Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. William Anderson, for his lifetime commitment to social change and the civil rights movement.

Dr. Anderson was born on December 12, 1927 and is a native of Americus, GA. He graduated from Alabama State College, the University of Osteopathic and Health Sciences and is certified in general surgery.

Throughout his career, as a doctor of osteopathic medicine, Dr. Anderson has contributed to the medical community, in Albany where he began his career as well as in Detroit, MI, and Kirksville, MO.

However, in the segregationist South of the 1950s and early 1960s, Dr. Anderson's medical career became intertwined with the civil rights movement. At that time, there were no black hospitals in Albany. In white hospitals, Dr. Anderson was denied privileges such as admitting patients and using equipment--making it virtually impossible to practice medicine. So, Dr. Anderson improvised, servicing his patients by setting up his practice in a private office.

In 1961, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who Dr. Anderson had met a few years before, brought his movement to Albany. Soon, Dr. Anderson assumed the role of President of the Albany Movement. Over the next few months, hundreds of protestors were jailed for staging sit-ins at local bus terminals, including Dr. King and Reverend Ralph Abernathy. History tells us that the Albany movement, amid the hostile environment of southwest Georgia, was a struggle whose efforts were consistently thwarted by a determined sector of the white population.

However, history also tells us that the Albany Movement in which Dr. Anderson played an integral role has become viewed as a milestone in the greater civil rights movement. A year after the Albany movement began, hundreds of voters were registered and the city commission removed all segregation statutes from the books.

Madam Speaker, none of this could have been achieved without the efforts of Dr. Anderson. He is an inspiration for young men and women, and I stand here today to commend him for his service to his community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ambassador Andrew Young, a man who has given his life to the Civil Rights movement and other important social causes. Truly, he is a man who consistently puts the interests of others above himself.

Ambassador Young, who was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1932 to a dentist father and schoolteacher mother, grew up in the segregated South. After beginning his college education at Dillard University in New Orleans, he transferred to Howard University in Washington, DC.

In 1951 Ambassador Young graduated from Howard with a degree in pre- medicine. Instead of medical school, however, he heeded a call to the ministry and began his studies in theology at Hartford Seminary in Connecticut.

Graduating in 1955, Ambassador Young became the pastor at several small churches in the South, including one in Thomasville, Ga., in my own district. He also served as pastor at a church in Marion, Alabama. As part of his work there, while encouraging young people to vote, he first came in contact with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The relationship would last for the rest of Ambassador Young's life, carrying over into civil rights activities all over the South, including the Albany Movement in 1961-62. At that time, the small town of 56,000 people had gained a reputation as not just resistant to social activists, but impenetrable to change. White leadership in the town refused to have conversations with local leaders seeking to implement the decision of Boynton v. Virginia, which mandated the integration of bus and rail terminals.

Albany, as it turned out, was also one of the first places Ambassador Young made a difference. In late 1961, Dr. King, Reverend Ralph Abernathy and some 2,000 other demonstrators had already been jailed for their integration efforts. Nevertheless, Ambassador Young saw fit to go to Albany to help recruit and train people for citizen education workshops, with the aim of keeping the fire burning in Albany. The environment was dangerous, tenuous, and hostile, but Ambassador Young found a way to inspire and contribute.

Forty-five years later, we not only honor him, but also reflect on how the courage exhibited by him then led to the great accomplishments he is known for today: Georgia's first African American Congressman since Reconstruction, U.N. Ambassador, Mayor of Atlanta, among others. Ambassador Young has led a full and meaningful life, exhibiting a sense of public service and commitment to community the whole time.

Today, we thank and honor Ambassador Young for his contributions and the example he set for others.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a great man and outstanding citizen who passed away on December 28, 2006.

Walter Theophilus Lunsford, Sr. passed away at the age of 90 years old in Columbus, Ga., the city where he was born, raised, and spent much of his life making an impact as a businessman, family man and positive contributor to the community.

Success came early in Mr. Lunsford's life and he never let it go. After graduating as valedictorian from Spencer High School in 1933, he furthered his academic pursuits at Fisk University where as a physics major, he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Later, he became a charter member of the Eta Theta Chapter at Columbus State University, as well as the Columbus Alumni Chapter.

