Kay Granger

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, today I want to recognize a great Texas company, SkiHi Enterprises, Ltd., on its 20th anniversary. Over the past 20 years, SkiHi has built a reputation as one of Texas' leading mechanical/industrial contractors. I want to extend my congratulations to the company's founders, Richard Skipper and Tom Hicks, and to everyone else who has had a hand in SkiHi's success. In 1981, Richard Skipper and Tom Hicks formed SkiHi. Mr. Skipper and Mr. Hicks had both worked in the industry for many years, which gave them the experience and knowledge they needed to create a successful business together. They started with a simple business plan, focusing on not over-extending SkiHi's limited resources and on steady, controlled growth. Because of these wise business practices and high quality work, SkiHi has become one the best respected mechanical/ industrial contractors in the state of Texas. Today, SkiHi is a full service mechanical/industrial contractor with over 220 employees. The company has a 38,000 square foot headquarters and fabrication shop in Fort Worth, Texas, and opened an office in Lubbock, Texas two years ago. SkiHi's volume was $1 million in its first year, $4 million in the second year, and was over $33 million in 2000. SkiHi has worked on many large construction projects in Texas. One of SkiHi's first projects was renovating the Tarrant County Courthouse in downtown Fort Worth. SkiHi has also done extensive work in North Texas on Burlington Northern Sante Fe's corporate headquarters, Nestle's Texas Distribution Center, the James West Special Care Center for Alzheimer's Disease, the University of North Texas Health Science Center, Alcon Laboratories, and the Dallas-Fort Worth Rental Car Facility. In recent years, the company has also completed many projects outside of the Fort Worth area. The most notable is the United Spirit Arena at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. SkiHi also gives back to the industry and community. In conjunction with the Construction Education Foundation, SkiHi provides workforce training classes at North Lake College and Trimble Tech High School. The Construction Education Foundation is a coalition of North Texas contractors that trains approximately 600 apprentices each year. SkiHi sends employees to high school career days and job fairs to promote the construction business. The company also provides on-the-job training for young men and women interested in a career in construction. Additionally, SkiHi is an active member of the Associated Builders and Contractors. The company has been awarded for its quality work by the Associated Builders and Contractors on numerous occasions. Most recently, SkiHi was awarded First Place on the local level for the 2000 Associated Builders and Contractors Excellence in Construction Awards for its work on the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport Rental Car Facility. Once again, Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate SkiHi Enterprises, Ltd., for 20 years of success. I know that the next 20 years will be even more productive.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend NFL quarterback Troy Aikman on his very successful football career, and extend my gratitude for his steadfast dedication to improving the lives of children. Mr. Aikman has more than equaled his professional career with his personal involvement in the community. His character both on and off the field has been a tremendous asset to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Troy Aikman was born in West Covina, California. His family moved to Henryetta, Oklahoma where he graduated from Henryetta High School. Aikman went on to play college football at the University of Oklahoma and the University of California, Los Angeles. He quickly became a star. Upon Mr. Aikman's graduation, he was the third highest rated quarterback in NCAA history. He also won the highest award for college quarterbacks, the Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award. When Mr. Aikman was drafted in the first round by the Cowboys, he quickly became the leader of the team and an integral part of the Dallas-Fort Worth community. During his 12 seasons with the Cowboys, Mr. Aikman led them to three Super Bowl Championships and played in six Pro Bowls. He was named Super Bowl XXVII Most Valuable Player for his performance in the Cowboy's first Super Bowl of the 1990's. Mr. Aikman is also the Cowboy's all-time leader in passing yards, touchdown passes, completion percentage, pass attempts and completions. The Cowboys will surely miss his talent and leadership. Mr. Aikman has devoted himself to helping critically ill children. In 1992, he established The Troy Aikman Foundation to provide financial support for the physical, psychological, social, and educational needs of critically ill children whose needs are not being met by any other viable resource. Through the Foundation, Mr. Aikman created ``Aikman's End Zones'' for children's hospitals. ``Aikman's End Zones'' are interactive playrooms and theaters designed to give critically ill children a place of refuge during their stays in the hospital. Depending on the space available, the facility includes an 8-foot-tall replica of Troy's helmet, a 1,100 gallon saltwater aquarium, a theater, and an interactive computer network. Mr. Aikman established End Zones at The Children's Hospital of Dallas, Texas and at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas. His ultimate goal is to have Aikman's End Zones in every NFL city. Mr. Aikman has also teamed up with the Starbright Foundation, founded by Stephen Spielberg and General H. Norman Schwarzkopf. The Starbright Foundation's mission is to improve the lives of critically ill children through technology and entertainment. Starbright provides the interactive computer network in ``Aikman's End Zones.'' In addition to his foundation activities, Mr. Aikman has served on the board of Stars for Children and has been honorary chairman for numerous charitable fundraisers throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Mr. Aikman sponsors a scholarship at Henryetta High School for students who want to attend college but can't afford