G.K. Butterfield

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, 1 year ago, President Obama signed the historic Affordable Care Act into law. Since that time, we have seen an all-out assault by the special interests and health insurance companies. Americans are tired of this debate. They are tired of the misinformation. Congress must stand up for the middle class. We must protect families. We must stop companies from arbitrarily canceling coverage after patients become sick, prevent children from being denied coverage due to preexisting conditions, and never again let insurance companies place lifetime limits on health coverage. Mr. Speaker, let's give the reform a chance to work. Reject the special interests and extreme rhetoric. Make sure every American family is protected when it comes to health care.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the amendment. As part of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, the Consumer Product Safety Commission was charged with creating a publicly available, searchable database for complaints regarding consumer products. The amendment offered by the gentleman aims to bar the Commission from moving forward with this database. The Food and Drug Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration both have publicly available databases for consumers to report harms or potential safety problems about cars and medical products. Those databases don't provide any due process to manufacturers to contest those claims. However, this database provides exhaustive due process, including allowing manufacturers to refute ``materially inaccurate'' claims and, if found to be inaccurate, have the complaint removed. The Commission database also allows manufacturers to issue a response and have those responses appear along with the consumer complaint. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to reject this amendment.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. I thank the gentlelady. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to King amendment No. 266. It has been said that we are the sum total of our experiences, Mr. Chairman, and that is certainly true. My experience consists of growing up in a low-income minority community whose history dates back more than 150 years since slavery. I represent that district, the First District of North Carolina, the fourth poorest district in the country. My constituents, Mr. Chairman, overwhelmingly support the Affordable Care Act. Why? My constituents know that their insurance costs are soaring, exceeding more than 18 percent per year in increased costs. For those constituents who don't have insurance, they know that they will be able to qualify for Medicaid if their income is less than 133 percent of the Federal poverty line. My rural hospitals, Mr. Chairman, know that finally when patients walk into their emergency rooms, the hospitals will be paid for their care, and they will not continue to face bankruptcy. Mr. Chairman, this assault on the Affordable Care Act is unfounded, it's unnecessary; and I ask my colleagues to defeat this amendment.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I've come to the well today to talk about what I call the insensitivity of the Republican majority as they seek to cut important domestic spending that will affect low-income and working class families in America. Every Member of this Body, Mr. Speaker, understands that we must reduce the deficit. We understand that. We must put America on the path of fiscal responsibility. And so we don't need lectures from the Republican majority. We don't need partisanship. What we need, as the distinguished chairman of the Rules Committee said a few moments ago, we need a bipartisan solution to these great problems. While some of the Republican solutions in H.R. 1 will certainly eliminate ineffective programs, these cuts cannot be made arbitrarily, and they should not be made simply to make good on a political campaign promise. Many of the proposed cuts will only cost us more in the long run. One glaring example, Mr. Speaker: Republicans want to cut $1.3 billion from community health centers. Republicans ignore the fact that, since the start of the recession, 4 million additional Americans have lost their health insurance, which means that more and more people rely on community health centers. When the uninsured get sick, they do one of three things. They stay home and get sicker and lose productivity, or they will go to the emergency room and leave a bill that all of us will end up paying for and the insurance companies will pay for. Or, Mr. Speaker, they can go to a community health center to receive medical care. Under their proposal, Republicans seek to eliminate funding for 127 clinics in underserved districts across 39 states and reduce services at another 1,096 community health centers nationwide. That is absolutely awful. This cut would have devastating effects on the communities and patients who most need access to care: Patients with diabetes, and heart disease, and HIV/AIDS; pregnant women; and children, leaving them nowhere to turn for health care. Under these cuts, more than 2.8 million people would likely lose access to their current primary care provider, and over 5,000 health center staff could lose their jobs. The President's 2012 budget proposal, by contrast, builds on the health care reform law by boosting investment in health centers. The budget includes $3.3 billion for the health centers program, including $1.2 billion in mandatory funding provided through the Affordable Care Community Health Center Fund. Mr. Speaker, I represent many poor rural communities in eastern North Carolina with many constituents who depend on community health centers, and I know how deeply these cuts will be felt. As we struggle with this difficult economy and struggle with difficult fiscal issues, we have an even greater responsibility, to protect our most vulnerable citizens, especially when it comes to access to health care. Community health centers are cutting costs. They are continuing to serve our communities extremely well, and they need and they deserve congressional support. I urge my colleagues to support worthwhile investment in community health centers and reject the unwise cuts in H.R. 1.