Ralph Hall

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to Judge Poe of Texas, a member of the Transportation Committee.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Bill Bradford of Sulphur Springs, TX, whose distinguished work in radio recently earned him the dedication of a city street in Sulphur Springs in his honor. In recognition of his many years as a radio owner, operator, and pioneer, Radio Road was recently renamed Bill Bradford Road. Outgoing Sulphur Springs Mayor Clay Walker began pursuing the renaming of Radio Road at the suggestion of long-time Sulphur Springs resident, Jeff Massey. The idea for this change was well-received by the City Manager and members of the City Council who unanimously voted for the change. Indeed, the idea was so popular that many community leaders expressed surprise that the idea had not been thought of before. As incoming Sulphur Springs Mayor Freddie Taylor's first official act, a framed city resolution changing the name from Radio Road to Bill Bradford Road was presented to Bill along with the first street sign to bear the name ``Bill Bradford Road.'' Sixty days later street signs were erected on August 2nd and 3rd making the name change effective. Bill began his radio career as a radio operator in the military during World War II and afterward became owner of radio station KSST in Sulphur Springs. In 1992 he was named Texas Association of Broadcasters' ``Pioneer of the Year,'' and he was installed into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame's ``Hall of Honor'' in 2005. Bill has contributed his time and talent to the radio industry and to the residents of Sulphur Springs. Having lived in Sulphur Springs for nearly 60 years, Bill has been a pivotal and influential voice in chronicling the city's growth. Today I am proud to recognize a beloved and legendary citizen of Sulphur Springs, TX--Bill Bradford.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my regret that the 109th Congress was unable to address an issue of importance to hard- working Americans across the country. Some groups are misinterpreting the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act, also called ``CERCLA,'' by seeking to apply Superfund liability to traditional agriculture as it relates to the use of animal manure as a fertilizer and soil conditioner. I was in Congress when CERCLA was passed, and I assure you that this is a misapplication of that law. Congress did not intend this law to apply to animal manure returned to the soil as a fertilizer and did not intend this law to make every farm a hazardous waste site. This misuse of CERCLA attracted attention from the Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous Materials, which held a hearing in November 2005. That hearing prompted me to introduce a bipartisan bill, H.R. 4341, along with distinguished co-sponsors, to specifically clarify CERCLA's definition of ``hazardous waste'' to make clear that animal manure is not included. This became necessary because some have lost sight of CERCLA's purpose. CERCLA was designed to fund the cleanup of dangerous abandoned industrial sites and chemical landfills, such as the infamous Love Canal site in New York. It was not written to cover ongoing agricultural operations. I am very proud that 191 of my House colleagues have signed on as cosponsors of this bipartisan legislation. This level of support is a testament to the strength of our arguments and the threat that a misapplication of CERCLA poses to America's farmers. H.R. 4341's cosponsors represent all regions of this great country. The common thread is a dedication to U.S. agriculture. Critics of farming claim that CERCLA has always applied to animal manure and should be broadly interpreted to fill gaps in the environmental laws. But, CERCLA was never intended to cover farming and agriculture, and it specifically excludes the normal application of fertilizers, such as animal manure. American farms already are subject to many federal and state environmental laws. Applying CERCLA to manure expands it beyond anything its drafters imagined. Critics believe that by targeting so-called ``factory farms'' their disregard for the law's language is legitimate. Unfortunately, these critics fail to understand modern agriculture. Today, integrated farming techniques allow large companies to work together with small, family farmers--they rely on each other. Driving these large companies out of business, as some seem intent on doing by misinterpreting CERCLA, will devastate the family farmers working closely with them. And, all have seen how an exaggerated interpretation of CERCLA liability can doom small businesses. Interpreting the law to include animal manure creates liability for every farmer in the country, big or small. Mr. Speaker, for generations, animal manure has been used as a healthy, natural, organic fertilizer. It is not waste, but a commodity that is bought, sold and bartered for in small farming communities across America. Partly because of the use of this organic fertilizer, farmers have an outstanding track record as environmental stewards. They do not deserve to be treated like polluters or criminals. H.R. 4341 will remedy this situation and I look forward to returning to this issue in the 110th Congress.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor my friend Jack Finney. Jack recently celebrated his 90th birthday by donating more than $1 million to the Hunt Memorial Hospital District Charitable Health Foundation. Jack's generous donation will ultimately enhance the soon- to-be-built cancer center on the campus of Presbyterian Hospital of Greenville. Jack has a long history of making generous gifts to the community, having donated land, money, and his time to a variety of institutions such as Texas A&M University at College Station, Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum, Greenville YMCA, Greenville Chamber of Commerce, Paris Junior College, Texas A&M University-Commerce, the Greenville schools and many others. Other institutions that have benefited from his leadership include the local Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, and Board of Development as well as Texas A&M University, the Texas Baptist Foundation, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Jack's efforts have led to multiple honors from Texas A&M, including his selection as a Distinguished Alumnus and election to the Hall of Honor of the A&M Corps of Cadets. Jack has also been honored with Greenville's ``Worthy Citizen'' Award, for which he donated $50,000 establishing an endowment to maintain the annual award in perpetuity. In appreciation of Jack's latest gift, the Hospital District's Board of Directors have decided to name the new cancer center the Lou and Jack Finney Cancer Center in honor of Jack and his late wife, Lou House Finney. Lou and Jack were married for 68 years prior to her death in 2005. During the reception honoring Jack's gift, Mayor Tom Oliver of Greenville proclaimed August 15th Jack Finney Day in the City of Greenville. It has been speculated that Jack's gift is the largest single gift that an individual has ever made to a non-profit organization in Hunt County, and that certainly speaks volumes about Jack's generosity. Having given his time, money, and energy to so many worthy causes it is not surprising for Jack to have celebrated his 90th birthday with so large and charitable a gift. The community is fortunate indeed to have so generous a benefactor. Jack has spent his life serving and enriching the community, and his latest gift only further reinforces this legacy. Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, let us do so in appreciation of the benevolence of this fine man and my friend--Jack Finney.