Madeleine Bordallo

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Carlotta Leon Guerrero on receiving the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2016 Phoenix Award for Outstanding Contributions to Disaster Recovery as a volunteer. Carlotta is being honored for her efforts and contributions that have enabled businesses of Guam and neighboring island communities to recover successfully from disasters. Carlotta is the Executive Director of the Ayuda Foundation founded the non-profit organization in 1995 with Dr. Mike Cruz of the Guam Medical Society and Christine Nilsen of Continental Micronesia, Inc. Carlotta began her public service serving six years as a senator in the Guam Legislature from 1994 to 2000, and has served in different capacities within the public and private sectors. The Ayuda Foundation is based in Guam and is dedicated to helping Pacific islanders, especially our Micronesian region, in times of need. The Ayuda Foundation is meant to improve the health and wellbeing of Micronesia through medical missions, emergency relief and program support. The Ayuda Foundation is comprised of Medical Missions to Micronesia, Reach Out & Read Early Literacy Program, AIDS Education Project, Island Girl Power and Books to Schools. Through Ayuda Foundation, Carlotta was able to bring important resources to areas recently hit by storms in places such as Philippines, Vanuatu, Chuuk, Yap and Saipan. She was instrumental in bringing diverse parts of the community together to assist in providing thousands of dollars of aid to areas affected by natural disaster. Carlotta creatively used her own resources to source, procure and distribute supplies and assistance to those in need in the form of donations and in-kind contributions. Carlotta has selflessly, consistently and tirelessly worked to help victims of disasters in every way possible. In addition to providing food and supplies, she believes that it is critical to assist hospitals within communities struck by natural disasters to maximize assistance. Though, Ayuda Foundation has a broad mission of helping the community, the bulk of the work goes to disaster relief. Most noteably, Carlotta and the Ayuda Foundation partnered with MAP International, a non-profit in the U.S. to secure large donations of pharmaceuticals. She then worked with non-governmental organizations around the world to distribute them in areas of conflict and disaster. Ayuda Foundation was able to obtain $400,000 worth of medication with only $5,000 donated by the Bank of Gaum to donate to the islands of Chuuk and Yap after they were hit by Typhoon Maysak. Ayuda Foundation was also able to procure an inter Emergency Health Kit from MAP International for the community hospital on the island of Saipan after the devastating Typhoon Soudelor. Again, I congratulate Ms. Carlotta Leon Guerrero on receiving the 2016 Small Business Administration's Phoenix Award for Outstanding Contributions to Disaster Recovery for Guam. I join the people of Guam in commending her for her award and thanking her for her many contributions to our island community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate William Nan Li on receiving the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2016 Champion of the Year Award for Guam. This award honors an individual on Guam who has fulfilled a commitment to support and assist minority entrepreneurs and small business owners. William is an Assistant Vice President and Business Development Officer with the Bank of Guam, the largest financial institution on Guam, serving individual clients, small businesses, middle-market and large corporations, and government entities. In his role at the Bank of Guam, Will interacts with clients on a daily basis to provide assistance and counsel on appropriate commercial banking services to meet their business's individual needs. He has provided outstanding assistance to many local businesses, from restaurants to retail owners to contractors and investors. Further, he works with several Bank of Guam initiatives to promote financial literacy and sponsoring events and causes, including the Guam International Marathon, the Guam Football Association, and the ``Nihi Tan Fan Bisita'' which works with local mayors to extend financial counseling to island residents who may not have the resources to obtain it themselves. Will is also an active member of our island community. He is a current Board Member of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam and the Guam Chinese Association, as well as a member of the United Chinese Association, Guam Chinese Contract Association, and the Chinese Women Association. Will also volunteers for outreach events that teach safe financial practices to local high school students. I join the people of Guam in congratulating William Nan Li on his selection as the SBA's 2016 Minority Small Business Champion for Guam. I commend him for his many contributions to our island and community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate David J. John on being awarded the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2016 Small Business Person of the Year Award for Guam. David John is being honored and recognized as an individual who has demonstrated outstanding skills, savviness, and ability to create success in the small business community. He was educated at the University of Saint Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota and is the president of ASC Trust Corporation, a retirement management company located in Hagatna, Guam. For the last 25 years, ASC Trust Corporation has provided employer sponsored retirement plans in Guam and throughout the Pacific. The company manages approximately half a billion dollars in retirement assets for 23,000 participants and 340 retirement plans in the Western Pacific. ASC Trust Corporation has been committed to steady growth and has expanded to four offices with more than 50 employees in the region. David proudly supports the local workforce and all of his employees are native residents of the island or city where their office is located in. ASC Trust Corporation is committed to revolutionizing retirement plans in the Pacific Region by providing plan sponsors and participants the services they need to plan for successful retirement. The company offers a local team providing unparalleled service and the support of industry-leading partners to help manage their technology and investments. Additionally, ASC Trust Corporation is the largest provider of retirement plan management services in Micronesia. Not only is David a successful business person, he is also very involved in the local community. He is an active member of the Guam Economic Development Authority where is the Vice Chairman of the Board and the Chairman of the Tax Qualifying Program for Guam. He is a member and past Chairman of the University of Guam Endowment foundation, past Chairman of the Guam Chamber of Commerce and past President of the Rotary Club of Guam. Additionally, David supports other local organizations, including sponsoring the ASC Trust Corporation Islanders soccer and basketball teams. David is a successful business man and family man. He is a leader in our local community and a role model for others in the private business sector. David and his company are committed to Guam and the region, and to improving the community through hiring local and boosting the economy. I congratulate David on receiving the 2016 U.S. Small Business Administration's Small Business Person of the Year Award for Guam. I join the people of Guam in commending him on this award and thanking them for their many contributions to our island community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Guam Small Business Development Center on being awarded the 2016 U.S. Small Business Development Center Excellence and Innovation Center Award. The Guam Small Business Development Center is being recognized for their excellence in providing value to small businesses and advancing program delivery and management through innovation. The Guam Small Business Development Center began operations in May 1995 through federal funds and celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. It became the Pacific Islands SBDC Network and first service center in the region. The Guam Small Business Development Center provides free, confidential, one-to-one counseling in all areas of business management to all existing and potential small business owners and managers that are U.S. citizens, green card holders or citizens of the Freely Associated States. These services include pre-venture feasibility, business plan development, marketing, record keeping, financial and human resource management, operations management, access to capital, and specialized areas such as international trade and technical services. The Guam SBDC is able to refer local businesses