Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to commend the Marshall family on being selected as the 2010 Okaloosa County Outstanding Farm Family of the Year.

Dating back several generations, the hard work and dedication of Nick Marshall and his father James, along with Nick's wife Maryann and his mother Helen, have helped keep their family's farming tradition alive. They, along with their ancestors, have helped provide food and goods not only throughout their community, but throughout the Nation.

The Marshall family's current operation of growing cotton and peanuts was started by Nick's father in 1973. It was during his early years that Nick learned from his father, James, the importance of a strong work ethic and producing quality goods. The bond between father and son working on the farm is a special one and should be cherished; Nick hopes to one day share some of the same memories and life lessons with his son, Landen.

Madam Speaker, our great Nation was built by farmers and their families. The Marshall family serves as an excellent model to all our Nation's family farmers. On behalf of Northwest Florida, I wish the Marshall family continued success and hope that their family tradition will continue to prosper for many future generations to come.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an

honor for me to rise today to recognize the life of northwest Florida's beloved George Ireland.

Mr. Ireland is survived by Jacqueline, his wife of 57 years; his three sons, George, Timothy and Bruce; as well as two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. To his family and friends, I would like to offer my deep and sincere condolences. George Ireland was not only a compassionate man, but also had a sharp wit and an immense love for his community. Northwest Florida has truly suffered a great loss with his passing.

Mr. Ireland served his country with honor and distinction in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars and retired after more than 27 years of service in the United States Air Force with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. Following his retirement, Mr. Ireland moved to Niceville, Florida, where he served his local community as City Clerk for over 32 years and also served as President of the Florida Association of Clerks. Mr. Ireland was described by his colleagues as a ``financial whiz''; his remarkable aptitude for managing budgets and records helped the city of Niceville continually run a budget surplus.

In 1978, he was the catalyst for the purchase of a cutting-edge computer system Niceville. He convinced the Niceville City Council to approve the purchase of computers to help facilitate a sophisticated internal system that allowed the city to save countless dollars. He was also responsible for founding an institute for the education and training of city clerks in northwest Florida; this service, provided at no cost to the cities of northwest Florida, was especially crucial as it allowed each city to cut the cost of sending their clerks to train in south Florida.

Mr. Ireland's excellence in financial management was recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association, which bestowed upon his office more than 20 annual awards for excellence in financial reporting. He was also the recipient of the prestigious Robert N. Clark Award from the Florida Association of City Clerks.

Mr. Ireland's dedication to his community was beyond reproach. After his retirement as City Clerk, he continued to give his time, even though he was off the payroll. He was also deeply involved in a myriad of fraternal organizations. Mr. Ireland was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Florida, where he served as District 1 Commander. He was a Master Mason of the Okaloosa Masonic Lodge 312 in Niceville, and was a 32nd Degree Knights Commander of the Court of Honor for the Hadji Shrine in Pensacola, Florida. He also served multiple times as President of the local Lions Club, but his real love was in serving as secretary and treasurer of the Lions Club--a position he held since the early 1960s. Mr. Ireland's service to his community was recognized in 2005 when he was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award--the highest award given by Lions Clubs International for humanitarian service.

To some George Ireland will be remembered as a courageous member of our armed services where he fought to protect the liberties and freedoms we all hold so dear; to others he will forever be a sharp, intelligent, and exceptionally compassionate public servant. He will long be remembered by his family and friends as a loving husband and father; and we will all remember his wit, energy, motivation and commitment to serving his community. His impact he had on northwest Florida can never be forgotten.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it gives me great pride to honor the life of George Ireland, and his living legacy.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize the centennial anniversary of Calvary Baptist Church located in Allentown, Florida.

Calvary Baptist Church was first organized on October 12, 1910 by a group of 33 members of a tightknit farming community. After a revival meeting, the charter members decided to establish a church to observe and uphold the Word and teachings of Jesus Christ. These founders provided a strong, moral framework which established the values that the church continues to uphold today; multiple generations of the Allentown community have grown worshipping and rejoicing in the Word of God at Calvary Baptist Church.

In 1919, after 9 years of worshipping in the ``Solid Block'' school, the congregation bound together to build a new house of worship. Through the strength of the Almighty, the church ministered through World War II, and in 1945, church members began work on a new Sanctuary that is still in use today and provides a sanctified space for the propagation of the Gospel of the Lord.

Membership has grown in the 100-year history of this Church, from the original 33 charter members to a congregation of 381 today. The impressive growth and outstanding achievements, however, do not tell the whole story of the people of Calvary Baptist Church. The true triumph of this Church lies in its congregation's faithful devotion to the Lord.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it gives me great pleasure to commemorate the centennial anniversary of Calvary Baptist Church in Allentown, Florida. May the Spirit of the Lord continue to bless the Church and its congregation. I am certain this anniversary is the first of many milestones to come.

