March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E463 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

TRIBUTE TO GERASIMOS C. VANS ning, personnel, procurement, information A TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF ON HIS RETIREMENT technology, printing, oversight of vacant con- ROOSEVELT EARLY gressional offices, and event planning. HON. VERNON J. EHLERS There is no doubt that the House as an in- OF MICHIGAN stitution is losing one of its hardest working HON. MIKE ROSS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES public servants. Gerry’s dedication and profes- OF ARKANSAS Thursday, March 30, 2006 sionalism has spanned both Democratic and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. EHLERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Republican majorities, during which time his Thursday, March 30, 2006 pay tribute to Gerasimos (Gerry) Vans, who is mission has always been to complete any task, big or small, with the same tenacity and retiring after more than 25 years of distin- Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thoroughness. Gerry will be dearly missed by guished service to this institution. Throughout honor the life of Roosevelt Early, a veteran his years of service to the House, Gerry has the House of Representatives and by all those high school educator from Crossett, AR, who tackled a wide range of institutional chal- among us who have had the pleasure of work- died at the age of 72 on February 26, 2006. lenges. In every aspect of his service to the ing with him during his more than 25 years of I wish to recognize his lifetime of dedication to House, Gerry has demonstrated his char- service. public education and the city of Crossett. acteristic professionalism, knowledge, and cre- Mr. Speaker, on behalf of this institution, I ativity, and has without exception conducted A native of West Helena, AR, Mr. Early wish to extend to Gerry Vans our heartfelt earned a bachelor’s degree at Arkansas Agri- himself with the utmost integrity. gratitude for his tireless service to the House, Gerry, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin cultural, Mechanical, and Normal College, now and wish him the very best as he embarks began his career with summer intern positions the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, upon his new career. in the House and Senate while attending col- UAPB, where he played football and sang in lege. Following his graduation from Marquette the choir. Mr. Early also attended the Univer- University, Gerry pursued a masters degree at f sity of Central Arkansas where he received a master’s degree. The George Washington University while em- RECOGNIZING ROBERT R. RUBANO, Moving to Crossett in 1958, Mr. Early spent ployed in the House mail room. Gerry began JR. his congressional career in earnest following nearly a half century as a public school educa- his appointment to the U.S. Capitol Police tor at T.W. Daniel and Crossett School Dis- force where he remained for two years. His HON. MELISSA A. HART trict. He began as a shop teacher at T.W. next appointment was as the Executive Assist- Daniel High School in 1958 and rose to the ant to the House Sergeant at Arms, where he OF PENNSYLVANIA post of assistant principal of T.W. Daniel Mid- dle School in 1973, and principal 2 short years served as secretary to the U.S. Capitol Police IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Board and primary Capitol Police liaison for later of T.W. Daniel High School. Following his the Sergeant at Arms. Gerry had primary Thursday, March 30, 2006 tenure at T.W. Daniel, Mr. Early served as operational responsibilities for major House principal at Norman Junior High School begin- events and congressional funeral delegations, Ms. HART. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take ning in 1980 and Crossett High School in and was a key staffer in Capitol security plan- this opportunity to recognize the super- 1985. ning. intendent of Farrell Schools, Robert R. Mr. Early was active throughout the Ashley Since joining the Office of the Clerk’s front Rubano, Jr., and the school board members County community. He served as director of office staff in 1991, he has served under four who have served for over 9 years. the E.C. Crossett Community Center, presi- Clerks, first in a support capacity to senior Mr. Rubano not only serves as the super- dent of the UAPB Ashley County Alumni Asso- management, and since 1995 as a senior intendent of the schools in Farrell, but also ciation, and was a member of the Ashley manager—as Special Assistant, Assistant to teaches a leadership class to juniors and sen- County Medical Center Board of Directors, the Clerk, 1999, and Deputy Clerk, 2003. Be- iors in the school district 1 day a week. The Ashley County Martin Luther King Planning cause of his fluency with congressional oper- subjects taught in the class vary from speech Commission, Phi Delta Kappa Educational So- ations and practice, he is frequently called preparation to key decision making to job and ciety, Georgia-Pacific Planning Commission, upon to brief visiting foreign parliamentarians college outlook. This leadership class has be- the Arkansas Association of Educational Ad- and senior officials, and has participated in ministrators, the Arkansas Association of Sec- various legislative-related conferences. come very popular among students in the Farrell School District. ondary Principals, Crossett Classroom Teach- Gerry has also been instrumental in the de- ers Association, Arkansas Education Associa- velopment and implementation of the Lobbying Mr. Rubano has been the superintendent of tion and the National Education Association. Disclosure Act; the five-year project to move the Farrell School District since 1997. Before As a man of faith, Mr. Early served as chair- the Legislative Information Management Sys- committing to be the superintendent, Mr. man of the Deacon Board at New Bethel Mis- tem, LIMS, from a mainframe to a client-server Rubano spent many years as a teacher, then sionary Baptist Church and chairman of the platform; the Document Management Initiative: principal. Mr. Rubano served as a team conversion of all legislative documents to a Trustee Board. The Roosevelt Early Memorial facilitator for a group of 10 who designed new Scholarship was started shortly after his death common Extensible Markup Language (XML) math curriculum for grades K–6. He also as- standard; Continuity of Operations: develop- to commemorate and honor the impact he sisted in writing the district’s Act 178 Profes- made as an educator at Crossett High School. ment and planning leading to the first com- sional Development Plan. Mr. Rubano has prehensive House-wide continuity of oper- dedicated his career to bettering the education As the son of public school educators, I be- ations apparatus; and the development of the of young minds. lieve there are few jobs more noble than that History and Preservation Office. of educating our Nation’s children. Mr. Early Over the years, Gerry’s responsibilities have I ask my colleagues in the United States spent a lifetime dedicated to this end. I extend grown to include the day-to-day oversight and House of Representatives to join me in recog- my deepest condolences to his wife of 48 operations of the Clerk’s 9 departments and nizing all of the hard work and time Robert R. years, Lendora; his daughters, Cassandra and 270 employees, which provide legislative and Rubano, Jr. has put in to making the school Patricia; his brother, David; his sisters, Thel- information services to the House and the district better. It is an honor to represent the ma, lola, and Alma, and his grandchildren, general public. He is involved daily and di- Fourth Congressional District of Pennsylvania Kenyellshia and Chase. Though Mr. Early may rectly with such issues as Member of Con- and a pleasure to salute such a dedicated in- no longer be with us, his spirit and legacy will gress relations, House floor operations, plan- dividual like Robert R. Rubano, Jr. live on for generations to come.

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.001 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E464 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 CELEBRATING THE BIRTH OF vision for a brighter tomorrow for every one of ing practices. They are the only school district CHARLES AURELIO HUDSON us along Ohio’s north shores. to ever receive this award. EYNON f The Highland School District will receive the ‘‘Rising Star’’ Award on April 5, 2006 at a din- IN HONOR OF THE LIFE OF ner at the Rivers Club in Pittsburgh. HON. JOE WILSON GORDON PARKS OF SOUTH CAROLINA I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Representatives to join me in congratulating HON. BETTY McCOLLUM the Highland School District for receiving the Thursday, March 30, 2006 OF MINNESOTA Rising Star Award. It is an honor to represent Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speak- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Fourth Congressional District of Pennsyl- er, today, I am happy to congratulate Eliza- Thursday, March 30, 2006 vania and a pleasure to salute such a dedi- beth and Teddy Eynon of Washington, DC, on cated school district as the Highland School the birth of their new baby boy. Charles Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- District. Aurelio Hudson Eynon was born on March 17, er, as St. Paul and our Nation say goodbye to 2006, at 9:09 p.m., weighing 8 pounds and 7 a legend this month, I rise to lend my support f ounces. Hudson has been born into a loving to House Resolution 720, a resolution to honor home, where he will be raised by parents who the life of Gordon Roger Alexander Buchanan TRIBUTE TO RETIRING GENERAL are devoted to his well-being and bright future. Parks. I hope that the House will soon con- LEON J. LAPORTE His birth is a blessing. sider this important resolution. Gordon Parks f passed away on March 7, 2006 at the age of HON. IKE SKELTON 93 after a courageous battle with cancer. With HONORING FRANK G. JACKSON, strong Minnesota ties, Mr. Parks became a OF MISSOURI MAYOR OF CLEVELAND world-famous photographer, filmmaker, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES music composer. His work and life are an in- Thursday, March 30, 2006 spiration to artists and art lovers, and the peo- HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, it has come to ple of St. Paul will be forever grateful for his OF OHIO my attention that General Leon J. LaPorte, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES contributions. Mr. Gordon Parks will be remembered as an Commander of the United Nations Command, Thursday, March 30, 2006 African American pioneer who used his experi- Republic of Korea/United States Combined Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, STEPHANIE ences as a black man to create some of the Forces and Commander of the United States TUBBS JONES, SHERROD BROWN, MARCY KAP- 20th century’s most powerful images for social Forces Korea, will soon be retiring after a long TUR, TED STRICKLAND, TIM RYAN, and I rise justice. Mr. Parks was born in 1912, 1 of 15 and distinguished career. today in tribute and recognition of Cleveland children. He spent his young adulthood in St. General LaPorte was born in Providence, Mayor Frank G. Jackson, as he was honored Paul, where he developed his skills as an art- Rhode Island, and graduated from the Univer- by the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party on ist. Parks earned his first professional photo- sity of Rhode Island. He completed the Armor March 26, 2006. journalist jobs with the Saint Paul Recorder Officer Advanced Course in 1975 and he Mayor Jackson was elected last November and the Minneapolis Spokesman, which earned a Master’s Degree in Administration to lead the City of Cleveland—a continuation served as catalysts for the great work by the from the University of California. of his lifelong activism and devotion on behalf beloved artist we recognize today. After General LaPorte was commissioned a of our Cleveland community. He is a United Mr. Parks was a true pioneer. He was the Second Lieutenant of Armor, he served as a States veteran, having served our country in first African American to work as a photo- Platoon Leader and Motor Officer in Alpha Vietnam. After being honorably discharged, he journalist for Life and Vogue magazines. As a Company, 3d Battalion, 64th Armor. In 1971, returned to his East 38th Street neighbor- trailblazing filmmaker, Mr. Parks was the first he served as a Platoon Commander and hood—where his commitment to making a dif- African American to write, score, and direct a Company Executive Officer in the 283rd Aerial ference would only grow stronger. Hollywood movie, ‘‘The Learning Tree.’’ Mr. Weapons Company in the Republic of Viet- Following his military service, Mayor Jack- Parks was part of a generation of African nam. He commanded the 3d Battalion, 64th son armed himself with a focus on educational Americans who directed and produced films Armor, 3d Infantry Division in Schweinfur, Ger- achievement. He attended classes at Cuya- that starred African Americans, like the film many, and following the Army War College, he hoga Community College and in 1975, he ‘‘Shaft.’’ He was also committed to docu- served as the G3, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from menting poverty and racial injustice. Mr. Parks Hood, Texas. In October 1990, he deployed Cleveland State University. In 1977, Mr. Jack- used the medium of film to tell the story of the with the division to Southwest Asia and was son earned a Master’s degree in Urban Stud- black experience. Chief of Staff during Operations DESERT ies from CSU. In 1983, after working his way Mr. Speaker, please join me in paying trib- SHIELD and DESERT STORM. In 1997, he through law school as a night clerk at Cleve- ute to Gordon Parks, an artist who taught us assumed the duties of Assistant Deputy Chief land Municipal Clerk’s Office, Mr. Jackson about human dignity and the African American of Staff for Operation and Plans, Head- earned a law degree from the Cleveland-Mar- experience. St. Paul will always remember him quarters, Department of the Army, Wash- shall College of Law. He worked as an assist- for his many artistic contributions. ington, DC. Prior to assuming his current posi- tion, General LaPorte served as Deputy Com- ant county prosecutor until his 1990 election to f Cleveland City Council, representing Ward 5. manding General/Chief of Staff, U.S. Army For 15 years, Mayor Jackson focused his ef- CONGRATULING HIGHLAND HIGH Forces Command. forts on revitalizing the housing and commer- SCHOOL General LaPorte has earned numerous cial aspects of the Ward 5 community. He did decorations and badges for his outstanding so by forming vital bonds with neighborhood HON. MELISSA A. HART service in the military. These decorations and leaders and development organizations, and OF PENNSYLVANIA badges include the Distinguished Service by setting a tone of integrity, diligence, com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Medal, the Legion of Merit (three oak leaf mitment and cooperation among City Council clusters), the Distinguished Flying Cross, a members and City administrators—a vital rela- Thursday, March 30, 2006 Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service tionship that remains strong today. Ms. HART. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take Medal (two oak leaf clusters), an Air Medal Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join us this opportunity to congratulate the Highland (‘‘V’’ device), an Army Commendation Medal in honoring Frank G. Jackson, Mayor of the School District for its nomination for the 2006 (‘‘V’’ device), a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry City of Cleveland, in recognition of his out- Rising Star Award presented by People Do (with Palm), a Kuwait Liberation Medal, an standing service and leadership focused on Matter, which is part of the Pittsburgh Human Army Aviator Badge, a Parachutist Badge, and the people of the City of Cleveland. Mayor Resources Association. a Ranger Tab. Jackson’s integrity, energy, vision, unwavering This award was given to the school district Mr. Speaker, I know the Members of the service and complete devotion to his constitu- because they demonstrated a link between House will join me in paying tribute to General ents continues to illuminate hope and strength Professional Development, their people prac- Leon J. LaPorte for his exceptional service to throughout the streets of Ward 5 and through- tices, and their students’ test score results and the United States and will wish him all the out every Cleveland neighborhood—offering a achievements by using innovative and emerg- best in the days ahead.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.004 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E465 HONORING ROSENDO CARRANCO to the Hispanic community on Medicare, Med- RECOGNIZING GREATER PITTS- icaid, and basic health services. Furthermore, BURGH CHAPTER OF NATIONAL HON. HENRY CUELLAR Andrea acts as an altar server for the Guard- ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN BUSI- OF TEXAS ian Angel Cathedral Catholic Church in Las NESS OWNERS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Vegas, Nevada. Andrea is committed to maintaining her pub- HON. MELISSA A. HART Thursday, March 30, 2006 lic service, and would like to get more involved OF PENNSYLVANIA Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to with events in her local Las Vegas community. honor Rosendo Carranco, an upstanding cit- A straight ‘‘A’’ student, she intends to maintain IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES izen of Laredo, Texas, who was recently her grades while continuing to practice dance Thursday, March 30, 2006 awarded the Spirit of Jerusalem Award by the and violin in her spare time. She has set her Ms. HART. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take state of Israel. sights on participating in the 2012 Olympic this opportunity to recognize the Greater Pitts- It is a great honor for me to enter into the Games in London, and then taking her gold burgh Chapter of the National Association of RECORD the accomplishments of Mr. Carranco medal to West Point where she will study Women Business Owners (NAWBO). in tribute to his dedication to the business medicine, and eventually become a surgeon. The National Association of Women Busi- community, and numerous charitable works With more young women like Andrea Marie ness Owners was established in Washington, that have benefited the citizens of Laredo. Perea, who strive to meet their goals with DC in 1975. NAWBO is the only dues-based After he graduated from Texas A&M University great ambition and pride, I see a bright future national organization that represents all in 1977, he returned to Laredo to start his own for America. women business owners in all industries. It’s accounting firm, Carranco & Lawson, where Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to honor Andrea the voice of the American business woman. his wife, Mary, serves as partner. In addition Marie Perea and her outstanding accomplish- 10.1 million women-owned businesses are to his work as an accountant, Mr. Carranco ments. I wish her the best in her gymnastics represented nationwide. Today there are over works as a real estate developer whose work career, as well as with all of her future en- 80 chapters throughout the United States. The includes the Cielito Lindo subdivision, and he deavors. Pittsburgh Chapter of NAWBO was estab- is also involved in various business ventures f lished in 1977 and since then has had the that include insurance, oil, and gas. He and MOTION TO INSTRUCT PENSION privilege of having two its members serve as his wife, Mary are the proud parents of three CONFEREES national presidents. In 2000, Greater Pitts- children, Andrew, Kathryn, and Robert. burgh Chapter of NAWBO was named the Mr. Carranco is well known in Laredo for his fastest growing Chapter in United States. gregarious and outgoing demeanor as well as HON. BETTY McCOLLUM numerous contributions to community service. OF MINNESOTA This year the Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of He is a beloved coach in the local youth bas- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES NAWBO has many Make the Connection ketball, football, and baseball teams as well as Thursday, March 30, 2006 Award Honorees. The honorees are: Pamela Abdalla of The Salvation Army Family Crisis a highly active participant in the Boys and Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- Center; Bonnie Anton of the American Heart Girls Club, Young President’s Organization, er, we need common sense, bipartisan legisla- Association; Dr. Joseph Bairn of The Bradley United Way, Junior Achievement, Laredo A&M tion to protect pension benefits and to honor Center; Aggie Brose of the Pittsburgh Commu- Club, and Daybreak Rotary organizations. His the promise of pensions. nity Reinvestment Group; Mary Jean Byrnes exemplary compassion and his deep commit- I rise to support this motion to ensure the of Carlow University, Community Education; ment to his faith make him a fine role model Senate provisions are included in the final Beth Caldwell of the Incredible Mom Award; for young people in Laredo, Texas. Pension bill—especially the provision that en- Bonnie DiCarlo of Celebrate and Share; Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to sures airlines like American, Continental, JoAnn Forrester of Celebrate and Share; honor Rosendo Carranco, recipient of the Delta, and Northwest are not forced to termi- Shamina Frank of the Antioch Baptist Church; Spirit of Jerusalem Award by the state of nate pension plans. The Senate provision Suzanne Froehlich of the Power Lunch; Israel. would provide the critical time needed to fund Bonnie Hassan of A Place for Reiki; Dorothy f pension plans promised to employees. No such provision exists in the House bill. M. Horvath of ACHIEVA; Tracy Lee Janov of PAYING TRIBUTE TO ANDREA Airlines were promised, in exchange for their the McKeesport Weed and Seed Program; MARIE PEREA support of the House Pension bill, that House Marleen Kasbee of the North Hills Community leadership would work with them in con- Outreach; Lillian T. King of the St. Cyril of Al- HON. JON C. PORTER ference to obtain the relief they wanted— exandria Church; Carol MacPhail of the United Way of Allegheny County; Maryann Magra of OF NEVADA though Republican leadership declined to in- the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES clude their provisions in the House bill. The History Center; Steve Miklas of Calliope, the Thursday, March 30, 2006 Bush administration opposes the airline provi- sions. Pittsburgh Folk Music Society; Susan Miller of Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to We must help airlines avoid the termination WBN North Points North Chapter; Grace honor Andrea Marie Perea, who is a two-time of their pension plans. Timing is of the es- Moffett of POWER; Shaela Montague-Phillips State Champion in the sport of Gymnastics. sence. Two of the airlines that would benefit of the Meeting of the Minds Publications; Anne At 12 years old, Andrea has achieved more from this provision are currently in bankruptcy Mullaney of Neighbors in the Strip; Martha in the sport of gymnastics than many athletes and could terminate their pension plans. And, Murdock of Care Break at Watson Institute; will accomplish in a lifetime. In the 2005 Ne- two others could take advantage of this relief. Susanne Parks of ACHIEVA–POWER; Rae vada State Championships in Reno, Nevada, In September 2005, Northwest Airlines filed Reynolds of UMOJA African Arts Company; Andrea scored first place in 4 of the 5 events for bankruptcy after losing more than $4 billion Linda Rinchiuso of The Lighthouse; Phyllis that she competed in, including uneven bars, since 2001. Northwest’s pension plans are un- Rinsma of Exceptional Friends; Beth Rom of balance beam, floor exercise, and best all derfunded by $3.8 billion. Without airline relief ABOARD—Advisory Board on Autism: Related around performance, leading her to win her provisions, Northwest would be required to Services; Barbara Sallo of PowerLink; Sydney first Nevada State Championship. She be- pay $3.3 billion in pension funding obligations Schwartz-Hardiman of WBN North Points came a two-time title holder at the 2006 Ne- by 2007 and would likely need to abandon North Chapter; Steve Smith of Elliot West End vada State Championships in Las Vegas, Ne- and turn over its pension plans to the Pension Athletic Association; Mary Sutphen of vada, where she took home first place on the Benefit Guaranty Corporation. In January POWER; Sandra Talley of Morningside vault, balance beam, and again received the 2006, the pilots union agreed with Northwest Church of God in Christ; Lisa Vandemia of title of best all around. to freeze the pilot pension plan and replace it Care Break at Watson Institute; and Andrea Andrea’s athleticism does not stop with with a defined contribution plan. I support the M. Williams of the Children’s Sickle Cell Foun- gymnastics. She takes ballet and belly dance decision made by Northwest and their pilots. dation. lessons, and participates in a Fiesta Flamenca Labor, employees, and airline management I ask my colleagues in the United States dance troupe. In addition to her athletic strongly support an airlines provision in the House of Representatives to join me in con- achievements, Andrea gives back to the Las Pension bill. gratulating the honorees of the Make a Con- Vegas community by volunteering with Salud Keep the airlines flying and employees nection Award. It is an honor to represent the en Accion, a program that provides outreach working. Support this motion. Fourth Congressional District of Pennsylvania