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor my friend Jack Finney. Jack recently celebrated his 90th birthday by donating more than $1 million to the Hunt Memorial Hospital District Charitable Health Foundation. Jack's generous donation will ultimately enhance the soon- to-be-built cancer center on the campus of Presbyterian Hospital of Greenville. Jack has a long history of making generous gifts to the community, having donated land, money, and his time to a variety of institutions such as Texas A&M University at College Station, Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum, Greenville YMCA, Greenville Chamber of Commerce, Paris Junior College, Texas A&M University-Commerce, the Greenville schools and many others. Other institutions that have benefited from his leadership include the local Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, and Board of DeveIopment as well as Texas A&M Universtiy, the Texas Baptist Foundation, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Jack's efforts have led to multiple honors from Texas A&M, including his selection as a Distinguished Alumnus and election to the Hall of Honor of the A&M Corps of Cadets. Jack has also been honored with Greenville's ``Worthy Citizen'' Award, for which he donated $50,000 establishing an endowment to maintain the annual award in perpetuity. In appreciation of Jack's latest gift, the Hospital District's Board of Directors have decided to name the new cancer center the Lou and Jack Finney Cancer Center in honor of Jack and his late wife, Lou House Finney. Lou and Jack were married for 68 years prior to her death in 2005. During the reception honoring Jack's gift, Mayor Tom Oliver of Greenville proclaimed August 15th ``Jack Finney Day'' in the City of Greenville. It has been speculated that Jack's gift is the largest single gift that an individual has ever made to a non-profit organization in Hunt County, and that certainly speaks volumes about Jack's generosity. Having given his time, money, and energy to so many worthy causes it is not surprising for Jack to have celebrated his 90th birthday with so large and charitable a gift. The community is fortunate indeed to have so generous a benefactor. Jack has spent his life serving and enriching the community, and his latest gift only further reinforces this legacy. Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, let us do so in appreciation of the benevolence of this fine man and my friend--Jack Finney.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to one of the outstanding Federal judges in our Nation, U.S. District Judge Paul Brown, who is retiring after 21 years of distinguished service on the bench in the Eastern District of Texas. Judge Brown has been my good friend for many years, and he is a respected and beloved Judge and member of the community in Sherman, Texas. Judge Brown represents the finest qualities of jurisprudence. Hanging on his wall in the Sherman Federal Courthouse are Socrates' four qualities for a good judge--to hear courteously, to answer wisely, to consider soberly, and to decide impartially. Judge Brown embodied all of these qualities, and he dispensed justice accordingly. He was highly regarded, well-respected, and was a role model for many. Paul Brown was the youngest of a family of six raised on a farm near Pottsboro, TX. He graduated from Denison High School and although underage, he got his parents' consent to join the U.S. Navy when World War II broke out. He served as a minesweeper in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters and as a part of the occupation forces in Japan. He was discharged as an Electrician's Mate 2nd Class in June, 1946. He returned to his studies and received a law degree in 1950 from The University of Texas before being recalled to active duty in the Korean War. He saw combat aboard a minesweeper which was sunk by mines, and he received an honorable discharge in December of 1951. Judge began his practice of law following the war and following President Dwight Eisenhower's election, he went to work as an assistant U.S. Attorney in Texarkana under U.S. Attorney William Steger, who would become his mentor, good friend, and fellow colleague on the bench in the Eastern District until Judge Steger's passing this year. He served as Assistant U.S. Attorney from 1953 to 1959, then followed in Judge Steger's footsteps as U.S. District Attorney from 1959 to 1961. While in Texarkana, Judge Brown met and married Frances Morehead, and the two returned home to Sherman, where Judge Brown practiced law for a number of years. In 1985 Senator Phil Graham recommended him to President Ronald Reagan for a new judge's position created for the Eastern District of Texas, and Judge Brown was confirmed that year. He held court in Beaumont, Paris, Sherman, and Texarkana, and as the caseload in Sherman grew, he eventually presided over the Sherman courthouse exclusively. Premiere cases over the years included intellectual property, patent cases, and criminal cases precipitated by the bank and savings and loan failures of the 1980s and 1990s. In recent years he noted the increase in drug cases and expressed his regret that, in spite of all the efforts that have been made to prosecute drug dealers, the nation is not making much progress in curtailing the use of drugs. No matter what type of cases came before him, Judge Brown always enjoyed the work and ran an efficient and orderly courtroom. His personal work ethic and judicial integrity have been remarkable, and his reputation for punctuality has been legendary. At his retirement reception, hundreds of local attorneys, area judges and friends and family paid tribute to Judge Brown. The Eastern District Chief Judge, Thad Heartfield, speaking for the fifteen judges on their court, has recommended that Congress name the U.S. District Courthouse in Sherman the ``Paul Brown U.S. Courthouse.'' Judge Heartfield noted that Judge Brown has demonstrated the finest qualities of a U.S. district judge: knowledge of the law, courtesy, patience, wisdom and compassion. It will be my pleasure to introduce legislation to that end. As we near adjournment of the 109th Congress, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of a great American, outstanding public servant, and respected jurist, the Honorable Paul Brown, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Texas.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, today it is my privilege to honor the life of a dear friend, Billy Earl Hibbs, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 67. Billy was a native Texan, born on September 25th, 1938, in Quitman. He graduated from Quitman High School and married his high school sweetheart, Eugenia Stroud in 1957. Eugenia and Billy had one child, Billy Earl Hibbs, Jr. Starting with a small, three-person insurance agency, Billy grew his business into Heartland Security Insurance Group, one of the largest insurance holding companies in the Southwest. Heartland is one of the largest providers of claims services to the Federal government, including all branches of the military as well as non-military personnel injured in Afghanistan and Iraq. Despite its size, Heartland maintains its Texas roots with it's headquarters in Tyler and continues to serve almost half the school districts in Texas. The Texas Legislature recognized Billy's accomplishments in 1981 for his success in handling the John Tyler High School fire loss. In 1990, he led the passage of a bond measure to provide upgrades to the City of Tyler's infrastructure. A patron of the arts, Billy served as President of the East Texas Symphony Association and worked to relocate performances to the Cowan Center at U.T. Tyler. Billy also served as President of the Tyler Civic Theatre where he oversaw construction of the Braithwaite Theater and the opening of the Rogers Children's Theatre. As President of the Tyler Rotary Club he became a Paul Harris Fellow. Billy was a member of the Henry Bell Masonic Lodge, and a founding board member of the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas. He served as a board member for Leadership Tyler, the Tyler Independent School District Foundation, and the Tyler Chamber of Commerce and was a member of the Order of the Rose. He was a member of the Pairs and Parents Sunday School class, an usher, and a past trustee of Marvin United Methodist Church. Billy also remained active in the Independent Insurance Agents at local, state, and national levels throughout his life. In 2004, Billy was inducted into the Junior Achievement ``Business Hall of Fame,'' and made a member of the honor business fraternity, Beta Gamma Sigma, at the University of Texas at Tyler. In 2005, Hibbs- Hallmark & Company was honored with the Better Business Bureau's ``Torch Award'' for demonstrating a commendable ethical record over the years, and recently, the Tyler Rotary Club honored Hibbs by distinguishing all present and future donors of $1,000 as ``Billy Hibbs Fellows.'' Billy is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Eugenia ``Jeannie'' Hibbs, his son Billy E. Hibbs, Jr., and daughter-in law Tisa Weiss Hibbs, two grandchildren Stratton Weiss Hibbs and London Elizabeth Hibbs, and two sisters Dorma Shields and Betty Cassels of Quitman, as well as other relatives. Billy was always generous with his time and leadership, and he shared his many blessings with his community and his country. Mr. Speaker, Billy Hibbs was a valuable member of the community whose years of service will provide a legacy for many years to come.