Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I respectfully request the attention of the House today to pay recognition to an important day in the life of a constituent of mine, Mr. B.S. Turner.

In June of 1969, Mr. Turner started a small car dealership based on years of experience in the auto industry. Today, after 40 years of business, Pee Wee Turner Motors remains an example of the entrepreneurial spirit that fulfills the American dream.

I would like to congratulate Mr. Turner for reaching this important professional milestone and recognize him for this important entrepreneurial and professional achievement.

Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention today to pay recognition to a special day in the life of a constituent of mine, Ms. Ida Mae Duke Rice.

On May 25, Ms. Rice will celebrate her 100th birthday. To help commemorate this special occasion, her friends and family are holding a celebration on June 20 at Barfield Baptist Church.

Ida Mae Duke Rice was born in Clay County, AL to Steve Morris and Zeda Eudora Duke. She married Charlie Henry Rice on February 26, 1930 and has five children, 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Ms. Rice served as an LPN at Lineville Nursing Home and retired after 30 years of service. She is a member of New Fellowship Baptist Church.

I would like to congratulate Ms. Rice on reaching this important milestone in her life, and wish her the happiest of birthdays at this special occassion.

Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention today to pay recognition to a constituent of mine, Mrs. Cynthia C. Snider.

Cindy has been named Teacher of the Year at Ohatchee High School in Ohatchee, Alabama for the 2008-09 school year.

Cindy was born in Mississippi to Eugene and Bobbie Champion and was the oldest of five children. Her paternal grandmother, Carol Champion, was a teacher in Highland Home, Alabama and always encouraged Cindy to love learning. Cindy grew up in Montgomery, Alabama and graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Accounting.

After spending her career working as an English as a Second Language Instructor for Anniston City Schools, she went back to school at Jacksonville State University and earned her teaching certificate.

She has been the Spanish Teacher at Ohatchee High School since 2005.

Cindy's passion for teaching is evident inside and outside the classroom, and I am proud to congratulate her today for this important recognition.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to the life and legacy of Dr. Mally Moody, her steadfast service in education, and her willingness to give back to her community in Oxford, Alabama.

Dr. Moody was born in Massachusetts on February 13, 1947, and came to Alabama over 30 years ago. As most folks that knew her can attest, she dedicated her life to education--working with students, teachers and school administrators alike. She taught math at Oxford High School and after retiring served on the Oxford School Board. She was in line to be the next president of the board.

Those she taught and all who knew her lovingly referred to her as ``Doc'' Moody.

Dr. Moody passed away on April 3, 2009, at the age of 62. On April 11, 2009, a celebration of her life was held at Grace Episcopal Church in Anniston, Alabama.

I am honored to help recognize this inspirational educator who spent her lifetime learning and always teaching. It is my hope her memory will serve as an example of what all educators can aspire to be.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to The Talladega College Tornadoes Men's Basketball Team for winning their first United States Collegiate Athletic Association National Championship Title.

The Talladega College Tornadoes won the national title on Saturday, March 7th in Uniontown, Pennsylvania on the Penn State Fayette campus by beating Rochester College 45 to 31.

I am proud to recognize Head Coach Matt Cross, President Billy Hawkins and the entire Tornado team and staff for their outstanding athleticism both on and off the basketball court. I congratulate each of these young men in claiming their first national championship for Talladega College.

Players: Romondo Banks, Jorge Canedo, Jeral Davis, Michael Ervine, Tory Guillory, Micah Hagans, Ricardo Moss, Donell Pope, Patrick Rodgers and Tarium Taylor.

Coaches: Matt Cross--Athletic Director and Head Men's Basketball Coach; Randy Pulley--Assistant Coach; Ricky Smith--Assistant Coach; Hellion Knight--Assistant Coach; and Demond Walker--Athletic Trainer.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to the life and legacy of Mr. Millard Fuller, and his steadfast service in giving back to the world.

Mr. Fuller was born in Lanett, Alabama. As many folks know, he dedicated his life to serving others through his Christian housing ministries, Habitat for Humanity, which built 200,000 homes in 100 countries, and later The Fuller Center for Housing. In recognition of his lifelong service, in 1996, Mr. Fuller was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Clinton.

