Michael Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1554, the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Act, legislation that will enhance paralysis research and improve the lives of people suffering from mobility impairments caused by disease or accident. I first introduced the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Act in 2003 after meeting with the extraordinary man for whom this bill is named. Christopher Reeve told me how dramatically the accident that left him paralyzed changed his life and forced him to completely depend on others for his everyday needs. What impressed me so much about Christopher was not only his strength and courage in dealing with what only people similarly situated can understand, but his resolve and determination to one day walk again and help others who shared his condition. And though Chris never walked again before his death, he and his wife Dana, who also has since so tragically passed away, pushed to the national forefront the issue of the need for better research into paralysis and greater emphasis on rehabilitation. This bill is part of their legacy. The substitute amendment offered to the bill this evening represents a significant step forward in our efforts to find a cure for paralysis and mobility impairment. The amendment authorizes grants through the Department of Health and Human Services to expand research on paralysis, better coordinate that research, and intensify efforts to translate clinical research into progress on rehabilitation and improving the quality-of-life of people with paralysis and mobility impairment. The bill will encourage the development of unique programs through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to improve the quality of life and long-term health status of persons with paralysis and other physical disabilities. CDC grants could be used to help states develop coordinated services to assist people with paralysis or for non-profit organizations to improve access to important services and better integrate people with paralysis into society. It is my hope that efforts in these areas ultimately will help translate clinical research into evidence-based best practices for treating paralysis and improving quality-of-life for mobility-impaired individuals. Finally, the amendment renames the bill the Christopher and Dana Reeve Quality of Life for Persons with Paralysis Act, to appropriately recognize the tireless efforts of both Chris and Dana Reeve, both of whom were taken from this Earth much too soon. There is no question that this bill is desperately needed. Though Christopher Reeve was certainly one of the most vocal and visible advocates for people affected by paralysis, he fought for many more who shared his condition. And while there are tremendous economic costs associated with disability caused by paralysis, we cannot begin to measure the impact that this condition has on those living with paralysis and on those who love and care for them. Before I conclude, I want to thank Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Joe Barton and Health Subcommittee Chairman Nathan Deal, both for their willingness to move forward on this bill and for their leadership on issues important to so many of us. I am proud to have worked with you both for so many years and wish you well as you continue your service in Congress. I also want to thank full Committee Ranking Member John Dingell, Subcommittee Ranking Member Sherrod Brown, and the majority and minority committee staffs for their work on this measure, especially Randy Pate of the majority staff and Cheryl Jaeger of Majority Whip Blunt's staff. I also would be remiss if I did not thank several former staffers of mine, Steve Tilton, Jeremy Allen, and Jeanne Haggerty, for their previous work on this bill. The work of all of these dedicated people has led us to where we are today. Mr. Speaker, we clearly need to better focus and enhance our national effort to cure paralysis and improve the lives of people who suffer from mobility impairment. The passage and enactment of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Quality of Life for Persons with Paralysis Act will be another critical step toward helping millions of Americans walk again, and carrying on the fight that Christopher and Dana Reeve fought so valiantly. I urge all of our colleagues to support it.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. I thank you, Bob, for those kind comments and also the chairman. I do rise in support of H.R. 6314, introduced by the Committee on Veterans' Affairs chairman, Steve Buyer. For the past 24 years, Madam Speaker, I have had the pleasure of serving in this body and also the honor, true honor, of being a member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. During that service I have helped create and advance numerous programs that benefit our Nation's veterans. This Congress, as chairman of the committee's Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, I have monitored and scrutinized billions of dollars of programs and projects that benefit veterans. Today I stand before you and ask that we extend expiring provisions of current law that provide health care, housing, educational, and other assistance that help veterans and their families. By supporting H.R. 6314, we will ensure the continuation of many of the programs and benefits that our Nation's veterans have earned. H.R. 6314 is an important bill that is truly worthy of our full support. I urge my colleagues to continue meeting our obligations to our Nation's defenders by approving this measure.