Sanford Bishop

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. 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.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great soldier and a great American, Colonel Rick R. Riera, who is giving up command next week at Fort Benning, GA, the ``Home of the Infantry.'' Colonel Riera was born on June 4, 1959 in Matanzas, Cuba. At the tender age of nine years old, he and his family fled the Communist government and were granted political asylum in this country. They were flown via a Liberty Flight to Miami, Florida, where Colonel Riera grew up. Riera was admitted to the United States Military Academy and in 1981 graduated and reported for training at Fort Benning. After his initial training, he was assigned as a Rifle and Scout Platoon Leader on the Demilitarized Zone in Korea. During his career, Colonel Riera has served in six Infantry Regiments (8th, 15th, 18th, 23rd, 30th, and 75th) and four Infantry Divisions (2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 24th). His service highlights have included assignments as a Ranger Rifle Platoon Leader during the invasion of Grenada, command of two mechanized Infantry companies in Germany during the Cold War, and command of the Infantry's first M2A3 Bradley Battalion during the Division Capstone Exercise. Staff experience consists of duty as a Battalion S-3, Battalion XO, Brigade S-4, Brigade S-3, and Brigade XO with the Sledgehammer Brigade on Kelley Hill. Colonel Riera also served as the Chief of Crew Training for U.S. Army Europe's New Equipment Training Team during the fielding of Bradleys to the 3rd AD and 2nd ACR. Additionally, he was the first Chief of the Bradley Crew Evaluator Training Team for standardized gunnery at Grafenwoehr. Joint experience consists of service with J-3 Southern Command in Panama and the Andean Ridge as a counterdrug operations officer at the height of the Drug War against the Medellin and Cali Cartels. Colonel Riera later served as the Army Special Assistant to the Commander in Chief of U.S. Southern Command following its move to Miami, Florida. In addition to completing Infantry courses here at Fort Benning, he is a graduate of the Regional Studies Course at the J.F.K. Special Warfare Center, the Command and General Staff Course at the U.S. Army School of the Americas, and the Inter-American Defense College. His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Combat Infantryman's Badge, Expert Infantryman's Badge, and Valorous Unit Award. Colonel Riera is married to the former Rosario Moreno of San Juan, Puerto Rico. They have two children, Rebeca and Ricky. Mr. Speaker, Colonel Riera is stepping down as the garrison commander at Fort Benning next week, and I stand here to honor him today for his years of service to this Nation. He escaped tyranny in his native land and, with his family, sought freedom and opportunity in America. He found his freedom and is now dedicating every day of his life to protecting it for his children and for each and every one of us. I thank him for his service, particularly his leadership at Fort Benning, and wish him luck in his future assignment at Fort Sam Houston as Deputy Chief of Staff of Operations, U.S. Army, South.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in praise of the hard work of our colleagues here in the House and the Senate for extending for another twenty-five years the Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott King Voting Rights Act Reauthorization and Amendments Act. I thank the President for signing the bill into law yesterday. In addition, I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of those individuals whose work has ensured that the tradition of its creators is not forgotten. It was the combined efforts of civil rights leaders--activists like Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks and both Coretta Scott King and Martin Luther King Jr.; political leaders in the Kennedy and Johnson Administrations; and our esteemed colleague, John Lewis, who put his life on the line when he crossed the Edmund Pettis Bridge in Selma, Alabama on Bloody Sunday--these are some of the people who made the Voting Rights Act a reality. It is in the memory of their political courage and stewardship of democracy that I joined with my colleagues to ensure its continuation. What we have seen in the past months is another pivotal step toward the realization of Dr. King's dream for an equal America. From my own work with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, I understand many of the obstacles Dr. King faced in overcoming adversity for the disenfranchised. I am honored and humbled to be one of many to continue what he worked so hard to begin. The right to vote is among the most sacred of freedoms. Dr. King is just one of many Americans who paid the ultimate price, so that all can have a voice. The Voting Rights Act honors that tradition by ensuring that all Americans have equal access to the ballot box and refusing to allow discrimination of the past to be a part of our future. Mr. Speaker, the Congress has made its will and that of the country known. We have ensured that all Americans will continue to have a voice and generations to come will go on to make Dr. King's dream of an equal America a reality.