Henry Brown

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on H.R. 3891, a bill I introduced with Fisheries, Oceans and Wildlife Subcommittee Chairwoman Madeleine Bordallo. The fundamental purpose of this legislation is to increase from 25 to 30 the number of members who may serve on the Board of Directors of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation was created by Congress in 1984. Since that time, it has financed more than 9,500 conservation projects throughout the United States and in other countries. By using a partnership and challenge grant approach, the Foundation has provided $1.3 billion in critical funding to accomplish its strategic goals of sustaining, restoring and enhancing fish, wildlife and plant populations and their essential habitat. Under current law, the Secretary of the Interior may appoint up to 25 individuals to serve on the Foundation's Board of Directors. The members of this Board have expertise in fish, wildlife and natural resource conservation; they serve as conservation Ambassadors throughout the world; they review and approve projects submitted to the Foundation and they raise funds for the operation of this highly successful organization. By increasing the size of the Board, we will greatly enhance the Foundation's ability to finance additional meritorious projects in the future. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yea'' on H.R. 3891.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. I appreciate the gentlewoman from Washington for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 147. I am pleased we are considering this measure today on the House floor. I would like to thank my friend and the chairwoman of the Fisheries, Ocean and Wildlife Subcommittee, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo, for her hard work on cosponsorship of this resolution. And what a real pleasure it is to work along with you as your ranking member. And I would also like to thank Chairman Nick Rahall and Ranking Member Don Young of the Natural Resources Committee as well as my colleagues on the House Science Committee for their support of this resolution. House Concurrent Resolution 147 recognizes NOAA and its predecessor agencies for 200 years of research and service to the people of the United States and its stewardship of the marine environment. It was the foresight of the third President, Thomas Jefferson, that started us down this path of surveying our coastal areas for the benefit of the Nation and laid the blueprint for what we now all know as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. My district is home to several outstanding NOAA facilities including the Hollings Marine Laboratory and the Coastal Services Center, both of which are located in Charleston. These facilities and their work are an important part of the coastal South Carolina community. NOAA has shown its dedication to our Nation's ocean and coastal resources. NOAA's management and conservation actions have allowed all of us to continue to enjoy our Nation's oceans and coastal resources. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this important resolution, and I congratulate NOAA for their 200 years.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday this House unanimously approved H. Con. Res. 186, which honors the 75th anniversary of Brookgreen Gardens, which is located in my district in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. I rise today to thank my colleagues for celebrating Brookgreen Gardens, which is one of the most beautiful places in coastal South Carolina. In 1931, Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington founded Brookgreen Gardens to preserve the native flora and fauna of coastal South Carolina and to display objects of art within that natural setting. Today, Brookgreen Gardens is a National Historic Landmark, and contains more than 550 works from American artists in what was the country's first public sculpture garden. Brookgreen Gardens also offers a natural exhibit center and a small zoo, which educates visitors on the unique species and issues of coastal South Carolina. In conclusion, I would like to especially thank my colleagues from the South Carolina delegation that have shown bipartisan unity in cosponsoring this resolution, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the opening of Brookgreen Gardens.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 186 which honors the 75th anniversary of Brookgreen Gardens, one of the most beautiful places in coastal South Carolina. In 1931, Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington founded Brookgreen Gardens to preserve the native flora and fauna of coastal South Carolina and to display objects of art within that natural setting. Today, Brookgreen Gardens is a National Historic Landmark and contains more than 550 works from American artists in what was the country's first public sculpture garden. Brookgreen Gardens also offers a nature and historical preserve; it also includes a small zoo that is accredited by American Zoo and Aquarium Association, and a nature exhibition center. The natural exhibition center and zoo exhibit educate visitors on the unique species and issues of coastal South Carolina. In conclusion, I would like to thank the rest of my colleagues from the South Carolina delegation. They have shown unity in celebrating the 75th anniversary of Brookgreen Gardens by unanimously agreeing to be cosponsors of this resolution. To honor the 1932 opening of Brookgreen Gardens to the public, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this rule and this critical legislation. While today is, unfortunately, a day several years overdue, it should not diminish the importance of this legislation. When I came to Congress in 2001, I was excited to be a part of the Water Resources Subcommittee as we began to work on the next Water Resources Development Act. Water is critical to my district, not just because of the projects it authorizes but also because of the important guidance it gives the Army Corps of Engineers. The reforms contained in this bill, which are the results of that process