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.009 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E466 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 and a pleasure to salute such hardworking in- our military for victory in the Cold War, and by appointment with S. 2271, the USA PATRIOT dividuals like those in the National Association growing the Republican Party to today’s status Act Additional Reauthorizing Amendments Act of Women Business Owners. of majority in the state legislatures, state gov- of 2006. This bill purports to increase protec- f ernorships, the U.S. House, the U.S. Senate, tions for libraries and people who have been and the Presidency. issued National Security Letters and Section A TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF His contributions for America were high- 215 intelligence orders, though in reality, it of- GEORGE ODOM lighted on March 29, 2006 in The Washington fers very little recourse for U.S. citizens. Times: I voted against the Patriot Act Reauthoriza- HON. MIKE ROSS Few people played as a critical a behind- tion in July 2005, and the conference report in OF ARKANSAS the-scenes role in the rise of Ronald Reagan December 2005. Neither version of H.R. 3199 and the modern American conservative IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sufficiently balanced the needs of law enforce- movement as Lyn Nofziger, who died Monday ment to protect our country, with the protection Thursday, March 30, 2006 at his home in Falls Church at 81. An Army ranger who lost fingers to shrapnel during of our civil liberties. In December, I stated my Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to the D-Day landing, Mr. Nofziger left a suc- firm belief that it is possible to be safe, free, honor the life of George Odom, a long time cessful career in political reporting to be- and to protect security while still respecting resident of my hometown of Prescott, Arkan- come a top Reagan adviser. civil liberties. Unfortunately, H.R. 3199 did not sas who passed away at the age of 70 on As spokesman for Mr. Reagan’s 1966 cam- recognize this reality, and neither does S. February 15, 2006. George was born on Au- paign for California governor, he was a trust- 2271. gust 23, 1935 in Heflin, Louisiana and I would ed aide in 1968 when the California governor The amendments that were added make it like to recognize his life and achievements. tried to wrest the Republican presidential nomination away from Richard Nixon. Dur- harder to challenge a Section 215 intelligence Raised in Minden, Louisiana, George at- ing the spring of 1968, Mr. Nofziger recounted order than before. Currently, recipients may tended Webster High School followed by serv- many years later, Mr. Reagan visited Repub- challenge the gag order immediately after re- ice in the United States Army. Upon leaving lican Sen. Strom Thurmond, who told the ceiving a Section 215 intelligence order. How- the Army, he attended Grambling State Uni- then-governor: ‘‘You’ll be president some ever, S. 2271 would make the recipient wait versity where he received a degree in Sec- day, young man, but not this year.’’ one year before having the opportunity to ondary Education. Perhaps the most serious political chal- challenge the gag order. Shortly after moving to Prescott in August lenge Mr. Nofziger would face during his I have expressed in the past my serious 1964, George married Dorothy Jones. He led many years as a senior Reagan aide came in March 1976, during the primaries. President concern regarding the use of National Security an exemplary life and was extremely active in Ford had swept all of the early primaries, Letters to access Internet records in public li- many different capacities. At Prescott High and prominent Republicans were pressuring braries. While this bill attempts to exempt li- School he assumed many roles including li- Mr. Reagan to drop out and endorse Mr. braries from receiving National Security Let- brarian, history teacher, track and football Ford. Mr. Nofziger, a stalwart conservative, ters, it fails terribly. According to S. 2271, li- coach. Additionally, George was a member of would have none of it. As political consult- braries are only exempt from National Security the Lions Club, Director of Alcoholics Anony- ant Craig Shirley told Ralph Hallow of The Letters if they do not offer Internet access—a mous, Treasurer of the Youth Organization: Washington Times: Mr. Nofziger ‘‘was the preposterous claim in this day and age, and Boys II Men, Girls II Women, Treasurer for Ila steel in Reagan’s back that kept him going in 1976 when everyone else wanted him to an unrealistic expectation. This exemption Upchurch Community Education Center, Pres- drop out of the nomination race before the does nothing to protect public libraries, or their cott School Board Member and President and North Carolina primary.’’ patrons, from having their privacy invaded by Director of Prescott Parks and Recreation De- After Mr. Reagan’s election, Mr. Nofziger the Federal government, and I do not support partment. Following his retirement, George served slightly over a year as White House this provision. worked part-time at the Bank of Prescott. political director, before leaving the White Mr. Speaker, S. 2271 does nothing regard- George was also very active at Macedonia House in 1982. He became a lobbyist, but in- ing the Patriot Act to allay the concerns that Baptist Church where he served as Chairman stead of the conventional K Street uniform, he was usually seen with his shirt collar un- Democrats and Republicans alike have re- of the Deacon Board, Church Trustee, Church buttoned and tie loosened, chomping on a garding the protections of our civil liberties. It Treasurer, Sunday School Teacher and Su- cigar and drinking a concoction of whiskey is disappointing that the Administration has perintendent. mixed with milk. The editor of this page, chosen to embrace extreme measures in the Leading by example through a lifetime of who was a young White House aide during name of fighting terrorism, over protecting the dedication, community service, and commit- the 1980s, recalls meeting Mr. Nofziger, who civil liberties we all cherish so much. These ment to children, George has left an undeni- had left the government, for lunch. Mr. need not be mutually exclusive—we can fight able mark on countless students who attended Nofziger grabbed his White House badge and terrorism, keep our country safe, and respect Prescott Schools and on the Nevada County twirled it, telling him that the same people who wouldn’t return his calls before he the rights and liberties that generations of community. Prescott is a better place, a more joined the White House wouldn’t return Americans have fought so hard to uphold. Mr. cohesive community because of George them after he left. Speaker, I cannot support these additional Odom and he will be deeply missed. My heart In his final years, Mr. Nofziger established amendments and intend to vote against S. felt condolences are with his sons, Mario and his own blog, wrote poetry and became pro- 2271. lific as a book critic for this newspaper. In Corwin; his daughters, Charra and Chandra; f his sister Annie Mae Odom Knowles; and his one case, Mr. Nofziger wrote a scathing re- six grandchildren. While George may no view of a professor’s book. The writer com- CONGRATULATING ANDREA FREED plained and Mr. Nofziger responded that he longer be with us, his spirit will live on forever would have written a nicer review if the in the lives he touched. book hadn’t been so bad. But Mr. Nofziger HON. MELISSA A. HART f subsequently ended up befriending the pro- OF PENNSYLVANIA fessor and they established a friendly e-mail IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRIBUTE TO LYN NOFZIGER relationship. Lyn Nofziger—journalist, gruff, cigar- Thursday, March 30, 2006 HON. JOE WILSON chomping pol, trusted aide, and warm, kind- Ms. HART. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take hearted man—will be missed. OF SOUTH CAROLINA this opportunity to congratulate Andrea Freed f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES for her outstanding accomplishments in the Missionette Program in New Castle, PA. Thursday, March 30, 2006 USA PATRIOT ACT ADDITIONAL REAUTHORIZATION AMEND- The Missionette Program is sponsored by Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speak- MENTS ACT OF 2006 First Assembly of God in New Castle, PA. It er, as a grassroots volunteer in the Reagan is a national program that is equivalent to the for President campaign of 1976, I saw first- Girl Scout program, except the Missionette hand the historic efforts of Lyn Nofziger who HON. BETTY McCOLLUM Program emphasizes Biblical themes. Andrea OF MINNESOTA died Monday in Falls Church, Virginia. has achieved the highest award in the pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Nofziger was crucial for the success of gram which includes 27 units with each unit the Reagan Revolution which revitalized the Thursday, March 30, 2006 consisting of 4 lessons, a memory verse, ac- American spirit by building an economy of Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- tivities, and a project. They are required to hope through reducing taxes, by enhancing er, I rise today to express my extreme dis- read the entire New Testament and nine

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.012 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E467 honor steps are to be completed which include Judge Notzon is well-known in Laredo for honor those who served. Additionally, the intense memorization, and this all concludes his compassion for people, including the de- State’s Guardianship Program was expanded with testing. This is not an easy achievement. fendants that come in front of him in the court. under his leadership, affording care to many Andrea, a 5th grade student, will be hon- He has made great contributions to the com- more indigent veterans residing in the State of ored May 7, 2006, at First Assembly of God munity as well through his involvement with Nevada than ever before. for her outstanding accomplishment. the Boys and Girls Club of Laredo, Little Of his many achievements during his tenure I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of League, and other charities since 1974. Early as the Executive Director of the Nevada Office Representatives to join me in congratulating in his legal career, he joined the Laredo Legal of Veterans Service, Chuck is most proud of Andrea Freed for her outstanding accomplish- Aid Society, an organization that offers legal his efforts to bring skilled nursing services to ments in the Missionette Program. It is an representation to those who otherwise could Nevada veterans in need of long term care honor to represent the Fourth Congressional not afford it. It is his exemplary compassion, through the construction of the Nevada State District of Pennsylvania and a pleasure to sa- and his deep commitment to his faith that Veterans Home in Boulder City. Prior to the lute outstanding citizens such as Kayla. makes him such a great public servant to the opening of the State’s Veterans Home, Ne- f community of Laredo. vada was one of very few states in the U.S. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to that did not have a state veterans home to TRIBUTE TO PAUL BEYKIRCH honor Judge Marcel Notzon II, who has left a care for veterans in need of 24–hour skilled lasting impact on the South Texas legal com- nursing care. Chuck’s leadership not only dra- HON. IKE SKELTON munity, and the country at large. matically increased the State’s offerings to Ne- OF MISSOURI f vada veterans, but created a road map for fu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ture increases in services for veterans. PAYING TRIBUTE TO CHARLES Chuck has been actively involved in vet- Thursday, March 30, 2006 ‘‘CHUCK’’ FULKERSON erans’ issues throughout his career. He is a Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take founder and officer of the Veterans Hospital this means to congratulate and pay tribute to HON. JON C. PORTER Foundation in Reno and a life member of the Paul Beykirch, who recently received the Se- OF NEVADA Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Disabled Amer- dalia Area Chamber of Commerce’s Out- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ican Veterans, the Vietnam Veterans of Amer- standing Citizen Award. He has distinguished Thursday, March 30, 2006 ica, and the U.S. Army Retired Officers Asso- himself with dedicated service to the commu- ciation. Active in the community, Chuck be- nity of Sedalia, MO. Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to longs to the Reno Sunrise Rotary Club where The Chamber of Commerce honored Mr. honor Charles W. ‘‘Chuck’’ Fulkerson, a retired he has been designated a Paul Harris Fellow. Beykirch for his values, community service, U.S. Army Colonel, who will retire from the po- He also serves on the Executive Board of the and involvement. Mr. Beykirch has been a sition of Executive Director of the Nevada Of- Nevada Area council of the Boy Scouts of member ofthe Bothwell Regional Health Cen- fice of Veterans’ Services, effective March 31, America and is a guest lecturer at the UNR ter’s Board of Trustees for the past 16 years 2006. and UNLV military departments. Chuck is mar- and currently serves as its president. He is a Born in Idaho, he graduated from the Uni- ried to Mary Lee Metzker and has three chil- former Rotary Club president and is currently versity of Nevada, Reno in 1958, with a de- dren and five grandchildren. the president of County Distributing Company gree in Agriculture Economics. As a Distin- Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Incorporated. Mr. Beykirch enjoys working with guished Military Graduate of the Reserve Offi- Chuck Fulkerson on the floor of the House. He children as an assistant golf coach and as a cer Training Corp, he was commissioned as is a fine American and a true hero to those Cub Scout Leader. I had previously honored second lieutenant infantry in 1958. Chuck who have had the honor of knowing and serv- Mr. Beykirch by nominating him to serve on served in a wide variety of assignments in the ing with him. He has an unwavering spirit for the National Security Forum at America’s Air U.S. Army until his retirement from military the veterans of yesterday, today and tomor- War College. service in 1991. His active duty military career row. I wish him the best in retirement. includes two combat tours in Vietnam as an Mr. Speaker, I am certain that my col- f leagues will join me in congratulating Paul Infantry Officer, assignments in Europe and a Beykirch and in wishing him luck in his future tour as the Assistant Professor of Military NATIONAL FOOD UNIFORMITY ACT endeavors. Science at the University of Nevada, Reno. f After leaving active service, Chuck served with HON. BETTY McCOLLUM the Nevada Military Department. He was ap- OF MINNESOTA IN HONOR OF JUDGE MARCEL pointed by Governor Robert List as the Direc- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES NOTZON tor of the State Selective Service from 1979 to 1985. Recalled to active duty by Governor Thursday, March 30, 2006 HON. HENRY CUELLAR Richard Bryan in 1985, Chuck concluded his Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- OF TEXAS military career as the United States Property er, I rise today in opposition to the National IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and Fiscal Officer for the Nevada National Food Uniformity Act (H.R. 4167) and in sup- Guard. He is a graduate of the National De- port of the right of every state to enforce their Thursday, March 30, 2006 fense University and his military decorations laws and protect the health of their citizens. Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star This legislation amends the Federal Food, honor Judge Marcel Notzon II, who has admi- Medal the Air Medal, the coveted Combat In- Drug and Cosmetic Act to create a national rably served Laredo for the past twenty-three fantry Badge and the Vietnamese Cross of standard for food safety labeling. It seeks to years as a United States Magistrate Judge for Gallantry with the Gold Star. achieve a national standard by overriding most the Southern District of Texas. After such a Under Chuck’s leadership, the Nevada Of- state and local food safety warnings and by long and distinguished career, Judge Notzon fice of Veterans Services realized significant prohibiting new ones unless they are identical is retiring this month to spend time with his achievements benefiting Nevada’s veterans to national requirements. wife of forty-four years, Nora Lee, and his thir- and their families. The State’s Veterans Serv- If enacted, this legislation would not only teen grandchildren. ice Officer staff doubled in size, making it pos- compromise consumer safety with a ‘‘lowest- It is a great honor for me to enter into the sible for more Nevada veterans to receive common denominator protection’’ but also se- record the accomplishments of Judge Notzon their VA benefits and recognition for their serv- riously undermine state authority. Over two in recognition of his legal career which has ice than ever before. His leadership was also hundred state laws regarding food safety la- spanned over thirty-nine years, and extraor- instrumental in securing $9 million for the ex- beling would be superseded by the National dinary service to the federal judiciary. He pansion of the State’s two veterans’ ceme- Food Uniformity Act. The specter of such a served his country as a part of the United teries; the Northern Nevada Veterans Memo- wide-reaching federal measure has prompted States Navy from 1956 to 1960, and was hon- rial Cemetery in Fernley and the Southern Ne- thirty-nine state attorney generals to organize orably discharged from his service. Following vada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder in opposition to legislation they say would his discharge, he attended Laredo Junior Col- City. Chuck’s efforts made possible additional ‘‘strip state governments of their ability to pro- lege, and went on to complete law school at burial plots, columbariums, and new mainte- tect their residents through state laws and reg- St. Mary’s University, where he graduated first nance and administration buildings, greatly in- ulations relating to the safety of food and food in his class. creasing the Cemeteries’ ability to properly packaging.’’

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.016 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E468 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 The attorney general in my state of Min- A TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF Another fitting tribute was in The Wash- nesota warns that the bill would eliminate al- JACOB ANDREW ‘‘DOOLEY’’ ington Times on March 29, 2006: cohol labels on candy products that provide WOMACK ‘‘Caspar Weinberger, who died yesterday, vital information to expectant mothers and nul- was a lifelong Anglophile who embraced Win- lify thirty years of work by tribal communities HON. MIKE ROSS ston Churchill as ‘one of my great heroes’ for in Minnesota to create labeling standards for forlornly warning in the 1930s that Europe OF ARKANSAS must re-arm against the German threat. wild rice, the state’s official grain. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Throughout his distinguished seven years of The bill does include so-called flexibility pro- Thursday, March 30, 2006 service as Ronald Reagan’s defense sec- visions, which allow states to petition the Food retary, Mr. Weinberger warned of ‘some rath- Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to and Drug Administration to restore current er deadly parallels’ in the threat from the honor the life and legacy of Jacob Andrew safety regulations. But the process is expected Soviet Union. ‘‘Dooley’’ Womack of Camden, AR who died While Britain and the rest of Europe effec- to be slow, expensive and uncertain, costing on February 16, 2006, at the age of 81. tively ignored Churchill’s plaintive pleas, states $400,000 per petition. The added fed- Dooley was born in 1924 in Dallas County, helping to set the stage for World War II, eral costs for administering the process are an AR. Upon graduating from Princeton High Americans responded to Mr. Reagan’s warn- estimated $100 million over five years. At a ings by electing him president. Mr. Wein- School, Dooley joined the Armed Services time when government agencies at all levels berger, who earlier served in the Reagan gu- where he served with the 448th Bomb Group are struggling to cope with deep cuts in fed- bernatorial administration during the 1960s, of the 8th Air Force during World War II. eral funding, these provisions create a frivo- was promptly selected to be the architect of Dooley began a long and distinguished polit- the largest American peacetime military lous and burdensome bureaucracy that serves ical career in 1950 at the age of 23 while he build-up in history. That strategy cul- only to restore state laws that already exist was a student at Henderson State Teachers minated in American victory in the nearly today. College. As a Representative in the Arkansas five-decade-long Cold War. Barely six weeks into Mr. Reagan’s first Proponents of this bill say fears over con- State House of Representatives, he rep- sumer safety and local authority are unwar- presidential term, Mr. Weinberger delivered resented Dallas and Ouachita Counties. Fol- to Congress the administration’s first de- ranted and overblown. But despite introduction lowing his tenure in the Arkansas State fense budget, which: resurrected the B–1 in the past five Congresses, this legislation House, he served in the Arkansas State Sen- bomber; greatly expanded the procurement has never had a full hearing where testimony ate for 12 years. of fighter aircraft for the Navy and Air from experts could be heard and critical ques- For more than a half century, Dooley owned Force; virtually doubled the purchase of sea- tions explored. This lack of transparency and and operated Womack Brothers Realty. launched cruise missiles; significantly in- due diligence is unconscionable considering Dooley was also involved in the First United creased the production of tanks and other the bill’s potentially serious effects to public Army weapons systems; and reactivated Methodist Church of Camden, and enjoyed World War II battleships as a first step to- health. both hunting and fishing. ward building the fabled 600-ship Navy, I proudly stand with consumers, family farm- Camden, Ouachita County, and the State of which would eventually feature 12 aircraft- ers, physicians, environmentalists, state attor- Arkansas have lost one of its most ardent sup- carrier battlegroups and dozens of the ney generals, state agriculture department offi- porters. Dooley had a deep love for Camden world’s most powerful ballistic-missile-car- cials and many other consumer advocates in and South Arkansas, and dedicated a lifetime rying submarines. During Mr. Weinberger’s tenure, America opposing the National Food Uniformity Act. working to make it a better place. While Dooley may no longer be with us, his spent $1.7 trillion on national defense (or $3 trillion in today’s dollars). By any fair-mind- f spirit and legacy will live on forever in the lives ed calculation, it was a bargain. Less than a he touched. My deepest sympathies and month after Mr. Weinberger left the Pen- CONGRATULATING DESIRAE heartfelt condolences go out to his beloved tagon in November 1987, the world witnessed MONTGOMERY wife of 55 years, Amy; his three sons, Lance, the first fruits (many others would follow) of Tim, and Carey; his daughter, Anna; and his his seven-year tenure. On Dec. 8, 1987, Mr. grandchildren, Jacob, Wesley, Taylor, Joshua, Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev HON. MELISSA A. HART Erin, Leah, and Diana. signed the Intermediate Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which required the destruction OF PENNSYLVANIA f of about 425 single-warhead intermediate- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRIBUTE TO CASPAR WEINBERGER range U.S. nuclear missiles based in Western Europe and 650 triple-warhead intermediate- Thursday, March 30, 2006 HON. JOE WILSON range Soviet SS–20 nuclear missiles capable Ms. HART. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take of striking Europe and Asia. Following OF SOUTH CAROLINA steady Soviet deployment of SS–20s begin- this opportunity to congratulate Desirae Mont- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ning in the 1970s, NATO began installing the gomery for her outstanding accomplishments Thursday, March 30, 2006 U.S. missiles in Europe in late 1983. Self- in the Missionette Program in New Castle, PA. styled peace groups on both sides of the At- The Missionette Program is sponsored by Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speak- lantic, including congressional Democrats First Assembly of God in New Castle, PA. It er, this week, America lost a statesman wIth who preferred the Soviets’ self-serving nu- is a national program that is equivalent to the the death of former Defense Secretary Caspar clear-freeze offer, pilloried Mr. Weinberger and Mr. Reagan for the missile deployment Girl Scouts program, except the Missionette Weinberger on Tuesday in Bangor, Maine. Secretary Weinberger was the architect of in Europe. History has recorded who was Program emphasizes Biblical themes. Desirae right. has achieved the highest award in the pro- President Ronald Reagan’s vision to establish Known as ‘‘Cap the Knife’’ during his budg- gram which includes 27 units with each unit Peace Through Strength leading to victory in et-cutting days in the Nixon administration, consisting of four lessons, a memory verse, the Cold War and liberation of millions of peo- Mr. Weinberger became ‘‘Cap the Saber’’ in activities, and a project. They are required to ple across Central Europe, Eastern Europe, 1981, indispensably helping the president rat- read the entire New Testament and nine and Asia. tle the nation to the cause of its defense. When the Soviet Union imploded in 1991, it honor steps are to be completed which include I am glad to join President Bush’s heartfelt praise: did so with a very able assist from Caspar intense memorization, and this all concludes Weinberger. Winston Churchill would have STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT ON THE DEATH with testing. This is not an easy achievement. been very proud.’’ OF CASPAR WEINBERGER Desirae, a fifth grade student, will be hon- Caspar Weinberger was an American f ored May 7, 2006 at First Assembly of God for statesman and a dedicated public servant. He IN HONOR OF MARTIN J. SWEENEY her outstanding accomplishment. wore the uniform in World War II, held elect- I ask my colleagues in the United States ed office, and served in the cabinets of three House of Representatives to join me in con- Presidents. As Secretary of Defense for HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH OF OHIO gratulating Desirae Montgomery for her out- President Reagan, he worked to strengthen our military and win the Cold War. In all his IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES standing accomplishments in the Missionette years, this good man made many contribu- Thursday, March 30, 2006 Program. It is an honor to represent the tions to our Nation. America is grateful for Fourth Congressional District of Pennsylvania Caspar Weinberger’s lifetime of service. Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, STEPHANIE and a pleasure to salute an outstanding citizen Laura and I send our condolences and pray- TUBBS JONES, SHERROD BROWN, MARCY KAP- such as Desirae. ers to the entire Weinberger family. TUR, TED STRICKLAND, TIM RYAN and I rise

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.020 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E469 today in tribute and recognition of City of Conference and guided the union’s collective disease, but also to qualify for a limited pro- Cleveland Council President Martin J. bargaining in the aluminum industry. He led tocol providing a second round of chemo- Sweeney, as he is being honored by the Cuy- major corporate campaigns, including the therapy. No signs or symptoms of the cancer’s ahoga County Democratic Party on March 26, campaign against Ravenswood Aluminum reoccurrence have since appeared. 2006. Corporation that achieved the significant firing I commend Phil Goodman, Molly’s husband, Councilman Sweeney was born and raised of 1,300 permanent scab replacement workers for using this ten-year milestone, one of joy in Cleveland. After graduating from St. Igna- and the return to work of 1,600 steelworkers and reflection, to contribute to the National tius High School, he enrolled at Cleveland after a 20-month lockout. Ovarian Cancer Coalition. By sharing Mrs. State University, where he earned a Bach- In November 1993 he was elected United Goodman’s story, the couple not only cele- elor’s degree in political science. A natural Steelworker’s sixth international president and brates Mrs. Goodman’s survival, but also athlete, Councilman Sweeney was a member reelected in November 1997. George Becker’s raises awareness about the severity of ovarian of the 1986 Cleveland State Basketball team presidency was marked by many major cancer. that reached the ‘‘Sweet 16’’ in that year’s achievements. He restructured the union effi- We here in Washington need to do our part NCAA tournaments. He also graduated from ciency and political strength. He led the suc- to raise awareness about risk factors and the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2004—an cessful merger of the United Rubber Workers early warning signs for ovarian and other organization that unites community leaders into the USWA in July 1995. And in January gynecologic cancers. In this Congress and the from a myriad of fields and areas with a focus 1997, he finalized the merger of the Alu- last, I introduced Johanna’s Law: The on improving the overall quality of life through- minum, Brick and Glass Workers with the Gynecologic Cancer Education and Aware- out the Cleveland community. United Steelworkers of America. ness Act, which would require the federal gov- The residents of Ward 20 have entrusted He also worked as a crane operator at Gen- ernment to take action to increase early detec- Councilman Sweeney with the direction and eral Steel Castings, and as an assembler at tion of gynecologic cancers and ensure that well being of their neighborhood by voting him Fisher Body. Becker became active in the other women never have to go through what as their representative for four consecutive United Steelworkers of America as a member Molly Goodman did. Our bill currently has over terms. Last December, Council Representa- of Local 4804 at Dow Chemical’s aluminum 230 cosponsors, and we are doing everything tives also reflected their unwavering faith in rolling mill in Madison, Illinois. Working as an we can to make it law. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me his leadership by unanimously electing him as inspector in the mill, he was elected succes- recognizing Molly Goodman on this momen- President of Cleveland City Council. Council- sively as a local treasurer, vice president and tous occasion and to share in her hope that man Sweeney also serves the City as Chair of president. we continue to make progress in diagnosing the Finance Committee. Becker was a vocal advocate for the United and defeating this terrible disease. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join us Steelworkers of America in Washington, testi- in honor of Martin J. Sweeney, Ward 20 fying before Congress and meeting with Con- f Cleveland Councilman and President of Cleve- gressional leaders and members of the Ad- CONGRATULATING KAYLA BARBER land City Council, as we join with the Cuya- ministration. On the world stage, he was an hoga County Democratic Party in recognition executive committee member of the Inter- of his dedicated service and contribution fo- HON. MELISSA A. HART national Metalworkers Federation and chair- OF PENNSYLVANIA cused on the residents of Ward 20. Council- man of the world rubber council of the Inter- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES man Sweeney’s steady leadership and focus national Federation of Chemical, Energy, Mine Thursday, March 30, 2006 on uplifting the quality of life for his constitu- and General Workers’ Unions. ents serves to elevate the well being of our This man is truly one to be honored and Ms. HART. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take entire community. emulated as a great president of the United this opportunity to congratulate Kayla Barber f Steelworkers and a representative of labor for her outstanding accomplishments in the who worked tirelessly for workers everywhere. Missionette Program in New Castle, Pennsyl- IN HONOR AND RECOGNITION OF vania. GEORGE BECKER Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of George Becker, The Missionette Program is sponsored by whose dedication and hard work in rep- First Assembly of God in New Castle, Penn- HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH resenting workers everywhere has helped the sylvania. It is a national program that is equiv- OF OHIO growth of the United Steelworkers of America. alent to the Girl Scout program, except the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Missionette Program emphasizes Biblical f Thursday, March 30, 2006 themes. Kayla has achieved the highest award Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in CONGRATULATIONS TO MOLLY in the program which includes twenty seven honor and recognition of George Becker, GOODMAN units with each unit consisting of four lessons, former International President of the United a memory verse, activities, and a project. Steelworkers of America, a former marine, HON. SANDER M. LEVIN They are required to read the entire New Tes- tament and nine honor steps are to be com- steelworker, and noble and fine worker for OF MICHIGAN pleted which include intense memorization, labor who has helped to build a greater United IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and this all concludes with testing. This is not Steelworkers of America throughout his mem- Thursday, March 30, 2006 bership. an easy achievement. Mr. Becker was raised in Granite City, Illi- Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to con- Kayla, a 5th grade student, will be honored nois as a second-generation Steelworker. gratulate Molly Goodman as she and her fam- May 7, 2006 at First Assembly of God for her Later he went to work at American City Steel ily commemorate the tenth anniversary of her outstanding accomplishment. I ask my colleagues in the United States in the summer of 1944. victory against ovarian cancer. In 1965, he was named as a USWA staff Mrs. Goodman, like so many women strick- House of Representatives to join me in con- representative and came to the International en with this disease, never suspected that her gratulating Kayla Barber for her outstanding headquarters in 1975. In the Safety and abdominal and gastrointestinal pain concealed accomplishments in the Missionette Program. Health Department, he was instrumental in es- a Stage 3 ovarian cancer diagnosis. The can- It is an honor to represent the Fourth Con- tablishing some of the first national health cer, which had spread from Mrs. Goodman’s gressional District of Pennsylvania and a standards adopted by the Occupational Safety ovaries to parts of her abdomen, was discov- pleasure to salute such outstanding citizen and Health Administration for workers exposed ered during a surgery to remove her gall blad- such as Kayla. to lead, arsenic and other toxic substances. der. f Mr. Becker served as administrative assist- We can only imagine the worry that must HONORING BARRY PURVIS ant to Lynn Williams, after Williams became accompany such a diagnosis. The five-year international secretary in 1977 and inter- survival rate for Stage 1 ovarian cancer is ap- HON. BILL SHUSTER national president in 1983. Becker served two proximately ninety percent. This figure drops, OF PENNSYLVANIA drastically and devastatingly, to a fifteen to terms as international vice president for ad- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ministration, having been elected to that posi- twenty percent chance of survival once the tion in 1985 and re-elected in 1989. cancer has elevated to Stage 3. Mrs. Good- Thursday, March 30, 2006 As vice president, Becker chaired the United man was fortunate not only to receive imme- Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Steelworkers of America’s Aluminum Industry diate surgery and chemotherapy to treat the honor Barry Purvis, who was named the 2006

