Susan Davis

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 486. This resolution recognizes and honors the selfless service of America's military unit family support volunteers, who provide such dedicated support to the members of our Armed Forces and their families. We are all aware of the tremendous sacrifices our service members make in the defense of the United States. Since September 11, 2001, our 1.4 million active duty service members and 875,000 citizen soldiers, the National Guardsmen and Reservists, have served our Nation honorably in the war on terrorism. Many have served in extremely dangerous conditions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Their bravery and sacrifice are an honor to our Nation. But we must not forget the sacrifices of those whom they leave behind at home. As the poet John Milton said, ``Those also serve who only stand and wait.'' The months of separation that military families endure can be filled with anxiety, loneliness and hardship. But life goes on for America's military spouses and their families while their loved ones serve overseas. There are doctors appointments, anniversaries, home repairs, holidays, financial problems, graduation, car troubles, birthdays, and in some cases, births. All those joys and trials of life that are shared by a family can become somber days and monumental tasks when one's partner or parent is missing. In my congressional district, I am honored by the opportunity to work with many Navy ombudsmen and Marine Key Volunteers, or KVs, as they are called. That is why I introduced House Concurrent Resolution 486, because I am constantly amazed by the stories they share with me. I met one Marine spouse who was facing incredibly difficult circumstances after her husband was deployed to Iraq in June, leaving her with the responsibility of caring for her two sons on her own. In addition to the stress involved with caring for her family, she must also deal with the anxiety that comes when you know your loved one is in harm's way. Her husband is fighting the insurgency in some of the most dangerous areas of Iraq. In the notes he writes to her, he describes what it is like to be on the front lines and what it is like to come under fire from insurgents. Fortunately, this brave young woman was assigned a Key Volunteer who cares deeply and who can relate to her. Her KV speaks to her every day to provide comfort and guidance and to offer any other help that she can provide. Just before the war in Iraq got under way, I heard from a Navy spouse who was 4 months pregnant and her husband was deployed for a 6-month tour. She was new to San Diego and had no family and few friends in the area. She would have to face the remainder of her pregnancy without her husband being there and give birth without him by her side. However, she was assigned a Navy ombudsman, who went to great length to help her. The dedicated ombudsman contacted her several times to provide moral support and to offer assistance. She also made herself available 24 hours a day in case this young wife needed medical treatment, guidance or just a friend. In every unit of our great military, groups of these volunteers gather to help support each other when their husbands and their wives deploy. This powerful network of volunteers that makes up the family support group starts out as a collection of spouses who are thrown together by circumstance and grows into a network of friends and extended family. This family comes together to shoulder the burden and to share the joys for those coping with the absence of their loved ones. No one can understand the anxiety and the hardship that deployment brings better than these family support group volunteers, because they too have experienced these hardships. In many cases, family support volunteers are in the same position as those they seek to help. Their spouses are also deployed into harm's way, and I know that many of them have gotten involved as ombudsman persons because of some of the trauma that they experienced. Madam Speaker, I cannot tell my colleagues how deeply honored I am today for the opportunity to recognize America's family support volunteers. These brave men and women give selflessly of themselves for no pay and no recognition, and they often contribute their own resources to those in need. They do it for their loved ones. They do it for their community, and they do it for their nation. Our service members need these dedicated volunteers to help keep the home fires burning so that they can focus on the task of fighting the global war on terror, a task that is more difficult if they are worried about their families back home. Knowing their families have the full support of a dedicated volunteer helps to ease their fears and concerns. I commend these volunteers who so selflessly serve our armed forces and our Nation. The support they give to our military families is truly invaluable, and our country owes them a large debt of gratitude. Madam Speaker, I see that there are no further speakers. I am delighted to present this. I look forward to presenting it to the ombudspeople and the key volunteers in the San Diego region, and I know that they will be pleased with this recognition from the United States Congress. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume, and I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 161 introduced by the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Osborne). I am very pleased to be here today with my colleague on the House Committee on Armed Services, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Franks), to recognize the wonderful efforts of the citizens of North Platte, Nebraska, for their support of the troops during World War II. Mr. Speaker, as I have learned about this, I am amazed to find out how hard the people of North Platte worked to find out about the brave young men that were heading off to battle. Their compassion and the generosity displayed by these fine citizens should be commended as a shining example of kindness for future generations of Americans. As World War II reached its peak, the canteen was serving 3,000 to 5,000 service members each day. The daily shopping list included 160 to 175 loaves of bread, 100 pounds of meat, 15 pounds of cheese, 18 pounds of butter, 45 pounds of coffee, 40 quarts of cream, 500 half-pints of milk and 35 dozen rolls, along with 18 to 20 birthday cakes given to those celebrating their birthdays. This may not sound like much today, but it is truly amazing since many of these individuals and families were donating all of these items while food and other goods were being rationed across the country. Another thing that struck me was how the North Platte Canteen came into existence. On December 17 of 1941, rumors abounded throughout the town that a train carrying members of the Nebraska National Guard was to arrive. The train did, carrying hundreds of soldiers; but they were not from Nebraska. The troops traveling that day through North Platte were from Kansas. This did not stop hundreds of local citizens from North Platte from greeting the soldiers from out of state and from expressing their deep gratitude. Of course, North Platte resident Miss Rae Wilson suggested that the town establish a canteen to welcome all the troops traveling through the city so that those heading off to war could have a taste of home on their long journey. The 12,000 citizens of North Platte agreed, and over time clubs and organizations began to contribute volunteers, food, and funding. And pretty soon everyone got together to support the canteen. There were benefit movies and dances, scrap metal drives, and other donations. All contributed to the effort. In all, men, women, and children from over 125 communities, some as far as Colorado and Kansas, worked together to care for the troops during these quick 10-minute train stops. When the doors of the Service Men's Canteen in the Union Pacific Railroad Station in North Platte closed on April 1, 1946, almost 55,000 volunteers from 125 communities had served 6 million servicemen and -women. While other canteens existed across the country during World War II, North Platt's canteen may have been the most famous. We no longer have canteens across the country to support our troops, but American citizens still continue the spirit of charity through their support of USO centers and other organizations around the world. I urge my fellow Americans to follow in the footsteps of these patriotic citizens and continue their efforts to support our brave servicemembers today. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I am so pleased to have this opportunity today to join with my colleagues in thanking the people of North Platte for setting such a fine, genuine example of support and patriotism for our troops and for our country. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Madam Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar).

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which commemorates the extraordinary contributions that Latinos have made to our country throughout history. During this one-month period of celebration and tribute, we honor the culture and achievements of the Hispanic community, all of which have played a historic role in our Nation. I am proud, honored and privileged to represent California's 53rd district in Congress. My district is extraordinarily diverse and home to many citizens who are of Latino background. To commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month 2004, I would like to highlight the remarkable accomplishments of six San Diego residents who have been named local heroes as part of the Union Bank of California and KPBS Hispanic Heritage Month Local Hero Awards, a program honoring outstanding members of the Hispanic community. These individuals were selected for their exceptional commitment and contribution to San Diego through community activism, the arts, business, education and social services. The 2004 honorees are Sylvia Galvez, Jovita Juarez, Beatrice Fernandez, Mario Aguilar and Beatrice Zamora Aguilar, and Lupe Ortega. Sylvia Galvez: Sylvia Galvez opened a group home in 1995 to help troubled female teens who had no place to stay, and is now operating two six-bed, 24-hour licensed treatment facilities in San Diego. Sylvia was inspired to help these girls because she felt she could relate to them. She herself dropped out of high school when she was 16 and pregnant with her first child. By the age of 21, she had given birth to three children and was working as a painter for both the Navy Public Works Department and the painting company of Mr. Willie Davis. It was Mr. Davis who helped her return to school at the age of 28. She graduated from City College in 1991 with an A.A. in Liberal Arts and transferred to National University where she earned B.A. and M.A. degrees in Human Behavior. Recently, she and her husband purchased an eight-unit apartment complex to help foster teens after they turn 18 years old. Jovita Juarez: Jovita Juarez is a Prevention Specialist and Community Organizer for the North City Prevention Coalition and an activist