Saxby Chambliss

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. As a new member of your committee, I do not have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Estrada as you do, but expanding on what the Senator from New Hampshire just said, I believe that Mr. Estrada has established himself in the legal profession in a very unqualified manner, that he is just extremely qualified, is an excellent lawyer. And I wish you would give us the benefit of some of his legal work and his legal background.

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. President, will the Senator yield for a question?

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Also, as we have heard, Mr. Estrada has a great story; he is accomplished, competent, and experienced. This man came to America to seek the American Dream and he is now living that dream. He came to the United States from Honduras when he was seventeen years old and has spent his life gaining credibility as a Hispanic man of distinction. If confirmed, Mr. Estrada would break a glass ceiling by being the first Latino judge to serve on the DC Court of Appeals. However, if he is not confirmed, it would not just be terrible for the District of Columbia, but it would send the wrong message to Hispanic communities in my home state of Georgia and across the nation. But I would say to my colleagues that you should not vote for Miguel Estrada because he is Hispanic, you should vote to confirm him because he is a world-class laywer and he will make a world-class judge. Mr. Estrada is a great lawyer and will make a superb judge. He has the qualifications, the capacity, the integrity, and the temperament to serve on the federal bench. I was happy to support his nomination last week in the Judiciary Committee and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the President's nominee for this important position.

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. President, today I rise in support of Miguel Estrada, the nominee for the 12th Circuit Court of Appeals. It is an honor to serve my State of Georgia in this great institution, and I am pleased that the work we are undertaking today pertains to such an important issue for our country--filling the vacancies in our courts with good and honorable judges. One of the most important burdens that has been placed on the shoulders of the Senate is the sanction of Federal judges. I relish this task because it grants us an opportunity to have a hand in the future of the laws that govern this great land. And there is no better way to help craft the America of the next generation, the America to be served by our children and our grandchildren. Before I came to Congress, I practiced law for 26 years and I can say that it is rare to meet someone as qualified for the bench as Miguel Estrada. The American Bar Association unanimously rated Mr. Estrada as ``well qualified.'' I understand that some of my colleagues in the past have referred to this rating as the ``gold standard'' for judicial nominees. It seems then that a unanimous ``well qualified'' rating should speak volumes about Mr. Estrada's merit. Some critics have said that Mr. Estrada should not be confirmed because he lacks judicial experience. I would simply highlight the examples of Justice White and Chief Justice Rehnquist. Both men had no prior judicial experience when they were appointed to the Supreme Court. Also on the same court that Mr. Estrada would join, five of the eight sitting judges had no prior judicial experienced, two of which were nominated by President Clinton. Mr. Estrada, however, has had exceptional experience both in the government and in private practice. From 1992 to 1997, he served in the Clinton administration as Assistant to the Solicitor General in the Department of Justice. He has argued 15 cases before the Supreme Court and is widely regarded as one of America's leading appellate advocates. He is currently a partner for a leading law firm with their appellate and constitutional law practice group. I believe that this represents sufficient experience for his nomination. Another argument made by some is that Mr. Estrada has refused to produce confidential memoranda that he wrote when he was with the Solicitor General's office. I would argue that this request, if met, would have a debilitating effect on the ability of the Department of Justice to represent the United States before the Supreme Court and I have a letter signed by every living former Solicitor General--Democrat and Republican alike--saying the same. I would ask unanimous consent to print this letter in the Record.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the privilege of the floor be granted to the following members of my staff, Camila McLean and Jim Irwin, during the pendency of the nomination.