Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, it is with great appreciation and sincere gratitude that I take this time to honor three local men whose recent selfless acts have made them heroes to grateful communities in northwest Indiana. This exceptional group of heroes consists of

Chet Newsome, of Lowell, Indiana, and John and Mark Thanos, both of Chesterton, Indiana, whose bravery and self-sacrifice are an inspiration to us all.

On Saturday, August 9, 2008, at 5:30 a.m., Chet Newsome, a local truck driver, was awakened by the sound of what he has described as a blood-curdling scream from one of his neighbors. After hurrying outside to see what was happening, Chet saw his neighbor's garage engulfed in flames. He could hear the screams of two men who were trapped inside, so Chet ran to his garage for his ax, and without hesitation, began to hammer away at the door. After breaking through the door, Chet could see that one of the men was able to escape through a side door, but the other man remained trapped inside. Again, without hesitation and without thinking of himself, Chet reached in and was able to grip the severely burned man's belt and pull him to safety. Without Chet's quick thinking and immediate action, the outcome of this tragic event would have seen a very different outcome. For his bravery, the town of Lowell and the entire First Congressional District owe Chet Newsome their respect and gratitude.

On Sunday, September 14, 2008, at approximately 10:30 a.m., John and Mark Thanos were alerted by screams in their neighborhood. They soon learned that two young boys had fallen into a nearby ditch that had filled with rain. By the time they arrived, one of the boys had managed to escape the waters, but the other was being pulled into a culvert under the street. In a truly selfless act, Mark, an English teacher for the last 20 at Wheeler High School, and his father, John, a retired custodian who worked for many years for the Merrillville Community School Corporation, realized something needed to be done. They plunged into the ditch to save the 10-year-old boy, but the waters were too strong. While the boy was rescued, neither John nor Mark survived the ordeal. To those who knew John and Mark Thanos, it was no surprise that when called upon in such a horrific situation, they would answer without hesitation and would put the safety of others ahead of themselves. There is no greater sacrifice than to give one's life to save another, and John and Mark Thanos made the ultimate sacrifice to save the life of a child. For their heroism, they are to be forever remembered by the people of northwest Indiana and beyond.

These real-life heroes represent true courage and bravery, and they are the greatest example of the valor and strength of our country and its citizens.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending and acknowledging these outstanding heroes of northwest Indiana. Their bravery while putting aside personal safety to ensure the safety of others is worthy of the highest honor and respect. I am grateful and am truly honored to recognize these astonishing individuals and their remarkable acts of heroism.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and sincerity that I take this time to honor one of Northwest Indiana's most distinguished business and community leaders, Mr. John Diederich of Crown Point, Indiana. On Thursday, September 25, 2008, John will be honored by the Northwest Indiana Forum for his many years of service as a dedicated executive and his many contributions to the Northwest Indiana community. This extraordinary event will be taking place at Gamba's Ristorante in Merrillville, Indiana.

John Diederich has been a fixture in the banking industry in Northwest Indiana for the past thirty-four years. Following his collegiate studies, where he earned a degree in Accounting from Calumet College of Saint Joseph in Whiting, Indiana, and a degree in Finance from Saint Joseph's College in Rensselaer, Indiana, John entered the banking industry as a controller at Commercial Bank in Crown Point, Indiana. From there, he went on to serve as a commercial lender for Gainer Bank before being named its Division Manager for Commercial Lending in 1989. Mr. Diederich remained in this position until 1996, when he was named Manager of Private Banking and Investments for First Chicago NBD. Following a brief stint as Manager of Commercial Lending with Bank One, he was named Regional President of Bank One in 2000, and remained in that role with JPMorgan for the last eight years.

Throughout the years, John Diederich has become known just as much for his contributions to his community as to the banking industry. One of the most giving and selfless individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, John has dedicated much of his time focusing on the development of the economy in Northwest Indiana, most notably as a past chairman of the Managing Board of Directors for the Northwest Indiana Forum and as a founding member and past president of the Regional Development Company. John has also volunteered much of his free time working with organizations that help children in his

community. He serves or has served in various capacities on the boards for numerous organizations, including: the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Indiana, where he is a past chairman of the board, the Southlake YMCA, for which he is a past president, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Trade Winds, the Crown Point Community Foundation, the Diocese of Gary, and the Crisis Center in Gary, Indiana, where he currently serves as its chairman of the board.

While John has always been committed to his work and has remained active in the Northwest Indiana community, his greatest enjoyment is the time spent with his beautiful family. He and his wife, Louise, have one daughter, Lisa, a graduate of Butler University, and one son, Brian, who currently attends the University of Dayton.

Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Mr. John Diederich 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.

I thank the chairman for yielding, and I truly want to thank Mr. Oberstar for his leadership and for what he is trying to do today.

What I would like to do with my time is first of all to respond to a couple of the observations made by my good friend from Pennsylvania on this legislation.

I would agree, I believe the chairman would agree, that the industry has to continue to evolve. It has to continue to grow. But today, the industry is here and the people of the United States are here. What Mr. Oberstar, what the chairman is trying to do is to make sure as the industry evolves and becomes more efficient and more profitable, which we all want, that people are considered equally.

