Bart Gordon

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tremendous contributions Ella Irene Frierson has made to the Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency and to her community. After 27 years of service with Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency, ``Miss Ella'' is retiring at the end of this year. She is presently the Head Start Program's assistant director. Previously, she worked in the Head Start Program as a teacher and health coordinator. Ella has given much to her community, to its families, children, and individuals in need. She currently serves as board member and secretary for the January Street Mission, a religious mission program serving residents of Franklin Heights and January Street public housing. Ella is a member of the Holiday High School Alumni Association and the Criterion Literary and Art Club. Both organizations provide scholarships to local high school seniors. She is also a member of the Mid-Cumberland Council on Children and Youth and the Rutherford County Early Childhood Task Force, organizations that advocate improvement in the lives of children and families. ``Sister Frierson'' serves the Lord in several capacities at First Baptist Church in Murfreesboro, the Mothers' Board assistant secretary, church clerk, Ardent Workers Missionary Society teacher, General Mission treasurer, Membership Committee chairman, and senior choir member. She has previously been president, secretary, and treasurer of the mass choir. Mrs. Frierson is an alumni of Tennessee State University. She has five children and four grandchildren. We honor Mrs. Frierson today for her service with the Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency Head Start Program, to the local community and First Baptist Church. She is a positive role model in an era where such models are rare. The citizens of Rutherford County are grateful for the many ways she has touched their lives. Again, Mrs. Frierson, congratulations on your retirement. May the days to come be filled with the happiness of family and friends. Thank you for all the happiness and joy you have given to us.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the Smithville Fiddlers' Jamboree and Crafts Festival and The National Championship for Country Musician Beginners which are a great source of civic and cultural pride in Smithville, Tennessee. As a matter of fact, it was recently named the Official Jamboree and Crafts Festival of the State of Tennessee. Since the Festival's inception in 1972, attendance has grown from 16 States represented and 8,000 people present to 44 States and four foreign countries represented with over 110,000 people attending in 1996. The Smithville Jamboree has set high standards of excellence for music, crafts, hospitality and fellowship. The Jamboree has been televised each year and broadcast worldwide, and has even had the distinction of being featured in the National Geographic Traveler and Southern Living. An example of how popular the Annual Jamboree has become worldwide, was its recent listing in the International Datebook of the New York Times on Sunday, June 8. The Jamboree and Festival, which is held annually over the Fourth of July holiday, has been named one of the top 100 tourist events in North America, according to a list compiled by the American Bus Association. Additionally, the Jamboree has been selected as a ``Top 20 Tourist Favorite'' by the Southeast Tourism Society, which includes the states of Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Virginia. I congratulate the founders of this event, the staff, and volunteers who have kept and continue to keep this piece of American tradition alive. I further recognize the local community organizations who have worked so diligently to make this event a success year after year. They include: Smithville/DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Merchants Association, Smithville Volunteer Fire Department and local individuals who begin planning in early January. They work all the way up until a new Champion Fiddler of the Upper Cumberland and the National Championships for Country Music Beginners are announced. As always, the 1997 Jamboree and Crafts Festival stands to be recognized as the best ever. On behalf of all those who dedicate their hard work and effort to making this event possible, I encourage all who might be traveling through the great State of Tennessee to stop off, kick back and enjoy this time honored tradition of old-time Appalachian country music, dance, and authentic Appalachian art and culture.