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to honor the departing Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the United States, His Excellency Euripides Evriviades. Ambassador Evriviades has served in this post since December 2003, but his diplomatic career is long and distinguished. Prior to serving as Cyprus' Ambassador to the United States, he served as the Ambassador to the Netherlands, August 2000 to October 2003, and Ambassador to Israel, November 1997 until July 2000. Since 1976, he has served in a variety of diplomatic positions, proudly representing Cyprus and her citizens. It has been my honor and privilege to work with Ambassador Evriviades on issues important to Cypriots. I have come to regard him as an effective, determined, and passionate advocate for his country, a man who remains committed to the reunification of Cyprus and who has pursued this goal even when it put him at odds with others. I want to bid a fond farewell to Ambassador Evriviades and offer him my congratulations and appreciation for his 3 years of service in our Nation's Capital. I praise the Ambassador for his tremendous efforts and contributions to raise awareness among Members of Congress and administration officials of Cyprus' desire to be reunified. He will be greatly missed, and I wish him all the best in the years to come.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, July 4th each year, Americans young and old, of every ethnicity and political persuasion, unite in our celebration of our Nation's independence. We proudly stand and honor our democratic ideals and the liberty we all enjoy. It is a day to reflect on our shared history and remember those who have sacrificed their lives to ensure our freedom. For the citizens of the Republic of Cyprus, July 4th is just another day on the calendar. But on October 1st each year, they celebrate their independence, which was attained in 1960 after decades of British colonial rule. I want to offer my sincerest congratulations to the Cypriot people on the 46th anniversary of their independence. I also want to reaffirm the strong and enduring relationship between Cyprus and the United States. Over the past few decades, Cyprus and the United States have established close political, economic and social ties, developing a valued friendship. Cypriots and Americans alike share a deep and abiding commitment to democracy, fundamental human rights, free markets, and the ideal and practice of equal justice under the law. As the Republic of Cyprus celebrates its 46th Independence Day, I share the Cypriots' joy for and love of their nation, a prosperous and open society based on solid foundations. The celebration of this anniversary is an opportunity for the United States and Cyprus to draw closer together as we stand united in our resolve to fight the ongoing battle against terrorism and to promote the spread of freedom and democracy around the world. As we move forward, I am confident that our friendship will continue well into the future.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, we often refer to the World War II generation as ``the greatest generation,'' not only because of their bravery in times of economic depression and war, but also because of their strength, their moral fortitude, and their commitment to advancing the cause of freedom both here and abroad. We celebrate the accomplishments of their generation and respect them for who they are and the lessons they impart, as we rightly should. My primary purpose today, in addition to honoring our American World War II heroes, military and civilian alike, is to celebrate the courage of Greece's ``greatest generation,'' those citizens who, on October 28, 1940, stood up to the Axis powers and said ``no'' to the spread of fascism and hate. The significance of ``oxi'' day and what it meant to the outcome of World War II cannot be overstated. On that fateful day in October, the small, battered and courageous nation of Greece made a firm stand against the aggression of Italy and Germany. And by doing so, the people of Greece disrupted Nazi Germany's war plans and ensured that freedom would live another day. By October 1940, World War II had begun, and the Nazi regime already was operating in high gear. Under Aolph Hitler and Benito Mussolini, German and Italian forces were threatening the whole of Europe. In fact, Hitler intended to eliminate British operations in the Mediterranean in order to weaken their ability to hinder German advances. To achieve this objective, Hitler needed the Axis powers to strike British forces in Greece. By conquering Greece, Hitler hoped to gain access to the important connecting link with Italian bases in the Dodecanese islands, giving Italian forces a stranglehold on British forces in Egypt where they were already under attack. The defense of Egypt was vital to Allied positions in the oil-rich Middle East. On October 28, 1940, the Italian Ambassador in Athens issued an ultimatum to Greek Prime Minister Metaxas, demanding the unconditional surrender of Greece and threatening Italy's declaration of war. Mussolini gave Prime Minister Metaxas only three hours to reply. Mussolini obviously underestimated the resolve of the Greek people and their passion for liberty. In what has now become one of the most celebrated actions of World War II, Prime Minister Metaxas responded with the word ``oxi,'' which means ``no'' in Greek. This statement, which embodied the true spirit of the Greek people, demonstrated undeniable courage and strength in the face of imminent invasion by Italian forces. ``Oxi'' echoed the same devotion and love of country that Greek patriots exhibited during their war of independence against the Ottoman empire when they defiantly shouted ``liberty or death.'' The Prime Minister's actions marked the beginning of one the world's most heroic efforts to combat tyranny and oppression. Knowing that Greece would not give in to its demands, Italy invaded. Greece went into battle as the clear underdog. In addition to having a population seven times smaller than Italy, the disparity in the nations' armed forces was even greater. Italy enjoyed ten times the firepower of Greece in its army and navy and seven times the number of troops. Italy's command of the air gave Greece little hope of success. However, despite their lack of equipment and smaller numbers, the Greek army proved to be well-trained and resourceful. Within a week of the invasion, the Italian forces were suffering serious setbacks. On November 14, 