Peter Deutsch

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, I can agree in a sense with the gentleman from California (Mr. Dooley), but I want to talk a bit about specifics. I really plead with my colleagues to think about the specifics of what this amendment does. The specifics is really selling to the Castro government. It is not selling to Cuba. It is selling to the Castro government. It is selling to Castro. It is literally propping Castro up. As my colleague from New Jersey said, I think all of us would be in agreement if there was a way that we could sell to NGOs and get food and medicine to Cuba, which we support, but that is not what this amendment does. And, in fact, the Cuban government has restricted, in fact has prevented the ability to even give food and medicine through NGOs to the Cuban people. Cuba is not China in any sense, where the leadership has changed. Mao Tse-tung does not exist in China today. Again, the specifics of this amendment would strengthen the Castro regime. I urge its defeat.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, I raise a point of order on this section restoring the eligibility of mink for MAP funds.

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, this is an amendment where hopefully all of my colleagues will spend a little bit of time understanding the specifics of the amendment. It is an amendment which truly is very simple when we understand it and we look at the specifics of the amendment. The specifics of the amendment deal with a corporate welfare program that exists in the United States of America as bad as any corporate welfare program that exists in this country. It specifically applies to ranchers, specifically to a function that there is no justifiable policy reason that taxpayers across this country should be subsidizing these ranchers. That is the program. That is what we are talking about. We are not talking about whether or not coyotes should exist or whether or not ranchers should have the ability to do animal control. That is not what this amendment is about. What this amendment is about is taxpayer money being spent on a private function without a public purpose. That is what it is about, and that is why I urge the adoption of the amendment. In a sort of Hobson effect, though, this is a program which is not even effective, which is one of the weird things about this; that there are in fact more effective ways to deal with animal control that have been done in many places without the use and the methods that are used by the Animal Damage Control program. This is a program that the public holds in poor regard because it reflects a callous attitude and a waste of taxpayers' dollars. This program amounts to nothing more than corporate welfare. I urge the adoption of the amendment.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I wish all of us could be honest. This rule is maybe the most disingenuous rule I have seen in my 8 years in the United States Congress. The fact that this rule allows the Coburn amendment on the bill is a convoluted attempt to, I do not know, kill the bill, or put the Democrats in a politically disadvantageous position. The vast majority of Democrats who are pro-choice, and the majority of Democrats who support this bill, have a Hobson's choice under this rule. If the rule is passed, and then the Coburn amendment with similar things that have passed this floor is then on the bill, then where do Democrats vote? The reality is that the Coburn amendment is an awful amendment from a policy perspective. It is a gag rule. Let me read what the American College of Obstetricians and Surgeons said about it: ``We must pass a bill that allows health providers to effectively advocate for the care of their patients, not gag providers in an attempt to limit women's access to needed reproductive health services.'' This is a gag rule. It is incredible, the scope of it. It would prevent those physicians who benefit from the Campbell rule from even talking to providers about providing reproductive or family planning services, a complete ban. They could not even talk about that in terms of their negotiation. It is an extremely large attempt to limit women's choices in America. For the Members, and again, I know this has been a very difficult afternoon for many Members as they have looked at it, because there are many Members who are cosponsors of this; again, a majority of Democrats who want to see changes in health care, who support what the gentleman from California (Mr. Campbell) is trying to do. But the leadership on the Republican side has created this disingenuous rule. If the rule is defeated, which I urge its defeat, if the rule is defeated the choice clearly falls upon those who created the rule, which is the majority, the Republican leadership. I urge the gentleman from California (Mr. Campbell) to once again threaten to leave this Congress if his leadership does not give him a true rule and a true vote on the bill.