Floor Statements

Mr. Chairman, I greatly appreciate the chairwoman yielding to me, and I do rise in respectful opposition to the gentleman's amendment.

The fact is we ought to ensure our security as a Nation. To best do that, we need to develop, in a bipartisan fashion, in a fashion that exists over a number of administrations, over a number of Congresses regardless of who and which party controlled both those branches of government, a comprehensive post-Cold War, post-9/11 nuclear strategy.

My concern, because that $6 billion that the chairwoman accurately suggests we do spend on a nuclear weapons complex, is a complex that we have to re-examine and to characterize. If we begin the construction of a new weapon in place, we simply exacerbate the current problems.

In the end, we ought to develop a strategy and then determine the types and the numbers of weapons we need. And not just in the sense of nuclear, but conventional, as well as other aspects of what that plan should be as opposed to having a set number of weapons and of various types and then constructing a strategy around them.

The Energy and Water appropriations bill that was passed and is in effect as part of the omnibus package for fiscal year 2008 indicates that's exactly what this Nation should be about, and I would ask my colleagues to oppose the gentleman's amendment.

Madam Speaker, I have supported and cosponsored legislation to allow farmers who grow fruit and vegetables for processing to opt out of farm programs on an acre for acre basis without limitation. That legislation would reduce farm program costs and improve the environment by allowing more extensive crop rotations. I am very pleased that the conference report takes a step toward that proposal by establishing a pilot project to allocate 75,000 acres of new authority for production of fruit and vegetables for processing in specified Midwestern states. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has broad discretion in administration of this pilot project to meet the objectives of the pilot project. The conference report does not specify a procedure for allocation of the pilot project acreage or other administrative matters, such as re-allocation of unused acreage allocations among states. However, the USDA is clearly required to establish rules to assure that this additional fruit and vegetable production authority will not be abused. Only fruit and vegetables under contract for processing are to be produced under this authority.

The USDA is to assure that all of the crop produced is delivered to a processor and that the quantity of crop delivered under the original contract (the contract in existence upon Farm Service Agency certification) does not exceed the quantity that is produced on the contracted acreage. Additionally, the effects of the pilot project and fruit and vegetable restrictions on the specialty crop industry, both fresh and processed, are to be evaluated. These restrictions are intended to ensure protection of the objectives of the pilot project, not to compel food waste or excessive regulatory burden. Further, the conference report includes an important statement of policy indicating that in the next recalculation of base acreage, fruit and vegetable production will not cause a reduction in farmer's base acreage. While this is a timid step in reducing restrictions on production of fruits and vegetables, I commend this step in the right direction.

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend seven exceptional teachers from Northwest Indiana who have been recognized as outstanding educators by their peers for the 2007-2008 school year. These individuals are: Sheri L. Doffin, Tracy Kohler, Kathleen R. Krum, Karen A. Semancik, Nancy J. Smith, Thomas R. Sufana, and Vicki Weber. For their outstanding efforts, these honorees will be presented with the Crystal Bell Award at a reception sponsored by the Indiana State Teachers Association. This prestigious event will take place at the Andorra Restaurant and Banquets in Schererville, Indiana, on Wednesday, May 7, 2008.

Sheri Doffin, a first grade teacher at Lake Village Elementary School, has been in the teaching profession for an astonishing 31 years, 30 of which have been with the North Newton School Corporation. Throughout her tenure, Sheri has always made a point of bringing innovative ideas to her classroom to make sure her students remain interested and actively involved in their studies. Involved in many committees and programs at Lake Village, including the PTO and PL221 team, which is geared toward the improvement of the school, Sheri's dedication is matched only by her constant concern for her students.

Tracy Kohler, from the Crown Point School Corporation, has been a role model and a true inspiration to her students since arriving in Northwest Indiana in 2004. Currently an eighth grade honors algebra and pre-algebra teacher at Colonel John Wheeler Middle School, Tracy is well known for her creativity in the classroom, regularly bringing real-life situations into her lessons. Also recognized for her skills with teaching struggling learners, Tracy was selected to teach a pilot program aimed at improving math scores on the ISTEP exam. Tracy has also shown her unwavering commitment to her students through her service as the sponsor of the Academic Bowl Team and as a volunteer at athletic and after-school events.

