours putting to- was the father of much of the financial in honor of my friend and colleague, gether our annual financial disclosure services reform that occurred in the the late Henry B. Gonzalez. I remember statements we had to file with the 1980s and 1990s. And he clearly was the the day in January of 1979 that, as a House. Henry B. filed the same state- father of the various laws dealing with new freshman Congressman from Dal- ment every year. He had his congres- public housing and housing assistance las, I walked across the floor of the sional salary, and that was it. that were adopted by this body in the House and first introduced myself to During his final years as a Member of 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Henry B. Gonzalez. I, of course, knew Congress, age finally had started to Henry B. Gonzalez was always true to who he was and what he had stood for; slow him down. He was challenged in his word. He always rose to the occa- but I am not sure he knew anything the Democratic caucus in 1996 by two sion and conquered whatever task was about me. younger Members who wanted his posi- put before him. As my colleague from I mentioned to Congressman Gon- tion as ranking Democratic Member on Ft. Worth has mentioned, there were zalez that my father was from San An- the Committee on Banking. Henry B. some who questioned whether or not he tonio, that I had a lot of family in his rose in a hushed meeting of the caucus would be able to rise to the occasion as district; and I said something about my to ask his colleagues for one more term Chair of the House Committee on 88-year-old grandmother, Pearl Frost, as the ranking member. He eloquently Banking, and there were some who living in San Antonio. His eyes bright- recounted his career, how he had questioned whether or not he would be ened, and he replied that of course he fought for the people his entire life and able to go beyond issues related to con- knew my grandmother. Well, after all, what he had done as chairman of the sumer rights and community reinvest- he knew everybody in San Antonio. committee. It was no contest. The cau- ment and housing issues to deal with From that moment on, Henry B. took a cus rallied behind this champion of the the tough, intricate issues of financial special interest in my career. He was common man and the challenge dis- regulation, particularly in the midst of very kind and very helpful as I started appeared. the savings and loan crisis of the 1980s. learning how to be a Congressman. As Molly Ivins said in a recent col- And yet Henry B. Gonzalez was the per- For 20 years, I had the chance to ob- umn, ‘‘Henry B. was not a saint, but he son who was able to show the leader- serve Henry B. up close. Several things was a fighter. He was the genuine arti- ship, to drive a force through the mid- struck me during that time. First, he cle, the real thing. He was an extraor- dle to pass the FIRREA and FIDICIA was always true to his core beliefs. He dinary figure in Texas political history legislation and pass other legislation never varied from his support for the who advanced the cause of Hispanics which brought this country out of its downtrodden and in his support for and all minorities in our State. Texas worst banking crisis since the Great equal justice for all people, regardless is a better place today because Henry Depression. of race, color, or creed. Some Members B. Gonzalez spent 84 years on the face So, Mr. Speaker, I do not think there of Congress will follow a zigzag path in of the Earth. He will be remembered is any question that Henry B. Gonzalez their voting pattern from time to time, long after most of his contemporaries did what he was asked and served with casting a conservative vote here and have been forgotten. And that’s the great distinction for the people of the there so that opponents cannot call way it should be. We love you, Henry, 20th District of Texas and the United them a liberal in the next election. and we are better because you walked States. Henry B. never worried about that kind our way.’’ I would just close by saying this: I of thing. He was always on the side of Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman had the honor of serving with Henry B. the people, no matter what the issue. from Texas (Mr. BENTSEN), who served Gonzalez in two ways, one as a Member He did not try to trim his sails. He was on the Committee on Banking and Fi- and also as staff; and I can remember, who he was. nancial Services with Mr. Gonzalez. while in graduate school as a young Second, Henry B. was well read, Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank staffer on the Hill long before the Con- smart and very able. When he first be- my colleague from Texas for yielding servative Opportunity Society and came chairman of the House Com- to me, and let me say that the people Members really knew what Special Or- mittee on Banking, some Members of San Antonio, the people of Bexar ders were about, it was Henry B. Gon- questioned whether he had the tem- County, Texas, and the people of Texas zalez who came to the floor every day perament to chair a