Mario Diaz-Balart

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, actually I rise to thank you, Mr. Denham, for bringing up this very important issue. The gentleman mentioned historically the great contributions that the folks that he mentioned today, people just like that, have made throughout our history. Let me tell you, Mr. Denham, you are bringing up an issue which I am glad finally someone has brought up, and I know you're going to continue to, as you have, show the leadership on this issue that you've had from day one. I just want to tell you that I'm willing to do whatever I can to be of help because I think the issue that you have brought up today is essential not only for a group of individuals, but more importantly, for the national security interests of the United States. So again, thank you, sir, for bringing this up.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Phil Lewis, and to congratulate him on his retirement. Mr. Lewis is an outstanding individual who has served as executive editor of the Naples Daily News since 1997. Mr. Lewis began his journalism career in Washington Court House, Ohio, as a sports editor and city editor of the Record-Herald. His career with the Naples Daily News however began in 1978, when he joined the paper as a reporter. His stellar work as a reporter earned him a quick promotion to city editor. From there he became managing editor of the newspaper in 1989, a position he held for eight years. Finally, in 1997 he was promoted to editor. Under his leadership the Naples Daily News, and its employees, have been recognized locally, at the state level, and nationally. The paper has received numerous awards during Mr. Lewis' time as editor, and has developed a national reputation for excellence. For example, in 2003 the paper was given the Scripps Howard National Journalism Award for environmental reporting with ``Gulf in Peril'', a 15-part series documenting the declining health of the Gulf of Mexico. In 2006 the newspaper's website received Editor & Publisher's EPpy Award when it was named Best Internet News Service under 1 million unique monthly visitors. Having known Mr. Lewis for a little over a decade, I know that he has consistently demonstrated the highest degree of integrity. He has been dedicated to his profession and has worked tirelessly to ensure thorough, fair, and insightful news reporting. The employees and subscribers to the Naples Daily News have truly been lucky to have such an exceptional editor heading their newspaper. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Mr. Phil Lewis for his tremendous service to Naples, and the Naples Daily News and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall vote No. 188 I mistakenly voted ``aye'' when I meant to vote ``nay''.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, due to a death in the family, I was unable to cast the following votes. If I had been present, I would have voted as follows: Rollcall vote 161, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 162, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 163, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 164, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 165, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 166, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 167, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 168, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 169, I would have voted ``yea''; rollcall vote 170, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 171, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 172, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 173, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 174, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 175, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 176, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 177, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 178, I would have voted ``no''; rollcall vote 179, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the fiscal year 2014 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. Let me first of all thank Chairman Culberson and your staff. You've done a spectacular job. This has been among the most inclusive processes that I've ever been involved with. So thank you. Madam Chairwoman, this bill includes almost $10 billion for critical military construction projects, as well as imperative funding for the NATO Security Investment Fund. Our bill fully funds the fiscal year 2014 National Guard and Reserve construction programs as requested, by the way, as well as fully funding the family housing construction program. The bill also includes $55.6 billion in fiscal year 2015 advanced appropriations for VA medical care, the level approved in the House budget resolution and the same, by the way, as was actually requested. This bill provides targeted funding for various information technology programs to ensure that the VA can tackle the enormous backlog of compensation claims, something that this chair and Chairman Rogers have already talked about. These funds will provide the resources that the VA indicates it requires to meet its goals of ending the disability compensation claims backlog by 2015. Additionally, it includes stringent reporting requirements for the VA so the Members of Congress and the American people can have direct oversight on the progress of the claims backlog. The committee also included report language to address the issue of prescription painkiller abuse. This important bill also funds critical programs like the American Battle Monuments Commission, the United States Court of Appeals for Veteran Claims, as well as cemeterial expenses, including Arlington National Cemetery. So I thank the chairman and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this very important piece of legislation that has been done in a very bipartisan way.