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.025 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E470 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 Pennsylvania High School Principal of the Rights, which states that ‘‘everyone has the unsustainable Federal budget deficits and the Year by the Pennsylvania Association of Ele- right to freedom of thought, conscience and quagmire in Iraq. mentary and Secondary School Principals. Dr. religion; this right includes freedom to It is an irresponsible budget gimmick to fund change his religion or belief.’’ Additionally, Purvis has served diligently for 3 years as the the war in Iraq through emergency spending. although Afghanistan is an Islamic state, its We are beginning the fourth year of war in principal of Chambersburg Area Senior High Constitution expressly grants followers of School. other religions the right to freely exercise Iraq. Clearly the Bush administration was Dr. Purvis has taken a pivotal role in chang- ‘‘their faith and perform their religious rites aware that there would be funding needs and ing the morale at Chambersburg Area Senior within the limits and the provisions of law.’’ had the opportunity to account for those needs High School by improving the school atmos- The case of Abdul Rahman highlights the in the proposed budget. Instead, the entire phere and reducing discipline problems. His need to define these limits. cost of this war—over $300 billion—is deferred vision for the school, which rests on a founda- Your steady and principled leadership dur- to be paid for by future generations. Congress tion of character-building, has vastly improved ing the uncertain post-war period earned you must have an honest debate about our in- the admiration and trust of the citizens of creasing budget deficit and the implications of the success of Chambersburg Area Senior Afghanistan, who chose you to defend their High School students. Regarded as a forward hard-won freedoms and rights as their first this debt on our country and our future. thinker, Dr. Purvis made major adjustments to democratically-elected President. Similarly, Every American soldier and marine de- the academic curriculum, resulting in the con- the international community has supported serves our support, as well as a realistic and siderable rise of state testing scores and the your reform efforts and we congratulate you honest strategy for success from the Bush ad- graduation rate. on the major social, political, economic and ministration. They also deserve a White House Prior to working as principal of Chambers- security improvements in Afghanistan since and Congress with the courage to pay for this burg Area Senior High School, Dr. Purvis the defeat of the Taliban. war today, not pass the cost on to the children The strength and legitimacy of your demo- served as principal of Chambersburg Area and grandchildren of every American, includ- cratically-elected Government will ulti- ing every veteran who has sacrificed so much Middle School, which he led to earn the Na- mately depend upon that government’s abil- tional Blue Ribbon School designation. He car- in Iraq. ity and willingness to protect and promote For the violence and murder to stop and the ried his success and experience over to the the fundamental human rights of all Afghani high school, overcoming significant challenges citizens. While it may be permitted under Is- civil conflict in Iraq to end, it will require Iraqis, and earning an even more prestigious award. lamic Sharia law, the threatened execution not Americans, willing to find solutions to bring As the Pennsylvania High School Principal of of Mr. Rahman would have violated the U.N. security, stability and peace to their country. the Year, Dr. Purvis will compete for the title Universal Declaration of Human Rights and U.S. troops should never be in the position of the Afghan Constitution. We are grateful of National High School Principal of the Year. being referees in a bloody civil war. Unfortu- this man’s life has been spared, and we hope nately, the Bush administration has no inten- Dr. P, as he is endearingly known by his that your government will take this oppor- students, has made a great contribution to the tion of drawing down U.S. troops anytime tunity to clarify the supremacy of Afghani- soon. The passage of this bill today will en- betterment of our youth and will continue to stan’s constitution within your country’s enhance the education of many. The Cham- legal framework. sure, regrettably, that our troops will remain in Iraq for the foreseeable future. bersburg Area Senior High School faculty and f student body are fortunate to have such a de- f EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL AP- voted leader. The citizens of Chambersburg CONGRATULATIONS TO BETHEL PROPRIATIONS ACT FOR DE- and I would like thank Dr. Purvis for his serv- APOSTOLIC TEMPLE ON ITS FIF- FENSE, THE GLOBAL WAR ON ice and dedication to the education system TIETH ANNIVERSARY and the community. TERROR, AND HURRICANE RE- COVERY, 2006 f HON. KENDRICK B. MEEK EXPRESSING SENSE OF THE SPEECH OF OF FLORIDA HOUSE REGARDING RELIGIOUS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PERSECUTION IN AFGHANISTAN HON. BETTY McCOLLUM Thursday, March 30, 2006 OF MINNESOTA Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, today I IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SPEECH OF rise to pay tribute to the Bethel Apostolic Tem- HON. ADAM B. SCHIFF Thursday, March 16, 2006 ple on the occasion of its Golden Anniversary. OF CALIFORNIA The House in Committee of the Whole On Saturday, April 1, 2006, the Reverend IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES House on the State of the Union had under Carol Nash will lead her congregation, along consideration the bill (H.R. 4939) making with several guests, to celebrate this milestone Wednesday, March 29, 2006 emergency supplemental appropriations for at the Church’s Humanitarian Awards Banquet Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2006, and to be held at the Miami Embassy Suites Hotel strong support of H. Res. 736, a resolution to for other purposes: Grand Ballroom. This event will also honor two Condemn Afghan Attempts to Prosecute Con- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Chair- distinguished members of our community, verts. I share my colleagues’ deep concern re- man, I rise in opposition to H.R. 4939. Today, former Congresswoman Carrie P. Meek, my garding the case of Mr. Abdul Rahman and Congress continues its owe-as-you-go policy mother, and the Reverend Dr. George E. the questions it raises regarding Afghanistan’s of borrowing and spending, burdening future McRae, my pastor and the pastor of Mt. Tabor commitment to religious freedom and human generations of Americans with an additional Missionary Baptist Church. rights. I have sent a letter to Afghan President $92 billion in debt and at the same time em- Founded by the late Dr. Doris R.L. Atkins in Hamid Karzai, and I submit it for the RECORD. bracing the Bush administration’s disastrous January 9, 1956, this citadel of faith in Miami- DEAR PRESIDENT KARZAI: I am writing to war in Iraq. Giving this administration more Dade County has been an unerring witness to you concerning the case of Abdul Rahman, borrowed money for billion dollar no-bid con- the spiritual revivalism that undergirds the whose conversion to Christianity could have tracts without congressional oversight is irre- power of fasting, faith and prayer. Dr. Atkins cost him his life under traditional Sharia sponsible and a policy I can neither justify nor was the resilient leader of this church and an law. defend. inspiration to a remarkable group of pastors, Along with many in the U.S. as well as in In a cynical maneuver, the Republican ma- Britain, Germany, Italy, and Australia, I am evangelists and bishops who are now minis- relieved that Mr. Rahman will not be tried jority has linked nearly $70 billion more for tering to a number of churches throughout for exercising a right that is guaranteed to maintaining U.S. troops in the middle of an South Florida. Dr. Michael Moss took over in him by national and international law. I rec- Iraqi civil war with the resources needed to as- 1988, and through his dynamic theological ognize that you face strong domestic opposi- sist Katrina’s victims and the funds necessary teaching and progressive preaching, Bethel tion to this decision, but I urge the Afghan to keep alive the victims of genocide in Su- Apostolic Temple experienced a period of tre- government to stand by it and to use this op- dan’s Darfur region. I strongly support pro- mendous growth. This visionary pastor led his portunity to demonstrate your Govern- viding our fellow citizens of the gulf coast with congregation in 1997 to what has now be- ment’s commitment to tolerance, the rule of the resources to rebuild their lives and their law, and the democratic ideals that are just come one of the landmark churches in South beginning to take root in Afghanistan. communities and increasing our commitment Florida. Afghanistan’s Constitution stipulates that to bringing peace to Sudan. However, I cannot Reverend Nash assumed the pastorate in Afghanistan shall abide by the United Na- support an administration policy of consistently 1998 from Dr. Moss, and under her leader- tions’ Universal Declaration of Human misleading the American people about the ship, its burgeoning membership has taken on

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.030 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E471 a tremendous renewal of faith and its outreach head coach, the Badgers have set a school CONGRATULATING KIMMIE MEISS- mission has gone above and beyond the con- record for victories, showing steady improve- NER ON HER PERFORMANCE AT fines of our community. With its vision of holis- ment on the way to this year’s ultimate prize. THE 2006 WORLD FIGURE SKAT- tic empowerment, grounded in biblical prin- Coach Johnson’s players, of course, de- ING CHAMPIONSHIPS ciples, Bethel Apostolic Temple evokes a spirit serve the bulk of the credit for their own suc- of excellence grounded in compassion and cess. And during this year’s tournament, no HON. BENJAMIN L. CARDIN charity not only to its members, but to all Badger star shone brighter than goaltender OF MARYLAND Jessie Vetter. A freshman from Cottage those who seek refuge and solace in its sanc- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tuary. Grove, Wisconsin, Jessie allowed one goal With the establishment of the Bethel Temple during three tournament games. Prior to this Thursday, March 30, 2006 Community Development Corporation, My Sis- year, no goalie had ever recorded a shutout Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ter’s Closet (a boutique for women and fami- during the women’s Frozen Four. Jessie ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating lies going from Welfare to Work), along with earned two, in the semi-finals and the cham- Kimmie Meissner, who on Saturday, March the Bethel Computer Lab, the Bethel Institute pionship. It is no surprise, then, that she was 25, won the gold medal in Ice Skating at the for Living, Bethel Partners in Dominion, and its named the tournament’s Most Outstanding 2006 World Championships in Calgary, Al- Youth Ministry Council, this faithinstitution has Player. berta. truly become not only an instrument of spir- It is, however, not an individual honor but Kimmie was raised in Bel Air, Maryland, just itual enrichment, but also a vehicle for eco- the accomplishment of a team that I wish most a few miles from my home town of Baltimore. nomic development. It is in this context that I to recognize today. Some of the players joked She began skating at age 6, and it was then commend the tremendous work of Rev. Nash, after the game that they had now stolen away that she began preparing for competition. With and cherish the memory of Dr. Atkins and Dr. from their neighbors to the west the title of the help of coach Pam Gregory, Kimmie has Moss who bequeathed to her a vibrant Church ‘‘the State of Hockey.’’ Wisconsin couldn’t be trained at the University of Delaware Figure and an active congregation. prouder. Skating Club since she was just 8 years old. Through the longevity of its faith-action serv- f In 2004, she won the State Farm Junior U.S. ice, Bethel Apostolic Temple has truly per- Championships. In 2005, she landed the CONGRATULATING FRANCES severed in showing us the Way and expound- bronze medal at the U.S. Championships and KOVALESKI UPON BEING NAMED ing for us the Truth that emanate from our became just the second U.S. woman ever to ‘‘WOMAN OF THE YEAR’’ BY THE knowledge of the Gospels. It is through this land a triple axel. LACKAWANNA COUNTY FEDERA- ministry that its role has been defined and is Last February, Kimmie represented the TION OF DEMOCRATIC WOMEN wisely articulated by the injunction that the United States at the Winter Olympics in genuine measure of our love for God is condi- Torino, placing sixth out of 24 competitors. tioned by our commitment ‘‘* * * to the least HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI Along with Sasha Cohen and Emily Hughes, of these.’’ OF PENNSYLVANIA she was part of the trio of Americans to finish Indeed, Rev. Nash’s timely and inspiring IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in the top 10. Although it was her first Olym- leadership is genuinely admirable. As a serv- Thursday, March 30, 2006 pics, Kimmie performed beyond all expecta- ant of God and as a community leader, she Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today tions and was confident even in the company has indeed earned our deepest respect and to ask you and my esteemed colleagues in the of her impressive competition. superlative commendation. This is the legacy House of Representatives to pay tribute to On Saturday, however, Kimmie truly shone of Bethel Apostolic Temple on its 50th Anni- Frances Kovaleski of Lackawanna County, above all others. Her performance was simply versary. Our entire community shares the joy Pennsylvania, who has been named ‘‘Woman amazing; it featured seven triple jumps, includ- of this occasion and extends best wishes for of the Year’’ by the Lackawanna County Fed- ing the only two triple-triple combinations of the future. eration of Democratic Women. the day. It earned her a personal best 129.7 f Mrs. Kovaleski is a daughter of Marguerite points—more than enough to land her first Schmidt Roland and Francis Roland, of West place and win the admiration of thousands of HONORING UNIVERSITY OF Scranton. Her parents were active in Demo- fans. Although she entered the final program WISCONSIN WOMEN’S HOCKEY cratic Party politics and they impressed upon in third place, Kimmie did not let that discour- their daughter the political values they shared. age her. Instead, the Fallston High School stu- HON. TAMMY BALDWIN Even in high school, Frances volunteered to dent whose motto is, ‘‘Do what you enjoy; OF WISCONSIN work in a Scranton mayoral campaign for enjoy what you do,’’ surprised everyone by IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES former Democratic Mayor James J. Walsh. winning the championship. In doing so, she Thursday, March 30, 2006 Frances graduated from St. Patrick’s High became the first woman to win the World School in Scranton and went on to cosme- Championships in her first appearance since Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to tology school, after which she and a friend Oksana Baiul’s victory in 1993. recognize the University of Wisconsin wom- opened their own beauty salon. Kimmie’s performance was special—and I en’s hockey team, which on March 26 de- Frances married Kenneth Kovaleski in 1971 am certain that it will be remembered by her feated the Gophers of the University of Min- and the couple had three sons. Several years family, friends and fans for a long time. ESPN nesota 3–0 to claim the 2006 NCAA national ago, Mrs. Kovaleski worked on the campaign has called her victory ‘‘one of the biggest up- championship. This is the first national cham- of Linda Munley, who was running for register sets in World Figure Skating Championships pionship won by the Badger women’s hockey of wills in Lackawanna County. Mrs. Munley history.’’ After the event, Kimmie remarked, team, and in fact it is the first NCAA cham- won and appointed Mrs. Kovaleski to serve as ‘‘Standing on the podium and watching the pionship for any UW women’s team since her deputy. flag . . . was such a proud moment for me.’’ 1985. This also marks the first Division I wom- Mrs. Kovaleski is also active in other civic Mr. Speaker, I want Kimmie to know that she en’s hockey title won by a school outside the endeavors. Besides serving as a member and has also made Maryland and the United State of Minnesota. treasurer in the Lackawanna County Federa- States proud, and I urge my colleagues to join The championship victory was a fitting end tion of Democratic Women, Mrs. Kovaleski me in congratulating her. to an amazing year for the Badgers, which in- also works tirelessly for St. Joseph’s Center, f cluded a record 36 victories and a Patty serving as president in 2005 and presidential Kazmeier National Player of the Year Award advisor this year. She also served on its board HONORING FORMER AIR FORCE winner in junior forward Sara Bauer. The final of directors and many of the committees. CAPTAIN JOHN HAYES game was also UW’s fifth victory of the sea- Mrs. Kovaleski served as president of the son in six games against the archrival Go- Society of Irish Women in 2004. HON. KENNY MARCHANT phers, a team that had dominated the Badgers Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratu- OF TEXAS in years past. lating Mrs. Kovaleski. Her devotion to Demo- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES For Badgers coach Mark Johnson, this ac- cratic causes and her commitment to family complishment can stand beside his greatest and community have touched the lives of Thursday, March 30, 2006 as a player, including the 1977 NCAA men’s many people in a positive manner and have Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, today I rise championship and the ‘‘Miracle on Ice’’ 1980 improved the quality of life in Lackawanna to recognize former Air Force Captain John M. Olympic gold medal. In each of his 4 years as County. Hayes for receiving The Silver Beaver Award,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.033 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E472 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 the highest award Boy Scouts Councils may agement in a positive step toward ecosystem It is our intention to constructively contribute grant to a volunteer. John is the Military and management, incorporating our vastly in- to the coming debate in the House over na- Veterans Affairs Liaison in my Irving, Texas, creased scientific understanding of ocean eco- tional ocean fishery management by stressing office. systems and the rapidly developing body of policy to strengthen the conservation of ocean John’s devotion to the Boy Scouts of Amer- experience in this approach gained by the Re- fish resources while supporting the extraor- ica through the years makes him well-deserv- gional Fishery Management Councils in dinary efforts of our administration and Re- ing of this award. He is a District Commis- projects around the Nation. It would require gional Fishery Management Councils. I urge sioner in the Circle Ten Council and, with his the administration to develop comprehensive my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 5051 and wife, Mary, chaired the Circle Ten Council guidelines, with the councils, to support the join us in this critical policy debate. POW WOW for 2 years. He has also taught drafting of Fishery Ecosystem Plans. Science f on ecosystems is very advanced, to the extent POW WOW at the Boy Scouts’ Philmont, New INTRODUCTION OF THE DESIGN that over 200 scientists signed on to a sci- Mexico, Training Center for 4 years. PIRACY PROHIBITION ACT A former Air Force combat pilot, he currently entific consensus statement on ecosystem serves as the Senior Vice Commander of the management organized by the Communication Dallas Chapter of the Military Order of The Partnership for Science and the Sea (COM- HON. BOB GOODLATTE World Wars. John is also very active in the PASS) on March 21, 2005. OF VIRGINIA Dallas Veterans Foundation. He will be a For stocks that are designated as over- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES chairman for the Military Order of the World fished, our bill proposes to require overfishing Thursday, March 30, 2006 Wars sponsored Youth Leadership Con- to end by a date certain. Currently, and as a Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to in- ference in June in Fort Worth, Texas. The result of a ruling by a Federal district court troduce the Design Piracy Prohibition Act. conference provides leadership and patriotic which held that overfishing could occur during Article I section 8 of our Constitution lays training for high school students. the rebuilding of the stock, overfishing is a the framework for our Nation’s copyright laws. I congratulate John on this high honor from continuing problem for stocks in many parts of It grants Congress the power to award inven- the Boy Scouts. This country thanks him for the Nation. Out of 175 stocks in the Nation tors and creators, for limited amounts of time, his dedicated service—both in the military and about which the status is known, 53 are over- exclusive rights to their inventions and works. with the Boy Scouts of America. The 24th Dis- fished. Rebuilding time frames for some spe- The Founding Fathers realized that this type trict of Texas benefits from having a man with cies have reached over 40 years in length, of incentive was crucial to ensure that America such valuable experience and strong alle- during which overfishing may continue under would become the world’s leader in innovation giance to his country serve them in my con- current law. However, the administration sup- and creativity. This truth is still applicable gressional office. ports ending overfishing by a date certain, well today. We must be sure to continue to reward f within a time in which Regional Fishery Man- our innovators with the exclusive rights to their agement Councils could act, so that rebuilding works for limited periods of time. This incen- INTRODUCTION OF THE MAGNU- time frames become less contentious. The tive is still necessary to maintain America’s SON-STEVENS FISHERY CON- Pombo-Young-Frank bill extends the rebuild- position as the world leader in innovation. SERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ing time frame for fisheries from the current 10 Most industrialized nations provide legal REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2006 year limit under a wide range of cir- protection for fashion designs. However, in the cumstances, but does not address overfishing United States—the world’s leader in innovation HON. WAYNE T. GILCHREST at all. This approach takes us backward, not and creativity—fashion designs are not pro- tected by traditional intellectual property pro- OF MARYLAND forward in ensuring sustainable use of our tections. Copyrights are not granted to apparel IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES fisheries. The National Environmental Policy Act because articles of clothing, which are both Thursday, March 30, 2006 (NEPA) is very controvertial, as my colleagues creative and functional, are considered ‘‘useful Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, today, along know. The Senate, in its Magnuson-Stevens articles,’’ as opposed to works of art. Design with my distinguished colleagues, Representa- reauthorization bill, requires the administration patents are intended to protect ornamental de- tives EHLERS, BARTLETT, LEACH, FARR, CASTLE, to work between the National Oceanic and At- signs, but clothing rarely meets the criteria of and SHAYS, I am introducing legislation to re- mospheric Administration and the White patentability. Trademarks only protect brand authorize the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Con- House Council on Environmental Quality to names and logos, not the clothing itself, and servation and Management Act, which pro- better integrate the process required by NEPA the Supreme Court has refused to extend vides the U.S. with authority to manage fish- and the process required by Magnuson-Ste- trade dress protection to apparel designs. Thus, if a thief steals a creator’s design, re- eries in U.S. waters. Our bill would enact crit- vens for its Fishery Management Plan proc- produces and sells that article of clothing, and ical updates to our current national fishery pol- ess. Given that the Resources Committee has attaches a fake label to the garment to market icy management that will ensure sustainable held only one hearing on this issue, I believe it, he would be violating Federal law. However fisheries well into the future. I urge my col- this is the best approach. Providing the Sec- under current law it is perfectly legal for that leagues to join us in cosponsoring H.R. 5051. retary of NOAA with the authority to waive same thief to steal that same design, repro- Both nationally and globally, our fishery re- NEPA for Fishery Management Plans, as the duce and sell the article of clothing if he does sources are stretched to meet increasing de- Pombo-Young-Frank bill proposes, is too not attach a fake label to it. This loophole al- mand—Americans alone now consume over 4 broad to capture potential pitfalls about which lows pirates to cash in on others’ efforts and billion pounds of seafood annually. Fishery we are only beginning to understand. prevents designers in our country from reaping management has improved greatly since the Finally, the most important aspect of fishery a fair return on their creative investments. enactment of the Sustainable Fisheries Act in management is the containment of annual har- Furthermore, the production life cycle for 1996. Yet too often, we continue to experience vest limits within boundaries that support sus- fashion designs is very short. Once a par- overfishing and overcapacity—too many boats tainability of fishery stocks. The number of ticular design gains popularity through a fash- and too few fish—throughout our Nation’s overfished stocks demonstrates our failure to ion show or other event, a designer usually oceans—a situation that is not sustainable achieve this important limit. The Senate has has only a limited number of months to effec- over time. In national policy, we must make been engaged in a productive negotiation over tively produce and market that original design. the sustainable harvest of our living marine re- this issue—how to establish accountability for Further complicating this short-term cycle is sources and the ecosystems on which they the administration and the Councils and to the fact that once a design is made public, pi- depend our highest priority. support stronger science in setting and achiev- rates can now virtually immediately offer an I commend Chairman POMBO, Mr. FRANK, ing such limits. The Pombo-Young-Frank bill identical knock-off piece on the Internet for and Mr. YOUNG for their introduction of a com- does include many provisions to strengthen distribution. Again, under current law this theft prehensive Magnuson-Stevens reauthorization the state of fishery management science and is legal unless the thief also reproduces a bill, and I believe its close alignment with S. the use of science in management decisions, label or trademark. Because these knock-offs 2012 is a solid step forward in improving the but does not address the need to ensure that are of such poor quality, these reproductions health of our Nation’s fisheries. However, I be- fisheries are not stretched beyond the scientif- not only take away designer’s profits, but also lieve recent advances in marine science and a ically established limits it provides. While I be- damage the designer’s reputation. greater understanding of our complex ocean lieve neither the House nor the Senate has Chapter 13 of the Copyright Act offers pro- ecosystems can help shape an even stronger achieved consensus on this issue, our bill in- tection for the designs of vessel hulls. The De- bill. Our bill proposes to move fisheries man- cludes such accountability. sign Piracy Prohibition Act protects designers