Mr. Lunsford first developed his business acumen by working in the family grocery store. He learned entrepreneurship first-hand as his parents expanded their business into real-estate, building houses at a time when public housing did not exist. He later built on that knowledge at the University of Chicago, studying business administration and international relations.

In the early 1940's, Mr. Lunsford carried his initial business experience into his own ventures, first as the sole owner and proprietor of Fox Deluxe Wholesale Beer Distributing Company and later, as the first black owner of a Georgia taxicab company. At the peak of its operation, he employed over 100 blacks between the Checker, Blue Bird and Red Bird Taxicab Companies. Since much of his clientele was comprised of black soldiers stationed at Fort Benning, his business filled both a social and economic void for members of the local community.

Mr. Lunsford did not stop there--as an off-shoot to his taxicab business, he opened a Shell Service Station. Eventually, he closed his taxi business and opened a full auto station and grocery store, a forerunner to the modem convenience store. Along the way, he found a way to integrate his love of entertainment by opening the Pierce Amusement Company, leasing coin-operated vending and game machines to other establishments.

Above all, Mr. Walter Lunsford was a successful, well-respected entrepreneur who placed God and family first. For 62 years, he accomplished it all with his wife, Sally Bryant Lunsford, at his side. Together they raised their ten college-educated children, an accomplishment in itself.

Today, we thank and honor Mr. Lunsford, not only for his contributions to Columbus, but also for the example he set for others. He will be remembered as an inspirational figure to not only those in Columbus, but to all who have the opportunity to learn about his life.

Madam Speaker, today I have the distinct privilege of recognizing a man of remarkable vision and unyielding commitment to the community, which he has so faithfully served. Through the leadership of Mayor Bob Poydasheff, the city of Columbus has experienced extraordinary growth and prosperity. During his tenure as mayor, the area has gained in excess of seven thousand new jobs and under his leadership the Columbus Consolidated Government has exercised fiscal responsibility resulting in balanced budgets and a surplus.

Bob Poydasheff has always exhibited exceptional character throughout his professional

careers. He served in the U.S. Army for twenty four years and retired at the rank of Colonel. During his military career, Mayor Poydasheff served as Legislative Counsel to Secretary of the Army Howard (Bo) Calloway, Staff Judge Advocate at Ft. Belvoir, VA, Legal Counsel to Secretary of the Army and Secretary of Defense on Labor Relations (1955-1979). In recognition of his exemplary service to our country he has received the Vietnam Ribbon, Legion of Merit, Commendation Medal, and 2 Oak Leaf Clusters.

Mayor Poydasheffs determination to excel is apparent in virtually every aspect of his life--and in none, more evident than in his pursuit of education. After receiving a B.A. in Political Science from the Citadel in 1954, he went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Tulane University. Mayor Poydasheff later received a M.A. in International Relations from Boston College. He has also attended The Academy of International Law and the Army War College.

Perhaps, his greatest accomplishment is the bond that he unwaveringly nurtures with his family. Mr. Bob Poydasheff and his wife, Stacy, are enjoying a wonderful and fulfilling marriage of forty-two years. Of this union, they were blessed with two children, through whom they have two lovely grandchildren.

His affiliation with many civic organizations outside of the political arena demonstrates the genuineness of his nature. These organizations include: Chattahoochee Valley Citadel Club (President); Chattahoochee Boy Scout Council (Past President); Association of U.S. Army (Past President); Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home (Past President); Fort Benning Sojourners (Past President); Board of Directors American Red Cross (Past Chairman); Military Affairs Committee, Columbus Chamber of Commerce (Past Chairman); Civilian-Military Council (Past Chairman); Military Order of World Wars (Past Commander); Minority Business Development Council; Black History Month Steering Committee; Urban League (Director); Columbus Lawyer's Club; Georgia Council of the Humanities; Kiwanis Club of Columbus; Leadership Columbus Alumni; Shriner; Scottish Rite; and Masons.

Today, we thank and honor Mayor Bob Poydasheff for his selfless dedication and steadfast commitment to the welfare of others and his community. His commendable service to the citizens of Columbus serves as an attribute which we should all strive to emulate as we attempt to make the world a better place to live for humankind. As he leaves the Mayor's office we extend our best wishes for joy and happiness in the weeks, months and years ahead.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding citizen of Columbus, Georgia who has distinguished himself as a dedicated and exemplary public servant. Mr. Nathan Suber joined the Columbus City Council in 1994 and for the past 12 years has served as City Councilman of Post 1.