Secondly, he mentions that this is simply a fight about one transaction and one community, the City of Chicago. He is incorrect in his assertion. The fact is there is a transaction pending. It highlights the need for this legislation. While he suggests the congestion of Chicago, I would point out that every one of those trains in Chicago happens to go through Lake and Porter counties, Indiana, which I represent.

The gentleman also suggested that there might be some costs attached to the industry if this act passed, $25 million here, $40 million here. The fact is we voted in this Chamber to the auto industry $25 billion. We voted within the week to give the battery industry a couple of billion dollars. People are tripping over themselves in this place, tripping over themselves in this place, to give millions of brokers and bankers $700 billion. What about people? What about the people of this country? That's what Mr. Oberstar is trying to say, instead of the railroads and the people, let's have some equity as far as these future considerations.

I would simply point out this is somewhat personal to me. In 1977, my mother was hit by a train. She survived the experience. But more pertinent to this debate, the Surface Transportation Board indicated that railroads historically have not paid more than a small share for grade separation.

Five to 10 percent of grade separation because grade separations, and this is the STB, primarily benefit the community and not the railroad.

Well, in northwest Indiana on July 8, three people died in a crossing accident in Gary, Indiana. On July 25, in northwest Indiana in the community of Griffith, there was a rail accident where three additional people were injured. In Portage, Indiana, this month, on September 3, another woman was killed in Porter County. There is one person getting killed at a train accident in the 1st Congressional District every 21 days since July 8.

I support the chairman's legislation that says let's think about people for a change. Let's have some equity in this so that people and communities are protected, just like the railroads are.

[From the Northwest Indiana and Illinois Times, July 8, 2008]

Three Dead in Car-Train Crash

(By Dan Hinkel)

Gary.--Three people died when a freight train blasted

through a car that drove around crossing gates Monday

afternoon in Gary's Miller neighborhood, police said.

The victims were Marvin Alvarez, 20, of Gary, and Nicole

Thomas, 21, and Rosie Godines, 18, both of Hobart, according

to a spokeswoman from the Lake County coroner's office.

The busy scene at Miller Avenue and Lake Street devolved

into turmoil in the hours following the 5 p.m. wreck. Irate

mourners scuffled with police officers and attacked cameramen

from television news crews. An officer appeared to fire a

Taser on a sobbing, shrieking man who joined a group of

people fighting with a man who appeared to be a police

detective.

All three died at the scene after the southbound Ford

Taurus pulled around the gates into an eastbound CSX train's

path, police said. None of the victims wore seat belts, and

two of them were thrown from the car, said Gary police Cpl.

Agnes Roberts. The bodies were covered with sheets near the

car as firefighters cut the third body from the vehicle's

wreckage in front of witnesses and bystanders gathered along

the commercial strip.

``I still can't believe it and I'm standing right here

looking,'' said Sandra Mays, of Gary.

Mays drove the first northbound vehicle in line behind the

gates before the wreck. She was prepared for a long wait

before the Taurus came ``out of nowhere'' around the gates,

Mays said. She called 911 after the train plowed into the

car's passenger side and pushed it about 50 feet east down

the tracks. Mays said she could see that all the victims were

dead.

``It happened so fast, like something you see on TV,'' she

said.

Shirley Taylor, of Merrillville, was in the nearby Chase

bank when she heard the train's horns blowing and its brakes

screeching, she said. The bank manager ran outside to help,

but he returned with shock on his face, Taylor said.

``He came over and told everyone there was nothing he could

do,'' Taylor said.

The victims' relatives descended on the scene about 6 p.m.

A small group of furious men alternated between sobbing

inconsolably and bellowing profane threats at police,

firefighters, clergy, bystanders and news reporters. A man

who identified himself as Alvarez's brother struggled with

officers. A man threw a rock at a television cameraman.

Another man was arrested after a fight in the Chase bank

parking lot. He was handcuffed and apparently stunned with a

Taser. Gary police were not available Monday night to comment

on the fights after the crash.

The train's nine cars and two locomotives were headed from

Chicago to Columbus, Ohio, said CSX spokesman Gary Sease. No

one on the train was hurt, Sease said.

I appreciate the chairman yielding very much.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 6045, the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act of 2008. I am a very proud sponsor of this legislation.

At the outset, I want to express my heartfelt gratification and thanks to my friend, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. LoBiondo) for his lead in cosponsorship of H.R. 6045. Mr. LoBiondo and I have been partners in this endeavor since 1997.

I would also like to thank the Committee on the Judiciary chairman, Mr. Conyers, as well as Mr. Cannon, Ranking Member Lamar Smith, chairman of the subcommittee Bobby Scott, and subcommittee Ranking Member Louie Gohmert for their strong support and efforts on behalf of this important legislation.

Finally, I would like to thank the 170 bipartisan cosponsors of this measure and the law enforcement organizations that have expressed their strong support.