1940, the Greek army launched a counteroffensive and quickly drove the Italian forces back into Albania. By December, the Greeks had captured the town of Pogradec in eastern Albania, where the fighting continued for several months. It became very clear that the Greeks were not going to stand for defeat. In a last ditch effort to bring the skirmish to a close before they would be forced to ask Hitler to intervene, the Italian armed forces launched another assault on March 12, 1941. It took only six days for them to concede that German intervention was necessary. Hitler ordered the German invasion of Greece on April 6, 1941, but it took the Germans five weeks to finally end the conflict. This delay proved critical to the outcome of the entire war. Italy's inability to capture Greece enabled the British to win major victories against Mussolini's forces in North Africa, solidifying their positions in the region. This delay also contributed to the failure of the German Barbarossa campaign to conquer Russia. Because he was forced to capture the Balkans, mainly Yugoslavia and Greece, Hitler had to delay his plans to invade and capture the Soviet Union before the winter of 1941. The Greek resistance, both in Albania and in another famous battle in Crete, altered the time table of the planned Barbarossa invasion by at least six months, proving a favorable development for Allied Forces. Perhaps the most important effect the Greeks' unyielding stand had on World War II was guaranteeing that the Germans would not gain the advantage against the British. Although Germany had conquered much of Europe, Hitler's inability to decimate British and Russian forces early in the War would eventually prove fatal. Thanks to Prime Minister Metaxas saying ``oxi'' and inspiring the heroic Greek resistance, the war tide was permanently changed. The Allies gained tremendous advantages by the stubborn and proud resolve of the Greek armed forces, but the Greeks themselves suffered loss and sacrificed much. Nearly one million Hellenes died during this time, roughly 14 percent of the population in 1940. And yet, the entire Western world, discouraged and fearful of the Axis powers and increasingly ugly war, were inspired by the Greeks' incredible victories. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill honored these acts of heroism, declaring that ``Today we say that Greeks fight like heroes; from now on we will say that heroes fight like Greeks.'' Mr. Speaker, ``Oxi'' Day continues to serve as an inspiration to all those in this world who cherish democracy and freedom. It marks defiance of fascism and ongoing commitment to doing what is right. As a Greek-American, I am proud to honor the memory of those brave patriots who fought for the freedom of their country and in so doing, helped secure it for the entire free world. Today freedom-loving nations are battling a new enemy, not defined by nation but by hatred of freedom and love of fear and oppression. As we continue to fight the Global War on Terror, we should take a page from Prime Minister Metaxas and the Greek people and echo their resolute ``no'' to those who threaten liberty. By doing so, we honor the spirit of ``Oxi'' Day and all those who have sacrificed to defend freedom.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to revise and extend my remarks. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5835, the Veterans Identity and Credit Security Act of 2006, as amended, and thank Chairman Buyer for his leadership in bringing this legislation to the floor. I also want to thank my colleagues from other Committees and across the aisle for the bipartisan effort that brought this bill to the floor. This is an important piece of legislation that aims to improve information security at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and may set VA as an example for other federal departments and agencies. H.R. 5835, as amended, provides the tools for VA to improve information security and strengthens the role of the Chief Information Officer (CIO). The legislation, requires the Secretary to provide the CIO with the authority over VA information technology (IT) to include information security, personnel, resources, and infrastructure. These authorities include oversight of the activities, policies, processes, and systems of VA IT. Last October, as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, I joined Chairman Buyer, Ranking Member Evans, Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations Ranking Member Strickland and other distinguished Members to introduce H.R. 4061, the Department of Veterans Affairs Information Technology Management Improvement Act, to centralize the authority of the CIO. Last November, the House unanimously passed H.R. 4061 with a vote of 408-0. I remember Chairman Buyer standing on this floor, sharing the failures of VA IT projects and the millions of dollars spent on major IT programs that have failed to assist in making the delivery of benefits to veterans faster, safer, and more efficient. I stand here today because of another VA failure in IT, with another piece of legislation to reform VA IT and ask members to unite and show support for our veterans by passing H.R. 5835, as amended. Since 2000, there have been 16 hearings of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and its Subcommittees on VA IT. This summer alone the Committee on Veterans' Affairs held eight hearings on IT and information security, two of which were at the Subcommittee level. The House Committee on Veterans Affairs has been anything but lax in its review of VA IT, and I am confident that oversight of VA IT will continue following my retirement. It has been an honor to serve in this body and as a member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs for the past 24 years, and passing H.R. 5835, would be another way for me to honor and protect the veterans I have served during my time in Congress. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of H.R. 5835, as amended.