Bob Etheridge

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I now yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Holden) who has also been instrumental in this piece of legislation and works hard on the Ag Committee.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, we have no further speakers. Let me thank the gentleman from Virginia for his help, Ranking Member Goodlatte, Chairman Peterson, and all the members of the committee, and also my good friend, Congressman Moran from Kansas, who really was instrumental in working on this piece of legislation. Let me just say to my colleagues, every State in America is affected by this piece of legislation from an agricultural standpoint. With that, Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6406, Mr. Larson's bill to make the Inspector General at the CFTC a Presidential appointment, and hence more of an independent office within the Commission. Madam Speaker, as you know, the provisions of H.R. 6406 were originally part of the Commodity Markets Transparency and Accountability Act introduced by the Ag chairman, Chairman Peterson, and myself after Representative Larson had brought it to us. The House has already supported those provisions with 276 votes when the CMTA was first considered on July 30 of this year. Unfortunately, because of jurisdictional issues, the provisions were not a part of the version of the CMTA Act that passed the House last week. I am pleased that we are able to take this vote today to promote an independent Inspector General for the CFTC as originally intended. We passed the CMTA to bring some more sunshine to the commodities market and over-the-counter trading of energy and agricultural commodities. This greater transparency will help establish greater confidence in the markets. An independent Inspector General will contribute further to that goal. I applaud the gentleman from Connecticut for his perseverance in moving the bill forward. The points he has raised regarding the need for this bill have merit. Currently, the Department of the Treasury is the only financial regulator with a Presidentially-appointed Inspector General. This bill will make the CFTC the second financial regulator with this kind of independent oversight. Given the financial turmoil that we have seen in other financial markets, the arguments for a more independent Inspector General for the CFTC also apply to other financial regulators, like the Federal Reserve Board and the SEC. Congress may want to consider requiring similar provisions for other financial regulators. This bill is a step in the right direction to bring confidence to financial markets. I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. I am prepared to close, unless we get one more speaker. If you will go ahead and proceed, and then as soon as our speaker comes, I will let them do it and I'll close. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a time check.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlelady from Connecticut, someone who has worked hard in this area, Representative DeLauro.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. I thank the chairman. I am pleased today to join Chairman Peterson and Ranking Member Goodlatte in bringing this legislation, the Commodity Markets Transparency and Accountability Act of 2008, to the floor for consideration by the House. Mr. Speaker, since our bill was considered by the full House this past July, much has happened. For one thing, oil prices have dropped, and they have dropped considerably. They have gone up in the last day or so. Additionally, the CFTC has released a report providing the most detailed and accurate look at data on index trading and swap dealers participating in the over-the-counter market. While all of us are glad to see the prices of oil decline and other commodities in recent months, it does not relieve the Commission or this Congress of our responsibility to make sure that commodity markets are operating effectively, efficiently and fairly. And while the CFTC report indicates that index funds and swap dealers have less influence on our markets than had otherwise been reported, the report does not tell us the whole story or provide us with all the answers to our questions regarding these markets. The CFTC report fails to include the time period of this July and August and recent weeks when oil prices fell fairly rapidly. Do we have a clear understanding of why prices fell? No. Passing H.R. 6604 will provide the CFTC with the authority and the tools to examine the entire marketplace to ensure no individual group or groups of market participants is having an undue influence on the market. Months ago, the CFTC was telling Congress that it needed no additional changes to the Commodity Exchange Act and that markets were functioning properly. Now