Mr. Suber was born just across the waters of the Chattahoochee River in nearby Phenix City, Alabama. Being the oldest of three children in a military family, Mr. Suber learned at an early age the true meaning of ``service before self.'' As his father responded to the call of duty, Nathan Suber and his family relocated several times throughout his father's military career. It was not until the mid-sixties that the Suber family's roots were once again firmly planted in the Columbus, Georgia area. In 1968, Mr. Suber graduated from South Girard High School and later went on to earn an A.A. in Criminology at the City College of San Francisco and a B.A. in Criminal Justice at Columbus State University.

During his tenure as a Columbus Councilman, Mr. Suber served as Budget Review Committee Chairman for 1999-2000. In this appointed position, he was instrumental in changing policy to allow the citizens of Columbus access to budget sessions, which had previously been kept closed to the public. As Chairman of this committee, Mr. Suber exhibited steadfast dedication when he fought tirelessly to keep the Fluellen Recreational Center's doors open and, in the process, secured $462,000 in additional funding for the facility.

Mr. Suber also served on the Public Safety Committee and had a major role in ensuring the security of our neighborhoods by implementing measures to monitor the use of community resources. Among the many notable and worthy projects to which he has contributed vital energy and leadership were his efforts in designating the Midtown area of Columbus as a historic district. This vital rezoning measure provided a protective ordinance to the surrounding area, which prohibits development that would otherwise degrade the historic quality of the neighborhood.

Nathan Suber is known as a devout Christian and is a faithful member of Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church, where he currently serves as Chairman of Trustees. His faith in God is shared with the younger generation through the Sunday school lessons he provides. His goodwill is further evident in his devotion to his family--his wife of twenty- nine years, Charlene B. Suber; two daughters, Kelly Suber Jones and Cynthia Suber; and one lovely grandchild, Morgan L. Jones.

Mr. Suber currently serves as Chairman of the Board of the Metro Columbus Urban League, which further attests to his unwavering commitment to community.

Today we honor Mr. Nathan Suber and thank him for all he has done for the benefit of Columbus, Georgia--as an elected official and as a private citizen driven by the compassion for others. His exemplary service to his community has set a standard of dedication and leadership that we are all compelled to emulate.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great woman who has without reserve given her all to Muscogee County, GA. On this day, Dr. Polleys is retiring as chair of the Muscogee County School Board, a position which she has held for 13 years. She has faithfully served her community while blazing new trails for those who would follow.

Dr. Polleys grew up in Harris County, GA and knew early on that she wanted to make a difference in her community. To that end, she came back to Columbus to teach school after graduating from Mercer University. Not long thereafter, Mary Sue completed her master's degree at Auburn University and taught speech at the college level for 7 years, tutored extensively, and became involved in corporate training. In accordance with her ambitious nature, she did not stop with her master's but went on to receiver her doctor of philosophy degree from Auburn and served as director of the Servant Leadership Program at Columbus State University until her retirement.

After being elected to the Muscogee County School Board in November of 1993, Dr. Polleys led the school board to a place where consensus was the norm, mutual respect was expected, and discourtesy was simply not acceptable. In less than 5 years, the school system resolved its leadership issues, passed a $160 million capital program by a 3-to-1 margin, developed a fund balance of over 30 days, resolved its litigation, reversed the fall in test scores, and restored the confidence of administrators and teachers. More importantly, she restored the confidence of the parents and children whom the board serves.

Other members of the Muscogee County School Board characterize her this way:

As Chair, Dr. Polleys exemplified true leadership by

pushing us when we needed to be pushed, calmed us when we

needed to be calmed and taught us when we needed to be

taught. She helped take us from a group of nine individuals,

with nine separate agendas, to a school board of nine public

servants, with a single agenda, service to the community and

care for all its children.

In a lasting tribute to Dr. Polleys, the school board entered this resolution:

It has been said that all of us should be ashamed not to

have made at least one victory for mankind during our

lifetimes. By that standard, Dr. Polleys has earned not just

the right to be unashamed, but the right to be proud. If she

thought in terms of pride, she would be. She doesn't. If her

accomplishments are to be praised, we must praise them

because she won't.