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, our country has lost a great American. My good friend, retired U.S. Navy Commander Robert R. Davis, passed away on Oct. 1, 2002, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. It was very much a privilege for me to have known Commander Davis for many years. I had the privilege of being with him on several special occasions including the Georgia Pearl Harbor Survivors Association on December 7, 2001 when he kindly asked me to address the survivors on the 60th anniversary of the infamous attacks on our country. Then on July 19, 2002, I was so proud to have Commander Davis as my special guest when Vice President Dick Cheney came to Georgia. The last time I saw Commander Davis was on September 7 of this year when he and his son Jim were hunting in Georgia on the opening day of dove season. On many other memorable occasions he and I were together as friends. He loved his country and strongly supported its military. I always appreciated his wise counsel on defense and other issues. Robert Roscoe Davis was born on December 16, 1914, in Jacksonville, in Telfair County, Georgia. He joined the United States Navy at age 17, enlisting as a seaman, and made the Navy his career for 28 years. On December 7, 1941, Bob Davis was assigned to the Minesweeper U.S.S. Ogloia at Pearl Harbor. He was not aboard when the Japanese attack came and the ship was sunk, but later put on a diving suit and went down to try to raise it. He was later commissioned as an officer, rose to the rank of Commander, and was the commanding officer of the USS Washoe County, LST 1165. He had assignments all over the world and was commander of the Naval Reserve Training Center on Riverside Drive in Macon when he retired. Upon his retirement from the United States Navy Commander Davis entered the real estate business and was active in the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 658, and the Macon Exchange Club. His friends and family used the term ``Commander'' to respectfully address him for the rest of his life. On Saturday, October 5, 2002, Commander Davis was given a distinguished funeral and a graveside ceremony at Riverside Cemetery in Macon, Georgia, with military honors including a Navy Honor Guard, bugler, and bagpipe player. Mr. Speaker, my wife Julianne and I express our sadness over the passing of Commander Robert Davis and we send our sincere condolences and best wishes to his loyal family. He was a great American and he will be missed so very much. I think it is most appropriate that I close this tribute to Commander Robert R. Davis with the first verse of the ``Navy Hymn.'' Eternal Father strong to save, Whose arm hath bound the restless wave, Who bid'st the mighty ocean deep Its own appointed limits keep; O hear us when we cry to thee, for those in peril on the sea.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend the selfless deeds of David Green, Jr., of Macon, GA. During this past summer, David spent six weeks riding his bicycle across our great nation from Seattle, Washington to Savannah, Georgia in order to raise money for the Methodist Home for Children and Youth's new Intergenerational Activity Center in Macon, GA. With today's endless media stories depicting our nation's youth in a negative light, it is refreshing to see the giving attitude of this young man. To date, David has raised over $63,000 in gifts and pledges toward the new ``Teen Center.'' The mission of the Methodist Home for Children and Youth is to provide a redemptive ministry in South Georgia of healing and nurturing to children, youth and their families in the most appropriate setting, enabling them to grow and become more productive in society. His selfless act will help provide opportunities for young individuals for many years to come. David's record of community service is well established. His years of giving back include work with the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, as well as the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. While in high school, David also served as a member of Students Against Drunk Driving as well as a member of Teen Advisors, pledging each year not to drink alcohol or smoke. A distinguished Boy Scout, he obtained scouting's highest honor, the rank of eagle. He has recently graduated from Stratford Academy in Macon, GA, and is currently attending the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, where he is a member of the Boys Varsity Soccer Team. Mr. Speaker, I am convinced that David Green, Jr., will continue his service to others as he moves toward a higher education. It is comforting to know that tomorrow's leaders are already positively affecting our nation. I am truly proud to represent such an individual from the eighth district of Georgia. Today it is my pleasure to commend David for his ongoing efforts to better society.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in strong support of the motion to instruct from the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Taylor). This law is over 100 years old. It is time we fixed it. It is time that we recognize a disability as a disability and a retirement as a retirement. I urge strong support of the motion to instruct.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I yield to my distinguished friend from California, a Vietnam decorated veteran, the Top Gun.