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate the life of Retired Senior District Judge Richard A. Bosworth, Sr. who passed away last year following a courageous battle with cancer. Judge Bosworth was born in Birmingham, Alabama on December 26, 1922. The Great Depression prompted his family to move to the South Plains of West Texas, where his father worked as a share cropper during the dust bowl years of the mid 30s. Richard graduated from high school in 1939 and paid his way through Texas Tech College by working in the cotton fields during the summer months and working part-time jobs during the school year. After graduating from Tech in December 1942, he was immediately called to active duty as an aviation cadet in the Army Air Corps. Richard obtained his pilot wings and commission as a 2nd Lt., and went on to fly 50 combat missions over Europe as a B-24 pilot. Richard's service was honored with the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters among other decorations. Richard later applied for and received a regular commission in the U.S. Air Force where he spent the next 30 years of his life holding assignments including Wing Commander of the 97th Bomb Wing (B-52s and KC-135 tankers). It was in the service that he met his future wife, Carolyn, who was working as a Red Cross nurse in Montgomery, Alabama. The two were married in 1959 in Sylacauga, Alabama, and had three sons, Rick, Brian, and Greg. In 1972 he retired from the Air Force as a Colonel and enrolled in law school at Texas Tech University. Upon receiving his JD in 1974, he began practicing law in the Greenville area until he was appointed Judge of the Hunt County Court at Law in 1983. In 1985, he became judge of the newly created 354th District Court which covered Hunt, Rains, and, later, Rockwall Counties. Judge Bosworth served in the 354th until his retirement in January of 1996, after which he continued his work as a visiting judge throughout Northeast Texas. The Judge was an inspiration and a great source of encouragement to two of my sons who practiced in his court. One, Brett, has been honored to succeed Judge Bosworth and is just finishing his second 4 year term. Blakeley is practicing and doing well. Judge Bosworth dedicated his life to serving his country, first as a member of the military community and later as a member of the judiciary. His dedication to strengthening this nation spanned more than six decades and included service in two branches of government. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of this wonderful patriot--Judge Richard Bosworth.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, today it is my privilege to honor the life of a dear friend, Billy Earl Hibbs, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 67. Billy was a native Texan, born on September 25, 1938 in Quitman. He graduated from Quitman High School and married his high school sweetheart, Eugenia Stroud, in 1957. Eugenia and Billy had one child, Billy Earl Hibbs, Jr. Starting with a small, three-person insurance agency, Billy grew his business into Heartland Security Insurance Group, one of the largest insurance holding companies in the Southwest. Heartland is one of the largest providers of claims services to the Federal Government, including all branches of the military as well as non-military personnel injured in Afghanistan and Iraq. Despite its size, Heartland maintains its Texas roots with its headquarters in Tyler and continues to serve almost half the school districts in Texas. The Texas Legislature recognized Billy's accomplishments in 1981 for his success in handling the John Tyler High School fire loss. In 1990, he led the passage of a bond measure to provide upgrades to the city of Tyler's infrastructure. A patron of the arts, Billy served as president of the East Texas Symphony Association and worked to relocate performances to the Cowan Center at U.T. Tyler. Billy also served as president of the Tyler Civic Theatre where he oversaw construction of the Braithwaite Theater and the opening of the Rogers Children's Theatre. As president of the Tyler Rotary Club he became a Paul Harris Fellow. Billy was a member of the Henry Bell Masonic Lodge, and a founding board member of the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas. He served as a board member for Leadership Tyler, the Tyler Independent School District Foundation, and the Tyler Chamber of Commerce and was a member of the Order of the Rose. He was a member of the Pairs and Parents Sunday School class, an usher, and a past trustee of Marvin United Methodist Church. Billy also remained active in the Independent Insurance Agents at local, State, and national levels throughout his life. In 2004, Billy was inducted into the Junior Achievement ``Business Hall of Fame,'' and made a member of the honor business fraternity, Beta Gamma Sigma, at the University of Texas at Tyler. In 2005, Hibbs- Hallmark & Company was honored with the Better Business Bureau's ``Torch Award'' for demonstrating a commendable ethical record over the years, and recently, the Tyler Rotary Club honored Hibbs by distinguishing all present and future donors of $1,000 as ``Billy Hibbs Fellows.'' Billy is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Eugenia ``Jeannie'' Hibbs, his son Billy E. Hibbs, Jr., and daughter-in-law Tisa Weiss Hibbs, two grandchildren, Stratton Weiss Hibbs and London Elizabeth Hibbs, and two sisters, Dorma Shields and Betty Cassels of Quitman, as well as other relatives. Billy was always generous with his time and leadership and he shared his many blessings with his community and his country. Mr. Speaker, Billy Hibbs was a valuable member of the community whose years of service will provide a legacy for many years to come.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to remember the life of my friend Dr. Stanley E. Monroe, Sr., longtime physician from Sherman, TX, whose passing last year was mourned by family and his many friends. Dr. Monroe was the first specialist in Internal Medicine to settle in Grayson County, where he joined the Essin Clinic with Dr. E.M. Essin, and, later, Dr. Harry Shytles. Dr. Monroe joined the staff of the Wilson N. Jones and St. Vincent's Hospitals, where he remained active for 35 years. He also donated the first ECG machine to Wilson N. Jones Hospital and started their first medical library. Dr. Monroe was President of the Grayson County Medical Society the year Medicare started and was a life member of the American Medical Association. He volunteered his services treating students at the Adams Health Center of Austin College five days a week for eight years after coming to Sherman. He was known for making house calls to patients in Sherman, other towns, and in the country. After closing his office, he served as Medical Administrator of Shady Oaks and Chapel of Care Nursing Homes for 10 years. A sports enthusiast, Dr. Monroe participated in track, basketball, softball, tennis, and golf and had the opportunity to play at some of the best courses in the world. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church since 1948. He also was an avid amateur photographer and 16-mm filmmaker. After his parents died, he organized reunions with his siblings every spring, and in 2002 he published his autobiography, which included 48 pages of pictures as well as genealogical facts and important historical and medical events. Dr. Monroe studied at the University of Missouri Medical School, and after achieving a Bachelor of Science in Medicine, transferred to the University of Arkansas Medical School, where he received his MD degree in 1943. He spent five years after Medical School in specialized medical training and research. As an intern and resident at the University of Arkansas Hospital, he was a part of a national experiment on the value of Penicillin. Dr. Monroe gave the first dose of Penicillin in Arkansas to a ``hopeless'' patient who survived, and he contributed two scientific papers before accepting a three-year Fellowship at Lahey Clinic in Boston, where he contributed two additional papers. Dr. Monroe is survived by his wife, Minnie; son, Stanley, Jr. and wife Jeani; son, Alan and wife Baceliza; son, Ronald and wife Nancy; daughter, Kathie Buchanan and husband John; daughter, Elizabeth (Betsy) Woodard; sister, Geraldine McCurry; 13 grandchildren, eight great- grandchildren, and other family members. Dr. Monroe's long life was spent as a pioneer in medicine and a respected physician and member of the community. He was a loving husband for over 68 years and a doting father who insisted on education. He leaves behind many colleagues and a loving family who will miss him, and I will miss him, too. I am honored to pay tribute to this great American--Dr. Stanley Monroe.