Today, as Dr. Polleys moves into retirement from government service, we honor her and thank her for all she has done for the benefit of Columbus, GA--as an elected official and as a private citizen dedicated to the good of others. Her exemplary service to her community has set a standard of dedication and leadership that has inspired many and will inspire many others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding citizen of Columbus, GA, who has distinguished himself as a dedicated and exemplary public servant. The Hon. John J. ``Jack'' Rodgers at age 64 is retiring from the Columbus Consolidated Government after 24 years as a member of the Columbus Council. He served 8 of those years as mayor pro tem, having been unanimously elected to that position by his fellow councilors for four consecutive 2-year terms.

Mr. Rodgers, who was born in Pittsburgh, PA, has lived in Columbus since 1961. He was inducted into the United States Army in 1961 and served honorably for 2 years. Shortly after his honorable discharge in 1963, he married the former Barbara Riddle who has given him constant love and support in parenting two children, through whom Jack and Barbara have four grandchildren. Mr. Rodgers not only adopted Columbus, GA, as home for himself and his family, but also accepted leadership roles in business and government. He earned a B.S. at Columbus State University in 1973.

Jack Rodgers had a distinguished 21-year career with Ford. He then launched his own mortgage company and has been chair and CEO for 15 years. His successful participation in the business community provided an excellent background for his work at Chattahoochee Valley Community College in Phenix City, AL, where he taught business and economics for 7 years.

During his service on the Columbus Council, Mr. Rodgers was selected for four 1-year terms as Budget Review Committee chairman. He also served as the council's Ethics Committee chairman, and had a major role in developing revisions to the city's tax law by chairing the council's Occupational Tax Committee. Among the many notable and worthy projects to which he has contributed vital energy and leadership was the placement of the ``Eternal Flame'' memorial in front of the Columbus Government Center, a project for which he and then-Councilor Bobby Peters led fundraising efforts in the private sector. His wisdom and counsel, especially in financial matters, are frequently sought by other councilors and by citizens in his council district, as well as throughout the city.

Jack Rodgers is known as a devout Christian, a longtime member and leader in Edgewood Baptist Church of Columbus. He has often been called upon for invocations and other prayers in council meetings and on other public occasions.

His civic and social affiliations, which bespeak his dedication to service, include: the Rotary Club of Columbus; the Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center Board, of which he formerly served as vice- chairman; the Valley Rescue Mission, of which he is a former board member; president of the Heritage Educational Foundation; board member of the Columbus Technical College Foundation; and board member of the There is HOPE Foundation. His leadership qualities also have made him valuable to governmental associations: the Georgia Municipal Association; the

National League of Cities; and the Georgia Municipal Association/ Association County Commissioners of Georgia.

Today, as Jack Rodgers moves into retirement from government service, we honor him and thank him for all he has done for the benefit of Columbus, GA--as an elected official and as a private citizen dedicated to the good of others. His exemplary service to his community has set a standard of dedication and leadership that has inspired many and will inspire many others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of the Southwest Georgia Public Health District's Hooked on Health campaign. Today, many in my home state of Georgia are suffering from poor health. One in four adults is obese and only two in five adults in Georgia are regularly active. Poor health choices put all of our communities at risk for major health problems, like cardiovascular disease. The growing rates of obesity and inactivity will continue to impact our communities if we do not take action to reverse these trends.

There are simple, yet highly effective, solutions to this growing health crisis. Under the leadership of the District Health Director, Dr. Jacqueline H. Grant, MD, the Public Health District in Southwest Georgia launched the Hooked on Health wellness campaign in January 2006 to address three major health priorities: promoting healthy lifestyles, reducing health disparities, and engaging community and educational partners in these efforts.

Hooked on Health approaches these priorities through a campaign model designed to increase physical activity, improve nutritional choices, and reduce tobacco use and lower stress.

The campaign brings in motivational speakers and introduces wellness activities and incentives from community partners, such as reduced fees at health clubs and health screenings. Hooked on Health has modeled this program to community partners representing local businesses, hospitals, school systems, government and nonprofits.