If I could take a step back, the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act was introduced in November 1997 after meeting with Northwest Indiana chiefs of police and hearing that many gang members and drug dealers had the protection of bulletproof vests, while many police officers did not. I was even more troubled to learn the reason why so many officers do not have access to bulletproof vests. It was because they are prohibitively expensive. A good vest can cost in excess of $500. Many small departments, as well as larger ones, simply cannot afford to purchase vests for all of their officers, a fact that sometimes forces officers to purchase their own.

Our original legislation was signed into law by President Clinton in June of 1998, and as you know, the purpose of the act is to protect the lives of law enforcement officers by helping State and local government equip them with bulletproof vests. Bulletproof vests and body armor have saved thousands of lives since the introduction of the modern material; however, they cannot protect the lives of those who do not have access to them.

The Fraternal Order of Police have stated that ``body armor is one of the most important pieces of equipment an officer can have and often mean the difference between life and death.''

The grant program has directly benefited every State and territory of the United States, and this critical program provides State and local and tribal law enforcement officers with needed protection by aiding the purchase of protective equipment.

In closing, I again want to thank my good friend Mr. LoBiondo for his strong leadership and work on this measure over the years and the police officers who risk their lives for us every day, all of us. They are the mothers and fathers, and they are the sons and daughters. It is our obligation to the officers and their families to give them access to the equipment that will safeguard their life.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues for their strong support of this measure.

Madam Speaker, it is with pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize one of Northwest Indiana's exemplary companies. For nearly seventy years, North Coast Distributing has been a leader in the Northwest Indiana business sector, and while the company has seen much success, it is what they have done to give back to the community that makes them so vital to Northwest Indiana. For the third straight year, North Coast, in conjunction with Ivy Tech Community College of Northwest Indiana, will be providing the community with their ``Fall Innovators Cafe'' in an effort to share their expertise in operating a successful organization with regional and community leaders. This special event will take place on Thursday, September 25, 2008.

A local, family-owned beer wholesaler since 1939, North Coast Distributing, formerly Valpo Beverages, Incorporated, has become one of the premier distributors in the Midwest. The success they have seen, under the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Bruce Leetz, is in large part due to the core values of North Coast: Passion for business, Respect for each other and surroundings, Integrity to demonstrate the highest ethical and moral standards, Commitment to achieve goals, and in Excelling in everything they do. This commitment to excellence has led to many accolades at the local, state, and national levels for North Coast, who in 2007 became the first distributor to win both the Miller and Coors top distributor awards. While the many awards they have received are outstanding enough, North Coast's commitment to corporate responsibility and to their community are the most impressive.

Led by Bruce Leetz, North Coast Distributing has always been committed to promoting responsible consumption and in giving back to the community, as is evidenced by their participation in the upcoming innovative session. A graduate of Valparaiso High School and Ball State University, Bruce has been employed with North Coast for over 45 years. In 1970, Bruce took over as President of the company, and his accomplishments, as well as the success of North Coast, have been astonishing. A true expert and legend in the industry, Bruce has served in many capacities, including: membership on the National Beer Wholesalers Association's Executive Board, as President of the Indiana Beverage Alliance for ten years, and as Chairman of both the Miller and Coors Distributor Councils. Like his company, Bruce has always been an active participant in his community as well, having served on the boards of the Northwest Indiana Forum, the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, and the Northwest Indiana Entrepreneurship Academy. He is also a past president of the Porter County United Way and the Valparaiso Rotary Club, and he is a Ruling Elder at the First Presbyterian Church in Valparaiso.

For his service to his community and his commitment his industry, both economically and socially, Bruce has received many accolades throughout the years. To name a few of these, in 2004, Bruce was recognized as a Miller Legend, a lifetime achievement award that is the Miller Brewing Company's highest honor. Also, in 2005, then Governor Frank O'Bannon presented him with the Sagamore of the Wabash award, one of the highest honors awarded by the Governor of the State of Indiana.

Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Bruce Leetz and North Coast Distributing on their success throughout the years and honoring them on their commitment to the people of Northwest Indiana. Bruce and the entire team at North Coast Distributing are to be commended for their dedication to improving Northwest Indiana.

Madam Speaker, It is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize Mr. Steve Tokarski. I can truly say that when it comes to service to one's community, few people can match the outstanding efforts of Steve Tokarski. Steve has always been a dedicated, distinguished, and honorable citizen. Having known him for many years, I can say with certainty that he is one of the most involved citizens I have ever known. Steve has served the Polish American community in Northwest Indiana and beyond for many years, and for his efforts, he will be honored at a banquet hosted by the Silver Bell Club on Sunday, September 21, 2008, at the Salvatorian Monastery in Merrillville, Indiana.

An attorney by trade, Steve began his career after completing his Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from the Indiana University School of Law in 1969. Prior to that, he attended Purdue University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. Mr. Tokarski's desire to serve his community, paired with his passion for his chosen profession, eventually led to him serving not only as a deputy prosecutor for Lake County, Indiana, but also as

the attorney for the City of Lake Station and the Town of Schererville. Steve's knowledge of law and his overwhelming desire to serve his community made him a perfect fit to continue his work on behalf of the Polish American community, and his willingness to serve has made him very successful in the many posts he has held.