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) on their 50th anniversary, and to commend its exemplary service to the United States in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. SOUTHCOM provides invaluable contingency planning, operations, and security cooperation to the volatile region, and has been an invaluable asset to the area. Whether it be through deterring illegal activities such as drug trafficking, dismantling transnational organized crime networks, or fostering alternatives to criminal influence in under- governed areas. SOUTHCOM has consistently supported the region for all their security needs, and has strengthened the regions defense capabilities. Recently, vital humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions have underscored the importance of their presence in the South Florida community. For example, in 2010 SOUTHCOM led Operation Unified Response, in which a force of about 22,000 troops, more than 30 ships, and 300 aircraft provided life-saving assistance and distributed millions of pounds of food and water in Haiti following its devastating earthquake. With an economic impact of $600 million on Miami-Dade County, SOUTHCOM's positive influence is keenly felt throughout the community. SOUTHCOM personnel are mainstays in community organizations and contribute an astonishing 30,000 volunteer hours each year to local charity groups, community projects, and events. Moreover, by participating in activities such as color guard presentations at sporting events and parades, and giving speeches at meetings sponsored by local organizations, we are all reminded of our civic duty and the sacrifices made by those who serve. SOUTHCOM has become an invaluable organization for the state of Florida, the Nation as a whole, and the region it serves. I am extremely proud to have SOUTHCOM in my Congressional district, and I am confident that they will continue to represent the interests of the United States with distinction. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate SOUTHCOM as they celebrate this milestone. I am certain that we can all look forward to many more years of outstanding service, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing SOUTHCOM's achievement.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reflect on the importance of US-Morocco bilateral relations--a friendship that has strongly endured for over 225 years because of shared interests and mutual respect. At a time when recent reports suggest that the relationship has come under some strain, we must remember that our relationship with Morocco is more important than ever and it will not be jeopardized. The Maghreb and Sahel are increasingly threatened by instability and insecurity emanating from the terrorist groups operating in Northern Mali and elsewhere, the United States' relationships with key allies in the region becomes all the more important. US-Morocco relations remain strong, based on a shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and human rights throughout North Africa and the wider Middle East. The US must continue to recognize the importance of this relationship--and strengthen it--as it works to combat terrorism and promote regional cooperation throughout the region. As a stable, democratizing, and steadfast ally, Morocco has made important achievements over the last decade on issues ranging from security and counterterrorism to economic development, political and social reforms, advancement of human rights, and cross-cultural tolerance and respect. There has always been strong bipartisan support for a strong US-Morocco bilateral relationship in the US Congress and we must continue to support these developments and work with Morocco to address our common interests and shared values concerning the most important issues in the Middle East and North Africa. We have been strong partners, friends, and allies for more than 225 years. That is a unique history that has solidified our strong relations with Morocco since the origins of our nation and one which will certainly endure and strengthen in the future because of the importance both countries place on our partnership.