Michael Burgess

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated group of individuals who have devoted their time and energy to supporting our brave soldiers--136th Airlift Wing, Texas National Guard Family Readiness Team. The Family Readiness Team's mission is to assist units as they support the families of members of the 136th Airlift Wing during peacetime and times of training or mobilization. The Team provides multiple levels of care and assistance. They send a personal greeting card to any member upon request; establish and facilitate ongoing communication, involvement, support, and recognition between National Guard families and the National Guard in a partnership that promotes the best in both; and provide all Air Force families assistance and support before; during and after times of local or national emergencies/disasters, mobilization, deployment/separation or evacuation. The Family Readiness Team has a Chaplain's Staff available to comfort and encourage hope for the families of our deployed troops as well as those troops providing home station sustainment. My son was a member of the Texas Air National Guard, and I have found that working with the Family Readiness Team, located in Fort Worth, Texas, has been rewarding. There are opportunities for family members to assist their loved ones by attending meetings on base and promoting fellowship with other families. The Texas Air National Guard Family Readiness Team is part of a National Guard Family Program which works to connect people across America. I applaud the great work of the 136th Airlift Wing Family Readiness Team, and I look forward to continuing and supporting this organization in the years to come.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Coach G.A. Moore, Texas' all-time winningest high school football coach, on his retirement. Coach Moore won over 412 victories and 8 state championships in 42 seasons. Moore coached 39 of his 42 seasons at two places, Pilot Point, Texas, in my district and his alma mater, and in Celina, Texas. Mr. Moore also ranks an impressive 3rd on the nation's all-time wins list, and most recently led Pilot Point to an 8-3 record this season. I congratulate Dr. Boothe for his lasting dedication to the honored Texas tradition of high school football. Best wishes to Coach Moore on his retirement.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to recognize Flower Mound, TX, for being acknowledged as the 7th most technology-advanced city with a population of 30,000 to 74,999, by the Center for Digital Government. The ranking was based on the 2004 Digital Cities Survey that examines how city governments are using digital technology to become more efficient and communicate with residents. The survey and ranking determined by the Center asked more than 600 mayors, managers and chief information officers to participate asking 24 questions focusing on implementation, adoption of online service delivery, planning and governance, and the network that allows cities to make the move to digital government. Flower Mound plans to continue on its track of providing excellent government services electronically by installing a new data delivery system; implementing a voiceover internet tool; and adding mobile computer systems into the Flower Mound Police Department squad cars. All of these improvements show an amazing commitment to the future of technology and government. I am proud to say that I am a resident of Flower Mound, and I would like to offer my congratulations to the Town of Flower Mound, Chief Information Officer Dustin Malcolm and Mayor Jody Smith.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to recognize Denton, Texas for being acknowledged as the No. 1 most technology-advanced city with a population of 75,000 to 124,999, by the Center for Digital Government. The ranking was based on the 2004 Digital Cities Survey that examines how city governments are using digital technology to become more efficient and communicate with residents. The survey and ranking determined by the Center asked more than 600 mayors, managers and chief information officers to participate asking 24 questions focusing on implementation, adoption of online service delivery, planning and governance, and the network that allows cities to make the move to digital government. A life-long resident of Denton County, I offer my congratulations to the city of Denton and to Mayor Euline Brock.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the superior performance of the Nolan Catholic High School football team, The Vikings, on their State Championship for Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools Division 1 6A. The Vikings shut out Houston St. Pius X high school for the championship with a 14-0 score at Floyd Casey Stadium, Baylor University, in Waco, TX, on Saturday November 27, 2004. The championship victory marked the 8th time this season the Vikings shut out their opponent. This is the first trip to the state final in nine years for the Vikings, who have never won a State crown. I extend my sincere congratulations to Brother Richard Thompson, S.M., principal of Nolan Catholic High School, the coaches and especially to the team for their talent and dedication to excellence.