Indisputably, Steve Tokarski has been extremely successful throughout his legal career. However, his efforts on behalf of the Polish American community have truly set him apart from his peers. As a member of the Polish National Alliance (PNA), he has served as the Director for the Indiana/Michigan region, as a member of the Board of Directors, as Chairperson of the Rules and Regulations Committee, and as a member of the Education Committee, the Financial Control Committee, and the Membership Committee. He also served as Parliamentarian, First Vice- Chairperson, and Secretary for various conventions. Additionally, Steve has served as President of PNA Council Number 127 and of PNA Lodge Number 2365--Silver Bell Club.

In addition to his efforts with the PNA, Steve has also been extremely active in the Polish American Congress (PAC), currently serving as the President for its Indiana division, a position he has maintained since 1977. Mr. Tokarski has also served as the National Director and the Parliamentarian for the Council of National Directors of the PAC and as Chairperson of the By-Laws and Grievance Committees. He has also served as Vice President of the PAC's charitable foundation since 1995.

Steve's community involvement does not end with his service to these two outstanding organizations. He is also an active member of several Purdue University alumni associations, as well as the Purdue President's Council, and he has held positions as Secretary-Treasurer and State Vice President of the National Advocates Society since 1984.

When not engaged within the community, Steve spends his spare time with his loving wife of 35 years, Marsha. Steve and Marsha, a stained glass artist and former science teacher, have two sons: David and Christopher.

Madam Speaker, Steve Tokarski has given his time and efforts selflessly to his church, his community, and the Polish American people of Northwest Indiana and beyond. 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 with great pleasure and admiration that I congratulate Rabbi Stanley Halpern as he celebrates a milestone, his 20th anniversary as Rabbi at Temple Israel in Gary, IN. Throughout his years of service at Temple Israel, Rabbi Halpern has been one of northwest Indiana's most dedicated and distinguished citizens. The people of northwest Indiana have certainly been rewarded by the service and uncompromising loyalty he has displayed to the parish and the entire community, and for his outstanding efforts, he was recognized at a dinner in his honor at Sand Creek Country Club in Chesterton, IN, on September 6, 2008. As part of the celebration, a very special Shabbat service also took place the previous night.

Stanley Halpern was born and raised in Spokane, WA, where he received an intensive Jewish education at Keneseth Israel Synagogue. Following his graduation from Lewis & Clark High School, he went on to receive his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Washington, where his studies were focused on Philosophy and Near Eastern Languages and Literature. He also served as Scholar in Residence at Dropsie College in Philadelphia, PA. Following his ordination, Rabbi Halpern spent the next ten years focusing on fundraising and Jewish educational work as the Executive Director of the Bureau of Jewish Education in Sacramento. Finally, in 1988, Rabbi Halpern settled into his first pulpit, Temple Israel in Gary, IN, where he has served since 1988.

Temple Israel's long tradition of dedication to social justice and active involvement in the life of northwest Indiana was a perfect fit for Rabbi Halpern's commitment to Tikkun Olan, the obligation in Judaism of each individual to do all they can for the healing of the world.

Under Rabbi Halpern's leadership, the people of Temple Israel have involved themselves in a myriad of social and community projects, including: the Open Housing Center of Northwest Indiana, the Interfaith Clergy Council of Gary, and Muslim/Jewish Dialogue--Breaking Down Barriers by Breaking Bread Together. Temple Israel has also played a major role in assisting local veterans by teaching skills to prepare them for re-entry into the workforce. Through Rabbi Halpern's involvement with Hospice, the Bio-Ethics Committee of Community Hospital, and AIDS awareness, they have also been very active in Northwest Indiana's health care community, and they have been outstanding advocates in the fight against domestic abuse through their efforts with the Domestic Relations Counseling Bureau of Lake County. With a focus on doing what is right, Rabbi Halpern and Temple Israel have remained active in these causes, all while continuing to prosper in the building of a vibrant Jewish community in northwest Indiana.

Rabbi Halpern and his wife, Carol, reside in Portage, IN. They are the proud parents of one daughter, who also resides in Portage, and Carol's son, who resides in the Boston, MA, area.

Madam Speaker, northwest Indiana is a better place because of the tireless service of people like Rabbi Halpern. He is a man who has dedicated himself to serving others. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Rabbi Halpern for his many years of enduring service and the unforgettable effect he has had on the people of Temple Israel, as well as the entire northwest Indiana community, and I ask that you join me in congratulating him on this impressive milestone.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take this time to honor two of Northwest Indiana's most distinguished citizens, Sandra Irons and Marvin Setzer, Jr., upon their retirement from their positions with the Gary, Indiana Teachers Union, Local Number 4, American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Sandra and Marvin's membership in the Gary Teachers Union date back to the beginning of their careers in 1961 and 1962, respectively, and the impact they have had on the quality of life for educators in the city of Gary is immeasurable. For their lifetime of service to the Gary Teachers Union, the Indiana Teachers Union, and the American Federation of Teachers, Sandra and Marvin were honored at a retirement celebration that took place at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana, on Friday, August 15, 2008.