to high-quality external sources of information and ideas because of its membership with U.S. Association of Small Business Development Centers (ASBDC) and partnership with the U.S. SBA and the National Business Incubation Association. Additionally, the Guam Small Business Development Center works with the local Guam Small Business Administration Branch Office and Hawaii Small Business Administration District Office as a champion for Small Business Administration products and services. This work includes the effective amplification of the Small Business Administration mission, priorities and programs. The Guam Small Business Development Center provides excellent customer service with a 95 percent client satisfaction rate and efficiently meets clients' needs by providing quality counseling. The Guam Small Business Development Center utilizes all resources available and partners with local government agencies and private entities to carry out its mission of helping entrepreneurs start and expand their businesses. Again, I congratulate Guam Small Business Development Center on being awarded the 2016 U.S. Small Business Development Center Excellence and Innovation Center Award. I commend Guam Small Business Development Center Director Casey Jeszenka and the staff of the Guam SBDC for their leadership in helping to promote entrepreneurship and support for our local economy. I join the people of Guam in commending them for their award and thanking them for their many contributions to our island community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in support of the Montana congressional delegation's legislation to rename the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Great Falls, Montana, to the Captain John E. Moran and Captain William Wylie Galt Armed Forces Reserve Center. Captain Moran and Captain Galt were both awarded the Medal of Honor, the Nation's highest honor, for their bravery in combat during the Philippine-American war and World War II, respectively. The recognition they earned through the sacrifices that they and their families made will be memorialized appropriately at the facility. As the Congresswoman representing Guam here in Congress, I have a special appreciation for the service of our men and our women in uniform and their families. Having welcomed the Marines in 1944 after 3 years of brutal Japanese occupation during World War II, our island has a history of service and one that demonstrates an understanding of our role in the American community. Guam, like Montana, ranks in the top percentile for the servicemembers and veterans per capita, and our National Guard consistently maintains a force that is among the largest per capita in the Nation, a fact I am always proud to highlight. I commend Congressman Zinke and Senators Tester and Daines for their work in recognizing the contributions of two of Montana's own. I am pleased to support this bill and look forward to continuing to work to ensure that our brave servicemembers get the recognitions they deserve and have earned. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers. I encourage passage of this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Matson Guam as the company celebrates its 20th anniversary of business and service to the people of Guam. Matson Guam began operations on February 1, 1996, during which it has provided continuous and uninterrupted service to Guam. Matson Guam has also made strong partnerships and provides services to neighboring islands in the Pacific, including the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of Palau and Republic of the Marshall Islands. Matson Guam also served as the only U.S. carrier servicing Guam and Micronesia from 2011 to 2015. Matson Guam is a part of a global company founded in 1882 which began carrying food and supplies from California to Hawaii. Today, Matson is a diversified company whose primary interest is in carrying freight between the Pacific Coast and Hawaii. Matson is the leading U.S. carrier in the Pacific and provides a vital lifeline to the economies of many Pacific islands. In addition to Matson Guam's shipping and logistics services in the region, Matson Guam also makes many contributions to the local community and throughout Micronesia through the Matson Foundation. In 2016 alone, the Matson Foundation is estimated to have contributed over $200,000 to local causes. Additionally, Matson Guam is a key sponsor for the Festival of the Pacific Arts that will take place in Guam this summer. As part of the partnership, Matson Guam recently shipped a Sakman canoe, a traditional Chamorro fishing boat from San Diego, California to Guam. The Sakman symbolizes the tie between the company's shipping operations and Guam's seafaring heritage. Matson Guam is also committed to environmentally friendly initiatives aimed at protecting and preserving the natural resources of the region. As part of this commitment, Matson Guam leads an environmental and community relations program called Adahi I Tano' which translates to ``taking care of our island.'' The company donates the use of container equipment on Guam for environmental cleanup projects arranged by non- profit organizations, and pays for trucking expenses for the delivery and pickup of the containers. Matson also awards these non-profit organizations a $500 contribution for each successful cleanup. Since 2013, over 5 dozen non-profit organizations participating in the program have conducted over 80 cleanups to help the environment and in turn help their individual organizations carry out their missions. I thank Matson Guam for their service to the island and region over the last two decades. I congratulate Matson Guam on its 20th anniversary and commend the company's leadership and employees for their contributions to the people of Guam and communities throughout the region. I look forward to their future contributions and success.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I introduce a bill to provide relief for Mr. Myong Mok Bae and Mrs. Kei Za Ryu Bae. Mr. and Mrs. Bae are eighteen-year residents of Guam, who currently face removal by the Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Baes came to the United States in June 1997 as immigrant entrepreneurs. Although unforeseen natural disasters and economic hardships hampered the success of their investment, the Baes remained active members of the Guam community. They continue to serve as goodstanding members of the community who have no criminal history and pose no risk to public safety or national security. Removal of the Baes would cause them to suffer extreme hardship. The Baes arrived in Guam from Korea, a country which they have now not seen in 15 years. They are an elderly couple with no family or community in Korea, and with no means of gainful employment at this stage in their lives. This bill would provide the Baes relief from this extreme hardship by establishing their eligibility, under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, for either an immigrant visa, or an adjustment of status to that of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, or an adjustment of status to that of a lawful permanent resident. The bill provides a timeline of two years to allow the Baes to file, and pay the applicable fees, for the appropriate status. Finally, the bill reduces by two, the total number of immigrant visas that are made available to those whose country of origin is Korea. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance this legislation to relieve the Baes from the extreme hardship that would result from their removal, and to allow them to remain in the United States--the place they have lived for nearly two decades and the place they call their home.