Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I want to also thank Chairman Dingell for his strong leadership on this issue, and also Ranking Member Barton for his wonderful ability to compromise on the bill.

As the Speaker just told us, last year, it seemed like every day parents were being told that their children's toys were not innocent playthings and, in fact, were very dangerous. This mainly happened during the holiday season, where parents had no idea whether what they were buying to put under the tree would harm or even kill their child.

For a long time now, we have all realized that our consumer product safety system is broken. The CPSC clearly needed more staff, more resources, and more authority. Our consumer protection laws needed to be brought into the 21st century.

This legislation goes a long way to solving those problems. I am so proud to have been one of the House conferees on H.R. 4040. By working diligently with our Senate colleagues and our colleagues on the other side of the aisle, we produced a strong, bipartisan bill.

This conference report has a number of provisions which will protect our kids, and I just want to highlight a few of them. It bans lead in children's products beyond trace amounts, the highest standards in the world. It permanently bans three phthalates and temporarily bans three others in toys for kids 12 and under; and, in fact, it extends all of the consumer protections to kids 12 and under because of the issue of shared toy boxes.

It requires independent third-party testing of children's products to ensure that they are safe before they are sold.

It increases the CPSC's budget dramatically, and it stops the export of certain dangerous products.

I want to thank my conference committee colleagues and all of the staff members involved for pulling together such a good bill.

Chairman, or former chairman, Ranking Member Barton was right when he said this is the way legislation should be, a strong collaborative effort that produces real results that will help all of the consumers of America.

I hope, throughout the fall, as we move into the next holiday season, parents can take this issue off their plates as one they have to worry about and, instead they can worry about giving their kids a strong, safe holiday season as we approach the end of this year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Resolution 1261.

I want to take a moment this afternoon to recognize one of the premier civics instruction programs in this country. Most of my colleagues are aware of the ``We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution'' national civics class and competition. And in this day and age, when so few Americans take American Government in school, and even fewer know who their Members of Congress are, this class is incredibly vital and this competition is vital for civics awareness among our high school students.

``We the People'' is a year-long class incorporated into high school curriculums around the country that focuses on the foundation of the U.S. Constitution and its relevance in American modern government. In this program, students are not confined to the walls of their classrooms; they have the opportunity to take their knowledge on the road, participating in a national competition against students from other schools. ``We the People'' culminates in a simulated congressional hearing right here in Washington, D.C. for the finalist teams.

In addition to learning the basic tenets of our democracy, the program teaches students valuable critical thinking, debate, and public speaking skills.

``We the People'' was first started in 1987, on the bicentennial of the adoption of the U.S. Constitution by the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. Since its inception, more than 28 million students and 90,000 educators have participated.

The program is sponsored by the nonprofit, nonpartisan Center for Civic Education, whose mission is to help develop and foster a well- informed citizenry through civics education. Its flagship program, ``We the People,'' is funded in part through the U.S. Department of Education under the Education for Democracy Act. And just to show how bipartisan this program is, several years ago I worked with Congressman Dan Burton to expand funding for this important program to middle school students.

This year, as we've heard, East High School, in my congressional district in Denver, Colorado, won the competition for the second year in a row. Each year, thousands of students from around the country participate in this program, which, as I said, culminates in the hearings on Capitol Hill. These students are given questions ranging from the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation, to the implications of Federalist No. 51, to what James Madison would think about current political topics. Frankly, Mr. Speaker, most Members of Congress would struggle to answer these questions.

I would also like to note that these students are not simply memorizing facts from stuffy 18th-century debates that they will soon forget. They are diving into real-world debates over executive power, civil liberties, and other issues that are on our front pages every day and on the agenda in this hallowed Chamber week in and week out.

I would like to say I have personal familiarity with the depth of knowledge this program gives to students because I was one of the very first volunteer coaches of the East High School team in the 1980s, well before my tenure in Congress, when I was a practicing attorney in Denver. And I can attest, these students know far more than many professors and Members of Congress about our political process and our Constitution. So, given the depth of knowledge of these thousands of high school students around the country, it really was a tremendous achievement for this year's East High School team to win the ``We the People'' competition for the second year in a row.

Under the leadership of this year's teacher and coach, Susan McHugh, and the dedication of my long-time friend and colleague, Loyal Darr, the ``We the People'' coordinator for Colorado's First District, East High School demonstrated an unrivaled expertise in constitutional issues.