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, my colleagues, the American people are watching. More than anything else, this Congress will be judged on what it does to help move this struggling economy forward. One of our most important and effective programs to assist workers displaced by changes in the global economy has been the Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers Act. Unfortunately, key provisions of this program are set to expire this week unless Congress takes action. Last year, displaced workers in North Carolina received over $56 million through TAA, the second largest amount given to a single State, to ensure that they had the support and training necessary to transition into an emerging sector of the economy. This program is working. We must support the economy and these workers by immediately approving a long-term extension of the Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers Program.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to pay tribute to a community giant, Mr. Dock M. Brown, a very special friend who passed away yesterday. As a lifelong resident of Weldon, North Carolina, Dock Brown was an undeniable force who dedicated his 81 years to serving his community and as a champion for education. Dock Brown was a veteran of the Korean War, teacher, principal, county and town commissioner, a State legislator, 50-year deacon at First Baptist Church in Weldon, and much more. He was a true public servant with a legacy that will live on through the many people he inspired over the years. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the life and work of Dock Monteria Brown and to join me in praying for his wife, Helen, and his entire family and community during these difficult times.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, It is with great sadness that I rise today to pay tribute to a community giant, Dock Monteria Brown, a very special friend who passed away on Tuesday, January 25, 2011. Dock Monteria Brown was born on January 30, 1929 in Halifax County to Nelson and Vilvie Brown. His father was a Veteran of World War I. Dock graduated from J.A. Chaloner Senior High School in 1948 and entered Shaw University that fall. In 1951, just one year before graduation, Dock was drafted into the U.S. Army and was deployed to fight in the Korean War. He served for 12 months in Korea before returning to Fort Bragg and his native North Carolina to serve out the remainder of his tour. Immediately after his Honorable Discharge, Dock resumed his education at Shaw University and earned his undergraduate degree. In order to fulfill his dream of becoming a teacher, Dock then attended my alma mater, North Carolina Central University and earned a Master's Degree in Sociology and School Administration. Dock taught high school History at Weldon High School and Eastman High School for 24 years, and served as principal of Pittman High School for 10 years. As an educator, Dock Brown made a tremendous and undeniable impact on the lives of students in Halifax County. He was truly the catalyst for many young people growing into strong, well-educated and productive adult citizens. Over his many years of service, he served as a Halifax County Commissioner; state representative in the. North Carolina House of Representatives, Weldon Town Commissioner; Trustee at Elizabeth City State University, and as an appointee to the Governor's Commission to select Superior Court Judges. For his untiring service to the State of North Carolina, Dock was awarded the state's highest civilian honor-- the Order of the Long Leaf Pine--by then-Governor James Hunt. Dock Brown also served on the county's health board and he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the State Mental Health Association for his tireless dedication to the issue of Mental Health. He was also an active member of First Baptist Church in Roanoke Rapids starting at age 11, and he served in many capacities including Deacon for over fifty years. Dock Brown was a true public servant with a legacy that will live on through the many people he inspired over the years, including myself. I had the pleasure of offering legislation to this body that was signed into law naming the Weldon, N.C. Post Office in honor to Dock Brown. It was a fitting honor, and I know his community will truly miss him. Dock Brown leaves behind his wonderful wife, Helen, after nearly 60 years of marriage. They raised two wonderful children: Dock Brown, Jr. and Ivy Brown Singlton, who is married to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Terance Singlton, II. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the remarkable life of Dock Monteria Brown, and to join me in praying for his wife and family during these difficult times. I know they will draw comfort in knowing that he lived a great life and that he left a great and indelible mark on his community.