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a man who has spent the last 32 years of his life serving this body in the Paint Shop. Roy D. Hoke has become a friend of mine and a friend of my office staff. Through his years he has worked to make each and every one of our offices more beautiful--not for us, but for our constituents and honored guests. Rarely have I seen a man more dedicated to his work, and more filled with pride at a job well-done. He has served in the House under six U.S. Presidents, and 16 sessions of Congress. Prior to his service in the House, Mr. Hoke served America in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. This year, Roy Hoke has become very close to my staff. My office took part in the Housewide program to refurbish our offices, and Roy played a major role in painting my office. He was always there to make it look perfect. Roy was never satisfied with his job--he kept coming back to make it look better. After 32 years, he was not done making the House of Representatives a more wonderful place to work. On Friday, May 26, 2006 Roy was doing his work as he always does. He was in my office touching-up when the security alarms went off and the Capitol Police ordered the building locked-down. Roy spent the next six hours in my office with my staff, sharing in conversation, and Coca- Cola and peanuts from my home state of Georgia. Although I was not in the building, my staff tells me that Roy was a joy to be around that day. No one enjoyed the unfortunate situation that developed that day, but Roy was an individual who made the hours pass by more smoothly. He was unflinching in his manner and helped to keep a startled office calm--even as the frightening circumstances hit close to home. Since that day in May, my office has truly had a new friend. He has become a regular visitor and his constant smile will be missed. Roy's hard work and dedication are rare traits. We thank him for his years of service to our Nation, to this House, and we wish him luck and God speed in the next phase of his life.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a man who I am proud to have called a friend, a constituent, and an inspiration: Chief Apostle Isaiah Revills. Apostle Revills was born on August 23, 1931 in Moultrie, Georgia, the son of sharecroppers. At the tender age of nine years old, Isaiah's father was murdered by the Ku Klux Klan. His mother was forced to lead the family of nine children, but her rock-solid faith in God saw her through. Isaiah went on to the Moultrie High School for Negro Youth, where he met a young woman named Ullainee Sanders. Ullainee became his sweetheart and his partner, and on June 4, 1955, Isaiah and Ullainee were married. For the last 51 years, they have been partners in every sense of the word--sharing equally in the joys and burdens of the journey of life. The young couple moved to Milledgeville, Georgia shortly after their marriage, and there Isaiah began to serve as the pastor of his first church. In 1958 they moved to Albany, Georgia, where together they conducted prayer meetings from house to house. So successful were these meetings that they opened a mission in 1959. Isaiah preached the Gospel there, and as far away as Harlem, as his ministry grew. His congregants grew rapidly in number and they moved to a new facility in the Masonic Hall. Apostle Revills fasted for forty days, a mission that led him to another church building, lovingly called ``The Shanty.'' But the growth continued! Isaiah, a brick mason by trade, built the new church with his own two hands. Shortly thereafter, he went into the ministry fulltime with the constant support of Ullainee. At the time, Newton, Georgia had a difficult racial climate, but Apostle Revills had a vision from God, and traveled there for a tent crusade. That meeting led him across Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and all the way to California. Apostle Revills was anointed by God in 1966 and went on to many more tent crusades, the largest of which became the annual Camp Meeting in the City of Albany, that ended every year with a baptism at the Mercer Mill. His ministry grew so large, that in 1981 they opened a new 5,000-seat Cathedral and organized into ten distinct operating districts. Apostle Revills began publishing his Miracle Guiding Star Magazine, and took to the radio and television to preach the Word. He preached in Kenya, Haiti and Israel. In 1991, he was justly recognized as one of Georgia's ten most prominent black pastors. In 1995, Apostle Revills was formally and publicly ordained as an Apostle of Jesus Christ. He received an honorary Doctorate of Divinity and his ring, staff, and crown--official symbols of his position. I was fortunate enough to have worshipped with him at this, and several other services, throughout my time as his Congressman. I remember when I first campaigned for Congress in July of 