working with SAY San Diego. She uses her leadership skills to provide guidance for new prevention professionals, helping them become more productive and successful. Jovita is also the chairperson of two countywide prevention efforts: the statewide organization Latinos and Latinas for Health and Justice, where she is the Southern Chair, and the San Diego Cinco de Mayo Con Orgullo Coalition, where she has been chair for the past four years. Jovita has volunteered with many organizations throughout the years, including the National Council on Alcoholism & Drug, Hispanic Advisory Council-MADD Pass Las Llaves and Youth Access to Alcohol Policy Panel, to name a few. She is now writing a book, God's Transforming Power, which will provide a framework for early leadership development. Bea Fernandez: Bea Fernandez has worked for San Diego City Schools for 20 years. She is currently the program coordinator for the San Diego District's San Diego Parent University, a four year program designed to help parents become involved in their children's education as academic coaches. Fernandez was also the Chair of the Board of MANA, a National Latina Organization. She began her service in 1995 in the San Diego chapter of MANA, the largest chapter in the nation, and was named MANA Member of the Year in 1995 for her activism, community service and commitment to the organization. Fernandez was born in Calexico, CA and the first in her family to graduate from college, earning a B.A. and M.A. in Education, and an administrative credential from San Diego State University. Mario Aguilar and Beatrice Zamora-Aguilar: Mario Aguilar is Assistant Director of the Early Academic Outreach Program at University of California, San Diego. Beatrice Zamora- Aguilar is Interim Dean of the School of Counseling and Personal Development at Southwestern College. In 1975, Mario became involved with the ancient indigenous dance tradition called Danza Azteca. In 1980 he and Beatrice were married and together they formed their own dance circle, Danza Mexicayotl. Their dance circle was recognized on December 12, 1980 in Mexico City at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe at a traditional dance ceremony. Since that time, Mario and Beatrice have consistently offered free dance classes to the communities of San Ysidro and Sherman Heights. Danza Mexicayotl has gained status as a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization and has as its mission, ``To preserve and teach the indigenous traditions of Mexico and the Southwestern U.S.'' Danza Mexicayotl has become an active and well established dance tradition known throughout San Diego, California, the United States and in Mexico. Under the leadership of Mario and Beatrice, many other dance groups have formed throughout California and the Southwestern United States. Together, these groups help proliferate the songs, dance and spiritual movement of this ancient tradition from Mexico. Lupe Ortega: Lupe Ortega is the Business Manager for O'Day Consultants, a civil engineering firm in North County, where she uses her bicultural background and bilingual skills as assets in her job. She is also a licensed real estate agent operating under Lupe Ortega Enterprises/PMT Companies, a public notary and member of the San Diego Association of Realtors. Ortega strongly agrees with giving back to the community and she donates her time, talents and skills by serving as a director on a number of boards and committees. She is also a skilled photographer and had some of her work published in Photographers Forum Best Photography Annual 1999. Today, with an estimated Hispanic population of over 39 million in our country, we must also recognize that our efforts to commemorate Hispanic culture should not be limited merely to a one-month period. This is an outlook that each of the six San Diego Local Heroes embodies. These community leaders have used their skills and experiences to empower others. Their time and efforts are truly changing the lives of those around them. I hope you, Mr. Speaker, and all of my colleagues will join me in honoring these unsung heroes and their accomplishments for the Latino community.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to and honor the life of Charles L. Lewis III. Charles Lewis was a leader in the San Diego community, the city that I am so proud to represent in the Congress. During his 37 years of life, Charles contributed so much to the citizens of San Diego. With his passing on August 8, 2004, our city has lost one of its great heroes. Charles's life is that classic story of one of the kids that made good. He grew up in the neighborhoods of Skyline and Paradise Hills in San Diego, where he was known by his friends as Chucky. At the time, these were tough, working class neighborhoods that were often forgotten by the officials elected to represent them. Through hard work, talent, and grace, Chucky grew into a strong young man. He graduated from Morse High School and went on to receive a bachelor's degree from San Diego State University. It was at this time, Mr. Speaker, that Chucky came to be known as Charles, and he came to serve this body. He spent his senior year of college interning for then Congressman Jim Bates and began what would be a lifetime of service to San Diego. Recognizing his intelligence and dedication, Charles was hired by Councilman George Stevens to serve his constituents in the City's Fourth Council District, the very neighborhoods Charles grew up in. Over the next 12 years, Charles spent every day of his life serving the Fourth