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of George Henry White Day being held in Tarboro, North Carolina on Saturday, January 29, 2011. That day will mark the 110th anniversary of Congressman George Henry White's famous farewell speech Floor of the United States House of Representatives. Born on December 18, 1853, George Henry White was the only African American in Congress when he was elected in 1896 and reelected in 1898. He was the last African American elected to Congress from the post- Civil War era. George Henry White left Congress in 1901, and it would be almost 30 years before another African American would be elected to Congress. And, as we know, no blacks were elected to Congress from the South until 1972; well after the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965. George Henry White was a strong and gifted speaker, who often condemned the harsh and brutal treatment of blacks in the South and introduced the first anti-lynching legislation in Congress. In 2002, the Tarboro Town Council approved a resolution declaring January 29 as the annual George Henry White Day in Tarboro. In 2003, the Edgecombe County Board of Commissioners approved a similar resolution declaring January 29 as the annual George Henry White Day in Edgecombe County. On June 25, 2004, the Tarboro Post Office was officially named the George Henry White Post Office Building after the President signed a legislation I introduced into Congress. On George Henry White Day, January 29, 2005, the Phoenix Historical Society unveiled a commissioned portrait of George Henry White in the Superior Court Room of the Edgecombe County Court House following approval by the Edgecombe County Board of Commissioners. In 2007, I introduced legislation urging the Citizens Stamp Advisory Committee to consider honoring George Henry White with a commemorative postage stamp. I reintroduced the legislation in 2009, and I will again reintroduce this legislation during the 112th Congress. Last year, the North Carolina Historical Commission approved recommendations of the Capitol Monument Study Committee to lift a moratorium of new monuments on the state capitol square to include among others a monument to commemorate the achievements and public statements of U.S. Representative George Henry White. Mr. Speaker, George Henry White fearlessly and consistently stirred the conscience of America to embrace racial justice and equality for all people. It was a life worthy of remembering. Please join me in recognizing George Henry White, and in sending our best wishes to the Phoenix Historical Society, which organized the George Henry White Day.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Let me thank the ranking member for the time and certainly thank him for his leadership on our committee. Mr. Speaker, as we debate the Republican proposal to repeal health care reform, I hope--I truly hope--that the American people will open their eyes and realize that this legislation will put insurance companies back in charge of their health care. I don't know about my friends on the other side. I don't know what kind of districts you represent, but I represent a low-wealth rural district in eastern North Carolina. My constituents need affordable health insurance. They need access to health care now. In my district, this repeal would allow insurance companies to deny coverage to 261,000 individuals with preexisting conditions. It would eliminate health care tax credits for up to 11,600 small businesses and 193,000 families. The number of people without health insurance in my district would grow by 56,000 people. It would increase the costs to hospitals for uncompensated care by more than $65 million, and it would increase prescription drug costs for 7,300 seniors who hit the Medicare drug doughnut hole. So I take great offense to any effort to repeal health care reform. This repeal would only lead to bigger Federal deficits and higher taxes for small businesses. Children, students, seniors, and small businesses owners would be devastated by losing these protections. Mr. Speaker, I urge my Republican colleagues to stop playing politics with health care. Open your eyes, and see the pain of America's working families. Listen to the silent majority in your districts, not the loudest people in your districts. Reject this repeal effort, and let's debate ways and means of creating jobs in America.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, today we continue debate on the Republicans' most unfortunate effort to repeal health care reform that we passed during the last Congress. This repeal will increase the deficit by $230 billion. No one disagrees with that but Republicans. That's why the Republican majority exempted this legislation from pay- as-you-go budgeting. You know this repeal will increase the deficit. Keeping the law in its present form not only decreases the deficit but will provide 32 million uninsured Americans the opportunity to obtain insurance and provide dependable coverage for their families; it allows children to remain on their family's policy to age 26; it closes the doughnut hole, and it does so much more. Mr. Speaker, I can usually see both sides of an issue, but for the life of me, I can't see what the Republicans are trying to achieve but to score political points with their right-wing base. I call on my friends to abandon your efforts and let's concentrate on putting Americans to work. That's what my constituents are demanding and your constituents as well.