it, and has also established a permanently endowed scholarship at the University of California, Los Angeles. In 1994, Aikman was honored for his community service when he received the Byron ``Whizzer'' White Humanitarian Award. Mr. Aikman has also become a children's book author. In 1995 he published his first book titled Things Change. The message of the book is how to use change to one's advantage and view difficult times as learning experiences rather than as setbacks. In 1998, he published a second book called Aikman: Mind, Body & Soul which is his autobiography. Troy Aikman continues to give unselfishly to our community, and we are grateful for the work he has done. He is the perfect example of what a terrific role model professional athletes can be if they use the fame and wealth they have been blessed with in a positive way. Mr. Speaker, I want to once again congratulate Troy Aikman on a wonderful football career and thank him for his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of children.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Chairman, on rollcall Nos. 131 and 132 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on both amendments. Amendment No. 8 Offered by Mr. Vitter

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time and I am pleased today to present to the House of Representatives legislation to designate the United States in downtown Fort Worth, Texas, as the Eldon B. Mahon United States courthouse. Judge Mahon has dedicated his life to public service and to justice. Judge Mahon was born and raised in the West Texas town of Loraine. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history and government from McMurry University in Abilene, Texas. Judge Mahon then attended the University of Texas Law School, where he graduated in 1942. He and his wife, Nova Lee Mahon, have three wonderful children, Jan, Martha and Brad. Upon his graduation from law school, like so many of America's greatest generation, Judge Mahon served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. He gave America 40 months of dedicated service, including one year in the South Pacific as a captain with the Fifth Bomber Wing. After the war was over, he came back home to Texas and began his long and distinguished career in public service. From 1945 to 1946, he served as the briefing attorney for the Texas Supreme Court. In 1947, he returned home to Mitchell County and successfully ran for county attorney. After 1 year, he was appointed District Attorney for the 32nd Judicial District of Texas covering Nolan, Mitchell, Scurry, and Borden Counties. After his years as District Attorney, Judge Mahon was elected to the bench as District Judge for the 32nd Judicial District, presiding over that court from 1961 to 1963. He then moved to Fort Worth to take a position as vice president of Texas Electric Service Company. However, only after 1 year in the corporate world, the law called him back. He became a partner in the Abilene, Texas law firm of Mahon, Pope, and Gladdon. In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. Judge Mahon is a lifelong Democrat, but President Richard M. Nixon appointed him to the Federal Court for the Northern District of Texas in 1972. He reached senior status in 1989 and continues to be an active member of the Federal bench today at the very young age of 83. During his years on the Federal bench, Judge Mahon presided over the racial integration of the Fort Worth School District. Judge Mahon considers this as the greatest accomplishment of his court. Judge Mahon has tirelessly served every community of which he has been a part. He is a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, serving in most lay positions in Westcliff United Methodist Church in Fort Worth. He is a past president of the West Texas Girl Scout Council in Abilene and of the Colorado City, Texas, Lions Club. Judge Mahon is a past member of the Board of Trustees at McMurry University in Abilene and served on the Board of Trustees for Harris Methodist Health System in Fort Worth. Currently, he serves on the Board of Trustees at my alma mater, Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth. Judge Mahon has been a member of the Rotary Club of Fort Worth since 1988. Judge Mahon has been recognized on numerous occasions for his outstanding service to the legal community. July 10, 1997, was declared ``Judge Eldon B. Mahon Day'' throughout Tarrant County, Texas, to commemorate his 25th anniversary as a Federal judge. The Tarrant County Bar Association recently established the ``Eldon B. Mahon Lecture Series on Ethics and Professionalism'' at Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. In 1998, Judge Mahon received the ``Samuel Passara Outstanding Jurist Award'' from the Texas Bar Foundation and last year, he was selected as one of 100 lawyers from the State of Texas as a 20th century ``living legend'' by the Texas Lawyer Magazine. Judge Mahon has first and foremost been a family man. His wonderful family is a testament to that. Judge Mahon represents the values that call so many of us to public service: The importance of family, community, and the strong desire to serve his fellow Americans. Naming the United States courthouse after Judge Mahon is an appropriate tribute to such a fine man and exceptional jurist. I would like to thank several people who have been very supportive of this measure. First, the gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young), the chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee; as well as the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), the ranking member; the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. LaTourette), the chairman of the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management; and also the ranking member, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Costello). Madam Speaker, I would also like to thank all of the bill's cosponsors for their support. And, finally, I would like to thank the majority leader, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey) for his support of this effort. Madam Speaker, there is no more deserving man than Eldon B. Mahon. I am honored to sponsor this bill, and I urge all of my colleagues to support its passage.