the CFTC's report contains a host of proposals very similar to the provisions in the Commodities Market Transparency and Accountability Act. The report recommends measures designed to enhance transparency and data accuracy for commodity markets. Our bill provides the commission with the tools to make that happen. The report suggests revising the hedge exemption rules that allow traders to exceed speculation position limits. Our bill accomplishes that too. The report highlights the desperate need for additional staff and resources at the CFTC, not only to accomplish its current mission, but also to implement its recommendations to bring greater transparency and accountability to the commodity markets. We happen to agree. Since 2000, volume on the commodity markets has increased sixfold, but currently staffing levels at the CFTC have fallen to their lowest level in the 33-year history of the Commodities Exchange. Through this legislation, we acknowledge the need for 100 additional full-time positions at CFTC that they need to effectively regulate the futures industry, including our energy markets. But we should not kid ourselves. The CFTC needs far more resources to do the job that we expect them to do. Earlier this year the chairman of the CFTC testified at a hearing that the agency needed 100 additional staff right now just to meet the growing surveillance needs. In testimony presented to the House Agriculture Committee a week ago today, the chairman of the commission testified the CFTC would need still another 138 full-time staff and $38 million just in 2009 to implement the provisions of H.R. 6604. Given the light of what is happening in the markets, I think we understand why the need is there. I have said this before, but it bears repeating, if Congress places additional responsibility upon the Commission, without providing the resources necessary to meet those responsibilities, then what we pass here today is simply a farce. Through its report, CFTC views on effective oversight of commodity markets have changed dramatically from where the commission was previously. I know some of my colleagues will say let's wait and give the commission time to implement these recommendations administratively. I say why wait for the commission to implement changes that we as a Congress can do right now with H.R. 6604.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. We can all agree that no one factor is responsible for the movement we have seen in agriculture and energy prices, but this legislation is an important measure to provide the CFTC with additional tools and authority to keep our markets free of manipulation and excess speculation and help restore confidence to these markets. We cannot allow excess speculation by Wall Street to cause folks on Main Street to suffer. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. We have just a couple more speakers we are waiting on, but in the meantime I would take this opportunity, Mr. Speaker, to just share with my colleagues that this bill has substantial support from the Air Transportation Association, the Air Line Pilots Association, Tyson Foods, Sierra Club, Environmental America, League of Conservation Voters, the Wilderness Society, National Chicken Council, National Corn Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Farmer Unions, National Grains, National Milk Producers Federation, National Sorghum Producers, Southern Cotton Shippers Association, Southern Peanut Farmers Association, Southwest Council of Agriculture, Texas Cotton Association, United Egg Producers, United States Cattlemen Association, U.S. Rice Producers Association, U.S. Rice Federation, Western Cotton Shippers, Western Peanut Growers Association, Women Involved in Farm Economics, the American Agriculture Movement, American Association of Crop Insurance, American Corn Growers, American Cotton Shippers, the Atlantic Cotton Association, the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, and I think at the end of the day, Mr. Speaker, the American people. The American people only ask of us in this body to do what's right and be fair. I think they want markets to work. They want them to work fairly because they don't want them working against us. Today we have an opportunity to make these markets, once again, work for the American people. We heard testimony in our committee of grain elevators who were caught in the wedge. When the prices ran so high, they were unable to get financing to be able to assist farmers. When you're looking at finding a real price through the futures, that's what they're supposed to do. But you can't do it when the markets aren't working the way they should work. Mr. Speaker, if the gentleman from Virginia has any other speakers, I would be willing for him to call his speakers while I wait for a couple of folks here.