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I hope that people here and people watching on C-SPAN have a sense of what is going on. We are debating a rule, and what that rule does, it prevents the Democrats from offering a prescription drug coverage bill. That is what the rule does. Now, why would the Republican leadership want to do that rule? Think about that for a second. The reason they want that rule is it might pass, the Democratic proposal might pass if offered. And so, by this rule, the Democratic option will not be available. Why not? Well, the Republican proposal, specifically when we get into what it does, literally destroys Medicare. It changes Medicare from a universal mandatory health care system for seniors to a selective system only for seniors who are at 130 percent of poverty. So the broad-based political support that we have for Social Security and Medicare would end, and the things that we have done to sustain Medicare would end. Mr. Speaker, the issue of a voucher part of the program would also be part of the Republican proposal, fundamentally different than what the Democrats are trying to do. Finally, very quickly, in closing I say that, in 1965, Medicare would not have been passed if the Republicans were in charge. It will not pass in the year 2000 with the Republican majority.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, the Republicans have been calling this the Medicare prescription drug legislation. I think it would be more accurately described as the anti-Medicare prescription drug legislation. Essentially, what this legislation would do is destroy Medicare. That is what it does. It changes the entire concept that Medicare has had for over 30 years in this country of a universal health care system. If one makes more than $12,600, they get nothing. So it is welfare for health. The incredible broad-based political support that we have for Medicare in America would be lost if this plan passes. What it also does is effectively creates a voucher system for anyone above that amount of income. The author of this bill, the chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, has said that our accusations of saying that this is not part of Medicare are not true. Well, this plan is being created that has nothing to do with Medicare, and calling it Medicare does not make it Medicare. If we put the Transportation Department into Medicare, it still would be the Transportation Department. It would not be Medicare. I urge its defeat.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, on rollcall No. 300, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' amendment offered by Mr. Olver

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate my colleague from South Florida yielding me the time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment. The proposed gaming regulations will not force communities to accept casino-style gambling, as some of my colleagues assert. Instead, the regulations will protect States' rights while affirming those rights which Congress clarified more than 11 years ago in the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Mr. Chairman, the proposed gaming regulations will help resolve long- standing constitution disputes over Indian gaming and will only complicate the process. I urge its defeat.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the accomplishments of Coral Shores High School in Tavernier, Florida, congratulating the school for having been named a Service-Learning Leader School by the Corporation for National Service. This prestigious award recognizes the service-learning program that Coral Shores H.S. has integrated into its curriculum, a program that has promoted civic responsibility, strengthened community activism, and improved student performance since its inception. This year, the Corporation for National Service has recognized 66 schools nationwide for promoting the benefits of service in the community. Community service cultivates generosity and gratitude in the lives of all parties involved--enlightening volunteers and providing those who receive help with a sense of hope. I firmly believe in the benefits of community service, and I am quite pleased to see that Coral Shores H.S. in Monroe County, Florida, is setting such a wonderful example for schools across the nation. One of five Florida schools that were named a Service-Learning Leader School, 71 percent of the students at Coral Shores H.S. are involved in voluntary service programs. Integrating service-learning into a variety of courses including environmental science, English, history, art, and television production, students interested in virtually any area of study have had the unique opportunity to relate community service to their course work. With over 750 students currently enrolled at Coral Shores High School, this integrated experience has greatly benefitted the community while enabling the school's students to master a particular subject through accompanying field work. The National Service-Learning Leader School Program will be instrumental in opening up the door for Coral Shores to assist other schools in the advancement of nationwide service. Over the course of the next two years, Coral Shores students and teachers will serve as mentors to other schools in the South Florida community. Through presentations and peer exchanges, the Coral Shores High School methodology that promotes a life of service will be shared with other schools. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Coral Shores High School for all of the wonderful work they are doing to benefit the community. I would like to thank the Monroe County School Board, the administrative team at Coral Shores High School, the teachers, and all of the school's students for their extraordinary efforts in bettering the South Florida community. Under the leadership of Principal Al Rother, Coral Shores High School has demonstrated that by starting with the individual we can make widespread change--change that will result in a nation dedicated to helping others.