Ginny Brown-Waite

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, it is a darn good thing that the credit reporting agencies don't factor in each American's share of the national debt when they calculate an individual's credit scores. If the agencies did, there would be quite a few otherwise-eligible borrowers who couldn't get a mortgage or a car loan. Think about that. I wonder why they don't include the national debt? Perhaps it's because no one seems to think it's real. Madam Speaker, it is real. Last year, America spent $250 billion in interest payments alone, $250 billion. That's $250 billion a year we cannot invest in America's future. Yet, in spite of this situation, Congress is preparing to increase the debt again by another $1.8 trillion. Attaching it to a must-pass Defense bill holds our troops hostage. And it might be convenient politics, but our country deserves much better. Congress should use the TARP returns to pay down the debt and redirect the failed stimulus money to tax reforms that actually work. Wouldn't that be unique?

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Cornelis J.H. van de Velde Ph.D., M.D. For his commitment to the fight against cancer and his participation at the Tony Snow Cancer Symposium in The Villages, Florida on January 21. Hosted by the Caring and Sharing Villagers and the Alliance Healthcare Foundation, the Tony Snow Cancer Symposium is intended to raise funds for the creation of a $25 million cancer center next to Leesburg Regional Hospital and promote cancer awareness in our community. Currently serving as Professor of Surgical Oncology at the Leiden University Medical Center in Leiden, the Netherlands, Dr. van de Velde has supervised over 50 Ph.D. theses, coordinated 14 projects of the Netherlands Cancer Foundation, six health insurance fund projects, six European randomized breast cancer studies, and four European randomized colorectal cancer studies. In addition to serving as a professor at the Leiden University Medical Center, he is the center's Coordinator of Oncology and sits on numerous committees there. He serves as Chairman of the Dutch Royal Academy of Sciences, founded and was the first Chairman of the Dutch Colorectal Cancer Group, the Dutch Gastric Cancer Group and the Dutch Breast Cancer Group. Dr. van de Velde has also been the President of the European Society of Surgical Oncology since 2008 and is currently Vice President of the European Cancer Society. Dr. van de Velde was recognized in 1999 as an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in London and the Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians in Glasgow. Madam Speaker, individuals such as Cornelis van de Velde should be recognized for their sincere dedication to improving the health and quality of life for people all over the world. With the passing of my husband Harvey to pancreatic cancer, I can personally attest to the effects of cancer on both a person and their family. I sincerely appreciate the work that Dr. van de Velde has done and wish him further success in his medical endeavors.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor William S. Dalton, Ph.D., M.D. for his commitment to the fight against cancer and his participation at the Tony Snow Cancer Symposium in The Villages, Florida, on January 21. Hosted by the Caring and Sharing Villagers and the Alliance Healthcare Foundation, the Tony Snow Cancer Symposium is intended to raise funds for the creation of a $25 million Cancer Center next to Leesburg Regional Hospital and promote awareness in our community. Dr. Dalton currently serves as the President/Chief Executive Officer and Center Director at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Florida. The Moffitt Cancer Center is regarded as one of the top cancer facilities in the United States. With two decades of cancer research and contributions to over 200 publications, including the Journal of the American Medical Association and the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Dr. Dalton has established himself as an expert in the fight against cancer. Recognized as a ``Best Doctor in America'' since 1993, Dr. Dalton's primary areas of research include biochemical mechanisms of drug resistance, new drug discovery and the biology and treatment of multiple myeloma. He was also instrumental in obtaining the Molecular Oncology, Mopp, grant of $5 million for the Moffitt Cancer Center in 2000. Madam Speaker, individuals such as William S. Dalton should be recognized for their sincere dedication to improving the health and quality of life for people all over the world. With the passing of my husband Harvey to pancreatic cancer, I can personally attest to the affects of cancer on both a person and their family. I sincerely appreciate the work that Dr. Dalton has done and wish him further success in his medical endeavors.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act. Let me be clear. We all want to fix the flawed physician reimbursement rate. Without a fix, physicians around this country may be closing their practices and turning seniors away. This is an extremely serious matter. However, Democrats are using physicians and seniors as political pawns and playing games with people's livelihoods. It's unconscionable that the AMA traded their support for $210 billion. The Congressional Budget Office has said that this bill will increase Medicare part B premiums to our Nation's seniors by $50 billion. This bill will add nearly a quarter of a trillion dollars to our Nation's exploding deficit. My constituents want to know how in God's name are we ever going to pay this debt down. I am one of the few Republicans who voted for PAYGO, and I'd like to see it being used instead of regularly waived as it is here. This bill is fatally flawed, and I urge my colleagues to follow the lead of the Senate and reject this bill so we can work together on a solution.