Mr. ETHERIDGE. I would be happy to yield.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the School Safety Enhancements Act of 2007. This legislation reauthorizes and strengthens the Secure Our Schools program, which provides critical support to our Nation's schools for equipment to keep our children safe during their educational time. Over the past 6 years, $65 million in Federal grant funds have been put to work in a partnership between law enforcement agencies and local schools to invest in security and school safety at more than 2,400 schools nationwide. As the former superintendent of North Carolina's public schools, I know that a student needs fertile soil for learning to take seed. I have rare firsthand knowledge of the importance of quality school buildings to the educational goals we hold for our schools, and the challenges those schools face in inadequate facilities. There really is no substitute for bricks and mortar when it comes to quality schools. While good teachers and administrators are central to education, we also need a good environment for students. Children cannot learn in facilities that are substandard or overcrowded or where they do not feel safe. That is why I have made it a priority in Congress to support funds for school construction, for school safety, and for school emergency preparedness needs. This bill is a step to address the pressing needs that schools have for safety. Even as teachers, administrators, and students are working together with law enforcement to make schools a safe place for learning, they can use additional help and guidance to make their planning as effective as possible. I speak to students from North Carolina who are concerned about violence in their schools, about gang activity, or about bullying. Secure Our Schools gives schools and law enforcement agencies the flexibility to address their community's unique needs. Although schools are central institutions to our communities, they are often overlooked in security and emergency planning. The partnerships between schools and law enforcement facilitated by Secure Our Schools have far-reaching benefits to school safety and the health of our communities. H.R. 2352 gives these partnerships new tools to keep our children safe by allowing the use of funds for surveillance equipment and capital improvement. In recognition of the incredible need for these funds, it expands the authorization for Secure Our Schools grants to $50 million. It is a solid step to improve our schools and recognize the hard work of teams of teachers, administrators, health care workers, security staff, and law enforcement personnel in keeping our children safe. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in voting yes for H.R. 2352.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Chairman, Earlier today, the House took sequential votes on an amendment to and final passage of the National Capital Security and Safety Act, H.R. 6842. On roll number 601 when I cast my vote on final passage an ``aye'' vote was recorded when a ``no'' vote should have been recorded.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in support of H.R. 6899, a comprehensive plan to use our Nation's resources and Americans' know- how to reduce prices and to free our Nation from the grips of foreign oil. This legislation invests in renewable energy sources such as cellulosic ethanol, biomass and soybean diesel, creating good-paying jobs here at home and growing our rural economies. This legislation has opened up the Outer Continental Shelf. It has renewed drilling while demanding that oil companies use the leases they already have that have been issued or lose the leases to other oil companies that will actually produce oil and gas. It is time to end the giveaway to big oil companies that are reaping record profits while my folks in North Carolina and their families are struggling to afford to fill their own gas tanks. Today's bill does just that. This legislation puts our Nation on a path toward a sustainable energy future through greater energy efficiency and conservation. This legislation is for the people of North Carolina and for America who would rather grow their own fuel instead of sending billions of dollars to the Middle East. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this progressive, futuristic piece of legislation to free America. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in support of 6899, the Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act. H.R. 6899 will increase American oil production, invest in renewable energy sources and new efficiency technology, end giveaways to big oil companies, and create jobs here at home. This legislation puts our Nation on a path toward energy independence through greater energy efficiency and conservation, and lowers the price average Americans consumers pay for the energy they need. For too long, this administration and the Republicans in Congress have relied on a single approach to our Nation's energy policy, allowing big oil companies to decide when and where to drill, while failing to ensure that they pay their fair share to the American people for the use of our federal lands. For too long the major oil companies have enjoyed the highest profits ever recorded at the expense of the American consumer, all while utilizing only a fraction of the Federal land available to them for drilling. This has only served to increase our reliance on foreign oil. The bill Democrats are proposing today represents a change in the direction for our Nation's energy policy. H.R 6899 puts our Nation on a path towards a sustainable renewable energy future by