Floor Statements

I would point out, Mr. Chairman, those were Texans that were coming up on Little Round Top against Colonel Chamberlain that day, but I did want to point that out.

But I want to appreciate the subcommittee chairman, my good friend, Alan Mollohan, for the hard work him and has staff have done while drafting this bill. It's not an easy job being the committee chairman, but I know you've done a great job to balance these many priorities.

That being said, I just want to echo my comments, my colleague from Texas, John Culberson, in regards to the current level of funding for NASA. And hopefully we can, as you said, we'll work with you to make sure that the $700 million, which obviously would be devastating to NASA if that cut stayed in, to make sure that we get that money back in the 2010 Commerce, Justice spending as enacted.

As you know, as has been pointed out, the challenges that we have with other countries that are making major investments in space--China, India, Japan, Pakistan, Russia. And certainly we don't live in a world today where we're the only ones involved in outer space.

So I support the chairman and what he's trying to do with the Augustine panel to wait to find out what the report is. But I'm optimistic we'll work this out with our fellow NASA supporters in Congress to provide necessary funding and the rules and tools it needs to realize the agency's human space exploration under President Obama.

And so I would again thank the chairman for your hard work on that.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a young man who died in

service to his country and whose name will be forever immortalized at the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) in Corona, California. Cryptologic Technician, Technical, Petty Officer First Class Steven P. Daugherty is an American hero and I know that the men and women who work at NSWC, Corona are honored to have his name grace their new Joint Warfare Assessment Laboratory Building. Today, Armed Forces Day, would have been Steven's 30th birthday.

Steven P. Daugherty was born in Apple Valley, California, and was killed in action July 6, 2007, in Baghdad, Iraq, by an improvised explosive device (IED). Steven excelled at an early age: he was student of the month at Barstow High School and made the honor roll at Barstow Community College. After graduating with an associate's degree in liberal studies, Steven enlisted in the Navy, where he worked as part of an elite Navy SEAL team.

On that fateful day in July, Petty Officer Steven and his team were returning from an important mission when their vehicle struck an IED, killing him and the two other members of his unit. According to the National Security Agency, the work he and his team performed earlier in the day played a decisive role in thwarting a dangerous group of insurgents trying to kill coalition forces. Today, across from our Nation's Capitol, Steven rests in peace in the sacred ground of Arlington National Cemetery.

Steven was respected by his peers as a professional and dedicated cryptologic technician, and his work was vital to the success of important combat missions. He was a decorated Sailor, having been awarded a Bronze Star (with combat ``V'' for Valor), the Purple Heart, a Combat Action Ribbon and other medals and commendations. His name is inscribed on National Security Agency's Memorial Wall, ``They Served in Silence.'' Steven is also the first formal recipient of the National Intelligence Medal for Valor.

Steven was a loving 28-year-old father to an adoring 5-year-old son; a loyal brother to three fellow warfighters--two Airmen and one Soldier, Richard, Robert, and Kristine; and a faithful son to his parents, Thomas and Lydia.

Most of all, Steven P. Daugherty was a patriot who gave the full measure of devotion defending America's freedom.

In naming this important building to honor the sacrifice of Petty Officer Steven P. Daugherty, the Navy dedicates to him the latest addition to the Nation's premiere Joint Warfare Assessment Laboratory at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Corona Division. The Daugherty Memorial Assessment Center will stand as an ever-present reminder of Steven--and to every Sailor, Marine, Soldier, and Airman who has given their life in defense of this country. This dedication also commemorates the groundbreaking work NSWC, Corona is doing to support the Joint IED Defeat Organization in its mission to combat the threat of IEDs against our Armed Forces.

In addition to supporting needed counter-IED efforts, the Daugherty Memorial Assessment Center greatly enhances NSWC Corona's ability to support key national missions. NSWC, Corona will provide Strike Group interoperability assessment needed to certify ships for deployment; provide critical flight analysis for all Navy surface missile systems; provide performance assessment of Aegis and Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense ships throughout their entire lifecycle; and finally, NSWC, Corona will centralize, process, and distribute the Navy's combat and weapon system data on one of the largest classified networks in the Department of Defense.