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.037 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E473 by amending Chapter 13 of the Copyright Act as the ‘‘people’s attorney’’ with pride and he For the record, I have been a long time sup- to also include protections for fashion designs. never, ever let his own success in public life porter of our Nation’s veterans and will con- Because the production life cycle for fashion go to his head or prejudice his judgment; for tinue to support them in their causes and designs is very short, this legislation similarly David, doing the right thing was the only way needs. provides a tailored period of protection that to do business. In fact, I have introduced legislation that suits the industry—3 years. This legislation Mr. Speaker, in 2002, David offered his con- would further honor them, H.R. 995, the Com- further establishes damages for infringing a siderable talents and service to the people of bat Military Medically Retired Veterans Act, fashion design at the greater of $250,000 or south Alabama when he ran for the Repub- which allows combat military medically retired $5 per copy. lican nomination for U.S. Congress. While for veterans who received the Purple Heart to col- As America’s fashion design industry con- obvious reasons I am personally grateful that lect their prorated military retirement pay. tinues to grow, America’s designers deserve the outcome turned out as it did, I can say Many of these veterans served in the Viet- and need the type of legal protections that are with all honesty and candor that had the vot- nam War, and gave their all for us and should already available in other countries. The De- ers rendered a different judgment, the people not be penalized just because they are receiv- sign Piracy Prohibition Act establishes these of south Alabama would have been well- ing compensation from the VA. While many protections, and I urge my colleagues to sup- served by David’s passion for public service disabled veterans go on to enjoy happy, pro- port this important legislation. and by his drive and determination to rep- ductive lives, many are unable to due to the resent one and all equally. severity of their wounds. f Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask my col- Under any doctrine of fairness it is our leagues to join me today in recognizing John CONGRATULATIONS TO DAVID moral obligation to ‘‘care for him who shall David Whetstone for his tireless efforts and his WHETSTONE ON THE OCCASION have borne the battle.’’ This bill is a good step tremendous contributions to the citizens of the OF HIS RETIREMENT in correcting the inequity of retirement and dis- First Congressional District and the entire State of Alabama. ability benefit to our combat disabled veterans. HON. JO BONNER The experience and enthusiasm he brought Again, let me express my support for the OF ALABAMA to his job and the concern and compassion he Vietnam Veterans Memorial Visitor Center IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES displayed for all people in Baldwin County are Deadline Enforcement Act and my gratitude Thursday, March 30, 2006 unquestioned and unparalleled. He has indeed for Chairman POMBO’s leadership for our Na- been a genuine asset to the entire State of tion’s veterans. Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with great Alabama. On behalf of the thousands of men, f pride and real pleasure that I rise today to pay women and children he has assisted over the tribute to a longtime friend and a lifetime pub- TRIBUTE TO THE AMERICAN RED past two decades, I am proud to say, ‘‘Thank lic servant, John David Whetstone, on the oc- CROSS you, David, for a job well done.’’ casion of his retirement after serving as Bald- While I am confident David will continue to win County District Attorney for nearly 22 remain actively involved in the life of Baldwin HON. JERRY MORAN years. County and southern Alabama for many years OF KANSAS David Whetstone is the consummate profes- to come, I hope this new chapter in his life af- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sional. Joining the district attorney’s office in fords him a few more free minutes each day Thursday, March 30, 2006 1979 as an assistant DA, David has dedicated to enjoy the richness of life and the love of his practically all of his adult life fighting crime and wonderful wife, Lynne, as well as his fine chil- Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise standing up for the people of Baldwin County dren, Deborah, J.D. and Chris, and the newest today to recognize March as American Red as the people’s attorney. Moreover, he has Whetstone, grandson John David III. Cross month. This faithful organization strives served the families of Baldwin County and On behalf of all his friends and admirers each day to carry out their motto, ‘‘There south Alabama with compassion, dedication throughout Alabama, I wish to extend to David when you need us.’’ On behalf of a grateful and a tremendous level of professionalism. and his family all the best, now and in the fu- nation, I thank the Red Cross for their impor- A 1963 graduate of Greenville High School, ture. tant service to those individuals in need. David went on to serve in the United States f This month we recognize the vital role Air Force during the Vietnam war era. He was played by this organization in communities honorably discharged as a sergeant in 1968, VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL across our Nation and abroad. Since its found- and he worked his way through college and VISITOR CENTER ENFORCEMENT ing in 1881 by Clara Barton, this organization law school using the G.I. Bill. David graduated ACT has been committed to serving America in from the University of West Florida in 1970, peace and in war, during times of natural dis- SPEECH OF and from the University of Alabama School of aster and national calamity. In 1905, this orga- Law in 1973. HON. JERRY WELLER nization was chartered by Congress ‘‘in accord In 1984, then-Governor George C. Wallace OF ILLINOIS with the military authorities as a medium of nominated David to the position of Baldwin IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES communication between the people of the County District Attorney. He was subsequently Tuesday, March 28, 2006 United States and their armed forces.’’ Since elected to his first 6-year term in 1986 and then, the Red Cross has provided communica- Mr. WELLER. Mr. Speaker, we owe our vet- has been reelected ever since, usually with tions and other humanitarian services to help erans a great debt of gratitude. Their sac- only token opposition. members of the U.S. military and their families rifices have protected the democratic ideals Throughout his tenure, David has been a around the world. that are the foundation of our country, and tireless advocate on behalf of all the people of Time and time again, from floods and torna- their heroism continues to be an example for Baldwin County. No one who ever called on does to diseases and terrorist attacks, the Red all Americans. David Whetstone didn’t get a prompt, personal That is why I rise today to express my Cross has led the way in providing disaster re- response. strong support of H.R. 4882, Vietnam Vet- lief in times of emergency. By offering cloth- David Whetstone is known for his powerful erans Memorial Visitor Center Deadline En- ing, food, shelter, health care, and mental and intimidating presence in the courtroom forcement Act. This bill would ensure the prop- health services, the Red Cross has extended and probably best known for his storytelling. er remembrance of Vietnam veterans and the a helping hand and provided comfort and en- Many will also remember his appearance on Vietnam War by designating a site for a visitor couragement to millions of people around the ‘‘The Phil Donahue Show’’ after filing more center for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. world. than 200 child support collection complaints in I voted ‘‘no’’ by accident on this important The Red Cross is also highly regarded for 1 day. bill yesterday, but strongly support it and in- their efforts in health and safety preparedness. But outside of the spotlight that comes with tended to vote ‘‘yes.’’ In order to be effective in times of crisis, it is his office, David has a heart as big as the Further, I praise Chairman POMBO for his imperative to have adequate preparation. The State of Alabama and as pure as a pound of leadership on this issue, and congratulate him Red Cross is instrumental in keeping the Na- gold. on the overwhelming support he received yes- tion’s blood banks supplied, by organizing and He is the type of person that empathizes terday on passage of the Act. conducting blood drives. The Red Cross has with people from all walks of life and has a As this valuable bill has not passed the also taken the lead in providing CPR and First tremendous, caring capacity for those who are Senate yet, I encourage them to take it up as Aid training to countless volunteers. In times less fortunate. David Whetstone wore his title soon as possible and pass it without delay. of trouble, these preparation efforts make all

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.041 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E474 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 the difference and embody the true spirit of HONORING THE MEMORY OF CALI- GOSPEL MUSIC WEEK the American people, which is to help out our FORNIA STATE SENATOR AL- fellow man in times of trouble. FRED E. ALQUIST HON. JIM COOPER In May, the American Red Cross will turn OF TENNESSEE 125 years old. This organization, while having HON. JIM COSTA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES its roots firmly steeped in the past, is eagerly OF CALIFORNIA Thursday, March 30, 2006 looking towards the future and overcoming the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES challenges that come our way. I have con- Mr. COOPER. Mr. Speaker, beginning this fidence they will succeed. The Red Cross is a Thursday, March 30, 2006 weekend, more than 3,000 individuals will vehicle for the common American to help their Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to gather in my hometown of Nashville to cele- neighbor and that spirit will never fade. I com- honor the memory of former California State brate one of the most exciting and fastest- mend the Red Cross for serving the United Senator Alfred E. Alquist. He is survived by growing segments of the music industry. While States and its international neighbors for 125 his wife, State Senator Elaine White Alquist; most people around the world think of Nash- years. son Alan Alquist; stepsons Peter and Bryan ville—Music City—as the place to come to White; and five grandchildren. enjoy the best country and bluegrass music in f Alfred Ernest Alquist was born in Memphis, the world, Nashville is also home to another Tennessee on August 2, 1908. He began his powerful music force: the Gospel Music Asso- PERSONAL EXPLANATION professional life as a railroad yardmaster and ciation. transportation supervisor, in which he dutifully From April 1st through April 5th, Nashville HON. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE served for 40 years. In his time with the rail- will host Gospel Music Week. It is five days of concerts, worship services, performance OF COLORADO road industry, Senator Alquist developed and cultivated a keen interest in transportation showcases, educational seminars and exhib- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES issues. With a passion for policy nested, Sen- its, all culminating on Wednesday evening with Thursday, March 30, 2006 ator Alquist joined his local Democratic Club in the GMA Music Awards. Known as the Dove San Jose, California, which proved to be a Awards, this year’s ceremony will be held at Mrs. MUSGRAVE. Mr. Speaker, I was un- stepping stone for his political career. the Grand Ole Opry House and hosted by Re- available on the evening of Tuesday, March Ever the dedicated citizen, Senator Alquist becca St. James and Kirk Franklin, both 28, 2006, and as a result, was not able to cast embarked on the campaign trail and was Grammy and Dove Award winners them- my vote on rollcall vote 69. The matter under elected to the California State Assembly in selves. St. James and Franklin will also per- consideration was passage of the Milk Regu- 1962. After his years in the Assembly, Senator form during the evening’s program that will latory Equity Act, S. 2120. Alquist was elected to the State Senate in feature artists ranging from soulful gospel to Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would 1966 and became the first full-time Legislature guitar driven pop to powerful quartet harmo- have recorded my vote on rollcall vote 69 as that same year. nizing and more. ‘‘yea’’ in support of passage for S. 2120, the Senator Alquist’s legislative legacy includes The sold-out event is a testimony to the Milk Regulatory Equity Act. serving as Chair of the Senate’s Budget Com- popularity and power of gospel music today. mittee for 15 years. His concern for Califor- Christian and gospel music sales have in- f nia’s future earthquake preparedness led him creased from $381 million in 1995 to over $700 million annually, an 80 percent increase TRIBUTE TO A FALLEN SOLDIER to author landmark legislation that created the state’s Seismic Safety Commission and the over the last decade. Over 43.5 million units of Energy Commission. Senator Alquist spear- Christian and gospel music CDs, cassettes, HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS headed a bill that established the Santa Clara digital albums, and digital tracks were sold in OF FLORIDA Valley Transportation Authority and was the 2005. That figure represents over 6 percent of all music sales in 2005 and ranks higher than IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pioneer in leading an almost two decade effort to build a state office in San Jose, California. Latin, Soundtracks, Jazz or Classical releases. Thursday, March 30, 2006 When the building was completed in 1983, it As John W. Styll, president of the Gospel Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to was named in Mr. Alquist’s honor. Music Association has said, this growth in the pay tribute to a fallen soldier from the Ninth Senator Alquist retired from the State Legis- Christian and gospel music isn’t surprising. Congressional District of Florida. Army Ser- lature in 1996. He was 88 years old when he ‘‘The heart of gospel music may be in the geant Michael D. Rowe, from New Port ended his tenure and made history by becom- lyrics, but the soul is in the passion with which Richey, Florida, was killed by a roadside bomb ing the State Senate’s longest-serving mem- these artists perform.’’ in Rutbah, Iraq. His death came just before his ber. Clearly, the world is passionate about gos- 24th birthday. Senator Alfred Ernest Alquist passed away pel music and the many outstanding artists who will appear in Nashville in the coming Michael’s decision to join the military dem- on Monday, March 27, 2006 at the age of 97. days. I salute each of these individuals, and onstrates his dedication and service to this na- I had the great pleasure of being Senator the Gospel Music Association, as they prepare tion. Following high school, our young people Alquist’s seatmate while we served together in for the 37th Annual GMA Music Awards and have many opportunities and wide open doors the Senate. Senator Alquist touched the lives Gospel Music Week and another year of in- to pursue their dreams. Michael chose the of many people and his legacy will remain spiring performances that touch the hearts and path of the Army because he believed that it vivid for generations to come. His genuine souls of music lovers worldwide. was his honor and duty to serve his nation concern and vision for the future have all and protect our freedom. In fact, he had told made the state of California a much better f his mother that the Army would be his career place. REGARDING RESOLUTION OF IN- and had re-enlisted for another four years of f QUIRY SEEKING DOCUMENTS service shortly before he died. He did not CONCERNING WHITE HOUSE choose this path because he thought that he PERSONAL EXPLANATION KNOWLEDGE OF THE CONSTITU- would one day become a war hero or that this TIONAL INFIRMITY OF S. 1932 career would provide him a lucrative and ex- HON. DAN BOREN travagant life. OF OKLAHOMA HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN I know it has been a very hard and difficult IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF CALIFORNIA time for Michael’s family and friends, espe- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cially since Michael’s wife, Rebecca, is expect- Thursday, March 30, 2006 ing their first child in July. I hope they know Mr. BOREN. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. Thursday, March 30, 2006 that the nation thanks him for his service and 43, 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 55, 59, 60, and Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I and a we appreciate the sacrifices they had to make 63, had I been present, I would have voted number of my colleagues are introducing leg- for us as well. ‘‘yes’’. islation to investigate the White House’s Let freedom ring where all can hear it and Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 44, 46, 53, 54, knowledge of the constitutional defects of S. let Sergeant Michael Rowe’s memory be eter- 56, 57, 58, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, and 67, had I 1932, the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, at the nal. been present, I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ time the President signed the bill into law.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.045 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E475 On February 8, 2006, President Bush bus Reconciliation Act of 2005. During the House and Senate had voted for different bills, signed into law a version of S. 1932 that was House-Senate conference committee on the the House having adopted a version that pro- different in substance from the version the bill, a significant last-minute issue arose in the vided for 36 months for DME and the Senate U.S. House of Representatives passed on conference involving how long Medicare having adopted a version that provided for 13 February 1, 2006. The House-passed version should pay for durable medical equipment, months. of the legislation required the Medicare pro- DME. Existing Medicare law provided for pay- Because the budget legislation originated in gram to lease ‘‘durable medical equipment,’’ ments for DME by Medicare under a fee the Senate, the official version was returned to such as wheelchairs, for seniors and other schedule for an unlimited period of time. In an the Senate before being transmitted to the beneficiaries for up to 36 months, while the effort to reduce Medicare spending, the con- President for his signature. At this point, a version of the legislation signed by the Presi- ferees tentatively agreed to reduce the dura- Senate clerk made a second substantive dent limited the duration of these leases to tion of Medicare payment to just 13 months. change in the legislation, revising the House- just 13 months. As the Congressional Budget This proposal, however, generated objec- passed text to reflect the original Senate- Office reported, this seemingly small change tions from a Senator and Representative from passed amendment. This change restored the from 36 months to 13 months has a dispropor- Ohio, where a major manufacturer of oxygen 13-month period for coverage of DME other tionately large budgetary impact, cutting Medi- equipment is located. To accommodate their than oxygen equipment. care outlays by $2 billion over the next 5 concerns, the conference report reduced the On February 7, the budget legislation was years. duration of Medicare payments for most DME presented to the President. The documents Under the U.S. Constitution, a bill cannot to 13 months, but directed Medicare to con- transmitted to the President included an attes- become law unless the same version is tinue to pay for oxygen equipment for 36 tation by House Speaker DENNIS HASTERT and passed by both Houses of Congress and months. The final conference report was filed President pro tern of the Senate TED STEVENS signed by the President. It appears that the on December 19, 2005. that the legislation had been passed by both Republican congressional leadership knew The House passed the conference report on the Senate and the House. that the process of enacting S. 1932 violated S. 1932 on December 19, 2005, by a vote of On the morning of February 8, the White this principle. Now evidence is mounting that 212–206. House Office of Management and Budget noti- the President and his staff may have know- The Senate considered the conference re- fied Republican congressional staff that the ingly participated in this constitutionally infirm port on December 19, 20, and 21. During that version of the legislation presented to the process. President was not the same as the version of As I wrote to former White House chief of consideration, several points of order were the legislation passed by the House. This in- staff Andrew Card on March 15, I have raised against the report and sustained as vio- formation was conveyed to the office of House learned that the Speaker of the House advised lating the congressional budget process. A Speaker HASTERT. The Speaker’s chief of staff the White House of the differences between motion was made to waive these points of then called senior staff at the White House to the House-passed bill and the bill presented to order but that motion was defeated. The effect advise the White House of this mistake and to the President before the President signed the was to defeat the conference report in the Senate. request a delay in signing of the legislation. legislation. This account was confirmed in a The Wall Street Journal recently published March 22 Wall Street Journal article, which re- On December 21, the Senate passed S. an account of the communications between ported that the Speaker’s chief of staff ‘‘called 1932 with an amendment that reflected the the Speaker’s chief of staff and the White a high ranking White House official’’ and contents of the conference report, minus the House. According to the Wall Street Journal, ‘‘asked the Administration to delay pro- items that generated the points of order. The the Speaker’s office ‘‘confirmed . . . that the ceedings until the problem could be addressed vote in the Senate was a tie, and Vice Presi- Illinois Republican had asked the administra- by the House and Senate.’’ Nevertheless, the dent CHENEY cast the deciding vote. This bill, tion to delay proceedings until the problem President signed S. 1932 into law without any as amended, was then sent back to the House could be addressed by the House and Sen- action by the House and Senate to address for its concurrence. ate.’’ Indeed, the Wall Street Journal reported, the problem. In the process of transmitting the bill, as This information has serious constitutional amended, back to the House, the Senate clerk ‘‘When the Speaker and Senate Majority implications. When the President took the oath made a significant substantive change to the Leader . . . went to the White House for the of office, he swore to ‘‘preserve, protect, and legislation. This change extended the duration Feb. 8 ceremony, they expected only a ‘mock defend the Constitution of the United States.’’ of Medicare payments for all DME to 36 ceremony’—not a real signing of the parch- If the President signed S. 1932 knowing its months, the same time period provided in the ment that had been presented in error.’’ constitutional infirmity, he would in effect be Senate amendment for oxygen equipment. On the afternoon of February 8, despite the placing himself above the Constitution. The Senate clerk realized the mistake, and the communications from the House Speaker, the The President’s decision to authorize the Republican House leadership was informed of President signed the bill. The version the National Security Agency to conduct the error in January, several weeks before President signed is the version that reflected warrantless wiretaps despite Federal laws for- final House floor action was scheduled to the Senate-passed amendment, not the bidding the practice has raised questions in occur. House-passed text. the minds of many Americans about whether Such errors in formal messages between THE NEED FOR THE RESOLUTION he considers himself bound by the laws en- the houses are not unprecedented. They are Over 100 years ago, the Supreme Court ad- acted by Congress. The mounting evidence recorded in the House precedents as having dressed whether a bill could become law if the that the President signed the Reconciliation occurred as long ago as March 13, 1800, and version signed by the President differed from Act into law knowing that it differed from the as recently as July 12, 2005. They are typi- the version passed by the House and Senate. legislation passed by Congress now raises the cally handled by sending the legislation back In the case of Field v. Clark, 143 US 649 issue whether he considers himself bound by to the Senate for the mistake to be corrected. (1892), the Court held that the President could the provisions of the Federal Constitution. The response by the Republican leadership rely on the attestation of the Speaker of the Given the constitutional issues at stake, it is to the error in S. 1932, however, was without House and the President of the Senate that imperative that Congress exercise its oversight precedent. It constitutes a violation of the the legislation before the President was the powers to examine what the President and his House Rules and of the Constitution itself. same as the legislation that passed the Con- staff knew about the defects in S. 1932 and Apparently concerned that any additional gress. But the Court also recognized that the how they considered and acted on any such vote in the Senate could endanger passage of outcome would be different if there were a information. The resolution of inquiry I am in- the legislation, the Republican leadership did ‘‘deliberate conspiracy’’ to ignore the Constitu- troducing today would advance such a con- not seek to correct the problem. Instead, the tion. As the Court wrote: gressional inquiry by requesting that the White Republican leadership brought the legislation It is said that . . . it becomes possible for House provide Congress with all documents to the House floor on February 1 without re- the Speaker of the House of Representatives relating to information the White House re- vealing to the Democratic leadership or the and the President of the Senate to impose ceived about the difference between the body of the House that the 36-month period in upon the people as a law a bill that was version of the bill the House passed on Feb- the legislation before the House did not rep- never passed by Congress. But this possi- ruary 1 and the version the President signed bility is too remote to be seriously consid- resent the legislation passed by the Senate. ered in the present inquiry. It suggests a de- on February 8. On February 1, the House voted on the liberate conspiracy to which the presiding BACKGROUND version of the bill, as amended, that contained officers, the committees on enrolled bills, Last fall, the House and Senate passed dif- the DME mistake. The vote was extremely and the clerks of the two houses must nec- ferent versions of the Deficit Reduction Omni- close, 216 to 214. As a result of this vote, the essarily be parties, all acting with a common