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to pay tribute to a great American, outstanding public servant, and an esteemed colleague and good friend, the Honorable Jerris Leonard, whose sudden passing on July 27, 2006, was mourned by his family and countless friends whose lives he touched. Jerris's life was devoted to God, family, country, and his fellow man, and he leaves a legacy of integrity and service that will long be remembered and appreciated. Jerris received his undergraduate and law degrees from Marquette University, where he was president of the Marquette student body and was elected to Alpha Sigma Nu, the National Jesuit Honor Society. Following graduation from Marquette University Law School in 1955, Jerris began his career in Wisconsin. He was elected to the Wisconsin Assembly in 1956, representing the North Shore suburbs of Milwaukee. In 1960 he was elected to the state Senate and became Senate majority leader in 1967. In 1968 he was the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate, but lost to incumbent Senator Gaylord Nelson. In 1969 Jerris moved his family to Washington, DC, when he was appointed by President Nixon and confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. He served in that capacity until 1971, when President Nixon appointed him the first Administrator of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration, a position he held for the next 2 years. Jerris remained in Washington, where he has been actively engaged in the practice of law and advocacy. Most recently, in 2005, he launched The Leonard Group to focus on legislative and lobbying activities. He also served on the Bush-Cheney Transition Department of Justice Advisory Committee, which helped the Administration find key candidates for the agency. In recognition of his considerable accomplishments, Jerris was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquette University Law School in 2000. In 1969 he received the Belle Case Lafollette Outstanding Professional Award from the Wisconsin Law Foundation. He is the author of numerous articles and was frequently invited to speak to groups throughout the United States. Jerris was one of the original true conservatives, who championed core conservative values throughout his career and through his service in various organizations, such as Free Congress. His intellect and experience were invaluable to advancing the conservative agenda, and his engaging personality and enthusiasm for policy and politics were contagious. Jerris was a true statesman who made friends on both sides of the political aisle. His friendships extended well beyond the realm of politics and career, however. He made friends in all walks of life. ``He treated everyone the same, and that is what I think made him special,'' said his daughter Kate Leonard. On the day he was to be sworn in by President Nixon as an assistant attorney general, Jerris gathered his children and instructed them that they were going to meet the President, but they were to remember that the man who parks the car is just as important and just as deserving of respect. Jerris was devoted to his wife, Mariellen, to whom he was married for 52 years, and to his family. He took an active interest in the lives of his six children and attended countless sports events and other activities in which they were involved. In addition to Mariellen, he is survived by his children, Mary Leonard Ralston and husband David, Gib Leonard and wife Joni, John Leonard and wife Jeannine, Kathleen (Kate) Leonard, Francis Leonard and wife Kelly, and Daniel Leonard and wife Kelly, 16 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He was greatly loved. Mr. Speaker, many of our colleagues in the House of Representatives knew and admired Jerris Leonard. I valued his friendship and advice, as did so many others, and we will greatly miss him. It is impossible to fully grasp the breadth and depth of a life of someone like Jerris, who gave every project or responsibility his very best effort and who lived his life with boundless enthusiasm and compassion. He was a role model and mentor to so many, and he leaves a powerful legacy that will last for generations to come. As we adjourn today, let us do so in tribute to this great American, dedicated public servant, and truly great man-- Jerris Leonard.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Lt. Tom Brown, my high school classmate, who died in service to his country on the 20th day of November, 1944, during combat in World War II. Having recently celebrated Veterans Day, we remember and honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed for this country. These veterans, such as Lt. Brown, gave their lives in the defense of those freedoms that we enjoy today. On the 19th of November, 1944, American forces were attacking positions in and around Schleiden, Germany. Part of Company ``K'' became pinned down under heavy enemy fire and was in danger of suffering heavy casualties. Lt. Brown, a platoon leader at the time, recognized the gravity of the situation and leapt to his feet. Shouting words of encouragement to his men, he charged the enemy, firing as he ran. Upon seeing this courageous example set by their leader in the face of the enemy, the rest of the men followed his lead and took up the assault. So surprised was the enemy that a large number were either destroyed or taken prisoner. Led by Lt. Brown, the platoon moved into its' sector of the town with a minimum of casualties. On the basis of these heroic actions, Lt. Brown was recommended for the Silver Star. Tragically, the following day, while attacking Neidermer, Lt. Brown, leading his men, was moving through the left side of the town when an enemy machine gun opened fire from a basement window and killed him instantly. Although his men immediately destroyed the enemy position, his loss was a great blow to the Battalion and was keenly felt by the men. In a letter to his family, Lt. Col. Roger S. Whiteford noted, ``The courage, initiative, leadership, and indomitable fortitude displayed by Lt. Brown at the time definitely saved the lives of some of his men and materially aided in the successful continuation of the attack. By his outstanding devotion to duty in accomplishing these heroic deeds, Lt. Brown gained the greatest respect and admiration of all the officers and men and the Battalion mourns his loss not only as that of a highly capable and exceptional leader but also as a true friend.'' Lt. Tom Brown reminds us of the great sacrifices made by the many men and women of our armed services who regard the safety of this nation more highly than their own personal comfort and safety. I ask my colleagues to honor the service of one who gave his life in service to our Nation--Lt. Tom Brown.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a well-known and respected Grayson County citizen, businesswoman and politician, Mary Pittman, who passed away on September 30 at her Van Alstyne home. Mary was active in the Grayson County Republican Party. A participant at all levels, she hosted numerous Republican events at her home. She was a friend and advisor to me and many others who sought her assistance in their political campaigns and in their performance of official duties. Mary was born in Commerce, Texas, and moved to Van Alstyne in 1967 where she established Greenbriar Charolais Farms and Mary Pittman's Tea House. She was an active and dedicated member of her community, including membership in the Hurricane Creek Rotary Club, the Grayson County Republican Party and Daughters of the American Revolution. Mary's many contributions to these and other endeavors will be long remembered and appreciated. Survivors include her daughters, DeeAnn Cummings, Robin Reynolds Bums and husband Bill, and Janet Cooley and husband James, ten grandchildren and ten greatgrandchildren. As a lasting memorial to this wonderful mother and grandmother, the family established a Mary Pittman Scholarship Fund benefiting students at Grayson County College. As the 109th Congress comes to a close, let us remember those Americans who contribute so much of their time and talent to their communities and to our democracy--Americans such as Mary Pittman whose efforts help keep America strong.