Madam Speaker, I appreciate the House bringing this legislation to the floor today in making the technical change to designate the Historic Federal District Court Building located at 100 North Palafox Street in Pensacola, Florida, as the Winston E. Arnow Federal Building.

Since the United States District Court in the Northern District of Florida moved to a new courthouse location in 1999, this building underwent a major renovation and opened for occupancy in 2005. Occupying the building is the Bankruptcy Unit of the District Court, the United States Probation Offices and a portion of the District Court. The building has become an integral part of the Florida Northern District Court in Pensacola.

Madam Speaker, this measure provides a fitting tribute to the service and life of a man who did so much for Northwest Florida. He is widely acknowledged as the judge who made the hard decisions that reshaped our local area in the late sixties and seventies. Judge Arnow's decisions have shaped northern Florida's governments, its schools and its jails.

I urge my colleagues to support this measure to recognize a legacy of American fairness by a man whose decisions were in the right spirit of the instrument in which he believed most, the Constitution of the United States of America.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast and the courageous men and women of Northwest Florida who have answered the nation's call to defend our freedom and way of life.

Founded in 1990 by Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, the Fisher House Foundation has helped open the doors at 48 locations, which serve as a home away from home for our nation's hospitalized military personnel, veterans, and their families. The Fisher House of the Emerald Coast joins 20 years of dedicated service to the mission of continually improving the quality of life for our servicemembers.

Our military is the best in the world due to the selfless sacrifice of the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families. So much is asked of them, and the Fisher House seeks to extend a helping hand and grateful heart when needed most. By providing housing for wounded servicemembers and their families at no cost, the Fisher House Foundation enables family members to be close to a loved one during their treatment.

Madam Speaker, we owe a debt of gratitude to our Armed Forces' courageous members and families; to that end, I applaud the Fisher House for their continued support of our wounded warriors. On behalf of the United States Congress, I commend the community members of Northwest Florida who have worked tirelessly to make the opening of the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast a reality.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize the life of Northwest Florida's beloved LeRoy Boyd.

Mr. Boyd is survived by his wife, Jeanne. To his family and friends, I would like to offer my sincere condolences. LeRoy Boyd was a proud resident of Pensacola, Florida. He was a champion of freedom and equality for humankind, whose life was framed by immense courage and an unwavering commitment to social justice. Northwest Florida has suffered a great loss.

Mr. Boyd began his quest for social justice and equality at a young age. Under the leadership of the Reverend H.K. Matthews, Mr. Boyd became President of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Youth Council. He also became a founding member of the Escambia County Chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and served as President of the Pensacola Chapter of Blacks in Government. LeRoy Boyd's leadership capabilities and willingness to fight for equality in employment was demonstrated when he successfully won a court case allowing many African-Americans and women the opportunity to serve in supervisory positions at the Naval Aviation Depot. His tenacity and perseverance were demonstrated in the mid-1990s when he became the chief warrior in a battle to rename a street in honor of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King. Mr. Boyd's steadfast resolve in the face of strong opposition served as a testament to the great accomplishments of Dr. King.

Mr. Boyd's continued commitment to serving the community led him to eventually found Movement for Change, an organization dedicated to increasing knowledge and awareness of community issues affecting the social well-being of the citizens of Northwest Florida. Movement for Change was guided by the belief that the best way to achieve meaningful and lasting unity in our society is through mutual respect for our fellow citizens, including respect for differences. Mr. Boyd's life, and his accomplishments, served as proof of the immense capability of the human spirit to overcome difference and unite for the common good.

Mr. Boyd was recognized by a number of organizations throughout his life. During his youth, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. As an adult, Mr. Boyd served as the chairman of many organizations, including the Commanding Officers Advisory Committee for Equal Employment Opportunity and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Special Events Committee. His service and commitment to his community was also acknowledged with myriad awards, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Award of the Year, the Florida Department of Corrections Servant Leader Award of the Year and the Hugh L. King, Sr. Excellence in Civil Rights Leadership Award.

To some LeRoy Boyd will be remembered as a staunch advocate for civil rights and social justice and to others an example of the inestimable capability of the human spirit to conquer all. He will long be remembered by his family and friends as a loving and compassionate husband and companion; and we will all remember his energy, motivation and commitment to serving his community. His impact on Northwest Florida will forever be remembered.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor the life of LeRoy Boyd, and his living legacy.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize the life of Northwest Florida's beloved Charles Harold ``Chuck'' Bolton, Jr.

Mr. Bolton is survived by his wife, Carola, and two daughters, Nicole and Rochelle. To his family and friends, I would like to offer my sincere condolences. Northwest Florida has suffered a great loss.