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Edward C. Blommel of Dade City, Florida. After 40 years of dedicated service to Tampa Electric Company and Pasco County, Edward has gracefully retired. Born in Dade City on February 25, 1949, Mr. Blommel attended Pasco Hernando Community College. Today he is married to his wife of 35 years, Libby, and they have two grown children, Nancy and Nicholas. Beginning his career with Tampa Electric at the age of 20 as a meter reader, Mr. Blommel eventually worked his way into management positions in customer service, energy services, and marketing. Later his responsibilities grew to include community relations, governmental affairs, and economic development for Pasco County in the areas of Dade City, San Antonio, and the town of St. Leo. Mr. Blommel has been very active in Pasco County, having served on the boards of United Way of Pasco, Pasco Regional Medical Center, Jobs, Education and Partnership Boards in Pasco and Hernando Counties, Downtown Dade City Main Street, East Pasco Habitat for Humanity, and Pasco Education Foundation. He has served on the Pasco Hernando Community College Foundation Board of Directors since 1998, which he chaired from 2006 to 2008. He also serves on the Dade City Redevelopment Advisory Committee and Pasco County MPO Citizens Advisory Council. In addition, he is the past president and an active member of the Dade City Rotary Club. Mr. Blommel has championed county-wide economic development, always encouraging being locally united, as exhibited through his service to Pasco Economic Development Council, serving on its board since 1995, including its presidency in 1998. Madam Speaker, it is public servants like Edward C. Blommel that keep our communities and towns running strong. His dedication and willingness to serve are admired and stand as a model to others. We thank Mr. Blommel for his service and wish him the best in his retirement.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this job-killing bill that's estimated to cut 5.5 million jobs in America. It's not going to help health care, and the bottom line is Medicare is imperiled as a result of it.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. I thank the gentleman. Mr. Speaker, the bill before us creates 111 different offices, bureaus, commissions, programs and entitlements, but it only cuts one-- Medicare. This bill steals more than $500 billion from our Nation's seniors to fund new entitlement programs for the young, the healthy and the wealthy. My colleagues in the majority have boldly decided that cutting $500 billion from Medicare is a good idea. They actually are telling seniors that these cuts will improve Medicare in the future. Well, Grandpa and Grandma might be old, but they are not stupid. You are not going to cut Medicare and tell them that it's a good thing. The bottom line is that this bill is not real reform. Congress should be strengthening Medicare, not weakening the program. Just look at how bad the Federal Government has been historically in predicting health care costs. This bill will increase health care costs for all Americans and cut Medicare funding. Americans don't believe that yet another trillion-dollar program will cost them nothing. Mr. Speaker, we all hear Speaker Pelosi say that she is a mother and a grandmother. Like Speaker Pelosi, I too am a mother and a grandmother. I can tell you that my constituents believe that this bill is bad for the middle class, bad for parents and grandparents and, even worse, for future generations. I cannot support this bill. I urge my colleagues to reject it as well so that we can work together truly on a bipartisan solution. The President's own economic advisors have said that this bill will kill 5.5 million jobs. Americans back home are watching this and saying, What is Congress thinking? Why would they want to further sabotage our economy? This bill clearly is not what America wants. They want an incremental approach. Nobody is defending health care as we know it. We are saying, let's fix what's broken. I urge my colleagues to vote against this bill. It is dangerous for our economy. It is not something that every American needs, wants or can afford at this time.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Betty, a constituent of mine, recently told me that if it weren't for Medicare Advantage, she would be dead. You see, Medicare Advantage covers catastrophic costs traditional Medicare does not. The bill before us today seeks to eliminate that coverage for millions of seniors, but you have a chance to make it right here, ladies and gentlemen. The choice on the motion is simple. You can put your seniors first or your trial lawyer contributors. A Member can vote to open up the coffers of the U.S. Treasury to trial lawyers or restore some of the cuts our seniors will suffer under the Pelosi bill and ObamaCare. Remember, this bill creates 111 new bureaucracies and entitlements, but the only one it cuts, ladies and gentlemen, the only one it cuts is Medicare. It's always been my position that any money cut from Medicare should be used to save Medicare, not to bail out the trial attorneys. Democrats have denied seniors the protection they promised. They cut Medicare to create new benefits for the young, healthy, and the wealthy. We know where the Democrat leadership stands on this issue. The Speaker put her trial lawyer cash cows ahead of our seniors. AARP put their profits ahead of our seniors. With this motion, you have a chance to restore some of our cuts. No excuses about this amendment killing the bill can be made. No word games can get you out of this. This has to be a vote for the seniors of America. Please remember your constituents will be watching.