Sandra Jean (Carr) Irons' career in education began following her graduation from Kentucky State College in 1960, where she completed her Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Chemistry. Following that, she

went on to receive her Master's degree in Teaching Mathematics from Purdue University, West Lafayette. Prior to her work with the Gary Teachers Union, Sandra was a mathematics teacher for the Gary School Corporation from 1961 to 1971. Following her ten years in the classroom, Sandra was elected President of the Gary Teachers Union, a position she held until her recent retirement on June 30, 2008. During those years, she served in many other capacities, not only with the Gary Teachers Union, but with the Indiana Federation of Teachers and the American Federation of Teachers as well.

Sandra has also participated in numerous civic and community organizations, including: the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Lake Area United Way, the Lake County Mental Health Association, the Coalition of Labor Union Women, the YWCA, and the Gary Educational Foundation. For her outstanding efforts, Ms. Irons has received many accolades and awards. To name a few, she was awarded the Viola Briley Service Award by the Gary Teachers Union, the Adam Benjamin, Jr., Advocacy Award by the Mental Heath Association, the Labor Leader of the Year Award by the Calumet Project, and the United Way of America's Joseph A. Beirne Community Service Award.

Marvin Setzer, Jr., completed his Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education at Winston Salem Teachers' College in North Carolina in 1962, followed by his Master's degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University, Bloomington. From 1962 to 1981, Marvin was employed by the Gary Community School Corporation as an elementary school teacher. During that time, he began his career as the Working Conditions Committee Chairperson for the Gary Teachers Union. He held this position for more than 30 years before his recent retirement on June 30, 2008. During this time, he has also held other positions with the Gary Teachers Union, including the Coordinator for the Pre-Retirement Planning Seminar, as well as several other posts with the Indiana Federation of Teachers, where he served as its president, the Northwest Indiana Council of Teachers Unions, and the American Federation of Teachers' Progressive Caucus.

Throughout the years, Marvin has also donated much of his time to various community and civic organizations, including: the Lake Area United Way, the Referral Emergency Agency, the Northwest Indiana Open Housing Center, Tots and Teens, and Saint Timothy Community Church.

Madam Speaker, Sandra Irons and Marvin Setzer, Jr., have given their time and efforts selflessly to the teachers, as well as to the students and the community, in Gary, Indiana. Throughout the years, and through their efforts, the quality of life for their colleagues has improved, and the pair has served as true role models to their peers and as true friends to Northwest Indiana. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Sandra and Marvin for their outstanding contributions and in wishing them well upon their retirement.

Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. Chairman, I rise to engage the gentleman from Texas, my good friend Chairman Edwards, in a colloquy, and I would like to thank the chairman for agreeing to engage in this. I also want to thank Mr. Stupak for his continued support and dedication on the issue of steel safety, and look forward to working with both gentlemen on requiring that all iron and steel purchased by the Federal Government be made in the United States. This will keep Americans safe and help our country prosper.

Mr. Chairman, I understand that there is a provision in this measure that requires American steel producers, fabricators and manufacturers to have the opportunity to compete for steel funded through the Department of Defense under this act. While I am encouraged and grateful for this provision and believe that it is a critically important aspect for all government procurements, frankly, I do not believe it is enough.

China disobeys international trading rules, for example, and the playing field is not level. Therefore, it is not possible for our steel producers to compete fairly.

This last April, the Congressional Steel Caucus held a hearing on substandard steel from China. We learned from U.S. Customs and Border Protection about how our government does not have an established process to monitor the safety of steel imports. We also heard from representatives of the domestic steel industry about how some Chinese steel companies do not adhere to international standards and guidelines when they manufacture steel, and that the steel may be used in our military barracks, veterans hospitals, and other vital infrastructure.

I also would mention that this last October it was reported that substandard Chinese steel was used in the construction of a gymnasium at San Pedro High School in California, prompting the California Department of General Services to post an alert on defective Chinese steel tubing fabricated for school construction projects.

Last year, China had a major earthquake and we saw pictures of how their schools and hospitals survived. We cannot wait to take action on this issue until a hospital or school collapses in the United States. Does it cost too much to require the use of American steel if it saves lives? The government that we fund must set an example and make sure that the buildings we build use American steel that can stand the test of time.

When considering the construction of facilities that hospitalize, house and take care of our veterans, we owe them every possibility to ensure their health and safety. We owe them the requirement that safe American steel is used, and that is why Representative Stupak and I have raised this issue.

Again, I thank the chairman for engaging in this colloquy and for his good work on this bill.

I thank the gentleman very much, and would yield back my time.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that I congratulate Mr. James A. Strayer on his retirement from his position as the Business Manager for the Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council. Jim, a member of Ironworkers #395 for many years, has dedicated his life to the interests of his fellow tradesman and the entire community in Northwest Indiana. For his lifetime of service to the Ironworkers and the Building Trades Council, Jim will be honored at a retirement dinner taking place at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana, on August 1, 2008.

