Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to rise in commemoration of the 186th anniversary of Greece's independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829 and to pay tribute to its long and sometimes difficult journey back to democracy, freedom, stability, and prosperity.

Nestled in Southern Europe, and bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey, Greece is the epitome of picturesque.

Greece is rich with history traceable to Stone Age hunters, compounded with agricultural and complex civilizations of Minoan and Mycenaean kings and followed by the Dark Ages, marking a period of wars and invasions.

During the second half of the 19th century and first half of the 20th century, Greece strengthened its landmass by adding neighboring islands and territories.

After being invaded by Italy in 1940, Greece became occupied by Germany from 1941 to 1944. After enduring many years of civil war, Greece defeated the communist rebels in 1949 and subsequently joined NATO in 1952.

In 1972, Greece held its first democratic elections and created a parliamentary republic, abolishing the monarchy, and later joined the European Community in 1982.

Today, Greece is part of the international coalition committed to the war on terror. By making airspace and airbases available to the U.S., Greece is an important player in the war against terrorism.

I join my colleagues in commemoration of Greece Independence Day and gladly pay tribute to the many cultural contributions paid by Greek Americans in Dallas, as well as, in our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share my thoughts on our Nation's need for passing the comprehensive Water Resources Development Act by this Congress.

On July 14 of last year, H.R. 2864, the Water Resources Development Act, passed here in this House by a resounding 406-14. The measures authorized major flood control, navigation, environmental restoration, and other water resource projects.

Yet once again, similar to years past, this vital legislation has become bogged down by our colleagues in the other body. It is critical that we return to a 2-year cycle to provide continuity for vital water- related infrastructure. Infrastructure investment has been and will continue to be the bedrock foundation of our economic growth and public safety.

A water resource bill is critical to the protection of our environment and the public safety, and the Nation needs this one right now.

Madam Speaker, the confusing and complicated Republican prescription drug plan will penalize seniors forever if they do not pick a plan by May 15. Unless the administration or Congress acts, 2 months from today, seniors will face a Bush prescription drug tax that will be added to their prescription drug premiums. We simply cannot allow this tax to take effect.

President Bush was in New York this week conceding a lot of problems with the drug plan so far. However, the President refuses to extend the deadline for seniors to sign up. If he doesn't change his mind, Congress must act.

Seniors are only looking for help for these skyrocketing prescription drug prices. They didn't ask for this confusing drug plan, nor is it to help them. But they need the help. This is both a critical health and financial decision for seniors who rely on prescription drugs to be healthier.

Democrats have a plan that would extend the drug enrollment period and eliminate penalties to the end of this year. It is time for us to join together and save American seniors a prescription drug tax that they cannot afford and simply do not deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, before I begin, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to my good friend and subcommittee chairman, Representative Jim Duncan, on the passing of his 89-year-old mother, Ms. Lois Swisher- Duncan. I want Jimmy and his wife, Lynn, and the entire Duncan family to know that my thoughts and prayers are with them. It is my prayer that God brings peace to each of their respective hearts during the days ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I support the passage of H.R. 4826. This bill extends through December 31, 2006, the authority of the Secretary of the Army to accept and expend the funds contributed by non-Federal public entities to process permits under the Clean Water Act and the Rivers and Harbor Act of 1899. This program is popular and well received, particularly in the northwest part of our country.

I congratulate my committee colleague, Mr. Baird, for his attention to this issue and for securing today's consideration of this bill. I can think of no other Member who has served his local and regional issues with more enthusiasm and effectiveness.

The language in H.R. 4826 is similar to language contained in H.R. 2864, the Water Resources Development Act of 2005, which passed the House on July 14, 2005, by an overwhelming vote of 406-14. The difference between the language contained in this bill and that contained in the comprehensive Water Resources Development Act is that this provision only extends the program for 9 months. The water resources bill is a full 12 months longer, but 9 months is all the Senate would agree to. However, this bill should likewise receive strong support.

Today's consideration of one section of the larger Water Resources Development Act should not be viewed as an indication that the larger bill will not be enacted this year. I remain optimistic that the other House of Congress will soon consider this vital legislation, particularly in light of the vital role of flood damage reduction, navigation, and storm damage reduction projects in protecting lives and property and enhancing economic well-being.