Mr. Fuller passed away on February 3rd 2009, at the age of 74. On March 14, 2009, a celebration of his life will be held at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

I am honored to recognize this inspirational philanthropist who spent his lifetime helping others in need. It is my hope his memory will serve as an example of how we all should live.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask the attention of the House today to pay recognition to a constituent of mine, Mr. Michael Prickett, and his steadfast service to his community.

Mr. Prickett has served as the Fire Chief of the Alexandria Fire Department since 1979. His 39 years of service have helped further strengthen the department as an institution the people of Calhoun County can rely upon to provide safety and peace of mind. On March 14th, Mr. Prickett's family and friends will gather to honor his service during a special retirement dinner.

I am proud to join the members of the Alexandria Fire Department in thanking Mr. Prickett for his service and wish him and his family the best at this important occasion to honor his dedication and leadership.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully request the attention of the House to pay recognition to an important day in the lives of two constituents of mine, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Johnson.

On March 7, 2009, the Johnsons will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Both Roy and Sybil Johnson were born in the Alexandria/ Saks area of Alabama. In fact, they were high school sweethearts. Over the years, Roy and Sybil have been blessed with two daughters, Delane O'Kelley and Ginger Gardner; and 4 grandchildren, Grant, Gray, Bradley and Brock. The Johnsons now also have one great grandchild, Katlyn Grace.

I would like to congratulate Roy and Sybil Johnson for reaching this important milestone in their lives. They are shining examples of love and dedication for us all, and I wish them and their family all the best at this important occasion.

Madam Speaker, in accordance with the Republican Conference standards regarding Member initiatives, I am submitting the following information regarding the earmark I received as part of H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Labor, Health and Human Services bill, FIPSE account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity:

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to develop and implement curriculum and research for graduate level alternative energy research in the areas of solar, biofuels, fuels, and batteries energy.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Labor, Health and Human Services bill, FIPSE account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind

Address of Requesting Entity: 205 East South Street Talladega, Alabama 35160

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to develop and implement a collaborative employer training and job development program on behalf of the most significantly disabled citizens of Alabama. The Employer Education and Employment Development Program will target individuals who are deaf, blind and deaf-blind, as well as individuals who have developmental disabilities in conjunction with sensory impairment. Likewise, the Program will educate employers, statewide, on the benefits of hiring persons with disabilities. Assistive technology will also be a key dimension of the program for both the employer and employees--used to level the professional and educational playing field for persons with disabilities and enhance long term job performance and stability. This program will be part of a comprehensive worker credentialing program that will incorporate WorkKeys assessments and a standardized curriculum for basic workplace skills. WorkKeys, developed by ACT, is a national system for documenting and improving workplace skills. The program consists of three primary components: Job Profiling, Assessments and instructional support. Currently AIDB is the only known entity in Alabama providing this nationally recognized program to individuals with disabilities.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Labor, Health and Human Services bill, ACF account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Cherokee County Commission, Alabama Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Main Street Room 100 Centre, AL 35960

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to provide a central location where citizens can

access information and community services that will empower, strengthen, improve the quality of life, and promote self-sufficiency by striving to meet the physical, emotional, developmental, and personal needs of all family members.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Commerce, Justice, Science, International Trade Administration account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: 102 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to acquire state-of-the-art equipment for polymer characterization and processing. Faculty will conduct research on the use of novel polymeric materials in transportation, structure, construction, and other applications, including nanotechnology. Focus will be on development of antimicrobial fibers and films for use in the medical industry and personal protective clothing.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Commerce, Justice, Science, COPS Tech account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Auburn, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: 144 Tichenor Avenue, Suite 1 Auburn, AL 36830

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for a mobile data system for Auburn's Police Division. This consists of in-car computers and associated equipment (routers, wireless networking, e.g.) to equip all of our police vehicles.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Commerce, Justice, Science, COPS Tech account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City and County of Montgomery, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: P. O. Box 1111, Montgomery, AL 36101 and P. O. Box 1667, Montgomery, AL 36102

