Danny Davis

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. As a member of the House Committee on Government Reform, I am pleased to join the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Shays) and the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Boren) in consideration of H.R. 1082, legislation naming a postal facility in Vinita, Oklahoma after the late Francis C. Goodpaster. This measure, of course, was introduced by the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Boren) on March 3, 2005, and unanimously reported by our committee on April 13, 2005, and it enjoys the support and cosponsorship of the entire Oklahoma delegation. As we have heard, Mr. Goodpaster was indeed a ``man for all seasons,'' very active in his community, totally committed to his country, and I join with my colleagues in suggesting that there is no better person to name a United States postal facility after than Mr. Francis Goodpaster. So I join with my colleagues in urging swift passage. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Boren), the sponsor of this legislation.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I understand that Representative Rob Portman's last day was Friday of last week. President Bush appointed him to be the U.S. Trade Representative, and Rob has gone off to pursue those duties. I want to wish him well. Rob and I worked closely together, and we introduced something called the Second Chance Reentry Act, to assist inmates coming home from prison to rehabilitate and redeploy and redevelop and reestablish their lives. I have never enjoyed working more with a Member who was dedicated to what he was attempting to do, totally committed, willing to compromise; and we have a bill that we think will go a long way toward assisting these individuals. And so I trust that in memory of the great work that Rob Portman did, all of us will support the Second Chance Reentry Act and continue the work that Rob was so proud of. Rob, we thank you.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of National Teacher's Day, which is taking place today. This week (May 1- May 7) is Teacher Appreciation Week, and as we continually work to improve the American education system, we should take time to honor the hardworking, patient, passionate and understanding people who are the backbone of this system. National Teacher's Day began due to the persistence of Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte who wrote to politicians and education leaders starting in 1944 pushing for a national day to honor teachers. Eleanor Roosevelt persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim such a day in 1953. In March 1985, the National Education Association, NEA, and the National Parent-Teacher Association, PTA, established Teacher Appreciation Week as the first full week of May, with the first Tuesday remaining as National Teacher's Day. As a former educator, I can attest to the great responsibility that falls on the shoulders of teachers. This responsibility is accepted with aplomb by energetic, passionate and caring teachers who are dedicated to bettering the lives of their students. Teachers are a guiding force in the lives of our youth, just as they were for us when we were children. As Dan Rather once explained, ``The dream begins with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau. . . .'' Children are the key to the future of the United States, and we entrust them to the incredible corps of teachers who give everything they have, each day they enter the classroom. Today, let us remember the teacher's who pushed us to greatness and let us show our appreciation for these teachers and the teacher's of today's children, who through their intense dedication leave lasting contributions on our society as a whole.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a bill I introduced expressing the need for further study of the neurological disorder dystonia. Dystonia is characterized by powerful and painful muscle spasms that cause the body to pull into distorted postures. It is the third most common movement disorder after Parkinson's disease and Tremor. Dystonia affects more people than better known and more thoroughly researched diseases such as Huntington's disease, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig's disease. Three hundred thousand Americans suffer from dystonia, and it affects all ages, genders and ethnic backgrounds. Currently there is no cure for dystonia, which means only the symptoms can be treated. Led by the National Institutes of Health which recently announced a program entitled ``Studies into the Causes and Mechanisms of Dystonia'', I ask that Congress act to support increased funding and research for this debilitating disease. To personalize the importance of research pertaining to dystonia, let me tell a short story about Art Kessler, a man from the 7th District of Illinois, who was diagnosed at age 12 with early-onset dystonia. He and his wife, Wendy, decided to remain childless to prevent another life from being burdened with dystonia. However, due to recent technological advances and a ground breaking procedure called preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), Mr. Kessler and his wife are the proud parents of a dystonia-free child. Benjamin is the first child ever to be born using PGD. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution to bring increased public awareness about dystonia and to encourage future research into the causes and possible cures. The efforts put forth by agencies such as the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders have been very valuable, but more needs to be done. Let us strive to make success stories like that of Mr. Kessler everyday occurrences. This is the path we hope to take by supporting and eventually passing this resolution.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, in my community, there is an old saying that goes: After all is said and done, much more is said than done. Now, we have heard a great deal about what some people have called the do-nothing, the empty-promises Small Business Bill of Rights. The gentleman from Florida asked the question, if you vote against this, what are you really voting against? What you are voting against is the gamesmanship of playing games with the needs of small businesses. Yes, small businesses need some things. They need access to capital, money, cash. They need venture capital, money, cash to expand and grow their businesses. They need protection from the inopportunity to do business. They need the big contracts broken up, unbundled, so that they can compete. So they need assistance. They do not need rhetorical commentary, they do not need advice, they need help. I am afraid that my colleagues have been correct. This legislation is full of empty promises. As my colleague from North Carolina said, sound and fury signify nothing. We all love small businesses, but we want them to know the truth. The Bible says, ``Know ye the truth, and the truth will set you free.'' The truth is, this administration has not been supportive of small businesses.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Committee on Government Reform, I am pleased to join in the consideration of H.R. 1524, legislation designating a postal facility in Overland Park, Kansas, after Mayor Ed Eilert. This measure, which was introduced by the gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Moore) on April 6, 2005, enjoys the support and cosponsorship of the entire Kansas State delegation. Ed Eilert was first elected in 1981. As mayor of Overland Park for 24 years, he worked hard to improve the condition of his city. The population has doubled, the number of projects tripled, and the number of hotels has increased dramatically. Business and opportunities have also grown. A convention center is now home to Overland Park, and more hospitals have been added. Overland Park is now Kansas' second largest city. The growth occurred under the leadership and vision of Mayor Eilert. This week Mayor Eilert steps down from his position, and what a wonderful way to honor the achievements of Ed Eilert. I join my colleagues in honoring Mayor Ed Eilert and urge the swift passage of this bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Moore).