major committee. and the United States suffered a great and closed the House and would speak Some good-naturedly commented to loss with the passing of our former col- extemporaneously for 60 minutes about him about how he had changed his league, Henry B. Gonzalez, last week. whatever issue he happened to be inter- wardrobe now that he chaired the Com- ested in, drawing back on his extensive mittee on Banking. He no longer wore b 1145 knowledge of history and captivating brightly colored suits all the time, but There is no question that Henry B. the audience that was there, the new C- could often be seen in dark pinstripes. Gonzalez, in his service on the San An- SPAN audience that was out there. They told him that he was even dress- tonio City Council, in the Texas State Later, as a member of the House ing like a banker. Senate, and as a Member of this body, Committee on Banking, when Henry The concerns about Henry B.’s abil- including the pinnacle of being the was the most senior member, with all ity to handle the Committee on Bank- Chair of the House Committee on due respect to the chairman, but still ing quickly disappeared. He was a Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs the most senior member on the com- steady chairman, fair to all sides, and did more for the people he represented mittee, and I the most junior member he guided the committee through some than probably most Members who have on the committee, he brought me very tough legislative balances. Early served in this body. But more than along. And I will never forget, as the on, he correctly predicted problems that, Henry was a trail blazer for the chairman of the committee knows this faced by deregulating Texas savings Hispanic population of Texas and the well, Henry B. Gonzalez, who built his and loans and, as chairman, crafted a United States, and he was a trail blazer career, who has the longest record for a fair, tough plan to correct these prob- and a leader for American consumers filibuster in the Texas State Senate, lems. as well. fighting the so-called States’ rights
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 26246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE December 5, 2000 issues and the Jim Crow laws, that at the co-chair of our Steering Com- ing, as we have heard. In that regard, the end of his career, it was Henry B. mittee. And then it is my intention to he fought for the little people, the peo- Gonzalez and I who were fighting for yield to members of the Texas delega- ple who did not have the lobbyists in States’ rights and the rights of Texas tion. And then to the extent that we Washington or the great money to ad- to determine its home equity laws. have other Members who want to vocate their position. And during his We were not successful that day in speak, I will be yielding to them. But I tenure on that committee, he was in- the House Committee on Banking, as want to give our colleagues from Texas strumental in helping to pass key the chairman will remember. But, in the opportunity to speak. housing legislation, repairing the Fed- the end, Henry prevailed and the issue Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman eral Deposit Insurance Corporation and went back to the State of Texas. from Maryland (Mr. HOYER). cleaning up the savings and loan scan- It was a great honor and privilege to Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank dals of the 1980s. serve with Henry B. Gonzalez. He will my friend for yielding. While Henry was undoubtedly proud long be remembered not just in the Mr. Speaker, I have 3 minutes. We of his ethnic heritage, he always in- 20th District and not just in Texas, but have an hour Special Order. Each one sisted that it did not determine his pol- throughout the United States, for the of us that stands could spend an hour itics. work that he did for the American peo- talking about our friend, Henry Gon- ‘‘I am a Democrat without prefix, ple. We are a better place for his serv- zalez. suffix or apology or any other kind of ice. This is the people’s House. We are modification,’’ he once said. Yes, Mr. Speaker, in this, the peo- Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to proud of that. No person in history bet- ter represented an advocate for the ple’s House, the people had no more ar- the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. LEACH), ticulate, no more committed, nor more the current chairman of the Committee people than Henry B. Gonzalez of Texas. courageous advocate than our friend on Banking and Financial Services. In a land of plenty, Mr. Speaker, and Henry B. Gonzalez. Mr. LEACH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the in a time of unprecedented economic When I first came to this House in gentleman for yielding. I particularly prosperity across our Nation, many 1981, I was privileged to serve on the thank the gentleman for holding this Americans, with no malicious intent in Committee on Banking. I was privi- Special Order in honor of his great their hearts, may overlook the plight leged to know him as a leader, as a role Texas friend. In my time in the United of the