Rosa DeLauro

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, as we speak, the administration is negotiating a strategic framework agreement with Iraq that goes well beyond the typical Status of Forces Agreement. Contrary to what my colleague, Mr. Hunter says, from California, essentially it does amount to a treaty. Read the words of the Declaration of Principles. It will need to be ratified by the Iraqi Parliament and therefore it must be ratified by the United States Congress as well. This is the issue that goes to the heart of our constitutional duties as a Congress and the power to declare war, with which we have been entrusted as representatives. After voting against this war, I have supported the goal of responsibly redeploying our troops for over 2 years, and after President Bush and Prime Minister al-Maliki signed the Declaration of Principles last year. It is a document that outlines unprecedented security commitments and assurances to Iraq from the United States. If in fact it is just a Status of Forces Agreement as usual, then the administration should repudiate this Declaration of Principles and start with a genuine Status of Forces Agreement. I introduced the Iraq Strategic Agreement Act. I compliment my colleague, Ms. Lee, and support her amendment.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, today, in my hometown of New Haven, Connecticut, friends, family and colleagues will gather to pay tribute to one of our community's most outstanding citizens. I am proud to stand today and join the Connecticut Anti-Defamation League as they honor David A. Beckerman with the 2008 Greater New Haven Torch of Liberty Award. Our communities would not be the same without the efforts of individuals whose work benefits our families and neighborhoods. Each year, the Connecticut Anti-Defamation League presents the prestigious Torch of Liberty Award to an outstanding leader in the community, recognizing their unique commitment and dedication. David is a remarkable reflection of the spirit of community service. With extraordinary compassion and generosity, David has touched the lives of many throughout the Greater New Haven community. A respected civic and business leader, David is the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Acorn Group, a corporate real estate management and development company, as well as Founder and Chairman of Community One, an organization which benefits the seven constituent agencies of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven. To say that David is a dedicated member of our community would be an understatement. There are numerous nonprofit and service organizations which have also benefitted from his experience, wisdom, and compassion--too many to list. His compassion and civic engagement serves as an inspiration to all of those fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work with him. David is perhaps best known for his passion for basketball. As a young man of 15 a spark was ignited when he, as a member the Jewish Community Center's team, won a National JWB Championship. He was a coach at the JCC for 25 years and then 11 more at Hamden Hall where he coached his team to victory in 8 New England Championships and 6 league championships. For the last 4 years he has been coaching at Pine Crest School in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, where he has led the team to two district championships, two regional championships, and just this year, the school's first State championship. It is not difficult to see why he was recently named Florida's Coach of the Year. David's passion for basketball and working with young people is not about winning a game. It is about teaching his kids about teamwork, hard work, camaraderie, and commitment to excellence--valuable lessons that will serve them well throughout their lives. Through his work with young people, his efforts with civic organizations, and his own strong work ethic, David is a reflection of all that the Torch of Liberty Award stands for and sets a standard to which we should all strive. Together with his wife, Ruthann, their 5 children, and 10 grandchildren, it is my honor and privilege to stand today to join the Connecticut Anti-Defamation League and the New Haven community in paying tribute to David A. Beckerman for his invaluable contributions. Every community should be so fortunate as to have such a selfless, dedicated individual who so willingly commits his time and energy to enriching the community and improving the quality of life for all.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Iraq provisions included in amendment No. 2 calling for the responsible redeployment of our troops to begin within 30 days. After voting against this war, I have supported the goal of responsibly redeploying our troops for over 2 years. And after President Bush and Prime Minister al-Maliki signed a ``Declaration of Principles'' document outlining unprecedented security commitments and assurances to Iraq from the United States, I introduced the Iraq Strategic Agreement Review Act. So today I want to voice my support for the provision that makes clear, as my bill does, that any security arrangement between the United States and Iraq will not be funded unless it comes in the form of a treaty or is specifically authorized by a law. As we speak, the administration is negotiating a strategic framework agreement that goes well beyond a typical Status of Forces Agreement, essentially amounting to a treaty. It will need to be ratified by the Iraqi parliament, and it must be ratified by the United States Congress as well. Mr. Speaker, this issue goes to the heart of our constitutional duties as a Congress and the power to declare war with which we have been entrusted as representatives. I urge my colleagues to support this provision.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding, and I thank him for his perseverance in this effort as well. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support the rule and the underlying bill, historic change that will meet the nutritional needs of all Americans. I want to thank the Speaker for her vision and clear priorities on this bill and Chairman Peterson for his tireless leadership and perseverance. Thank you for welcoming my input on something so critical as the nutrition title. Today, as the country faces rising food costs, food banks cannot handle the demand, and families struggle just to keep up. Today 35.5 million Americans live in households where not everyone has had enough food in the United States of America. With this bill we are finally taking the right steps to provide people with a fighting chance, ending the erosion in food stamps by increasing the standard deduction and the minimum benefit, which has been frozen at $10 for the past 30 years, then indexing them to inflation. Commitments to help almost 11 million people, families with children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Yet the current administration is looking for ways