Joe Courtney

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, on May 7 the largest private employer in the State of Connecticut, United Technologies Corporation, announced a decision to implement dependent coverage up to age 26 for their 30,000 employees and families. They took advantage of an IRS ruling which was issued April 23 to implement this change, which will make a huge difference for adult children of their workforce. Too often at commencement ceremonies, which are taking place all across the country, kids are given a diploma and then a notice that they are coming off their parents' health insurance plan. With the health insurance reform bill, this is now a thing of the past, and UTC has set a great example for employers all across the country to implement this change as soon as possible. Yesterday, Mohegan Sun Casino, with 10,000 employees, issued the same decision for its employees. This is going to make a difference for families and adult children. I spoke to a mother of a 22-year-old who has been hospitalized numerous times, and she was in tears. She was so excited that her daughter will be able to continue to receive the care that she needs, which otherwise would never have been available if we had not passed the health care reform bill.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the men and women of the United States Military who served our nation with honor and dignity during the Korean War. I would like to particularly note the service of Connecticut's veterans who served during that conflict. On June 25, 1950, soldiers from North Korea invaded South Korea and within days quickly secured the South Korean capital of Seoul. Only two days later, on June 27, President Harry Truman ordered the U.S. military to give the South Korean Government troops cover and support. Less than three months later, on September 15, 1950, United States forces under the command of General Douglas MacArthur successfully invaded Inchon stunning the North Korean military. Over the following years, a series of battles were fought between North Korean and South Korean forces aided primarily by U.S. forces as well as those from some twenty countries. Tragically, some 37,000 members of the U.S. Armed Forces lost their lives fighting in the Korean War and sadly their sacrifices have in some circles been forgotten or marginalized over time. We must never allow this to happen to those men and women who have served and given so much in defense of our freedom, and that is why I stand here today in the House of Representatives to honor them. In my home state of Connecticut, thousands of men and women answered the call of duty and many of those gave the ultimate sacrifice. This week, in the town of East Lyme, veterans, family members and local citizens will join together to honor the service of the men and women who served in the Korean War. I would like to particularly thank Joyce Harris, President of the East Lyme Veterans Council for her efforts to put this event together and all those veterans who will be in attendance for this event. We owe these men and women our respect and our thanks, and we must honor the commitments that have been made to these veterans and their families. I ask that all members of the House join me in that effort.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Peter A. Reilly of Connecticut who passed away on April 26, 2010. Peter Reilly, or the ``Commish'' as he was called to those who knew him best, was a giant in the Connecticut Labor Movement. Peter joined the Iron Workers Local #15 in 1951. After 12 years as a member, Peter took on the role of Business Agent in 1963 before retiring as the Financial Secretary-Treasurer and Business Manager after 35 years of tireless service. Peter always stood up for the little guy, and he never wavered in the fight to protect the interests of Connecticut's working men and women. Peter was also a dedicated public servant. He was a member of the U.S. Army and Merchant Marines, and served our nation honorably during World War II. In his later years he served in a variety of posts on various state boards and committees during the administrations of Governors Dempsey, Meskill, Grasso and O'Neill, carrying his belief in fair wages and standards for the working men and women he cared so deeply about. He later served as Deputy Commissioner and then Commissioner for the Connecticut Department of Labor under Governor Ella Grasso. On a personal note, I had the privilege to meet Commissioner Reilly as a newly elected state representative in 1987 and he was extremely kind and helpful to me. I learned a lot from him and became his friend for life. While his dedication to his union brothers and sisters was never far from his mind, it was Peter's family that defined his life. While long days on the job often kept him away from home, his beloved wife Ruby, who stood by him for 54 years, including on the day he passed, his son Ed and his daughters Marie and Ruby, were never far from his thoughts. He is survived by them and his sister Marge Stempkowski, as well as six grandchildren. Madam Speaker, the working men and women of Connecticut have lost a great champion, and many like myself have lost a dear friend. I ask that all members join me in honoring the life and service of the ``Commish'', Peter A. Reilly.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise. today to join the millions of men and women across our country that will stand in silence today to honor the memory of those individuals who have lost their lives or have been injured on the job. Today, April 28, 2010, is Workers' Memorial Day, a day created by the AFL-CIO and its membership, on which we honor all working men and women in this country for their sacrifice and dedication. The first Workers' Memorial Day was celebrated in the United States on April 28, 1989. The date was chosen because it was the anniversary of the establishment of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Since its inception, OSHA has worked to protect employees on job sites across the country. While OSHA has done a great deal to protect the safety and interests of workers, more must be done to protect workers and hold accountable those employers who fail to ensure the safety of their employees. This years' Workers' Memorial Day has a special significance for those of us in Connecticut. It was a little more than two months ago that on February 7, 2010, 6 workers lost their lives and another 26 were injured when an explosion occurred at the Kleen Energy plant in Middletown, CT. This horrific accident should never have happened and it is the responsibility of each and every one of us to not only honor the memory of those that were lost, but to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again. Madam Speaker, I ask that all my colleagues join me and working men and women around the country in remembering the men and women who have been killed or injured on the job and to honor the families whom have lost so much.