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a couple, like so many others in our nation, which was truly American: Mr. and Mrs. James ``Clyde'' Shahan. Mr. Shahan, known to his friends as Clyde, and his four brothers, all from Denton, Texas, served in the United States Army during World War II. Clyde served honorably in New Guinea and Luzon, receiving numerous citations and decorations including the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with 2 Bronze Stars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Ribbon, 1 Service Stripe and 4 Overseas Service Bars. After his discharge, Mr. Shahan returned to the Denton area where he, along with his Aural, became active members at Lake Cities United Methodist Church in Lake Dallas, Texas. Aural and Clyde worked side by side at several school districts and serving their community. Mr. and Mrs. Shahan had a son, Bobby Joe, who died as a three year old in a flu epidemic, but neither of them lost their faith or their commitment to education and their country. Remembered as a happy and funny man, Clyde often attended church in his finest Western suit and was always a joy at church functions. Almost two years to the day of his wife's death, Clyde passed away in 2004. Today, I honor the memory of these two individuals who impacted a community with hope. I am pleased that their memories will not be lost as a special memorial is being established at Lake Cities United Methodist Church in their honor. Truly, Clyde and Aural were members of the ``greatest generation'' and will be remembered always for their commitment to Christ and America.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to stand before you today and recognize Clay R. King for his dedicated service as a Transportation Security Screener at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport located in my district. As a frequent traveler, I am thankful for the bravery and sacrifice provided by individuals like Mr. King. This year, Clay King was named the Transportation Security Administration's DFW ``Screener of the Year'' for his extraordinary performance while serving as both a Transportation Security Screener and as a Lead Transportation Security Screener. Clay King's valor, professionalism and dedication to the TSA mission was recognized by his subordinates, his peers, TSA/DFW staff and myself. Mr. King's commitment to security is not just part of his job but a part of his life as evidenced by a recent event where his knowledge and skills in emergencies was needed. While driving to work on March 7, 2004, he noticed an automobile that was engulfed in flames. Without hesitation, he pulled over to render aid. As he approached the burning car, he saw a man, unconscious and trapped, on the driver's side of the car. Lacking regard for his own safety, Clay King opened the door and wrestled the driver out of the burning wreck. By doing so, he singed his right hand in the rescue for the flames had already reached the interior of the car and the passenger's pant legs were on fire. Due to Clay King's heroic actions, this person is alive today. From the accident scene, Clay King had the wherewithal to call into his supervisor and notify him that he would be late. After arriving at work, he asked if he could return home to shower and change uniforms as he felt he didn't look professional. Although he was granted the rest of the day off, he declined stating he wanted to complete his shift. Those that have had the opportunity to speak with Clay King about the incident convey that he is extremely humble about his courageous actions. In fact, he has stated that anyone would have done the same thing under the same circumstances. I believe that Clay King's professionalism should be emulated and his heroism honored here today on the floor of the United States House of Representatives. I rest easier knowing that Mr. King is watching out for all of us, everywhere.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, we come up on the 1-year anniversary of the President signing the Medicare Modernization Act. This is truly an accomplishment of which this Congress can be proud. We begin the process of the transformation of Medicare. Mr. Speaker, with the advances in medical science, and those that are to come in fields such as genomics and protenomics, we are going to see improved longevity and improved health outcomes. Medicare, for the first time, will pay for wellness instead of compensating for disease. In our bill, we allowed the expansion of health savings accounts. Health savings accounts will change the way the next generation approaches paying for health insurance, giving them far greater power over their own health decisions. Mr. Speaker, today's seniors, next year, will have the missing piece of Medicare when coverage for prescription drugs begins. Mr. Speaker, this was indeed landmark legislation that passed this House a year ago, and I salute those on the committees of jurisdiction that had a hand in getting this legislation passed. Every Member of this Congress and their staffs can be proud of their accomplishment.