1992, all of my local political advisors told me I must meet and pray for the blessings of Apostle Revills. His ability to reach out and touch those he met showed that he was truly anointed by God. He was a man of great stature physically, and a giant spiritually. Apostle Revills was a true friend of mine and I will greatly miss his friendship and his guidance--both spiritual and otherwise. Mr. Speaker, as I rise today to honor Chief Apostle Revills. I also honor his darling wife Ullainee for her service to God and humanity, and for her loving marriage to Isaiah. Together they had five children and five adopted children, and now have 20 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Apostle Revills' legacy will surely live on in all of them, and in the faith of his followers. Mr. Speaker, Apostle Revills is a legend in Southwest Georgia and will be remembered for truthfully speaking the Word of God. I stand here today to honor his legacy and thank him for his friendship. He was truly a man of God and I was blessed to know him.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the Voting Rights Act and urge this House to decisively reauthorize this legislation for another 25 years. The Voting Rights Act has been reauthorized and upheld for more than four decades, and today we must act to ensure that the provisions set to expire next year remain in effect and continue to protect the sacred right to vote. The Voting Rights Act is one of the most important civil rights initiatives ever enacted, protecting minority voters from discrimination, and ensuring for all Americans, the right to vote in a fair and equal voting process. This bill was necessary when it was passed in 1965 and it is necessary today. It continues to work effectively to combat discrimination and its reauthorization will make certain that the gains that have been achieved for minority voters are not rolled back. Clearly we have come a long way, but as recently as yesterday a U.S. District Court blocked the enforcement of a controversial voter I.D. law, which would have required the presentation of state-issued photo identification prior to casting your ballot. In the last decade Georgia and several other southern states have continued to experience problems with race-based redistricting and government reorganization. These laws may not be as egregious as the challenges of the past, but they are no less discriminatory and reinforce the need for federal monitoring to protect minority rights. Before I was elected to Congress in 1992, my area of Georgia had only been represented by an African American once in its history; it was for less than three months in 1870 and 1871. Jefferson Long was the first black Member of Congress from Georgia and only the second nationwide. It took 121 years and the passage of the Voting Rights Act before another African American was elected. This bill is vital to ensuring that minority voices are heard in our nation's capital and at every other level of government. Indeed only a few short years before Jefferson Long's service in Congress, Georgians elected their first African American state legislators. The election of 1868 was the first in which African Americans in Georgia could participate in the electoral process through voting or running for office. It was hotly debated in the Georgia General Assembly whether or not the Constitution guaranteed African Americans the right to run for office, or simply to vote. Despite this debate, 33 African Americans were elected to the legislature in 1868 and began their service that summer--they were outnumbered four to one in the body by their white colleagues. They endured taunting and torment in the newspapers and on the Floor of the General Assembly. The legislature voted along color lines and expelled the black members of the General Assembly--the 33 were booted from the floor. One of them--Henry McNeal Turner--said, ``You may drive us out, but you will light a torch never to be put out.'' Another, Tunis Campbell, journeyed from Atlanta to Washington and asked the new President, Ulysses S. Grant, to intercede. Grant and the Congress did the right thing and ordered the Georgia legislature to readmit the expelled legislators and all 33 reclaimed their seats in Atlanta. But, by the turn of the 20th century, the devices of Jim Crow--the poll tax, literacy tests, whites-only primaries, and others--had forced each and every black representative out of office. In 1976, while I was in the General Assembly myself, the black legislators caucus donated a statue to commemorate the centennial of their ordeal. Today, in Washington, DC, we are called to remember Turner's call--we must not let the torch go out. The Voting Rights Act brings electoral law out of the dark and promises that the discrimination and intimidation that plagued voting in the past will not be tolerated in the present. The reauthorization of this bill will renew that promise to our children and our grandchildren. We should not, we must not, and we cannot allow it to be extinguished. We must extend the Voting Rights Act today--without amendment!

