Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate the members of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART), as they celebrate the 125th anniversary of the union's founding. The members and officers of SMART are to be commended for their dedication and recognized for the union's history of remarkable achievements.

SMART, formerly known as the Sheet Metal Workers' International Association and the United Transportation Union, is a truly inventive, progressive, and strong union made up of skilled craftsmen throughout the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Representing construction, sheet metal, transportation, railroad, shipyard, and production employees in the industry, SMART works tirelessly to ensure safe working conditions, living wages and benefits, and growth opportunities for its employees.

Since its founding in 1888, SMART has been one of labor's most ambitious and diligent organizations. Throughout history, its union leaders and members have been through many struggles and triumphs seeking to bring about hope for workers seeking fair wages, hours, and benefits while contributing to the structural development and building of the United States. Since the late 1920s, members and officers have contributed to the welfare of the country at home and abroad. From their assistance with the production of Charles Lindberg's airplane, the Spirit of Saint Louis, designed for his historic flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to the building and sustaining of America's Navy in our nation's shipyards, as well as the union's support in the World Trade Center tragedy, SMART's members are worthy of the highest praise.

Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty among its tradesmen. The members and officers of SMART are outstanding examples of these qualities. They have demonstrated their loyalty to both the union and communities internationally through their hard work and selfless dedication.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the past and present hardworking members and officers of SMART and to congratulate the organization on the 125th anniversary of its founding. They have committed themselves to making a significant contribution to the growth and development in Northwest Indiana, throughout the United States, and abroad.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to honor Mr. Joel Gorelick on his retirement from his position as president and chief administrative officer of Peoples Bank. Joel's many years of dedication and expertise in the banking industry have been a remarkable asset to the community of northwest Indiana. In honor of Joel's retirement, a reception will be held on Friday, January 25, 2013, at Briar Ridge Country Club in Schererville, Indiana.

Joel Gorelick was born and raised in northwest Indiana and graduated from Ball State University. He went on to receive a master's degree in business administration from Indiana University and also attended the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. In 1983, Mr. Gorelick joined Peoples Bank as the vice president for commercial lending. In this role, Joel was able to effectively develop the bank's commercial line of business and established Peoples Bank as a leader in small business lending. For his tremendous success, he was awarded the Small Business Advocate award from the Entrepreneurial Excellence program, hosted by the Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center, and was named the 2000 Board Member of the Year by the National Association of Development Companies. In 2005, Joel was promoted to president and chief administrative officer of Peoples Bank. He played a major role in the development of the corporate office in Munster, Indiana and in the expansion of the bank throughout Lake and Porter Counties. Joel Gorelick is known for his energetic dedication to serving the people of the community and has been called a mentor and coach for the bank's personnel.

Ever a good man of business, Joel realized that his responsibility was not simply to ensure the success of Peoples Bank, but to leave the world better than he found it. Mr. Gorelick selflessly and passionately gives of his time through his involvement in various community organizations and civic activities, including the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Company, the Indiana Bankers Association, the Lake County Economic Development Corporation, and the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Indiana, for which he is currently providing direction to the executive committee of the Tolleston Project, a campaign to build a new home for the Boys and Girls Club in Gary, Indiana.

Joel's excellence in his field and commitment to charitable endeavors throughout the community is exceeded only by his devotion to his amazing family. Joel and his wonderful wife, Marcia, have two beloved sons and two grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Joel Gorelick for his lifetime of leadership and service to the community. His constant effort to improve the quality of life for the people of northwest Indiana is truly inspirational. Joel has been able to positively impact the lives of countless individuals and is worthy of the highest praise. I ask that you join me in wishing him well upon his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to honor J. Guadalupe Valtierra and to wish him well upon his retirement from his position as Chancellor at Ivy Tech Community College. Chancellor Valtierra's many years of service and expertise in the field of education have been a remarkable asset to the community of Northwest Indiana, where he has been able to positively impact the lives of countless students and educators. In honor of his retirement, a reception will be held on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana.