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, last Friday, the U.S. Department of Commerce released figures for March for the sale of single family homes. It increased by 27 percent, the biggest increase since 1963. We are finally starting to see real signs of recovery in the housing market, but it didn't happen by itself entirely. Prices have certainly gone down, there are good rates available out there, but programs like the one Congressman Kanjorski's legislation will protect and nurture have been a huge reason why we've seen the growth in numbers that the U.S. Department of Commerce reported last week. The 502 program in eastern Connecticut has been a lifeline throughout 2009 and early 2010 where, again, the spike in numbers that Mr. Kanjorski described has been a reality and has allowed, again, the market to thrive, but also to provide people an avenue to obtain financing that otherwise they never would have been able to get in the regular market. As was said by the Congresswoman from West Virginia, lenders are holding their breath, homeowners are holding their breath, and the first-time homebuyer tax credit is about to expire in a few days. Passing this legislation which will provide an avenue to protect this program will continue the upward momentum that we are finally starting to see in the housing market. Again, I congratulate Mr. Kanjorski for his creative solution to this problem, which will not cost the taxpayers additional funds, but will keep, again, a growing real estate market moving in the right direction.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, February 7, 2010, while a lot of families were returning from church, myself included, an explosion occurred at the Kleen Energy power plant in Middletown, Connecticut, a plant that was under construction--a new natural gas plant--where workers, particularly from Local 777 of the Plumbers and Pipefitters, were there as almost a nonstop series of shifts to get the plant online since a lot of the power credits had already been sold to the owners. It was an explosion which took place in the middle of the State of Connecticut. It was heard as far away as Long Island Sound. That was the size and violence of the explosion. They were purging the natural gas power lines. There was a buildup of natural gas. Unfortunately, there was some ignition that caused the explosion to take place. Six workers were killed. Twenty-six more were injured. Among them was Raymond Dobratz of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, someone who was a father and a grandfather, a beautiful family. He was very active in the community. The other was Ronnie Crabb of Colchester, Connecticut. Ronnie is a friend of mine. His wife, Jodi Thomas, is the probate judge in Colchester, Connecticut. A young family. Ronnie was somebody who was so devoted to his wife and child and also would do anything in the community, whether it was raising money for charities, being involved in Little League, being involved in his union. The loss is something that is still felt so deeply in the community because of what a wonderful person he was. The Education and Labor Committee, under Congresswoman Woolsey's leadership and Mr. Miller, is going to conduct a study because there are certain rules that have now been recommended by the Chemical Safety Board for power plant construction because there is a wave of natural gas power plants that are under construction because of the Energy Act. The fact of the matter is, the law has not caught up with the technology that surrounds this very dangerous work. I, again, applaud Congresswoman Woolsey for bringing this motion forward. But to honestly honor these individuals who lost their lives, we need to make sure that the laws are enacted to make sure that there are real protections for workers and their families and we don't have situations like the Crabb family and Dobratz family are experiencing today.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Kenneth Sullivan for his heroic response to a potentially disastrous situation during the severe flooding of eastern Connecticut last month. Kenneth is the director of the Jewett City Department of Public Utilities, which controls the Jewett City Sewage Treatment Plant. With the Quinebaug River rising rapidly at the peak of the storm, Kenneth immediately recognized that the $19.6 million plant and local residents were in danger and, with the help of his colleagues, moved quickly to avert disaster. I had the opportunity to visit the plant with Griswold First Selectman Philip Anthony during this emergency and saw firsthand Kenneth's great work and leadership as he rallied people from around the region to help protect the plant. A soon as he realized the severity of the situation, Kenneth contacted state emergency preparedness and environmental organizations as well as summoned the help of the National Guard. He worked around the clock with colleagues, town employees, and local firefighters to surround the plant's pump station with sandbags and prevent the floodwaters from overrunning it. At one point during the storm, the water was said to have risen three feet in one hour. If it were to rise any higher than it did, close to 2,000 homes and the Quinebaug River itself would have been contaminated with backed-up, raw sewage. By the end of the 36-hour ordeal, the integrity of the plant's structures remained and no sewage was lost. Kenneth was faced with a worst case scenario and achieved the best possible outcome through diligent planning and coordination. Not only was he wise to take advantage of the resources available to him, but he saw this job through and did so without hesitation. I ask all Members of the House to join me in honoring Kenneth Sullivan for his undying sense of service and commitment to the people of eastern Connecticut.