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join Chairman Sensenbrenner, Ranking Member Brown, Chairwoman Morella and other members of the Committee on Science in introducing the Computer Security Act of 1997. Not a day that goes by that we don't see some reference to the Internet and the explosive growth of electronic commerce. What was originally envisioned as a network for defense communications and university researchers is now an international communications network of which we are just beginning to realize its potential. Both Office of Technology Assessment and National Research Council reports have identified a major obstacle to the growth of electronic commerce--the lack of the widespread use of encryption products. The bill we are introducing today is the first step to encourage the use of encryption products, both by Federal agencies and the private sector. This in turn will support the growth of electronic commerce. The Computer Security Enhancement Act of 1997, which amends the Computer Security Act of 1987 (P.L. 100-235) builds on the close collaboration and cooperation between the National Institute of Standards and Technology [NIST] and industry to develop standard reference materials and the standards that are key to the seamless commerce we take for granted today. This legislation highlights the need for NIST to expand its activities in the area of electronic commerce. Our legislation also strengthens the NIST's role in coordinating Federal agencies' effort to utilize encryption and digital identification products. It encourages Federal agencies to adopt and use commercially available encryption technologies whenever possible. This legislation allows NIST to evaluate the technical merit of industry claims of the strength of generally available foreign encryption products. Hopefully, this will defuse some of the tension surrounding the issue of export of domestic encryption products. Not only is this legislation consistent with the recommendations of the Office of Technology Assessment and the National Research Council, it is also in-line with a set of resolutions adopted by NIST's Computer System Security and Privacy Advisory Board on June 6, 1997. Finally, I believe this bill is consistent with the goals President's Clinton's upcoming policy announcement on electronic commerce. It has been a pleasure working with Chairwoman Morella on crafting this piece of legislation and I look forward to continuing to work with her to move this bill through the legislative process.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding individual from the Sixth District of Tennessee who is being honored upon his retirement, Mr. Lee Victory. Mr. Victory has spent his life improving the quality of life for those of the town of Smyrna, TN. For the last several years, he has been the moving force in recreation in Smyrna. His energy and vision have been the key to providing Smyrna with recreation facilities no other city its size possesses. He and Mr. W.E. Carter built Smyrna's first Little League baseball fields which were located behind the old Meadowlawn Homes. He personally wired the lights and ran the plumbing to these ballfields. There is truly no way to tell how many children have been kept out of trouble through his efforts, not only by providing them with recreational opportunities, but by providing a place to stay for many youngsters who needed help as well. He and his late wife, Ruie, opened their home and their hearts to countless youngsters. As for the future, Mr. Victory plans to spend more time working on his antique clocks, watching his grandchildren play baseball and visiting his many friends. However, for a man with such community spirit, for a man who knows that one person can still make a difference, old habits do not die easily. Fortunately, I am sure he will continue to provide Smyrna and Rutherford County with his tremendous vision and commitment by serving on the Middle Tennessee Electric Board and the Board of the Rutherford County Highway Department. Lee Victory's record of achievement explains why those in Smyrna and Tennesseans all across the State are honoring him on Friday, June 20, 1997. I join with them to thank Lee Victory for his tireless dedication and innumerable contributions. We wish for him a happy and fulfilling retirement.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to the Robertshaw Corp. of Carthage, TN upon their receiving certification as a Quality System Requirements--or QS-9000--corporation. This certification is for a system devised by the big three auto companies, General Motors, Chrysler, and the Ford Corp. It's purpose is to standardize reference manuals, reporting formats and technical nomenclature. Certification by this Quality System Requirements allows a supplier to produce parts for these auto companies. Later, the vice presidents of the Big Three auto manufacturers directed a task force to further harmonize the fundamental supplier quality systems manuals and assessment tools. The results of this task force is a system of certification we now know as QS-9000. QS-9000 has been implemented in the spirit of continuous improvement. That is why exceptional suppliers such as the Robertshaw Corp. have been able to play a vital part in suggesting how the implementation of QS-9000 can be improved. This award is indicative of the dedication the employees of Robertshaw have toward ensuring customer satisfaction. The Robertshaw Corp. has earned this designation by working toward reducing waste and reducing cost while insuring only the highest of standards are applied to American automobile production.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California [Mr. Brown].

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the gentlewoman's amendment and offer my compliments for her bringing this amendment, her diligent efforts to bring this before us, and again point out that, again by CBO's scoring, this will add no cost to the Federal budget.

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, will the gentlewoman yield?