Ms. GRANGER. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a great citizen, Federal Judge Eldon B. Mahon from the Northern District of Texas. Judge Mahon has dedicated his life to public service and justice. For these reasons, I have introduced legislation that will designate the United States courthouse located at 501 West 10th Street in Fort Worth, Texas, as the ``Eldon B. Mahon United States Courthouse.'' Judge Mahon was born and raised in the west Texas town of Loraine. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts Degree in history and government from McMurry University in Abilene, Texas. Judge Mahon then attended the University of Texas Law School where he graduated in 1942. He has three children with his wife, Nova Lee: Jana Cobb of Lubbock, Texas; Martha Haag of The Woodlands, Texas; and Brad Mahon of Fort Worth, Texas. Like so many from America's ``greatest generation'', he enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps to fight overseas during World War II. He left the military after 40 months of dedicated service, including one year in the South Pacific with the 5th Bomber Wing, as a captain. Judge Mahon carried this same dedication and strength of character into his career as an attorney and judge. From 1945-46, he served as the briefing attorney for the Supreme Court of Texas. From 1948-60, Judge Mahon served as district attorney for the 32nd Judicial District of Texas, covering Nolan, Mitchell, Scurry, and Borden counties. After his years as district attorney, Judge Mahon became a district judge for the 32nd Judicial District, presiding over that court from 1961-63. He then moved to Fort Worth to take a position as vice president of Texas Electric Service Company. After one year in the corporate world, the law called him back; and he became a partner in the Abilene, Texas, law firm of Mahon, Pope & Gladdon. Judge Mahon entered public service at the federal level when President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. Judge Mahon is a life long Democrat, but President Richard M. Nixon appointed him to the Federal Court for the Northern District of Texas in 1972. He reached senior status in 1989 and continues to be an active member of the federal bench today at the young age of 83. During his years on the federal bench, Judge Mahon presided over the racial integration of the Fort Worth School District. Judge Mahon considers this as the greatest accomplishment of his court. Judge Mahon has tirelessly served every community of which he has been a part. He is a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, serving in most lay positions in Westcliff United Methodist Church in Fort Worth. He is a past president of the West Texas Girl Scout Council in Abilene and of the Colorado City, Texas, Lions Club. Judge Mahon is a past member of the Board of Trustees at McMurry University in Abilene and served on the Board of Trustees for Harris Methodist Health System in Fort Worth. Currently, he serves on the Board of Trustees at Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth. Judge Mahon has been a member of the Rotary Club of Fort Worth since 1988. Judge Mahon has been recognized many times for his immeasurable contributions to the community. In 1989, the Eldon B. Mahon Scholarship Fund was established at his alma mater, McMurry University. Judge Mahon received an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree in 1974, and the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1987 from McMurry University as well. In 1990, Texas Wesleyan University awarded him an Honorary Doctor of Humanities Degree. July 10, 1997 was declared ``Judge Eldon B. Mahon Day'' throughout Tarrant County, Texas, to commemorate his 25th anniversary as a federal judge. The Tarrant County Bar Association recently established the ``Eldon B. Mahon Lecture Series on Ethics and Professionalism'' at Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. In 1998, Judge Mahon received the ``Samuel Passara Outstanding Jurist Award'' from the Texas Bar Foundation. Last year, he was selected as one of 100 lawyers from the state of Texas as a 20th Century ``Living Legend'' by Texas Lawyer Magazine. Mr. Speaker, we should honor Judge Mahon by naming the United States Court in Fort Worth, Texas after him. Serving on the federal bench for over 28 years, he has made a profound impact on the legal community and on America.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and, unfortunately, child abuse is a very real problem in the United States. In 1999, 825,000 children were victims of abuse or neglect, a sad and preventable statistic, Mr. Speaker, 825,000 children we cannot afford to turn our backs on. Violence toward one child affects everyone. Keeping our children safe is a community responsibility because ultimately all of us pay the price for those who grow up in abusive homes by way of increased law enforcement, medical and drug treatment, remedial education, foster care and public assistance. Child abuse is preventable, and everyone must be involved: neighborhoods, schools, churches, the local government, and the media. Each of us can start by participating in the blue ribbon campaign. It is a tangible way to demonstrate one's concern about child abuse and neglect. So let us wear a ribbon and when someone asks, as I do, what is that ribbon for, instead of just saying that it signifies Child Abuse Prevention Month, let us say, this represents the children who were abused in my community last year. Would you wear one, too, so we will not forget? Let us remember that children are only 20 percent of our population today, but 100 percent of our future.