J. Guadalupe Valtierra's professional career began with his passion for education and learning. Following his graduation from Purdue University, Lupe went on to earn a law degree, followed by a master's degree in higher education and student affairs, both from Indiana University. Chancellor Valtierra's career with Ivy Tech Community College spans seventeen years. Prior to becoming chancellor, he served as Director of Student Services. In 2002, Mr. Valtierra became chancellor of the college's Northwest region, which includes the campuses located in Gary, East Chicago, Valparaiso, and Michigan City. In this position, Chancellor Valtierra has been a true leader, supervising and directing the administrative and fiscal operations for the Northwest Region. Under his direction, enrollment in Ivy Tech's Northwest Region grew by more than seventy percent, and today there are more than 16,000 students enrolled in classes. In 2006, the new Valparaiso Ivy Tech campus opened. Chancellor Valtierra oversaw the completion of this project, which included a tremendously successful capital campaign that raised $3.9 million. During his tenure, the Gerald I. Lamkin Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, which manages the Society of Innovators and the Dare to Dream Initiative, was also launched. These programs have been a tremendous benefit to the community of Northwest Indiana, fostering a culture of innovation, which is so crucial in today's ever-changing economy.

Additionally, Lupe has selflessly given of his time through his involvement in various organizations and civic activities, including H.O.P.E.--Hispanic Organization Promoting Excellence, the Lake County Good Government Initiative, the Quality of Life Council, Catholic Charities, the Gary Educational Development Foundation Board, the Salvation Army, and the Northwest Indiana Local Government Academy Advisory Board, among many others. For his service and dedication to serving his community, Lupe is to be commended.

Mr. Valtierra's commitment to education and to the community of Northwest Indiana is exceeded only by his devotion to his amazing family. He and his wonderful wife, Teresa, have one daughter, Adriana.

Today, there are countless citizens throughout Northwest Indiana and beyond whose lives are fuller because of Chancellor Valtierra's life of dedicated public service. They have been educated when otherwise they might not have been. They have fuller careers and loves. I am grateful for Lupe's selflessness, as well as for his friendship.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Chancellor J. Guadalupe Valtierra for his lifetime of leadership, service, and dedication to Ivy Tech and to the field of education. For his uncompromising devotion to his students and his community, Chancellor Valtierra is worthy of the highest praise, and I ask that you join me in wishing him well upon his retirement.

I thank the gentlewoman for yielding.

Madam Chair, I rise today to express my support for the underlying bill and the Frelinghuysen amendment, which will greatly assist the States and communities affected by Hurricane Sandy. In every year since 1997, with two exceptions, the Congress has recognized the need for emergency funds to respond to the impacts of natural disasters on the Nation's water resource infrastructure. This year should be no different.

The Frelinghuysen amendment includes a total of $5.35 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers. Of that, about $1.8 billion will be used to repair existing Federal facilities that were damaged in the storm and to restore projects to design standards. The roughly $3.4 billion remaining will be used by the Corps for the construction of projects intended to reduce future flood risk. Additionally, the Frelinghuysen amendment provides $88.3 million to repair facility and equipment damage to Department of Defense facilities in several States along the eastern seaboard.

This is what we should be doing as a Nation. It is far less expensive to invest in preventing damage than it is to clean it up. We need to fund projects that result in the long-term sustainability of the impacted communities and reduce the economic costs and risks associated with disasters.

Madam Chair, our country has provided billions of dollars in infrastructure funding for dams, schools and roads in Iraq and Afghanistan on an emergency basis. We certainly can do no less for our own citizens in our own country. I urge passage of the underlying legislation and Chairman Frelinghuysen's amendment.

I appreciate the chairman yielding. I would simply conclude by saying one of my colleagues mentioned that we have a crisis. We do have a crisis--a crisis of indecision in this Chamber. We are under a continuing resolution. This committee is not allowed to complete its work. That creates inefficiencies at the Department of Defense, endangering our security.

