Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize November as National Diabetes Month. Since 1975, November has served as a time of increased public awareness and understanding of diabetes, as well as a time to celebrate the institutions and people that labor year round to improve diabetes care. This November, the American Diabetes Association has placed a specific focus on increasing care for those affected by the disease. As one of the 21 million Americans with diabetes, I truly understand the fundamental importance of diabetes awareness, education, detection, and research.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body fails to produce or properly use insulin, a necessary hormone needed to process the sugar and starches that our bodies use for energy. The disease can lead to a series of complications, including increased risk of heart disease

and stroke. Although research has yet to produce a cure, scientists continue to advance diabetes tests and insulin monitors--improving the quality of life for many affected by the disease. Advanced education, detection, and research are all essential considering that approximately one in three Americans born after 2000 will suffer from diabetes.

Continuing to fight the struggle against diabetes, the American Diabetes Association participated in World Diabetes Day on November 14, 2006. The objective was to provide Americans with information on signs that show an increased risk of having diabetes. Additionally, the worldwide campaign raised awareness in communities around the globe that have difficulty assessing the impact of diabetes in their respective countries.

It is my honor to recognize November as the National Diabetes Month and thank all those working to improve the quality of life for the millions of people affected by the disease. We continually strive to increase diabetes awareness and assist those with the disease not only during the month of November but at every opportunity throughout the year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Terrence P. Lipinski of the Bridgeview Fire Department, in recognition of his retirement, after 30 years of dedicated service. Chief Lipinski has been an invaluable asset to the fire and emergency management community in the United States and we are forever grateful for his passion, wisdom, and guidance.

Terrence Lipinski began his career with the Bridgeview Fire Department as a firefighter, rising to the ranks of lieutenant and shift commander before becoming chief. He has served as chief for over a decade, while simultaneously taking on other state and national leadership roles.

During his career, Chief Lipinski has been president of the Bridgeview ETSB Board, president and vice president of the MABAS Division 21 Chief's Board, a trustee for the Bridgeview Fireman's Pension Fund, and a member of the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association Executive Board. During times of devastation and disaster, as in the aftermaths of the tornado in Utica, IL and Hurricane Katrina, Chief Lipinski has responded as a member of the first command incident team. He has also assisted in establishing a mutual aid system in Texas and, recently, the State of Illinois appointed him as a lead coordinator for a statewide exercise. Currently, Chief Lipinski is vice president of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System and serves on the Region 7 EMS Advisory Board, the Christ Advocate EMS Advisory Board, and the Moraine Valley Community College Fire Education Advisory Board.

It is my honor today to recognize Chief Terrence P. Lipinski. After 30 years, the Bridgeview Fire Department is privileged to have had his dedication, determination, and impeccable service. Chief Lipinski's contributions, insights, and hard-work have truly made our great nation a better place to live. I wish him the very best in retirement and congratulate him on his accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 60th anniversary of the Johnson-Phelps All American VFW Post #5220 in Oak Lawn, IL. Since its establishment, Post #5220 has enriched the lives of its members and faithfully served the community. Today, Post #5220, under the guidance of Commander Joseph Stachon, has over 600 members and is one of the most active VFW Posts in the Chicagoland area.

Area veterans, returning from the Second World War, formed the Johnson-Phelps VFW Post between 1944 and 1945 and received a formal charter in 1946. Initially, members gathered at the Oak Lawn Public Library and later held functions at Brandt's Dug-Out. In 1951, the Post moved into its current location at 52nd and Yourell Drive.

Throughout its history, Post #5220 has successfully brought veterans of all ages and backgrounds together. Members of the Post and its Ladies Auxiliary have a strong reputation for participating in community service events, performing volunteer work at hospitals, and spearheading donation drives and fundraisers for charity. Through the work of its members, the Post continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and has a tremendous impact on the surrounding community.