To all of the dedicated students, teachers, parents and organizers of ``We the People'' nationwide, on behalf of the United States Representatives, I want to congratulate you on your accomplishments and thank you for your efforts towards promoting civic engagement, healthy debate, and an ongoing commitment to the foundations of this great country.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. But more importantly, I urge my colleagues to think about the importance of civics education in this country. We need to look at the successes of Denver's East High School. We need to look at the accomplishments of ``We the People'' participants from across the Nation and their ability to dissect complex current and historic political issues. And we need to ask ourselves, do we need more civics education, or less? The answer is self-evident.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to place the names of the team and their coaches in the Congressional Record. With that, Mr. Speaker, I simply say this is a wonderful program, I'm so proud of my constituents, and I ask for an affirmative vote on this resolution.

East High School 2008 ``We the People'' National Championship Team

Isabel Breit, Nicholas Brown, Maya Burchette, Nitai Deitel,

Gideon Hertz, Gideon Irving, Katherine Jablonski, Gavin

Jacobs, Noah Kaplan, Brendan Lamarre, Zachary Lass,

Alexandria Leenatali, Richard Londer, and Nathan Mackenzie.

Rebecca Nathanson, Alyse Opatowski, Marley Pierce, Alyssa

Roberts, Paige Romer, Hayley Round, Ryan Saunders, Lindsay

Shields, Jeffrey Thalhofer, Shaquille Turner, Charlotte

Vilkus, Taylor Want, and Jacob Zax.

Coach: Susan McHugh; We the People coordinator, Colorado's

First District: Loyal Darr.

Madam Speaker, although these much-needed updates for physician payments are the crux of today's bill, numerous improvements to the Medicare program and beneficiary protections are also included. It also provides incentives for physicians to use e-prescribing technology, and it extends and vastly improves low-income-assistance programs for very-low-income Medicare beneficiaries.

And it includes a 2-year reauthorization of the Special Diabetes Programs for Type 1 diabetes and for American Indians, which has been a priority of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus for many years. Thanks to over a decade of investment in the Special Diabetes Programs, we can point to tangible and significant progress, such as the creation of an artificial pancreas, that is improving the lives of many people.

And this multiyear reauthorization was just what we needed. I want to talk for a minute about Medicare Advantage though. Medicare Advantage was originally conceived of as a way to save money in the Medicare system. But the way it has evolved over the years, we now have 13 percent overpayments to the insurance companies that administer Medicare Advantage. There is no evidence that this money goes to the senior citizen beneficiaries. And there is further no evidence that if we cut these overpayments that these senior citizens are going to lose their insurance, because there is no evidence that they're getting that 13 percent overpayment.

Now I would suggest if there was a 13 percent overpayment to the traditional Medicare program, the other side would be having a fit because we would just be throwing money away. But, according to them, it's all right if we throw 13 percent away and give it to private insurance companies.

In my opinion, we need to bring our entire Medicare program into balance no matter how it is being administered. We need to be sure that it's ministered efficiently. And ultimately, we need to restore balance to our entire health care system. Vote ``yes'' to override this veto and restore the physician payments.

Mr. Speaker, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act not only eliminates the scheduled 20 percent cut to physicians, which is set to take place next week, but it also will provide numerous other protections. It provides incentives for prescriptions for e-prescribing technology and it extends and vastly improves low-income assistance programs for very low-income Medicare beneficiaries.

And this bill includes a very important 2-year reauthorization of the special diabetes programs for type 1 diabetics and American Indians. Thanks to over a decade of investment in these programs, we can point to tangible and significant progress, like the creation of an artificial pancreas. It is vital for a multiyear reauthorization because of the structure of the NIH funding cycle, and I want to thank my chairman and the leadership for including this language in the bill. There are other wonderful protections in the bill for diabetics and for other Medicare beneficiaries.

I just want to close by saying one thing: The language in this bill and the concepts are not new today. We have been talking them to death for 2 years. This program expires next week, and I don't think that the patients of America and the doctors of America are going to be too sympathetic about process arguments, when what they really care about is being able to provide quality medical services to low income and to senior citizens in this country.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a dual celebration for two distinguished members of the First Congressional District. This week the Kopel family of Denver celebrates the 80th Birthday of Gerald (Jerry) Kopel and the 56th Anniversary of the marriage between Jerry and Dolores Kopel.