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, as health care consumers we all expect the highest quality of care available when we visit a health care facility. However, a recent decision by the Department of Veteran Affairs subjects our Nation's veterans to a lower standard of care that 49 out of 50 states permit. This directive, which permits optometrists to perform laser eye surgery in VA health facilities, only confuses the public and veterans about the difference between ophthalmologists and optometrists. In a recent survey of veterans who use the VA health system, 30 percent mistakenly thought optometrists were medical doctors. Further, over 95 percent of veterans think it is important to have a licensed medical doctors specializing in eye care performing their eye surgery in the VA. Our nation's veterans deserve better. I submit the following for the Record: Optometrists attend four-year Schools of Optometry but have no required postgraduate training or national board certification process. Beyond state optometric licensure, there is no ongoing, national re-certification process to assure the public of the competency of optometrists who are already in practice. In contrast, ophthalmologists are medical doctors who attend four years of medical school. They then complete one post-graduate year of general medical or surgical internship, three years of an ophthalmology residency training program, a national Board certification examination, and mandatory re-certification testing.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the superior performances of the Edward S. Marcus High School Drum Line from my hometown of Flower Mound, Texas located in the 26th Congressional District. The drum line consists of 38 dedicated musicians. At the recent Percussive Arts Society International Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, the Marcus Drum Line delivered outstanding performances which garnered them nine first-place awards. In addition to their group awards, Marcus Drum Line became the first high school to earn all of the competition's individual awards: Best Snare Line, Best Tenor Drums, Best Bass Drums, Best Cymbals and Best Front Ensemble. I am particularly honored to note that the winning performance, Looking Through the Windows of America, consisted of patriotic songs including ``Stars and Stripes,'' ``America,'' ``Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree,'' and ``God Bless America.'' I extend my sincere congratulations to Rick Villarreal, Director of Bands, Kennan Wylie, Percussion Instructor and the entire Marcus Drum Line for their talent and dedication to excellence.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Georgia (Dr. Phil Gingrey) or Dr. Phil, as we say here in Congress. I need to point out that I am just a simple country doctor, and while the gentleman from Georgia will spend a lot of money on polling, my operation in Texas is far too small for that. But I do talk to a lot of my constituents, and the doctor is right that this is an issue understood by average, everyday Americans. They understand it very well. They understand it is limiting their access to medical care, and they want this situation fixed. The Subcommittee on Health Policy met this summer and had a hearing on medical liability reform. We wanted to bring the spotlight to what are some of the successes we can point to in this country in this arena, not just simply rehash and recover old territory but what are some of the solutions. We were fortunate to be joined by a doctor from California who was actually practicing medicine in California 1975 when the California Medical Injury Compensation Reform Act of 1975 was passed. Of course, he talked about the night-and-day difference that it made in his State as far as being able to practice medicine with the noneconomic damages capped at $250,000 and how that held down premiums and allowed doctors to continue in practice and not leave the State because they were in a crisis in 1975. Let us remember the governor who signed this bill into law from the California legislature was none other than Jerry Brown, not known for his conservative thoughts or principles. It was truly landmark legislation when it was passed in California now some 28 or 29 years ago. In Texas, we passed legislation this past legislative session that also limited noneconomic damages, put a cap on noneconomic damages. It was a little bit different. We might say it was a 21st century variation of capping noneconomic damages. There is a cap of $250,000 for the physician's component, a cap of $250,000 for the hospital component, and another $250,000 if a nursing home is involved. But altogether, the noneconomic damages in a case would be capped at $750,000. This has had an enormously positive impact on the State of Texas as far as liability reform is concerned. Consider this: When I was practicing medicine in the late 1990s, there were 17 insurers who would write a liability policy for doctors in the State of Texas. As the medical liability crisis mounted in my State, the number of insurers dropped out and left the State to the point that, by 2002, there were two remaining insurers writing medical policies in Texas. What did this mean for the average medical practitioner and their patients? When I was campaigning in 2002, when I would do speaking events, I remember a young woman came up to me. She was probably in her early 40s. She said, ``I am a radiologist who studied at State schools and I did my residency at a State-supported institution. My insurance carrier left the State 3 months ago, and now I cannot buy liability coverage at any price, and I cannot afford to jeopardize my future, my husband's future, and my children's future by continuing to practice medicine without a liability policy, so I am a stay-at-home mom.'' That is an admirable thing for someone to do, but the State of Texas had made a significant investment in her college and medical education. In addition, she did her residency at a publicly funded hospital. Again, a good investment made in this