started in 2001, represents meaningful change that will ensure that our limited dollars are spent wisely. Improving infrastructure is not a partisan issue. It is a commitment we as a Nation must ensure is met. If we do not, then we as a Nation will be facing significantly greater environmental and economic challenges than we do currently. I cannot think of a group of individuals more committed to improving our Nation's infrastructure than my colleagues on the Transportation Committee. Chairman Oberstar and Ranking Member Mica have shown true leadership in guiding this legislation forward, especially as we worked to merge our bill with the one passed by the Senate. Chairwoman Johnson and Ranking Member Baker have stepped up to their new positions this year with true energy and passion about the issue before our subcommittee. And a special word of thanks must go to my friends, Don Young, Jerry Costello and Jimmy Duncan, who led the fight for this bill the past few Congresses. So much of this bill is because of their work and leadership. Mr. Speaker, I want to close by urging all of my colleagues to support this rule and this critical legislation so we can get the Corps to work. To those who complain about the cost of this legislature, let me remind you that this one bill is doing the work of three WRDA bills. If you missed a payment on your house, would the bank allow you to pay only the next month's payment, forgetting the payment you missed? Would the bank allow you to do the same thing if you missed two monthly payments? Of course not. You would have to make your catch-up payment, plus make the payments for the current month. That is what this legislation represents, a catch-up of two bills that went uncompleted, while also addressing our current needs. For the good of our Nation's economy and environment, I urge my colleagues to support this overdue catch-up and pass this rule and the WRDA Conference report.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit for the Record a letter from Canadian Ambassador Michael Wilson in regards to H. Res. 427 the bill introduced by Mr. Lantos from California urging the Government of Canada to end the commercial seal hunt. Canadian Embassy, Washington, DC, June 25, 2007. Hon. Tom Lantos, Chairman, Foreign Affairs Committee, House of Representatives, 2170 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC. Hon. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Ranking Member, Foreign Affairs Committee, House of Representatives, B-360 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Lantos and Ranking Member Ros-Lehtinen: I am writing regarding House Resolution 427, urging the Government of Canada to end the commercial seal hunt, scheduled for mark up by the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday, June 26, 2007. As outlined below, Canada pursues a sustainable and humane harvest of the seal herds. In this context, I would ask that the Committee on Foreign Affairs reconsider proceeding with this resolution. The Government of Canada takes its role as steward of the environment and wildlife seriously and is committed to the sustainable management of its renewable resources. The Canadian seal hunt is a sustainable, economically viable activity based on sound conservation principles. Canada sets quotas at levels that ensure the health and abundance of seal herds. The harp seal population, approximately 5.8 million animals based on a 2004 survey, is nearly triple what it was in the 1970s. In no way can seals-- and harp seals in particular--be considered ``endangered species''. Fisheries and Oceans Canada manages the seal hunt and has put in place a five-year management plan for 2006- 2010. In 2007 the total allowable catch was reduced considerably to ensure the resource remains sustainable. The Canadian commercial quota is unrelated to groundfish stock levels. Several factors have contributed to the lack of recovery of Atlantic cod stocks, such as fishing effort, poor growth and physical condition of the fish, and environmental changes. In addition, there are many uncertainties in the estimates of the amount of fish consumed by seals. The Government of Canada makes every effort to ensure the seal hunt is conducted in a safe and humane manner. The seal hunt is c1osely monitored and tightly regulated. Fisheries and Oceans Canada officers monitor catches, ensure humane harvesting practices, and enforce regulations and licence conditions. The hunting of harp seal pups (whitecoats) and hooded seal pups (bluebacks) is illegal--and has been since 1987. Penalties are substantial and can include court-imposed fines and orders to forfeit catches, gear, boats and licenses. In September 2002 veterinarians from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) issued a Special Report on Animal Welfare and the Harp Seal Hunt in Atlantic Canada. In independent observations of the seal hunt, the study concluded that 98 percent of seals taken during the hunt were harvested in an acceptably humane manner, contrary to the reference in tile resolution. Harvesting methods used for the seal hunt have also been studied and approved by the Royal Commission on Seals and Sealing. An Independent Veterinarians' Working Group formed in 2005, with representatives from the United States and four other countries, made observations and recommendations to further improve management and hunting practices. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is currently working to adopt these and other recommendations including improved enforcement and sealer training. Neither of the above groups called for a ban on the hunt. Seals are a valuable natural resource that provides 25-30 percent of an annual income to thousands of Canadians in many remote coastal communities. This is a significant income when average annual incomes may be only $17,OOOUSD a year and unemployment rates are far above the national average. Sealing and fishing are also time-honoured traditions that allow people to provide for their families through knowledge of the marine environment and hard work. In light of this clarification on the sustainable management and humane harvest of the seal herds in Canada, I would ask that the Committee on Foreign Affairs reconsider whether proceeding with this resolution is warranted. I have included a fact sheet that provides more information on the seal harvest in Canada. The Embassy staff remain available to meet with your staff to discuss these issues further. Yours sincerely, Michael Wilson, Ambassador.