Jim Strayer has been a member of the Ironworkers #395 for the past 39 years. During that time, he has held numerous positions. After six years as an Ironworker, Jim became an Apprentice Instructor, a position that allowed him the opportunity to pass on his immense knowledge to some of his younger counterparts. For five years, he fulfilled his duties in this capacity with the determination and enthusiasm that would foreshadow what was to come in Jim's career. As his commitment to leading his union remained, Jim would later be named Business Agent for Ironworkers #395. From there, Jim went on to become the President of the Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council in 1990. After six successful years in this capacity, Jim was named Business Manager for the Building Trades, the position he has excelled at for the past twelve years.

Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. For many years, Jim Strayer has displayed this unwavering dedication to the members of the Building Trades, and his numerous positions have allowed him the opportunity to touch the lives of countless individuals. Not only has Jim served his local tradesman, but through his work with the Building Trades, he has been a remarkable example of just how much good an organization can do for a community. When it comes to serving those in need throughout the community, the Building Trades has long been one of Northwest Indiana's most generous organizations, as well as one of its greatest assets.

Although Jim has served the Building Trades and his community with complete dedication, it is his commitment to his family that is most impressive. Jim and his devoted wife, Pat, have two sons, Doug and Andy, and one daughter, Rebecca.

Madam Speaker, James Strayer has given his time and efforts selflessly to the tradesmen he has worked with and represented, as well as to the people of Northwest Indiana through the many charitable efforts of the Building Trades Council. He has been a true role model to his peers and a true friend to Northwest Indiana. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Jim for his outstanding contributions and in wishing him well upon his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and privilege to stand before you today in support of H. Con. Res. 297, a measure that recognizes the 60th anniversary of the integration of the United States Armed Services.

On July 26, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9981, declaring that all members of the military are equal regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin. These long-overdue words marked the beginning of the end of institutionalized discrimination in the U.S. Armed Services, and instilled into the military the democratic principle of equality.

Prior to this executive order, minority soldiers not only fought against our enemies, but also struggled against prejudice at home and in the military. In spite of these unjust circumstances, many segregated units were universally renowned for their courage and valor, such as the 54th Massachusetts Regiment during the American Civil War, the Harlem Hellfighters (369th Infantry Regiment) in World War I, and the Tuskegee Airmen and the 100th Battalion and the 442nd Combat Infantry group in World War II. We should never forget the sacrifices they made to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.

It has been 60 years since President Truman courageously and justly integrated the U.S. Armed Services. Our military was strong then, but it is stronger now, in no small part because all service men and women serve together as equals. Indeed, this year America may elect its first African-American Commander in Chief.

Indiana's First Congressional District enjoys a rich diversity that has helped produce some of the most capable units in the armed services. Servicemembers from Northwest Indiana have fought in integrated units during every military engagement since World War II. Right now, Indiana has the fourth-largest National Guard in the United States, with more troops deployed in Iraq than any other State in the union. I am extremely proud of the patriotic men and women from Indiana who have served and are serving in uniform, and thank them for their service to our country. The successes of Indiana's men and women in uniform of all races, colors, religions, and countries of origin, and across all generations, have been echoed throughout the Nation.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the 60th anniversary of the integration of the United States Armed Services. Such integration has enriched our military with the same democratic equality that they have fought so valiantly to protect.

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend twenty-five local educators from Northwest Indiana who have been recognized for their outstanding achievements in promoting energy education and conservation through innovative classroom activities. These individuals will be honored as part of BP's A+ for Energy program at a very special luncheon that will take place at the Radisson Star Plaza Hotel in Merrillville, Indiana, on Monday, July 21, 2008.

BP's A+ for Energy program, being offered in Indiana for the second year, recognizes community educators who have gone above and beyond to bring real-world, innovative ideas into our schools, allowing students to become involved in classroom, after-school, extra-curricular, or summer activities that will not only challenge and enrich their lives, but will also teach them the importance of energy conservation.

The twenty-five individuals selected as the winning A+ for Energy teachers, based on their grant submissions, were chosen by two independent panels of experts in the fields of education, science, and the environment. Each recipient will be awarded a cash grant of either $5,000 or $10,000 to take back to their schools, as well as a scholarship to attend a three-day energy training conference sponsored by BP, in partnership with the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). It is estimated that more than 8,400 students will benefit from these grants.