bright individual to practice her craft of radiology, a lot of investment was made by the State of Texas, by the people of Texas, in her medical career, and she was unable to practice her profession because of the unavailability of liability insurance at any cost, let alone liability insurance that might have been quite costly. One of the people we heard from at that hearing was Texas Insurance Commissioner Jose Montemayor. This hearing was in June. Commissioner Montemayor talked about some of the improvements that had come to Texas as a result of this law that was passed by the Texas State legislature. We had gone down to two liability insurers. We were now up to 13. Of those that had come back into the State in 8 months time, they had done so without an increase in their rates, contrasting with the neighboring States of Oklahoma and Louisiana where those insurers were able to show and justify an increased rate of 50 percent in Oklahoma and 80 percent in Louisiana. So this is a big difference this law has made in Texas. In addition, Cristus, a Catholic not-for-profit health care system in south Texas that self-insures, has been able to, by June of this year, 6 months into this fiscal year, had posted a $20 million savings in their insurance premiums that they were then able to directly invest in hiring nurses, direct patient care, and capital improvements in their hospitals there. So this is a tremendous gift or tremendous savings for the people in the State of Texas, and one of the things that we were able to showcase in that hearing is one of the proven successes in the country for medical liability reform. We also heard from an individual, and I apologize. I am blocking on his name. He was the administrator of the hospital in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, and there the story has not been as benevolent. Pennsylvania has not managed to pass medical liability reform in their last legislature. Because of the peculiarities of their State system, they will have to pass that legislation two times in the form of a constitutional amendment. So 2007 or 2008 is the soonest time they can expect any type of relief from their medical liability crisis. The administrator at Uniontown Hospital told us he is down to one ear, nose and throat doctor who is now responsible for about 140,000 patients in that area. I did some quick math, that is about 300,000 ears for one doctor. That is a lot of work for one ENT doctor, and they cannot bring in another doctor to help him because of the cost of their liability insurance. About a year and a half ago, we were at a field hearing up at ANWR, and we came back home through Nome, Alaska. When a group of congressmen come through Nome, Alaska, it is a big deal, and a lot of people turn out for that. They heard that one of the congressional representatives was a physician representative, and the entire medical staff of their hospital came out to lunch with us. Over lunch, they asked questions. What it was like to serve? And one said we hope Congress gets that medical liability law passed because we cannot afford an anesthesiologist for our hospital here in Nome. I asked what kind of medicine he practiced. He said I am an OB/GYN, just like you. Mr. Speaker, what a deal. Practicing OB/GYN in your hospital without an anesthesiologist in Nome, forget pain relief during childbirth. We are talking what do you do if you have to do a c-section. He said, well, we get that patient on an air ambulance as soon as possible and get her to Anchorage for her c-section. Well, Anchorage is an hour and a half a way, and I am given to understand there is poor weather sometimes in Nome, Alaska. I cannot understand how we feel that we are furthering the cause of patient safety by allowing this system to continue. People do ask me back in Texas, they say, we have done a good job here in Texas. Why are you worried about medical liability insurance anymore? It is not an issue for us here in Texas. But as Dr. Gingrey has pointed out so clearly, it costs our country billions of dollars every year. In the Medicare system alone, the cost of defensive medicine from a 1996 Stanford University study was estimated to be between 30 and $50 billion a year in the cost of defensive medicine. Do the math on that. What is the average of 30 to $50 billion? It is $40 billion a year. Dr. Gingrey is quite right. We were criticized last night about increasing the debt limit. We were criticized a year ago for passing a Medicare bill that costs $40 billion a year for prescription drug coverage. We basically would save that amount of money if we would only pass meaningful medical liability reform. That is why it is a national issue, because we are all paying for that. Every taxpayer in the country is paying that freight for this medical liability system. $230 billion a year in direct costs for medical liability and about 20 percent of that actually goes to injured patients. Do not tell me that by capping noneconomic damages that we are keeping money out of the hands of patients. The system is keeping money out of the hands of patients today under the present system and the only parties that are enriched by today's system are the trial lawyers. With that, I see my time is about up. I appreciate so much the doctor organizing this Special Order this evening. It is of critical importance that we get this done. We did not manage to do it this year. There has been a little bit of a change across the Capitol rotunda, and I am very optimistic that as we start into the 109th Congress, this will continue to be an issue of pressing concern for it, and we will get this job done for the American people.