It is my great honor to recognize the 60th anniversary of the Johnson-Phelps All American VFW Post #5220 and commend the outstanding work of its members. As we celebrate the members' accomplishments today, we also thank them for their dedicated service in defending everything that our great Nation represents. Our society is forever indebted to our Nation's veterans for their unyielding bravery, courage, and perseverance.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Greater Chicago Food Depository, a non-profit organization that provides food to a half-million adults and children every year. The Food Depository accomplishes this massive undertaking with a network of almost 600 food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in the Chicago area. Last year, the Food Depository distributed more than forty million pounds of nonperishable food, fresh produce, dairy products, and meat--the equivalent of more than 84,000 meals every day.

Recently, the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund awarded a $60,000 grant to the Greater Chicago Food Depository, supporting two of its unique programs: the Kids Cafe and Nourish for Knowledge. These programs specifically focus on providing sustenance for the neediest children.

The Food Depository administers nearly forty Kids Cafes in Cook County, serving over 1800 meals per day through this program. Kids Cafe is a place where underprivileged children can enjoy a warm meal, exercise, and receive tutoring/other educational services. The Food Depository also sponsors Nourish for Knowledge, a program that provides take-home bags of food on weekends to schoolchildren in low-income neighborhoods. Together, the Chicago Food Depository and the Chicago Public Schools offer bags of food and after school programming for students and their parents in sixteen community schools. Both Kids Cafe and Nourish for Knowledge act to mitigate the negative effects of hunger for young people.

Today, I am honored to recognize the Greater Chicago Food Depository, their sponsors and partners, and all those making their work possible. The Food Depository's ongoing and innovative efforts to fight hunger serve as an inspiration to our community. In a world where hunger plagues many people, organizations like the Greater Chicago Food Depository make life-saving differences

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dan Shannon, an exceptional citizen of the Third Congressional District of Illinois and founder of Operation Homelink. Operation Homelink seeks to establish a communication link between deployed military personnel and their families. The program not only serves as a means of contact for troops and their families, but as a strong show of support for American soldiers stationed overseas.

Operation Homelink enables communication and encouragement by providing free refurbished computers to both deployed military units and their spouses or parents. Troops on the field then have the ability to e-mail their loved ones updates, while loved ones have the ability to relate local news and send their best regards. This excellent program truly makes a difference in the lives of our soldiers, as well as their families and friends.

I ask my colleagues to rise with me to acknowledge Dan Shannon for his highly successful and significant program that supports our armed forces. Dan shows all citizens the importance of becoming involved to support our troops and how one idea can touch the lives of so many people. I commend him for his continued efforts and unyielding determination.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative, an outstanding organization for teenagers and young adults, that serves several Chicago communities troubled with gang violence, high drop-out rates, and high unemployment. For more than a decade, the Collaborative's after-school programs have given students a vision and focus they need to become responsible leaders of their communities--leaders that are agents of change.

Area churches, social service centers, recreational centers, and neighborhood organizations are responsible for the good work of the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative. They bring hope to participants through the recreational centers, a soccer league, and even a Hip-Hop Academy. Additionally, the organization offers mentoring and support programs that provide wisdom, understanding, and a second chance for many young adults.

Recently, the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund awarded the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative a $25,000 grant in recognition of their after-school programming. The grant will help support these essential after-school life skills programs that make a difference in the lives of so many young people.

It is my honor to recognize the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative for their role in providing opportunities for young people and making our community a better place to live. I also commend the staff, facilitators, and volunteers who truly make this organization possible. Their work positively influences the lives and outlook of many who face the pressures of life in disadvantaged areas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the contributions Poland has made in the ongoing operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Poland has been a steadfast ally of the United States, and I thank the Polish people and government for their friendship.

America has enjoyed strong ties with Poland since our Nation's founding. During the American Revolution, Polish patriots such as Casimir Pulaski and Tadeusz Kosciuszko made valuable contributions in securing our Nation's independence. Today, over 30 percent of my district and 9 million Americans across our country can claim Polish ancestry.

