Ginny Brown-Waite

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to make a clarification to my voting record. I returned early this morning from a Congressional Delegation trip to Iraq. Unfortunately, while I was away, I was unable to cast a recorded vote on three measures passed yesterday. Had I been present, I would have voted in favor of: S.J. Res. 22--A resolution recognizing the Agriculture Research Service of the Dept of Agriculture. S.J. Res. 18--A resolution commending the Inspectors General. H. Con. Res. 299--Honoring Mr. Sargent Shriver.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. My Fifth Congressional District in Florida is home to one of the southeast's largest prison complexes, and that is the prison complex in Coleman, Florida. It is a very small rural county. At Coleman, working for Federal Prison Industry is a heavily sought after benefit that the inmates want. If an inmate misbehaves, he cannot work for FPI and they have lost that privilege. Inmates who work are proven to be less violent and more able to be reintegrated into society. We have to remember that these Federal inmates have broken the laws governing our land. In turn, we house them, we feed them, we provide them with some of the best medical care which our taxpayers very often resent. When I say we, I mean the American taxpayer. We also offer, but not mandate, the opportunity for these inmates to gain some work skills. The Federal Government owes it to the taxpayers to utilize Federal Prison Industries for efficient and inexpensive government production. I regularly hear from the Coleman employees and members of their families. They all feel that knowing that an employee is working for FPI is a greater safety factor. My mama always used to say that an idle mind is the devil's workshop, especially in prison; and keeping the prisoners busy to me is a safety issue for the prison guards. Given the current fiscal crunch that we are having and the estimates that we need to fund the ongoing war against terrorism, we should not pass a measure that will cost the taxpayers $589 million.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Washington Waste Watchers and of this body, I feel it is my duty to bring to the public's attention instances of fraud, waste, and abuse. Such actions of fraud, waste, and abuse not only steal from the taxpayers, but also from the beneficiaries very much in need of the benefits. A perfect example of fraud, waste, and abuse is actually occurring right now in my district. In July, after 10 years of service, the Department of Labor decided not to award the contract for senior employment to the group called Experience Works. It is a not-for-profit organization that has been working extremely well with seniors. The Department instead decided to award the contract to the American Association of Retired Persons or AARP. One might think this might be okay. The transition that I have seen for my seniors going from Experience Works to AARP has been deplorable. At least ten of my constituents call my offices every day with complaints of verbal abuse. Imagine that. AARP abusing seniors. Some have left meetings with AARP in tears. I can only imagine how any Member in here would feel if they received calls from senior constituents claiming that AARP is abusing them. What happened is AARP has instituted new policies that seniors in my area are simply not used to. They have decided that they are going to shuffle these senior employees, who, by the way, are earning $5.15 an hour, from job to job every 6 months, without exception, and many times without any warning. Today they are working for agency X; Monday they may be working for agency Y. It seems to me as if we did not learn from the shuffle game that we played with foster children. Nobody is nourished and nobody grows when we have a shuffling process where there is no continuity. And, by the way, it is not just the seniors that I am hearing from. Many host agencies in the district are having problems as well. One of the agencies recently said that they have ``had it with AARP.'' A gerontologist contacted me who has been working with seniors, and he said that he actually witnessed this verbal abuse of seniors by an AARP staff member. AARP is ``looking into it.'' I am sorry, but that is not enough. There is not any reason why anyone should tolerate any employee who verbally abuses seniors. I have also been working with the Department of Labor. AARP is not doing this out of the kindness of their heart. They receive $75 million for operation of the SCSEP employment program in 27 States and in Puerto Rico. By the way, that is up from the $52 million they received last year. In the 10 years that I served as a Florida Senator and worked with Experience Works seniors, I never had one single complaint from my constituents, nor did I ever hear of any complaints from the time that I was elected. If AARP cannot spend taxpayer dollars that they receive helping seniors and working with the host agencies, I can think of a number of groups that certainly can accomplish this goal. In addition to this case I cited in my district, I was also dismayed to learn that there was another Medicaid scandal happening in South Florida. Between 1999 and 2000, Medicaid actually paid roughly $2 million to dead beneficiaries. Most of these funds were distributed despite the fact that the department's database had the dates of the deaths already logged in. Simple fact, we have some