District. Remembering where he came from, he resolved to never let his neighborhoods be forgotten by City Hall again. While working for Councilman Stevens, Charles developed many innovative programs that empowered and inspired the people of the Fourth District. He helped create 23 Neighborhood Councils that gave residents a voice to take back their neighborhoods from crime and blight. He implemented graffiti control and tree replacement programs that helped beautify his communities. As a result of his accomplishments, he was promoted up the chain until he became the Councilman's Chief of Staff. In 2002, after 10 years of effective leadership as a civil servant, Charles was chosen by his community to represent them on the San Diego City Council. His campaign platform was called the Three Rs: Reputation, Relationships, and Results. On the Council, Charles made a name for himself as a strong advocate for neighborhoods and he built a reputation of being tough on crime. His efforts helped San Diego achieve the lowest crime rate among the 10 largest cities in America in 2003. This was a statistic that I know made Charles very proud. While on the Council, Charles was known for his quiet strength. He was often reserved in public meetings, only to become vocal and outspoken when issues related to his neighborhoods were brought forward. He was a fighter. He also wasn't afraid to take unpopular positions. Although an elected representative of the City of San Diego, Charles remained an avid Oakland Raiders fan--to the dismay of many San Diego Charger supporters. Mr. Speaker, because of his deep roots in the community; because of his strength of character; because he never forgot where he came from or who elected him to serve; and because of his strong faith in God, Charles was beloved in the Fourth District and throughout San Diego. Sadly, Charles Lewis died suddenly last month at the age of 37. He is survived by his wife Carlette, his mother Rosemary Pope, his father Charles Lewis II, and his sister Charis. And he is also survived by the over 160,000 San Diegans that called Charles their Councilman. I am sad that I will no longer see Charles when I return to my district. That we won't run into one another at annual Juneteenth celebrations, community fish-frys and traditional groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting ceremonies. And I regret that San Diego will not have his leadership to guide us in the years ahead. But, I am certain that Charles' memory will live on through his contributions to the community. Today, the Neighborhood Councils he helped create still meet. The trees he helped plant continue to grow. The lives he touched go on. And the neighborhoods he helped revitalize flourish. We will all miss Charles L. Lewis III.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer, along with my colleague and friend Representative Jo Ann Davis from Virginia, a resolution honoring those who selflessly volunteer their time and energy to support America's brave military families. Mr. Speaker, since the conflicts in Afghanistan and in Iraq began, the strain on our military families has been tremendous--with extended tours of duty and several activations and reactivations During this time, our military families face unique and trying challenges. While their loved ones are deployed overseas or away for extended periods, these families must cope with the anxiety and a fear of a different kind than experienced in combat. This anxiety can be just as intense. ``Will my husband come home?'' ``Is my daughter's unit in the line of fire?'' ``How will I make ends meet while the kids' father is gone?'' ``How should I explain this to our kids?'' These are the questions that race through the minds of the spouses and the children of our brave servicemembers while they are courageously fighting overseas. These families and communities need the support of others who can relate to them and comfort them in this time of need. Working without pay, not expecting recognition, and often using their own resources, military unit family support volunteers have been filling this need for decades. These generous men and women have taken it upon themselves to provide guidance, support, and advice to military families. Each branch of the United States Armed Forces has organized its military unit family support volunteers into effective networks of support. Generally, the spouse of a servicemember will serve as a military unit family support volunteer and will work hard to improve the lives of other spouses and their children. In San Diego, I have had the opportunity to work closely with Navy Ombudsmen and Marine Key Volunteers on a regular basis. It is an understatement to say that I have been amazed by their dedication. These volunteers spend hours and hours each week to help other military families. Working as a military unit family support volunteer is a full-time job. They provide these services while at the same time, dealing with the hardships of military life in their own right. But without their efforts, military life for military families would be much more difficult--especially for those who are new to the service. Next week on Tuesday, September 14, the Navy will honor its selfless volunteers on Ombudsmen Appreciation Day. Each year, the Navy recognizes its 6,000 Ombudsmen on this special day. Mr. Speaker, I cannot think of a better occasion to recognize the fine efforts of all our military unit family support volunteers from each branch. It is my goal to let each volunteer know that this Congress stands firmly behind your efforts and recognizes the invaluable support you give to America's brave military families. Today, I am introducing a concurrent resolution to officially recognize the efforts of the Air Force Spouses Together and Ready volunteers (STARs), the Army Family Readiness Volunteers, the Marine Key Volunteers (KVs), and the Navy Ombudsmen. This Congress stands firmly behind your mission. Thank you very much for your efforts and your dedication.