Jerry and Dolores have led an interesting and engaged life together, balancing careers in journalism, law, politics, and policy. They were the original ``power couple'' long before dual careers were more outwardly prevalent and socially acceptable. What is truly admirable is the Kopels managed to pursue these accomplishments while raising a family and contributing to the broader well-being of our community.

Dolores and Jerry met at the University of Colorado when Jerry was city editor of the Silver and Gold newspaper and Dolores was a reporter. Jerry graduated from the University and Dolores transferred to the University of Denver College of Law. They married at the end of her first year of law school, while Jerry was working for the Rocky Mountain News.

Dolores graduated from law school cum laude in June 1954. Jerry enrolled in law school in January 1955 but continued for a while to pull night shifts at the Rocky Mountain News as a copy editor. In 1958, Jerry graduated cum laude from the University of Denver. The Kopels had the unique experience of practicing law together until 1979, when Dolores was appointed U.S. Trustee for the District of Colorado and Kansas.

As part of his life-long dedication to giving back to the community and preparing the next generation for careers in law, Jerry directed a review course for law students preparing for the Colorado bar exam from 1958 through 1985.

In 1964, Jerry combined his background in journalism and his law degree to become an influential member of the Democratic Party. He served as State representative for a total of 22 years, spanning 2 decades.

Jerry was known as the consummate legislator, reading every bill and every amendment that came before the House chamber. He successfully carried 110 bills as chief sponsor, including the Nation's first sunset law.

Jerry's 22 years in the State Legislature and his extensive involvement in community issues and Colorado politics are encapsulated in ``The Gerald Kopel Papers'', which are housed in the Denver Public Library's Western History Collection. The papers are perhaps the most extensive archive of the public career of any American state legislator from the 20th century.

After retiring from the Legislature in 1992, Jerry continued to produce a printed newsletter, titled ``Jerry Kopel's Report'' until 1998. However, for many years, Jerry prepared weekly reports for House Democrats and suggested amendments to bills being debated on the House floor.

Since retirement, Jerry has returned to journalism. He writes a weekly column for the Colorado Statesman and other newspapers and has joined the technological age with an extensive Web site chronicling his columns and exhibiting his extensive knowledge of Colorado politics, law, and history.

Over the years, Jerry has won numerous awards from the Colorado Press Association, most recently in 2006 in the Public Service writing category. All of his 600-some columns were edited by his wife, Dolores. Both Jerry and Dolores have received recognition from the Denver Bar Association for 50 years of practice. Their son, David, is an attorney and author who is a columnist for the Rocky Mountain News.

Jerry is also an accomplished cocktail pianist, and has entertained at many local functions. He has issued several fine CDs, which are in my personal collection.

I have personally known Jerry and Dolores for many years, eagerly accepting Jerry's sage advice on politics and I am an ardent reader of his weekly columns. Jerry and Dolores have had a distinctive lifetime at the forefront of Colorado politics, policy, and history and their commitment to public service and the betterment of the their fellow Coloradans serves as a sterling example for younger generations and those entering public policy careers.

I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Kopel and his wife Dolores a wonderful 56th Anniversary and Jerry a healthy and prosperous 80th birthday and pay tribute to their longstanding service and dedication to the City of Denver and the State of Colorado.

Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 6304, the ``FISA Amendments Act of 2008.''

I first want to thank Majority Leader Hoyer and other Members who worked very hard to arrive at a compromise with the Senate. I think this bill is an improvement over S. 1927, the ``Protect America Act,'' and the Senate bill we considered earlier this year. For example. H.R. 6304 makes it crystal clear that the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, FISA, is the exclusive means under which surveillance is conducted and states that any exceptions in the future must be specifically authorized.

However, I cannot support H.R. 6304 because of the issues of reverse targeting and retroactive immunity for telecommunications companies. The strong protections against reverse targeting contained in prior House measures, which I supported, are absent from this bill. Reverse targeting, which refers to spying on Americans by targeting those abroad with whom they are believed to be communicating, opens a loophole for the Federal Government to violate the privacy of American citizens.

Most significantly, the retroactive immunity provisions will block the American public's ability to hold the telecommunications companies accountable for participating in the Federal Government's domestic warrantless surveillance program. Courts will have no real power to review the administration's prior orders for surveillance activities. We may never learn the extent of the violations of Americans' privacy which may have occurred or companies which may have participated.