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Bernadita ``Benit'' Camacho-Dungca. Benit was a daughter of Guam, passionate advocate of the Chamorro language and culture, and a dedicated life-long educator. She passed away on February 15, 2016 at the age of 74. Benit was born and raised in Dededo, Guam and was the eldest daughter of ten children of Ignacio Rivera Camacho and Maria Pocaigue Rosario. She was married to the late Vicente Taitingfong Dungca and together they had one son, John. Benit graduated from George Washington High School and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics and Anthropology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She went on to receive her Master of Arts degree in Education in Reading from the University of Guam, and her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Oregon. Benit began working at the University of Guam in 1973 after creating the books, ``Chamorro Reference Grammar'' and the ``Chamorro-English Dictionary.'' Both books are crucial resources for teaching and revitalizing the Chamorro language. She was also an associate professor at the University of Guam's School of Education. She taught Chamorro and trained bilingual, bicultural teachers from the Guam Department of Education, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia. Benit initiated the Bilingual Bicultural Teacher Education Program and brought distance education to the University of Guam. She was the recipient of the University of Guam Faculty Award for Excellence in Service. Benit also served as a government representative for various international conferences on language. Most notably, Benit was the author of the Inifresi, or Guam Pledge, which is recited in many schools, public events, and meetings. In addition to work at the University of Guam, Benit was also very active in the community. She hosted a television program on KGTF Public Television called Fino' Chamorro. Benit also served as a Girl Scout leader, Tamuning Youth Program summer camp director, was a member of the Tamuning Community Council, and was involved in her parish as a Confraternity of Christian Doctrine teacher and a member of various church ministries. I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Bernadita ``Benit'' Camacho-Dungca, and I join the people of Guam in celebrating her life, and recognizing and remembering her dedicated service to Guam. I thank her for sharing her knowledge and tirelessly passing down all she could for our future generations. I extend my condolences to her son, John and his family. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones and friends. She will be missed, and her memory and legacy will live on in the hearts of the people of Guam.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of the late Pedro Palomo Ada, Jr. Pedro was a son of Guam, icon in our business community, and philanthropist. He was born on July 7, 1930 and passed away on February 12, 2016 at the age of 85. Pedro was the Chairman of Ada's Trust & Investment, Inc., a real estate and investment holdings company. Pedro followed in the footsteps of his parents Maria Palomo Ada and Pedro Martinez Ada who were also successful business people and generous philanthropists in the local community. Pedro began his business career at a young age while attending school at Saint Thomas Military Academy in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He would find shoes and other items at great bargains and send them home to Guam to be sold at his parents' retail business. He graduated from St. Thomas College in Saint Paul, Minnesota in 1953 with a degree in Business Administration. After finishing college, Pedro served as one of the first Chamorro commissioned officers in the United States Air Force. He later returned to Guam to help with the family business. He was able to improve and expand Ada's Market into a household name and then into a real estate holding company, and soon became a real estate visionary who was responsible for many changes and improvements in Guam's capitol city of Hagatna. Pedro created opportunities in the private sector and expanded the potential for residential and commercial real estate developments during times of emerging economic markets in the island. Pedro was inducted into the Guam Chamber of Commerce's Guam Business Hall of Fame in 2003. Pedro led a long life with both business and community involvement. He served as a member and board chairman of the University of Guam Board of Regents in the 1970s and 1980s. He was also instrumental in establishing the University of Guam's Reserve Officer's Training Corps (ROTC). Pedro was an active member of the Air Force's Civilian Advisory Council, and supported groups such as the Guam Boy Scouts and KGTF Public Television. Additionally, he served on numerous boards including the Guam Blue Ribbon Education Committee, the Guam Memorial Hospital, the Guam Retirement Fund and the Guam Visitors Bureau. Pedro dedicated his life to improving our island and community. He was an active member and supporter of the Saint Anthony-Saint Victor Parish of Tamuning, Guam and a dedicated family man. I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pedro and I join the people of Guam in celebrating his life and remembering his contributions to our island community. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones and friends. I extend my condolences to his wife of 57 years, Fe; his children Maria A. Bonnie, Pedro ``Sonny'' and Jennifer Ada, Dr. Frances A. and Jaime Purviance, Patricia P. Ada, Therese and David John, and Carla P. Ada; and his eleven grandchildren. He will be missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of the people of Guam.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Tracy L. Smith on her promotion to Brigadier General in the U.S. Army. BG Smith is the first woman from Guam to attain a general officer rank in the U.S. military, and she currently serves as the Deputy Commander, U.S. Army Reserve Medical Command. She was nominated by President Barack Obama on April 13, 2015 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on April 30, 2015. She received her first star during a ceremony at the Army Reserve Medical Command in Pinellas Park, Florida on January 24, 2016. BG Smith is part of a strong heritage of exceptional men and women from Guam who have bravely and dutifully served our nation in uniform. Her promotion to Brigadier General is an important milestone in her career and a reflection of her perseverance, dedication, and commitment to service. As the first woman general officer from Guam in any of the U.S. military services, BG Smith is a role model for future woman servicemembers and her promotion is source of pride for our island. Brigadier General Smith was born on Guam and started her career of service nearly thirty years ago. She, like many families from Guam, comes from a proud military family; her father, Franklin Artero, is a retired Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army, and her brother, Audie Artero, is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Guam National Guard. She was commissioned as Second Lieutenant after completing the Reserve Officers Training Corps program at the University of Guam. Since then, she has held a number of posts in the military medical field. A natural trailblazer, she earned the recognition of being the first Active Guard and Reserve Commander of the 865th Combat Support Hospital in Utica, New York. During her military career, BG Smith has earned numerous awards and recognitions, including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star. I join the people of Guam in commending and congratulating Tracy L. Smith on her distinguished career and promotion to Brigadier General in the U.S. Army. I look forward to her continued service to our nation, and I am confident that as she assumes this new position, she will continue to inspire not only the soldiers she commands, but also women in Guam and throughout our country. I also extend my congratulations and appreciation to husband, retired Army Sergeant Scott Smith, and her entire Artero and Smith families.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. I thank the gentlewoman from Texas for yielding. Mr. Chairman, my amendment fixes a misinterpretation of law and gives U.S. citizens and nationals a preference over migrants from the Republic of Palau, from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and from the Federated States of Micronesia when receiving Federal aid. I continue to support allowing these migrants to receive housing assistance. Otherwise, our housing situation in Guam and in other affected jurisdictions would get even worse. However, it was not the intent of Congress to displace our citizens when it extended eligibility to migrants in 2000. Unfortunately, limited resources have led many U.S. citizens in Guam to be displaced by COFA migrants who have entered our country as a result of the Compact of Free Association. Guam's local housing authority has indicated that demand for housing assistance far outweighs the resources available. A recent Guam PDN article indicated that homeless data shows that local residents of Guam make up nearly 42 percent of the homeless on Guam, that 536 Chamorros, the indigenous people, and 42 Filipinos were considered homeless. I ask for the support of my amendment.