to undermine the legislation. The administration has argued against expanding eligibility by excluding retirement, education savings, and combat pay when determining that eligibility. What does it say when our soldiers who fight so bravely for our Nation abroad are forced to scrape and scrounge for food upon their return? And this bill does more. It increases funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program, including an immediate infusion of $50 million to address supply shortages as more families than ever are relying on food banks, soup kitchens and food pantries for help. There is also a dramatic increase in funding for the fruits and vegetables snack program for our schools giving more children greater access to healthy fresh fruits and vegetables at school. And we are providing $84 million in funding for the McGovern-Dole program which helps reduce child hunger, promotes education and represents a powerful opportunity for our Nation to export goodwill around the world. I urge my colleagues to support this bill. For too long we have failed to meet our obligations as a Congress and as a Nation, failed to act while too many Americans have gone without adequate food, healthy food, and are facing hunger in our Nation today. Today, we can begin to do something about it.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding member of our community and a dear friend as he retires after 30 years of dedicated service to the New Haven Police Department--Chief Francisco Ortiz. Chief Ortiz, or Cisco as he is affectionately known throughout the community, has dedicated a lifetime to public service and his presence at the department will most certainly be missed. In a career that has spanned over four decades. Cisco has demonstrated what can only be described as an unparalleled commitment to public service and law enforcement. Joining the New Haven Police Department as a patrolman in 1978, he quickly rose through the ranks and gained invaluable experience in every major unit within the Department. Cisco went on to earn a master's degree in law enforcement from the University of New Haven and is a proud graduate of the 170th Session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Academy in Quantico. He was invited to attend the prestigious Senior Management Institute for Police at Boston University and attended the inaugural class of the Management Training Institute, a joint initiative between Yale University and the City of New Haven. A long time advocate of the community policing philosophy, Cisco is also a senior fellow and one of the founders of the Yale Child Study Center's Child Development/Community Policing Program--a program designed to provide police personnel with the special psychological expertise which is needed when dealing with children and families who are witness to, or victims of, violent crime. I have had the privilege of working directly with Cisco on this program and today it stands as a national model for communities across the country. Cisco's involvement with the community goes far beyond his professional contributions. He also serves on a number of local civic and service organizations including Easter Seals/Goodwill, the Connecticut Puerto Rican Parade Committee, the Connecticut Special Olympics, and the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee. Cisco has also been an invaluable resource to myself and my staff. I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to extend a special note of thanks to him for his participation as a member of the recommendation panel for the Maria Baez Perez Scholarships--a program which I sponsor in memory of one of my former staff members who we lost only a few years ago. With all of his experience in the Department and in the community, it was no surprise when Cisco was named Chief in 2003--becoming the first Latino in Connecticut to attain the highest rank in a law enforcement agency. It was a very proud day for him, his family, and our community. I have no doubt that Cisco will continue to be involved in our community. His desire and commitment to making New Haven a better place to live, work, and grow will not fade with his departure from the department. Every community should be so fortunate. Today, as family, friends, and colleagues gather to celebrate his retirement, I am so pleased to extend my very best wishes to Chief Francisco Ortiz, his wife, Myra, his children, Jennifer, Francisco, and Mariah, as well as his granddaughter Mariah, for many more years of health and happiness.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, as we celebrate National Volunteers Week, I rise today to recognize the outstanding efforts of the Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic--a national non-profit, volunteer organization that, for 60 years, has been the leading producer of accessible education materials for students with disabilities. I would like to extend a special note of thanks and appreciation to the Connecticut chapter led by my good friend, Anne Fortunato. ``Education is a right, not a privilege.'' That was the mantra of Anne T. Macdonald, founder of the Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic. Shortly after the end of World War II, letters began flooding the New York Library's Women's Auxiliary from soldiers who had lost their sight during combat but were eager to move forward with their lives. The new GI bill guaranteed them a college education but among the many obstacles they faced was access to college textbooks. These veterans were hoping for any assistance the auxiliary could provide and they developed a creative solution that continues to benefit others today. The women transformed the attic of the New York Library into a recording studio where volunteers began recording textbooks for the servicemen. In just 3 short years demand had grown so much the organization was incorporated as the Nation's only nonprofit to record textbooks. The following year, Anne Macdonald traveled across the country to organize recording studios in other communities. Today, there are a total of 30 studios nationwide and the organization has expanded its mission to provide education materials for students of all ages coping with various disabilities. One of those studios is the Connecticut unit located in New Haven which was established in 1959 and has since become a model for other communities. The Connecticut unit has been a leader for the organization since their inception. A testament to the quality of production, shortly after their establishment the Connecticut unit was selected by the national headquarters for a very special and prestigious project--the recording of the complete works of nine American authors including Samuel Clemens, Stephen Crane, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, William Dean Howells, Washington Irving, Herman Melville, Henry David Thoreau, and Walt Whitman. Today, the Connecticut unit specializes in the production of science and technology books. Led by Anne Fortunato, a