Jo Bonner

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I rise out of sadness to note the recent passing of a good friend and a long-time public servant. Monroe County Commissioner Charlie McCorvey passed away at the age of 59 on February 24, 2010, after an extended illness. Charlie McCorvey loved helping others and his many achievements are measured in the lives of the many students at Monroeville Middle School where he taught for 35 years, as well as in the support and respect he earned from the people of Monroe County who benefitted from his leadership as county commissioner for over two decades. Commissioner McCorvey was native to Monroe County and South Alabama where he was dedicated to inspiring his students to reach for their dreams while he also labored hard in local government to improve the lives of all citizens. A graduate of Hope College in Holland, Michigan, Charlie worked as a teacher in New York state before eventually returning to South Alabama. Charlie was more than a passionate school teacher and public official, he was also among Monroe County's most noted ambassadors. For over 14 years, he traveled across the United States and around the world as a major cast member of the play ``To Kill a Mockingbird,'' based on the book by another Monroe County native, Harper Lee. Charlie portrayed the character of Tom Robinson with a style that mesmerized audiences of all ages. Charlie was also an active member of the Alabama Education Association, serving as a state and national delegate. He also served as treasurer of the Monroe County Education Association and the Monroe County Democratic Conference. His volunteer activities included serving as a board member of the American Red Cross in Monroe County. Commissioner McCorvey is survived by his partner, Sandra Farr and three children, Stephanie Lauren, Justin Ryan and Charles Quarles and nine brothers and sisters. On behalf of the people of Monroe County, I extend my prayers and condolences to his family.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, it is with genuine sadness that I rise to note the passing of former State Senator Bill Menton, of Irvington; a long-time public servant and beloved friend to many in South Alabama. He passed away on February 15, at the age of 90. Bill Menton was a native of Paterson, NJ, coming to Mobile, Alabama after having been awarded multiple sports scholarships to Spring Hill College. After graduation, he coached at Spring Hill College and then UMS Preparatory School. Senator Menton had a strong belief in our young people and is credited with helping to build the juvenile division of the Mobile County Sheriff's Department, where he served as a juvenile probation officer. Continuing his interest in law enforcement, Mr. Menton later served as police chief of Bayou La Batre and separately worked for the Mobile County School System as a crime prevention officer. He was the voice of the Mobile Bay Bears baseball team throughout the 1940s and 1950s and a popular host of a local radio football scoreboard program. Bill Menton entered politics in 1982, winning a state senate seat representing Mobile County in Montgomery until 1988. In 1988, he came home to run in for the Mobile County Commission, a seat he won and held until 1992. In 1996, he returned to support the profession he loved--law enforcement--by assuming the position as executive director of the Alabama Fraternal Order of Police. Senator Menton also loved south Mobile County and he gave much of his life to making it a safer, better place to live. He dedicated an equal measure of devotion to bettering the lives of our young people, guiding many to learn from early mistakes in judgment and to take the path of responsible young adults. I wish to offer my condolences to his wife of 65 years, Carmen Santana Menton; their eight children, Grace M. (Bob) Overmeyer, William J. (Pat) Menton, Jr., Mary Jane Menton, Edward C. (Brenda) Menton, Regina F. Menton, John Samuel (Janie) Menton, Thomas P. Menton and Charles M. ``Chip'' Menton; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Senator Menton's many contributions to our community will never be forgotten.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, if health care reform weren't such a serious subject, something that will affect every person in America, then what the Democrats are trying to do would prove to provide enough fodder for comedians like Letterman, Leno and Jon Stewart that their writers wouldn't have to work on new jokes for the next month. Last week, the Speaker of the House said, ``We have to pass the bill so we can find out what's in it.'' That would be like buying a house before checking it out to see how many bedrooms were in it or what the colors were or whether we could even afford it in the first place. Most Americans don't buy shoes without trying them on, buy a car without test driving it, much less support a takeover of our health care system that will include life-changing decisions that are being kept from you in the dark. This morning, the Speaker said we may actually vote on the health care bill without voting on it, something that she calls ``deem and pass.'' What a pesky little thing voting is, you know, where those of us who work for you have to actually cast our votes first so you can find out whether you should vote for us in November. This is an insult and a sham.