Kathleen Krum, this year's recipient from the Hanover Community School Corporation, has been a teacher for an astounding 38 years. A fourth and fifth grade teacher at Hanover, Kathy has received many awards and honors throughout her lifetime of service. Involved in numerous extracurricular activities and special programs with her fourth graders, Kathy has always taught with the goal of making learning fun. With this goal in mind, one of Kathy's greatest sources of pride was the construction of an outdoor learning lab at Lincoln Elementary School, which has helped many young students gain first-hand experience with nature.

Karen Semancik, this year's recipient from the Lake Central School Corporation, has had an outstanding teaching career, which has spanned 29 years. Karen is currently a fifth grade social studies teacher at Clark Middle School, where she is widely known for the unique and interesting activities she brings to her classroom. One example of such an activity is that she provided her students with the opportunity to contact the International Space Station. Additionally, Karen's peers and students have always been impressed with her patience and her ability to adapt her lessons to the individual needs of her students.

This year's recipient of the Crystal Bell Award from the School Town of Munster is Nancy Smith. Nancy, of Wilbur Wright Middle School, has been a seventh grade language arts teacher in Munster for the past 35 years. The passion Nancy has for teaching and for her students goes far beyond the classroom. Through her efforts on the Broad Based Planning Committee, the language arts gifted and talented program has made great strides, allowing these exceptional students the opportunity to enhance their student careers. Furthermore, Nancy has been a true role model to teachers new to the classroom, allowing them to learn from her vast experience and to share her passion for educating young people.

This year's recipient of the Crystal Bell Award from the Tri-Creek School Corporation is Thomas R. Sufana. Tom has been nurturing young minds for an astonishing 32 years and currently serves as the art teacher at Lowell Senior High School. In addition, Tom has served as the Assistant Drama Director for the past 14 years. Throughout his illustrious career, Tom has not only received recognition as a great teacher, but his work has been seen in many public events, both locally and nationally. Because of his love for art, Tom is responsible for bringing many beautiful pieces to Northwest Indiana, many of which are proudly displayed in the halls of Lowell High School today.

Vicki Weber, this year's recipient from the School Town of Highland, is known for her ability to challenge her students in a way few other teachers can. Vicki, currently a third grade teacher at Warren Elementary School, also serves in many other capacities, including: Spellbowl coach, intramural volleyball coach, mentor, mentor faculty facilitator, and as a member of the building school improvement plan steering committee. A testament to Vicki's ability to connect with her students, she has coached two Spellbowl teams that have advanced to higher level competitions.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding educators on their receipt of the 2008 Crystal Bell Award. Their years of hard work have played a major role in shaping the minds and futures of Northwest Indiana's young people, and each recipient is truly an inspiration to us all.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today, with my colleague Congressman Joe Donnelly, to recognize the many accomplishments of Mr. Jim Stemmler. I have known Jim for many years, and he is one of the most involved citizens I have ever known, especially when it comes to his service to the IronWorkers Local 395. Jim has been a member of the IronWorkers Local 395 for an astounding 35 years, and his contributions to the organization are immeasurable. Although Jim has been a constant fixture within the organization, he will be retiring from the Local 395 at year's end. For his efforts and many contributions to the union, Jim will be honored at a retirement celebration on Saturday, April 19, 2008, at the Radisson Hotel in Merrillville, Indiana.

Jim Stemmler was born in Hegwisch, Illinois, on December 30, 1947. He lived there until he joined the Army, in which he served during the Vietnam conflict. Following his return from Vietnam in 1973, he began his apprenticeship and became a member of the IronWorkers Local 395. Jim's service as an elected member of the union began with the position of Trustee. His dedication to the union and its members continued as he was elected Recording Secretary, and later as he served as president of the IronWorkers Local 395. With Jim's commitment to serve, it is only fitting that Jim was elected the first-ever business manager of Local 395.