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, Vince Lombardi, the legendary NFL coach once said, ``Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.'' That beautiful statement, I think, really describes to a ``T'' the UConn women's basketball team, which today stands as a history-making organization with 78 straight wins. They are now only 9 wins short of catching the record by the UCLA men's basketball team led by Coach Wooden back in the 1960s. And there are a lot of us in Connecticut, and I am proud to represent the district where the University of Connecticut is located, who are confident that we are actually going to see that milestone fall sometime during next year's basketball season because of the amazing talent that has been assembled at the University of Connecticut campus, but also the system that Coach Auriemma has put together over the last number of years. Again, I want to thank the other Members who have gone through chapter and verse, in terms of the incredible season, which the UConn women accomplished. Again, it's a team that last year won the national title. There was tremendous pressure every single game to see whether or not their winning streak would actually come to an end. Every team that played them was as pumped up and psyched as any game on their schedule because they saw it as an opportunity to make history, and the pressure on the UConn women Huskies was extraordinary, as was the national media focus as the program, again, advanced its amazing record from one game to another. Again, it was something that these young men and women had to demonstrate that they were capable of overcoming. As the proponent said earlier, the thing that we are so proud about is that Coach Auriemma has maintained a program where academic excellence, the true ideal of student athletes, is something that has never been forgotten. The graduation rate has been perfect since he has been there. It's, again, a great role model for not just young girls in the U.S. but also young boys in terms of really the goal of a student athlete path towards success in life. Mr. Speaker, last year when the UConn women won the national title, they had the exciting honor to go visit the White House for an event at the Rose Garden. President Obama, who was obviously, as we all know, a big basketball fan, welcomed them to the White House. And as the father of two young girls, he spent a lot of time with them, getting a chance to become acquainted and then, actually, challenged them to a game of H-O-R-S-E in the outdoor basketball court which exists at the White House. Much to the astonishment of people in Connecticut, and also to the women's basketball team, President Obama actually won the game of H-O- R-S-E. And at a reception that we had a short time afterwards, the women were very upset with themselves, but also pointed out correctly that they were playing in high heels and dresses while the President had flat shoes and certainly, I think, had some advantage in terms of that impromptu pickup game which took place last year. At the Christmas party this year, which I am sure maybe you and others in the Chamber had an opportunity to attend, I reminded the President that the women at UConn were still pretty upset about the fact that they lost that game of H-O-R-S-E at the White House. Mrs. Obama, who is ever gracious, leaned over and said, well, we will invite them back to come back and play again. And I told both the President and the First Lady, don't worry, UConn women are coming back with an invitation, because they are going to win the national title in the 2010 season. So they have lived up to my prediction, which was made at the Christmas gathering at the White House last year. In a short time, I am sure there will be another Rose Garden celebration of their extraordinary success. I would bet my house and car that they are this year going to win the game of H-O-R-S-E, which they are spoiling for a rematch at the White House with the President. Again, it's something that the people of the State of Connecticut are so proud of there was a huge celebration last Saturday in Hartford. There were over 25,000 people lining the streets of Hartford to cheer on this amazing group of young women and the amazing program which Coach Auriemma has guided. He will now be the U.S. coach for the national team, women's team, and he will be the coach for the next U.S. Olympic team, which he certainly deserves given the amazing record which, again, the prior speakers have described in chapter and verse. Again, Coach Lombardi once said, ``Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.'' This young group of women, I think, have shown that they have certainly achieved excellence and they have just about shown perfection with what they have achieved this year, and I hope that this Chamber will affirm that great accomplishment by unanimous support for this resolution. I thank, again, the Speaker and the proponent for giving me the opportunity to speak on behalf of this resolution.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, today I rise in tribute to an American patriot and fallen Connecticut son. A native of Voluntown, Lance Corporal Tyler Owen Griffin was killed on April 1, 2010 while supporting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He was 19 years old. Tyler attended Griswold High School where he played on the football team. Shortly after graduating with the Class of 2008, he achieved what he considered his lifelong goal of becoming a Marine, joining the Marine Corps the following August. After completing boot camp, Tyler was assigned as a rifleman to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 7, Marine Expeditionary Brigade--Afghanistan. In March 2010 he deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. To appreciate the impact that Tyler had on his community, one only had to point to his funeral service in Voluntown. Flags and banners of support lined the streets as thousands gathered to pay their final respects. All who knew him spoke both of his pride in fulfilling his dream of becoming a Marine and of his respect and compassion for others. Clearly, Tyler was a young man of exceptional character who touched many lives. I had the honor of meeting Tyler's mother Susan and stepfather John last Tuesday and was moved by the courage they showed in the face of their tragic loss. His mother emphasized to me that he died doing what he always wanted to do, and that they were able to gain some degree of comfort from that fact. It is clear to see how such a fine family could raise such an honorable son. In a manner befitting a true American hero, Tyler was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery yesterday in a moving ceremony attended by his family, his friends and his fellow Marines. My wife, Audrey, was honored to attend and join in honoring this young man. There, he has taken his place alongside so many others who paid the ultimate price for the freedom and security we enjoy as United States citizens. Tyler was a remarkable young man, eager to accept the noble task of protecting his Nation on its frontlines, wherever they may be. While his smile may no longer brighten the lives of those around him, the memory of his life shall always endure. Madam Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring Lance Corporal Tyler Griffin and his service to our great Nation. Tyler and his sacrifice will forever be remembered by me, a mourning Connecticut, a grateful Nation, and family members who will never forget him.