The success of the campaign in its first year shows that an investment in healthy choices makes an important impact. After just 8 months, the wellness campaign teams reported: 1,029 pounds lost, 13 improved lipid profiles, 21 hypertensive employees met blood pressure goals, four diabetics improved Hg A1C (a glucose control measure), one smoker quit and two decreased, and 88 percent are still engaged.

Jim Pericaud, a Public Health employee who participated in the Hooked on Health campaign, reported, ``I started riding my bike to work last July. I ride to work 2 to 3 days a week. My wife has encouraged healthy eating by preparing meals of lean meats, fish and vegetables. I also do weight training. I have lost 15 pounds since July and I feel great!''

I appreciate the opportunity to discuss the challenges facing our country's overall health and to highlight the solutions promoted through Hooked on Health in southwest Georgia as a model for employers, school systems and community groups across the country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great man who has tirelessly dedicated his life to bettering his community. At the age of 74, Mr. Curtis Parham Redding, also known as C.P., is retiring as a Quitman County, Georgia Commissioner. He has served his community faithfully while blazing new trails for those who would follow him.

C.P. was born in Quitman County to proud parents, Curtis Lowe and Ora Inez Green Redding. As the eldest of three children, he quickly learned about dedication to family, service to nation, and responsibility. Quitman County is located on the banks of Lake Walter F. George in rural Southwest Georgia. The citizens of Quitman County are known for their strong work ethic and sense of self sufficiency and regional pride, and C.P. was no exception. With the exception of a few years, C.P. lived his entire life in Quitman County and was raised to love and respect his hometown. After graduating from Georgetown High School, C.P. recognized his love for politics and most importantly people. Realizing the town lacked social services, educational services, and basic services any citizenry would require, he began working hard to become a Quitman County Commissioner in 1975. During his first tenure as a Commissioner, he served for two years. Recognizing the need for involvement and higher basic educational standards for the County, he was then appointed to the Quitman County School Board where he served until 1994. C.P. was again elected to the Quitman County Commission and took office on January 1, 1996 and during this tenure, Quitman County achieved each of the goals C.P. established.

Although C.P. has decided to retire, his vision for Quitman County has not ended. C.P. has always believed that for small counties to flourish, it would be through organized coalitions. To this end, he has become active in creating and serving on Boards such as: Four County Economic Development Authority (Past Chairman), Southwest Georgia Chamber of Commerce (Past Chairman), and Southwest Georgia Housing Development Board just to name a few. He and his wife of fifty-five years, Annie Ruth Holmes who is the retired Director of the Quitman County Department of Family and Children's services, selflessly continue to devote their services to the advancement of Quitman County.

As an enduring testament of his dedication to his community and fortitude as a public servant, bids are currently being taken for the construction of a building to house the Quitman County Health Services since they have outgrown their present facility. Serving the needs of his community remains paramount to C.P. Redding.

Today, we thank and honor Mr. Curtis Parham Redding for his dedication and lifelong commitment to the welfare of others and his community. His lifetime of altruistic service has made him a legend in Southwest Georgia and an inspirational figure for us all.

Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding.

I rise tonight to discuss Delta Airline's tremendous progress since it entered bankruptcy in September 2005 toward its long-planned goal toward emerging in the first part of next year as a financially strong, stand-alone, independent airline.

This is a very positive story that has involved difficult decisions by Delta's management, sacrifices from its employees and strong support from its creditors, from the home State of Georgia and other communities it serves.

This is also an important story to tell tonight because U.S. Airways' unsolicited merger proposal would jeopardize the progress and saddle Delta with a huge debt that would put it at a competitive disadvantage.

On November 15, when U.S. Airways went public with this unsolicited merger proposal, Delta's CEO Gerald Grinstein wrote to Delta's 45,000 employees and said, Delta people have participated in the hard work and tough choices driving our company's already remarkable restructuring progress. I know you care deeply about what this means for our airline.

Less than a week later, Mr. Grinstein wrote again to Delta's employees to share how the outpouring of support for Delta's future as a profitable, strong, stand-alone airline and for you, the people who have been fighting hard to reach that goal, has been overwhelming.

So what is the story behind this remarkable restructuring progress since Delta entered bankruptcy in September 2005? In short, Delta has reduced costs, increased revenue, improved customer service, launched new domestic and international air services and achieved tangible progress on other major fronts.

