Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael Mayberry, Chief of Police in Henderson, Nevada. Chief Mayberry is retiring from the force after 30 years of dedicated service. He graduated from UNLV with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice. Chief Mayberry also graduated from the 180th session of the FBI National Academy and the 29th session of the Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar in Quantico, Virginia.

Chief Mayberry began his career with the Henderson Police Department in 1976 as a reserve officer. In 1978 he was hired as a full time patrol officer and has had numerous assignments since that time. He has been a field training officer, detective, investigations division commander and support division commander. Chief Mayberry was named acting police chief in August 1999 and appointed police chief on May 2, 2000.

Southern Nevada is a well known tourist destination which is visited by millions of people throughout the world. This creates a unique security environment which requires unique and capable police officers. Mike's proven leadership during these difficult times goes a long way to explain why he truly deserved the title Chief of Police.

Under Chief Mayberry's tenure, the Henderson Police Department has become the most technologically advanced police department in the United States. On March 23, 2002, the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, CALEA, accredited the department for its professional excellence.

Mike, I wish you all the best. It was a privilege to work with you during those years where our services overlapped. However it is a greater privilege to call you my friend.

Mr. Speaker, Chief Michael Mayberry is a dedicated officer who has worked diligently for the Henderson community. I ask my fellow colleagues to stand with me today and honor all police officers across the country, like Chief Mayberry, who have dedicated so many years to building a better community, which in turn contributes to a better Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 122) expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the study of languages and supporting the designation of a Year of Languages.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on H. Res. 122.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 122. This resolution expresses the importance of foreign language study and supports the designation of a Year of Languages. Increased language learning is a critical national interest and is necessary to maintain the economic edge of the United States as well as serving to better secure our national interest abroad.

Currently, 9.3 percent of Americans speak their native language and another language fluently, compared to 52.7 percent of Europeans.

Foreign language education has long been determined to increase a student's cognitive and critical thinking abilities. The Elementary and Secondary Education Act names foreign language study as a part of a core curriculum, and the Higher Education Act denotes that foreign language study is vital to secure the future economic welfare of the United States. Therefore, language education in our Nation's schools should begin in early grades and continue throughout the student's entire academic career.

By designating a Year of Languages, this Congress highlights the importance of foreign languages and cultural understanding in our schools, our workforces and our society. The celebration of languages will serve as a look to the future for Americans who will be entering the workforce at a time when international understanding, cross- cultural awareness and linguistic capacity are increasingly important for their success in the world.

In light of the attacks of September 11, 2001, the American intelligence community stresses that individuals with proper foreign language expertise are greatly needed to work on important national security and foreign policy issues. As we enter into a time that requires an increased understanding of world cultures, foreign language study and requisite knowledge in languages is vital for meeting 21st century security challenges properly, effectively and efficiently.

Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

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

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

Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I recognize Ms. Lois Greene for the contributions she has made to the people and communities of the Las Vegas Valley.

Ms. Greene's career of 25 years in banking and finance has enabled her to be an impassioned and pure advocate for small and minority owned businesses. Her commitment to God and her faith has been the key factor in her successful advocacy for non-profit organizations and the faith- based community. Out of her devotion to her ideals, she has helped transform the Las Vegas Valley and has brought hope to the residents that live there.

Without question, her professional leadership in community development has helped Bank West of Nevada achieve and maintain an outstanding compliance rating under the Community Reinvestment Act for the past 10 years. But also as remarkable, has been her work as the ``Economic Evangelist,'' helping lead countless men and women out of financial bondage and toward financial freedom and economic growth through her efforts to wage war on debt. As a result of her leadership, she has been recognized as a ``Woman of Distinction,'' ``The Most Influential Woman in Southern Nevada Business'' and the ``Minority Business Advocate of the Year.''