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Voting Rights Act and the legislation before us this week which extends the Voting Rights Act for 25 years. It has been reauthorized and upheld for more than four decades. But several key provisions are set to expire next year if not reauthorized by Congress. The Voting Rights Act is one of the most important civil rights initiatives ever enacted, protecting minority voters from discrimination and ensuring for all Americans the right to vote in a fair and equal voting process. We must protect this right. It is sacred. It stops practices such as those that allowed every African American to be expelled from the Georgia legislature between 1866 and 1900. It stops poll taxes, racial gerrymanders that dilute minority voting power. It stops moving polling places without notice. It stops hanging chads. It is the reason, after 100 years, that I was finally able to follow Jefferson Long as the first African American to represent my area of Georgia in Congress. It has empowered descendants of slaves like me to participate fully in America's political process. We should not, we must not, we cannot go back. We must renew the Voting Rights Act today.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great Georgian and a great American, MG Walter E. Gaskin, who is taking command of the 2nd Marine Division this week, in this, his 32nd year in the United States Marine Corps. Major General Gaskin was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, and attended Savannah State University on a Naval ROTC scholarship. He graduated in 1974 and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant. Upon completing training, he was assigned to the Second Marines. He served as a Rifle Platoon Commander and Executive Officer of Company K and the 106 Recoilless Rifle Platoon Commander for 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines. The young Marine went on to be stationed in Okinawa and at Parris Island, before returning home to Savannah to serve as the Marine Officer Instructor and recruiting officer for Naval ROTC at his alma mater. While in Georgia, he also served as the assistant Officer Selection Officer at the Recruiting Station in Macon. In 1984, Gaskin joined the 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines where he served as an Operations Officer. From there he was selected to attend the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. From 1987 until 1990, he served as an action officer at Marine Corps Headquarters and Marine Corps Combat Development Command (MCCDC), in charge of Unit Environmental Training Programs, Jungle, Cold Weather, and Combined Arms Exercises. Next, Gaskin served as Head, Ground Forces Branch in Seoul, South Korea, then as an Operations Officer for the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force during exercises in Norway. Gaskin then attended the U.S. Army War College and was subsequently assigned as the Executive Officer, 6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division. In 1995, he assumed command of 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines, and later he deployed to the Mediterranean Sea as the Commanding Officer of Battalion Landing Team under the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit. There he participated in Operation Assured Response and Quick Response in Defense of American Embassies in Liberia and the Central African Republic. In 1998, he returned to Camp Lejeune as Head of Expeditionary Operation for the Second Expeditionary Unit. In January 1999, Major General Gaskin assumed command of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit. In September of that year, he deployed with them to the Mediterranean Sea as Landing Force Sixth Fleet. While there, the 22nd participated in the Bright Star Exercises in Egypt and the Infinite Moonlight Exercises in Jordan. His unit also served as the Strategic Reserve for operations in Bosnia and Kosovo. In March 2000, he became the Commanding General, Training Command, Training and Education Command, MCCDC. Major General Gaskin then rose to Chief of Staff, Naval Striking and Support Forces Southern Europe and Deputy Commanding General, Fleet Marine Forces Europe, in Naples, Italy. He took command of Marine Corps Recruiting Command in September 2004. In October 2005, he was promoted to the rank of Major General. His personal decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with Gold Star in lieu of 2nd award, Bronze Star with combat ``V,'' Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with 2 Gold Stars in lieu of 3rd award, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon. Mr. Speaker, Major General Gaskin is the highest ranking African American in the Marine Corps. 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.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a couple from my district, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson McGahee of Columbus, Georgia, who on May 15th of this year celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary. Nelson served his country in the United States Army before beginning a career as a civil servant at Fort Benning in Columbus. He has continued to serve his community as an active member of the Columbus Jaycees and the Columbus Airport Authority. His wife, Borden Black McGahee, has made her career in broadcast journalism. She grew up as a self-professed ``Army brat,'' and became an avid music lover at the tender age of 3 years old while attending the opera with her mother, a season ticket holder. This love of music brought her to the radio, where she became the news director of an Alabama radio station--a unique position at the time for a woman in Alabama. Upon moving to Columbus, she soon moved to television, where she served as the news director for all three of the affiliate news stations in the city. She left journalism to work in public relations for the Muscogee County School District and