respected advocate and distinguished leader in education, the Connecticut unit operates a studio with six soundproof booths and utilizes over 160 volunteers along with a small paid staff to record books for hundreds of Connecticut residents and thousands of people across the country. I have been a proud supporter of the Connecticut unit for more than a decade and it is always an honor for me to go to the studio each year to record pieces on their behalf. Their work and that of the other studios across the country are making all the difference--ensuring that a quality education is an opportunity for all and truly making education a right and not a privilege. This week, as we recognize the invaluable contributions made to all of our communities by volunteers, I am proud to stand and pay tribute to the Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic and the hundreds of individuals who volunteer their time to make their mission possible. There are no words of praise that can describe the extraordinary impact of this organization. There is no doubt that their good work will continue to open the doors of opportunity to others for generations to come.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, due to medical reasons I missed a series of procedural votes. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on Rollcall numbers 192, 193, 194 and 195.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Chairman, I rise to support this amendment. I commend Congresswoman Giffords for her tireless work on this issue, and commend both the Chair and ranking member for accepting the amendment. The Small Business Innovative Research program increases small businesses' participation in federally funded research and development. It is a proven program. It is an effective program. Since 1983, more than 94,000 projects have received more than $20 billion in awards, keeping our Nation competitive in the global marketplace and helping our small businesses thrive. But in order for this program to have its full impact, there must be that level playing field, and those who try and cheat the system must not be allowed to reap the benefits. This amendment simply says that to receive a Small Business Innovation Research award, a small business must be domiciled in the United States. You must play by the rules. Today, even contractors supporting our own military in Iraq continue to filter Federal dollars through offshore shell companies to avoid paying taxes here. Every year, offshore tax shelters cost taxpayers nearly $100 billion. No one, contractors, small businesses or otherwise, no one who looks for special privileges under our tax system should be able to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Federal Government. I thank my colleague and the committee for offering this well thought-out and necessary amendment to the bill, and urge its adoption and appreciate its being accepted by the Chair and ranking member.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of every working woman who faces pay discrimination in the workplace. Last year the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to drastically limit women's access to seek justice for pay discrimination based on gender, requiring workers to file a pay discriminate claim within a 6-month period only, regardless of how long the pay inequity goes on. The House has passed legislation to right this wrong, and the other body will follow this week. While a weakening economy weighs heavily on women and families across America, and when women are still only earning 77 percent of what men earn, this is not the time to curtail women's access to fair pay. That is why this Congress must pass into law the Paycheck Fairness Act. With the support of more than 227 cosponsors, my bill would help women confront discrimination in the workplace, give teeth to the Equal Pay Act by prohibiting employers from retaliating against employees who share salary information with their coworkers, allow women to sue for punitive damages and the recovery of back pay and create a new grant program to help strength the negotiation skills of girls and women. I call on the House to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act because every woman deserves equal pay for equal work.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to support the rule and the underlying legislation. The Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act is an important step toward a more straightforward, just tax system. I commend Chairman Rangel for his tireless leadership. Among other things, this bill will allow IRS employees to refer taxpayers needing assistance to qualified low-income taxpayer clinics, boost outreach, supporting the earned income tax credit. For so many families facing such great income insecurity during these difficult times, the EITC is a powerful initiative whose benefits reach our entire economy. In particular, I want to recognize Representative Ellsworth and highlight this bill's Fair Tax Provision, rooted in our belief that no one, no one, should receive special privileges under our tax system. After all, what does it say about our Nation and our priorities when American companies like Kellog, Brown & Root, by far the largest contractor in Iraq, are allowed to take their Department of Defense dollars and filter them through offshore shell companies in order to avoid paying significant Social Security and Medicare taxes? It is my understanding that there are no other contractors in Iraq who are doing this. KBR, which received a no-bid contract to rebuild Iraq's oil infrastructure and provides logistical support to the military, employs roughly 14,000 Americans in Iraq, and nearly all of them, approximately 10,500, are listed as employees of two Cayman Islands' shell companies, contracted by KBR solely to avoid paying payroll taxes for those workers. And that means big cost savings passed on to a Defense Department that is contracted to reimburse KBR for all its labor costs while guaranteeing a profit, a Defense Department that is more than ready to look the other way as long as the bottom line works out in its favor. Indeed, the department knew KBR was shirking its responsibilities since 2004; yet they took no action. This kind of setup may mean a smaller price tag on any particular contract, but the long-term costs to the government and the taxpayer are far greater, $846 million over 10 years, according to the Joint Committee on Taxation. And the only one who really wins in the end is the company who gets the contract thanks to its unfair competitive advantage. Mr. Speaker, these practices must end. This bill amends current law to treat foreign subsidies of U.S. companies under contract with the U.S. Government as American employers. And it changes the degree of common ownership to 50 percent, ensuring that more companies owing taxes are subject to the new law and greater transparency.