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the life and legacy of former Vernon, Connecticut, Mayor Frank J. McCoy. Frank passed away on Tuesday, April 6, 2010, at the age of 87. Frank was a monumental figure in his beloved town of Vernon. His lifetime of public service began early, serving as an enlisted man in The U.S. Army for 3 years and attaining the rank of sergeant. As a medic, he saw combat in the European Theater of World War II and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. While this contribution alone would have enshrined him forever as a public hero, Frank chose to continue serving his community for decades. After the war, Frank pursued his education. He graduated from Yale University in 1949 and the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1956. He practiced law for 54 years and served as attorney for the Vernon Fire District during its consolidation with the City of Rockville in forming the Town of Vernon. After two terms on the Vernon Town Council, Frank was first elected Mayor of Vernon in 1969, where he served three consecutive terms. In 1977, he was again elected to a fourth and final term and was the President of the Connecticut Conference of Mayors. Simultaneously, he somehow found time to work as a service officer for the Soldier Sailors Marine Fund for over 40 years helping wartime veterans who were in need of financial assistance. Frank often found ways to combine his love for his community with his love of team sports. In 1960, he formed the Vernon Midget Football League, which eventually led to the creation of the Rockville High School football team. For over 40 years, he coached recreational basketball, baseball, and football in Vernon. In 1965, he formed and sponsored the Vernon Orioles semi-pro baseball team, who won the Greater Hartford Twilight League playoff title in 1996. For Frank, it must have been a truly heartwarming achievement. Frank has now joined his wife Jeanette, who passed away last year. He is survived by his five children and four grandchildren who, like the rest of us, remember him as an exceptional family man, patriot, public servant and sports enthusiast. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in celebrating Frank McCoy's life and offering condolences to his family.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart today to honor the life and legacy of Bill Stanley, an icon in eastern Connecticut, who passed away Sunday, April 18, 2010, at the age of 80. Stanley was a graduate of Norwich Free Academy and attended the New York School of Modern Photography before joining the United States Marine Corps. He returned to civilian life and joined with his brother Jim to co-host the WICH morning radio program. Later he became a stockbroker and published author. The impact that Bill Stanley had on Norwich, Connecticut and its residents was profound. He delighted readers with his newspaper columns titled, ``Once Upon A Time'' which related countless stories of local lore and history to generations of readers in our area. No one individual had a better grasp on the issues and shared history that defined our region than Bill Stanley. He was also one of the most dedicated public servants of his time. He served two terms in the Connecticut State Senate and ran, albeit unsuccessfully, for the Congressional seat I am honored to hold today. While his career as an elected politician may have ended early on, his service to his fellow man continued until the day he died. Bill was active in a number of causes, raising money and supporting William Backus Hospital, Norwich Free Academy, St. Jude's Common, the Norwich Diocese and his beloved Norwich Historical Society which he founded. As everyone in Norwich knows, there wasn't a single major event in recent memory in which Bill was not involved. Along with his love of Norwich, it was his love of history that perhaps motivated Bill most of all. He would regale countless school- children and adults alike with tales of Benedict Arnold and Samuel Huntington. Stanley even gained national attention with his efforts to preserve the legacy of Huntington, who served as President of the Continental Congress. While Stanley may have been ultimately unsuccessful in the effort to establish Huntington as our Nation's first President, he was able to raise more than a $100,000 and public awareness about the importance of Huntington's role in American history. Bill Stanley was an institution in the State of Connecticut and his memory will live on in the hearts and minds of the people he touched. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his beloved wife Margaret, his children William, Carol, and Mary, as well as his grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask that all Members of the House join me in honoring the life and legacy of Bill Stanley.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michelle Alyssa Carilli, the recipient of the National Volunteer Fire Council's Junior Firefighter of the Year Award. Michelle is currently a senior at Coventry High School, which is located in Coventry, Connecticut. Each year the National Volunteer Fire Council conducts a national search to honor a junior firefighter who has gone above and beyond the normal call of duty in his or her commitment to the fire and emergency services. Michelle's outstanding contributions to the Coventry Volunteer Fire Association truly embody what it means to be a junior firefighter. Michelle's family is no stranger to public service, with her father serving as chief of the Coventry Volunteer Fire Department, alongside numerous other relatives. For almost four years, Michelle has dedicated herself to public service in her community. During that time, she raised almost $2,000 so that the Coventry Fire Department could sponsor the Coventry Special Olympics, organized the Volunteer for Life program for her fellow high school students to become first aid certified and led a recruitment campaign to get more students involved with the department which resulted in many of their parents becoming volunteer firefighters and EMTs. She holds the rank of Junior Firefighter Captain and was the first junior firefighter to be named the Coventry Volunteer Fire Association's Emergency Medical Service Provider of the Year. Michelle's performance as a Junior Firefighter is mirrored by her success as a scholar and an athlete. She is an honor roll student at Coventry High School and a captain of the school's State Champion volleyball team. She is also a Varsity basketball player and track athlete. Madam Speaker, public safety in our communities is dependent on outstanding volunteers like Michelle Carilli. Her selfless service to her town, her department, and her school makes her truly deserving of the distinction of Junior Firefighter of the Year. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in recognizing Michelle's contributions and celebrating her award.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, it has been 2 days since President Obama signed this bill into law. And after all the overheated, over-the-top rhetoric about government takeover, you would expect that the health insurance industry would have collapsed in the wake of that act. Well, what have we seen from the stock market in the last few days? Aetna's stock is up, CIGNA's stock is up, United Health Care stock is flat. The fact of the matter is is what we have done is tried to reshape a private health insurance market so that people will have a coherent, understandable benefit that has a minimum level of consumer protection in a provision to make it affordable for working Americans, which will be a healthy, prosperous future for our health insurance industry, which the minority side indicates that that is something that they care about. All they have to do is look at their own benefits, their own purchasing exchange, which, as Members of Congress, they participate in, with a choice of private health insurance plans, comprehensive benefits, no rescissions, no lifetime limits, no annual limits. That's what we are giving to the American people, what Members of Congress have. It's time to move forward and create an end to the days of have and have not.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, today is a proud day for the Mystic Seaport Museum and the city of New London, as our freedom schooner Amistad prepares to sail into Havana Harbor as a floating goodwill ambassador. The Amistad's visit to Cuba culminates its current Caribbean Heritage Tour to help commemorate the United Nations- designated date of March 25 as a Day of Remembrance for the victims of the Atlantic slave trade. The 19th century Amistad Incident ultimately led to a profoundly important U.S. Supreme Court decision that arguably turned the tide against slavery itself. The ship serves as a global icon of racial tolerance and a platform for serious examination of shared history across Africa, Europe, the Caribbean and the United States. Today, the world is watching as the Amistad sails into Havana Harbor to set new milestones for diplomacy and remembrance. Today, from New London to the Caribbean, we honor our common heritage and wish the Amistad fair winds and following seas. The following is a story from the New London Day: Amistad Is Sailing Back To Where Its Story Began (By Ted Mann Day) Havana.--Over a breakfast of melon, eggs and thick, dark Cuban coffee, Quentin Snediker, Maureen Hennessy and William Pinkney seem barely able to stand the wait for the coasting schooner Amistad and its crew to arrive in Cuba. It is a wait older than the ship itself, says Snediker, who was the project coordinator of the design and construction of the Amistad for Mystic Seaport. ``To complete the story, we always felt the vessel had to return here,'' he said on Sunday morning, as he and Pinkney, who was the first in command of the ship when it launched nearly 10 years ago, prepared for a press conference at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Ades to announce the Amistad's impending historic visit to Cuba. ``Here'' means Havana, the Cuban capital and trading center, where the African captives who would make the Amistad famous were auctioned illegally in 1839 as slaves in violation of the Spanish and English treaties banning the international slave trade, and bound for the eastern agricultural districts that made Cuba a power in the sugar and coffee trade. Brought to Havana on a slave ship after being taken captive in Sierra Leone, the 53 men and boys were transferred to the Amistad, a modest vessel that transported goods and freight along the Cuban coastline. In an ornate, wood-paneled room at the Museo Nacional, Cuban historian Miguel Barnet, Pinkney and Snediker took turns reviewing the subsequent twists of the Amistad story for a crowd of about 45 journalists from the Cuban national press, American TV networks and the BBC. Despite the 1807 passage of the Wilberforce Act--whose anniversary, now the United Nations' international day of commemoration for victims of the slave trade, the Amistad will mark with its formal arrival in Havana on Thursday-- Cuba's booming sugar and cattle businesses precipitated a dependence on human slavery. It was a case of ``negocios sucios,'' or ``dirty business,'' Barnet said, but one into which leaders in Cuba and in its colonial patron, Spain, felt driven by necessity. ``Both the Spaniards and the Cubans needed fresh hands,'' he said. The Amistad never reached its destination. The leader of the captives, known as Cinque to his Spanish-speaking handlers, led a revolt that would change not just the history of slavery in Cuba and the Spanish empire, but also in the United States. Picking the locks of their shackles with a nail, the captives seized the ship and killed most of the crew, including Captain Ramon Ferrer, with machetes. The remaining crew members were ordered to steer the Amistad back to Africa--away from the setting sun. But as those crew members tried to sabotage Cinque and the Africans, the Amistad zig-zagged up the east coast of the United States until it was captured off Montauk and towed into the Custom House in New London. The captives, initially put on trial for the killings, would eventually be freed, after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that since they had been taken from Africa in contravention of international treaties banning the slave trade, they could not be property. Instead, the court ruled, Cinque and his countrymen were necessarily men, with a right to defend themselves against