Aside from his elected service to the Local 395, Jim also served on several Local 395 boards, including the joint apprenticeship committee and the health and welfare board. The respect and trust of the union's members for Jim is apparent in his appointment as the chairman of the board of trustees for Mid-America Pension Plan and to the supplemental monthly annuity fund board. Jim is also currently the President of the LaPorte, Starke, and Pulaski Building and Construction Trades Council and holds several politically appointed positions throughout the State of Indiana.

When not engaged with the union, Jim spends his spare time with those closest to him, his family. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Jim's commitment to the union and its members is surpassed only by his dedication to his family. Jim and his wife, Sandy, have shared many wonderful years together.

Madam Speaker, Jim Stemmler has given his time and efforts selflessly to the members of the IronWorkers Local 395 for the past 35 years. As a friend to Congressman Donnelly and myself, his fellow members, and the larger community, I commend his work throughout northern Indiana. 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.

I appreciate the gentleman yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5472, a measure to name a post office in honor of our departed colleague and dear friend, Representative Julia Carson.

I would like to thank the 46 Members of the House who agreed to support and cosponsor this measure, as well as Senator Bayh for introducing S. 2534, the Senate companion legislation.

I would also like to acknowledge that Representative Meek and Representative David Scott have expressed their support, though they were unable to become official cosponsors of the measure due to its rapid movement out of committee. I would also be remiss if I did not thank the Chair and the ranking member of the full committee, as well as the ranking member and Chair of the subcommittee for considering the bill and reporting it out.

Julia Carson was a tremendous human being. She passed away on December 15 after a life devoted to service. And as I pointed out last December, with the solstice upon us, the darkest day of the year, that Julia Carson was a light to everyone she came into contact with and certainly was a beacon in this House.

She could be tough, she could be gentle, but she was always effective.

It is a tribute to her life and to her service to name this Federal facility after her. And I only speak for myself when I would say, however, that Julia is probably looking in on this, is honored, but asking, why aren't we out helping someone else right now, because that was her life. And I would hope that we all take this moment and this honor to rededicate ourselves to helping others along life's path as this great and wonderful and kind and gentle woman has done.

Again, I thank the Chair and ranking member for their courtesy.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and gratitude that I stand before you today to recognize one of Northwest Indiana's most dedicated, distinguished, and honorable citizens, Mr. Jesse J. Morando, 2007-2008 State Commander for the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Department of Indiana. A lifelong resident of Northwest Indiana, Jesse is one of the most passionate and involved citizens that I have ever known, especially when it comes to his service to our veterans. To honor Jesse for his constant efforts to better the quality of life for Indiana's veterans, a testimonial dinner will be held at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 802 Hall in Hammond, Indiana, on Sunday, April 13, 2008.

Jesse James Morando was born in East Chicago, Indiana, the fourth of ten children. After relocating to Whiting, Indiana, in 1958, Jesse attended Immaculate Conception for grade school. Jesse's involvement in community activities began at an early age, when he excelled as a member of the Boy Scouts of America, eventually reaching the rank of Eagle Scout. Recognized as one of Whiting's young leaders, Jesse was even appointed ``Mayor for a Day.'' As a high school student at Whiting High School, Jesse excelled in athletics, participating on both the football and wrestling teams.

Following his graduation from Whiting High School, Jesse joined the United States Marine Corps and served a tour of duty in Vietnam. After receiving his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps in 1973, Jesse returned to Northwest Indiana and accepted a position at the Amoco, now BP, refinery in Whiting, where he has 27 years of service and has completed an apprentice program in pipe fitting and welding. Jesse's service, however, to veterans and to the Northwest Indiana community has remained a constant throughout his lifetime.