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably absent from the chamber today during rollcall votes No. 257 and No. 258. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall vote No. 257 and ``yea'' and rollcall vote No. 258.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, the bill as it is presently in front of us has language that notwithstanding any other provision of law, hereafter the Secretary of the Interior must concur in developing, implementing, and revising regulations to allocate water made available from Central and Southern Florida Project features. My understanding is that a point of order will be raised and that language will be struck from the bill. It is not protected by the rule. I think that that language is critical really in terms of Everglades restoration. I applaud the committee, the subcommittee, for an incredible effort, the largest ecosystem restoration in the history of the world that this committee has been part of. I think it is a legacy each of us are leaving, not just to our children and grandchildren but future generations as well. Unfortunately, though, when this language will be struck from the bill, the concern that some of us have that the priority until we pass the Everglades Restudy, the priority of this funding is not necessarily the priority which I think most of us want, which is that resource protection be the highest priority but that flood management protection which is critical, and water supply which is critical will be potentially a higher priority. Therefore, I look forward to working with the substantive committee and the Committee on Appropriations to include similar language which is necessary to the intent, I think which the majority of members want.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the efforts of Mr. Douglas Iscovitz, of Weston, Florida. I am very pleased to say that Douglas was recently named the Florida Principal of the Year by the Florida Association of Secondary Administrators and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. The selection process for this distinction is an arduous one. After having been nominated for the award, the first-round finalists must submit paper-work detailing school accomplishments; the principal's track record of dealing with students, staff, and the school; the principal's ability to solve academic and social problems; community involvement; and positive school climate. After closely examining his work, it is clear that Douglas' accomplishments exemplify the tenets espoused by the Florida Principal of the Year award. As the Principal of Indian Ridge Middle School, Douglas has founded new programs and encouraged students to excel in existing growth fostering programs. In this sense he has taken a very active role in his school. His most meritorious program is the ``Write On America!'' project, a project in which students write to prominent people who have made significant contributions to the greatness of our nation. Requesting an autographed photo, inspiring messages, and words of advice, the ``Write on America!'' program has proven itself to be a wonderful way to teach Indian Ridge Middle School students about history and writing. It is clear that Douglas' efforts have made a lasting impression on those in the school and in the community as well. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Douglas Iscovitz for his extraordinary achievements and exemplary effort in bettering the Indian Ridge Middle School. It is truly an honor to be named the Florida Principal of the Year, and it is an honor for the residents of South Florida to be able to call him one of our own. Indeed, Douglas has made a remarkable impact on the students at Indian Ridge Middle School. His accomplishments are something that both he and the entire state of Florida can be proud of.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Howard Braverman of Hollywood, Florida. On June 24, 2000, Howard will be sworn in as the 79th president of the American Optometric Association (AOA) during the AOA's annual Congress in Las Vegas, Nevada. Howard's extraordinary vision and enthusiasm has made him an exemplary contributor to the healthcare community, and I congratulate him on this well deserved honor. A graduate of both the University of Miami and the University of Houston College of Optometry, Dr. Braverman has exhibited an intense dedication to the profession of optometry at the local, state, and national levels, throughout his career. He is a past president of the Southern Council of Optometrists and the Florida and Broward County Optometric Associations. Additionally, he has served both as a member and as chair of the Florida State Board of Optometry. Howard's resume in the field of optometry is quite impressive: he has previously been named Broward County's and Florida's Optometrist of the Year in 1985, Florida's Optometrist of the Decade in 1991, and a member of the board of trustees of the AOA. In addition to his noteworthy professional achievements, the South Florida community has greatly benefited from Howard's leadership due to his active participation in civic affairs. Well known for his devotion to volunteer work within the community, Dr. Braverman is also a past president of the local Rotary Club. Mr. Speaker, through his unique vision and spirit, Dr. Howard Braverman has distinguished himself as an outstanding leader in the South Florida community. I wish to convey a heartfelt congratulations to Howard and his family on the occaision of his becoming the new president of the American Optometric Association, as well as many thanks for working to enrich the lives of those around him.