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the staff and management of the Antonio B. Won Pat Guam International Airport Authority (GIAA) on their 40th anniversary of service to the people of Guam. The Guam International Airport Authority has grown steadily over the past 40 years and has played a vital role in the development of Guam, especially success of the island's visitor industry over the past 40 years. When the Guam Airport first began, all airport business was handled as a division of the Guam Department of Commerce. In 1976, the GIAA became a government agency through the enactment of Guam Public Law 13-57. During this period of the airport's history, Pan American Airways, Continental Air Micronesia and Japan Airlines were the only airline carriers to service Guam and utilize the facilities. The Guam International Airport Authority has made tremendous progress over the last 40 years and has become a critical transportation hub in the Asia-Pacific region. GIAA has facilitated the growth of Guam's economy and visitor industry. Guam's tourism economy relies heavily on GIAA facilities for a positive passenger experience when traveling to Guam. The airport has added two terminal buildings with the second and current terminal completed in September 1998 as part of a $241M expansion and construction project. This is the single largest improvement project competed by the Government of Guam. As the airport expanded its operations, additional airline carriers began service out of Guam. In 1981, Continental Micronesia added flights to Japan and Northwest Airlines began regularly scheduled services. In 1983, All Nippon Airways (ANA) began charter flights to Guam and then opened their international services three years later. Continental Air Micronesia introduced direct air service between Guam and Hong Kong in 1984. Soon after in 1986, the United States Congress passed the Omnibus Territories Act to include visa waivers for several countries and expanded the doors for more tourism arrivals. The GIAA passed its ``one million passenger'' mark in 1988 and was renamed the ``Antonio B. Won Pat Guam International Air Terminal'' after Guam's first Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. Soon after in 1990, Korea was granted a visa waiver and Continental Air Micronesia began air services in Seoul and expanded flights in Japan. In 1995, GIAA took on more responsibility when it became the only commercial airport on Guam with the closure of Naval Air Station. With increased services in the Asian region, Guam was ranked the 4th top U.S. gateway to and from Asia and Australia in 1999. Growth and expansion continued for the GIAA after the turn of the new millennium and in 2007, the airport's total economic contributions were totaled at $1.7 billion with 20,440 jobs generated. The Guam International Airport Authority has continued expanding with cargo and other facilities while practicing its duties as a responsible neighbor and community partner. Anticipating the needs of an increased tourism economy and the growth associated with the military realignment, the airport undertook these efforts to prepare for increased cargo traffic on Guam. Further, a multimillion dollar noise mitigation program was implemented for houses in the area beginning in 2009. Air services have expanded even more with increased flights in the region on new and existing expanding airlines. GIAA has continued to provide consistent service and good facility throughout the turbulent history of airline mergers. The airport has also adapted to welcome Russian tourists when President Obama instructed DHS to allow them to visit Guam without a visa in 2014. The airport has kept high standards for itself to ensure the safety of its patrons and the people of Guam. In 2014, the 1st Cycle of the Airport's Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Division was installed. While the airport has made major achievements in the last 40 years, the GIAA leadership continues to look to growth in the future. In 2014, they began a capital improvement program with plans to further enhance their facilities that will provide nearly $167 million of economic activity into the local economy. I look forward to continue working with GIAA to ensure that they are provided with federal funding to support their future growth and facilities enhancements. Our airport is a critical link in our entire island's economy. Again. I congratulate Antonio B. Won Pat Guam International Airport Authority and commend its leadership and all employees for their contributions to our local community and throughout the Asia-Pacific region. I thank and commend all of the GIAA's tenants and partners for their commitment to the airport and the community of Guam. I join the people of Guam in recognizing the GIAA on their 40th anniversary and I look forward to their future contributions and success.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Mr. Robert T. E. Kao for his service and selfless contributions to the community of Guam. Robert has dedicated his life to helping others as a true humanitarian and philanthropist. Robert was born in China in 1939. He grew up in the eastern province of Shandong where he developed his knowledge of Confucius teachings. Robert and his siblings were raised by an older brother in Taiwan after their parents passed away when Robert was just a toddler. Robert was a teacher in Taiwan and he married his wife, Anna in 1967. The Kaos moved to Guam in 1971 when Anna accepted a military contract position for furniture concession. Within a year Anna opened Genghis Khan Furniture and by 1995 her business became the premier Asian and contemporary furniture store in Guam. She opened ten stores between 1972 and 1995 in Guam, California and China. Anna contributes the success of the family to the support of her husband who served as the vice president of Genghis Khan Furniture while guiding their children and doing charitable work. Together they have two children and now three grandchildren. Both of their children have found success in their professions in the United States mainland. During a very difficult time for many people of Taiwan, Robert served as Overseas China's Affairs Commissioner. He used his personal resources to locate and reunite hundreds of families who were separated from their families in China. Many families were separated for more than 30 years and forbidden to communicate by both China and Taiwan laws. Robert put himself at great risk to assist and reconnect thousands of people. Additionally, Robert has been a member of the fraternal organization the Freemasons for over 40 years, and has supported the Shriners Hospital through his position as a Noble of the Mystic Shrine of North America. He has served twice as the president of the Chinese Association of Guam and the president of the Confucian Society of Guam. During his term as president of the Confucian Society of Guam, he lobbied the Guam Legislature to declare September 28, Confucius' birthday, as Teachers' Appreciation Day to remind all students of the value of honoring educators. Robert was also a founding member and first president of the Federation of Asian People. He has also assisted with building the Chinese School of Guam and the Tamuning Chinese Park in Guam. Robert has helped students acquire scholarships to attend the University of Taiwan and has supported numerous local and national charities. Robert worked diligently throughout his time on Guam and demonstrated true and genuine care for the people he gave his time to serve. I congratulate Mr. Robert T. E. Kao for his life and I join the people of Guam in commending him, his wife Anna and their family for their many contributions.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions and achievements of Second Lieutenant My-Randa Kelly Quinata of the 254th Force Support Squadron of the Guam Air National Guard, Guam National Guard. Second Lieutenant Quinata was promoted to Second Lieutenant on September 20, 2015. She is the first medical service corps officer and the first female of the Guam Air National Guard to receive a direct commission. 2nd Lt. Quinata currently serves as the Health Services Administrator of the Guam Air Guard's newly formed five member medical unit. She works in the civilian sector as a Health System Specialist in Aerospace Medicine in Medical Standards and Exams under the Base Operations Medical Cell at the 36th Medical Group, Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. She has a long record of service and has dedicated her life and career to serving our country in different capacities. My-Randa joined the active duty Air Force in March 2003 and graduated from the Health Services Management course at Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas in 2003. She also served in other health services administration roles as an outpatient records technician, information systems technician, medical office manager, medical control center noncommissioned officer and noncommissioned officer in charge of patient administration. Before her separation from the active duty Air Force in 2014, My- Randa served at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas and at the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. She was also deployed to Ali Al Salem Air Base in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. My-Randa was also the recipient of the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Meritorious Unit Award, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Air Force Good Conduct Award, the Global Terrorism Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award, Air Force Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon (Rifle), the Air Force Training Ribbon, the 2008 Pacific Air Forces Health Services Airman of the Year Award, and the 2008 Medical Support Services Airman of the Year Award. Second Lieutenant My-Randa Kelly Quinata is dedicated to the mission of the Guam Air National Guard and finds strength in the support of her leadership, fellow guardsmen and her family. This is a very proud moment for the island of Guam and the Guam Air National Guard. I join the people of Guam in congratulating Second Lieutenant My-Randa Kelly Quinata and the 254th Force Support Squadron and Guam Air National Guard on this achievement. I also extend a special congratulations to her husband Derrick and their children, Taylor, Trevor, Talon, Tana. I thank her for her contributions to the community of Guam and I look forward to her future contributions and success.