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.051 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E476 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 purpose to defeat an expression of the pop- dings, and, of course, deaths as well. Always EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL AP- ular will in the mode prescribed by the con- warm, always accessible, Rabbi Simckes has PROPRIATIONS ACT FOR DE- stitution. guided our community as pastor and friend. FENSE, THE GLOBAL WAR ON It now appears that the possibility that a TERROR, AND HURRICANE RE- Our community has been blessed to have President would knowingly sign legislation that COVERY, 2006 did not pass Congress is no longer ‘‘too re- such a devoted and passionate leader. Though Rabbi Simckes will be missed his role mote to be seriously considered.’’ In fact, this SPEECH OF is exactly what appears to have happened as congressional rabbi, his spirit and convic- when President Bush signed the Reconcili- tions will remain as a permanent legacy for HON. CAROLYN C. KILPATRICK ation Act. the community. The importance he placed on OF MICHIGAN learning, and his deep devotion to the Jewish To learn more about this matter, I wrote the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES President’s chief of staff, Andrew Card, on people and their faith, have inspired us all, March 15, seeking information on the Presi- and we look forward to his continued involve- Thursday, March 16, 2006 dent’s knowledge of the bill’s constitutional in- ment in our lives. The House in Committee of the Whole firmity. When the Wall Street Journal reported To Chana Simckes, on behalf of the entire House on the State of the Union had under on March 22 that Speaker HASTERT’s office community, I want to thank you for sharing consideration the bill (H.R. 4939) making had informed the White House of the prob- emergency supplemental appropriations for lems with the legislation, I joined Democratic your husband to us so readily and for so long. the fiscal year ending September 30, 2006, and Leader NANCY PELOSI in sending a second let- Without your love and support neither he, nor for other purposes: ter to the White House. Unfortunately, there we, could have made it so far, and for so long, Ms. KILPATRICK of Michigan. Mr. Chair- has been no White House response. together. man, I would like to use this opportunity to ad- I therefore urge my colleagues to support Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues in the dress this House to explain my vote on H.R. the resolution of inquiry I am introducing House to join me in recognizing my leader, my 4939, the Emergency War and Hurricane Sup- today. The American public deserves a de- pastor, my guide, and my friend, Rabbi Dr. H. plemental Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year tailed explanation of what went wrong with the Joseph Simckes for his 29 years of service to 2006, which this chamber considered on enactment of S. 1932—and assurance that the Hollis Hills Jewish Center. We send him March 16, 2006. government leaders will not ignore basic con- our very best wishes in his years of well- Despite my misgivings for the direction of stitutional requirements regarding the legisla- earned retirement. our Iraq policy, I do not believe our troops, tive process. who are fighting so bravely, should be penal- f f ized for the mistakes in judgment of our civil- ian military leadership in the White House and IN RECOGNITION OF RABBI DR. H. the Pentagon. I also believe we need to con- JOSEPH SIMCKES COMMENDING HAITI FOR HOLDING DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS tinue our obligation to the people and states who fell victim to Hurricane Katrina. For these HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN reasons, I supported the passage of H.R. OF NEW YORK SPEECH OF 4929, the Emergency Supplemental Appro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS priations Act for Fiscal Year 2006. Thursday, March 30, 2006 The funds in this bill will enable our soldiers OF FLORIDA and marines on the ground to uparmor their Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today vehicles. There should be more outrage from IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in honor of Rabbi Dr. H. Joseph Simckes, who the American public that they were deployed has just retired after 29 years of service to the Tuesday, March 28, 2006 without adequate equipment from the begin- Hollis Hills Jewish Center. ning. But they are there, and it is vital that As the spiritual leader of the Hollis Hills Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I they have the equipment necessary to protect Jewish Center, Rabbi Simckes’ dedication and rise today to honor the people of the Republic themselves against attack. Moreover, more compassion to our community has been un- of Haiti for holding successful democratic elec- money is provided in this bill to help our paralleled. I have had the great honor of tions on February 7, 2006. I would also like to troops detect and destroy improvised explo- knowing this intelligent, wise and kind-hearted congratulate their chosen successor, Mr. Rene sive devices (IEDs). individual, both on a personal level and as an ´ advocate for the numerous important issues, Preval. Although I disagree with the administration’s and, particularly, support for the state of Israel, I commend the people of Haiti for their ac- conduct of the war, I do believe the one way that we have worked on together. tive commitment to and unbridled belief in de- we can bring our troops home sooner is to Throughout his extraordinary career, Rabbi mocracy. On such an auspicious occasion, the provide Iraqi security forces with the training and equipment they need to provide for the Simckes has been deeply and profoundly in- best way we can honor the Republic of Haiti common defense of their own country and volved in the education of Jewish youth. His is by continuing to lend our support through take the fight to the insurgency. Ultimately, the strong support of Jewish education was evi- economic and humanitarian policy that encour- fate of their country will rise and fall on the dent early in his career through his role in ages development, not dependency. helping to found the first Solomon Schecter Iraqis’ ability to provide for their own security. While elections are the necessary first step Day School in Boston. Rabbi Simckes has To further help our troops, the money in this also led over 40 student-groups on tours towards democracy in Haiti, there still remains bill will take care of the health care needs of throughout Israel. I have seen first hand the a long road ahead. It is crucial that we, the their families and cover the projected shortfall importance Rabbi Simckes places on edu- United States, do not continue to perpetuate in the defense health care account. It also cation through the important work that he has the legacy of interference and neglect in Hai- honors the obligation Congress made last year done helping sculpt today’s Jewish curriculum tian affairs. to increase the military death gratuity to and the vast knowledge and rigor that he dis- We must work with the newly elected Presi- $100,000 from $12,000 and subsidized life in- plays in his moving sermons. The wisdom he dent of the Republic of Haiti, Rene Pre´val, and surance benefits that were increased to $400,000 for the families of fallen loved ones. has shared both inside and outside of his con- we must work with Haitians in both Haiti and gregation has improved and enriched the lives the U.S. to make their dreams of sustained The bill also helps needy families offset the high cost of heating fuel by providing an addi- of thousands in the community. democracy and prosperity a reality. Rabbi Simckes is also a trained therapist, tional $750 million for the Low Income Home whose compassion and guidance have com- Several of my distinguished colleagues, my- Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Finally, forted both old and young. Rabbi Simckes has self included, have a significant number of the bill honors what I feel is our country’s obli- been a pillar of strength throughout his tenure Haitian constituents in our district. It is my sin- gation to help the Gulf Coast region by appro- counseling, comforting, and sharing in the pain cerest hope that we will work to bring their priating $19.1 billion in disaster relief, commu- and joy of the whole community. home country out of the grips of poverty and nity development and levee reconstruction Rabbi Simckes has stood with the Queens despair once and for all so that Haiti’s rich, yet monies. Jewish Community during our most important tumultuous, past will finally evolve into a future These programs deserve our support. We life-cycle moments: births, bar-mitzvahs, wed- of sustained success. cannot turn our backs to protecting

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.054 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E477 the safety and welfare of troops in harms way own upbringing, she strove to provide a loving, cruit and organize professionals to assist im- or ignore those who have gone homeless as stable and supportive environment for the migrants as well as the neediest people in the a result of Hurricane Katrina. These people young children she encountered in Milwaukee. community. He founded Marcelino Pan Y need our help and that is why I voted to sup- VE Carter Child Development Center, one of Vino, Inc., a nonprofit organization that has port this emergency supplemental appropria- the first childcare centers owned and operated earned worldwide recognition for its work with tions bill. by an African-American woman in Milwaukee, the National Institutes of Health in assisting f has grown into a city institution, with five cen- those with leukemia, AIDS, cancer, and those ters that serve almost 500 children and em- in need of an organ transplant. Most recently, RETIREMENT OF JUANITA ploy over 150 workers. his organization raised $25,000 for Katrina dis- CONKLING Mrs. Carter advocated for quality childcare aster relief in the gulf coast. for low-income children long before its connec- Rev. Hoyos is the founder of the radio pro- HON. NICK J. RAHALL II tion to lifelong success was widely acknowl- gram called ‘‘Catholic Newsletter’’ and the TV OF WEST VIRGINIA edged. Her work with children has taken her show called ‘‘Community and Religion Dose’’ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES deeply into the lives of the families she a program of prayer and faith that is aimed at serves. She has a passion for working with Thursday, March 30, 2006 spreading a positive message to alcoholics, single mothers, helping them develop stable gang members, and the troubled youth. He is Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I want to extend home lives for their children and assisting also a columnist for various local and inter- my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Mrs. them in identifying and overcoming obstacles national papers that reach the Hispanic com- Juanita Conkling who, for the past 40 years, to their own success. In addition to VE Carter munity. has served this esteemed body in the offices Child Development Center, she also operates Not one to forget his roots, Rev. Hoyos of the House Sergeant at Arms and the Chief a social service agency that serves nonviolent founded and is president of Colombia Integra, Administrative Officer. In April of this year, offenders—many of them parents—assisting an organization that gives Colombians, who Juanita will officially end her tenure working them with finding employment and supporting have fled their native land, the tools needed to for this body and her contributions will be re- their families and communities. become active members of our society. membered for many years to come. Mrs. Carter’s leadership extends throughout Over the years, Rev. Hoyos’s deeds have Juanita came to the House of Representa- the State, not only as an accomplished and not gone unnoticed by the community he tives on May 1, 1965, after working 1 year for articulate childcare advocate, but also as an cares so deeply about. He has been recog- the Federal Bureau of Investigation. She came advocate of education more generally. She nized as ‘‘Hispanic Man of the Year’’ by the to work initially for the House Sergeant at has served on the board of the Wisconsin staff of ‘‘Diario Nacion’’ a Washington, DC, Arms and, most recently, has been the payroll/ Technical College System, working to ensure newspaper. The Alexandria Police Department benefits administrator in the Office of Mem- that education and skills development continue named him ‘‘True Community Hero.’’ He has bers’ Services. to be accessible to low-income parents, help- been selected as ‘‘Washingtonian of the Year’’ Much has changed in this body and on Cap- ing them move out of poverty and create a by the Washingtonian Magazine. Last, but not itol Hill in the 40 years Juanita has been here. better life for their children. least, Rev. Hoyos was granted the honor to Eight different Presidents, from Lyndon B. Mr. Speaker, for all these reasons and carry the Olympic torch from the Atlanta Olym- Johnson to George W. Bush, have given State many more, I am honored to have this oppor- pics through the streets of Arlington. of the Union addresses before Joint Sessions tunity to pay tribute to Mrs. Carter’s numerous Mr. Speaker, the Reverend Jose Eugenio of Congress. Twenty Congresses have come and profound contributions to the Fourth Con- Hoyos has been responsible for touching thou- and gone, along with countless Members and gressional District. I thank her for her love of sands of lives over the course of his career. staff. All the while, Juanita has remained con- children, her commitment to their families, and He is truly a beacon of light putting his faith sistent, doing her job serving the Members of her visionary leadership in Milwaukee. into action. For his dedication, the people of this body. f northern Virginia are genuinely grateful. Juanita has had the responsibility of ensur- ing that the Members of Congress were paid TRIBUTE TO THE REVEREND JOSE f on time each month. She has advised Mem- EUGENIO HOYOS bers, new and old, on their ongoing options IN RECOGNITION OF RABBI DAVID relative to their compensation and benefits. HON. JAMES P. MORAN WISE And she has been a friend to countless Mem- OF VIRGINIA bers and their families. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN I am proud to call myself a friend of Juanita OF NEW YORK Thursday, March 30, 2006 Conkling. And on the occasion of her retire- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise ment after 40 years of service to the U.S. Thursday, March 30, 2006 House of Representatives I want to extend my today to pay tribute to the Reverend Jose deepest appreciation for her friendship and Eugenio Hoyos, a distinguished member of Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today outstanding contributions to this body. May our community who has dedicated his life to to honor Rabbi David Wise, who in August she have many wonderful and exciting years serving the less fortunate through his vocation began his tenure as Rabbi of the Hollis Hills ahead fulfilling her retirement dreams. in the Catholic Church. Jewish Center. f The Rev. Hoyos began his commitment to A native of Toronto, Ontario, Rabbi Wise exemplary community service over 20 years grew up as an active member in the edu- IN TRIBUTE TO LORRAINE CARTER ago when he was ordained into the priesthood cational programs and youth groups of the at the Cathedral of St. Pedro in Buga, Colom- Conservative movement. He continued his Ju- HON. GWEN MOORE bia. From there he continued his studies at the daic involvement at the Jewish Theological OF WISCONSIN Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, IL, Seminary in New York, where he received a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES where he earned his master of divinity. Masters degree and was ordained a Rabbi. After completing his studies, he returned to Upon completion of his studies, Rabbi Wise Thursday, March 30, 2006 Colombia where he became an associate pas- began his rabbinical career at Temple Beth El Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I tor at the Parish of St. Juan De Avila in in Somerset, New Jersey. rise today to recognize a compassionate lead- Bogota´ and taught both philosophy and reli- Rabbi Wise is tremendously dedicated to his er and true visionary from the Fourth Congres- gion at nearby colleges. He remained in Co- congregation and the surrounding Jewish sional District, Lorraine Carter. For over 35 lombia for several years until he was relocated community. For years, he has worked to help years, Mrs. Carter has operated the VE Carter to Northern Virginia where he is currently serv- congregants read Torah, haftarah, and to in- Child Development Center, and has served as ing as director of the Spanish Apostolate for crease their skills as prayer leaders. Rabbi forceful advocate for low-income children and the Diocese of Arlington. Wise is also active in the synagogue’s edu- their families. Since arriving in Northern Virginia 16 years cational programs, encouraging both children Mrs. Carter came to Milwaukee from Ne- ago, Rev. Hoyos has dedicated his life to and adults in their exploration of Judaism. braska in 1958, and worked as a special-edu- serving the public community in many different With an open door and welcoming smile, cation teacher before starting the VE Carter ways. Beginning in 1992, Rev. Hoyos envi- Rabbi Wise serves as a friend and mentor to Child Development Center. Inspired by her sioned an organization with the purpose to re- any congregant seeking guidance, as well as

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those who want to deepen their Jewish learn- tiations. I agree with my colleagues that we Representative MCDERMOTT, Representative ing and commitment. should be seeking the best deals possible with JEFFERSON and I have put forward these ideas Rabbi Wise plays many roles in promoting each of our trading partners. However, I dis- regarding the expansion of benefits for textile, the growth of a strong Jewish community and agree with the notion that the United States apparel and agricultural products under AGOA this involvement has been a staple of his ca- should threaten all of our developing country as a way to start a discussion among other reer. During his years in New Jersey, Rabbi trading partners, many of which are struggling Members and stakeholders about the best Wise taught rabbinic literature in the upper- to pull themselves out of poverty, with the way to promote sustainable economic growth school of the Solomon Schechter Day School elimination of current trade benefits in an ill- in sub-Saharan Africa. We recognize that sub- of Raritan Valley. An active Zionist, Rabbi considered attempt to strengthen our hand at Saharan Africa faces a wide variety of chal- Wise also led the first ever Beth El congrega- the negotiating table. lenges and that there are potentially several tional trip to Israel. As the vice president for I do not mean to suggest, however, that our different approaches that could be taken to special programming of the New Jersey Rab- current trade preference programs should promote the long-term health of the region. binical Assembly, Rabbi Wise helped organize never be changed to reflect new realities in We look forward to working with our col- a spiritual retreat to the Princeton Theological trade and the rules of the WTO. For that rea- leagues, interested parties in the private sec- Seminary after the High Holiday Season. son, the Trade Preference Extension and Ex- tor and civil society, and AGOA country gov- Rabbi Wise was also a member of the steer- pansion Act calls for only a 1 year extension ernments to gather additional information ing committee for Jewish LIFE, a cooperative of GSP and ATPA. It is important to evaluate about the best ways to address the challenges body of synagogues and Jewish institutions how well these programs are working for facing sub-Saharan Africa today, and we striving to bring adult learning to the commu- workers and businesses both in the United stand ready to work in Congress to ensure nity. States and developing countries—and to con- that the United States continues to play a In addition to promoting Jewish education sider whether changes should be made to im- leadership role in promoting economic devel- throughout New Jersey, Rabbi Wise has prove the programs. In fact, Representative opment in the region. The third key aspect of the Trade Pref- served on the boards of the Jewish Federation MCDERMOTT, Representative JEFFERSON and I erences Extension and Expansion Act is a of Greater Middlesex County and Ramah Day sent a letter to Chairman THOMAS today re- Sense of the Congress resolution calling on Camp of Raritan Valley. Rabbi Wise also of- questing that the Ways and Means Committee hold hearings as soon as possible to consider the President to make a determination as fered his services as a chaplain to the Franklin soon as possible regarding the extension of the future of GSP and ATPA, as well as the Township Police Department in New Jersey. AGOA benefits to Liberia. The October 2005 African Growth and Opportunity Act (‘‘AGOA’’). On behalf of the entire community, I am de- elections in Liberia represented a key step in I believe it is important that the Congress and lighted to welcome Rabbi Wise, his wife, Judy building peace in Liberia, following nearly two all interested stakeholders begin to investigate Krinitz, and their two children, Jordana decades of civil war. Further, the election of Nechama and Elijah Mordechai to our part of and consider this issue immediately, as it is Ms. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as President of Li- the Big Apple. We look forward to many years likely that Congress will make changes to beria marks an important milestone for Africa, of his spiritual leadership as our pastor and these programs next year in order to imple- as President Johnson Sirleaf is the first elect- our friend. Together, we will continue our ef- ment agreements negotiated as part of the ed female President in African history. Presi- forts to make the Queens Jewish Community Doha Development Agenda round of World dent Johnson Sirleaf has laid out a multi- a place that our children and families are Trade Organization negotiations. faceted government agenda emphasizing se- proud to call our home. The second key aspect of the Trade Pref- curity, public and private-sector led revitaliza- Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues in the erence Extension and Expansion Act is the tion, good governance and anti-corruption ef- House to join me in welcoming and honoring extension and expansion of benefits provided forts, regional and international cooperation, the new spiritual leader of the Hollis Hills Jew- to sub-Saharan Africa under AGOA. In the and political reconciliation and inclusiveness. ish Center, a man of humor, knowledge, and year since the expiration of global textile and President Sirleaf Johnson also has made the wisdom, Rabbi David Wise. We send him our apparel quotas, sub-Saharan Africa’s exports improvement of workers rights a high priority. very best wishes. to the United States of apparel fell by 16 per- In light of recent progress in Liberia and need f cent, and the sector has lost as many as to promote economic growth in the country, I 100,000 jobs. Further, the textile and apparel believe it is important that the President ex- THE TRADE PREFERENCE industries in sub-Saharan Africa face many tend AGOA benefits to Liberia as soon as EXTENSION AND EXPANSION ACT challenges beyond the elimination of global possible. quotas, including competition from well-estab- I urge my colleagues to join Representatives HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL lished and sometimes subsidized producers, MCDERMOTT, JEFFERSON and me in supporting OF NEW YORK such as China, and inadequate infrastructure the Trade Preference Extension and Expan- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and other supply-side constraints. sion Act. In recognition of these challenges, the f Thursday, March 30, 2006 Trade Preference Extension and Expansion Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, today Rep- Act would extend until December 2007, the THE COALITION FOR resentative JEFFERSON, Representative current duty-free benefits provided under INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE MCDERMOTT and I are introducing the Trade AGOA for apparel made in least developed Af- Preference Extension and Expansion Act. rican countries from third country fabric. If this HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH There are three key aspects to this legislation. benefit is not extended, it will be reduced in OF NEW JERSEY First, the act would extend for 1 year the half on October 1 of this year, putting at risk IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES trade benefits provided to developing countries the fledgling apparel industries that have pro- Thursday, March 30, 2006 under the U.S. Generalized System of Pref- vided vitally needed jobs and economic growth Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, it erences (‘‘GSP’’) and the Andean Trade Pref- in sub-Saharan Africa. has come to my attention that a Washington- erence Act (‘‘ATPA’’). Both of these programs The Act also would establish a simpler, based non-governmental organization—the currently are scheduled to expire at the end of value-added rule of origin for apparel and ex- Coalition for International Justice—will close 2006. Our trade preference programs are crit- tend additional benefits to the textile and agri- its offices this week after 10 years of service ical, not just to workers and businesses in de- cultural sectors under AGOA. These provi- to the cause of justice around the world. veloping countries, but to U.S. workers and sions are intended to enable the textile and Serving as Chairman and Co-Chairman of businesses. It is important that we extend apparel industries in sub-Saharan Africa to the Helsinki Commission for that same period these programs immediately in order to pro- compete, given the current market reality in of time, I have worked closely with the Coali- vide our trading partners, as well as U.S. man- the region, which is that African textile mills tion and seen the effect of its work. Ten years ufacturers and retailers, the predictability nec- cannot generally produce fabric in sufficient ago, the conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina essary to make business and investment deci- quantity and variety to meet the needs of Afri- was a priority in U.S. foreign policy, a conflict sions for the future. can apparel producers or market demand. In in which numerous war crimes, crimes against I have heard some of my colleagues sug- addition, these provisions are intended to pro- humanity and genocide were committed. Many gest that we should let these programs lapse mote sustainable development in sub-Saharan of us fought for the inclusion of basic justice in order to pressure our trading partners to Africa by promoting the diversification of the as an element in our country’s policy re- agree to the demands of U.S. negotiators in economies of countries in the region, particu- sponse, and an international tribunal was for- ongoing bilateral and multilateral trade nego- larly in the agricultural sector. tunately created for that purpose. At the time,

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IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES New York Daily News entitled ‘‘Africa’s Lead- ing Lady’’ which reveals that African women The Coalition for International Justice was a Thursday, March 30, 2006 are coming to the fore, trying to right all of the tireless advocate of another view, one that Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in wrongs put and held in place by a succession saw no true peace, nor the resulting long-term recognition of a talented and distinguished of brutal and corrupt African men. Emphasis is stability, in Bosnia or anywhere else, without community theater group, the Heights Players, placed on the atrocities carried out by Taylor appropriate consideration of justice. Time has as they embark upon their 50th anniversary. It and his followers and mentions how Taylor’s since shown how correct that view has been. is an honor to represent the Heights Players greed has ‘‘casually’’ reduced Liberia to a pau- Bosnia and Herzegovina has come a long way in the House of Representatives and it be- per state. since the mid-1990s, in large part because hooves us to pay tribute to such an out- I personally believe that Ellen Johnson- those responsible for war crimes, crimes standing community organization that has Sirleaf, also known as the ‘‘Iron Lady’’ for her brought the art of performance to adults and determination and tenacity, is the very best against humanity and genocide were instead children throughout Brooklyn. person to lead Liberia from its dark, tormented removed from positions of authority and made Mr. Speaker, the Heights Players were past into a bright and productive future. accountable at the tribunal located in The founded in 1956 by a small collection of the- [From the New York Daily News, Mar. 30, Hague. Many of those people might still be at atre-lovers and successfully produced their 2006] large had the Coalition, among others, not ad- first production, Hasty Heart, in February of AFRICA’S LEADING LADY: PRESIDENT’S GUTSY vocated a tough policy toward those powers 1957. The Heights Players eventually estab- MOVE VS. WARLORD TEACHES VALUABLE who were harboring and protecting them. lished themselves as a nonprofit educational LESSON Many of us can remember the State Depart- corporation of New York, offering a workshop (By Stanley Crouch) ment’s hesitancy, let alone that of many Euro- program and expanding the group to extend When Charles Taylor, the ex-Liberian thug pean foreign ministries, to these tough meas- opportunities to new performers and directors. president, was arrested in Nigeria trying to ures. Today, however, the United States main- For the past 50 years, the Heights Players escape the clutches of international law, he was in a car with 110–pound bags of embez- tains an effective conditionality on assistance have continued to assume an active role in the community by presenting performances for zled money. Well, he was not traveling light. to Serbia and, along with the European Union, homeless groups, senior citizens and hospital- Taylor had risen to power after seven years on Serbia’s integration efforts due to the par- of civil war, had won an election with 75% of bound children. In 1962, the Heights Players ticular failure to transfer Ratko Mladic to The the vote and had casually reduced his coun- moved to their current location at the historic try to a pauper state. He is accused of start- Hague. Similar linkages apply to another at- 26 Willow Place in the basement of the Alfred ing conflicts in four other African states and large indictee, Radovan Karadzic. T. White Community Center. The Heights encouraging the chopping off of hands, feet, Representatives of the Coalition for Inter- Players, under their Board of Directors, con- lips and noses in Sierra Leone so that the national Justice participated in numerous brief- tinuously seek to enhance the quality of their terrified population would not hinder the sale of stolen diamonds. ings and hearings of the Helsinki Commission performances, facilities, and organization. The Heights Players now enjoy a large Taylor is one of those African butchers on this subject, and were always available to who could have modeled himself on King membership of 200 subscribers and a group provide useful information when justice in the Leopold II, the 19th-century Belgian king. mailing list of 2,500 supporters, including Balkans became part of our policy debates. Leopold’s colonial policies in the Congo re- those from the Brooklyn Heights Community sulted in countless slaughters and many mu- The Coalition similarly assisted the inter- along with the tri-state area. The Heights Play- tilations in the interest of producing a prof- national criminal tribunal established for Rwan- ers also continue to provide special Theater itable rubber crop. da in its efforts to be fair, responsible and ef- for Children performances, traveling entertain- Leopold became a pariah among European courts, but naturally black-faced variations fective in the provision of justice. Its mandate ment to Brooklyn hospitals, nursing homes, and Hale House in Manhattan, and special in Africa have wielded iron-fisted power later expanded to help the investigation and without compunction, worrying only about prosecutions process in East Timor, to estab- performances to nearly 1,000 homeless New being overthrown by some ambitious fellow lish a tribunal for Khmer Rouge crimes in Yorkers annually. They have been awarded monster in the military. If given the time, Cambodia, and to create a Special Court for for their ongoing laudable community efforts these monsters have fled to another African by Brooklyn Borough President Abe Stark, the country, or to the Arab states, or even to the Sierra Leone. It helped track the finance of Brooklyn Heights Association, the City Coun- French Riviera, where they have been able to such notorious figures as Charles Taylor, Sad- cil, and Borough President Howard Golden, cool out and impress everyone with their pil- dam Hussein and the Khartoum elites, in addi- who designated April 4, 1987, as ‘‘Heights fered riches. As the Taylor case has proven, that trend tion to Slobodan Milosevic and Radovan Players Day.’’ Karadzic. Most recently, the Coalition has in African politics may be coming to a Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent screeching halt. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, the been part of the international effort not just to on this body to recognize the achievements first elected female president in all of Africa, hold those responsible for the genocide in and committed service of the Heights Players had requested that Nigeria hand over Taylor Darfur accountable from the crimes already as they continue to offer their artistic talents to the authorities in Sierra Leone, where he committed but to protect the civilian population and performances for the benefit of the com- would have to face charges of individual butchery, mutilation and crimes against hu- there from continuing to be victimized. munity. Mr. Speaker, may our country continue to manity. Mr. Speaker, I have appreciated the work of benefit from the actions of altruistic community African women are coming to the fore, try- ing to right all of the wrongs put and held in the Coalition for International Justice as a re- leaders such as the Heights Players. source of accurate information, and as an ad- place by a succession of brutal and corrupt f African men. African justice has been as po- vocate to a reasonable, practical approach to rous as Swiss cheese for more than 40 years the sometimes controversial subject of inter- AFRICA’S LEADING LADY and the African people have suffered enor- national justice. While its board and staff may mously while black Americans in or out of have concluded that the Coalition has largely HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL elected office, in or out of the civil rights es- OF NEW YORK tablishment, have either ignored the horrors accomplished the tasks it was created to ad- wrought upon the people or have figured out dress, they know, as do we, that horrible IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ways to blame it all on others. crimes continue to be committed against inno- Thursday, March 30, 2006 The women of Africa are more interested in dealing with the facts than maintaining a cent people in conflicts around the world. I am Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to confident that the dedicated individuals who cosmetic front of innocence. In a number of commend Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, the first elect- places across Africa, we see women rooting made the Coalition such a success will con- ed female president of Liberia, for her straight- out corruption and conceiving laws that will tinue, through other organizations and offices, forward opinion that addresses jurisdictional bring them closer to a standard of human in the struggle for international justice. control for prosecutorial legal action against equality.