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, today, we remember the life of a wonderful man whose strength, courage, kindness and passion for the Cuban people's struggle for freedom inspired countless activists. Eleno Oviedo was born in Havana, Cuba, and later served with distinction in the U.S. Army. He was captured at sea by Castro's thugs, and became a political prisoner in a Cuban gulag for twenty-six years. While in prison, Eleno was a plantado, or prisoner who refused indoctrination or any acts that would affirm the legitimacy of his confinement. Eleno's defiance of the brutal Castro dictatorship resulted in especially harsh treatment in grossly inhumane prison conditions. Despite his bleak circumstance, Eleno used his time in prison to become fluent in several languages. When he finally was released from prison in 1988, Eleno returned to the United States where he continued to speak out against the Castro regime's atrocities and oppression of the Cuban people. He met with lawmakers to draw attention to the grim realities of the Castro regime, and became director of the effective and highly commendable organization, Plantados Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Some complain that our younger generations have no heroes to inspire them to greatness. They need only look to the example of Eleno who, despite remarkably trying circumstances, held to his principles. He was not only resilient in overcoming the appalling injustice that cost him a quarter of his life, but he managed to maintain his compassion and zest for life. Sadly, Eleno passed away on April 4, 2013. I am grateful to have known and worked with Eleno over many years. He is irreplaceable. His life's work remains a blessing to those who continue the cause of freedom for the Cuban people. My prayers are with him and his family. May God bless his soul.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History Month I rise today to honor Judge Rosemary Barkett, an outstanding individual and someone who has continuously supported the Miami community. Judge Barkett is currently serving as one of the twelve active judges on the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, which reviews federal cases originating in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. She was nominated by President Bill Clinton and received her appointment in 1994. Judge Barkett earned her J.D. from the University of Florida Law School, where she became the first woman to be awarded the J. Hillis Miller Memorial Award as the outstanding senior graduate. After having practiced civil and trial law from 1971 to 1979, she was appointed to circuit court judge in the Fifteenth Judicial Court of Florida. After only 4 years she was elected as chief judge of the circuit, becoming the first woman chief judge in the State's history. Two short years later she was appointed to serve on the Florida Supreme Court, again marking the first time in the State's history that a woman had been named justice. Finally, in 1992 her colleagues chose her to become Florida's first woman chief justice. Throughout the years, Judge Barkett has been consistently honored for her achievements. The recipient of seven honorary degrees from institutions of higher learning, she has also earned dozens of honors and awards from national and state professional, civic and charitable groups. Her contributions have also been uniquely recognized by the creation of the ``Rosemary Barkett Outstanding Achievement Award'', given each year to two outstanding lawyers by the Florida Association of Women Lawyers, and the ``Rosemary Barkett Award'' which is presented by the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers to a person who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to equal justice under law. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Honorable Judge Rosemary Barkett for her continued service to the Miami community and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History month I rise today to honor Ms. Maureen Kelleher, an outstanding individual and someone who has continuously supported the immigrant community in Southwest Florida. Sister Kelleher is a consultant attorney to the Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice, and gives legal assistance and training to its immigration staff. Her law practice focuses on obtaining legal permanent residency for immigrants in the farming sector from Mexico, Guatemala, and Haiti. Her priorities also include representation of abused immigrant women and children, victims of crime, and applicants for temporary protective status. After completing law school in 1984, Sister Kelleher worked in Immokalee for Florida Rural Legal Services until 1996 when federal law prohibited its legal representation to clients who were neither U.S. citizens nor Legal Permanent Residents. Because many of her clients were applying for political asylum and were not yet legal permanent residents she, along with three other attorneys, began a new non-profit corporation, Florida Immigrant Advocacy Corporation. Today, the organization is known as Americans for Immigrant Justice and has grown to a staff of 38 individuals, with a budget of $3.5 million. Since its inception in 1996 AI Justice has successfully closed 80,000 cases and has become a national trendsetter in the immigration field. Sister Kelleher has been consistently recognized for her work from various organizations. In 2001 she received the Florida Association of Women Lawyers Golden Achievement Award. In 2003 she was the recipient of the Immokalee Chamber of Commerce's Humanitarian of the Year award. She was also named woman attorney of the year in 2008 by the Collier Women's bar. Currently, she serves as a board member of both the Immokalee Housing and Family Services, and Florida Non-Profit Services. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Sister Maureen Kelleher for her continued service to Southwest Florida and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History month I rise today to honor Ms. Grace O'Donnell, an outstanding individual and someone who has continuously supported the Miami community. Ms. O'Donnell is currently serving as the Chair of the Miami-Dade County Commission for Women. In this position she is dedicated to advocating and working for, the issues and concerns that affect the diverse community of women in the county. She also sits on the Miami- Dade County Community Relations Board, where she works to identify and relieve intergroup conflicts. A retired 36-year veteran of the Miami- Dade Police Department, Ms. O'Donnell left the force having served as its Major where she commanded the Special Victims Bureau. Ms. O'Donnell has spent much of her time volunteering in the community. She has been an adult volunteer member of the Girl Scout Council of Tropical Florida for 25 years, where she has been a troop leader for more than 15 years. In her position she often mentors girls of all age levels, is involved in community service projects, and serves as an event coordinator for her service unit. Outside of the Girl Scouts, Ms. O'Donnell is also a volunteer for Hands on Miami, the American Red Cross, and the Community Partnership for the Homeless. Throughout the years, Ms. O'Donnell has been consistently recognized for her achievements. In 2005 she was named a Pioneer at the In the Company of Women reception for Women's History Month. She was also awarded the ``Thanks Badge'' by the Girl Scout Council of Tropical Florida in 2006, and received recognition for her community service by the National Volunteer Week Committee of Dade County in 2007. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Ms. Grace O'Donnell for her continued service to the Miami community and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History Month I rise today to honor Ms. Janisset Rivero-Gutierrez, an outstanding individual and someone who has been vital in the effort to bring about a democratic Cuba. Ms. Rivero-Gutierrez was born in Camaguey, Cuba and left at the age of 14. She lived in Venezuela before moving to the United States, where she earned a bachelor's degree in communications and advertising from the Insituto Universitario de Nuevas Profesiones in Caracas. She is currently working on her master's degree in Spanish literature from Florida International University. In 1994, Ms. Rivero-Gutierrez initiated Operation Boitel, a campaign involving travel to other countries in order to generate support for the opposition movement in Cuba. She continued to do work to bring about a democratic Cuba and in March of 2002 testified before the Inter-American Commission of the Organization of American States and presented a detailed report on human rights violations in Cuba. Similarly, in April of the same year she spoke before the United Nations Human Rights Commission, one of only two Cuban exiles who were able to testify. Ms. Rivero-Gutierrez is a founding member of the Cuban Democratic Directorate, a nongovernmental organization that supports human rights efforts in Cuba. She has worked extensively for this organization, and engages directly with opposition groups in Cuba, relaying their messages to the international community and co-author of Steps to Freedom, an annual report that documents the opposition movement's actions of protest against the totalitarian Cuban regime. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Ms. Janisset Rivero- Gutierrez for her continued support of human rights efforts in Cuba and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History Month I rise today to honor Ms. Carla Dean, an outstanding individual and someone who has continuously supported the community in and around Collier County. Ms. Dean is President and Founder of the Bladder Cancer Foundation of Florida, a non-profit organization committed to educating the public and medical community about bladder cancer for awareness, research and early detection. Professionally, Ms. Dean is a registered radiologic technologist with specialties in mammography and radiology. In her over 40 years of experience she has worked in a variety of management positions, including lead mammographer, lead medical coder for a large radiology group, and headed a nuclear medicine department. Outside of her professional career, Ms. Dean is heavily active in the Collier County community. She has been a member of the Collier County Republican Executive Committee, CCREC, since 2000, serving as its chairman from 2004-2009. As chairman of the CCREC she helped revive Teenage Republicans, and instituted Republicans ``After 5'' social gatherings which allowed candidates, elected officials and others to meet socially. Ms. Dean also helped form the Collier Republican Club, which has proven to be one of the largest Republican organizations in Collier County. While Ms. Dean remains active with the CCREC, she still finds the time to be active in the community elsewhere. She currently serves as a Board Member of the Naples High School Band Boosters, and is the Director and Publicity Chairman of the Genealogical Society of Collier County. She was also a founding member of the Eagle Oak Ridge Homeowners Association, City of Naples. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Ms. Carla Dean for her continued service to Collier County and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History month I rise today to honor Ms. Lori Moseley, an outstanding individual and someone who has continuously supported South Florida and the City of Miramar. Ms. Moseley relocated to South Florida in 1978. Her civic involvement began when her children were school-aged and she volunteered in the classroom. This sparked a desire to work with and improve the education system. She joined the Parent Advisory Council at Fairway Elementary School, and was later elected as the South Area Advisory Chairperson. In recognition of her commitment to the community, she was awarded the Crystal Apple Award. Her dedication to improving education remained constant through her public service. Ms. Moseley was first elected to office in 1995 as a Commissioner for the City of Miramar. She served in that role until 1999. In 1999, she was elected to her current office as Mayor of the City of Miramar. Since day one, Mayor Moseley has been a strong advocate for education and working to improve the City's image. During her term, the city's population tripled from 40,000 to over 120,000 residents. She has also improved and expanded roadway systems, mass transit, and community centers. Her public service was recognized in 2012 when she received the Women in Municipal Government Leadership Award. Ms. Moseley's service continues with her membership in the Broward League of Cities (Past President), the Florida League of Cities (2nd Vice President), Florida League of Mayors (President), National League of Cities, and the US Conference of Mayors (Chair of the Women Mayors' Caucus). Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Ms. Lori Moseley for her continued service to South Florida and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History Month I rise today to honor Ms. Mary Barley, an outstanding individual and someone who has continuously supported South Florida and the Everglades. Ms. Barley relocated to Florida in 1971 from Wisconsin. Shortly after arriving in our state she became an advocate for the Everglades and Florida Bay. Along with her husband George, who passed away in 1996, Ms. Barley spearheaded campaigns to build awareness around the Everglades and headed initiatives aimed at amending Florida's constitution to include the protection of it. Ms. Barley has served as Chairperson and/or Vice Chairman of the Everglades Foundation since her husband's untimely death in 1995, and currently sits on its Board. She also holds the position of President of the Everglades Trust, and serves on the National Parks Conservation Association's Board of Trustees. She is a Board member of the World Wildlife Fund Marine Leadership Committee, and its National Council; the National Coalition for Marine Conservation; the Atlantic Salmon Federation; and the Sierra Club Foundation. With her instrumental support Florida passed the Restoring the Everglades, An American Legacy Act, a bill which authorized $8 billion towards the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. Ms. Barley, has consistently been recognized for her achievements and has received awards such as Audubon of Florida's ``Lifetime Achievement Award,'' as well as its ``Champion of the Everglades Award.'' Other awards include the Everglades Coalition's ``Steward of the Everglades'' award, and she was named a 1999 ``Hero for the Planet'' by Time Magazine. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Ms. Mary Barley for her continued service to South Florida and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History Month I rise today to honor Ms. Anolan Ponce, an outstanding individual and someone who has been an inspiration in the South Florida community. Ms. Ponce was born in Las Canas, Cuba and arrived in the United States in October of 1961. Her father, who had taken part in the Bay of Pigs invasion, had been imprisoned and insisted his family leave the country. The family settled in Miami and after graduating from high school, Anolan started working as a stenographer for Eastern Airlines. She eventually worked her way up to Senior Systems Engineer while obtaining her Bachelor's degree from Florida International University, and a Master's degree from the New York Institute of Technology. Currently, Ms. Ponce is President and Owner of FAM and FAM-West Warehouse Corporations, companies which specialize in leasing their own commercial properties. In the past she also owned and managed Ponceana Travel, and ventured into construction by developing a warehouse complex in the Doral area. In the future, Ms. Ponce has plans for further commercial development of real estate in Miami-Dade County. In addition to her professional work, Ms. Ponce is also an avid writer, and is currently finishing up her novel based on the true story of ten young men from her hometown in Cuba that were executed by the communist regime in 1961. She is also committed to democracy in Cuba through her work as a member of the Board of the U.S.