Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, on November 3, 2011, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall vote 825.

Had I been present for rollcall 825, on passage of H.R. 2930, a measure to amend the securities laws to provide for registration exemptions for certain crowdfunded securities, and for other purposes, I would have voted ``no.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere admiration that I recognize the Asian American Medical Association, which is hosting its 35th Annual Gala on Saturday, November 5, 2011, at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana. Each year, the Asian American Medical Association pays tribute to prominent, outstanding citizens and organizations for their contributions to the community. In recognition of their efforts, these honorees are awarded the prestigious Crystal Globe Award at this annual banquet.

The Asian American Medical Association has always been a great asset to Northwest Indiana. Its members have selflessly dedicated themselves to providing quality medical services to the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District and have always demonstrated exemplary service through their many cultural, scholastic, and charitable endeavors.

At this year's Annual Gala, the Asian American Medical Association will present the Crystal Globe Award to one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, Frankie Fesko. For her outstanding accomplishments and charitable contributions to numerous organizations, she is worthy of such an honor.

Frankie graduated from Illiana Christian High School and continued her education, earning a bachelor's degree from Depauw University and a master's degree from Purdue University. Frankie then spent many years as a teacher for the School City of Hammond and the School Town of Munster. She also worked as a Supervising Teacher at Purdue University Calumet in Hammond.

Frankie has been a true inspiration when it comes to community service, devoting much of her time and efforts to serving so many in need throughout Northwest Indiana. Her amazing compassion and generosity led her to become involved in many charitable organizations throughout the years. Frankie has chaired many events including: the Perennial Ball, which is a fundraiser for the Community Cancer Research Foundation, the Share and Love annual luncheon fundraiser for the Cancer Resource Center in Munster, and Briarfest, which benefits a different organization every year and has supported the National Kidney Foundation, Hospice of the Calumet Area, the Humane Society, Campagna Academy, and the Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, Frankie serves as a board member for many charitable organizations including: the Munster Medical Research Foundation, the Community Cancer Research Foundation, and the Legacy Foundation. Frankie serves as Chairwoman of the Board for the Community Foundation of Northwest Indiana, which is a non- profit organization that works to improve the health and quality of life for people in Northwest Indiana. The businesses that the foundation operates include three non-profit hospitals in Northwest Indiana: Community Hospital in Munster, Saint Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, and Saint Mary Medical Center in Hobart. The foundation has also been instrumental in the development of The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, the creation and operation of the Community Cancer Research Centre Foundation, and the donation of land to create the Edward P. Robinson Community Veterans Memorial and Hartsfield Village Retirement Community in Munster. For her exceptional dedication and passionate support to so many charitable endeavors, Frankie was awarded the very first Community Leader Award at the Northwest Indiana's Most Influential Women of the Year Awards Banquet in June 2011.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending the Asian American Medical Association, as well as this year's Crystal Globe Award recipient, Frankie Fesko, for their outstanding contributions to their communities and beyond. Their unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and throughout the United States is truly inspirational. For these reasons, the Asian American Medical Association, its members, and Frankie Fesko are to be recognized, and I am proud to serve as their representative in Washington, DC.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the issue of Chinese currency manipulation.

In northwest Indiana, the steel industry provides middle class jobs and economic security. It supplies the products with which a strong economy can be built and a powerful national defense maintained.

China understands the value of steel and a strong manufacturing base and has aggressively acted to support and subsidize its domestic industries. For example, China has acted contrary to international trading standards in order to help their domestic manufacturers by routinely manipulating its currency in order to keep prices low on its finished products.

As an effect, China's steel production has more than doubled since 2003, while U.S. production has dropped by nearly 40 percent. We have also lost a third of our manufacturing jobs as China's manufacturing sector continues to grow, nourished by that country's blatant disregard of international law and the abusive consequences visited on other nations and people, most importantly, those who live and want to work in the United States of America.

For example, it is estimated that China has devalued its currency anywhere between 12 and 50 percent, giving its own exports a government subsidy

and, in effect, taxing American-made imports. This policy has cost the U.S. upwards of 2.5 million manufacturing jobs over the last decade and a staggering annual trade deficit of as much as $273 billion.

