Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Debbie Smith, Florida's School-Related Employee of the Year.

As the Physical Education Assistant at Shalimar Elementary School, Ms. Smith works with hundreds of children everyday. Expanding upon the opportunities provided by her position, she has constructed several new physical education programs that heighten student exercise. The ``Miler Club,'' a new program in which students earn ``toe tokens'' for every five miles that they run, promotes athleticism and encourages students towards physical activity. Ms. Smith is also instrumental in the school's Field Day, a day devoted to outdoor activity.

In addition to teaching physical education, Ms. Smith also assists in the classroom. Utilizing small group instruction, she works with students requiring extra attention in reading and math.

Ms. Smith's instruction has unbounded influence. Her dedication and devotion have led countless students to a greater understanding of physical education and fitness. Ms. Smith's outstanding accomplishments have distinguished her as one of the great educators in Northwest Florida, and the Okaloosa County School District is honored to have her as one of their own.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Debbie Smith on her exemplary service in Northwest Florida.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize the Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 Teachers of the Year.

First, I would like to congratulate, Mr. Leo F. Murphy, who received the High School and Overall Teacher of the Year award. A teacher at Choctawhatchee High School, Mr. Murphy is deeply passionate about aviation and aerospace education. He began the first aviation and aerospace education program in the Okaloosa County School District and is the driving force behind its success. A retired U.S. naval officer, Mr. Murphy has over 4,000 hours flying time earned in his 30-year career. He instructs at both Choctawhatchee and Crestview High Schools, and Hurlburt AFA Chapter 398 is proud to recognize him.

Second, I would like to honor Ms. Shannon E. Farrell, the AFA Chapter's selection for the Middle School Teacher of the Year. Ms. Farrell teaches eighth-grade Physical Science at Woodlawn Beach Middle School. She incorporates engineering, science and technology into her classroom. Ms. Farrell also sponsors the school's Boosting Engineering Science and Technology, BEST, Robotics Club. The 60 students in her club have competed at local and regional events, and are now preparing to compete in the Physics Olympics at the University of West Florida.

It is also with great honor for me to recognize the co-winners of the Hurlburt AFA Chapter 398 selections for the Elementary School Teacher of the Year. Ms. Megan L. Tucker teaches fourth-grade students at Kenwood Elementary School and was named her school's teacher of the year for 2006-2007. She augments the discussion of aviation in the classroom with guest speakers. Ms. Tucker has teamed with the USAF Armament Museum to assist in the development of the ``Engineers for America'' initiative, which incorporates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, STEM, into various activities. She has also coordinated with the Choctawhatchee Aviation Institute, Bob Skies Airport, and the Experimental Aircraft Association to introduce her students to the thrill of flight.

Lastly, it is with honor for me to recognize another outstanding teacher, Mr. Scott Erickson. He is a fourth-grade teacher at the W.H. Rhodes Elementary School. Since 2005, he has taught math, reading, writing, science and social studies. To engage his students in learning he has incorporated a variety of aviation related items into all facets of his teaching. He integrated items gleaned from a Hurlburt Chapter Teacher Workshops to improve reading skills and institute a rocket building program for his students. His latest endeavor is integrating reading, math, technology, geometry, and engineering procedures into a dynamic lesson involving simulated flight from point to point using sectional charts, videos, and written instruction. During this lesson, students measure angles, figure area of a triangle and circle, compute speed, figure averages, record data, and work as a team to achieve a final answer. Mr. Erickson is using the science, technology, engineering and mathematics aspects of aerospace and aviation to motivate his students to learn, explore, and discover.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize the Hurlburt Field AFA Chapter 398 Teacher of the Year selections.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of April Branscome, Okaloosa County's Teacher of the Year.

For over two decades, April Branscome has worked at Niceville High School. Employed initially as a secretary, Ms. Branscome now serves as an information technology instructor and is a savant on educational technology. Her teaching skills range from the conventional to the more cutting-edge. She is excellent in the classroom, possessing an incredible ability to inspire her pupils. Not content to rest upon her laurels, Ms. Branscome has expanded upon her talents and has taken her advanced comprehension of technology to the next level of teaching.

Constructed for Okaloosa's CHOICE IT institute, Ms. Branscome fashioned her own web design curriculum, which resulted in a 100 percent passage rate for students seeking their Internet Webmaster certificate. She is currently being courted by schools throughout the State to train their IT teachers.

Ms. Branscome's ascension to Teacher of the Year did not happen quickly. Shortly after her high school graduation, Ms. Branscome took on a secretarial position at Niceville High School. While working, she became enthralled with education, yet lacked the credentials to teach. For 12 years, taking one or two night and weekend classes at a time, Ms. Branscome finally attained a teaching degree.