eliminating unnecessary tax breaks to oil companies and using these funds for research into alternative fuels and renewable energy and efficiency tax incentives. We can put American know-how to work, strengthening our economy and creating good-paying jobs here at home instead of $700 billion each year to the Middle East. We can use the resources of rural America to grow energy right here at home and strengthen our communities. Finally Mr. Speaker, H.R. 6899 has shown that the Democratic Congress has listened to the American people and not the big oil companies. This is comprehensive legislation that includes a compromise that will responsibly open the Outer Continental Shelf, OCS, for drilling, while demanding that oil companies use the leases they have already been issued or lose these leases to oil companies that actually want to produce oil. This legislation gives States the authority to allow drilling from 50 to 100 miles offshore and makes all OCS waters beyond 100 miles immediately available for oil exploration. This puts our resources to work to meet our Nation's needs while at the same time protecting our coasts. I know how high energy prices are hurting American families. This bill makes important changes to improve our energy supply and reduce costs. This is a bill that we can all support on behalf of the American people. I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of H.R. 6899.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 1420, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the terrorist attacks launched against the United States on September 11, 2001. Many of us were here in Washington on that fateful day and knew that our lives had changed forever. House Resolution 1420 recognizes September 11 as a day of solemn commemoration. This resolution extends our deepest condolences again to the friends, families, and loved ones of the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. H. Res. 420 also honors the heroic service, actions and sacrifices of the first responders, officials and volunteers who came to the aid of the victims of these attacks. On this day, we remember the selfless valor that so many Americans displayed. This resolution also expresses our gratitude to the foreign leaders and citizens of all nations who have joined with the United States in fighting terrorism. H. Res. 1420 recognizes the service and sacrifices of the United States Armed Forces and their families who remain in the front lines of this fight. Although we pause on September 11th to reflect and say thanks, on this day we should also remember that the forces that divide us from one another can never overcome the transcendent unity we have as Americans. As H. Res. 1420 states, this unspeakable act of terrorism ``was designed to intimidate the Nation and its allies, and to weaken the national resolve.'' However, seven years ago in the face of this tragedy, Members of Congress stood united, shoulder to shoulder on the steps on this Capitol and pledged to work together to remember this day and honor the sacrifice of the fallen. Today we remember that pledge. In appreciation of that spirit, in memory of the valor of the heroes and the fallen of that day, I urge colleagues to join me in voting for House Resolution 1420.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 6599, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Act, 2009. This legislation builds upon last year's needed increases in military construction and veterans affairs funding, and continues to make our veterans a top priority. As a veteran, I am pleased that H.R. 6599 provides more support for our veterans. H.R. 6599 includes a total of $47.7 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs. $40.8 billion supports the Veterans Health Administration, VHA, and Veterans Medical Services, which expects to serve over 5.8 million patients next year. To improve access to care for our veterans, H.R. 6599 provides $200 million for fee-based providers where VHA services are not available. The bill also raises the travel reimbursement rate from 28.5 cents per mile to 41.5 cents per mile to help thousands of rural veterans get care. A continuing backlog at the VA forces our veterans to wait far too long to receive the benefits that they have earned. This bill will enable the VA to hire 1,400 new casework processors. Our veterans are men and women who have answered the call of duty to serve our country, and we have a duty to provide them with the best possible care when they return. This bill addresses the specific issues that we see affecting our soldiers returning today from Iraq and Afghanistan. H.R. 6599 provides a $250 million increase to support prosthetics and new prosthetic technology, as well as $3.8 billion for specialty mental health services and $584 million for substance abuse programs. This is funding that can help address the growing incidence of post traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury cases among our returning soldiers. As the Representative of Fort Bragg, one of the largest United States Army bases in the country, I am pleased that this bill addresses the needs of our military installations. This bill includes $24 billion for military construction, including an increase of $300 million for replacing inadequate military housing. Fort Bragg is expanding rapidly, and there are crucial funds in this bill to meet new demands. H.R. 6559 includes over $21 million for road construction and $78 million for on- base school constructions, to meet the needs of the influx of people at Fort Bragg. In addition, this bill includes $1,300,000 that I requested to construct a new mass casualty facility at Womack Army Medical Center for triage and decontamination purposes for the surrounding area. H.R. 6599 provides $5.6 billion for new military construction and family housing, in line with the ``Growing the Force'' initiative to increase the size of the Army, Marine Corps and National Guard and Reserve. Finally, I am pleased that there is an increase of $1.8 billion for the Base Realignment and Closure Act, BRAC, to continue these efforts. I support H.R. 6599, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Act, 2009, and I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for its passage.