The Chinese have dialogued and dialogued and dialogued for years about allowing their currency to appreciate but have continued the practice of devaluing it. Our Nation is facing a jobs crisis, and we can no longer afford to stand for this destructive policy.

H.R. 639, the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act, would address the issue of this manipulation by recognizing in law what we already know, that currency misalignment is an export subsidy. The measure would take commonsense steps to ensure our Treasury Department appropriately identifies countries that engage in this unfair policy and allow the United States to place countervailing duties on imports from offending nations.

This act has 230 cosponsors, more than enough to pass the House. In fact, just over a year ago, drawing on support from American labor and manufacturing, the House supported a similar bill. On September 23, 2010, the House approved the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 348-79. Unfortunately, the Senate failed to act. More than 260 of the Members who voted in favor of that measure remain in the House. In this Congress, in October, the other body did pass a similar measure by a bipartisan vote of 63-35. It is time for the House to pass this bill.

Those who oppose efforts to punish China for its unfair trade policies insist this measure would start a so-called trade war. We are in a war, a war for jobs, and we are losing. China continues to fight to win jobs while America's Government dawdles. This cannot continue.

According to a report by the Economic Policy Institute, titled, ``Unfair China Trade Costs Local Jobs,'' thanks to our trade imbalance with China, 2.4 million jobs were lost in the United States between 2001 and 2008.

Unfortunately, currency manipulation is far from the only trade- disrupting policy practiced by China. This summer, the New American Foundation convened a task force led by Leo Gerard of the United Steelworkers and Leo Hindrey of New America, and published a report. The report they released further confirms the myriad of activities that China engaged in that undermine our jobs.

China employs a complex and far-reaching set of industrial and mercantile policies. Environmental and labor rules that we take for granted are rare to nonexistent in China. China disregards intellectual property protections such as trademarks, copyrights, and patents and then steals technology from us and other countries around the world at an annual cost of hundreds of billions of dollars. It does this, in part, by shamelessly forcing foreign companies to divulge intellectual property as a price for market access.

Further, China uses state secret laws to protect commercial interests and is pursuing a policy of indigenous innovation whereby it manufactures and maneuvers to increase the domestic production of high value-added goods.

The House must pass and act on the Chinese currency manipulation bill.

Mr. Speaker, on October 27, 2011, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall votes 813 through 815.

Had I been present for rollcall No. 813, on passage of H.R. 2576, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes for determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs, I would have voted ``no.''

Had I been present for rollcall No. 814, on a motion to recommit with instructions on H.R. 674, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the imposition of 3 percent withholding on certain payments made to vendors by government entities, I would have voted ``aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall No. 815, on passage of H.R. 674, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the imposition of 3 percent withholding on certain payments made to vendors by government entities, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate Temple Beth-El in Munster, Indiana, as its congregation joins together in celebration of its 100th Anniversary. To celebrate this Centennial, members will hold a celebratory reception at Temple Beth-El on October 29, 2011.

Truly, Temple Beth-El has had a long and dynamic history in the Calumet Region's Jewish Community. When it was first established in 1911, Temple Beth-El served as a modest Reform Congregation, holding its services in a rented building in Hammond, Indiana. In fact, for a short time after World War One, Temple Beth-El briefly came to share its rental property with fellow Temple, Knesseth Israel. However, in 1925, the Temple was finally able to purchase its own location, the W. B. Conkey Mansion in Hammond, Indiana, where they remained until 1955. The congregation later moved to 6947 Hohmann Avenue, also located in Hammond, where it remained for 41 years. Due to the changing needs of its congregation, the Temple eventually sold its Hammond property to move to Munster, Indiana on August 15, 1999. Conducting a ``Torah Walk,'' they marched their Torahs from their old property in Hammond to their new building at 10001 Columbia Avenue, in Munster, where they are soon to celebrate their rich, hundred-year history. Currently, the members of Temple Beth-El can be proud of a Reform congregation of over 200 households, an ample facility featuring a sanctuary, classrooms, a kitchen, and library, as well as an admirable dedication to community service programs, in which members passionately serve those in need throughout the community. Additionally, Temple Beth-El recently helped to sponsor the inspirational exhibit, ``A Fine Romance: Jewish Songwriters, American Songs, 1910-1965,'' which was on display at the Munster Center for Visual and Performing Arts until October 20, 2011, and will be visiting 55 sites throughout the United States in 2011 and 2012.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Temple Beth-El of Munster, Indiana, on its 100th Anniversary. Through the years, the members of Temple Beth-El have dedicated themselves to preserving the traditions and spiritual beliefs of Reform Judaism. For their dedicated service, and for touching the lives of countless individuals, they are worthy of our highest praise.