Mr. BURGESS. If the gentleman will yield, about a year ago I was having a discussion with a woman who was in charge of the residency program at a northeast hospital. I trained at Parkland Hospital, arguably the best residency program in the country, but this one in the northeast has a good reputation as well, and she said that they were at the point now where they were taking people into their OB-GYN residency program that 5 years ago they would not even have asked in for an interview, such has been the dropoff in the quality and caliber of, as you put it, the best and the brightest not going into the specialty. These are children's doctors. These are the doctors that are going to be there for the next generation of Americans. Again, I fail to see how allowing this system to continue is furthering the cause of patient safety or excellent patient care.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, November 17, 2004, Texas Governor Rick Perry named J. Roger Williams, a Weatherford businessman, Texas' 105th Secretary of State. A nationally respected businessman, Roger Williams will be a powerful statesman. Mr. Williams will represent Texas entities both home and abroad by promoting all our great state has to offer. The Secretary of State serves as liaison for the governor on border and Mexican Affairs. As a dedicated civic leader and generous philanthropist, Mr. Williams comes well prepared for his new tenure as Texas' 105th Secretary of State. In addition to his duties representing Texas, Roger Williams will serve as the state's chief elections officer. The Office of Secretary of State also is the official repository for official and business records; publishes government rules and regulations; and attests to the governor's signature on official documents. Most recently, Mr. Williams served as Chairman of the Board of Roger Williams Automall in Weatherford and Vestry Financial Corporation of Fort Worth. From 1974 to 1995 Williams was President and Chief Executive Officer of Jack Williams Automall, the multiple-line dealership founded by his father, Jack Williams, in 1958. A former professional baseball player, Roger Williams played for the Atlanta Braves farm team from 1971 to 1974, and he owned and operated the San Antonio Brewers professional baseball club from 1972 to 1975. He also served as assistant head coach and later head coach for the baseball team at Texas Christian University, his alma mater. Roger Williams has been recognized nationally for his business acumen, as a 1981 inductee into the Automobile Hall of Fame and as the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce Businessman of the Year in 1984. He was named by Time magazine as Automobile Dealer of the Year in 1985 and by Sports Illustrated as Import Automobile Dealer of the Year in 1986. Lockheed Martin Management Association named Williams Manager of the Year in 1977. I welcome J. Roger Williams to his new role as Texas Secretary of State and extend my congratulations to Mr. Williams and his family, his wife Patty and their two daughters, Jaclyn and Sabrina.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Denton Housing Authority to commend them for receiving four National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) Merit Awards this year. The Denton Housing Authority has been active in the North Texas community for years, working hard to provide quality public and affordable housing. This year at the 2004 NAHRO awards ceremony, the Denton Housing Authority was recognized for their achievements. The Denton Housing Authority raised the bar once again by winning more merit awards than in 2003. The Denton Housing Authority was recognized for four of their programs. The Class Apprenticeship Program, created by the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, provides career training programs, on-the- job training, and associated technical instruction to program participants and members of the community. The Denton County Health Department Dental Clinic teams with the County Health Department to make available low-cost and free services to area residents who cannot afford insurance. Also, Project READY teams with the University of North Texas to encourage social and academic success and reinforce positive behavior of youth living in the Phoenix housing development. Finally, Resident Outreach Clean Up Project in cooperation with the University of North Texas and Keep Denton Beautiful improved the community surroundings and eliminated trash and graffiti. I believe these programs will better enhance our community by investing in our citizens and forming a safer environment for our neighborhoods. Once again, I would like to express my sincere congratulations to the Denton Housing Authority for their innovation and hard work in providing community outreach services to the city of Denton and surrounding communities.