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, today we begin debate on the Republicans' unfortunate effort to repeal health care reform. I pray that this debate today is civil and that it is respectful. As you know, Mr. Speaker, and many of our colleagues know, I served as a judge in my State for many years. I understand what it means to be objective and to have a fair debate. And I know there are usually two sides to every issue. But when it comes to repealing the reforms that Democrats have passed, I just can't figure it out. Why would Republicans add $230 billion to the deficit when their mantra has been deficit reduction? Why would Republicans force small businesses to pay higher taxes after fighting for cuts? Why would Republicans take away a parent's right to cover their adult children? And why in the world would Republicans make seniors pay more for their prescription drugs? I just don't understand. It appears to me that this may be partisan politics.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I have come to the well today, not to make a long speech, for my colleagues have spoken so well, but to extend the heartfelt tribute to the affected families on behalf of the people of the first district of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, we must seize this senseless and tragic event as an opportunity for us to reconcile our differences and reduce the political tone in this country. The American people are demanding that we represent them with civility and a sense of enforcing the Constitution to keep America strong and provide for the general welfare. I pledge my part in making that happen. To those families who are living this unspeakable tragedy, we extend our condolences and prayers to your family. And we pray for a speedy recovery for our dear Colleague, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, and the other great Americans who are victims of this tragedy.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to an extraordinary American who has devoted her life to building the community in which she lives--Wilson County, North Carolina. As a caring, thoughtful and passionate leader in the community, Josephine Farmer Edwards has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around her. Mrs. Edwards is a native of Nash County, North Carolina. She graduated from Nash County Training School, earned a bachelor's degree from Fayetteville State College (now Fayetteville State University), and a master's degree from Pennsylvania State University. She put that education to work as a classroom teacher for 38 years in Nash and Wilson counties, and later taught adult education. In 1986, Mrs. Edwards was elected to the Wilson County Board of Commissioners and has distinguished herself as an elected official for the past 24 years. Mrs. Edwards has now retired from elective office but leaves a great legacy that will continue to enrich and strengthen the community for many years to come. Mrs. Edwards' remarkable tenure included the development and construction of numerous County facilities as well as the expansion and development of critical emergency services including emergency disaster response, centralized communications, rescue services, and full countywide paramedic services. Mrs. Edwards was a key leader in expanding recreation opportunities, improving services for seniors, enhancing cable television services, improving health care facilities and the County's road system. She has also been a strong and consistent supporter of economic development throughout the region, and a tireless advocate for improving education. With her background in public education, Mrs. Edwards was a tireless supporter of funding for the Wilson County Public Schools and Wilson Community College. She also supported state and local bond issues for school and community college construction, which included the renovation of multiple schools and the construction of the Darden Middle School and the John W. Jones Elementary School. Mr. Speaker, in addition to her countless gifts to our community, I have been blessed with her lifelong friendship, by which I have been enormously honored. Mrs. Edwards was married to the late James Edwards and continues to own and operate the family business, Edwards Funeral Home of Wilson. Mrs. Edwards has two adult daughters, Angela Edwards Jones (Tyrone) and Carla Edwards Williams (Daryl). She is also a proud grandmother and great grandmother. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the hard work, dedication and success of the Honorable Josephine Farmer Edwards on the occasion of her retirement from elective office.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to an extraordinary American who has devoted his life to building the community in which he lives--Wilson County, North Carolina. As a passionate, empowering and inspirational leader, Frank Edward Emory, Sr. has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him. Mr. Emory is a native of Johnston County, North Carolina. He received his college education at A&T College--now A&T State University--in Greensboro, North Carolina. After completing his education, Mr. Emory became a distinguished extension agent and later served as assistant director of Urban Affairs at North Carolina State University. In 1970, Mr. Emory was elected to the City of Wilson Board of Education (later Wilson County Board of Education) and remained in this capacity until 1984 when he was elected to the Wilson County Board of Commissioners. He was the first African-American to serve on these boards. Mr. Emory has been a wonderful example of faith in God and community, and faith that we may someday realize a place where equality and opportunity flourish. He has been