Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, the House had a choice. They could support a bipartisan energy plan that invests in renewable energy resources, supports conservation and expands exploration for American oil and natural gas. It was not a perfect bill. There were additional items like nuclear energy that were not addressed, and should be.

Unfortunately, House Democrats made a different choice. They decided to stand with their leadership and support a hoax of an energy bill that had no input from the minority, had been crafted overnight by the House Democrat leadership, and failed to provide revenue sharing for States that authorized deepwater drilling off their shores. Moreover, the Democrat bill had a renewable energy mandate that would mean higher electricity bills for families of southern and midwestern States.

There was a bipartisan choice, and I am disappointed that so many chose to vote for a hoax bill that was all about political cover.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th.

Madam Speaker, Bulgaria is an ally of the United States, and this Congress has recognized the Bulgarian people for preserving and continuing their tradition of ethnic and religious tolerance, Most recently, the House of Representatives passed House Resolution 1383, which recognized the 100th anniversary of the independence of Bulgaria.

Through a grassroots movement organized by Kalin and Sharon Tchonev of Lexington, South Carolina, the American-Bulgarian partnership continues to strengthen. Kalin and Sharon have founded the Songs of Life International Choral Festival to be held this November 21st through December 1st. The festival will include performances in Plovdiv and Sofia, Bulgaria, as well as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Israel. It marks the 65th anniversary of the historic rescue of Bulgaria's Jews during the Holocaust and serves as an opportunity to connect citizens from these nations on cultural, educational, and spiritual levels. Songs of Life will bring together choirs, musicians, educators, and students from around the world.

Just as our sister-city relationships serve to advance friendships and understanding among Americans and Bulgarians, the organizers of this festival hope and believe that it will have as positive an impact on an international level. Not only are the United States and Bulgaria allies, but we share common values and a belief in freedom. The Songs of Life International Choir Festival is a platform to share these values with the rest of the world.

I wish to commend Kalin and Sharon Tchonev for their hard work in strengthening tlhe partnership between the United States and Bulgaria.

Mr. Speaker, the Democrat hoax energy bill appears to be another disappointing response to families hurt by high gasoline prices. Never mind the fact that this bill was written by the House Democrat leadership, never considered in committee and devoid of any input from the minority.

Among the numerous troubling parts of their proposal is the refusal to allow States such as South Carolina to share in revenues from offshore drilling. What a slap to those coastal communities to say that we will drill off your coast, but yet withhold revenues.

This is the money that could help pay for new roads and beach renourishment. Meanwhile, they insist on a renewable energy mandate that will increase America's electric bills and harm our rural electric co-ops. They raise taxes and fail to address refineries, ANWR or expanding clean nuclear power.

This bill is a hoax on the American people. It won't become law, and the Democrat leadership knows it. This is not leadership and not what the American people deserve.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th.

Madam Speaker, I am happy to congratulate Allen and Amber Aimar on the birth of their new baby boy. Alexander Jacob Lee Aimar was born on September 11, 2008, weighing five pounds and five ounces. He has been born into a loving home, where he will be raised by parents who are devoted to his well-being and bright future.

His father, Allen, serves as the military legislative assistant in the Office of the Second Congressional District of South Carolina. His mother, Amber, is a former member of our staff who served as deputy campaign manager during my 2001 run for Congress, as a field representative, and as our office manager.

I want to congratulate Alexander's grandparents, Pete and Andi Riddell of Westerville, Ohio, Allen and Deborah Aimar of Johnson City, Tennessee, and Greg and Marian Erickson of Beaufort, South Carolina. On behalf of my wife Roxanne, and our entire family, we want to wish Allen, Amber, and Alexander all the best.

Madam Speaker, I would like submit the following editorial published today in the Times and Democrat newspaper of Orangeburg, South Carolina on September 11, 2008. It eloquently conveys the dedication we all feel on this seventh anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11th. I appreciate their sentiment, and believe that we must never forget those who lost their lives on that terrible day, never forget the enemy we face, and never lose faith that our nation will prevail in this Global War on Terrorism.

Seven Years Later: ``We will not forget''

Today is Sept. 11, 2008, seven years after the worst attack

against America in its history. Second District Congressman

Joe Wilson has since that day made a point of referencing

remembering 9-11 in every speech before lawmakers. He's

offered more than words, too, with his children serving in

the war on terrorism and the congressman being an active

supporter of the war and the military waging it.

The Times and Democrat's continuing series of memorial

posters today focuses on

9-11. ``We will not forget.'' The message has not changed.

Innocent people in the World Trade Centers and the

Pentagon, and aboard an airliner in Pennsylvania, died when

terrorists brought their hatred for our nation and its people

to our shores. The images of airliners crashing into the very

symbols of our Nation are forever etched into Americans'

minds.