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. Joseph Balchunas, a fourth-grade teacher at Fairway Elementary School in Miramar, Florida. On May 18, 2000, the Florida Department of Education and the Burdines Corporation acknowledged his innovative teaching style by naming him Florida Teacher of the Year. I would like to congratulate Joseph on this tremendous honor, and thank him for serving as a positive role model for the students of Fairway Elementary. With over 130,000 public school teachers statewide, only one person is recognized as Florida's Teacher of the Year. To select the one educator that epitomizes the ability to teach and communicate with students, the Florida Department of Education appoints a selection committee of teachers, principals, parents, and businessmen. This year the selection committee recognized Joseph for his innovative teaching philosophy, for his exemplary school and community service, and most importantly for his ability to inspire a love of learning in students of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Joseph has been teaching for only five years, making him, at age 28, a neophyte in the long list of educators who have previously been acknowledged as Teacher of the Year. A native of New York City, Joseph attended Nova Southeastern University and began teaching at Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary in Davie before moving to his current position at Miramar's Fairway Elementary School. Throughout his short term of service in Broward County, Joseph has proven himself to be a hero in the eyes of his students, speaking to them on a level they can understand. Indeed, he has found a balance between teacher, authority figure, and friend--a balance that makes active learning fun for everyone involved. Educators statewide will benefit from this amazing South Florida teacher as Joseph serves as an ambassador for the Florida Department of Education throughout the next year. In this role, Joseph will tour the state and share his methodology with others. This award also qualifies him to be considered for the honor of National Teacher of the Year. Mr. Speaker, I hope my Florida colleagues will join me in praising Mr. Joseph Balchunas for all of the wonderful things he is doing to help the youth of South Florida. I would like to congratulate Joseph, along with the students and parents of his fourth-grade class, on this amazing accomplishment. Indeed, Fairway Elementary School and the Broward County School Board should be very proud of Joseph for the good work he is doing. In summary, I wish Joseph all the best in his future endeavors, and I thank him for his extraordinary work of positively influencing the youth of South Florida.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the efforts of Tina Tahmassebi, of Davie, Florida. Tina was recently honored by the Third Annual Seventeen/Cover Girl Volunteerism Awards as a first place prize winner in the 18-21 age category. Indeed, Tina is very deserving of recognition for her role in founding the Universal Aid for Children REACH OUT program. The Seventeen/Cover Girl Volunteerism Award rewards and honors teens and young women who have made extraordinary achievements in the fields of volunteerism and public service. In concert with the Volunteerism Awards, Seventeen Magazine and Cover Girl Cosmetics Company have awarded more than $90,000 in scholarship money, U.S. Savings Bonds and charitable donations. After examining Tina's extraordinary work, it is clear that her story exemplifies the tenets espoused by the Volunteerism Awards. Tina founded the REACH OUT program while only a junior in high school. This student-run organization assists an orphanage and a vocational school in El Salvador by supplying medical supplies, office supplies, and clothing while simultaneously attending to the educational needs of the children involved in these programs. To purchase these much needed supplies, Tina and her group have held bake sales, car washes, and other fundraising events. Shipping more than $40,000 in relief to El Salvador to this date, Tina's efforts have undoubtedly made a lasting impression on those in the community. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Tina Tahmassebi for her exemplary achievements in volunteering and public service. Tina has made a remarkable impact on the lives of the children in El Salvador, and her hard work is something that both she and the entire community can be proud of.