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to implement an in-car digital video and server solution for City of Montgomery police vehicles and Montgomery County sheriff vehicles. This system will replace outdated VHS systems that are currently in police and sheriff vehicles and provide new installations in vehicles that are currently without a system. The ultimate goal is to have one upgradeable digital in-car system for the entire fleet and a central depository that will provide video evidence for courtroom presentation.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Commerce, Justice, Science, Byrne account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: 102 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used in support of a program to provide local Law Enforcement Organizations with state-of-the-art detector-dog team training for enhancing public safety. The detector-dog and handler team remain the most capable tool for the interdiction of explosive materials and illicit drugs. The capability of such teams is entirely dependent upon the quality of the dog, the dog's training, and instruction of its handler. Auburn University will develop protocols for proper training and conditioning of dog-handler teams, evaluate capabilities of canines and teams, and additionally provide trained teams for local law enforcement in Alabama as a model for national training standards.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Commerce, Justice, Science, COPS Tech account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Alabama Department of Corrections, Montgomery, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: 301 South Ripley Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for 3D virtual training for officers in high-risk maximum security facilities.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Commerce, Justice, Science, Byrne account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Alexander City, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 552, Alexander City, Al. 35011-0552

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for security upgrades for the old Courthouse building to become a functional Police/Judicial Courtroom/Jail facility while still maintaining the facility's historic integrity.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Commerce, Justice, Science, Byrne account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Montgomery County Commission, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: 100 South Lawrence St., Montgomery, AL 36104 P.O. Box 1667, Montgomery, AL 36102-1667

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for the installation of security cameras and security card readers at Courthouse and Annexes, and connection of Annex facilities to central monitoring. Sheriff's Office vehicles will be outfitted with upgradeable digital in-car video system to provide video evidence for courtroom presentation.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Financial Service, SBA account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: Bibb Graves Hall 700 Pelham Road, North Jacksonville, AL 36256

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to significantly improve the technology infrastructure that is used for teaching and research on the Jacksonville State University (JSU) main campus and remote campus locations, and for delivery of courses to distance education students that otherwise would not have access to university courses. The project will include initiatives to: implement improvements to the campus network infrastructure (switches, cabling, network appliances, fiber backbone); enhance internet connectivity--increase bandwidth available to students, faculty and staff for internet access; evaluate capabilities of the 2.5 gigahertz frequency channels licensed to JSU by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC); acquire hardware and software to develop applications that utilize the city-wide fiber network to implement collaborative initiatives with local K-12 school systems; and acquire and install components to expand the wireless network and internet connectivity throughout the campus, to remote campus locations and area schools.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Agriculture Appropriations bill, Agricultural Research Service, Salaries and Expenses account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University

Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for ongoing cooperative research between USDA, Agriculture Research Service (ARS) and the Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, Auburn University will develop genomic information. The virulence factors and genomic dissection of resistance genes for various diseases are very important for the resolution of disease problems. The development of a genomic map will provide researchers with a road map to development of more disease resistant catfish and vaccines that are more effective. The role of Auburn University will be to provide assistance, conduct laboratory and field tests at its catfish ponds and farms in Alabama. Auburn University has extensive catfish ponds and expertise in working with Alabama catfish producers on fish health problems.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Agriculture Appropriations bill, Agricultural Research Service, Salaries and Expenses account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University

Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for an ongoing statewide initiative that is coordinated by USDA-ARS and the funds are shared with ARS, Auburn University (Agronomy and Soils Department & Plant Pathology), Tuskegee University and Alabama A&M. The funds to AU, Tuskegee, and A&M support cooperative projects working on integration of conservation tillage, precision agriculture and management of poultry litter. The AU funding is also used to maintain a state of the art soil testing lab and web based access information system for producers and homeowners throughout Alabama. Increased request for this year is to expand reniform nematode research throughout the state, develop more intense mature management research and expand research on the development of alternative substrates for nursery crop production and biofuel production. Results and future plans are made available to commodity groups and discussed at formal commodity meetings each fall.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Agriculture Appropriations bill, Agricultural Research Service, Salaries and Expenses account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University

Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for ongoing cooperative research between USDA, Agriculture Research Service (ARS) and the Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, Auburn University will develop multivalent vaccines against three major concurrent diseases of catfish. Vaccine formulations will be developed and laboratory and field tested for the absence of inference between the different vaccine components, and to be safe and effective against all three diseases. The role of Auburn University will be to provide assistance in vaccine formulation, conduct laboratory and field tests at its catfish ponds and farms in Alabama. Auburn University has extensive catfish ponds and expertise in working with Alabama catfish producers on fish health problems and vaccination.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Agriculture Appropriations bill, Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service, Research and education account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University

Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for the Auburn University Research Center on Detection and Food Safety. The ARC vision is to improve the safety of the U.S. food system by developing the science and engineering required to rapidly identify, pinpoint and characterize, through an integration of sensor and information technology, problems that arise in the food supply chain.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Agriculture Appropriations bill, Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service, Research and education account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University

Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used in developing geospatial tools to allow more site specific management of forests, agriculture, and natural resources. This project utilizes geospatial technologies (GPS and GIS) developed by the military and aerospace industries to improve the profitability and efficiency of the forest products industry, agriculture, and other natural resource based enterprises. The project will build on ongoing work in Precision Agriculture.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Agriculture Appropriations bill, Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service, Research and education account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University

Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for the Tri-State Peanut Research to develop data needed to accomplish the desired impacts, field trials were established in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. Each location conducts similar trials, but decisions concerning best management practices vary with soil types and required baseline data is collected from each location. Six major research sites have been established, two at Auburn's Wiregrass Research Center in Headland, Alabama. One is a farm scale 52 acre irrigated field and the other is a small replicated experimental site. At the University of Georgia's Coastal Plain Experiment Station, Tifton, a 12 acre irrigated experimental plot and a 5 acre experimental site were established. Three sites were established in Florida, two at the North Florida Research and Education Center--a 12 acre site in Quincy and a 150 acre site in Marianna. Another 120 acre site was established on a grower's field.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Energy and Water Appropriations bill, Corps of Engineers, section 206 account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Phenix City, AL

Address of Requesting Entity: 601 12th Street Phenix City, AL 36867

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to fund the Fall Line Ecosystem Restoration Project to remove two small and underutilized dams to restore fish habitat.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Energy and Water Appropriations bill, Department of Energy, EERE biomass and biorefinery systems R&D account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Auburn University

Address of Requesting Entity: 202 Samford Hall Auburn, AL 36849

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used by Auburn scientists and engineers to perform integrated investigations of the entire biomass to an energy processing system using thermochemical approaches. Agricultural and forest researchers will optimize the biomass supply chain by testing new methods for harvesting, transporting, and processing forest and agricultural biomass in preparation for gasification. Scientists and engineers will also investigate gasification processes to determine optimal gasification configurations and the corresponding operating parameters. Another component of this research program will focus on the development of cost effective hot gas cleanup technologies necessary for production of high quality synthesis gases suitable for power generation and liquid fuel production.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Interior and Environment Appropriations bill, National Park Service, Save America's Treasures account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Jackson-Community house Historic Foundation

Address of Requesting Entity: 409 South Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36104

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to complete the third phase of the restoration project of the 155 year old Jackson-Community house including landscaping, lighting, driveways, plants, and window treatments.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Interior and Environment Appropriations bill, Environmental Protection Agency, STAG water and wastewater infrastructure project account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Alexander City, AL

Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 552, Alexander City, AL 35011

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to provide connector transmission water mains to provide potable water to rapidly developing lakefront areas in south Tallapoosa and north Elmore counties that are currently unserved or underserved.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Interior and Environment Appropriations bill, Environmental Protection Agency, STAG water and wastewater infrastructure project account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Opelika, AL

Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for construction of a package treatment plant to serve existing and future industrial development. This facility will provide the needed sewer capabilities at the Industrial Park and other areas around 1-85. This will increase overall capacity in the City and ensure that new industry has the infrastructure it needs immediately upon choosing the Opelika Park.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Transportation, HUD Appropriations bill, Federal Highway Administration, Transportation & Community & System Preservation account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Jacksonville State University

Address of Requesting Entity: Bibb Graves Hall 700 Pelham Rd, North, Jacksonville, AL 36256

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding will be used for design and construction of a pedestrian bridge on HWY 21. Highway 21 is a major north/south corridor with excessive vehicle and truck traffic coupled with student, faculty and other local traffic. Pedestrian safety is paramount on a University campus. The design and construction of a pedestrian overpass system across State Highway 21 to improve and ensure student safety is an integral part of Jacksonville State University's Master Campus Plan that includes a safe pedestrian student pathway artery linking major campus destinations. The design and construction of a pedestrian overpass system will greatly protect the students of Jacksonville State University and

improve traffic flow through the city of Jacksonville. Funding would be spent in two phases: 1) on design and 2) actual construction of the overpass system.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Transportation, HUD Appropriations bill, Housing and Urban Development, Economic Development Initiatives account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Pike Road, AL

