Floor Statements

I just want to respond very briefly to my colleague from New Jersey (Mr. Frelinghuysen), who is our ranking member.

I appreciate your kind words. Certainly, as we head forward to 2010, I look forward to the continued bipartisanship that we have enjoyed on the subcommittee both at a member and at a staff level.

I simply want to address Members of the House to share my concern with the ranking member about the final number relative to the Yucca Mountain depository as far as nuclear waste. I would point out that, in fiscal year 2008, $286 million was provided for that project. I would point out that the House mark for this project was $60 million higher. We were at $247 million. Unfortunately, a compromise was obviously involved here. The figure ultimately ended up at $145 million. I am not happy with it. The gentleman expressed his unhappiness.

Certainly, I want to continue to work--looking at all of these nuclear accounts and as a supporter of nuclear as part of the solution to our energy problem and climate problem--to make sure that this is not untoward as far as the continued progress of the industry. So I do appreciate and share the gentleman's concern.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the recognition, and because the energy and water portion of the omnibus package was mentioned, I would point out to my colleagues that we know how to say ``no,'' to say ``no'' for the right reason: for policy, as well as to save the taxpayers of this country money.

The previous administration asked for $205 million to expand the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. That would essentially, at a time of high gas prices, put the Federal Government in competition with the consumer. That was a bad idea. The subcommittee and full committee said ``no,'' and we have saved the taxpayers $205 million in this bill.

The previous administration asked for moneys for the so-called Global Nuclear Energy Partnership Act. That was zeroed out in this bill. There were not huge, vast sums of money involved, but there were taxpayers' dollars that were saved and particularly in the out years because we did not go down that road.

The previous administration wanted to proceed as far as the examination of a reliable replacement warhead absent a new nuclear strategy post-Cold War. It was not a good idea. We eliminated that money, and we saved the taxpayers of this Nation a great sum of money.

I appreciate the gentleman yielding, and just a moment ago mentioned a number of programs that did not have merit, which we said no to. On the other hand, looking at the energy situation we face in the United States, it is an economic, a national security, and an environmental issue, and we do need to make an investment.

New technology drives new jobs, markets, and economic opportunity, which is why we set $4.8 billion aside for the sciences in the Office of Science.

It is a national security issue, energy is, given where we buy so much of our petroleum products from, which is why we decided to invest in new vehicle technology to the extent of $273 million so we can get more miles per gallon, setting aside the issue of Yucca, investing $792 million in nuclear energy, and doing extensive biomass research.

There is an environmental aspect to this as well, and that is why we set aside monies for advanced clean energy and technologies to reduce the impact of older fossil-based fuels.

And finally, I would point out, given national security, we have set aside $1.5 billion for nuclear nonproliferation programs.

Mr. Speaker, I too rise regarding a provision contained in this legislation to carry out the Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Program at the U.S. Department of Energy.

I would like to thank Congresswoman Schmidt for raising a concern regarding the potential of the language implementing the Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Program having a negative impact on a project already well along in its development. I would be pleased to work with Representative Schmidt and her colleagues in the Ohio delegation to address any unintended consequences.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to honor one of Northwest Indiana's most devoted citizens, Bill Nangle, Executive Editor of The Times. I have known Mr. Nangle for many years and can attest to a life dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the press and improving the governance of all those he serves. Not only is Bill a distinguished journalist, but he has used the power of his pen to be a force for progress and change in the community. Last week, the Hoosier State Press Association recognized Bill for his commitment to the pursuit of open government by presenting him with its Distinguished Service Award.

Throughout his illustrious career, which spans five decades, Bill has taken his role in the Fourth Estate seriously, leading the charge for openness and transparency in government. For example, in 1989, he pushed state legislators and then-Governor Evan Bayh to enact a state law reversing a court decision that closed county coroner records to the public.

And in 1998, Bill assembled Indiana's seven largest newspapers to collaborate on ``The State of Secrecy,'' an investigation of government sunshine and First Amendment rights in which investigative journalists went undercover as ordinary citizens to try to access records in each of the state's 92 counties that are lawfully open to the public. The flagrant legal violations that they uncovered prompted action from then-Governor Frank O'Bannon and spurred similar projects on openness and transparency in 32 other states. For his efforts, Bill Nangle was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash, the state's highest honor at the time.

Bill has also exercised his commitment to open, effective government locally. In 2005, he joined me in a consortium of local civic and business leaders to create Northwest Indiana's Good Government Initiative. He was a driving force behind that effort to study government efficiency across the many levels of our local government, including my office, and to implement solutions that improve government services while cutting costs. The Good Government Initiative became the model for the statewide Kernan-Shepard Report on Indiana government, which is the basis for government reform initiatives currently underway in the State

House in Indianapolis and throughout the state.

Last year, Bill and his colleagues at The Times took the lead on establishing the One Region: One Vision concept with the goal of uniting local leaders to advance all of Northwest Indiana as one community. In the past, Northwest Indiana has been plagued by a limiting provincialism that has inhibited our area's growth and potential. Under the One Region: One Vision concept, Bill and his colleagues have already brought local leaders together from across the area to start collaborating on projects that will make Northwest Indiana a better place for everybody to live.