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to a good friend, great Texan, and wonderful individual, Sam Rowland, who passed away recently, leaving a legacy of accomplishments and good will that will last for generations to come. Sam was devoted to God, his family, friends, and the Law, and he applied the principles of his faith to his career and his many civic and humanitarian affiliations. Sam came from a family of educators. He graduated from Highland Park High School in Dallas, attended Texas A&M University on a baseball scholarship, earned an accounting degree from Texas A&M in 1955, and graduated from SMU School of Law in 1960. Sam had a long and interesting business career. He began his corporate experience at Texas Instruments in Dallas and went on to form a publicly held company in the early days of microchips. In 1972 Sam opened his own law firm in Houston. He loved the practice of law and was a member of the Texas Bar for 46 years. He was the senior partner of Rowland and Keirn for 18 years, and in 1990 opened his own firm in Bryan/College Station, where he practiced until his death. At the same time, he taught a course at Texas A&M College of Business, where he shared his wealth of corporate experience and knowledge teaching young Aggies about starting their own business. Sam was a member of the Corp of Cadets at Texas A&M, the 12th Man Foundation Executive Board, and Past President of the A&M Letterman's Association. He was a member of the Bryan Rotary Club, the Silver Haired Supper Club of Highland Park, and the Texas A&M Past Presidents Club of Houston and San Antonio. He was a member of the Houston Bar Association and the Brazos County Bar Association. Sam's faith was premiere in his life, and he was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bryan for 20 years and a member of the Little River Baptist Church in Jones Prairie. Sam will be greatly missed by his family, his wife of 25 years, Betsy Kay Rowland of Bryan, daughters Melinda Rowland of Lafayette, LA, and Michele Hanlon of San Antonio, sons Stuart Rowland of Arlington and Sean Ryan and wife Glenda of Tyler, brother-in-law Bill Vorlop of Dallas, two nephews and their families, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Scott, his parents, Wordna Reed Rowland and Ray Davis Rowland, and his sister, Wanda Vorlop. Sam Rowland was a friend, mentor, and role model for so many whose lives he touched and influenced, and his memory will be kept alive in the hearts of those who loved and admired him. Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, let us do so in memory of this outstanding American--Sam E. Rowland.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, today I have the privilege of recognizing a dear friend of mine. Reverend Fred Randles of Sulphur Springs, who is retiring as minister of music after serving the church and community for the past 25 years. Reverend Randles has dedicated his life to making music, for which he has received certificates of appreciation from 4 U.S. Presidents and the U.S. Congress. Additionally, the governments of Cozumel, Mexico, Bahamas, and the entertainment division of Disney World have recognized him. His youth choirs have toured extensively, singing throughout the U.S. and in Ireland, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the Bahamas as well as on a number of cruise ships. The youth choir under his direction has also appeared on Good Morning America and the Early Show on CBS. Reverend Randles also has enjoyed many achievements with the senior adult choir known as the Silvertone Choir. Under his direction, this group has recorded for Benson Music Company and performed at a variety of conventions and conferences. They have had the privilege to perform at conferences in Glorieta, New Mexico; Ridgecrest, North Carolina; and Williamsburg, Virginia. A particularly noteworthy accomplishment is Rev. Randles' assistance in originating the Northeast Texas Symphony in conjunction with Sarah Smith, Scott York, and others from Texas A&M Commerce. This symphonic group performed its first concert at First Baptist Church and has grown considerably with his assistance. Reverend Randles has been asked to conduct funeral services of more than 1000 people and officiate, sing for or do both at the wedding ceremonies of more than 200 couples. He has also provided music for a variety of functions, including the Dairy Festival, the annual Hospital Christmas Tree lighting, baseball games, and area worship services. Reverend Randles is married to Jane and they have one daughter, Natalie, who is married to Darren Brown. Olivia Brown is their granddaughter and a second grandchild is on the way. Due in no small part to Natalie's violin playing, Jane has worked to bring a beginning strings program to the Sulphur Springs I.S.D. This program has brought orchestral music to the lives of children who otherwise would not have had the opportunity . Rev. Randles has made a lasting contribution to his community, and in celebrating his retirement, I join his family, church, and friends in expressing appreciation for the many ways he has shared his music, faith, and fellowship. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to Rev. Fred Randles for his many years of service and wishing him well in his retirement years.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of our consensus substitute to H.R. 5782, the Pipeline Protection Inspection, Protection, Enforcement, and Safety Act of 2006. This legislation reflects bipartisan, bicameral agreement on reauthorizing the Nation's pipeline safety laws, and I am really glad to see it up for consideration in the House today. I am very hopeful that the Senate will also quickly consider this measure, as this amended legislation reflects changes made to ensure passage of this bill in the Senate. I thank Chairman Barton, Ranking Member Dingell, Chairman Young and Ranking Member Oberstar for their open process and for working together to reconcile these two bills. This legislation sets out many new provisions that will help to strengthen an already strong job that is being done by DOT's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. It adds provisions to encourage and award States to adopt a One-Call notification system before digging or excavating work begins, addressing one of the only rising trends in pipeline accidents. It further addresses a low stress line exemption that allows pipelines like the ones in Alaska Prudhoe Bay oil field, operated by BP, to go unregulated and unaccounted for years while preserving DOT's flexibility in enforcing these new regulations. It also preserves current exemptions for gathering lines and lines affecting production facilities. All of these provisions reflect careful compromise with industry, with pipeline operation safety and environmental groups, administration and the States. It is cognizant of the critical and intentionally quiet role pipelines play in fueling this Nation's economy, and adopts provisions that reflect this delicate balance.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to pay tribute to a great American, outstanding public servant, and an esteemed colleague and good friend, the Honorable Jerris Leonard, whose sudden passing on July 27, 2006, was mourned by his family and countless friends whose lives he touched. Jerris's life was devoted to God, family, country, and his fellow man, and he leaves a legacy of integrity and service that will long be remembered and appreciated. Jerris received his undergraduate and law degrees from Marquette University, where he was president of the Marquette student body and was elected to Alpha Sigma Nu, the National Jesuit Honor Society. Following graduation from Marquette University Law School in 1955, Jerris began his career in Wisconsin. He was elected to the Wisconsin Assembly in 1956, representing the North Shore suburbs of Milwaukee. In 1960 he was elected to the state Senate and became Senate majority leader in 1967. In 1968 he was the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate, but lost to incumbent Senator Gaylord Nelson. In 1969 Jerris moved his family to Washington, D.C., when he was appointed by President Nixon and confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. He served in that capacity until 1971, when President Nixon appointed him the first Administrator of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration, a