The chairman talked about the impact on across-the-board cuts and sequestration, and now we're going to pile on with more cuts. The fact is the goal the gentleman is looking for is not going to happen, and I will simply give you one example. By stringing out acquisition and modernization, you increase the cost to the American taxpayer. I would ask my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Will the gentleman yield?

The gentleman is correct that he is restating law, and we also accept the amendment.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and reflect on his life and work, we are reminded of the challenges that democracy poses to us and the delicate nature of liberty. Dr. King's life, and, unfortunately, his untimely death, reminds us that we must continually work to secure and protect our freedoms. Dr. King, in his courage to act, his willingness to meet challenges, and his ability to achieve, embodied all that is good and true in the battle for liberty.

The spirit of Dr. King lives on in the citizens of communities throughout our nation. It lives on in the people whose actions reflect the spirit of resolve and achievement that will help move our country into the future. I am honored to rise today to recognize several individuals from Indiana's First Congressional District, who will be recognized during the 34th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast on Saturday, January 19, 2013, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana. The Gary Frontiers Service Club, which was founded in 1952, sponsors this annual breakfast.

This year, the Gary Frontiers Service Club will pay tribute to local individuals who have for decades unselfishly contributed to improving the quality of life for the people of Gary. Notably, David D. Chube Sr., MD will be honored with the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Award for 2013. Additionally, several individuals will be recognized as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Marchers at this year's breakfast including, Patricia Diana DeNeal, Elder Rozelle Hammonds, Pastor Dr. Marion J. Johnson Jr., Joseph Slay Jr., and Ann West-Walker. Finally, Ferba R. Hines was selected as the 2012 Yokefellow of the Year.

Though very different in nature, the achievements of each of these individuals reflect many of the same attributes that Dr. King possessed, as well as the values he advocated. Like Dr. King, these individuals saw challenges and faced them with unwavering strength and determination. Each one of the honored guests' greatness has been found in their willingness to serve with ``a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.'' They set goals and work selflessly to make them a reality.

Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these honorees, as well as the Gary Frontiers Service Club officers, President Oliver J. Gilliam, Vice President Sean Jones, 1st Vice President James Piggee, Recording Secretary Linnal Ford, Financial Secretary Sam Frazier, Corresponding Secretary Ferba R. Hines, and Treasurer/Seventh District Director Floyd Donaldson, as well as Breakfast Chairman Clorius L. Lay, in addition to all other members of the service club for their initiative, determination, and dedication to serving the people of Northwest Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my extreme disappointment and frustration with the agreement Congress reached to prevent automatic tax hikes and the automatic spending cuts known as sequestration. After tenuous negotiations which skirted the entire legislative process, the agreement, officially known as H.R. 8, the American Taxpayer Relief Act, is neither balanced, nor comprehensive. Instead, it adds nearly $3.97 trillion to the national debt while leaving some of the most pressing tax and spending issues facing our country unresolved. For these reasons, I opposed H.R. 8. I will continue to work hard in the hopes that my colleagues can be persuaded to avoid a repeat performance less than two months from now.

H.R. 8 fails to address our unfavorable fiscal situation, and merely delays important decisions that should have already been made. Thus, I have grave concerns that its enactment will result in other fevered negotiations by the few that will produce new ``compromises'' that are harmful to middle class families. With both the debt ceiling and sequestration still looming, I share Sen. Harkin's concern that the passage of H.R. 8 may put pressure on achieving deficit reductions through spending programs that Americans have earned. As Sen. Harkin stated, ``Every dollar that wealthy taxpayers do not pay under this deal, we will eventually ask Americans of modest means to forgo in Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid benefits.''

I am also absolutely appalled that the legislative process has been completely ignored throughout this process. We have known for 24 months that Bush-era tax cuts would expire at the end of 2012. We have known for 17 months that the indiscriminate, across-the-board spending cuts known as sequestration would take effect at the beginning of this year. Yet for all intents and purposes, serious negotiations did not start until after the 2012 election, leaving just under two months to craft a solution to a massive and complex set of problems. To make matters worse, essentially five elected officials--first President Obama and House Speaker Boehner, and later Vice President Biden, Senate Majority Leader Reid, and Senate Minority Leader McConnell--negotiated the so- called compromise, even though it affects every American across this nation. Our constituents deserve to have their interests represented by their Congressional Representatives and Senators--the officials who they have specifically chosen to represent their individual interests. This is a dreadful way to legislate, and I sincerely hope that the process is not repeated.