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, on Sunday night, the six-member crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavor returned to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida after 14 days in Earth orbit. Aboard the STS-130 was Mission Specialist Kathryn ``Kay'' Hire, Mobile, Alabama's first astronaut. A native of Mobile and a 1977 graduate of Murphy High School, Kay Hire epitomizes the ideal of service to her country. A 1981 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Hire earned a Master of Science degree in space technology from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1991 while also serving as a Naval officer. Over her military career, Hire has taken part in a wide range of missions, from oceanographic research to naval flight instructor. In 1993, she was the first female in the U.S. military to be assigned to a combat aircrew when she flew aboard a P-3 maritime patrol aircraft, taking part in Atlantic and Caribbean operations. She was recalled to active naval duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom as a member of the U.S. Naval Central Command staff. She later returned to reserve status and served as Commanding Officer of the Navy Reserve Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command. She transferred her duties to NASA in 1989. She was selected for astronaut training in 1994, reporting to the Johnson Space Center in Houston. In 1998, she first entered space aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia on mission STS-90, logging over 381 hours above the Earth. Aboard the Columbia, Hire spent 16 days in space and took part in 26 life science experiments focusing on the effects of microgravity on the brain and nervous system. While on the just-completed Endeavor Mission, Hire traveled to the International Space Station where the ISS and Endeavor crew took part in the final major construction project for the orbiting space station--the installation of the ``Tranquility'' module. The new addition to the space station will house life support systems for the ISS and offers a breathtaking seven-pane ``bay window'' in space view of planet Earth. Madam Speaker, I join the people of South Alabama in welcoming Kay Hire back down to Earth, and in expressing our pride for her service in our military and space programs. She is a tremendous role model for our youth. For those who seek examples of real heroes in our society, one need not look any further than Kay Hire, Mobile's astronaut.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate my dear friend and predecessor, former Congressman Sonny Callahan, for being selected as 2009 Mobilian of the Year by the Cottage Hill Civitan Club. To the people of South Alabama, Sonny needs no introduction. He has dedicated much of his life to serving our area. A Navy veteran and a self-made local business success, Sonny has never known a time when he was not giving back to his community. First elected to public office representing Mobile in the Alabama House of Representatives in 1971, Sonny embarked on a journey that took him to the Alabama State Senate and eventually to Washington, DC, where he labored in this House for no less than 18 years. He quickly made a name for himself in these Halls, earning the gavel of one of the 13 subcommittee chairmanships on the House Appropriations Committee after only 10 years in office. He was named chairman of the powerful Subcommittee on Foreign Operations in 1995, protecting America's interests and investments around the world. In 2000, he became the chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development. In this position, Sonny worked closely with the Bush Administration to develop and finance a new national energy policy. While chairman of this subcommittee, he also served as vice chairman of Foreign Operations and was a member of the Transportation Subcommittee. In an era of stark partisanship that too often divides this Chamber, Sonny Callahan knew only friends as he served in Congress. His ability to reach out across the aisle won him universal praise and enabled him to accomplish much for his district and the State of Alabama. After retirement from Congress in 2003, Sonny has refused to settle down into a quiet life of leisure. In addition to work in his own government consulting firm, Sonny was named by Governor Bob Riley to serve on the Alabama Port Authority Board. In 2004, Sonny was named Patriot of the Year by local veterans groups, and in 2005, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Mobile named its Theodore activity center the Sonny Callahan Boys and Girls Club Building. I wish to personally congratulate Sonny Callahan for having received the honor of ``Mobilian of the Year,'' and on behalf of the people of South Alabama, I thank Sonny, his wife, Karen, and their children and grandchildren, for their continued service and dedication to the state and the people we so dearly love.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, last week, the President and his administration were out in force bragging to anyone who would listen about how successful last year's trillion dollar stimulus bill has been. Vice President Biden left no doubt in anyone's mind when he said, ``I am absolutely certain of one thing. The Recovery Act is working.'' Well, forgive me, Mr. Vice President, if I and millions of other Americans are a bit skeptical. The American people continue to ask: Where are the jobs that this trillion dollar budget buster promised?'' Let me tell you, I would have a hard time going to my district in Monroe County, which has gone from 6 percent unemployment when the Democrats took control of the Congress in January 2007 to, last month, over 20 percent unemployment. Sadly, this is a story that is being repeated all across America. So while the President and his Democratic colleagues in Congress are trying to remember the words to ``Happy Days Are Here Again,'' the American people are left wondering, where are the jobs, and does anyone in Washington care about us?