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Madam Chairman, I rise today to speak in support of this budget resolution. I am especially pleased that a key aspect of this responsible budget blueprint is a significant reduction of our national debt. When the Republicans became this Chamber's majority in 1995, the Congress had become all too familiar with running deficit budgets. That year the deficit was $164 billion. Worse yet, our publicly held debt was $3.8 trillion. By the end of the fiscal year 2000, there were not deficits. In fact, we celebrated our third consecutive budget surplus, an achievement not seen in 50 years. We will have a surplus again this year, Madam Chairman, and this is a budget we can be proud of. This year the government is paying down the debt by $262 billion. Since 1997, we have set aside $625 billion for debt repayment. That is a remarkable achievement and a good starting off place. But this budget will pay down an historic $2 trillion of publicly held debt over the next 10 years. Why should we pay down the national debt? One reason is paying off the debt helps reduce interest rates. If those interest rates permanently fall by just 1/100 of a percent, the Federal Government can save an estimated $300 million per year in interest payments. Saving that money allows us to focus on funding the priorities of this Congress. How does paying down the debt help the American people? It makes it easier for lending. It helps the average American get a loan for a purchase of a car, open a small business or pay down his credit card debt. How does it help the American economy? It encourages more private sector investment. Instead of buying government bonds, that money can be used to finance long-term private sector projects, ensuring that we enjoy the strong economy we know is important. By paying down $2 trillion, the government's publicly held debt will decline to just 7 percent of the gross domestic product by the year 2011. Its lowest level in 80 years. We are paying down as much debt as we can as fast as we can. So why do not we just eliminate the public debt? Because the roughly $1 trillion of remaining debt is nonredeemable. It consists of marketable bonds that will not have matured, as well as savings bonds and special bonds for State and local governments. This budget is committed to responsible debt reduction. By refusing to touch the nonredeemable debt, the government will not pay premiums and penalties for retiring the debt too fast; that could cost the American taxpayer as much as $150 billion. Madam Chairman, in town hall meeting after town hall meeting, my constituents tell me that they are responsible for providing for their families, for running their business and planning for the future for themselves and their families. Leaving more than $3 trillion for another Congress, another time is not only irresponsible, it is unworthy of us as their elected representatives. We have an opportunity and an obligation to pay off the maximum amount of debt that we can responsibly pay, and that is what is presented in this budget resolution. Madam Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this budget. Debt reduction can be this Congress' most important legacy.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, the hardworking American people deserve a break. The economy is slowing down. Consumer confidence is low. A tax cut now would put money back in the pockets of those who know best how to spend it; that is, the American taxpayer. A tax refund would provide the average family of four in Texas with over $1,800 in relief. That may not seem like a lot of money here when we talk about billions and trillions, but that can make a real difference to a family in Fort Worth, Texas. That $1,800 could pay credit card debt down or pay down a college loan or help with a down payment on a new home. Just because the government has extra money in its possession does not mean it should spend it needlessly. If a contractor is building a house and comes in under budget, he does not get to spend that estimated surplus on marble counter tops or solid gold fixtures. The unspent money would go back to the homeowners. These surplus tax dollars should go back to their rightful owners. The American taxpayers deserve a refund of their money. It is the right thing to do, and it is the right time to do it.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of a great Texan, John Justin, Jr. Mr. Justin passed away Monday at his home in Fort Worth, Texas. He was 84 years old. Mr. Justin was a boot maker and civic leader who was a tireless promoter of Fort Worth's western heritage. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Jane, his daughter Mary, son David, and to all of his family at this difficult time in their lives. Mr. Justin was born in Nocona, Texas on January 17th, 1917 to John and Ruby Justin. He attended high school in Fort Worth but left as a teenager to come to Washington, DC, where he took a job as a messenger and graduated from night high school. He attended Oklahoma A&M and then returned to Texas to attend Texas Christian University. Mr. Justin served as a member of the TCU board of trustees since 1979, and was a longstanding booster. The athletic center at the university is named in his honor. He started the Justin Barton Belt Company with a partner and produced fashionable belts. The company continued to thrive during Mr. Justin's service in the Merchant Marines during World War 11. In 1950, he took the reigns of the family business. Mr. Justin was the third generation to run Justin Industries, the family boot business that he expanded to include Acme Brick. John Justin, Jr. oversaw the introduction of several popular boot styles, and, under his direction, Justin Industries was regularly the boot market leader. Its motto, ``The Standard of the West'' says it all. Mr. Justin was very active in the community. He was a member of the Fort Worth City Council from 1959 to 1961 and was mayor from 1961 to 1963. He was longtime chairman of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. In the 1980s he led the drive to build the equestrian center at the Will Rogers complex that is now named in his honor. John Justin, Jr's most lasting contribution to Fort Worth will undoubtably be his drive to promote the city's western heritage. There is no question that he will be deeply missed within the Texas civic community. Again, my heart goes out to Mr. Justin's family and to all those who are grieving his passing. He gave unselfishly to the city he loved so much. John Justin, Jr. was a Texas icon and his contributions to our community will never be forgotten.