Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1089, the Veterans Employment Rights Realignment Act of 2009. I thank Representative Herseth Sandlin of South Dakota for her leadership on the issues of veteran employment and education, and I commend her for bringing this bill to the Floor today.

Members of the Armed Forces--including the National Guard and Reserves--serve our nation with selflessness and courage. They deserve our gratitude, and in these difficult economic times, I believe that means we must redouble our efforts to ensure they have full and fair access to employment after their service.

H.R. 1089 will remove bureaucratic hurdles for veterans in search of redress for discriminatory employment practices, and it will allocate new resources to the Office of Special Counsel--the federal investigative and prosecutorial agency tasked with protecting federal employees from prohibited personnel practices.

In 1994, Congress put in place a strong set of employment protections for service members and veterans in the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. We need to enforce this law quickly and efficiently, and the Veterans Employment Rights Realignment Act of 2009 will help the Office of Special Counsel to do just that.

I was proud to support H.R. 1089 when it was considered by the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, and I am pleased to support this bill on the House floor today. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for this important legislation to protect service members and veterans from inappropriate employment practices.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 627, the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights. The Senate approved this yesterday by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote. I urge my colleagues to give final approval to this bill today and send it to the President for signature.

Consumers shouldn't have to subject themselves to hidden costs and ``gotcha'' games in order to have access to credit cards. Today's legislation will put an end to some of the most offensive practices. The bill will stop retroactive rate hikes on existing balances. It will also require lenders to credit payments made on the day that they were due as on time.

You wouldn't think that you would have to pass a law to say that payments made on the day that they are due should be credited as on time. But, sadly, that is how bad things have gotten.

The fine print in today's credit card agreements has gotten so complicated and so full of traps, you almost need a lawyer to find all the fees.

This bill won't stop everything, but it is an important step forward. I therefore urge final passage today of the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Zuni Elementary School in Scottsdale, Arizona. Zuni, first opened its doors to students in the fall of 1989. This fall, Zuni will merge with another nearby school to become Redbird Elementary.

In its two decade existence, Zuni earned many awards of distinction, most notably the Honor Council Excellence Award from the American Student Council Association and the National Association of Elementary School Principals. Zuni earned this award every year since 1993, a remarkable accomplishment. Since 2005, Zuni has received the Arizona Department of Education's highest ranking of ``Excelling School.''

In addition to its educational successes, Zuni's philanthropic efforts have been an inspiration to our community. Over the past 12 years, Zuni Elementary raised over $106,000 as part of the Jump Rope for Heart campaign that supports heart disease and stroke research by the American Heart Association.

As a former teacher, I personally understand the importance of building a strong educational foundation during elementary school. I would like to congratulate the Zuni Coyotes--teachers, students, and parents--on this exceptional milestone.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Zuni Elementary on its 20 outstanding years of educational excellence and dedication to scholastic achievement.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Honorable Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, who recently received the 2008 Paul H. Douglas Award for Ethics in Government from the Institute of Government and Public Affairs at the University of Illinois. She was selected as the recipient for her lifelong commitment to good government and her devotion to promoting respect for the highest standards of public service, a record that is a tremendous source of pride among her fellow Arizonans. This annual award recognizes elected or career government officials, or former government officials, whose ideas, writings, or public actions have made a lasting contribution to the practice and understanding of ethical behavior in government.

Sandra Day O'Connor was the first female Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving from 1981 after her appointment by President Ronald Reagan until her retirement in 2006. Prior to her appointment to the Supreme Court, she was appointed and re-elected twice to the Arizona Senate, ascending to majority leader in 1973. She was later elected to the Maricopa County Supreme Court and appointed to the Arizona Court of Appeals. Currently, Justice O'Connor is the Chancellor of the College of William and Mary and serves on the board of trustees of the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Since her retirement, she has frequently spoken on the need to insulate the Court from political pressures. To support an independent judiciary, she has tirelessly advocated for the selection of judges based on merit.

I commend the Douglas Award national selection committee for recognizing such a deserving candidate. Justice O'Connor continues to be an excellent example of what others should strive for in public service. She has lead with courage while maintaining a very high standard of integrity in her public and private life.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Sandra Day O'Connor for bringing the very best to government and for her unfaltering service to her community, state, and country.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Terri Kimble, who was recently selected to be the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce. Terri was chosen for this important community leadership position out of many qualified applicants

based of her extensive experience and commitment to success.