Finally, any praise for Bill would be incomplete without mention of his business instincts and acumen. With the print media industry struggling nationwide, and with the economic downturn exacerbating the industry's problems, The Times continues to thrive under Bill's direction. Last March, Editor and Publisher Magazine bestowed upon The Times the distinction of fastest growing English-language daily newspaper in the United States. By the most recent published reports, that growth has continued.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in honoring Bill Nangle, who has worked tirelessly to maintain a vibrant and free press and has used his influence to positively enhance the lives of the people he serves. Bill is an unparalleled leader who deserves our recognition.

Madam Speaker, It is with great respect and sincere admiration that I rise to celebrate Black History Month and its 2009 theme--The Quest for Black Citizenship in the Americas. Throughout its history, the struggle for racial equality has been and continues to be one of the greatest testaments of America's progress.

The theme for this year's Black History Month, The Quest for Black Citizenship in the Americas, is a reminder that in striving for a greater society, we must examine the past. No group has contributed more to reflecting on the past in order to create a better future than the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). As the NAACP celebrates a remarkable milestone, its 100th anniversary, we take this time to remember

the outstanding contributions of so many proud and courageous individuals: black, white, men, women, young and old. These men and women have given hope in the bleakest of times and allowed us, as a society, to make strides toward equality once considered impossible.

Recognizing that emancipation was only the beginning of the fight for true equality, the NAACP was founded with the ideals of creating and preserving equal citizenship for all men and women throughout America. Knowing that there is still work to be done, it is the vision of the NAACP that, one day, all individuals will have equal rights and the United States will see an end to racial hatred and discrimination. As the first page of the NAACP Constitution indicates, the principal goals of the organization are: to ensure political, educational, social, and economic equality, to eliminate racial prejudice in America, to remove racial barriers through the democratic process, to secure civil rights, to inform the public and seek the elimination of racial discrimination, and to educate individuals about their constitutional rights.

In the First Congressional District, I am proud to serve as the representative for three branches of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. At this time, I would like to pay special tribute to these three groups, which have played such a critical role, locally, in the fight for racial equality and in improving Northwest Indiana for all residents. These three outstanding representatives of the First Congressional District include the East Chicago Branch, led by President Philip Hinton, the Gary Branch, led by President Karen Pulliam, and the Hammond Branch, led by President Mary Aaron.

It is the efforts of organizations like these that allow us to reflect on what makes the United States of America so special. Nowhere else in the world do you find such an integrated society. While the United States is made up of people from so many different racial, religious, social, and ideological backgrounds, it is the efforts of the many brave citizens who have fought and continue to struggle for equality that have made America what it is.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in remembering the many brave men and women who have led the struggle for equality among all Americans, and I ask that you join me in honoring the work and tireless dedication of the members of organizations, such as the NAACP, who continue their selfless work today. Through the efforts of these honorable individuals and organizations, we are reminded of how far we have come as a nation, while realizing that there is still progress to be made.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize the Hobart Chamber of Commerce award winners for 2008 and to congratulate one of its member businesses, Burns Funeral Home, as they celebrate a momentous milestone, 100 years of excellent service. These outstanding recipients will be honored during the Chamber's annual awards and installation banquet, which will take place on Thursday, January 29, 2009, at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana.

The Hobart Chamber of Commerce utilizes members of the community in order to improve and develop business, industry, and the professions. Each year, the Chamber members and friends gather together to honor the Business Award Winners, Volunteers of the Year, and to commemorate specific accomplishments within the community.

Continuing a tradition that goes back well over 50 years, the Chamber will honor its 2008 Business Award Winners. The Large Business of the Year award recipient is Saint Mary's Medical Center. The hospital continues to be a leader in providing outstanding health services to the community. For the fourth consecutive year, Saint Mary's Medical Center has also won the 2008 Distinguished Hospital for Patient Safety. The Small Business of the Year award recipient is Sebo's Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. This outstanding facility has grown into a 138- bed facility offering clinical services, specialty programming for Alzheimer's and Dementia patients, rehabilitation services, and many other amenities. The New Business of the Year award is being presented to 54 Main Bistro. The owners, Dave and Linda Papp, renovated an 1895 Victorian home and turned it into a local favorite that is known for its weekly changing menu. Each business is dedicated to providing excellent business to the community and for that reason, they are to be commended.

The Hobart Chamber of Commerce will honor the Herrick Family with the Volunteers of the Year award. Dr. James Herrick, his wife Janet Herrick, and their daughter Cheryl Herrick have been dedicated volunteers in Hobart for many years. The family continues to be a staple in the community, donating their time and effort to numerous special events, fundraisers, the Kiwanis Club, Little League, and the community's school system, to name a few. For their selfless commitment to their community, I congratulate the Herrick family on this prestigious award.

The Hobart Chamber of Commerce will also congratulate Burns Funeral Home as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. In 1908, James E. Burns opened his first funeral home in Hammond, Indiana. His business was founded on providing compassionate care to the friends and families of the departed during their time of need. It was this principle that allowed the Burns family to expand to Gary, Hobart, and finally to Crown Point in the 1980s. Today, the family owned and operated business provides the same exceptional services, and I commend Terry, Sally, Jim, Patrick, and Jimmy Burns, and their entire staff on continuing the legacy of Mr. Burns.

Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the Hobart Chamber of Commerce 2008 Business Award Winners, Volunteers of the Year, and also in congratulating the Burns family and their team on the 100th anniversary of Burns Funeral Home. For their dedication and commitment to the community of Hobart as well as Northwest Indiana, they are all worthy of the honors bestowed upon them.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and deep sadness that I wish to commend United States Army Corporal Joseph M. Hernandez for his bravery and his willingness to fight for his country. Corporal Hernandez, who was assigned to 1st Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment out of Hohenfels, Germany, was killed in the Zabul Province of Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle on Friday, January 9, 2009. His sacrifice will be forever remembered by those he fought to protect.

A native of Hammond, Indiana, Joseph graduated from Mount Carmel High School in Chicago, Illinois, in 2003. Known for his patriotism and his commitment to serving others, it was no surprise to anyone close to him that he decided to join the Army.

Joseph's family remembers him as a warm-hearted individual who loved boxing, building model airplanes, fishing, and working on cars. Quite the talented young man, he also loved to sing, as well as play the piano and the guitar, and he played soccer in high school. A person of a strong faith, Joseph was active in his church as an altar server and cantor, and at one point, even considered entering the priesthood.

Corporal Hernandez leaves behind a loving family that misses him very much. He is survived by his devoted wife, Alison (nee Gordon) Hernandez, and their two sons, Jacob and Noah, whom Joseph truly treasured. Joseph also leaves to cherish his memory his adoring parents, Elva Hernandez and Jesse (Vicki) Hernandez, and his brothers, Jason and Jessie (Chrissy) Hernandez, as well as his loving grandparents, Josephine and Salvador Pompa. He also leaves behind many other friends and family members, as well as a saddened but proud community and a grateful nation.

Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, United States Army Corporal Joseph M. Hernandez. Corporal Hernandez sacrificed his life in service to his country, and his passing comes as a setback to a community already shaken by the realities of war. Corporal Hernandez 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.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that I congratulate Ms. Martha Morgan-Naylor on a momentous milestone, her 100th birthday, which will be on January 22, 2009. Martha will be celebrating this milestone with family and friends on Sunday, January 18, 2009, at the First Baptist Church of Gary, Indiana. For 42 years, Martha's presence in the Gary school system allowed her the opportunity to touch the lives of countless members of her community.

Martha Morgan-Naylor was born on January 22, 1909, in Auburn, Alabama. She was the youngest of five children born to Clem and Amy Morgan. In 1917, the family relocated to Gary, Indiana, in search of better employment opportunities and school systems for their children. In 1926, Martha graduated from one of only a few integrated high schools in the state of Indiana: Froebel High School. Martha's passion for education led her on to graduate with a bachelor of science degree in physical education from Indiana State Normal School, now known as Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana. Martha then decided to return to Gary to pursue a teaching career. She went on to teach physical education for 32 years at Roosevelt High School. Her career continued and she went on to teach for 11 years at Beckman Middle School until her retirement in 1974. Martha's many years of service as an educator have been a blessing to the youth and families in the Gary community, and she is worthy of our deepest admiration.

In addition to her impressive career, Martha serves her community as an active member and deacon at First Baptist Church of Gary. Fully devoted to her congregation, she serves as Chairman of the Scholarship Committee at First Baptist, and is also a member of the Matron's Welcoming Committee. A lifelong teacher, Martha participated in the Purdue University/Hammond High School Oral History project in October 2008. The students involved researched ``The Great Depression'' and interviewed Martha on her reflection of living during that time. The interview was recorded and transcribed for historical records. Martha believes that she is blessed by God's grace and has always felt compelled to help others. It is this belief that has enabled her to enrich the lives of many people throughout the community.

Martha has many friends and loved ones who share a common respect for her commendable qualities, including her energy, wisdom, sharp mind, and her calmness in stressful situations. Martha's selfless devotion to education and the community of Gary is to be commended. She is truly an inspiration and a role model for us all.

Madam Speaker, Martha Morgan-Naylor has always given her time and efforts selflessly to the youth and the community in Gary throughout her illustrious life. She has taught her friends and members of her community the true meaning of service to others. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in wishing Martha a very Happy 100th Birthday.

Madam 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. In particular, several distinguished individuals from Indiana's First Congressional District will be recognized during the 30th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast on Saturday, January 17, 2009, 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 several local individuals who have for decades unselfishly contributed to improving the quality of life for the people of Gary. Those individuals who will be recognized as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marchers at this year's breakfast include: Pastor W.N. Reed, Roosevelt Allen, Jr., Otho Lyles II, Willie Horne, Era Cleveland Twyman, and George Burrell. Additionally, Reverend Pharis Evans and Mr. Cleo Wesson will be honored with the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award, an award given out annually to outstanding individuals of the Gary community. This marks the first time two individuals have been honored with this distinguished award.

After fifty-four years of service to the Gary community, the Gary Frontiers Service Club will proudly announce its first female members: Ferba Hines, Johnnie Rogers, and Gwen Johnson-Robinson. Yokefellow Sean Jones, a Gary Police Officer, was also named the 2008 Yokefellow of the Year.

Though very different in nature, the achievement of all 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.