As Business Week recently put it, Delta's senior management has worked around-the-clock renegotiating thousands of contracts, bucking up demoralized employees, imploring bankers to provide financing and wrangling with creditors to keep them from picking all the meat off Delta's bones.

To give just a few examples of Delta's tremendous progress over the last year, Delta has overhauled its vast domestic and international network, shifting as much as 20 percent of its domestic capacity and its largest aircraft to international service, all while expanding to all 50 States and serving 70 new international cities.

Delta recently announced the recall in the coming months of hundreds of furloughed employees, pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, and others. Most recently, Delta announced that it will recall another 200 pilots beyond the 130 pilots already recalled this year. Similarly, Delta recently brought back 1,250 flight attendants and 900 mechanics and maintenance workers. This brings to nearly 2,500 the number of employees recalled in just the recent months.

This week, in a move critical to its ability to emerge from bankruptcy, Delta agreed with the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation to terminate Delta's pension plan for its pilots. Retired Delta pilots will receive more than $800 million in allowed claims. A group representing most of Delta's retired pilots agreed not to fight this agreement. Further, and perhaps of greatest significance, at the time of this announcement Delta also reconfirmed that it will preserve its non-pilot retirement plan for 90,000 active and retired ground employees and flight attendants.

Based on this tremendous progress, Delta plans to file a plan of reorganization with the bankruptcy court in the coming weeks, and expects to emerge as a strong, competitive, stand-alone airline during the first part of next year. Such a result will be good for competition, good for the flying public in Georgia and throughout the U.S., and good for Delta employees, for their customers, and for their creditors.

In contrast, Mr. Speaker, US Airways' proposal would be bad for competition because of the monopoly it would create, bad for the flying public in Georgia and throughout the U.S. because of its potential rate increases, and terrible for Delta's employees, customers, and creditors because of the jobs that would be lost.

In short, US Airways' proposal would jeopardize all that Delta, with strong support from its employees, creditors, and local communities and others, has worked towards for more than a year now. We sincerely hope that it will be soundly rejected.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great African-American, Commissioner Israel L. Gaither, National Commander of the United States Salvation Army. Commissioner Gaither is the first African-American to hold the position in the Salvation Army's 126-year history.

In his position, Commissioner Gaither heads a vast Army of 3,661 officers, 112,513 soldiers, 422,543 members, 60,642 employees and nearly 3.5 million volunteers, who serve more than 31 million people annually. He is the Salvation Army's chief spokesperson in the U.S. and coordinates matters of national concern to its mission. He acts as the chairman of the national board of trustees and is responsible for presiding over tri-annual commissioners' conferences, which bring together key executive leaders of the Salvation Army's four territories in the United States.

The General of the Salvation Army describes Commissioner Gaither as a ``model of spiritual leadership . . . [whose] experience in South Africa and London give him a world-view of the challenges facing the Army today, while retaining the historical mission of the Army rooted in biblical truth and values.''

Israel Gaither is a man who leads with total dependence on God and in partnership with

territorial leaders to effectively impact those on the margins of American society. He loves the Salvation Army and is deeply committed to its mission.

Commissioner Gaither officially arrived at national headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, on May 1, 2006. Prior to joining national headquarters, he worked for 4 years in London, England, where he was second-in-command of the worldwide organization and his wife Eva Gaither served as world secretary for women's ministries. The Gaithers have served individually and jointly in numerous leadership positions throughout the Army, including roles as pastors of Salvation Army corps, congregations, in Aliquippa, Erie, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as well as in Brooklyn, New York's Bedford-Stuyvesant. In addition, they have held various regional, national, and international leadership positions in business administration. The Gaithers met at the Salvation Army's School for Officer Training in Suffern, NY, and were commissioned as officers in 1964. They married in 1967 and have two children and two grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, Commissioner Israel L. Gaither is the highest ranking African-American in the Salvation Army. He is an inspiration for young men and women, and I stand here to honor him today for his years of service to this Nation's and the world's needy.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding.

I rise today certainly in support of H. Res. 991, with my other colleagues from Georgia, and with great pride of the 2006 Little League World Champions, the Northern Little League team of Columbus, Georgia.