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, it is with sadness and many fond memories that I rise today to acknowledge the recent passing of Anne Hines Farish of Monroeville, Alabama, a dear friend and extraordinary public servant. Anne Farish passed away January 18, 2010, at her home after a battle with cancer. She was 83. Her hometown newspaper, The Monroe Journal, called Anne Farish the ``Matriarch of Monroeville.'' For the former mayor, who viewed everyone in her hometown as family, this title is certainly well chosen. A native of Monroeville, Anne grew up the oldest of four daughters of the late Dr. Jack and Mrs. Irma Hines. Dr. Hines was Monroeville's mayor for 16 years and his presence no doubt had an influence upon his eldest daughter, who eventually followed in his footsteps. Anne graduated from Monroe County High School in the same class as Nelle Harper Lee, another beloved daughter of Monroeville and Pulitzer Prize winning author of ``To Kill a Mockingbird.'' Upon graduation, Anne attended Auburn University, and her late husband, Dick, served as Monroeville's postmaster for many years. Anne will be remembered for so many things. She was indeed a political trail blazer. She was the first woman elected to the Monroeville City Council--serving from 1984 to 1992. Following that, she was the first woman elected as mayor of Monroeville--where she led the city for four terms (1992 to 2008). During her tenure, Monroeville built its first industrial park, added to its recreational parks and constructed a new City Hall and police station. Anne was also a successful businesswoman, owning her own brokerage firm, The Farish Agency. As I noted when Anne retired from public service in 2008, she was the epitome of a ``Steel Magnolia,'' a real southern lady, strong and persevering and someone who was truly an institution among the residents of Monroeville. Everyone who knew Anne will surely miss her. Monroeville has truly lost a beloved member of its family. My condolences and prayers go out to her family, including her son, William Clifford (Christie) Farish; sisters, Rose Marie Hines Bush, Temple Hudson Hines Lazenby, Irma Jacqueline Hines Nobles; her two grandchildren and extended family. I join with all of Monroeville and Monroe County in mourning the loss of this remarkable lady and very dear friend.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my deep personal sadness at the passing of M. Hollis Curl, a longtime friend, an award winning journalist, and perhaps Wilcox County, Alabama's greatest advocate. Hollis, the editor and publisher of The Wilcox Progressive Era in my hometown of Camden, Alabama, passed away on February 2, 2010 at the age of 74. It's been said that real newspapermen bleed ink. I have no doubt that Hollis would fit into that category. While he would downplay his life's work as mere ``newspapering,'' no one could ever question that Hollis was a consummate professional born with a lifetime love for print journalism and a remarkable passion for his community. Hollis began his ``newspapering'' career as a young man by hawking copies of his hometown paper, The Red Bay News, from a shoeshine stand. During World War II, his family moved to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where he got a paper route carrying the Knoxville News Sentinel. Not satisfied with selling other people's papers, he soon started his own neighborhood publication--a single sheet which he sold for five cents a copy. Hollis attended Ole Miss and following college, he worked at newspapers in Tennessee before returning to Alabama in 1960 to join The Dothan Eagle. From there, he moved to Butler, where he served as publisher for The Choctaw Advocate and began winning awards from the Alabama Press Association (APA). He purchased The Choctaw Advocate in 1968, and later, he co-owned The Demopolis Times. In 1969, he and his wonderful wife, Glenda, bought The Wilcox Progressive Era in Camden, a newspaper that decades earlier had been in my family. Throughout the years, Hollis Curl also owned newspapers in Montevallo and Marion. Hollis gained national recognition in 1997 when he was selected by Sigma Delta Chi as the first weekly newspaper editor to receive the Ethics in Journalism Award presented at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. In addition, the Alabama Press Association awarded Hollis with its first Lifetime Achievement Award. Over his four-decade-long career in Camden, Hollis took more than a few politicians to task on his editorial page and in his award-winning, weekly column, ``For What It's Worth.'' A proud and lifelong Democrat, Hollis penned the very first editorial endorsement for my candidacy for Congress back in 2002, even though I was running as a Republican in a congressional district that was different from his own. Hollis was perhaps best known to those outside of Wilcox County for the national publicity he received for his tireless efforts to restore ferry service to Gee's Bend, Alabama--an area that for nearly 40 years had been isolated from the county seat of Camden. The resumption of the ferry--which took many years of hard lobbying on the part of local residents, backed by Hollis' powerful voice--meant the prospect of a better life for many. Madam Speaker, I join all of Wilcox County--and everyone else who was privileged to call Hollis a friend--in expressing my deepest sympathies to his wife, Glenda, their children, Mark and Julie, and their grandchildren. Thank you for sharing this extraordinary person with us for all these years. You all are in our prayers.