I applaud her for her commitment to improving the lives of southern Nevadans of every age group, but more importantly of our youth. Her life story of humble and impoverished beginnings is one that transcends the color line. It serves as a remarkable example that hard work, determination, compassion and faith in God can overcome the stumbling blocks that were historically designed to oppress American minority groups. Therefore, her accomplishments are a triumph and her story is an example of success with which countless numbers of young people have found inspiration.

Mr. Speaker, in recognition of her accomplishments, I honor her today and during Women's History Month, so that our Nation will be aware of her service and commitment to helping others become self-sufficient and realize their American dream. I am proud to represent her in Nevada's Third District.

Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 27, the Job Training Improvement Act of 2005, and I certainly applaud the gentleman from California (Chairman McKeon) and the gentleman from Ohio (Chairman Boehner) for their tireless efforts in bringing this important legislation to the floor today.

As an original cosponsor of this legislation, there are many provisions that will increase the ability of our Nation's workers to achieve greater stability in our ever-changing workforce. I would like to mention one aspect of the bill which I am particularly proud of, the inclusion of Personal Reemployment Accounts as an allowable usage of funds under the pilot and demonstration projects of the Greater Workforce Investment Act.

PRAs will provide American workers who are seeking employment added flexibility to seek the customized training and support services that they need and deserve to expand their career opportunities. As my community of southern Nevada experienced in the wake of September 11, our economy proved to be very vulnerable. As my community rebounded from this blow, Nevadans sought help in adjusting to the realities of the workforce. Those Nevadans who suffered the woes of unemployment sought additional training and support as they sought to increase their career opportunities.

Mr. Chairman, I know that PRAs would have provided my constituents with a valuable option in seeking these services. In fact, many constituents have told me they are excited to have this opportunity in case there is another emergency at some point in time. In fact, one young girl, Lucy, wanted to make sure that there was ample education dollars available; and I assured her there would be.

Besides providing for an individualized approach to reemployment, the PRAs provide an added bonus. Individuals are able to retain the remainder of their account after they return to the workforce. These funds can be used for continued training and support.

As Americans return to work, they continue to face hardships until the benefits of employment become manifest. PRAs can help ease this transition.

Mr. Chairman, I will include for the Record a letter from Deputy Secretary of Labor Steven Law demonstrating the administration's continued support of the PRA program.

Mr. Chairman, I urge all of my colleagues to support this important legislation. As our workforce continues to engage the ever-changing economy which we are part of, this reauthorization will provide American workers with the tools they need and deserve to improve their career opportunities. I recommend final passage of the Job Training Improvement Act of 2005.

Mr. Chairman, I include for the Record the letter referred to earlier from Steven J. Law, Deputy Secretary of Labor.

Department of Labor,

Deputy Secretary of Labor,

Washington, DC, March 2, 2005.

Hon. Jon Porter,

House of Representatives,

Washington, DC.

Dear Congressman Porter: I would like to thank you for your

invaluable and effective advocacy of Personal Reemployment

Accounts (PRAs). Like you we believe that PRAs will provide

thousands of Americans seeking reemployment with a new and

more flexible means to seek customized training that leads

quickly to expanded career opportunities.

We are enthusiastic about the launch of PRA demonstration

projects in seven states. We are confident that this

important pilot program will prove the value of PRAs and,

with enactment of your legislation, even more Americans will

have access to PRAs.

We look forward to working with you, Chairman Boehner, and

Chairman McKeon on this innovative plan to help workers in

transition. Thank you again for your leadership on this

initiative.

Sincerely,

Steven J. Law.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of a great American, Specialist Brian Robinson. I honor him today for his heroism in the fight against our global enemies and in fighting for equitable treatment for all Army National Guardsmen.

As a former member of the Nevada Army National Guard, Spc. Robinson has shown valor and honor in combat in Iraq against the aggression of our enemies in the Global War on Terror. Since his return to the United States, overcoming near-fatal injuries and other odds, Spc. Robinson has taken an active stand to ensure that our returning Guardsmen and Reserves get their guaranteed pay and benefits.