Mr. Speaker, it is with fond admiration and profound respect that I take this time to recognize a dear friend and one of Indiana's most distinguished citizens, the Honorable Mayor Rudolph Clay, of Gary, Indiana. For his many years of public service and his countless efforts toward improving the lives of Northwest Indiana residents, Rudy will be honored at a celebratory reception at the Genesis Convention Center, in Gary, Indiana, on Friday, October 28, 2011.

Rudolph Clay was born in Courtland, Alabama. Following the passing of his mother, Rudy and his brother, David, were raised by their aunts, Daisy Washington and Mary Lucy Hunter, in Gary, Indiana. After graduating from Roosevelt High School, Rudy continued his education, earning a track scholarship to Indiana University in Bloomington. He would later return to Gary, and it was during this time that he met and fell in love with his wonderful wife, Christine Swan. They were married on November 30, 1957. Mayor Clay then served in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960. Through the Vietnam era and the Civil Rights Movement, Rudy's unwavering passion to serve people, particularly those most in need,

and his strong desire to be a catalyst for positive change propelled him on his remarkable journey.

In 1972, Rudy was elected to the Indiana State Senate in the third district. While in this position, the focus of his work included working for better treatment and training programs for prison inmates, creating a victim's compensation fund, and establishing a Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Subsequently, Rudy was elected to the Lake County Council in 1978 and then re-elected in 1982. During this time he fought against the unfairness in hiring practices at the Lake County Government Center and the raising of utility rates. In 1984, Rudy Clay was elected as Lake County Recorder. Three years later, he was elected Lake County Commissioner and served four elected terms in this capacity.

In 2005, Rudy became the first African American elected to serve as the Lake County Democratic Chairman, a position he held until 2009.

The Gary Precinct Organization appointed Rudy mayor of Gary in 2006, and he was elected mayor the following year. Mayor Clay's extraordinary energy, his profound empathy for people and his lifelong commitment to leave a better world for following generations have led to preeminent achievements. They have positively impacted the lives of countless individuals as well as the progress and future of Indiana.

Throughout his illustrious career, Mayor Clay has been recognized with many distinguished awards. Rudy was honored by Governor Evan Bayh with the Outstanding Hoosier Award in 1994, and in 2005, Governor Joseph Kernan honored the Mayor with the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash Award, to name a few.

Although Rudy has received many esteemed honors for his commitment to the residents of Indiana, his greatest source of pride is his family. Rudy and his amazing wife, Christine, have been married for 54 years this November. They have one beloved son, Rudy Clay, Jr.

On a more personal note, I also want to thank Rudy for his graciousness and warm friendship over the years. I also would be remiss if I did not thank him for the deep respect he has always shown to my father, John Visclosky.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Mayor Rudy Clay for his staunch devotion to the people of Gary as well as all of Northwest Indiana. Rudy's unselfish and lifelong dedication to serving the people of Northwest Indiana is worthy of the highest commendation, and he serves as an inspiration to us all. I am proud to call him my friend.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and deep sadness that I wish to commend United States Army Specialist Ricardo Cerros, Jr. for his bravery and willingness to fight for his country. Specialist Cerros was assigned to B Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. While serving in Afghanistan on his first deployment, Specialist Cerros was killed by enemy forces during a firefight while conducting combat operation on October 8, 2011. His sacrifice will forever be remembered by those he fought to protect.

A native of Gary, Indiana, Ricardo spent his early childhood years in Gary, Indiana, before moving to Salinas, California, to live with his father. He graduated from Everett Alvarez High School in Salinas and continued his studies at the University of California in Irvine. He enlisted in the United States Army in July 2010. Family members recall that Ricardo had a strong feeling to join the military, and that he wanted nothing more than to serve his country. Colleagues remember Specialist Cerros as a well-respected leader. Family and friends remember Ricardo for his cheerfulness, positive attitude, and happy-go- lucky manner. For his courage and sacrifice, Ricardo has been honored by the military with awards including: the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. Ricardo will be greatly missed by so many people in the communities he was part of and forever cherished by those who loved him.