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He grad- that American women, having been taught OF MARYLAND uated from Osbourn High School in 1940 and much by the civil rights movement, can in- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES spire African women by example, and that later from Virginia Tech. elected or appointed African officials can He joined the Army Air Force in 1942 and Thursday, March 30, 2006 lead the way through the ingrained igno- began pilot training in Alabama, but was as- Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise rance, poverty and disease that block human signed to the British Royal Air Force, where before you today to mourn the loss and honor fulfillment. Such human force explains the he completed his training. the life of PFC Amy Duerksen, who died the mystery of African optimism. He was part of an allied mission to fly lum- 11th day of March 2006 in support of Oper- f bering transport planes laden with heavy ation Iraqi Freedom. REMEMBERING HARRY PARRISH supplies, weapons and ammunition from Private Duerksen was no stranger to the India into China over the world’s highest United States Armed Forces. She was third- mountain range, the Himalayas. generation military. Her father is MAJ Douglas HON. FRANK R. WOLF The C–47s like the one Parrish flew took W. Duerksen, an Army chaplain at Aberdeen OF VIRGINIA off from crude, sometimes muddy airfields in Proving Ground in Aberdeen, MD. Her grand- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Indian jungles and struggled to heft their father, Wayne Duerksen, is a veteran of the Thursday, March 30, 2006 cargo over icy peaks that doomed many Navy, having served in World War II. And her flights. Because Japan controlled land routes sister, April Duerksen, is also a member of the Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for through Burma, the airlifts over what pilots Army, stationed at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. me to remember Mr. Harry Parrish, member of called ‘‘the Hump’’ were the only way to sup- In April of last year, Amy joined the Fourth the Virginia General Assembly and decorated ply the legendary Flying Tigers, which Combat Support Battalion, First Brigade, World War II pilot from Manassas, VA, who bombed Japan from bases in China. Fourth Infantry Division, based at Fort Hood, passed away on March 28 at the age of 84. Parrish received the Distinguished Flying TX. Her unit was deployed on Christmas Day. Harry Parrish served over 50 years in elect- Cross and the Air Medal with two oak leaf On the eighth day of March 2006, Private ed office, including 13 terms in the House of clusters. He left active duty in 1946 but flew Duerksen suffered injuries in a noncombat-re- Delegates and chairman of the Finance Com- as an Air Force reservist in wars with Korea lated incident, and she was not able to re- mittee since 2000, Manassas council member, and Vietnam before retiring as a colonel and cover from those injuries. and mayor. At the time of his passing, he was command pilot. She is remembered as a dedicated soldier the oldest serving member of the House of In 2002, as one of few remaining World War who greatly loved her country and faithfully Delegates. During his 12 years as town coun- II veterans in the General Assembly, Parrish served her fellow Americans by fighting for cilman and 18 years as mayor, Harry helped helped secure Virginia’s $334,000 contribution this great nation. Private Duerksen was full of guide the transformation of Manassas from a to the National World War II Memorial in passion and life. She possessed a strong faith small Virginia town to a thriving, lively suburb. Washington, D.C. and willingly shared that with others. As a member of the House of Delegates, he ‘‘I kind of regret us being the last state, Private Duerksen risked her life to serve our was known for conducting himself in a bipar- but I’m glad we finally came around,’’ Par- country. She deserves our unending admira- tisan manner, putting Virginia first. I was proud rish said in an interview, pained that Vir- tion and appreciation. Mr. Speaker, I ask that to call Harry my friend. He was a true Virginia ginia was the last state to contribute to the you join with me in honoring the life of PFC gentleman. memorial. Amy Duerksen. She was a remarkable soldier Harry was also a decorated World War II Parrish was elected to the House in 1981 as and patriot. pilot. As part of the British Royal Air Force he part of an insignificant Republican minority. flew C–47s over the Himalayas delivering sup- Before that, he served for 12 years on the Ma- f plies, weapons and other cargo, from India to nassas Town Council and for 18 years as A TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL J. China. He received the Distinguished Flying mayor. During his mayoral term, Manassas CHAMBERS Cross and the Air Medal for his valiant efforts. transformed from a town into a thriving, af- He served as a reservist in the Korean and fluent city. HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS Vietnam wars before retiring as a colonel. Through a total of 53 years in elected of- OF NEW YORK I insert for the RECORD the Potomac News fice, Parrish won abiding respect as a lis- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES obituary from March 28. A northern Virginia tener and problem solver from Republicans native, Harry will be deeply missed by the and Democrats. In 2000, when the GOP ended Thursday, March 30, 2006 a century of Democratic dominance in the people of Manassas, and at home by his fam- Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in ily and wife, Mattie, of 62 years. House, Parrish became co-chairman and later chairman of the Finance Committee, recognition of Michael J. Chambers, and I [From the Potomac News, Mar. 28, 2006] where his evenhandedness endeared him del- hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing HARRY PARRISH DIES AT 84 egates and senators of both parties. the accomplishments of this outstanding mem- ber of the Brooklyn community. (By Bob Lewis) ‘‘He’s my best friend,’’ Democratic Sen. Mr. Chambers joined the North Brooklyn RICHMOND, VA—Harry Parrish, who defied Charles J. Colgan of Prince William said in a death as a decorated World War II pilot and 2004 interview. ‘‘He and I are the only Demo- Health Network in November 1998. As the headed the state’s most powerful tax-writing crat and Republican in the General Assembly senior associate executive director for the De- panel in the General Assembly, died Tues- ever known to have held a fund raiser to- partment of Psychiatry, he is responsible for day. He was 84. gether.’’ the operation of an extensive network of emer- Parrish had been in intensive care at Parrish was willing to exert his independ- gency, inpatient, and outpatient services to the Prince William Hospital for about three residents of Bushwick, Bedford Stuyvesant, weeks, suffering from pneumonia. His death ence at times, even at the risk of his own was announced by Sen. John Chichester dur- party’s wrath and his prized House leader- Fort Green, Williamsburg, and Greenpoint. ing a meeting of the Senate Finance Com- ship post. Prior to his service at the North Brooklyn Health Network, Mr. Chambers was the Ad- mittee on Capitol Square. By two votes, Parrish’s committee in 2004 Parrish had been in declining health for at advanced a bill to increase taxes by about ministrator of the Department of Psychiatry at least two years but continued a full legisla- $1.4 billion. When the bill came before the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in Queens. tive schedule, including acting as chairman full House for a decisive vote that April, Par- He was also instrumental in the development of the House Finance Committee, one of the rish was among 17 Republicans who sided of its new Department of Psychiatry. Before most powerful leadership positions in the with House Democrats to pass it. The vote pursuing a career in hospital administration, General Assembly. was critical to ending a 115-day session that Last year, Parrish warded off a Republican Mr. Chambers had a distinguished 14-year ca- divided GOP legislators. primary challenge for his House seat—pay- reer with the New York State Office of Mental back from his party’s own conservative wing In addition to his public duties, Parrish Health, New York City Regional Office, where for defying its anti-tax orthodoxy during the also is chairman of the board of his family’s he served as director of certification for New 2004 tax battle. business, the Manassas Ice and Fuel Co. York City. He is an associate in the American