position he held for the next two years. Jerris remained in Washington, where he has been actively engaged in the practice of law and advocacy. Most recently, in 2005, he launched The Leonard Group to focus on legislative and lobbying activities. He also served on the Bush-Cheney Transition Department of Justice Advisory Committee, which helped the Administration find key candidates for the agency. In recognition of his considerable accomplishments, Jerris was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquette University Law School in 2000. In 1969 he received the Belle Case LaFollette Outstanding Professional Award from the Wisconsin Law Foundation. He is the author of numerous articles and was frequently invited to speak to groups throughout the United States. Jerris was one of the original true conservatives, who championed core conservative values throughout his career and through his service in various organizations, such as Free Congress. His intellect and experience were invaluable to advancing the conservative agenda, and his engaging personality and enthusiasm for policy and politics were contagious. Jerris was a true statesman who made friends on both sides of the political aisle. His friendships extended well beyond the realm of politics and career, however. He made friends in all walks of life. ``He treated everyone the same, and that is what I think made him special,'' said his daughter Kate Leonard. On the day he was to be sworn in by President Nixon as an assistant attorney general, Jerris gathered his children and instructed them that they were going to meet the President, but they were to remember that the man who parks the car is just as important and just as deserving of respect. Jerris was devoted to his wife, Mariellen, to whom he was married for 52 years, and to his family. He took an active interest in the lives of his six children and attended countless sports events and other activities in which they were involved. In addition to Mariellen, he is survived by his children, Mary Leonard Ralston and husband David, Gib Leonard and wife Joni, John Leonard and wife Jeannine, Kathleen (Kate) Leonard, Francis Leonard and wife Kelly, and Daniel Leonard and wife Kelly, 16 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He was greatly loved. Mr. Speaker, many of our colleagues in the House of Representatives knew and admired Jerris Leonard. I valued his friendship and advice, as did so many others, and we will greatly miss him. It is impossible to fully grasp the breadth and depth of a life of someone like Jerris, who gave every project or responsibility his very best effort and who lived his life with boundless enthusiasm and compassion. He was a role model and mentor to so many, and he leaves a powerful legacy that will last for generations to come. As we adjourn today, let us do so in tribute to this great American, dedicated public servant, and truly great man-- Jerris Leonard.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to one of the outstanding Federal judges in our Nation, U.S. District Judge Paul Brown, who is retiring after 21 years of distinguished service on the bench in the Eastern District of Texas. Judge Brown has been my good friend for many years, and he is a respected and beloved Judge and member of the community in Sherman, Texas. Judge Brown represents the finest qualities of jurisprudence. Hanging on his wall in the Sherman Federal Courthouse are Socrates' four qualities for a good judge--to hear courteously, to answer wisely, to consider soberly, and to decide impartially. Judge Brown embodied all of these qualities, and he dispensed justice accordingly. He was highly regarded, well-respected, and was a role model for many. Paul Brown was the youngest of a family of six raised on a farm near Pottsboro, TX. He graduated from Denison High School and although underage, he got his parents' consent to join the U.S. Navy when World War II broke out. He served as a minesweeper in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters and as a part of the occupation forces in Japan. He was discharged as an Electrician's Mate 2nd Class in June 1946. He returned to his studies and received a law degree in 1950 from the University of Texas before being recalled to active duty in the Korean war. He saw combat aboard a minesweeper which was sunk by mines, and he received an honorable discharge in December 1951. Judge Brown began his practice of law following the war and following President Dwight Eisenhower's election, he went to work as an assistant U.S. Attorney in Texarkana under U.S. Attorney William Steger, who would become his mentor, good friend, and fellow colleague on the bench in the Eastern District until Judge Steger's passing this year. He served as Assistant U.S. Attorney from 1953 to 1959, then followed in Judge Steger's footsteps as U.S. District Attorney from 1959 to 1961. While in Texarkana, Judge met and married Frances Morehead, and the two returned home to Sherman, where Judge Brown practiced law for a number of years. In 1985 Senator Phil Graham recommended him to President Ronald Reagan for a new judge's position created for the Eastern District of Texas, and Judge was confirmed that year. He held court in Beaumont, Paris, Sherman, and Texarkana, and as the caseload in Sherman grew, he eventually presided over the Sherman courthouse exclusively. Premiere cases over the years included intellectual property, patent cases, and criminal cases precipitated by the bank and savings and loan failures of the 1980s and 1990s. In recent years he noted the increase in drug cases and expressed his regret that, in spite of all the efforts that have been made to prosecute drug dealers, the Nation is not making much progress in curtailing the use of drugs. No matter what type of cases came before him, Judge Brown always enjoyed the work and ran an efficient and orderly courtroom. His personal work ethic and judicial integrity have been remarkable, and his reputation for punctuality has been legendary. At his retirement reception, hundreds of local attorneys, area judges and friends and family paid tribute to Judge Brown. The Eastern District Chief Judge, Thad Heartfield, speaking for the 15 judges on their court, has recommended that Congress name the U.S. District Courthouse in Sherman the ``Paul Brown U.S. Courthouse.'' Judge Heartfield noted that Judge Brown has demonstrated the finest qualities of a U.S. district judge: knowledge of the law, courtesy, patience, wisdom and compassion. It will be my pleasure to introduce legislation to that end. As we near adjournment of the 109th Congress, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of a great American, outstanding public servant, and respected jurist, the Honorable Paul Brown, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Texas.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, of course I rise today in support of H.R. 1245, the Gynecologic Cancer Education bill, also known as Johanna's bill. This very important bill authorizes an early detection and awareness campaign directed at women and health care providers. Approximately 80,000 women a year will be diagnosed with some form of gynecological cancer, and close to 28,000 women will die from these cancers. Early detection is the key to survival. But so many women and their providers are unaware of symptoms and risk factors. Unfortunately, there isn't currently a reliable screening test for ovarian cancer. Women need to know the symptoms so that they can be diagnosed early. Studies demonstrate that early detection is the key to survival. When diagnosed early, women have a 90 percent chance of survival. However, that number drops to 50 percent or less when these cancers are diagnosed in the late stages. It is a sobering statistic that over three-fourths of the women with ovarian cancer are not diagnosed until the latter stages, making this the fifth leading cause of cancer death among American women. We need to turn these statistics around. By creating a national public awareness campaign conducted through the Department of Health and Human Services, this bill helps distribute materials that will provide information to the public. This bill will also help develop public service announcements that encourage women to discuss their risk for gynecologic cancers with their health and care providers and alert them to early warning signs. Finally, HHS will award demonstration grants to nonprofit organizations to develop innovative outreach programs. I urge Members to pass this important legislation today so that we can begin to improve and save the lives of many women with gynecologic cancers. I am pleased that we are moving forward on this legislation, and I encourage this body to move legislation aimed at mending the SGR for physicians before Congress recesses.