-Cuba Democracy PAC. Annually she is responsible for organizing the PAC's seminal event, a concert in support of a Cuban Democracy. In addition to the PAC, Ms. Ponce is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of Mothers Against Repression for Cuba, and serves on the Advisory Committee of the Cuban Memorial. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Ms. Anolan Ponce for her continued service to the Miami community and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jenni Rivera. On December 9, a plane crash took the, life of the singer and six others on board. Jenni Rivera was known as ``La Diva de la Banda,'' the queen of Banda music. But she was much more than a music superstar; she was ``una guerrera,'' a warrior for her family, and a role model to many. She faced monumental challenges in life, but tackled them with dignity and determination. At the public celebration of her life this week, her family described her as being ``perfectly imperfect,'' but to the millions of us moved by her music and her life story, she was and will always be ``nuestra Jenni,'' La Diva de la Banda. I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating this beautiful guerrera, a guerrera of life and of music.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, let me first thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Issa), and I applaud the Republican leadership for bringing this important bill to the floor. I think it's important that we bring down the decibels and that we talk about facts. This is an issue where passions are very high, but I think it's important to bring down the decibels a little bit and speak about some of the facts. Look, we know that America is home to some of the best universities on the planet; and because of that, people from around the world, students from around the world, young people from around the world come to study in our universities. Then, unfortunately, when they're done, we, in essence, show them the door out; and they have to leave the country. And they leave the country then and become the best, the toughest competitors to American enterprise. They create jobs elsewhere--not in the United States. Talking about outsourcing, this is the mother of all outsourcing. So what does this bill do? It tries to solve that issue. It tries to keep those individuals here. Those are the facts. Now, I would like to see a large number of that. And I think all of us should be talking about maybe we can expand those numbers. And that, I think, would be a wonderful debate to have. Now, not only does this bill do that, but it also promotes a smarter immigration system that helps maintain our competitive edge, and it also helps keep families together. Ensuring that spouses and minor children remain together is simply the right thing to do; is it not? Is that not something that is a compassionate principle of the vast majority of the Members of the House, keeping families together? Of course it is. This bill helps to do that. Mr. Speaker, we've heard a lot of blame on this issue on the floor today and, frankly, for years. And on immigration reform. And everybody knows my position on immigration reform. It has been talked about for years with a lot of inflammatory rhetoric. And I will tell you, from Republicans and Democrats alike, the reality is that both sides are to blame for the broken immigration system that we currently have; and both sides need to come together-- finally lowering the rhetoric--to find lasting, permanent solutions. This bill is an important step in the right direction. It helps address and fix a very important part of the broken immigration system. It does not, Mr. Speaker, solve all the problems. It is not the panacea. It does not solve all the problems, but it takes a huge step in an area that we've been talking about in the House here for years-- and both Republicans and Democrats have failed to deal with. This bill deals with that important part. So I'm glad this legislation is finally being considered by this body. I commend the House leadership for their commitment to this issue. And I look forward, Mr. Speaker, to continuing to bring other issues, other issues to fix our grossly broken immigration system that is broken from A to Z. I look forward to bringing other issues; but in order to do so, Mr. Speaker, we need to lower the decibels. We need to talk about the facts. The American people want us to finally fix this issue. They want us to come up with real solutions. As I mentioned before, nobody's claiming that this fixes everything; but it's a step in the right direction. It fixes a part of the problem. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Democratic side and my Republican colleagues on other such fixes. But I commend this House. I commend Mr. Issa. I commend the Republican leadership for taking an important step forward.