The Daugherty Memorial Assessment Center is a state-of-the-art analysis and assessment asset that gives the Nation extensive capability to protect our Armed Forces, our country, and our freedom. May the new Daugherty Memorial Assessment Center serve as a reminder to the men and women who carry out the mission of NSWC, Corona how very important their work is to our troops. And may we pledge to always remember Steven P. Daugherty; the goodness he brought to our world and the sacrifice he has made will never be forgotten.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a school in my congressional district that not only excels in academics but is also distinguished on the football field. On December 19, 2008, The Centennial High School football team won the 2008 California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Division I Championship. In the championship game, Centennial defeated De La Salle, Concord 21 to 16.

The football team is an outstanding example of hard work, determination and perseverance. They were undefeated in the 2008 season and have earned the title ``Champions.'' The members of the winning football team, according to their jersey number, include:

Dion Bass, Geshun Harris, Nick Beasley, Michael Aguon, Taylor Martinez, Michael Arredondo, Vontaze Burfict, Jason Manalili, Lenon Ford, Larry Scott, Trevor Romaine, Demeitri Beasley, Chris Simpson, Charles Oakley, Cody Baker, Barrington Collins, Michael Eubank, Ricky Marvray, Sam Kadar, Chris Gonzalez, Hayden Gavett, Anthony Goodman, Arthur Burns, KJ Vaifale, Kevin Angulo, Eddie Lopez, Denzel Hawkins, Duran Harris, Jacob Duro, Lee Adams, Anthony Whitlow, Khiry Shabazz, Norman Ford, Brandon Brown, Daniel Contreras, Marques Watson, Damion Smith, Izaac Colunga, Jimmy Munoz, JD Austin, Jaleel Johnson, Daniel Mireles, Frank Jimenez, James Lindsay, Markiece Miller, Casey Winans, Derek Aviles, Brandon Holder, Andrew Torres, Adam Hollick, Eric Rizzo, Steele Frey, David Leon, Jacob Appleton, Daniel Rojas, Cesar Olivares, Jake Amaya, Adam Davila, Adrian Contreras, Kendrick Allen, Luis Rodriquez, Marc Andres, Robbie Bishop, Chad Salcido, Jesus Cacho, Jacob Olsson, Gavin Pascarella, Joseph Lopez, Johnnyray Cabrerra, Elijah Perricone, JT Felix, David Mireles, Deji Olijade, Jeremy Fennell, JT Powell, Ahkeel Chambers, Derrick Wilson, Romello Goodman, Isaiah Ashby, Bryan Murillo, Eric Finney, Milo Jordan, Iosefa Gasu, Derrick Ivy, William Sutton, Ben Letcher, Paul Verrette, Adam Uribe, Christian Gonzales, Thomas Amato.

The team is led by Head Coach Matt Logan; Assistant Coaches Ron Gueringer, Jeremy Goins, Brian Benz, Noel Hughes, Matt Lance, Mike Nicks, Bill Carter, Kunane Burns, James Hughes, Leo Perez, Dan Herring, Casey Richardson, Trevor Bermudez, Ika Tamelfuna, and Corey Kipp. The team is strongly supported by Principle Sam Buenrostro, Athletic Director Bill Gunn and the entire Centennial family.

It is an honor to represent such a fine group of young people with a strong dedication to teamwork and academics. I know each one of them will treasure the memories of their championship season and I commend them, and the entire Centennial High School community, for this truly great achievement.

Madam Speaker, I stand in strong support of House Resolution 438, a bipartisan resolution which expresses the sense of the U.S. House of Representatives that National Child Awareness Month should be established in the month of September.

September is traditionally ``back-to-school'' month, a time when families focus on preparing children for the coming school year. Recognizing September as National Child Awareness Month will heighten the American public's attentiveness to the importance of our children's health, education, safety and character development through the ongoing efforts of the numerous organizations and individuals who help to protect and nurture them. With this resolution we express our support for a month-long effort to recognize the importance of children in our society as they grown into responsible citizens.