a special friend and leader who truly understands people and their issues. He is always ready to work with anyone willing to improve the total community. After 40 years of continuous service, Mr. Emory has decided to retire from elective office. And while his retirement will be a tremendous loss, Mr. Emory leaves a great legacy that will continue to enrich and strengthen the community for many years to come. Mr. Emory's remarkable tenure included the development and construction of numerous county facilities as well as the expansion and development of critical emergency services including emergency disaster response, centralized communications, rescue services, and full countywide paramedic services. Mr. Emory was a key leader in expanding recreation opportunities, improving services for seniors, enhancing cable television services, improving health care facilities and the county's road system. Mr. Emory has also been a strong and consistent supporter of economic development throughout the region, and a tireless advocate for improving education. He strongly supported funding for the Wilson County Public Schools and Wilson Community College. He also supported state and local bond issues for school and community college construction, which included the renovation of multiple schools and the construction of the Darden Middle School and the John W. Jones Elementary School. Mr. Speaker, in addition to his countless gifts to our community, he has given me true friendship, by which I have been enormously honored. He has been married to Athalene Dancy Emory for more than 50 years. They are the proud parents of two sons, Frank, Jr. and Randolph, who have blessed them with four grandsons. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the commitment, dedication and success of Frank Edward Emory, Sr. on the occasion of his retirement from elective office.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the distinguished public service career of Mrs. Evelyn Howard. Mrs. Howard has dutifully served the Town of Ahoskie in Hertford County, North Carolina for 28 years, and will retire on January 31, 2011. Mrs. Howard is a native of Ahoskie, graduating from Ahoskie High School. She then attended Shaw University where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. At Shaw University, Mrs. Howard earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a major in Business Management and a minor in Public Administration. She was a member of the Alpha Kappa Mu and Alpha Chi Honor Societies, and was included in the 2000 Edition of Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. She also received the United Negro College Fund/Avon Scholarship, The Carol Wilson Caldwell Memorial Legal Scholarship, Aramark Scholarship, the Pinnacle Award, and the Gold Award. A lifelong learner, Mrs. Howard also earned several certifications from the University of North Carolina--Chapel Hill Institute of Government. Mrs. Howard began her career with the Town of Ahoskie in 1982 as an Office Clerk, and over her 28-year career she progressed professionally to serve as Deputy Town Clerk and Deputy Finance Officer, Town Clerk and Chief Finance Officer, and Interim Town Manager. Ultimately she would rise to become Ahoskie's Assistant Town Manager. During her career, Mrs. Howard was an avid participant in several professional affiliations including the North Carolina Association of Municipal Clerks, the North Carolina Finance Officers Association, and she served on the board of the State Employees Credit Union. Mrs. Howard is married to Mr. Earnest Howard. Together, the two have reared two daughters, Earnika and Etoria. They have been blessed with three granddaughters and two grandsons. Mrs. Howard thoroughly enjoys spending time with her family and being involved in her grandchildren's activities. Mrs. Howard's nearly three-decade career in public service deserves the highest appreciation and commendation. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mrs. Evelyn Howard on the completion of a successful career, and in wishing her happiness in her retirement.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule. Madam Speaker, after Democrats took a shellacking on November 2, I concluded then and now that it was because of the fragile economy and because they thought just perhaps Republicans would have some new ideas about fiscal discipline. Well here's what we get. We get a Republican majority that is more concerned about political theatre and messaging to the Tea Party than they are in creating jobs and reducing the deficit. We need a Jobs bill. Now. The CBO on yesterday told us what we already suspected. Repeal will increase, yes increase, the deficit by $230 billion. It will result in 32 million Americans losing their health insurance. And what eclipsed this whole episode was a Republican Rule that exempts Repeal from Pay- as-you-Go rules. Shame on the Republican majority. Shame on you.