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, July 24, 2007, I was with the President in my district visiting our troops at Charleston Air Force Base. As such, I missed several votes related to the Transportation Housing Appropriations Bill. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: rollcall 691, Mica Amendment, ``yes''; rollcall 692, Bachmann Amendment, ``no''; rollcall 693, Flake Amendment, ``no''; rollcall 694, Flake Amendment, ``no''; rollcall 695, Chabot Amendment, ``yes.'' Should you have any questions, please contact my Washington office.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Chairman, I rise in opposition.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Chairman, the earmark I'm here to discuss and defend is for the South Carolina Aquarium located in my district in Charleston, South Carolina. The South Carolina Aquarium is a nonprofit education and conservation organization that is truly part of the Charleston community. The aquarium is funded by a combination of tickets, concessions and souvenir sales and corporate, government and private funding. The aquarium has more than 80 paid staff, with a complement of more than 300 volunteers. Funding from this earmark would go towards the development of user- friendly, interactive exhibits and displays, including touch tanks where children can interact with rays, horseshoe crabs, and many other native species from the waters of South Carolina. Funding would also go towards funding a live feed connection so the children would be able to see into the inaccessible realms of the Hollings Marine Lab, and further development of the South Carolina Sustainable Seafood Initiative, which educates children on fisheries conservation. Madam Chairman, funding for institutions such as the South Carolina Aquarium are worthwhile investments for the taxpayer. The reason is that with ``seed money'' organizations such as the South Carolina Aquarium are able to attract corporate donations which amount to much more than the original earmark and prove to be the foundations that our zoos and aquariums are built upon. If my colleagues would like to research the criteria for projects under the Institution of Museum and Library Services account within this bill, the South Carolina Aquarium project is exactly why the Institute of Museum and Library Services account exists. And I urge my colleagues, Madam Chairman, to vote ``no'' on the Flake amendment. Madam Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am writing to notify you that I was absent for votes on June 22, 2007. The reason for my absence was that I was attending a memorial service for the nine firefighters who so bravely gave their lives in the line of duty on June 18, 2007, in Charleston, SC. Regarding the votes that I missed, please see below how I would have voted had I been present: Rollcall vote No. 543: On the Motion to Call the Previous Question for the Rule on H.R. 2771, The Legislative Branch Appropriation Act.-- ``nay.'' Rollcall Vote No. 544: On the Motion adopting the Rule for H.R. 2771, The Legislative Branch Appropriation Act.--``nay.'' Rollcall vote No. 545: On the Amendment offered by Mr. Flake of Arizona to reduce funding for the Government Printing Office by $3,200,000.--``yea.'' Rollcall vote No. 546: On the Amendment offered by Mr. Jordan of Ohio to reduce appropriations in the bill by 4 percent across the board.-- ``yea.'' Rollcall vote No. 547: On Republican Motion to Recommit that would strike the $16 million included in the bill for the congressional take- over of the former FDA building.--``yea.'' Rollcall vote No. 548: On Passage of H.R. 2771, The Legislative Branch Appropriations.--``nay.''

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. I rise to engage in a brief colloquy with the subcommittee chairman and ranking member regarding the Corps' regulatory program. On June 19, 2006, the United States Supreme Court issued a decision regarding the scope of the Federal Government's jurisdictions over wetlands and other water bodies under the Clean Water Act. Just last week, almost a year after the Rapanos decision was issued, the Army Corps and EPA issued joint field guidance interpreting the decision. Because this guidance took almost a year to develop and issue, Corps districts around the country have thousands of backlog applications and projects seeking jurisdictional determinations and permits. Unfortunately, while the newly issued guidance sets targets for the Corps to complete and review applications, it did not review any plan for dealing with the current backlog. It also neglects to provide Congress and the American people with the work plan showing how Corps resources should be allocated to ensure that the application deadlines contained in the guidance of already existing statutes are met. I thank you for the substantial increase in regulatory funding that is contained in this bill. These funds will go a long way towards ensuring that the Corps has the resources to meet the requirements as outlined in the June 5 guidance. However, we need to ensure that the Corps focuses those resources where they are most needed, toward ending the backlog of over 20,000 outstanding applications and making certain it does not happen again. I hope that you and the committee, Mr. Chairman, will recognize the importance of this issue and work in conference to include language requiring the Corps to show Congress that it is addressing the wetlands permit backlog and has the plan in place to meet the additional review requirements under the newly issued guidance.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. I appreciate the chairman's attention to this issue. Mr. Hobson, would you agree with the need to address these concerns with the regulatory program?