On this anniversary date, our Nation remains under attack.

We continue to be the target of terrorists, either directly

or through attacks on our allies. Extremists contending they

are acting in the name of Islam continually vow to punish our

nation for its perceived evil role around the world.

Defeating the threat, on the surface, appears impossible.

We cannot score definitive military victories against forces

that are committed only to recruiting soldiers to die while

killing as many Americans as possible. There seemingly always

will be another recruit.

Our forces fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan face constant

threats. Our enemies boast of killing the American invaders

who have come to seize holy lands. Thousands have died. Their

deaths must not be in vain. The sacrifices of the thousands

on Sept. 11, 2001, must not be forgotten. Our nation will

stand tall, we will determine where and how to continue the

fight against terrorism. Just as older generations passed the

test in World War II and wars before, the generations of our

time are facing their tests. We cannot afford to fail.

Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Madam Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Madam Speaker, today we remember the 3,000 Americans murdered 7 years ago. While we pause and reflect, we are reminded of the incredible heroism of that day, the selfless commitment of so many, helping their neighbor, coworkers, or a complete stranger. We have seen that character, courage, and commitment every day since in those who have stood to protect our Nation at home and abroad. We remember Todd Beamer. Six major plots have been stopped in New York City alone.

To our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines, and all our military families, we owe you a debt of gratitude. To our first responders and intelligence officials, your service reminds us that there are many roles to play in protecting American families, and defeating terrorists overseas.

I am grateful to know that so many Americans are willing to stand on the front lines in defense of liberty. We must never forget their sacrifice and never fail to honor them.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Mr. Speaker, over the weekend, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, an organization consisting of 45 nations working to reduce proliferation of nuclear weapons, announced that they had successfully implemented an agreement allowing for peaceful civilian nuclear cooperation with India. This is a great achievement for Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Ambassador to Washington Ronen Sen. There were individuals of good faith on both sides of this issue whose concerns were heard, and this latest step ends 3 years of negotiations.

The time to finalize the agreement is now. And we should recognize what a civilian nuclear agreement would mean for our Nation, for our energy needs, and for our economy. The agreement will produce stable, clean power for the people of India, promoting the strong partnership with America. This nuclear agreement will mean more prosperity through new jobs and economic growth for India and America.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th.

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

Thank you for this opportunity to speak on House Resolution 1383, a resolution recognizing the 100th anniversary of Bulgaria's independence. I want to thank the Ranking Member on the committee, Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, and Chairman Howard Berman, in addition to Chairman Robert Wexler of the Subcommittee on Europe and Ranking Member of that subcommittee, Elton Gallegly of California, for their support in bringing this resolution to the floor.

I am grateful to serve as the cochair of the Bulgaria Caucus of Congress along with congresswoman Ellen Tauscher of California. We work for parliamentary exchanges between Bulgaria and America, along with hosting Bulgarian officials and citizens in Washington.

The people of Bulgaria should be proud that on September 22 of this year they will celebrate 100 years of independence.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Bulgaria struggled to free itself from the Ottoman Empire. Toward the end of that century, they once again fought to emerge from beneath Totalitarianism following the defeat of Communism. Bulgaria's story is a success because of the hard work and dedication of its people. They should be proud of these accomplishments.

On a personal note, 18 years ago I had the great honor to serve as an elected observer for Bulgaria's first and free elections as a participant with the International Republican Institute. At the time, I saw a nation battling the challenges of building a democratic society based on the rule of law. Communist Totalitarianism was replaced by freedom and democracy.

Bulgarians have faced the opportunities and the difficulties associated with building a prosperous free economy.

Additionally, just last month I served and visited with American troops stationed in Bulgaria on a codel led by Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo of Guam, and I am proud to report that the immense economic and diplomatic progress the people of Bulgaria have made is remarkable. We were hosted by the National Assembly Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Solomon Passy. Chairman Passy served with great distinction as the former foreign minister of Bulgaria.

We met with former Bulgarian Minister to Greece Stephan Stoyanov, along with Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev, and National Assembly Speaker Georgi Pirinski. During my visit to Bulgaria in 2005, I was honored to be hosted by President Georgi Parvanov.

Indeed, the World Bank recently classified Bulgaria as one of the top 10 nations to have undertaken important economic reforms to attract business investment. Bulgaria, admitted to the European Union in 2007, is the only EU Nation to be listed in the top 10.

In closing, we should recognize the people of Bulgaria for their continued support in the global war on terrorism. I have visited Bulgarian troops in Afghanistan and was proud that my son, Alan, served with Bulgaria during his year of service in Iraq.

As a dynamic member of NATO since 2004 and as a nation of free and democratic people, Bulgaria has stood with America in these difficult times. The partnership with America has never been stronger, built by Bulgaria's ambassador to the United States, Elena Poptodorova.