Madam Speaker, I urge you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the Gary Frontiers Service Club officers: President Oliver J. Gilliam, Vice President James Piggee, Secretary Melvin Ward, Financial Secretary Sam Frazier, and Treasurer/Seventh District Director Floyd Donaldson, as well as Breakfast Chairman Clorius L. Lay, Videographer Otho Lyles, Master of Ceremony Alfred Hammonds, the honorees, and 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 in support of H.R. 7321, the Auto Industry Financing and Restructuring Act.

I voted twice against the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, more familiarly known as the Wall Street bailout, because I felt that it was an irresponsible use of $700 billion of taxpayer dollars. There was no concrete plan for how those funds would be used or what specifically they would accomplish. I opposed the Wall Street bailout because it was in essence a blank check.

So I thought long and hard about the proposed use of $15 billion in hard-earned taxpayer dollars to provide assistance to auto manufacturers. I have concluded that these are substantially different circumstances, and that the Auto Industry Financing and Restructuring Act represents a practical and fiscally responsible approach to saving millions of jobs and a key pillar of our fragile economy.

I want to emphasize that the approach taken in this measure is in sharp contrast to the Wall Street bailout. I continue to believe that it was a mistake to blindly hand Wall Street everything it wanted, and to rush to such a decision in just seven days. The Government Accountability Office released a report on December 2, 2008, that shows that the proper and effective distribution of those funds remains impaired by a lack of adequate transparency and accountability.

Congress has taken a more measured approach to addressing our struggling automotive industry. Congressional leaders correctly turned down the auto manufacturers' initial request for tens of billions of dollars with no strings attached. We sent the auto manufacturers back to the drawing board to develop specific plans to restructure their operations and to provide a credible account for how they would use federal funds to build a viable industry, with quality jobs, while protecting taxpayer investments.

I am encouraged by the auto manufacturers' good faith efforts since that time, and I am pleased that this Act would provide the transparency and accountability that should have been built into the Wall Street bailout. In addition to strong independent oversight by the GAO and a Special Inspector General, the auto assistance funds would be subject to rigorous oversight with the government having full information access and veto powers over large industry expenditures. Auto executives will be held accountable for implementing their restructuring plans and complying with Congress' terms. The funds also would be subject to strict conditions, such as requirements that innovation funding be set aside to build advanced technology vehicles with improved efficiency and carbon emissions. Additionally, this measure establishes hard deadlines for progress in restructuring, and includes provisions for cutting off aid if these deadlines are not met.

For example, companies receiving assistance would not be allowed to pay dividends to their shareholders until they repay the loan, and the government could require immediate repayment from any company that does not make adequate progress by February 15, 2009. Further, unlike the Wall Street bailout, taxpayer dollars would not simply be given to executives to line their pockets. These companies would be explicitly prohibited from giving their highest-paid employees large bonuses or golden parachutes.

It is true that $15 billion is a significant investment. However, given that this assistance is only two percent of the amount given to Wall Street, under the circumstances I believe that we have no choice but to view this as a moderate approach to preventing catastrophic job loss. It is my hope that this sober-minded package will function as a bridge to keep the auto manufacturers functioning into the next Administration, and provide additional time to figure out how to save the domestic automotive industry.

Having said that, I intend to carefully follow the implementation of this program, to ensure that taxpayer money is spent properly.

Madam Speaker, it is with sincere admiration that I recognize the Asian American Medical Association, which will be hosting its 32nd Annual Gala on Saturday, November 8, 2008, 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 each year 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 service to the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District, and they have always demonstrated exemplary service through their many cultural, scholastic, and charitable endeavors.

At this year's charity ball, the Asian American Medical Association will present the Crystal Globe Award to one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, Mr. James Gagan. Born in Chicago, Illinois on May 6, 1930, James Lawrence Gagan learned the importance of serving his community from a young age. This would become evident in his two separate stints in the United States Army between 1948 and 1954. Following his military service, Jim, as he is known by those closest to him, relocated to Northwest Indiana in 1956 and worked as a finance company manager until 1958. At that time, he founded a collection and prorating business now owned and operated by his brother, Larry. An astute businessman, Mr. Gagan later moved on to the oil industry when, in 1963, he founded United Penn Oil and Gas Company. Focusing on the leasing, drilling, and production of oil and gas wells, the company expanded to serve an area covering nine states. Remarkably, Jim's entrepreneurial success did not end there. In 1971, he conceived a new company that incorporated with United Consumers Club, Inc. Now known as Direct Buy, this company is now the most successful private buying club in the world, with more than one million members and 163 locations throughout the United States and Canada. Beginning with the vision of Jim Gagan, Direct Buy has become the gold standard in the merchandising industry. Mr. Gagan's impressive contributions to his industry are truly a source of pride for the First Congressional District. In addition, Jim has also been a partner in the development of one of California's premier golf clubs, Big Horn Country Club in Palm Desert, California, which has gained national recognition, and he has been an active participant in the restoration of Innsbrook Country Club, one of Indiana's oldest golf courses.