While he is well-known as the State Commander of the VFW, Jesse has also been involved in numerous other veterans' and service organizations in Northwest Indiana. Jesse is a life member of the American Legion Post 80 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2724 in Whiting, and also a member of the 40/8 Voiture 470 First District of Indiana, the AMVETS Post 64 in Whiting, the Indiana Freemasons, and the Mixtecas Motorcycle Group. Additionally, he is a life member of the VFW National Home.

Early on, Jesse learned that the best way to improve his community and to help people was to get involved. In many different roles, Jesse has remained true to one goal, to make a difference in society. From his service to veterans to his involvement in programs geared toward helping those in need, be it physically or financially, Jesse has always been a driving force in bettering the lives of many people. While it is impossible to list all of the ways in which Jesse has served his community, to name a few, Jesse has been a coach for the Challenger baseball team, where he assisted with obtaining funds to pay for the Field of Dreams in Hammond, Indiana. This outstanding program was aimed at affording physically challenged children the opportunity

to play baseball. He has also assisted with the Special Olympics, participated in motorcycle runs for Toys-for-Tots and other organizations to help those in need, been a personal donor for Locks of Love, and for the past six years, he has volunteered his time to the March of Dimes, raising money and assisting participants at an annual event in Highland, Indiana.

A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Jesse's commitment to veterans throughout Indiana is surpassed only by his love for his family. Jesse and his loving wife, Laura, are the proud parents of five children: Jennifer, Samantha, Sara, Elizabeth, and Jesse III, and three adoring grandchildren: Kali Rose, James IV, and Jaslyn.

Madam Speaker, Jesse Morando has selflessly given his time and efforts to not only veterans, but to many other groups as well, throughout his lifetime of service. At this time, I ask that you and all of my distinguished colleagues join me in commending him for his leadership and dedication. He serves as a true inspiration in the eyes of a grateful community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1061, a measure that observes the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and encourages the people of the United States to

pause and remember the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This Friday, April 4, 2008, marks the tragic 40th anniversary of Dr. King's assassination. Dr. King's work for civil rights has remained an inspiration to all those committed to liberty and freedom throughout the world.

While April 4 marks a sad day in American history, it is my hope that, as a nation, we will continue to reflect on the actions and accomplishments of Dr. King. Let April 4th be a day on which we celebrate Dr. King's life, study his teachings, and honor his legacy.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was born on January 15, 1929, and grew up in Georgia, attending segregated schools throughout his early education. Overcoming these unjust beginnings, King went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts from Morehouse College in 1948, a Bachelor of Divinity from Pennsylvania's Crozer Theological Seminary in 1951, and a Ph.D. from Boston University in 1955 before becoming pastor at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama.

Dr. King was actively involved in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and championed efforts for racial equality. In 1955, after Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery bus, Dr. King led the historic Montgomery Bus Boycott, the first nonviolent demonstration of the Civil Rights Movement. There, his steadfast adherence to nonviolence and unwavering devotion to the struggle for equality in the face of threats to his life propelled him to the leadership of the Civil Rights Movement.

In 1957, Dr. King was elected President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), where he drew inspiration from Christianity and the teachings of Ghandi to be a major leader in the Civil Rights Movement. In the ensuing decade, Dr. King was feverishly active in the struggle for racial equality, constantly traveling the country to orchestrate and participate in demonstrations and delivering the inspirational addresses for which he is renowned. In that time he also penned five books and many essays, consulted to Presidents Kennedy and Johnson, and became the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Unfortunately, Dr. King was assassinated on the evening of April 4, 1968, on the balcony of his motel room in Memphis, Tennessee, where he planned to lead a protest march to show solidarity with striking garbage workers the next day.

The nonviolent manner in which Dr. King fought for fundamental freedoms, such as desegregation and the right to vote, has had a lasting impact on the psyche of this country. Perhaps the greatest example of Dr. King's leadership and legacy is his ``I Have a Dream'' speech, which he gave in front of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington in 1963. In that speech, Dr. King spoke about his dream for a nation where his four children would not be judged by the color of their skin, but by their character.