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to introduce and welcome Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs, the newly elected Member of Congress from the 22nd Congressional District who will be sworn in tonight. Dr. Sekula-Gibbs is a 5th generation Texan and a medical doctor and teacher. Tonight, she will make history when she becomes the first female physician to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. She has dedicated herself to serving the citizens of Houston for several years. Before her election, she served for three terms as an At-Large member of the Houston City council. In that role, she helped advance property tax reform and strengthen the city's police force. She also helped found the Ellington Field Task Force, which kept Ellington Field open and operating as a Joint Reserve Base. She has also volunteered countless hours to serve the citizens of south Texas. She served as a volunteer medical doctor and teacher at the Baylor College of Medicine, she shapes the next generation of healers. She helped found the Provider Health Network, a group that cares for uninsured patients. As president of the ``Healthy Houston Foundation'' she raised money for clinics that provide medical care to the needy. She has also volunteered her time to take care of our Nation's veterans in several Veterans Hospitals across the Nation. As a businesswoman and community leader, Dr. Sekula-Gibbs has brought together municipalities, organizations, and businesses to create jobs and economic development in the south Texas region. She understands the importance of reforming our current tax code and reducing our debt. As a founding member of the Sylvan Rodriguez Foundation--an organization that provides students in the Houston area with the opportunity to study space, medicine, and science--she is committed to advancing America's technological and scientific leadership. As a mother and grandmother, she also understands the importance of strengthening families and communities. While Dr. Sekula-Gibbs will be sworn in today, she will only be with us in Washington for a short time. She had a very successful special election--she received over 77,000 votes en route to victory. She ran a good campaign for the 110th Congress, but she faced many difficult procedural challenges. Despite her short run, the future looks bright for Dr. Sekula-Gibbs. I look forward to working with her in the final weeks of this Congress, and I wish her the best of luck in the future.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the gentlewoman from Texas, Ms. Shelley Sekula Gibbs, be permitted to take the oath of office today. Her certificate of election has not arrived, but there is no contest and no question has been raised with regard to her election.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to David Bayless, Sr., of Denison, TX, a patriot, community leader, and dedicated husband and father, who passed away last December at the age of 80. David's service to the Denison community spanned 46 years and included significant involvement in a variety of civic endeavors as well as a long and devoted relationship with his alma mater, the University of North Texas. Born in Denton, TX, David enlisted in the Marine Corps while in college, completed Officer Candidate School in 1945 and served during the Korean conflict. He returned to Texas and became a leader in the Texoma area, serving as a member of the Denison City Council, president of the Denison Rotary Club, first president of the Denison Downtown Association, president of the Denison Chamber of Commerce, and chairman of the board of the Texoma Medical Center, just to name a few of his civic affiliations. David also was involved with religious and charitable organizations as an elder of First Christian Church and president of United Way. David also dedicated tremendous time and expertise to his alma mater. The University of North Texas benefited from his membership in the President's Council, as well as his time spent as regent from 1991 to 1997, director of the UNT Foundation Board, and first president of his local Alumni Chapter, the Texas Eagles, which he founded. His years of work and service brought him many honors, including the ``Outstanding Citizen'' award in 1978 and induction into the Grayson County ``Business Hall of Fame'' in 1998. In 1991, the University of North Texas honored David as its Outstanding Alumnus, and in 1999 UNT again honored him as a Distinguished Alumnus. David and his wife, Patsy, were honored with a bronze plaque on the ``Wall of Honor'' in the UNT Alumni Center, and Chestnut Hall, the new student health center at UNT, will name the rotunda in his honor. David will be missed by family, friends, and all those in Denison and at UNT whose interests he championed through a lifetime of service. He is survived by his wife Patsy and two children, David, Jr., and wife Sharon of Pottsboro, Brandy Hewitt and husband Stephen of McKinney, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, David Bayless, Sr., was a great American and an outstanding civic leader whose legacy of service will be long remembered.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to pay tribute today to one of my best friends from childhood, Jim Wade of Dallas, TX, who passed away in May at the age of 85. Jim and I grew up together in Rockwall, TX and shared many wonderful times over the years. He was a great patriot who was devoted to his family, his State, and his country. Jim attended Rockwall High School, studied at the University of Texas and graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1943. He served his country in General George Patton's 3rd Army in England, landing on Utah Beach in July 1944. His service in France, Luxembourg, Germany, and Czechoslovakia earned him five battle stars as well as a Bronze Star Medal for individual bravery for relief efforts of Bastogne in the Battle of the Bulge. Jim's later service included tours in China and Taiwan before he resigned with the rank of major. Jim lived in Denver, San Antonio, and Beeville and returned to Dallas in 1959 to begin a long and distinguished career with New York Life Insurance Company. Jim and I shared an interest in public service and served together in the Texas State Senate. He also served in the Texas House of Representatives. Jim was the last of 11 children born to Henry Wade and Lula Wade, all of whom preceded him in death. Jim followed in the steps of his father, the late Henry Wade, who was a longtime County Judge of Rockwall County, and in the steps of his brother, the late Henry Wade, Jr., famous Dallas District Attorney for many years, and along with the late Faires Wade, the late Ney Wade, the late Reese Wade, the late Mart Wade, and the late Joe Wade, all former criminal District Attorneys of Rockwall County, with Joe Wade also a longtime District Judge of Bee County. As they graduated from law school, the father would get them elected County Attorney and make the incumbent son move out of office to make room for the latest law school graduate. They were all successful lawyers, and Jim gave some good years to Dallas County as their State Senator. Four other family members, sisters Carrie, Nona and Lillian, and brother Dr. Colquitt Wade also were successful in life and active in politics. Jim was devoted to his family and served his country and State with pride and dignity. His many leadership positions brought him respect, but his friendships brought him admiration. He enjoyed the relationships he cultivated with friends at the Dallas Country Club, where he was a member, as well as at the Highland Park Presbyterian Church, where he worshipped. He was an extraordinary businessman, civil servant, family man and friend. Jim was married for 50 years to Madeline Hopkins, who preceded him in death in 1994, and is survived by his son Kirk and wife Laura of Chestertown, MD; son Bart and wife Mary Sue of Dallas and their sons Reese and Roby; and daughter Chris Bartlett and husband Tim of Colorado Springs. He was married to Sara Lees Glover from 1995 until her death in 2001, and for the last three years of his life was married to Stephanie May. He also is survived by stepdaughter Valerie and her husband Roger Smith, stepson Bill Glover