poor, the downtrodden, the vul- model, as a friend. America and its States Congress, I have served with no nerable. That, however, could never principles and Constitution had a great more honorable a man. ever be said of Henry B. Gonzalez of advocate in Henry B. Gonzalez. Amer- Henry was an old-fashioned liberal, Texas, who passed away at the age of 84 ica, Texas, San Antonio, CHARLIE our and he never had a conflict of interest. just a few days ago. colleague and his son, his other broth- He did not just simply advocate, he Throughout his entire life in public ers and sisters, his wife, his family will lived campaign reform. His only special service, including his 37 years in this miss him most. But, CHARLIE, know interest was his constituents. He never Chamber, where he represented his be- well that we miss him as well. We loved let them down. Nor did they ever coun- loved community of San Antonio, he him when he served with us, and we tenance an alternative. Honesty has its was a battler for those who were strug- love him now. rewards. gling in our society. He was a cham- Robert Kennedy once said that: I might say that, while a bit more pion of the underdog and for social jus- Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or conservative and bent, I believe his tice throughout his 37-year career in acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes values are very much reflected in his this body and previously in local and out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny son, with whom we are also very hon- State government. He was a man of in- ripple of hope, and crossing each other from ored to serve. a million different centers of energy and dar- tegrity, compassion, commitment, ing, those ripples build a current which can As colleagues on the Committee on courage, unquestioned honesty. Banking, Henry and I held differing po- sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression Born in 1916 to recent immigrants and resistance. sitions on a number of issues, particu- from Mexico, he knew firsthand dis- Henry Gonzalez did much more than send larly matters involving the Federal Re- crimination and poverty. He entered serve. But Henry Gonzalez always had forth a few tiny ripples of hope. His life’s work public office after once resigning a po- and his legacy were a strong, powerful wave an element of justice, an element of sition as a probation officer in juvenile good judgment on the side as, for ex- that gives all of us the energy and commit- court because he was prohibited from ment to keep up the good fight, and keep the ample, when he sought to bring more hiring an African American. transparency to certain operations of faith. Henry’s fight for social justice con- Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the Federal Reserve. He also led Con- tinued when he was elected to the San the gentleman from Texas (Mr. ORTIZ). gress in efforts to uncover money laun- Antonio Council. He won approval for a Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, to see the dering in all parts of the country, par- measure there to desegregate city fa- future we must stand on the shoulders ticularly in his own region, the San cilities long before it was the popular of a giant. At this moment, I would Antonio Federal Reserve District. issue of the day. like to offer my condolences to the It is sometimes said that the true In 1957, he became the first person of Gonzalez family and to my good friend, riches in one’s life can be measured by Mexican-American heritage elected to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. GON- the lives that one has touched and the Texas Senate. His legacy in that ZALEZ), for the loss of his father, a changed for the better. Throughout his body, as has been referenced, certainly great American. history in public service, Henry Gon- is focused on a 22-hour filibuster that For me and many of us sitting in the zalez has served as a model for millions he conducted to ensure the defeat of House of Representatives today, Henry of Americans. And throughout his ca- measures protecting school segrega- B. Gonzalez was a giant of a man. He reer, he steadfastly stood for those less tion. Henry could never, and would was the key that opened up many doors advantaged. He has literally rep- never, countenance rank injustice such that in the past had been closed to resented and improved the lives of hun- as that. many of us. dreds of thousands of Americans. Henry B. Gonzalez was not always People often speak of pioneers or of For his honorableness, his commit- successful in the short term, but his giants or of visionaries. Sometimes we ment to basic values, for his remem- cry for justice in the long term was use those words loosely. But there is brance of his roots, we in this House usually successful. Henry’s indefati- literally no better example of those are deeply honored to have served with gable quest for social justice and equal- words than Henry B., as he will forever this man and we honor his memory. ity continued, Mr. Speaker, when he be remembered by those of us who Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, at this was elected to the House in 1961. loved him. time it is my intention to yield to the Over the years, he rose to become the Henry B. was a pioneer for Texas and gentleman from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), chairman of the Committee on Bank- for Hispanic Americans throughout the