The Polish and American Governments have enjoyed close, bilateral relations since 1989, when Poland became a free, democratic, and independent nation. Since that time, Poland has made dramatic strides in securing its democracy, improving its economy, and developing strong relationships with its neighbors in Europe and abroad. This is evident in Poland's joining of NATO in 1999 and the European Union in 2004.

In addition to its membership in NATO, Poland's military has been very active in United Nations' peacekeeping forces and has played a vital role in the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Poland currently has 1,000 troops deployed in Iraq, and when a recent call went out to NATO nations asking for reinforcements to Afghanistan, Poland was the first to respond, pledging 900 additional troops to that country.

Today, along with the Caucus on Central and Eastern Europe, I had the honor of hosting the chief of general staff of Polish Armed Forces, General Gagor. General Gagor is a distinguished soldier and a proven leader. I have no doubt that under General Gagor's watch the Polish military will continue to make valuable contributions to peace around the world.

I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Poland's contributions in Afghanistan and Iraq and to recognize Poland as one of our Nation's most important allies.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the essential contributions of employees and volunteers across the country and abroad who maintain our nation's public parks and recreation facilities. In addition, I would like to commemorate National Recreation and Parks Month, celebrated annually since 1984 throughout the month of July. The purpose of National Recreation and Parks Month is not only to celebrate the start of summer programs but also to advocate for parks and recreation by encouraging communities to engage in outdoor physical activities and volunteering.

Recently, I have undertaken a bipartisan proposal to stop the dumping of sewage into the Great Lakes. Initiatives like these are only the beginning. Through the efforts of Congress and the National Recreation and Park Association, America moves toward a brighter horizon in environmental policy. National Recreation and Parks Month is an important occasion to remind us of our dedication to the preservation of the environment, and serves as an aide-memoire for all Americans to enjoy the natural wonders of our nation.

As a member of the National Parks Caucus, it is my honor to recognize the collective efforts of volunteers and staff alike whose contributions and involvement with the nation's public parks and recreation facilities continue to shape American communities as well as the environment. Today, we celebrate the National Recreation and Park Association's accomplishments and persistent efforts to preserve our environment and show appreciation for the nation's public parks and recreation facilities. The NRPA's initiative, along with support provided by volunteers and staff, truly sow the seeds for communal growth. Such achievements deserve recognition not just during this month, but at every opportunity throughout the year.

Mr. Speaker, the Government Accountability Office recently released a report showing that Medicare providers are failing our seniors when it comes to providing information about their prescription drug coverage. The GAO report says that the phone centers operated by private Medicare providers gave accurate and complete answers only one-third of the time when people called. On more than half of the calls, inaccurate or incomplete information was given, and in 15 percent of the calls, no information was given.

It is absolutely inexcusable that providers seem to be incapable or unwilling to provide beneficiaries with good information. Our seniors should not be treated like this. Medicare must guarantee that these providers give accurate and complete information.

But this also points out another problem. If Medicare providers do not yet understand these plans, how can our seniors? Congress must act to give seniors more time to sign up for a drug plan without the lifelong penalty they are now facing. Seniors should also be given a chance, if they have a plan that is not working for them, to immediately change that plan. We see there are many problems with this program. Seniors need to be given more time.

Mr. Speaker, we must do better for our seniors.

Mr. Speaker, 230 years ago today, a small and rebellious colony did an extraordinary, but simple thing. It stood up to its powerful and mighty oppressors, exploded the shackles of their tyranny and declared itself an independent nation. I rise on this Fourth of July to remember the people who gave us our present freedom, and honor them for their ability to recognize that there will always be more to unite us than divide us.