Mr. Speaker, Friday may be the anniversary of the death of one of our nation's greatest citizens, but I also hope it is a day on which we can reflect on the positive changes that were set in motion due to Dr. King's work. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. raised the conscience of America. He made our nation reexamine our commitment to freedom and liberty, and he did so with a message of peace and non-violence. To this day, Dr. King's work, message, and legacy remain imprinted on the minds of those who carry on his noble cause across America, from Montgomery, Alabama, to Northwest Indiana.

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the gentleman from Indiana, the Honorable Andre Carson, be permitted to take the oath of office today.

His certificate of election has not yet arrived, but there is no contest and no question has been raised with regard to his election.

I appreciate the gentleman yielding, and I appreciate the biographical information. That is very important for all of us to recognize as far as Andre's achievement. I do think today as he is sworn in, he is probably best known as Julia Carson's grandson. Henceforth, he will be Andre Carson, Member of Congress, and we welcome you.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I pay tribute to one of the most caring, dedicated, and selfless citizens of Indiana's First Congressional District, Mr. Carl Fisher, longtime superintendent of the Portage Parks Department. After serving the people of Portage, IN, in this capacity for the past 24 years, Carl announced his retirement from this position. In honor of Carl, a retirement party will be held by friends and members of his staff on Friday, March 14, 2008, at Sycamore Hall of Woodland Park in Portage,

Madam Speaker, it is with the utmost sincerity and admiration that I rise to commend seven exceptional business leaders from Northwest Indiana who will be honored as the inaugural class of the Northwest Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame. Created by The Times and BusINess magazine, induction into the Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame is determined by a panel of local civic and business leaders. While there were many deserving nominees, the individuals selected as the 2008 Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame inductees are: Mark Maassel, Donald Powers, Mamon Powers, Jr., Denis Ribordy, Frank Van Til, Robert Welsh, Jr., and Dean White. For their many contributions to the enhancement of Northwest Indiana, these honorees will be recognized at a ceremony taking place at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville, Indiana, on Friday, March 7, 2008.

Mark Maassel is the former president of the Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO), as well as a leader of the Northwest Indiana Forum. For many years, Mark has been seen as an innovative leader, not only in terms of his profession, but for his charitable efforts in the community as well. In one of many examples, Mark is largely credited with bringing together the United Way campaigns throughout Lake, Porter, and LaPorte Counties in Indiana. He has also been an active leader with the Indiana Humanities Council, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, and the Ivy Tech Foundation.

Donald Powers is the president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Northwest Indiana, Inc. and the Community Healthcare System and the founder of a very successful real estate development company. Known throughout Northwest Indiana and beyond for his vision and determination, Donald is credited with the development of Munster, Indiana, as well as the Community Hospital and the Center for Visual and Performing Arts. In addition, he has been instrumental in the development of the Purdue University-Calumet campus in Hammond, Indiana.

Mamom Powers, Jr. is the president and CEO of Powers and Sons Construction Company, Inc., the company founded by his father in 1967. After learning the value of hard work and dedication from his father, Mamon took over the company and has always found a way to give back to his community. Mamon has always been active in serving the youth and has been a constant supporter of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana. In addition, he also serves as a trustee with Purdue University.

Denis Ribordy was the owner of Ribordy Drugs, Inc., a very successful chain of twenty-six drug stores throughout Indiana, prior to its sale in 1985. He was also president and CEO of Ribordy Enterprises, which consisted of eight Hallmark stores. Having started his drug store business in Gary, Indiana, in 1955, Denis has always remained active in the community. Throughout his career, Denis has been recognized on numerous occasions for his commitment to Tradewinds and many charities throughout his community.

Frank Van Til is the co-owner of Van Til's supermarket in Hammond, Indiana. Raised in the grocery store business, Frank's parents opened their first store in Hammond in 1936. The Van Til family eventually went into business with the Strack family to create what would become a successful chain of 29 supermarkets throughout Indiana and Illinois. Although the Strack and Van Til stores were sold in 1998, Frank continues to operate Van Til's supermarket in Hammond. Not only did Frank learn the grocery business from his father, but he also learned the importance of being an active member of the community, and to this day, he remains an active member of many civic and charitable organizations in Northwest Indiana.