While his resume is already impressive in and of itself, it is his service to those in need throughout the Nation that is most astonishing. Entirely funded by profits from Direct Buy, Jim formed the Friendship Foundation in May of 1985. This outstanding foundation, like Jim, is solely focused on improving the quality of life for those who are in need. Since its inception, the Friendship Foundation has contributed, both locally and nationally, to many people through organizations such as: Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, Christian Haven Homes, Shults-Lewis Homes, Ronald McDonald House, The Caring Place, Baptist Children's Homes, Visiting Nurses Association, Meals on Wheels, Hebrew Association for the Deaf, Greater Hammond Community Center, Special Olympics, Opportunity Enterprises, Wycliffe Bible Translators, Respite Care Services, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Boy Scouts of America, Lake County Child Abuse Center, Hospice Home Care, Children's Memorial Hospitals of Indianapolis and Chicago, as well as many local food pantries, churches, and civic charities. Also, through Direct Buy, local nursing homes have annually received more than 1,500 Christmas gifts, consisting of much needed goods, and more than 1,000 children have had a brighter Christmas thanks to their efforts through the local Angel Tree project. For his efforts on behalf of his community, Jim has received many honors, including the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash, presented by the governor of the State of Indiana, in 1981.

Madam 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, Mr. James Gagan, 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 Mr. Gagan are to be recognized, and I am proud to serve as their representative in Washington, DC.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, Mr. George Baranowski, of Schererville, Indiana. George has always been a dedicated, distinguished, and honorable citizen, and I can say without hesitation that he is one of the most involved individuals I have ever known. As a businessman, entrepreneur, public official, and an avid volunteer, George has served the community in Northwest Indiana for many years. Through his service, he has brought honor to Americans of Polish heritage, and for his efforts, he will be honored with the Polish American Congress Meritorious Service Award at a banquet taking place at The Patio Restaurant in Merrillville, Indiana on Sunday, November 2, 2008.

George Baranowski was born on August 30, 1957 at Saint Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, Indiana. He was the third child born to immigrant parents, Mieczyslaw (Matt) and Janina Baranowski. A lifelong resident of Northwest Indiana, George attended Saint Casmir Elementary School in Hammond before moving on to George Rogers Clark High School. Following his graduation from high school in 1975, George went on to study Electrical Engineering Technology at Purdue University, where he earned both his associate and bachelor degrees.

After receiving his associate degree, George began working at the Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO), where he remained until the completion of his bachelor degree. At that time, he accepted a position in management with Acme Steel in Riverdale, Illinois. Following seven successful years at Acme, George moved on in 1995, when he accepted a management position at BP Amoco in Chicago, Illinois. Recognized for his professionalism and leadership abilities, in 1999, George was awarded a position as Vice President at Prometheus Network Solution, Inc., thus allowing him to obtain one of his lifelong goals.

Having accomplished a goal he set forth for himself in business, George decided to move on, and after working for IBM for a period of time, he and his wife went into business for themselves. On October 1, 2004, George and his wife, Debra, opened their first Allstate Insurance Agency in Dyer, Indiana. Since then they have achieved great success, having been awarded Allstate's prestigious Honor Ring, Regional Champion, and Chairman's Club Member distinctions. In 2007, they were among the elite at Allstate as part of the top five percent. It is no surprise the couple opened their second branch in 2008.

Undoubtedly, George Baranowski has been extremely successful as a businessman and entrepreneur throughout his career. However, his efforts on behalf of his community have truly set him apart from his peers. As a public official, George is currently the Commissioner of the Dyer Redevelopment Commission and a Trustee for the Lake Central School Board. He has also served as Chairman of the Saint John Township Board as well as a Legislative Committee Member for the Indiana School Board Association, serving all of Jasper, Lake, Newton, and Porter Counties. He has also served as a member of the Chambers of Commerce for the communities of Schererville and Dyer, for which he is currently the Director. In addition to his many civic responsibilities, George has also been extremely active in various charitable and community- based organizations, including: Christmas in April, the Lions Club, Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, and the Polish American Congress.

A devout family man, George spends much of his spare time with not only his business partner, but his loving wife of 28 years, Debra. George and Debra have two sons, Brett and Bryan, and one daughter, Kristy.

Madam Speaker, George Baranowski has given his time and efforts selflessly to the people of his community, and he has served as a source of pride for the Polish American community. His efforts have touched the hearts of many people throughout the years, and at this time, I ask that you and all of my distinguished colleagues join me in commending him for his lifetime of service and dedication.

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to take this time to recognize Ivy Tech Community College as it dedicates its East Chicago, Indiana campus and to join the institute in paying tribute to its namesake, Vietnam War hero Lance Corporal Emilio Albert De La Garza, Jr. After completing the first phase of a new modernization project, Ivy Tech will be holding a dedication ceremony on Sunday, December 7, 2008 at the campus in East Chicago, Indiana. The event will serve not only as an opportunity to showcase the improvements to the campus and to reaffirm its commitment to excellence in higher learning, but it will also serve as a chance to reflect on the bravery and heroism of one of East Chicago's own.

Ivy Tech Community College's East Chicago campus has served students from Northwest Indiana and beyond since 1994. Always committed to improving the learning environment for its students, the De La Garza campus, which began with 376 students and now serves an impressive enrollment of 1,122 students, recently completed the first phase of a modernization project. This project, which began in July 2006, features improvements to general maintenance and enhanced safety measures, as well as new and improved conference rooms and student common areas. Phase II of this project, set to begin in January 2009, will focus on improvements to the classrooms and computer labs.