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I want to personally thank Mr. Kildee on behalf of Alabama fans all across the Nation for bringing this important resolution to the House floor today. Mark Ingram is an exceptional athlete. As my colleagues have noted, he won the Heisman Trophy for the first time in the history of the University of Alabama to bring this honor and distinction to our storied and beloved university. But Mark Ingram is also an outstanding young man. I know the people of Michigan, and especially the people of Flint, are proud of what he has accomplished. But people all across America, especially young people, as we look to so many athletes and actors and politicians who sometimes disappoint us, here you have a young man, 19 years old, who on the night that he received the highest athletic award that can be bestowed upon a college football player, stood with tears in his eyes and proudly thanked God, thanked his family, thanked even his teachers, the professors at the University of Alabama for helping to give him this opportunity. He thanked, as my friend from Kentucky said, the offensive line and the quarterback and the others who helped make this not just an individual award but a team award. As I think about my own children, my 14-year-old daughter, Lee, and my 11-year-old son, Robins, I like to know there are young role models like Mark Ingram out there for children all across America to be proud of and to look up to. Yes, Mark Ingram is a tremendous athlete. And as my colleagues have already noted, he has already set the single season rushing record at the University of Alabama, and when you think about the great names who have played running back--Johnny Musso, Shaun Alexander, and Bobby Humphrey--that is saying a lot. But Mark Ingram is also a dean's list student. My sister, Judy, is the provost at the University of Alabama, the chief academic officer, and she says that the faculty at the university look at Mark with awe at what he does not only on the athletic field but in the classroom as well. He is a dean's list student, and he is certainly setting the highest standard of any student at the University of Alabama. So it goes without saying, Madam Speaker, that we are all proud, the people of Michigan, the people of Alabama, and people all across this country, that a young man can come to the University of Alabama, someone who didn't even know if he would be starting at the running back position at the beginning of the year, and contribute to his team to win the 13th National Championship and the first ever Heisman Trophy. We are proud of Mark Ingram, and I thank the gentleman from Michigan and the gentleman from Kentucky for allowing all of us to pause for just a moment and say: We salute you, Mark, we are proud of you, and we know you have a great future in front of you.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, Southwest Alabama recently lost a dedicated medical professor and highly regarded academic physician. Dr. Steven Karl Teplick passed away on December 8, 2009, at the age of 68. Dr. Teplick was Chairman of the Department of Radiology at the University of South Alabama's College of Medicine for nearly 15 years. He was known for his devotion to the teaching and training of medical professionals as well as leading the University's transition to digital cancer diagnostic technology. Dr. Teplick was a graduate of the University of Vermont, and of Hahnemann Medical College in Pennsylvania. He completed his residency in Radiology and a fellowship in Neuroradiology at Boston City Hospital. Dr. Teplick served his country for three years as a major in the U.S. Army Medical Corps before returning as a faculty member at Hahnemann. Afterwards, he became Vice Chairman of the Department of Radiology at the University of Arkansas, before coming to South Alabama. A member of numerous medical committees and organizations, Dr. Teplick was most notably a fellow in the American College of Radiology, president of the Alabama Academy of Radiology and a founding member of the International Society of Biliary Radiology. Dr. Teplick was a lover of nature and enjoyed farming and his horses and beloved pets. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Carol; two children, Jennifer and Joanna; and four grandchildren. As we pause to reflect upon the many contributions of Dr. Teplick to our community, we also extend our thoughts and prayers to his family for their loss.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I submit the following: Project Name: Buses and Bus Facility Improvement, Baldwin County, AL Requesting Member: Congressman Jo Bonner Bill: Department of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010 Account: Buses & Bus Facilities Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Baldwin County Commission Address of Requesting Entity: 312 Courthouse Square, Suite 12, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Description of Request: Provide an earmark of $275,000 to provide additional buses and security fencing for the Baldwin Rural Area Transportation System (BRATS). Two additional buses will help meet the growing demand of BRATS that currently provides public transit services in Alabama's largest county covering 1,500 square miles. The high cost of living in Baldwin County has also increased the demand for BRATS as area workforce is moving further away from tourist attracting coastal areas. Baldwin County is currently the 65th fastest growing county in the country (U.S. Census Bureau). Approximately, $200,000 [or 73%] will be used to acquire two new buses; $50,000 [or 18%] will be used for security fencing; and $25,000 [or 9%] will be used to provide bike racks for buses. The Baldwin County Commission will provide the required matching funds.