The tragic events associated with Hurricane Katrina indicate how important our water infrastructure truly is. However, the Senate is not likely to act on the broader legislation before the Secretary's authority to accept funds expires March 31, in just a little over 2 weeks from now. By providing this extension, the program can continue uninterrupted.

Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this bill.

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baird).

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

Madam Speaker, I would like to express my strong support of H. Res. 681, supporting the goals and ideals of National Engineers Week.

Engineers put ideas into motion. They must possess the creativity and analytical skills to innovate.

Texas is our Nation's energy State. Its roots are in big oil and big skies.

These days, much of the wealth generated by Texas oil is being put to good use to ``fuel'' the technology economy. Engineers are a critical part of that effort.

Our State is investing millions of dollars to develop cleaner-burning alternative fuels that are more efficient and better for the environment. Engineers, working behind the scenes, are involved at every stage.

I am proud that my State is showing leadership at a time when this Nation desperately needs to invest more in research, particularly in energy research.

Texas's tenacity and frontier spirit is strong, and I commend engineers in Texas and all over this Nation for the wonderful work they do.

Madam Speaker, I join my colleagues on the House Science Committee in support of H. Res. 681 and National Engineers Week.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 357, honoring fellow Texan and former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. As the first woman inducted into the Supreme Court, Sandra Day O'Connor broke through gender barriers and a glass ceiling that had existed for almost two centuries.

Her outstanding service to America and the Supreme Court serves as a role model not only to women, but to anyone who was told they couldn't do a job based on bias and negative perception. Throughout her life, Justice O'Connor continually rose above prejudice--forming her own law firm when no one would hire her, and becoming the first woman to hold the position of majority leader in the Arizona State Senate.

Sandra Day O'Connor became one of the most powerful women in U.S. History. Instead of rebelling against a male-dominated society, Justice O'Connor sought to change the world by working within the system. Her decisions on controversial cases such as abortion, affirmative action, the death penalty, and religious freedom have changed the American landscape and will continue to impact us far into the future.

I commend Justice O'Connor for her years of service and for serving as a role model for so many Americans.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People on its 97th anniversary. Following the violent race riots in Springfield, IL, in 1909, Ida Wells-Barnett, W.E.B. DuBois, Henry Moscowitz, Mary White Ovington, Oswald Garrison Villiard, and William English Walling came together in New York to form one of the oldest, largest and most influential civil rights organizations in America.

These founders came together with the purpose of promoting and fully recognizing the rights and equality given under the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to the Constitution. Today, the NAACP works to ensure a society in which all individuals have equal rights and there is no racial hatred or racial discrimination.

The NAACP has influenced some of the greatest civil rights victories of the last century, including: integration of schools and the Brown v. Board decision, the Voting Rights Act, striking down segregation and Jim Crow,

the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, and hundreds of community and grassroots initiatives.

Despite the advancements of the past 97 years under the leadership of the NAACP, there is still much work to be done. In the Black community we continue to see disproportionate numbers of African-Americans that experience poverty, unemployment, and economic and social inequality. The NAACP continues to promote new ideas and leadership in the fields of educational and employment opportunities, ending health care disparities, and economic empowerment.

The NAACP instilled in America a sense of consciousness, and continues to do that today through the thousands of individuals who have given not only their time, but their blood, sweat and tears, towards equality and justice.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the importance of black fraternal, social and civic institutions to the African-American community and to America as a whole. 2006 marks the 100th anniversary of Alpha Phi Alpha, the first continuous, collegiate black Greek letter fraternity. This is remarkable when you think of the social and political climate of 1906--where we were almost 50 years away from Brown v. Board of Education or Rosa Parks refusing to give up her bus seat. During this era of Jim Crow, black fraternal, social and civic institutions refused to accept this imposed inferiority, and banded together to provide support and promote solutions.

I am a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, the oldest black Greek letter fraternity founded by collegiate women. Founded in 1908 at Howard University, AKA was established in order to provide social and intellectual enrichment through member interactions.

Throughout the years, AKA's purpose has expanded as it strives to promote high scholastics and ethical standards, vocational and career guidance, health services and the advancement of human and civil rights. Led by national Basileus, Norma S. White, Alpha Kappa Alpha focuses on five national targets including: education, health, the black family, economics, and the arts. Most importantly the women of AKA seek to make a difference in our communities and to be of supreme service to all of mankind.