The title of Teacher of the Year is an immense honor and is evidence of the greatness Ms. Branscome has attained. Beyond the title lies Ms. Branscome's dedication and devotion to not only her students, but to the entire community. Her teaching skills and affable personality have influenced many and have pushed countless students to a higher level of academic achievement. Ms. Branscome's outstanding accomplishments have distinguished her as one of the great teachers in northwest Florida, and the Okaloosa County School District is honored to have her as one of their own. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize April Branscome on this outstanding achievement and her exemplary service in Okaloosa County.

Madam Speaker, I would like to offer a personal explanation of the reason I missed rollcall vote Nos. 88

through 90 on March 4, 2008. My plane was delayed due to bad weather in Atlanta.

I would have voted:

Rollcall vote No. 88, H.R. 1143--To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to lease certain lands in Virgin Islands National Park and for other purposes ``aye'';

Rollcall vote No. 89, H.R. 1311--To direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey the Alta-Hualapai Site to the city of Las Vegas, Nevada, for the development of a cancer treatment facility, ``aye''; and

Rollcall vote No. 90, H.R. 816--To provide for the release of certain land from the Sunrise Mountain Instant Study Area in the State of Nevada and to grant a right-of-way across the released land for the construction and maintenance of a flood control project, ``aye''.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the U.S. Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Michael K. Englett and his induction into the Florida Community College Activities Association Women's Basketball Hall of Fame.

For the past 18 years, Okaloosa County and the surrounding community have benefited significantly from the service of Mr. Michael Englett, dean of student services and director of athletics for Okaloosa-Walton College. Mr. Englett's vision of a comprehensive athletic program transformed Okaloosa-Walton College and propelled the school beyond the

standard of excellence. Under Mr. Englett's direction, sports complexes were constructed, a strength center was erected, the gymnasium was renovated, and intercollegiate athletics were reinstated, after nearly 12 years of their absence.

In addition to his outstanding modifications to student life, Mr. Englett developed the Raider Club to supplement institutional scholarship assistance. In just 13 years, the Raider Club has raised over $1 million in fundraising and has substantially increased scholarship aid.

During his tenure at Okaloosa-Walton, Mr. Englett expanded college athletics to encompass much more than sports. He devised a plan for gender equity, increased graduation rates, and because of his efforts, saw his team win 14 Panhandle Conference Championships. His fusion of athletics into college life elevated the school from academic excellence to overall distinction.

Northwest Florida is greatly indebted to Mr. Englett's foresight and ingenuity. His immense dedication to the community has led to an increased enrollment at Okaloosa-Walton College and a greater academic environment.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the U.S. Congress, I am proud to recognize Michael K. Englett on his outstanding achievements and exemplary service in Okaloosa County and northwest Florida.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Michelle Lingo, Escambia County's Teacher of the Year.

For the past 11 years, Michelle Lingo has influenced the academic success of elementary school students. Ms. Lingo's exceptional teaching capabilities have enhanced the learning opportunities for the students she teaches, while her countless hours of service and dedication have enabled her students to attain academic excellence. When asked to elaborate upon her profession, Ms. Lingo replies that as a teacher, she ``view[s] every day as a new chance to inspire a child.'' Her passion for teaching is rivaled only by the love she has for her students, and her unwavering devotion strengthens the school system as a whole.

Propelled by her dedication to the education system, Ms. Lingo began her teaching career in 1996 as a first grade teacher. Over time, Ms. Lingo furthered her devotion and expanded beyond the parameters of the typical classroom, first as a reading coach and then as a media specialist, a position in which she continues to serve. Though some would consider her current position overwhelming, Ms. Lingo balances the demands of her career with a jubilant attitude and exceptional enthusiasm.

The title of Teacher of the Year is an immense honor and is evidence of the greatness Ms. Lingo has attained. Beyond the title lies Ms. Lingo's dedication and devotion to not only her students, but to the entire community. Her teaching skills and affable personality have influenced many and have pushed countless students to a higher level of academic achievement. Ms. Lingo's outstanding accomplishments have distinguished her as one of the great teachers in northwest Florida, and the Escambia County School District is honored to have her as one of their own.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Michelle Lingo on this outstanding achievement and for her exemplary service in the Escambia County School District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 963, supporting the goals and ideals of National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week.

National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week this year is February 11th to 15th, and so it is appropriate that we are here today to pay tribute to those who have put their lives on the line for our Nation's freedom.