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, it has been my pleasure to co- sponsor Representative Bono's bill, H.R. 3874, which will enable the Palm Springs area to benefit from the conveyance of 44 acres of Bureau of Land Management land to Father Joe's Villages for the creation of a homeless shelter, a training center, and affordable housing for this area of Riverside County. I have had the privilege of knowing Father Joe Carroll for many years in San Diego, where he has worked tirelessly to develop an extensive program of services for the homeless of all ages through the St. Vincent De Paul Village. Often identified by the community for its Kitchen, which serves 4,000 meals a day, the center goes way beyond providing the homeless with food to offering dental, vision, and other health services. It also provides high school equivalency and computer training. Helping the homeless find jobs not only includes coaching in job hunting skills and providing interview attire but begins with coordinating on-site psychiatric services to address some of the underlying needs of village members through volunteer professionals from the University of California San Diego. The Center also provides for the 24-hour care of some 200 orphaned children, which includes meeting not only their food, clothing, housing, and health needs but also houses their public schooling. The village offers courses in parenting, anger management, and counseling for unmarried couples with children as well as prenatal care. In sum, it invests in offering needy people full-life services both intensively and for an extended time to help them turn their lives around. I know that with the decades of Father Joe Carroll's successful experience in San Diego, this opportunity to create a new service base in Palm Springs will be beneficial for the community.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a country of patriots. A nation entering a hot summer, full of turmoil and uncertainty. The coming three months will be marked by many significant world events; the transfer of sovereignty in Iraq, the Olympic games in Greece, an escalating November election at home. The world will spin a little faster this summer and to compensate we must all pull together as a nation. It is time for us to reconnect, to remind ourselves what it is that makes us uniquely American. We are all neighbors, and that which divides us will never outshine that which unites us. We are all neighbors, and for that reason I share with the community what is happening in my yard this summer. In one month time the 28,000 residents of Imperial Beach, California will be holding their city's 48th birthday commemoration. Proudly anchored as the country's most southwesterly city, this diverse seaside town is preparing to celebrate the same way it has for the past quarter-century. Come early July, the city of Imperial Beach will be holding its 24th annual U.S. Open Sandcastle Competition. For three days, creativity and civic pride will be honored. In addition to the sand-sculpting contest, festivities will include a community ball, street parade, and nighttime fireworks display over the Pacific. The weekend long celebration will draw over 250,000 spectators. People will swarm the sand to see creations that will not last the next tide. In the spirit of ingenuity, modern marvels of dirt will be erected and destroyed in an afternoon's time. For three days the sun will shine and the children will smile. The world will slow in this corner of the country and we will celebrate the anniversary of a city, the essence of a nation. We are a ``can do'' people, but that does not mean we should have to do it alone. My district is only 1 of 435, and so I ask my fellow Representatives in the House, what is your District doing this summer? Let us share in this most public of forums, that which unites us as a country. We are each other's neighbors and we should not let an opportunity to come together pass us by. The world will seem a smaller and safer place if we know what is happening in our own backyards. So as summer quickly comes to our countryside, let us give voice to our originality, and champion all that makes our society truly extraordinary.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Madam Chairman, I rise in support of this amendment, because I think it is appropriate to address the failure of FERC for adjusting reasonable rates within this energy bill. I support the Energy and Water Bill that is before us today because on balance there are a number of important programs that are supported. However, it is an energy bill, and it has failed to address a critical energy issue facing the western states. I support the amendment of my California colleague Ms. Eshoo. This bill should address the failure of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [FERC] over the past four years to see that energy rates are ``fair and just''; to review the evidence in the tapes which they have had in their possession to look for market manipulation; to hold meaningful, public hearings on the energy market gaming that occurred so widely in California and