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of NASCAR hero Dale Earnhardt. Mr. Earnhardt had one of the most remarkable careers in the history of motor sports. I join my colleagues to express my deepest sorrow at his untimely passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Teresa, as well as his mother, Martha, and his four children: Kerry, Kelley, Dale, Jr., and Taylor Nicole; and to all of his family, friends and fans at this difficult time in their lives. ``The Man in Black'', ``The Intimidator'', ``Ironhead'' all of these nicknames for a man who lived the American Dream by rising to the top of his field from humble beginnings. He was a man who seemed destined to become a race car driver. Dale Earnhardt was born April 29, 1951, in Kannapolis, NC, where the streets were actually named after automobiles--the Earnhardts lived on Sedan Street. The son of NASCAR champion Ralph Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt began his own pro racing career in 1975 at the age of 24. He was named NASCAR's rookie of the year in 1979. The following year he won his first Winston Cup championship, the only driver in history to win a series championship following his rookie year. Mr. Earnhardt won an impressive seven NASCAR Winston Cup Series titles and had 76 Winston Cup victories, making him sixth on the list of all-time wins. He also has the distinction of being motor sports all-time leading money winner. I was proud to help bring the great Texas Motor Speedway to my hometown of Fort Worth, Texas in 1997. Since this tragedy, the Texas Motor Speedway has commissioned a special Dale Earnhardt flag. The flag is designed around his famous number ``3''. That flag now flies in memoriam as thousands of NASCAR fans leave cards, flowers and balloons as they mourn their fallen hero. Again, my heart goes out to Dale Earnhardt's family and to all those who are grieving his passing. Mr. Earnhardt will truly be missed, but his spirit will live with us forever.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Madam Speaker, it is with mixed emotions that I address my colleagues this evening. On the one hand, I am sad to see my friend and colleague, Tillie Fowler, retire from Congress. On the other hand, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with someone like her, someone who has consistently placed the needs of our country at the top of her priority list. Tillie Fowler is a role model and a devoted public servant. Her career has been a series of firsts: first woman and first Republican-elected president of the Jacksonville City Council, first member elected to the majority leadership from Florida, and first woman member and now chair of the House Page Board. I admire her many accomplishments, her work ethic, and above all her commitment to a strong national defense built upon the confidence of our men and women in uniform. One of my fondest memories with Congresswoman Fowler is of a trip we took together in 1998 to visit our troops in Europe and the Middle East. I witnessed firsthand her willingness to listen to military personnel and act on their concerns. Congressional Quarterly has called Tillie Fowler a polite but persistent advocate. I would say they hit the nail right on the head with that description. Her no-nonsense approach to policy is the reason she has enjoyed so much success over the past 8 years. When Tillie Fowler first ran for Congress, she told her constituents if they would join with her, together we will change Congress. Eight years later she has. She has been on the front lines of the battle to strengthen our military. She called on the President and Congress to address the fact that some of our military families qualify for food stamps due to low pay. In a speech earlier this year, Congresswoman Fowler said the citizens who step forward and are willing to put their lives on the line for their country, for your security and for my security, are waiting in food lines and depending on charity to feed their families. How did this happen? How did we get from ``the few, the proud,'' to ``the few and the demoralized''? Tillie Fowler has worked to strengthen the morale of our military. She began her battle before the Republicans had the majority, but she was no less fervent in her advocacy. This year we have seen the fruits of many of her labors. We have improved military readiness by approving a $20 billion increase in funding to rebuild America's hollowed-out military. The hard work, leadership and dedication of Congresswoman Tillie Fowler made important changes possible. She is a woman who embodies the kind of leadership it takes to effect change. She kept her promises to the people of Florida. She not only changed Congress, she helped change America for the better by carrying out her duties with dignity and integrity.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to John Hernandez, one of Fort Worth, Texas' finest sons, in honor of his receiving the Ohtli Award from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs for his lifetime service to the Hispanic community. There is no person more deserving than John Hernandez. The Ohtli Award recognizes individuals of Mexican descent who live outside of Mexico who have dedicated the better part of their lives to ``opening up new paths'' to make it easier for future generations to follow in their footsteps. Mr. Hernandez has done this and much more for the Hispanic community of Fort Worth. Born in Fort Worth in 1931, Mr. Hernandez graduated from Laneri Catholic High School in 1951. Six years later, in 1957, he married his wonderful wife, Jeanette. Together, they have dedicated their lives to faith, family, and community. Mr. Hernandez has tirelessly served Fort Worth's Hispanic community. He is a Board member