Specialist Cerros leaves behind a loving family. He is survived by his father, Ricardo Cerros, Sr., and stepmother, Deborah A. Cerros, both of Salinas, and his mother, Marguerite D. Cuevas, of Gary, Indiana. Ricardo also leaves to cherish his memory his siblings; Nicholas, Theresa, and Marco Cerros. He also leaves behind many other dear friends and family members, as well as saddened communities and a grateful nation.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, United States Army Specialist Ricardo Cerros, Jr. Specialist Cerros sacrificed his life in service to his country, and his passing comes as a great loss to our nation, which has once again been shaken by the realities of war. Specialist Cerros will forever remain a hero in the eyes of his family, his communities, and his country. Thus, let us never forget the sacrifice he made to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.

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 Friday, October 21, 2011, the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 20 honored long-time members with their 25, 40, 50, 60, and 70-year service pins at the Sheet Metal Banquet, which was held at Ambassador Banquets in Hobart, Indiana.

At this year's banquet, the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 20 presented pins for 25 years of membership to: Scott H. Allmon, Jeffery Bacon, George R. Bassett, Jr., Scott Blount, John Breezley, Richard J. Cervantes,

Daniel L. Claussen, John Eggebrecht, Alexander W. Einikis, Paul James Einikis, Jimmie D. Fauser, Jr., Travis Frank, Jerome Franz, Gregory A. Gill, Michael J. Gorski, Kathleen Gray-Wesley, Anthony J. Gresham, Jeffrey Arnold Hamilton, Emmett R. Higgins, George Carl Hofer, Kenneth R. House, James E. Irvin, Steven A. Johnson, Timothy K. Kelly, Kyle Whitney Kingsbury, Benny Knox, James D. Knox, Robert J. Krantz, Anthony R. Ladwig, David W. Leonard, Russell Eugene Long, Richard J. Majewski, Jr., Fred J. McColly, James L. Miller, Ronald Dean Miller, Mark D. Moore, Timothy Shawn Myres, Gary Noveroske, Edward K. O'Daniel, Jeffrey E. Pierson, Michael R. Price, John Rachford, Victor Neville Rachford, Arnie P. Ranegar, Jr., Jeff R. Relinski, Scott R. Ribar, Mike C. Rivich, Anthony W. Romanowski, Vance Thomas Rozdilsky, Richard J. Singel, William Michael Sweeney, Kevin Allen Szczudlak, Eva M. Washington, Ted Daniel Wells, Philip Everett Werno III, David L. Whisler, David Gordon White, Rodney Whiteside, Richard Gene Wozniak, and Eugene R. Yagelski, Jr. Pins for 40 years of membership were presented to: James Alm, Howard L. Alward, Jr., Gene E. Arnold, Gerald S. Banach, Frank Beiglebeck, Keith E. Benson, Roby W. Billings, Joseph E. Bloomfield, Larry E. Boger, Jerry W. Bryan, Roland L. Butler, Joseph L. Byers, John Cubit, Benjamin Dear, Jr., David W. Erb, Jerrone Garlach, Milton D. Gerner, Robert Golden, Randall B. Hamilton, Dale A. Hansen, Terrence Henney, Donald Hill, George C. Hofer, Kevin B. Hoffman, Clifford E. Hudson, Jr., Clifford L. Hynd, Carlton Kobe, Thomas L. Koedyker, Jerry H. Krachinski, Arthur Kurth, Thomas L. Leornard, Daniel Longacre, Tom G. Lopez, Gus Marktakis, Fred T. Minard, Ronald M. Muha, Marty Mushinsky, Floyd M. Nelson, Thomas Nuni, Walter J. Olenik, Larry D. Perigo, Katherine Plahtaric, Hugh Ponder, Jr., James J. Potesta, Richard Preissig, Rocky W. Richardson, Joseph Edward Ring, Steven D. Sasko, William T. Schaeffer, Michael Schammert, Richard Shinabarger, Eugene Skalba, Normand J. Soucy, Robert L. Swisher, Michael J. Turner, Ronald E. Vaughn, Michael J. Vernich, John W. Wacnik, Robert J. Walton, Larry Whisler, and Dennis G. Wojciechowski. The 50 years of membership pins were presented to: Edgar B. Baker, Walter Biser, Walter Bogielski, J.B. Bugg, Gilbert W. Franz, Roger Gault, Dellis Ivers, Robert J. Kish, Arthur John Kobeske, Jr., Gordon F. LaBounty, Frank Macewicz, Donald L. O'Dell, Hugh Ponder, Jr., Homer H. Rachford, Louis R. Trznadel, and Gerard Wardell. The honorees for 60 years of membership are: Miles R. Becvar, Sr., Earl Chance, Melvin E. Crook, Eugene H. Koontz, Robert L. Molnar, James Moscato, Leland E. Thompson, and Louis R. Trznadel. Finally, for his outstanding dedication, Raymond J. Klodzen received a special recognition as he was honored for his 70 years of service to the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 20.