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to honor Senior Master Sergeant Emilio Hernandez, an exceptional individual who has most recently been awarded the 2012 Outstanding Airman of the Year award by the United States Air Force. This prestigious award is given to only 12 members of the Air Force each year for their superior leadership, job performance, community involvement, and personal achievements. SMSgt Hernandez was born in Havana, Cuba but grew up in Miami, FL. He graduated from Hialeah High School in 1990 and began his military career in 1992, serving at both Sheppard AFB in Texas and K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base in Michigan. He was deployed to Incirlik Air Base in Turkey later that year in support of Operation PROVIDE COMFORT where he garnered two achievement medals, and was selected as a holiday phone call recipient from then President Bill Clinton. His decorated service history includes deployments to Kuwait in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH, and Baghdad in support of both Operations IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM. In 2008, SMSgt Hernandez was assigned to his current position in the 100th Civil Engineer Squadron as Superintendent Operations Flight at RAF Mildenhall in the United Kingdom. In 2009 he deployed to Ali Base Iraq, where he served as Electrical Superintendent of the 407th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron and received the Meritorious Service Medal. Later, he was selected as the 100th Civil Engineer Squadron's 2009 Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the year. In 2011 SMSgt Hernandez was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his service at Kandahar Airfield as the Operations Flight Chief of the 777th Expeditionary Prime BEEF Squadron. In his current position, SMSgt Hernandez has led 52 people in 53 civil engineering projects at 163 forward operating bases in support of 85,000 warfighters. He orchestrated $80,000 in repairs to nine Marine Corps aircraft hangers to safeguard $300 million in assets in support of a vital ISR platform. He oversaw a project to upgrade an electrical grid on a dam which preserved water and power flow to 450,000 Afghans, and managed the construction of two tactical operations centers worth $500,000, securing Afghanistan's key district of Panjwai. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Senior Master Sergeant Emilio Hernandez for his continued service to our nation, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this remarkable individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that I may hereafter be considered as the first sponsor of H.R. 5839, a bill originally introduced by Representative Geoff Davis of Kentucky, for the purposes of adding cosponsors and requesting reprintings pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, just 90 miles away from the coast of the United States there exists a murderous, terrorist regime on the island of Cuba. It is a regime that harbors terrorists, that funds terrorism, that has even held an American hostage since the summer of '09, and that denies all basic human rights to its people. Currently, 26 pro-democracy activists, it has been reported, have initiated a hunger strike. It started with Jorge Luis Garcia Perez Antunez on September 7 of 2012 in order to protest the brutal oppression by the Castro thugs against the Cuban people and against the political prisoners, and it has now been joined, as I said, by another 25. You're not going to see that on the front pages of the newspapers. These are individuals who, for some reason, the press will not cover. The only thing you'll see about the Castro regime is, frankly, the beauty of the beaches and the island and the fact that they have old cars--such a quaint thing. It's not quaint when your human rights are violated and when you are forced to drive 50-year-old automobiles--if you're lucky to even get one of those. Since these individuals, these heroes, are for some reason being denied the coverage that they deserve, I come to the floor to mention who they are--these heroes that we have to support, that we have to defend, and that we can never forget. So I am going to read their names. I mentioned Jorge Luis Garcia Perez Antunez. Jorge Vazquez Chaviano, Arturo Conde Zamora, Yerandi Martinez Rodriguez, Orlando Almenares Reyes, Luis Enrique Ponce Sanchez, Roberley Villalobos Torres, Israel Robert Isaac, Yuniel Alvarez Garcia, Luis Enrique Santos Caballero, Yosmel Martinez Corcho, Alberto Reyes Morales, Marta Beatriz Roque Cabello--by the way, who is a very well-known pro-democracy leader of Cuba and whose health is, frankly, in poor shape--Omar Pedroso Suarez, Yadira Rodriguez Bombino, Ibis Maria Rodriguez Gonzalez, Fermin Zamora Vazquez, Yasmani Nicle Abad, Leonardo Cancio Santana, Pedro Fernandez Vega Cortes, Arcelio Lopez Rojas, Misahel Valdes Diaz, and Jorge Luis Recio Arias. These heroes, these pro-democracy activists and heroes, have stood up and are standing up to the Castro dictatorship with whatever they have, including their health and their bodies. They need our prayers. They need our support. They need our solidarity at this pivotal time in their struggle for Cuba's freedom. Mr. Speaker, may God protect these brave heroes. May the international community demonstrate the solidarity that they deserve-- and yes, we here in the United States Congress and in this country must continue to work to do what we can to help them and others achieve their final day of freedom.