Chuck Bolton was born on January 26, 1945 in Norfolk, Virginia. He was a proud and passionate man, who served his country with honor and distinction in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. In 1986, Mr. Bolton moved to Okaloosa County, located in Florida's First Congressional District. Over the next 24 years, Mr. Bolton served throughout the civic, business and church communities.

His local leadership was acknowledged by the people of Mary Esther, Florida, who elected Mr. Bolton to serve as their Mayor from 2008 until his recent passing. He was a charismatic leader who believed in watching out for the needs of his fellow neighbors, and his connection to the voice of the people was unequivocally demonstrated when he became the first elected official to join the Fort Walton Beach Tea Party.

His passion for service and his close relationships with the people of Northwest Florida was apparent to all those who knew him. He shared his knowledge with the people of Northwest Florida, teaching courses in Charitable Giving, Estate Planning, and Retirement at local colleges. His leadership in the business arena was also undeniable. He served as President of the North West Florida Planned Giving Council, Tallahassee Chapter of the International Association for Financial Planning and European Life Underwriters' Association.

His immense leadership was recognized not only by his constituents, but also by the religious community of Northwest Florida, where he served as Chairman of the Okaloosa County Chapter of the Christian Coalition. Mr. Bolton also played an integral role as a fundraiser for numerous non-profit organizations, and his commitment to justice and equality was typified by his membership in the NAACP.

As Deacon for the First Baptist Church of Mary Esther, Mr. Bolton served as an inspirational bedrock for the community, providing prayer and guidance to the people of Northwest Florida. He was a regular speaker at the Waterfront Mission, a noted church speaker for Gideon International, and was involved with several committees involving rehabilitation for individuals. His commitment to serving those in need was exemplified by his weekly Bible Study at an alcohol/drugs halfway house.

To some Chuck Bolton will be remembered as a Mayor and steadfast public servant, and to others, a leader in the business and religious communities. To many children of Northwest Florida he will be remembered by his portrayal of Santa Claus, filling the hearts of children with warm Christmas joy. He will long be remembered by his family and friends as a loving and compassionate father, husband and companion; and we will all remember his energy, motivation, generosity, and commitment to serving his community. His impact on Northwest Florida will forever be remembered. Mr. Bolton was quoted as saying, ``Mary Esther may not be heaven, but I can see heaven from my dock in Mary Esther.'' We can all take great solace knowing that Mr. Bolton is looking down on all of us from his new dock in heaven.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor the life of Chuck Bolton, and his living legacy.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today to recognize the inspirational career and achievement of Emmitt James Smith III, on the occasion of his recent induction into the National Football League's Hall of Fame.

A Pensacola, Florida native and a fellow University of Florida graduate, Emmitt Smith is regarded not only as one of the greatest running backs in the history of the NFL, but also as a role model for young athletes everywhere.

During his freshman year at Escambia High School, Emmitt Smith rushed for 19 touchdowns and over 1,500 yards. He continued his training during the off-season. As a result of his hard work and determination, he improved his game and rushed for 26 touchdowns and over 2,200 yards during his sophomore year--leading Escambia High School to their first state football championship. Smith's high school football career did not stop there, and he had an even more impressive season junior year. Rushing for 33 touchdowns and over 2,900 rushing yards, he once again led the team to win another state title.

Throughout college and his career in the National Football League, Emmitt Smith overcame many odds to establish himself as a tremendous individual both on and off the field. He has many awards and accolades attributed to his name, including: being inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame, leading the league in rushing touchdowns, leading the league in 100-plus yard rushing games, winning 3 Super Bowl Championships and being named NFL Most Valuable Player in 1993. However, breaking Walter Payton's NFL record for the most rushing yards is certainly his greatest feat--a feat that he dreamt of many years before his first professional football game.

Madam Speaker, there are few athletes who walk onto the gridiron and play with the level of emotion and passion as Emmitt Smith. His impressive football career and his dedication to self-improvement have taken him to a level that transcends most professional athletes and have won the hearts of many in Northwest Florida and all across this Nation. On behalf of the United States Congress, I congratulate Emmitt Smith for all his great achievements. My wife, Vicki, joins me in this commendation and in extending our best wishes to him and his family.

Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to recognize the life of retired Pensacola Police Chief Jerry W. Potts. Chief Potts passed away on August 6, 2010, after courageously battling cancer. He was a respected leader who spent his life serving his community and his country, and I am proud to honor his lifetime of dedication and service.

Even as a young man, Chief Potts recognized the importance of serving his country. At the age of 17, he joined the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division and served honorably for 3 years. During his time with the 82nd Airborne, he earned the Combat Infantry Badge for his active engagement in ground combat.