and 5 step-grandchildren. Jim thrived on competition--from being a star runner on our high school track team, to running for public office, to playing to win on the tennis court. We ran track together at Rockwall High. Jim was a great end for the Rockwall Yellow Jackets football team. He also ran the high hurdles and had a better time on the dirt track at Rockwall High, around a curve, than the state champion, the late Mal Kutner of Woodrow Wilson High in Dallas. We all went to SMU's stadium with Jim to watch him challenge Kutner at the district track meet. We were positive that he would surprise Kutner and set a new state high hurdles record. Jim never forgot--nor did I--his jumping the starter's gun three times and being disqualified. I always thought of that last great line in the poet John Greenleaf Whittier's poem, Maud Muller, ``For of all sad words of tongue or pen, The saddest are these: `It might have been!' '' Jim would have surely beaten Kutner, who went on to football fame as an All-American end for The University of Texas. In his last months Jim battled pneumonia and cancer and defied the predictions of his doctors to make it back home. As his son Bart said in his eulogy, his Dad never once believed that he would not make a recovery, not be able to walk again, or not make the next baseball game of one of his grandsons. He never lost his determination, never lost hope and never lost his good disposition despite the circumstances. That is the Jim Wade we loved and will always remember. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in memory and in honor of this great American and my good friend--Jim Wade. He will be truly missed.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding to me, and I thank my colleague Louie Gohmert. It is an honor to join Louie in sponsoring H.R. 5606, a bill to designate the Federal building and courthouse in Tyler, Texas. Judge Steger passed away on June 4, having served on the bench with great distinction for, I guess 35, 36, 37 years. I appeared before him. I was in law school with him at SMU. He was a great American. He was just really a wonderful guy, just a super friend. He was a great jurist. Judge was successful in everything he did in life, including the marrying of his wife Ann, to serving his country in World War II, to being in public service. I had known Bill Steger when we were fellow law students at Southern Methodist University following World War II and had the utmost respect and admiration for him. I did not like him too much because he was very brilliant and he ruined the curve for a lot of us ordinary lawyers there and law students, but we had a lot of laughs about that. He was appointed by Richard Nixon. He began a long and distinguished service as U.S. District Judge in December of 1970. He served in Beaumont until 1977 and then returned to Tyler, where he built upon a reputation for efficiency and integrity. He closed more than 6,500 cases, issued several landmark decisions and was rarely reversed on appeal. Judge was a constitutionally reverent jurist, upheld the highest ideals of our judicial system and earned the respect of fellow jurists, attorneys and their clients. As a testament to his contributions on the Federal bench, Judge was honored in 2005 by current and former law clerks, attorneys, fellow jurists, local officials, friends and admirers at a attribute dinner in Tyler. Prior to his appointment to the Federal bench, he was appointed by President Eisenhower as U.S. District Attorney in East Texas, a position he held from 1952 to 1969. Judge had been Eisenhower's East Texas campaign manager and was the founding father of East Texas Republican politics. He also distinguished himself in service to his country by answering his call to duty and enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corps shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He was studying pre-law at Baylor University at the time but did not hesitate to enlist. He flew 56 combat missions as a fighter pilot in Tunisia, Sicily and Italy, received the Air Medal and four Oak Leaf Clusters and obtained the rank of Captain. While later training other pilots, Captain Steger also tested the very first U.S. jet airplanes. Upon completion of his military service in 1947, Judge returned to Dallas and enrolled in SMU. He also made one of the best decisions in his life in his marriage to Ann Hollandsworth Steger. Judge and Ann were inseparable and contributed so much to their community, both separately and as a couple. Shortly before his death, when it was mentioned to Judge that his law clerks, friends and family were hoping that the Federal Building would be named after him, he quipped, ``and maybe we could also have an Ann- ex.'' Such was his love and respect for his wife of some 58 years. Judge and Ann, as Congressman Gohmert stated, had a wonderful son named Reed, who died tragically in a scuba diving accident several years ago. It was just a hard time for them to go through. But his faith in God and with God's help and Ann's companionship helped him through that very difficult time. In closing, Judge Steger just really was one of the great judges of the Eastern District. Naming the Federal building for him would be a living tribute and would remain long after we are all gone, while others will see his name and know it stood for justice. Judge Steger leaves a powerful legacy of ethical conduct, judicial prudence and distinguished service that will long be remembered. I urge my colleagues to support me today in support of H.R. 5606 in honor of this great jurist and great American, the late Judge William M. Steger.

Mr. HALL

Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, of course, in support of the bill to create a National Integrated Drought Information System, and I thank Mr. Ehlers for his very capable handling of the bill. And I thank Mr. Udall, anybody by the name of Udall stands for honor to me and has for many, many years, for his cosponsorship of the bill. I am very pleased that the House has agreed to vote on this legislation, because it is important to nearly every State in our union. In our home State of Texas, drought is absolutely decimating crops and the economy. The total direct losses from drought in Texas are now at $4.1 billion for the year, and the broader economic damages from this drought bring the price tag to over $8 billion. My own home district in northeast Texas is experiencing the most severe damage statewide from the drought. In Missouri, farm ponds have been drying up in record numbers; and in Oklahoma the wheat crop rated 58 percent poor to very poor. It is undeniable that droughts have devastating impacts on our society. While we cannot stop nature, we can do a better job, I think, of predicting, monitoring, and mitigating the problem. Currently, the drought system we have only provides limited help to local water managers and others concerned with drought, because the information is not sufficiently accurate, it is not thorough, or it is not up to date. Our Nation approaches droughts through crisis management, rather than through proactive solutions to manage the problem. The resources that are available to monitor droughts are very general in nature and only offer regional-scale data. Moreover, the data is not circulated in a way that is accessible on the local level by farmers and other interested parties. The bill before us today addresses these shortcomings. By creating a comprehensive drought information system, we enable our local, State, and national leaders to be more proactive in their approach to droughts. This bill establishes an integrated system and designates NOAA as the lead agency. NOAA will coordinate with local, State, and Federal entities to create a comprehensive network of drought information and provide decision makers with the best tools to manage our resources. NOAA will do this by building a national drought monitoring and forecasting system, create a drought early warning system, provide an interactive drought information delivery system, and designate mechanisms for improved interaction with the public. The NIDIS initiative will hopefully improve our analysis of conditions, provide us with more accurate seasonal forecasts, and equip us with a better understanding of climate interactions that produce droughts. I am pleased that organizations like the Farm Bureau, the Western States Water Council, and the Western Governors Association have supported this legislation. Please join me in supporting this vital and important initiative.