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, my remarks today are to honor my friend, Scott Hudelson of Flower Mound, Texas, a devoted philanthropist and local dentist who died Friday, November 12, when the Cessna plane he was piloting crashed near Lexington, Kentucky. Scott was en route to Chicago to meet his wife, Lewisville physician Mary Brandt Hudelson, who was attending an allergy conference. Scott Hudelson, a Minnesota native, opened his Flower Mound practice after serving in the Army Reserve's dental corps during Operation Desert Storm. He earned degrees in engineering and dental surgery from the University of Minnesota and is listed as a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, Denton County Dental Society and Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. In addition to running a successful practice, Family DentalCARE, Scott made monthly trips in his small plane, on his own time and with his own finances, to clean and fill the teeth of young patients at the Oklahoma School for the Deaf. The school has about 150 students--from toddlers to teen-agers--and most live on campus. He talked with the patients in sign language and put them at ease. Scott Hudelson married Mary Brandt on the Fourth of July in 1992. Together, Scott and Mary have three young children, as well as three older children from a previous marriage--including a grown daughter who is working as an accountant in Tikrit, Iraq. Tomorrow, I will give the eulogy for my dear friend Scott. I cannot adequately express my sorrow to the Hudelson family, but I can say I was blessed to have him in my life. My prayers are with the family and Scott, and I honor his life here today.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Indiana for putting together this hour. Mr. Speaker, it is my high honor tonight to welcome two new Members of the Texas delegation. First from out in west Texas, Texas 11, we welcome Representative Mike Conaway. Mike is an Army veteran from Fort Hood and has had a distinguished career with Price Waterhouse & Coopers. He is a native Texan, and he grew up in Odessa. He graduated from Texas A&M University-Commerce in 1970 with a BBA degree in accounting. In 1995 Governor George W. Bush appointed Mike to the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, a State regulatory agency that regulates the practice of accountancy in Texas. Mike Conaway has volunteered his time to serve the citizens of Texas on the board for 7 years, including more than 5 years as chairman. He has served as chairman and board member of the Family Services of Midland, Texas. He and his wife, Suzanne, have four children and four grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, my next-door neighbor, my new next-door neighbor in Texas 24, is Representative Kenny Marchant. Kenny is a former Carrollton City councilman and mayor of that city. He is currently the chairman of the House State Affairs Committee and the former chairman of the House Financial Institution Committee in the Texas house of representatives. Outside of politics, Kenny is a local small businessman and a home builder in Dallas County, Denton County, and Northeast Tarrant County. He also serves on the Advisory Board of Children's Medical Center and heads a local nonprofit foundation which funds church-related humanitarian aid projects around the world. Ken Marchant has both a bachelor's degree and an honorary doctorate degree from Southern Nazarene University. He and his wife Donna have raised their three sons and one daughter in the Twenty-Fourth Congressional District. They are also now the proud grandparents of a new granddaughter. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to welcome these two members of the Texas delegation. We are indeed fortunate. And, as the gentleman from Indiana pointed out, ``Don't mess with Texas.''

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, it is my sad duty today to rise and honor my friend Scott Hudelson of Flower Mound, Texas. He was a devoted philanthropist and a local dentist who died Friday, November 12, when his single engine plane developed engine trouble and crashed near Lexington, Kentucky. Scott was en route to Chicago to meet his wife Mary, a Lewisville physician, who was attending an allergy conference there. Scott Hudelson, a Minnesota native, opened his Flower Mound dental practice after serving in the Army Reserve's Dental Corps during Operation Desert Storm. He had earned degrees in engineering and dental surgery from the University of Minnesota and is listed as a member of the American Dental Association. In addition to running a successful practice, Scott made monthly trips in his small plane on his own time with his own finances to clean and fill the teeth of young patients at the Oklahoma School for the Deaf. The school has about 150 students and most live on campus. He talked with the patients in their own sign language to help put them at ease. Scott Hudelson married Mary Brandt on July 4, 1992. Together, they have six children, including a grown daughter who is working as an accountant in Tikrit, Iraq. Tomorrow, I will give the eulogy for my dear friend Scott. I cannot adequately express my sorrow to the Hudelson family, but I can say I was blessed to have him in my life. My prayers are with Mary and Scott and his family as I honor him today.