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to offer congratulations to University of South Alabama President Gordon Moulton and his wife, Geri, whose efforts in support of the University are being permanently heralded by the naming of the new campus bell tower in their honor. On September 18, 2009, the University of South Alabama Board of Trustees officially announced that the school's new bell tower will be dedicated ``in honor of `the exceptional service' of President Gordon Moulton and his wife, Geri.'' When the 135-foot structure is completed in December, it will be the ``premier landmark and the enduring symbol of spirit of the University of South Alabama,'' the board said. The impressive tower with four large bronze bells will also serve as a monument honoring alumni who are providing support for the project. Madam Speaker, Gordon and Geri are deserving of such a lasting recognition. President Moulton has not only been the helmsman of the University since 1998--overseeing milestones in student enrollment and graduation, enhancement of campus life, and greater involvement of faculty and students in the community--he has also had a direct role in the establishment of the Mitchell Cancer Institute. The University of South Alabama has also seen the benefit of his support of the University's Technology and Research Park and the Children's and Women's Hospital, to name a few. President and Mrs. Moulton are well known for their advocacy of local causes important to the community. Geri was also honored in 2009 with the dedication of the Geri Moulton Children's Park. I wish to extend my congratulations and appreciation to both President and Mrs. Moulton and look forward to their continued beneficial leadership of the University of South Alabama.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the exemplary public service of Mr. Hugh S. Branyon who is retiring on December 11, 2009, after 35 years as superintendent of Gulf State Park on Alabama's Gulf Coast. A native of Fayette in northwest Alabama, Mr. Branyon first came to Baldwin County in 1957 to work at Gulf State Park. His experience along the gulf sparked such a love of the outdoors that he devoted not only his career, but indeed, his life to the service of Alabama's state parks. Mr. Branyon's labors have spanned a half century and the length of Alabama. After his first job at Gulf State Park, Mr. Branyon traveled upstate to Lake Guntersville State Park, where he rose to acting manager. Over the ensuing years, he traversed the state, heading back for a brief stint at Gulf State Park before being appointed ranger at Auburn's Chewacla State Park. In 1967, he was called to the State capital to become Chief of Operation in Maintenance to all Alabama state parks and fishing lakes. In 1972, Mr. Branyon returned to Baldwin County where he eventually became Superintendent of Gulf State Park and has since served continuously. Mr. Branyon has always preferred to call his job a way of life. It was his dedication to the mission of preserving our outdoors that led Mr. Branyon to also assume the role of Southwest District Superintendent over five other south Alabama parks: Bladon Springs, Frank Jackson, Chickasaw, Florala and Meaher. He has shepherded Gulf State Park through 13 named tropical storms and hurricanes. He oversaw the original construction of Gulf State Park's much-used fishing pier in 1967 and its reconstruction, nearly doubling its length. Under his supervision, Gulf State Park has steadily grown to become one of Alabama's most popular state parks. No stranger to volunteer service in his community and across the state, he has also been active in many local civic clubs and organizations. His selfless service has led to his receipt of the highest awards from Rotary and Lions clubs international. Mr. Branyon has been more than a park superintendent, but rather a friend, to so many of his employees and those who crossed his path over the decades in Alabama's parks. His devotion to preserving the treasures of Alabama's outdoors will be hard to match. All those who have enjoyed the beauty and splendor of our pristine parks owe Hugh Branyon a debt of thanks. Mr. Branyon and his wife, Carol Wenzel Branyon, have two daughters and five grandchildren. Upon retirement, Mr. Branyon plans to devote even more time to his beloved outdoors, including fishing with his grandchildren. I join thousands of Alabamians in wishing Hugh Branyon the best as he enters his well-deserved retirement.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, last week, Alabama lost one of its luminaries--a gifted public servant who will be remembered not only for his articulate and persuasive oratory, but also for his many contributions to our region. Former State Senator Pierre Pelham of Mobile passed away on December 3, 2009, at the age of 80. A native of Chatom, Alabama, Pierre Pelham was a scholar, a patriot, and an astute and skilled politician who was admired by many. Senator Pelham distinguished himself early in life as a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Alabama and went on to graduate cum laude from Harvard University Law School. He served his country during the Korean War, rising to the rank of Lieutenant in the Army. During his military service, he earned the Combat Infantryman and the Expert Infantryman badges. Back home in Alabama, he developed a passion for public service. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Conventions in 1960 and 1964, laying the groundwork for later public office. From 1966 to 1974, he represented Mobile in the Alabama State Senate. He attained the position of president pro tempore of the Alabama Senate while only in his second term. During his political career, Senator Pelham is credited with helping to establish the College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama in Mobile. Today, the USA College of Medicine plays a leading role in education and research to save the lives of thousands of Alabamians and others along the Gulf Coast. A Fellow of Harvard University's Kennedy Institute of Politics, Senator Pelham was widely known for his command of the political craft and the spoken word. He was formidable in his ability to persuade his colleagues during debate. Senator Pelham was also known for his deep, abiding faith and his lifelong membership and support of the Chatom United Methodist Church. I rise to extend my condolences to his wife, Eva, and four children, Joseph, Marc, Pier, and Patrice Pelham, and 12 grandchildren. May his family know that they are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of World War II veteran Maurice Glenn Bell of Mobile, Alabama, who passed away on December 4, 2009, at the age of 84. Mr. Bell proudly embodied the qualities that our nation has associated with the ``Greatest Generation''--those Americans who were called to give