currently does freelance writing for the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer and also for Columbus and the Valley Magazine. Throughout their three decades together, the McGahee's have enjoyed Nelson's passion for all things railroad. Nelson's great-grandfather was a railroad employee, which sparked in Nelson a lifelong interest in trains. Their Columbus home is filled with railroad memorabilia from a variety of historic rail lines. In tribute to this shared interest, the couple has chosen to spend their 30th anniversary on a train ride in a car filled with history. They secured a ride from Jacksonville, Florida to Washington, D.C. aboard a 1930 Pullman car pulled by Amtrak. In addition to its age, this car has had its share of famous passengers. Former presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton have all taken trips in this car. Past presidential candidates, Senators John Kerry and John Edwards, and singer Aretha Franklin, have also traveled on this car. Because of its illustrious passengers, the car has been fitted with Secret Service-approved armor plating and bullet-proof windows, which lie hidden behind the tastefully restored antique features. Five friends have joined the McGahee's on this voyage, which will include a stop at ``Old Ebbitt Grill,'' a legendary restaurant in the heart of Washington, D.C. This restaurant has served nearly every major American politician throughout its 150-year history. Nelson and Borden McGahee are wonderful people who have shared a wonderful marriage. Their love for each other is inspirational, and surely their next 30 years will be as passionate as the first. This Southwest Georgia couple has chosen a distinctively American way to celebrate their anniversary and we wish them nothing but happiness as they proceed full-steam ahead into their future.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I regret that I was unavoidably absent for a portion of the House's proceedings on May 18th and all proceedings on May 19th due to very urgent personal family business. Had I been present on May 19, for the four votes which occurred during consideration of H.R. 5385, Making appropriations for the military quality of life functions of the Department of Defense, military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes: I would have voted ``aye;'' on rollcall vote 176--Final Passage; I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall vote 175--the Blumenauer Amendment; I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall vote 174--the Rule on H.R. 5385; I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall vote 173--ordering the ``Previous Question''--(Rule on H.R. 5385). And, Mr. Speaker, had I been present on May 18, for the final five votes which occurred during consideration of H.R. 5386, Making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes: I would have voted ``aye;'' on rollcall vote 172--Final Passage--H.R. 5386; I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall vote 171--the Hefley Colorado Amendment; I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall vote 170--the Putnam of Florida Amendment; I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcall vote 169--the Oberstar of Minnesota Amendment; I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcall vote 168--the Chabot of Ohio Amendment.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Deal amendment. I think it is appropriate that the Congress not interfere, and what this bill will do without the Deal amendment is allow the Congress to interfere with ongoing litigation. This case has been litigated in the district courts in Alabama, the United States District Court in the District of Columbia, and the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals has rejected the claims of Florida and Alabama and has ruled in favor of Georgia. We would like very much for this Congress not to intercede and to interfere with the implementation of that court's order by violating the separation of powers and trying to hold back the Corps of Engineers through the appropriations process and preventing them from executing their duties under law. So I think that the Deal amendment is highly appropriate. It keeps this Congress on track in its constitutional duties, and it preserves the separation of powers. I urge the adoption of the Deal amendment.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong opposition to the point of order that was offered by my good friend, the chairman of the Agriculture Committee, Mr. Goodlatte, and in support of the peanut storage and handling language that was included in the 2007 agriculture appropriations bill. As the Representative of the Second Congressional District of Georgia, which I am proud to say is the largest peanut producing district in the Nation, I would like to lend my full support and endorsement of language that was included in the bill extending the peanut storage and handling program for an additional year. During consideration of the 2002 farm bill, the peanut industry, including growers, manufacturers, and processors, asked that the House Agriculture Committee change the Nation's peanut program from a supply management structure to a more market-oriented program. At the time, I had the pleasure of serving as a member of the Agriculture Committee. The House Ag Committee made these changes, working in cooperation with the peanut industry, and the transition to the new market-oriented program was a part of a very carefully crafted compromise that was developed and approved by the House Agriculture Committee. The 2002 farm bill provided storage, handling fees and related costs for the peanut program through the 2006 crop year. Our concern centered on the fact that growers would have to absorb the storage costs associated with peanuts placed under loan. The language included in the committee bill would simply continue the peanut storage and handling fees program through 