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Gregory Plageman, Jr., of Davie, Florida. Gregory was recently honored by the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission after risking his own life to save the life of Pearl Steinberg. Indeed, Gregory committed a tremendous act of heroism of which he should be extremely proud. The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission awards a bronze medal to individuals throughout the United States and Canada who risk their lives to an extraordinary degree while saving or attempting to save the lives of others. Since the program's inception in 1904 by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, the Commission has recognized acts of outstanding civilian heroism, providing financial assistance to the awardees and the dependents of those awardees who are killed or disabled by their heroic actions. Gregory's story of bravery truly exemplifies the tenets espoused by the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission. On June 24, 1999, 85-year-old Pearl Steinberg remained in her car after it had knocked over a gasoline pump at a local service station. Immediately engulfing the car, flames entered the rear of her car through a broken-out window. Upon witnessing this, Gregory forced open the car door, partially entered the automobile, and released Pearl's safety belt, pulling her out of the car and leading her to safety. The flames grew to 18 feet above the gas pumps within minutes, completely devouring the vehicle. Without Gregory's selfless act of bravery, Pearl Steinberg would likely have sustained fatal injuries. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Gregory Plageman, Jr., for his heroic efforts in risking his own life to save another's. This was a truly selfless act of courage--an act that Gregory and the entire southern Florida community can be proud of.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to once again bring notice to this Congress of 13 Jews who are accused of spying in Iran, who have been imprisoned for over a year without formally being charged. Jews have been living in Iran for 2,700 years, the oldest Jewish Diaspora community and the biggest in the Middle East after Israel. At least 17 Jews have been executed in Iran since 1979, most of whom were accused of spying for Israel and the United States. These Jews who have been held have had their due process violated, even under Iranian law. Thirteen Jews have been denied the right to choose their own lawyers. Ten of the defendants imprisoned for over a year without legal representation had lawyers chosen for them by the court, after the court rejected the lawyers picked by the defendants' families. Three of the 13 have been released on bail but none of the others were allowed to consult attorneys until hours before the trial opened. Since that time, the lawyers have only had brief periods with their clients and only the most limited contact with their court-appointed attorneys. There has been a closed trial. No members of the Jewish community diplomats or human rights activists were permitted in the courtroom by order of the judge. The trial comes amid a power struggle between President Khatami and the hardliners opposed to his social and political reforms. This is about hardliners' opposition rather than the actual action of the defendants.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, this month I join with citizens across the nation in celebrating Pacific American Heritage Month. The Pacific American community represents an important foundation of America's future and I commend the proud celebration of its heritage. Taiwanese-American Heritage Week, the part of Pacific American Heritage Month held from May 7 to May 14, celebrates the unique and diverse contributions of the more than 500,000 Taiwanese-Americans in the United States. This portion of the population has made countless significant achievements in our country and their accomplishments can be found in every facet of American life. Taiwanese-Americans have succeeded as successful and notable artists, Nobel Laureate scientists, researchers, human rights activists, and business leaders. In addition to recognizing these contributions, Taiwanese-American Heritage Week also provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate the success of democracy on the island of Taiwan. Since 1987, the Taiwanese people have freely selected their own leaders, practiced the religion of their choice, and expressed their thoughts openly and freely. Taiwan has become a vibrant and democratic participant in the family of nations. The recent election of Mr. Chen Shui-bian as the new president of Taiwan should be considered a reaffirmation of their dedication to democratic ideals. However, despite Taiwan's many accomplishments, significant political challenges still remain. With all that the Taiwanese people and Taiwanese-Americans have accomplished, there can be no complete satisfaction until Taiwan's sovereignty, status and global contributions are respected and appreciated. Gaining worldwide recognition of the legitimacy of Taiwan's government is paramount. It is crucial that the voice of the 22 million people of Taiwan be heard in international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other international organizations. Mr. Speaker, Taiwanese-American Heritage Week recognizes and celebrates the longstanding friendship between the United States and Taiwan. I hope my colleagues will join with me in commending the accomplishments and contributions of the Taiwanese American community.

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. I yield to the gentleman from Pennsylvania.

Mr. DEUTSCH. I yield to the gentleman from Pennsylvania.