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

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to commend Boni Fine for her service to the community. Boni will be recognized for her outstanding commitment to the residents of the First Congressional District by the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) of Northwest Indiana, at its annual Circle of Friends Event, held on October 19, 2011.

Throughout her accomplished career, Boni has held several prestigious positions, allowing her to demonstrate the skills and business acumen developed as she earned her Master of Business Administration degree from Pepperdine University. Her professional experience includes Director of Personnel for the Daily Telegraph in London; President and Publisher of the Post-Tribune in Merrillville, Indiana; and Vice President of Strategic Development/Advertising for the Sun-Times News Group in Chicago, Illinois. Moreover, her bachelor degree in social work from Syracuse University and her work as a child welfare caseworker established the foundation upon which Boni built her tireless enthusiasm for improving the quality of life for our area's youth.

Boni's resume highlights many of the organizations in which she participates and children in Northwest Indiana are most fortunate to have benefitted from her championing their cause. Not only has she previously chaired the Juvenile Diabetes Association's Walk to Cure, she was a founding member of the Children's Literacy Academy at Indiana University Northwest. Further, she has served on the Executive Board of the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Indiana. Most recently, Boni served as the Interim Executive Director for the YWCA of Northwest Indiana, and it is for her work with this organization that she is being honored.

The YWCA of Northwest Indiana traces its roots to a branch office that had been located at 30 East 6th Avenue in Gary. Founded in 1921 with a strong commitment to serve, the organization has become a well- established institution serving the community for ninety years. Currently, the YWCA of Northwest Indiana is governed by an all-female Board of Directors committed to offering programs to young women that foster their talents and serving as professional role models whom these young women may emulate. Under Boni's leadership, this local YWCA has provided programs such as the Yes We Can, a youth program to promote academic achievement among at-risk children. Additionally, the YWCA of Northwest Indiana offers a mentoring program for teen girls in Gary in which students are paired with professional women in order to empower them and set them upon a path of success. Although this is only a brief overview of the extraordinary efforts undertaken by all individuals involved in the day-to-day operations of the YWCA of Northwest Indiana, it is important to note that they illustrate Boni's genuine devotion to its vision: to transform lives by mobilizing our diverse community to provide vibrant opportunities and experiences that strive to diminish racial and gender disparities in health, education, and wealth attainment, while preparing future generations to sustain these endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Boni Fine for her exceptional community service. I know that Boni will continue to touch the lives of numerous people, and for her selfless, lifelong service, she is to be commended.

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 Friday, October 21, 2011, the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 20 honored the apprentice graduates from the years 2005 to 2011 at the Sheet Metal Banquet, which was held at Ambassador Banquets in Hobart, Indiana.