I am extremely frustrated that H.R. 8 is yet another unbalanced and ineffective attempt to bring our fiscal house in order. I have long maintained that the solutions to our nation's fiscal problems must be comprehensive and fair. It is the only way we can truly provide a sound economy and future for the next generation. H.R. 8 accomplishes neither of these goals. While the law will raise an estimated $620 billion over ten years compared to what the tax code would have generated if we had simply extended all of the Bush-era tax cuts, it will ultimately add $3.97 trillion to our debt over the next ten years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Achieving $620 billion in new revenue while adding nearly $4 trillion to our debt is not effective or proportional.

I also object to this law because it does nothing to reduce spending. When our budget was balanced and we had surpluses for four years under President Clinton from Fiscal Year (FY) 1998 to FY 2001, spending represented around 18.5 percent of our gross domestic product (GDP), the overall size of the economy, and tax revenues represented around 20 percent. In 2012 however, spending represented an estimated 22.9 percent of

GDP and tax revenues represented 15.7 percent. Clearly, these two extremes cannot continue if we are to balance the budget and provide for a sound economy for future generations. While we do not currently have Congressional Budget Office estimates on how this law will effect spending and revenue as a percent of GDP for FY 2013, we do know that it will increase spending by over $332 billion, pushing us even farther in the opposite direction of where we need to go. Additionally, while I do recognize the law will increase tax revenue by $620 billion over ten years--not an insubstantial amount--the effort was done with little apparent regard to the limited impact this decision will have on the trillion dollar deficits we face. I urge my colleagues to have the intestinal fortitude to make tough decisions regarding federal spending and taxes, and to take our cue from the 1990s in order to truly put this country on the right path.

Beyond spending and tax issues, I am further frustrated that the agreement is incomplete, kicking the can down the road on a number of issues. For example, it only extends Farm Bill provisions for an additional nine months. Additionally, while I am pleased that the law prevents a 27 percent cut in the Medicare reimbursement rate for doctors, the provision expires in one year. I have been working to find a permanent solution to the current formula used to determine doctor reimbursements under the Medicare program for over a decade. I am abjectly disappointed that Congress has again missed an opportunity to permanently address this important issue.

Another failure is the law's inability to permanently address the indiscriminate automatic spending cuts known as sequestration by making discrete value judgments on the cuts that need to be made. The law only delays sequestration for an additional two months, and partially pays for this delay by requiring Congress to find an additional $12 billion in unspecified discretionary cuts. Specifically, the law lowers the discretionary cap Congress previously agreed to by $4 billion in FY 2013 and by $8 billion in FY 2014. We are now three months into FY 2013 and this is the third change we have made to our spending allocations. As an appropriator, I am dismayed.

In conclusion Mr. Speaker, I am disappointed in the Congress for agreeing to a woefully inadequate measure that fails to meaningfully address our structural deficit. As in the past, I am committed to working to ensure a balanced, thoughtful approach, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in being actively engaged to ensure such legislation is all-encompassing. It is paramount that we come together as a country to make the substantive and difficult decisions that are necessary to provide for a strong nation, a robust economy, and a bright future for the next generation.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and admiration that I stand before you today to honor Reverend R.T. Mitchell on his 35th anniversary as Pastor of New Revelation Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana. For his many years of selfless and compassionate public service, Reverend Mitchell will be honored at a celebratory banquet on Friday, January 18, 2013 at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana.

Reverend Mitchell has dedicated his life to God and to serving his congregation and the people of his community. He completed his higher education at Moody Bible Institute and the Indiana Christian Bible College, earning a degree in External Bible Study. Reverend Mitchell has also completed many other Evangelical courses, and holds a Bachelor of Theology degree.