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this conference agreement. This is the first time in ten years that we will reauthorize the Higher Education Act, landmark legislation that has strengthened our colleges and universities and made the dream of higher education possible for countless Americans. I commend the bipartisan, bicameral work of Education and Labor Chairman George Miller and Ranking Member Buck McKeon, and Senators Kennedy, Mikulski and Enzi who crafted this compromise, and I urge my colleagues to join me in support of it. Our Nation's competitiveness depends on a vigorous college and university system and on ample opportunities for Americans to pursue their educational goals. As the first member of my family to graduate from college, I know firsthand that affordable access to higher education is the key to the American Dream for working families. H.R. 4137 is an important step to make sure our schools remain strong and that students from all walks of life can go to college. H.R. 4137 keeps costs down for students and provides additional support through Pell Grants and education loans. It strengthens successful college-readiness initiatives and bolsters cooperation between school districts and teacher-preparation faculties. It improves access to emergency notification services for students. And it makes the process of applying to and planning for school easier: streamlining the federal student financial aid application; creating the ``College Navigator'' to provide cost and aid data to prospective students; and ensuring professors and students know the costs of course textbooks before the semester starts. I am pleased that this bill includes support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities in my district and across North Carolina, recognizing schools that have added master's degree programs with a new source of grant funding. It also provides new funding for Predominately Black Institutions. These schools, which include Fayetteville State University, Shaw University and North Carolina Wesleyan in my Congressional district, have an important ongoing role in improving educational opportunities for African Americans. I am also pleased that the conference agreement recognizes the situation of military families, like so many families of soldiers at North Carolina's Fort Bragg, who move frequently or are deployed abroad. H.R. 4137 requires states to offer in-state tuition rates to soldiers and their dependents when the soldier is deployed for more than 30 days. We must not allow service to our country to prevent the education of a soldier or his or her family. Mr. Speaker, education is the key to better lives and a brighter future for individuals and our Nation. H.R. 4137 improves educational opportunities for all Americans. I am pleased to support this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to join me in voting to pass it.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. I thank the gentleman. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join Chairman Peterson and Ranking Member Goodlatte in bringing the Commodity Markets Transparency and Accountability Act to the House floor for consideration. During 3 days of hearings this month, expert after expert told the Ag Committee that at least part of the spike in energy prices could be caused by excessive speculation in energy futures trading. We owe it to the American consumer to ensure that gas prices are reflective of true market value and are not being artificially inflated by investors trying to make an easy quick buck. We cannot allow excessive speculation on Wall Street to cause folks to suffer on Main Street. That is why, as the chairman of the subcommittee that oversees the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, I worked with Chairman Peterson and Ranking Member Goodlatte to write today's bill. This legislation will give the CFTC additional tools and authority to keep our markets free of manipulation and excessive speculation. We wrote the bill very carefully to ensure that it would not affect proper market activity. We are simply giving the CFTC the tools to do the job the American consumers entrusted it to do, to weed out improper or illegal market activity. Since 2000, volume on commodity markets has increased six-fold; but staffing levels at the CFTC have fallen to the lowest level in the agency's 33-year history. Right now we need more cops on the beat. The bill will require CFTC to hire the 100 additional staff people it needs to effectively monitor the futures industry, including our energy markets. Currently the CFTC is investigating whether market manipulation has occurred in energy markets. One firm has already been charged, but the commission needs additional staff to carry out this investigation, and the rest of its duties. Additionally, the bill will require greater transparency and disclosure from investors. A little sunshine goes a long way to scaring off bad actors. We also close the London loophole, and toughen position limits and the hedge exemption. Today's bill is not a cure-all for our energy crisis but is one important step that could provide some relief to families who are struggling. I urge all of my colleagues to support this piece of legislation.