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, let me take this opportunity to honor the 60th anniversary of Girls Incorporated of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. North Carolina's first Girls Club was founded in Elizabeth City in 1950. It was the culmination of over a year's effort on the part of a local group of women to organize a club to provide recreation and training for the city's girls. In 1951, the club affiliated with Girls Clubs of America. When the Girls Clubs of America voted to change its name to Girls Incorporated in April 1990, the Elizabeth City Girls Club's Board of Directors followed the requirements of affiliation, changing the local club's name to Girls Incorporated of the Albemarle in May 1990. Today, Girls Incorporated of the Albemarle continues to actively pursue its mission: to meet the needs of girls; to develop their self- worth and emotional maturity; to develop their capacity to be self- sufficient responsible members of their community; and to serve as a vigorous advocate for them. Girls Incorporated of the Albemarle's staff and volunteers are superior role models for our youth and deliver a wide variety of wonderful after-school and summer camp programs. Girls Incorporated of the Albemarle also collaborates with our local communities and corporate partners to allow girls to interact with other women in various professions and experience hands on activities and events that they may otherwise not have exposure to. These partners include Museum of the Albemarle, United States Coast Guard Base, Elizabeth City State University, Hopeline, 4-H, Circuit Court Judges and Attorneys, Port Discover, NC Cooperative Extension Service and the Tobacco Cessation Coalition. This is the only organization in northeastern North Carolina that offers such comprehensive programming designed specifically for girls. To their credit, the organization's goal is to reach all girls regardless of socio-economic status, and they recognize that girls in at-risk communities have greater need for their programs. Of the girls they serve, 65 percent come from families earning less than $25,000 a year and approximately one-half are from single-parent homes headed by women. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Girls Incorporated of the Albemarle on their 60th anniversary and for the great service they have provided the community over these many years.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Let me thank the gentlelady for the time. As a member of the committee, I rise today to oppose the pending motion. There is no question that Mr. Rangel violated House rules. For more than a year he has admitted his misconduct and has apologized for it. But it must be clear, Mr. Speaker, there is nothing in this record to suggest that Congressman Rangel engaged in dishonest or corrupt conduct. Nor is there evidence suggesting that he sought to enrich himself while violating his oath. The record shows that Mr. Rangel was approached by City College of New York to seek assistance in obtaining funds to establish an inner city school for disadvantaged youth, and he did so. My colleagues, you must know that it is not unethical or improper for Members to raise funds for a charitable purpose. Many of you do this every year, and it's a good thing. Our rules simply require any Member desiring to raise funds for a 501(c)3 charitable purpose to refrain from using official resources. In this case, Congressman Rangel improperly used official resources to make the solicitation. Yes, that was a mistake. But it was not corruption. Had he written his solicitation letters on other than official stationery and mailed them with 44-cent stamps, that would not be a problem. The other observation I make, Mr. Speaker, concerns the appropriate sanction for a Member who has been found to have violated House rules not involving dishonesty or corruption. The punishment in this case, in my humble opinion, should be reprimand or less. Censure has always been reserved for extreme and outrageous conduct, touching upon corruption and intent to gain a financial benefit. As many of you perhaps know, I spent much of my former life as a superior court judge. For nearly 15 years, I made difficult sentencing decisions every day. In making difficult decisions, the judge must first decide a baseline punishment and then adjust that punishment by weighing aggravating and mitigating circumstances. As applied to this case, the baseline punishment was offered by our committee counsel. He stated that the proper punishment, in his opinion, was between reprimand and censure. If that be so, Mr. Speaker, it seems to me that aggravating and mitigating circumstances become important. There are mitigating circumstances, my colleagues, that you should consider that substantially outweigh any aggravating factors that you may find. In deciding whether to round up to censure or round down to reprimand, I ask you to consider a dozen factors: his age, 80 years of age; combat military service of 3 years as a volunteer; Bronze Star; Purple Heart; left on the battlefield for dead; length of legislative service here is 40 years; he requested our committee to investigate these matters; he acknowledged mistakes at an early stage, and was willing, he was willing to settle this matter without a trial; he did not participate in the evidentiary hearing. Some of you may see that as a negative. But failing to participate in the hearing essentially admitted the essential facts of this case, precluding a long trial. He could not afford counsel after spending $2 million, and we refused to waive the rule to allow for pro bono counsel. Over the years, he has mentored Democratic and Republican members on this floor. And he has been a person of good moral character. These, my colleagues, are mitigating factors that support reprimand. I urge my colleagues to vote to reprimand our dear colleague. Let him know that he must be sanctioned for his carelessness, but let him know that this House understands fairness and justice and legal precedent. A censure is not justified in this case. I thank you, Madam Chair, for the time.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I move the previous question on the amendment and on the resolution.