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the commitment of a very caring physician in my community, Dr. Gary L. Rose. Dr. Rose came to our community 15 years ago and quickly established himself as one of the preeminent physicians in the area. Dr. Rose is an obstetrician. He has delivered thousands of babies in our area and provided consistently excellent professional medical care to his patients. Mr. Speaker, almost anywhere I go in my district, I encounter families whose lives have been touched by Dr. Rose. They speak of him almost reverently about the high quality of care he has rendered throughout the time that he has practiced in our community. With patience and understanding he solves complex medical diagnostic dilemmas while serving the Lewisville community. He is also a technically gifted surgeon, and he has brought many a patient through a serious crisis in the operating room and back on the road to good health. Mr. Speaker we are truly fortunate in my community to have the type of dedicated medical professional that Dr. Rose personifies, and I wish him every success during the continuance of his career in medicine.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, it is hard to believe that it has almost been 4 years, but October 12 will mark the fourth anniversary of the bombing of the USS Cole. During that attack, 17 of our sailors died and 39 were hurt when the guided missile destroyed the USS Cole, which was attacked while refueling offshore. A small craft with two terrorists and probably 400 to 700 pounds of explosives blew a 40-foot hole in the hull of that ship. Today, Mr. Speaker, I think it is appropriate since we will not be here next week, I think it is appropriate today that we honor those who were lost and acknowledge those who were injured and also acknowledge the suffering of those families who continue to mourn their loss. Mr. Speaker, the following are the names of the fallen of the USS Cole. USS Cole Victims Electronics technician 1st Class Richard Costelow; Morrisville, Pennsylvania. Signalman Seaman Recruit Cherone Louis Gunn; Rex, Georgia. Seaman James Rodrick McDaniels; Norfolk, Virginia. Seaman Recruit Lakiba Nicole Palmer; San Diego, California. Operations Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Lamont Saunders; Ringold, Virginia. Ensign Andrew Triplett; Macon, Mississippi. Seaman Apprentice Craig Bryan Wibberley; Williamsport, Maryland. Hull Maintenance Technician 3rd Class Kenneth Eugene Clodfelter; Mechanicsville, Virginia. Mess Management Specialist Seaman Lakeina Monique Francis; Woodleaf, North Carolina. Information Systems Technician Seaman Timothy Lee Gauna; Rice, Texas. Engineman 2nd Class Marc Ian Nieto; Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Electronics Warfare Technician 3rd Class Ronald Scott Owens; Vero Beach, Florida. Engineman Fireman Joshua Langdon Parlett; Churchville, Maryland. Fireman Apprentice Patrick Howard Roy; Cornwall on Hudson, New York. Electronics Warfare Technician 2nd Class Kevin Shawn Rux; Portland, North Dakota. Mess Management Specialist 3rd Class Ronchester Mananga Santiago; Kingsville, Texas. Fireman Gary Graham Swenchonis Jr.; Rockport, Texas.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for allowing this bill to come to the floor. I am aware that there are many of pieces of legislation that could have filled these hours this week. Mr. Speaker, nurse practitioners fill a vital role in America's health care system. As the gentleman from Ohio pointed out, there are over 106,000 nurse practitioners providing high-quality care around the Nation, and they are especially important in rural and underserved areas. These health care professionals are critical in my district, especially in areas of Fort Worth, Texas. John Peter Smith, the public hospital system in Tarrant County, maintains 23 clinics for low-income and indigent patients around the county. Nurse practitioners are able to enhance the services provided in many of these health care clinics. By utilizing nurse practitioners, John Peter Smith is able to see significantly more patients in an outpatient setting and to do so on a finite, fixed taxpayer-funded budget. John Peter Smith and the patients served by the health system could not do without the dedicated corps of nurse practitioners. And on a personal note, Mr. Speaker, I have worked with nurse practitioners both in a training program at Parkland Hospital and I have had several come through my private practice in Lewisville, Texas, who trained there and stayed on with me to work in private practice, Lori Driggs and Jenny Andrews, and certainly I learned a great deal more from them than I was ever able to teach them. Mr. Speaker, on November 7 through 13, 2004, the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners will recognize National Nurse Practitioners Week to honor the dedication and commitment of these health care professionals. I rise to commend nurse practitioners for the contribution they make to the health and well-being of our country.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, my remarks today are to honor my friend, Troy H. LaGrone, retired President of Ben E. Keith Beers. Troy was a fixture in both the business and academic community in my hometown of Denton. Troy LaGrone was a graduate of Carthage High School and later attended Draughton's Business College in Dallas before joining the Ben E. Keith Company as a clerk in 1953. After 47 years of service, in 2000, Mr. LaGrone retired as President of the company, but he continued to serve on its board of directors and for the company's Foundation. In addition to his extensive business career, Mr. LaGrone had served in the U.S. Army and was consistently involved in local and community projects. Throughout the years, Troy served on the board of directors of the Denton State School, Denton Orchestra, Denton Public Schools Foundation and North Texas Fair. He organized the President's Fellows of the University of North Texas and chaired the President's Council. He also served on the President's Council of Texas Woman's University. Mr. Troy LaGrone is survived by his wife, Sarah LaGrone and their three children, Joanna LaGrone-Headrick, Robert A. Strawn and James A. Strawn; one brother, Joe Ben LaGrone of Oak Ridge, Tennessee; four grandchildren; and one great-grandson. As a Texan and a friend, I can say we were blessed to have had him with us as a guide, to encourage us and to direct our paths. I am glad I had the chance to know him, and I honor his life here today.