those who kept them captive. The Amistad's visit resonates not just with its historical legacy; it is also, Hennessy noted, a rare opportunity for open interchange between the Cuban and U.S. nations, at a time when their respective governments remain at uneasy odds. Hennessy, who, like Snediker, was taking time off from her work at the Mystic Seaport to meet the Amistad and its crew as they arrive in Matanzas today, said the group met over the weekend with officials from the Cuban Ministry of Culture. The ministry plans to broadcast Steven Spielberg's 1997 film ``Amistad'' on one of the state-run television channels Tuesday night, in an attempt to drum up popular interest in the ship's visit. As the press conference concluded Saturday morning, journalists descended on the Amistad representatives, particularly Pinkney, wanting to know if this combined diplomatic effort of the State Department, United Nations and Cuban officials represented a new thawing in mutual relations. The visit comes months after the incoming Obama administration relaxed travel restrictions and other facets of the nearly 50-year U.S. embargo of Cuba, but significant tensions still persist. Billboards on the highway into Havana from Jose Marti International Airport depict the mug shots of Cuban prisoners held in the United States--without cause, according to the Cuban government. And U.S. commentators continue to raise questions about the Cuban government's policies, including its economic system and approach to dissidents. But the Amistad represents shared strands of history, said Barnet, the Cuban historian and writer, and the American visitors agreed. While interviewers continually asked him variations of the question ``can this be a step'' toward normalization, Pinkney said, this visit transcends the political considerations that have divided the two countries. ``Now they're completing the Amistad story by coming into Havana, where it all started,'' he said. ``Here, we have nothing to express but the solidarity of humankind.''

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michaela Meyerhoff as a winner of the first annual ``Lessons of the African- American Experience'' Creative Writing Contest. Michaela is currently in the sixth grade at Preston Plains Middle School, which is located in Preston, Connecticut. In celebration of Black History Month, I sponsored a creative writing contest for all third through eighth grade students within the Second District. As we know, Black History Month is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of our Nation's past. The lessons learned during this month continue to serve as the stepping stones of our Nation's future. Michaela's poem ``What Black History Month Means to Me!'' eloquently embraces this belief. Michaela's poem shows a remarkable enthusiasm for learning that is inspiring to all. She identified the values that she learned during Black History Month and creatively discussed how those values affect her life and the lives of others. For this, her poem was among the four winners selected.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ella Secchiaroli as a winner of the first annual ``Lessons of the African- American Experience'' Creative Writing Contest. Ella is currently in the fifth grade at North Stonington Elementary School, which is located in North Stonington, Connecticut. In celebration of Black History Month, I sponsored a creative writing contest for all third through eighth grade students within the Second District. As we know, Black History Month is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of our nation's past. The lessons learned during this month continue to serve as the stepping stones of our nation's future. Ella's poem eloquently embraces this belief. Ella's poem shows a remarkable enthusiasm for learning that is inspiring to all. She identified the values that she learned during Black History Month and creatively discussed how those values affect her life and the lives of others. For this, her poem was among the four winners selected.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express concerns about three outstanding issues in the final health care reform package: an excise tax on high-cost insurance plans which will be implemented in 2018, cuts to home health care, and the formation of an Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB). Since introduction of the America's Affordable Health Choices Act in July of 2009, my colleagues in Congress and I have been working to craft a health insurance reform bill that creates affordable insurance coverage, lowers costs, and improves access to stable health care that is there when you need it. These efforts have been reflected in the Affordable Health Care for America Act, and Senate-passed Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (H.R. 3590) as modified by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act (H.R. 4872). The final reform package reflects significant progress in terms of limiting the negative impact of an excise tax on high-cost plans on middle class Americans. The 40 percent excise tax on high-cost plans included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act included cost thresholds that were inadequate to account for premium cost factors independent of generosity of benefits, such as age, gender, and region. I authored a letter, with support from 192 of my Democratic colleagues who opposed this proposal. The Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act made significant improvements to the excise tax, such as adopting higher thresholds for age and gender. More importantly, the bill delays the implementation of the tax until 2018, which will allow ample time to better understand its impact--especially in high-cost regions--and mitigate potential negative consequences. Another deficit mitigation component that I have concerns about in the reform package includes Medicare ``market basket updates'' for home health providers. While the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act includes more modest cuts than what was included in the House-passed Affordable Health Care for America Act, I remain concerned about the aggregate size of the cuts to home health care providers. Safeguards in H.R. 3590 such as payment adjustment review authority by the Health and Human Services Secretary should be utilized if ``market basket updates'' prove to be unsustainable for home health care providers in the future. H.R. 3590 also includes provisions that guarantee Medicare home health benefits will not be reduced, which further reiterates