These renovations are the result of the continuous outpouring of support from the community, offered as a living memory of one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens and greatest heroes, Lance Corporal Emilio A. De La Garza, Jr. Lance Corporal De La Garza was born in East Chicago, Indiana on June 23, 1949. Following his graduation from East Chicago Washington High School in 1968, the patriotic and devoted De La Garza decided to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. While serving as a machine gunner with Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division in the Republic of Vietnam on April 11, 1970, Lance Corporal De La Garza paid the ultimate sacrifice. Demonstrating the most selfless act imaginable, Lance Corporal De La Garza placed himself between two of his fellow Marines and a live grenade. While Lance Corporal De La Garza's life was lost, his courageous act spared the lives of the other Marines.

Lance Corporal Emilio De La Garza, Jr. performed the ultimate act of heroism, setting aside personal safety for the safety of others. For his bravery, Lance Corporal De La Garza was posthumously honored by President Richard Nixon with the nation's highest honor, the Medal of Honor.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Ivy Tech Community College's administrators, faculty, staff, students and members of the community who, over the years, have contributed to its success in achieving its standard of excellence, as well as in honoring the school's namesake, Lance Corporal Emilio Albert De La Garza, Jr. The efforts of those involved have made the De La Garza campus a tremendous source of pride of Indiana's First Congressional District, and they have made the campus a constant reminder of one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens.

Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness and great respect that I take this time to remember one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, Ms. Robbie Floyd of Gary, Indiana. Ms. Floyd's many contributions to the Northwest Indiana community, as a businesswoman, as a civil servant, and as a leader within her church, are worthy of our deepest admiration. Robbie passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2008, but the impact and influence she has had on her community will surely live on for generations to come.

Robbie Lorraine Floyd was born in Gunnison, Mississippi to Joseph and Julia Floyd. At the age of 8, Robbie relocated to Gary, Indiana. She attended Froebel High School, one of only two schools in the City of Gary with integrated classes, where African-American students could attend with other children and receive the same education. The type of person who always sought to deepen her understanding of different areas, Robbie later enrolled in real estate school and became a licensed realtor.

Known for her focus and determination, Robbie Floyd took on the many challenges life brought her, and in spite of the shortage of advantages for African-Americans, sought to improve the quality of her life and the lives of her other family members. In the 1940s, she and her father became owner-operators of a grocery store, as well as apartment rental units in Gary.

Ms. Floyd, a true activist in the Northwest Indiana area, also recognized that having a voice at City Hall was essential to social progress. Recognizing the respect Robbie had in her community, and seeing just how dedicated an individual she was, then Mayor Peter Mandich encouraged her to enter politics. Thus she became a Precinct Committeewoman twice, first in District 4 and later in District 3. These positions enabled Robbie to serve her constituents by giving them a voice and allowing them to acquire the services they needed. Later, continuing her service in the public sector, Robbie worked as the Administrative Assistant/Secretary to two city controllers, George Chacharis and my father, John Visclosky, both of whom later became mayors of the City of Gary. It is in the City Controller's office that I first met Ms. Floyd as a child. Robbie kept an eye on me there, and until the day of her passing, to make sure I stayed on the straight and narrow.

A true renaissance woman, Robbie Floyd was also the first African- American woman to serve as a police officer for the Lake County Sheriff. As her peers would recall, in breaking this glass ceiling, she did so with distinction, dignity, honor, and dedication. For her efforts, she was honored with the highest accolade bestowed upon an individual by the governor of the State of Indiana, the Sagamore of the Wabash.

While she was fully committed to the people of Gary and Northwest Indiana, Robbie's commitment to her faith was equally impressive. After confessing Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior with First Baptist Church in Gary, she later became a charter member of Christ Baptist Church. Prior to her passing, Ms. Floyd was a key member of her church. For 16 years, Robbie served as its Financial Secretary. As her congregation would attest, she loved serving others and never failed to aid ``the stranger,'' ``the friend,'' or ``the child'' in any way that she could. Robbie was known for her ability to help those who needed it most, leading to her participation in various church ministries, including: the Willing Workers, Church School, the Church School Fellowship Committee, for which she served as its chair, Male Chorus Boosters, and the Pearce Prayer and Study Group.

While Robbie Floyd was always active in her community and her church, she cherished her time with her family the most. She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters, Dr. Doris Keys Ward and Debra Floyd; grandnieces, LaTanya Obgiofor, Desnee Flakes, and Donna Floyd; grandnephews, Cordell (Millicent) Olive and Joseph Floyd, and numerous great-grandnieces and nephews. She will also be greatly missed by her many friends, her Pastor, Reverend Dr. Maurice White, Jr., and all of the members of Christ Baptist Church.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Robbie Lorraine Floyd for her outstanding devotion to her community in Northwest Indiana. Her unselfish and lifelong dedication to those in need is worthy of the highest commendation. Robbie's selflessness was an inspiration to us all, and I am proud to have represented her in Congress.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and sincerity that I take this time to honor one of Northwest Indiana's most accomplished citizens, Mr. John Evans of Miller Beach. On Sunday, November 2, 2008, John was honored by the Indiana Division of the Polish American Congress for his many years of service as a dedicated member of his community, as well as a proud representative of the Polish American heritage in Northwest Indiana. This extraordinary event took place at The Patio restaurant in Merrillville, Indiana.