At this year's banquet, the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 20 recognized and honored Apprentice graduates from 2005 to 2011. The individuals who completed their apprentice training in 2005 are: Kevin L. Anderson, Michael G. Bowman, Jerry W. Bryan, Jr., Richard W. Call, Paul J. Chulpacek, Percy L. Davis, Jr., Jonathan T. Drake, Eric D. Heckman, Raymond E. Hoover, Matthew D. Hoppe, Michael J. Janickovic, Robert C. Joy, James M. Ligda, and Jeff M. Sako. The 2006 apprentice graduates are: Kenneth J. Bastasich, Jr., Lavert Combs, Greg W. Cwetna, Kevin P. Harder, Adam J. Jackson, Tim L. Krebs, Kevin S. Putchaven, and Kevin L. Watts. Apprentice graduates from 2007 are: Tom H. Feneck, Fred J. Hernandez, Timothy M. Holding, David M. Horbovetz, John R. Kane, Matthew J. Koehler, Joshua J. Neeley, James C. Rossi, Nicholas S. Scott, and William A. Smith. Individuals from the apprentice graduating class of 2008 are: Todd A. Goldie, Kreg R. Homoky, Kevin L. LaPorte, Brad N. Martin, Patrick M. Phegley, and Thomas M. Styborski, Jr. The 2009 apprenticeship graduates are: David H. Ballinger, Chuck B. Flick, Mitchell E. Gutyan, Jon P. Holding, Noah D. Hoppe, Vince J. Macielewicz, Jr., Kyle T. Melnyk, Jeffrey A. Pavey, Cary Allan Schnick, and Leonard J. Stringer. The apprentice graduates from 2010 are: John P. Cantu, Don E. Clinton III, Ronald D. Coleman, Douglas J. Edwards III, Eric F. Gann, Matt S. Koontz, Jeffrey A. Koss, Nathan A. Lovas, Christopher W. Marshall, Johnnie L. Parker, and Douglas J. Sills, and lastly, the individuals who completed their apprentice training in 2011 are: Matthew D. Bishop, Shane W. Crowley, Christopher W. Geruska, Brandon W. Gilbert, Jacob A. Goldie, Andy J. Kadziolka, Angel E. Mercado, Clifton E. Perry, Michael E. Polak, Michael J. Torres, Robert C. Wernersbach, Jr., and Adam J. Wotherspoon.

Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty among 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 selfless 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, I rise in opposition to all three trade agreements under consideration in the House this week. I believe these agreements will only exacerbate our unemployment crisis, undermine America's manufacturing sector, and allow the continued hemorrhage of our jobs to foreign countries.

I am a proponent of trade, but any agreement that reduces barriers and removes avenues to redress unfair practices should preserve American jobs, ensure a level playing field, respect the rights of worker's and our environment, and provide significant economic benefits. These proposed agreements, individually and collectively, do not live up to those standards.

Since 1977, the real median hourly wage has decreased $.53 for workers in this country. In manufacturing, it has decreased $1.40. In the same timeframe, the U.S. has lost approximately 7 million manufacturing jobs, over 250,000 in the state of Indiana alone. These are middle class jobs, and each lost job means lost wages, lost health care, and lost retirement benefits for a family. It is getting harder and harder for America's working class to make it, and that is a shame. With the unemployment rate at 9.1%, we must do everything possible to create new jobs, and protect every single American job that exists. Congress should have a singular focus of promoting American workers and creating American jobs.

Instead, Congress is going to pass three trade agreements that will cause a loss of jobs; necessitating the passage of a TAA package to train those whose jobs are being outsourced. What a terrible and wrongheaded policy. Further, the TAA package that Congress is considering would pare back the eligibility requirements and funding levels for displaced workers that were established in 2009. Are American workers less vulnerable to trade than in 2009? I find it ludicrous that we would choose to reduce this assistance when long term unemployment continues to plague millions of American families.

All three of these agreements are similar to NAFTA, and we know, all too well, the effects of NAFTA. In 1993, before the enactment of NAFTA, we had a small trade surplus of about $1.6 billion with Mexico. NAFTA was enacted in 1994 and by 1995 that surplus had turned into a deficit of almost $16 billion. By 2007, this deficit had grown to a staggering $75 billion. These policies have displaced millions of jobs, and we cannot afford to aggravate the problem with more misguided trade agreements. Further, the jobs that aren't displaced are diminished through depressed wages and benefits.