Robert Welsh, Jr. was the owner of the former Welsh Oil Company and is the current CEO and chairman of Welsh Holdings LLC. Throughout his career, Robert's innovative thinking has made him a true pioneer in his field. As the owner of Welsh Oil Company, he is credited with many modern advancements, including self-serve gasoline stations, alcohol- blended fuels, and food service within gasoline stations. Robert has been the recipient of many accolades, not only for his business ventures, but also for his constant commitment to his community. Most notably, Robert has been recognized as the University of Notre Dame's Man of the Year. Always an advocate of the youth, Robert has been an active contributor to the Calumet Council of the Boy Scouts of America for over 30 years.

Dean White, CEO of Whiteco Industries, is credited with turning Merrillville, Indiana into the retail center that it is today. Dean is the founder of the Star Plaza in Merrillville, and he has developed much of the surrounding area, which includes hotels, businesses, shops, and offices. With business ventures ranging from billboard advertising to residential and hotel development to high-technology innovations, Dean's holdings include companies local to Northwest Indiana as well as businesses throughout the world. While Dean's contributions to business and development in Northwest Indiana are well known, it is equally important to acknowledge the impact he has made on his community through his constant support of local charities and organizations in the area.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding leaders on their induction into the Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame. These individuals are most deserving of being named the Inaugural Class of 2008, and for their leadership and commitment to the Northwest Indiana community, each of the recipients is worthy of our respect and admiration.

Madam Speaker, it is with a great sense of honor that I rise to celebrate Black History Month and its 2008 theme--Carter G. Woodson and the Origins of Multiculturalism. Dr. Woodson's life and words remind us, as Americans, that in order to continue to move forward, we must take the time to reflect on the past.

The theme for this year's Black History Month, Carter G. Woodson and the Origins of Multiculturalism, is a reminder that in striving for a greater society, we must examine the past. A brilliant author, publisher, and historian, Dr. Woodson understood that history was much more than facts on a page, but rather a detailed account and interpretation of the struggles and achievements of society as a whole. It was this belief that motivated Dr. Woodson to author many books and publish many articles on the outstanding contributions of so many proud and courageous African Americans.

Dr. Woodson's belief in the importance of historical study played a critical role in preserving the rich history of African Americans throughout the United States. His efforts led to the foundation of Negro History Week, which would later become Black History Month. His writings and teachings encourage not only African Americans, but all Americans, to reflect on, become educated about, and treasure these outstanding efforts. Dr. Woodson has also been seen by many other historians as a true inspiration. In the First Congressional District, I am proud to represent organizations such as the Interfaith Federation of Northwest Indiana, under the leadership of Executive Director Patricia Jackson, and the Gary Frontiers Service Club, under the leadership of President Oliver J. Gilliam, which have carried on such important ideals, reiterating the need for merging cultural beliefs and tradition and coming together to reflect on the past in seeking to improve the future.

It is the efforts of organizations like the Interfaith Federation and the Gary Frontiers Service Club 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 cultural, religious, social, and ideological backgrounds, it is our freedom and our ability to share our backgrounds with each other that is the true testament to the American way of life.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the Interfaith Federation, the Gary Frontiers Service Club and the many organizations throughout the United States that continue to preserve the African American heritage for all Americans. Through their words and teachings, these honorable individuals and organizations remind us all of the struggles and accomplishments that African Americans have made to lead us to where we are as a Nation today, while reminding us that there is still progress to be made.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to honor one of Northwest Indiana's most dedicated, distinguished, and honorable citizens. I have known Lee Botts for many years, and she is one of the most active and involved citizens I have ever known, especially when it comes to her service to protecting the Great Lakes and Lake Michigan's National Lakeshore. Today, Lee is celebrating a milestone, her 80th birthday. In her honor, a celebration will be taking place on Thursday, February 21, 2008, at the Metropolitan Club in Chicago, Illinois.