The inspirational story of this brave man is one that deserves notice not just for his bravery in combat, but for his determination to reform inequities in services for his fellow guardsmen and soldiers. I encourage each of my colleagues to diligently work to provide, in an accurate and timely manner, pay and benefits to reserve soldiers who have been injured or have become ill fighting in the line of duty. Our troops deserve that much for the sacrifices they have made volunteering to fight to maintain the freedoms we all take for granted.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and heartfelt gratitude that I salute Spc. Robinson for his bravery and sacrifice. I also honor him for his continued determination to find solutions to inequities in our military.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of a great American, Sergeant Joseph Perez. I honor him today for his heroism in the fight against our global enemies and in fighting for equitable treatment for all Army National Guardsmen.

As a former member of the Nevada Army National Guard, Sgt. Perez has shown valor and honor in combat in Iraq against the aggression of our enemies in the Global War on Terror. Since his return to the United States, overcoming near-fatal injuries and other odds, Sgt. Perez has taken an active stand to ensure that our returning Guardsmen and Reserves get their guaranteed pay and benefits.

The inspirational story of this brave man is one that deserves notice not just for his bravery in combat, but for his determination to reform inequities in services for their fellow guardsmen and soldiers. I encourage each of my colleagues to diligently work to provide, in an accurate and timely manner, pay and benefits to reserve soldiers who have been injured or have become ill fighting in the line of duty. Our troops deserve that much for the sacrifices they have made volunteering to fight to maintain the freedoms we all take for granted.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and heartfelt gratitude that I salute Sgt. Perez for his bravery and sacrifice. I also honor him for his continued determination to find solutions to inequities in our military.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 80th Nevada State Conference of the Nevada State Society Daughters of the American Revolution. It is indeed an honor to salute such an extraordinary group of women committed not only to maintaining a legacy that acknowledges the undaunted efforts of our forefathers as they formed our great nation, but also to honor them for their continued patriotism and commitment to education, our veterans and historic preservation.

When we entered the 21st Century five years ago, the secure and optimistic stride of American strength and prosperity was marred by the outrageous actions of a cowardly few. The Constitutional assurances of domestic tranquility and liberty established in 1787 were seemingly knocked off-balance when our borders and our lives became the victims of foreign terrorism in 2001. Yet, even when we seemed broken by the challenge of this assault, we stood resilient. And like the patriots who fought for democracy and freedom at the infancy of this nation-- like shadows of their legacy--we rose strong to proclaim the ideals that are the fabric of this great nation. Like a quilt, the patchwork picture of America--a colorfully authentic composite of her people, her struggles, her history, and her future--remains tethered together by a commitment to our country, a belief in God and the values and virtues of home.

This organization exemplifies the same spirit of patriotism and vision once held by our great forefathers. Whether through their efforts to help finance the educational dreams of diverse groups of Nevadans or the thousands of hours of service they give to our veterans, they reach back into the past to honor those who struggled for freedom and reach forward into the future to pave the way for young Americans who will face newer, broader challenges in perpetuating the vision of democracy.

Likewise, through the perpetual concern they have had for Native American people and participation in the issues that affect them, we all can take part in the appreciation of their rich history and the impact Native Americans have had on Nevada. And now, all of America will remember the Native Americans and their struggle as they gaze upon the statue of Sarah Winnemucca in the United States Capitol, a graceful symbol of a great American woman who spent her life trying to unite men and women who were divided by color and culture.

Mr. Speaker, through every facet of society, the hands of the Nevada State Society Daughters of the American Revolution leave lasting impressions. Today, I salute them for their continued work and service to Nevadans and Americans everywhere.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about H. Con. Res. 5, a bill that is presented before Congress by people of the great State of Nevada in order to allow for the placement of our second statue, of Sarah Winnemucca, into National Statuary Hall.

Sarah Winnemucca was born into the Northern Paiute tribe around 1844, as my distinguished colleagues have mentioned this afternoon. Throughout her life, she lived in various parts of Northern Nevada, including Pyramid Lake, McDermitt and Lovelock, Nevada.