John Evans, a lifelong resident of Northwest Indiana and the son of Russell Glenn and Eleanor Evans of New Chicago, Indiana, has been recognized by the Polish American Congress, Indiana Division, as the recipient of the 2008 Distinguished Service Award. From his career in the insurance industry to his service with several of Northwest Indiana's churches to his commitment to preserving the Polish heritage, John is truly deserving of this prestigious accolade. Always one to try to improve the lives of his fellow citizens in any way possible, John has spent the last twenty-four years working with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. After spending many years building relationships between hospitals and providers as a Provider Network Consultant, John moved into a management position in 2000 and was recently promoted to Director of Provider Network Relations. In his current position, John is responsible for overseeing relations with all hospitals, physicians, and ancillary providers for the State of Illinois. As a member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield team, John has been active with the company's Diversity Workforce Committee, serving as Master of Ceremonies for their 2007 Polish Heritage Day.

Mr. Evans, widely known as a truly gifted musician, has been a fixture in the Northwest Indiana for, in all sincerity, most of his life. As a child of only ten years of age, John began formally studying the organ with Mrs. Joanne Sparks of Gary, Indiana. Only a few short years later, John began playing dinner music at Wilson's Restaurant and Lounge in Miller Beach, entertaining diners every Friday and Saturday night. During this time, he also began playing at wedding receptions and other banquets, as well as serving as the organist at Sunday masses at Assumption B.V.M. Church in New Chicago. From there, at a mere fifteen years of age, John took over as the director of the church's choir in 1973. During the twenty-three years he spent at Assumption, John's leadership meant not only an increase in choir membership, but in popularity as well. During this time, the choir was asked to perform at many dances, ordinations, anniversaries, and other special occasions. In fact, they even recorded an album entitled ``Christmas in New Chicago'' which featured Polish and English Christmas carols.

Fully committed to his faith and his heritage, John also has organized and choreographed dance selections for Polish Women's Alliance Saint Anne's Group 778, directed the choir at events for the Polish Women's Alliance Group 132, and directed the choir for the Polish mass at Saint Stanislaus in Michigan City, Indiana. In 1996, Mr. Evans took over as the organist and choir director for the Saint Cecilia Choir at Saint Stanislaus Parish in East Chicago, Indiana. Since taking over at Saint Stan's, the membership of the choir has nearly doubled, and John has been successful in bringing young people into the choir. Not to be outdone, the choir at Saint Stanislaus has also produced a professional CD of Polish and English hymns and religious selections entitled ``Spirit,'' which has sold over 500 copies, profits from it contributing to various church renovations.

Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Mr. John Evans as he is honored for his lifetime of service and dedication to the Northwest Indiana community. His years of service have touched and improved the lives of all whom he has served. His unselfish and lifelong dedication is worthy of the highest commendation, and I am proud to represent him in Congress.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that I take this time to recognize one of the most influential and renowned individuals to emerge from Northwest Indiana. Dr. James P. Comer, M.D., M.P.H., has made many distinguished contributions to the field of child psychiatry throughout his prestigious career, and I take this time to welcome him back to Northwest Indiana, where he will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2008 Parent University on Saturday, October 11, 2008, at East Chicago Central High School in East Chicago, Indiana. This extraordinary event is sponsored by the School City of East Chicago, the City of East Chicago, the Lake Shore Chamber of Commerce, and Purdue University.

Dr. Comer was born in East Chicago, Indiana. In 1956, he completed his studies at Indiana University and went on to receive his M.D. in 1960 from Howard University College of Medicine. From there, he went on to complete his M.P.H. degree from the University of Michigan School of Public Health in 1964. Following this, he went on to Yale University, where he was trained in psychology at the School of Medicine's Child Study Center. Today, Dr. Comer serves as the school's Maurice Falk Professor of Child Psychiatry. As part of his preparation for his remarkable career, Dr. Comer also completed a one-year residency at the Hillcrest Children's Center in Washington, D.C.

While his contributions to his field are many, Dr. Comer is quite possibly most well known for the founding of the Comer School Development Program in 1968. The goal of this program is to promote the collaboration of parents, educators, and the community to improve social, emotional, and academic outcomes for children that will help them to achieve greater success in school. His approach to focusing on teamwork has been utilized throughout the country at more than 500 schools to improve their educational environments.

As if his work in research and teaching, not to mention the founding such an influential program, were not impressive enough, Dr. Comer is also the author of nine books and the writer of more than 150 articles for Parents Magazine and more than 300 other articles on children's health and development and race relations. He has also worked as a consultant for the Children's Television Workshop, which produces Sesame Street. Throughout the years, Dr. Comer has also committed himself to service on many local, collegiate, and national boards, and he has been recognized with an abundance of prestigious awards and accolades for his work, including an astonishing forty-six honorary degrees.

Madam Speaker, Dr. Comer has made extraordinary contributions to his field and to school systems throughout the United States. His dedication and devotion to the youth of our nation are to be admired. I respectively ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Dr. James Comer for his lifetime of contributions to the American way of life through his work in the area of child psychiatry.

Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 3997.

Madam Speaker, in 1991, when Congress was considering repealing the Glass-Steagall Act and its regulatory framework, Representative John Dingell stated that repealing the Glass-Steagall Act would usher in a ``golden age of thievery.'' Mr. Dingell has been proven correct.