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. As a member of the House Committee on Government Reform, I am pleased to join my colleague in consideration of H.R. 1236, legislation designating the postal facility in Sparks, Nevada, after the late Tony Armstrong, mayor of Sparks. This measure, which was introduced by our colleague, the gentleman from Nevada (Mr. Gibbons) on March 2005, enjoys the support and co-sponsorship of the entire Nevada State delegation. Tony Armstrong grew up in Sparks, Nevada, and after serving in the Nevada Air National Guard and opening a general contracting business, he was elected in 1989 to the Sparks City Council, representing Ward Three. Ten years later, in 1999, he was elected mayor of Sparks. During his tenure as mayor, he worked hard to promote the image of his city. Sadly, he passed away on January 29, 2005. Mayor Armstrong left behind his wife, two sons, and a daughter. Mr. Speaker, I urge swift passage of this bill and note that it is definitely a way to honor the work of the mayor of Sparks, Nevada. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I want to join my colleague, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. LaTourette) by stating my strong support for H. Con. Res. 41, recognizing the second century of Big Brothers Big Sisters and supporting the mission and goals of that organization. Mr. Speaker, 2004 marked the 100th anniversary of Big Brothers Big Sisters, one of the Nation's greatest civic programs. Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest and largest youth-mentoring organization in the United States. As of last year, the organization served an astounding 225,000 youth between the ages of 5 and 18 in 5,000 communities across the country. Research has demonstrated that mentoring helps at-risk youth overcome the many obstacles they face in their lives. Youths in the program, or ``Littles'' as they are called, are less likely to use illegal drugs, consume alcohol, skip school, or engage in acts of violence. I want to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Schiff) for introducing this important legislation. Big Brothers Big Sisters has made a positive impact on the lives of impoverished young people, especially, and others throughout the Nation. We all owe them a great debt of gratitude, and I trust they will have success as they continue in their work. On a very personal note, Mr. Speaker, I had the good fortune to serve as a Big Brother to a little brother of mine, who then went on to become a staff person and work for the Mayor, Sharon Pratt, of Washington, D.C., and then went on to work for Vice President Al Gore, eventually becoming, and he is now, the minister and pastor of a church out in Maryland. So I know that the Big Brothers program is a good program; that it does work, because Reverend Courtney Miller is a prime example of that. And I certainly wish Courtney well as we wish the continuation of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, it is important that we acknowledge from time to time our individual histories and what makes us unique. I believe that it is our differences that make our Nation strong. Therefore, I am very happy to join the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Tom Davis), the distinguished chairman of the House Committee on Government Reform, in support of H. Res. 227, recognizing and honoring the contributions of Indian Americans to economic innovation and to society generally. According to a 2000 census, the Indian American population stands at over 1.6 million. This represents a 106 percent increase over the 1990 census figures. In fact, Indian Americans are the largest-growing Asian American community in the United States. In addition to being a growing community within our society, the Indian American population also is a wonderful contributor to our Nation's well-being. The Indian American median family income is $60,093, which is significantly higher than the national median family income of $38,885. This high-income level is not only an example of their determination and hard work, but it is also a testament to the strong regard they hold for education. More than 87 percent of Indian Americans have completed high school, while at least 62 percent have completed some college. The value that members of the Indian American community place on education allows them and helps them to succeed in this country and to become positive role models and economic forces for all of us. As our Nation struggles to teach the value of education to our young, I strongly believe that we should hold in high regard the Indian American community's commitment to higher education. It is indeed inspirational. So once again, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Tom Davis) for his leadership on this issue and reiterate my strong support for H. Res. 227. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield 6 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa), the sponsor of this legislation.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Cuellar).