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support President Bush and this resolution to authorize the use of force to defend the national security of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq. It is important to note that the thrust of the resolution is to remove the capability from Saddam Hussein to deliver weapons of mass destruction. The oppressive regime of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein is a clear and present danger to international peace and stability, particularly to the United States. The threat to the national security of the United States is real. For 11 years Saddam has systematically violated United Nations Security Council resolutions. We know that Iraq is aggressively pursuing the development of weapons of mass destruction, supporting international terrorism, including harboring terrorists and repressing minorities within Iraq. However, I am most troubled by the Iraqi regime's persistent efforts to acquire biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons, as well as long-range missiles. In a report released by the CIA last week, the intelligence community confirmed that since U.N. inspections ended in 1998, Iraq has continued its determined efforts to maintain a chemical weapons capability, invested heavily in developing biological weapons, rebuilt missile facilities, and is working to build unmanned aerial vehicles as a lethal means to deliver biological and chemical agents. Moreover, it is clear that Saddam Hussein is intent on acquiring nuclear weapons. Experts believe that if the Iraq regime can get its hands on highly enriched uranium, it is very likely that Iraq could build a nuclear weapon in less than a year. This is a threat we cannot allow to mature. Iraq's obstruction of U.N. inspectors and extensive efforts to hide its mass destruction efforts seem to make it obvious that the current regime cannot be trusted. Let there be no mistake about it. As the number one target of Saddam Hussein's wrath, there is no question as to who these dangerous weapons would be used against; that is, the United States and our friends. The cost of inaction will be paid for with the blood of innocent Americans. In addition to the fact that our military is targeted almost daily by the Iraqi military in the no-fly zones, the Iraqi regime has engaged in despicable acts. They attempted to assassinate former President George Bush and the Emir of Kuwait and have offered rewards to the families of suicide bombers. Not only does Iraq harbor international terrorist organizations such as al Qaeda, Abu Nidal and the MEK, the Iraqi regime has direct links to international terrorist groups and continues to provide support, training and resources to terrorists. President Bush has demonstrated unambiguous and forceful leadership in addressing the Iraqi threat. He has clearly explained the threat the current Iraqi dictator poses in the world and made a very strong case for the need for a regime change in Iraq. The President stated his case before the United Nations and has reached out to an international coalition of partners who share our concerns about the current regime in Iraq. The American people can show by support of this resolution that we stand 100 percent behind the President of the United States to remove the capability of delivery of weapons of mass destruction from Saddam Hussein. I urge support of this resolution.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to City Councilman Philip Campbell, Sr. one of my fellow public servants in Warner Robins, Georgia who died recently in a tragic accident. Philip's service to the city began on August 2, 1965 as City Gas Inspector. After twenty-five years in that capacity, he retired and ran for public office where he proudly served for nine years. Phillip was known for his compassion and his dedication to the citizens of Warner Robins. During his tenure as city councilman, he fought to re-instate the senior citizen's homestead exemption tax and was always an advocate for the needs of city employees. If he wasn't at City Hall or volunteering at Southside Baptist Church, you could always find Philip Campbell down at the local baseball diamond. Anyone who grow up in Warner Robins and played ball probably had Philip as a coach at some point. He loved teaching the kids how to play, and if one child didn't have a ride to practice, Philip would give him a ride. His generosity to the community was second only to his love for his family. A dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather Philip's legacy will continue impacting the citizens of Warner Robins for years to come. There isn't a finer man I could have the honor of recognizing on the House floor, and want to extend my deepest sympathy and respect to the family of Philip Campbell. My wife Julianne and I join with his family in mourning the loss of this honorable individual.