On January 22, 1978, Reverend Mitchell became Pastor of New Revelation Missionary Baptist Church. Under his leadership, New Revelation Missionary Baptist Church has become a beacon for the community, especially for those most in need. Through their mission ministry, the church holds a monthly soup kitchen and provides support to many community organizations, including Crisis Center, Incorporated, Brother's Keeper homeless shelter, and Every Child Ministries.

Reverend Mitchell has also served as president of the Baptist Ministers' Conference of Gary and Vicinity, president of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Baptist State Convention of Indiana, and president of the Interfaith Federation Clergy Caucus. In addition, Reverend Mitchell has served on various boards and committees for community organizations throughout Gary and Northwest Indiana, including the Northwest Indiana Food Bank, the Thelma Marshall Children's Home, the Second Chance Foundation of Gary, and the Calumet Project. Reverend R.T. Mitchell also ministers to the incarcerated within the community. For his complete devotion to helping others in need of spiritual guidance, he is worthy of the highest commendation.

Reverend Mitchell's exceptional dedication to the church and to his community is exceeded only by his devotion to his wonderful family. He and his beloved wife, Irene, recently

celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They have two adoring daughters and six grandchildren. I am proud to represent Reverend Mitchell and extremely happy to consider him my friend.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Reverend R.T. Mitchell on his 35th anniversary as Pastor of New Revelation Missionary Baptist Church. For his lifetime of leadership and selfless service to others, he is worthy of the highest praise.

Mr. Speaker, on December 30, 2012, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall votes 649, 650, and 651.

Had I been present for rollcall vote 649, on the motion to suspend the rules and pass, as amended, H.R. 3159, the Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act, I would have voted ``yes.''

Had I been present for rollcall vote 650, on the motion to suspend the rules and concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 4057, to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to develop a comprehensive policy to improve outreach and transparency to veterans and members of the Armed Forces through the provision of information on institutions of higher learning, I would have voted ``yes.''

Had I been present for rollcall vote 651, on the motion to suspend the rules and pass S. 3203, the Dignified Burial and Other Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act, I would have voted ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, on December 5, 2012, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall votes 617, 618, and 619.

Had I been present for rollcall vote 617, on the motion to suspend the Rules and agree to S. Con. Res. 50, expressing the sense of Congress regarding actions to preserve and advance the multistakeholder governance model under which the Internet has thrived, I would have voted ``yes.''

Had I been present for rollcall vote 618, on the motion to suspend the Rules and pass H.R. 6602, to make revisions in title 36, United States Code, as necessary to keep the title current and make technical corrections and improvements, I would have voted ``yes.''

Had I been present for rollcall vote 619, on the motion to suspend the Rules and pass S. 2367, to strike the word ``lunatic'' from Federal law, and for other purposes, I would have voted ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sincerity and admiration that I offer congratulations to Ivy Tech Community College Northwest and its regional partners, who recently celebrated their 8th Annual ``Spirit of Innovation'' Induction Ceremony. At the ceremony, thirty individuals and teams were inducted as members of the 2012-2013 class of the Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana. Of these individuals, certain members were inducted as Society Fellows for their exceptional efforts in innovation, including Eugene S. Smotkin, Ph.D., Pearl Prince, Olga Petryszyn, Gus Olympidis, and Neal H. Haskell, Ph.D. Additionally, Gregg A. VanDusseldorp Sr. was honored at the event with the Gerald I. Lamkin Fellow for Innovation and Service, a special recognition named for

the president of Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana. Also honored were the Chanute Prize team recipients, the Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation of Purdue University Calumet and ``S-in motion,'' ArcelorMittal Global R&D Center, East Chicago. For their truly remarkable contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana and their continuous efforts to cultivate a culture of innovation, these honorees were inducted during a prestigious event that took place at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, on October 18, 2012.

The Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana was created by Chancellor J. Guadalupe Valtierra of Ivy Tech Northwest with the goal of highlighting and encouraging innovative individuals and groups within the not-for-profit, public, and private sectors, as well as building a ``culture of innovation'' in Northwest Indiana. The importance of innovation in Northwest Indiana, as well as globally, is crucial in today's ever-changing economy.

These five Fellows selected by the Society of Innovators were chosen for their extraordinary innovative leadership and the impact of their accomplishments throughout the community of Northwest Indiana and the world. Eugene S. Smotkin, Ph.D. is a professor of Chemistry at Northwestern University and the Chief Executive Officer of NuVant Systems, Incorporated in Crown Point. NuVant develops and distributes electrochemical equipment and materials for the research and development, manufacturing, and educational markets. Pearl Prince is the principal of Frankie Woods McCullough Girls Academy in Gary, the city's first public all girls school for kindergarten through seventh grade students. Pearl developed and implemented an educational model that has led the academy to become an award winning elementary school for students from low income areas. Olga Petryszyn was named one of the top hosta plant hybridizers in the United States. Since 1993, she has registered twenty-four hosta plants with twenty-two varieties commercialized. In 2012, the world famous ``Niagara Falls'' variety was honored by the American Hosta Society. Gus Olympidis, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Family Express, developed a nationally recognized business model that measures up to global competitors. The business model includes the ``Living Brand'' for customer service, innovative logistics, and state-of-the-art technology linking the 57 stores to their headquarters in Valparaiso. Neal Haskell, Ph.D., Saint Joseph College, Rensselaer, is one of the foremost scientists of forensic entomology in the world. Using his expertise of the life cycles of insects to determine time and location of death in criminal cases, Dr. Haskell is a pioneer and truly an innovative leader. He has assisted the FBI, Indiana State Police, New York State Police, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Canada's Office of the Chief Coroner, among others, with criminal cases across the county and throughout the world.

I am also honored to represent Gregg A. VanDusseldorp Sr., who was awarded the Gerald I. Lamkin Fellow for Innovation and Service. Gregg is the President of Omnitech Systems, Incorporated in Valparaiso, Indiana. Gregg founded this medical device company that has developed products to assist with surgeries associated with urology and gynecology. He currently holds eight patents for products that are used by surgeons worldwide.

Finally, the recipients of the Chanute Prize for Team Innovation should be commended for their contributions. The Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation of Purdue University Calumet has been able to save more than $30 million dollars for local business, industry, and communities by implementing its modeling, visualization and simulation technologies, researchers. Additionally, ``S-in motion'' is a revolutionary concept of designing lighter and safer automobiles utilizing new steel products that was created with the assistance of ArcelorMittal Global R&D Center in East Chicago. This innovative program works to create steel for automobiles that reduces the weight of vehicles in order to meet higher fuel standards and to guarantee the use of steel in automobiles in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding innovators. The contributions they have made to society, here in Northwest Indiana and worldwide, are immeasurable and lifelong. For their truly brilliant innovative ideas, projects, and leadership, each recipient is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. Speaker, on November 30, 2012, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall vote 613.

Had I been present for rollcall vote 613, on passage of H.R. 6429, to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to promote innovation, investment, and research in the United States, to eliminate the diversity immigrant program, and for other purposes, I would have voted ``no.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sincerity and respect that I offer congratulations to several of Northwest Indiana's most talented, dedicated, and hardworking individuals. On Saturday, December 1, 2012, the Roofers Local Union 26 will honor the graduating class of 2012 at the Annual Apprentice Graduation Banquet, which will be held at the Patio Restaurant in Merrillville, Indiana.

At this year's banquet, the Roofers Local Union 26 will recognize and honor the following individuals who have completed their apprentice training in 2012: Jeremy Villarruel, Curtis Mueller, Jason Gutierrez, Jeremy Marsh, Mike Sallee, Fausto Jimenez Jr., Kevin Cooper, Travis Nuss, Chris Kittle, Tommy Haynes, and David Garcia.

Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These graduates are outstanding examples of each. They have mastered their trade and have demonstrated their loyalty to both the union and the community through their hard work and tireless dedication.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these dedicated and hardworking individuals. Along with the other men and women of Northwest Indiana's unions, these individuals have committed themselves to making a significant contribution to the growth and development of the economy of the First Congressional District, and I am very proud to represent them in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Speaker, it is with profound respect and admiration that I stand before you today to honor Mr. Bill Masterson, Jr., for his remarkable success as Publisher of The Times Media Company of Northwest Indiana, as well as for his devotion to professional and ethical business and community leadership. Bill was named Publisher of the Year 2012 by Editor & Publisher, a monthly international publication covering the newspaper industry. Bill will be honored at a reception sponsored by the Northwest Indiana Forum on Thursday, November 29, 2012, at the Briar Ridge Country Club in Schererville, Indiana.

Bill Masterson, Jr., was named Publisher of the Year 2012 by the Editor & Publisher editorial board. Publishers from across the nation, and as far as Germany and Nigeria, were nominated by their employees and peers for this prestigious honor. In this era of expanding technology and economic difficulty, the newspaper industry has been forced to make significant adjustments in order to compete with the revenue, marketing, and demographic challenges facing traditional ink- on-paper media. For his ability to think outside the box and his innovative approach to shift the role of the local newspaper within the community of Northwest Indiana, Bill certainly exemplifies the qualities of a true leader and is a worthy recipient of this award.

Bill's publishing career spans twenty-five years. In 2006, Mr. Masterson became Publisher of The Times Media Company of Northwest Indiana and was recently promoted to Vice President of Publishing for Lee Enterprises, Incorporated, the parent company of The Times. While he will continue to serve as Publisher of The Times Media Company of Northwest Indiana, in his new position, Bill and three other vice presidents will oversee print and digital operations for Lee Enterprises in twenty-three states. Under his leadership at The Times, Bill has been able to increase revenue while avoiding major staff cuts. He has cultivated an environment of innovation and continues to provide high-quality content to readers.

The changing role of the local newspaper within the community motivated Mr. Masterson to create ``One Region: One Vision,'' which strives to improve the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana. The movement was launched five years ago and brings together local business, political, and community leaders in order to promote positive change within the community. The program has led to urban revitalization, a bimonthly mayor's roundtable discussion, the establishment of a health care council, and it has helped to increase community involvement and awareness. Bill also serves on the executive board of directors for the Barden of Gary Foundation and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana, where he initiated a campaign to raise funds for a new Boys and Girls Club and community center in Gary, Indiana. To date, the campaign has raised more than $5.5 million.

Bill Masterson is the epitome of an excellent person of business. He innately understands and actively lives the words spoken by Jacob Marley in A Christmas Carol: ``Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were, all, my business.'' We are fortunate that he walks among us.

Bill's exceptional dedication to his field and to his community is exceeded only by his devotion to his amazing family. Bill and his beloved wife, Julie, have six wonderful children and three grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other colleagues join me in congratulating Bill Masterson, Jr., on being named Publisher of the Year 2012. For his unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and his remarkable career with The Times Media Company of Northwest Indiana, Bill serves as an inspiration to us all.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to congratulate Saint Joseph the Worker Croatian Catholic Church in Gary, Indiana, as it celebrates its 100th anniversary as a parish on Sunday, October 14, 2012. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Father Stephen Loncar, parish pastor, on this special occasion. The 100th anniversary festivities will begin with a Mass of Thanksgiving at 10 a.m. at the church, celebrated by the Most Reverend Dale J. Melczek, Bishop of Gary. After the service, a banquet will be held at the Croatian Center in Merrillville, Indiana.

I would also like to commend the members of the Saint Joseph the Worker Parish Council and Anniversary Committee for the work they have put forth in the planning of this momentous event. Members include: Robert Balash, John Benich, Larry Brown, Irene Flores, Glenda Garriot, Charlene Gyurko, Anne Krpan, Tom Lashenik, Carmen and Frances Lenzo, Cheryl Lenzo, Sam and Celeste Linde, Marta McCobb, Marian Nicksich, Peter Podnar, Charlene Reynolds, Joe Ruda, Nick and Esther Sanchez, Mike Stulac, Guy and Rose Sutton, Kathy Swanson, Rosella Tuszynski, Michael Velasco, and Paul Yurkas.