I ask my colleagues to stand up for our values and vote no on this flawed bill.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a dual celebration for two distinguished members of the First Congressional District. This week the Kopel family of Denver celebrates the 80th Birthday of Gerald (Jerry) Kopel and the 56th Anniversary of the marriage between Jerry and Dolores Kopel.

Jerry and Dolores have led an interesting and engaged life together, balancing careers in journalism, law, politics, and policy. They were the original ``power couple'' long before dual careers were more outwardly prevalent and socially acceptable. What is truly admirable is the Kopels managed to pursue these accomplishments while raising a family and contributing to the broader well-being of our community.

Dolores and Jerry met at the University of Colorado when Jerry was managing editor of the Silver and Gold newspaper and Dolores was a reporter. Jerry graduated from the University and Dolores transferred to the University of Denver College of Law. They married at

the end of her first year of law school, while Jerry was working for the Rocky Mountain News.

Dolores graduated from law school cum laude in June 1954. Jerry enrolled in law school in January 1958 but continued to pull night shifts at the Rocky Mountain News as a copy editor. In 1958, Jerry graduated cum laude from the University of Denver. The Kopels had the unique experience of practicing law together until 1979, when Dolores was appointed U.S. Trustee for the District of Colorado and Kansas.

In the Kopels' life-long dedication to giving back to the community and preparing the next generation for careers in law, Jerry directed a review course for law students preparing for the Colorado bar exam from 1958 through 1985.

In 1964, Jerry combined his background in journalism and his law degree to become an influential member of the Democratic Party. He served as state representative for a total of twenty-two years, spanning two decades.

Jerry was known as the consummate legislator, reading every bill and every amendment that came before the House chamber. He carried 110 bills as chief sponsor, including the nation's first sunset law.

Jerry's 22 years in the State Legislature and his extensive involvement in community issues and Colorado politics are encapsulated in ``The Gerald Kopel Papers,'' which are housed in the Denver Public Library's Western History Collection. The papers are perhaps the most extensive archive of the public career of any American state legislator from the 20th century.

After retiring from the Legislature in 1992, Jerry continued to produce a printed newsletter, titled ``Jerry Kopel's Report'' until 1998. However, to this day, Jerry prepares weekly reports for House Democrats and suggests amendments to bills being debated on the House floor.

Since retirement, Jerry has returned to journalism. He writes a weekly column for the Colorado Statesman and other newspapers and has joined the technological age with an extensive Web site chronicling his columns and exhibiting his extensive knowledge of Colorado politics, law, and history.

Over the years, Jerry has won numerous awards from the Colorado Press Association, most recently in 2006 in the Public Service writing category. All of his 600-some columns were edited by his wife, Dolores. Both Jerry and Dolores have received recognition from the Denver Bar Association for 50 years of practice. Their son, David, is an attorney and author who is a columnist for the Rocky Mountain News.

Jerry is also an accomplished cocktail pianist, and has entertained at many local functions. He has issued several fine CD's which are in my personal collection.

I have personally known Jerry and Dolores for many years, eagerly accepting Jerry's sage advice on politics and I am an ardent reader of his weekly columns. Jerry and Dolores have had a distinctive lifetime at the forefront of Colorado politics, policy, and history and their commitment to public service and the betterment of their fellow Coloradans serves as a sterling example for younger generations and those entering public policy careers.

I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Kopel and his wife Dolores a wonderful 56th Anniversary and Jerry a healthy and prosperous 80th birthday and pay tribute to their longstanding service and dedication to the City of Denver and the State of Colorado.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the amendment to be voted on today which will provide another blank check for the war in Iraq:

I remain steadfast in my opposition to the Iraq war and its continued funding. Tens of thousands of our bravest sons and daughters have been wounded and over 4 thousand killed. We have spent hundreds of billions of dollars on this war, which has necessarily meant we have had fewer resources to deal with significant problems here at home.

Our continued military involvement in Iraq only prolongs the tragedy this war has been for our country and delays the inevitable time when Iraq will have to take responsibility for its own security. While my support for our heroic troops is unwavering, it is time to bring them home. These views are shared by the vast majority of the American people.

I strongly support the other two amendments the House is considering today. One amendment would bring needed change to our efforts in Iraq. For example, it would require that the redeployment of our troops out of Iraq begin within thirty days with a goal of completing that redeployment by December 2009. And, it would encourage Iraq to contribute towards its own reconstruction.

