Rodney Alexander

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to congratulate Margaret Beatty for being selected Queen Evangeline of the 41st International Acadian Festival in Iberville Parish. Margaret, a 17-year-old senior at St. John High School in Plaquemine, La., is the daughter of Donnie and Amy Beatty. The International Acadian Festival is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, Council #970 of Plaquemine, which is the oldest Knights of Columbus Council in Louisiana. It is always outstanding to see the diligence with which the young students of Louisiana work to give back and better their communities. I have the highest confidence that Margaret will succeed in whatever endeavors she pursues. I ask my colleagues to join me in passing good wishes to Margaret Beatty, her family, and the entire International Acadian Festival. Margaret is truly deserving of this recognition.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3962 states in section 1 that the legislation builds on what's broken in today's health care system and repairs at the same time. I agree that improvements need to be made in the existing health care system, but placing individuals under one umbrella doesn't build on what's working or repair what's not. The bill includes a government-run public option that cuts Medicare and Medicare Advantage programs and raises taxes on middle class families. In addition, the bill does not protect the interests of small business, nor does it adequately address defensive medicine. And in the midst of States struggling with financial constraints, it will burden them with more unfunded mandates from the Federal Government. This latest proposal may be a different name, but even with a new name, the legislation remains a government takeover of health care.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. Speaker, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has included an opt-out plan into this health care plan. We all know that it is still just a government-run plan that's going to require a vote of the legislature. Now, do we really think that the Governor and the legislature are going to vote for a plan that opts them out of the plan but yet requires the taxpayers of that State to pay for that plan? Why, of course not. Whether it's opt-out, opt-in, trigger plan--whatever it's called-- it's still a government-run plan that's going to create an unfair advantage for the government against private insurance, causing many people to lose their plans. I am not going to vote for a plan that raises taxes, that cuts benefits or that drives a Washington bureaucrat between the patients whom I represent and the physicians.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that my name be removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 1298.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Congregation Gemiluth Chassodim of Alexandria, LA, originally known as the Hebrew Benevolent Society of Rapides. Chartered on October 2, 1859, the congregation recently celebrated its 150th anniversary of distinguished service to the Jewish community, as well as to providing faithful dedication to the Alexandria area. The congregation first held religious services in various private homes with lay leadership. The initial Jewish sanctuary was built in 1870, and the first rabbi, Marx Klein, came in 1873. On October 14, 1873, the young congregation became one of the original charter members of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, presently known as the Union for Reform Judaism, which today represents 900 affiliate congregations in the United States and abroad. The present sanctuary was constructed in 1952. The congregation has been served by 23 rabbis and 33 board presidents. It grew to a peak of nearly 300 families during the mid- twentieth century. Many members of the Temple have held various leadership roles in civic and charitable organizations throughout Central Louisiana. In addition, they have made significant contributions in the fields of medicine, law, government, social services, education and the cultural life of the region. The Temple, the Rabbi and individual members continue to play an integral part in achieving better interfaith understanding, working to strengthen the quality of life for all citizens in the communities of the region. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with me in commending the Congregation Gemiluth Chassodim.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Professor Geza Vermes, an internationally renowned biblical scholar. His commitment to inspiring and educating the world has been unwavering, and he deserves our congratulations. Among his impressive list of endeavors, Vermes is perhaps best known as publisher of the first English translation of the Dead Sea Scrolls. His latest work, ``The Story of the Scrolls,'' is set to be published in February, 2010. Since 1957, Vermes has been teaching in England. Today, he is Professor Emeritus of Jewish Studies and Emeritus Fellow for Wolfson College, and is a lecturer at Oxford University and throughout the world. In addition, Vermes is a Fellow of the British Academy (1985) and the European Academy of Arts, Sciences and Humanities (2001), holder of an Oxford higher doctorate and honorary doctorates from the universities of Edinburgh (1989), Durham (1990), Sheffield (1994) and the Central European University of Budapest (2008). On September 24, Vermes will be a guest lecturer at the University of Louisiana--Monroe. It is an honor to welcome such a distinguished and esteemed scholar to the 5th District. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in saluting Professor Geza Vermes for his remarkable career and countless accomplishments.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate The American Legion Post 3 for their hard work, service and dedication to the Alexandria/Pineville area, and to the nation. In 2009 alone, The American Legion Post 3 donated $34,500 to more than 30 laudable organizations throughout central Louisiana. Post 3 will be honored with a ``Legiontown USA'' program and subsequent ceremony on September 16, the anniversary of the organization's congressional charter, as American Legion Day. The ``Legiontown USA'' campaign was recently introduced to increase awareness of the activities and efforts of local posts in communities throughout the United States and worldwide. This movement is beneficial for it gives our courageous veterans the recognition they deserve. On a national level, The American Legion is a patriotic, non-profit organization devoted to advocating for our veterans on Capitol Hill. It is an honor and privilege to have such a prominent and compassionate institution in the 5th District of Louisiana. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending The American Legion Post 3 for their loyalty and dedication to our nation's veterans, as well as for their tremendous service to the communities of central Louisiana.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to commend Mr. Wiley Hilburn, an esteemed editor, respected mentor and prolific columnist. On September 1, the Louisiana Tech University news bureau chief, journalism teacher and department head, will retire after 41 years of dedication and service. Hilburn's legacy is not only embedded in his written work, but translated into the countless careers of past students. The Tech Talk, Louisiana Tech's weekly newspaper, was not always the student voice of the university, but merely a mouthpiece for the administration. In 1968, Tech President F.J. Taylor, hired Hilburn to liberate the school's newspaper, a period consumed with controversy and fueled by opinion. Successfully safeguarding the student body's First Amendment right during the Vietnam War and Civil Rights movement renders recognition. Hilburn will retire from one of Louisiana's most acclaimed journalism schools. During his 41-year-tenure, Hilburn served under Taylor and current Tech President Dan Reneau. Throughout the past 40 years, students have learned how to report responsibly and objectively. Although he will no longer steer the student voice of Tech, his opinionated outlook of reason will continue in his columns, printed weekly in The Shreveport Times and The News-Star, of Monroe. The Ouachita River touches most parishes in North Louisiana; Hilburn touches the hearts of all of his readers in North Louisiana every Sunday. During his four decades of teaching and mentoring students, Hilburn gave `fragments' of his life to every journalism student who walked through Keeney Hall. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Wiley Hilburn, a teacher, writer and personal friend.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Thank you for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the ranking member, the chairman and the members of the committee for passing this important piece of legislation. The entire Louisiana delegation are cosponsors of this. The National Forest Service is in support of it. In fact, they provided the language that is in this bill. As it's been said, CBO has scored it as zero. From the sale of this land, the proceeds will go back to the National Forest Service for money that they have spent over the years, providing maintenance for this 50 acres of land that will be sold to this not-for-profit group.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of the Commerce, Justice Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010, H.R. 2847. Congressman Rodney Alexander

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010, H.R. 3293. Congressman Rodney Alexander

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. Speaker, we all know that the health care system that we have in America is the best that the world has to offer. Do we need to improve it? Absolutely. But the question is how far do we go? Do we tax the employer, who is now struggling to make ends meet, increase payroll taxes by 8 percent? No. We give that employer an advantage, an incentive to provide health care. Give him a tax break. Give the employee a tax break so they can go out and buy their own insurance. So give them an incentive. But if we go and pass this bill, the government-run-all health care plan, we are going to break the backs of small businesses across this Nation that are the backbone of this Nation. Then we will hear a cry, Where are the jobs?