of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and served as its Chair from 1991-1992. Mr. Hernandez currently serves as the Chair of the North Texas Unity Council of La Raza and as a Board member and Second Vice Chair of the Red Cross. He is a member of the University of North Texas School of Community Service's Board. Mr. Hernandez also serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth and a Council Member at All Saints Catholic Church. As a Scout Master and Executive Board member of the Longhorn Council, he has been actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America for almost two decades. These are just several examples of his invaluable contributions to our community. Paving the way for others to follow, Mr. Hernandez has helped tear down the walls of discrimination. He has always been a crusader for the betterment of the Hispanic community, never seeking the glory for himself, but instead for those around him. Our community is stronger for his presence and forever blessed for his dedication and devotion. I would like to congratulate Mr. Hernandez, his wife of 42 years, Jeanette, his eight children, and fifteen grandchildren and wish them all continued happiness and success in their endeavors. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Hernandez embodies the spirit of community responsibility we all strive towards. His life's work makes America a better place to live in every day.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the fiscal year 2001 Transportation appropriations conference report. Not only does this legislation continue our critical investment in our Nation's infrastructure, it also appropriates $5 billion to pay down the national debt. This legislation is consistent with the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. It provides an increase of almost 7 percent in Federal aid highway spending. Outlays, mostly needed for transportation infrastructure, are up 13.3 percent. The conference agreement also includes $720 million for emergency relief for highways to cover the cost of highway repairs resulting from previous disasters. In short, this legislation addresses our Nation's transportation needs. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to serve on the Subcommittee on Transportation of the Committee on Appropriations, and I want to thank the gentleman from Virginia (Chairman Wolf) for the outstanding job that he has done as chairman. Mr. Speaker, I also want to thank John Blazey, Rich Efford, Stephanie Gupta, and Linda Muir for all their hard work and long hours. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work with such an outstanding staff and committee.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, Members on both sides of the aisle have repeatedly stated that it is time to get past politics, yet as we consider a continuing resolution to keep the government functioning, debates become more political and perhaps less substantive. Today's vote is not about partisan rhetoric, it is about results. This Congress has tried to work in a bipartisan way, and on a number of issues that matter to every-day Americans it has been able to. It has certainly done this under the leadership of the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young) in trying to get our bills passed on time. One shining example is the fact that we repealed the 60-year-old earnings limit imposed on working seniors. We worked together because it was the right thing to do. It made sense. It mattered to Americans. That should be our standard every time we come into this Chamber, what is the right thing to do, what makes sense, and what matters to Americans. I submit to you, Mr. Speaker, that the answer to each of these questions is one in the same. We must pass the continuing resolution to keep the government functioning and get to work on issues that matter to our families, issues like paying down the debt and providing prescription drugs to our seniors. The practice of passing continuing resolutions is not unusual. It has taken place under Democrat and Republican control both. It is what we need to do today. The issues we are addressing in the final days of this Congress are important and complex. Completing our work will require cooperation. We need good-faith efforts at results, not roadblocks. We need every Member of the Congress, every Senator, and the White House to do the right thing, to do what makes sense and address the issues that matter to Americans. Let us stop playing politics, pass this resolution, and get back to the business of addressing our Nation's problems.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I stood behind the Balanced Budget Act when it was passed in 1997. We all believed it was a good bill that addressed fraud and abuse in Medicare billing. But now, 3 years down the road, we are seeing unintended consequences of this bill. In 1997, Congress estimated the Balanced Budget Act would cut $116 billion in fraudulent Medicare payments. Current projection, however, estimate $227 billion in cuts. These cuts, almost double the original projection, go well beyond fraud and abuse. These cuts threaten vital hospital services. Walls Regional Hospital in my district serves a growing but primarily rural area, Cleburne, Texas. The hospital recently expanded its Skilled Nursing section from 12 to 25 beds. Just as Walls finished their expansion, the Balanced Budget Act reduced the reimbursement rate for skilled nursing by 70 percent, a loss of a million dollars a year for Walls. Today, despite community needs, the Skilled Nursing facility is down to 11 beds. It is stories like this that remind us to prioritize our Nation's health services. Mr. Speaker, it is time for Congress to administer first aid to our hospitals.