Joe Donnelly

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, today I honor a brave man who has served his country in the military and his community as a patrolman in the South Bend Police Department. Patrolman Michael Norby put his life at risk in the execution of his duty. In the early morning of April 24, 2007, he and his partner, Corporal Nick Polizzotto, confronted an armed suspect. Both officers were shot; Corporal Polizzotto died and Patrolman Norby was injured. The two officers responded to a report of gunshots without regard for their own safety, only the safety of the community. During his one and a half years on the force, Michael has received three commendations. Prior to his service on the police force, he served with the United States Army in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom earning the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, ``M'' Device Award and Noncommissioned Officer's Professional Development Ribbon. Madam Speaker, I commend the men and women who dedicate their lives in the service of others, particularly Patrolman Norby, to whom we owe deep gratitude.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of Private David Neil Simmons of Kokomo, Indiana, who was killed in an ambush on April 8, 2007, while serving his Nation in Baghdad, Iraq. Neil risked everything in service to America, and for that we are eternally grateful. - Neil was the kind of kid whom everyone loved. With his big smile and enthusiasm, he made life more enjoyable for everyone around him. As someone who deeply loved his family and knew what it meant to be a great friend, he also made life better for those around him. Neil was also a grateful person, returning to his high school to visit friends and thank teachers and mentors for their impact on his life. During one of these visits, just a couple weeks before he was set to deploy to Iraq, he ran into Janet Lovelace, a secretary at Northwestern High School. When Janet gave Neil a hug and thanked him for his service, he became teary-eyed. Today, on behalf of this entire nation, I would also like us to stop and give thanks to Neil for his service. Upon hearing about his son's death, David Simmons said, ``Freedom is very expensive. You don't know how much until something like this happens. My heart goes out to all the families that have to go through this.'' In the midst of so much sorrow, to remember other families is truly remarkable. I have been privileged to speak several times with Neil's mother, Teri Tenbrook, over the past few weeks. Her courage and resolve in so tragic a time are impressive. The simple truth is that the true price of war is paid by soldiers and their families. Today I honor Neil Simmons, and I honor his family. Neil's ultimate sacrifice puts him in the solemn and revered company of patriots who have given their lives in service to their country. My humble thanks to Neil and to his family. His name will live as long as this Nation lives. May God grant peace to those who mourn and strength to those who continue to fight. And may God be with all of us, as I know he is with Neil.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Corporal Nick S. Polizzotto, a nine year veteran of the South Bend Police Department, who gave his life in the line of duty. For the people of South Bend, Indiana, Corporal Polizzotto was, indeed, a hero. On April 24, 2007, a report of gunshots brought Corporal Polizzotto and his partner, Patrolman Michael Norby, to a local motel. There, at 1:37 a.m., an armed suspect shot both policemen, killing Corporal Polizzotto. Patrolman Norby credits Corporal Polizzotto with saving his life. Our community has lost a beloved family member, a generous friend, a devoted father and a dedicated protector. Often described as having a heart of gold, he proudly wore his uniform and bravely patrolled the streets of our city until making the ultimate sacrifice. Born and raised in South Bend, Nick always wanted to be a police office and graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Criminal Justice. During his many years as a Southeast South Bend beat officer, he received 18 commendations and was Officer of the Month in 2006. Corporal Polizzotto leaves behind his parents, his son, Joseph, a brother and sister and countless relatives and friends who loved him. South Bend has lost a brave guardian. Madam Speaker, we grieve for our hero, Corporal Nick Polizzotto. May God welcome him home and give comfort to his family and friends.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today in tribute to Corporal Nick Polizzotto, 9-year veteran of the South Bend Police Department who gave his life in the line of duty. For the people of South Bend, Indiana, Corporal Polizzotto is our hero. On April 24th, 2007, a report of gunshots brought Corporal Polizzotto and his partner, Patrolman Michael Norby, to a local motel. There at 1:37 a.m. an armed suspect shot both policemen, killing Corporal Polizzotto and wounding Patrolman Norby. Patrolman Norby credits Corporal Polizzotto with saving his life. Our community has lost a beloved family member, a generous friend, a devoted father, and a dedicated protector. Often described as having a heart of gold, he proudly wore his uniform and bravely patrolled the streets of our city until making the ultimate sacrifice. Born and raised in South Bend, Nick always wanted to be a police officer. During his many years as a South Bend officer, he received 18 commendations and was officer of the month in 2006. Corporal Polizzotto leaves behind his parents, his wonderful son Joe and Joe's mom Michelle, a brother Tony, a sister Amy and countless relatives and friends who loved him. South Bend has lost a brave guardian. Mr. Speaker, we grieve for our hero, Corporal Nick Polizzotto. May God welcome him home and give comfort to his family and friends.