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, last night, nine brave firefighters from my district lost their lives in the line of duty. Responding to a fire in the West Ashley area of Charleston, these men made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community in what was the single worst loss of firefighters since 9/11. This tragedy is a somber reminder of the dangers our first responders face on a daily basis as they serve to protect us and our property. We are forever grateful for their service and deeply sadden by their loss. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of these courageous men: Captain William ``Billy'' Hutchinson, Captain Mike Benke, Captain Louis Mulkey, Engineer Mark Kelsey, Engineer Bradford ``Brad'' Baity, Assistant Engineer Michael French, Firefighter James ``Earl'' Drayton, Firefighter Brandon Thompson and Firefighter Melven Champaign. These men, who had over 100 years of service among them, gave their lives doing a job they loved. I now yield to my good friend, Mr. Clyburn.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Chairman, I would like to discuss a very serious battle our veterans are waging here at home, a battle against ALS, better known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Several independent and government studies have found that military veterans are at a greater risk of dying from Lou Gehrig's disease than those who have never served in the military. In fact, veterans are at a 60 percent greater risk to develop ALS. Lou Gehrig's disease is a horrific disease that robs a person of the ability to control their muscles. Unfortunately, I have met firsthand and have knowledge of the true nature of ALS and its impact on veterans. I have watched the disease attack a good friend of mine, Tom Mikolajcik, a retired Air Force brigadier general. He was diagnosed with ALS in 2003. Since then I have seen the disease take a once-powerful man and rob him of nearly all of his physical abilities. Mr. Chairman, only certain veterans with ALS who served in theatre during the 1991 Persian Gulf War are currently presumed to be eligible for service-connected benefits, and there are significant research needs related to the causes and treatment of ALS. As such, we must begin to take the steps necessary to not only discover why our veterans are at greater risk of ALS and to find treatments for the disease but also to help ensure that they have timely access to needed VA benefits. I hope that you and the committee will work in conference and ensure the resources of the VA are directed towards meeting the research and benefit needs of all veterans who are diagnosed with ALS.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. I certainly appreciate the gentleman for yielding. Mendel Davis was a close friend of mine. He was born in and was a resident of North Charleston, South Carolina, which is part of my congressional district. Mendel Davis entered Congress after a special election in 1971 to replace his godfather, former Representative Mendel Rivers. Mendel Davis was reelected to Congress an additional four more times. He was a graduate of the College of Charleston and received his law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Mendel Davis was one of the major reasons that the USS Yorktown now calls Patriot's Point in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina its home. He was a champion for the little guy, and he was always known for his timely and efficient service to his constituents who loved and respected him. I know we will all miss Mendel Davis very much. During his time serving the people in the House of Representatives, he made it a better place to be. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to observe 1 minute of silence in honor of our former colleague, Representative Mendel Davis.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend Joe Wilson for yielding me this time and for those great remarks of Mr. Pascrell. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on H. Con. Resolution 68, which is a resolution honoring the life of Gian Carlo Menotti, who was the founder of the Spoleto Festival USA that happens every year in Charleston, South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on February 1, 2007, Gian Carlo Menotti passed away. He was a Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and champion of the arts in the United States and in Italy. In 1958 he founded the Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy, as a forum for young artists in Europe. In 1977 he decided to plan a companion American festival, and they searched for an American city that would offer the charm of Spoleto, Italy. Mr. Menotti and the Spoleto Festival organizers decided that Charleston, South Carolina, was the perfect counterpart to Spoleto, Italy. Charleston is small enough to be dominated by nonstop arts events during the 17-day festival but also large and sophisticated enough to provide a knowledgeable audience and appropriate theaters. Organizers also observed that Charleston, South Carolina, has an extensive history of involvement with the arts from housing America's first theater and ballet companies to housing the oldest musical organization in the country. The Spoleto Festival quickly became a haven for a large group of artists, both traditional and experimental, who found the mix of dance, theater, opera, music, and the visual arts. The Spoleto Festival USA has maintained traditions of the Festival of Two Worlds, such as a dedication to young artists and an enthusiasm for providing unusual performance opportunities to recognized masters in their fields and a commitment to all forums of the performing arts, including classical ballet, modern and post-modern dance, opera, chamber, symphonic, and choral music, jazz, theater, and visual arts. Spoleto Festival USA currently claims an audience of over 75,000 attendees each year, and the festival continues its dedication to providing performance opportunities to young artists from across the United States and Italy. Mr. Speaker, H. Con. Res. 68 has been endorsed by the National Italian American Foundation and is cosponsored by the entire South Carolina delegation, including my friend and colleague who also represents part of Charleston, South Carolina, the majority whip, Jim Clyburn. I urge all of my colleagues to support H. Con. Res. 68 in honor of the father of Spoleto Festival USA, Gian Carlo Menotti.