The other amendment addresses important domestic priorities. Among other provisions it would modernize educational benefits for veterans and extend unemployment insurance. It also would block devastating Medicaid regulations which, if left in place, would reduce access to safety-net health care for people

across the country and threaten the ability of certain health care providerss, such as Denver Health in my district, to offer vital services.

These three amendments on the floor today offer the Members of the House of Representatives a stark choice. They can choose to reject the views of the American people and blindly follow the misguided policies of the Bush Administration. Or, they can choose to end this war. support our veterans, and help Americans struggling in these dark economic times. History will look most kindly on those who show the independent judgment and wisdom that such important decisions require.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Foot Health Awareness Month and the critical role that podiatric physicians play in our national health care system. Combined, two feet contain one

quarter of all the bones in the human body, and an average day of walking puts the equivalent of several hundred tons of pressure on the feet. Given this degree of stress, it is perhaps no surprise that over half of all Americans experience foot pain at some point in their lives.

Podiatrists are at the forefront of expert foot health care. Podiatrists are physicians who specialize in foot and ankle care and who have been trained to diagnose and treat foot and ankle ailments. Their scope of practice includes performing foot and ankle surgery.

Throughout April, podiatrists will be engaged in a national awareness campaign titled ``Podiatrists Keep America Walking,'' timed to coincide with National Foot Health Awareness Month. This year's ``Podiatrists Keep America Waking'' campaign will focus on children's foot health. Consistent with this theme, podiatrists will educate expectant mothers about foot ailments experienced by pregnant women, and parents about steps they can take to protect their children from foot abnormalities.

Foot pain is no mere inconvenience, and it should not be treated lightly or ignored. In many cases, persistent foot pain or recurring injuries can be the first sign of a serious condition, such as diabetes, anemia, arthritis, and certain circulatory disorders. Paying close attention to foot health, and taking regular advantage of the care provided by a podiatrist, can often aid in the early diagnosis of these and other conditions.

Americans living with diabetes must be particularly mindful of foot health. Diabetes is a chronic and potentially life-threatening illness impacting approximately 21 million Americans. Foot care is especially important for those living with diabetes because the risk is great for developing a foot ulcer that could become infected, and might ultimately result in amputation.

In fact, diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputation, and experts estimate that 86,000 lower limbs are amputated every year as a consequence of diabetes-related complications. Among those living with diabetes, Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics and older men are most vulnerable to foot ailments. However, regular and expert foot care can significantly reduce the likelihood of amputation by helping to ensure early diagnosis and successful treatment.

The growing epidemics of diabetes and obesity and their concurrent complications are among many reasons why podiatric physicians are an important part of America's health care team. Madam Speaker, I applaud doctors of podiatric medicine for their vital contributions to the health of all Americans, and urge all Americans to be vigilant not only during National Foot Health Awareness Month, but throughout the year.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to have the following letters of support for H.R. 1424, the Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, submitted for the Record on the floor debate of this bill.

American Correctional Association,

Alexandria, VA, February 29, 2008.

Hon. Patrick J. Kennedy,

Cannon HOB,

Washington, DC.

Dear Representative Kennedy: On behalf of the American

Correctional Association and our 18,000 members I'd like to

express our full support for your bill, H.R. 1424, the Paul

Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2007.

The health care system in our country has neglected the

mentally ill long enough and it must change. We in criminal

justice and more specifically the corrections profession know

first-hand the effect inadequate mental health care has on

our communities. Jails and prisons have become defacto mental

health hospitals wherein a high prevalence of mental health

problems and addiction among inmates is common and recidivism

rates are high.

A report issued by the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of

Justice Statistics in September 2006 revealed that more than

half of all prison and jail inmates had a mental health

problem. BJS also reported that more than two-fifths of state

inmates and more than half of jail inmates showed symptoms of

mania, 23% of state prisoners and 30% of jail inmates suffer

from depression and that 15% of state prisoners and 24% of

jail inmates met the criteria for psychotic disorders. 24% of

state prisoners and 19% of jail inmates suffered from

substance dependence or abuse and an estimated 42% of inmates

in state prisons and nearly half of those in local jails were

found to have both a mental health problem and a substance

dependence or abuse problem.