fraudulent providers out there who are trying to bilk the system. Another example of the waste, obviously, is the $600,000 that we are spending this year to have a blimp fly at sporting events to promote Medicare. I do not know of one senior out there who is not very familiar with Medicare. When we look at all these expenditures, I know of lots of veterans back home who could suggest a lot better way to spend that taxpayer money. Waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the Federal agencies is, obviously, decades old, and Republicans led by the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Nussle), chairman of the Committee on the Budget, and President Bush are working to eliminate the culture of waste that exists at the Federal Government. As a Republican, I will work to reduce wasteful spending in the government and to protect everyone's tax dollars.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a young hero in my Fifth Congressional District of Florida. Throughout our current situation in Iraq and our continued War on Terror we have had occasion to honor many heroes. Today I want to take the time to honor a very special young man who, just like our troops overseas, acted bravely and selflessly to protect the safety of another person. This summer while playing outside with friends, Austin Toxen, a fifth-grader at Forest Ridge Elementary School in Citrus County, noticed smoke coming from his neighbor's home. Acting quickly and keenly, Austin ran into his own home, grabbed a fire extinguisher, asked his mother to call 911, and ran into his neighbor's home to help put out the blaze. The fire, which started in the home's kitchen, would have almost certainly quickly spread throughout the entire structure had it not been for Austin's swift intervention. Austin was able to help contain the fire to the kitchen saving the home from burning entirely. The owner, Janeen Hall, has called Austin a hero and credits him with saving her home. According to friends and family, Austin has remained very humble about his bravery. Though many have marveled at the fact that he had the composure to act so heroically, he says he just did the right thing. We all know that Austin's actions truly are worthy of praise and so Mr. Speaker I ask you and my colleagues to join with me in honoring Austin Toxen today. He truly is a brave young man and a fine example of courage and selflessness.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a woman who has for many years been an outstanding businesswoman and citizen in my hometown of Brooksville, Florida. Margaret Rogers Ghiotto, known as ``Weenie'' to her close friends and family, was recently honored as a ``Great Brooksvillian'' for her work on behalf of the community. Aside from owning and managing Rogers' Christmas House Village and the Jennings House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, Mrs. Ghiotto has a background in education, having taught children about the environment and the value of trees for many years. At a ceremony in city hall this week as part of Brooksville's Founders' Week Celebration, Mrs. Ghiotto was honored with a plaque, reception, and many kind words. This weekend she will be the Grand Marshal of the Brooksville Founder's Day Parade. While this most recent honor is certainly a laudable one, it is not the first such accolade Mrs. Ghiotto has received. Over the years, she has been named the Hernando County Chamber of Commerce's ``Citizen of the Year,'' AWBA's ``Business Associate of the Year,'' and the Lions Club's ``Outstanding Citizen.'' She even has awards named after her-- the University of Florida Lambda Chi Alpha chapter gives an annual leadership award to a distinguished member, called ``The Margaret Rogers Ghiotto Award'' and the city of Brooksville honors businesses and individuals with the ``Margaret Rogers Ghiotto Beautification Award.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues in this body join me in honoring this great woman and great citizen. We should all be so lucky as to have a Margaret Rogers Ghiotto in each of our districts.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great public servant, a charitable giver, and a selfless hero in my Fifth Congressional District, Mr. Frank Bierwiler. Frank Bierwiler first served his community in New York for many years as a State Police Officer. Then, after a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 1974 forced him to retire from the force, Frank Bierwiler pledged to do something good with his life. It was a few years later, Mr. Speaker, that he moved to Florida and started Daystar Hope Center, an organization giving food, clothing, and assistance with bills to central Floridians in need. For nearly 20 years, the center has served as an example of the power and impact of benevolence and kindness. Its doors have welcomed thousands of Floridians in need and Mr. Bierwiler's perseverance and generosity have for so long ensured that those doors stay open. Unfortunately, after 20 years of helping so many, the Daystar Hope Center is closing. While it is unfortunate that the center is ceasing operations, many other charitable organizations, came into existence because of the success of the Daystar Hope Center. Frank's leadership fostered these other organizations and he always worked well with them. I want to take this opportunity today to first commend Frank Bierwiler for his work in my district and to, second, draw attention to the extraordinary things that can happen when one determined, individual pledges himself to greatness. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and all of my colleagues in this body to join me in honoring Frank Bierwiler and offering our sincere admiration for his work, life, and accomplishments.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues, and in particular the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mario Diaz-Balart), as a vigilante for the American taxpayer. In the 10 short months that I have been a Member of Congress, I have been appalled by the waste, fraud, and abuse that I have found to exist within the Federal Government. As a member of the Washington Waste Watchers and of this body, I believe it is my duty to bring to the public's attention instances of fraud, waste, and abuse. It not only steals from taxpayers but also from the beneficiaries who truly need the benefits. I have been given the honor of serving on the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. In this position, I exercise oversight responsibilities over the second largest agency in the Federal Government. The VA is a laudable institution with lofty goals and worthy intentions. However, as evidenced by long wait times suffered by many veterans, not only in my district but in other districts as well, it has not always flourished under the best management practices. Again this year, the GAO placed the VA on its high-risk list for fraud, waste, and abuse. Here are but a few examples of fraud and waste that I will discuss that happened in the VA where we stood to lose over $130 million to unscrupulous felons. They have been vulnerable to this because of poor management practices and loose accounting standards. Three VA employees, two in my home State of Florida and one in New York, embezzled nearly $1.3 million by exploiting internal weaknesses in the VA benefit program. With this money one employee purchased a Mazda Miata, a Mitsubishi 3000 GT, and two engagement rings. After a review was conducted as a result of this crime, auditors uncovered 136 other cases of potential fraud or mishandling of veterans' benefit checks from offices in St. Pete, Florida, and St. Louis, Missouri, alone. We need to seek out this fraud, not just believe that the solution is to raise taxes and turn our backs on fraud, waste, and abuse. The VA has also identified approximately 7,000 possible cases of individuals who may be receiving benefits intended for deceased veterans. The VA estimates that they netted nearly $21 million over 5 years by identifying these cases. Can you imagine that they are continuing to pay for veterans who have passed away? For more than 7 years, nearly 400 veterans actually received VA educational benefits even though they did not attend class. The veterans had a great scheme going with the instructor who falsified their attendance. Nineteen defendants have been convicted in this scheme, and the government has recouped over $4.5 million. Lastly, the Department's Inspector General estimated that roughly 13,700 veterans have been paid about a million dollars nationwide and that the Department has no systematic method to identify these people who are prisoners. Prisoners should not be paid veterans benefits. Here are a few recent examples of waste within the VA: the Veterans Administration keeps an excess inventory of medical supplies totalling $64 million, or 62 percent of its $132 million inventory. An example is at four pharmaceutical facilities surveyed, the Inspector General found 48 percent of the inventory was actually in excess. The VA medical supply procurement practices are also questionable because very often they pay more for medical supplies than the market price, and here is an example of that. During a 6-month period, seven out of 10 VA medical centers that purchased standard powder-free surgical gloves failed to use the established FFS contractor and overpaid an open-market vendor by 28 percent. This error in disposable gloves alone cost the taxpayers $34,000. As evidenced by these instances of fraud and abuse which are only the tip of the iceberg within the VA and other Federal agencies, it is imperative that the culture in Washington change. Instead of the knee jerk reaction to raise taxes to fund programs or to create mandatory spending entitlements (the answer favored by Democrats) we must look into the wasteful spending practices the result from unchecked bureaucracy! It is my deepest hope that by highlighting these abuses and bringing them to the attention of the American taxpayer, the VA will continue to take corrective action under the leadership of Sec. Principi and respect that the money that they are spending is the people's money. Not their own. Waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the federal government is decades old, and Republicans--led by Budget Chairman Nussle and Speaker Hastert--are working to eliminate the culture of waste that has existed in the federal government. As a Republican, I will work to reduce wasteful spending in the government and protect your tax dollars.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Chairman, if we go out and we go back to our Districts and talk to the constituents, what they are saying is while our school districts have to apply for loans to build schools, it is only fair that the people of Iraq will eventually pay back to the American public part of this as a loan. The Pence amendment says grant first, loan next. We have to remember that this is a very oil rich country, and they will someday be able to repay us. I think we owe it to our taxpayers to show some responsibility and some accountability here and to support the Pence amendment. Remember, loan second, grant first.