The victory by our Northern Little Leaguers over the undefeated Kawaguchi City team representing the country of Japan makes them only the second team from Georgia to win a World Championship. While a team from Marietta, Georgia won in 1983, our team is only the second team from Georgia to ever qualify for this event in the entire 60-year history, and we are very proud of that.

As a Member of Congress representing Columbus and Muscogee County, where most of the young men live, I cannot tell you how proud we are of these fine, young men and the character and discipline that they exhibited.

The entire city, the surrounding area, our State and, indeed, people all over the country were thrilled by the success of our young people. The Northern Little League players are not only world champions, they are certainly hometown heroes, and they are celebrities. You should have seen them with the class and dignity as they spoke with the media, as they commended their opponents and as they very dutifully signed the thousands of autographs surrounding the celebration of their victory.

These young men represented the city of Columbus, they represented the State of Georgia, and they represented the United States of America in the finest tradition of Little League and what it stands for and for what it represents: teamwork, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. We are proud of them.

The spirit of sportsmanship was no more apparent than it was this year. After they won the game, and you have heard, the entire Columbus team walked over to the opponents' dugout and beckoned for them to join them in taking the victory lap around the field. It really brought goose bumps and tears to our eyes to see side by side those two teams scoop up dirt from the infield to keep as souvenirs.

I also want to pay tribute to the parents and the coaches of these young men. Any parent of a Little League baseball player, for that matter, football, soccer or other sports, has to know and appreciate the love and the commitment that is needed.

Let me pay tribute to the dedicated fans in Columbus, the hundreds of whom took the 900-mile trip to Williamsport from Columbus to support our team, as well as the other Little League teams in the Columbus area, and the many volunteers, sponsors and supporters who have dedicated themselves to Little League sports year after year.

Throughout the World Series, it was clear that Northern was well- schooled and well-prepared which, in large part, points to the hard work and the dedication of the team's manager, Randy Morris, and coach, Richard Carter.

It was the team itself who had to put it all together on the field, and I would like to pay special tribute to each one of the team members individually, including Brady Hamilton, No. 6; Ryan Lang, No. 18; Josh Lester, No. 4, the most valuable player; Matthew Hollis, No. 10; Patrick Stallings, No. 25; Mason Meyers, No. 16; Kyle Rovig, No. 8; Matthew Kuhlenberg, No. 7; Cody Walker, No. 21; Kyle Carter, No. 19; and J.T. Phillips, No. 22.

Babe Ruth once said that, ``Baseball was, is and always will be to me the best game in the world.'' Indeed, for the millions of Little League fans around the world, the 2006 Little League Championship game will go down as one of the best single games in the history of the event.

We are so proud of our Little Leaguers. Northern Little League, congratulations for a job well done.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great man who led many causes on prominent issues in Columbus, GA. At the age of 77, Mr. Lonnie Jackson died from stomach cancer. He served his community and his country throughout his entire life, all the while, blazing new trails for those who would follow him.

Born in Talladega, Alabama in 1929, Mr. Jackson came into the world the same year as the great Dr. Martin Luther King. The son of a road worker and a domestic worker, Jackson knew nothing but hard work. His parents instilled in him the notion that to accomplish anything you had to work for it. And that he did. Even at an early age, Jackson deemed it necessary to get involved in the issues of the community. He stated, ``We were trained to be a good citizen.''

In 1946 Mr. Jackson, with patriotism at the forefront, entered the army after finishing the tenth grade, and later went on to earn his GED in the military. He served overseas in the Korean War and remained in the service until completion of his two tours in Vietnam in 1972. He credits the army for teaching him leadership, discipline, and patriotism. After retirement, he began a successful civilian career working at Dolly Madison and Swift Textiles. Twenty years after leaving the Army, he earned an associate's degree from Chattahoochee Valley Community College, and later a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Troy University.

Whether education issues, litter control, voting rights, civil rights, or supporting the military, Jackson was always the front-runner when it came to championing these important issues. For example, while still in the military, he noticed a problem with litter and organized various clean-ups as early as 1961. Voting was another campaign that he held close to his heart. ``Voting is important,'' he said. ``It's the best way to let your voice be heard. And, despite what some might say, it does make a difference.'' Although environmental issues and voting were very important to Lonnie Jackson, nothing compared to his passion for education. He was also responsible for organizing a tutorial program which has helped more than 23,000 children and is stilI counting. The tutoring sessions are designed to help students keep pace with their classes. Countless students who went through the program went on to make better grades in school and higher scores on standardized tests.