H. Res. 963 supports the National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Program and the program's efforts to express appreciation to hospitalized veterans for their efforts and increase awareness of the importance of Veterans' Affairs medical centers throughout the country. The resolution also supports the program's work to encourage citizens to visit hospitalized veterans and volunteer their services.

Mr. Speaker, for centuries our brave service men and women have given their utmost to ensure our liberty here at home. We owe our soldiers an eternal debt of gratitude, and giving our support to hospitalized veterans and recognizing their service as we are doing today is one important step toward paying that debt.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Kevin Holland, Santa Rosa County's Teacher of the Year.

For the past 14 years, Kevin Holland has captivated students at Pace High School in Pace, Florida with his charismatic personality and outstanding teaching practices. With

classes in advanced and college level math, students and teachers alike have marveled at his ability to break down the curriculum and translate it into something tangible that his pupils can comprehend. His exceptional ability to connect with the students furthers their understanding of this advanced subject matter and propels them towards academic success.

In addition to being named Teacher of the Year for Santa Rosa County, Mr. Holland is also a designated Master Teacher. Both titles highlight his outstanding teaching capabilities and emphasize his engaging personality. Mr. Holland is liked and respected by students and teachers, yet his involvement in the school is not limited to Mathematics. Mr. Holland is also the voice of Pace High School's Red, White, and Blue Band.

The title of Teacher of the Year is an immense honor and is evidence of the greatness Mr. Holland has achieved. Beyond the title lies Mr. Holland's dedication and devotion, to not only his students but to the entire community. His teaching skills and affable personality have influenced many and pushed countless students to a higher level of academic achievement. Mr. Holland's outstanding accomplishments have distinguished him as one of the greater teachers in Northwest Florida, and Santa Rosa School District is honored to have him as one of their own.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Kevin Holland on this outstanding achievement for his exemplary service in the Santa Rosa County School District.

Mr. Speaker, during this election season, political candidates will address every issue in the room except for the 800-pound gorilla. Medicare is rapidly growing in our Federal budget.

Just last week, Medicare trustees again reminded Congress that Medicare is projected to draw more than 45 percent of its funding from the general government revenue, as opposed to the Medicare trust fund.

If Congress doesn't start to make some changes, the program will face over $34 trillion in unfunded obligations over the next 75 years, which is nearly seven times the size of outstanding public debt today. This rapid growth in Medicare expenditures is fiscally unsustainable.

Mr. Speaker, both liberal and conservative policy analysts, along with the GAO, have been warning Congress of the much-needed entitlement reform. Who else must weigh in on the issue before Congress will start addressing comprehensive Medicare reform?

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is with great honor that I rise today to recognize the immeasurable community contributions of Catholic Charities of Northwest Florida after 80 years of devoted service.

In 1928, the Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity recognized the growing need for the Lord's work with the poor and disadvantaged and traveled to Pensacola, Florida to form the Bureau of Catholic Charities. The group aided in a variety of ministries such as social services, nursing, and education. Catholic Charities has operated out of a responsibility ``to answer Christ's call to help those in need,'' regardless of race, ethnicity, or religion. Over 90 percent of those they have served are not Catholic.

Ten years earlier, this same congregation of Roman Catholic sisters founded in Holy Trinity, Alabama, traveled to Pensacola to begin their ministries at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. However, these women were faced with unfortunate conditions that jeopardized their health, and it proved impossible to carry out their mission at that time. While their mission was delayed, they soon returned and were able to administer their ``dynamic and effective system for bringing about a better society.''

Catholic Charities has been a devoted caretaker of the region since its inception, with continuous growth as they have expanded their services to include all charity work within the Pensacola area and have opened several offices to better serve members of the community. They have been instrumental in creating a kindhearted and compassionate environment in Northwest Florida.

This remarkable organization has also implemented programs to assist with disaster recovery, refugee resettlement, immigration processes, and child placement to help build strong, loving families. Catholic Charities' dedication and vision has touched the lives of countless people and will forever be appreciated by generations to come.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to offer my sincere gratitude to a generous group that has served as an inspiration to us all. I am proud to honor Catholic Charities of Northwest Florida for their deep sense of personal service to the Lord's work for so many years.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Captain David Martin Karasek upon his retirement from the Florida Highway Patrol.

Captain Karasek's commitment to his country and community spans several decades. After serving in the United States Air Force for six years, Captain Karasek attended the Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy where he was appointed State Trooper on January 9, 1978. For over ten years, Captain Karasek served various communities in the State of Florida and attained numerous promotions. In 1990, Lieutenant Karasek transferred to the Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy where his experience and dedication made him instrumental in the fashioning of future State Troopers. A year later, Lieutenant Karasek was promoted to Captain and District Commander, where he has served for almost seventeen years.