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3221, American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008. This bill is a critical step towards stabilizing our housing market and providing assistance to thousands of Americans facing foreclosure. The problems that persist in our housing market are serious and affect millions of Americans. Thousands of families are in danger of losing their homes. In my state of North Carolina alone, PEW Charity Trusts and the Center for Responsible Lending estimate there will be 53,254 foreclosures in 2008 and 2009. Not only does foreclosure strike at the heart of these families' financial stability, but the damage spreads across all of our communities. The same study shows that over 330,000 homes in North Carolina will be devalued by the spillover impact of the foreclosures, and North Carolina stands to lose over $860 million in property values. However, H.R. 3221 takes strong steps to help families facing foreclosure while also bolstering our housing market and economy. This bill also creates a voluntary FHA initiative that provides mortgage refinancing assistance to allow families to stay in their homes while also strengthening the housing market. This voluntary plan would require lenders to reduce some of the existing mortgage in order to qualify for FHA backing, and would require borrowers to return portions of any future profits on the house to the government in order to prevent foreclosure. It is important to note that under H.R. 3221, only owner-occupied homes facing foreclosure can qualify for this mortgage assistance, and speculators, investors, and second-homeowners are not eligible. This provision represents a compromise by all participating parties and can keep people in their homes and improve surrounding communities. Provisions in this bill reform and modernize the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) as well as government sponsored entities, GSEs, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These changes will strengthen the FHA and make it a bigger force in the market to provide a better alternative to some of the riskier, more exotic loans that have spurred much of this crisis. The recent reports of major losses at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are troubling. The GSEs are crucial engines that are necessary to drive the slumping mortgage market that provides housing for millions across the country. H.R. 3221 includes a plan to give the Treasury Department increased authority to loan and buy credit in these GSEs. This backing will boost confidence in the GSEs in the marketplace, and may make further action unnecessary. Along with this expanded credit, H.R. 3221 includes a stronger and more independent regulator to oversee Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and set their capital standards. Finally, the American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008 also includes a tax benefit of up to $7,500 for first-time homebuyers as well as an additional credit on property taxes for existing homeowners who claim the standard deduction. I am proud of the strong military presence in North Carolina's Second Congressional District, and I applaud the provisions that specifically help returning soldiers stay in their home and the housing counseling and benefit initiatives that target veterans. These measures will help revive the housing market and get our sluggish economy moving in the right direction. I support the passage of H.R. 3221, American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008, and I urge my colleagues to join me.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3999, The National Highway Bridge Reconstruction and Inspection Act. In my home state of North Carolina there are hundreds of bridges that have been rated structurally deficient, and in my district alone there are over 150 bridges that have been rated structurally deficient. This bill enhances our ability to address this critical need. H.R. 3999 will improve the safety of our nation's bridges by ensuring that they are properly monitored for repairs, and by ensuring that the federal funding that is set aside for their maintenance and repair goes towards that specific purpose. This bill authorizes an additional $1 billion in fiscal year 2009, on top of the current $4.5 billion authorized in the Federal Highway Administration's Bridge Program. In addition to this funding, this legislation requires the Federal Highway Administration to conduct annual inspections on bridges that are rated deficient, and inspect all other bridges every two years. This additional funding, along with the mandated inspections, will go a long way towards insuring that the American public will have confidence in the bridges they traverse, without having to fear the disaster that occurred in Minnesota nearly one year ago. Madam Chairman our nation's infrastructure is the engine that drives our economy, and the safety of our citizens also depends on the reliability of this infrastructure. I urge my colleagues to vote yes on H.R. 3999.