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. Speaker, several of my colleagues have come to this mike today and said, Where are the jobs? Well, if we pass this government-run health plan with compulsory insurance, it's going to create some jobs. It's going to take a government police force that you won't believe. We're going to have Barney Fifes running all over this Nation forcing people to do things they don't want to do. And how do we pay for it? Well, that's simple. We just go to the small businesses that can't afford to buy insurance for their employees as it is and we increase by 8 percent their payroll taxes. We are going to break the backs of small businesses that are the backbone of this Nation. Let's put a stop to this nonsense.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of the Defense Authorization and Homeland Security Appropriations bills. Congressman Rodney Alexander

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I rise today to commend James E. Bradford, a former Jackson Parish Police Juror of District 10, on the occasion of his retirement. A man of many dimensions, Bradford's career includes 39 years with Smurfit-Stone Container Corp., where he most recently held the position of Central Regional Manager of Government Affairs. In addition, he spent five years as a high school teacher, totaling 44 years of career service. Over the past few decades, he has been heavily involved in citizenship activities and community organizations. Among his many civic accomplishments, Bradford founded the Jackson Parish Community Action Center (now Pine Belt Multi-Purpose Community Action Agency), and served as the President of the Grambling State University National Alumni Association from 1992 until he retired from that position December 31, 2006. He has received numerous recognitions and awards for his invaluable leadership and dedication to his community. Bradford also served as a member of the Jackson Parish Police Jury, District 10, where I had the opportunity to work alongside this devoted public servant. Not only did I have the privilege of calling him a colleague, but it was here, that I first had the honor of knowing him as a friend. Beyond his professional career, Bradford and his late wife, Mae Calahan Bradford, have three children, Roderick, Berkita and D'Andra. They are the proud grandparents of William and Kiara, and their great- grandson, Kameron. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating James E. Bradford, a man who has served the people of Jackson Parish for many years. His commitment, compassion and leadership warrant this laudable recognition.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Ms. Arlena Christian-Brown on the occasion of her 92nd birthday. Ms. Christian-Brown was born on July 11, 1917, in Bonita, LA, to West and Classie Christian. She is the second of 19 children, and the oldest daughter living today. Currently, Ms. Christian-Brown is a resident of Jones, Louisiana and together with her late beloved husband, Ross Brown, raised eight children. Ms. Christian-Brown has been an active member of her community, attending and participating in church throughout her life. Over the years, Ms. Christian has served as an usher, choir member and a mother on the motherboard. As her friends and family prepare to join together on July 11 to celebrate this exciting birthday, Ms. Christian-Brown continues to exemplify how dedication, hard-work, patience and a strong faith can make a difference in her community. She has instilled fairness, honesty and religious conviction in her children and grandchildren. Today, Ms. Christian-Brown is the proud grandmother of 19 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren (one deceased) and one great- great-grandchild. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Ms. Christian-Brown a very happy 92nd birthday.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of the Commerce, Justice Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010, H.R. 2847. Congressman Rodney Alexander

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Buddy Camp of Alexandria, La., for enhancing the quality of life for many of this community's youth. I am privileged to have such a dedicated and compassionate group of individuals in my district. Buddy Camp was founded by Stacey Debevic for her own son, Kyle Debevic, who is bound to a wheelchair. Working as a pediatric occupational therapist and as the mother of a physically limited child, Stacey noticed there was little to no opportunity for children with disabilities to enjoy the experience of attending summer camp. After many years of planning, Buddy Camp was officially launched in the summer of 1999. Today, Buddy Camp is a community-wide project that allows children ages 5-12, both with and without developmental challenges, to participate in a week-long summer day camp. Held at the United Methodist Church of Alexandria, the camp places participants into buddy pairs to foster and develop friendships, as well as build confidence. As Buddy Camp looks forward to celebrating its 10th anniversary, the number of young people that have truly benefitted from the unique opportunities this program provides continues to grow. I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing the outstanding achievements of the Buddy Camp.