Address of Requesting Entity: 4902 Old Pike Road, Pike Road, AL 36064

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding will be used for the Town of Pike Road to conduct economic, community, transportation, and infrastructure planning, including a study on light rail using existing rail lines between Pike Road and Gunter and Maxwell Air Force bases. The Town of Pike Road has developed a four-part strategic outline that its citizens endorsed at a town hall meeting. The plan calls for: (a) visionary community and economic planning; (b) excellence in public education; (c) recreation that fits the natural resources of the area; and (d) public safety and services that maintain a high quality of life.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Transportation, HUD Appropriations bill, Housing and Urban Development, Economic Development Initiatives accounts

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Valley, Alabama

Address of Requesting Entity: P.0. 186 Valley, Alabama 36854

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for instillation of elevator to increase access of the Sportsplex to the elderly and disabled population.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Transportation, HUD Appropriations bill, Federal Highway Administration, Interstate Maintenance Discretionary account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Auburn, AL

Address of Requesting Entity: 144 Tichenor Avenue, Suite 1, Auburn AL 36803

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used for the development of a 430-acre Auburn Technology Park West, including land acquisition and infrastructure construction, both on- site and off-site. Specifically, federal funding is requested for the construction of an extension of West Veterans Boulevard and part of the Outer Loop road to connect with the Technology Park. This road connection would provide a western connection between the City, the Technology Park and a new 1-85 interchange currently being designed. To this end, the City has provided $11,300,000 to fund the development of the West Technology Park, but we still need additional resources to provide the road connectivity needed for access between the Technology Park, the City, and the interstate.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Transportation, HUD Appropriations bill, Federal Highway Administration, Transportation & Community & System Preservation account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Opelika, AL

Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to plan and design a perimeter or northern transportation corridor in Opelika. A northern perimeter is needed due to tremendous population growth primarily in the northern sector of Opelika resulting from strong economic growth in every sector-residential, commercial, and industrial. The corridor would ultimately connect US Highway 280 in northeast Opelika with Interstate 85 in northwest Opelika improving highway safety, reducing congestion on inner city streets, and connect new population centers with the growth of employment opportunities in the Northeast Industrial Park.

Requesting Member: Congressman Mike Rogers (AL)

Bill Number: H.R. 1105

Account: Transportation, HUD Appropriations bill, Federal Aviation Administration, Facilities and Equipment account

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Montgomery Airport Authority

Address of Requesting Entity: 4445 Selma Highway, Montgomery, AL 36108

Description of Request: It is my understanding that the funding would be used to preserve valuable airport infrastructure. It consists of rehabilitation of the pavement structure of the airport's primary runway, Runway 10/28, whose condition is beginning to deteriorate. This runway is showing signs of advanced deterioration at this time and will not last beyond another year or two without major rehabilitation. Since airport runways do not receive the level of activity that keeps roadways fresh by constantly flexing the asphalt, they tend to oxidize and crack over a period of 10-12 years. This runway has not been rehabilitated since 1996.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to discuss the Consumer Auto Relief Act, or CAR Act, a bill that I plan to introduce later today. This bill will provide a variety of incentives to the purchasers of new cars, and will incentivize lenders to loan the money to finance these new automobile purchases.

This legislation is about giving American consumers much needed tax relief. It's about stimulating consumer credit markets. It's about restoring consumer confidence. It's about jump-starting our stalled economy, and it should be a part of the new economic stimulus package.

I ask the House to support this bill.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak about the devastating situation in Gaza.

Each of us in this Chamber knows what it's like to deal with a terrorist attack on our soil and against our people. Over the last several years, the Israeli people have been constantly bombarded by terrorist attacks on their soil and against their people. Since Israel withdrew from Gaza in late 2005, more than 6,000 rocket and mortar attacks from Hamas and other terrorist groups were fired into their territory.

The Government of Israel has a right and a responsibility to defend and protect its people. To stand idly by while hundreds of bombs explode on Israeli territory would have indeed been an irresponsible position for Israel's government to take, and continuing to do nothing could cause long-term detrimental implications to Israel's security in the region.