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Let me just quickly concur that the minority has been consulted on this amendment, and we also concur with its passage.

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. As we bring this bill to a conclusion, let me just briefly say thanks to the chairman, the gentlewoman from Maryland [Mrs. Morella] for her sincere effort to bring this bill as well as other bills to the floor in a bipartisan manner with good cooperation. I concur with her accolades for the staff. Mike Quear particularly, with the minority, has done an excellent job for us. And let me also say that the Committee on Science now, through no fault of its own, was the last committee to organize yet the first committee to present all of its authorizing bills to the floor with virtual unanimous support. If not unprecedented, it is at least very rare, and much congratulations should go to our chairman, the gentleman from Wisconsin [Mr. Sensenbrenner], for the really no nonsense bipartisan approach he has taken. It has translated down to the staff, to the subcommittee chairs and ranking members as well as the rest of the members. I am pleased to be a part of this team. I think it is good legislation for the country. On a personal note, I get enough fighting during elections. I get enough squabbling here on other types of issues. I did not come to Washington, I did not run for Congress to squabble about a lot of petty issues. I came here to try to work together to get things done for this country. I think this committee, with the leadership of the gentleman from Wisconsin [Mr. Sensenbrenner] and the gentleman from California [Mr. Brown] really has shown how that can work. I thank them for their cooperation. I look forward to continuing this partnership. Mr. Chairman, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 1271, the FAA Research, Engineering, and Development Act of 1997. H.R. 1271 is a product of a bipartisan process to strengthen the research and development activities of the FAA. Chairman Sensenbrenner and Subcommittee Chairman Morella and I are in complete agreement that the FAA's R&D programs will be the key to increasing the capacity and efficiency of the airspace system while ensuring its safety and security. H.R. 1271 reverses the downward trend in the FAA's Research, Engineering and Development Account, which has declined by 20 percent in the last 2 years. The fiscal year 1998 funding levels are at the President's request in 6 of the 10 accounts. The remaining four accounts are funded at a higher level than the President's request. These funding increases also improve research in such areas as noise abatement and weather prediction, areas identified by outside advisory panels that need increased support. Finally, I would like to thank Chairman Morella for her support of my proposal establishing a competitive research grants program for primarily undergraduate institutions. This program will support research relevant to FAA's technology needs and, perhaps more importantly, will help develop the technical expertise to address FAA's future technological requirements. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1271. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California [Mr. Brown], ranking member on the Committee on Science.

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 1274, the National Institute of Standards and Technology Authorization Act of 1997. This bill authorizes all the programs in the Technology Administration, including the programs of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. H.R. 1274 represents bipartisan agreement on a sensible U.S. science and technology policy. As Chairman Sensenbrenner stated, the bill before us today represents a number of changes to H.R. 1274 as introduced. I want to thank the chairman, the gentleman from Wisconsin [Mr. Sensenbrenner] and the gentlewoman from Maryland [Mrs. Morella] for working with us to resolve some of our concerns. My remaining reservation about H.R. 1274 centers around the funding level for the Advanced Technology Program. The funding level allows only for a modest number of new awards to be made in 1998, and allows for no new awards in 1999. Both authorization levels represent significant cuts below the fiscal year 1996 and fiscal year 1997 appropriated levels. One of the criticisms of the ATP has been the lack of thorough evaluation of the program. I would like to point out that this is a relatively new program, and only 42 projects have been completed. In addition, the ATP has not had stable funding. As a result, we do not have the hard data needed to evaluate this program objectively and rationally. With this reservation, I support H.R. 1274, which moves overall U.S. policy in the right direction. I urge my colleagues to support this bill, as well. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the accomplishments of a dedicated group of young women who worked together in the true spirit of sportsmanship to achieve a long-awaited goal. The group is the Celina High School Lady Bulldogs basketball team of Celina, TN, and that goal was making it to the State Class A championship game. Although they were not victorious, the hardwork and dedication they demonstrated throughout the year will not be without notice. After all, they were honored as: 1997 Tri-Lakes Conference Champions, 1997 District 5 Champions, 1997 Region 3 Champions, and 1997 State Runner-up. These women of Celina High School trained vigorously, played tirelessly, and deserve recognition for a job well done. I congratulate each member of the team, their head coach, Joe Sims, and all the assistant coaches, managers, school administrators, and all other support staff. I know they won't soon forget this milestone, and those that are still to come. The players are true champions: Nicole Davis, Jennifer Davenport, Kaylin Walker, Amanda Kendall, Tara Ashlock, Michelle Chambers, Crystal Price, Amber Isenberg, Andrea McLerran, Trinity Weddle, Amanda Thompson, Erica Melton, Janet Barlow, Courtney Cross, Dana Key, Cera Burnette, and Claudia Bailey.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Chairman, I want to commend my friend from Florida for bringing this amendment before us. I support this amendment. I think most folks here today also support the general concept of providing comptime for employees to spend emergency time with their family, or whatever else might need be done. The real question is how can we craft this legislation in a way that both employees and employers are protected. I think the amendment of the gentleman from Florida is a good way to move forward in that. Certainly we want to get a good bill, but if there are problems, we should have it sunsetted, and I support this legislation.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, each year the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its ladies auxiliary conduct the Voice of Democracy broadcast scriptwriting contest. This year more than 109,000 secondary school children participated in the contest competing for the 54 national scholarships which were distributed among the 54 national winners. The contest theme this year was ``Democracy--Above and Beyond.'' I am proud to announce that Mr. Joshua Trent from my 6th Congressional District in Tennessee won the 1997 Voice of Democracy broadcast scriptwriting contest for the State of Tennessee. Like myself, Joshua is a resident of Murfreesboro, TN. Joshua's script exudes the spirit of enthusiasm that beckons us to feel as he does about our great Republic. That Joshua has attained such a zeal and been blessed with the talent to convey his feelings, speaks well for his future as a leader in America. For the benefit of all, I would like to share Joshua's award winning script with you at this time. 1996-97 VFW Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program--Tennessee Winner Joshua Trent Democracy: Above and beyond! Man, what kind uv va assignment is this? Teacher say to write a paper on ``Democracy: Above and Beyond''. What in the world does zat mean? Come: I will show you. Huh?! Who said that? Me. Who are you? What are you doing here? I am the spirit of democracy, I am answering your question. I will show you what ``democracy--above and beyond'' means. Look pal, I don's know who you are, but you'd better just go back to wherever you * * * wwhere am I? WWWhas goin' on? Wwhat did you do? Look, tell me--who are those men? It looks like two pictures of--oh my! That looks like Thomas Jefferson and Ben Franklin--and they're real! Hey! Fellas! Can you see me? Quiet! No, they cannot see you, only you can see them. Listen to what they are saying. Franklin: ``Congratulations Thomas! You drafted an excellent piece of work! I especially like the part of um * * * `We hold these truths, * * * Would you mind reading that part again?'' Jefferson: ``Certainly. I am honored that you think it is good Mr. Franklin. Ahem! `We hold these truths to be self- evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.'' Franklin: ``Jefferson, you've got a point. That is what it's all about. All men created equal--all men having a say in government--all men having equal chances in business. Democracy, as you know, means ``rule by the people''. That's the idea. Common sense people running the government, not King George or anyone else. Come, we must go now, we have more stops to make before our journey is over. Hey, that's pretty neat! That was Ben and Tom just chattin away, and dude, they were * * * You are missing the point. What did you learn? Learn? Uh, well * * * Democracy means that people are level--equal--and that they rule, not some far off king. Good. Do you see where we are now? Why we've changed again! How do you that? Man, if I could do that . . . Look where we are. I see where we are, but I don't know where this is. We're in some sort of a balcony, and there are a bunch of guys in suits down there, and there is a big American flag over there. Where are we? We are in the balcony of the House of Representatives--in Washington, DC, you are going to learn your next lesson on democracy. Listen, your Congressman is getting ready to speak. Cngrsmn: My fellow congressmen, the Democratic style of government which we have, has provided us with over 200 years of political, social, and economic success. True, we have had our differences, disagreements and difficulties, but this system of: government by the people, free enterprise, and the idea that ``all men are