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. Glenn Coleman, upon the occasion of his retirement, effective June 13, 2009, for his 23 years of service and dedication to the USDA National Forest Service. Mr. Coleman, who came to the City of Alexandria, LA in 1986, has dedicated 23 years of service as a landscape architect to the Kisatchie National Forest Service. His service includes management and volunteer work with projects and organizations such as the Alexandria Tree Board Committee, the Forest Service African American Strategy Group, ``Smokey the Bear'' and the Rapides Parish School Fire Prevention Program, annual outdoor recreation events, recreation facility design, and the Forest Service Human Resource Program. Beyond his professional career, Mr. Coleman has been proudly married for 20 years to Patricia Ann Coleman and is a loving father to Angela, Alisha, Andre, Kimberly, and Gregory. Friends and family describe Mr. Coleman as an individual who has dedicated his life to Christ and is an active member of The Greater New Hope Baptist Church where he served on the Deacon Board for 18 years under the direction of Rev. Robert Butler. Mr. Coleman is a friend to many, and is deemed a gracious and hardworking person to all who have had the privilege of making his acquaintance. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Glenn Coleman for his many years of service to the National Forest Service in Louisiana and for his dedication to our community.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride and pleasure that I rise to honor Mr. Adam Millikin, Jr. on the occasion of his 100th birthday. Mr. Millikin was born on May, 12, 1909 in East Carroll Parish, and is currently a proud resident of Lake Providence, La. In addition, Mr. Millikin and his late beloved wife were the proud parents of 10 children. Truly an integral part of Louisiana history, Mr. Millikin's fascination with politics has deep roots. He was just one of four males who first obtained the right to vote in East Carroll Parish. A retired farmer, Mr. Millikin serves today as a deacon of the Rose Hill Baptist Church. He has served in this capacity for 58 years. In addition, his hobbies include watching his favorite baseball team, Los Angeles Dodgers, and following the news. Mr. Millikin is a friend to many, and is deemed a gracious and hardworking person to all who have had the privilege of making his acquaintance. Friends and family of Mr. Milliken will gather on May 24, 2009 to celebrate this momentous birthday. I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Adam Millikin, Jr. a very happy 100th birthday.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to commend Martha Buffington, a teacher at A.L. Smith Elementary for being selected to attend the 2009 National Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy. Martha is one of 200 highly-qualified third- through fifth-grade teachers from around the country selected to attend the intensive professional development program this summer. She was chosen from more than 1,600 teachers nationwide by a panel of educators from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) and the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA). Their selection criteria was based on Martha's remarkable qualifications, unyielding dedication to inspiring students at an early age, as well as her overall commitment to enhancing the teaching profession. The ExxonMobil Teachers Academy is designed to further help each selected participant to engage students in math and science, and to help retain their interest in these subjects through college and into their careers. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Martha Buffington for being accepted into the ExxonMobil Teachers Academy. Martha is an excellent teacher who is truly deserving of this recognition.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, it is with distinct honor that I pay tribute today to the living veterans of World War II--``The Greatest Generation.'' On behalf of all the residents of the 5th District of Louisiana, I offer our deepest appreciation. World War II was a defining moment for our country. Over six decades ago, 16 million selflessly fought to protect and preserve our country's liberty, leaving school, jobs, friends and families behind. We must always remember the sacrifices made by these brave men and women. At the time when I was growing up, my generation would often hear World War II stories from our fathers or uncles. Today, these stories are becoming more and more precious to hear firsthand. I would like to thank the American Legion Post 53 of West Carroll Parish for providing an opportunity to reflect on the gallantry of those who served and those who died to protect our freedom in World War II. Our World War II veterans exemplify the strength and spirit of our country's ``Greatest Generation.'' The men and women who served in uniform during that war dedicated their lives to guiding our nation through some of its most trying hours. I remain committed to ensuring that all our veterans receive the benefits and honor that they greatly deserve. They have touched every life in some way. Madam Speaker, please join with me and all Louisianians in paying tribute to the living veterans of World War II. There will be a special place in our hearts for each one of these brave soldiers.