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Allatoona Elementary School of Acworth, GA, Athens Academy, of Athens, GA, and New Testament Christian Academy of Stockbridge, GA, on being named a ``State Champion'' by the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. These schools were selected based on their high achievements in the President's Challenge Physical Activity and Fitness Awards Program. Available to all schools around the country since 1958, the President's Challenge Physical Fitness offers recognition and awards for fitness to all participating students. The State Champion award is presented each year to schools with the greatest number of students scoring at or above the 85th percentile on the President's Challenge. In each state, three State Champions are chosen based on total enrollment. It is my pleasure to honor these schools today in their attempt to battle a national health crisis among our Nation's youth. Mr. Speaker, please join me in promoting health to the young people of the United States by further stressing the importance of greater physical fitness. Again, I would like to commend these schools for accepting the President's challenge and helping create a healthier nation.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I support many of the transformation initiatives our military is undertaking. Through the vision and leadership of Secretary Roche and General Jumper, the Air Force has been a leading proponent of transformation. The Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System, or JSTARS, and the 116th Air National Guard unit at Robins Air Force Base are a prime example of a transformational mission. These unique units are on the verge of becoming even more transformational as they blend Air National Guard personnel into the active JSTARS unit. On Monday, September 30, 2002 the Guard's 116th Bomb Wing and the active duty 93rd Air Control Wing will merge into a first of its kind ``blended Wing.'' The new wing will operate all of the Air Force's Joint STARS aircraft. It is a mission of considerable importance. The J-STARS aircraft can find and track moving targets on the ground hundreds of miles into enemy territory and are prized assets and constantly in demand by theater commanders. Developing a blended unit has proven to be a daunting task. However, the Air Force and members of both the 93rd Air Control wing and the 116th Bomb Wing have stepped up to the plate and cleared every hurdle in their way. Secretary Roche stated that ``Outdated laws and policies would have to change to reflect requirements in command-and-control, fiscal, and personnel issues,'' and he was right. The members of the Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve have worked tirelessly to achieve a ``blended wing'' and have done it in an exceptional fashion. The Air Force has long been the model of full and seamless integration of the Reserve Components. Its Guard and Reserve associate programs are long-term success stories that maximize weapon system utilization while leveraging the expertise of Guard and Reserve personnel. Strong national defense rests on the foundation of a well- equipped, well-trained and mobile military force. The 116th has been and will continue to be the pinnacle of professionalism and honor; and will continue to be ready--Anytime-Anywhere. I would like to commend the vision, leadership, and stalwart dedication that Major General David Poythress, Colonel Tom Lynn, Colonel David Fadok, and all the people that helped make this day possible. It is the strong commitment by everyone involved to their country, to the war-fighter, and to Robins that makes this day truly great.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, the American Medical Association has declared Georgia one of twelve states with a medical malpractice crisis. About four in every ten hospitals in Georgia are now facing liability insurance premiums that have increased by more than 50 percent, and one of every four of those facilities has been hit hard with increases that exceed 200 percent. The St. Paul Company was the second largest health care underwriter in Georgia. When it ceased writing medical malpractice insurance policies last December, around 42,000 physicians nationwide had to scramble for coverage and protection. Some still have not found new insurance. Radiologists, OB/ GYN specialists, and surgeons are among the groups hardest hit by these rising rates. Many of Georgia's 178 hospitals already are struggling financially from staffing shortages and financial pressures. Some hospitals in Georgia will either have to look at closing or offer fewer services to patients who are in desperate need of care. The problems in Georgia highlight a national challenge for both hospitals and physicians. Physicians are threatening to relocate or retire in the wake of dramatic increases in malpractice insurance premiums. Patients cannot afford to lose care because doctors cannot afford premiums. This is outrageous and a sad commentary on the state of our health care system. Litigation costs have premiums which are forcing doctors to scale back services, retire early, and reduce care to the poor. Like physicians, hospitals are having a difficult time finding medical malpractice insurance because with the skyrocketing cost of litigation several providers have ceased writing coverage altogether. I would like to share some examples to demonstrate the severity of this problem in Georgia: There is an 80 bed hospital in Alma, Georgia, which is in the 8th Congressional district, that was forced to take out a bank loan to cover a medical malpractice insurance premium that more than tripled in one year (rising from $118,000 to $396,000). Memorial Hospital and Manor in Bainbridge, Georgia was faced with a staggering 600 percent increase on its existing policy (increasing from $140,000 to $970,000). According to WebMD Medical News, Dr. Sand Reed in Thomasville, Georgia, an OB/GYN, said her medical malpractice insurance increased 30 percent just this year. She is considering giving up delivering babies. She should not be forced to make these choices and her patients will suffer when they lose her expertise and experience in this area. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Ty Cobb Health, a consortium of three rural Northeast Georgia Hospitals and nursing homes, received a bill by fax this summer just 24 hours before a check was due. Not only did the insurance company increase his deductible ten fold, but the premium jumped from $553,000 to $3.15 million--a 469 percent increase. They eventually got an extension but can no longer plan for expansions or renovations of their emergency room. In Fitzgerald, Georgia, Dr. Jim Luckie, has quit delivering babies because his premium was so high. His liability insurance expired in April and it took him six weeks to get a new policy. When his insurance premium more than doubled, the family practitioner decided to discontinue the OB portion of his medical practice. Dr. Edmund Wright, also of Fitzgerald, is a family practitioner who performed Caesarean sections and has had to give up that part of his practice. His premiums quadrupled to $80,000 this year and would have been $110,000 had he continued the surgical delivery procedure, which insurance companies consider ``high risk.'' In 2000, Georgia physicians paid more than $92 million to cover injury awards. That amount was 11th highest in the nation despite Georgia ranking 38th in total number of physicians in the U.S. It's clear Georgia is in a medical malpractice crisis. Substantial medical malpractice reform is critical. The current system is destroying the doctor-patient relationship. I have talked extensively with the members and leadership of the Medical Association of Georgia, and have met with hospital and physician groups, as well as with patients and it is clear that we need to reform our current system for the sake of our patients, physicians, and hospitals. We need a system that allows any patient the right to pursue any cause where injury is the result of negligence. At the same time, we need a system that provides reasonable protection to hospitals and physicians. Without the important reforms included in H.R. 4600, physicians and hospitals will continue to struggle to keep their doors open. I urge my colleagues to fight for all who deserve and need quality, affordable healthcare and to vote for this important legislation.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Reverend Fred Cobett, Children's Minister to Calvary Assembly of God in Dunwoody, Georgia, for taking on an unusual role to teach children how to help other children, while raising money for mission work. At the request of the children he works with, Pastor Cobett agreed to spend seven entire days on the ledge of a billboard forty feet above interstate 285 in Atlanta for a fundraiser called Up in the Air For Kids. This event is part of the Boys and Girls Missionary Crusade, a non-profit organization founded by the Assemblies of God Church that exists to reach the children of the world by creating a heart of compassion in the children they lead. The Up in the Air For Kids project is geared specifically toward raising community awareness of the needs of children around the world who are living in poverty. Nine other states nationwide are also participating in this benefit and hope to reach a cumulative goal of one million dollars. Pastor Cobett's goal for Georgia is to raise 100,000 dollars that will be distributed among four separate charities including Convoy of Hope, Latin America Child Care, Africa's Children, and Asia's Little Ones. As the son of a minister, I have a special affinity for Pastor Cobett and his ministry. It is a high calling, and I commend him for dedicating his life to teaching children the principles of charity, generosity, and goodwill in this creative manner.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Reverend Fred Cobett, Children's Minister to Calvary Assembly of God in Dunwoody, Georgia, for taking on an unusual role to teach children how to help other children, while raising money for mission work. At the request of the children he works with, Pastor Cobett agreed to spend seven entire days on the ledge of a billboard forty feet above interstate 285 in Atlanta for a fundraiser called Up in the Air for Kids. This event is part of the Boys and Girls Missionary Crusade, a non-profit organization founded by the Assemblies of God Church that exists to reach the children of the world by creating a heart of compassion in the children they lead. The Up in the Air for Kids project is geared specifically toward raising community awareness of the needs of children around the world who are living in poverty. Nine other states nationwide are also participating in this benefit and hope to reach a cumulative goal of $1 million. Pastor Cobett's goal for Georgia is to raise $100,000 that will be distributed among four separate charities including Convoy of Hope, Latin America Child Care, Africa's Children, and Asia's Little Ones. As the son of a minister, I have a special affinity for Pastor Cobett and his ministry. It's a high calling, and I commend him for dedicating his life to teaching children the principles of charity, generosity, and goodwill in this creative manner.