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize and commend Edward J. Briscoe Elementary School of Fort Worth, Texas, for being designated by the Texas Education Agency as a State of Texas Recognized School. This tremendous achievement is a testament to the leadership of Briscoe Elementary's principal, Dr. Jennifer Giddings Brooks, and to the hard work of the school's teachers, staff, and students. The students attending Briscoe Elementary come from diverse ethnic backgrounds. The school is located in a neighborhood with challenging social conditions, where 97% students are on free and reduced lunch programs. With the guidance of dedicated teachers, students at Briscoe have overcome these disadvantages and become an example of academic achievement for all of America's schools. Over the last several years, test scores have drastically risen at Briscoe Elementary. More than 80% of the school's 410 students passed each section of the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills (TAAS) test. What is even more impressive is Briscoe's attendance rate of 96.5%. This success is a result of the incredible devotion to students by the school's teachers and staff. They set high standards for their students, but they also invest real time in their students' lives. Fourthgrade teacher Shaneeka Shannon says that her work at Briscoe Elementary is ``Not just a job. It's a calling.'' Shaneeka's attitude is at the core of the school's success. By believing in and setting high expectations for its students, Briscoe has beaten the odds and become a place where academic excellence is the rule not the exception. As a former public school teacher, I am very concerned about the condition of America's classrooms; however, the success of schools like Briscoe Elementary give me hope and should give our nation hope. Together we can reach our vision of an America where our children are not only well-educated; but, more importantly, an America where our children believe in themselves and their country. We can reach this goal one school and one child at a time. Briscoe Elementary School's success will serve as an excellent example of what can be accomplished.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of improvements in military retiree healthcare. While we can never adequately thank the millions of men and women who have proudly worn the uniform in defense of America, we must honor our commitments to them. Several provisions of the fiscal year 2001 Defense authorization bill, which is currently in conference committee, are important steps in honoring that commitment. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to see that both Chambers passed proposals to provide a prescription drug benefit to Medicare eligible military retirees. Currently, military provided health benefits for beneficiaries over 65, fall far short of what larger employers, including the Federal Government, provide to their retired civilians. Including a drug benefit for military retirees is a necessary step in keeping our promises to the men and women who risk their lives for our freedom. As I like to say, every day when I get up, I thank God for my life and I thank our Armed Forces for my way of life. Mr. Speaker, I urge the conference committee to include these common sense proposals in the Defense authorization bill, and in doing so, we will honor the heroes who protected freedom in America and ensured democracy for the world.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, due to travel for a funeral, I was not present for several rollcall votes last evening. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcall Nos. 436, 437 and 438.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, due to attendance at a funeral, I was not present for several rollcall votes today. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcall 439, 440 and 442. I would have voted ``no'' on rollcall 441.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, today I honor and remember the life of Texas state District Judge Jon Barton, who passed away Saturday at his home in Keller, Texas. He was 43 years old. Judge Barton, the younger brother of our friend and colleague, Congressman Joe Barton, was a good, kind, and loving man. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Jennifer; his sons, Jake and Jace; and to all of his family at this difficult time in their lives. Judge Barton was born on October 12, 1956, in Pecos, Texas, to Larry and Nell Barton. However, he spent most of his childhood in Waco, Texas, and eventually received his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Juris Doctor degree from Baylor University. In 1987, Judge Barton received his Master's degree in Finance from Colorado State University. That same year, he married his lovely wife Jennifer. After practicing law in Corpus Christi and Fort Worth, Texas, Judge Barton was elected to preside over the 67th District Court in 1996. Judge Barton was a talented and hard working individual. There is no question that he will be deeply missed within the Texas legal community. Judge Barton was very active in our area. He was a member of the Downtown Fort Worth Rotary Club and past president of the Hurst-Euless- Bedford Rotary Club. Judge Barton served on the advisory board of the John Peter Smith Health Network and was a charter member of the Center for Christian Living. As a man of God, he actively served Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Judge Barton was always willing to give of himself to his community, his church, and his family. Judge Barton was known for his great sense of humor and for his kindness to all. He was a committed husband and father who loved his family deeply. Judge Barton faced cancer with the same humor and courage that he lived life. His deep faith in God gave Judge Barton the strength to carry on throughout his struggle with sinus and liver cancer. His life and fight with cancer serve as an inspiration to us all. Again, my heart goes out to Judge Barton's family and to all those who are grieving his passing. Judge Barton will truly be missed, but his spirit will live with us forever.