created equal'' has propelled us to become a world super power, and has given us the title of the ``greatest nation on earth.'' But democracy is more than American success, it is a form of government where people have freedom. It is not bound by racial or national lines, so I urge you to vote for this bill. We must leave now. Catching on? Hey, I just realized something. Democracy isn't limited to us! Yeah, other countries are democracies, too. Democracy has helped us succeed, and I guess that was why he wanted them to vote for that bill--so other people could succeed under democracy too! Here we are back at your house. Tell me what ``democracy: above and beyond'' means. Wait a minute! We've seen Democracy in the past and in the present, so what about the future of democracy?!!! You determine tomorrow--the future of democracy. You are tomorrow's leaders, voters, and elected officials. Now, tell me, what did you learn? Okay. I learned that Democracy literally means ``rule by the people'', and because of that fact, each vote counts, each man (or woman) matters, and every voice can be heard. Because the basic foundation to democracy is that ``all men are created equal . . . '', democracy is above national lines and beyond racial boundaries. ``Democracy: Above and Beyond'' means that democracy is above and beyond other forms of government. Democracy doesn't mean we don't have problems, but we can meet those problems head-on. Democracy in America started with our founding fathers and has given us national success. But, we are responsible for its success tomorrow. I guess that's it. Good job. You did listen. I must go now. But where will you be if I need you again? As the spirit of democracy, I am alive in each American and every person in the world who yearns for government by the people. You'll be okay, just keep ``democracy--above and beyond!''

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Thank you, Congressman Duncan. I think you represent us very well when you mentioned working together from Tennessee, you illustrate that. Madam Speaker, let me also very quickly say that I had the good fortune also to serve with the gentleman's father. And no matter what humble background from where he might have started, he left a great inheritance. That inheritance was a good and honest reputation, and I know that you carry that with distinction. Madam Speaker, I am very pleased to have the opportunity to rise today and add my salute to Jimmy Quillen. Mr. Quillen is a great American, a great Tennessean and a great friend and colleague to all of us. I think the First District knows how well he represented them and how he represented them with great distinction, but they probably do not know the service he performed for our entire State. There is not a manual when you get to Congress that says this is what you are supposed to do or even how you get to this Chamber or how do you get to the bathroom. It really is a word-of-mouth, and Mr. Quillen took all of us, all of us Tennesseans under his wing. He really was the mentor that showed us the right way, the responsible way to do things, and we are all very grateful for that. He was also the glue that really bound together the Tennessee delegation. He was our dean. He was the chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority [TVA] caucus. And whether we had a need to work together to save TVA from being sold or whether it was a need to help one district or another district in some particular interest there for constituents, Mr. Quillen was the one that brought us together, that helped us work together. That is a great legacy not only for his district but also for the entire State of Tennessee. Madam Speaker, let me just very quickly say, Mr. Quillen thank you. You leave this body and this Nation a better place because of your service.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor one of the great judicial minds in Tennessee's history, who has ruled from the bench without passion or prejudice, gaining the respect of not only his peers and colleague, but of the community in which he served. Earlier today it was my pleasure to introduce legislation, which has been cosponsored by all of my colleagues in the Tennessee delegation, that will designate the U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in Cookeville, TN, the ``L. Clure Morton Post Office and Court House.'' Since his appointment to the bench in 1970 by President Richard Nixon, L. Clure Morton's career as a Federal judge has been distinguished by fairness, insight, innovation, and an iron grip on his courtroom. During his tenure, Judge Morton has never avoided controversial issues, addressing school integration, welfare, mental health systems, and prison reform. Following his graduation from our alma mater, the University of Tennessee School of Law, Judge Morton spent 33 years in private practice, during which he also began his years of public service as a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. His judicial career began in 1970 with his appointment as a U.S. District Court judge in Nashville. He was then elevated to chief judge in 1977, and took senior status in 1984 which he currently holds, presiding over the northeastern division. Earlier this year, Judge Morton decided to hang up his gavel and retire from the bench after 26 years. My bill will serve as a tribute to his undying commitment to make middle Tennessee a safer, fairer place. Though he will no longer preside over a courtroom, his presence will always be felt, having his name etched in stone at the Cookeville, Federal building.