Lee Botts spent her childhood in Kansas and Oklahoma, and as a young woman, Lee

moved with her four children to Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood. In Chicago, Lee became active in neighborhood associations, such as the Hyde Park-Kenwood Community Conference, and became active in the preservation of the Great Lakes. In 1966, Lee participated in the campaign to acknowledge the Indiana Dunes as a National Lakeshore. While Lee was active in the protection of the lakeshore, she was also a columnist for the Hyde Park Herald, a weekly community publication of which she later became the editor. As well as being active in community press, Lee also established the Hyde Park Garden Fair, which is still held on an annual basis. In the late 1960s, Lee also became a staff member of the Openlands Project in Chicago, an organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing public open space around Chicago and northern Illinois.

In 1971, Lee founded the Lake Michigan Federation, known today as the Alliance for the Great Lakes. The Federation was the first independent citizen organization dedicated to the preservation of a specific Great Lake. As the leader of the Federation, Lee became dedicated to protecting the lakeshore and actively lobbied Congress to tackle issues of environmental protection, focusing on the first federal Clean Water Act. Because of her dedication to the environment, Lee served on the staff of the Environmental Protection Agency for several years when the agency was in its infancy, and in 1977 was appointed by President Carter as the head of the Great Lakes Basin Commission, headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Following this position, Lee worked with Mayor Harold Washington and the city of Chicago as a staff member and consultant for the city's newly developed Department of the Environment.

Lee also founded the Indiana Dunes Environmental Learning Center, a summer camp offering children of U.S. Steel employees an opportunity to learn about the environment and the necessity of its preservation. In addition to the numerous organizations Lee founded, she also made time to serve in various capacities at several other organizations, such as the Save the Dunes Council, the Northwest Indiana Quality of Life Council, Great Lakes United, the State of Illinois' Task Force of Global Climate Change, the State of Indiana Water Pollution Control Board, Chicago Wilderness, and the Northwest Indiana Regional Planning Commission.

Madam Speaker, Lee Botts has given her time and efforts selflessly to the protection of our environment and lakeshore throughout her many years of service. At this time, I ask that you and all of my distinguished colleagues join me in commending her for her lifetime of service and dedication to her community. I also ask that you join me in wishing her a very happy 80th birthday.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to honor one of northwest Indiana's most distinguished and honorable citizens. I have known the Honorable Richard Hatcher for many years, and he is one of the most influential citizens I have ever known, especially when it comes to the progress he made for residents of northwest Indiana and the entire United States. Forty years ago, Richard was elected mayor of Gary, Indiana, and in doing so, he, along with the late Carl Stokes of Cleveland, Ohio, became the first African American individuals elected to serve as mayors of major metropolitan areas. Since this time, Richard has been a constant fixture in not only Gary, but throughout northwest Indiana. Today, as we celebrate this significant event in our Nation's history, we reflect on the magnitude of his election and the progress that has been achieved since that time. In Mayor Hatcher's honor, as well as in honor of Carl Stokes, a celebration will be taking place on Saturday, February 23, 2008, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana.

Richard Gordon Hatcher was born on July 10, 1933, in Michigan City, Indiana. Following his graduation from high school, Richard went on to complete his bachelor of science degree in business and government at Indiana University. Subsequently, he also earned his bachelor of law and juris doctorate degrees from Valparaiso University. After completing law school, Richard relocated to Gary and began practicing law in East Chicago, Indiana. This was the beginning of his remarkable legal career, which included service as a deputy prosecutor for Lake County, Indiana. From there, his political career began when he was elected to the Gary City Council. Then, in 1967, he was elected mayor of Gary, the office he would hold for an astonishing 20 years.