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, today I rise to express my congratulations to the Oregon-Davis boys' basketball team for winning the Indiana 1-A boys' basketball state championship on March 24, 2007. The Bobcats' victory comes just 3 weeks after the Lady-Bobcats captured the 1-A girls' State crown with a 54-46 victory in the title game. This is the first time in Indiana High School Basketball history that both the boys' and girls' State basketball titles were won by the same school in the same year. The Bobcats' 63-52 victory over the Barr-Reeve Vikings was the crowning achievement to an almost perfect season. Oregon-Davis finished with a record of 27-1 and held the top ranking in Division 1-A for most or the season. The Bobcats' win was led by the individual performances of seniors Justin Egger and Nathan Ferch who scored 19 and 18 points, respectively, the victory was a team effort, The boys made 20 of 25 free throws throughout the game, tying the Indiana record for most free throws in a State championship. The Bobcats' varsity roster consisted of 11 young men, including seniors Justin Egger, Nathan Ferch, Brandon Johnston, Joseph Baughman, Austen Cornell, and Adam Pflugshaupt; juniors Daniel Henigsmith, Ryne Sweeney, Andy Lawrence, and Josh Taylor; sophomore Mike Wood; and freshmen Travis Collings and Nick Hofferth. Following the game, Adam Pflugshaupt was awarded with the prestigious Arthur L. Tester ``Award for Mental Attitude'' for his excellence in leadership, scholarship, and athletic ability. The boys were supported throughout the season by the dedicated coaching staffed by Head Coach Travis Hannah; assisted by coaches Ryan Reese, Jim Ash, and Shaun Johnston; and managed by Brandon Surma. School administrators such as Superintendent William Rentschler, Principal Greg Biles, and Athletic Director Will Hostrawser must also be recognized for their crucial role in the team's success. Finally, recognition must be given to the school community of Oregon- Davis and its surrounding areas for the enthusiastic support of the team both during the season and in the State finals. Despite Oregon- Davis's enrollment of only 246, the athletic department sold over 1,800 tickets to Bobcat fans who then traveled to Indianapolis to support the team in the State finals. This show of support no doubt was instrumental in the team's victory. Again, I offer my congratulations to the Bobcats' boys basketball team, as well as to all Oregon-Davis students, staff, and supporters for the team's outstanding achievements in the 2006-2007 basketball season.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, today I rise before you to offer a word of congratulations to the Plymouth High School boys' basketball team. The Pilgrims were crowned Division 3A Indiana state basketball champions on March 24, 2007, at Indianapolis's Conseco Fieldhouse. Plymouth captured the state title with a 72-61 victory over Evansville's Benjamin Bosse High School. The boys worked tirelessly throughout the season and compiled an overall record of 25-2. This season's efforts bested the team's 2005 finish of State runner-up. This is only the second time in the school's history that the boys' basketball team has captured the State title, and this season's triumph marks the 25th anniversary of the school's 1982 championship season. This year's team was led by seniors Jason Renz, Jared Wendel, Chad Clinton, Jacob Palmer, and Bryron Faulstich. Other members of the team include juniors P.J. Gretter, Randy Davis, Nick Neidlinger, Sam Faulstich, Ryan Welch, and Blaine Schafer, and sophomore Jeremy Renz. Randy Davis and Jared Wendel gave impressive individual performances in the championship game, scoring 28 and 20 points, respectively. Individual honors were also bestowed upon Jason Renz as he was awarded the prestigious Arthur L. Trester Mental Attitude Award for his distinguished leadership, scholarship, and athletic ability. This team's achievements would not have been possible without the support of a wide variety of coaches and school officials. Head Coach Jack Edison--in his 34th season of coaching at Plymouth--and his assistant staff of John Scott, Michael Edison, Joel Grindle, Zach Scott, Tony Plothow, and Tom Isenbarger provded the players with guidance both on and off the court. Administrators such as Superintendent Dr. John Hill, Principle Richard Tobias, and Athletic Director Roy Benge must also be recognized for their efforts in support of the team's continued success. Last, but certainly not least, all the Plymouth fans, and in particular the always energetic student body, should be recognized for their enthusiasm and pride in the team. The 2006-2007, Plymouth boys' basketball team has secured a place in the storied history of Indiana high school basketball. I offer my congratulations to the members of the team, the coaching staff, the school, and the greater Plymouth community on their accomplishments throughout the season.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of Corporal Jason Beadles of La Porte, IN, who died on April 12, 2007, while proudly serving his Nation in Baghdad, Iraq. Jason risked everything in order to provide security and freedom to people halfway around the world. Jason loved Johnny Cash, and he loved country music. He loved taking his nieces and nephews swimming. He loved fooling around and playing games with his brothers and cousins in the backyard. He loved motorcycles, and hoped to eventually turn this passion into a career. In many ways Jason always was, as his parents described him to a local paper, a big child at heart. But Jason also loved his country. Moved by the horror of 9/11 and inspired by his father and grandfather, his brother and uncles, Jason joined the Army to serve his country. Where before there was the big child, now there was an honorable man. And as an honorable man, Jason braved the dangers of war. In braving those dangers, Jason knew that he might face a day when he was called upon to pay the highest price demanded of any patriot. To the sorrow of the Beadles family and Jason's many friends, Jason did pay that price less than two weeks ago. It is my sad duty to enter the name of Jason Beadles into the official record of the United States House of Representatives in honor of his service to this country and the ultimate price he paid. We honor him today as a true patriot, and a true hero. He served his country at war so that, as a great President once said, ``freedom might live, and grow and increase its blessings.'' May God grant peace to those who mourn and strength to those who continue to fight. And may God be with all of us, as I know he is with Jason.