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lowell Stanberry, a dear friend who passed away this past weekend. Lowell Stanberry was a straightforward man who always stood up and fought for his deeply held convictions. He was a Republican long before it was popular--or politically advantageous--to be a member of the GOP in my state of Florida. Lowell was instrumental in building support for my first candidacy for Congress by hosting barbeques at his ranch. Lowell summed up his unwavering dedication to political activism and conservative principles by saying that ``I think politics is kind of like religion. If you were born Baptist, I guess you die Baptist. If you were born a Republican, I think you die a Republican.'' But Lowell was much more than a political activist. He was a dedicated member of his Dade City, Florida, community. He was a local volunteer and civic leader. He was a philanthropist and humanitarian. He was a friend and mentor to many. And he was a dedicated husband to his beloved wife, Evelyn, who passed on earlier this year. Mr. Speaker, Lowell Stanberry was a courageous man whose convictions guided him throughout his life. I can think of no better way to honor him than by remaining true to ourselves and fighting for the goals and ideals in which we so strongly believe. I urge our colleagues to do that today and every day that we have the honor of serving as members of the greatest deliberative body in world history.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I did not have the opportunity to cast a recorded vote on S. 418. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, we are here today to commemorate the fateful events of a beautiful September morning. For most of us in this Chamber, September 11, 2001, started out like any other warm, sunny Tuesday morning. We were going about our daily business, meeting with constituents, and participating in committee hearings. The hint of fall hung in the air as we attended to pressing needs and kept tight schedules. But everything changed in an instant. The images of the burning World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon rocked us to the core, shaking our sense of calm and filling us with fear, confusion, and heartbreak. Instead of arguing about some partisan issue or another, we spent the day consoling our families, our constituents, and each other. The entire country grieved as one for those who had perished. Our hearts were broken that day, but they were not destroyed. We witnessed a rebirth of sorts in this Nation, Americans young and old finding common ground in their grief and fear, united in ways we never expected. They gave of themselves sacrificially to meet the needs of others. Houses of worship were packed with people praying for those who had lost loved ones in the buildings or on the planes. In the days following September 11, we were inspired by the stories of valiant first responders and heroic Americans who thought little of their own welfare as they rescued others and brought down hijacked planes. We owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude. Their actions gave us hope in the American spirit and resolve to ensure that something like this never happened again. Five years have passed, and we have made great strides in securing our homeland and protecting the American people from harm. We have passed laws designed to prevent acts of terrorism. Our law enforcement and intelligence communities have disrupted terrorist plots. Our brave men and women in uniform have taken the fight to the terrorists abroad so we don't have to fight on our Nation's soil. The American people have resumed their daily activities even while continuing to grieve and comforting those who still mourn. Mr. Speaker, the terrorists who committed the heinous atrocities on September 11 thought they would break the American spirit and send us whimpering into the history books with our tails between our legs. They were wrong. We have acted and will continue to act decisively against anyone who preys upon the innocent and threatens our freedom. The heart of America beats strong of our good and compassionate people. We will not be silenced and we will not back down. May God continue to bless the United States of America.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, as a veteran myself and an avid advocate for veterans in the United States House of Representatives, I believe it is important to recognize individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty to serve the men and women who bravely wore our nation's military uniform. The James Haley VA Medical Center, VAMC, in Tampa, FL is one of the busiest veterans' medical facilities in the country and provides care to approximately 142,000 veterans in Central Florida. All employees, excluding service chiefs, who have been employed at the Tampa VAMC for at least 1 year, are eligible to receive the ``Hospital Ambassador Award.'' I am pleased to be able to recognize recent recipients of this award: Geraldine Penia, pharmacy technician; Michele Overland, social worker; Douglas Covey, pharmacist; Jerome Sipes, police officer; Charles Gutierrez, registered respiratory therapist; Ruthe Hunter, supervisor program specialist; Nenita Auza, staff nurse; Betty Thomas, program supply assistant. I am also pleased to be able to recognize several employees at the Port Richey Outpatient Clinic for their outstanding work. These individuals have received ``Employee of the Quarter Awards'': Virginia Osmar, program supply clerk; Evelyn Gines-Dasilva, nurse. I want to extend my sincere appreciation to these outstanding employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs and commend each of them for the tremendous service they provide to our Nation's veterans.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I was absent from votes on September 6 and 7, 2006, due to personal illness. As a result, I was not recorded for a series of votes. Had I been present, I would voted ``yea'' on rollcall votes 427, 428, 429, 430, 433, 434, and 435. On rollcall votes 431 and 432, I would have voted ``no.''