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. This bill is a disaster for American families--it allows bureaucrats to make important medical decisions instead of doctors and patients. As a wife, mother, and caregiver to my late husband, I--like 85 percent of women in America--am the primary care decision-maker in my home. I was for him as well as for my children. We need a health care system that provides quality, affordable health care so that we can have peace of mind in knowing our families are well taken care of. Unfortunately, the bill that we will have before us later this week is one that empowers government bureaucrats and undermines a woman's ability to make the best health care choices for her and her family. The bill creates 111 new Federal bureaucracies and 43 new entitlement programs. Instead of reforming health care, this bill expands government. Health insurance premiums will rise, taxes will increase, and seniors will lose many Medicare benefits. When the Democrats wrote this health care bill, they not only left Republicans out of the process, but they left out consumers.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 831, recognizing the goals and ideals of National Adoption Day and Month. As you know, November 21 will mark this year's annual National Adoption Day celebration. All across the country communities will gather together to celebrate the adoptions that have been finalized this year and those that we hope to finalize in the following year. It is this spirit of community and family that makes National Adoption Day so effective and so very important in the lives of the Nation's nearly 500,000 foster children. Since the tradition began in the year 2000, over 25,000 children have joined families on this very important day. As someone who gave birth to two children--and I also adopted an older, hard-to-place child--I know what having a family means to so many children, and in particular to older children. My oldest daughter, following in her mom's footsteps, she and her husband 1 year ago adopted a baby at birth. So whether it's at birth or when the child is older, it is a wonderful, wonderful experience for any family. I am happy to report that little Joey just celebrated his first birthday. Although we don't often consider it, each year thousands of children also age out of the foster care system. Each year they grow older, it becomes harder and harder to place them with forever families. In so many cases, adoption is the key to breaking the cycle of abuse for children who would otherwise languish in dangerous homes. Perhaps it goes without saying how important it is for children to grow up in loving and supportive families; yet, with thousands and thousands of children still being denied this most fundamental opportunity, Congress must do all that it can to support their efforts to find a home for these children. As such, the Federal Government has rightly stepped in to relieve the financial burden on adoptive families and, in doing so, has made adoption more affordable to people of all income levels. But much still remains to be done. The resolution that we are considering today is an important affirmation and reaffirmation of our commitment to improving the lives of foster children everywhere. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their support and attention to this matter. If you don't think that taking a child into your home and loving that child makes a real difference, let me tell you something that my adopted daughter just told me this week. Now, remember, she was in a very, very poor situation as she was growing up. She told me that she met a man who epitomizes what her dad represented. Her dad was my deceased husband, Harvey Waite. So she learned what a true family man really was through our adoption. With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of this resolution, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I have no additional Members wishing to speak on this. I will just certainly agree with my colleagues that this is a very worthwhile resolution and one that I hope Americans who have room in their hearts and their homes to adopt someone will take very, very seriously. Adoption is a long process and one that should be taken very seriously, but it's one that has many, many rewards. I would encourage my colleagues to vote in favor of this resolution. I yield back the balance of my time. General Leave

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Republican Club of Central Pasco County for their support of the Fisher House at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa, Florida. Military families are the first line of support for our servicemen and women: they sit up at night waiting for their phone call and they send them comforts from home to sustain them while they fight for our freedom a half a world away. Some families are called on to support and encourage their loved ones long after they've returned from the battles of war. For them, the Fisher House often becomes their ``home away from home''. Since it opened its doors in 2007, the Fisher House in Tampa has hosted more than 1,200 people. The 16,000-square-foot house can accommodate up to 21 families at a time, and averages 35 guests per night. The average length of stay is two months, but two families have been there since the house opened. Nationwide, the Fisher House program has made available nearly three million days of lodging since the program originated in 1990. They are operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs and rely on donations to the Fisher House Foundation so that no family has to pay to stay at any Fisher House. The Republican Club of Central Pasco County, Florida, continually supports the Fisher House Foundation and our military men and women. This weekend, they will host the 2nd biennial event, ``A Night for Heroes'' in support of the Fisher House Foundation. Madam Speaker, just as our military men and women believe it is their duty to serve our Nation; it is our duty to support them. The Republican Club of Central Pasco County has truly answered the call. On behalf of this Congress, I thank them for their unyielding commitment to this most important cause.