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lesley Leon Guerrero on being selected as the Guam Chamber of Commerce 2015 Reina A. Leddy Guam Young Professional of the Year. Lesley was named the Guam Young Professional of the Year on Friday, January 15, 2016. She is the Vice President and Director of Customer Service for the Bank of Guam where she leads a team dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and helping clients achieve financial success. Prior to joining the Bank of Guam, Lesley spent eight years in public service with the Guam Department of Homeland Security and the Office of Civil Defense. During her time there, she helped lead response and recovery efforts during various natural disasters, including Typhoon Chata'an and Super Typhoon Pongsona. Lesley is a 1997 graduate of Notre Dame High School in Talofofo, Guam and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Chaminade University of Honolulu. In December of 2015, Lesley graduated from the University of Guam with a Professional Master of Business Administration degree. Lesley has been a member of the Guam Chamber of Commerce Guam Young Professionals Committee for the last two years. The organization seeks to energize, engage and empower young professionals to be inspired, influential and connected. She has been an active member of the organization, helping young professionals to recognize the economic and social importance of engaging in all aspects of our community and region to encourage them to become future leaders. Lesley was nominated and chosen as the Guam Young Professional of the Year from among five nominees within the local business community. Additionally to her professional work, Lesley actively supports many local non-profit organizations. Lesley is a member of the Lupus Awareness Group of Guam which seeks to provide advocacy and identify the needs of those with Lupus on Guam. She also serves as the Board Secretary for Junior Achievement Guam which is a local organization that promotes entrepreneurship to Guam's youth. Lesley is a founding member and Vice President of Let's Move, a local non-profit organization dedicated to fighting childhood obesity on Guam. Again, I extend my congratulations to Lesley on being named the Guam Chamber of Commerce 2015 Reina A. Leddy Guam Young Professional of the Year and I commend her for her service and dedication to the people of Guam throughout her career. I also extend a sincere congratulation to Lesley's parents, Kenny Leon Guerrero and Gil and Connie Shinohara. I look forward to her continuing to be a role model in our community and work to improve our island.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I introduce legislation that will help address the impact of the Compacts of Free Association on affected jurisdictions like Guam and Hawaii. I continue to support the intent of the Compacts, and I understand the benefits these agreements have for our nation and our security. However, the costs borne by our local governments for providing social services to Compact migrants are unsustainable, and Congress must act to provide relief for affected jurisdictions who have spent millions of local funds to support the Compacts and migrants. COFA migrants make positive contributions to our communities, but insufficient support from the federal government causes a significant socioeconomic strain on our island communities. This strain only increases, especially in the face of uncertain economic conditions in the Freely Associated States as well as the impact climate change is having on Pacific island nations. The bill I am introducing, as well as proposals that I have made in the past, will provide relief and empower local jurisdictions with solutions to reduce the burden of Compacts. The best solution to Compact impact would be an increase in annual mandatory funding from the current $30 million, divided among each of the affected jurisdictions, to the $185 million recommended by the GAO. However, the current budget environment makes appropriating this difficult. Nonetheless I am proud to be a cosponsor of a bill introduced by Congressman Takai of Hawaii that would increase this annual appropriation, and I hope that we can at least have a debate on this measure. However, as we work to find long-term solutions to Compact-impact, I believe that there are important fixes we can make that will provide much needed relief to our local governments without significant costs to taxpayers. The ideas that I incorporate into this bill are based on ways to reduce the burden with the in-kind contributions that our local governments have provided to support COFA migrants. This approach is a more budget-friendly way to address this daunting policy challenge. The bill's provisions address four areas where we can reduce the burden. Firstly, my bill would permit the affected jurisdictions to use the cumulative amount that they have spent to provide social services to COFA migrants, towards the non-federal portion of providing Medicaid to their local residents. The bill proposes a new formula that would increase the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage for each of the affected jurisdictions. This would go a long way towards alleviating the burden on affected jurisdictions by increasing the percentage assistance provided by the federal government for Medicaid. Secondly, the bill would categorize elementary and secondary education-aged COFA students as federally connected students and make them eligible for Impact Aid. I understand the fiscal challenges that the Impact Aid community faces, and I am committed to working with them to address the effect this bill may have on them. The bill attempts to offset this effect by increasing funding authorization and ensures that we are not taking from one group to pay for another. Thirdly, this legislation would clarify Congress's intent when we extended eligibility for housing assistance programs to COFA migrants. This bill ensures that U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent residents are not displaced when applying for housing benefits and that they are given priority when applying for these benefits. Lastly, this bill would commission independent research on the viability of the current Compacts, and make recommendations on policy alternatives moving forward. I hope this research will provide strategic guidance as we move towards renewal of the Compacts in 2023 and ensure that we are administering these agreements in the best way moving forward. I am pleased to count my colleague Mr. Takai from Hawaii as an original cosponsor. As this Congress discusses solutions for the crisis in Puerto Rico, it is important that we also discuss challenges that the other territories face, especially the challenge of supporting the Compacts of Free Association. While the challenges facing affected jurisdictions are nowhere near as serious as Puerto Rico, doing nothing would only welcome economic and security challenges down the road. I look forward to this bill becoming law and being a tremendous help to jurisdictions affected by Compact impact.