the West Coast beginning in the spring of 2000; and to order the energy companies which committed massive fraud to refund the $9 billion that should be restored to California ratepayers in addition to refunds for manipulated rates in other states. You have heard how the recently revealed tapes of employees of the energy companies show that they intentionally, cynically, and repeatedly manipulated energy supplies in order to create exorbitant, unjustified profits for those companies. My district San Diego bore the brunt of the first tripling of energy bills. Not only the mythical Grandma Millie but many real people suffered: the elderly and frail on fixed incomes; small business owners whose product requires high levels of energy; museums, churches and temples, schools and universities, government offices; and every family struggling to meet its budget. Congress has an obligation to address this failure by FERC to take action. Potential court action is no excuse for Congressional inaction.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, and in support of a program in my district that provides critical healing services to San Diegans who have fled torture and persecution in countries all over the world. The greater San Diego area is home to an estimated 11,000 survivors of politically motivated torture. They have come from more than 40 countries and endured unimaginable human rights abuses. They are not strangers or anonymous victims who we will never meet. They are our neighbors, our colleagues, the families with which we attend religious services, and the children that attend schools with our children. Torture survivors in San Diego are strong, resilient, resourceful people who bring diversity to our city and have many talents and experiences to offer our community. Torture robs strong, healthy, productive people of their vitality, identity, and dignity, often in the prime of their lives. Political torture does not just randomly occur as an act of isolated terror; it is a tool of oppression, a system of violence that targets people because of their race, ethnicity, religion, social group, gender or political affiliation. People are tortured because of who they are, what they believe and what they represent. Torture survivors in San Diego have been tortured because as journalists they wrote the unwelcome truth, as attorneys they fought for the legal rights of unpopular minorities, as community leaders they spoke up, organized unions, or staffed clinics. Some requested the right to representation by their government, or the right to be autonomous when the government failed to represent them. Others sought healthcare, believed in religions not ``sanctioned'' by the government, and rejected the conscription of children into militias. In San Diego, and in all places where they seek safety and solace, torture survivors bear out the consequences of the abuse they have endured. Anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, chronic pain, head injuries, dental trauma, and nerve damage are all consequences of torture. Though many torture survivors choose not to reveal the details of what they have endured, they never forget, and without appropriate care, most will not improve. They re-live their suffering in nightmares, flashbacks and intrusive memories. Chronic physical pain, muscle weakness and an inability to trust, confide or relax are too often daily reminders of the injuries they endured. The consequences of torture are also a significant public health concern. Not only do they impair the health of the person who was victimized, but they create anxiety, fear and depression among whole families and communities. The transgenerational effects of trauma are well researched and well documented. The effects of torture will cascade down through the generations and negatively affect the mental health of the children and even grandchildren of those who endure torture. The effects of torture will ripple through our cities weakening the ties that bind us together, and bolstering the barriers that keep us apart. The consequences of torture represent a public health problem which only grow without care, and prevent hardworking, talented people from being able to fully-integrated, productive, participating members of our communities. I invite all of my colleagues and all Americans to recommit themselves today, on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, and everyday to the eradication of the use of torture throughout the world wherever it may be used. The consequences of torture for individuals, families and communities are far too heinous to not be condemned and spoken against. Today, I am happy to be able to commend the important work and the successes of Survivors of Torture, International. This non-profit organization, made up of concerned San Diegans has provided direct medical, mental health, legal and social services to more than 500 torture survivors in the greater San Diego area. Furthermore, this organization has worked to train hundreds of doctors, nurses, attorneys, teachers, clergy, and mental health professionals to work with torture survivors as well. They have committed themselves to building a San Diego where torture survivors do not suffer in silence, but have access to the assistance the need to become healthy, productive and self-sufficient Americans.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, how much time do I have remaining?

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans), ranking member of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Frank).