It is widely recognized that a strong, supportive family unit is the most important factor in the well-being of a child. Unfortunately there is no guarantee that every child will have a support system to depend on. Thankfully there are many organizations that provide for the most disadvantaged children in communities across the country. Even children with solid support systems benefit from youth-serving organizations which enrich their lives through activities such as sports, the arts, philanthropy and further education outside of the classroom.

I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to the 69 bipartisan cosponsors and to the gentlelady from Orange County, the lead sponsor, Loretta Sanchez, for her efforts on behalf of this resolution. In addition I would like to extend a special thanks to the Education and Labor Committee for moving the bill quickly. It is my hope that Senators Feinstein and Burr will quickly pass a companion resolution in the Senate chamber and that President Obama will by Presidential Proclamation, designate September as National Child Awareness Month so that the many child-focused programs of the federal government might also be highlighted.

Most importantly, I commend the many local and national youth-serving organizations and charities dedicated to the well-being of children across the nation and the world.

Madam Speaker, Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. I rise today to recognize and honor one of those individuals: Richard Scott Alden, Jr. On Friday, May 1, 2009, Scott passed away peacefully at his home after a battle with cancer. He will be deeply missed.

Scott was born April 16, 1953 in Pasadena, California. He graduated from Riverside Poly High School in 1971 and received a football scholarship to Arizona State University. While Scott was a Sun Devil, his team won 51 games, four Western Athletic Conference Championships and four Fiesta Bowls.

Scott was a devoted Christian and was ``born again'' through Christ September, 1975. He graduated from ASU with a degree in Business Administration in June, 1976 and married Ann Stiles later that year. After graduation, Scott began work with his father, Dick Alden, founder of Empire Oil Company, now Western Refining-Wholesale, as General Manager, and in 1990 was advanced to President.

Scott was active in Harvest Men's Bible Fellowship, Alliance Petroleum Corporation and served as Chairman of the Advisory Board for The Salvation Army.

Scott was predeceased by his daughter, Jennifer. Survived by his wife, Ann Alden; daughter, Elizabeth Alden of Newport Beach; son, David Alden of Long Beach; parents, Richard Alden of Riverside, and David and Nina Mitchell of Riverside; sister, Michelle Fisher of Aliso Viejo; and brother, Eric Alden of Huntington Beach.

On May 8, 2009, a memorial service celebrating Scott's life will be held at Harvest Christian Fellowship. Scott will always be remembered for his incredible faith, giving spirit, and sense of humor. His dedication to his family, church and community are a testament to a life lived well and a legacy that will continue. I extend my condolences to Scott's family and friends; although Scott may be gone, the light and goodness he brought to the world remain and will never be forgotten.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Orange County, California are exceptional. Orange County has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Rick Muth is one of these individuals and he is also one of my closest friends. On April 17, 2009, Rick celebrated his 60th birthday with friends and family.

Rick's success in life began with the positive influence from a special teacher at Mater Dei High School. Henry Enriquez encouraged Rick to join the track team where Rick discovered a talent that he never knew he possessed. Track built Rick's confidence and steered him in the right direction: towards college. Rick attended Santa Ana College where he became the Freshman Vice President and won national honors on the track team. He transferred to the University of Southern California, USC, earned his Bachelor's of Science in Marketing and still holds a spot on the track team's all-time three-mile list. Upon graduation from USC, Rick went to work for a labor relations firm, then spent two years as an administrative trainee in plant construction at Northrop Aircraft. Rick continued his education at Chapman University, where he earned a Master's Degree in Business Administration.