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 402 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my sadness, and that of the entire Robins Air Force Base community in Middle Georgia, over the passing of my good friend, retired Major General Richard F. (Dick) Gillis. General Gillis commanded the Warner Robins Air Logistics Center at a critical time in our country's history and that of Robins, and he carried out that mission as he did all his assignments: with outstanding patriotism, competence, and leadership. Uniquely among commanders, he served this center in three separate positions: as the director of maintenance, as the ALC vice commander, and as ALC commander. The current ALC commander, Maj. Gen. Donald Wetekam, said it exceptionally well: ``General Dick Gillis was a courageous leader during a period of great change in our Air Force. His foresight and wisdom made this a better place to live and work. We'll all miss him.'' During his command General Gillis made Robins a less likely candidate for base closure by bringing in the Joint STARS mission; by working hard to assure future workloads; by preventing a reduction in force when other ALCs were losing work force; by working on aerospace industry expansion and educational enhancement in the Middle Georgia area. Gen. Gillis led the center very ably during the critical times of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm and during the Persian Gulf War. General Gillis was a command pilot with more than 5,000 hours. While assigned to Tan Son Nhut Air Base, South Vietnam, General Gillis flew 100 combat missions in RF-101A/C aircraft. Over his 38 year Air Force career, General Gillis' military awards and decorations included the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with ``V'' device and oak leaf cluster, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award with oak leaf cluster, Combat Readiness Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with five service stars, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with eight oak leaf clusters, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Mr. Speaker, General Gillis was a great commander of Robins, a great American, and he will be missed so very much. It is most appropriate that his burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery on October 15. Our country has lost a strong leader, and I am proud to have known him and worked with him.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Dave Maney of Augusta, Georgia. Mr. Maney is Experience Works' 2001 Older Worker of the Year for the State of Georgia. As a Marketing Representative with the Department of Labor Career Center in Georgia, Mr. Maney changes the downhill direction of the unemployed every day. His job is to motivate, encourage and inspire clients into believing in their ability to find and keep a job. The way Mr. Maney describes his job is . . . ``Most of my clients, and there have been more than 600 this year, seldom set goals, and when they do, they are not high enough. I teach them that goals have to be higher than anything they have ever done.'' His goals in life have been simple. ``The keys to my success and to the life I have had to this point have been a positive attitude, a great wife and wonderful home life, and loving interaction with people.'' That interaction with people, especially those who are labeled non- custodial parents, and food stamp recipients, has added tremendous value to both his life and work. From his first job as a custodian at Montgomery Ward, to his service in the Korean Conflict, raising six children, and surviving cancer, Mr. Maney has had a full and challenging life. ``With all I've been through I would still say that giving people self-worth and hope for a better tomorrow is my proudest accomplishment,'' says Mr. Maney. Mr. Speaker, due to the events of last September we were not able to honor Mr. Maney for his accomplishments. I hope that you will join me today to do so.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Dorothy ``Dot'' B. Thomas a Community Developer for Central Savannah River Area Economic Opportunity Authority (EOA) in Augusta, Georgia. Ms. Thomas is the recipient of Experience Works' 2002 Older Worker of the Year award for my home state of Georgia. Dot Thomas began her career at the EOA in 1971. Beginning first as a Community Developer, she studied and worked her way up to the Coordinator of the Energy Assistance Program. In 1996 she retired, but soon found herself back at EOA volunteering, mentoring new staff, and offering friendly advice based on her many years of experience. She was so valuable to the EOA that when a part-time position became available in 2000, Dot was convinced to come back to work saying . . . ``I so enjoy working, learning new things, and interacting with others that I sometimes wonder why I retired.'' In her current position as Community Developer, Dot works with families in need--assisting them with energy assistance, food, rent, clothing, etc. She says her most important contribution at EOA is giving