Shortly after serving in the Army, in 1973 Chief Potts joined the Pensacola Police Department. His commitment to excellence as an officer through his various assignments in Dispatch, Uniform Patrol, Investigations, and Traffic did not go unnoticed, and in 1995 Chief Potts was selected to serve as Assistant Chief. He continued to rise through the ranks

four years later and was appointed as Chief of the Pensacola Police Department, where he remained until his retirement in 2002. Chief Potts' positive impact on the department can be evidenced through the number of projects initiated under his leadership and through the number of improvements made in the Northwest Florida community.

Chief Jerry Potts will forever remain in the hearts and minds of those around him, not only as a cherished and well-respected figure, but as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his middle school sweetheart of 44 years, Linda, their 2 sons Jason and Justin, and their 5 grandchildren.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am honored to recognize the life and deeds of Chief Jerry W. Potts. A committed community leader and loving family man--he will be missed by many, but his memory will live on through the timeless legacy he left. My wife Vicki joins me in extending our thoughts and prayers to the entire Potts family.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize the 200th Anniversary of the City of Pensacola's Fire Department. Pensacola has truly benefited from their 200 years of exceptional service.

Since 1810, Pensacola's Fire Department has been made up of men and women with the utmost valor and integrity. These individuals have dedicated their lives to the service of protecting the 60,000 residents of Pensacola, Florida. Specializing in fire suppression, fire code enforcement, emergency medical services and public education programs, these first responders have provided vital services that have benefited countless individuals throughout the community.

Determined and dedicated, the city of Pensacola's brave fire fighters go above and beyond the call of duty every day. Their level of commitment and sacrifice over the last 200 years is truly remarkable and will never be forgotten. Whether is it fighting flames or visiting school campuses, these men and women serve with distinction and as real American heroes.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress and the entire northwest Florida community, I am proud to honor the Pensacola Fire Department on their 200th Anniversary. Their commitment to community and passion to protect will always be remembered. It is an honor to acknowledge this momentous occasion, and I thank the men and women of the department for their two centuries of selfless service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Brian Toups for earning the Gold Congressional Award. Mr. Toups has proven himself to be an achiever and an exceptionally capable young man. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to recognize him for being awarded with such a distinct and coveted honor.

The Gold Congressional Award is the only congressionally recognized award given to youth. The recipient must meet a rigorous set of requirements. These requirements include a minimum of four hundred community service hours, two hundred hours of personal development and physical fitness activities, and the planning, preparation, and execution of a four night expedition. Not only has Mr. Toups successfully met each requirement, he has surpassed every expectation.

To fulfill the four hundred hours of community service, Mr. Brian Toups spent time working at a program for underprivileged children. While working with these children, Mr. Toups was a shining example of the virtue of voluntarism as he worked to provide a positive influence and make a lasting impact in their lives. Additionally, Mr. Toups pushed his physical limits by enrolling in a competitive gymnastics program. Indeed, this was no easy task. However, focusing his ambition and remaining steadfast in his commitment, he prevailed.

Mr. Brian Toups, spent many hours penning literary works ranging from short stories to novels. Honing his skills as a writer, he has submitted at least 500 pages of stories to a local publisher. In his final effort to earn the Gold Congressional Award, Mr. Toups prepared a journey to Northern Alaska. During this trip, he was faced with numerous challenges as he traversed the rugged road known as the James W. Dalton Highway.

Madam Speaker, throughout the course of his journey, Mr. Brian Toups had an incredible opportunity to develop character and integrity by taking an active role in his community. It is a real privilege to recognize Mr. Toups, and on behalf of the entire United States Congress I congratulate him on his amazing accomplishment.

Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 467, had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 448, had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Ray Helms, Sr., a Northwest Florida leader who passed away on July 11, 2010. Mr. Helms spent his life serving his community and his country. I am proud to honor his lifetime of dedication and service.

Throughout his 84 years, Mr. Helms lived as a rare example of a man always ready to give selflessly of himself. To his family, friends and countless others, Mr. Helms will be remembered as a man who emptied himself to fill the others around him. His life that spanned eight decades will serve as a shining example for all of us to gaze upon and see the full measure of a man.

Mr. Ray Helms served as an important leader in the Northwest Florida community. He was an educator at the former Harold School. He also served as Santa Rosa County Clerk of Court and later became the First Circuit Court Administrator. Whether it was in the classroom or the courtroom, Mr. Helms always sought to bring out the best in those around him.

On behalf of the United States Congress, Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize the life and deeds of Mr. Ray Helms, Sr. A committed community leader and loving family man--he will be missed by many, but his legacy will remain. My wife Vicki and I extend our thoughts and prayers to the entire Helms family.

Madam Speaker, I missed rollcall vote Nos. 434-436 on July 13, 2010.

If present, I would have voted:

Rollcall vote No. 434, Colonel Charles Young Home Study Act, ``aye.''

Rollcall vote No. 435, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Boundary Expansion Act of 2010, ``nay.''

Rollcall vote No. 436, Fort Pulaski National Monument Lease Authorization Act, ``aye.''