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Zeke Creech, formerly of my staff, and his wife Bess on the birth of their first child, Katherine Ayden Hollingsworth Creech. Katherine was born on June 16, 2008, and weighed 7 pounds and 13 ounces. Faye joins me in wishing Zeke and Bess great happiness during this very special time in their lives. As a father and grandfather myself, I know the joy, pride, and excitement that parents experience upon the entrance of their child into the world. Representing hope, goodness, and innocence, a newborn allows those around her to see the world through her eyes as a new, fresh place with unending possibilities for the future. Through a child, one is able to recognize and appreciate the full potential of the human race. I know Zeke and Bess look forward to the changes and challenges that their new daughter will bring to their lives while taking pleasure in the many rewards they are sure to receive as they watch her grow. I welcome young Katherine into the world and wish Zeke and Bess all the best as they raise her.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of George Thomas Fitzpatrick of Dunn, NC, who passed away on June 8, 2008 at the age of 82. In his passing, North Carolina lost a truly gifted and dedicated educator who was influential and beloved in his community, county, and State. My dear friend, George Thomas Fitzpatrick, was born in Elyria, OH, in 1925 and was the son of the late Ben and Mary Fitzpatrick. He was the seventh of 11 children. After graduating from high school in Ohio, Reverend Fitzpatrick joined the Army during the midst of World War II. He established a fine military career that included flight training with the Army Air Corps and the Tuskegee Airmen. After bravely serving his country, Reverend Fitzpatrick used the GI Bill to enroll at Fayetteville State University, graduating with a bachelors degree in elementary education. While at Fayetteville State University, he became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Reverend Fitzpatrick continued his education, obtaining a masters degree from North Carolina Central University. While at Fayetteville State University, Reverend Fitzpatrick developed an interest in education. Upon graduation, he accepted a teaching position with the Harnett County School System in Dunn, NC. Not only was Reverend Fitzpatrick an outstanding educator, he coached the men's basketball and football teams. Reverend Fitzpatrick became principal of South Harnett Elementary School in 1968. After a distinguished career in education, Reverend Fitzpatrick retired in 1984. Reverend Fitzpatrick was not only influential to the community as an educator, but also as a spiritual leader. Being a man of great faith, Reverend Fitzpatrick was called to the ministry in 1964 at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. He later became pastor of Piney Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church in Bolivia, NC; Mt. Zion Original Free Will Baptist Church in Wilson, NC; and North East Chapel Original Free Will Baptist Church in Mt. Olive, NC. He formally retired from the pulpit in 2004 after 44 years of service. Reverend Fitzpatrick is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Antoinette Fitzpatrick; his children, John Fitzpatrick, Warren Monroe, Barry Monroe, Kevin Monroe, and Michael Fitzpatrick; and his grandchildren. Madam Speaker, George was someone who influenced the lives of others for the better, but lived simply. Reverend Fitzpatrick loved to hunt and was a member of several summer baseball and softball leagues. He kept a small farm with hogs and chickens. Reverend Fitzpatrick was, above all, a respected and dedicated educator and pastor, a dedicated public servant, and a great North Carolinian. It is fitting that we honor him and his family today.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my support for this vote to override the President's veto of H.R. 6331, the ``Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008.'' We cannot abandon Medicare's promise to America's seniors and disabled citizens that they would have access to high quality health care in their time of need. As of July 1, physicians face a 10.6 percent cut in their payments from Medicare. As of July 1, patients undergoing a variety of medical treatments, from radiology to oxygen treatments, face a cutoff in services. As of July 1, the relationship between medical suppliers and the beneficiaries they serve is at risk. Madam Speaker, this bill fixes all of these threats to Medicare and improves access in many other ways. Instead of a cut, it provides a slight increase in payment for physicians, ensuring doctors can continue providing Medicare services. Instead of cutting beneficiaries off from their medical services, it allows exceptions to current caps on medical therapy. It also ensures access to community pharmacies, by providing for fair and prompt payment for prescriptions. Additionally, H.R. 6331 improves access to health services for all Medicare beneficiaries. It extends grants that rural health care providers can use to improve the quality of care facilities provide and to strengthen health care networks. It supports telehealth services in rural communities, improves access to ambulance services for small hospitals, and increases Medicare payments for community health centers. By overriding the President's veto, Congress is standing with seniors and their ability to continue to see the doctors they know and trust. By overriding the veto, we are standing for better health care for all Medicare beneficiaries. I urge my colleagues to join me in continued support of this bill.