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Chairman, this is really in many ways one of, I would not even say proudest but happiest days that I have served in the United States Congress just listening to the debate over the last half hour or so in terms of the Florida Keys, because for anyone who has been listening for the last half hour or so we have Members from around the country speaking as eloquently, if not better, about the beauty and the significance of the Florida Keys as I could myself. I think that is the statement that this is not a resource just of Monroe County, and the truth is it is not even just a resource of the United States of America, but it truly is an international resource. There is only one Everglades in the world. There is only one Florida Bay. There is only one living coral reef in North America which is basically outside or part of the Florida Keys, part of Monroe County. So this has really been a very heartwarming last half hour or so, but more than that it has been a heartwarming process that we are here today with this bill on the floor. I really want to thank my colleagues from the Florida delegation, specifically the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Shaw), who is the prime sponsor with me, the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ros-Lehtinen), and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Goss) as well, who have worked so hard throughout the process but also the Members in the leadership of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for their commitment to this critical national priority. Mr. Chairman, today Congress advances America's commitment to the Florida Keys. An American treasure is at risk and the Florida Keys Water Quality Improvements Act will help save North America's only living coral reef. A 150-mile chain of islands which rose from ancient coral rock, the Florida Keys comprise the southern end of the Everglades ecosystem. While the spectacular coral reef is the Keys' most popular feature, they are also known for native seagrass beds, lush tropical hardwood hammocks, mangrove forests, rocky pinelands, the endangered key deer, and a wide array of aquatic life. Only about 80,000 people live in the Keys community of Monroe County, but the mystery of this tropical paradise attracts over 2 million visitors every year. The Keys are a tropical paradise, but they are at risk of becoming a paradise lost. Mr. Chairman, pollution is the number one problem. Pristine water which was once crystal clear in many places now is turning pea green. The living reef tract is becoming infected with disease and many parts are dying off completely. Last summer, unchecked pollution closed beaches throughout the county, including most beaches in Key West. Up and down the Keys, health officials warn against swimming close to shore. Unless decisive action is taken to stop the flow of pollution, scientists warn the ecosystem will continue its decline towards total collapse. The source of the problem is clear. The Keys have almost no water quality infrastructure. Lacking adequate technology, untreated wastewater now travels easily through porous limestone rock into the near-shore waters. Polluted storm water also flows from developed land into the same near-shore waters. Mr. Chairman, the Christian Science Monitor clearly described the problem in an article which appeared exactly one year ago today: ``One of the most treasured marine ecosystems in the United States is literally being flushed down the toilet.'' H.R. 673 addresses this problem by authorizing $213 million for the deployment of water quality technology throughout the Keys. The legislation is a natural extension of the Federal commitment to the Florida Keys under the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Protection Act approved by Congress in 1990. The Sanctuary Act established a Federal role in research and protection of the Keys marine ecosystem. It directed the Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Florida to establish a Water Quality Steering Committee which was charged with developing a comprehensive water quality protection program. In fulfilling this directive, the steering committee worked closely with dedicated citizens, scientists, and technical experts. In the final analysis, it found that inadequate waste water and storm water systems are the largest source of pollution in the Keys. H.R. 673 also authorizes grants under the Clean Water Act for the construction of water quality improvements according to Monroe County's waste water master plan and plans of incorporated municipalities. Projects will be funded on a 75 percent Federal, 25 percent non-Federal base. One point is important to stress: Even with appropriate Federal support, the people of the Keys will still pay more than twice the national average in monthly sewer bills. I think my constituents will agree that it is a price worth paying. Let me just add also a word of thanks to everyone in Monroe County. It has been an incredibly supportive effort at every level, environmentalists, the Chamber of Commerce groups, it has been totally a success story I think in policy in terms of the Congress as well over a number of years.

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

Mr. DEUTSCH

Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fred Lippman and Will Trower, soon to be awarded the Tree of Life Award given annually by the Jewish National Fund in recognition of outstanding community involvement and dedication to the cause of American-Israeli friendship. The extraordinary vision that these men share make them exemplary citizens, and I congratulate them both on this well deserved award. The State of Florida as a whole has greatly benefitted from Fred Lippman's vision and leadership: Fred represented much of South Broward County in the Florida House of Representatives 1978 to 1998. A fervent supporter of the preservation of Jewish history, Fred received an award in 1997 for his efforts in creating and adopting Holocaust education curricula in Florida. He is also known as the ``father'' of the State of Florida's Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Program, a joint federal and state program that seeks to improve the supply and distribution of primary care health providers in medically under served areas. A 30 year veteran of the healthcare industry, Will Trower is currently President/CEO of the fourth largest public hospital system in the nation, the North Broward Hospital District. He has tirelessly worked to fulfill the North Broward Hospital District's mission of providing healthcare to Broward County residents through an integrated system, emphasizing community-based health programs. By advocating the expansion of services for primary care, mental health, and care for the chronically ill, Will has demonstrated his intense desire to better the lives of those around him in the South Florida community. Mr. Speaker, I wish to convey Fred Lippman and Will Trower a heartfelt congratulations for this wonderful honor. Indeed, we owe both of these distinguished individuals a tremendous debt of gratitude, and I would like to thank both Fred and Will for their efforts on behalf of the entire South Florida community.