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the city of Inverness, Florida; they have been designated the ``National City of the Year'' by the veterans honor organization, the Forty & Eight. Since 1920, the Forty & Eight organization has worked tirelessly to insure that the legacies of our service members endure alongside the freedom that they fought so selflessly to defend. They are committed to serving our veterans and their families: those who are still with us, those who have gone before us and those whose fate is still yet unknown. John Kaiserian is the Grand Chef de Train of the Forty & Eight and a member of Voiture 1219 of Citrus County, Florida. He cited several factors which contributed to the City of Inverness receiving top honors on both the state and national level. Among them were the city's numerous parades and ceremonies honoring veterans, monuments that they have erected to honor those killed in combat, the annual Patriotic Evening on July 3rd and the City's very own Liberty Park. He refers to Inverness as Citrus County's ``veterans' city''. On September 9, 2009, City Manager Frank DiGiovanni, City Clerk Debbie Davis and Mayor Bob Plaisted traveled to Rochester, New York to proudly accept the award on the city's behalf. They recognized the support of local residents and veterans' organizations that made the award possible. They especially thanked the veterans for all they have given to this country: City Manager, Frank DiGiovanni said, ``Loss of life is the ultimate sacrifice and many have given all''. Madam Speaker, the Forty & Eight organization captures the American spirit in communities all across the country. I am honored and very proud to recognize Inverness, Florida as the Forty & Eight ``National City of the Year''.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Republican Club of West Pasco County for their support of the Fisher House at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa, Florida. Military families are the first line of support for our servicemen and women: They sit up at night waiting for their phone call and they send them comforts from home to sustain them while they fight for our freedom a half a world away. Some families are called on to support and encourage their loved ones long after they've returned from the battles of war. For them, the Fisher House often becomes their ``home away from home''. Since it opened its doors in 2007, the Fisher House in Tampa has hosted more than 1,200 people. The 16,000-square-foot house can accommodate up to 21 families at a time, and averages 35 guests per night. The average length of stay is two months, but two families have been there since the house opened. Nationwide, the Fisher House program has made available nearly three million days of lodging since the program originated in 1990. They are operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs and rely on donations to the Fisher House Foundation so that no family has to pay to stay at any Fisher House. The Republican Club of West Pasco County continually supports the Fisher House Foundation and our military men and women. This weekend, they will host the 2nd biennial event, ``A Night For Heroes'' in support of the Fisher House Foundation. Madam Speaker, just as our military men and women believe it is their duty to serve our nation; it is our duty to support them. The Republican Club of West Pasco County has truly answered the call. On behalf of this Congress, I thank them for their unyielding commitment to this most important cause.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an American Hero and Purple Heart recipient, Jack E. Atchison of Spring Hill, Florida. Wounded during an enemy attack in Vietnam, Sgt. Atchison's service to our nation will forever be remembered by this Congress. Born in Oskaloosa, Iowa on March 11, 1934, Jack attended Park College in Missouri where he studied Hospital Administration. Following his schooling, he courageously served 21 years in our nations military. In December of 1965, Sgt. Atchison Bravely participated in an attack to repel enemy forces from a strategic location. During the battle, a bomb exploded in close proximity to Mr. Atchison, causing shrapnel wounds to his legs. In a genuine act of valor, despite his injuries, Mr. Atchison remained with his fellow wounded soldiers, and prepared them for transport via helicopter back to Flagon Embassy Hospital. Fortunately none of the 17 wounded American soldiers perished from this attack. The professional skill and personal devotion displayed by Sgt. Atchison reflect his immense commitment and sacrifice. In addition to his Purple Heart, Sgt. Atchison was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Good Conduct Medal Bronze Clasp with 5 Loops, the National Defense Service Medal with OLC, the Korean Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 1960, the Honor Medal 2nd Class (Vietnam), the Parachutist Badge, and the Combat Medical Badge. Following his service in the military Jack went on to a successful career as the President of the South Georgia Real Estate Association. Jack has been married to his wife, Virginia, for 56 years and they have 5 children, Jackie, Katie, Cindy, Jack Jr., and Donna. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Jack E. Atchison. He is a beloved american hero. On behalf of a grateful nation, this Congress, his family and friends, I thank him for his service and sacrifice to our country.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an American hero and Purple Heart recipient, Mr. Richard H. Bennett of Shady Hills, FL. A proud member of our Nation's military during Vietnam, Mr. Bennett honorably defended the freedoms that all Americans hold dear. Born on August 10, 1949 to Harry and Claire Bennett in Canandaigua, New York, Richard began his service to the Army in June of 1969. Shortly thereafter he was deployed to Vietnam where he fought courageously, putting his life on the line every day. During his tour he suffered shrapnel in his back on account of gunfire, wounds to his left arm and left leg due to an ambush firefight in the jungle, and was exposed to Agent Orange. Along with his Purple Heart Medal, Mr. Bennett is a recipient of the Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. Following Mr. Bennett's service in the Army, he worked with ``Somebody Loves You Ministries'' helping the less fortunate improve their lives. Madam Speaker, it is important to recognize Americans like Richard H. Bennett for their service to our Nation and for their commitment and sacrifices in battle. Our Nation, this Congress, and Mr. Bennett's family and friends, will always remember his bravery and dedication.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Paula Welenc and the Fisher House at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa, Florida. Military families are the first line of support for our servicemen and women. Some families are called on to support and encourage their loved ones long after they've returned from the battles of war. For them, the Fisher House often becomes their ``home away from home.'' At the Fisher House in Tampa, Florida, Paula Welenc is there to welcome them with open arms. Paula is the manager of the Fisher House at the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital in Tampa. She has been with the facility since it opened in July of 2007. A clinical social worker by profession, she spent twenty years on active duty in the United States Air Force. In 2004, after retiring from the Air Force, she and her family moved to Spring Hill, Florida where Paula was hired as the Department of Defense's Domestic Violence Victims Advocate at MacDill Air Force Base. Paula's military and civilian backgrounds give her a unique understanding of the issues facing our military families who are dealing with the illness or injury of their loved one. In a recent newspaper article about the Fisher House in Tampa, Paula remarked, ``We strive so hard to have this calm, relaxing, very comfortable setting for them while they're going through what might well be one of the most traumatic things that has ever happened in their life.'' Since it opened its doors, the Fisher House in Tampa has hosted more than 1,200 people. The 16,000-square-foot house can accommodate up to 21 families at a time, and averages 35 guests per night. The average length of stay is two months, but two families have been there since the house opened. Nationwide, The Fisher House Program has made available nearly three million days of lodging since the program originated in 1990. They are operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs and rely on donations to the Fisher House Foundation so that no family has to pay to stay at any Fisher House. Madam Speaker, just as our military men and women believe it is their duty to serve our Nation; it is our duty to support them. Paula has truly answered the call. On behalf of this Congress and the families that have benefited from this program, I thank her for her unyielding commitment to this most important cause.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joseph C. Weeks, Sr. This Friday Joe will receive the ``2009 Great Brooksvillian of the Year Award''. Created in 2002, this award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a sincere commitment to the history, culture, and economy of the Brooksville community. Born and raised in Brooksville, Joe temporarily left his hometown to serve his country in World War II and to attend college at the University of Florida. In 1951, upon his graduation, he returned to Brooksville to help his brother run the family business, Weeks Hardware; which has been a Brooksville staple since 1916. To this date, Weeks Hardware is considered the oldest existing business in Hernando County. Aside from running a successful business, Mr. Weeks is a founding member of two prominent Brooksville organizations; the Brooksville Rotary Club and the Brooksville Downtown Development Organization, the latter of which he served as Vice-President and Treasurer. He also served as Vice-President and Treasurer for the Jaycees and was an active member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of his business successes, he was awarded the Independent Businessman of the year by the Republican Club. Additionally, he holds the unofficial distinction of being the oldest living member of the local American Legion Chapter. Madam Speaker, Joseph C. Weeks, Sr. has demonstrated steadfast dedication to the Brooksville community. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this momentous occasion.