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I was absent from votes today, July 28, 2006, due to family obligations in Florida for my niece's wedding. As a result, I was not recorded for a series of votes. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall votes 418, 419, 420, 422, 423, 425, and 426. On rollcall votes 421 and 424, I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, the James Haley VA Medical Center, VAMC, in Tampa, FL, is one of the busiest veterans' medical facilities in the country and provides care to approximately 142,000 veterans in Central Florida. The Tampa VAMC is also home to one of four designated polytrauma rehabilitation centers in the country where the most severely injured service members are treated. Military service personnel wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan may have serious traumatic brain injuries alone or in combination with amputation, visual impairments, orthopedic injuries, hearing disorders and mental health concerns. The unique nature of these severe multiple injuries has created the need for a blast injury program that can address the medical, psychological, rehabilitation, and prosthetic needs of these individuals. The Tampa VAMC has been recognized as a Center of Excellence in Rehabilitation and Spinal Cord Medicine. At the Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, a team of as many as 10 specialists assess the needs of the catastrophically injured and their families, to determine a comprehensive treatment plan which will help each person reach the highest level of physical, emotional, and social independence in the home, workplace and community. More than 2,500 outpatients and 140 inpatients have been treated at the Tampa Polytrauma Center since the program began. Throughout my tenure in Congress, I have spent a great deal of time at the James Haley VAMC, which serves many of the veterans who reside in my congressional district. Over the years, I have been impressed by the dedication of the men and women who work at the medical center, providing quality care and services to our Nation's veterans. Dr. Steven Scott, the chief of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service, and his polytrauma team should certainly be counted among the dedicated staff of the VAMC. The Veterans' Affairs Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, which I chair, has visited the Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center. We had an opportunity to spend time with some of our wounded Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom service members being treated at the Polytrauma Center. We also heard from their family members who repeatedly praised the polytrauma staff for the compassionate and professional care their loved ones were receiving. One of the things that stood out when we visited the Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center was the positive outlook of the patients and their families--despite everything they had already been through and the daunting road of rehabilitation that still lay ahead of them. In part, I think they were able to maintain this positive attitude because of the tremendous dedication and caring work of the Polytrauma Center staff. Dr. Scott and his staff have also been vocal advocates for their patients, raising issues to my subcommittee's attention which have improved the quality of care and services provided to polytrauma patients. On August 5, 2006, Dr. Scott and his staff are being recognized for their service to our Nation's wounded service members and veterans. I want to take this opportunity to extend my sincere appreciation to each of them and commend them for the tremendous service they provide to our wounded military personnel and veterans. Members of the James Haley polytrauma team: Forest Farley, Jr., hospital director; Dr. Steven Scott, D.O., chief, Polytrauma Center; Dr. John Merritt, M.D., chief, Spinal Cord Injury; Dr. Joel Scholten, M.D.; Dr. Cecille Pope, M.D.; Dr. Gail Latlief, D.O.; Dr. Faiza Humayun, M.D.; Dr. Rebecca Kayo, Ph.D.; MAJ Steve Moten, U.S. Army, DoD Liaison; SGM Vincent Conti, U.S. Army, DoD Liaison; Carolyn Clark, public affairs officer; Barbara Darkangelo, P.T.; Judith Pink-Goldin, O.T.; Marti Veneman, R.N. and nurse manager; Nancy Kronawetter, R.N.; Diana Cronin, R.N.; Karen Meigs, R.N.; Lea Rashka, R.N.; Joann Estep, L.P.N.; Barbara Collas, L.P.N.; Patrice Thompson, L.P.N.; Annies Joy, L.P.N.; Paula O'Keefe, R.N.; Bernice Willis, R.N.; Chaplain David LeFavor; Ivan Colon, R.N.; Frank Bormet, R.N.; Debra Banks, R.N.; Elizabeth Butron, R.N.; Pamela Keckler, L.P.N.; Ryan Baker, L.P.N.; Earl Gray, N.A.; Tracey Vaness, V.R.T.; James MacAulay, V.R.T.; Laura Manore, A.A.; Deborah Studer, S.W.; Margaret Veneman, N.M.; Douglas Gephart, P.M.R. coord.; Leslie Rothman, recreational therapy; Linda Picon, S.L.P.; Laurel Adams, O.T.; Juan Jose Villeda, P.T.; Steve Klemz, S.W.; Felicia Santos, S.W.; Jeanetta Sheppard, S.W.; Diana Phillpotts, S.W.; June Demaree, S.W.; Abby Wolf, recreational therapy; Laureen Doloresco, assistant chief, nursing; Sandra Janzen, ACOS nursing service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mike June, a man of tremendous courage and spirit who recently passed away. Michael John June was many things to many people. He was a son. He was a husband. He was a father. He was a brother. He was a friend. All who knew and loved him will tell you that he was as kind-hearted, generous, and unselfish an individual as there ever was. Mike also was a constituent of mine, and a hard-nosed football coach at Palm Harbor University High School, near my congressional district. Mike was always determined and focused on winning, though he cared deeply for his players and wore his emotions on his sleeve. He sometimes cried, after both wins and losses, but often displayed the trademark smile that lurked just below his handlebar mustache, especially when his players performed as he knew they could. Mike also had an ebullient personality and can-do attitude. He was diagnosed with leukemia in November 2002, yet was coaching his boys the following season. His best friend and former college roommate observed that, ``it seemed like there was nothing that could get him down.'' Mike kept coaching and teaching, even when his cancer returned and his doctors told him that he was risking death by doing so. He did so because, as one of his former players has commented, ``he loved to give what he had.'' Those who cared for Mike in his final days have said that, despite his serious illness, he did not pity himself or lament the hand he had been dealt. In fact, when asked how he was doing, he always replied ``excellent.'' Mr. Speaker, Mike June loved his wife Paula, and his children Mike, Max, Matthew, Mitchell, and Mia. I hope the sadness that they and those who cared about him feel at his passing will one day be eclipsed by the joy of knowing that his legacy will live on in those who were fortunate enough to have known him. May God bless his soul and may He watch over his family.