Her life came at a time of major historical changes for her people, the Paiutes, and she played a pivotal role in building communications between her people and the settlers while defending the Paiute tribe's rights.

At the time of her birth, the Northern Paiutes and Washoes were the only inhabitants of what is now Northern Nevada. When the settlers started to come through their land, Sarah Winnemucca had to reason between the two very different philosophical views that her family held. Her grandfather, Chief Truckee, welcomed the arrival of his white brothers, whereas her father, Chief Winnemucca, looked upon their arrival with disdain.

Some historians now believe that this inherent conflict between her grandfather and father taught Sarah how to better relate to the new settlers while working to maintain the integrity of the tribe.

Sarah led an incredible life, Mr. Speaker. First introduced to the settlers at the age of six, by the time she was 14, she had acquired five languages, including English and Spanish, a challenge even for today.

By the time Sarah was an adult, immigration had continued to the point where Native Americans started being forced into reservations, ending the days of hunting and gathering for her tribe.

At age 27, Sarah began working as an interpreter at the Bureau of Indian Affairs at Fort McDermitt on the Nevada-Oregon border. As if that was not enough, Sarah even served as an interpreter and scout to the Army, traveling at one point without sleep over 200 miles in 48 hours over all parts of Idaho.

Sarah was a fearless advocate and speaker on behalf of Native American rights throughout the Western United States, Washington D.C., and throughout the Eastern U.S., giving more than 400 speeches on behalf of the Paiutes.

Near the end of her life, Sarah dedicated herself to teaching school to Paiute children and opened a school near Lovelock, Nevada, for Native American children.

Sarah Winnemucca died in 1891 at the age of 47. Although her life was short, she has become a part of Nevada history that will never be forgotten. Sarah is an appropriate tribute to the Silver State, and I am proud to honor her memory as the second representative from Nevada in the National Statuary Hall and in our Nation's Capital, as only the eighth woman ever to be represented.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be here today with the other members of our delegation in order to welcome Sarah Winnemucca to our National Statuary Hall. She is an example for all of us to live up to.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for the time, and I thank my colleague the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Cooper) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Cunningham) for their leadership on this particular resolution.

I am proud to be a cosponsor of H. Con. Res. 45. Representing Clark County, Nevada, one of the fastest growing communities in the country and one of the fastest growing school districts in the country, we also have one of the finest music departments for our children.

I would like to go back in time just for a moment. I am one of those students that, in the early 1960s, had the opportunity to start in the first grade with piano lessons. Of course, I resisted taking these piano lessons. I did not want to go, but I did follow the advice of my mom and dad and later joined the school band, was involved in programs, but I would tell my colleagues from firsthand that music has been a major part of my life.

I know friends that have found it as a career, have made a decision to go into the music field, but it is an art form, and I feel that we have a responsibility as leaders to make sure that this art form is continued and expanded.

I mentioned I have some friends that have moved into the music field. They, too, have been inspiration for me, but as I see what is happening to our children today with the pressures that are upon our families, music is a key way for recreation but also for excitement that music provides. It is truly an art form.

As was mentioned earlier, music is one of those items that I think brings back memories of specific times. We hear a specific song or I play a song today that will bring back memories from years gone by, but life is not a snapshot. It is a moving picture, and as we enjoy those memories of life, music provides one of those avenues for us to share in moments of time, and music should and must remain a major part of our curriculum in our schools.

I have this maybe far-out idea that someday music could be the language of world peace because music crosses all boundaries, all religions, all races, all nationalities, and at some point in time, I truly believe that music can be one of those tools to bring us all together as a Nation and as a country.

Mr. Speaker, I stand here today in support of H. Con. Res. 45 and encourage its passage.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 124) congratulating Jewish communities on their seven year completion of the 11th cycle of the daily study of the Talmud.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H. Res. 124, the resolution under consideration.