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is unacceptable for the Department of Defense to pay for this war by doing business with a company that siphons money from its own workers and its own government, undermining the Social Security and the Medicare trust funds in the process. When tax dodgers try to avoid their responsibility, the American taxpayer suffers. This company should not be allowed to shirk their responsibilities and then be able to reap the rewards of very large Federal contracts. It is wrong. It should end. And we can no longer afford to look the other way. I thank the gentlewoman for yielding.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, today marks the end of an era as Fire Chief William S. Johnson celebrates his retirement after 41 years of dedicated service to the Center Fire District of West Haven, Connecticut. It is with the greatest pleasure that I rise today to join the many family, friends, colleagues and community members who have gathered in extending my heartfelt congratulations on this very special occasion. For more than four decades Chief Johnson has diligently served the West Haven community. For him, it has not only been a job but the extension of a family legacy. His father served as Chief just a decade prior to his own assumption of the title and his grandfather was also a volunteer firefighter. Today, his own son, Lieutenant William S. Johnson, IV also serves in the Department. There are few firefighters in West Haven, volunteer or career, who have not in some way been mentored, inspired, or influenced by Chief Johnson. Though originally trained as a school teacher, the Chief joined the then West Haven Fire Department, later renamed Center District, in July of 1966. He quickly rose through the ranks of the independent district and was appointed to lead the Department 26 years ago. He is well known, not only in West Haven, but across the state of Connecticut and nationally as an innovative and progressive leader. Chief Johnson is one of the founders of Connecticut's Fire Chiefs' Association and worked for years as a fire science instructor at Waterbury State Technical College, the University of New Haven, and the National Fire Academy. The Chief is credited with being among the first in the state to equip the department with cutting-edge protective equipment and technology. He also used his department as a testing ground for many local and national initiatives and made sure that his Department was among the first to implement such programs as the ``Stop Drop, & Roll'' educational program for schools and the promotion of fire-retardant clothing for children. I had the opportunity to work with Chief Johnson on the issue of fire-retardant sleepwear for children and was always impressed with the passion and dedication with which he approached and advocated for this important issue. Throughout a career that has spanned five decades, Chief Johnson has demonstrated a unique commitment and dedication to public service. Too often we take for granted the incredible work of our country's firefighters. I have always held a deep admiration for those who serve as firefighters--each day facing new challenges and seemingly overwhelming responsibility. It takes a unique combination of bravery, compassion, and generosity to serve as a firefighter and especially as Chief. As head of the Center District Department, Chief Johnson made the men and women of the Department his highest priority--always ensuring that they had access to the most current technologies and equipment. Perhaps even more telling, until the day of his retirement and at the age of 71, Chief Johnson not only responded to incidents but joined his men in attacking threatening blazes. The City of West Haven, it residents, and families have certainly been fortunate to have him protecting their community. Mere words cannot begin to repay him for the comfort and security he has provided all. It is with the greatest respect and my deepest appreciation that I rise today to honor Chief William S. Johnson and thank him for his many invaluable contributions to our community and the discipline of firefighting. His knowledge, skill, and passion for his work have left an indelible mark on our community and a legacy that is certain to inspire generations to come. I am pleased to stand today to join his wife, Dorothy; children, Michelle, Kimberly, Stephaine, and William; grandchildren, Stephaine, Patrick, Michael, Emery, and Richie; as well as all of the family, friends, and colleagues gathered tonight in extending my heartfelt congratulations to Chief William S. Johnson as he celebrates his retirement. Chief--you are a reflection of all that we hope our public servants can be and I wish you all the best for many more years of health and happiness.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with the greatest pride that I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations and very best wishes to the USA Tap Dance Team, based out of the Greater New Haven area, as they celebrate their tremendous success at the 2007 World Tap Dance Championships recently held in Reisa, Germany. In all, 51 dancers ranging in age from 10 to 20 years old made the trip and returned with a total of 11 medals! Our communities certainly have cause for celebration with the wonderful accomplishments of these young people. Participating in three divisions, the USA Tap Dance Team has worked very hard over the last several months to be able to compete in this year's competitions. Coming together from across Connecticut and even New York, the dancers practiced for countless hours for solo, duo, small group, and formation events. The commitment these young people have demonstrated is truly inspiring. They have worked so hard to master the required high-level skills and the necessary symmetry of their movements. I had the distinct honor of joining them for a very special evening as they prepared to leave for Germany and, as a former tap dancer myself, I was truly impressed with the level of dedication, passion, and talent of the team. It was this combination of drive and spirit that lead to the team to come home with three gold medals, seven silver medals, one bronze medal, and several other finishing places-- placing and medaling in each of three divisions--a remarkable showing! I am also pleased to recognize the incomparable Gloria Jean Cuming for her outstanding leadership and instruction as well as the six choreographers who worked with the dancers and traveled to Germany with them. Their work with individuals and groups helped to secure this outstanding triumph. In addition, I would also extend a note of thanks and appreciation to the parents and volunteers whose support has enabled the dancers to practice and travel for their competitions. Without their efforts, the success of the USA Tap Dance Team would not be possible. I am thrilled to stand today join our local communities in extending my sincere congratulations to the USA Tap Dance Team on their great success at the 2007 World Tap Dance Championships. You have all made us proud!