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 235, had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1911, the Tax Relief for Working Caregivers Act. In recent years, the rising costs associated with caring for children and aging parents have placed a significant burden on many middle-class families. Today, more than 16 million Americans have joined the ranks of the new ``sandwich generation,'' those working Americans who provide care for both their own children and for their aging parents. Yesterday, I introduced legislation to provide more tax relief for working families who provide dependent care for their children or parents. My legislation does two things. First, it would extend the full benefit of the dependent care tax credit to allow more middle-class families to receive tax relief for the child and elder care expenses they must incur in order to work. Secondly, the bill expands the credit to include all older dependent parents, not just those who live with the taxpayer. This makes it easier for families to care for their loved ones, while providing the flexibility to maintain a living situation more suited to the family's unique needs. Mr. Speaker, I ask for support for this legislation.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of South Bend, IN, Luther J. Taylor, who has devoted his life to the protection of his community. For the past 34 years he has served as a firefighter for the South Bend Fire Department, 21 of those as Fire Chief. Chief Taylor's career as a firefighter started in 1972. At that time he never intended to build a career but rather to move on to another profession after a few years. Yet, his feelings of duty to his community and enjoyment for his job led him to a long and illustrious career. Today the South Bend community honors this career. First appointed Fire Chief by Mayor Roger Parent in 1985, Taylor's adept management style and creative ideas led him to be reappointed under the two succeeding mayors. In his 21 years as Fire Chief he has greatly increased the professionalism, efficiency and lifesaving capacity of the South Bend Fire Department. Through Chief Taylor's leadership, the South Bend Fire Department has become one of the top fire departments in Indiana. From 1992 to 1993 Chief Taylor served as the President of the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association. This association strives to increase the professionalism and success of fire departments throughout Indiana. He has served on numerous other boards across the State of Indiana each benefiting greatly from his expertise. In 2005 Chief Luther Taylor was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest honor bestowed by governors of Indiana, by Governor Joe Kernan. This award is given only to those who make major contributions to the lives of Hoosiers. So today, on behalf of the citizens of South Bend, I thank Luther Taylor for his years of dedication to the safety and security of our community. As he retires from almost 35 years on the South Bend Fire Department, I pay special tribute to one of the finest fire chiefs to ever serve Indiana. His service will always be remembered for numerous lives that were saved as a result of his efforts and the changes that each citizen can see as a result of his leadership.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my congratulations to the Most Reverend John Michael D'Arcy, Bishop of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, who is celebrating the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the Priesthood. In the past 50 years countless individuals, both Catholic and not, have experienced the wisdom and love of Bishop D'Arcy and each of them can be grateful for having known him. Bishop D'Arcy, the son of Irish immigrants, was born on August 18, 1932. He recalls feeling called to the priesthood at a very young age, hoping to follow in the footsteps of his childhood priests. Immediately following high school he entered Saint John's Seminary in Brighton, Massachusetts. For the next 8 years Bishop D'Arcy developed his spiritual knowledge and prepared to serve his community. After Seminary, Bishop D'Arcy studied in Rome at the Angelicum where he received his doctorate in spiritual theology in 1968. He returned to St. John's Seminary where he served as spiritual director and professor until 1985, guiding many young men in their journey to the priesthood. As a result of his years of faith and service, John D'Arcy was ordained auxiliary bishop in his native Boston in 1975. Bishop D'Arcy was appointed the eighth Bishop of Fort Wayne-South Bend on the 26th of February, 1985. During his tenure, he has focused extensively on enlarging the Catholic community in faith and numbers. His focus on education has led to the expansion of Catholic education across the diocese. With the creation of the South Bend Chancery and other church offices Bishop D'Arcy gave many more people access to Catholic services. So, today I rise to pay tribute to Bishop John D'Arcy for his years of dedication to the people of Indiana. His 50 years of selfless service will always be remembered by those whose lives are better because of his kindness and compassion. May God grant Bishop D'Arcy many more years of strength and courage. His service to the people of Indiana has truly been a blessing.