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this important bipartisan legislation, the Syrian Accountability Act. It will authorize new sanctions against Syria until it meets certain conditions. Although the Department of State lists Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism, fewer sanctions apply to this country than to any other nation on this list. We know that Syria provides a safe haven and support to several terrorist groups including Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, to name only a few. Secretary Rumsfeld has asserted that bus loads of Syrian fighters entered Iraq with thousands of dollars and leaflets offering rewards for dead American soldiers. Syria deserves the same sanctions and loss of diplomatic relations as any other nation that sponsors terrorism overseas or against Americans. It is absolutely critical that this renegade nation be held accountable for its actions once and for all. I urge my colleagues to support this bill which the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ros-Lehtinen) proudly sponsors.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speaker in favor of H.R. 1442, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Visitor Center Act. I am very proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation which authorizes the design and construction of a visitors center to enhance the experience of visitors to the Vietnam Memorial. I will not ever forget the impact that the wall had on me when it was first commemorated in 1982. At that time the sacrifices made by American soldiers, Marines, Navy, and Air Force in Vietnam were so fresh on everyone's conscience. However, as years pass, the Vietnam War becomes the subject of a history text book rather than a reality of life. The sacrifices made by Vietnam veterans must not simply fade into the past. We owe much more to the soldiers who answered the call to duty and who sacrificed for our freedom. Today, most of the visitors to the wall were not alive during the Vietnam era. Many do not fully understanding the message on the wall. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Visitors Center will ensure that Americans now and also future generations will learn and understand the true history of the Vietnam War. I want to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo) for his leadership on this matter so that we can continue to honor the sacrifices made by our many brave Americans.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great public servant, a charitable giver, and a selfless hero in my Fifth Congressional District, Mr. Frank Bierwiler. Frank Bierwiler first served his community in New York for many years as a State Police Officer. Then, after a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 1974 forced him to retire from the force, Frank Bierwiler pledged to do something good with his life. It was a few years later, Mr. Speaker that he moved to Florida and started DayStar Hope Center, an organization giving food, clothing, and assistance with bills to central Floridians in need. For nearly 20 years, the center has served as an example of the power and impact of benevolence and kindness. Its doors have welcomed thousands of Floridians in need and Mr. Bierwiler's perseverance and generosity have for so long ensured that those doors stay open. Unfortunately, after 20 years of helping so many, the DayStar Hope Center is closing. While it is unfortunate that the center is ceasing operations, many other charitable organizations, came into existence because of the success of the DayStar Hope Center. Frank's leadership fostered these other organizations and he always worked well with them. I want to take this opportunity today to first commend Frank Bierwiler for his work in my district and to, second, draw attention to the extraordinary things can happen when one determined, individual pledges himself to greatness. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and all of my colleagues in this body to join me in honoring Frank Bierwiler and offering our sincere admiration for his work, life and accomplishments.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, as I am sure you know by now, last week the war in Iraq was called ``a fraud made up in Texas to give Republicans a political boost.'' I am sure that our military, who are putting their lives on the line for this war, do not appreciate this characterization of their mission. Yesterday I visited Walter Reed Hospital. I spoke with our military who were wounded and with their family members. To a person, they support what we are doing in Iraq. They firmly believe that it is in the benefit of not only this country, but certainly the Iraqi people. However, we should be outraged at what was said. We should be outraged that the statements were based not on facts, but on disinformation. Mr. Speaker, misinformation is mistaken information. However, disinformation is just plain lying, and that is a shame. It is for this reason that I stand before this body to condemn these outrageous statements. They remind us all of the value that some people in this country place on political gain and the lengths that they are willing to go to to achieve it.