Throughout his thirty year career with the Florida Highway Patrol, Captain Karasek has been awarded Trooper of the Month on six separate occasions, and in 1981 he was elected Exchange Club Trooper of the Year. From 1992 to 1994, Captain Karasek served as Vice President of the First Judicial Circuit Law Enforcement Association. Escambia County and Northwest Florida communities are deeply indebted to Captain Karasek, whose continual commitment provided safety and security for our roads in Florida.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor Captain David Martin Karasek for his enduring allegiance to the State of Florida and our great Nation.

Madam Speark, I rise today to congratulate Jerry Sealy on his retirement as the Executive Director of Okaloosa Regional Airport in Okaloosa County, Florida.

Jerry has been a role model for not only his colleagues, but also to those in northwest Florida. He served the county for just short of 14 years and during that time he was an active member of the American Association of Airport Executives and served as the President of the Florida Airport Managers Association in 1999. Not only was he selected as the 1999 Aviation Professional of the Year by the Florida Department of Transportation, but he also received the highest accreditation available from the American Association of Airport Executives as an Accredited Airport Executive, A.A.E.

Through his leadership and vision, Okaloosa Regional Airport was awarded the 2005 Commercial Service Airport of the Year by the Florida Department of Transportation and the 2006 National Excellence in Construction Merit Award from Balfour Beatty Construction through the Associated Builders and Contractors for the construction of a new airport terminal.

Okaloosa Regional Airport has seen tremendous growth over the past 10 years as people from all over the world come to enjoy northwest Florida's finest offerings. With over $90 million in airport improvements, Jerry has transformed the airport into a modern, welcoming gateway for visitors and residents. His dedication and passion will be greatly missed.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to congratulate Jerry Sealy on his retirement and wish him many more years of success and happiness.

Madam Speaker, it is a great honor for me to rise today to extend congratulations to the Kenneth Pridgen family for being selected the Walton County 2007 Outstanding Farm Family of the Year. More than one generation of involvement in agriculture has led this farm family to serve as a model of stewardship to society through a vitally important industry.

The Pridgen family is more than deserving of this year's award. Kenneth's father was himself raised working in agriculture, and he passed on the significance of their industry to his son, who in turn has involved his family in this work. Kenneth and his family recognize the contribution that agriculture makes to all of society, including putting food on the tables of families throughout the entire country.

Every year, the North Florida Fair Association honors farm families in counties throughout North Florida that display leadership through farming techniques and agricultural production. The Farm Family of the Year award conveys the importance of farm families' contributions to some of society's largest needs including food, clothing, and building supplies. Recognition of their work, as conveyed by this award, encourages others in the community to become involved and support local agriculture as well.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to offer my sincere commendation to a family that is a role model for all of us. A deep sense of civic contribution and values has been instilled in all of the Kenneth Pridgen family. It is my hope that this family tradition continues for many future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer a personal explanation of the reason I missed rollcall vote Nos. 1142 through 1144 on December 11, 2007. My plane was delayed due to mechanical problems in Atlanta.

If present, I would have voted: rollcall vote No. 1142, H. Res. 842-- expressing sympathy to and pledging the support of the House of Representatives and the people of the United States for the victims of Cyclone Sidr in southern Bangladesh, ``aye''; rollcall vote No. 1143, H. Res. 847--recognizing the importance of Christmas, ``aye''; rollcall vote No. 1144, H.R. 4343--the Fair Treatment for Experienced Pilots Act, ``aye.''

Madam Speaker, it is an honor for me to rise today and recognize the retirement of Sue Larrimore, a great educator.

For three decades, Sue has dedicated her work toward helping students realize their full potential. Teaching elementary, middle, and junior high school students, she has touched the lives of countless individuals through different parts of the country. These students are our Nation's future, and I am confident that her influence upon their lives will steer them toward working toward the betterment of society.

Sue has worked tirelessly as an educator for over 25 years in my district in northwest Florida, and has served as the principal of Destin Elementary School for the last 5 years. During those 5 years, Destin Elementary received an ``A'' grade every year for providing an exceptional educational experience. With an undergraduate degree in early childhood education and a master's degree in educational leadership, there is no question that Sue knew what she wanted to do early on in her life, and her successes both at Destin Elementary as well as all the other schools at which she served are a testament to her achieving that goal.

Madam Speaker, Sue's leadership and effectiveness will be missed by past and current students as well as all others that work with her in the educational community. She is a model citizen who set out and achieved the goal of making our Nation and the world a better place, and I know many will look to her as a great educator for a long time to come.