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to one of my distinguished predecessors in representing the District I am now privileged to serve in Congress and to wish him a Happy 80th Birthday. I speak of Dr. John Brademas of South Bend, Indiana, who for 22 years, from 1959 until 1981, served the then Third District of Indiana in the House of Representatives. While in Congress, John Brademas was a member of the Committee on Education and Labor where he played a leading role in writing most of the Federal legislation enacted during that time concerning schools, colleges and universities; services for the elderly and the disabled; libraries and museums; the arts and the humanities. During his last four years on Capitol Hill, John Brademas was, by appointment of then Speaker Thomas P. ``Tip'' O'Neill, Jr., House Majority Whip.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to one of my distinguished predecessors in representing the district I am now privileged to serve in Congress and to celebrate his recent 80th birthday. Dr. John Brademas served the then-Third District of Indiana in the House of Representatives for 22 years, from 1959 until 1981. While in Congress, Dr. Brademas played a leading role in writing most of Federal legislation enacted concerning schools, colleges and universities, services for the elderly and the disabled, libraries, museums, the arts and humanities. During his last 4 years on Capitol Hill, John Brademas served as House majority whip under Speaker Tip O'Neill. Our distinguished former colleague was a dedicated and highly effective legislator and shaper of national policy. He has also been president of the Nation's largest private university, New York University. Madam Speaker, many Members of both this Chamber and the Senate on both sides of the aisle served with Dr. Brademas. I believe they will share my sentiments in expressing our admiration for his outstanding public service and join me in wishing him well.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, I support our men and women serving in harm's way, I support America's veterans, and I support of establishing clear benchmarks for progress in Iraq. Our men and women in Iraq are in the middle of what is becoming an increasingly dangerous civil war. Despite their best efforts to provide security, train Iraqi forces, and pursue terrorists, the violence in Iraq ultimately must be ended by the Iraqi people. The Iraqis must step up, once and for all, and take responsibility for their future. The Iraq war funding bill is the only proposal on the table that sets enforceable benchmarks for the Iraqi government and makes clear to the Iraqi government that we will not have our soldiers in the middle of a religious civil war indefinitely. Distinguished Hoosier and co-chairman of the Iraq Study Group, Lee Hamilton, has said that tying continued U.S. support, including the presence of our troops, to benchmarks is the strongest leverage we have to force the Iraqis to act. He, too, has said that this supplemental--despite its imperfections--should move forward. In an ideal situation, the President, and not the Congress, would hold the Iraqi government accountable for improving the political and security conditions in its country. However, the Bush Administration has not held the Iraqi government accountable even while the security situation has steadily deteriorated to the point of open civil war between rival religious sects. In early January, I wrote the President. I asked him what the consequences would be if the Iraqi government failed to meet the benchmarks the President articulated, benchmarks the Iraqi government has agreed to meet, in a nationally televised speech. To this day, I have received no response from the Bush Administration. In addition to forcing Iraqi accountability, the Iraq war funding bill provides desperately needed funds to ensure that current and future veterans and wounded military personnel receive the care and attention their service and sacrifice deserve. H.R. 1591 includes $1.3 billion in new funding for veterans' health care. This bill also improves our ability to care for our wounded warriors, with an additional $2.8 billion for post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic- brain injuries, and burns and amputee rehabilitation. Finally, the Iraq war funding bill provides $20 million to fix Walter Reed Army Medical Center so that the embarrassingly substandard living conditions can be quickly remedied. This legislation also reaffirms our commitment to fighting terrorism in Iraq and around the globe. Even if the Iraqis fail to meet our benchmarks for progress in Iraq, American forces can still fight and pursue terror groups operating in Iraq while continuing to help train Iraqi security and counter-terrorism forces. The Iraq war funding bill also provides crucial funds to fight a resurgent Taliban and Al Qaeda in Afghanistan, and it provides much-needed money for FBI counter- terrorism initiatives, secures at-risk nuclear materials in other countries and provides money to install radiation detection equipment at overseas ports that are shipping to the United States. Mr. Speaker, I said numerous times during the campaign that Congress must continue providing full funding for our troops in the field--this bill does that by investing $95.5 billion in our military, including almost $900 million for new Humvees and $2.4 billion to improve protections against Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Though I do not like the idea of setting a timeline for the redeployment of our troops, I will not vote against our troops on the field, period. This bill moves us in the right direction by sending a message to the President--and to the Iraqi government--that the situation in Iraq is unacceptable and must change. The President has previously stated that he hoped Iraqi troops would be serving on the front line and that U.S. troops would primarily be in a training role before the end of this year. This funding bill extends our offensive mission almost one year past the President's own date. We are essentially asking the Iraqis to take ownership of their own country again. That is critical for both Iraq and the United States.