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I simply want to commend and congratulate the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa) for his outstanding recognition and sensitivity and in raising awareness relative to the contributions of local residents of his congressional district. People who would otherwise never be heard of or heard from, he takes the time to highlight their accomplishments and their achievements. I commend the gentleman for it, join in full support of this legislation, and urge its swift passage.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, during the recess, I was privileged to visit the country of Sri Lanka where there exists tension and sometimes open warfare between the government and the Tamilians. Fortunately, partially as a result of the tsunami, there is a cease fire. I trust that the cease fire will continue, that a peaceful accord will be reached. But in the meantime, I would urge that we do everything within our power to make sure that relief resources are equally and fairly deployed throughout all areas of the country that were, in fact, affected. There is a tremendous resolve to try and arrive at peace. I hope, Mr. Speaker, that we will help.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to yield such time as he might consume to the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Boren), a new Member of the House and a cosponsor of this resolution from the 2nd District of Oklahoma.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, the United States was forever changed on April 19, 1995, at 9:02 a.m. Central time. What began as a perfect spring day in Oklahoma City, quickly turned into a nightmare when a bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 people and injuring more than 850. Today, as we reflect on that horrific event, I am proud to stand before you in support of H. Res. 184, recognizing a National Week of Hope in commemoration of the 10th-year anniversary of the terrorist bombing in Oklahoma City. So much has changed since that fateful day. No longer do we as American citizens believe that we are isolated from terror. We know that the threat of another terrorist attack is very real. In the face of this threat, however, we have chosen to face our fears and to work together to keep our country safe. Immediately following the explosion on April 19, the true character of Americans emerged. Law enforcement personnel, bystanders, and those who had narrowly escaped harm rushed toward danger to attend to those who were injured by the explosion. Because of their heroism, many lives that otherwise would have been lost were saved that day. In Oklahoma City today, where the Alfred Murrah Building once stood, stands a poignant memorial that reminds us of each cherished life that was lost that tragic day. It also serves as an important reminder to all of us that each day is truly a blessing. Mr. Speaker, I want to state my emphatic support for this bill. The National Week of Hope will provide all Americans with the opportunity to reflect on the importance and value of human life. The National Week of Hope will include a day of faith, a day of understanding, a day of remembrance, a day of sharing, a day of tolerance, a day of caring, and a day of inspiration. Each day represents a core value that reflects the strength of our Nation. I want to thank the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Istook) for introducing this meaningful legislation. I pray that all Americans will take cognizance of it and continue to demonstrate the bravery and compassion that were exhibited that tragic day in Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to yield such time as she might consume to the gentlewoman from California, (Ms. Watson) who is the author of this legislation.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I might consume to close for our side. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the House Government Reform Committee, I am pleased to join my colleagues in consideration of H.R. 504, legislation naming a postal facility in Los Angeles, California, after the legendary Ray Charles. H.R. 504 was introduced by my good friend and colleague, the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Watson), on February 1, 2005, and unanimously reported by our committee on April 13, 2005. The bill enjoys the support of the entire California delegation. As we have already heard, Ray Charles was born in Albany, Georgia, on September 23, 1930, and moved with his family to Greenville, Florida. And like later in his life, Charles's childhood was one marked by tragedy and hardship. At age 5, he watched helplessly as his brother drowned to death in the family bathtub. That same year he became inflicted with glaucoma and lost his sight altogether by the age of 7. By age 15, both of his parents had died. Displaying courage far beyond his years, Ray Charles persevered during this time of unimaginable hardship. Determined to make something of his life, Ray Charles turned to music. After playing in local clubs, Charles decided that Florida was not the place for his budding music career. So at age 17 he decided to move to Seattle and sing in a band playing Nat King Cole-style music at area nightclubs. In Seattle, Ray Charles's unparalleled skill drew rave reviews, and he had his first hit at age 19 with the rhythm and blues hit, ``Confession Blues.'' In all, Ray Charles would win an astounding 12 Grammy Awards, including three in 3 consecutive years for ``Hit the Road Jack,'' ``I Can't Stop Loving You,'' and ``Busted.'' Once when Ray Charles was asked if he ever considered taking it easy following all of the success he had had, Charles quickly responded, for what? Music is like a part of me. It is not something I do on the side. It is like my blood line, like my breathing apparatus. Tragically, Ray Charles did not live long enough to witness the success of the movie hit ``Ray'' that told the story of his life. He died on June 10, last year, shortly before the movie's release. Jamie Foxx did an exemplary job portraying Ray Charles. The story of Mr. Charles's life is so compelling that it is hard to imagine