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Reverend Bill Goodnight of First Presbyterian church of Lillington, NC. On the 230th birthday of this great Nation, Reverend Goodnight expressed his patriotism with a most fitting prayer. His prayer embodies the values on which the United States of America was founded. These are the same values that we as Americans still hold near and dear to our hearts today, I would like to share this prayer with my colleagues and my fellow Americans. ``Eternal God we come before you on this birthday of our nation 230th birthday of our Nation. We come with praises upon our lips for your love and mercy, which makes itself know throughout the earth. We come with praises for your mighty creative energy that hung the stars and spun the planets and for your still small voice that speaks in the silence of the canyons and booms out across the oceans waves. For those with eyes to see and wars to hear your spirit is seen dancing upon our golden meadows, your song is heard in the cry of the bald eagle, your presence is felt in the deepest canyon and the highest mountain . . . Yet we confess eternal creator that we have too often sought your blessing without begging for your transforming power that calls us into a nation of servanthood in this and every hour. We confess that we are quick to proclaim that you are on our side without checking to make sure that we are on your side. Therefore, we celebrate with thanksgiving this Fourth of July, not only the great provisions of this land but your patience toward us when we forget that to whom much is given much is expected. We thank you for your protection from pestilence and the horrors of famine known to much of this world. We thank you for a stable government which works to guarantee our freedoms and provides us with protection against those who would do us harm. We are particularly grateful this night for our leaders that are here with us as a reminder that by your will we truly are a government of the people and by the people. Our strongest petitions this night we reserve those brave men and women who have obeyed the orders of their commander in chief and have stepped into harms way in distant land, particularly Afghanistan and Iraq. We cry for the widows, widowers, and orphans left in the wake of the current conflict on both sides of this war. Let not our tears be empty but grant to us the fortitude and resolve as a community that we might nurture those who have sacrificed so much on our account. May those who have risked so much in fulfilling their military obligations find us a united community in support of them and their dependents. May we walk with them and their loves ones on the road of life offering the well-deserved hand of friendship and fellowship. We know that nothing can make up for what we have sent them to endure, but may our overwhelming gratitude and respect offer them comfort. Help us to live our lives with grateful hearts, teach us how to be there for each other when tragedy strikes, and give us plenty of opportunities to rejoice with one another when good comes our neighbor's way. In closing, we ask not only your blessing upon us but for your guidance and inspiration that we might reflect and be a source for the world of the blessings we seek for ourselves. Alleluia Amen.'' Madam Speaker, Reverend Goodnight is an exemplary figure of patriotism, leadership, dedication, and commitment to this great Nation.

Mr. ETHERIDGE

Mr. ETHERIDGE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to GEN Dan K. McNeill on his retirement as commanding officer of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. General McNeill assumed command of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) on February 4, 2007, following a tour of duty as Commanding General, of the U.S. Army Forces Command, and the U.S. Army's force generation command. General McNeill is a native son of Warsaw, North Carolina. He attended North Carolina State University (NCSU) where he began his military career. He graduated in 1968 with a bachelor of science degree in forestry and was commissioned as a second lieutenant of Infantry through the ROTC Program. In 1989, General McNeill graduated from the U.S. Army War College where he became a career infantry officer. He also attended United States Army Command and General Staff College. General McNeill has held several positions throughout his military career, some of his past assignments include Deputy Commanding General/ Chief of Staff, United States Army Forces Command at Fort McPherson, Georgia. Commanding General of the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, North Carolina where his duties include Combined Joint Task Force 180, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He was Commanding General of the 82nd Airborne Division in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. And Assistant Chief of Staff G-3, XVIII Airborne Corps, including tours in Uphold Democracy, Operation Just Cause, Panama and Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. GEN Dan K. McNeill's innovative leadership and unique vision have earned him widespread recognition. His numerous decorations and badges include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters), Legion of Merit (with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters), Bronze Star Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters), and Meritorious Service Medal (with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters), all of which acknowledge General McNeill's unfailing commitment to improving the lives of his fellow Americans. Madam Speaker, General McNeill is an exemplary figure of patriotism, leadership, dedication, and commitment. As a former soldier, I am proud to honor the career of GEN Dan K. McNeill today. I ask all of my colleagues to join my wife, Faye, and me in celebrating his 40 years of military service to the United States Army and to the State of North Carolina.