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to join the Greater New Haven NAACP and the New Haven community in extending my sincere congratulations to my dear friend, Edward H. Lewis, as he is honored at this year's Freedom Fund Awards dinner with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Freedom Fund Awards dinner is a time not only to honor those who have made an impact on our community, but to renew our commitment to those ideals upon which the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People was founded. For nearly nine decades, the Greater New Haven NAACP has been the voice of our African-American community and has improved countless lives. Their fight for justice has been tireless, and their efforts have gone a long way toward making sure that everyone will enjoy equal opportunity. Those honored with the annual Freedom Fund Awards are a reflection of this organization's good work--of the NAACP's commitment to ensuring a promising future for our families, our children, and our communities. Edward H. Lewis, known to family and friends as ``Teo,'' is a native of my hometown, New Haven, Connecticut and we could not be more proud of all that he has accomplished. I have been fortunate to know him for many years and consider myself blessed to call him my friend. We worked as community organizers together at the Community Action Institute and later, served together in the National Urban Fellow Program. Teo went to Washington as a legislative assistant to then Senator Henry Jackson and was appointed by President Jimmy Carter to the U.S. Small Business Administration as Associate Administrator for Procurement. After leaving Washington, he brought his wealth of government experience to the emerging cable industry. He has worked in several capacities but is perhaps best known for his work with BET networks where his work in marketing and event promotion for both BET and BET on Jazz redefined the title of Director of Marketing. Today, Teo is Vice President of Government Relations for the NBA's Charlotte Bobcats where he is utilizing his multitude of talents to develop both local and state government relationships as well as build a positive relationship with the business community. He is a remarkable individual whose professional life has always enriched the surrounding community. In addition to his innumerable professional contributions, Teo has also devoted countless hours to a number of civic and social organizations. He currently serves on the board of the Freedom Theater in Philadelphia, the advisory committee for the International Association of Jazz Educators, on the Board of Trustees at Discovery Place Charlotte North Carolina, as well as on the Board of Directors at Theater Charlotte, WTVI Public Television, and the Bobby Phills Foundation. He is also a member of the Charlotte Rotary, 100 Black Men of Charlotte, the Business Committee on Higher Education for the Institute for Emerging Issues and the advisory board for the Mint Museum and the Mint Museum of Craft and Design. There are few like Teo who give so much of themselves back to their communities--he is a community treasure. To be awarded with the Greater NAACP's Lifetime Achievement Award is a reflection of all that Teo has accomplished as a community member, advocate, professional, volunteer, mentor and friend. For his many invaluable contributions to the community and to those ideals at the very heart of the NAACP, I am proud to join his children Todd, Kimberly, Derek, and Barry, as well as all of those gathered this evening in extending my deepest thanks and appreciation to Edward H. Lewis as he is bestowed with this very special honor by the Greater New Haven NAACP. His is a legacy that is sure to inspire many generations to come.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to pay tribute to the remarkable career of Robert J. Leeney, a member of our local media community whose talent and gift for words has left an indelible mark on the New Haven Register and its readers. After a career that has spanned seven decades, Bob announced his retirement and published his last column Saturday, April 21, 2007--just a month before his 91st birthday. His quick wit and unique perspectives will be missed by colleagues and readers alike. As so aptly put by colleague and current Register editorial page editor Charles Kochakian, Bob Leeney is indeed irreplaceable. Bob's distinguished career in journalism began as a freelance writer in 1939 and he was soon brought on staff as a reporter, Sunday feature writer, and book critic at the New Haven Register. His only absence from the Register was due to his 2 years of service with the 3rd Air Commando Group, 5th Air Force during World War II. Bob became an editorial writer and served as the editor for the editorial page from 1947 until 1961, becoming executive editor in 1962 and finally editor from 1972-1981. During his tenure as editor, Bob was responsible for the technological modernization of the paper, introducing letters to the editor as well as the creation of the Sunday Arts & Leisure Section--literally changing the face of the New Haven Register. It is fair to say that the New Haven Register will not be the same without him. After more than 40 years with the paper, Bob did step down as editor; however, some of his most invaluable contributions were still yet to come. His column, ``Editor's Note,'' described as a fusion of literate prose and revealing insights, became a Saturday fixture--a must read for all Register subscribers. In fact, Bob did not miss 1 week writing his column in its 33 year run. ``Editor's Note'' was more than a weekly column--it chronicled New Haven's history and affairs with the unique perspective of its Irish-American author, creating a unique connection between the readers of the Register and our community's rich history. Bob's contributions to journalism expand far beyond his work with the Register. He was a charter member of the Connecticut Society of Professional Journalists chapter, where he is now honored as a member of the Connecticut Journalism Hall of Fame. He served as the Commissioner of the Freedom of Information Commission for 5 years and has been recognized with a variety of accolades and awards throughout his career. The Yankee Quill Award for distinguished service to journalism, the Seal of the City Award from the New Haven Colony Historical Society in recognition of his contributions to New Haven's civic life, and the plaque that hangs in the heart of New Haven's Audubon arts district are but a few examples but serve as a reflection of all that this New Haven native has brought to our community. As a respected journalist, community member, mentor, and friend, Robert J. Leeney has left an indelible mark on our community and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of journalists to come. I am proud to stand today to recognize his outstanding contributions and extend my deepest thanks and appreciation for all of his good work.