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise again today, as I have for more than two decades, to voice intense objection to the illegal occupation of Cyprus by Turkish troops and to declare my grave concern for the future of the island. The Turkish incursion into Cyprus, thirty-two years ago, has rendered a legacy of internal division, and should worry those in this chamber who cherish freedom and espouse the virtues of democracy. In July 1974, Turkish troops invaded and captured the northern part of Cyprus, seizing more than a third of the island. The Turkish strategy included ethnic cleansing. Not only did the Turks expel 200,000 Greek-Cypriots from their homes, but Turkish troops also were responsible for the systematic killing of 5,000 innocent civilians. In the process, Turkey installed 40,000 military personnel on Cyprus. Today, these troops, in conjunction with United Nations (U.N.) peacekeeping forces, make the small, once peaceful island of Cyprus one of the most militarized areas in the world. Well over a quarter of a century later, approximately 1,500 Greek-Cypriots remain missing, including four Americans. The Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot communities are separated by a 113-mile barbed wire fence, called the Green Line. Until 2003, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a government formally recognized only by Turkey, prohibited Greek-Cypriots from freely crossing the Green Line to visit the towns and communities of their families. Controlling 37 percent of the island, Turkey's military occupation has had severe consequences, most notably the dislocation of the Greek-Cypriot population and the resulting refugees. The Republic of Cyprus has proven to be an ally of this country. An ally which, in times of need, stands up to the plate and offers assistance, understanding and compassion to our citizens. I am sure that most of you have been following the developments in Lebanon, and the plight of over 25,000 Americans who are trying to leave safely with their families. How many of you know that Cyprus has opened its doors to everyone evacuating Lebanon? On July 15, 2006, Cyprus declared its readiness to assist efforts for the evacuation of U.S. citizens and other nationals fleeing Lebanon. A coordinating committee set up by the Cyprus government is in charge of organizing the reception and hospitality of foreign nationals arriving in Larnaca from Lebanon. The U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus Ronald Schlicher said that several thousand U.S. citizens were expected to arrive on Cyprus. They will stay in hotels or--if there are not enough beds--in schools and an exhibition space equipped with tents and prefab housing provided by the Cyprus government. Thanking Nicosia, Schlicher said that the Cyprus Republic had offered significant assistance and that this could be a good opportunity to deepen U.S.-Cyprus cooperation. During the U.S. State Department briefing on the Lebanon evacuation efforts, Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Maura Harty expressed gratitude for help offered by the Cyprus Republic. ``We're so grateful to them. . . Cypriots have met every helicopter and ship with sandwiches and water and juice. They're just being fantastic'' she said. ``The Cypriot Civil Defense Force has been very helpful to us in what they have provided,'' she added. The Cypriot citizens know first-hand what our people are going through because they have lived through it. I want to personally recognize and thank President Tassos Papadopoulos and the Greek-Cypriot people for their swift offer of assistance for our citizens and for their efforts to alleviate the distress and suffering of our families. I pray for their safe return. There also have been some other positive developments recently, based on Cypriot President Papadopoulos' initiative. He and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat agreed earlier this month to begin a process of bi-communal discussions to find a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem. The decision, which is part of a set of agreed upon principles, was made during a meeting between the two leaders in Cyprus with the U.N. Undersecretary General for Political Affairs Ibrahim Gambari. The two leaders stressed their commitment to the unification of Cyprus, based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, and political equality, as set out in the relevant Security Council resolutions. President Papadopoulos already has submitted a comprehensive proposal for the establishment of two committees on Economic Integration and Population Determination. The Government of Cyprus also has proposed and is ready for the establishment of additional bi-communal committees that will tackle other problems arising from the division of the island. Asked about Turkey's EU accession course in relation with the developments in the Cyprus problem, President Papadopoulos said they were two separate issues, and pointed out that Ankara still had to meet its obligations toward the EU. In a conversation with President Papadopoulos, U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan expressed his satisfaction with the result of the meeting and congratulated both sides. The agreement is the first positive result after the meeting in Paris last February between President Papadopoulos and U.N. Secretary General Annan, where they had expressed their common hope that these discussions would help restore trust between the two communities and prepare the way for the earliest full resumption of the negotiating process. The following is the set of principles agreed to on July 8, 2006: 1. Commitment to the unification of Cyprus based on a bi-zonal, bi- communal federation and political equality, as set out in the relevant Security Council resolutions. 