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, throughout my years in public service I have had the pleasure of meeting and becoming acquainted with many of the fine men and women who serve in our Armed Forces. Their strength has allowed America to be an agent for change and courage. They have helped us win the Cold War, and several hot ones. In the process, they have helped open doors for democracy and torn down walls of oppression. We have an obligation to do anything and everything we can to defend our shores and protect our citizens. We must also show the same strength and support for our troops. I have introduced H.R. 4208, the Recruiting Retention and Reservist Promotion Act. This legislation focuses on three things: one, improvement for recruiting through expansion of junior ROTC, sea cadets, young Marines and civil air patrol youth programs; two, retention through enhanced bonus pay for lengthy and numerous deployments; and, three, reservist promotion through tax credits and loans for businesses that employ National Guardsmen and reservists who are called to duty. I hope my colleagues will join me in cosponsoring 4208. To our friends who say we cannot agree and we argue over we cannot afford to have the best military, I would simply say we cannot afford not to.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, due to a travel delay in returning from my district, I was not present for rollcall votes last evening. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcalls 401, 402, 403, and 404.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, many years ago Tennyson eulogized the sacrifice of hundreds of young men in the poem, ``The Charge of the Light Brigade.'' Tennyson gave answer to those who wondered why so many young men would give so much. ``Theirs not to make reply,'' Tennyson explained. ``Theirs not to reason why. Theirs but to do and die. The price of freedom has never been cheap. But in America, there have always been those willing to bear the burden and pay the price to keep our nation free. I rise today to honor and pay tribute to two of these men, LT William Joseph Dey and LT David Erick Bergstrom. On Sunday, June 18th, LT Dey and LT Bergstrom made the ultimate sacrifice when the F-14 they were flying crashed at an airshow near Philadelphia. Both LT Dey and LT Bergstrom were graduates of the U.S. Naval Academy and serving as instructors with VF-101 at Naval Air Station Oceana. LT Bergstrom served his country honorably during overseas deployments in support of Operations Deliberate Guard and Southern Watch. His tremendous airborne leadership lead to his selection as one of only four aviators chosen for the F-14 flight demonstration team. He is survived by his parents, James and Catherine Bergstrom, and two sisters Karen and Patty. His father James is a retired naval aviator. LT Dey served honorably aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt supporting Operations Allied Force and Southern Watch. His performance as airborne forward air controller, guiding other aircraft to specific targets while dodging hostile fire was an inspiration to us all. He is survived by his wife Deborah, and 15-month old daughter Kamryn. America must never forget the dedication our servicemen and women make everyday to preserve our freedom and prosperity even in peace time. To these heroes, America owes its freedom and Congress owes its eternal gratitude. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends and shipmates. May God bless them. And may God bless our service members everywhere.

Ms. GRANGER

Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Leon Brachman, one of Fort Worth, Texas' finest sons, in honor of his upcoming 80th birthday. While he was born and raised in Marietta, OH, Mr. Brachman moved to Forth Worth in 1938. He married a Fort Worth girl from an old Forth Worth family and never left. Mr. Brachman has served his adopted city in almost every civic capacity imaginable. In his service as a founder of the Fort Worth Symphony and the Fort Worth Chamber Music Society, an original board member of the Van Cliburn Quadrennial Piano Competition, and president of Casa Manana, he has shown his profound love of culture and his belief that all should be able to share in its beauty. By his decades long service as the treasurer, president, and chairman of the board of All Saints Hospital, as well as his chairmanship of the Steering Committee of the Public Health School of the University of North Texas, Health Science Center, Fort Worth, he has shown his devotion to the provision of quality health care to all citizens of our community. As the chairman of the Tarrant County Appraisal District, he devoted countless hours ensuring that Fort Worth and Tarrant County raised their required revenues in a way that was fair to all of its citizens. To the Jewish community of our city and our entire country, Mr. Brachman has served in virtually every possible leadership role, giving of his time and his resources to keep their institutions strong, their communal needs met, their self-reliance vital. Having served as a vice chairman of the United Jewish Appeal, the president of Ahavath Sholom Synagogue, founder and president of the Hebrew Day School of Fort Worth, and countless other Jewish communal roles, each institution has been positively influenced by his involvement. Whenever the community has called upon him, Mr. Brachman has never hesitated to take on the most thankless tasks. Wherever there has been an institution in a seemingly hopeless situation, Mr. Brachman has accepted the challenge to nurse it back to health. Our community is incredibly stronger for his presence. We are very lucky that he chose to adopt Fort Worth as his home. I would like to congratulate Mr. Brachman, his wife of 58 years, Fay, his three children, nine grandchildren, and four great grandchildren and wish them all continued health and success. It is important that the House of Representatives acknowledge and be thankful for the spirit of community responsibility embodied by Mr. Brachman. His life's work to make our world a better place demonstrates the best our country has to offer.