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4345. I would just like to begin by saying that managing this legislation for our side is particularly meaningful for me today because I have fought to improve the VA's home loan program since I was first elected to Congress over 3 years ago. I also wanted to thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Chairman Smith) and the gentleman from Illinois (Ranking Member Evans) for bringing this legislation before the Committee on Veterans' Affairs and for sending it to the House floor. I certainly want to thank my colleague, the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ginny Brown-Waite), with whom I have been honored to serve on the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, for working with me over recent months to perfect legislation that brings significant improvements to the home loan program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Mr. Speaker, I have heard from many veterans in San Diego about the need to increase the loan amount under the VA's home loan program. Simply put, veterans living in high-cost areas cannot use the VA loan because the current limit of $240,000 is not nearly enough to purchase a home in regions such as San Diego where the median price for a home has now reached $500,000. Far too many of our veterans cannot take advantage of the benefits that come with a VA loan because of this low limit. I also fear that many veterans in my community will never have the opportunity to buy a home without a subsidized VA loan. My staff heard from one disabled veteran shortly after I was elected who tried to purchase a home in San Diego; and unfortunately, with the low limit in the VA program, he was not able to find anything affordable and still lives in an apartment today. It is my goal to let veterans know that homeownership is a real possibility for them. The bill before Congress today, H.R. 4345, introduced by me and the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ginny Brown-Waite), would not only increase the home loan limit to $333,700, but it would index the amount to the Freddie Mac criteria to guarantee automatic increases annually. America's veterans deserve to be on an equal footing with the general public in today's competitive real estate markets. The bill before the House accomplishes exactly that. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation. Though passage of H.R. 4345 will be a victory for our veterans, I intend to keep working hard on this issue to ensure that they can continue to achieve homeownership and that the home loan program is effective. Just last week, I introduced H.R. 4616 to extend a VA home loan pilot program set to expire in September of 2005, which would offer adjustable rate mortgages to veterans. Like the general public, our veterans should have the ability to choose the type of mortgage that will best suit their needs. After fighting for the United States, our veterans deserve the opportunity to live in their own home. I am hopeful that my colleagues will continue to support improvements to our veterans home loan program. Again, I am truly honored that the House is considering this legislation so that we may assure meaningful home loan benefits to America's veterans. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Maine (Mr. Michaud).

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Rodriguez).

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from South Dakota (Ms. Herseth).

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. Bordallo).

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Waters).

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume to thank my colleagues for their support of this valuable piece of legislation for our veterans. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time. (Mr. BROWN of South Carolina asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Zara Marselian, founder of La Maestra Community Health Centers. Besides providing multicultural health care and social services to immigrants and refugees in inner city San Diego, La Maestra is unique in developing services, and programs in response to demonstrated needs presented by its patient base. Ms. Marselian is one of ten outstanding individuals from across the country selected this year to receive a Robert Wood Johnson Community Health Leadership award. The child of immigrant and refugee parents, Marselian saw an unmet need in her native San Diego for medical care for uninsured immigrants with little or no English speaking skills. Although she had no medical background, she started a clinic in her home in 1991, one evening a week with one physician. Since its modest beginning, La Maestra Community Health Centers has expanded to include adult and pediatric medical services, two dental clinics, a pharmacy, behavioral health services and health education. Marselian has also established a task force to increase access to health care for the uninsured, working poor. La Maestra's additional services range from job training, placement and referrals to childcare, insurance eligibility assistance, and housing and community development. Staff members, who come from diverse backgrounds and speak 19 languages, provide translation services and culturally sensitive care. One clinic patient called Marselian ``the mother of refugees and immigrants'' for her work in providing multicultural health care and social services to San Diego residents who have nowhere else to turn for help. I wish to congratulate Zara Marselian for her impressive accomplishments at La Maestra Community Health Centers and for her efforts in achieving a 2004 Robert Wood Johnson Community Health Leadership award.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to introduce the Veterans Adjustable Rate Home Loan Extension Act because I am committed to strengthening the home loan program that gives thousands of America's veterans the opportunity to achieve home ownership. When most Americans purchase a home, they have a wide array of home loan options available to them. Through the home loan program administered by the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA), however, our veterans have limited options. It is my strong belief we should give our veterans the opportunity to select a loan that will meet their needs and make them more competitive--especially in expensive real estate markets. My legislation would extend a VA pilot program allowing veterans to select adjustable rate mortgages (ARM). Veterans can purchase a home at lower interest rates saving them money. ARM home loans are particularly beneficial for veterans who do not intend to stay in the home over the life of the mortgage. Extending this program will give us an opportunity to determine whether ARM loans are a good choice for veterans and sound policy. Again, I am committed to giving our veterans the opportunity to own a home and to improve the VA's home loan program. I am honored to introduce legislation today that helps our veterans achieve the American Dream they fought to preserve.