2007, terminating at the beginning of fiscal year 2008. The language was reviewed by the CBO and will not have a 2007 cost, primarily because the payments will come after the 2007 harvest. There will be a cost of approximately $77 million in 2008. By all measures, the new peanut program is a true success story. The storage and handling fees paid on peanuts by this loan program are very limited in scope. And more importantly, the storage and handling segment of the peanut program will actually expire at the end of this fiscal year. As the chairman will recall, the original intent of this program was to provide an efficient and practical transition from the old supply- management structure to the new market-oriented approach. Without the bridge provided by this program, producers would not have participated in transitioning to the new program. Every licensed warehouse operator has a structure for storage and handling fees. These fees will be passed on to the peanut producer if they are not paid by the Department of Agriculture. Much of the 2006 peanut crop has already been contracted, and the underlying business decisions associated with these transitions are in large part based on the program provisions that are in effect under current law. Peanut producers entered this crop year and planned for this farm bill period based on the commitment that Congress made in the 2002 farm bill. Warehouse operators will not absorb these costs. It will be the producer who will pay if these fees are not paid as designed by the current bill. Peanuts, unlike many other crops, can't practically be stored on the farm. Specialized handling and storage by knowledgeable warehouse operators is necessary to preserve the value of this semi-perishable commodity. So it is an expense that is absolutely necessary and one that the grower can't avoid by doing it himself. Without this language, what is now a $355 per ton marketing loan program will effectively be reduced to a loan program that will not be profitable for the peanut producer. Mr. Chairman, this language is crucial to the future of the peanut industry and continuation of the program into 2007. It could literally mean the difference between profitability and loss, between success and failure, between farmers surviving or forcing even more family farmers off the land. These farmers are real people, Mr. Chairman, real people whose lives will be profoundly changed if this point of order is upheld by the Chair. I strongly oppose the point of order and ask the Chairman to retain the language in question which is vital to the American peanut farmer, particularly those in the State of Georgia.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Democratic Substitute Budget for fiscal year 2007. As a member of the Blue Dog Coalition I have fought for a balanced budget that represents our Nation's ideals. I believe that this Democratic amendment is the appropriate path for us to reach that goal. This amendment promises to provide the fiscal discipline that is lacking in the Majority's proposed budget, which will allow us to achieve balance in less than 10 years. By 2012 our Nation's fiscal health will be restored, while providing for $150 billion in future middle-class tax cuts and matching or exceeding the Majority's proposed spending for national defense and domestic programs. The current budget threatens the programs that our people depend on-- Medicare, veterans' benefits, pension programs, and human services are in jeopardy yet again. The Spratt Substitute protects these crucial programs and the millions of Americans who have earned access to them. This Democratic proposal matches the Republic budget dollar-for- dollar on National Defense and Homeland Security, while increasing funds for our troops and their families, preventing terrorists from accessing weapons of mass destruction, and fully adopting the recommendations of the bipartisan 9/11 Commission. Mr. Chairman, this Congress's irresponsible spending must be stopped and the Democratic proposal will do just that. With pay-as-you-go rules, unwavering support for national security, and moral allocations of money to those who need it most, this Democratic proposal is a rock- solid budget with American values and I ask for your support.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the American people, and the Congressional Black Caucus' Alternative U.S. Budget (CBC Budget). Mr. Chairman, budgets are moral documents. They reflect in a very real sense, our deep beliefs, our priorities, and define us as a community and as a Nation. So it is with deep regret that, as people of conscience, we must rise against this attack on seniors, children, families, workers, and small business--against the Majority's budget which levies an enormous cost on the backs of the majority of Americans, in order to benefit the wealthiest few among us. Make no mistake about it--the majority's budget is a reckless and unfair attack on most Americans. It exacerbates our national debt in an age when we have already squandered a $5.6 trillion budget surplus and added $3 trillion in debt. It freezes important domestic programs-- reducing veterans' health care by $6 billion, education by $45.3 billion, public health by $18.1 billion, and environmental protection by $25.0 billion--while also adding $6.8 billion in reconciliation cuts to mandatory programs. It is outrageous, Mr. Chairman, and it's simply un-American. The CBC budget, which my office helped to draft, restores fiscal responsibility, balancing the budget in 5 years and creating a surplus of $2.3 billion in FY 2011. It reduces the deficit by $313 billion and saves $10.5 billion in interest payments compared to the Majority's budget. And it adopts PAYGO rules, so that Congress balances our checkbook just like most Americans do. The CBC Budget adds $32 billion in Education, Training, Employment and Social Services, $1 billion in Natural Resources and Environment; and $5.4 billion in