the obligation of the Secretary to ensure fair reimbursements. While I supported passing H.R. 3590 as modified by H.R. 4872 to make significant progress in extending and strengthening current health care coverage, I also maintain concerns about the establishment of the IPAB. Over the course of the health care debate, the IPAB--along with the similar proposals of the Independent Medicare Advisory Council, IMAC, Act (H.R. 2718) and the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, MedPAC-- have garnered attention as a mechanism to reduce aggregate health care costs. However, I believe that the solidification of IPAB would be a move in the wrong direction in terms of broad health care reform. Congress has played an integral role in shaping a Medicare system that reflects unique care needs of varying demographics as well as need differences between regions and states. Further, this system has been developed with transparency and accountability in congressional debates. Redirecting control of Medicare to the Executive branch would limit the strengths of the current system, and would continue a disturbing trend of ceding Congressional authority to the Executive branch. That is why I cosigned letters in July and December 2009 opposing the establishment of a Payment Advisory Commission. While I did not support the inclusion of IPAB in the H.R. 3590, I am reassured that the bill does not empower the Board to override Medicare laws. Going forward, I urge that the IPAB conducts business transparently, with public input. I also urge that the Board reach out to all Medicare stakeholders and take seriously the role of the Consumer Advisory Council in the future.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Christiane Lee as a winner of the first annual ``Lessons of the African-American Experience'' Creative Writing Contest. Christiane is currently in the eighth grade at Vernon Center Middle School, which is located in Vernon, Connecticut. In celebration of Black History Month, I sponsored a creative writing contest for all third through eighth grade students within the Second District. As we know, Black History Month is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of our nation's past. The lessons learned during this month continue to serve as the stepping stones of our nation's future. Christiane's essay ``Facing History with Courage'' eloquently embraces this belief. Christiane's essay shows a remarkable enthusiasm for learning that is inspiring to all. She identified the values that she learned during Black History Month and creatively discussed how those values affect her life and the lives of others. For this, her essay was among the four winners selected.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Olivia Perry as a winner of the first annual ``Lessons of the African-American Experience'' Creative Writing Contest. Olivia is currently in the fourth grade at Woodstock Elementary School, which is located in Woodstock, Connecticut. In celebration of Black History Month, I sponsored a creative writing contest for all third through eighth grade students within the Second District. As we know, Black History Month is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of our nation's past. The lessons learned during this month continue to serve as the stepping stones of our nation's future. Olivia's essay ``Perseverance'' eloquently embraces this belief. Olivia's essay shows a remarkable enthusiasm for learning that is inspiring to all. She identified the values that she learned during Black History Month and creatively discussed how those values affect her life and the lives of others. For this, her essay was among the four winners selected.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project of Oxford, Connecticut for the performance of its sleds in the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. The Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project designed and built the Night Train sled that led the United States Four-Man Bobsled Team to win the Gold Medal for the first time in 62 years. Even more incredible than helping the U.S. team claim victory is the mission of this remarkable company. The Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project is one of the great Made in America stories of our time. NASCAR veteran Geoff Bodine had a vision of providing the highest quality, American-made bobsleds to our athletes. He wanted to make sure that they were using not only a domestic product, but one that was able to compete internationally and win. At the time Bo-Dyn was founded, the United States bobsled team purchased and raced used European-made sleds. The members of the team would famously spend much of their time raising money for the sleds and get into physical condition when they weren't doing that. BoDyn changed this by creating an enterprise that funds the research, development, and manufacturing of the sleds. Generous companies like Whelen Manufacturing of Chester make donations that allow the athletes to use the sleds at no charge. Phil Kurze, vice president at Whelen Engineering and president of the Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project, fondly recalls a time when the company turned down offers from generous foreign buyers so that our athletes could have access to a superb and uniquely American sled. I admire the good people of Bo-Dyn for putting their values into practice as they proudly carry their founder's vision. The hard work and creativity of the American people is something that we should all recognize and work hard to perpetuate. For this reason I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring The Bo-Dyn Bobsled Project.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, tonight we are going to answer a question which the tea party on the right to reformers on the left ask constantly, which is, Why can't the American people have access to the same type of benefit that Members of Congress have? It's a good question. Some of the most hysterical voices in opposition have access to a purchasing exchange through the Federal employee benefits plan that has comprehensive benefits, choice, no rescissions, no lifetime caps. And this bill is going to give the American people exactly what Members of Congress have. And in case there is any question about that, section 1312 will make sure that starting in 2014, Members of Congress have to use exactly the same purchasing exchange that the American people will have to use. No more haves and have-nots. No more tax-paying Americans who don't have health insurance, underwriting the health benefits of Members of Congress who would deny them access to quality, affordable health care. It is time to answer that question tonight in the affirmative by passing this legislation.