people hope. ``I want them to feel better about themselves when they leave my office. Many times people come in looking so bad. But when I can say something to make them feel better about themselves and their circumstances, it just makes my day special!'' Lola Johnson, director of the EOA, contributes Ms. Thomas' professional success to the heart and soul she puts into her work. ``Of all the accomplishments Dot has made over her years of service to our agency and the Central Savannah River Area community, probably the most important and long- lasting ones involve the impact she has had on the clients we serve as well as on her co-workers.'' Dot's dedication to improving the quality of people's lives doesn't end with her job. She loves and lends support to her husband of 50+ years, Ernest, and to the rest of her family; she makes a ``joyful noise'' in her church choir; and she volunteers at the local soup kitchen. She has also been an active member of the Georgia Community Action Association for more than 30 years. Ms. Johnson sums it up best, being a human services worker is not what Dot does for a living, ``it's who Dot Thomas is.'' Mr. Speaker, please join me and all Georgians in congratulating Dot Thomas.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bereuter) for his very kind comments, and it was a very bipartisan effort that allowed us to produce what I think is a very informative report. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong support of this resolution. On the anniversary of September 11, we remember the innocent victims of last year's terrorist attack against our Nation and pay tribute to the heroes who risked their lives to save others. This day is indelibly marked in our Nation's memory. It is a day when our Nation changed, when we were savagely attacked by malicious enemies whose hatred of freedom and democracy runs so deep that they would murder innocent men, women and children. These attacks on our cherished principles, values and freedoms tried to weaken our Nation; but the tragic events of September 11, 2001, only strengthened the American resolve. The loss is overwhelming; but in the wake of this tragedy, we have witnessed many of the best aspects of America: the tremendous outpouring of patriotism, a common sense of grief and loss which touched every American, a bond of love and support among strangers from across the land, a renewed commitment to our respective religious beliefs, and a renewed national resolve to root out terrorism and act against the enemies of America. Today at the Pentagon ceremony, I visited with Pat Hogan, the widow of Major Cole Hogan of Macon, Georgia. Major Hogan was an Army Green Beret who served his country bravely here at home and around the world and was killed in the attack on the Pentagon. Our hearts, prayers, and thoughts are with the friends and families like Pat Hogan who suffered such a tremendous loss a year ago. Over the past year we have endured daunting challenges, and our lives have been forever changed by these terrorist acts and the threat that continues to confront us. We have made progress in making America a safer place and fighting the war on terrorism. More still needs to be done; but as we move forward, we have an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to do all we can to work together to preserve the memory of those who perished in making our Nation a better place, a safer place and to ensure that the spirit of freedom, democracy and our core American values continue to burn even brighter in our Nation and around the world.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, heroes come in many shapes and sizes. Over the past 11 months we have celebrated the lives of many heroes. We have paid tribute to firemen, policemen, public officials, businessmen, among many others. Their common thread is the selfless desire to improve the world around them. Today I rise to recognize and pay tribute to one of my district's great heroes who spent his life on the political lines, digging deep into the business of Georgia law-making to tell the story, Mr. Ronald Mack Woodgeard, former Editor of the Macon Telegraph in Macon, Georgia. Ron was known throughout the state, especially in Macon, for his fair and balanced journalism. He had a knack for taking a story into the future, not just by giving a play by play description of events, but by taking the analysis a step further to uncover not only the facts but look past the facts to explain what they mean. A friend of the community, Ron earned and kept the trust of his neighbors, his co-workers, and public figures, including the subjects of his reports. Many view the role of news reporter to be ``watchdog'' but this reporter was not one out for cold blood, looking to exploit a person or a situation for the ``scoop''. He sincerely believed in educating people to improve the community and society as a whole. Through his leadership, the Macon Telegraph was known for representing all sides of its readership--there was always something for everyone on the editorial page. Ron was a dedicated worker and a good friend of mine, but I call him a hero not only for his years of dedicated service of bringing the news home to south Georgia, but for doing his job while waging a ten year war against a rare form of cancer. Co-workers at the