Mrs. DAVIS of California

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, we did have an opportunity to address this issue today. We had an opportunity to say something happened 4 years ago that needs to be remedied today. Unfortunately, we did not act. I want to go back for a moment and talk about what our experience was and what happened. When energy prices spiraled out of control beginning 4 years ago yesterday with the major blackout in California, we were told it was just because California had not built enough energy plants so there was not enough supply for the demand; but there was. Power had been turned off by the energy companies to create a false shortage and exorbitant prices. In fact, the power plants had 37 to 46 percent of capacity that was untapped. The tapes of Enron employees which were finally revealed recently make that abundantly clear. They said, ``There are ways you can go and run through the congestion process, get paid for congestion, and then cut your power and just collect the money.'' But in San Diego, we have known that the market was being manipulated for most of the 4 years since it began. Workmen at Duke's Otay Mesa Energy plant revealed early on that they had been ordered to turn off the generators and say that maintenance was needed. They had been ordered to do that. Then they were told to destroy parts so that no maintenance could be completed and the power supply would continue to be turned off to create an artificial shortage. Yet the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, FERC, refused to investigate. Their legal role was to ensure ``just and reasonable rates,'' but they let the rates skyrocket without action. Throughout that summer, we petitioned them to hold hearings and to put a cap on rates, but they refused to act. For over a year and a half, there had been details not only of Enron's manipulation, but of gaming by other energy companies. Reliant traders also bragged of shutting down much of the energy production, gloating, ``Isn't it fun when you can do things like that now?'' Tapes were found of Williams employees conspiring to cut supply. I recall public hearings at the time where representatives of these energy companies denied any gaming of the market. A number of us were at these hearings and we were trying to push, trying to understand, and they denied any possible gaming of the market. With other elected representatives I heard the president of our local utility declare they were just ``passing on their costs,'' but they neglected to tell us that their existing lower cost contracts for natural gas to run their plants were not being used for the local facilities, but were being sold on the market at an enormous profit. And did FERC investigate these acts and hold the energy companies accountable? Members know the answer to that. No. Instead, they held private meetings with the power company seeking settlements out of the public eye for a few cents on the dollar. In San Diego where the rates first soared, so many people suffered. I remember going to local restaurants, small business owners whose ice cream stores could not cut back the electricity, and they had to go out of business. A bakery that closed, mom and pop shops with very narrow margins wiped out by triple energy prices. Frail, elderly people on fixed incomes who could not afford to run their fans or air conditioners when inland temperatures soared. And when winter came, the natural gas line coming from Texas suddenly cut off half the volume. Natural gas prices exploded, and folks could not afford to heat their homes. Museums housing precious objects, churches and synagogues and nonprofit agencies could not expand their limited budgets for this enormous line-item increase, and they could not just put a surcharge on the price of their services as some businesses chose to do. Schools and colleges had to cut supplies and programs. To save energy, grocery stores turned off half of their lights, having been told supply was the problem. I remember clearly we felt like we were in the dark no matter where we went. Our city felt under siege. Worse, the community ratepayers, the small businesses and families who suffered, have not received rebates in proportion to their losses, $9 billion in unjust charges. So we must not let this prevail. We must not be silent. We must continue to advocate and to let our voices be heard because our voices are the voices of our communities, and they know this was unjust and they know this was not reasonable; and that is why we must continue to speak out. That is why I am so disappointed today, and thank the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Inslee) for holding this Special Order because we could have handled this today. We could have addressed this issue today, and we chose not to do it.

Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, we had the tapes that we just dealt with, and there have been so many other instances along the way that pointed to the fact that there was outright manipulation. Talk about a smoking gun, we had a smoking howitzer, and people still did not respond.