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, in the State of Connecticut last weekend, we had an opportunity to see the health care crisis up close. Mission of Mercy, a national organization that holds free dental clinics, was in Middletown, Connecticut, and Connecticut--the wealthiest per capita income State in America--shattered the Mission of Mercy record, serving 2,045 working adults sleeping in their cars, lining up two nights before to get access to dental care. We're not talking about teeth whitening or teeth cleaning; we're talking about people walking in with abcesses that were so pronounced that it threatened the stability of their jaws, extractions, major surgery. This is the state of health care in America today. There is one group, though, that doesn't have to sleep in their car to get health care: Members of Congress, who participate in a Federal purchasing exchange subsidized by the American taxpayer. Madam Speaker, how do they demonize a plan which they benefit from every single day courtesy of the American taxpayer? I don't know how they do that. This week they have an opportunity to help those people who were lined up in their cars over the weekend to get the same access to care that those people who work every day pay with their taxes. Vote for health care reform.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize and celebrate this week, March 7 through March 13, as Girl Scout Week and the 98th anniversary of Girl Scouting. In the state of Connecticut, we have approximately 44,000 Girl Scouts. I am pleased to see Girl Scouts' strong commitment to enriching the lives of young females, and contributing to our nation's communities, evolve over the past 98 years. Juliette Gordon Low founded Girl Scouts in 1912. Since then, the organization's membership has grown from 18 members in Savannah, Georgia to 3.4 million members throughout the United States, including U.S. territories, and more than 90 countries through USA Girl Scouts Overseas. Today, there are over 2.4 million girl members, including my daughter, and 928,000 adult members working primarily as volunteers. Throughout history, more than 50 million American women enjoyed Girl Scouting during their childhood. That number continues to grow as Girl Scouts of the USA continues to inspire, challenge, and empower girls everywhere. The Girls Scouts' mission includes building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make our country and the world a better place. The organization motivates these young women to have fun, create meaningful friendships, and discover the power of young women working together. Through enriching experiences such as extraordinary field trips, skill-building clinics, community service projects, cultural exchanges, and environmental stewardships, girls grow courageous and strong. Girl Scouting encourages girls to develop to their full individual potential; to relate to others with increasing understanding, skill, and respect; to develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decision-making; and to contribute to the improvement of society through their abilities, leadership skills, and cooperation with others. I know that Connecticut's young women will continue to benefit from the Girl Scouts program for generations to come. That is why we are thankful for the outstanding work they have done in eastern Connecticut communities. Girl Scouts' commitment to community and empowering women and girls is certain to continue to enrich our communities for many more years. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in recognizing and celebrating Girl Scout Week and the 98th anniversary of Girl Scouting.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, as we've heard this morning, in the last month this country has been subjected to jaw-dropping increases of health insurance rates--39 percent in California, over 20 percent in the State of Connecticut. Small businesses and the self-employed are being asked to make a choice between jobs and paying for health care. But it is not just limited to small businesses. School districts that are now putting together their school budgets are getting increases. In the State of Connecticut, 14 percent increase in Coventry, 16 percent in Old Saybrook, 18 percent in Clinton, 21 percent in Plainfield, and 25 percent in Waterford. For school districts who cannot afford their budgets because of the bad economy, they are now going to be forced with making choices between laying off teachers, closing schools, forcing our kids into bigger school classrooms, or paying for health insurance. For those who say start over, the insurance companies aren't going to start over. These school districts have to make decisions now, and it is time for this Congress to make a decision now to reform our health care system, protect our school districts, and help small businesses who are getting killed with these rate increases.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate and honor the 31st Annual Windham Special Olympics Invitational Swim Meet. This Saturday, I will have the great pleasure of attending the Opening Ceremony of this event with hundreds of athletes, families and volunteers from around the region. I am familiar with the good work of Special Olympics Connecticut and am particularly excited for Saturday's meet. All of the events that the Special Olympics organizes are first and foremost about the athletes who participate in them. They provide a unique opportunity for these individuals to compete and learn the benefits of regular training and physical fitness activities. In addition to the athletic component, I want to highlight the overwhelmingly positive impact that Special Olympics competitions have on the lives of the athletes. The social, educational, and professional skills that are gained from mere involvement in these programs are outcomes that the organization and the athletes should be tremendously proud of. I also want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the many volunteers and other members of the community that make each and every Special Olympics event possible. Without them, the athletes and their families could not enjoy the activities and terrific memories that come from these events. Thank you for all your service and good luck to the athletes competing in the Windham Special Olympics Invitational Swim Meet.