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the sacrifice of Private Kelly Youngblood of Mesa, Arizona, who was killed on February 18, 2007 after being shot by a sniper in Ramadi, Iraq. Kelly risked everything in a fight to bring democracy to people halfway around the world. Kelly represented the best that the United States of America has to offer. After graduating from McClintock High School in Tempe, Arizona, Kelly set his sights on military service. While only 19 years old, he was aware of all of the potential dangers associated with his service. Yet, despite his young age, a sense of duty called him to enlist. It had been Kelly's lifelong dream to serve his country and shortly after his 18th birthday he achieved his dream by enlisting in the Army. Following basic training Kelly was sent to Iraq as a member of the 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. He left behind his mother Kristen and sister Melaney of Mesa, Arizona, his grandparents, Charley and Jean Herrold of Westville, Indiana and many friends around the country. I stand here today to express my gratitude to Kelly and his loved ones for their sacrifice. Today, I join Kelly's family and friends in mourning his death. While we struggle to come to terms with our sorrow over this loss, we can take pride in his example and joy in our memory of his life. Kelly served bravely as a soldier working to bring freedom to the people of Iraq. His courage and strength of character will provide an example for future generations and his memory will continue to bring comfort to his loved ones in their time of grief. Kelly was known as a loving and kind young man with an excellent sense of humor. His grandmother told the local newspaper, ``That kid was so much fun. He made jokes out of everything. He's going to be sorely missed.'' Today and always Kelly will be remembered by family members, friends, and fellow Hoosiers as a true American hero. We honor the life he laid down in service to his country. As I search for words to do justice in honoring Kelly's sacrifice, I am reminded of a speech by General Douglas MacArthur to a graduating class at West Point. ``The soldier above all other people prays for peace, for he must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.'' Kelly's grandparents remember his last Christmas, when he worshiped at Westville United Methodist Church. As a soldier about to enter combat we can be assured that Kelly prayed for peace in Iraq, for his fellow soldiers and for his country he left behind. We too will continue this prayer in Kelly's memory and will continue his fight to bring peace around the world. It is my sad duty to enter the name of Kelly Youngblood into the official record of the United States House of Representatives for his service to this country and for his sacrifice in the name of freedom, democracy and peace. When we think of this cause in which we are engaged and the pain that the loss of our heroes brings, I hope that the memory of Kelly and others like him will bring some solace in our grief and some hope for our future. May God grant peace to those who mourn and strength to those who continue to fight and may God be with all of you, as I know he is with Kelly.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my congratulations to the South Ben Washington High School Panthers who won the Class 4A girls' basketball Indiana State Championship. With an 84-64 victory on March 3, 2007, the team captured its first IHSAA title in school history. In their quest towards this title, the Panthers lost their first game of the season before winning 28 consecutive contests. This also marked the first girls' basketball state title won by a South Bend public school. En route to their victory, the team broke nine state finals records and combined with their opponent, Columbus East, to break 16 finals records. The South Bend Washington team consisted of 14 tremendous young women, including Seniors Cheneka Anderson, Lauren Archie, Katelyn Boocher, Ashley Varner, Sherice White; Juniors Shalana Murray, Emily Phillips, Meagan Phillips, and Vanessa Wiley; and Sophomores Skylar Diggins, Rakeesha Lane, Takola Larry, Alandrea Pfeifer-Nallon, and Karis Phillips. Also, I want to recognize the great leadership of the team including Head Coach Marilyn Coddens, who was assisted by Don Coddens. I also want to acknowledge the work of school administrators, Superintendent Robert Zimmerman, Principal George McCullough, Jr., and Athletic Director Patrick Mackowiak, as additional keys to success. In conclusion, I commend the support given by the community to this team. The athletic department sold more than three thousand tickets to the championship game while more than eleven thousand people attended the game in all. In a final show of appreciation, more than two thousand supporters gathered to welcome the team home after their victory, a commendable example of community spirit in support of the Panthers. Again, I offer my congratulations to the members of the girls' basketball team of South Bend Washington High School on the Class 4A state championship.