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3590, the Service Members Home Ownership Tax Act of 2009. The first-time homebuyer credit gives qualifying consumers a tax refund of up to $8,000 when buying a primary residence. So far, over 1.4 million Americans have taken advantage of this credit. However, the men and women serving in our Nation's Armed Forces are largely unable to take advantage of this credit. Why? Because the current law requires consumers who utilize the first-time homebuyers' tax credit to repay the credit if they move from the primary residence within 36 months of the closing. This 3-year residency requirement disqualifies many military personnel from taking advantage of the tax credit. Following the call of the military, armed services members regularly relocate duty stations, thus resulting in an immediate recapture of the credit. That's just not fair to our Armed Forces. Our military personnel, Foreign Service officers, intelligence agents and their families should not be penalized for required moving in service to our Nation. H.R. 3590 eliminates the inequities in the first-time homebuyers tax credit by waiving the 36-month requirement for servicemembers, Foreign Service officers, and intelligence agents who must sell their homes in connection with Federal orders relating to official extended duty. With over 116,000 veterans living in my district, I'm keenly aware of issues that are of interest to our military servicemembers. While we can never do enough to thank our men and women in uniform for their service, the Service Members Home Ownership Tax Act of 2009 is one way that we can demonstrate America's commitment to our troops while they are serving. I thank my colleague from New York, Mr. Rangel, for introducing this bill. And I'm proud to cosponsor it, and I urge its support. Hopefully the Senate will act in an expeditious manner so that we can truly make sure that this tax benefit extends to our servicemembers.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lawrence J. Jennings of Hernando County, Florida. After 36 years of dedicated service to Hernando County, Larry will retire this fall. Throughout his tenure, Larry has been a dedicated steward of Hernando County. He has involved himself in the creation of numerous growth management regulations and comprehensive planning strategies to accommodate the rapid growth in the county. His resume alone makes him worthy of this proclamation: He has held the positions of Planning and Zoning Administrator; Deputy Director of the Development Department; Planning Director; Assistant County Administrator for Growth and Development Services; and the Director of Growth and Development for Hernando County. He will retire as the Deputy County Administrator for Hernando County. However, it is his genuine ability to work with both the public and business communities, and numerous Federal, State, and local officials, including myself, which has brought me to the floor today. I worked with Larry from 1988 to 1990 when he was the Planning and Zoning Administrator and again from 1990 to 1992 when I was the County Commissioner. I always found him to be thorough, incredibly accurate and, despite his serious demeanor, he was quick to laugh at a good joke. I wish him the very best of health and happiness in his retirement. However, I must take this opportunity to remind him that he is far too young to sit in a rocking chair.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in reluctant support of this bill because I do believe it is a promise that we must keep to our seniors. It is not fair for our seniors to shoulder the burden of this Congress because of the policies passed by the Democrat majority. However, wouldn't it have been a whole lot better to pay for it from the unused stimulus money? This savings to seniors will be especially and critically important to Medicare recipients. CBO Director Elmendorf just announced yesterday that seniors can expect to see a reduction in their Medicare benefits if H.R. 3200 is passed. That will mean that some of our poorest citizens will be asked to pay even more for their out-of-pocket medical costs. This is not change that they can afford. The President and the majority in this House and in the Senate owe our seniors an honest explanation. AARP also owes an explanation to its members for misleading them about the Medicare cuts contained in H.R. 3200. According to the CBO Director, 2.7 million seniors will lose their current Medicare Advantage plans under the policies of the House health care bill. When I said the President was flat wrong about cuts to Medicare benefits, this is exactly what I meant. I am, however, pleased that this bill does work to protect some of our seniors from future financial hardships, but the correct approach would be to scrap H.R. 3200, to fix Medicare first and to pursue a real bipartisan approach that delivers honest reform that the American people actually want.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this bill, although I think it's critically important that we are honest about what this Congress is doing for small businesses, or perhaps it would be better to say not doing. We can't survive when the economy is good without small businesses, and we sure as heck cannot recover without small businesses when the economy is bad. Yet despite programs Congress has authorized and extended, I hear every day from small businesses in and around my district that banks, even banks they've dealt with for many years, are now refusing to lend and continuing to refuse to lend. I was extremely frustrated when the $700 billion bank bailout did not free up bank funds for small businesses, and Americans were angrier still to find out that only 1 percent of the $800 billion stimulus bill that the President signed was directed towards small businesses. But that actually pales in comparison to the frustration felt when we hear that the little bit of stimulus money that did go to SBA isn't flowing through to small businesses. To put this into perspective, 4 months ago the SBA began a program to assist auto dealers in obtaining floor-plan financing for their inventories. An SBA official estimated that 4,000 loans would be guaranteed by the government by October 1. As of the