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, 98 percent of American families face a tax increase on January 1, 2011. That's right; 98 percent. Democrats are prepared this week to prevent that from happening. Our recovery demands keeping as much income as possible in the hands of those who need it the most--America's middle class. By extending the middle class tax cuts, we can protect American families and strengthen our economy. But with a national debt already exceeding $13 trillion, we simply cannot afford to borrow $700 billion needed to cut taxes for the 2 percent richest families in America. It is also important to remember that the richest Americans would still receive substantial tax cuts on the first $250,000 of their income. This is not class warfare. I urge my colleagues to support permanent tax cuts for America's middle class. Don't hold the tax cuts hostage to help 2 percent of America's families.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Reverend Dr. Thomas L. Walker, a community leader being honored for his decades of service. On Thursday, November 18, 2010, the community will come together to celebrate as Reverend Walker is inducted into the Twin County Hall of Fame. Reverend Walker is well deserving of this honor. He is a native of Rocky Mount, N.C., and has devoted his entire life to serving his community. Since 1970, Reverend Walker has worked to better the community as pastor of the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church of Rocky Mount, N.C. He has also served as an Edgecombe County Commissioner, Chairman of the North Carolina Martin Luther King Jr. Commission and as President of the Greater Rocky Mount Ministers' Council. After being diagnosed with prostate cancer, Reverend Walker sought to help others by channeling his energy into writing a book entitled, ``Brother to Brother--You Don't Have To Die of Prostate Cancer.'' Many urologists around the country use the book to educate patients and help people understand prostate cancer. Reverend Walker also founded the Edgecombe-Nash Political Caucus, created Project Empowerment and has experienced great success as a gospel artist. Reverend Walker will be among 10 Twin County Hall of Fame inductees honored at the banquet being held at the Dunn Center at Wesleyan College: Mae Woods Bell, Harold Cooley, Daniel Finch, Richard T. Fountain, Allan Gurganus, George Higgs, James W. Hines, Warren R. Jones, Aldolphus Staton, and Reverend Walker. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues rise to join me in recognizing all of this year's deserving inductees. I also extend my congratulations and best wishes to my good friend, Reverend Walker, his wife Joyce, and their two children, Timothy and Teresa.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Let me thank the gentlelady for yielding this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today for two reasons. First, to offer my support for H.R. 1428, the measure that was offered by the gentlelady from Brooklyn, New York (Ms. Clarke). That is a resolution recognizing the Brooklyn Botanic Garden on its 100th anniversary. That is a good resolution, and I urge my colleagues to support it. Mr. Speaker, I also rise today in support of H. Res. 1475, which was a resolution that I offered some months ago. Unfortunately, I was not on the floor a few moments ago when this matter was taken up, and I regret that I was not here at that very moment. But I wanted to come to the floor now to offer my strong support for H. Res. 1475, which is a resolution congratulating the town of Tarboro, North Carolina, on the occasion of its 250th anniversary. I introduced this resolution in June of this year, with 54 original cosponsors, including the entire North Carolina House delegation. I thank my North Carolina colleagues for their very strong support. Most people, Mr. Speaker, may not know about Tarboro, North Carolina, or the tremendous impact the town made on the history of our State and Nation. On November 30, 1760, the North Carolina General Assembly approved the charter for the town, and Tarboro was born, making it the 11th oldest colonial town in our State. President George Washington visited the town during an historic visit through the South in 1791, choosing to overnight in this small town. Settled as a trading post on the Tar River in the mid 18th century, Tarboro thrived as a river port. Mr. Speaker, Tarboro was also an early political incubator and produced two Congressmen who both represented the Second Congressional District of North Carolina in this House. Congressman George H. White was elected to Congress in 1897 and served until 1901. He was the last Reconstruction-era African American from the South to serve in Congress until the 1970s. Rising racial tension made it impossible for George H. White to win a third term in Congress. His final speech before his congressional colleagues right here on this House floor has inspired Americans for over 100 years. He said, and I quote: ``This, Mr. Chairman, is perhaps the Negroes' temporary farewell to the American Congress, but let me say, Phoenix- like, he will rise up someday and come again.'' That statement was made right in this Chamber. Congressman L.H. Fountain served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1953 until 1983. He is remembered for being a stalwart advocate for small towns such as Tarboro during his service in the House. Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staffs, Retired General Hugh Shelton of the United States Army, who served in that position under President Bill Clinton, was born in Tarboro and reared in the neighboring town of Speed, where he continues to live today. Today, Mr. Speaker, Tarboro is home to some 11,000 residents. They are my constituents. Its ideal location on the banks of the Tar River historically served as a thriving river port and trading post, and today offers extensive fishing, boating, and recreation for people of all ages. Tarboro's downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, where many original structures are still in use today, including restaurants and theaters and quaint shops, and even the home of Congressman George H. White and the home of Congressman L.H. Fountain. Its town commons joins Boston, Massachusetts, as the only original remaining town common on the East Coast. The town continues to grow and evolve while maintaining its connection to history and originality. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent this town. It is indeed an historic day for the residents of Tarboro, and I sincerely congratulate the town on the occasion of its 250th anniversary. I am pleased that the House is considering this resolution. I urge my colleagues to vote ``aye'' when it is presented for a vote. Again, I would like to thank the gentlelady and I also would like to thank my friend Mr. Bilbray from California for their courtesy.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise to salute Taiwan on its forthcoming National Day on October 10, 2010. Taiwan is a model of success in Asia. Through hard work and ingenuity, Taiwan has become one of the strongest economies in the Asia Pacific. Two years ago, Taiwan was in the midst of a global economic crisis. After taking some notable economic measures, Taiwan is expected to bring its unemployment rate below 5 percent, and GDP is expected to grow by 4.72 percent this year. Taiwan is also a showcase democracy and continues to strengthen its democratic institution. The accomplishments of Taiwan, whether economic or political, are truly remarkable. On the occasion of Republic of China's National Day, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing new era of peace and prosperity between Taiwan and mainland China. There have been many agreements between the two sides, including direct air and sea links, increased mutual investments, and exchanges of peoples. Also, my congratulations to Taiwan for its continued participation in the World Health Assembly meetings last May in Geneva. We should also acknowledge Taiwan's humanitarian assistance to Haiti and Taiwan's medical and public health missions to Pacific island countries in recent years. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Taiwan.

Mr. BUTTERFIELD

Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the more than three years of service provided by the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Base Supply Center (BSC) and to applaud the 15th anniversary of the AbilityOne BSC Program. AbilityOne BSCs are retail stores located on military installations and in federal buildings. Operated through the AbilityOne Program, BSCs fulfill a dual purpose: supporting training and employment opportunities for people who have significant disabilities and meeting the procurement needs of military and federal consumers. The AbilityOne Program is administered by the Committee for Purchase from People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled (``the Committee''). Each BSC is added to the Committee's Procurement List as an AbilityOne Program ``service'' project, which ensures that the establishment of a BSC helps accomplish the AbilityOne Program's employment mission. AbilityOne BSCs harness the collective resources of a nationwide network of providers to supply superior products and services to government customers through a commercial retail-type setting. Since the launch of the first BSC in 1995, government customers have appreciated convenient access to thousands of high-quality, competitively priced SKILCRAFT' and other name brand products as well as Hazmat, Individual Equipment Element, and other services. Purchases from AbilityOne BSCs support the employment of qualified professionals who are blind or have other severe disabilities. These employees produce and ship products, provide services, and staff the BSCs. Furthermore, service-disabled veterans and military dependents have the opportunity to join the AbilityOne team, where they continue to play a valuable role in the military communities that are significant to their lives. BSCs partner with the leadership at each location to satisfy the specific needs of base and installation personnel. Today, BSCs are located on over 138 federal installations nationwide. The AbilityOne Program works with two Central Nonprofit Agencies, National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and NISH. NIB and NISH operate under the direction of the Committee and oversee a network of over six hundred associated nonprofit agencies to provide employment opportunities for people who are blind or have other severe disabilities. AbilityOne purchases from federal government and military consumers generate revenue used to fund training and employment programs for people with severe disabilities. Employing over 45,000 people with disabilities, the AbilityOne Program is the largest employer of people with disabilities in the country. I am proud to represent the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point BSC. On this 15th anniversary of the AbilityOne BSC Program, we should all take a moment to visit our local BSC or associated agency to better understand the good work they are doing in our communities.