So today we recognize this immense achievement of theirs and commend them on 100 years of independence.

Again, I want to thank Chairman Berman, Ranking Member Ros-Lehtinen, subcommittee Chairman Wexler and subcommittee Ranking Member Gallegly for their work today.

I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Resolution 1307, a resolution commemorating Bhutan's participation in the 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival and commending the people and leaders of that isolated and mountainous country for their commitment to democratic reform.

Mr. Speaker, the Kingdom of Bhutan, called by its people ``the Land of the Thunder Dragon,'' is one of the most hauntingly beautiful and remarkable countries in the world.

If the diversity of its peoples, geography, and ecosystems weren't enough to make Bhutan stand out, this traditional society is also experiencing an extraordinary political evolution.

Due to the perceptive policies of its two most recent rulers, Bhutan has been transformed from one of the world's most reclusive poor countries to one of its more enlightened. The economy has grown at an average annual rate of 7 percent over the past 25 years. With huge investments in public health, life expectancy rose during the King's reign from 40 to 66. During the 1990s, the primary school enrollment rate rose by over a quarter to 72 percent.

This March, Bhutan held successful elections for the lower house of parliament. This event, which built upon the historic and peaceful elections for the upper house of parliament in December 2007, marked another positive

step in Bhutan's transition to a democratic, constitutional monarchy.

Mr. Speaker, I urge support for this well-crafted and noncontroversial resolution.

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time and commend my colleague from Washington State.

Madam Speaker, fifty years ago, on August 22, 1958, newlyweds Virginia and Ben Ali opened what is regarded now as a culinary landmark in Washington, D.C., Ben's Chili Bowl. The Ali family encountered numerous hardships on the way to establishing this neighborhood restaurant as a cultural symbol of camaraderie, tolerance and endurance. Ben's Chili Bowl became famous by consistently providing quality food for half a century such as their famous chili, half-smoke sausages, hamburgers and milkshakes. Over the years, the menu has expanded to include vegetarian options and a full breakfast. Celebrities such as Bill Cosby and Denzel Washington have visited the establishment, raising its national profile.

Ben's Chili Bowl is now one of the most successful, longest-operating African-American owned businesses in America. The restaurant is expanding with Ben's II opening next door to their longtime establishment along with a restaurant located in the Washington Nationals' new stadium. Further, a book commemorating the 50th anniversary of Ben's Chili Bowl will be released in August 2008.

Ben and Virginia Ali were inducted into the District of Columbia Hall of Fame in 1991, and while they have retired, their sons Kamal and Nizam are successfully carrying the family's business into the future. Congratulations to Ben, Virginia, Kamal and Nizam Ali for their family's work ethic, dedication and commitment to making Ben's Chili Bowl an American symbol of small business success for the past 50 years.

Madam Speaker, as Americans struggle with high gas prices our military is also facing skyrocketing energy costs. The vehicles needed to transport our military and take the fight to our enemies require extraordinary amounts of fuel.

This is a startling example of how rising energy prices directly affect our national security. It is another example of why Democrats must not adjourn for their five-week vacation without addressing this issue.

Between 1997 and 2007, ten years, military fuel costs grew from $3 billion to $11.4 billion, which is a 380 percent increase. Meanwhile, consumption of fuel by the military grew only 26 percent.

We need, and the American people are demanding, a comprehensive strategy that creates more American-made energy by drilling for oil and natural gas, building new refineries, investing in renewable energy, and promoting conservation. House Democrats should take a

bipartisan approach and bring the House Republican all-of-the-above energy bill to the floor for a vote. Let the American people's voices be heard.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th.

Madam Speaker, I would like to submit the following article published in The Washington Times newspaper on July 23, 2008. It outlines the prevalence of conservatism among actors and leaders in the film and entertainment industry. Moreover, it is encouraging to learn that support for our troops and traditional values are shared by Americans from all walks of life.

Hollywood's Conservative Underground

(By Amy Fagan)

A group of politically conservative and centrist Hollywood

figures organized by actor Gary Sinise and others has been

meeting quietly in restaurants and private homes, forming a

loose-knit network of entertainers who share common beliefs

like supporting U.S. troops and traditional American values.

Some of those involved are taking more public steps to

counter the entertainment industry's tilt toward liberalism

and Democratic politics, such as campaigning for Republican

Sen. John McCain or crafting projects to portray America in a

more positive light.

The group, whose members call themselves ``Friends of Abe''

after Abraham Lincoln, was organized as an underground

movement because of fears that prominent industry titans with

outspoken liberal views would retaliate, said participants.

They often were reluctant to name members of the group in

interviews for fear it would hurt their careers.