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of distinguished Indiana State Senator Anita Bowser. Senator Bowser, age 86, succumbed to breast cancer peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, March 4, 2007. Senator Bowser's career in public service began in 1980 upon her election to the Indiana House of Representatives. As a member of House, she became the first female House Speaker as she acted as the Deputy Speaker Pro-Tempore. In 1992 she was elected to the State Senate where she served as the representative of Indiana's 8th District until her recent passing. Senator Bowser was known among her colleagues as both a constitutional scholar and the ``Conscience of the Senate.'' She worked tirelessly as an advocate for Hoosiers' civil rights and liberties. Her later career was defined by her efforts to reform Indiana's capital punishment laws. She was a prominent member of the Correctional, Criminal and Civil Matters; Education and Career Development; Ethics; and Judiciary committees, as well as the Committee of Pensions and Labors, on which she served as the senior Democrat. Senator Bowser's illustrious service was commemorated by many awards including the Louis Ingelhart Award for Freedom of Expression, the Amnesty International Abolitionist of the Year Award, and she was a two-time recipient of the Robert Dole Owen Legislator of the Year Award from the Indiana Civil Liberties Union. Prior to her career in the State legislature, Senator Bowser earned several graduate degrees including a law degree from the McKinley School of Law at Kent State University and a doctoral degree from the University of Notre Dame. She was a founding member of Purdue University North Central where she taught as a professor of Political Science. Senator Bowser was also a founding member of the Barker Woods Enrichment Center which provided childcare and educational services for children with special needs in Michigan City, Indiana. Senator Bowser's legacy as a public servant will be defined by her passionate advocacy and her legislative integrity. She will be dearly missed by her family, her constituents, and all Hoosiers. It is with great pride and honor that I celebrate the life and service of Indiana State Senator Anita Bowser.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer a word of congratulations to the girls' basketball team of Oregon-Davis High School who captured the Class 1A Indiana state championship. Their 54- 46 victory took place on March 3, 2007 at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The girls worked tirelessly throughout the season, compiling an overall record of 25-3 and winning 19 straight games to end the season. En route to their first state championship in school history, they also captured the Northland Athletic Conference title with an undefeated record in league play. The Oregon-Davis team consisted of 19 tremendous young women, including Seniors Amber Boyle, Angela Boyle, Lien Ly; Juniors Ji Yeon Kim, Sarah Konkey, Lauren Kuss; Sophomores Maria Duncan, Nicole Mickow, Aubrey Minix, Caley Savoie; and Freshmen Kelly Gibson, Olivia Kuss, Nicole Meyer, Gabrielle Minix, Kelsey Minix, Brittnie Rannells, Alivia Sims, Samantha Sims, and Ariel Yung. Throughout the year, the Bobcats were led by supportive coaches and school officials. Head Coach Terry Minix, an Oregon Davis High School graduate himself, was assisted by four other coaches, namely his wife Cheryl, Andrea Hoppe, Candi Goble, and Will Coatie. Also, we recognize the contributions of administrators such as Superintendent Bill Rentschler, Principle Greg Briles, and Athletic Director Will Hostrawser. Finally, we should not overlook the popular support for this Hamlet, Indiana school. With an enrollment of only 224 students, the school sold over eleven hundred tickets for the state championship game, an example of strong community spirit. Again, I offer my congratulations to the members of the girls' basketball team of Oregon-Davis High School and their entire community for their accomplishments throughout the season.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 976, the Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2007, because small businesses play such a vital role in Indiana's economy and in our country's economy. Small businesses are the engine and account for half of all jobs in my State's economy. I want to thank Chairman Rangel for his leadership in introducing this fiscally responsible tax relief for America's small businesses. Mr. Speaker, I understand the challenges our entrepreneurs and small business owners face while training to remain competitive and profitable in today's global economy. I have seen firsthand the impact that rising costs of health care and new technologies and growing competitions from overseas can have on our local businesses. Today's legislation provides crucial, bipartisan tax relief so that our local small businesses can invest in the equipment and technology they need to remain successful. Perhaps more importantly, these tax cuts allow our local business leaders to reinvest in Indiana's economy, creating new jobs and sharing today and tomorrow's prosperity. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to take this opportunity to commend this Congress for passing important commonsense tax relief without contributing to our mounting national debt. This bill proves that we can provide tax relief to our business community without increasing the burden on our children and grandchildren. I urge all my colleagues to pass H.R. 976 and reduce the tax burden for our small business owners.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, today I pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of South Bend, Indiana, Lester J. Fox, who devoted his life to the service of his community. During the 1940's he served as a union leader at the Studebaker Corporation which led him to a new career as advocate for the unemployed, the elderly and the underserved. He became director of Project ABLE in 1963 after the closing of the Studebaker plant, the largest employer in South Bend at the time. The experimental project developed and implemented a network of services for the many unemployed older workers left in the wake of this economic disaster. With the newly created ``War on Poverty'' in 1965, Fox established the Regional Office of Economic Opportunity in Atlanta, Georgia, implementing the Economic Opportunity Act in six southeastern states over a two year period. Fox returned to South Bend to become President and CEO of REAL Services, Inc., an organization that assesses the status and needs of the older adult population in Saint Joseph County. The agency's role was broadened twice, once to include the area Agency on Aging in five North Central Indiana counties, administering the Older American's Act and legislation related to the aged and disabled, and again in 1990, to manage the Community Action Agency serving low-income families. Lester Fox has been awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest honor bestowed by governors of Indiana, on four separate occasions by four different governors. In 1996, Les was inducted into the South Bend Community Hall of Fame. Fox has served on numerous boards, has been a member of the White House Conference on Aging, and was a Consultant to the U.S. Senate Committee on Aging. So, today, on behalf of the citizens of northern Indiana, I thank Les Fox for his years of unselfish dedication. As he retires from 40 years as President of REAL Services, I pay special tribute to a man who exemplifies self sacrifice and serves as a role model for us all.