Ms. BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Bob Hinton. Bob bravely served this country in Korea. After his service left him disabled, he continued giving to his community by producing a video warning teen drivers of the dangers of drunk driving. Bob Hinton is an honorable and caring, public servant. However, he is not a public servant in the traditional sense. Rather than seeking acclaim in public office, Bob follows a passion; his greatest pleasure is giving to others. In August of 1948, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force where he gallantly served his country and received several accolades in the process. After retiring with 100% disability, Bob moved to Florida. There, he joined the American Legion Post 139 where he volunteered his services, which won him the ``Unsung Hero's Award'' in 1984. As an ameatuer videographer, Bob began covering news events in Hernando County and central Florida for several local and national TV programs including ``Good Morning America.'' Driven by his continuing zeal to help others, Bob transformed his new found skills into an instrument of service. He has voluntarily created training videos for the Highway Patrol, the Red Cross, and sheriffs' offices in Hernando and surrounding counties. Additionally, Bob has donated copies of his drunk driving videos to various schools hoping to save teenage lives. Even though Bob has recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer and undergone several radiation treatments, he has continued to film throughout his tribulations and says if he can keep busy helping others he won't feel his pain. Bob is never happier than when he is helping someone. Thus, he is a shining example of what individuals should strive to become. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to call Bob Hinton a constituent and I ask you to join with me in thanking him for his continued service.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Orchard Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in my Fifth Congressional District. The staff at Orchard Ridge was recently awarded the American Healthcare Association's Quality Award, for excellence in service, performance, and of course quality to patients, customers and communities. The American Healthcare Association is the trade association for the longterm care industry and, in that role it promotes nursing and rehabilitation centers across the country and recognizes outstanding achievement and quality in that sector. I am proud, Mr. Speaker, to have such a distinguished nursing and rehabilitation facility in my district and am happy to be able to honor Orchard Ridge before you and my colleagues today. On October 15, in San Diego, CA, the rest of the industry will have the opportunity to honor Orchard Ridge for attaining this award when they convene for the AHCA's national convention. I commend Orchard Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and my colleagues in this body to do the same. I am proud to be the representative of many of its patients and employees in Congress. Congratulations to a hard-working team for a much-deserved award.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Citrus County Industry appreciation Week, A 21 year-old tradition that originated in my Fifth Congressional District to honor our industries and recognize their contributions to our communities. Last Thursday, industry executives and employees, along with community activists and residents kicked off the week-long celebration. Upcoming events include a Thursday afternoon barbecue to wrap up the week and an awards luncheon, to take place today, to recognize outstanding local businesses and business professionals for outstanding public service, employee relations, and contributions to the community. Awards being given at the event will go to Citrus County's Most Outstanding Small Business, Most Outstanding Employer or Corporate Citizen, and Person of the Year. I wish all those in the running for these awards well--and send this year's organizers my regrets! I am surely missing a great event. We all know that industry creates jobs-- which no one will argue is a bad thing--and it broadens the tax base of an area, meaning cities and municipalities take in more revenue to spend on public works projects, on our schools, and on a whole host of other things vital to the community. Industries also regularly contribute charitably to citizen groups and organizations, volunteering time and resources to improve the area where they do business and where their employees live. Recently, following Citrus County's lead, the State of Florida has begin celebrating a state wide Industry Appreciation Week as well, giving the entire Sunshine State the opportunity to realize just how much we all benefit from having the industries that we do. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to represent an area of Florida that started the trend, if you will, of honoring local businesses and recognizing their place in our communities. I ask that you and my colleagues in this body join me in congratulating Citrus County and wishing them well as they conclude their Industry Appreciation Week.