It seems obvious today that our country would be united, but in 1776, the thirteen colonies had less in common with each other than they did with their arch enemy. It is a tribute to the phenomenal leadership of our Founding Fathers that they had the vision to see past these differences, and to forge a common bond, founded on the principles that ``all men are created equal,'' and that no government has the authority to restrict the rights of the people to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

These shared values are the essence of our Union. If the signers of the Declaration of Independence were the architects of the nation, the foundations they built for us were made of the strongest stone. Even during our darkest hours, we look back on the document that launched the ship of this Republic into the rough seas of the nations of the world, and we take solace in its good words.

Mr. Speaker, the celebration of our independence is a celebration of the beliefs we hold together as a nation; it is a celebration of why we are a nation; and it is, above all, a reminder to us all that our country was founded in hope, and in the desire by the good people of the thirteen colonies to build a new nation where freedom would reign forever.

Mr. Chairman, I completely understand the concerns that the gentleman from Georgia has, talking about the potential that this could have if we would just open up the Visa Waiver Program to any country, to open it up wide.

But there are specific countries, Poland, for example. Poland was included in the Senate Immigration Reform bill. Poland has been a great ally of the United States, has been a fantastic ally, has given troops to the war on terror; and, as Mr. Shimkus said, I believe that this would be a very bad signal to say, no, no more countries can be included here, even on a temporary basis, even if we put all these other restrictions on. So I think we need to continue to allow other countries to possibly be accepted into the Visa Waiver Program.

So I understand the concerns with terrorism, concerns with protecting our country. Security needs to be up there foremost. But part of security is also bringing in more of our allies.

So I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this bipartisan amendment to provide $500,000 in funding for the Law Enforcement Tribute Act program. This program provides one-time grants to help State and local governments complete permanent tributes that honor the men and women of law enforcement and public safety who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.

I would like to thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Davis) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Schiff) for their cosponsorship of this amendment. This amendment would simply restore the funding for this program to the fiscal year 2003 level.

There are currently 17,535 names engraved on the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, including 72 who were killed on 9/11, so many heroes who have given their lives to protect our families.

Many communities also want to honor their local law enforcement heroes with memorials or other permanent tributes. This program provides support to States and localities to help them do this. Without this support, many of them could not provide these worthy tributes.

Mr. Chairman, law enforcement and public safety officers dedicate their careers and their lives to protecting us. Tributes provide us with a constant reminder of the sacrifices that they have made. The least we can do is help local communities honor these brave heroes.

I urge my colleagues to join us with their support.

I reserve the balance of my time.

I thank Chairman Wolf, Ranking Member Mollohan for their support on this amendment; and I thank them for accepting the amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Marjorie Joy of Oak Lawn, IL, principal of Lee School, who is retiring after a long and distinguished career in education.

Dr. Marjorie Joy is a dynamic influence in the West Lawn community. She has been a leader in the community since she came to Lee School as a seventh grade teacher in 1975. She would later become an eighth

grade teacher, assistant principal, and then principal in 1984. From that time on she concentrated on developing and expanding academic and extra-curricular programs at Lee. Her dedication and enthusiasm have made Lee School a cornerstone of the community.

In Dr. Joy's time as principal, the school and community have undergone many changes. Throughout these years, the philosophy of Lee School has remained constant: that all actions al1d decisions are made based on the best interests of the children. Dr. Joy's leadership is the catalyst bringing together faculty, staff, parents and community to develop and implement programs and policies designed to meet the diverse needs of the children. In addition, Dr. Joy continually promotes respect, acceptance and appreciation of all persons associated with the Lee School community.

As the population of Lee School became more culturally diverse, Dr. Joy encouraged the faculty to pursue ESL and ELL certification. In order to promote a greater understanding of the different cultures now represented in the Lee School population, several Cultural Diversity Celebrations have been held. Additionally, Lee School is part of the International CPS. CPS Scholars is an advanced curriculum stressing internationalism, integrated curriculum, and world language. It is the vision that students of this program will become fluent in more than one language and skilled in the use of modern technology to become life-long learners.