The business community and residents of Ahwatukee will benefit from Terri's experience, which includes longtime membership in the Elk Rapids Chamber of Commerce in Michigan, nine years as the group's president. In addition, Terri was an Athena Award finalist, Rotarian of the Year and Michigan Chamber of Commerce Executives, as well as Board of Directors and Communications Chair. With such noteworthy experience and skills, I am positive that Terri will successfully promote the Chamber's goals of advancing community and business development.

I commend the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce for selecting such a deserving candidate to serve as their president. I am sure that Terri will provide valuable service and leadership during her time there.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Terri Kimble's contributions to our country and community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate three Arizona journalists, Paul Giblin, Patti Epler, and Ryan Gabrielson, for earning the most prestigious honor in their profession, the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Local Reporting. Their hard work and dedicated effort on behalf of The East Valley Tribune are deserving of recognition and should be a source of pride for the people of Arizona.

The Pulitzer Prize for Local Reporting was first awarded in 1948 to honor journalists who display innovation and knowledge of their communities while reporting on important local issues. The Pulitzer Prize Committee offers each winner a $10,000 award and a commemorative certificate, but more important is these journalists have earned the respect and admiration of their peers and the public.

Paul, Patti, and Ryan have set a new standard for all Arizona journalists with their commitment to excellence through their exhaustive in-depth reporting on the impact of immigration enforcement in Arizona. Despite facing tough conditions with the downsizing of the newspaper industry--both Paul Giblin and Patti Epler have since been laid off by The Tribune--these individuals have reminded us all that investigative journalism is still vital to shedding light on and informing the public about significant issues that face the nation today.

It is only the fourth time in Arizona's history that a local media organization has won a Pulitzer Prize. More significantly, it represents only the second occasion that a Pulitzer Prize has been awarded in Arizona for reporting.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Paul, Patti, and Ryan's achievement and their continued service to journalism in the public interest.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Nicholas Everetts of Fountain Hills, Arizona, who was chosen to represent his area in the recent Constitutional Speech Contest held by the American Legion Oratorical Scholarship Program. This competition is sponsored by the American Legion to promote a broader appreciation and understanding of the Constitution.

Nicholas won his local contest in the Phoenix area, and then moved on to compete in the state competition with students from all over Arizona. As a sophomore at Fountain Hills High School and the youngest participant in the state contest, Nicholas proved his ability and validated his hard work by placing second.

As a member of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I commend Nicholas for his participation in this competition, and his active role in the veterans' community. In his speech, Nicholas insightfully noted that ``the treason that our forefathers committed when signing the Declaration of Independence has led us to live in such a great country.'' I am confident that we will see great things from Nicholas in the future, and I gratefully wish him well in his future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Nicholas Everetts for his success in the Constitutional Speech Contest, and his dedication to America's veterans.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the military service of one of Arizona's finest sons, Robert Bartlett.

Sergeant Bartlett enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2003 and was severely wounded by a roadside bomb in May 2005 while on patrol in Iraq.

In the aftermath of the explosion, Sergeant Bartlett twice suffered cardiac and respiratory failure and underwent dozens of surgeries. He has become a vocal supporter of mental health care for veterans returning from combat, and he serves as an example of courage and patriotism to his comrades in arms and civilians alike.

The following poem was penned by U.S. Capitol guide Albert Carey Caswell in honor of Sergeant Bartlett and his heroic service in combat and afterward.

One Shot

One

One shot . . .

Is all we have!

All in our lives to give . . .

All in how we've got!

All in our choices . . .

All through our inner voices . . .

Taking sight . . . our scope . . .

As from our souls, comes hope . . .

One shot . . .

Taking aim with our hearts . . .

All in what we've invoked . . .

As our sights becoming clear . . .

As our targets in life appear . . .

As from these ashes, rose . . .

This is a Real American Hero . . .

As oneself forsaken . . .

But, for The Greater Good . . .

To stand tall in all you would . . .

In that battle of evil versus good . . .

To wear the uniform, with hearts of courage warm . . .

With all you could . . .

As into that valley of death . . .

As Robert, you marched on so until none was left!

While, there on a battlefield of honor dying . . .

As your face is almost gone, as you lay lying . . .

As a mother awakes crying . . .

As somehow she knows her son is dying . . .

But, beauty is but skin deep . . .

And our Lord, shall hold in his arms all of those whose faith

so keeps!

Now, digging . . . digging in deep . . .

As your will to live keeps, is found in each and every heart

beat!

Dying, three times . . . fighting to stay alive . . .

All in your beliefs . . .

As Robert cheats death, America's Best . . .

As with his story, and courage and faith . . .

An American tale our world will bless . . .

A messenger from God, exploding . . .

As he looks into a mirror, his darkest fears are realized . .

.

Reloading, his new battle begins!

He cries . . .

As half his face is gone, has died . . .

In this face of courage we see . . .

The true definition of beauty . . .

Countless operations, courage's full measure . . .

All in faith's affirmation . . .

Both Beauty and The Beast . . .

As his shot is heard around the world . . .

As his courage is unfurled . . . beyond belief . . .

A Beautiful Man . . .

With every step, reloading . . .

With the Height of Courage exploding . . .

He takes command!

This Army Man . . . a real Hero, a fine American!

Who against all odds, now stands . . .

Out on point, as a lone centurion . . .

Of faith and courage . . .

To teach us all, and all our souls to nourish . . .

With his even greater weapon, he now fights . . .

As from his heart of courage, comes the light . . .

All in God's glory, his being . . . his soul . . . his very

story . . .

For he will not miss, that One Shot!

Madam Speaker, Sergeant Bartlett remains on active duty, stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. I ask my colleagues to join me in commending him for his continued service, even after great personal tragedy, and in wishing him success throughout the rest of his military career.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life that will occur on Saturday,

April 25th at Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe.

The Relay for Life fundraiser is taking place all over the country, bringing over three million Americans together in the battle against cancer. This event not only raises money for cancer research, but it connects cancer survivors with those who have lost a loved one to the disease with those who want to show their support for the cause. This extensive network is an extremely valuable resource to those whose lives have been affected by cancer.

One in every three people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. The American Cancer Society is the largest source of nonprofit cancer research funding in the United States, and thanks to their efforts, cancer survival rates have consistently increased over the last 15 years. Fundraisers like Relay for Life allow the ACS to continue to contribute to this significant and often life-changing research.

I want to congratulate the Relay for Life on its 25th year as the American Cancer Society's signature fundraiser, and express my continued support for cancer research initiatives. I am proud that my home town of Tempe has the opportunity to host this event.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, and those participating in the fight against cancer.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Sarah Baird on being honored as the 2009 Arizona Teacher of the Year. Sarah is a math teacher at Kyrene de las Lomas and Kyrene del Milenio elementary schools in Phoenix, Arizona where she teaches in nearly 60 classrooms at the two schools, with kids ranging from kindergarten through fifth grade.

Sarah started down her chosen path when she drove to Northern Arizona University and became the first person in her family to attend college. She graduated in 2\1/2\ years with a bachelor's degree in elementary education and later went on to receive a master's degree in early child education, also from NAU.

For Sarah, teaching is all about helping students find the same potential that a teacher once helped her find in herself, and she works tirelessly to ensure that her students have the opportunity to fulfill their full potential. Besides instructing math, Sarah also educates her fellow teachers in ways to make their lessons more easily understood by students.

The Arizona Teacher of the Year program is a statewide program that spotlights the many contributions of Arizona's teachers. The program annually recognizes exceptionally skilled and dedicated teachers in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade public schools. Those who are honored, like Sarah, play an active and useful role in their communities as well as their schools. They also show an exceptional ability to help their students achieve. I know she will represent our state well in the National Teacher of the Year Program.

Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Sarah Baird on being honored as the 2009 Arizona Teacher of the Year. Her incredible dedication to her students and her community should be an inspiration to us all.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exemplary and inspirational life of Coach Bruce Snyder. Diagnosed with cancer just last year, Coach Snyder passed away early in the morning on Monday, April 13, 2009. He was 69 years old.

Coach Snyder will always be remembered for his many successes as the head football coach at Arizona State University from 1992-2000, and before that at the University of California. Under his leadership, the Sun Devils won 58 games and made four bowl appearances. More than 40 of Coach Snyder's players were drafted into the NFL, and he produced over 100 All-Pac-10 honorees.

ASU alumni the world over remember the magical 1996 season. Bruce Snyder coached the Sun Devils to one of their best seasons in history, going 11-1, upsetting many highly ranked championship teams, and coming heartbreakingly close to a NCAA national championship. He was named Coach of the Year, an honor that could not have been more appropriate.

Coach Snyder's time at ASU is incredibly impressive, and has certainly left a lasting impression on me. But the ultimate record of his work lies in the positive and lasting impact he has made upon the hearts and minds of the people he touched. Players, family and friends recall Coach Snyder as a man of tremendous personal integrity, culture and caring for those around him. He imparted life lessons on his players that went far beyond the field. As one former player so aptly put it upon learning of Coach Snyder's passing, ``He was a good coach, but a better man.''

Madam Speaker, please join me and Bruce's wife and children in mourning the loss and honoring the legacy of Bruce Snyder.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ciara Petronzio, recipient of the 2009 Prudential Spirit of Community Award. This award recognizes Ciara's outstanding leadership achievements and her contributions to improving the conditions of sick and abused animals in Arizona.

Ciara has volunteered for Rescue A Golden, an organization devoted to rescuing and providing care to golden retrievers left homeless in Arizona. She has helped ensure that a countless number of golden retrievers have been given the love and attention that they have lacked throughout their short lives. By taking the dogs on walks and giving them their needed medication, Ciara has truly made a difference in their lives.

Her passion for helping animals began at an early age as her family lost a valued member of their family when they had to put their dog to sleep. Her enthusiasm and excitement has made it possible for sheltered dogs to receive the necessary care and help that they require.

A community's quality of life is determined by many factors, such as the policies set by city government and the programs available to its citizens. However, I believe that a community rises and falls on the shoulders of its citizens, and the contributions they make to that community. Ciara exemplifies this commitment and raises the bar for everyone around her.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Ciara Petronzio's continued work and advocacy for sick and abused golden retrievers in Arizona.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mark Phillips, recipient of the 2009 Prudential Spirit of Community Award. This award recognizes Mark's outstanding leadership achievements and his contributions to improving the quality of life for special-needs children in Arizona.

Mark founded the Red Nose Club, a community service organization devoted to raising awareness and opportunities for children with serious illnesses. Through his efforts, Mark has helped raise over $21,000 for local food banks and hospitals to provide care for sick children.

His passion for helping others began at an early age. His brother was born with a serious heart ailment and Mark has been a champion for children with similar illnesses. His enthusiasm and excitement has spread throughout the state with creative projects that have made it possible for sick children to receive the necessary care and help that they require.

A community's quality of life is determined by many factors, such as the policies set by city government and the programs available to its citizens. However, I believe that a community rises and falls on the shoulders of its citizens, and the contributions they make to that community. Mark exemplifies this commitment and raises the bar for everyone around him.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mark Phillips' continued work and advocacy for children with serious illnesses in Arizona.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Richard E. Strange, who is completing his 34th year with the Tempe Symphony Orchestra.

Before beginning his professional career, he earned his Doctorate of Musical Arts in Performance from Boston University, and also holds degrees from Wichita University, and the University of Colorado. He then went on to teach music classes to elementary and high school students before being drafted to serve in the Korean War. As a former teacher myself, I commend Dr. Strange's commitment to emphasizing music education as an essential component of the learning process. And as a member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I honor Dr. Strange's service to our country and his continued commitment to our nation's service members both past and present.

Richard is also well known in the band and orchestra community. For many years, he served as the guest conductor for multiple popular symphonies, such as the Texas Wind Symphony and the Carnegie Civic Symphony. Dr. Strange also devoted much time to directing prominent bands for the U.S. Marine Corps., U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Coast Guard.

In addition to holding music clinics all over the world, Dr. Strange has received a myriad of awards honoring his significant contributions to the musical community. His efforts have certainly had a profound impact on me as well as musicians and audiences around the world.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Dr. Richard Strange for not only his 34 years with the Tempe Symphony Orchestra, but also for his commitment to our veterans and for the tremendous success of his entire musical career.

Madam Speaker, today I introduced, with my colleagues Jeff Flake and Dean Heller, the Reagan National Airport Fairness Act of 2009.

This legislation would allow more nonstop access to Reagan National Airport for passengers from Phoenix, Las Vegas and cities throughout the west.

Currently, that access is limited by a so-called Perimeter Rule that unfairly limits nonstop flights from cities located more than 1,250 miles away.

Flights from cities within 1,250 miles of Washington, D.C., by contrast, are not subject to this limitation.

Originally designed to encourage passengers to use Dulles Airport when it was first built, the Perimeter Rule has long since outlived its intended purpose. Dulles Airport is now one of our nation's busiest.

Congress has already recognized the need to relax these flight restrictions, and now a small number of nonstop flights from western cities are allowed limited access to Reagan National Airport.

In addition, H.R. 915, the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act, would increase the number of nonstop flights allowed.

This would be another important step forward.

However, in the interest of fairness and free market competition, I believe we must go further.

The legislation we introduced today would allow more flights from more western airports into Reagan National Airport.

It's the right thing to do, and I encourage my colleagues to support it.