This year's A+ for Energy honorees are: Karen Augustyn of Tolleston Middle School in Gary (Project P.O.W.E.R.--Providing Our World with Energy Resources), Patricia Casella of Jefferson Elementary School in Hammond (Experience Energy! Talk It, Live It, Touch It, Share It), Stanley Casella of Montessori Academy in the Oaks in Hobart (The Elementary Energy News Network), Barbara Cerwinske of Saint John the Evangelist School in Saint John (SJE is Hot About Global Warming), Dr. Charles Costa of the Northwest Indiana Education Service Center in Highland (TREE: Transforming the Region through Energy Enrichment), Edna Crittenden-Gregory of Roosevelt High School in Gary (Energy-Wise Conservation Calendar), Michelle Frantal of Forest Ridge Academy in Schererville (Saving Two by Two), Dana Hoeckelberg of Forest Ridge Academy (The Energy K'Nextion Club), Susan Labovic of Forest Ridge Academy (Now Broadcasting . . . Electricity), Kathryn Midkiff of Gavit Middle/High School in Hammond (Green Circle Project), Mary Moriarty of Gavit Middle/High School (Renewable Energy), Sandra Platt of Lake Central High School in Saint John (Lake Central High School--Blue Goes Green), Thomas Puplava of the Diocese of Gary Catholic Schools in Merrillville (Energy from the Sun), Jill Sayers of Lake Prairie Elementary School in Lowell (Art and the Science of Energy: A Fusing of Concepts), Glenn Smith of Forest Ridge Academy (Super Solar Power at Our Indianapolis 500), Elva Sotello of Whiting Middle School in Whiting (Working for a Joule), Mary Beth Tabaczynski of Edison Elementary School in Hammond (Exploring the Power of the Wind), Georgia Veneziano of Our Lady of Grace School in Highland (Energy Dilemma: The Answer is Blowin' in the Wind), Jay Drew of Portage High School in Portage (The Biology of Alternative Fuels), Monica Hargarten of Liberty Elementary School in Chesterton (Exploring Energy), Lisa Hughes of Saint Patrick School in Chesterton (Solar Energy and the Greenhouse Effect), Angela Reyes of ALLWays Learning Child Development Center in Valparaiso (CampALLWays Energized), Christine Robbins of Hebron Elementary School in Hebron (Today's Students--Tomorrow's Consumers), Jean Sienkowski of Central Elementary School in Valparaiso (The Central Energy Academy), and Melody Winnell of Junior Junction Childcare in Portage (Rain Garden and Solar Greenhouse).

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding, innovative educators on their recognition as BP's 2008 A+ for Energy teachers. Their hard work and creativity have played and will continue to play a major role in shaping the minds and futures of Northwest Indiana's young people, as well as in bringing to the forefront the importance of energy conservation.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Energy, Citizens, and Economic Transformation for Indiana and America event held on July 7, 2008, sponsored by the University of Notre Dame Energy Center. This conference brought together leaders in energy research from the University of Notre Dame, the U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Purdue University, the state of Indiana, and academic think tanks.

The University of Notre Dame Energy Center was established in 2005 to develop new technologies for energy efficiency, safe nuclear waste storage, clean coal utilization, CO2 separation and sequestration, and alternative renewable energy sources. The Center also plays a key role in energy education and literacy, affecting energy policy and exploring the ethical implications associated with energy sources, availability and policy. It involves approximately 25 faculty members in the Colleges of Engineering, Science, Arts & Letters and Business. The Notre Dame Energy Center and its faculty members have funding support from the U.S. Department of Energy and extensive collaborations with researchers at Sandia, Argonne National Labs and the National Energy Technology Laboratory.

Meeting U.S. energy needs in an environmentally sustainable manner without jeopardizing economic growth or national security interests through undue reliance on foreign energy sources is arguably our most demanding challenge. Achieving this goal will require multiple solutions and strategies. To meet this challenge, the University of Notre Dame, through their Energy Center and conferences such as this, combines existing research expertise and new research infrastructure with visionary thinkers from both Indiana and the federal government.

A collaboration also is currently being undertaken by the Notre Dame Energy Center that addresses the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, which is a resource that is very important to the Northwest Indiana community. This project seeks to provide energy-related consulting services to the park during the coming summer months that will promote the responsible use of an irreplaceable national treasure. As part of the project, students will track and quantify the cost savings related to energy use reduction and lower greenhouse gas emissions. This collaboration will help preserve the unique ecosystem of the Indiana

Dunes National Lakeshore and will allow future generations to enjoy this tremendous natural, educational, and recreational asset of Northwest Indiana.

I would like to thank Dr. Joan Brennecke and Dr. Paul Bohn for organizing the July 7th event and for their tireless work in addressing our nation's energy problems. The conference will offer Hoosiers the opportunity to hear from state and national leaders in energy research. While prices at the gas pumps may be getting most of the attention now, the energy crisis is about more than just oil. As a nation, with the help of our research universities, we need to continue efforts in examining our entire mix of energy sources and how to go about changing that mix over the long term in order to increase our economic and national security.

The state of Indiana and its industries can benefit from this type of research and discussion, and I believe that Indiana will be at the forefront of this nation's energy revolution. The sluggish economy and increasing energy costs have left families struggling to make ends meet. The work being done by those involved at this event seek to ease their burden and create the next generation of energy-related jobs in Indiana.

I want to thank the gentlelady.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1423, the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center Lease Act, as amended. I am proud to sponsor this legislation, and I thank Mr. Donnelly for joining me as a cosponsor.

I also do want to thank Chairman Rahall and Ranking Member Don Young, the chairman of the subcommittee, as well as the ranking member, and especially the exceptional staff of the subcommittee and the full committee of Natural Resources for their consideration and good work on this measure.

This measure will grant the Secretary of the Interior the authority to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint partnership with Porter County. This partnership will allow the National Park Service and the Porter County Convention, Recreation and Visitor Commission to develop a plan to maximize the efficiency of the Visitor Center at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and enhance the visitor experience. The measure also will provide funding to develop exhibits for the center.