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, we all want success in Iraq. We want a stable region. We want safety and security for our troops and peace in the Middle East. Our service men and women are the finest in the world, the best trained, the most dedicated. They are incredibly fine soldiers and people. They deserve a clear mission in Iraq. They deserve to have all the protective equipment and armor needed to keep them safe. They deserve to have all the funding required, and they deserve to have the best leadership in the field and the finest military planning from Washington. What our brave troops do not deserve is Washington's bungling. We had bad intelligence at the start, a flawed occupation plan that failed to send enough troops, despite the best advice of the Army's Chief of Staff at that time, and Washington failed to properly plan for critical logistics such as electricity and infrastructure. These mistakes have put our troops in much greater danger. With these issues in mind, I sent a letter to the Administration over 1 month ago asking for specific answers as to how this surge would increase our chances for success in Iraq. I was very hopeful for positive solutions. I also asked at that time what specific benchmarks we could look at to indicate whether or not we were making progress. As of this date, I have yet to receive any answer from the Administration. I have spoken to veterans in Winamac and in Osceola, Indiana, to constituents in restaurants and churches and to concerned Hoosiers throughout my district. I have also met with Iraq Study Group cochairman, Lee Hamilton, with military representatives, and with my valued colleagues. What I have heard consistently is that our brave troops should not be placed in the middle of what is increasingly becoming a very dangerous civil war. Our fighting troops have been placed in an almost impossible situation. They are trying to bring stability to Iraqi cities and provinces where a fierce and bloody religious war rages between the Sunnis and the Shiites. Our service men and women from Michigan City and South Bend and Logansport cannot end this vicious cycle of death. Only the Iraqis can do that. The Iraqi Government and people have to want peace and stability for their country as much as we want it for them. If the proposed surge increased our chances of succeeding in Iraq, I would support it wholeheartedly. However, I fear this surge will not lead to an Iraq that will be stable over the long term, but instead will simply put over 21,500 more American troops into harm's way. There will not be stability until the Shiites and Sunnis decide that the price of the death and destruction they inflict upon each other is no longer worth the cost. The Iraqis have to make this decision, and sending 21,500 more of our finest citizens will not cause the Iraqis to make that decision any quicker. In fact, it might only delay that day of decision for them. Two recent surges by American troops did not bring additional security to Iraq, and I do not see how placing more troops in the most dangerous areas of the country at this point will calm things down. Our troops deserve America's full support, full funding, and all the equipment and materials they need to remain safe and battle ready. The time has come for the Iraq Government and its troops to step up and to seek peace with each other. Our obligation in Congress is to provide common-sense judgment that guarantees complete support for our troops and a plan that provides a path toward peace and stability. I do not see, and I have not been shown, how this surge will further our chances for success. For the above stated reasons, I will be voting for House Concurrent Resolution 63. May God bless America and our troops serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and everywhere else throughout the world.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Congresswoman Carson on her resolution, to add my name to it, and to also say I come from a unique place, and that my district is not far from Chicago. Our beautiful district has numbers of Bears fans in it as well as Colts fans. And so to the Bears fans from Michigan City, Laporte, and South Bend, I say a season well done; one step short is still a heck of a year. We are incredibly proud of the Bears, but we are also beaming about our world champion Indianapolis Colts who did it in a way to reflect what our State's values are: dignity, hard work, class, and a never-give-up attitude. To Peyton Manning, to Joseph Addai, to all of the outstanding players, and especially to Coach Tony Dungy, Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith come from a long tradition of fine men like Sherm Lewis, men like Eddie Robinson, and to see Tony Dungy as the first African American coach to win the Super Bowl was a tremendous moment. But he will not be the last. There will be many, many more. But his name will be etched in history forever. And as a man, we can only look at Tony and hope that we can be as fine in image and in value to our sons and daughters as he has been to all of us. Hard work, nonstop class, I am