Telegraph remember Ron for pressing on without complaint. Pressing on for Ron meant getting the story while enduring more than 15 major and minor surgeries, three rounds of chemotherapy, and four courses of radiation. To survive ten years of this type of treatment and still get the job done takes iron will. Sadly, this invisible assailant overcame our soldier and took his life Monday, September 9, 2002. Other professional hats of the Editor include college instructor, military policeman for the Army during Viet Nam, private investigator, and after completing trade school, a welder. But his most important job was father of two sons. Ron Woodgeard believed in people and they believed in him. I believed in him, and I will miss him. My wife Julianne and I extend our deepest sympathy to his family, and join with them in celebrating the memory of one of Georgia's journalistic heroes. His legacy will live on through the millions of lives he touched.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and congratulate John Shoemaker III for his many years of service to the city of Macon as well as the state of Georgia. John's community leadership and involvement have been invaluable in the areas of business, youth leadership, the arts, and many others. John has been a tirelessly advocate to promote business and industry in the Macon community by serving on the Macon Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and as Chairman of the Macon/Bibb County Convention and Visitors Bureau. His hard work and dedication have made him the recipient of the Macon Convention and Visitors Bureau's first ``Soul Provider'' Award. John's achievements and contributions beyond business run deep. He has also been an integral part in the advancement of the arts. In 2000, he received the Macon Arts Alliance Cultural Award. John has provided 10 scholarships for disadvantaged students at Perry Players Summer Camp. He sponsored the Warner Robins Women's Theatre Season Project. John sent 40 students to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival Production and 10 students to the Georgia Children's Museum Summer Program. John made the initial donation to the Riverside Ford Center for Youth Performing Arts. His support of Theatre Macon, the Warner Robins Little Theatre, the Bleckley County Arts Alliance, the Macon State College Drama Department, the Macon Little Theatre, the Macon Arts Alliance as well as several other theatres throughout our state have been essential to the expansion of the arts. Community involvement has been a major part of John's life. He serves on the Macon Cherry Blossom Festival Board of Directors. His longtime membership to the Macon Kiwanis Club and the Macon Mayor's President Club show his continued support to the city. He has served as Chairman of the Macon Park and Recreation and Honorary Chairman of the Sports Challenge for Cystic Fibrosis. John's accomplishments and contributions over the years have been an extraordinary service to his community and the state. Our nation needs more men and women like John. I consider him to be a friend, and I am extremely pleased to represent John in the 8th District of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, strong communities are the building block of a strong nation. Therefore, I commend John Shoemaker for making our community and our nation a better place.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Chairman, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia, provides critical training for a range of federal law enforcement personnel as well as state, local, foreign, and private sector security personnel. I want to associate myself with the remarks of my colleague from Georgia, Mr. Kingston, who has so effectively lead the effort to ensure that FLETC has adequate resources and support to continue to do its job so well. In the war on terrorism, FLETC's role will become even more important. Training at the center has grown significantly since it first opened in 1970 and now serves the training needs of over 70 federal agencies in all three branches of government with 25 thousand graduates annually. The proposal we are discussing today will put nine law enforcement and security functions in the Department of Homeland Security. FLETC trains security personnel in each of these agencies and through its well-established network offers a unique training resource to all levels of federal, state, and local law enforcement. Newer roles for FLETC include training our air marshals and, hopefully, our pilots to provide an additional layer of aviation security. I strongly support the Kingston amendment. We need to ensure that we have a robust law enforcement and security force that can effectively provide security for our nation. The men and women who conduct this critical training at FLETC are an integral part of our national security. While the bill transfers FLETC to the Department of Justice, this important amendment will ensure that we minimize the impact to its operations as much as possible and allow the important work taking place at FLETC to continue. I hope that my colleagues will join us in doing all we can to enhance the ability of FLETC to quickly and flexibly respond to the new training demands of the war on terrorism.

Mr. CHAMBLISS

Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.