Without proper care and treatment in a mental hospital,

these individuals will never recover or be healthy again nor

will they ever be able to live a normal life. Most likely

they will continue to recidivate, crowd our facilities, drive

up costs throughout the entire criminal justice system and

cause harm to others and unto themselves. Quite simply,

correctional facilities are not equipped and corrections

personnel are not trained to handle the mentally ill

individuals.

We appreciate your leadership on this issue and offer you

our full support for H.R. 1424, the Paul Wellstone Mental

Health and Addiction Equity Act of 2007.

Sincerely,

Gary D. Maynard,

President.

Mr. Speaker, embryonic stem cell research has the potential to cure diabetes, Parkinson's, paralysis, and so many other diseases and injuries. Over the past few months, we've seen some amazing new discoveries from adult stem cells and others from embryonic stem cells.

Some have claimed that the recent discoveries using induced pluripotent cells means that we no longer need to continue embryonic stem cell research. I disagree and so does the scientific community.

When we develop new tools, we don't throw out the old ones. Why should it be different when it comes to medical research? We need to support cell-based research in all types of venues. We need to find out what will not just be best for scientific advances but what will help with medical advances as well.

It's time that we develop a new framework for considering all forms of ethical stem cell research. We need to continue embryonic stem cell research as well as all other ethical forms of regenerative medicine research. And we need to have a central mechanism for ethics control over all of this research.

Mr. Speaker, this bill has been a long time coming, and I am sure Senator Wellstone would both be pleased to see us addressing this issue, finally, and also so, so proud of our colleagues, Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Ramstad. The bill will provide countless protections to patients by preventing discrimination and treatment limitations by insurance companies.

All too often I hear stories about children with eating disorders, parents who are substance abusers, individuals with bipolar disorder, or any other number of mental health disorders who have been unable to access coverage for mental health services. These disorders are just as great as any physical malady and, frankly, oftentimes they have a greater impact on an individual's ability to live a healthy, happy life as a productive member of society.

Last year, during our hearing on this bill, for example, we heard from a woman named Marley Prunty-Lara, who was diagnosed with bipolar disease at the age of 15. Her family had to take out a second mortgage on their home and move to another State just to afford care. However, with proper treatment, she is now a fully productive member of society and in fact credits her treatment for saving her life.

What I remember most vividly from her testimony is how lucky she felt that her family was able to afford coverage although they had to make sacrifices to do so. And then I thought, what about all of the other individuals in this country whose insurance companies do not provide them with mental health benefits and cannot afford treatment? What about the individuals whose benefits run out before they have fully recovered? And what about people with chronic conditions? Just like my little 14-year-old daughter has type I diabetes, she will get the treatment she needs for the rest of her life. But what about people with mental health conditions who do not? We know that mental health is fundamental to good health. That is why we need to support this legislation.

I find it interesting that we are addressing the question of how we as a society want to pay for mental health at the same time as we are addressing the same question in the context of the President's budget and health care for children. I honestly hope that we can pass this legislation today and finally put the days of discrimination toward individuals with mental health or substance abuse disorders behind us. It is time to finally pass the Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity Act.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the courageous life and the ultimate sacrifice of Army CPL Duncan Charles Crookston. This exceptional soldier merits our recognition and esteem as his character and devotion to duty decreed that he put the needs of others before his own. Corporal Crookston possessed the virtues that define an honorable life.

Tragically, Corporal Crookston was taken from us as a result of complications arising from severe injuries received in an attack and roadside blast along one of Baghdad's deadliest roads. Three of his comrades were killed and one other was wounded when an explosively formed penetrator blasted through their vehicle. Corporal Crookston died on Friday, January 25, 2008, at Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. This fine young man was only 20 years old and while many of us have been blessed to live a longer life, I believe that few of us will have lived one of such consequence in service of our Nation's cause.

Corporal Crookston was the son of Christopher and Lee Crookston. He enlisted in the United States Army after graduating from West High School in Denver, Colorado. He became an airborne infantryman and was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division out of Fort Riley, Kansas. Prior to his deployment to Iraq, he married his high school sweetheart, Meaghun. Comrades in arms noted that he was very intelligent and ``able to complete a Rubik's cube in under 56 seconds.'' He became his unit's resident expert in computers and other electronic devices. He is remembered as someone who ``helped everyone out whenever they needed him'' . . . (a person who was) ``full of life'' . . . ``a kind guy (who) was very loving and selfless, one in a million . . . (a man) who was willing to give up his life for other people.''