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 December 5, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 26247 United States. He got a law degree in good about America is not that we are 1950s. There are now still precinct the days of segregation because he a perfect land but that we are forever judges, in Harris County, A.B. Olmos; loved the law and he knew that fun- in the struggle to try to come closer to and a number of people said, when you damentally the law would eventually reaching the high ideals of our Con- get to Washington as they supported come to protect all Americans. He en- stitution and Bill of Rights. Henry B. me in 1992, you need to look up our tered politics and was successful in mu- Gonzalez took the principles of that friend Henry B. and follow Henry B. nicipal, State, and Federal elections Constitution and the Bill of Rights and When I was elected and I sat down even in the days of the elite primaries, fought year in and year out to see that with Henry B. Gonzalez, and I almost legal segregation, and the poll tax. they were not just words on a piece of see him sitting here in this chair be- It was no coincidence that the day parchment, but they were a reality for cause he always sat just to the right of Henry B. was sworn in as a Member of all of God’s children living here in where I am standing, I sat down and in- this body he clutched in his left hand America, people of all races and all col- troduced myself because as serving 20 the bill that he would drop that day to ors and creeds and religions. years in the Texas legislature, Henry abolish the poll tax. There is a saying that I will never B. did not come to Austin very often. I I remember, when I was a young con- forget that was given to me by a young remember meeting him a couple of stable back in the 1960s, I was running Hispanic girl several years ago that I times. But I sat down with him and in- for county commissioner and I knew met. She was a 9-year-old girl fighting troduced myself and said, ‘‘I’d like to that there was a political rally in San for her life against cancer. She gave me work you. I’m not going to serve on the Antonio. I drove all the way from Cor- a little card that I will never forget, Banking Committee, but obviously I pus Christi to see if I could talk to and I think it is appropriate to repeat have some very close friends in Hous- Henry B. I had never met Henry B. be- the words of that little girl’s card ton who are your longtime sup- fore. I waited until he was about ready today, because to me they reflect the porters.’’ I would do that every few to exit the stage of this theater and I meaning of Henry B. Gonzalez’s life. weeks and talk with him and see what introduced myself. I said, ‘‘Mr. Con- This is how that card went—(The was going on as a freshman Member. gressman, I am SOLOMON ORTIZ. I am a gentleman from Texas spoke in Span- I had an opponent announce in De- constable from a small town, and I am ish—‘‘Cuando morimos, dejamos todo cember of 1993. Henry B. in January running for county commissioner. I lo que tenerras y nas llevarnos todo lo and February of 1994 said, ‘‘By the way, would like to see if you would be kind que dimos’’), when we leave this world, I want to help you in your reelection. enough to give me an endorsement.’’ we leave behind all that we have but I’ll do a radio tape or video or what- Right on the steps as he walked down we carry with us all that we have ever.’’ We never could set up the video the stage in this theater, he said, sit given. and I always wanted him to come to down. And he sat right on the steps. He To me, Henry B. Gonzalez had a great Houston but he always passed on made one 30-second spot and a 60-sec- deal to carry with him when he left through and went back to San Antonio ond spot. I won that election as county this world, a person who never forgot every weekend. Henry B. did that out commissioner. And then on my reelec- the least of these amongst us. He made of the graciousness of his heart, be- tion, again an old friend by the name of a difference for all Americans. He made cause he said, and I will remember Domingo Pena and Bob Cuellar, who America a better place for us and for these words, ‘‘I like the way you han- operated the theater, we went to see our children. For that as well as his de- dle yourself here on the House floor.’’ Henry B. to see if he could come to my cency and his dignity, we will never That was like somebody who you re- district for an event. He and his lovely forget our friend and colleague Henry spected as a hero putting their hand on wife, CHARLIE’s mother Bertha, joined B. Gonzalez. me. And we were very successful. your shoulder and giving you such a Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to great compliment. Henry B. did that. b 1200 the gentleman from Texas (Mr. GREEN). His filibuster in the Texas Senate in We lost a man that was loved by Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I the late 1950s against the segrega- many, many people. No matter how thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. tionist bills again makes him part of much he may have disagreed with FROST) the dean of our delegation, for legend. He is only one of two Members those who served with him, he always organizing this special order for our of Congress whose pictures hang in the treated each person with whom he colleague, Henry B. Gonzalez. The Texas Senate. The other Member is the worked with great respect. We have United States lost a patriot; Texas lost late Barbara Jordan whose picture, lost a great American. a son; and I lost a mentor and a hero. along with Henry B.’s, also hangs in Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Until today, I did not realize that he the Chamber of the Texas Senate. the gentleman from Texas (Mr. ED- was a mentor for other people. When Henry B.’s accomplishments and con- WARDS). the gentleman from Texas (Mr. ORTIZ) tributions are legendary. I think it is Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, every told the story of Henry B. sitting down appropriate that we remember him and day when this House goes into session, with him and working with him, I felt his leadership. Again as a Member from we put our hands over our heart and the same way more recently in 1993 and Houston-Harris County, we would not finish the pledge to our American flag 1994. have the benefits we have with our with the words ‘‘with liberty and jus- Texas has had many colorful and dis- homeless funding without Henry B. tice for all.’’ All too often we then go tinguished leaders. Some have reached being chairman in 1993 and 1994 and back to our busy daily schedules of the level of legend. In Henry B.’s work helping us to this day receive recogni- phone calls and meetings. But to Henry not only in Congress but in the Texas tion for our effort in our homeless B. Gonzalez, those words ‘‘with liberty Senate and in Bexar County and San funding. and justice for all’’ were not just a Antonio, his dedication to his constitu- Mr. Speaker, last week, I was saddened to phrase to be spoken on the floor of this ents has placed him in that top cat- hear of the passing of Congressman Henry B. House the beginning of each day. They egory of a Texas legend. Myself and my Gonzalez. The United States lost a patriot, were not just a nice phrase to be put in family express our deep regret to the Texas lost a son, and I lost a mentor and high school civics textbooks. Those Gonzalez family in their loss and our hero. Texas has had many colorful and distin- words were a passion of a lifetime. loss as a Nation. guished leaders. Some have reached the level ‘‘With liberty and justice for all.’’ He I think a lot of us really need to talk of legend. Henry B. Gonzalez’s work in Con- believed it. He fought for it. And he about how Henry B. affected us individ- gress and his dedication to his constituents sacrificed for that high principle. Be- ually. I had the same situation in 1993 place him at the top of this category. Myself cause of that, America is a better place and in early 1994. I was elected in 1992. and my family express our regret to the Gon- today. I have some constituents in my district zalez family on their loss. Henry B. Gonzalez personified to me who actually were a part of the Henry Congressman Gonzalez’s distinguished 38- what is good about America. What is B. Gonzalez campaign effort in the late year congressional career demonstrated his
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 9920 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 26248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE December 5, 2000 deep commitment to public service and those powerful as long as they were right and gerald Kennedy, and the fact that he in our society who had no one fighting on their as long as he felt it was right. He truly was with him on the day of his death in behalf. Prior to his election to the U.S. House believed, as we have heard, in liberty Texas. But in my remarks last Satur- of Representatives in 1961, Henry B. Gon- and justice for all. day, I ask my colleagues to indulge me zalez served as a member of the San Antonio He was a family man, a community to allow me to tell them what Henry City Council, and as the city’s mayor pro tem. man, a man who gave personal atten- Gonzalez means to me. I will never for- He was subsequently elected to the Texas tion to his constituents. He sat on side- get, though as a child I would not have State Senate where he will always be remem- walks with a card table and visited known at the time, that in 1957 Henry bered as a champion of the common people. with people and opened his office door Gonzalez stood in the Senate in the He was revered for leading a 36-hour filibuster and made all welcome. I identify him State of Texas and protected me. There against legislation which sought to uphold and as the single person on this floor that was no other voice