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Chris Gatlin, RN, OCN, MHA, a nursing director at the Baton Rouge General, for being named 2009 Nurse of the Year by the Louisiana State Nurses Association. Chris is a long-time nurse at the Baton Rouge General, and her colleagues and friends state that she is representative of a true leader. From her work as an oncology nurse, to her service to those well beyond the hospital walls, Chris demonstrates the art and caring as a nurse by her promotion of this profession through example and participation. In addition to being one of the most compassionate caregivers, Chris is involved with many programs, projects, and initiatives related to oncology nursing. From promoting her profession through college classroom visits and national speaking engagements, to teaching classes to help nurses at the Baton Rouge General receive the highest certifications in oncology nursing, Chris is a constant advocate for the profession and a mentor to many. But one of Chris' most important and meaningful achievements was spearheading an initiative to increase awareness about the management of pain for cancer patients. As an oncology nurse, Chris saw how pain affected the daily lives of those suffering with this terminal disease. With a simple commitment to help her patients, she shepherded resources and stakeholders--creating the Louisiana Pain Initiative. Through this group, she secured grant money from the Pain Foundation to conduct the first Survey on Pain in Louisiana. She was also able to gain support around the state and participated in countless interviews for the ``Power Over Pain Louisiana Campaign.'' Chris continues to work closely with the group, making a difference in the lives of many in our state. Chris is also highly involved with the American Cancer Society (ACS). She participates annually, usually as a team leader, in the Relay for Life event and serves as a member of ACS's board of directors. She is also active in the community by promoting skin and prostate cancer screenings, breast self-exams, lung cancer awareness, and smoking cessation education. Anyone who knows Chris quickly learns of her excitement and enthusiasm for nursing and zest for life. Colleagues at the Baton Rouge General look to Chris as an example of how the power of one dedicated person can change the world for many. And though Chris would never seek out this type of recognition for her amazing work, everyone at Baton Rouge General believes she earns the right and privilege to be named Louisiana's Nurse of the Year. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Chris Gatlin for being named Louisiana's Nurse of the Year. This truly amazing and selfless individual has proven that one person can change the world for many.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the Baton Rouge General for earning the tremendous honor--for the fifth time--as the Hospital of the Year by the Louisiana State Nurses Association. The Baton Rouge General, established more than 100 years ago as the first hospital in the Baton Rouge area, is still committed to serving the residents of this community. This hospital boasts a legacy rich in clinical achievement, timely and responsive technological advancement, and dependable yet creative approaches to the delivery of quality care and services to those it serves. The Baton Rouge General aids a nine-parish region as a teaching hospital for both physicians and nurses, and provides the community with an extensive range of services, including one of only two Regional Burn Centers in the state of Louisiana. Moreover, the Baton Rouge General's Pennington Cancer Center became the first in the nation to treat patients using the ARTISTETM the most advanced cancer-fighting technology available today. This technology allows cancer patients to remain close to home for treatment--surrounded by friends and family--and still receive the best cancer treatment available anywhere in the country. In addition to ARTISTETM the hospital's Pennington Cancer Center has become known for developing the most comprehensive and advanced cancer treatment program in the region, including inpatient, outpatient, surgical and medical oncology services; radiation treatment; and cancer research programs at both campuses of the Baton Rouge General. Also, through the Baton Rouge General's Womack Heart Center, the hospital provides complete cardiac care--recognized by many national organizations for the highest quality and outcomes. Again, the Baton Rouge General's dedication to excellence was highlighted nationally in 2008 when it was named one of the nation's Top 25 Most Connected Hospitals in America by Health Imaging and IT Magazine. The hospital is in the final stages of developing a $16 million, state-of-the-art information technology system, which has been the subject of multiple national articles. As the Baton Rouge General forges into the new millennium, the hospital is more committed than ever to providing exceptional care from the region's best nurses, physicians and clinical professionals. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Baton Rouge General as it continues to provide needed medical services, life-saving, state-of- the-art technology and the best care to its community.