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I am honored to rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to Bridges . . . A Community Support System, Inc. of Milford, Connecticut as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. This is a remarkable milestone for this outstanding organization dedicated to providing support and mental health services to those in need. Originally founded in 1957 as the Milford Family Counseling Association, the organization's mission initially focused on addressing the mental health need of children in the Milford community. The organization expanded so did its scope of services--including adult psychiatric services, drug and alcohol prevention services and opening its doors to the neighboring communities of Orange and West Haven. As the needs of our communities and its residents changed, so did the agency as well as its name. Designated in the 1990' by the State of Connecticut as the Local Mental Health Authority, the organization made its final name change in 1999 to Bridges . . . A Community Support System to better reflect its purpose and mission. Today, Bridges, working with local agencies and organizations, is able to provide a multitude of programs to those most in need. From individual counseling to bereavement support; teenage drug and alcohol prevention to vocational and social rehabilitation services, Bridges and its dedicated staff have continually identified the changing needs of our community. The partnerships they have established allow them to provide comprehensive services to their clients--making a real difference in the lives of thousands of children and families. In building upon the vision first established with the Milford Family Counseling Association, Bridges has been able to provide those coping with the challenges of mental illnesses with one of life's most precious gifts--hope. Through its gift of hope, Bridges has left an indelible mark on our community and the thousands of lives they have touched. In its fifty year history, Bridges has established itself as an invaluable resource as well as respected advocates--not only for their clients, but community leaders and policy-makers alike. Today, Bridges is continuing its legacy of helping people live more fulfilling and productive lives by providing clients with ``Pathways to Health, Hope, and Recovery.'' For its many invaluable contributions to our community and for all of their work on behalf of our children and families, I am proud to stand today and extend my sincere congratulations to the Bridges . . . A Community Support System on their 50th anniversary.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to join the New Haven community in celebrating the 40th anniversary of Christian Community Action. For four decades this outstanding agency has been providing invaluable services to those most in need and I am proud to wish them the very best as they mark this important milestone. The story of Christian Community Action begins with a home on Congress Avenue destroyed by fire and a group of ecumenical Catholics and Protestants looking for a way to help. Since that time, Christian Community Action has grown and evolved into a well-respected resource for individuals and families in need as well as a vocal advocate for the impoverished, working to change the systems which perpetuate poverty and injustice. Through the extraordinary vision and commitment of its leadership, Christian Community Action has made all the difference in the lives of many. Reverend David Nehring became the first director of Christian Community Action in 1967 and it was under his direction that the organization's mission was developed and their first emergency food program was started. Just 3 years later, Reverend Nehring supervised the agency's move to its current home at 168 Davenport Avenue, adding five apartments which were used to provide emergency shelter. It was under the direction of the center's second director, Reverend Phil Grigsby, that the agency became involved in the development of the New Haven Fuel Bank and that the adjacent property at 166 Davenport Avenue was purchased providing three additional apartments. Reverend Karl Hilgert became the agency's third director in 1981. It was through his vision that Christian Community Action opened the Sylvan Avenue Shelter site adding another ten emergency apartments and that the agency began increasing its social service and case management programs for the residents of its emergency housing. In 1988, Christian Community Action's fourth and current director, Reverend Bonita Grubbs, took the helm and it has been under her nearly 20 years of outstanding leadership that the agency has substantially grown. Today, Christian Community Action not only provides emergency food, housing and support for those facing unexpected crisis such as fires and evictions, but is now actively involved in helping families to attain self-sufficiency through a myriad of innovative initiatives. The Stepping Stone Transitional Housing Program, Health Advocacy Voices Emerging Network. Mothers for Justice, and the Program for Internships, Vocational Opportunities and Training program are just a few examples of how Christian Community Action is identifying needs within our community and working to actively address those issues impacting the poor and those who often cannot find a voice. For the last 40 years, Christian Community Action has been a beacon of hope for those most in need. Through their advocacy and social services, this organization has touched the lives of thousands throughout Greater New Haven and across Connecticut. I am proud to stand today to extend my sincere and heart-felt congratulations to all of those, past and present, whose involvement with Christian Community Action and commitment to its mission has made this organization such a success. It is difficult to imagine what our community would be like without that compassion and generosity. Happy 40th anniversary and my very best wishes for many more years of continued success.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I rise today to pay tribute to a good friend and outstanding leader in the labor movement, John W. Cunningham. His passing marks the end of an era at the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local Union 210 and the loss of a dear friend to many across Connecticut. John was a carpenter. He worked hard all of his life and his commitment to the labor movement as well as his membership is unequalled. Joining Local 210 in 1956, just 10 years later he became a business representative and would serve the next 30 years as the General Agent of Carpenters Local Union 210. He was active both locally and nationally--fighting for policies and protections for his membership and working men and women across the country. In addition to his service with Local 210, John also served as the Vice-President of the Connecticut State AFL-CIO, President of the Stamford Labor Council, and President of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters. There was no stronger advocate or determined voice than that of John Cunningham. John was responsible for the creation of the Carpenter's Legislative Improvement Committee which was the first federal political action committee established by a local union--providing a voice for carpenters' issues at the national level. And in the early 1990s John formed the President's Committee with other union leaders which strengthened the Brotherhood nationally by providing new leadership and making it more responsive to the needs of its members. John was also instrumental in opening the doors of