Additionally, the bill will help us enhance the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in the most affordable fashion possible. It will permit, but not require, the Secretary of the Interior to accept donations of lands located outside the present boundaries of the Lakeshore if they are contiguous with the park or separated by only a right-of-way. At present, the Secretary of the Interior cannot accept such donations. This provision makes a minor technical correction that has no financial impact, and will allow this natural treasure to expand by the generosity of those wishing to enhance the Lakeshore. It is my sincere hope that this legislation will continue our efforts to protect and enhance the Lakeshore, and to ensure that all Americans can benefit from the park.

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is an incredible natural treasure, as was mentioned, comprised of about 15,000 pristine acres along the southern shore of Lake Michigan in the midst of an urban environment. With its vast array of flora and fauna in northwest Indiana, a short distance from downtown Chicago, the Lakeshore receives over 3 million visitors from that urban area each year.

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore owes a great deal of gratitude to Dorothy Buell, who was instrumental in its establishment and development. Buell devoted much of her life to saving the dunes. In 1952, she founded the Save the Dunes Council to obtain dunes land and to give it to the National State Park so that the unique habitat could be preserved and enjoyed by the general public.

In 1992, Buell's extraordinary contributions to the dunes were recognized when the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Access and Enhancement Act was signed into law, thereby naming the park's visitor center for her and commemorating her vision, dedication and work.

The Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center is an excellent facility for providing environmental education programs and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy displays and exhibits.

I am very proud of the continued investment in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore by the National Park Service staff, our local communities, and Lakeshore volunteers in Indiana's First Congressional District. They seek to preserve, protect, and restore the Lakeshore and surrounding resources for an enhanced quality of life.

Mr. Speaker, I want to again thank the members and the leaders of the committee and subcommittee as well as the staff, and I ask my colleagues to support the measure.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate the individuals who will take their oath of citizenship on July 4, 2008. In true patriotic fashion, on the day of our great Nation's celebration of independence, a naturalization ceremony will take place, welcoming new citizens of the United States of America. This memorable occasion, coordinated by the Hammond Public Library and presided over by Magistrate Judge Paul R. Cherry, will be held at Harrison Park in Hammond, Indiana.

America is a country founded by immigrants. From its beginning, settlers have come from countries around the globe to the United States in search of better lives for their families. The upcoming oath ceremony will be a shining example of what is so great about the United States of America, that people from all over the world can come together and unite as members of a free, democratic nation. These individuals realize the great things America has to offer. They realize that nowhere else in the world is the opportunity for success and a better life available to them than here in America.

On July 4, 2008, the following people will take their oath of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Mindi Thi Bul, Lidia Quinonez, Claudia Rodriguez, Maria de la Luz Godinez, Venkat Santhosh Reddy Poddutur, Juanita Martinez, Chu-Mei Peng, Pantelis George Baramantas, Teresa Fernandez, Jose Cruz Alvarez Martinez, Iris Xiomara Sierra, Nada Jerkovic, Juan Tellez Rangel, Sarp Kocak, Juana Ramirez de Pantoja, Aurelio Jimenez, Michal Armatys, Rosy Oliva Arreaga, Stevanda Vukicevic, Tanuja Reddy Poddutur, Genoveva Atilano, Lelis Estella Lizama, Arel Cherry, Dejan Lukich, Silvia Vazquez, Monica Leticia Dominguez, Rodolfo Macias, Snezana Krkobabic, Mario Gonzalez Salgado, Victor Manuel Garcia Garcia, Maria Carmen Avina, Cristina Varzoaba, Filiberto Corona, Ma Melorie Villagracia Rodriguez, Hilda Gonzalez, Gregorio Martinez Sanchez, Maria de Jesus Alvarez, Orlando Jiminez Serna, Diana Lewis, Jose Antonio Saldana, Ivanja Corak, Farida

Begum, Elva Miriam Reyna, Fidelina Rodriguez, Beatriz Anaya Vargas, Efren Carranza, Arturo Cantero Paredes, Carlos Nicolas Perez Aranda, Maria Stoneburner, and Alma Della Rangel.

Though each individual has sought to become a citizen of the United States for his or her own reasons, be it for educational or occupational opportunities or for the opportunity to offer their families a better life, each is inspired by the fact that the United States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln described it, a country ``. . . of the people, by the people, and for the people.'' They realize that the United States is truly a free nation, and by seeking American citizenship, they have made the decision that they want to live in a place where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights, they can practice whatever religion they choose to practice, speak their minds without fear of punishment, and assemble in peaceful protest should they choose to do so.

On July 4, 2008, we will welcome these newly naturalized citizens to enjoy the same freedoms and liberties that all Americans take pride in and cherish. They, too, will be American citizens, and they, too, will be guaranteed the inalienable rights of Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. These individuals, representing many nations throughout the world, will be called upon to declare their allegiance to the United States of America.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating these individuals, who will become citizens of the United States of America on July 4, 2008, the day of our Nation's independence. We, as a free and democratic nation, congratulate them and welcome them.