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

On behalf of the Committee on Government Reform, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 124. This legislation congratulates the people of Jewish faith across America and around the world on their completion of the eleventh cycle of the Babylonian Talmud. Thousands of Jews worldwide read a page a day of the 2,711-page Talmud for nearly 7\1/2\ years.

This incredible reading program, called Dafyomi, ends today, March 1, 2005, after beginning September 29, 1997.

It consists of the Mishnah, which was the original written version of the Oral Torah, and the Gemara which is essentially a commentary on the Mishnah. Together, these two intertwined texts form Talmud, which serves today as an explanation of the law as described in the five books of Moses: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.

Simply put, it was written to help Jews better understand God's will.

It is called the Babylonian Talmud because, at the time of its composition in the 5th century A.D., the contributing rabbis and a significant portion of the Jewish population lived in Babylon, outside the bounds of the Roman Empire. The rabbis contemplated, discussed, argued and told stories to express their positions on the law. They recorded their thoughts, and the end product, the Gemara, accompanied the Mishnah and the two texts became known as the Babylonian Talmud.

Jews began reading Talmud in the current cycles in 1923. A Polish rabbi named Meir Shapiro intended to unite Jews all over the world by having them study the same page each day. For almost 82 years, Jews have done just that, and today marks the end of the 11th cycle of Rabbi Shapiro's vision.

Mr. Speaker, Talmud readers here in America can attend countless celebrations this evening. Tonight, they can also tune in to a simulcast of the worldwide commemoration of the 7\1/2\-year cycle completion.

I want to thank my distinguished colleague, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Weiner) for introducing this meaningful resolution. I congratulate the students, the scholars and all people of Jewish faith who will complete this monumental undertaking today.

In southern Nevada, where I am from, we have the fastest growing Jewish community in the country. So I am proud to be here today to talk about this important occasion.

This is a terrific matter for the House to recognize and bring to light for all Americans one of the solemn rituals of Judaism.

It is also important to note that there is no rest for the devoted. As the resolution declares, we all wish our Talmud readers well with the twelfth cycle that begins, believe it or not, tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the adoption of H. Res. 124.

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

Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time at the moment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume to strongly urge all my colleagues to support the adoption of H. Res. 124.

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

Mr. Speaker, the storied history of our Nation's Armed Forces was written by the great men and women who served our country with honor and bravery.

Among the most courageous was a group of men who defied both fascism abroad and racism at home while establishing a record as one of the most successful fighting units in American history.

Mr. Speaker, in the 108th Congress I was honored to sponsor House Concurrent Resolution 417 honoring the Tuskegee Airmen and I am again delighted to stand here today in support of House Concurrent Resolution 26 honoring the Tuskegee Airmen for their bravery and sacrifice.

My first experience with the Tuskegee Airmen occurred through one of my former staff members, Traci Scott. Her father, Captain Jesse H. Scott was an original member of the Airmen and was so eager to join that he even lied about his age to be accepted into the Tuskegee Airmen.

I also had the opportunity to meet with Mr. George Sherman, a former Tuskegee Airman that currently resides in Las Vegas. I was privileged to hear first hand accounts and see photos that provided a glimpse of what it must have been like to be a Tuskegee Airman.

The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of dedicated and determined young men who enlisted to become America's first African-American airmen. These airmen were trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Tuskegee, Alabama beginning in 1941.

The airmen trained at Tuskegee received two Presidential Unit Citations for outstanding tactical air support and aerial combat, and they established the incredible and unprecedented record of flying more than 200 bomber escort missions without the loss of a single bomber to enemy aircraft.

I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in recognizing the accomplishments of this unique group of American heroes.

As our nation engages in combating terrorism around the world, we rely upon the global reach and presence provided by our Air Force. The example set by the Tuskegee Airmen encouraged millions of Americans of every race to pursue careers in air and space technology. The Tuskegee Airmen proved that

skill and determination, not skin color, are the determining factors in aviation.