2. Recognition of the fact that the status quo is unacceptable and that its prolongation would have negative consequences for the Turkish and Greek Cypriots. 3. Commitment to the proposition that a comprehensive settlement is both desirable and possible, and should not be further delayed. 4. Agreement to begin a process immediately, involving bi-communal discussion of issues that affect the day-to-day life of the people and other substantive issues, both of which will contribute to a comprehensive settlement. 5. Commitment to ensure that the ``right atmosphere'' prevails for this process to be successful. In that connection, confidence building measures are essential, both in terms of improving the atmosphere and improving the life of all Turkish and Greek Cypriots. This requires putting an end to the so-called ``blame game.'' The following are the decisions by Mr. Papadopoulos and Mr. Talat: 1. The Technical Committees on issues that affect the day-to-day life of people will commence by the end of July provided that, at the same time, the two Leaders will also have exchanged a list of issues of substance and its contents to be studied by expert bi-communal working groups and finalized by the Leaders. 2. The two Leaders will meet further, from time to time as appropriate, to give directions to the expert bi-communal working groups as well as to review the work of the Technical Committees. I would like to stress that the Government of Cyprus continues to emphasize that it remains committed to reunify Cyprus as a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with democratic and human rights for all Cypriots. The Cypriot Government has announced a series of measures aimed at assisting those Turkish-Cypriots residing under the control of the occupying Turkish army. The package included a wide range of political, social, humanitarian, educational and economic measures that would enhance the Turkish-Cypriots' ability to enjoy many of the benefits that the Republic of Cyprus offers to its citizens--including benefits which result from its European Union membership. Far beyond a merely symbolic gesture, the package is a substantive program to integrate the Turkish-Cypriot community into the larger Cypriot society. The Republic of Cyprus and Greek-Cypriots have provided the Turkish- Cypriot community more than $700 million dollars in aid. In the past two years, the Government of Cyprus has paid more than $43 million dollars in social insurance pensions to Turkish-Cypriots, and Turkish- Cypriots working outside the Green Line made $7 million dollars in wages last year. Since April 2003, more than 24,000 Turkish-Cypriots have received free treatment in hospitals and medical centers inside the Republic of Cyprus, the combined cost of which totals more than $9 million. Since the invasion more than three decades ago, Turkish-occupied areas have received free electricity from the Cyprus Electricity Authority at a cost of nearly $343 million. Also, more than 150,000 birth certificates, identity cards and passports have been provided to Turkish-Cypriots by the Republic of Cyprus, so that Turkish-Cypriots could travel and acquire work more efficiently. The Republic of Cyprus has begun a program where it pays the full tuition fees of Turkish- Cypriot pupils in secondary education private schools in the government-controlled areas. To date, this program has promised more than $5.4 million in tuition fees, and the program added five times as many students this year than it did in 2003, its first year. The occupying Turkish regime partially relaxed restrictions that limited travel across the Green Line. Since then, there have been more than ten million incident-free border crossings by Turkish and Greek Cypriots to visit areas and homes that were inaccessible to them for over 30 years. This has produced rare displays of human kinship, exchanges of flowers and pastries, and emotional visits to homes abandoned in the mid-1970s. As a result, Greek-Cypriots have infused more than $57 million into the impoverished, Turkish-occupied economy in the North. Still, neither the Government's incomplete, albeit well-intentioned, benefit package for Turkish-Cypriots, nor the limited lifting of restrictions by Turkey's occupying regime, substitutes for a comprehensive resolution to end Cyprus' divide. I urge the Bush Administration, the United Nations, the European Union, and this honorable body to remain engaged in efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, and to work toward a fair and lasting reunification of Cyprus. We should look to correct the wrong that occurred more than thirty years ago. We should work to bring about a just resolution to the situation. And, at the very least, we must act to halt the continuing injustice which the world community allows to continue in Cyprus, our proven and strong ally.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to cast recorded votes on rollcall Nos. 375 and 377. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on both votes.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to a disease that has a profound impact on those that it afflicts. Autism, Mr. Speaker, is a bioneurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills and cognitive function. Individuals with autism typically have difficulties communicating and interacting with others and often engage in repetitive behaviors. I spoke on this floor recently about how people with autism are affected by this disease, and the early warning signs of autism that parents should watch for as their infants become toddlers. Today, I want to share with our colleagues the impact that autism has on the families of those that it affects and the struggles parents must endure to raise children with autism. During a recent district work period, I met several of my constituents, including Howard and Jonica Chittum, and their wonderful son, Mac, who is autistic. They shared with me the emotional and financial challenges of having a child with autism. The Chittums told me how Mac needs intensive speech and occupational therapy, services for which Medicaid partially pays, but that their health insurance does not. They talked of their excitement when Mac makes progress and of their