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Chairman, serving on the Committee on Financial Services has been a challenge at times and certainly a great pleasure. And I want to thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Oxley) for his leadership in championing the bill that we have before us. The Kelly amendment, I believe, is a very worthwhile amendment. As free credit reports are extended to consumers, there will be an unquestionable strain on the system. Unfortunately, the system is not yet equipped to deal with the overwhelming requests for credit reports. It may result from offering free credit reports or other extraordinary events that may occur as people begin to request these free credit reports and overload the system. Consumers who have identified the need to access their file will find their requests lost in an overburdened system. That will reduce service levels that could be dedicated to truly helping consumers who do have a concern about their files. Yes, there is language in the manager's amendment that directs regulators as they construct a system for implementation to consider potential spikes in the volume of requests for their first year of implementation. The Kelly amendment, I believe, builds on this language and simply gives regulators the authority to respond on a temporary basis to the needs of consumers when credit bureaus are overwhelmed with requests. If the regulators determine it is necessary to exercise this authority, the amendment also explicitly states that their temporary approach must maintain consumer access to credit reports for emergency or very time-sensitive requests, including instances of home purchases and suspected identity theft. Without this flexibility that this amendment offers, customer services will undoubtedly decline as credit bureaus become overwhelmed with these requests. By giving regulators the authority to mitigate in these instances, credit bureaus will be able to devote better time and attention to those needing the requests.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Chairman, I am opposed to this amendment for a couple of reasons. I too serve on the Committee on Financial Services where this amendment was defeated by a two to one margin. The Maloney compromise amendment which came up seemed reasonable. It does give disclosure, and I think that that certainly is a good warning to the consumer. Mr. Chairman, one of the previous speakers mentioned a dispute, if you are disputing an item on your credit card statement, that is something that is put into abeyance, so that would not affect your credit rating. If we were to pass this amendment, I believe that all consumers would be harmed, because there would be higher costs of credit nationwide. When a credit card is issued, it is based upon a snapshot in time. As the picture changes, obviously, we need to have the companies remain to have that kind of flexibility that they have right now. This is really an issue of credit risk and creditworthiness; and as various occasions arise in one's life that they may be overextending themselves, then certainly the credit card company deserves to have the right to make those appropriate changes.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jay Russel, a constituent in my Fifth Congressional District. Mr. Russel was recently named the 2003 Levy County Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer of the Year by his colleagues and superiors and I want to take this opportunity before this body to honor him and to say a few words about why he is deserving of this noble distinction. Mr. Russel, has patrolled the woods and waterways of Levy, Citrus and Dixie County for more than three years, giving him a one-of-a-kind knowledge of Florida's Nature Coast and enabling him to be an excellent Conservation Commission Officer. Often coming to the aid of boaters in distress, his efforts have resulted in successful rescue and recovery missions and his ``sixth sense'' for detecting law violators has allowed many recreational sportsmen to continue to enjoy Florida's wetlands safely and lawfully. Mr. Russel has been described by his colleagues as an outstanding officer with an immense knowledge of the outdoors and of the region he patrols. Area police departments and law enforcement agencies often rely on him for help in investigating illegal activity in the area and know they can count upon his support at any time. He is truly an asset in every way to his colleagues and to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. His superiors have said that he ``exemplifies what the agency stands for--a commitment to protecting wildlife resources and to serving and protecting citizens enjoying Florida's outdoors.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in saluting Mr. Russel and all officers of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The work they do is invaluable and of immeasurable importance to our environment, to area wildlife and to our safety.