opportunity to women and minorities by implanting outreach programs which brought them into the trade. John's efforts on behalf of working families extended far beyond his work to shape public policy. During his tenure, he created the Connecticut Carpenters' Health and Pension Fund and established Local 210's Scholarship fund which assisted members' children in pursuing higher education. He launched an apprenticeship and training program and began a program of inviting union members and the public to forums where they would hear from speakers that included Nobel Laureates, Pulitzer Prize authors, economists, and elected leaders. Perhaps most telling of his civic minded nature was his leadership during the National Building Trade Council's efforts to help the families of the 28 construction workers killed at the L'Ambiance construction disaster in 1987. John understood the importance of serving one's community. He was an active member of the Weston community where he served on a number of boards and commissions, including the School Building Committee, the Town Building Committee, Planning & Zoning, Little League Baseball, and was a founding member of the Weston Booster Club. He was an extraordinary man who dedicated countless hours to making all the difference in the lives of thousands. I join all of his friends and colleagues in extending my deepest sympathies to John's wife, Virginia, his six children; Kimberly, Devon, Bill, John, Caroline, and Diana, as well as his seven grandchildren; Chalan, Maevereen, Conor, Brennen, Makena, Samuel, and Geneva. I am honored to have this opportunity to pay tribute to the life of John W. Cunningham. His is a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I rise to address the Air Force's recent decision to award Northrop Grumman and its partner, European Aeronautic Defense and Space, EADS, the $40 billion contract to replace the KC-135 air refueling tankers. The Air Force chose against a Boeing team that included Connecticut-based Pratt & Whitney as the engine supplier. After the contract was awarded, the Connecticut congressional delegation requested a briefing from the Air Force on the source selection process and learned that the two competitors were essentially on par in their bid to win the contract. By all objective measures there was no clear winner, and so the contract award and all the American jobs associated with it were ultimately given to Northrop-EADS for seemingly subjective reason by unidentified personnel within the Air Force. That begs the question: why did the tie not go to the home team? The Air Force was unable or unwilling to delve into extensive detail as to why Boeing lost the award. Boeing filed a protest with the General Accountability Office shortly after it lost the bid. What I find particularly troubling in this case is that the Air Force--despite the $40 billion price tag--is not required and does not consider U.S. jobs or the economy in its decision-making. Even more disconcerting is the fact that the Air Force does not seem to be concerned with the security risks of having foreign companies and their employees work on such a major defense project. Our national economy and our national security are significantly affected by this decision. We have a responsibility to take all the potential consequences into account and in addition, examine the international context in which this decision is being made. The fact is that the impact of this contract will not occur in a vacuum. For example, the Office of the United States Trade Representative is aggressively challenging in the World Trade Organization, WTO, the millions of dollars in European government subsidies that Airbus--EADS is its parent company--is receiving. The United States accuses Airbus of taking advantage of ``launch aid''--grants and loans at unfairly favorable rates. And so, during a recent hearing, U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab told the Senate Finance Committee that the USTR had briefed the Air Force some time ago about the pending U.S. trade case against Airbus at the WTO. Nevertheless, Air Force officials told the Connecticut delegation there is nothing in their rules that call for them to consider the dispute. They ignored it, just as they ignored concerns over their decision's effect on the economy and the likely off-shoring of good paying jobs and our defense industrial base. Madam Speaker, I believe that this decision will have a deep, long- term negative impact on the aerospace industry and supporting industries in this county, which are so critical to both our national security and our economy. At a time when our Nation faces a recession and a rising unemployment rate, it is wrongheaded to award such a major contract to another nation rather than utilize our own skilled workers and keep scarce resources here at home. The decision will not only continue but also accelerate the erosion of our industrial base and skilled workforce--jeopardizing both our national security and economic prosperity. Indeed, Connecticut alone stands to lose thousands of jobs at Pratt & Whitney, along with many more from small vendors and suppliers who would have benefited from the award. For Pratt & Whitney's Middletown operations, this news is especially hard to bear, for the company had been planning to use the tanker award to transition away from the old C-17 engine systems. Labor leaders, businesses, policy experts and others agree that the Air Force made the wrong decision. Organizations such as the Center for Security Policy argue that awarding the contract to an international consortium threatens U.S. national security. And they are joined by organizations like the AFL-CIO and International Association of Machinists in opposing the award. Finally, I would like to point out that this contract has no contingency plan for dealing with potential cost overruns and schedule delays--problems currently facing the Marine One presidential helicopter program. Defense projects that have been outsourced to foreign countries have experienced significant delays and excessive cost overruns. The Pentagon recently acknowledged that the current helicopter contract awarded to Lockheed Martin and its British-Italian Partner, AgustaWestland-Finmeccanica, is significantly over budget-- $11.2 billion, up from an initial estimate of $6.1 billion--and will breach the cost threshold set by Congress. I am deeply concerned by the fact that, like the Marine One contract, the Air Force has given almost no consideration to the myriad security and economic implications underlying the award of a multi-billion dollar contract to a foreign company. It is deja vu all over again with the American worker, taxpayer and military likely to come out on the losing end.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. I thank the gentleman. And I just will reiterate that I think Mr. Gates has it right, and you have it right. It is about an innovation agenda, innovation and what our future is. We can't be stuck where we are. We need to deal with the resources that allow us to compete in a global economy, to have a competitive edge and look at the technology for the future, as well. Mr. Chairman, I would now like to yield to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer) for the purposes of engaging in a colloquy.