``It's a growing movement, and word is getting out that

there's many of us in this business . . .,'' said 1950s

singer Pat Boone, one of the few conservatives to talk about

the movement publicly. ``If certain studio execs--hirers and

firers--learn that this is a movement and growing, and that

some of these people that they hire are of this inclination,

these people could be unemployed.''

Friends of Abe has functioned like a support group,

organizing informal gatherings where actors, producers,

screenwriters, key grips and other industry types can share

common values or discuss concerns like anti-

Americanism in Hollywood movies or the perception of industry

bias against conservatives and Republicans.

The movement has grown over the past few years from

gatherings of a few dozen to one last month that drew more

than 600 to a billionaire's California estate, Mr. Boone

said.

People familiar with the movement credited Mr. Sinise,

whose roles range from the blockbuster movie ``Forrest Gump''

to the TV show ``CSI: New York'' for helping organize the

movement.

Sinise spokeswoman Staci Wolfe said the actor was traveling

with a band to entertain U.S. troops overseas and was

unavailable for an interview. She would say only: ``He is not

registered with any political party.''

Participants said Friends of Abe is not partisan, but

rather functions as a support group where Republicans,

Democrats and independents alike can discuss issues they care

about. And the low-key gatherings at restaurants and homes

have given conservatives a safe place to meet and express

their views, they added.

``A Friend of Abe is someone who has reverence for those

who serve in our military and believes that American liberal

democracy is a unique success, different from others, and

it's worthy of the respect of our popular culture . . . of

Hollywood in particular,'' said screenwriter Lionel Chetwynd,

who helped organize Friends of Abe luncheons when they began

4 years ago.

Mr. Chetwynd said Friends of Abe generally find themselves

at odds with the rhetoric of their hard-left colleagues in

Hollywood.

Craig Haffner, a producer who also attended the gatherings,

said Friends of Abe is ``not a political action group; people

are gravitating to it because they love their country.''

While the group is not organizing any political activities,

some of its members are taking action into their own hands.

Actor Jon Voight, Mr. Boone, Mr. Chetwynd and Mr. Haffner

have stepped forward and actively campaigned for Mr. McCain's

presidential bid. Mr. Boone said he talked to McCain campaign

staffers last week about how he and other stars can help.

Supporters now are assembling a formal organization for Mr.

McCain in Hollywood, a few of the leaders said.

Meanwhile, many want to produce more movie and theater

projects with a positive American message and stronger

emphasis on positive cultural values instead of films that

paint America as ``the great Satan,'' Mr. Boone said. Mr.

Chetwynd said such efforts have been under way for several

years, well before the Friends of Abe luncheons began.

Actor Kelsey Grammer, a Republican, is aware of the group

but won't comment further, his publicist said.

David Horowitz, another Hollywood conservative and founder

of the Los Angeles-based Center for the Study of Popular

Culture, said the group is serving a good purpose but he

worries its members won't be aggressive enough.

``There's a kind of . . . intellectual terror in this town.

People are terrorized; they're afraid to say what they think.

So what Gary is doing to provide aid and comfort to its

victims is admirable, and I applaud him for it,'' he said.

``But my concern is it's not going to be much more than

that.''

Madam Speaker, I am grateful for this opportunity to wish a fond farewell to two extraordinary members of South Carolina's Second Congressional District Staff--Chirag Shah and Kori Lorick.

Hailing from the great State of Wisconsin and son of Kamal and Jagruti Shah and brother of Chintan, Chirag was first an intern in the Second District office during college at the University of Wisconsin. We were fortunate that he chose to return to Capitol Hill and serve first as scheduler and then as legislative correspondent for the people of the Second Congressional District. Chirag will be heading to the University of Missouri for law school this fall.

A native of Lexington, South Carolina, and daughter of Mary Alice Lorick and Neville Lorick, Kori joined the second district staff at the beginning of this year as a staff assistant following graduation from the College of William and Mary. Her important work on behalf

of constituents visiting the United States Capitol and directing the day-to-day activities of the front office have been a very special part of helping our office better serve the constituents of the Second Congressional District. Kori will be joining the Federal Bureau of Investigation in August.

The people of the Second Congressional District of South Carolina have been well-served by Chirag and Kori. Their dedication, hard work, and good humor will be missed. We wish them both good health and happiness in their future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I am happy to congratulate my friend Sunny Philips and her husband Jay Philips of Columbia, SC on the birth of their daughter Sarah Lilian Philips. Sarah Lilian Philips was born on July 31, 2008, weighing 6 pounds and 3 ounces. She has been born into a loving home where she will be raised by parents who are devoted to her well-being and bright future. I am particularly happy to share my birthday with Sarah Lilian Philips.

I am so excited for this new addition to the Philips family. On behalf of my wife Roxanne, and our entire family, we want to wish Sunny, Jay, Sarah Lilian and her three sisters Rigby, Maddy, and Nettie good health and happiness.