second week in September, only three, t-h-r-e-e, three, had been guaranteed and not a single one of those had closed. Worse yet, Mr. Speaker, if we proceed with the proposed health care legislation in the House, 42 percent of small business income will face higher tax rates. This Congress and the Obama administration must address the fact that, as we have seen with the President's housing programs, even very strong incentives have not led to increased lending. Patting ourselves on the back for extending programs that don't work may feel good for a while, but it's not going to help the small business owners in any Member of Congress's district meet payroll. Whether it's regulatory capital requirements or dealing with red tape to get the guarantees, the banks are not lending. That needs fixing immediately. Instead of spending time recognizing the importance of wild horse adoption or congratulating sports teams, Congress needs to dig in and do the serious, urgent work that the people of America expect. That, Mr. Speaker, is our job.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a woman who thrived amidst adversity and dedicated her life to educating others so that they might not have to endure the same hardships that were bestowed upon her. A lifelong Florida resident, Martha L. Lewis was born on November 4, 1922 in Lake Butler, Florida. Growing up, she had a strong desire to become a teacher. After graduating from high school, she saved up enough money to attend Bethune-Cookman College. She graduated first in her class earning a bachelor of science degree in elementary education.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Forty & Eight organization. Throughout our Nation's history, we have turned time and again to our men and women in uniform; calling on them to preserve our freedom and uphold our democratic values. Time and again they have heeded the call and protected our Nation with honor and valor. More than a million of our brave men and women have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Joining the ranks of these heroes are the thousands who have been held as prisoners of war or whose fate has never been resolved. This loss was all the more difficult for their loved ones because it has never been determined whether they perished or survived. However, their loved ones can take solace in knowing that their sacrifice was for a purpose, one that they were prepared to make. As President Reagan said on the 40th anniversary of D-Day, ``You all knew that . . . one's country is worth dying for, and democracy is worth dying for . . . all of you loved liberty. All of you were willing to fight tyranny, and you knew the people of your countries were behind you''. Military families are the first line of support for our service men and women. They provide them the courage they need to march on in battle; and they fight for their legacy long after the battle has been won. Organizations like Forty & Eight are part of the military family. Since 1920 they have worked tirelessly to insure that the legacies of our service members endure alongside the freedom that they fought so selflessly to defend. On September 19th, Forty & Eight will come together in Citrus County to award a scholarship to the dependent of a known and verified POW or MIA. The scholarship is named in memory of Lance Corporal John Dewey Killen III, USMC. Lance Corporal Killen was declared missing in action while serving with the Third Reconnaissance Battalion in South Vietnam. This scholarship is just one example of Forty & Eight's commitment to our veterans, both those who are still with us, those who have gone before us and those whose fate is still yet unknown. I represent more veterans than any other Member of Congress. I am forever grateful to Forty & Eight, and organizations like them, for their continued commitment to our service men and women and their families.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, last Thursday evening a spark went out in Hernando County. ``The Mother of Spring Hill,'' Pat Fleck, lost her battle with cancer. Known for her genuine love of, and devotion to, her community, she was a pioneer for women in business, a leader in public service, a mentor, devoted mother, wife and friend. A long time resident of Spring Hill, in an interview with a local paper, she recalled a time when U.S. 19 was only two lanes wide and so empty that on trips to a New Port Richey supermarket, she sometimes drove on the wrong side of the road because, as she put it, ``for some reason it was smoother.'' She applied that same optimism in every facet of her life: I thought of Pat as the unofficial paparazzi of Spring Hill. She would attend community events with her camera in hand; snap pictures unbeknownst to those around her and a short time later a copy would appear in the mail: She was always sure to capture your most flattering side. Pat knew when to get down to business as well. It is that business sense to which much of her professional successes can be attributed: She was the founder of Spring Hill's first independent real estate agency, Fleck Real Estate; she later parlayed her knowledge of the industry into a real estate school. She was also a founder of the West Hernando Chamber of Commerce where she served as its chairwoman. She was a community organizer we all could appreciate! She was a long time board member of HPH Hospice and an avid supporter of many community organizations including Stage West Community Playhouse. Pat worked tirelessly to insure that they had the resources they needed in order to be successful contributors to the community. I am grateful to have known Pat. She had a heart of gold and a boundless love for Hernando County. It is so fitting that Hernando County shared that same love for her in return.