I never had the honor of meeting Corporal Crookston but it is clearly evident that he was raised by a good family to be a decent, responsible and honorable person. He loved our country and volunteered to take his place among those who put themselves in harms way because of a singular and abiding devotion to this nation. Corporal Crookston understood his obligations and, in the words of Abraham Lincoln on the battlefield at Gettysburg, he gave ``his last full measure of devotion'' . . . so that others may live a better life. All Americans are in his debt. His devotion to duty in the war against terrorism and his uncommon valor in the face of mortal danger leave us with a legacy of courage and honor to which very few can aspire. Among other awards including the Army Commendation Medal and the Purple Heart, the United States Army awarded Corporal Crookston the Bronze Star.

Please join me in paying tribute to the life and sacrifice of United States Army CPL Duncan Charles Crookston, a distinguished soldier. His life was exemplary and his contributions are rich in consequence. On behalf of the citizens of the 1st Congressional District of

Colorado, I wish to extend our admiration and profound gratitude for this most honorable American. Our thoughts and prayers are with his widow, Meaghan, his parents, Christopher and Lee, and his five brothers.

Madam Speaker. I rise to honor the extraordinary life and exceptional accomplishments of Rachel Bassette Noel. This remarkable public servant merits our recognition and esteem as her leadership, service and lifelong devotion to civil liberty and equal opportunity has done much to advance the lives of our people.

Rachel Noel has been celebrated as ``a pioneer for equity,'' ``a woman of valor,'' and ``a magnificent rebel.'' She demanded the dignity due to all people. She sought to unfetter the great potential of our children and she did her part, in no small measure, to tear down the walls of segregation and remove the barriers to equal education. Although many individuals have made notable contributions to our community and state, few have left a legacy of progress as has Rachel Noel.

Rachel Noel was born 1918 in Hampton, Virginia--in the segregated South. Her father, A.W.E. Bassette, was a lawyer and her mother was a teacher. They instilled in her the value and importance of a good education and Rachel Noel went on to graduate with a bachelor's degree from Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) and earned a master's degree in sociology from Fisk University. After World War II, she and her husband, Dr. Edmond F. Noel, moved west and settled in Denver in 1950. As in the segregated South, they encountered discrimination and racial bias in Denver. Dr. Noel practiced medicine in the Five Points community and was the first African American surgeon in Colorado, yet he was denied operating room privileges in every city hospital except the Jewish hospital, General Rose (now Rose Medical Center). Rachel Noel also encountered many closed doors in Denver before taking a job with the Denver Human Rights Commission.

The couple persevered and by the time Rachel Noel won election to the Board of the Denver Public Schools (DPS) in 1965, she was already recognized for her work on behalf of children. She became the first African American to serve on the DPS Board and the first African American woman elected to public office in Colorado. Three years into her term, she introduced the famous Noel Resolution which called for the superintendent to develop a plan to integrate the Denver Public Schools. The resolution was precipitated by the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Rachel Noel noted that ``when King died, rhetoric no longer seemed adequate.'' Her resolution brought death threats and after much community opposition, it passed in 1970. The United States Supreme Court eventually affirmed the intent of her resolution in its landmark decision of 1973, Keyes v. Denver School District No. 1, calling for mandatory desegregation of Denver's public schools, including busing for racial balance. The Denver Post noted that ``the citizenry at large would debate the best means for achieving equality and opportunity for all its students--but that goal itself would never again be called into question.'' I would simply add that Rachel Noel's endeavors raised the bar. She moved the public policy debate in our community and this country from simply opening segregated schools to achieving a new balance--a new equity--in public education that did not previously exist. But extending the benefits of equal education to those who had been denied it was more than just enforcing laws. It was about redeeming lost futures and creating opportunity so that all young people could make the most of their lives and share in our prosperity.