everything for the defense of our freedom and the liberation of millions overseas. Mr. Bell was absolutely committed to serving his country in wartime, and after the war, he was a role model of character and courage in civilian life. In 1943, when he was summoned to serve in the Second World War, Mr. Bell was already working as an electrician's helper in the Mobile shipyards. He joined the Navy and saw engagements in places we know well from our history books--including the allied invasions of Tarawa, Saipan, and the battle of the Philippine Sea. But the World War II experience for which Mr. Bell is best remembered is uniquely linked to the vessel upon which he served--the historic USS Indianapolis. It was the Indianapolis that delivered the first atomic bomb to be dropped on Japan. And after the heavy cruiser was struck by two Japanese torpedoes in the middle of the night on July 30, 1945, Mr. Bell was among the 900 crew members who were able to get into the water in an attempt to save themselves. Mr. Bell and his comrades spent four days in the unforgiving ocean awaiting rescue--an ordeal that subjected them to near constant shark attack and dehydration. Of the 1,196 men on board the Indianapolis before she went down, only 316 survived--including Maurice Bell. Like many Indianapolis veterans, he had remained mostly silent about his experiences on those four fateful days in 1945. However, 62 years later, he was given a chance to tell his story before a national audience as part of the PBS World War II documentary, ``The War.'' The Ken Burns film interviewed a number of Mobile area veterans, including Mr. Bell. Mr. Bell also captivated local audiences who would hear his stories about those long days and nights adrift in a seemingly dark and bottomless sea. He urged them never to give up. It is ironic that this veteran of the war in the Pacific was buried on December 7, 2009--the 68th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Alabama is fortunate to have so many veterans like Maurice Bell who love their country and answered its call in time of need. We will always owe them a deep debt of gratitude. I join this House in offering condolences to his wonderful wife of 65 years, Lois Bell, and their three children, Beverly Gros, Bonnie Hall and David Bell, and six grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. May they be comforted in knowing that they remain in our prayers during their time of loss.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I am very proud to bring to the attention of the House the outstanding achievement of the University of South Alabama Jaguar football team. The University of South Alabama is located in my Congressional district. During 2009, the NCAA Division III Jaguars, under head coach Joey Jones, delivered a perfect 7-0 season. The undefeated Jaguars made history not only for their unblemished record on the gridiron this year, but also for the fact that until this year, the Jaguars never had a football team. What's more, they didn't even have a marching band until this year. The Jaguars' 2009 inaugural season was nothing short of a Cinderella performance, capped by an impressive 35-0 final game victory over the Huntingdon College Hawks on November 12. The average inaugural season game attendance was an impressive 18,000. Speaking at USA's Media Day on November 16, Jaguars Head Coach Joey Jones put their victory into context: ``Number one, it makes a statement that South Alabama is here to build a Division I football program.'' This summer the Jaguars took on a daunting task and they defied the odds by building on the basics and truly working together as a team. With this winning combination, they will surely succeed in reaching Division I. I would like to congratulate the USA coaching staff and the team: Head coach Joey Jones and coaches Bill Clark, Kurt Crain, Greg Gregory, Mitch Rodrigue, John Turner, Jeff Bailey, Barrett Parker, Dameyune Craig, Chuck Dunn, Tommy Perry, Brian Turner, Duwan Walker, Brendt Bedsole, and Justin Schwind. The USA Jaguars: Aiman Al-Selwadi, Kendell Bagnerise, Ken Barefield, Cori Barnett, Ryne Baxter, Nick Bear, Logan Bennett, Paul Bennett, Corey Besteda, Heath Blount, Kevin Bone, Jake Bowen, Chase Brown, Christian Brown, Zach Brownell, Chris Brunson, Nick Brunson, Eddy Cabrera, Randon Carnathan, Sean Ceballos, Michel Chapuseaux, Josh Chestang, Trey Clark, Chris Cooke, Richard Courtney, Clifton Crews, Andy Dalgleish, Josh Dees, Marquise Diamond, Jaime Driskell, Justin Dunn, Drew Ezell, Darrow Fisher, Lionel Fuentes, Scott Garber, Lamontis Gardner, Myles Gibbon, Gabe Graham, Anton Graphenreed, Sean Greenwood, Jon Griffin, Brett Hancock, Dalvin Harris, Danzel Harris, Tim Harvey, Gage Hayes, Kevin Helms, Charlie Higgenbotham, Ellis Hill, Greg Hollinger, Bryson James, Dustin James, Kenneth Johnson, Romelle Jones, Sean Kennedy, Brian Krauskopf, James Land, Bryant Lavender, T.J. Lawrence, John Leech, Corwin Malone, Andrew Martin, Gabriel Mass, Santuan McGee, Lawson McGlon, Darrius McMullin, Jordan Means, Tyler Miller, Jerron Mitchell, Anthony Mostella, Jerry Nettles, Taylor Noon, Chad Orrell, Nick Owens, Jeremy Pacillo, Alex Page, Andrew Paschall, John Mark Patrick, Steven Pease, Alex Phifer, Cory Pittman, Rob Powell- Deppe, Philip Press, Chris Pugh, Erling Riis, Donte Rome, Zack Rone, Brandon Ross, Richard Ross, Matt Saucier, Donald Scott, Ryan Scott, Paul Silvey, Brennan Sim, Levi Slaydon, Courtney Smith, Eli Smith, Tremain Smith, Chris Stitt, Robby Stoner, Alex Tamariz, Anthony Taylor, Josh Terry, Tony Threatt, Ralph Turner, Gabe Ukwuoma, Kelly Vail, Corey Waldon, Justin Walker, Carlton Wallace, Zac Westmoreland, Alex Williams, Enrique Williams, Montavious Williams, Michael Wilson and Lim Windham. Much credit also goes to President Gordon Moulton and the Board of Trustees and the alumni for their vision and support of the inaugural USA football program. The Jaguars' story is inspiring to us all, and I know that I speak for the entire community when I wish them congratulations on a job well done. Can't wait for 2010. Go Jags!