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a group of hard-working, talented individuals from the Levy County 4-H Shooting Team from my fifth congressional district of Florida. Dwayne Wilcox, Geneva Hollriegel, Kara Alexander, and Cassie Skelton made up Levy County's delegation to the National 4-H Shooting Sports Competition, held this summer in Raton, New Mexico. I am pleased to congratulate this group of youngsters for their stellar performance at the competition before this body, Mr. Speaker. They've represented their state, their county and the 4-H organization well and I'd like to share their results with my colleagues and I ask that they join me in honoring the Levy County 4-H Shooting Sports Team today. In the Archery, Recurve 3D Event, Rachel Babb placed 7th, Tiffany Boykin placed 8th, the group placed 2nd as a team in this event and placed 5th overall. Kara Alexander placed 7th overall, and in the Hunting Competition she placed 9th in the decision-making and skills events and 3rd in safety. Also in Hunter Safety Event, Geneva Hollriegel placed 7th and Cassie Skelton placed 10th. The team as a whole placed 3rd in decision making and wildlife management. Mr. Speaker these accomplishments are truly noteworthy. we in this chamber all know the important role that 4-H plays, and has played, in the lives of so many youths in this country. I am pleased that the organization is alive and well in my district and that these young people have chosen to become involved in it and have prospered as well as they have.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Robert A. Bowers, a constituent of my Fifth Congressional District. Deputy Bowers, an honorable officer of the law, was recently named the 2003 Levy County Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by his colleagues and superiors and I want to take this opportunity before this body to honor him and to say a few words about why he is deserving of this important distinction. Deputy Bowers has served the Levy County Sheriff's Office since October of 2001 as an officer in the Road Patrol Division and has been active in the ``Buckle Up'' program, ensuring safety on our highways by enforcing our state's seatbelt and child-restraint laws. Deputy Bowers has been described by his colleagues as someone with a cheerful and professional demeanor, no matter what the situation or task at hand. His service to Levy County is in its early days and I believe he will continue to be an asset to the Levy County Sheriff's Office for many years to come. Having law enforcement officers like him is what makes our roadways and communities safe and it is what inspires youngsters to continue in the profession of noble, honorable service to their neighbors. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in saluting Deputy Bowers and all officers of the law, for the work they do is invaluable and of immeasurable importance to our society and to our safety.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Corporal Daniel Antis, a constituent of mine residing in Levy County in my Fifth Congressional District. Corporal Antis, a hard-working corrections officer, was recently named the 2003 Levy County Corrections Officer of the Year by his colleagues and superiors and I want to take this opportunity before this body to honor him and to say a few words about why he is deserving of this noble distinction. Corporal Antis began his career as a corrections officer in 1999 and came to work for the Levy County Sheriff's Office Jail Division in September of last year. Corporal Antis has been described by his colleagues as someone with a quiet but professional demeanor, and his arduous work and drive have not gone unnoticed by his peers. His ambition and ``can-do'' attitude won him the promotion to his current position as a corporal only 7 months after joining the Levy County Corrections team. He is truly an asset in every way to his colleagues and to the Levy County Sheriff's office. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in saluting Corporal Antis and all officers of the law, for the work they do is invaluable and of immeasurable importance to our society and to our safety.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Kiwanis Clubs of America, which are outstanding organizations with strong memberships across this country and worldwide of active, service-minded individuals committed to their communities and their surroundings. Kiwanis Clubs make their marks by responding to the needs of their communities, pooling their resources to address worldwide issues, and setting an example of service and stewardship that is to be honored and commended. From humble beginnings in Detroit, Michigan in 1915, the Kiwanis organization has grown to include more than 500,000 members in 80 countries around the globe--making it one of the world's premier service organizations and giving it global notoriety. That, Mr. Speaker is a true testament to all the good work the organization does. With a motto like, ``We build,'' one cannot help but view Kiwanis as an active group of individuals, solidly committed to positive goals. And the Kiwanis clubs live up to their motto--In one year Kiwanis clubs sponsored 147,000 service projects and raised and spent almost $70 million while contributing 6.2 million hours of volunteer time. Kiwanis Clubs have a long tradition of excellence and an upstanding reputation as amazing organizations and for that, I commend them. They are truly individuals whose service to their communities is something we should all emulate.