So Madam Speaker, critics who have said that Israel responded to Hamas in a disproportionate or indiscriminate way are wrong. Madam Speaker, I ask, what amount of force would have been necessary to stop the brutal attacks, to put an end to the terrorists' rocket launching pad in Gaza?

Hamas has repeatedly targeted school yards and hospitals filled with children and civilians in Israel. And the militants have been deliberate in operating from places where Gazan civilians have sought shelter, jeopardizing innocent lives in Gaza. Only Hamas is responsible for the massacre of the people in Gaza. Hamas is responsible for this conflict.

Today marks the 12th day of this conflict, and I think we all hope for a cease-fire to take place soon. However, even if the parties can reach an agreement to a cease-fire, it remains to be seen whether it will be durable.

Therefore, I strongly urge support for Israel's right to self-defense and its efforts to protect itself militarily. I also urge the United Nations and our European allies to do the same.

Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention today to pay recognition to a special day in the life of a constituent of mine, Mr. Woodfin K. Grove.

On October 23rd, Mr. Grove will celebrate his 90th birthday. To help commemorate this special occasion, his friends and church family are surprising him with a dinner at The Bridge at First United Methodist Church in Anniston, Alabama, on October 22nd.

Woodfin K. Grove was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and was an only child. He graduated from Ensley High School and Birmingham Southern, both located in Birmingham. He received his degree in Theology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. Grove married Dorothy Rowland with whom he had one daughter, Ann, and one grandson, John.

Today Mr. Grove is loved by everyone. He is known for his good advice to those around him and serves as a wise leader in his church. He and his wife, Dot, both are young at heart and have been known to ride around Anniston on his motorcycle or in his sports car. They attend First United Methodist Church in Anniston where he became Pastor Emeritus in 2001.

I would like to congratulate Mr. Grove on reaching this important milestone in his life. I wish him a happy birthday and the best in the future.

Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention today to pay recognition to a special day in the life of the congregation of the Peoples Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama.

On November 24th, Peoples Baptist Church will celebrate its 110th anniversary. The church was first organized in 1898 under Rev. Pradd who served as the pastor until 1925. The church moved to several locations over the years including the campus of Alabama State University.

In September of 2008, the church moved to its new location on Dorchester Drive in Montgomery. The new building was built under the leadership of the church's fifth pastor, Paul L. Boswell, who served the church for 32 years. The congregation works to carry the ``torch of building up God's kingdom one brick at a time.''

Today the church celebrates their 110th Anniversary and is blessed to now be under the leadership of their new and sixth pastor, Victor Lewis, Sr.

I would like to congratulate Peoples Baptist Church on reaching this important milestone.

Madam Speaker, I would like to request the House's attention today to pay recognition to a special day in the life of a constituent of mine, Mr. Woodfin K. Grove.

On October 23rd, Mr. Grove will celebrate his 90th birthday. To help commemorate this special occasion, his friends and church family are surprising him with a dinner at The Bridge at First United Methodist Church in Anniston, Alabama on October 22nd.

Woodfin K. Grove was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and was an only child. He graduated from Ensley High School and Birmingham Southern, both located in Birmingham. He received his degree in Theology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. Grove married Dorothy Rowland with whom he had one daughter, Ann, and one grandson, John.

Today Mr. Grove is loved by everyone. He is known for his good advice to those around him and serves as a wise leader in his church. He and his wife, Dot, both are young at heart and have been known to ride around Anniston on his motorcycle or in his sports car. They attend First United Methodist Church in Anniston where he became Pastor Emeritus in 2001.

I would like to congratulate Mr. Grove on reaching this important milestone in his life. I wish him a happy birthday and the best in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully request to include the accompanying article in the Congressional Record to supplement my remarks which were entered during the Special Order in honor of two Members of the Alabama delegation who are retiring.

[From the Dothan Magazine, March/April 2008]

Man of the House--Congressman Terry Everett, Dothan's voice in the US. House of Representatives, Earned Respect from all Sides as an Honorable Legislator During his Sixteen years in Washington, DC. Now He's Coming

Home

(By Ann Varnum)

Congressman Terry Everett recently shared a laugh with the

audience at a luncheon for the Dothan Area Chamber of

Commerce. Back in 1992 when he started his campaign for

Congress, the polls indicated that he only had four-percent

name recognition throughout Southeast Alabama. That fact was

made no less comforting by his lovely wife, Barbara, who was

quick to point out that the poll had a plus or minus accuracy

rating of four percent, so Terry's true name recognition

actually fell within the margin of error.