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on H.R. 518, introduced by Chairman John Dingell from Michigan. Madam Speaker, H.R. 518 is going to be considered under ``suspension of the rules'' which is usually reserved for non-controversial bills, but it has come to my attention that there are some strong objections both from the Canadian Embassy here in Washington D.C. as well as from the Administration, specifically the Department of State and from the United States Trade Representative. I feel it is my duty as one of the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Friends of Canada Caucus to submit for the Record letters from the Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Michael Wilson, as well as letters from the Administration to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and to Republican Leader John Boehner that express concern over H.R. 518. Canadian Embassy, Washington, DC, April 12, 2007. Hon. Nancy Pelosi, Speaker, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Madam Speaker: I am writing regarding H.R. 518, ``International Solid Waste Importation and Management Act of 2007'', approved by the Energy and Commerce Committee on March 22, 2007. I would like to share with you Canada's views on this legislation. Canada and the United States have a long-standing partnership in managing the two-way flow of hazardous and municipal solid wastes. Managing hazardous and municipal solid wastes has two components: the commercial relationship, and environmental management. On the first, the trade in waste is governed by our respective rights and obligations pursuant to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreements and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). HR 518 will grant to states the authority to discriminate between types of waste based solely on national origin, without any environmental or sound waste management considerations. The State of Michigan has already passed Legislation that would prohibit landfill operators from accepting solid waste from foreign sources. Canada views this legislation as inconsistent with the United States' WTO and NAFTA obligations. HR 518 would authorize Michigan's legislation, which would place the United States in contravention of its international trade obligations. Furthermore, in 1986, both countries signed the Canada-U.S. Agreement on the Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes, which resulted in effective measures in both countries to ensure that hazardous wastes would be moved to the nearest safe disposal site, without regard to borders. In 1992, Canada and the United States took environmentally sound waste management one step further when they agreed to amend the agreement to include municipal solid waste. Canada is working toward implementation of the 1992 amendment. We hope that the U.S. will take similar steps in the near future. An Environment Canada-U.S. E.P.A. pilot program in 2005, based on the Agreement, clearly demonstrated that it is possible for our two countries to work together co-operatively to ensure that municipal solid waste is shipped in an environmentally sound manner. H.R. 518 is a departure from the principle that the sound environmental management of waste should not be impeded because of borders. Canada believes we should follow that principle for municipal solid waste, just like for hazardous waste (of which the U.S. is a net exporter to Canada). Canada agrees that shipping municipal solid waste to Michigan is not a sustainable solution. Ontario has committed to eliminate by the end of 2010 the shipment to Michigan of all municipally managed wastes. Ontario is on target to meet this short timeline, having already taken the steps necessary to clear the first two hurdles, being 20 percent reductions for the end of each of 2007 and 2008. To that end, about 50 million tonnes of new landfill capacity has been approved by the province of Ontario over the past two years. We therefore strongly believe that this issue can be managed without resorting to legislation. I urge you to give serious consideration to these issues and thank you for the opportunity to share Canada's views on this matter. Yours sincerely, Michael Wilson, Ambassador.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of this critical legislation. I want to thank so many on this committee for their hard work and long dedication to this legislation, especially our chairman, Mr. Oberstar, and our ranking member, Mr. Mica; and the subcommittee chairwoman, Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson, and Mr. Baker, the ranking member. I also thank Mr. Duncan, the former chairman, and Mr. Costello, who is the ranking member. We have been working on this bill now for my term in Congress, and this is my fourth term, and I am happy today we are here to present it again. One of the most important elements in this bill are reforms made to the processes and procedures of the Army Corps. The infrastructure needs of our Nation have never been at a higher level. We need to do all we can to ensure that the limited dollars available are spent wisely, and the reforms in this bill will give the Corps the tools to make that happen. In addition, the bill makes significant changes to the project delivery process used by the Army Corps. The process the Corps has to go through now to deliver a project are long and hard, to say the least. This bill makes commonsense change to streamline that process to help our communities. Improving infrastructure is not a partisan issue, it is a commitment we as a Nation must ensure is met. If we do not, then we as a Nation will be facing significantly greater environmental and economic challenges than we do currently. In closing, I want to say again that I strongly support this legislation and I am confident we will enact a bill this year. I also want to thank my friends and colleagues on the committee as we all have joined to invest so much effort into this particular legislation. I am proud to stand with you in support of its passage.