As recently as September 15, President Bush was saying that ``Americans have good reason to be confident in our economic strength,'' and that ``We have a flexible and resilient system that absorbs challenges and makes corrections and bounces back.'' Henry Paulson was saying that the current turmoil in markets and financial institutions ultimately would ``make things better.''

Now suddenly, we have a crisis. The Bush Administration would have us believe that this crisis is a sudden accident of nature, that it just happened, and could not have been prevented. This crisis is not an accident of nature.

The stage was set for this crisis with the repeal of Glass-Steagall in 1999, but this crisis is not the result of a single error in policy. It is the direct result of years and years of deliberate and cynical exploitation by the captains of an unregulated industry, aided and abetted by an Administration that has willfully failed to enforce our laws and regulations, and that has selected individuals from the very institutions that need oversight to watch over their friends and former colleagues. This crisis is what happens when you set the foxes to guard the henhouse for 8 long years.

Now we are being asked to solve this crisis that has been building for most of the last decade in 7 days. But is the solution being foisted on us really going to help Main Street? Or is it simply meant to clean up Wall Street's mess, cloak the Bush Administration's abysmal failure to protect the people of this country from financial predators, and further enrich those whose covetousness has caused this problem? Is it going to help the people we represent, or is it going simply add to the profits of foreign banks?

Additionally, the Washington Post of September 27, 2008, reports that the six largest banks in the world are going to emerge from this crisis even larger than before. But what about the small community banks that have been following the rules and dealing fairly with borrowers, and who will bear the brunt of the financial dislocation caused by irresponsible financial giants? Why are we leaving our smaller banks to fend for themselves, while bailing out foreign banks? Why does the Royal Bank of Scotland, with $3.5 trillion in assets, need welfare from the American taxpayer?

The Bush Administration is rushing us into spending $700 billion without stopping to think things through, because there just isn't time for thinking. They say, trust us, this is necessary.

I've heard this before.

To me it sounds like what we were told about Iraq: that we had to go to war right away, because of the Weapons of Mass Destruction that Saddam Hussein possessed. Oh, that's right, they didn't exist. We were told ``Trust us.''

It sounds like what we were told when we had to pass the Patriot Act immediately to allow the government to eavesdrop on our private communications and to get the list of books you checked out of the library without probable cause; because there was a risk of terrorism. We were told that we had to fall in line quickly and trust the President.

Now it's ``trust us'' again. I didn't then, and I don't now!

What about the people we're supposed to be protecting? Contrast the President's urgency to help the minions of Wall Street with his disdain for the most vulnerable members of society: our children. During the last two years we asked President Bush to help provide health insurance to 4 million additional children in our country. He refused to do so-- twice--but now he says we have to bail out 4 million brokers in 7 days.

Where was the bailout when real people, the people I am here to represent, experienced financial crisis?

When LTV went bankrupt and thousands of people lost their jobs, President Bush didn't sound the alarm. All I know is that Richard Fuld of Lehman Brothers made $34,832,036 last year.

When many Bethlehem Steel retirees had their pensions cut, did President Bush provide a helping hand? All I know is that when Stan O'Neal retired from Merrill Lynch, his compensation package was worth $161.5 million.

When National Steel went bankrupt, did this Administration ask for a bailout? All I know is that Freddie Mac's Richard F. Syron made $18,289,575 in 2007.

When Republic Steel went bust under this Administration, they ceased to exist. On the other hand, AIG ceased to exist after a federal bailout, and no one asked Martin J. Sullivan of AIG to give back the $14,330,736 he was paid last year.

Let us also look ahead. This year, we are projected to have a deficit of $407 billion, on top of our national debt of $9.68 trillion. Our Inland Waterway Trust Fund will be broke by June of next year. Our Highway Trust fund needed an infusion of $8 billion this year because it was out of money. Medicare is slated to be insolvent in 2019. Today we're being asked to provide the titans of Wall Street $700 billion that we will have to borrow because no one wants to pay for it. Think of our poor children, and I mean that literally. And think about the next administration that will have to live with the consequences of this Wall Street bailout for its entire term.

It is clear that the problems in our current financial system are not temporary aberrations in an otherwise healthy system, and will not be easily addressed with a one-time infusion of cash. I know that I am not alone in saying this. On September 25, 2008, 200 independent economists who don't work on Wall Street, who don't work for the Federal Reserve, who don't work for the U.S. Treasury, signed a petition stating that this plan could create perverse incentives, that it is too vague, and that its long-run effects are unclear. Gary Aguirre, a former employee of the Securities and Exchange Commission, points out that as much as half of the $700 billion dollars could be wasted if there is not careful oversight over the valuation of the bonds we would be buying, resulting in a $350 billion gift to Wall Street.

Now, these economists and Mr. Aguirre may be wrong too, but they have a lot more veracity with me than the supposed experts promoting this bailout plan, who are from the same institutions that created this mess in the first place. Given the gravity and systematic nature of our problems, and given the lack of information with which we have been provided, I believe that Congress should be deliberate and conduct a comprehensive examination of alternative solutions.

Chairman Dingell was right: We are now in the golden age of thieves. And where I come from we put thieves in jail, we don't bail them out. We should reject this proposal.