As we celebrate Black History Month this February, it is important that we remember not just the historical circumstances that divided our nation, but we must also remember those individuals that helped push the Civil Rights Movement forward. We are forever indebted to those men who silently risked their lives to protect a country that, at the time, did not necessarily appreciate, nor recognize, their brave sacrifice.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements of Mary Beth Scow and her contributions to excellence in public education. As a current representative of District A of the Clark County School District Board of Trustees, Mrs. Scow has been an outspoken voice and is honored for her contributions. I stand today to praise her for her continued leadership and passion in improving education in southern Nevada.

Mrs. Scow, a Denver native, has been a resident of southern Nevada for the past 25 years. She graduated cum laude from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's degree in community health education. She and her husband Steve are the proud parents of nine children, all educated in the Clark County School District. The entire family has been very involved in community sports, music and church activities.

With a vision to help prepare Clark County students for higher education and for successful future careers, Mrs. Scow has been an outspoken voice for Clark County students. Elected to the board of school trustees in 1996, Mrs. Scow has proven her leadership qualities by serving two terms as president of that body. In addition, she has served on various educational committees and zoning task forces. In her community, she leaves a legacy to the Sunset Area Council of PTA as a former president and to her local Boy Scout chapter as den leader.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I stand today to pay tribute to a visionary leader, committed parent and public servant. I join with the William McCool Science Center at Frank Lamping Elementary School to pay tribute to Mary Beth Scow for her dedication to Clark County students and her commitment to excellence in education. I thank her for her contribution and I urge my colleagues to recognize in their own communities, the contributions of great leaders in education.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor KVBC Channel 3 on their 50th anniversary. Just as Southern Nevada has grown, so has Channel 3, the NBC affiliate serving fast-growing Southern Nevada in the Nation's 51st television market.

In 1954, the original Channel 3 studio began in a small building on Desert Inn and Boulder Highway. In 1979, Channel 3 moved into their current studios, a one-time roller rink, on Foremaster Lane and Las Vegas Boulevard.

Today, Channel 3 is the highest rated local nightly newscast, reaching a population of nearly 1.7 million people in Southern Nevada. In fact, every week, 4 out of 5 homes in Clark, Lincoln and Nye Counties tune in to Channel 3.

KVBC Channel 3 is owned by Jim Rogers, Chairman of the Sunbelt Communications Company. Mr. Rogers is a long-time Las Vegan and one of the largest contributors to education in the Nation. He is currently the Interim Chancellor of Nevada's University system.

Channel 3 is also home to many long-time employees and on-camera personalities such as Sue Manteris, Denise Rosch, Kendall Tenney, Jim Snyder, Nina Radetich, Beth Fisher, John Fredericks, Captain Gregg Deacon, Tom Hawley, Mitch Roberts, Rick Strasser, and General Manager Gene Greenberg who has been with Channel 3 for 28 years. Each of these individuals has been generous with their own time serving the community they love.

KVBC Channel 3 has always dedicated itself to bringing the news of the day to Southern Nevada residents, and stands firm in its commitment to be ``Where News Comes First.'' I extend my best wishes to Jim Rogers and his entire team at KVBC Channel 3 on the 50th anniversary of the television station.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Susan Segal, Principal of Basic High School in Henderson, Nevada. Ms. Segal is now completing her twenty-first year in the Clark County School District. She moved to Nevada from New York City where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from the City University of New York and began teaching Spanish and French in the New York City school system. Ms. Segal began her career in Nevada's school system in February 1983 as an itinerant English language teacher in the Indo-Chinese Refugee Program.

Ms. Segal became an administrator in January 1994 when she was appointed Dean of Students at Basic High School, and after two years was appointed Assistant Principal at Cheyenne High School. In January of 1999 she was appointed Principal of Desert Pines High School where she was in charge of selecting a curriculum and hiring a complete staff for the high school.