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a beautiful and successful county in my district. Natural beauty resides in Macon County at such places as Union Camp Waterfall and Winding Stairs, a natural rock formation, true to its name, that was used by Indians long ago. The success of Macon County stems from its people's ingenuity. In an area known for tobacco, farmers there are turning to alternative crops such as strawberries, Christmas trees, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, blackberries, grapes, and more. Macon County farmers are now competing with growers in California and Florida. Macon County is composed of hard-working people with the desire to be the best. Among other honors, the Macon County Fair has twice been named Best Small Fair by the Annual Tennessee Association of Fairs Convention. Macon Countian Ronald Jenkins is the Tennessee Lion of the Year, while his Lion's Club is ranked third in the State. Macon County was created by necessity. In 1837, the two closest county seats, that of Sumner County and Smith County, were both 25 miles away. That year the State legislature created Macon County, named for statesman Nathanial Macon. Lafayette is the county seat. The citizens of this county have always sought to do their best with what has been given them. To these citizens, I wish continued success and the best life has to offer.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 30-year career of a great statesman, Tennessee State Representative John Bragg. Upon his retirement, I would like to recognize his outstanding achievements, honors, and successes, both personally and for the State of Tennessee. Serving as the House Finance chairman for 22 years, Mr. Bragg established an ethical foundation of admirable weight. He subsequently made significant changes in the State legislative process. For these measures, he was awarded the title chairman emeritus. In addition, he was a stronghold in the creation of the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System. As such, Tennessee is considered one the best managed States in the country, with regard to public pension plans. Mr. Bragg hails from Murfreesboro, TN, and his loyalty has never swayed. He has represented the city and Rutherford County throughout his entire three decades in politics. During that time, he boosted Middle Tennessee State University to a premier educational institution within the State. He secured the funds to build three multimillion dollar complexes for the school: the mass communications building, the Tennessee Livestock Center, and a $31.7 million library. Joining Mr. Bragg at his retirement ceremony were colleagues, friends, and family. He attributed most of his accomplishments to their support; and similarly, his desire to care for those he loves extends to his fellow citizens. I ask that we recognize John Bragg for his endless dedication, his honorable values, and his compassion for Tennessee.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Williamson County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community voluntarism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Smyrna Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a four to six-month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Smithville-DeKalb County Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community voluntarism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.

Mr. GORDON

Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I am taking this opportunity to applaud the invaluable services provided by the Shackle Island Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad. These brave, civic-minded people give freely of their time so that should disaster strike, we know that our friends and neighbors are there to help. Few realize the depth of training and hard work that goes into being a member of the rescue squad. Rescue squad members undergo a training series over a 4- to 6-month period which includes instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR], vehicle extrication, emergency driving, and rescue orientation. In addition to this training, rescue squad members also meet monthly to address business concerns as well as hear guest speakers. Rescue squad members are volunteers. They receive no pay for what they do. What also makes their service especially outstanding is that the organizations themselves receive no funding. They receive no funding from the city, the county, or the Federal Government. Rescue squads are funded in the same spirit of community volunteerism which moves them to serve. Family, friends, and neighbors pitch in at bake sales, road blocks, and fish frys to help those who sacrifice their time for the benefit of the whole community. Committing such an amount of spare time and energy to a job so emotionally and physically taxing requires a sense of devotion and duty for which we are all grateful.