Ms. DeLAURO. Just to conclude, I do want to say a thank you to the gentleman from Oregon. The real progress that we can make in this budget does require the critical long-term investments in our local communities in energy and in infrastructure, in which the gentleman has been a leader, and that is all contained in this budget proposed by Chairman John Spratt. I thank the gentleman, and I urge my colleagues to vote for the Spratt budget.

Ms. DeLAURO. I thank the gentleman. You are right in terms of the resolution and its reflection on our priorities. Nothing could be more important than access to education and ensuring that our schools and our students have the resources to succeed. I would now like to yield to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Bishop) for engaging in a colloquy.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this budget, which represents a down payment on our commitment to restore middle class prosperity. It offers a clear and practical approach to strengthen our economy in a way that helps our workforce thrive. It allows families to reach for that American Dream. Today, the Bush economy continues to weigh heavily on America's families and businesses. Our Republican colleagues call for fiscal responsibility. That call is a sham. George Bush has added more to the Federal debt than every single President from George Washington to Ronald Reagan. And at the same time, median household income has dropped $1,000. In the Clinton years, median income rose to $6,100. Poor economic growth has left nearly 1.6 million more workers unemployed, and long-term unemployment is up by 62 percent. There are over 3.3 million fewer manufacturing jobs today than at the start of this administration. Incomes are flat while everything else goes up, gas prices, food prices, the cost of health care and education. This is a budget that is strong. It gets us back to basics. It maintains fiscal discipline while making strong economic growth possible, benefiting all American families. It means crucial funding for the Democratic Innovation Agenda and reforms for our tax policy to reduce burdens on middle class families. It means rejecting the President's cuts to critical unemployment programs. Now is not the time to undermine already vulnerable communities. We can act to rebuild crumbling bridges, fix our roads, reduce congestion and make a serious investment in our infrastructure, paving the way for new growth and opportunity. This budget makes real investments to help workers and create jobs in a fiscally responsible way. It is a budget that reaches balance in 2012. It reflects our priorities as a Nation and our belief that government has a commitment to its citizens to make critical investments in efficient and renewable energy sources, education, job training and health care, the foundation of a strong economy and future growth. It is about making our workforce more productive and making opportunity real. It is about staying competitive. And we share a mutual obligation to get it right. Now, Mr. Chairman, I would like to yield to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge) for the purposes of engaging in a colloquy.

Ms. DeLAURO. I thank the gentleman from New York, and I thank him for his commitment. You've said it well when you talk about investing in the next generation and you talk about our children being in a competitive marketplace and in a global economy. And what this budget does, as you actually stated, is it gives them the skills to compete in that competitive world. And again I thank the gentleman. Mr. Chairman, I would like to yield now to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baird) for the purposes of engaging in a colloquy.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, in 1993, I was privileged to be appointed to the Appropriations Committee. I brought to the assignment my ideas and priorities and a determination to use the power of the purse to change lives for the better. To be effective I needed much more. I needed Rob Cogorno. Rob joined our staff bringing with him years of experience working on issues that had my strongest interest. It was a blessed partnership from the first day. Rob came with remarkable qualities. He knew the issues thoroughly. He was tireless. He knew the answer or how to find it. But to focus only on Rob's mastery of the process would be an injustice. He is effective because he is compassionate and sincere as well as smart. He cares about people. Low income heating assistance was not just a program, it was thousands of cold seniors. National Cancer Institute funding was not just about scientists and research grants, it was millions of people suffering from diseases that he believed could be helped. The Ryan White AIDS funding legislation was about millions of Americans and about people he knew personally who needed a cure and needed hope. His commitment earned him the respect of his colleagues and members. He is a warm person. He takes the time to make you laugh, share a piece of gossip, lift your spirits. Over the years he has held important positions working for the Democratic House Leadership and most recently for the Majority Leader. I am grateful to Rob for his leadership, passion, and partnership over the years. I wish you well. I treasure our friendship. Buona Fortuna!