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We are in a terrible civil conflict now.’’ tems, Inc., a behavioral healthcare consulting George Bush does not fire him, hold him ac- Here is self-delusion: Dick Cheney went on firm. countable, or contradict his false statements, ‘‘Face the Nation’’ a few hours later and said Additionally, Mr. Chambers is an adjunct creates the assumption on the part of the rest he disagreed with Allawi—who, by the way, faculty member of the Department of Human of the world that the U.S. is a rogue state with is a tad closer to the action than the quail- Services at Touro College and earned his a Cheney-Bush regime bent on imposing its hunting veep. There’s no civil war, Cheney bachelor of arts degree in psychology from the un-American policies of pre-emptive war, tor- insisted. Move along, nothing to see here, State University of New York at Albany and ture of prisoners, disregard of its Constitution pay no attention to those suicide bombings his masters of public administration degree and the will of its people. The statements and and death-squad murders. As an aside, Che- ney insisted that his earlier forays into the from the Baruch College School of Business conduct of Vice President DICK CHENEY which Twilight Zone—U.S. troops would be greeted and Public Affairs. He is active in community can only be characterized as secretive, un- as liberators, the insurgency is in its ‘‘last affairs, particularly the Ancient Order of Hiber- American and unconstitutional create the im- throes’’—were ‘‘basically accurate and re- nians in Babylon, NY. pression that the American people no longer flect reality.’’ Mr. Chambers lives on Long Island with his care about their democracy. His conduct cre- Maybe on his home planet. wife of 22 years, Peggy, and their four daugh- ates the impression that America is a dictator- Donald Rumsfeld, meanwhile, was busy on The Post’s op-ed page, abusing history. Leav- ters Keri, Christine, Kimberly, and Meaghan. ship, or worse becoming a fascist state. The ing Iraq now, he wrote, ‘‘would be the The Chambers family spent this past Thanks- Vice President’s intentional disregard of the modem equivalent of handing postwar Ger- giving at the Circle of Life Ministries in Constitution, the Congress and the people of many back to the Nazis.’’ The bizarre anal- Copiague, NY, cooking and serving dinner to this great country sets the worst standard of ogy was immediately disputed by foreign 600 individuals who would otherwise have had conduct for the fledgling democracies the policy sages Henry Kissinger (who noted that no place to celebrate the holiday. President states we must bring to every coun- there was ‘‘no significant resistance move- Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent try in the world. ment’’ in Germany after World War II) and Zbigniew Brzezinski (who just called the on this body to recognize the accomplish- Mr. CHENEY’s statements so contrary to the comparison ‘‘absolutely crazy’’). ments of Michael J. Chambers, as he offers facts are far worse than merely confusing and George W. Bush, who speaks as if he has as- his talents for the betterment of our local com- dizzifying; they are damaging and unmindful of cended to an even higher plane of unreality, munities. the best interests of this country. Mr. CHENEY’s marked the third anniversary of the invasion f reckless disregard for the truth is undermining Sunday by touting a ‘‘strategy that will lead the already low credibility and esteem in which to victory in Iraq.’’ I know that ‘‘victory’’ is VICE PRESIDENT CHENEY: AGAIN, a word that focus groups love, but did any- our government is now held. When the Vice one else hear an echo of Richard Nixon’s ‘‘se- RESIGN FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR President undermines the credibility of our COUNTRY cret plan’’ to end the war in Vietnam? Does government he is also violating the Constitu- anyone else remember that there was no ‘‘se- tion of the United States which he is sworn to cret plan’’? HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL uphold. It’s reprehensible when our highest elected OF NEW YORK It is no small thing for the Vice President of officials act cynically, as I believe this ad- ministration has done—Bush, Cheney, Rums- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the United States to have the inglorious rep- feld and the rest knew the evidence for weap- Thursday, March 30, 2006 utation of being the power behind the Presi- ons of mass destruction in Iraq was less than dent’s war conduct and treatment of prisoners, Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to intro- conclusive, but they hyped it anyway to but to also be recognized as the American of- build support for an invasion they were de- duce into the record an opinion piece by Eu- ficial who has most steadfastly insisted, con- termined to launch. It’s dangerous when our gene Robinson in the March 21, 2006, edition trary to the truth, that we went to war in Iraq leaders act cluelessly, and the Bush White of The Washington Post entitled ‘‘The Planet because the attack of September 11, 2001 House has done plenty of that as well—ex- of Unreality.’’ Mr. Robinson opens his article was carried out by terrorists trained, encour- perts who called for a much bigger invasion force were silenced and shoved aside, assur- by the statement: ‘‘This is not good.’’ He is re- aged or given haven by Saddam Hussein. ferring to the absolute detachment from reality ances that Iraqi oil revenue would defray I find the Vice President a source of deep U.S. costs turned out to be a sick joke, and evidenced by Vice President CHENEY most re- embarrassment because of his persistent ef- there was no effective plan to get the elec- cently on the Sunday March 19, 2006, pro- forts on behalf of his agenda, his devotion to tricity turned on, much less deal with thou- gram ‘‘Face the Nation.’’ ‘‘the ends justify the means’’ mentality and his sands of insurgents. On ‘‘Face the Nation’’ Vice President CHE- lack of acknowledgement of the deaths of But cynicism and cluelessness are one NEY made the jaw-dropping statement that his 2,300 Americans, the wounding and maiming thing. Actually being divorced from reality earlier predictions about the war in Iraq includ- is another. Do Bush et al. really see only the of 17,000 more and the tens of thousands of democratic process they have installed in ing his infamous pre-invasion prediction that deaths and maiming of innocent Iraqi civilians. U.S. troops would be ‘‘greeted as liberators’’ Iraq and not the bitter sectarian conflict It is clear to me that the Vice President that process has been unable to quell? Do and his more recent ‘‘the insurgency is in its should be removed from office if he does not they realize that whatever happens, there’s last throes’’ were ‘‘basically accurate and re- have sufficient patriotism and good grace to not going to be a neat package, tied up with flect reality.’’ resign for the good of the country. He is en- a bow, labeled ‘‘victory’’—certainly in the 34 Let me second Mr. Robinson’s statement: gaged in ‘‘business as usual’’ with no concern months (but who’s counting?) that the Bush administration has left in office? ‘‘This is not good.’’ I can find nothing good for how this ‘‘business’’ affects his country or about the lies, the deliberate effort made by Rumsfeld, I think, gets it. ‘‘History is a the world. bigger picture, and it takes some time and the Vice President to connect the 9/11 attack [From the Washington Post, Mar. 21, 2006] perspective to measure accurately,’’ he to the war in Iraq, and the continued rosy pic- THE PLANET OF UNREALITY wrote in his op-ed piece, the whole tone of tures of the Iraq War the Vice President con- which reminded me of Fidel Castro’s famous (By Eugene Robinson) tinues to make; statements that are declaration as he was being jailed after his unconnected to facts in any way. ‘‘This is not This is not good. The people running this first, failed attempt at revolution: ‘‘History good.’’ country sound convinced that reality is will absolve me.’’ Condoleezza Rice seems to whatever they say it is. And if they’ve actu- get it, too, telling Australians the other day The Vice President is either deliberately re- ally strayed into the realm of genuine self- stating his opinions long-ago proved to be lies, that ‘‘beyond my lifetime’’ people would ap- delusion—if they actually believe the fan- preciate what the administration had done or perhaps more frightening, he is now entirely tasies they’re spinning about the bloody for the Middle East. in the grip of pathological self-delusion. mess they’ve made in Iraq over the past But what about the two men at the top? I believe the Vice President is continuing his three years—then things are even worse than Cheney lamented this weekend that lies and deceit with no care as to whether I thought. ‘‘what’s newsworthy is the car bomb in what he says is true, harmful to our country or Here is reality: The Bush administration’s Baghdad,’’ and ‘‘not all the work that went deepens even more the profound distrust of handpicked interim Iraqi prime minister, on that day in 15 other provinces in terms of Ayad Allawi, told the BBC on Sunday, ‘‘We making progress towards rebuilding Iraq.’’ the Bush Administration the American people are losing each day an average of 50 to 60 Yesterday Bush recounted a successful anti- have expressed. The Vice President hurts people throughout the country, if not more. insurgent operation in one town, calling it a Americans in a variety of ways. This country, If this is not civil war, then God knows what good-news story that people wouldn’t see in this shining democracy is being hurt, possibly, civil war is. Iraq is in the middle of a crisis. their newspapers or on their television permanently, by just being the second in com- Maybe we have not reached the point of no screens.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.073 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E482 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 Fine, blaming the media is a time-honored York and was hired as the City of New York onstrated great skill, determination and mental tactic. I just hope they’re being cynical Parks & Recreation’s Brooklyn Sports Coordi- toughness during the competition in Turin. about it. I hope they don’t really believe the nator, where he coordinated and supervised Scottish immigrants introduced the sport of nonsense they’re trying to sell. various citywide programs, including Reebok’s curling in North America, first to Canada in f Coup de Hoop and the Junior Knicks Basket- 1759 and then to America around 1832. CHARLES TAYLOR WILL NOW BE ball clinics and tournaments. Mr. Mercer vol- Today, there are approximately 16,000 curlers HELD ACCOUNTABLE unteered to recruit and coach the New York’s who belong to 135 clubs in 32 states. Curling National Youth Game Volleyball Team in At- debuted as a medal sport at the 1998 Winter lanta, GA. He implemented and supervised Olympics in Nagano, Japan. I know that the HON. FRANK R. WOLF the Pro-Am NAACP’s (3 on 3) and Midnight pursuit of excellence demonstrated by Team OF VIRGINIA Basketball tournaments in Brooklyn. He also USA at the 2006 Olympic Games will inspire IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES umpired softball games for the New York City many people across the country to take up the Thursday, March 30, 2006 Housing Authority. At the Brownsville Recre- sport. ation Center he was employed as the After- Through hard work and outstanding dedica- Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, yesterday was a school Director. After only three years as di- tion, the team succeeded on the sports world’s great day for peace and justice in West Africa. rector, his program was recommended for use most prestigious stage. Above all, the sports- Former president of Liberia, Charles Taylor, as the model program for all City of New York manship the team members demonstrated was arrested and sent to face trial at the Spe- Parks & Recreation After-school programs. Mr. during the competition embraced the true cial Court for Sierra Leone. Charles Taylor will Mercer’s program included extensive home- Olympic spirit. face 17 counts of war crimes, crimes against work: help and tutoring that helped students The curling team’s bronze medal victory humanity, and violations of international hu- sustain the academic standards set by the was truly a golden moment for the State of manitarian law for crimes committed against Board of Education. He also conducted work- Minnesota and the entire nation. I know my the people of Liberia and Sierra Leone. shops for SAT and ACT testing. He promoted colleagues in the House of Representatives Charles Taylor committed horrific crimes dur- local and overnight college and university join me in congratulating the U.S. Curling ing his presidency and his arrest will no doubt tours, including tours to Howard University and Team and in wishing them continued success. send shockwaves through Africa and a strong Johnson & Wales University. Mr. Mercer also f message that tyranny will not be accepted by conducted free workshops for over 500 adult the people and that you cannot escape justice. participants seeking postal employment. COMMEMORATING WOMEN’S I would like to commend Liberian President Mr. Mercer is now a manager at the Jackie HISTORY MONTH Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf for her courage in calling Robinson Recreation Center located in Har- on Nigeria to hand over Charles Taylor. She lem, New York. He also served as Chairman HON. ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS did this with no small risk to herself and her of the DC37, Local 299–2005 election com- OF MARYLAND fragile country. It is my hope that the inter- mittee. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES national community will come to Liberia’s aid As Worshipful Master of African 459 Lodge Thursday, March 30, 2006 and help her as she rebuilds her war torn #63 for the past 2 years, Mr. Mercer continues country. to see that his lodge serves its community by Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today This is a new dawn for West Africa. The sending 5 children to Camp Eureka in Upstate to commemorate Women’s History Month. United States and the international community N.Y., issuing 3 scholarships to students enroll- Since 1987, the month of March has been stand with the people of Liberia and Sierra ing in, or attending college, and continuing the designated to give special prominence to the Leone and honor them for their courage to lodge’s annual feeding program and Christmas women who have made lasting contributions seek justice. toy drive. to our society. f Mr. Mercer is a deacon at The Friendship Over the last two centuries, the achieve- Baptist Church. He also serves as the Presi- ments made by women have been nothing A TRIBUTE TO MR. ELLIS A. short of phenomenal. MERCER dent of the Brotherhood Men’s Committee at Friendship. During this month, we have an opportunity Mr. Mercer is married to Sandra Elaine Gib- to recognize Rosa Parks for revolutionizing a HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS son-Mercer and they are the proud parents of successful movement that forced racial inte- OF NEW YORK one daughter, Britney Elise Mercer. gration in America through her refusal to give IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent up her seat to a white man on a public bus. Additionally, we must acknowledge Coretta Thursday, March 30, 2006 on this body to recognize the accomplish- ments of Ellis A. Mercer, as he offers his tal- Scott King, the first Lady of the Civil Rights Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in ents for the betterment of our local and na- movement and widower of the incomparable recognition of Mr. Ellis A. Mercer and I hope tional communities. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who trans- my colleagues will join me in recognizing the formed her grief into an aspiration to eradicate f accomplishments of this outstanding member social injustice and achieve equality for all. of the Brooklyn community. TRIBUTE TO THE U.S. OLYMPIC We must also remember Hattie McDaniel, Ellis A. Mercer was born on March 8, 1960 CURLING TEAM whose dynamic career as an acclaimed singer in Brooklyn, New York. He is the son of Mr. and actress on film, television, and radio led Mercer and Mamie Mercer, and the oldest sib- HON. JAMES L. OBERSTAR her to become the first African-American to ling of Eva Maria Mercer-Andrews. OF MINNESOTA win the Best Supporting Actress Academy He received his education in the New York IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Award in 1940. This great achievement also City public schools, graduating from Brooklyn resulted in her becoming the 29th image to Technical High School with a Regents Di- Thursday, March 30, 2006 appear on the Black Heritage commemorative ploma in Mathematics and Electronics. Mr. Mr. OBERSTAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today stamp series in January 2006. Mercer then attended Johnson & Wales Uni- to commend the U.S. Olympic Curling Team Mr. Speaker, what makes these icons so versity in Providence, R.I., where he received for its outstanding success at the XX Winter extraordinary is that many of their actions, and an A.S. degree in Data Processing, A.S. de- Olympic Games in Turin, Italy. sacrifices have not only added to the richness gree in Accounting, and a B.S. degree in By defeating Great Britain 8–6, the men’s and depth of American history, but made the Computer Systems Management. team, which consists of Shawn Rojeski and present better for the world. After receiving his A.S. degree in Data Proc- John Shuster of Chisholm, Minnesota, Joe Yet, even as we remember the famous essing, Mr. Mercer was hired as the Univer- Polo of Cass Lake, as well as fellow Minneso- women who have made history by traveling in sity’s Assistant Athletic Director. As the Assist- tans Pete Fenson, Scott Baird and Coach Bob space, like Mae Jemison and Sally K. Ride, or ant Athletic Director, he managed the Univer- Fenson, won the first Olympic medal of any curing disease, like Marie Curie and Mary sity’s Sports Complex and oversaw the Uni- kind for a curling team from the United States. Eliza Mahoney or leading revolutions like So- versity’s Intramural Sports Program in which The women’s team members, Courtney journer Truth or Alice Paul, we should also be over 1,500 students participated. This is where George of Duluth, along with Cassie Johnson, mindful of those who have devoted their lives his passion for youth involvement in education Jamie Johnson, Jessica Schultz, Maureen to the people of their communities, never and sports began. In 1990 he returned to New Brunt, and Coach Neil Doese, also dem- seeking the spotlight of history.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.077 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E483 Maryland Delegate Lena K. Lee, a master A TRIBUTE TO CHERICE YVONNE THE COALITION FOR legislator, teacher, union leader, and a lawyer JAMES INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE blazed a trail of distinguished public service and is one such extraordinary woman. HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS HON. BENJAMIN L. CARDIN OF MARYLAND In 1967, Delegate Lena K. Lee began a 15- OF NEW YORK year term as the first African American female IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lawyer in the Maryland House of Delegates. Thursday, March 30, 2006 During her tenure, she dedicated her energy Thursday, March 30, 2006 Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I want to pay and talents towards eradicating social inequal- Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the fine, effective work of the Coali- ities and advocating for women’s rights. Her recognition of Cherice Yvonne James and I tion for International Justice as that organiza- life exemplified excellence and I am proud to hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing tion closes its offices this Friday. say that The Lena K. Lee Post Office bill was the accomplishments of this outstanding mem- Ten years ago, the world allowed genocide signed into law on March 20, 2006 and a post- ber of the community. to occur in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Shocked al office in my district has officially been re- Cherice Yvonne James was born in Ja- by this fact, as well as the associated war named after her. maica, Queens, NY and was very active as a crimes and crimes against humanity, many In addition, several days ago, when I youth. She attended Gloria Jackson’s School Americans both within government and among learned that Weptanomah Carter, the daugh- of Dance from age 5 to 18 studying ballet, the public decided to take action. As scenes of ter, wife and mother of prominent ministers jazz, African and tap. She was a girl scout and the destruction were broadcast to homes from my district, had died, I was reminded, a member of her school’s volleyball and bas- across this country, support grew for holding those responsible for the senseless killing ac- once again, of just how much one determined ketball teams. At the age of 9, Cherice joined the Prince Hall Shriner’s, Abu-Bekr Court #74 countable. Some dedicated experts in the field woman can accomplish. Isiserettes Drill Team, where she rose up the of international justice formed the Coalition, The spotlight of public acclaim did not fall ranks to eventually become team captain. She often known as ‘‘CIJ’’, to help guide the devel- upon Weptanomah Carter, but her achieve- also represented Abu-Bekr Temple and Court opment of the international tribunal established ments—as teacher, theologian, author and by winning their ‘‘Miss AbuBekr’’ Talent and for that purpose. community-builder will forever forge a place in Scholarship pageant. While justice remains elusive, not just in the our hearts. Cherice is a graduate of Jamaica High Balkans but elsewhere, the Coalition has been an indispensable part of the progress Throughout her marriage to Dr. Harold A. School’s Gateway to Higher Learning Honors achieved in the last decade to hold more peo- Carter, Sr., a friend and teacher of mine, the program. During high school, she received nu- ple accountable for horrible crimes, in Europe, Carters worked together, and became a pow- merous awards including being named in the National Dean’s List and being a winner of the Africa and elsewhere around the globe. The erful team. In 1965, they brought an uplifting NYC Board of Education’s Queens borough- Coalition, in fact, argues not only for respond- Gospel to the people of Baltimore—a mes- wide High School Desktop Publishing Contest. ing to crimes already committed but taking sage both spiritual and social that spoke to the New Jerusalem Baptist of Jamaica, NY, recog- necessary actions to stop ongoing atrocities hearts of people in our community. nized her during their graduates’ banquet. and to prevent future war crimes. This pre- Under their care, New Shiloh Baptist Church Cherice decided to pursue a career in hos- sents a challenge to the international commu- would grow into the 5,000-member choir for pitality and continued her education in Wash- nity and its natural tendency to avoid taking God that it has become today—a House of ington, DC at Howard University. During her bold and decisive action, and reflects the les- God that also is a social powerhouse for the college career, she was selected for the ulti- sons learned from Rwanda that the inter- national community cannot stand by as geno- betterment of its community. mate hospitality internship . . . Disney, where she spent a summer working and learning in cide occurs. I am extremely pleased that CIJ Trained as an educator, she was also the Anaheim, CA. She received a Bachelor of has taken a leadership role in galvanizing the driving force that created the Carter Children’s Business Administration/Hospitality Manage- international community to respond to the on- Center. There, young people born into a ment degree. After graduation, Cherice was going genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan. neighborhood that others too often overlook, chosen as a manager-in-training for the Grand As the Ranking member of the Helsinki could receive food and clothing for their bod- Hyatt Washington, which led to her becoming Commission, most of my work with the Coali- ies, tutoring for their minds and a kind word a food and beverage manager. tion for International Justice has been related to what is unfortunately the still unresolved that would uplift their souls. This manifestation She later joined the New York Marriott Mar- issue of obtaining Serbia’s full cooperation of Mrs. Carter’s love for the children in my quis, Marriott’s 2000 room, flagship hotel in with the International Criminal tribunal for the District was her most compelling testament. Times Square. For the past eight years, former Yugoslavia (ICTY), located in The Cherice has held various management posi- The church was at the center of Hague. Despite the democratic ouster of tions in the company including the house- Weptanomah Carter’s life and she valued the Slobodan Milosevic in late 2000 and his trans- keeping and catering sales departments. Just importance of rebuilding individuals—one soul fer to The Hague in 2001, Belgrade’s coopera- this past September, she was promoted to Di- at a time. Yet, through four decades of service tion with the tribunal has not been good. De- rector of Services, at the newly constructed, to the congregation and community she loved spite Serbia’s own need to break with a hor- Upper Eastside Courtyard by Marriott. alongside her husband, she never ceased rible past, and despite the obvious need for being her own woman. In her spare time, Cherice enjoys traveling, surviving victims and families to have some reading, television and real estate. She cur- closure, Serbian officials have largely re- This, I think, is why she and all of the other rently owns two properties and has aspirations sponded only when pressure is applied. Ratko historic women are such compelling role mod- of obtaining many more. She also enjoys talk- Mladic and Radovan Karadzic, perhaps the els for the young women of today. Their lives ing to others about the possibilities and joys of two people most directly responsible for the teach all of us an important lesson—that we home ownership. Cherice eventually plans to slaughter of thousands of innocent people in can achieve heights well beyond our initial ex- enjoy an early retirement due to real estate in- Bosnia and Herzegovina, remain at large. It pectations when we have the courage and de- vestment. She has volunteered for Habitat for has been clear for some time that Mr. Mladic termination to follow our true calling in life. Humanity, Aids Walk, NY Cares and coordi- has been protected by the military. Serbia’s fu- nated clothing drives at work. This is how—through service to others—that ture integration in Europe is placed at risk by these inspiring women earned their own, hon- Cherice is thankful for the support of her this irresponsible behavior. family and friends, especially her mother, ored place in history. The Coalition for International Justice has Phyllis Johnson, who has always supported been indispensable in tracking the develop- For their calling became a chronicle of de- her in all her endeavors. ments of the tribunal, as well as following re- votion—to God, to their families and to Amer- Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent ports of where at-large indictees may be, as ica. I thank them and all of America’s women, on this body to recognize the accomplish- well as what access prosecutors have had to especially my dear Mother, who are the back- ments of Cherice Yvonne James as she offers evidence and witnesses. The Coalition also bone of our nation and create their own untold her talents for the betterment of our local and has done excellent work in analyzing the work histories every day. national communities. of the tribunal itself. This has been important.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.081 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E484 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 International justice is a relatively new phe- noted in that speech, ‘‘For the sixth consecu- erans alike—in times of disasters and other nomenon, and things have not always devel- tive year, the American Customer Satisfaction emergencies. To make my point, I need only oped smoothly. The Coalition has not been an Index reports that veterans are more satisfied to mention the heroic effects and efforts of VA employees during Hurricane Katrina and apologist for ICTY or the other war crimes tri- with their health care than any other patients Rita. Not only did our staffs evacuate sev- bunals, and has brought attention to areas in America. VA outscored the private sector by eral hundred patients out of our hospitals in where improvement was needed. The Coali- a full 10 percentage points. And as you would the Gulf area to other hospitals without los- tion should take great satisfaction that today, expect, because of our first-rate care, veterans ing one, and not only did they do it quickly 10 years after genocide in Bosnia and are now coming to us in ever greater num- and efficiently, at great personal risk to Herzegovina, the war crimes chamber of Bos- bers.’’ themselves and at great personal sacrifice nia’s court system now has the ability to han- Mr. Speaker, the point must be underlined: and loss. One nurse told me in Houston, the most popular form of medical care with where we relocated patients, that she for dle the emotional and controversial cases from four days could see her house in New Orle- that dark time. those who receive it according to Secretary ans, and she could see only the roof and the The staff of the Coalition for International Nicholson, speaking on behalf of the Bush Ad- chimney, but she went with her patients Justice has always been outstanding, and has ministration, is a form of medicine that is en- when we evacuated them, not even knowing provided critical assistance to myself, my per- tirely government run. I find it odd that people the disposition of her own family. sonal staff, and the Helsinki Commission staff who would denounce Medicare as a form of And when it’s all said and done, it’s the that work on these issues. CIJ staff have been ‘‘socialized medicine’’ don’t apply that dreaded millions of the men and women who we care for, though, who are our biggest supporters. more than willing and able to help those of us epithet to the one major medical care delivery For the sixth consecutive year, the Amer- in Congress who have worked to ensure com- system in our country which is entirely run by ican Customer Satisfaction Index reports mon concerns about international justice are the public sector—the medical care delivered that veterans are more satisfied with their appropriately reflected in U.S. foreign policy. by the Department of Veterans Affairs. health care than any other patients in Amer- Board members Mark Ellis, John Heffernan I ask that excerpts from Secretary Nichol- ica. VA outscored the private sector by a full and Jim Hooper were involved from the ear- son’s speech be printed here because they 10 percentage points. And as you would ex- liest days, when few were certain justice are an absolutely irrefutable answer to those pect, because of our first-rate care, veterans who claim that any increase in a government are now coming to us in ever greater num- would even be considered in diplomatic efforts bers. Fully 7.7 million are now enrolled in to bring peace and stability to the Balkans. role in medical care will somehow cause dete- our system. Staff past and present, including Edgar Chen, rioration in the quality of that care. The ability This year VA doctors and nurses will treat Stefanie Frease and Eric Witte, provided ex- of some myths to survive reality is one of the over 5.3 million veterans at one of our 14 pertise not only on the work of the tribunals most impressive and depressing features of points of healthcare access. That’s an in- but also on the countries and conflicts the tri- the American political scene. But I hope that crease of more than 1 million veterans com- bunals were created to address. I want to people reading Secretary Nicholson’s remarks, ing to us since President Bush came to of- and thinking about what they mean in the fice. We expect this year that we will have 60 highlight in particular Nina Bang-Jessen, CIJ’s million patient encounters; that is, 60 mil- Executive Director, who so effectively com- broader context, will refrain in the future from lion visits to our centers, clinics and hos- bined expertise and advocacy. She oversaw somehow arguing that an increase in a public pitals. We have 154 major hospitals and over the Coalition as it broadened its focus to in- sector role in medical care will necessarily 900 clinics, and we dispense pharmaceutical clude not only the former Yugoslavia but lead to its deterioration. I join Secretary Nich- prescriptions to over three—excuse me, over Rwanda, Cambodia, Sierra Leone and today, olson as a Member of Congress in taking 230 million times. pride in the medical care we provide for our We’ve achieved something that no other Darfur. major integrated provider has ever yet been Ongoing humanitarian catastrophes, Mr. veterans. My only criticism is that we don’t do able to do, and that is that every one of Speaker, may frustrate us, but those who it in even greater quantity—too many veterans these 7.7 million veterans enrolled in our have worked at the Coalition for International are unable to get access to the system, and system has an electronic medical record. Justice can take satisfaction knowing they did I believe that it is an area where more re- Time precludes me from telling you all of something about it and advanced the cause of sources would allow us to do an even better the advantages of safety and good medicine international justice beyond where it otherwise job. But again to quote from Secretary Nichol- that that gives us, but let me mention would be. They have saved lives and brought son’s speech, when the ‘‘NBC Nightly News anecdotally a couple of things. war criminals to justice, and played a role in . . . aired a story about VA healthcare, saying One, a young man came through Ronald preventing future crimes against humanity. For that it is the envy of healthcare administrators Reagan airport. He was a diabetic. His insulin that, we owe them our thanks and best wish- and a model for healthcare nationwide,’’ it was in his luggage, and they lost his luggage. es. ought to give pause to those who mindlessly And he called his father in South Carolina, f repeat the assertion that quality medical care panicking, and his father said, ‘‘Call the VA,’’ and a government role are incompatible. because he was a veteran. VA EXPERIENCE SHOWS BENEFIT The VA is, I think, truly one of America’s He called our VA hospital here in north OF GOVERNMENT ROLE IN good news stories. Following a decade-long Washington. They said, ‘‘Get in a cab and HEALTHCARE healthcare transformation, the VA is now at come out here.’’ And by the time he got there, the forefront of America’s healthcare indus- they had his medical record dialed up, knew try. And it’s not just a proud secretary say- his insulin regime, administered to him, gave HON. BARNEY FRANK ing that, but a host of other organizations OF MASSACHUSETTS within and outside of the healthcare commu- him a supply and sent him on his way. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nity saying that about us. For example, the And during that relocation of hundreds of patients in Katrina, we were able in every Thursday, March 30, 2006 Journal of American Medical Association has applauded the VA’s dedication to patient case, after we got them resettled into another Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, safety. The Washington Monthly magazine a hospital, to dial up their medical record. one obstacle we have when we seek to ad- few months ago had a feature article calling So electronic health records and their ad- dress what is clearly the number one domestic VA health care, quote, ‘‘the best care any- vantages to patient safety, for telemedicine, problem in America today—a healthcare sys- where.’’ have put us at the forefront in health care de- tem that is both unduly expensive and pro- U.S. News and World Report described the livery in this country, and we are very proud vides too little coverage for many Americans— VA as the home of top-notch health care in its annual best-hospitals issue. And since of that achievement. And I can say that be- is the objection to what some people are quick you’re sitting down, I won’t shock you un- cause it didn’t happen in the 14 months that to call ‘‘socialized medicine.’’ The notion that a duly by telling you even The New York I’ve been in the job. So I’m sitting on the government role in healthcare is somehow in- Times recently said that the VA is a model shoulders of those who did make it happen. imical to the delivery of decent healthcare has for our nation. And very recently, I think But it is a seminal achievement in health care. prevented rational debate on this subject from last week or the week before, on the NBC Two weeks ago I announced the creation of going forward. Paradoxically, as the Secretary Nightly News was aired a story about VA another front of technological initiative at the of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Jim healthcare, saying that it is the envy of VA, which has the potential for untold ramifica- Nicholson, recently noted in his speech at the healthcare administrators and a model for tions in health care, and that’s the creation of health care nationwide. Press Club, it is the healthcare delivery sys- And we are a model of humanitarian serv- a new Genomic Medicine Program Advisory tem in our country that is most completely a ice in our communities as well. Our VA em- Committee, which will be to help me establish government operation that scores highest in ployees come to the aid of their communities policies for using genetic information to help consumer satisfaction. As Secretary Nicholson and their citizens—veterans and non-vet- improve the medical care of our veterans.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.084 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E485 The VA’s commitment to move into this dles that seemed uncrossable. At the tender Cal Bellamy’s contributions to the economy realm of research, to advance our knowledge age of 16 she knew her life long dream and of Northwest Indiana are only eclipsed by his of the relationship of the genome to a host of desire was the wonderful art of singing. Her personal dedication to our community. Cal has physical and mental conditions relevant to vet- father and other sibling also were musically in- been called on to lend his expertise and lead- erans, is completely in keeping with the inves- clined and played instruments and sang, and ership to several important organizations in tigative nature of VA medicine. For 75 years so it was in her blood to sing and sing she Northwest Indiana. Mr. Bellamy serves as our researchers and clinicians have been did. chairman of the Purdue Technology Center breaking exciting ground in virtually every as- Ms. Holliday sang all over the world from Advisory Board, where he is involved with the pect of medicine, with most of their work re- Budapest, Hungary, Russia, Africa, and most center’s activities to attract high-tech jobs to sulting in new and better ways to treat the recently in 2005 in London, England. She has Northwest Indiana. He is also chairman of the myriad illnesses of our veterans. From Nobel also performed with Alvin Slaughter and oth- Northwest Indiana Forum, the Education Com- Prize-winning researchers—and the VA’s had ers. mittee of the Lakeshore Chamber of Com- three Nobel Prize winners—from Nobel Prize Ms. Holliday sang in many establishments in merce, the Ethics In Government Taskforce of winners to the CAT scan to paperless records New York City and New Jersey. Unfortunately, the Lake County Community Development technologies, to kidney transplants, to Ms. Holliday found herself entangled in sub- Committee, and cochair of Meals on Wheels microchip-drive prosthetics, to medical school stances that were not healthy, or helpful for of Northwest Indiana Capital Campaign. partnerships that have trained more than half her continued growth and high self-esteem. Mr. Bellamy also serves on the Board of Di- of our nation’s physicians today, we are lead- Ms. Holliday’s life took a wonderful change in rectors of many organizations committed to ing the world in our care for our veterans. her early 20s, hearing the promises of God, improving the quality of life in Northwest Indi- As I’ve outlined, we’ve done a great job so she accepted Jesus Christ as her lord and ana, including the First District Pro Bono Com- far. We are a world-class healthcare network savior. The word of deliverance was preached mittee, which provides legal services for low- when it comes to treating existing illnesses unto her and after many trials and errors, the income individuals, the Urban League of and disabilities. But then we ask ourselves, chains that bound her were broken and the Northwest Indiana, Lake County Workforce what if we knew how to identify the earliest broken pieces of her life were put back to- Development, the Calumet Council Boy possible signs of a veteran’s predisposition to gether again. Nothing became more important Scouts of America, the Northwest Indiana Mi- a particular disease? What if we knew in ad- to Ms. Holliday than to do the will of Him who nority Business Opportunity Committee, and vance how a veteran would react to a par- called her out of darkness to the marvelous the Northwest Indiana World Trade Council. ticular drug therapy? What if we could reason- light. Cal Bellamy also commits his time to edu- ably forecast the risks a particular veteran Ms. Holliday combined the fields of dentistry cational causes throughout the area, serving might face with respect to some forms of can- and elder care for a lifetime of caring and as the founding director of the Hammond Edu- cer? What if, summing up, we could move sharing. However, she believes her greatest cation Foundation, on the Board of Advisors from providing medicine that is preventative to gift is fundraising. Ms. Holliday received a cer- for Indiana University Northwest, and on the medicine that is predictive? tificate for great community services from the Chancellor’s Council for Purdue University With the advent of the Genomic Medicine Honorable State Senator John L. Sampson for Calumet. Without a doubt, Mr. Bellamy has Advisory Committee, we are positioning the her accomplishments at the Bible Speaks given his time and energy graciously to make VA to take a new journey, a truly great journey Church and Christian School of Brooklyn, NY. Northwest Indiana a better place for future along the DNA trail. It is a path still not well Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent generations. lighted. There are so many questions of ethics on this body to recognize the accomplish- Mr. Bellamy received his B.A. with highest and privacy that we are not going to proceed ments of Parthenia R. Holliday as she offers distinction from Indiana University, his law de- down that trail without first assessing the risks her talents for the betterment of our local and gree from the University of Michigan, and is a and benefits to our veterans. But we know national communities. graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of from past experience that once we determine f Banking at the University of Delaware. I wish that a VA program is in the best interest of our him and his wife, Cathy, the best of luck as veterans, we move forward with all the re- HONORING MR. CALVIN BELLAMY they approach the exciting next steps of their sources we can muster. life. And when VA health care is on the move, HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other we change the nation’s healthcare landscape OF INDIANA distinguished colleagues join me in com- for the better. As medical practice incorporates IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mending Cal Bellamy for his outstanding con- the advances of science, we must harness Thursday, March 30, 2006 tributions to the community of Northwest Indi- VA’s triple mission of health care, research ana. His commitment to improving the quality and training to bring these advances to the Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my dis- of life for the people of the First Congressional veterans we serve. tinct pleasure to honor Mr. Calvin Bellamy on District of Indiana is truly inspirational and I’m confident our new push down the the occasion of his retirement as chief execu- should be recognized and commended. Over genomic road will benefit not only our vet- tive officer of Bank Calumet, where he has the years, I have sought out Cal to seek his erans, but the larger national health care com- served the people of Northwest Indiana over assistance on matters affecting Northwest In- munity as a whole, as so much of our other the past 24 years. Throughout his time leading diana. I have always found him to be trust- research has done, such as the development Bank Calumet, Mr. Bellamy has done much to worthy and deliberate in our conversations. As of the CAT scan and the pacemaker and the improve the quality of life for everyone in John Quincy Adams said, ‘‘If your actions in- first liver transplant done at the VA. Northwest Indiana. He has been an exemplary spire others to dream more, learn more, do community leader as well as a successful f more and become more, you are a leader.’’ business man, and I am proud to call him a Cal Bellamy has been a great leader for A TRIBUTE TO PARTHENIA friend. Northwest Indiana. HOLLIDAY Under Mr. Bellamy, Bank Calumet has be- f come a crucial component for economic devel- HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS opment in the region, with branches serving IN TRIBUTE TO BRAYTON WILBUR OF NEW YORK both Indiana and Illinois. Today, Bank Calumet IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES operates in 29 locations with over 400 employ- HON. NANCY PELOSI ees. Bank Calumet has become one of the Thursday, March 30, 2006 OF CALIFORNIA largest locally owned bank and holding com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in panies in Northwest Indiana with over $1 bil- recognition of Parthenia R. Holliday and I lion in total assets. Bank Calumet has been Thursday, March 30, 2006 hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing named ‘‘one of America’s best banks’’ by all Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to the accomplishments of this outstanding mem- three national rating services under Mr. Bel- pay my respects to Brayton Wilbur, Jr., a great ber of the community. lamy’s leadership. These incredible accom- San Franciscan and a dear friend. One of our Parthenia R. Holliday was born in Philadel- plishments reflect the drive, passion, and com- great civic leaders, he made immeasurable phia, PA. mitment Cal Bellamy has shown to creating a contributions to our most treasured institutions. Her childhood years were like so many oth- world-class financial institution that invests in Mr. Wilbur passed away on March 24 after a ers filled with challenges, crossroads and hur- the communities it serves. lifetime of service to the arts, the business