When you look at AKA's distinguished membership it is easy to see its impact on America. Amongst these women are: Coretta Scott King, Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, Ella Fitzgerald, and Dr. Mae Jemison--just to name a few.

The impact of black fraternal, social and civic organization is truly immeasurable. They have brought together and inspired the leaders that have made America what it is today.

Mr. Speaker, I am most pleased to join my colleagues and millions of Americans in commemorating African- American History Month and particularly this year's theme ``Celebrating Community: A Tribute to Black Fraternal, Social and Civic Institutions''. This theme as announced by the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History (ASALH) is most appropriate and timely as we enter a new millennium and hopefully a new and even brighter era of African-American progress.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize February as Black History Month and to honor the rich cultural heritage of African-Americans in Dallas and my State of Texas. In the arts or letters, history, business, sport, or education, Greater Metroplex's African-American community has made a significant and lasting impact on our Nation's culture.

This evening, in honor of Black History Month, I would like to call the House's attention to four distinguished African-Americans entities that made major contributions to my congressional district, city of Dallas as well as the State and our country.

First, Mr. President, I would call your attention to Dallas Black Dance Theatre celebrates its 29th season as the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. The ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of 14 professional dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers which include: Alvin Ailey, Talley Beatty, Donald Byrd, Alonzo King, Milton Myers, Elisa Monte, Donald McKayle, Kevin Jeff, Christopher Huggins, Jessica Lang, Bruce Wood, David Parsons and Darryl Sneed. The company and company's dancers have studied, trained and performed with some of the pre-eminent performers and teachers in the American dance world.

Second, Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the African American Museum which has more than 25 years, has stood as a cultural beacon in Dallas and the Southwestern United States. Started in 1974 as a part of the Bishop College Special Collection, the Museum has operated independently since 1979.

The African American Museum is the only museum in the Southwestern United States devoted to the preservation and display of African American artistic, cultural and historical materials. It also has one of the largest African American folk art collections in the United States. The African American Museum incorporates a wide variety of visual art forms and historical documents that portray the African American experience in the United States, Southwest, and Dallas.

The main objective of the Museum is the presentation of meaningful experiences for children and adults who would not ordinarily visit a museum. The rich heritage of black art and history is housed in four vaulted galleries, augmented by a research library. Living African American culture is experienced through entertaining and educational programs presented in the theater, studio arts area and classrooms. The Museum's permanent collections include African art; African American fine art; magazine, historical, political and community archives.

Third, I would like to recognize the Black Academy of Arts and Letters, Inc. (TBAAL) is a Dallas-based multi-disciplined cultural arts institution. TBAAL's primary objectives have been to stimulate an increased awareness of Black artistic accomplishments rooted in the African culture among the races; to honor those who have made significant and continuing contributions in the arts and letters of the past and present and; to identify, encourage and support young, promising talented artists and scholars in Black arts and letters.

After more than two decades of producing and presenting programs in music, theater, dance, film, television and video, literature and visual arts throughout the United States, TBAAL has continued to create strong ties among many emerging and well known artists and scholars. In the organization's early history (1977), it established a professional Resident Touring Company called the Third World Players. Renowned actress Regina Taylor was a member of that company in 1978 and other

artists such as Erykah Badu are a product of the Academy.

The `cultural icon' of the Dallas/Fort Worth area, TBAAL presents and produces exciting cultural arts programs annually in dance, theatre, music, literary, fine, and visual arts. Local and emerging artists participate in TBAAL programs, and noted artists and celebrities have participated such as: Oleta Adams, Debbie Allen, Maya Angelou, Roy Ayers, Akin Babatunde, Obba Babatunde, Erykah Badu, Romare Bearden, The Barrett Sisters, Angela Bofill, Avery Brooks, Cab Calloway, Bill Cosby, Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis*, Mari Evans, Antonio Fargas, Kim Fields, Lou Gossett, William Greaves, Alex Haley, Irma P. Hall, Tramaine Hawkins, Jennifer Holliday, Linda Hopkins, Kim Jordan, Ella Joyce, Eartha Kitt, Dr. C. Eric Lincoln, Les McCann, Barbara McNair, Garrett Morris, Roger Mosley, Tyler Perry, Florence Quivar, Phylicia Rashad, Dan Rather, Esther Rolle, Sonia Sanchez, Karen Clark-Sheard, KiKi Shephard, Carole Simpson, Mavis Staples, Glenn Turman, Cicely Tyson, Albertina Walker, Margaret Walker*, Dionne Warwick, Lillias White, Hal Williams, Nancy Wilson, Vickie Winans, the late James Cleveland and many more.