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to say thank you to one of my hometown schools, Calhoun Middle School in Denton, Texas. The students of Calhoun Middle School enthusiastically participated in a card giving program for the victims of the Beslan school tragedy. Before departing for my mission to Russia, I asked several local schools if they would like to create, draw, color or write greeting cards to the survivors and grieving families. The response was overwhelming. I was honored to be able to present hundreds of colorful cards to patients and families. During my time in Russia, I had the opportunity to visit survivors recuperating at two hospitals. The visits were moving and tearful, but you could see the hearts of American students truly shining in the eyes of the Russian children. I was truly privileged to represent the United States, and especially grateful to be able to share wonderful cards full of encouragement and joy. Again, thank you, the students of Calhoun Middle School for your kindheartedness and thoughtfulness. Your words strongly conveyed the spirit of the American people and our commitment to build relations with countries dedicated to combating global terrorism.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to say thank you to one of my hometown schools, Wilshire Elementary School in Euless, Texas. The students of Wilshire enthusiastically participated in a card giving program for the victims of the Beslan school tragedy. Before departing for my mission to Russia, I asked several local schools if they would like to create, draw, color or write greeting cards to the survivors and grieving families. The response was overwhelming. I was honored to be able to present hundreds of colorful cards to patients and families. During my time in Russia, I had the opportunity to visit survivors recuperating at two hospitals. The visits were moving and tearful, but you could see the hearts of American students truly shining in the eyes of the Russian children. I was truly privileged to represent the United States, and especially grateful to be able to share wonderful cards full of encouragement and joy. Again, thank you, the students of Wilshire Elementary School for your kindheartedness and thoughtfulness. Your words strongly conveyed the spirit of the American people and our commitment to build relations with countries dedicated to combating global terrorism.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to say thank you to one of my hometown schools, Christ Our Savior Lutheran School in Coppell, Texas. The students of Christ Our Savior enthusiastically participated in a card giving program for the victims of the Beslan school tragedy. Before departing for my mission to Russia, I asked several local schools. Today, I would like to say thank you to one of my hometown schools, Christ Our Savior if they would like to create, draw, color or write greeting cards to the survivors and grieving families. The response was overwhelming. I was honored to be able to present hundreds of colorful cards to patients and families. During my time in Russia, I had the opportunity to visit survivors recuperating at two hospitals. The visits were moving and tearful, but you could see the hearts of American students truly shining in the eyes of the Russian children. I was truly privileged to represent the United States, and especially grateful to be able to share wonderful cards full of encouragement and joy. Again, thank you, the students of Christ Our Savior Lutheran School for your kindheartedness and thoughtfulness. Your words strongly conveyed the spirit of the American people and our commitment to build relations with countries dedicated to combating global terrorism.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to say thank you to one of my hometown schools, Sanger Middle School in Sanger, Texas. The students of Sanger Middle School enthusiastically participated in a card giving program for the victims of the Beslan school tragedy. Before departing for my mission to Russia, I asked several local schools if they would like to create, draw, color or write greeting cards to the survivors and grieving families. The response was overwhelming. I was honored to be able to present hundreds of colorful cards to patients and families. During my time in Russia, I had the opportunity to visit survivors recuperating at two hospitals. The visits were moving and tearful, but you could see the hearts of American students truly shining in the eyes of the Russian children. I was truly privileged to represent the United States, and especially grateful to be able to share wonderful cards full of encouragement and joy. Again, thank you, the students of Sanger Middle School for your kindheartedness and thoughtfulness. Your words strongly conveyed the spirit of the American people and our commitment to build relations with countries dedicated to combating global terrorism.