Of course, that was sixteen years ago, and all of that has

radically changed. Terry Everett has become one of the most

respected congressmen on Capitol Hill. One of the reasons for

this is his innate ability to reach across the aisle and make

friends even though the opposite side most certainly had

completely different viewpoints from his own. He has earned

the greatest respect from Republicans and Democrats alike.

During his almost sixteen years in Congress to date,

Representative Everett has been known as an honest legislator

and true gentleman. Reading through transcripts of the House

Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces hearing from

May of 2007, it is quite evident how much Congressman Everett

is respected by his colleagues.

California Democrat Representative Ellen Tauscher, the

chairwoman of the subcommittee, opened the legislative

hearing by referring to Everett's prior service: ``I'd like

to begin by saying it has been an absolute pleasure crafting

this mark with my friend, Mr. Everett . . . He has been both

cooperative and straightforward. Thank you very sincerely,

Mr. Everett.''

In 2001, when Representative Joseph Moakley, a Democrat

from Massachusetts, died, a special memorial was held in the

House Chambers. Democrat Representative Richard Neal, also

from Massachusetts, remarked that Moakley was ``. . . an old

school Democrat. But do you know who he liked to have dinner

with? This is going to kill them in Alabama when they find

this out, the voters down there--Sonny Callahan, Terry

Everett--that was the group he assembled with after hours. He

enjoyed their company socially and loved their stories about

Alabama and how they had come to Washington.''

There is no doubt that Everett had a gift of making friends

out of even total political opponents. He never wavered from

his ideals

and conservative viewpoint, but it never interfered with

making friends.

Perhaps his outstanding record in Congress had been forged

earlier by the many roles Everett played in other areas of

achievement before launching his political career.

Terry Everett was born February 15, 1937, in Dothan but

grew up in Midland City. After high school, Terry served in

the U.S. Air Force as an intelligence analyst in Europe in

1955. After serving his country in the military, Everett

returned to Dothan in 1959 to embark on the career that would

dominate more than half of his life--journalism.

He began as a farm and police beat reporter and sports

writer for The Dothan Eagle. He would later achieve success

as editor, publisher and finally owner of a chain of hometown

newspapers, which he sold in the late 1980's. Terry Everett's

first elected position was not in public office, but rather

as President and Chairman of the Board of the Alabama Press

Association. While a local newspaper publisher, the

Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) at Fort Rucker twice

nominated him for ``Army Civilian of the Year.'' Yet many

would say the greatest milestone was not related to

journalism or politics.

On December 16, 1965, Terry Everett's life was about to

take on a brand new dimension. A mutual friend, Jeanette

Comstock, introduced Terry to a bright, energetic young woman

named Barbara.

After the couple started dating, Barbara and her parents

were surprised to learn that Terry had decided to leave his

job at The Dothan Eagle and start his own newspaper business.

Convinced he was making a huge mistake, Barbara admits that

she was a little upset about his plans. ``At that time,'' she

says, ``I didn't know Terry well enough to know that when he

said he was going to do something, he already knew how he

would do it.'' On October 18, 1969, the Everetts were married

at Cloverdale Baptist Church in Dothan.

``Over the years, Terry has shocked me with several other

total-change-of-life declarations, and for some reason, it

has always been a surprise to me. I, at least, eventually

learned to expect that he would be successful. He started the

newspaper and I worked beside him, learning the newspaper

business from scratch. During the long hours of work, I

learned to trust, respect and eventually love this shy man of

few words,'' says Barbara.

The two continued to work side by side until there was

another event that again radically changed the direction of

their lives.

Barbara explains, ``One evening in early 1992, Terry and I

were watching the six o'clock news when Congressman Bill

Dickinson made the announcement that after holding Alabama's

Second Congressional District seat in the U.S. House of

Representatives for twenty-eight years, he was retiring.

Afterwards, Terry turned the television off and looked at me

and said, ``I am going to run for Congress.'' Although I knew

Terry was very knowledgeable about government, the history of

politics, and current events from his years of newspaper

experience, I had never heard him say he had any desire to

run for office himself. Unfortunately, my first comment was,

`Who will vote for you?'