Throughout his political career, Richard was always involved with various commissions and councils, including: the United States Conference of Mayors, for which he served as a member of the executive board and as vice president and president of the conference, the National League of Cities, the National Conference of Black Mayors, for which he was elected its first president, the National Urban Coalition, and the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, for which he served 4 years as president. He also received Presidential appointments to serve on two commissions: the United States Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations and the United States Commission on Education. Richard has also had a great impact on American society through his involvement with several civil rights organizations, both locally and nationally, including: the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, TransAfrica, the National Civil Rights Hall of Fame, the Martin Luther King Center for Non-Violent Social Change, and the Operation PUSH/Rainbow Coalition.

Throughout his illustrious career, Richard has been honored time and time again for his dedication and steadfast efforts in improving the quality of life for all people. To name a few of his accolades, Richard was honored in 1974, by Time magazine as one of the ``200 Outstanding Young Leaders in the United States,'' as well as one of the ``100 Most Influential Black Americans'' by Ebony magazine. He was also awarded the ``President's Award'' by the National League of Cities in 1987, the ``Adam Clayton Powell Award'' by the Congressional Black Caucus in 1977, the Operation PUSH ``Award of Excellence'' in 1980, and the Roy Wilkens Award from the NAACP in 1989. In addition, he has been honored with the ``Urban Leadership Award'' by the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns, the ``Distinguished Mayor Award'' by the National Urban Coalition, and the ``Fannie Lou Hamer Freedom Award'' from the National Conference of Black Mayors.

Madam Speaker, through his election as mayor of Gary in 1967, Richard Hatcher has been a cornerstone in the building of a better America. He has continued his efforts toward progress through the many ways he has selflessly given his time and efforts to the people of Gary, northwest Indiana, and beyond. At this time, I ask that you and all of my distinguished colleagues join me in commending him, as well as the late Carl Stokes, on their 40th anniversary of this significant event in our Nation's history, as well as for his lifetime of service and dedication to his community.

I thank the gentlewoman for yielding, my good friend from Ohio, to honor Julia Carson and her life of work to the people she represented in her district, to the people of Indiana, and this country.

Yesterday on this floor, I talked about the light that Julia cast upon all of us, whether it was the twinkle in her eye or her burning desire to make the world a better place. This evening, I would like to talk about the strength of her character.

Julia, when she was a young child, had a stuttering problem; but it was corrected and she was not deterred. As a 12-year-old, her mother, who scrubbed floors and took care of families and didn't get paid if she was sick, became ill; and at some point, the money had run out. Julia went to the trustee's office to seek help, and, ultimately, cornmeal and lard were pushed across the counter to her.

When Julia was 4 years old, for the only time in her life, she met her father. Her father promised that he was going to be a constant figure in her life. He gave her $5, and he was never seen again. Her mother remarried to someone who used to beat her. And often her mother could not come to her school events because he was someplace taking care of someone else's children. And she certainly, being a product of that time and that place, was subject to racism.

In an article she wrote in March of 1996, when she was running for Congress, entitled ``My Neighbor as Myself,'' she related one of those instances. And I think it really summed up Julia, who could be very tough but also have a general touch. She wrote:

``Another more amusing experience with racial stereotyping occurred when I worked with Congressman Andy Jacobs. One particular woman called our office quite often to complain about a wide variety of problems. I tried to be patient with her.

``I never realized that my many conversations with this woman had all occurred on the telephone until one day when she called, quite agitated, to inform me that a horrible thing had happened: a black family had moved in next door to her.

``It took me a minute to overcome my surprise, as she simply assumed that this competent public servant had to be white. However, after thinking about a wide assortment of possible responses, I simply replied, `It is okay, honey. Just give it a chance. I have black families living all over my neighborhood, and it has turned out all right.' '' And you could just see Julia saying that.

In the end, many people would be embittered by experiences like that, but Julia was not. And as Andy Jacobs, her very dear friend, wrote: From the physical pain of material poverty and the mindless cruel persecution of racism, Julia Carson made her choice, a choice of hard work, compassion, and a pleasing sense of humor. And heaven smiled.

And I know heaven is smiling on Julia tonight.