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Stella Tokar, an outstanding individual who has continuously supported the Miami community. As a busy military spouse and dedicated mother of two, Mrs. Tokar has always found time to represent and lead her community. Although her family was constantly relocated around the nation to follow her husband who served in the military, this constant relocating did not stop her from giving back to her community. While living in Texas she was PTA President at four different schools in the area and served on a state appointed committee to institute media rating systems. While living in Annapolis, MD she was offered a position as Special Assistant to the House Majority Leader of the State of Maryland, and shortly after was promoted to work in the Senate. Upon her arrival in South Florida she returned to work in education, but quickly distinguished herself as a community leader and was asked to become the President/CEO of the Miramar Pembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce. During her tenure, she was able to transform a struggling establishment into what is now considered a fiscally sound and model Chamber of Commerce in the State of Florida. She has received numerous awards for her work including the 2011 Florida Association of Chamber Professionals ``Professional of the Year'' and has been recognized as one of ``100 Most Influential Women in Broward County''. Always striving for excellence and new endeavors Mrs. Tokar started her own company, BOLD Consulting, LLC, which stands for Build, Organize, Lead, and Discover. Mrs. Tokar is an accomplished businesswoman and community representative, but she considers her greatest treasures in life to be her husband, children, and grandchild. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Mrs. Stella Tokar for her continued service to the Miami community and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this exemplary individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I recognize that this amendment is subject to a point of order, but I'd like to discuss what this amendment is attempting to address. As we all know, the Community Development Block Grant program, which is known as the CDBG grant program, is one of the most widely utilized sources of assistance by local governments. These block grants are intended to address housing, community development and economic development needs as determined by local officials. This amendment, Mr. Chairman, is very straightforward. It simply gives greater flexibility to the local communities and the cities and the counties, et cetera, for part of their CDBG funding. It increases the cap of what is known as public services expenditures from the current 15 percent up to 25 percent. Now, public services, in reference to this legislation, deals with issues like child care, senior services, disabled services, educational programs, medical services, transportation services, domestic violence, crime prevention, food banks, and others. The current 15 percent public service cap was enacted into statute over 30 years ago; and it, frankly, just doesn't reflect the reality of today. We all acknowledge, obviously, the tremendous fiscal challenges that we are facing here in Congress, that our country is facing; but we also acknowledge, Mr. Chairman, the challenges that our local communities are facing. CDBG public services funds have really played a key role in providing crucial aid to our most at-risk, our most vulnerable populations, especially during difficult times like these. The restrictive and, frankly, outdated cap has denied many communities, Mr. Chairman, the option of providing their residents with the most basic services within the framework of the existing CDBG program. So this amendment provides flexibility to local leaders to meet certain unique challenges. Now, I want to make something very clear: this amendment does not increase or decrease CDBG funds, does not change the formula, and does not require those communities that are entitled to use more of their funds on public services. It simply grants those cities and counties greater flexibility in their usage of certain CDBG funds. Let me mention that my colleague, Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen, has a standalone piece of legislation that I'm honored to be a cosponsor of. It's imperative that the authorizing committee, the Financial Services Committee, work to update the CDBG program--for a lot of reasons. I also need to mention that Chairman Latham is well aware of these concerns. I want to thank him and his staff for really trying to accommodate us on this issue, but unfortunately we were not able to do it at this time for a number of different reasons. I'd like to continue to work with Chairman Latham and the Financial Services chairman, Chairman Bachus, on finding real solutions that will give local communities flexibility to meet their unique challenges and to make sure that those funds are well utilized. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I, again, want to thank you and your staff, who have been great on this issue, understanding the problem. At this time I would ask unanimous consent, Mr. Chairman, to withdraw my amendment.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I reserve a point of order on the Bachus amendment.