According to the Economic Policy Institute, the South Korea agreement will expand the U.S. trade deficit by $13.5 billion and eliminate 159,000 jobs within seven years. Proponents of this deal will cite estimates by the International Trade Commission indicating a small positive impact on our trade deficit and negligible domestic employment gains. However, I would point out that the ITC projected a $1 billion increase in the trade deficit and a negligible effect on employment before China's ascension to the World Trade Organization. The results turned out to be dramatically different. Between 2001 and 2008 our trade deficit with China increased by $185 billion and we have lost approximately 2.4 million jobs.

The manufacturing supported by the United States' automobile supply chain is the backbone of our economy. The provisions of this agreement allow duty free imports of vehicles with up to sixty-five percent of the content coming from outside South Korea. I fear that countries that have circumvented our trade laws in the past will use this as a new opportunity to increase the presence of unfairly subsidized products in U.S. markets by going through South Korea. The resulting job losses are as inevitable as they are unacceptable.

Finally, South Korea has a history of currency manipulation and erecting significant non-tariff import barriers. Are we foolish enough to believe they won't continue to aggressively protect their domestic industries at the expense of manufacturing jobs here in the U.S.?

Specific to the Colombia agreement, the Economic Policy Institute estimates that this deal would eliminate 55,000 American jobs within seven years, while growing our trade deficit by $3.3 billion. Additionally, Colombia has a disturbing history of violence against labor unions. Nearly 2,680 unionists have been murdered there and only six percent of these crimes have been prosecuted. That is an appalling fact. The administration's Action Plan is a positive step, but it does not guarantee the basic rights of workers, nor their protection from retaliation. Further, the Action Plan is not part of the FTA, and is therefore subject to the discretion of the Executive Branch. I will not be satisfied until I see sustained long term progress for workers' rights in Colombia.

These trade agreements will come at the expense of the middle class at the worst possible time. They will do away with at least 214,000 American jobs and undermine key industries throughout our economy.

Trade can have positive benefits for the U.S. economy, but it has to be done right, and it has to be done fairly. These agreements do not reflect the lessons we have learned. Again and again, we have seen countries acting aggressively to support and promote their domestic job creating industries while protecting them from competition. Even when our companies have legal recourse, it is almost always too little too late, the damage has been done, and the jobs are gone. That is why I am concerned about the failure of these agreements to have robust mechanisms to ensure that the provisions are enforced.

We should be using our time to pass legislation to rebuild America's economic infrastructure using American workers and goods and products made in the United States. I encourage my colleagues to oppose all three agreements.

Mr. Speaker, on October 11, 2011, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall votes 771 through 779.

Had I been present for rollcall 771, agreeing to H. Res. 425, Providing for the consideration of the Senate amendment to H.R. 2832, to extend the Generalized System of Preferences; H.R. 3078, the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement; H.R. 3079, the United States-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement; H.R. 3080, the United States- Korea Free Trade Agreement, I would have voted ``No.''

Had I been present for rollcall 772, agreeing to the Waxman of California Amendment No. 11 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall 773, agreeing to the Connolly of Virginia Amendment No. 18 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall 774, agreeing to the Markey of Massachusetts Amendment No. 7 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall 775, agreeing to the Edwards of Maryland Amendment No. 2 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall 776, agreeing to the Schakowsky of Illinois Amendment No. 1 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall 777, agreeing to the Ellison of Minnesota Amendment No. 12 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall 778, agreeing to the Welch of Vermont Amendment No. 19 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Had I been present for rollcall 779, agreeing to the Jackson Lee of Texas Amendment No. 3 to H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize the efforts of the Lakeshore Areas Regional Recovery of Indiana, or LARRI for short, and to recognize its esteemed partners for their dedication as this organization reaches the end of its third, and final, year of operation. Although LARRI has served the Region admirably since the widespread flooding of Northwest Indiana in September of 2008, its work has come to an end, and the organization ceased operations on September 30, 2011.