In 1975, Rick joined the ORCO Block Company, Inc. a family-owned business, as assistant office manager. In many ways, Rick had always been a part of the family business. Rick picked up broken pieces of block as a kid, and he repaired wooden pallets, in the summer after the fifth grade, to earn the new bike that he wanted. In his high school and college years, Rick spent his summers making deliveries, taking orders and working with customers. Rick learned the business from the bottom up, and held almost every position in the company. In 1994, Rick ascended to the position of President and currently oversees the day- to-day operations of the multi-million-dollar company. He has continued the development of its extensive product line, directed the company's aggressive expansion and helped maintain ORCO's high industry profile and leadership role.

Throughout his career at ORCO Block Company, Inc. Rick also has continued the legacy that his father established: service, leadership and community. Rick started this legacy in his own community--at ORCO's headquarters in Stanton, California. Rick's father, Pete Muth, established the Stanton Boys and Girls Club, and Rick continued to support the Club by serving as President, assisting with fundraising and guiding the increase in children from 100 to 650. Rick also serves as a Board Member of the Orange County Performing Arts Center and has helped raise approximately $1.8 million in donations and matching funds. Rick has also contributed to his own industry by serving as former Chairman of the Board for the National Concrete Masonry Association, NCMA, and establishing the NCMA Foundation, which has raised $6 million to support research and development. Rick and his father Pete were the first father-and-son team to both serve as NCMA Chairman.

Rick has also not forgotten to give back to the schools that gave so much to him. He was a Capital Campaign Committee Member for Mater Dei High School. Additionally, for the past 28 years, as an alumnus for Santa Ana College's Track Team, Rick has raised money, assisted with coaching and provided jobs for members of the track team. At USC, Rick has been a member of the Orange County Planning and Development Council, partial annual scholarship provider to architecture students and former co-chair for the first USC Symphony Orchestra performance in Orange County. Rick also sits on the Business School Advisory Council at Chapman University, and he and his family have donated funds to support the construction of a new library named in honor of the Muth Family and ORCO Block Company, Inc.

Rick has never expected anything in return for his community service, but his contributions have been recognized. Rick was inducted into the Santa Ana College Hall of Fame, honored as ``Man of the Year'' by Cypress College and awarded the Ethics in Business award by the Freedom Foundation. Rick received the California SBA Business Person of the Year in 2003. In 2001, the Orange County Business Journal and California State University Fullerton presented Rick with the prestigious Family Owned Business Award. In the spirit of the ``America Way,'' Rick started a group called USA Owned/USA Made, to support companies whose products are made in the United States. Rick worked with Congress to pass a proclamation called ``Try American Day,'' celebrated in conjunction with Labor Day. Many states and cities ratified this proclamation and recognized Rick's valuable contribution. However, to Rick, what is even more prestigious than awards or recognition is that in his personal life Rick is a husband of over 30 years to his wife Nancy and father to his two daughters, Veronica, 26, and Stephanie, 25. Rick also enjoys hobbies like wake boarding, snow boarding, being a private pilot and running as a master's track competitor.

Rick's tireless passion for American business and community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Orange County, California. I am proud to call Rick a fellow community member, American and close friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his work and salute him on his 60th birthday.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 377, which honors and recognizes Armed Forces Day on May 16. Over the course of our Nation's history, generations of Americans have made tremendous sacrifices to protect the freedoms we hold dear. And we honor these courageous Americans on Armed Forces Day and throughout the month of May.

Armed Forces Day is an opportunity to recognize our troops and their families, as well as rededicate ourselves to the promises our Nation has made to repay their service and sacrifice. When we make our promises to our troops, we must keep them, for they most certainly have kept their commitment to the American people.

Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support H. Res. 377 and to declare to all U.S. servicemembers that we stand with them. When the call of duty sounded, they did not hesitate to answer. Let us not hesitate in our support of all those brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces.

Mr. Speaker, as a former student who attended community college, I stand in strong support of H. Res. 338, a resolution which supports the goals and ideals of National Community College Month. Our nation's community colleges provide the dream of achieving a higher education to millions of students each year. Community colleges are the nation's key supplier of workforce development and retraining needs and in addition, they build lasting partnerships and contribute significantly to the communities they serve. My congressional district is home to one of the oldest and most diverse community colleges in California--the Riverside Community College District--so I am proud to express my support of National Community College Month.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual who possesses the talent, athleticism and dedication of an Olympic athlete. University of Michigan Sophomore Tyler Clary is turning heads and breaking records in the swimming world; and he's ready for the next step--the Olympics. Tyler grew up in Riverside, California, where his parents still reside. Our entire community is very proud of this young man and his accomplishments.