Mr. Lonnie Jackson leaves behind his daughter Lonya Jackson-Sardenas and her son Devarious Jackson, as well as his half-brother, Turner Jackson and his wife of two years, Betty Jackson. When asked what lessons she learned from her father, Lonya replied, ``Always care for others, always follow your dreams, and if something needs to be done, don't sit back and wait for others. Go and do it.''

Today, we thank and honor the late Mr. Lonnie Jackson for his dedication and lifelong commitment to the welfare of others and his community. His lifetime of altruistic care-giving has made him a legend in our community and an inspirational figure for us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great public servant from the State of Georgia, on her retirement after 40 years of service in the Internal Revenue Service--Mrs. Betty J. Allen. Mrs. Allen oversees the Taxpayer Advocate Service for Georgia, providing assistance to our residents who may have problems with their tax filings.

Mrs. Allen and I have known each other for many years. We have worked together as recently as last year when she provided advice and assistance to my office in holding a series of town hall meetings on the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit.

A Georgia native, Mrs. Allen attended Clark College, then assumed her initial position with the IRS in 1967. Throughout her four decades at the IRS, she has worked in a variety of capacities--including as a Management Analyst, a Problem Resolution Officer, and as the national coordinator for the Case Resolution Program. Mrs. Allen has also served on several special assignments, including the Service Center, Regional and National Office Task Forces, as Instructor for special training classes, on Quality Improvement Teams, and as Advisor to the District Director's Liaison Committee.

Throughout her career, she has served the IRS and the American people admirably and with distinction. We wish her well, and know that she moves into retirement, and on to other productive and fulfilling endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay special tribute and congratulate the 2006 Little League World Champions, the Northern Little League team of Columbus, Georgia.

The victory by our Northern Little Leaguers over the undefeated Kawaguchi City team representing Japan, makes them only the second team from Georgia to win a World Championship. While a team from Marietta won in 1983, our team is only the second team from Georgia to ever qualify for this event in its entire 60 year history.

As the Member of Congress representing Columbus and Muscogee County, Georgia, where most of the young men live, I can not tell you how proud we all are of this fine young team.

The entire city and surrounding community was thrilled by the success of its native sons. The Columbus Northern Little League players are not only world champions; they are hometown heroes and celebrities as well.

These young men represented the city of Columbus, the State of Georgia and indeed, our great nation, in the finest tradition of the Little League, and what it stands for and represents--teamwork, sportsmanship and camaraderie.

The spirit of sportsmanship was no more apparent than this year. After winning the Championship game, the entire Columbus team walked over to their opponents dugout, and invited the Japanese team to help them hoist the championship banner and to join them in taking the victory lap around the field. Then, side by side, the two teams scooped up dirt from the infield to keep as souvenirs.

I also want to pay tribute to the parents of these young men. Any parent of a little league baseball player, or for that matter, football, soccer or other sports knows and appreciates the love and commitment needed to be successful in these activities.

Let me also pay tribute to the dedicated Columbus fans, hundreds of whom took the 900-mile trip to Williamsport from Columbus to support our team, as well as the other Little League teams in the Columbus area, and the many volunteers, sponsors and supporters who have dedicated themselves to Little League sports year after year.

Throughout the World Series, it was clear that our Northern Little Leaguers were well schooled and prepared, which in large part, points to the hard work and dedication of the team's Manager--Randy Morris, and Coach--Richard Carter.

But it was the members of the team themselves who had to put it all together on the field. And I would like to pay special tribute to each one of the team members individually, including: Brady Hamilton #6, Ryan Lang #18, Josh Lester #4, Matthew Hollis #10, Patrick Stallings #25, Mason Meyers #16, Kyle Rovig #8, Matthew Kuhlenberg #7, Cody Walker #21, Kyle Carter #19, and J.T. Phillips #22.

Babe Ruth once said, ``Baseball was, is and always will be to me the best game in the world.''

And indeed, for the millions of Little League fans around the world, the 2006 Little League Championship game will go down as one of the best single games in the history of the event.