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, today, I am pleased to introduce, along with the distinguished gentleman from Alaska, the former Chairman of the Resources Committee, the Honorable Don Young, the Great Cats Conservation Act of 2007. This legislation is modeled after the very successful conservation statutes that Congress has enacted to assist highly endangered elephants, rhinoceros, tigers, great apes and marine turtles. It is based on the sound principle that a small amount of U.S. taxpayer assistance to range states can make a huge difference in preventing the extinction of certain landmark species. Under my bill, a Great Cats Conservation Fund would be established and up to $5 million per year would be authorized to be appropriated for conservation projects to assist species of cheetahs, jaguars, lions, leopards and Spanish lynx. These species were selected because they are listed as endangered under our federal Endangered Species Act, on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and on the IUCN red list. There is no question that populations of these wild species of big cats are in serious decline and that their long-term survival is in real jeopardy. For instance, an excellent example of the type of decline these species have suffered can be illustrated in the plight of the majestic cheetah. At the turn of the 20th century, it was estimated that there were more than 100,000 cheetahs living in 44 African and Asian countries. Today, there are no more than 15,000 cheetahs living in small-pocketed populations in some 20 nations in Africa. While the reasons for this precipitous decline include loss of habitat, hunting and illegal poaching of cheetahs, this unique species, which is the world's fastest land mammal, has become extinct in more than half of its traditional historic range. Due to the efforts of outstanding international organizations, like the Cheetah Conservation Fund, its slide towards total extinction has been slowed but its future remains very much clouded. The sad reality is that many landowners in countries, like Namibia, consider cheetahs a pest and they kill them to protect their livestock. This philosophy must be changed if the cheetah has any hope of survival. The Great Cats Conservation Fund would make a positive difference in financing projects to work with impacted farmers and ranchers. Nearly 20 years ago, the Congress demonstrated farsighted international leadership and wisdom when it approved the first ever conservation fund to assist an endangered foreign flagship species. This law, known as the African Elephant Conservation Act of 1988, has been remarkably successful and all of the improvements in making these conservation grants really work have been incorporated within this legislation. For instance, under the terms of this bill, a prospective grantee would be required to submit a detailed overview of the project, how it would be implemented, how long it would take to complete the project, a demonstration of local support and an indication of whether and how much private matching funds would be forthcoming. The Secretary of the Interior would then carefully review each project and would select those that would have the most impact on conserving endangered big cats. Furthermore, this project would be monitored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, all expenditures would be audited and an advisory group to assist the Secretary may be convened. As a member of the International Conservation Caucus, it is my view that we have a responsibility to help save keystone species like cheetahs, leopards, lions and jaguars for future generations. In good conscience, how can we watch these species disappear forever without doing anything to assist them. This legislation will not by itself ensure the long-term survival of these endangered big cat species. Nevertheless, it is a positive step in the right direction, it builds upon the success of a proven program and it again demonstrates to the world that the United States is serious about international wildlife conservation. It is my hope that many of my colleagues will join with me in this effort by co-sponsoring this legislation and that the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans, of which I proudly serve as the ranking Republican member, will hold a public hearing on the Great Cats Conservation Act. Madam Speaker, I urge support for this important wildlife conservation legislation.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. I certainly thank my good friend for yielding. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 497 is an important bill for my constituents in South Carolina's First Congressional District. I thank my colleague and friend Congressman Joe Wilson for introducing this important piece of legislation. General Francis Marion is an important part of the history of South Carolina, and the national forest bearing his name is located within my congressional district. Francis Marion commanded the only Revolutionary force in South Carolina and was instrumental in delaying the advance of British forces by leading his troops in disrupting supply lines. General Marion's tactics, which were unheard of in rules of war at this time, commanded lightning raids on British convoys, and then he and his forces would retreat into the swamps to avoid capture. British General Tarleton stated that ``as for this damned old swamp fox, the devil himself could not catch him.'' Thus, the legend of the Swamp Fox was born. His victory at the Battle of Eutaw Springs in September of 1781 was officially recognized by Congress. H.R. 497 seeks to authorize the Marion Park Project and the committee of the Palmetto Conservation Foundation to establish a statue of General Francis Marion on Federal lands in D.C. in Marion Park at no Federal Government expense. I was proud to work with Natural Resources Chairman Nick Rahall and Ranking Republican Don Young to assist in the passage of this bill for my constituents of South Carolina's First Congressional District and for all of South Carolina, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 497.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, on Sunday, March 4, 2007, an important event will take place in Charleston, SC. The South Carolina Maritime Heritage Foundation will be launching its tall ship, the Spirit of South Carolina. The Spirit of South Carolina a few years ago was nothing more than a footnote in the South Carolina history books. ``The residents of Charleston and South Carolina are reconnecting with a bygone era, and in so doing, they intend to address crucial issues in education. In a city known for historic preservation, this initiative isn't about buildings; this time it involves a ship--the Spirit of South Carolina. When the newly built, 140-foot traditional sailing vessel finally splashes down on Sunday, March 4, it will offer a unique portal into the region's history, but it will also present a window of opportunity for tackling some vexing problems facing the State's school systems. Almost 6 years in the making, this elegant, robust vessel--envisioned originally as a means of rekindling interest in the region's rich maritime heritage--will become the first genuine wooden sailing ship to be built here in more than 100 years. Where once there were hundreds of such ships, and many shipyards, now there is just one to call this region home, but it's a ship worth the wait. The 150-ton Spirit of South Carolina has been designed and built along the lines of the traditional pilot schooners that served as a vital component of the region's busy mercantile scene in the 18th and 19th centuries. Like its forerunners, this ship has been built with traditional methods, including lumber grown in South Carolina, and this ship will also have a crucial function--serving to deepen and enhance the education of young students from around the State. The Spirit of South Carolina will serve as an ambassador for our community and for the State of South Carolina. She is a beautiful, fast, world-class schooner, which will represent the history and culture of the Palmetto State in port cities around the world. Wherever she sails, the Spirit of South Carolina and her crew will serve as South Carolina's goodwill ambassadors. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of folks like Chairman John ``Hank'' Hofford, Mayor Joe Riley, Pierre Manigault, R.E. ``Teddy'' Turner, Jr., Brad and Meaghan Van Liew, Captain Anthony Arrow and many more, the Spirit of South Carolina is now a reality.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in mourning the passing of Charlie Norwood. As a Member of Congress from the neighboring state of South Carolina, I was fortunate enough to serve with Charlie and see firsthand his dedication to public service. Coming to Congress with a medical background, Charlie championed issues regarding a patients' bill of rights which was designed to give people better access to healthcare. As a decorated Vietnam Veteran, Charlie was a fighter. He fought for 12 years as a member of Congress on behalf of his constituents. I worked with Charlie on a number of issues including education, military, and veterans' issues. As Subcommittee Chairman of Health on the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I had the pleasure of participating in a Town Hall meeting with the veterans from his district. Diagnosed with cancer in 2006, Charlie continued to serve the people of Georgia bravely and honorably in the House of Representatives despite his ill health. He fought to the end, and in his final days, he returned home to be with his family. Charlie will be sorely missed, but his legacy will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Gloria and his two children during this sad time.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. I thank the gentleman from New York for yielding. Mr. Speaker, as President Bush and his top military advisers implement the new plan for victory in Iraq, we must be united in a common goal for victory, and we should never forget that our enemy is listening to this debate, just as our troops are listening to every word of every Member of this Congress. As many of my colleagues have done, I have personally visited Iraq. I have seen the progress and I have seen the good job that our brave men and women are doing for us and for the people of Iraq. We have achieved some major accomplishments in Iraq. Women are now able to vote in real elections for the first time in their lives. Iraqi citizens are now able to protest and let their opinions be heard in public, and Iraq is a self-governing nation, free of tyranny. I was proud to sit down and share a meal with many soldiers from South Carolina's First District. And the question many of our soldiers kept asking me was, why are none of the good stories making it back to the folks at home? Mr. Speaker, I think that many of us today are trying to share some of the good stories and recognize some of the positive