proud to be from our beloved State and proud of our world championship Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to join my colleagues in the House of Representatives in unanimously passing H. Res. 51 honoring the contributions of America's Catholic Schools. As a product of Catholic schools, I know first-hand the value of a Catholic education. Through grade school, high school, college, and law school, my Catholic schooling not only prepared me for academic success, but also taught me to serve my community by sharing my Catholic values. Thus, it is no surprise that a Catholic education also played a critical role in the intellectual and spiritual growth of my own children as well. Today, America's Catholic schools are widely recognized among the best academic institutions in the country. From pre-schools to graduate schools, Catholic intuitions prepare nearly 2.4 million young men and women for meaningful lives rooted in spirituality, respect for others, and a sense of social responsibility. It gives me great confidence to know that America's Catholic schools are preparing a new generation equipped with the knowledge and values to serve our communities and to meet the many challenges present in our world. On behalf of myself and my family, I want to commend the thousands of dedicated servants that make Catholic education a foundation for a better today and tomorrow.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2, the Fair Minimum Wage Act, because it is long past due that we provide a pay raise to many of our country's hardest workers. Today is a good day for the House, and it is a good day for American workers. I thank Chairman Miller for introducing a bill whose time has come. Mr. Speaker, a decent job, with fair pay, is a cornerstone of the foundation upon which the American Dream is built. As our minimum wage, it serves as a yardstick by which to measure other workers' pay. Fair wages make it possible for working families to pay the rent, put food on the table and save for the future, a home and college. Yet, for our minimum wage workers facing the rising costs of gasoline, health care, child care, rent and heating their home, $5.15 is just not enough. Mr. Speaker, we haven't provided a pay raise for minimum wage workers in 10 years, the longest period without adjustment since enactment of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Adjusted for inflation, its buying power is the lowest it has been in 51 years. Adequate wages create a stronger, more efficient work force. And I know the great majority of small business owners pay their workers more than the minimum wage. In fact, in the 4 years following the last minimum wage increase, small business employment grew more in those States paying a higher minimum wage than in those States paying only the minimum wage. Paying good wages is good business sense. Mr. Speaker, increasing the minimum wage is good economic policy, it is good social policy, and, most importantly, the people in my district in Indiana think it is just fair. It is time that this body ensures that all American workers are compensated fairly and can share in the prosperity of the American economy. I urge my colleagues to support our workforce and pass H.R. 2.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Thank you, Congressman Ross, for yielding. I want to talk for a minute or 2 about what Congressman Ross had mentioned. The foreign debt that we have now has doubled in the last 5 years to over $2 trillion at this point. And you think of our country, and our country has been there to help and to finance so many others over the years. You think after World War II we helped put Japan back on its feet. We helped in Europe. And the sad fact is that right now Japan is helping us, that we are having to sell to Japan to help pay for our debt, selling our Treasury notes. And it is a sad fact that China has become one of the largest lenders to our country. And it is simply because we have not covered those costs that we have been running in our government. I have two children, and I do not want to pass on to them the debts that we have been running up. I am proud to be a member of the Blue Dogs to try to change this direction. You think of our small businesses in this country, and those small businesses are having to pay part of the fare for this debt that we continue to run up. The interest rates that we are paying on that are funds that could have been used to help small businesses. Back home in South Bend, Indiana, or in Rochester, Indiana, where I come from, those funds could have been used to help with the education of children in Michigan City or down in Logansport, Indiana. But instead those funds are used today to help pay the interest on the debts that we have run up. But with the Blue Dogs' help and with the Democrats' help, that is going to end. What the people of this country are beginning to understand and what the folks back home in Indiana do understand is that we bring Hoosier common sense to this issue, Mr. Ross. Congressman, what we are trying to do is make sure that we do the same things here in Washington that we do back home in Mishawaka, Indiana, and in our beloved State. We are going to stop the increase in the debt. We are going to see it lowered, and we are going to see those funds used to take care of our veterans, who need more help than ever. More come home every day with various issues. Our beloved troops that come home from Iraq, Afghanistan and all over the world, our funds need to be used for them, not to continue covering a debt that we continue to run up. We will end that debt. We will lower those interest payments, and they will be used to educate our children, take care of our veterans down in Delphi, Indiana, and throughout our country, and to set our country back on the right course. That is what Democrat common sense will bring, and that is what the Blue Dogs promise to bring with us. Congressman Ross, thank you so much for this opportunity.