For her years of dedication and service Dr. Joy has deservedly received numerous awards. These awards include the Distinguished Service Award Aquin Guild, the Whitman Award for Excellence in Educational Management, Principal of Excellence Award, Leadership in Improving Student Outcome, and many others.

Dr. Joy has consistently been driven by the desire to serve her community and improve the lives of the children and families who have attended the schools where she has taught and been an administrator. It is with great appreciation that I thank Dr. Joy for her dedicated work and wish her continued health and good luck as she travels the next path in her career.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Steve Heller, a teacher at Adlai E. Stevenson High School, who has been recognized by a Presidential Scholar student or his great skill, knowledge, and dedication in the classroom. It is my pleasure to be able to congratulate Steve on this commendation.

As a shining example within an extremely able and talented staff of teachers, Mr. Heller, achievement reflects the extraordinarily high quality of education available at Adlai E. Stevenson High School. The school's stunning record includes four Blue Ribbon Awards for Excellence in Education and several other prizes. It has been ranked by Newsweek and U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 100 high schools in America. As an integral part of Lincolnshire, Illinois, the perpetuation of its high standards through the efforts of such outstanding teachers as Mr. Heller is of great benefit to students, parents and the wider community.

Mr. Heller's efforts have recently been highlighted by a nomination from a student on the Presidential Scholars program. This scheme, which started in 1964, sees two students from each state, and an additional 40 at large, selected every year by the U.S. Department of Education for their academic excellence along with exemplary work in community service and the arts.

Each of these star students has, since 1983, been asked to nominate one teacher that they felt was the most challenging and motivational in their academic careers. Mr. Heller was chosen this year for the commendation by his student and Presidential Scholar recipient Michele Trickey.

It is my privilege and pleasure to recognize Steve Heller, whose extraordinary efforts in education make him a beacon to his profession. I call on the House to join me in congratulating him and Michele on their achievements.

Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I yield myself 1\1/2\ minutes.

Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this amendment to provide $30 million in funding for the Rail and Relocation and Improvement Grant program. With severe budget constraints, I know hard choices had to be made, and I appreciate the leadership of Chairman Knollenberg and Ranking Member Olver on this bill.

However, as a Member who represents the rail hub of the country in Chicago, I understand the critical need to fund rail improvements to communities across the country. Rail is a vital mode of transportation, providing numerous public benefits, including efficient freight shipment, fuel conservation, pollution reduction, traffic congestion relief and economic development.

Recognizing that we need to invest in our railroads, Congress authorized $350 million for the rail line improvement program in last year's SAFETEA-LU transportation bill. Unfortunately, the administration proposed zero funding. We are asking for $30 million.

This money would be vital in funding projects that will not only help economic development and create jobs but also alleviate adverse effects of rail traffic on our communities. This includes enhancing safety and motor vehicle flow at road crossings and improving the quality of life in surrounding communities, including quiet zones. All types of rail lines across the country will be eligible for this funding.

This amendment has broad bipartisan support, including the gentleman

from Tennessee (Mr. Duncan), the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella), the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Shimkus), the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Millender-McDonald) and the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Corrine Brown), who have all joined me as cosponsors of this amendment.

I urge my colleagues to join me in their support.

Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella).

(Mr. FOSSELLA asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. Chairman, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Millender-McDonald).

Mr. Chairman, I yield myself the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, safe and efficient rail lines are necessary for the continued economic vitality of our Nation, so they require our investment. This amendment would help fund rail projects that would boost economic development, create jobs, increase safety, and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans. That is why this amendment has broad bipartisan support and support from Members across the country.

I urge my colleagues to join us in voting for this amendment. While I appreciate what the chairman and the ranking member have done in crafting this bill, I do urge my colleagues to vote for this amendment to make this needed investment in rail which will help in districts all across the country.

Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Offered By: Mr. Lipinski

Amendment No. 10: At the end of the bill (before the short

title), insert the following: