Madeleine Bordallo

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Ms. Patricia B. Salas on being awarded the 2013 U.S. Small Business Administration's Financial Services Champion Award for Guam. Ms. Patricia B. Salas is the Vice President, Business Development Manager for Bank of Guam. Ms. Salas started her banking career in 1989 as a Personal Banking Officer with the Wells Fargo Bank in San Diego, California. She was later promoted to the San Francisco branch on Market Street as the Business Banking Officer of Wells Fargo's Business Banking Group, where she managed a commercial portfolio with more than $150 million on deposit. Ms. Salas was born and raised on Guam and is the daughter of Ricardo P. Benito and Carmen Martinez Benito. She graduated from Academy of Our Lady of Guam in May 1983. In 1998, Patricia moved back home to Guam and worked in a commercial loan officer position with a community bank on Guam. Within a year Patricia was promoted to Assistant Vice President and Relationship Manager responsible for developing strategies and managing a $30 million commercial loan portfolio. In 2010, she joined Bank of Guam as a Vice President and Business Development Manager. In addition to her professional career, Ms. Salas is an active member of our local community. She is involved in community outreach and financial literacy programs and is a member of the Rotary Club of Tumon Bay, where she has served in various leadership positions. Additionally, she is a board member and treasurer of the Guam Business Partners for Recycling. Ms. Salas is married to Edwin ``Bob'' Salas and they have two daughters, Taylor and Chloe. She earned a bachelor's in Business Administration from the University of San Diego in May of 1987. I congratulate Ms. Patricia B. Salas on receiving the 2013 U.S. Small Business Administration's Financial Services Champion Award for Guam. I join the people of Guam in commending her for her award and thanking her for her many contributions to our island and people.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Mr. Ronald M. Young on being awarded the 2013 U.S. Small Business Administration's Entrepreneurial Success Award for Guam. Ron is the Co- founder and Secretary/Treasurer of Security Title, Inc. Ron owns Security Title Inc. along with his wife Kim Anderson Young. Together they started the company in 1999. Security Title Inc. provided professional title and escrow services of the highest quality to Guam, Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. Security Title Inc. is the general agent for Stewart Title Insurance Company, one of the world's largest title insurance underwriters. Because of Security Title Inc.'s expert regional knowledge it has developed into the dominant title company in the Mariana Islands as it provides services that are crucial to any real estate transaction. Ron was raised in northern California by his parents, George and Winnie. His father owned his own dental lab, which taught Ron at an early age the value of owning his own business. Ron earned a bachelor of arts degree in sociology from San Jose State University. He later earned a master of arts from Goddard College in sociology and education. Ron and his wife have five children together: Ryan, Jason, Carter, Lars, and Erika. Ron is also an active member of our island community. He serves as the current liaison between the Guam Chamber of Commerce and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, which are two of Guam's largest business organizations. He is an ongoing supporter of many non-profits and organizations such as the Guam Association of Realtors, International Council of Shopping Centers, American Management Association, NAIOP, Guam Economic Development Authority, Guam Tourist Attraction Fund, and the Guam Beautification Task Force. I congratulate Ronald Young on receiving the 2013 U.S. Small Business Administration's Entrepreneurial Success Award for Guam. I join the people of Guam in commending him for his award and thanking him for his contributions to our community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate Mr. Christopher Bejado on being awarded the 2013 U.S. Small Business Administration's Person of the Year Award for Guam. Mr. Bejado is the president and director of hospitality of Marianas Slingstone, Inc. dba Proa. PROA is true to the philosophy of ``garden to table,'' meaning PROA hires its employees from Guam and sources its ingredients from local farmers. The restaurant remains committed to the Hafa Adai spirit and to being locally sustainable. Chris was pursuing a master's degree in education from the University of Guam when he and his childhood friend, Geoffrey D. Perez, opened PROA Restaurant in Tumon. In 2007, the restaurant opened a complementary business, Sweet Relief Pastry Shop, featuring unique local flavors in delectable sweets. PROA opened a second location in November 2012, in the heart of Hagatna, to cater to the island's southern patrons. Born and raised on Guam in the village of Tamuning, Chris is the son of Catalino Marilag Bejado, a Filipino migrant from the province of Bicol in the Philippines, and Maria Martinez Flores, a Chamorro islander. He is the youngest of six siblings. Chris is a 1988 graduate of John F. Kennedy High School and earned a bachelor's degree in travel industry management from Hawaii Pacific University. He is married to Cora Yanger Bejado and has three daughters: Natalie, Camille, and Kathleen. At age 23, after graduating from college Chris returned home to Guam and opened his first restaurant called De Niro's Pasta Kitchen in the village of Dededo which remained open for just 2 years. Chris has also held positions with the Hyatt Regency Guam as Assistant Manager for the Al Dente Restaurant, as well as Stewarding Manager. He also held the position of Concessions Manager for LSG Lufthansa Sky Chefs, opening 12 food and beverage outlets in the New Guam International Airport in 1995. Chris had a passion for sharing his work experience with Guam's young students, this led him to accept a position at the University of Guam (UOG) as Outreach Coordinator for the International Tourism and Hospitality Industry. He later worked as Marketing Specialist for the Office of University and Community Engagement, spending nearly ten years at UOG. Chris is also an active member in our island community. Chris has always believed that giving back to the community is his civic duty. He has years of experience and commitment to community organizations, serving as Chairman for the Hagatna Foundation, Chairman and Board Member for the Guam Humanities Council, and the Guam Educational Radio Foundation, KPRG 89.3. He has also contributed much time and resources to the American Cancer Society. I congratulate Christopher Bejado on receiving the 2013 U.S. Small Business Administration's Person of the Year Award for Guam. I join the people of Guam in commending him for his award and thanking him for his contributions to our community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I have introduced a bill to amend the Sikes Act to promote the use of cooperative agreements for land management related to the Department of Defense (DoD) readiness activities and to facilitate interagency cooperation in conservation programs to avoid or reduce adverse impacts on military readiness activities. The bill provides common sense reforms to the Sikes Act and DoD Readiness Environmental Protection Initiative (REPI). These reforms afford both programs with greater flexibility to leverage cooperative agreements and other federal funds to meet program requirements. In particular, section 1 of the bill would provide additional enhancements to the authorities provided to DoD under the Sikes Act and parallels a similar amendment made in the FY 2012 National Defense Authorization Act to the REPI program. Specifically, the provision would authorize DoD, pursuant to a cooperative agreement under the Sikes Act, to provide funds for the long term maintenance and improvement of natural resources on non-DoD lands without first having to protect such lands through acquisition of easements. This will greatly enhance the ability of DoD to take action to relieve or eliminate current or anticipated challenges that could restrict, impede, or otherwise interfere with, whether directly or indirectly, current or anticipated military activities. For example, this provision would help DoD meet its obligations under the Endangered Species Act and other applicable statutory and regulatory requirements through actions on non-DoD lands pursuant to a cooperative agreement with a state or local agency or a private landowner. This authority would help avoid or reduce the need to restrict training and testing activities on DoD lands. Section 2 of the bill would help DoD better protect military installations and ranges from encroachment under REPI and the Sikes Act by enhancing cooperation with the Departments of Agriculture and the Interior. Sustainability and the long-term viability of many DoD installations and ranges continue to be threatened by incompatible development and loss of habitat in areas in the vicinity of, or ecologically related to, those installations and ranges. Current law allows funds from non-DoD federal programs to be used by REPI partners as contributions under a REPI agreement. Greater partnership and cooperation is enhanced under this provision by allowing funds provided by the DoD to protect bases from encroachment to qualify as match or cost share in the conservation programs of the Departments of Agriculture and Interior. For example, prior to the 2008 Farm Bill enactment, DoD, through the REPI program, was able to protect installations in Oklahoma, Kansas, and South Carolina from encroachment while at the same time assisting state and local governments and willing landowners in meeting the matching funds requirements of the Farm and Ranchland Protection Program (FRPP, now the Farmland Protection Program (FRP)). However, technical changes to this program in the 2008 Farm Bill had the unintended result of terminating the authority for DoD funds to be used as matching or cost-share requirements for that program. The provision reverses that unintended consequence and addresses the broader issue of allowing the DoD funds to be used as a match to other federal programs to help address encroachment issues at military installations. This provision is important to improving the readiness of our forces and ensuring their installations and ranges can be sustained. Again, the bill is a common sense approach to better enabling DoD to meet its conservation goals and requirements while protecting its ability to meet readiness requirements. In a time of fiscal austerity, it is important for Congress to provide the Administration with the tools and authorities to be flexible and adaptable to challenges with innovative thinking and minimal investment. I urge my colleagues to support this measure.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and memorialize the life and achievements of Antonio Manibusan Palomo, who passed away on February 3, 2013. Antonio, best known as Tony, was an accomplished journalist and author, as well as a fervent public servant, and a dedicated community leader. Tony was born on June 13, 1931 to Vicente Gogo Palomo and Delores Mendiola Manibusan. As a boy, Tony attended the Padre Palomo and Agana Elementary Schools. At the young age of 10, Tony's education was interrupted by the outbreak of World War II. Surviving the invasion and occupation of Guam by the Japanese Imperial Army, Tony continued his schooling at George Washington High School, Belmont Abbey Preparatory School in Belmont, North Carolina, and Marquette University, Milwaukee Wisconsin, where he studied Journalism. While continuing his education at Marquette, Tony worked as an editorial aide for the Milwaukee Sentinel, sharpening his journalistic skills. Tony graduated from Marquette University in 1954. After graduation, Tony returned to Guam to work for the Guam Daily News, then as publisher/editor of the Pacific Profile, as editor of the Pacific Journal, and as editor/publisher of the The Pacifican. During this time, Tony gathered as much information as he could interviewing and speaking to survivors of the Second World War. In 1984, Tony's book, An Island in Agony, was published. Tony never hesitated to share his vast knowledge and love of Guam history with many people, speaking on many occasions at different venues, and teaching at the University of Guam. Tony's ever-expanding knowledge of Guam and its government and his public speaking skills led him into public service in the political arena. Recruited by the Republican Party of Guam, Tony was elected into the 12th, 14th, and 15th Guam Legislatures where he chaired the Committee on Rules. He chaired the 15th Guam Legislature's Committee on Federal-Territorial Relations and was also a member of the Commission on Self-Determination. Always interested in federal-territorial relations, Tony was elected as president of Guam's First Constitutional Convention, tasked with the development of a constitution for Guam, which would also strengthen the island's relations with the Federal government. With all of this experience, Tony was well qualified to serve as the U.S. Department of the Interior's Guam Field Representative until his retirement in 1994. I am deeply saddened by Tony's death and know that many people on Guam and throughout the Pacific are mourning the loss of this statesman, diplomat, and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Margarita Balajadia Palomo, their ten children, Antonio Rafael, Viviana Margarita (deceased), Victoria Maria, Roman Vicente, Juan Pedro, Simeon Francisco, Jose Geraldo, Verona Dolores, Eloy Benigno, and Nicholas Sylvestre; 16 grandchildren; one great grandchild; and one great grandchild on the way, family, and friends. Tony will be missed by all who knew him and his legacy will live on through his family, his work, and his cultural contributions to our community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, today I have introduced the National Guard State Partnership Program, SPP, Enhancement Act which strengthens and expands this critical capacity building program. The National Guard provides unique capacity building capabilities to Combatant Commanders and U.S. Ambassadors via 65 comprehensive partnerships between National Guard units across the United States and partner nations. The SPP directly supports the broad national interests and security cooperation goals of the United States by engaging partner nations via military, sociopolitical, and economic conduits at the local, state, and national levels. The program's public diplomacy effectiveness lies in its ability to leverage the full breadth and depth of U.S. defense and interagency capabilities from within the state-country relationship. The goals of the program reflect an evolving international affairs mission for the National Guard emphasizing its unique state-federal and civil-military characteristics to interact with both the active and reserve forces of foreign nations, interagency partners, and international nongovernmental organizations. The value of the SPP lies in its ability to concentrate a small component of the U.S. defense structure--a state's National Guard--on a single country or region in support of U.S. Government policies and objectives. This concentrated focus supports the development of long term personal relationships and interagency coordination mechanisms that would not otherwise exist. The SPP has the potential of being increasingly more important tool for Combatant Commanders and U.S. Ambassadors in achieving long-term US objectives. The program has developed from assistance and partnership with primarily Eastern European nations to a program that supports all the non-CONUS combatant commanders. Of particular interest to me are the opportunities that SPP poses for our rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region. I believe the SPP brings unique capabilities to US Pacific Command in expanding and strengthening bilateral relations with many Asian and Pacific nations. The program can help to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to the region and our allies. The bill I introduce today helps the SPP by codifying the program's use of funding and spells out the roles that National Guard units can play in their capacity building. The legislation is needed to ensure the program meets its intended goals. The legislation first establishes the process through which funds appropriated to the National Guard may be used to support the program's goals. This is merely a codification of Department of Defense guidance and National Guard Bureau process. Additionally, the legislation outlines the mechanism through which partnerships may be requested and approved. The bill ensures that Department of Defense, a state National Guard and Department of State's equities are considered in the context of broader program goals. Finally, the legislation expands the roles that a National Guard may perform when in support of the State Partnership Program. The capabilities and missions outlined in this legislation leverage the very unique capabilities inherit in the National Guard which would strengthen our relations with allies and nations across the globe. The dual role of the National Guard provides them a unique opportunity to support Combatant Commander as well as an Ambassadors needs in a given country. I believe this legislation is necessary to codify current practices and enhance the program's positive impact. Finally, I would note that a version of this legislation passed by voice vote, last year, during consideration of amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013. The program has broad support in Congress and I urge my colleagues to support this measure.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Vicente Ignacio Aguon, the former Mayor of the village of Chalan Pago-Ordot, Guam. Vicente was born on July 6, 1939, to the late Jose Manglona Aguon and Emperatriz Cruz Ignacio Aguon. He married Pacita Baza Aguon and had seven children. Vicente passed away on January 21, 2013, at the age of 73. Vicente attended Chalan Pago Elementary and graduated from George Washington Senior High School. He then went on to graduate from the National Technical School in Inglewood, California and the Harcourt Learning Direct in Hotel Management. Additionally Vicente studied Electrical Engineering at Guam Community College and he completed seminars from Chicago Technical College in Building Construction. Vicente was a dedicated public servant. From 1965-1985 he worked for the Guam Department of Public Works as an Electrical and Refrigeration Technician, Construction Inspector, Construction Inspector supervisor, construction Project Manager, and Acting Engineer. In 1986, he moved to the Guam Legislature and was a Legislative Consultant for the 18th and 19th Guam Legislature under the Rules Committee. He also served as the manager of the Tumon Village Complex from 1991-1995. In 2000, Vicente was elected Mayor of Chalan Pago-Ordot. He paid particular attention to the wellbeing of the people of Chalan Pago- Ordot by voicing their concerns. When Vicente was not serving the people of Chalan Pago-Ordot he volunteered his free time as a Parish Council Member of Our Lady of Peace and Safe Journey Catholic Church. He also volunteered as Assistant State Commissioner for Guam Babe Ruth Baseball, and he was a Municipal Planning Council Member at the Chalan Pago-Ordot Community. Vicente will be missed by all who knew and loved him. I extend my condolences to his wife Pacita Baza Aguon, his family and loved ones, including his children, Peter, Frances, Vicente, Raymond, Anthony, Josephine, and Beatrice.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Dean D. Sanchez, former Mayor of the village of Umatac, Guam. Dean was born on June 21, 1961, and was one of the seven children of a former village Chief Commissioner, Vincente Q. Sanchez, and his wife Priscilla Q. Sanchez. Dean married Jennifer Aguon Sanchez and have two sons, Alexander Dean and Chance Theo. Dean passed away on January 14, 2013, at the age of 51. Before Dean was appointed Mayor of Umatac by former Governor Joseph F. Ada in 1991 he served as the Administrative Assistant to late former Mayor T. Topasna. Dean served as Mayor of Umatac until January 1993, after which he returned to his position as Administrative Assistant for former Mayor Daniel Q. Sanchez. In 2008, Dean ran for the position of Mayor and was elected by the residents of Umatac. As Mayor of Umatac, Dean dedicated his life to serving the residents of his village. He paid particular attention to the wellbeing of the people of Umatac by voicing their concerns, such as the closing of F.Q. Sanchez Elementary and increasing cultural awareness in his participation in hosting Discovery Day festivities in Umatac. In addition to his elected role as Mayor of Umatac, Dean wore many hats and served the entire community of Guam as a member of the Commission on Self Determination; the Guam Product 19 Seal Task Force; the Department of Agriculture Aquatic & Wildlife 20 Resources--Fisheries; Civilian/Military Task Force; Association of Mariana Islands Mayors (AMIM), Vice Mayors, and Elected 22 Municipal Council Members. Dean will be missed by all who knew and loved him. I extend my condolences to wife Jennifer, his family and loved ones, including his children, Alexander and Chance.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Jose Salucnamnam San Nicolas, former Commissioner of the village of Agat, Guam; he was fondly known as ``Joe Pineda'' by his family and closest friends. Born on December 15, 1945, Joe dedicated more than 40 years of his life as a public servant to the people of Guam, beginning as a youth and church leader in Agat, Guam's largest southern village. His desire to serve and his spirit of community paved the way for his election in 1970. He became one of Guam's youngest public officials at the age of 25. In 1974, after serving only one term as Assistant Commissioner, Joe was elected as the Commissioner of Agat. He passed away on December 27, 2012, at the age of 67. As Commissioner of Agat, Joe paid particular attention to helping young people find constructive and productive activities, such as village clean-up and beautification projects. He also encouraged participation in the celebration of Guam's Liberation Day festivities, intramural sports, and involvement in church functions and religious education. As a devout Catholic, Joe served as a ``Techa'', or traditional prayer leader, of rosaries and novenas. He volunteered his skills in leading prayers for families throughout Guam, as well as in California, Hawaii, Washington state and Germany. After his term as Commissioner of Agat, Joe continued to serve his community as a techa; he also held several different government posts, working for the Guam Legislature and Governor Carl T.C. Gutierrez as a Special Assistant for community outreach. Joe will be missed by all who knew and loved him. I extend my condolences to his family and loved ones, including his children, Dwayne and Charmaine.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Chairman McKeon, I thank you and, of course, Ranking Member Adam Smith. I rise today, Mr. Speaker, in support of the conference report for H.R. 4310. This defense bill conference report works to ensure that our men and women in uniform are well trained and equipped through the authorization of $176 billion in operation and maintenance funding, plus $62 billion for overseas operations, including Afghanistan. The conferees have restored 77 aircraft and 3,313 people to the Air Force's force structure, mostly in the Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve, to ensure adequate resources are available to the States and the territories to respond to mobilizations, homeland defense and disaster-assistant missions. I am personally pleased that the conferees did not allow the retirement of Block 30 Global Hawks, which provide critical ISR capability. I am particularly pleased that the conference report authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish a program to provide space-available transportation to Active Duty servicemembers and their dependents and Reserve component members and others at the Secretary's discretion. While I am disappointed that the conferees authorized percentage reductions in the DOD civilian workforce, I expect the Department to implement these reductions in compliance with the statutory requirements for a balanced workforce sized to meet mission requirements, workload, and to mitigate risks in operational readiness. Most importantly, Mr. Speaker, this conference report takes a major step toward loosening restrictions on the obligation and the expenditure of U.S. and Government of Japan funds to support the military buildup on Guam. I believe that this bill sends a strong message that the United States remains committed to providing resources to refocus on the Asia-Pacific region I'm also pleased that the conference report includes a requirement that flags from the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories be displayed at U.S. military installations around the world. I ask my colleagues to support the conference report.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support for section 1096 of H.R. 4310, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013. The provision, sponsored by my friend and colleague, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, fixes oversights by the Department of Defense. The provision would ensure that flags of the U.S. territories and the District of Columbia are required to be displayed alongside the flags of the 50 states. Current regulations by the Department of Defense are too permissive and many military installations across the globe do not include flags from the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories. Millions of men and women from the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories have answered the call to duty in every conflict the United States has engaged in over the course of its history. Most recently, thousands of men and women have answered the call to support missions in Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa and Iraq. Moreover, National Guardsmen from DC and the U.S. territories have supported homeland defense missions from protecting the border, to recovery efforts following Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy. Men and women in uniform from DC and the U.S. territories have answered the call to duty and it is only right that the symbol of their homes be displayed wherever and whenever the Department of Defense displays the flags of the 50 states. As Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and as a member of the Subcommittee on Military Personnel, I will advocate for this provision to be carried in any Conference Committee report on the FY13 NDAA. As the Senate begins consideration of their version of the FY13 NDAA, I urge my colleagues in the U.S. Senate to include this provision in their bill as well. This provision just makes sense and it is important to reflect the colors of the flags of the District of Columbia and U.S. territories in any display of the flag by DoD. Servicemembers from these jurisdictions are respected and important members of the Armed Services and deserve to have the colors of their homes displayed.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 58th anniversary of the Filipino Community of Guam and their service to our community. The Filipino Community of Guam was established in 1955 and serves as the umbrella organization for all non-profit Filipino groups on Guam. I thank the Filipino Community of Guam for fostering and maintaining a special relationship with our brothers and sisters in the Philippines, as well as with Filipinos who now call Guam their home. Many Filipinos on Guam have found success and have made significant contributions to the island's development and business community. They have become government leaders, healthcare professionals and educators. The Filipino Community of Guam for the past 58 years has worked to expand their reach to include all Filipino organizations on Guam who use their talent, knowledge, and expertise to help those in need by supporting numerous charitable non-profit organizations on Guam and in the Philippines. Most notably, the Filipino Community of Guam has provided aid in times of need for emergencies and natural disasters in Guam and the Philippines. Over the last two years, its members have collected nearly $200,000 for victims of Typhoon Ondoy and Sendong, and recent flood relief efforts in the Philippines. The close connection between our brothers and sisters in the Philippines and Guam is reflected in the work of the Filipino Community of Guam. I commend President Leah Beth Naholowaa, 1st Vice President Roy Adonay, 2nd Vice President William Dela Pena, 3rd Vice President Meilou Milligan, Treasurer Marites Valondo, Assistant Treasurer Sonia Sotelo, Auditor Ephren Marquez, Secretary Elizabeth San Nicolas, Public Relations Officer Mark Duarte, Peace Officers Dan Romulo & Pompeyo Barroga, for their leadership and contributions to this important organization. I congratulate members of the Filipino Community of Guam on 58 years of service to our community. On behalf of the people of Guam, I extend a heartfelt Thank You, un Dangkulo' na Si Yu'os Ma'ase, and Maraming Salamat Po. I wish the Filipino Community of Guam many more years of continued growth and success.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 13th Annual Guam Diabetes Conference as well as President Emeritus Carl Butler for his 20 years of service to the Guam Diabetes Association and our community on Guam. This important gathering provides healthcare professionals with the opportunity to share their expertise and knowledge with members of the Guam Diabetes Association. The conference coincides with American Diabetes Month, which is recognized every November as a time to promote education and more effective management of the disease. This year's theme, ``Diabetes: Focus on Healthy Choices for a Better Life,'' highlights the importance of personal responsibility in diabetes management. On Guam and throughout the country, type 2 diabetes remains a growing concern because of the severe complications that may result from poor management. In particular, Asians and Pacific Islanders have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than the general population. The Guam Diabetes Association has worked to educate our community about how to avoid complications, such as heart and kidney disease, stroke and neuropathy, and to promote healthier food and lifestyle choices on Guam. Research shows that people can reverse diabetes and reduce their risk of developing complications through careful management and moderation. We know now that having diabetes does not mean having all the dreaded complications, and the Guam Diabetes Association helps to dispel myths associated with the disease and promote the idea that people with diabetes can still live full lives. The Guam Diabetes Association plays an important role in educating the public about diabetes, and provides an invaluable service to our community. I commend the Guam Diabetes Association and current President Jose Q. Taitague for working to reduce and prevent diabetes on our island, and I am hopeful that Guam Diabetes Conference will help further efforts to stop diabetes on Guam.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Western Visayas College of Science and Technology, WVCST, Alumni Association Guam chapter as they celebrate their 20th anniversary as a socio-civic organization and for their service to our community. Founded on January 17, 1993, WVCST alumni and former students have shared the traditions of their alma mater through the work they do in various industries. They have a strong presence in the Philippines and they have made important contributions to our island community. WVCST was first led by Catalino ``Lino'' Escalona, Jr., Larry Lanquin, Tessia Roa, and Bert Jurinario who worked to foster unity and close relationships among WVCST Alumni and the Filipino community on Guam. The WVCST Alumni Association has been an active member for the past two decades of the Filipino Community of Guam, FCG, an umbrella association of more than 40 Filipino groups in Guam. As an organization, WVCST focuses their efforts on providing higher education opportunities for low-income youth. They also foster and promote FCG programs and activities by supporting FCG's annual cultural events and community missions. Since 1993, WVCST has supported the ``Adopt a Scholar Program.'' The organization has sponsored 212 students, enabling them to attend WVCST in Iloilo City, Philippines, and receive an undergraduate education as well as student housing. The Guam Community College, GCC, also receives merit-based scholarships from the association. The WVCST Alumni Association also donates annually to charitable organizations such as the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, InterFaith Caregivers, Human Rights Advocates from the Commonwealth of the Marianas, Guam's Golden Salute Foundation, and People Helping People. WVCST Alumni Association also contributes aid to natural disaster relief efforts in Haiti, Indonesia, Japan, China and the Philippines. I commend President William de la Pena for his leadership and contributions to this important organization, and I congratulate members of the Western Visayas College of Science and Technology Alumni Association Guam chapter for 20 years of dedicated service to our community. On behalf of the people of Guam, I extend a heartfelt Thank You, Un Dangkulo' na Si Yu'os Ma'ase, and Maraming Salamat Po. I wish the Western Visayas College of Science and Technology Alumni Association Guam chapter many more years of continued growth and success in our island community.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Gloria Camacho Borja Nelson, a dedicated educator, community advocate, and leader within the Democratic Party of Guam. She passed away on October 14, 2012. Known affectionately as Lola to her family and friends, Gloria Nelson was born to Luis Quitugua Borja and Maria Camacho Borja on April 20, 1935, in Guam's capital city of Hagatna. She was only six years old when Imperial Japanese forces invaded Guam during World War II. Although she was unable to begin her schooling until after the war, Gloria was determined to obtain an education and she completed her elementary and high school education in nine years, graduating from George Washington High School in 1955. She went on to receive an Associate of Arts Degree from the Territorial College of Guam, now the University of Guam, and obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from the Ohio State University. While attending the Ohio State University, Lola met Ted S. Nelson whom she later married. Upon graduating from Ohio State, Ted and Lola attended the University of New Mexico, where they earned Masters of Arts degrees in Educational Administration and Supervision. Lola dedicated much of her life to educating Guam's children. As a classroom teacher she was firm and instilled in her students not only academic knowledge, but also self-confidence, motivation, and a desire to give back to their community. She is remembered by many who she taught as an enthusiastic and energetic educator who contained a wealth of knowledge of the histories of Guam and Micronesia, and a teacher who dedicated herself to the needs of her students, even beyond the classroom. Recognizing her commitment to education, Guam leaders frequently sought Lola's counsel in efforts to improve the island's school system. She was appointed a school principal, Associate Superintendent of Elementary Education, and Deputy Director of Education. In 1983, then- Governor Ricardo J. Bordallo called on Lola to serve as the Director of Education, a position she held for 56 months. Lola would continue her service to Guam's public school system as the chairperson of the Board of Education for three years. Lola's devotion to the people of Guam extended beyond the classroom. She committed herself to many community organizations and gave freely of her time in service to those who needed it. She was elected president of Guam's Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers, vice chair of the Latte of Freedom Foundation, president of the Guam Association of Retired Persons, GARP, chairperson of the Guam Election Commission, and most recently as the chair of the Democratic Party of Guam. One of her most notable achievements came in her fight to recover unpaid Cost of Living Allowance, COLA, benefits to Guam retirees from the government of Guam. As a member of GARP, Lola, along with Mrs. Candelaria Rios, waged and won a legal battle that forced the government of Guam to retroactively pay COLA benefits to retirees that were not paid for 13 years. Because of her efforts in this battle, the retiree benefits became known as the ``Lola Cola.'' Lola will always be remembered for her warm, caring and compassionate concern for her island people. Her legacy and contributions to our community will live on in the hearts of the people of Guam. I will deeply miss my dear friend Gloria Camacho Borja Nelson. My prayers are with her husband, former Senator Ted S. Nelson and their children Gwendolyn and Raymond L.G. Taimanglo; Ted, Jr. and Stephanie C. Nelson; Glenn and AnnMarie F. Nelson; Rhonda and Manuel P. Calvo; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Federation of Asia-Pacific Women's Association (FAWA) for more than 50 years of exemplary service to our community. FAWA has strived to develop mutual cooperation and friendship through the advocacy of cultural ties among Asian and Pacific Islander women in our region since its origins with the General Federation of Women's Clubs and its founding in the Philippines in 1959. FAWA seeks to improve the lives of members and their communities. Their motto, ``Asian Women United for Service'' describes their efforts to effect major changes in the status of women in Asia and to work towards a better life for the Asia-Pacific region. FAWA accomplishes this objective through promoting closer relations and joint efforts among Asians, particularly women, by fostering a mutual appreciation of cultural, moral and socio-economic values. As an honorary president of FAWA, I am proud and excited to host this year's convention on Guam. This year's theme, ``Empowering Asia-Pacific Women Through Knowledge and Opportunities,'' is fitting, as this convention brings together women leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region to share experiences and promote the continued growth and preservation of women's roles in the Asia-Pacific region. The conference will address issues affecting women in the modern world, including women and sustainability, women's health issues, and women and education. These sessions offer valuable networking opportunities for participants, and I encourage all attendees to take advantage of this unique group of leaders; to make valuable connections with other empowered women in our community. I recognize the founders, Minerva G. Laudico and Geronima T. Pecson; this organization has carried on their vision and passion across generations and national boundaries. I am confident that their legacy of service will endure. I commend my fellow Honorary President Cecilia Y. Koo, Honorary Advisor Nancy C. Nee, FAWA President Kristal Koga, FAWA 1st Vice President Charlene Yang, FAWA 2nd Vice President Mei Woo, FAWA 3rd Vice President Jung Sook Kim, Convention Chair Sylvia Crafton, Convention Co-Chairs Nancy Tan and Denise Mendiola-Hertslet, and members of the FAWA Board of Executives and all the organizing members for their efforts in ensuring that this year's conference, like past events, will be a success. I congratulate the Federation of Asia- Pacific Women's Association for their dedication and contributions, and I look forward to the continued growth of this organization for many more years to come.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of Taiwan on the upcoming celebration of the 101st anniversary of ``Double Ten Day.'' Double Ten Day 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 we continue to celebrate and recognize. Double Ten Day is a celebration of the birth of democracy and the Republic of China. I want to especially recognize the people of Taiwan on this important occasion. The strength of the relationship between the people of Taiwan and the people of the United States is strong and this is evidenced by the expansion of the U.S. visa waiver program to include Taiwan. Inclusion of Taiwan in the U.S. visa waiver program is a significant development in the relationship between both countries. This announcement will help to expand business opportunities as well as 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. I congratulate the people of Taiwan on the 101st anniversary of Double Ten Day. We celebrate this historic occasion with them and we honor their friendship with the American people.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the athletes and members of the Guam National Olympic Committee's (GNOC) delegation to the Games of the 30th Olympiad in London, England. Since 1896, the Olympic Games have been the premier gathering for athletic competition throughout the world with more than 200 nations participating. Guam first participated in the Olympic Games in 1988 and has sent a delegation to every competition since then. This year I am proud to recognize eight athletes who carry the distinguished honor of representing Guam in London. Our athletes are, Amy Atkinson, a runner competing in the women's 800 meter event; Ricardo Blas, Jr., a judoka competing in the men's +100 kilogram event; Christopher Duenas, a swimmer competing in the men's 100 meter freestyle event; Maria Dunn, a wrestler competing in the women's 63 kilogram freestyle event; Derek Horton, a cyclist competing in the men's cross-country mountain bike event; Derek Mandell, a runner and my former Assistant Press Secretary, competing in the men's 800 meter event; Benjamin Schulete, a swimmer competing in the men's 10 kilometer marathon event; and Pilar Shimizu, a swimmer competing in the women's 100 meter breaststroke event. I commend each athlete for their dedication, passion, and sacrifice in preparing for their individual sporting events. Additionally, I acknowledge the support of their families, relatives, and friends in contributing to their successes as they represent our island and people. I also commend the GNOC Executive Board Members, staff, and stakeholders for their efforts in preparing our athletes for this unique opportunity. I join our island in wishing Team Guam the best of luck and I look forward to their successes in this year's games.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, as a society we must work to ensure that lives of those who are unable to protect themselves are safeguarded; however elected leaders also have an obligation to ensure that laws which are passed, especially at the national level, allow for public input by the people they affect. I strongly agree with the underlying intent of H.R. 3803, the District of Columbia Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, to prevent the termination of lives of the most vulnerable in our society--that of unborn children. H.R. 3803 would prohibit abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy, except when an acute physical condition endangers the life of the mother. The bill further requires that any termination of pregnancy be done in a manner that provides the best conditions for the unborn child to survive. I am, however, concerned with the process used to develop and publicly debate the bill. Further, I am concerned about the impact it has on home rule for the District of Columbia. Congress has delegated much authority to the D.C. government to establish policies that reflect the needs of those who live here. But H.R. 3803, which only affects Washington, D.C., would implement this abortion ban without the input of D.C. residents and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton who represents the people of the District of Columbia in the United States Congress. I believe that the United States should enact strong policies that recognize and protect the sanctity of human life. However if Congress wants to make meaningful progress to achieve this, legislation should consider the views of those impacted by the legislation and not ignore their points of view or concerns.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, the freedom to vote for our elected leaders is the very heart of our democracy and the most basic of rights in our representative government. Unfortunately, several states across the nation have enacted laws that would impede the ability of millions of Americans across our country from exercising this right. Throughout the nation, including in my home district of Guam, many voters have lost faith in the integrity of the electoral process or become complacent that their vote is irrelevant. In Guam, voter turnout has decreased significantly over the last several years and allegations of election misconduct have become common during every election cycle. Many of my constituents have been disenfranchised much in the same way as in some states trying to lower voter turnout. I have raised this issue with the Department of Justice, and I hope they will focus on this issue in every state and territory where efforts to disenfranchise voters are being made. The free exercise of the right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy, and it ensures that government is accountable to and representative of the people.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of my colleagues a very important matter that our military will soon face; the logistics of withdrawing our servicemembers and supplies from Afghanistan. Some 90,000 servicemembers, 100,000 shipping containers and 50,000 vehicles will need to be transported out of Afghanistan by the end of 2014 when U.S. and NATO major combat operations come to an end. This accumulation has occurred over a decade and the logistics to drawdown will be monumental. Adding to this challenge is the instability of what has been the primary transit route which relies on the cooperation of Pakistan. Pakistan only recently reopened the transit routes after having closed them in late 2011. We must have safe, reliable, and secure alternative ways to move our servicemembers and supplies. Azerbaijan is one of several options that provides a reliable transit route for over 40% of non-munitions supplies to Afghanistan and with the announced closing of Transit Center at Manas (formerly Manas Air Base) in Kyrgyzstan, this route will be ever more important. Azerbaijan has been a strategic partner and key ally in our efforts to combat global terrorism. Azerbaijan was among the first Muslim countries to send troops to Afghanistan and Iraq as well as provide flyover rights to our military. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Azerbaijan for their friendship and partnership. I hope we continue to work with Azerbaijan to make certain our servicemembers have a safe and secure route for the supplies they need for their well-being while we are still in Afghanistan. It is also essential that we continue to partner with Azerbaijan to ensure we have reliable ways to safely withdraw by the end of 2014.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1171, the Marine Debris Act Amendments of 2012. I want to commend my colleague and friend Congressman Sam Farr from California for introducing this legislation and continually working for its passage. As a member of the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans, one of my top priorities was to take action on legislation to address our nation's ocean environment. I am pleased to say that this legislation, H.R. 1171, would continue to combat the adverse impacts of marine debris on the United States economy, the marine environment, and navigation safety through identification, determination of sources, assessment, prevention, reduction, and removal of marine debris. This legislation will reauthorize NOAA's existing Marine Debris Program to support important projects throughout the country, including beach cleanups, derelict fishing gear location and removal, and educational campaigns. The program helps to identify, determine sources of, assess, prevent, reduce, and remove marine debris, with a focus on marine debris posing a threat to living marine resources and navigation safety. This reauthorizing language would serve to streamline these programs by avoiding any overlaps or conflicts with other federal agencies. The legislation would help protect the environment and the economy of coastal communities throughout the Nation. Earlier this year, tsunami debris washed ashore the coasts of Oregon and Washington, calling attention to the need for a comprehensive plan to coordinate clean-up efforts. Indeed, the impacts of the March 2011 tsunami in Japan will continue to impact our shores over the coming months and years and this bill gives us the tools to respond to this situation. In particular, Guam would greatly benefit from the passage of the Marine Debris Act Amendments of 2012 as it would give states and local communities the additional tools needed to effectively care for our marine environments and wildlife. Again, I applaud Representative Farr for introducing this legislation. I thank Chairman Mica, Chairman Hastings, Ranking Member Rahall and Ranking Member Markey for their leadership in bringing this important bill which enhances our understanding of the marine environment to the House floor. I encourage my colleagues to continue supporting this important legislation that addresses one of the most serious threats to our oceans today.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 4348, the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP- 21). This bill significantly cuts critical federal investment in surface transportation projects for the territories. The authorized funds for the next two fiscal years would severely undermine my district's ability to improve and upgrade road systems on Guam and put current projects at risk. MAP-21 cuts 20 percent from the Territorial Highway Program (THP), which was established to assist Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands build and improve main and secondary highway systems. The program is critical to ensuring that our districts have a quality highway system that facilitates commerce in the territories. The territories have received funding that does match their current upgrade and modernization requirements. The cuts to the THP will hinder our district's ability to meet these requirements over the next two years. The proposed cut to this program, about $8 million for Guam over the next two years, could jeopardize financiering for larger projects utilizing GARVEE financing. The GARVEE financing mechanism and current bonds assumed level funding of the THP over the next several years. Ultimately, this bill may lead to project cancellations and job losses. Even at current funding levels, the THP is inadequate in addressing the needs of the territories, and the governments in the territories do not have access to many programs available to the 50 states and Puerto Rico. I introduced legislation that would put the territories on equal footing when competing for federal highway discretionary grant programs. Further, I offered the text of my bill for consideration as Conference Committee commenced but the text of this legislation was not included in the final bill. On top of crippling cuts to the THP, the territories are not even afforded opportunities to compete for other discretionary programs like the Innovative Bridge Research and Deployment program. My bill, H.R. 2743 would permit the Secretary of Transportation to make the territories eligible for this competitive funding to the territories and remedies a disparity where our governments are unable to even compete for this program. Madam Speaker, H.R. 4348 will likely have a detrimental effect on my constituents and would significantly undercut our ability to improve our roadways and invest in critical infrastructure improvements. Guam is being asked to support one of the largest military realignments in our nation's history and our island is in critical need of assistance to improve our roadways to support the military buildup. Cutting 20 percent from the THP would provide nominal short-term savings but it would cost significantly more in the long-term. However, I am very supportive of the efforts of House and Senate leaders who reached agreement to freeze student loan rates for an additional year. Increases in student loan rates would have had a significant negative impact on a generation that is already competing with the most difficult job market in generations. Keeping student loan interest loans for an additional year keeps our commitment to our younger generations. It is unfortunate that this compromise on student loans is attached to the transportation reauthorization as I strongly opposed to the cuts to the THP and, as such, urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation.

Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 4348, the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP- 21). This bill significantly cuts critical federal investment in surface transportation projects for the territories. The authorized funds for the next two fiscal years would severely undermine my district's ability to improve and upgrade road systems on Guam and put current projects at risk. MAP-21 cuts 20% from the Territorial Highway Program (THP), which was established to assist Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands build and improve main and secondary highway systems. The program is critical to ensuring that our districts have a quality highway system that facilitates commerce in the territories. The territories have received funding that does match their current upgrade and modernization requirements. The cuts to the THP will hinder our district's ability to meet these requirements over the next two years. The proposed cut to this program, about $8 million for Guam over the next two years, could jeopardize financiering for larger projects utilizing TIFIA financing. The TIFIA financing mechanism and current bonds assumed level funding of the THP over the next several years. Ultimately, this bill may lead to project cancellations and job losses. Even at current funding levels, the THP is inadequate in addressing the needs of the territories, and the governments in the territories do not have access to many programs available to the 50 states and Puerto Rico. I introduced legislation that would put the territories on equal footing when competing for federal highway discretionary grant programs. Further, I offered the text of my bill for consideration as Conference Committee commenced but the text of this legislation was not included in the final bill. On top of crippling cuts to the THP, the territories are not even afforded opportunities to compete for other discretionary programs like the Innovative Bridge Research and Deployment program. My bill, H.R. 2743 would permit the Secretary of Transportation to make the territories eligible for this competitive funding to the territories, and remedies a disparity where our governments are unable to even compete for this program. Madam Speaker, H.R. 4348 will likely have a detrimental effect on my constituents and would significantly undercut our ability to improve our roadways and invest in critical infrastructure improvements. Guam is being asked to support one of the largest military realignments in our nation's history and our island is in critical need of assistance to improve our roadways to support the military buildup. Cutting 20% from the THP would provide nominal short-term savings but it would cost significantly more in the long-term. However, I am very supportive of the efforts of House and Senate leaders who reached agreement to freeze student loan rates for an additional year. Increases in student loan rates would have had a significant negative impact on a generation that is already competing with the most difficult job market in generations. Keeping student loan interest loans for an additional year keeps our commitment to our younger generations. It is unfortunate that this compromise on student loans is attached to the transportation reauthorization as I am strongly opposed to the cuts to the THP and, as such, urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation.

Ms. BORDALLO

Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Chairman, I oppose amendment No. 11. It would delay research and development funding for the NextGen bomber. The bomber is critical to replacing an aging fleet. The new bomber is needed so we don't raid our readiness accounts. This is about the bomber carrying nuclear weapons. It does a lot more than just carry nukes. It deters aggressors and even provides maritime surveillance, especially in the Asia-Pacific area. Congress opposed a similar amendment last year and, as cochair of the Long Range Strike Caucus, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment again this year.