Tyler graduated from Poly High School in 2007 where he was a CIF champion in swimming. Tyler is now flourishing at the University of Michigan. He recently captured his first NCAA title and his time of 3:35.98 broke the American Record of 14-time Olympian gold medalists Michael Phelps by 28 hundredths of a second. Tyler received a congratulatory text message from Michael Phelps, who Tyler trained with at Michigan. The next night Tyler captured the 200-yard backstroke title and broke another NCAA record of Olympian gold medalists Ryan Lochte.

Tyler's coaches are not only impressed by his pure athleticism but by his great attitude. A recruiting coach from Cal said that he knew Tyler ``was going to be one of the greats.'' Tyler intends to prove that correct as he sets his sights on the 2012 Olympics. He was just shy of making the cut for the 2008 Olympics and Tyler doesn't intend to let anything get in his way the next time around. He has begun preparation for this year's world championships, which will be held this summer in Rome.

Tyler is also a five-time All American Athlete, the 2009 Swimmer of the Year, the 2009 Big Ten (Conference) Swimmer of the Year, and holds the University of Michigan's records in the 200 Individual Medley (IM), 400 IM, 200 Backstroke and 800 Free Relay. Tyler was the 2006 Federation Internationale de Natation (FINA) World Youth Top Male Performer. In 2007, Tyler was the Silver Medalist in the 200 Backstroke at the Pan American Games.

Madam Speaker, it is a rare honor to be able to speak about an athlete who is expected to break records and possibly become a future Olympic champion. Tyler Clary has everything it takes and I believe that three years from now I will be on the House floor congratulating Tyler on a successful return from the 2012 Summer Olympics being hosted in London. Tyler exemplifies the best of our future generations and I look forward to watching him in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today because California is in the middle of a water crisis. California's current drought is not like other droughts

because California is suffering from a devastating combination of a natural dry spell and a federally imposed dry spell.

In December 2007, a Federal judge ordered restrictions on water project operations in the delta to help protect threatened species, the delta smelt. The negative impact has been extraordinary. The restrictions have resulted in the loss of nearly one-third of the supply that 25 million Californians depend on from delta operations. Farmland throughout California's Central Valley is going fallow while farmers struggle to find work. In Southern California economic growth is being thwarted because any new construction is jeopardized by a lack of proven water supply.

There is no evidence that the federally imposed pumping restrictions have benefited the delta smelt. If this Congress is going to continue to give Federal agencies the authority to take actions that kill jobs and harm our economy for the benefit of a species, then the American people deserve clear evidence that these actions benefit the species.

Mr. Speaker, as a native of southern California, Cinco de Mayo celebrations have been a part of my life as long as I can remember. It is a day to celebrate our southern neighbors and the cause of Mexican independence. The historic battle at Puebla, Mexico on the fifth of May, 1862, is a David versus Goliath story that demonstrates that man can overcome any obstacle in the pursuit of freedom. On Cinco de Mayo we remember the brave stand at Puebla and we celebrate the cause of freedom around the world.

Mr. Speaker, as many have said before, friendship is found and tested through adversity. The friendship between the United States and Israel has certainly been tried and proven true. Both our nations confront challenges that are rooted in extremism and terrorism. While America formerly found some comfort in distance, Israel stands as a true testament to freedom and democracy in the Middle East--but Israel does not stand alone. The commitments between Israel and the United States are not born out of mere necessity, but out of mutual respect and the common belief that all of mankind deserves to live in peace and freedom.

On the 61st Anniversary of the Independence of the State of Israel, I offer my gratitude and congratulations to a steady ally and friend.

Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a hero from my congressional district, Lieutenant General William F. Pitts and his wife, Doris Pitts. Today, I ask that the House of Representatives honor and remember these two incredible people who dedicated their lives in service to our country. On Tuesday, December 30, 2008, Lt. Gen. Pitts passed away at the age of 89. Doris followed eight weeks later on March 1, 2009.

Lt. Gen. Pitts' father was a career military officer. Lt. Gen. Pitts was born at March Field Hospital, located in Riverside, California, on Thanksgiving Day 1919. When he was 10 years old, Lt. Gen. Pitts took his first airplane ride and vowed to become an Air Force pilot. In 1943, he graduated from West Point and flew 25 World War II missions against Japan in a B-29 Superfortress. In his last mission in the bomber, he was shot down off the coast of Japan but was able to parachute out of the plane and was rescued by a submarine.

After Lt. Gen. Pitt's heroic service during World War II, he was steadily promoted and earned three stars. He served as a NATO commander in Turkey, four tours at the Pentagon and also as a diplomat in Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, England and Taiwan. In 1972, Lt. Gen. Pitts returned to March Air Force Base as the Commander of the 15th Air Force. His military decorations and awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit with an oak leaf cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Distinguished Unit Citation Emblem with one oak leaf cluster and the Purple Heart.

In 1975, Lt. Gen. Pitts retired from the Air Force and he and his wife, Doris, made Riverside their permanent home in the 1990s. He was active in the March community during his retirement, helping to keep the base open during the Base Realignment and Closure process. In honor of his efforts, March erected a stone post at the parade grounds on the base. He was also a board member of the March Field Museum.

Doris Mansfield Pitts was born in New York City on January 17, 1924. She was the only daughter of Lillian and John Mansfield, a Spanish American War veteran and newspaper executive. She attended Barnard School in New York and worked for IBM during World War II. She met her husband at West Point and they were married following the war on December 22, 1948. She served her country as a supportive military wife, joining and complimenting her husband throughout his highly successful military career. Doris relocated her family settling in more than 15 locations during their time in the Air Force. Doris was a loving wife, mother of three daughters and grandmother to four grandchildren.

On December 22, 2008, Lt. Gen. Pitts celebrated his 60th anniversary with his wife Doris. Lt. Pitts and Doris are survived by their daughters Dale, Alisha and Linda; sister Nanetta Atkinson; and four grandchildren.

As we look at the incredibly rich military history of our country we realize that this history is comprised of men like Lt. Gen. Pitts who bravely fought for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Each story is unique and humbling for those of us who, far from the dangers they have faced, live our lives in relative comfort and ease. In the case of Lt. Gen. Pitts, he was blessed to have the love and strength of his wonderful wife to help him along the way. Lt. Gen. Pitts and Doris Pitts were dear friends and above all, they were patriots. They will both be sorely missed but their legacy and service to our great nation will always be remembered.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 101, providing for the acceptance of the statue of Ronald Reagan from the people of California for placement in the United States Capitol.

First, I would like to thank my colleagues who joined me in the original letter requesting the California legislature to pass a resolution to bring the statue of Ronald Reagan to the United States Capitol. A special thanks goes to California State Senator Dennis Hollingsworth for leading the effort and carrying the resolution in the State legislature. I would also like to thank the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation for their support and work

in bringing the statue to the Capitol, and also artist Chris Fagan, who I am sure did a remarkable job in sculpting the statue of Ronald Reagan.

In my 16 years in the House, initiating the effort to bring the statue of President Reagan to our Nation's Capitol has been one of my greatest privileges. Like many people, President Reagan helped shape my political views as a young man, and as the cochair of his Riverside County campaign back in the day, I was, of course, very proud to see him succeed in becoming the 40th President of the United States.

As we find ourselves today struggling with hardship and conflict, President Reagan was also confronted with a troubled economy and uncertain times, not just as the Governor of California, but later as President of the United States. In both cases, his characteristic optimism and can-do attitude helped meet those challenges.