Rachel Noel joined the faculty of Metropolitan Sate College in 1969. She taught sociology and African American studies and served as chair of the African American Studies Department from 1971 to 1980. In 1976, Governor Richard Lamm appointed Rachel Noel to serve on the University of Colorado Board of Regents and she was subsequently elected statewide in1978 to become the first African American elected to the Board of Regents and serve as chair of the board. She also chaired Mayor Federico Pena's Black Advisory Council; served as a Commissioner of Denver Housing Authority; served on the Advisory Board of the United States Civil Rights Commission; served on Mayor Wellington Webb's Black Advisory Committee; and served as a member of the Chancellor's Advisory Committee for Health Sciences at the University of Colorado at Boulder and Denver. She was also an active member of Shorter Community African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Links and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

In 1981, Rachel Noel was honored with the establishment of the Rachel B. Noel Distinguished Professorship to foster multiculturalism, diversity and academic excellence at Metropolitan State College. She was the recipient of numerous accolades and awards including: the Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award in 1990; induction into the Colorado Women's Hall of Fame in 1996; the Wiley A. Branton Award from the National Bar Association in 2001; the Anti-Defamation League's Civil Rights Award in 2004; and the Honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from the University of Denver. In 2002, the Denver Public Schools named a middle school in Northeast Denver in her honor, the Rachel B. Noel Middle School.

Rachel Noel was an unrelenting advocate for the causes that elevate the human condition and she served all of us with eminent distinction. She saw great opportunity for progress and seized it. She had the courage to tell us that we were not keeping faith with our nation's ideals and that we needed to move forward. Moreover, she knew that we as Americans have an enormous capacity to do better and that we have a moral obligation to do so. Truly, we are all diminished by the passing of this remarkable person.

Rachel Noel lived a life that is rich in consequence and we are better and stronger due to her labors on our behalf. Our thoughts and prayers are with her daughter Angie, her son Buddy and her entire family. Please join me in paying tribute to the life of Rachel B. Noel, a distinguished public servant and advocate for civil liberty.

Madam Speaker. I rise to honor the extraordinary life of Jack B. Weil. This exceptional citizen merits both our recognition and esteem as his impressive record of civic leadership and invaluable service has improved the lives of many Coloradans.

Sadly, Jack Weil was taken from us by esophageal cancer and he will be greatly missed. His passion for art, politics, business and his capacity for community service were immeasurable. He molded a life of genuine accomplishment and his passing is a great loss to our entire community.

Jack Weil was born November 13, 1928 at Denver's Mercy Hospital. He attended the University of Colorado and ultimately graduated from Tulane University in 1952. He joined the United States Army and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. After two years of service, he returned to Denver to join the family business, Rockmount Ranch Wear Manufacturing Company, a company founded by his father, the indomitable Jack A. Weil. Jack Weil was a businessman and a gifted artist whose vision and talent for textile designs helped expand the reach of the company beyond the Mississippi River. He created some of Rockmount's most iconic designs, including the shirt John Travolta wore in the movie ``Urban Cowboy.'' Rockmount shirts have been worn by Bob Dylan, President Reagan, Elvis Presley and Robert Redford, among others. Jack Weil was a major force at Rockmount for fifty years and it has grown from one of the original early mercantile businesses in lower downtown Denver to an international company with clothing sold throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia.

Jack Weil was also a well-known abstract impressionist painter and his son, Steven Weil, noted that ``There was nothing straight and narrow about him.'' He developed his own abstract style and he loved to share the art he created as well as the art he bought. In the 1960's, the Denver Art Museum hung one of Jack Weil's forward looking collages and his most recent exhibition was a twenty-canvas show at the Berkeley Park Art Gallery in northwest Denver last December.

Jack Weil was extremely active in politics and in the community. He was a party leader and held various posts in the Republican Central Committee and was a past secretary of the Colorado Republican Party. But Steven Weil noted that he ``could not be cast into the mold of a classic conservative'' as he served on the board of Colorado Republicans for Choice. In addition to being a leader in Western wear and equipment industry associations, Jack Weil was also very involved in education serving in various roles, including chair, of the Community College of Denver Foundation. Historic preservation was also an abiding interest and he served on the planning commissions for the Humboldt Island Historic District and Cheeseman Park. He also served on the board of the First Universalist Church and the membership committee of the Denver Athletic Club. In 2002, Jack Weil was the recipient of Tulane University's Alumni Recognition Award.

Please join me in paying tribute to Jack B. Weil, a distinguished citizen. His leadership has been exemplary and his contributions are rich in consequence. On behalf of the citizens of the 1st Congressional District, I wish to express our admiration and gratitude for the life of Jack Weil. Our thoughts are with Jack Weil Sr., Steven Weil, Jane Romberg, Judy Oksner and his three grandchildren.