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.088 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E486 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 community, his family, and the city he called their 25th Anniversary and wish them well as for the betterment of our local and national home. they continue their work to improve the lives of communities. A native San Franciscan, he was born on all Napa citizens. Mr. Speaker, Luther Wright’s selfless serv- October 2, 1935, and was a graduate of Yale f ice has continuously demonstrated a level of University and Stanford Business School. He altruistic dedication that makes him most wor- joined his family’s firm, Wilbur-Ellis Co., in A TRIBUTE TO LUTHER M. thy of our recognition today. WRIGHT 1963, becoming its president and CEO in f 1988 and chairman of the Board of Directors in 2000 after overseeing an extraordinary era HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS HONORING AUDREY YVONNE WILLSON, WHOSE LIFE JOURNEY of expansion. He served as a director of sev- OF NEW YORK LED HER TO BECOME YVE-I eral San Francisco institutions, including IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RASTAFARI Safeway Stores and the Chronicle Publishing Thursday, March 30, 2006 Company. Through his enthusiasm for the arts, Mr. Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in HON. BARBARA LEE Wilbur eloquently expressed his love for San recognition of Luther M. Wright, and I hope my OF CALIFORNIA Francisco. He served as a director of the San colleagues will join me in recognizing the im- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pressive accomplishments of this outstanding Francisco Opera, a trustee of the Asian Art Thursday, March 30, 2006 Museum, and as the 15th president of the San member of the community. Francisco Symphony, presiding over the inau- Luther M. Wright was born on June 2, 1942 Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor guration of our beloved Davies Symphony Hall in Louisa, Virginia, and he currently resides in the extraordinary life of Audrey Yvonne in 1980. Laurelton, New York. Willson, whose spiritual evolution led to her I offer my deepest sympathy to Judy, his Mr. Wright received his early education in being known at the end of her life as Yve-I beloved wife of 43 years, his children, Mi- New York City at P.S. 140. He graduated from Rastafari. Yve-I was a beloved mother, wife, chael, Jennifer, Edward and Claire, his mother Andrew Jackson High School and attended grandmother, friend, artist, educator and lead- Dita, and his sisters Lolita and Mary. As they Queens College of the City University of New er in our community and our world. She have lost a loved one, so the city of San Fran- York from 1974–1977. He also attended the passed away on March 13, 2006 at the age of cisco has lost one of its most distinguished United States Coast Guard Engineer Program 63. sons. and received his license as a Chief Marine Born Audrey Yvonne Willson, she grew up f Engineer. in the Fort Greene Projects of Brooklyn, New Mr. Wright served in the New York City Fire York, where she developed the quick wit and RECOGNIZING THE 25TH ANNIVER- Department for 15 years as a Chief Engineer, savvy nature for which she was known SARY OF NAPA EMERGENCY retiring with 27 years of service. He served in throughout her life. Living in New York, she WOMEN’S SERVICES the United States Army from 1964–1966 in ac- met and married Bob Law in 1962. During that tive duty, as a reservist from 1969–1995 and period, she became an active member of the HON. MIKE THOMPSON participated in Desert Storm in 1991. Mr. Congress for Racial Equality, and was at the OF CALIFORNIA Wright retired from the Army as a Master Ser- forefront of the Black Cultural/Consciousness IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES geant. He is also a member of the Vulcan So- movement, identifying strongly with her African ciety of the New York City Fire Department heritage as an activist of that era and through- Thursday, March 30, 2006 and Past President and Captain of the 231st out her life. Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, Block Association. In the decade that followed, Audrey began I rise today to honor Napa Emergency Wom- Among his many community service a new journey, moving to Silver Spring, Mary- en’s Services, commonly known as NEWS, of projects, Mr. Wright was initiated into Tuscan land and obtaining her Masters Degree in Napa, California, as it celebrates its 25th anni- Lodge No. 58 F&AM (PH) in 1978. He was Education as well as her Montessori certifi- versary. elected to Worshipful Master of Tuscan Lodge cation. These achievements began her lifelong Since its inception, NEWS has played a vital No. 58 in 1986; Secretary of Tuscan Lodge devotion to the education and healthy devel- role in protecting and assisting women and No. 58 in 1987–present; Excellent High Priest opment of children, which included her own children throughout the Napa Valley who are of Mount Moriah Chapter No. 3 Holy Royal young daughters, and ultimately led Audrey to the victims of domestic violence. A group of Arch Masons in June 2003; Ill. Commander in create her own educational model. concerned citizens took the initiative to ad- Chief of Long Island Consistory No. 61 AASR Audrey’s journey of intellectual, cultural and dress the growing problem of domestic vio- (PHA) in 2002 and 2003; Ill. Potentate of Abu- spiritual discovery soon led her to West Africa, lence and created an emergency hotline in Bekr Temple No. 91 AEAONMS (PHA) in where she immediately fell in love with the 1979. With the dedication, leadership, and 1994; and appointed Deputy of the Oasis for people, their land, and their struggles. Her compassion of these individuals, NEWS came Abu-Bekr No. 91 in 2002, by Imperial Poten- proficiency in the Spanish, Twi, Amharic and to fruition on October 5, 1981. tate William F. Crockett. Arabic languages allowed her to be a teacher NEWS is the only organization in the Napa Additional leadership posts include: District and a student of the people she met there, Valley dedicated to helping women and chil- Deputy Grand Master for the Second Masonic and through her travels she forged human and dren lead lives free of violence. Over the past District from June 2001–2002; Worthy Patron spiritual ties that would last a lifetime. 25 years, NEWS has grown and expanded to in Fidelity Chapter No. 54 OES (PHA); District In the years that followed, her newfound provide numerous services to people through- Deputy Grand Commander for the Second faith of Islam led her to change her name to out Napa County, including emergency shel- District; District Deputy Thrice Illustrious Mas- Ameena, and during her time in Africa she ter, counseling, legal advocacy, and education ter for the Royal & Select Masters and Assist- met and married her second husband, an outreach programs. All of these services play ant Recorder for the Grand Commandery American named Daud Malik Watts. Upon her an important role in providing women and chil- Knights Templar State of New York. return to the United States, she rededicated dren with the guidance and support necessary Through these organizations, Mr. Wright has herself to her life’s mission of serving our to help them overcome the physical and psy- distributed toys and clothing to the needy chil- young people by opening, with Daud, the Res- chological damage caused by domestic vio- dren of East New York and Kings County Hos- ton Montessori School in Virginia. lence. pital, fed the homeless, and sponsored young As she continued her spiritual exploration in Mr. Speaker, the lifeblood of this organiza- children to attend Camp Eureka during the the 1980s, she was led to return to her birth tion is its devoted staff and volunteers who summers of 2002 and 2003. name of Audrey. During that time she also work day and night to ensure that women and Luther Wright is a member of the Good traveled frequently to the west coast and split children always have a safe place to seek News Baptist Church of Hollis Queens, New her time between working in the non-profit shelter. These hardworking individuals have York. He has been married to the beautiful sector and developing her own small business changed the lives of thousands of women and Phyllis A. Wright for the past 34 years, and selling her delicious homemade apple pies. children in Napa County. they have three grown children, all 4-year col- As she neared the conclusion of her spir- Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate that we take lege graduates. itual journey, she changed her name to Yve- this time to thank and honor Napa Emergency Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent I Rastafari, which was a reflection of her be- Women’s Services for its immeasurable serv- on this body to recognize the accomplish- coming a Rastafarian. In the 1990s, when she ice to Napa County. I congratulate NEWS on ments of Luther Wright as he offers his talents underwent this transition, she also moved to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.092 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS March 30, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E487 Hawaii, where she started Artists for Orphans, is no more distinguished member of the legis- COLLEGE ACCESS AND an international non-profit dedicated to pro- lative branch than the Senator from West Vir- OPPORTUNITY ACT OF 2005 viding educational, financial, physical and ginia, and certainly none who has served so emotional support to orphans in Ethiopia. effectively for so long. Surely, some of the SPEECH OF After devoting herself to this bold, compas- credit for this distinguished service should go HON. RUSH D. HOLT sionate work for more than a decade, Yve-I to Erma Byrd. OF NEW JERSEY left Hawaii to move back northeast to be with My family and I have known the Byrds for IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES her ailing father, caring for him until his last much longer than half a century. Senator Wednesday, March 29, 2006 day. After his passing, she returned to working BYRD and his wife have been devoted to each with young children in Washington, D.C. be- other for almost 69 years. She has been his The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union had under fore ultimately moving to California to be with closest companion and, I believe, his closest consideration the bill (H.R. 609) to amend and care for her youngest grandchildren. advisor. When they first married, he turned and extend the Higher Education Act of 1965, Yve-I gave of herself easily and was won- over to her his wallet and the family finances. with Mr. BISHOP of Utah in the chair. derful with children. I witnessed time and time He relied on her for everything domestic. For Mr. Chairman, I rise to reiterate and rein- again, as she was the mother-in-law to my decades, in the evenings after his superb leg- force my remarks yesterday during the debate son, and along with me, was a grandmother to islative and political work on Capitol Hill, when on the McMorris-Holt amendment. I restate my Simone the daughter of my son and her other members of Congress set off for recep- commitment to work with those who want to daughter. Whether we were together at family tions and social functions, Senator BYRD re- see improvements in the adjunct teacher gatherings on special occasions or simply turned home to sit with Erma and read, often corps. spending time with our children and grand- to each other. As I said in my previous comments, having children, Yve-I’s generous and loving spirit Erma Byrd has been a dear friend of my been a professor of physics at the university brought a sense of comfort and togetherness mother. The daughter of a coal miner, Erma level, I am well aware that knowledge of a to our family which has not only nurtured our Byrd was a woman who showed great consid- subject is only one part of helping students youngest members, but has strengthened the eration for other people. She was a woman learn. Being an effective teacher is much more ties between us all. with a backbone and what we would call West than that. Pedagogy is both an art and a Throughout her life, Yve-I was fully dedi- Virginia gumption. The whole country of the science, and pedagogical training is a critical cated to complete spiritual and human devel- United States knows Senator BYRD as a great part of being an educator. opment and her devotion to becoming the legislator and great orator who can be counted Placing an Adjunct Teacher directly into the most complete and aware person that she on as the most adamant defender of our Con- classroom without any pre-service training could was evidenced by her constant growth stitution and a champion of the honor and tra- would be unfair to the Adjunct Teacher and to and personal evolution. At the end of her life ditions of the Congress, especially the U.S. the students he or she would be teaching. To it became her goal to return to Ethiopia to live Senate. What many Americans may not know raise the level of performance in the class- out her days so that she could continue the is the man who has given devotion to and, room, Adjunct Teachers must undergo ad- work of Artists for Orphans and practice her until her death last week, received devotion vanced training. This training must not be cur- religion at an age-old founding church of her from his honorable and capable wife. I join sory, and should include pedagogy and the faith, and that is what she did, being laid to others here in expressing my sympathies to most recent research on how students learn rest on March 17, 2006 in Shashamene, Ethi- this great colleague. science, mathematics, and foreign languages. opia, where she was known as Mama Love. It should also include practical experience with She is survived by her life partner, Menelek f real students in classroom settings. Fitzgerald, her children Aisha Patrice, Abina, I want to emphasize that the Adjunct Teach- Yasmina, Memuna, Bilqis, Nasir, Mahmud, TRIBUTE TO MRS. ERMA BYRD er Corps program is not about replacing and Netanya; her siblings Adrienne, Donald teachers. As the word ‘‘adjunct’’ signifies, and Wayne; thirteen grandchildren; her neph- HON. ALAN B. MOLLOHAN these teachers would be an additional supple- ews; and numerous cousins, colleagues and ment to school facilities. Schools applying for OF WEST VIRGINIA friends. these grants will tailor their Adjunct program to Today the family and friends of the woman IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES suit their unique needs, and in doing so, they who journeyed from Audrey to Yve-I come to- Thursday, March 30, 2006 must include parents and teachers in the plan- ning process. This program will particularly gether to celebrate her life and the countless Mr. MOLLOHAN. Mr. Speaker, hearts are help those educational agencies facing dire ways in which her bright and compassionate heavy in West Virginia this week as we mourn teacher shortages, or levels of achievement so spirit touched lives of others, no matter what the loss of a very special woman: Mrs. Erma low that no one teacher can solve it on his or name they knew her by during her lifetime. Byrd, the beloved wife of our distinguished her own. As it currently stands, many of our Her giving nature and deep wisdom was senior Senator. known to and cherished by all, and will con- high-need school districts do not have enough ROBERT C. BYRD and Erma Ora James met tinue to lift up the lives of our young people people who are currently qualified under No as students at Mark Twain Grade School in and all who knew her for generations to come. Child Left Behind to teach math, science and Raleigh county. They married in 1937, at the On behalf of California’s 9th U.S. Congres- foreign languages. While we increase those tender age of 19. In that simple ceremony, a sional District, I am proud to add my voice to ranks, we can also supplement them with ad- lasting bond was forged, and an incredible the countless others who have united in junct teachers with subject matter expertise. journey was begun. thanks, appreciation, and joy to remember this Specifically, this amendment requires adjunct Their journey took them from the coalfields very special, remarkable and loving woman, teachers to possess, at a minimum, a bach- of southern West Virginia to the halls of this Yve-I Rastafari. elor’s degree and demonstrated expertise in great Capitol. At every point along the way, f mathematics, science, or a critical foreign lan- Erma Byrd was a constant source of strength, guage as defined by No Child Left Behind. HONORING THE MEMORY OF ERMA support and inspiration—whether in raising Every school, in every town, should have a di- BYRD their wonderful family or anchoring the incred- verse faculty with pedagogical and subject ible career of her devoted husband. matter expertise. HON. RUSH D. HOLT In his words, she was a ‘‘priceless treasure, I also want to state that the size of this pro- a multifaceted woman of great insight and wis- OF NEW JERSEY gram is very small. This program will be com- dom, of quiet humor and common sense.’’ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES peting for funding with five others for a share What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful of a $41 million authorization. Thursday, March 30, 2006 woman. It is my hope that this program will have Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize On the sad occasion of her passing, Mr. long-term beneficial results. Before it was in- and honor the memory of Erma Byrd, the wife Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in ex- troduced, I wanted to ensure that the amend- of the senior Senator from West Virginia. We pressing heartfelt condolences to Senator ment includes provision for pre-service training mourn the death of this great lady. BYRD and his family. Our thoughts are with and continued mentoring of these content spe- Here in this chamber it is important that we them as they say goodbye to Erma Byrd and cialists. Just as Teach for America has been acknowledge the importance of the spouses of cherish the memory of her caring kindness a valuable asset to many school districts, I be- those who serve in the U.S. Congress. There and love. lieve that these content specialists can make

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:05 Mar 31, 2006 Jkt 049060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A30MR8.095 E30MRPT1 ycherry on PROD1PC64 with REMARKS E488 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 30, 2006 valuable contributions to schools. After partici- BUDGET CUTS HARM WOMEN AND guarantee the safety of women domestically pating in the adjunct teacher program, I hope CHILDREN and abroad. that many of these individuals will decide to One of the most successful programs to SPEECH OF stay in their school districts and serve as cer- prevent violence against women while funding tified teachers. HON. BARBARA LEE the prosecution of those who have committed OF CALIFORNIA those crimes, the Violence Against Women Notably, our focus is on the most dire needs IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Act or VAWA, will face a potential $39.5 mil- first. The amendment requires that those who lion cut. Wednesday, March 29, 2006 apply for the funds demonstrate the need for, Additionally, women’s health is the Presi- and expected benefits of, using adjunct teach- Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, tonight I join my col- dent’s proposed $2 million cut to the United ers in the participating schools. This may in- leagues in highlighting the detrimental effects Nations Development Fund and a $9 million clude information on the difficulties that partici- the President’s fiscal year 2007 budget will cut to the United Nations Population Fund will pating schools face in recruiting qualified fac- have on women. jeopardize the health and safety of women From health and education, to the protection around the world. ulty in mathematics, science, critical foreign and development of women and girls inter- language courses. They must also dem- Mr. Speaker, our budget is a moral docu- nationally, this administration intends to cut ment. It reflects the values of our Nation. I’m onstrate measurable objectives for the project, funding in programs that are vital to women’s sad to say these aren’t the values that my sis- including the number of adjunct teachers the well-being and development. ters in Congress and across the country hold eligible entity intends to place in classrooms, Worse still Mr. Speaker, many of the pro- dear. and academic gains that the students should grams that the President intends to cut dis- Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to make. proportionately impact minority women nega- think about what a budget like the one the tively. President has proposed means to each and As pleased as I am with the amendment’s For example, in the area of health, the fiscal progress so far, I also recognize that more everyone of their constituents. You can’t tell year 2007 budget cuts $1 million out of the me we can’t do better. work needs to be done in conference. Specifi- National Center on Minority Health and Health cally, I am most concerned with perfecting the Disparities. This is a critical facility that directs f ‘‘Use of Funds’’ section to make clear that re- money and technical assistance to organiza- TRIBUTE TO JOHNSON COUNTY imbursement of outside entities for the costs tions working with minorities on diseases that MOVERS AND SHAKERS AWARD disproportionately kill women, such as heart associated with allowing an employee to serve WINNERS OF 2006 as an Adjunct Teacher must comply with col- disease, diabetes and obesity. Additionally, the President’s budget would lective bargaining agreements. I believe we HON. DENNIS MOORE can do that by spelling out that section 2(F)’s cut funds from the minority HIV/AIDS initiative which actively seeks to address the prevention OF KANSAS requirement that applicants demonstrate their and treatment needs of minority communities IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES compliance with existing contractual obliga- heavily impacted by HIV/AIDS. Thursday, March 30, 2006 tions includes collective bargaining agree- The budget cuts the Office of Minority ments. That is my current reading of the Health by a staggering $11 million and the Of- Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise amendment, but it could not hurt to tighten the fice on Women’s Health would receive a sig- today to note an important event in the Third language. nificant cut. Congressional District of Kansas. On April 24, 2006, the Volunteer Center of Johnson County In closing, I want to thank my colleagues for It’s not just health that is slashed in the President’s budget. in Overland Park, KS, will honor outstanding the bipartisan support they have given to this The President proposes cutting funding for youth volunteers. One hundred and eleven amendment. I want to especially thank my Re- education initiatives for homeless children and young people have been nominated by school publican colleagues on the House Education youth by $600,000 and cut Pell grants by a personnel and nonprofit organizations for their and Workforce Committee for accepting some whopping $430 million—with an award cap of dedication and service to the community. Eight of my changes and working with me to im- $4,050. of these youth are being recognized for their prove the amendment from where it started. I Furthermore, the President has proposed a efforts toward receipt of the Congressional look forward to ensuring this amendment’s $1 million decrease to fair housing assistance Award. Youth volunteerism continues to grow continued progress in conference with the programs for our most needy. and be a strong force in Johnson County. Senate. Mr. Speaker, I could stand here all night These 111 youth exemplify the true meaning and list the outrageous cuts in health, edu- of volunteerism and giving back to their com- cation, and housing programs the President’s munity. It is my honor to recognize each stu- budget would inflict, but I would be remiss if dent volunteer and their schools by listing I didn’t also highlight the cuts to programs that them in the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD.

Name School Age Grade CA medal City

Katie Agnew ...... Bishop Miege High School ...... 18 12 ...... Roeland Park Dana Alanis ...... Indian Trail Jr. High ...... 15 9 ...... Olathe. Molly Allison-Gallimore ...... Home School ...... 16 10 Silver Medal...... Spring Hill. Clare Amey ...... Bishop Miege High School ...... 17 11 ...... Prairie Village. Avery Arjo ...... Oregon Trail Junior High ...... 13 8 ...... Olathe. Simmi Arora ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 17 12 ...... Lenexa. Sydney Ayers ...... Barstow High School ...... 15 9 Gold Medal...... Leawood. M. Celeste Banks ...... Trailridge Middle School ...... 14 8 ...... Shawnee Mission. Annie Beile ...... California Trail Jr. High ...... 14 9 ...... Overland Park. Anne Bellis ...... Pembroke Hill ...... 16 10 ...... Fairway Carlene Bolton ...... Mill Valley High School ...... 17 12 ...... Shawnee Steven Burnett ...... Olathe North High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Rebecca Byron ...... Biship Miege High School ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee Caitlin Carter ...... Westridge Middle School ...... 14 8 ...... Shawnee Mission. Jenna Christensen ...... Shawnee Mission North High School ...... 17 11 Silver Medal ...... Overland Park. Jill Christensen ...... Shawnee Mission North High School ...... 15 10 Silver Medal ...... Overland. Lee Clemon ...... Olathe South High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Sara ‘‘Kat’’ Conoley ...... Shawnee Mission West High School ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee Mission. Benjamin Eggers ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 17 12 ...... Olathe. Caitlin Ellison ...... Mill Valley High School ...... 17 12 ...... Shawnee. Christopher Fairchild ...... Midland Adventist Academy ...... 14 8 ...... Shawnee. Rindy Fairchild ...... Midland Adventist Academy ...... 16 10 ...... Shawnee. Ashlan Fisher ...... Shawnee Mission East High School ...... 17 11 ...... Leawood. Jennifer Garren ...... Westridge Middle School ...... 14 8 ...... Overland Park. Kate Garrett ...... Shawnee Mission West High School ...... 17 ...... Lenexa. Kevin Garrett ...... Shawnee Mission West High School ...... 14 ...... Lenexa. Michael Garrett ...... Westridge Middle School ...... 13 7 ...... Shawnee Mission. Will Gates ...... Shawnee Mission East High School ...... 18 12 ...... Fairway. Rachel Gittinger ...... Bishop Miege ...... 17 12 ...... Overland Park. M. Caroline Goehausen ...... Shawnee Mission East High School ...... 18 12 ...... Leawood. Orriah Graves ...... Bishop Miege ...... 16 11 ...... Overland Park. Chanel Griffin ...... Westridge Middle Schood ...... 13 8 ...... Lenexa. Kristen Nicole Harper ...... Mill Valley High School ...... 17 12 ...... Shawnee.

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Name School Age Grade CA medal City

Kelsey Hayden ...... Olathe East High School ...... 16 11 ...... Overland Park. Alyssa Haynes ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 16 11 ...... Lenexa. Emily Holmes ...... Bishop Miege ...... 16 11 ...... Overland Park. Holly Hrabik ...... Olathe North High School ...... 16 10 ...... Olathe. Lisa Imgrund ...... Trailridge Middle School ...... 14 8 ...... Shawnee Mission. Betsy Jensen ...... Shawnee Mission East High School ...... 17 11 ...... Leawood. Mark Johnson ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 17 12 ...... Olathe. Christie Jones ...... Olathe East High School ...... 18 12 ...... Overland Park. Molly Jones ...... Olathe North High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Atena Kamali ...... Olathe North High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Kalie Karnes ...... Olathe East High School ...... 17 12 ...... Overland Park. Jadhken Kerr ...... Olathe South High School ...... 16 10 Gold Medal...... Olathe. Jadhon Kerr ...... Olathe South High School ...... 17 11 Gold Medal...... Olathe. Sarah Kidder ...... Bishop Miege ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee. Hunter Kiely ...... Blue Valley West High School ...... 17 11 ...... Overland Park. Paul Kirk ...... Bishop Miege ...... 18 11 ...... Overland Park. Kathryn Kisthardt ...... Bishop Miege ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee. Katie Lindner ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 18 12 ...... Lenexa. Adam Love ...... Shawnee Mission Northwest High School ...... 17 12 ...... Merriam. Sarah Martin ...... Westridge Middle School ...... 13 8 ...... Overland Park. Stephanie Mathews ...... Bishop Miege ...... 17 11 ...... Overland Park. Magdalena May ...... Olathe North High School ...... 16 11 ...... Olathe. Emerald McAdams ...... Santa Fe Trail Junior High ...... 12 7 ...... Olathe. Mimi Mebarek ...... Shawnee Mission West High School ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee Mission. Eric Min ...... Blue Valley High School ...... 17 12 ...... Overland Park. Jovana Mirabile ...... St. Thomas Aquinas ...... 16 11 ...... Leawood. Amanda Monica ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 15 9 ...... Olathe. Peri Montgomery ...... Westridge Middle School ...... 13 8 ...... Overland Park. Tim Mourlam ...... Bishop Miege ...... 17 11 ...... Shawnee Mission. Kate Murphy ...... Prairie Trail Jr. High ...... 13 8 ...... Olathe. Marcus Myer ...... Spring Hill ...... 18 12 ...... Spring Hill. Emily Nixon ...... Olathe South High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Ashley Nur ...... Barstow ...... 15 ...... Leawood. Cailan O’Grady ...... Shawnee Mission East High School ...... 18 12 ...... Prairie Village. Annie Oliver ...... Bishop Miege ...... 17 11 ...... Prairie Village. Anish Patel ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 16 11 ...... Olathe. Melissa Peck ...... Bishop Miege ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Matthew Pennington ...... Rockhurst ...... 15 9 ...... Shawnee. Andrew Peterson ...... Shawnee Mission East High School ...... 18 12 ...... Prairie Village. Meagan Pick ...... Blue Valley North High School ...... 18 12 ...... Overland Park. Ellen Poulose ...... Bishop Miege ...... 16 12 ...... Shawnee. Caitlin Powell ...... Olathe North High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Catherine Queen ...... Pembroke Hill ...... 17 11 ...... Prairie Village. Katie Rabovsky ...... Blue Valley Northwest High School ...... 12 8 Gold Medal ...... Overland Park. Matthew Ramirez ...... Prairie Trail Jr. High ...... 13 8 ...... Olathe. Cassie Rhodes ...... Spring Hill High School ...... 15 9 ...... Spring Hill. Chris Rhodes ...... Spring Hill High School ...... 18 12 ...... Spring Hill. Katie Richardson ...... Bishop Miege ...... 16 11 ...... Overland Park. Amber Roan ...... Shawnee Mission North High School ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee. Cindy Rupp ...... Mill Valley High School ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee. Courtney Russel ...... Olathe South High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Kathryn Sanders ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 17 12 ...... Lenexa. Matthew Schulte ...... Shawnee Mission East High School ...... 18 12 ...... Prairie Village. Michael Simpson ...... Blue Valley High School ...... 17 11 ...... Stillwell. Scott Simpson ...... Blue Valley High School ...... 17 11 ...... Stillwell. Colin Smalley ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 17 12 ...... Olathe. Elaina Smith ...... Prairie Trail Jr. High ...... 14 8 ...... Olathe. Victoria Solorzano ...... Blue Valley North High School ...... 18 12 ...... Overland Park. Jennifer Sommerfeld ...... Trailridge Middle School ...... 13 8 ...... Shawnee Mission. Sara Sorensen ...... Bishop Miege ...... 16 11 ...... Overland Park. Jessica Stack ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 16 12 ...... Lenexa. Jonathan Stahl ...... Home School ...... 17 11 ...... Overland Park. Stephen Stahl ...... Home School ...... 17 11 ...... Overland Park. John Steinmetz ...... Pleasant Ridge Middle School ...... 13 8 ...... Overland Park. Kayte Steinmetz ...... Blue Valley West High School ...... 16 11 ...... Overland Park. Amy Stephens ...... Olathe South High School ...... 18 12 ...... Olathe. Jason Steuber ...... California Trail Jr. High ...... 14 9 ...... Overland Park. Melissa Stone ...... Shawnee Mission Northwest High School ...... 18 12 ...... Shawnee. Alyssa Strange ...... Oxford Middle School ...... 12 6 ...... Overland Park. Alex Szczygiel ...... St. Ann ...... 14 8 ...... Prairie Village. Paige Taylor ...... Prairie Trail Jr. High ...... 14 8 ...... Olathe. Ben Terwilliger ...... Olathe South High School ...... 17 12 ...... Olathe. Laura Thomas ...... Bishop Miege ...... 17 12 ...... Prairie Village. Hannah Wallace ...... Bishop Miege ...... 17 12 ...... Leawood. Nate Warner ...... Olathe North High School ...... 16 11 ...... Olathe. Nate White ...... Home School ...... 16 11 Gold Medal...... Leawood. Jessica Yeung ...... Shawnee Mission South High School ...... 16 11 ...... Overland Park. Daniel Zeligman ...... Olathe Northwest High School ...... 17 12 ...... Overland Park.

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