TBAAL is the only African-American multi-disciplined cultural arts organization in the country housed inside a major convention center, which increases the awareness of African American cultural history.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, I like to recognize the Dallas Youth Council of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The purpose of the Youth Council is to inform youth of the problems affecting Black people and other minority groups as well as work towards those measures to advance the economic, educational, social, and political status of African Americans and other minority groups and to stimulate an appreciation of the African American contribution to civilization. I commend Bosha Jagers, President, Tayana White, 1st Vice President, Crystal Armstrong, 2nd Vice President; Danielle Whyte, Secretary; Nucleous Johnson, Treasurer and Linda Darden-Lydia, Youth Advisor for their hard work in my district towards betterment of younger generation.

Let me just say in closing, that Black History Month should be a time for reflection and appreciation; a time to reflect on the accomplishments of African-Americans throughout this country and throughout our history, accomplishments that often were made in the face of racism, of poverty, and unequal opportunity. It should be a time to increase our awareness and understanding of African-American history and culture, and a time to reaffirm our understanding of our rich cultural diversity, our commitment to social equality, and our support of racial justice.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 1966 Texas Western Men's Basketball Team. Their NCAA championship victory over Kentucky forever changed college athletics.

Even though it had been over a decade since Brown v. Board of Education, many colleges had lagged behind on implementing integration into their athletics programs. In 1966, college basketball players were often recruited on the basis of their skin color rather than playing ability. Texas Western coach Bob Haskins did not succumb to pressures to start his White players. He simply played his best players regardless of skin color.

This resulted in the first time an all-Black starting line-up participated in a major athletic championship contest. The impact was felt throughout the country when little-known Texas Western upset legendary all-White Kentucky.

Perhaps most important in this victory was the stereotypes and misconceptions that were broken down. For many, the assumption remained that Black players would not be skilled or smart enough to successfully compete against White players. Bob Haskins and Texas Western proved on a national stage that Black players can win and are as smart and talented as their White counterparts.

The 1966 Texas Western men's basketball team opened the doors for schools that had stalled in implementing integration policies into their athletics programs; breaking down barriers and forever changing college athletics.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1259, which recognizes the Tuskegee Airmen for their exemplary performance during World War II, and for paving the way for full integration of the U.S. military. I commend Mr. Rangel for H.R. 1259, which recognizes the Tuskegee Airmen with a Congressional Gold Medal.

The Tuskegee Airmen were the Nation's first African-American fighter pilots at a time when many people thought that African American men lacked intelligence, skill, courage, and patriotism to become pilots. In spite of adversity and limited opportunities, the Tuskegee Airmen defied stereotypes and played a significant role in U.S. military history.

The first Tuskegee Airmen aviation class began in July 1941 and completed training March 1942. African American navigators, bombardiers, gunnery crews, maintenance, instructors, and mechanics were trained to be members of the 332nd Fighter group.

The Tuskegee Airmen overcame segregation and prejudice. Nine hundred and ninety-four pilots received commissions and pilot wings. Four hundred and fifty pilots served overseas in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. The Tuskegee Airmen combat record is impressive, including 66 pilots killed in action; 32 pilots captured; no bombers lost while being escorted by the 332nd, a unique achievement; 111 German airplanes were destroyed in the air, and 150 German airplanes were destroyed on the ground.

The Tuskegee Airmen proved conclusively that African Americans could fly and maintain sophisticated combat aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen received numerous honors, including: 150 Distinguished Flying Crosses; 850 Medals; 14 Bronze Stars; and 9 Purple Hearts.