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, the City of Mobile recently lost a dear friend with the passing of Charles Edward McNeil, and I rise today to pay tribute to his memory. Mr. McNeil was a remarkable businessman, active citizen and committed U.S. Army Air Force pilot. He will be remembered by all as a man devoted to his family, his faith, and his country. A graduate of Marion Military Institute, Mr. McNeil later attended the University of Alabama before volunteering for the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II. A decorated pilot, he was captured behind enemy lines after being shot down by the Germans and remained in captivity until the end of the war. Coming home with two bronze stars, the Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and two Purple Hearts, Mr. McNeil began a life of entrepreneurship that was as impressive as his dedication to his country. His resume included a career with Protective Life Insurance Company, co-founder and director of Commercial Guaranty Bank, board member of SouthTrust Bank, and founding co-partner in the McNeil, Jackson and Ahrens Financial group. He also held membership in the Million Dollar Roundtable since 1946. But that was just the beginning. Mr. McNeil also found the time to serve his community as president of the Mobile County School Board for no less than 17 years and he maintained active membership in many philanthropic, civic clubs and service agency boards. An avid sportsman and outdoorsman, Mr. McNeil exemplified the indomitable spirit of our Gulf Coast community. His love of life and tireless devotion to uplifting the lives of so many around him will be missed. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering a dedicated and generous community leader and a dear friend. Our condolences go out to his wife, Evelyn Adelia Bell; his children, Millie McNeil, Marilyn Peyronni, Charles McNeil and John McNeil; and his seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Mobile--and indeed our entire state--lost a true leader and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, this job-killing bill cuts Medicare, piles debt on our children, raises health care costs, and raises taxes on the American people.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to state my objection--in the strongest way I know how--to Speaker Pelosi's health care bill. This bill represents everything I have fought against during my years in public service . . . it raises taxes by hundreds of billions of dollars, it hides deficit spending with dubious accounting gimmicks, and it will vastly expand the federal government's scope and size in every aspect of our daily lives and take even greater control over one sixth of our nation's economy. Among other things, this bill piles crushing mandates on small businesses, it wrings hundreds of billions of Medicare dollars out of our doctors, hospitals, and other providers. It decimates the popular Medicare Advantage program, which millions of seniors depend on. Moreover, it will be the mother of all unfunded mandates on state budgets which--like my home state of Alabama--are already stretched thin because unlike the federal government, most states actually balance their budgets. Mr. Speaker, over the past several months I have heard from thousands of Alabamans who have called, written, and e-mailed my office. In August, my staff and I held 19 town meetings throughout Alabama's First District where more than 5,000 people came out to voice their opposition to this massive takeover of our health care system. My friends and colleagues, the vast majority of the people I work for--and have heard from--are unambiguous--they do not want this bill. In fact, most Alabamians--and, I believe, most Americans--want to preserve what's best about our health care while lowering costs and improving access. That's why I will not only be opposing H.R. 3962, but I am proud to support the Republican substitute. My Republican colleagues and I believe this bill would lower costs in both the short term and the long term, honoring our pledge for fiscal responsibility while broadening access to quality heath care through lower costs and more competition. Mr. Speaker, I only have one vote but I will cast that vote against this legislation that The Wall Street Journal correctly dubbed, ``the worst bill ever,'' and I humbly urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, the taxpayers of this country want to know if the people who work for them, who were hired last November to serve here the people's House are really listening to what they've been saying. Appropriately enough, this started back on tax day, April 15. Tens of thousands, perhaps millions, began to speak with one voice about the spending, the borrowing, the rising unemployment as well as the ever- expanding role of the Federal Government into our daily lives. In August, even yesterday they turned out en masse, speaking as loud as they could from the very steps of this grand old historic building, begging, pleading, please honor the freedoms and liberties that generations of Americans have fought and even died for. Republicans have heard that message, and we agree with you. We know you are right. Mr. Speaker, your party is in control of this Congress, but the American people will have the final say. Are you listening?