things that our brave men and women in Iraq are doing for us. South Carolina's First District has a high proportion of active and retired military personnel and are directly impacted by the war in the Middle East. At the Charleston Air Force Base, the C-17 aircraft that come and go are a direct link in the supply chain that assist our brave soldiers fighting for us in Iraq. At Force Protection in Ladson, South Carolina, they continue to build the Buffalo and the Cougar vehicles that save the lives of our soldiers against the mines and IED attacks every day. Last year on Memorial Day, in my capacity as chairman of the Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health, I was fortunate enough to be the guest speaker at an American cemetery in Normandy, France, which overlooks Omaha Beach. Our brave soldiers during World War II were in France not to fight the French, but to fight the occupying Nazis. Today our soldiers are not in Iraq and Afghanistan to fight the citizens of those countries, but are there to fight the insurgents in Iraq and the Taliban in Afghanistan. In listening to the debate over the past few days, it reminded me of my visit and reading some of the names of the brave soldiers that fought our Nation's war during World War II. Mr. Speaker, there are over 9,300 buried in Normandy. Those brave souls fought in a war against the forces of evil then, just as our soldiers in Iraq are fighting against the forces of evil today. What would have happened if Franklin Delano Roosevelt pulled our troops out of France after the casualties we took storming the beaches of Normandy? If Franklin Delano Roosevelt was alive today, what would he think of this debate which empowers and energizes our enemies and demoralizes our brave fighting men and women? What would America have done if the Congress enacted a nonbinding resolution to pull our troops out of France after D-Day? What kind of world would we be living in today? Iraq is directly tied to the future security of our Nation, and consequently, failure in Iraq is not an option. I do not believe we have already lost in Iraq, but we will lose if we don't give the troops what they need to win. I remain hopeful that the Democrats and Republicans can unite around a new policy, clearly defining our troops' mission for the sake of our national security. Mr. Speaker, I support President Bush and his vision for the new strategy for victory in Iraq. I cannot in good faith support this resolution because it sends our soldiers the message that the United States Congress believes that they cannot succeed in their mission. It is much easier to complain, while offering no real ideas or alternatives. This resolution is all bark and no bite. I will conclude with a quote from a good friend and someone I am proud to have as my constituent, Medal of Honor recipient and retired Major General James Livingston. ``Today we have a choice of fighting the enemy in Iraq. If we do not take them on in Iraq, then we will be forced to fight the enemy here on our homeland.'' Mr. Speaker, I strongly oppose this resolution.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution, which will do so much to highlight the contributions made by so many veterans even after they have stopped wearing the uniform. I want to especially call attention to the hard work of my colleague Mr. Holt. During the last Congress, I was proud to work with him on this resolution and am glad to see it come to the floor so early in this Congress. Leadership, teamwork, integrity: these are all skills and qualities that employers today are looking for in order to compete in today's fast-paced and complex business environment. Thankfully, these are all attributes our Nation's veterans bring to the table. Their training in our Nation's military and experience working under pressure have provided them with skills and qualities that should put them at the top of any hiring list. However, many veterans still find getting a job after they leave our military a challenge. Veterans may not understand how their military skills can translate into civilian life, and employers may not recognize the benefit of focusing on hiring veterans. This resolution highlights some of the ways we are trying to help both veterans and employers. One tool out there is the Web site HireVetsFirst.gov, which is a comprehensive career Web site for hiring veterans of America's military. The Web site contains dedicated resources for matching employment opportunities with veterans. I urge Members to highlight this Web site as much as possible in the coming weeks. In closing, Madam Speaker, I want to thank Mr. Holt for introducing this resolution and thank Chairman Filner and Mr. Buyer for their work to bring it to the floor. It says a lot that we are considering such an important resolution so early in the 110th Congress.

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina

Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am writing to notify you that I was absent for votes on January 4 and 5, 2007. The reason for my absence was that I had a death in my immediate family that required me to remain in South Carolina. Regarding the votes that I missed please see below for the way that I would have voted had I been present: rollcall vote No. 3--On Ordering the Previous Question--``nay''; rollcall vote No. 4--On Motion to Commit with Instructions--``yea''; rollcall vote No. 5--On Agreeing to the Resolution--``nay''; rollcall vote No. 6--On adoption of Title I of the Resolution--``yea''; rollcall vote No. 7--On adoption of Title 2 of the Resolution--``yea''; rollcall vote No. 8--On adoption of Title 3 of the Resolution--``yea''; rollcall vote No. 9--On adoption of Title 4 of the Resolution--``nay''; rollcall vote No. 10--On Motion to Commit with Instructions--``yea''; rollcall vote No. 11--On adoption of Title 4 of the Resolution--``nay.''