Ronald Reagan was elected the 33rd Governor of the State of California in 1967 and during his administration led California toward a ``Creative Society,'' one that ``turns away from increasing reliance on government and leads toward renewed respect for--and greater reliance on--the collective genius and common sense of the people.''

As President, he inherited an economy facing double-digit unemployment and inflation. President Reagan initiated sweeping economic reforms, deep across-the-board tax cuts and implemented sound monetary policies to contain inflation. His policies resulted in bringing the economy out of recession and turning it into the largest peacetime economic boom in American history.

The country also faced the continuation of a 35-year-long Cold War. President Reagan, in his famous June 1982 speech in the British Parliament, described ``a plan and a hope for the long term, the march of freedom and democracy which will leave Marxism-Leninism on the ash heap of history as it has left other tyrannies which stifle the freedom and muzzle the self-expression of the people.''

Five years later, Reagan delivered his courageous address at the Brandenburg Gate in West Berlin near the infamous wall and demanded, ``Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.'' This was the beginning of the end of the Cold War and also signified a new beginning for relations between the United States and Russia.

Mr. Speaker, there were many accomplishments for me to name here, but it is clear that President Reagan was a Californian, an American and a patriot. California is proud to have such a leader as both Governor of our State and President of our Nation who brought so much greatness to the world.

Today, I encourage all of my colleagues to support the resolution and bring the statue of President Ronald Reagan to the Capitol so that visitors from all over the world can honor the man who declared America's destiny is ``to be a shining city on the hill for all mankind to see.''

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to control the time of the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. McCarthy).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to our newest Member from the State of California (Mr. McClintock).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Harper).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Poe).

May I inquire of the gentleman if he has any speakers?

I'll give the closing remarks, Mr. Speaker.

In closing, June 3 will be a great day here in the United States Capitol, a great day for our State of California, and certainly, I believe, a great day for America and for the world who appreciated Ronald Reagan's leadership. This was truly a remarkable American. So we look forward to gathering together with the former First Lady and with other people who will come from throughout the United States and throughout the world to pay tribute to this great man.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Corona, California are exceptional. Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Keith Clarke is one of these individuals. On April 16, 2009, Keith will retire as the Director of the Building Department for the City of Corona.

Keith graduated from Pacifica High School in 1973 and obtained his Associates Degree in Engineering from Cypress Junior College in 1976. He attended the University of California at Los Angeles and then attended California State University at Long Beach from 1977 to 1979.

After attending college, Keith became a General Contractor and contracted a variety of projects which included masonry structures, patio covers and room additions. From 1981 to 1982, Keith worked as a Deputy Concrete and Masonry Inspector for Southern California Testing Labs where he performed inspections on masonry and concrete structures in order to insure compliance with approved plans and structural specifications. In 1982, Keith came to the City of Corona and he began as a Building Inspector. He quickly rose up the ranks: he became a Senior Building Inspector in 1984, an Assistant Building Official in 1986, a Building Official/Director in 1989, the Acting Director of Parks and Community Services in 2005 and the Building Official/Director from October 2005 to March 31, 2009.

Keith is a member of several organizations, including: the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO), the International Association of Electrical Inspectors, the International Fire Code Institute, Building Officials and Code Administrators, the Citrus Belt Chapter of ICBO, and California Building Officials. He also serves or has served on the California Building Officials (CALBO) Board of Directors, the CALBO State Contractors License Board, the United States Navy League, the CALBO State Historical Code Committee, the ICC Citrus Belt Chapter, the Toastmasters International, and the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Club and as a Calbo CTI Instructor.

Keith has received several awards over the years including: Building Inspector of the Year; Citrus Belt Chapter ICBO 1986; Building Official of the Year; Citrus Belt Chapter ICBO 1988; Toastmasters, Best Table Topics Speech Contest 1997; California Building Officials, Building Department of the Year, 2003; California Building Officials, Building Official of the Year, 2004; and California Building Officials, Hall of Fame Award, 2009.

Keith's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Corona, California. I am proud to call Keith a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him and his 27 years of service to the City of Corona.