In 1906, Croatian immigrants, comprised mainly of small business owners and steel workers, arrived to the growing city of Gary, Indiana, seeking employment opportunities and a better quality of life. Upon arrival, the immigrants dealt with numerous obstacles and prejudices, including a difficult language barrier. In order to create a sense of community with the hope of preserving Croatian heritage and culture, they joined together to create their own parish, and in 1913, Holy Trinity Croatian Catholic Church was built. The church continued to grow over the years due to the unwavering dedication of its leaders and parishioners. By 1919, a parochial school was added under the leadership of Reverend Charles Jesih of Croatia. Due to the growing population, the church continued to expand, and by 1956, under the leadership of Father Venceslav Ardes, a new larger church was completed and consecrated Saint Joseph the Worker Croatian Catholic Church in Gary, Indiana. One hundred years ago, the immigrants longed for a parish where they could attend mass in their own language and today that practice remains. The pioneers would be proud to know that this tradition is still alive today.

The church continues to seek innovative ways to sustain the traditions and ideals of the Catholic Church throughout Gary and Northwest Indiana. In 2009, Saint Joseph the Worker joined in an alliance with the Gary Cluster Parishes, a group formed by pastors and commissions with the goal of maintaining the Catholic Church in Gary, Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Church on the 100th anniversary of its founding. Throughout the years, the leaders and parishioners of the church, both past and present, have dedicated themselves to preserving Croatian tradition and upholding the values of their Catholic religion. For their commitment to public service and for touching the lives of countless individuals, the leaders and parishioners are worthy of the highest praise, and I wish Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Church many prosperous years to come.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I recognize the Gary, Indiana Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority for recently celebrating its 75th anniversary. The theme for the event was ``Through the Looking Glass: A Supreme Record of Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service.'' In honor of this momentous occasion, a reception was held on Friday, October 19, 2012, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, is a private, non-profit organization that was founded on January 13, 1913, by 22 students at Howard University in Washington, DC. The organization was founded in order to promote academic excellence and to assist the underserved population by providing scholarships, supporting community organizations, and by empowering people to fight for positive public policy. In one of their first public acts, the Delta founders participated in the Women's Suffrage March in Washington DC. on March 3, 1913. The Deltas were incorporated in 1930 and today, the sisterhood has over 200,000 female members and 900 chapters across the world.

Throughout the years, the sorority has continued to establish programs that strengthen the African American family and improve education, healthcare, and international development. The programs supported and developed by Delta Sigma Theta are based on the organizations five-point thrust that includes: economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health, and political awareness and involvement. Each program is coordinated by committees that work together to develop and implement this five-point thrust.

The Gary, Indiana, Alumnae Chapter has worked diligently to serve the city of Gary and all of Northwest Indiana. The Gary Alumnae chapter has created many innovative programs that have helped numerous people

throughout the community. Delta Days at Gary City Hall is a program that was created in order for chapter members to voice their concerns about issues affecting the community to the mayor, city council, and other elected officials. Every year, the Gary Chapter gives out five $1,000 scholarships to girls that attend Northwest Indiana schools. The mentoring program has been implemented to help students learn the importance of staying in school, setting goals, and making positive decisions. The Gary Alumnae Chapter contributes to the Maama Project, which supports efforts to help with the healthy and safe delivery of babies of women in Africa. For several years, the chapter has hosted a free Thanksgiving dinner feeding hundreds of people. There is so much that the chapter has accomplished over the years, and Northwest Indiana is not only proud but inspired by the good works of this outstanding organization.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the members of the Gary, Indiana, Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority for the exceptional contributions they have made to the city of Gary, Northwest Indiana, and throughout the world. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating the Gary, Indiana, Alumnae Chapter on the organization's 75th anniversary.