Health programs. It increases security and critical investments for our homeland, for our troops, for rail and port security grants, cargo and air cargo screening equipment, first responders, federal air marshals, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It funds juvenile justice and local law enforcement programs, while restoring cuts in veterans' health care, enhances benefits to our veterans in survivor benefits, medical and prosthetic research, long- term care, and mental health care. It provides $80 billion more for education and job training programs than the Republic budget over 5 years, including funding for No Child Left Behind and school construction. It funds the minority health initiative, child nutrition programs, job creation programs, community and regional development, Gulf Coast reconstruction, scientific research, transportation, Medicare, and a variety of greatly-needed housing initiatives. Mr. Chairman, we have a historic opportunity before us, to help millions of Americans, and to turn back the clock on fiscal policies, the effect of which this Nation will endure for decades. I urge my colleagues to join in conscience, and adopt this CBC Budget.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great doctor who has devoted his life to serving his countrymen--Dr. Walter Carl Gordon, Jr. At the age of 78, Dr. Gordon is retiring after nearly 40 years practicing medicine. He has served his community and his country throughout his entire life, all the while blazing new trails for those who would follow him. Born on October 25, 1927 in Albany, Georgia, Dr. Gordon earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Hampton Institute and then his Master of Science in chemistry from Tuskegee Institute. Before attending medical school, he spent several years teaching chemistry at Lincoln University and Albany State University. In 1955, he graduated from Meharry Medical College and began to serve his country on another level. The young Dr. Gordon joined the United States Army and was stationed at Letterman Army Hospital in San Francisco for his first internship. He later completed his surgical residency at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C. He became the first African-American surgeon at Walter Reed, the Army's most distinguished medical center. Dr. Gordon was sent to Vietnam where he was given command of an evacuation hospital. There he helped to develop a new, revolutionary approach to surgery which contributed to saving the lives of countless American servicemen. He was awarded three Army Commendation Medals and one Legion of Merit award for his service, and retired in 1968 as a Lieutenant Colonel. But Dr. Gordon's service was not over. In 1981 he rejoined the military to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves. He served beyond the call for another decade before retiring with the rank of Colonel. While still serving in the Reserves, Dr. Gordon practiced medicine in Albany, Georgia at the Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. He worked for one year as the Chief of Staff and for two terms as the chairman of the Hospital's board. In 2005, the Board awarded him the title of ``Board Member Emeritus.'' In 2003, Dr. Gordon joined the Hospital staff as a primary care physician at the VA Clinic. Since then he has diligently served the veteran population of Southwest Georgia. He has never forgotten the men and women who have, like him, worn the uniform of this great nation. Whether serving in Washington, D.C., Vietnam or Albany, Dr. Gordon has performed his service with honor, courage and integrity. His lifetime of altruistic care-giving has made him a legend in our community and an inspirational figure for us all. Today, we thank and honor Dr. Walter Carl Gordon, Jr. for his dedication and lifelong commitment to the welfare of others. On the occasion of his retirement from the field of medicine, we wish for him the joyous, healthy and tranquil life that he so richly deserves. Dr. Gordon is a healer and a patriot and we applaud his lifetime of service.

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Cuthbert, Georgia is a small, rural community, six hundred and sixty-nine miles from the U.S. Capitol. It is home to a rich agrarian tradition, the oldest known pecan tree in the state of Georgia and a high school basketball team known as the Red Devils, who on March 1, 2006, did something that they hadn't done in over three years. They lost a game. Yet I rise today, not in recognition of this inconsequential loss, but in honor of the remarkable team that won ninety straight games, breaking the Georgia High School Association's record for the most consecutive wins and inspiring a community to believe in the impossible. For forty-four years, Coach Joe Williams has led the Randolph-Clay Red Devils to 964 wins and six state titles. His focus on aggressive, man-to-man defense has forced his players to test their limits and grow as competitors, at the same time that he has molded boys into a team of men that every young player in Cuthbert dreams of playing for. For three years the Red Devils have dominated every court that they have taken, winning nearly all of their games by double figures, including a 100-30 victory over Central Talbotton. Yet they took every game seriously, stating simply, ``We play basketball.'' As long as high school basketball is played in the state of Georgia, teams will attempt to duplicate the Red Devils' history-making streak. But they won't succeed; because, while they will emulate their style of play, it is impossible to capture the passion and the ability that has defined these exceptional young men and the dream that they have made legend. Therefore, here in this hallowed hall, I rise on behalf of the people of Cuthbert, the Second Congressional District and the state of Georgia to honor the extraordinary accomplishment of Coach Williams and the Randolph-Clay Red Devils. You have inspired us all.