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I introduced legislation that will help address the impact of the Compact of Free Association--these are the Pacific Islands--on affected jurisdictions like Guam and the State of Hawaii. I continue to support the intent of the Compact, and I do understand the benefits that these agreements have for our Nation and our security. However, the costs borne by our local governments amount to millions of dollars for providing social services to Compact migrants are unsustainable, and Congress must act to provide relief for affected jurisdictions who have spent millions of local funds to support the Compact and the migrants. COFA migrants make positive contributions to our community, but insufficient support from the Federal Government causes a significant socioeconomic strain on our island communities. This strain only increases, especially with uncertain economic conditions in the Freely Associated States, as well as the impact climate change is having on Pacific Island nations. The bill I am introducing, as well as proposals that I have made in the past, will provide relief and empower local jurisdictions with solutions to reduce the burden of the Compact. The best solution to Compact impact would be an increase in annual mandatory funding from the current $30 million to the $185 million recommended by the GAO. However, the current budget environment makes appropriating this very difficult. Nonetheless, I am proud to also cosponsor another bill, a bill introduced by Congressman Takai of the State of Hawaii, that would increase this annual appropriation, and I hope that we can at least have a debate on this measure. However, as we work to find long-term solutions to Compact impact, I believe that there are important and innovative fixes that would provide much-needed relief to our local governments without much cost to taxpayers. Now, this approach is a more budget-friendly way to address this challenge. The bill's provisions address four areas to reduce the burden. First, my bill would permit the affected jurisdictions to use the amount that they have spent to provide social services to COFA migrants toward the non-Federal portion of providing Medicaid to their local residents. The bill proposes a new formula that would increase the Federal medical assistance percentage for each of the affected jurisdictions, and this would go a long way toward alleviating the burden on affected jurisdictions by increasing the percentage assistance provided by the Federal Government for Medicaid. Secondly, the bill would categorize elementary and secondary education-aged COFA students as federally connected students and make them eligible for Impact Aid. I understand the fiscal challenges that the Impact Aid community faces, and I am committed to working with them to address the effect this bill may have on them. The bill attempts to offset this effect by increasing funding authorization and ensures that we are not taking from one group just to pay another. Thirdly, this legislation would clarify Congress' intent when we extended eligibility for housing assistance programs to the COFA migrants. This bill ensures that U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent residents are not displaced and are given priority when applying for housing benefits. Lastly, Mr. Speaker, this bill would commission independent research on the viability of the current compacts and make recommendations on policy alternatives moving forward. I do hope that this research will provide strategic guidance as we move toward renewal of the compacts in 2023 and ensure that we are administering these agreements in the best way. I am so very pleased to count the gentleman from Hawaii (Mr. Takai) as an original cosponsor of my bill. As this Congress discusses solutions for the crisis in Puerto Rico, it is important that we also discuss challenges that the other territories face, especially the challenge of supporting the Compact of Free Association. While the challenges facing affected jurisdictions are nowhere near as serious as Puerto Rico, Mr. Speaker, doing nothing would only welcome economic and security challenges down the road. I do look forward to this bill becoming law and it being a tremendous help to jurisdictions affected by the Compact impact.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a bill that would enable citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, collectively referred to as the Freely Associated States (FAS), who reside in the United States to participate in National Community Service (CNS) programs, including AmeriCorps. This bill provides parity for citizens of the FAS who are able to join our military, receive federal student aid to further their education, and eligible to participate in other federal social programs. The inability for FAS citizens to participate in CNS programs has had a direct impact on individuals residing in my home district of Guam. Last year, several FAS citizens who are studying at the University of Guam and enrolled in the AmeriCorps program were removed from the program because they were found to be ineligible under the citizenship guidelines. Despite having already begun working with their assigned service organizations, these individuals were forced to find alternate accommodations through the local Guam Legislature, which appropriated local funds to cover expenses that would have otherwise been provided through the Centers for National and Community Service. I believe that this was a great injustice to these individuals, who wanted to help the people of Guam and who serve as role models for others in our community. I believe that FAS citizens who reside in the U.S. should be allowed to participate in national service programs, just as they are able to serve our nation in military service or obtain federal student aid to further their education. My bill would specifically amend the National and Community Service Act of 1990 to include citizens of the FAS who are residing in the U.S. in the list of qualified individuals, in addition to U.S. citizens or nationals, or lawful permanent residents of the United States. The bill will ensure that any FAS citizen in the U.S. who wants to participate is not denied the opportunity to make our community better. If we can allow FAS citizens to serve in our military and protect our way of life it is only fair that we allow them to serve our local communities through community service. As we work to make the Compacts more sustainable for the affected jurisdiction, I believe that this is a good way to continue our commitment to improving our relationships with these nations. I thank my colleagues, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Congressman Kilili Sablan for their support of this bill. I look forward to working with them to move this bill through the legislative process and having it enacted into law.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Mrs. Joyce I. Martratt on her 50 years of civilian service with the United States Air Force. Joyce has served in numerous capacities with the Air Force on Guam, and she has dedicated much of her professional life to furthering its mission and providing critical support to our Airmen. Joyce was born to Jesus San Nicolas and Rosario Castro Camacho of Hagatna on August 28, 1939. She is the eldest of five children and endured the atrocities of war during the occupation of Guam during World War II. As a survivor of the war, she and her family relocated to the village of Mongmong, where they settled and began to rebuild their lives and homes. In 1955, Joyce was adopted by her Aunt Maria and Uncle Peling Castro in order for her to further her education as they moved to Washington, D.C. before resettling in San Francisco in 1956. She attended Oakland Community College while working for the Gallop Poll. She then moved back to Guam to attend the University of Guam. While at the University of Guam, she met her late-husband Herbert Sablan Leddy, and together they started a family. In 1984, Herbert passed away and Joyce later remarried Charlie Martratt. Joyce began working at the Andersen Air Force Base in 1965. She was first hired for a temporary job at the Civilian Personnel Office as a clerk typist. She went on to work as a secretary and clerk-stenographer and continued to progress professionally. She served in several capacities, including work for the commander of the 43d Combat Support Group, Vice Commander of HQ Eighth Air Force, command of the 3rd Air Division, and the 43rd Bombardment Wing (Hvy) (SAC), the 633d Air Base Wing (PACAF), and the 13th Air Force (PACAF). Joyce worked with the 13th Air Force until the headquarters moved to Hickam in 2005. After the move, Joyce transferred to the 36th Air Base Wing Commander, where she is currently employed. During her 50 years of service, Joyce was privileged to be involved in many historic events and assisted and coordinated the visits of distinguished guests to the island. She supported efforts after the fall of Saigon during the Vietnam War when the people of Guam and the U.S. Air Force provided humanitarian aid to over 111,000 Vietnamese refugees who were temporarily housed on Guam during Operation New Life. She has also supported numerous U.S. Air Force missions, including the evacuation of former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and his family from the Philippines in 1986, and care for 6,600 Kurdish refugees who were brought to Guam as part of Joint Task Force Operation Pacific Haven in 1996. For several years, Joyce wrote a column about the local culture for the AAFB newspaper called ``Ask Joyce.'' Joyce has been a hallmark of Andersen Air Force Base and our community in Guam. She has always been a dedicated worker who puts her whole heart into what she does. Joyce is a true professional and her knowledge and background has helped the constant rotation of Commanders better understand the challenges and opportunities at Andersen Air Force Base. Her institutional knowledge is so critical to the entire team at Andersen Air Force Base. Additionally, Joyce is heavily involved in her parish of San Isidro as the director of faith formation and as a catechist. She serves in the community whenever called upon and is dedicated to her family. I join the United States Air Force and the people of Guam in thanking Joyce I. Martratt for her 50 years of service to our nation, our island, and our Airmen in the U.S. Air Force. She represents the very best of our civilian workforce and is symbolic of the great patriotism that exists on Guam. I commend her for her outstanding career and tireless work in all that she has accomplished. Thank you (Si Yu'os Ma'ase), Joyce.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1541, the Preservation Research at Institutions Serving Minorities, or PRISM, Act. H.R. 1541 would make Hispanic serving institutions and Asian American Native American Pacific Islander serving institutions of higher education on par with other minority serving institutions and make them eligible for important historic preservation education and training. I would like to recognize my colleague, Mr. Grijalva, for his leadership in introducing H.R. 1541, and also working closely with me on my amendment to also include Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions. Hispanic Americans and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed to our nation's rich history and unique cultural heritage. AAPI contributions to this nation's history are evident from New Orleans being a stop on the Spanish Galleon trade route, to the salmon canneries in Alaska, to early Chamorro villages in the Mariana Islands, to pineapple fields in Hawaii, or to the tremendous efforts AAPIs made in constructing the railroads that crisscross our country. Making Hispanic serving institutions and Asian American Native American and Pacific Islander serving institutions eligible for preservation training and degree programs will further enrich and ensure our diverse history is shared for generations to come. This bill has bipartisan support, and I commend my colleagues for their support. I encourage support of H.R. 1541.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation to amend the Organic Act of Guam to prohibit salary changes for the Governor of Guam, the Lieutenant Governor of Guam, and Senators of the Guam Legislature until after a general election of the Legislature has passed. My bill also removes the federally mandated five-year residency requirement for individuals to run for governor, lieutenant governor, and senator of the Guam Legislature, and gives the authority to set this requirement to local policymakers and the people of Guam. The Organic Act of Guam establishes the framework of the Government of Guam and, among others, provides for qualifications and manner of elections of the Governor of Guam, the Lieutenant Governor of Guam and members of the Guam Legislature. Currently the Organic Act is silent on provisions regarding changes in salary for the Governor, Lt. Governor, or local Guam Legislature and changes can be made and implemented at any time simply by changing local law. Over the past several months, local policymakers and the people of Guam have debated pay increases that were proposed and instituted shortly after last year's general election. While I believe that these issues are up to local policymakers, and ultimately the people of Guam to decide, the Organic Act should provide safeguards regarding salaries for these elected officials that will prevent divisiveness in our community. The bill that I am introducing today would prevent the Governor, Lt. Governor, and Senators from increasing their salaries until after an intervening election of the Legislature has occurred. This is similar to the 27th Amendment to the Constitution that prohibits Members of Congress from increasing their pay until after an intervening election, and it is consistent with a request made by the Guam Legislature for me to introduce an amendment to the Organic Act for this purpose. Additionally, the bill I am introducing will make it easier for individuals to participate in Guam elections by removing the federally- mandated five-year residency requirement for individuals to run for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Senator, and placing this authority with local Guam law. I believe that we should provide for greater opportunities to participate in government, and that the qualifications for local elected offices should be vested in the laws of Guam. Placing a federal mandate on the qualifications for Guam's Governor, Lt. Governor, and Senators ignores Guam's political maturity and is contrary to the ideals of our representative democracy. These decisions should be made by local policymakers and the people of Guam, not the U.S. Congress. The bill also puts Guam on equal footing with most of America, where state laws, not federal mandates, govern who can run for local elected offices. This bill is a step towards improving accountability for elected officials on Guam and encourages more participation in our government. The bill is also consistent with public opinion in Guam and the views expressed by the Guam Legislature. I encourage its adoption and urge my colleague to pass this legislation.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Mrs. Vickie Fish on her retirement as the Executive Director of Guam Girl Scouts, Inc. Vickie joined the Guam Girl Scouts in 1996. Vickie was born in Milton, Wisconsin and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin. She left the mainland in 1974 after college to begin her service in the Peace Corps as a teacher and trainer in the Kingdom of Tonga, and she has made the Pacific her home since. She went on to be an acculturation counselor for Pacific Island students at Kahuku Elementary and High School in Hawaii and a program coordinator and trainer in Saipan before making Guam her home. During her nearly 20 years of service with the Guam Girl Scouts, Inc., Vickie has served as the Chairman of the USA Girl Scouts Overseas Delegation during the Girl Scouts of the USA National Council Session. She is also a member of the Community Board of Directors for Sugar Plum Tree, a local organization that arranges an annual Christmas present drive. During her time with Guam Girl Scouts, Vickie was able to develop positive relationships between the local Guam chapter and the national staff, as well as with local businesses, government agencies, organizations and individuals. Vickie led the Guam Girl Scouts with clean annual audits and full compliance with government reporting requirements. She also established a wide base of individual and corporate financial support within the community. Vickie and her team were credited for growing the membership in the Guam Girl Scouts to nearly 1,000 members and increasing awareness of what the Girl Scout program offers to all girls. Additionally, Vickie helped expand many program activities throughout her time with the Guam Girl Scouts. These programs encouraged girls to seek higher education, develop leadership skills, respect and enjoy cultural differences, live healthy lives, and volunteer their time to others, among many other things. Vickie helped young girls understand the needs of others regardless of age, income or resources. She coordinated relief drives and programs for those facing hardship caused by natural disasters and other life-changing events. She always did her best to improve and honor, not only Guam Girl Scouts, but Girl Scouts of the USA with special celebrations and events. Vickie worked diligently throughout her time on Guam and demonstrated true and genuine care for the people she served. I congratulate Vickie Fish on her retirement as Executive Director of Guam Girl Scouts, Inc. I join the people of Guam in commending her for her service and thanking Vickie for her many contributions to our island community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the American Cancer Society as they mark 31 years of the Relay For Life and bringing hope to communities across the country in the face of cancer. The American Cancer Society does lifesaving work and I join the organization in celebrating the progress it has made in the fight against cancer. The American Cancer Society Relay For Life was first started in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt ran and walked for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington to make a statement about cancer awareness. Dr. Gordy Klatt's efforts helped the American Cancer Society fight the nation's biggest health concern, and now, the Relay movement includes 3.5 million people around the world. The Relay For Life is now in more than 5,200 communities and 20 countries around the world. The Relay For Life brings together cancer survivors, caregivers, and all those touched by cancer. It gives everyone a chance to remember those who have lost their battle with cancer and empowers those who must continue the fight. The Relay For Life began in Guam in the early 1990s and has steadily grown with most teams returning every year. 79 teams made up of families and businesses, and 280 cancer survivors and caregivers participated in the 2015 Guam Relay For Life. Together, the teams raised $470,000 and Guam Relay For Life was recognized for raising the second highest amount in the High Plains, South Territory which includes Guam, Hawaii, Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Nebraska. Though Guam is a small community, it continues to be recognized on the national level based on its achievements and commitment to the fight against cancer. Cancer does not discriminate. It touches all of our people, young and old, and the people of Guam stand behind the American Cancer Society, and has taken an active commitment to join the cause of fighting cancer. The Relay For Life is celebrated annually throughout the world and survivors and caregivers proudly wear the color purple to symbolize royalty as they are honored during the Relay For Life. This year, the Guam community is beginning its 2016 Relay For Life festivities with ``Paint Guam Purple'' week from November 8 to November 13, 2015. The goal of the ``Paint Guam Purple'' campaign is to make a visual statement of how the Relay For Life brings hope to a community and help increase participation, fundraising and volunteerism. Groups and individuals are encouraged to wear purple, decorate the town purple, and participate in activities to engage others to become involved. On behalf of the people of Guam, I join the American Cancer Society in honoring cancer survivors, caregivers, those who have lost the battle to cancer and all those touched by the disease by pledging to ``Paint Guam Purple'' through the week of November 8 to November 13, 2015. I congratulate the American Cancer Society Relay For Life and I look forward to their future contributions and success.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of the late Jose M. Torres. Jose Torres was a son of Guam and a member of our greatest generation who suffered the occupation of Guam during World War II. Jose passed away on September 28, 2015 at the age of 88. He was also an author, radio show host and medical researcher who shared his deep love for Guam and our people. In February of 2015, Jose's memoir of his World War II experiences was published by the University of Guam Micronesian Area Research Center. His book, ``Massacre at Atate'', tells the story of a brave battle he fought in against the Japanese during the Japanese occupation of Guam. Jose wrote the story and had it published to preserve a very important part of Guam's history and have it shared with future generations. He had joined a group of men from the village of Merizo who lost their families when Japanese soldiers massacred them in nearby caves. Jose was the youngest of the group and joined the men in helping the U.S. Navy by providing intelligence on the Japanese occupiers and giving updates on the situation facing the Chamorros. The battle demonstrated the strength and perseverance of the Chamorro people, especially during such a difficult time and with barely any weapons. Jose also served the island as a medical researcher with the National Institutes of Health. Jose's team studied the high rates of Parkinson's disease, Dementia, and Lou Gehrig's disease on Guam. Additionally, Jose will be remembered fondly for his love of classical music which he demonstrated through hosting the two-hour radio program ``Classical Concert'' on Guam's public radio. I am deeply saddened by the passing of Jose M. Torres, and I join the people of Guam in celebrating his life and recognizing his dedicated service to Guam. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, loved ones and friends. He will be missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of the people of Guam.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss issues important to Taiwan, our close partner and ally in the Asia-Pacific region. In particular, I am concerned about current maritime disputes in the South China Sea, also known as the East Sea. I am concerned about China's growing presence in disputed waters in the South China Sea through land reclamation, neglect of international law, and disregard of the needs and territorial claims of its neighbors. A number of U.S. partners and allies in the region have taken different steps to address these illegal actions. Each plays an important role in signaling international disapproval of Beijing's actions. However, I want to highlight the efforts of Taiwan, under President Ma Ying-jeou, who has proposed a South China Sea Peace Initiative, which I believe should be seriously considered. Taiwan understands that the tensions between claimants in the East China Sea and South China Sea threaten the peace and stability of the entire region. These disputes also threaten the political, economic, and security interests of the United States in the Asia-Pacific region. Through the South China Sea Peace Initiative, Taiwan calls on all relevant parties to exercise restraint, respect international law, shelve sovereignty disputes, and adhere to a code of conduct. This course of action is similar to the one proposed by President Ma in his East China Sea Initiative of 2012. The spirit of that proposal helped to alleviate tensions among China, Taiwan, and Japan, and led to a fisheries agreement between Taiwan and Japan in 2013--ending a 40- year fisheries dispute. It is my hope that the South China Sea Peace Initiative will have a similar effect on the parties of the South China Sea dispute. Moreover, the South China Sea Peace Initiative is similar to the Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which was agreed to by ASEAN, including China, in 2002. The declaration committed all parties of the territorial disputes to ``reaffirm their respect for and commitment to the freedom of navigation in and over flight above the South China Sea as provided for by the universally recognized principles of international law'' and to ``resolve their territorial and jurisdictional disputes by peaceful means, without resorting to the threat or use of force.'' I encourage my colleagues to commit to a greater focus on developments in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly with regards to China's illegal actions in the South China Sea, and to this latest initiative from Taipei. During the 113th Congress, the House passed House Resolution 714, which was introduced by the good friend and former Congressman Eni Faleomavaega of American Samoa, and sent a clear message that the U.S. will not stand for these illegal and dangerous actions by China in the South China Sea. I hope that we will pass a similar resolution again this Congress, and I commit to working with my colleagues to send a clear message to China that their actions are intolerable. Moreover, I hope that my colleagues will join me in sending another important signal about Congress' commitment to our allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region by acknowledging the upcoming celebrations of the 104th anniversary of ``Double Ten Day.'' Double Ten Day is a celebration of the birth of democracy in Taiwan. It traces its roots to the Wuchang Uprising that occurred on October 10, 1911. The Wuchang Uprising signaled the end of the Qing Dynasty and the start of a democratic movement that continues to be celebrated and recognized. The strength of the relationship between the people of Taiwan and the people of the United States is strong. I look forward to continue working to expand business opportunities between our countries and deepen our mutual appreciation for each other's unique cultures. Exchange of our cultures is clearly evidenced on Guam, which is home to many people of Chinese ancestry. Guam continues to benefit from their cultural contributions to our community and the promotion of trade and economic opportunities. On this 104th Anniversary of Double Ten Day, it is important to recognize that Taiwan has proven time and again to be a friend working to ensure continued peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. I extend my appreciation to Taiwan for their continuing friendship and contributions to regional peace.