Mr. ALEXANDER

Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, pursuant to Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby submit for the Congressional Record the following disclosure on earmarks that were included in H.R. 1105: Requesting Member: Congressman Rodney Alexander Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Interior, U.S. Geological Survey Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Tulane University Address of Requesting Entity: 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118 Description of Request: The Long-term Estuary Assessment Group (LEAG) comprises scientific researchers based at Tulane, Xavier, Nicholls State, and LUMCON working together to provide accurate scientific and technological advances needed to improve the knowledge of the physical, chemical, geological, biological, and cultural baseline conditions in the coastal Louisiana ecosystem and related natural and built assets. LEAG requests funding support to transition its productive six years of investigation and team building to a level that allows USGS and other local, state and Federal agency managers to make the best possible decisions in support of: (1) implementing Louisiana Coastal Restoration and Hurricane protection projects authorized by the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 2007 and other Federal acts; (2) the Louisiana Coastal Area, Section 7006, Construction, Science and Technology Program established by WRDA 2007; and, (3) science and engineering support for the State of Louisiana's master plan for coastal restoration and hurricane protection. This revised Coastal Consortium project proposes that LEAG and other existing coastal restoration academic, industry, and public partners provide the joint leadership to establish and coordinate a new entity, the Consortium for Coastal Restoration consisting of the LEAG partners, scientists from the USGS, Louisiana State University (LSU), University of Louisiana in Lafayette (ULL), University of New Orleans (UNO), Rand Corporation investigators, engineers from key local engineering companies, and policy groups such as the Tulane Institute of Water Policy and Law, and the Barataria- Terrebonne National Estuary Program. Key investigators at other universities such as UNO and LSU will also be invited to join a full partnership consortium The overall strength and capacity of the Consortium for Coastal Restoration will make it a viable partner with other state and Federal entities [including the USGS National Wetland Research Center (NWRC) and the Coastal Restoration, and Enhancement for Science and Technology (CREST) consortium] to make the best possible development and implementation decisions for WRDA 2007 and other coastal restoration/protection authorities for Louisiana and the surrounding region. With the enactment of WRDA 2007, and other Federal authorizations, it is imperative that ``stove-pipe'' coastal restoration/protection policy, implementation, and projects be replaced by a comprehensive, fully coordinated team/partnership consortium to effectively and correctly implement WRDA 2007 and other Federal authorizations for Louisiana coastal restoration and protection. The aim of this alliance is to create a cooperative science, engineering, and technology program to help policymakers, planners and coastal resource managers use the latest objective information on the built and natural environment to ensure sustainable and productive coastal habitats and communities. Requesting Member: Congressman Rodney Alexander Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Energy and Water, Corps of Engineers, Construction Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 60267 New Orleans, LA 70160- 0267 Description of Request: East Baton Rouge Flood Control project encompasses the major streams of East Baton Rouge Parish and the Amite River Basin. Authorization: WRDA 1996, Sec. 101(a)(21); WRDA 2007, Sec. 5005e(30) FY08 Funding: $951,000. Requesting Member: Congressman Rodney Alexander Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Energy and Water, Corps of Engineers, Construction Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box 80 Vicksburg, MS 39181 Description of Request: A reconnaissance level general reevaluation study is needed to determine whether authorized cutoffs on the Ouachita River are economically feasible, environmentally sustainable, and publicly acceptable. Statutory Authorization for requested project: Senate Document Numbered 117, Eighty-first Congress as amended. Significant problems with navigation on the Ouachita River have been experienced in recent years because authorized cut-offs were never constructed and the existing radius of bend ways above Monroe, LA is too small for tows to make the turns without ``light loading'' of barges. Waterway users indicate that resulting increases in transportation costs are affecting production costs and the ability to maintain adequate raw material supplies. Requesting Member: Congressman Rodney Alexander Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Financial Services, SBA Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Greater North Louisiana Community Development Corporation Address of Requesting Entity: 103 Fourth Street, Jonesboro, LA 71251 Description of Request: A The primary goals of the Greater North Louisiana Community Development Corporation are to: a) stimulate creation, attraction, retention and expansion of business and industry in North Louisiana, b) provide access to financial capital, c)promote the growth of ``homegrown'' business using technology to provide rural isolated entrepreneurs with access to information, technical assistance, professional services and expertise. The Rural U.S. is home to over 56 million Americans who live in some of the country's poorest regions. As nationally publicized by all mediums, the state of Louisiana is involved in a long-running battle to find solutions to poverty and combating literacy (see attachments A & B--GNLCDC Service Area Demographics and Maps). The primary employers in the targeted parishes are light manufacturing companies. It is expected that manufacturing jobs will continue to decline in the 21st Century, therefore diversification is critical to the stimulation and survival of rural communities. The ``No Child Left Behind'' initiative must be extended to include educational opportunities to all citizens in under represented and impoverished areas, thus giving a sense of hope and empowerment to reach beyond the grips of despair and hopelessness. The GNLCDC serves as a door opener and an opportunity where currently none exists.