that could have pro- facilitate the principles of segregation. Henry educated Members and the public on tected me at that time. I had no cham- B. Gonzalez held the floor for 22 hours and the banking industry. When all banks pions. I had no knowledge. I was a two minutes, finishing shoeless and ex- were failing and the S&Ls were going child. I was young. And I would not hausted, but victorious. under, he frequently talked about res- have been aware that a State such as He made such an impression on the Texas cuing them with public dollars and Texas had a governor that filed 16 seg- State Senate that his portrait hangs in the with the same dollars from people that regationist legislative initiatives, 16, chamber in Austin. Only one other Member of never got service from them which led not one, not two, not three, not four Congress has ever had their portrait hung in to CRA. Although some may have dis- but 16, and a lone Senator with his dear the chamber, the late Barbara Jordan. agreed with him, all respected him no friend stood for 36 hours to protect me Henry B. Gonzalez’s greatest accomplish- matter what party. and the rest of America who looked ments in the U.S. Congress were in the area He will always be a hero of mine, a like me and who of those he rep- of affordable housing. He insisted on pro- hero of the people, a hero of the com- resented. tecting the rights of low-income citizens, even mon man, because he never left out Thank you, Henry, for fighting though it was not popular. As chairman of the those persons who were least able to against fear, for fighting against seg- House Banking Committee, he led efforts to speak for themselves. And so Henry B. regation and discrimination and rac- repair the savings and loans industry and Gonzalez made his mark not only in ism. Thank you, Congressman Gon- Texas but in this Nation, standing tall helped stop the crisis from spreading to banks zalez, for acknowledging even though long before it was even thought about by overhauling the deposit insurance system. you led out on the Select Committee that Mexican Americans or the His- Throughout this service in Congress, Henry on Assassinations which I served as a panic population in this country as it B. Gonzalez made it his mission to force the staff member, thank you for acknowl- has grown has now been considered a chief executive to justify any military action. In edging that you wanted the truth to be minority, but he did that. Speaking for 1983, Congressman Gonzalez was the only heard on that committee. Thank you, all minorities prior to that time speaks Member calling for the withdraw of U.S. troops Chairman Gonzalez, for fighting for to how committed he was to what was from Lebanon. He introduced a resolution to Federal housing and fighting against right and speaks to the issue of all this affect and continue to speak out on this cuts. And thank you, Chairman Gon- issue. Three days after his last statement on being equal. And so I will thank him and tell my zalez, for allowing me to help nominate the subject, the Beirut bombing occurred. grandchildren to thank him for his you to fight for your ranking position Democratic Members of the House are also service. which you deserved on the Banking well aware of Henry B.’s efforts on behalf of Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Committee. the Democratic Party. He was an articulate the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. b 1215 spokesman in Presidential politics since 1960, JACKSON-LEE). when he served as the national co-chairman Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Lastly, let me thank the Gonzalez of the ‘‘Viva Kennedy’’ campaign. Speaker, let me add my appreciation to family for, I guess, bringing about our new leader, CHARLIE GONZALEZ, who his I would like to extend my condolences to his the gentleman from Texas (Mr. FROST) family, especially to my colleague and friend for organizing this very special tribute. father was so very proud to watch Congressman CHARLIE GONZALEZ. I am proud A couple of days ago, on Saturday in being sworn in in 1999. Thank you for to have known Henry B. Gonzalez, and I con- the month of December, San Antonio, the sacrifice; thank you for what you sider my self fortunate to have served with the entire city of San Antonio, paid a have done for me and so many others. him and to have called him my friend. Henry very special tribute to a national treas- Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to B. is a true Texas legend and a great Amer- ure. I want to thank the Gonzalez fam- the gentlewoman from California (Ms. ican. ily for allowing us to come and share in WATERS). Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to a celebration of life. I would like to Ms. WATERS. Mr. Speaker, I would the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. offer to Mrs. Gonzalez, Congressman like to thank the gentleman for orga- EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON). Gonzalez’ bride, Bertha, and the eight nizing this time on the floor for us to Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of brothers and sisters my deepest sym- pay special tribute to a very special Texas. Mr. Speaker, let me rise and pathy for their loss. man. It is very difficult to do this with- thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. I want my colleagues to know that in 2 minutes, but let me try and share FROST) for providing for this hour. Mr. Congressman Gonzalez sat right with you. As long as I can remember attempt- there three rows back on the floor of Saturday I attended the funeral serv- ing to be a good citizen, from the days the House. It did not take long for new ices of Henry B. Gonzalez. It was the of not being quite old enough to vote, Members to gravitate toward his calm most beautiful service I have ever at- I remember the name of Henry B. Gon- demeanor and very special spirit. I tended in my entire life. I guess that zalez. Henry B. Gonzalez came along in would like to call him a champion for was the Highest Mass that was held Texas before he was considered a mi- the poor, an on-line fighter that did there on Saturday. It was a beautiful nority. He attended the University of not diminish his burning desire for cathedral, the oldest in the country. Texas before the university integrated equality no matter who was against All of the elected officials from all over or desegregated. And even during those him. He was a genteel person, even the State of Texas and all of the local times, he was committed to equality though I am told that he knew a little elected officials attended. It was mag- for all. He often had long statements bit about boxing, and he handled him- nificent. concerning the poor, the self very well. But I saw him as some- The church bells rang after the serv- disenfranchised being seen as equal one patient with those of us who were ice, the town square was filled, the peo- partners. At the same time, he did not new, a man who could be counted on. ple were all over the steps, and the ignore his committed thinking and I am reminded of his presence and local newspaper did something I have planning for those who were even more friendship with President John Fitz- never seen. They devoted more space to
VerDate jul 14 2003 12:21 Jan 23, 2005 Jkt 029102 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR00\H05DE0.001 H05DE0 December 5, 2000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 26249 Henry B. Gonzalez than I have ever This place, this Congress and this REQUEST FOR SPECIAL ORDER seen devoted to anybody, any elected country, is a better country today be- Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, with official, non-elected official, and I cause of the likes of Henry B. Gonzalez the consent of the gentleman from know why. that comes to this body, represents the Iowa (Mr. GANSKE), I ask unanimous It is the same reason I attended the views and wishes of his district, and consent that we extend this special services. He was a man of impeccable does it in a way that, not only his con- order for 15 minutes. integrity. He was a very special human stituents, but the rest of us will never The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there being who knew who he was and knew forget who Henry B. was and is today. objection to the request of the gen- from whence he came. He was the Hon- Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to tleman from Pennsylvania? orable Mr. Chairman of the Committee the gentleman from Texas (Mr. There was no objection. on Banking and Financial Services, a HINOJOSA). The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- man that had shown his commitment Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, al- tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. KAN- time and time again with the kind of though the occasion for these remarks JORSKI) will control the 15 minutes, be- is a sad one, I am honored to be able to legislation that he advanced. ginning at 12:35. He did not care about the perks, the participate in this special order paying ceremonies, the hot shots. None of that tribute to Texas legend Henry B. Gon- f was what Henry cared about. He cared zalez. As he did for countless others GENERAL LEAVE about the people. He helped me to be- since first being elected in 1960, Henry Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- come an active member of that com- B. truly paved the way for my being imous consent that all Members may mittee. here in Congress. His invincible will, have 5 legislative days within which to When I came on to that committee, I demonstrated so many times during so revise and extend their remarks and in- did not want to be on that committee. many battles, served as an example to clude extraneous material on the sub- I knew nothing about banking. But be- me, that while the fight may not al- ject of my Special Order. cause of Henry B. Gonzalez, I was given ways be easy, it is always worth wag- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there an opportunity to advance amend- ing. objection to the request of the gen- ments. He worked with me. He helped His example set the bar for which all tleman from Texas? me to understand what the CRA was all of us aspire. He was a great American, There was no objection. about, he helped me to understand a selfless and principled public servant, what the banking institutions of Amer- the best of the best, a champion for the f ica were all about, he helped me to poor, a voice for the under-represented TRIBUTE IN MEMORY OF FORMER focus on the World Bank and the Inter- in Washington. CONGRESSMAN HENRY B. GON- national Monetary Fund. Only briefly did I have the pleasure ZALEZ He was a learned man who displayed of serving with him here in the House. Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to not only his historical knowledge, but During that all too short time, I can the gentleman from Texas (Mr. REYES). his deep intellect on the floor of Con- assure you I was eager to glean what- Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gress time and time again. ever I could from his treasured house of gentleman for yielding. He was honored in the most magnifi- invaluable knowledge. In fact, not a Mr. Speaker, last week we lost an cent way, and he will be spoken about day passes that I am not mindful of icon in American life. I, like all of my by many in the most magnificent ways how he commented to me early on that colleagues here, can reflect back on that human beings can today because he would never recommend I rope a just exactly what Henry B. meant, not of who he was. cow as it is going down the mountain. just to me and to my family, but to Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield to It was sage counsel indeed, and it has Texans and the Hispanic community at the gentleman from Texas (Mr. STEN- served me well these past several large. HOLM). years, as I know it will continue to do We had the privilege of hosting a re- Mr. STENHOLM. Mr. Speaker, I in the years to come. thank the gentleman for yielding. To me, nothing is more important tirement dinner for him when he re- Mr. Speaker, a couple of years ago than standing up for what you believe tired a couple of years ago, and I can my wife, Cindy, and I sent out Christ- in and having the fortitude to tackle tell you, everyone that attended that mas cards on which we signed it ‘‘Char- the tough issues. Henry B. did exactly retirement dinner, which was, by the lie and Cindy.’’ We got a couple back that, and he did it on his own terms way, televised on C–SPAN later on, saying, ‘‘Thank you for the Christmas and with the utmost integrity. commented on the fact that Henry B., card, but who are Charlie and Cindy?’’ In closing, I have the greatest respect while a legend, was an individual that In San Antonio, no one ever asked for all he accomplished, and I will al- had the common man’s touch. the question, who is Henry B.? I have ways admire him. Henry B. Gonzalez It has been said that to truly make a known and worked with many col- represents not only the best that Con- difference in your lifetime, you have to leagues over the years, but none that gress can be, but I feel that the best have the ability to walk among kings had the absolute reverence shown to that an individual can be. He was a but never lose the common man’s them by his constituency, and knowing true and caring representative of peo- touch, and Henry B. had that common him and favorably calling him Henry ple, and I can think of no greater acco- man’s touch. He fought for the things B. lade. that were important for all of us. CHARLIE, you had a great dad. I en- I will miss him, Texas will miss him, A lot of us here today are here be- joyed 20 years of his life, getting to America will miss him. His loss is truly cause we stood on Henry B.’s shoulders. know him here on the House floor. We immeasurable. CHARLIE GONZALEZ, his A lot of us here recognize that we did not often vote together. In fact, son, is my friend and my colleague; and would not be here had Henry B. not more often than not we voted dif- I look forward to serving with him in been a pathfinder, had not been an in- ferently. But I found that at no time this House of Representatives. dividual that opened the road for the did I ever doubt the sincerity of the rest of us. f vote cast, the speech made, the point While on the one hand it is a sad made, the dedication and the sincerity REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL TIME time to lose a man, a legend, a Texan, of his attempt to represent his people, Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- an American, truly a hero for all ages his district and his views; and he ar- imous consent that my Special Order and for all this world, on the other ticulated this in a way that this one be extended by 15 minutes. hand it is also a time to celebrate his more conservative Member never hesi- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. contributions, celebrate what he means tated to say to those that differed, you LATOURETTE). Another Member may to each and every one of us. And let us might differ, but you can never doubt make that request, but the gentleman never forget that as long as he lives in the sincerity. from Texas may not. our hearts, he lives in this world.
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