the American public not becoming engrossed in the story of his life. Ray Charles was truly a man for all seasons, and an incredible gospel, jazz, blues and big band artist, all rolled in one. He has his own star on Hollywood Boulevard's Walk of Fame. He is the recipient of a bronze medallion presented by the French Republic. His version of Hoagy Carmichael's ``Georgia on My Mind,'' was named the Georgia State song, and he was one of the original inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Watson) for introducing this legislation. Ray Charles was and will always be an American hero and icon. He has given the American people and the entire world the everlasting gift of his beautiful music. I commend my colleague for seeking to honor the legacy of Ray Charles in this manner. Mr. Speaker, I know that the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Conyers), as well as the gentleman from New York (Mr. Serrano) who are both great patrons of the arts and tremendous lovers of music had intended to be here to make some comments. Unfortunately, they could not. So I would urge swift passage of this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the House Committee on Government Reform, I am pleased to join my colleague in consideration of the H.R. 1001, legislation naming a U.S. postal facility in Pflugerville, Texas, after Sergeant Byron Norwood. H.R. 1001 was introduced by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. McCaul) on March 1, 2005 and unanimously reported by our committee on April 13, 2005. The bill enjoys the support and cosponsorship of the entire Texas delegation. Sergeant Byron W. Norwood died on November 13, 2004, as a result of enemy action in Fallujah. Sergeant Norwood was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, in Camp Pendleton in California before being deployed to Iraq. Sergeant Norwood was recognized by the President posthumously during his State of the Union address for his bravery and sacrifice to our country. The President also recognized Sergeant Norwood's parents, Janet and Bill, for the tremendous grace they displayed in the wake of their son's death. A native of Texas, Byron was well liked by his fellow soldiers because not only was he an exemplary soldier, but he was also a terrific person. He was described by members of his regiment as a person who was not afraid to show his emotions, and was always there to listen and lend support to his friends during difficult times. Mr. Speaker, it is important that during times of war we take time to remember its human cost, that people as loving and caring as Sergeant Byron Norwood are sacrificing their lives to protect ours. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. McCaul) for introducing this legislation. It is a wonderful tribute to a great man and an extraordinary soldier. I urge swift adoption of this bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, although Women's History Month has just ended, while riding back on the airplane from Sri Lanka, I was thinking of the community where I live and decided to write this article about some of the women who have helped shape the Westside of Chicago. Obviously, there are many additional women who I could have featured and, hopefully, I will have an opportunity to do that some day. Needed: A New Generation of Community Leaders The recent passing of Ms. Leola Spann jarred my thoughts and inspired me to write to put these thoughts down on paper. Ms. Spann was a delightful, committed, dedicated, visionary, hardworking woman of great integrity. She was willing to work hard for what she believed. She revitalized the Northwest Austin Council and kept it alive and thriving until she could work no more. Now we face the question: Who will be the next Leola Spann? The Westside of Chicago has been rich with people like Leola Spann. Mary Volpe for many years lived, ate, slept, dreamed her commitment to the Northeast Austin Organization. She worked in a bi-racial environment as her community was experiencing transition, yet she never wavered, and remained steadfast until she could go no more. Who will be the next Mary Volpe? Illinois Daggett moved with her husband, Jerry and their children, from the Near Westside to Austin at the beginning of its great transition: a period of block-busting, panic peddling, racial turmoil and community instability. She immediately established herself as an activist and community leader. She became a seriously fierce advocate for education, mental health and community stabilization. She founded, and operated for several years, the Austin Developmental Center, was a WVON ``On Target'' radio talk show host and a social service professional. Unfortunately, Illa was injured by an insane man at her job on the Near Northside where she was running a City of Chicago Community Service Center. As a result of her injuries Illa has been in a coma for the last fifteen or so years. Who will be the next Illinois Daggett? The death of Pope John Paul II has caused me to think of Nancy Jefferson, who used to be called the Mother Theresa of the Westside. Nancy was a crusading nurse and social worker who became Executive Director of the Midwest Community Council. In this role Nancy became a premier protector and promoter of the Westside of Chicago which had been the last port of entry for large numbers of African Americans migrating to Chicago from the rural South. Nancy and the Midwest Community Council set up social service programs, organized block clubs and other self help activities, got people actively involved in politics, was credited with helping to elect Jane Byrne Mayor, was one of the architects of the Harold Washington campaigns and was instrumental in getting Leroy Martin appointed Superintendent of Police. Who will be the next Nancy Jefferson? Obviously this is a call for new leadership. Nobody appointed these women, nobody moved out of their way, nobody decreed that these women should lead. They simply stepped up to the plate, did what they did, led where they went, and made valuable contributions to the community. You can too!

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to S. 256. It abuses the people.