Since both Terry and Barbara really were committed, first

to each other, and second, to a deep love for our country,

the first ``Everett for Congress'' campaign was begun.

Terry's first political slogan was ``Send a message not a

politician!'' Barbara believes it is still what he believes

after all these years. It was late in the evening when

Everett answered a phone call telling him all the votes were

in and counted. Terry Everett was declared the new

Congressman for Congressional District Two.

Both Everetts admit that there are challenges and rewards

every day for people involved in holding a public office.

Barbara says with all the peaks and valleys, the rewards far

outweigh the difficulties. Having the support of people from

southeast Alabama who say they love and respect Terry Everett

and that they are praying for him every day is truly

appreciated.

In early 2000, Barbara was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Because Terry wanted to be with her during her treatment, the

couple decided to have her surgery at Johns Hopkins in

Baltimore, Maryland, which was only forty-five minutes away

from the Everett's home in Washington. In March of 2000,

while undergoing all of her procedures, hundreds of cards,

phone calls, letters and gifts poured in to support

Congressman and Mrs. Everett. One obvious fact was that so

much of the concern was expressed from the liberal side of

the political spectrum, showing the positive impact the

Everett's had on their colleagues in Congress.

When asked about her life with Terry Everett, Barbara

confides, ``From the day we met until today I don't think

Terry has changed one bit. If he tells you something, he will

keep his word. If you believe in something, he respects you

for it whether he agrees or not. He is the personification of

a true public servant and statesman. I hope that, more than

anything else, this will be the legacy for which he will be

remembered.''

Four years ago this August, Terry Everett had a bad case of

shingles. Because of this, the nerves in his foot have been

severely damaged so that he has suffered difficulty in

walking. Even though Everett admits he is in good health,

traveling back and forth from D.C. is becoming more difficult

for him since he has the problem with walking. After

discussing it with his wife, Barbara, and his chief of staff

Wade Heck, Everett made the decision not to seek re-election

after his present term is completed.

Mrs. Everett insists that she did not persuade her husband

one way or the other in his decision. She adds, ``The last

sixteen years have literally been a journey of joy, and we

are so honored and humbled to have been given this

opportunity. But Terry is wise enough to know that life is

made up of change and the time has come for our lives to

change once again on a new journey. I can't wait to see what

comes next. The only thing I can say with certainty is life

with Terry has never been boring.''

The Everetts have lived in a beautiful new Southern farm

home on 400 acres of farmland near Rehobeth since 2001.

According to Barbara, there are still so many things that

need to be done around the house. Now, maybe they will have

more time to actually do all their special projects. Barbara

Everett herself stays busy working as Chairman of Governor

Bob Riley's Task Force to Strengthen Alabama Families. It has

the goal of restructuring the present Health and Human

Service System in Alabama in order to do the best possible

job of providing real help to Alabama's families.

Joe Williams, Congressman Everett's staff member in the

Dothan office, says, ``Mrs. Everett is the Congressman's best

kept secret, though her dedicated work on so many community

issues over the years is hardly a secret anymore. Not only is

Mrs. Everett a capable leader in many causes, but she is

driven by a passion for those initiatives.''

Both of the Everetts have genuine compassion, strength of

character, willingness to give of themselves in the service

of others and the ability to get things done in a timely

fashion. For all of that, Alabama's citizens of District Two

will be forever grateful.

Here are some of Congressman Everett's key accomplishments

in office:

First Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on

Strategic Forces (currently the Ranking Republican member)

Authored the current federal peanut title in 2002 Farm Bill

Secured $250 million for new Fort Rucker construction since

1993, including the landmark new Soldier Service Center,

Soldier Barracks, Post Headquarters, Base Family Housing

Renovation, and Warrior Hall Flight Simulator Facility

Advocated Creation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Center

of Excellence at Ft. Rucker and the funding for the U.S. Army

Flight School XXI

Secured over $40 million since 1993 for Dothan I-10

Connector project

Secured $2.5 million in 2001 to modernize Dothan Regional

Airport runway, taxiway, remove old terminal

Secured $202,000 in federal funds in 2003 for Multi-Purpose

Arena at National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds

Secured $19.2 million in federal funding to rebuild the

Elba and Geneva levees

Secured ``Free Trade Zone'' designations to reduce import-

export costs for Dothan industrial areas, including the Sony

plant.