LARRI was formed by a coalition of dedicated non-profit organizations in response the heavy flooding of Northwest Indiana in September of 2008. As the Little Calumet overflowed its banks, LARRI went into immediate action for its neighbors in need, and by the time it closed its doors, LARRI had coordinated more than 6,000 volunteers in removing 15,920 pounds of debris, building 5 homes, restoring another 600 more, and relocating 26 displaced families to new homes throughout the area. In short, LARRI has have helped to get a struggling region back on its feet with

nothing more than volunteer time and donations. They are true examples of a civic spirit to which we can all aspire. Notable contributors to LARRI's philanthropic mission include: the Lake Area United Way, United Way of Porter County, Ridge United Methodist Church, Northwest Indiana Community Action Corporation, American Red Cross of Northwest Indiana, the Salvation Army, Dyer United Methodist Church, Gary Neighborhood, the Geminus Corporation, Continuum of Care Northwest Indiana, Lutheran Church Charities, Catholic Charities, McShane's Business Products and Solutions, and the Gary 411 newspaper, as well as individuals John Beebe and Ted Prettyman.

Mr. Speaker, Northwest Indiana is fortunate to have such an impressive array of willing humanitarians, and I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in recognizing this outstanding organization on its campaign. Although LARRI's efforts lasted a mere three years, this should only add to the profound impact the organization had on Northwest Indiana. I ask that you join me in honoring its individual members who freely gave so much of their time in service to their community.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and deep sadness that I wish to commend United States Army Specialist James A. Butz for his bravery and willingness to fight for his country. Specialist Butz was a member of the 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. While serving in Afghanistan as a combat medic, on September 28, 2011, Specialist Butz was killed while rushing to assist two wounded Marines when an improvised explosive device detonated, taking his life and the lives of the two Marines. His sacrifice will forever be remembered by those he fought to protect.

A native of Porter, Indiana, James graduated from Chesterton High School in 2009. While in high school, James was a wrestler and football player. Many describe James as

very outgoing, happy, smart, and full of energy. After graduating high school in June 2009, James enlisted in the Army. According to his family, James decided in high school that he wanted to join the military. Family and friends remember James as a hard worker who enjoyed military life and thrived in that environment. His plans were to continue his military career and become a registered nurse. For his selfless commitment to the Army and outstanding dedication to his country, James is worthy of the highest praise. For his courage and sacrifice, James has been honored by the military with the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the NATO medal, the Combat Medic Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. Although only a young man, James gained immense respect from those around him, and he was admired in his community. He will be greatly missed and forever cherished by those who loved him.

Specialist Butz leaves behind a loving family. He is survived by his adoring parents, John and Mary Jane Butz. James also leaves to cherish his memory his brothers, John and William. He also leaves behind many other dear friends and family members, as well as a saddened community and a grateful nation.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, United States Army Specialist James A. Butz. Specialist Butz sacrificed his life in service to his country, and his passing comes as a great loss to our nation, which has once again been shaken by the realities of war. Specialist Butz will forever remain a hero in the eyes of his family, his community, and his country. Thus, let us never forget the sacrifice he made to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to rise today to honor one of Indiana's fine organizations, the Coolspring Democratic Club, and to congratulate its membership as they celebrate the club's 50th Anniversary. In honor of this momentous occasion, the members of the Coolspring Democratic Club will be celebrating with dinner and entertainment on Saturday, October 8, 2011, at the American Legion Post 37 in Michigan City, Indiana.

The Coolspring Democratic Club, which was founded in 1961, was established to promote the general ideals of the Democratic Party in LaPorte County and to promote the general welfare of the entire community. In 1961, nine individuals formed the first committee, led by its commanders, Mr. and Mrs. Elvin Rodgers. Mr. and Mrs. Rodgers, along with the other committee members, had the foresight and initiative to foster change in their community and bring Democratic principles to anyone who sought to impact society in a positive way. This original committee, as well as all past and present members, will be honored at the Anniversary celebration for their commitment to promoting the ideals of the Democratic Party.

The Coolspring Democratic Club continues to uphold its mission set forth by its founding members under the leadership of its current Committee President, Dawn Proud, Vice President, Johnny Stimley, Secretary, Pat Steele, and Treasurer, Bonnie Hunt. These dedicated individuals have worked tirelessly to provide for the LaPorte County community and to promote patriotism and altruism among their neighbors.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Coolspring Democratic Club on its 50th Anniversary. I also ask that you join me in honoring its membership for their service to their community. Through the years, the organization's members have graced us with their patriotism and benevolence and are to be recognized for their selflessness and commitment to their fellow citizens.