By the end of World War II, the 332nd became one of the most highly respected fighter squadron despite prejudice and social equality. The Tuskegee Airmen's achievements must be remembered in the spirit of the heroic Air Force role in the global war on terrorism. With this in mind, I stand today to support H.R. 1259 to express the sense of Congress that the U.S. Air Force should never forget the courage of the Tuskegee Airmen by honoring them with a Congressional Gold Medal.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute UT Southwestern Hospital and Baylor Health Care System, Dallas for their ranking in the top 5 percent of hospitals in the United States. Over

the years, both medical centers experienced phenomenal growth, fueled by people with an extraordinary vision. UT Southwestern Hospital and Baylor Health Care System received high grades for quality patient outcomes, clinical excellence, patient safety, and women's health in a survey of 5,122 nonfederal hospitals in the United States, conducted by Health Grades Inc. UT Southwestern Medical Center is the seventh- largest hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth providing inpatient hospital care to more than 90,000 people and oversees approximately 2 million outpatient visits. Annually, UT Southwestern Medical Center delivers more than 18,800 babies and provides $282 million in unreimbursed professional service in Dallas and surrounding counties. Baylor Health Care System, established in 1903 as Texas Baptist Memorial Sanitarium, is the first health care system to provide supplemental newborn screening for more than 30 inherited metabolic diseases. Baylor provides exemplary health care with over 2,554 beds, 15,000 employees, and 3,300 physicians.

I am confident that UT Southwestern Medical Center and Baylor Health Care System will continue to provide exemplary hospital care to the North Texas community and surround areas and remain at the pinnacle of Medical institutions committed to providing compassionate health care. On behalf of the thousands of Greater Dallas Metroplex residents who have benefited from UT Southwestern Medical Center and Baylor Health Care System, I congratulate them for their contribution for improving the health of the community through high quality patient care and commitment to clinical excellence.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life and accomplishments an extraordinary woman--my friend--Mrs. Coretta Scott King.

I was surprised and deeply saddened to learn of Mrs. King's passing yesterday morning. Mrs. King and I were friends and confidants for many years. She was an incredible woman--graceful and dignified--who showed strength in the face of indignation and tragedy.

Coretta Scott King was a committed activist in the civil rights movement even before she met Dr. King. After they married, she was with him every step of the way--supporting him and promoting the philosophy of nonviolence. Following Dr. King's assassination, she continued his legacy promoting social and economic justice for all. Mrs. King was determined to make his dream a reality. She did all this while remaining committed to her family and raising her children.

Mrs. King made it her mission to spread the message of peace. She was not just an American, but a citizen of the world. As human beings, we are blessed to have known her compassion and dedication.

It has been said that the ultimate measure of a person's life is the extent to which they made the world a better place. Coretta Scott King's work has forever shaped the way we treat each other as human beings. Her passing marks the end of an era. It is up to all of us to honor her dedication and continue the struggle for equality.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of an American icon, Mrs. Coretta Scott King. After living a remarkably accomplished life that spanned 78 years, Coretta Scott King passed away on Monday, January 30, 2006.

As the matriarch of the civil rights movement, Coretta Scott King displayed dignity and strength in time of great tragedy and injustice. After Dr. King's assassination, she continued his legacy promoting racial and economic justice for all Americans. Mrs. King was determined to make his dream a reality. As Americans, and as human beings, we are blessed to have known her compassion and dedication.

Coretta Scott King and I traveled to South Africa in 1994 for Nelson Mandela's inauguration. I am proud to say that she was a friend and confidant as well as one of my greatest mentors. I regard Mrs. King as one of the finest individuals I have known. I will continue to hold her spirit and strength close to my heart.

It has been said that the ultimate measure of a person's life is the extent to which they made the world a better place. Coretta Scott King's work has forever shaped the way we treat each other as human beings. Though her passing marks the end of an era, it is up to all of us to continue the compassion that her husband preached and she so graciously followed.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary young woman whose bravery and quick thinking saved her family from a devastating fire. Eight-year-old Natelee Brinlee is a hero in every sense of the word.

Natelee had been through the Irving Fire Department's Safety House where she learned how to implement life-saving measures during a fire emergency. When a fire started in her home, Natelee knew to call 911, and alertly woke up her uncle and brother. This heroism saved Natelee, her uncle and two brothers.

Natelee Brinlee showed maturity and bravery well beyond her 8 years. The recognition she is receiving is imminently well-deserved, and I know this is merely the first step of many bright years ahead.