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jack Wilkinson, retired teacher in Leavy County. On Sunday, August 24, Mr. Wilkinson celebrated his 90th birthday. As the son of a pioneering family who moved to the area in the 1840s, Mr. Wilkinson spent most of his years in Leavy County. As a child, he helped his parents on their farm. The neighborhood school he attended, Union School, was one room with grades 1-6 and was used as a church on the weekends. He went on to earn his teaching certificate from the University of Florida, which only enrolled 4,000 students at the time, and is proud to say he saw the very first football game played in ``the swamp.'' Mr. Wilkinson then returned to his hometown of Chiefland, where he lives today. After dedicating half of his life to teaching math and helping students at the very high school he attended, Chiefland High School, Mr. Wilkinson quietly retired to his farm. I commend Mr. Wilkinson for the teaching services he provided and the 90 years he has given his community.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Joan Sheenan, a constituent of mine who has selflessly given her time to the Veterans of my Fifth Congressional District for more than 8 years. My district is home to thousands of our Nation's veterans and has the fourth-largest concentration of American heroes in the Nation. So it is only natural, that at our veterans' clinics and hospitals there's never a shortage of things to do and never a time when additional helping hands are not desperately needed. It was once said that, aside from love, the most precious thing a person can give another person is labor. Joan has given over 2200 hours of her labor to help the veterans of Florida's Fifth Congressional District--and that is truly something to be honored. Volunteering at both the Gainesville VA Medical Center and at the Inverness VA Clinic for 8 years, she has given her time to veterans for longer than many people stay at a single job! David Glimer, Administrative Officer for the VA's Inverness Community Based Outpatient Clinic has said of Joan, ``She not only provides valuable assistance to the veterans who receive care at the Inverness Clinic, but leadership to the other volunteers who help support the VA's mission here in Inverness.'' She's given to the veterans of the Fifth Congressional District as nobly and as altruistically as they've given to all of us. Her service is a testament to the value and virtue of helping others. Mr. Speaker I ask that you join me in commending Joan for her efforts. I am honored to be her representative in Congress. She is one of the reasons that I am so very proud to represent the Fifth Congressional District of Florida in the House of Representatives.

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida

Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tony DeMarzo, of the Hernando County 10-13 Club, an organization of retired New York police officers in my Fifth Congressional District of Florida. Serving as President, Vice President and Director of this organization throughout his 10-year involvement with the 10-13 Club, Tony has shown exemplary leadership and leadership. Recently, Tony, a personal friend of mine, was honored by his fellow members with a plaque commemorating his service to the organization. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to read the inscription from that plaque as I believe it outlines a few of the many reasons Tony's friends have chosen to honor him: It reads: ``In recognition of his distinguished leadership and strong stewardship this plaque is awarded to Antonio ``Tony'' DeMarzo by his many friends and fellow members of the Hernando County 10-13 whereas during the last ten years as President, Vice President, and Director, Tony has overseen and guided the organization to the fruition of many goals. During his most recent tenure Tony established an honor guard, a booster Club and has dramatically increased both the membership and the treasury. Further, he organized the 9-11 disaster fund which raised many thousands of dollars. He also hosted the very successful 2002 national convention. He has been instrumental in creating and maintaining the professional rapport that exists today between the Hernando County 10-13 and the Hernando County Sheriff's Department.'' Mr. Speaker, as we all since 9-11 have been reminded of the importance that our law enforcement officials play in securing our streets and communities, I believe it is also important to honor those who have retired from the profession. Their many years of noble service are not to be overlooked. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating Tony DeMarzo for his service while in uniform and his undying commitment to community, which has endured long after he stopped wearing the uniform.