In July of 2002, Ms. Segal returned to Basic High School where she is the current principal and oversees 100 licensed personnel, five administrators, and 40 support staff in a school of about 2,230 students. She balances her time between her staff and her students by ensuring that her students are receiving the best education possible.

Mr. Speaker, Susan Segal works diligently to serve her local Nevada community as she works hard to prepare her students for the future. She is a wonderful role model who gives 100 percent to her staff and her students. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate her diligence and hard work and would ask that my colleagues support me in honoring Susan Segal for her invaluable service.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to sponsor the Worker Reemployment Accounts Act of 2005. This important legislation will help thousands of unemployed Americans seeking to return to work by providing them with a Personal Reemployment Account.

The American economy is the fastest growing economy of any industrialized nation in the world. Nationwide, more than 2.4 million jobs have been added since August 2003. The national unemployment rate has declined to 5.4 percent, lower than the average rate during the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. In my own state of Nevada, unemployment has fallen to 3.7 percent. Clearly, the Republican tax relief and growth package has helped to drive the strong recovery in our economy. But we still have more work to do.

As the economy is adding thousands of new jobs and the unemployment rate is dropping across the country, the assistance provided by this bill is critical because we want to ensure that every job seeker has the resources they need to find a good job. That is what this bill is all about--helping Americans find careers.

As President Bush proposed in his 2005 budget, the Worker Reemployment Accounts Act permits the Secretary of Labor to use demonstration funding under the Workforce Investment Act to provide Personal Reemployment Accounts to those with the greatest challenges in returning to work quickly.

Through competitive grants, the local One-Stop Career Center system, where the unemployed already seek assistance in obtaining employment, will offer this important new benefit to unemployed workers, in addition to an array of employment services they already provide.

Under the bill, states and local workforce investment areas will be able to offer unemployed individuals who are most in need of help a reemployment account of up to $3,000. With these accounts, unemployed workers may purchase a variety of different services to help them find a good job, including job training, child care, transportation, housing assistance, short-term classes to upgrade skills, and employment counseling.

One of the important features of the bill is that it provides individuals with significant new flexibility to design a package of services tailored to meet their needs. By taking into accounts the needs of the unemployed on an individual basis, our local, State, and federal governments will better equip these individuals with the tools they require to secure long-term, meaningful employment.

In addition, recipients will be able to keep the balance of the account as a cash reemployment bonus if they become reemployed within 13 weeks and stay employed for six months.

These new Personal Reemployment Accounts and the current job training services already administered under the Workforce Investment Act are both essential in helping displaced workers in areas of the country facing skill shortages and enhancing the workforce for our increasingly knowledge-based economy.

The Secretary of Labor already has begun the process of testing the PRA concept through a very limited pilot program. However, the authority of this bill would allow the Secretary to test the concept in more areas, either within the seven states already participating or in additional states. The lessons learned through this demonstration program will help inform Congress regarding the best way to serve the unemployed and ultimately will result in better reemployment and training services for all workers.

Over the past two years, Republicans have taken numerous steps to help unemployed workers. I am also proud to join 21'' Century Competitiveness Subcommittee Chairman McKeon and Chairman Boehner of the Education and the Workforce Committee in introducing the Job Training Improvement Act of 2005. This bill will reauthorize and enhance the services provided through the Workforce Investment Act and the nation's one-stop deliver system for workforce development. I am pleased that the provisions of the Worker Reemployment Accounts Act are included in this broader reauthorization package.

I look forward to working with my colleagues to improve job training opportunities for all Americans and offer this new innovative option to help workers as quickly as possible. The choice and flexibility available through a Personal Reemployment Account is the additional assistance American families need to get back into high-wage, steady employment. By providing this enhanced assistance, we can ensure that Americans are able to meet the challenges of the ever-changing economy that they face.

I was proud to see similar legislation pass in the House of Representatives in the 108th Congress, and am excited to see it become law in the 109th Congress. I urge my colleagues to support this critical legislation.