disappointment when he struggles. The Chittums are fortunate in that they somehow have found time to work and care for Mac. They also have managed to pay for more intensive therapy for Mac, which has helped him make significant progress in a relatively short time. I was pleased to learn that Mac's language skills are now on age level. His eye contact has improved, and he is showing more interest in other people. Some people, however, Mr. Speaker, are not as fortunate as the Chittums. I also met with Monica Bice, whose daughter, Jade, has autism, over the district work period. Monica, who met Jonica through a support group for parents of children with autism, wants desperately to provide Jade with the intensive therapy she needs, but simply cannot afford. And Jonica said, ``It's just not fair.'' I think this is an unconscionable situation that we must remedy, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to have cosponsored legislation our colleague from California, Mrs. Bono, has introduced to encourage screening, early intervention and education about autism. This bill, the Combating Autism Act, would strengthen and coordinate all Federal activities related to autism research, diagnosis, screening and treatment. I think it also is important for parents to know that they are not alone when trying to raise a child with autism. There are a multitude of national, State and local organizations such as Aware for Autism, a support group for parents of children with autism, which Monica started. I encourage anyone who has a child with autism to seek assistance from those who are facing the same challenges that they are. Mr. Speaker, I believe we can and should do more to raise awareness about autism and encourage its prevention, treatment, and hopefully some day soon, its cure. I urge our colleagues to support the Combating Autism Act and give hope to people with autism and their families and friends.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the rule. During consideration of the bill, I will be offering an amendment with several of my Florida colleagues; and I want to thank the Rules Committee for making the important amendment in order. While some use political rhetoric to say ``do nothing,'' some of us for months have worked diligently to craft solid statutory protections for Florida and other coastal States. Opposition to drilling on the Outer Continental Shelf is particularly strong in Florida, due to the potentially devastating consequences it could have for our economy, natural resources, and quality of life. I want to thank Resources Committee Chairman Richard Pombo and his staff for their willingness to work with me, Governor Jeb Bush, Congressman Putnam and other members of the Florida delegation on the very sensitive issue of offshore drilling. While I applaud the efforts of the Resources Committee to allow States to determine whether or not drilling occurs closest to their coastlines, I believe that if we truly, truly want to maximize the ability of States to protect their own coastlines, they should have to opt in to drilling, as opposed to being required to opt out of drilling. Therefore, the amendment my colleagues and I will be offering today provides States with a true opt in, meaning that drilling could only occur if a State requests leasing. Our amendment also expands the true opt in protection from 100 miles to 125 miles. While some States may choose to allow drilling close to their shores, those States can still do so under this amendment. They are not precluded from doing so. We believe that States that want to protect their shores from drilling should be able to do so to the maximum degree possible. I urge my colleagues to support the Bilirakis/Wasserman Schultz/ Young/Brown-Waite/ Harris/Wexler/Mario Diaz-Balart/Stearns amendment to H.R. 4761 and give States real control, real, solid, true, statutory control over whether or not drilling occurs off their coastlines.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I yield 25 seconds to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ginny Brown-Waite).

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I am offering this amendment with several of my Florida colleagues: Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, Bill Young, Ginny Brown-Waite, Katherine Harris, Robert Wexler, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Cliff Stearns. First of all, Mr. Chairman, I am told that this amendment is slated for defeat, and that is really unfortunate because it greatly improves the basic bill in that it provides solid, true statutory protections off of Florida and all coastal State shores. This amendment does not shred the existing 25-year drilling moratorium, as claimed by some vocal groups. In fact, that moratorium ends in 2007 and 2012. The moratorium is by executive order. It can be revoked at any time, even before July 1, 2007, and before 2012. This amendment codifies in statute the protection up to 125 miles. The moratorium does not now cover the Florida Keys nor most of the Florida Atlantic. The amendment gives protection to all of the Florida coastlines and to other coastal States permanently, not subject to the whims of any executive. This form of government is a republic, meaning that we legislators represent our constituents' interests, a government of, by and for the people. We ask ourselves, who is better equipped to better decide how close offshore drilling should come to a State's coast, the U.S. Congress or the States themselves? I say that the people of coastal States should make that decision. If they want leasing and drilling, they can opt in. If they do not, then no action is required. The bottom line, Mr. Chairman, of my amendment is to allow States to determine whether or not drilling occurs closest to their coastlines. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would suggest to the gentleman, with all due respect, that the mountains of West Virginia, those beautiful mountains, belong to all the people, too, but I would expect the people of West Virginia could make the best decision regarding those mountains.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Wasserman Schultz.)

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I yield 45 seconds to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Boyd).

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Wexler).