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Thank you, Madam Chairman. The purpose of this colloquy is to notify the Members that because The Washington Post has a document that they believe originated from our committee, and because some Members of the body are receiving questions from the newspaper, we wanted to assure the body, first of all, this was an isolated incident that to our knowledge has only occurred once; secondly, that our security system for the committee has not been breached; and, third, and I think most importantly, that any name of a Member or a staff member that might appear on a document, if it in fact were a document from our committee, it should not be inferred that a Member is under an investigation of the committee, other than the fact that the committee has responsibilities. For instance, when a colleague calls and asks about whether they can take a trip, their name would appear on this weekly report that the Chair and ranking member receive. That doesn't mean that they are doing anything other than following the rules of the House to inquire whether they should take that trip or whether it is permissible.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, there is an old saying, common in south Alabama, that we need to practice what we preach. Well, if reports are accurate, it sounds like Congress will be moving forward with health care legislation that contains a government-run public option, no matter how hard the Democratic leadership might try to rebrand this poison pill. Well, I am going to oppose with every ounce of me a Federal takeover of our health care system. I couldn't agree more with our friend Dr. John Fleming of Louisiana, who has introduced a resolution that says that any Member of Congress who votes for a public option should be the first one to sign up for it. After all, if a public option is good enough for you, Mr. and Mrs. Taxpayer, then your elected Representative should be the first to try it out. This is especially true for our seniors who are looking at draconian cuts to Medicare, cuts to Medicare Advantage, and, according to the CBO, a 20 percent increase in their prescription drug premiums over the next decade, not to mention higher taxes for all Americans, just to help pay for this major step towards socialized medicine. Practicing what we preach means just that. Congress won't ask the American people to take any poison that we don't take first.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, Halloween is just around the corner, but unfortunately, the Democrats who control both sides of Pennsylvania Avenue, if they have their way, there will be no treats, but only tricks, for small businessmen and -women and other hardworking taxpayers in the form of higher taxes, more government regulation and even more debt to be saddled on to the backs of our children and grandchildren. News that our Speaker has all but guaranteed her caucus that there will be a robust public option in any health care bill to pass Congress is a code word for this, Mr. and Mrs. Taxpayer. If you think government is too big now, just wait. Sadly, there is a reason why so few Americans have any confidence, much less respect, for the leaders here in Washington. It is because our so-called leaders have shown absolutely no respect to the hardworking taxpayers of this country, with a spending and borrowing spree unlike anytime in American history. Halloween or not, this is a scary time for American taxpayers.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, earlier this week the city of Mobile lost a dear friend and a respected leader and I rise today to honor Mr. James Vincent ``Jim'' McConnell Jr. and pay tribute to his memory. Jim was a successful businessman, an active citizen and a dedicated soldier who years earlier answered his country's call to serve. He will be remembered as a man devoted to his family, his country and his community. A native of Pensacola, Jim moved to Mobile as a teenager and graduated from Murphy High School. He received a football scholarship to the University of Alabama in 1959 and played under the legendary Coach Paul ``Bear'' Bryant. After graduating from the University of Alabama in 1963 with a degree in business administration, Jim entered the U.S. Army and served as a second lieutenant in Germany. He was later promoted to captain after being reassigned to Fort Campbell, Kentucky. After an honorable discharge, Jim worked for his father at Trail Cadillac-Pontiac before starting on his own dealership, Trail Pontiac on Dauphin Street. Later, Jim acquired the Mercedes-Benz and GMC Truck franchises, which he eventually merged with his brother's Cadillac dealership, forming McConnell Automotive Corporation. Jim was also a partner in the new Mercedes-Benz of Mobile. Jim served on the General Motors Dealer Advisory Board and as president of the Buick-Pontiac-GMC area marketing group for 20 years. He received numerous awards as a General Motors Master Dealer and Mercedes Benz Diamond Dealer. He was a member of the Red Elephant Club, served on the Senior Bowl committee and was active in a number of other civic and community organizations. In short, Jim McConnell was always giving back to the city he loved and called home. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering a dedicated and generous community leader and a dear friend to many. Jim McConnell will be deeply missed by his family--his wife, Cynde; his sons, Mitch McConnell, Stan McConnell, Vince McConnell and Baker McConnell; his mother, Mary Louise McConnell; his brother Eddie McConnell; his sister, Mary Lou Layden; and his four grandchildren--as well as his many friends, colleagues, and patrons. Mobile--and indeed our entire state--lost a true leader for our area and our thoughts and prayers are with this family at this difficult time.

Mr. BONNER

Mr. BONNER. Mr. Speaker, in a few minutes over in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol, America will be introduced to the newest statue to grace this historic old building. The statue is unlike any other. It's not of a man or a woman, of a general or a President, but it's a statue of a little girl and how one person helped change the world for the better. Left deaf and blind from an illness in her infancy, many saw Helen Keller as a wild and disorderly little girl. For Helen, she would see it very differently. Fueled by a passion for interaction and a hunger for knowledge, Helen Keller's life is a tremendous example of overcoming even the most disabling of situations. Her determination soon overpowered her deafness, and her belief in herself prevailed over her blindness. Her intellectual cravings were but slightly inhibited by her disabilities. Helen learned to communicate and interact in a world that she would never see nor hear; yet through her works, wisdom and passion, Helen Keller still stands not only as a symbol of hope and determination for the deaf and blind, but for all of us who seek a more just and peaceful world. Mr. Speaker, the people of Alabama are proud to bring one of our most beloved, favorite daughters to this grand old building for the world to see and know and hear.