Alcee Hastings

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a resolution expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the contributions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. CITES was created in 1973 to ensure that international trade in wild plants and animals does not threaten their survival. Launched with a few signatory nations, CITES has now 175 parties that have an international obligation and responsibility to protect our planet's endangered animals and plants. Nearly 5,000 species of animals and 28,000 species of plants are protected by the convention against over- exploitation through international trade. Adherence to these protective measures has benefited the conservation of animals and plants worldwide. Unfortunately, more and more species are at risk of extinction and international trade, both legal and illegal, which has exacerbated the dangers. International wildlife trade is estimated to be worth billions of dollars per year and to include hundreds of millions of live plants and animals and derived products such as food products, leather and fur, ornamentals, medicinal, and timber. Such high levels of exploitation of and trade in wild animals and plants, together with other factors such as habitat loss, are capable of bringing some species close to extinction. Every two to three years, the parties of CITES meet at the Conference of the Parties to review the status of species in danger of extinction and establish trade restrictions. The 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties was held in March 2010. Several proposals were submitted during the summit, some of them ensuring better protections for endangered species, others trying to downlist species and re-open trade. While proposals to downlist elephant populations in Tanzania and Zambia were successfully defeated, several proposals to establish stronger protections for the polar bear, eight sharks, the bluefin tuna and other species were unfortunately rejected. I am saddened to see that economic interests have prevailed over species conservation, risking to bring species close to extinction. This is unacceptable. My resolution will recognize the important contributions the convention has made in regulating international trade in endangered species and protecting endangered species worldwide. It will also applaud the convention's leadership in protecting elephants in Tanzania and Zambia. Lastly, the resolution will urge all parties to the convention to collaborate effectively to curb excessive exploitation of species for international trade and to adopt stronger protections for several endangered species at the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties in 2013. Mr. Speaker, the United States has a moral obligation to protect endangered species and their natural habitat. Wild animals are a very important part of our commonly held natural resources and contribute to the diversity and stability of our environment. We must continue to maintain a balanced and healthy ecosystem that allows for the coexistence of both human beings and the world's most incredible species. It is essential to work with the international community to ensure the survival of these species. I believe that the stakes are too high to let national interests and differences hinder the future of our planet. I urge my colleagues to join me in protecting wildlife and promoting environmental conservation across the globe by supporting this important resolution.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my condolences for the loss of life and destruction of property that is occurring in Australia's northern state of Queensland, as a consequence of the worst floods in half a century. The flood, which has affected three-quarters of Queensland, has killed 20 residents and resulted in thousands of people being evacuated from their homes and businesses. The steady rain that fell for days before Christmas caused rivers to swell and inundated 22 cities and towns. The Australian National Climate Centre has predicted that the region is highly likely to receive even more than average rainfall from now until the end of March, when the full impact of a strong La Nina cycle will be felt. Estimates of the number of Queenslanders affected go as high as 200,000. States of natural disaster have been declared in 41 of Queensland's 73 municipalities and more than 11,000 people have been evacuated. In addition, the floods have cut off food supplies to communities in the north including Townsville, Cairns and many indigenous communities. Economists predict that the floods will have an impact on the national GDP of between 0.25 percent and 0.5 percent, or $3 billion to $6 billion, with the mining and agricultural industries affected the most. Half of the state's agricultural crops have been destroyed, coal deliveries have been halted, and mines shut. The international economy will likely feel this economic burden because Queensland supplies half of the world's cooking coal for steel manufacturing, which accounts for about two-thirds of the global trade. The Premier of Queensland and Australia's Prime Minister have announced additional disaster relief assistance to help small businesses and primary producers that have been impacted. Encouragingly, the size of the tragedy has been matched by the size and speed of the response, but the long-term impact is yet to be determined. It will be a long wait before the massive amount of water recedes and the recovery process starts, involving the resurfacing of roads, reconnecting of power and repairing of infrastructure--all requiring an unparalleled rebuilding effort. I extend my sincere appreciation to the emergency service personnel, army and air force crews, volunteers, and Australia's federal and Queensland governments for their well coordinated response to this disaster. The loss suffered would have been far greater without the skill, dedication, compassion, and sacrifice of these emergency responders. Mr. Speaker, the flood in northern Australia is a major natural disaster and has caused loss and destruction on a catastrophic scale. I want to send a message of condolence to those Australian families who have lost lives and livelihoods. Australia is and always will be an important ally and friend to the United States. The Australian people will truly be in my thoughts and prayers over the coming weeks. I wish the affected communities the very best as they rebuild their lives and communities, and I encourage my colleagues to do so as well.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a great American, Katherine C. Kelly, a lifelong champion of human rights and universal health care, who died on the morning of January 6, 2011 at the age of 86. Katherine was a good friend and supporter for more than 40 years. Over the course of her life, she and her late husband, Edward M. Kelly, were prominently active in the civil rights movement, the fight for women's rights, gay rights, and every progressive movement in the United States. Katherine dedicated her life to the Democratic Party, serving as State Committeewoman from Palm Beach County for 26 years. Additionally, she was named to the Electoral College and served as a delegate to five Democratic National Conventions. She also served as the Legislative Director for Florida NOW, as Vice President of the Florida Women's Political Caucus, as a Board member for NARAL, and as Development Director of Women Leaders Online. Her continued dedication to political and progressive causes led to recognition as the Outstanding Feminist 2001 by Florida NOW and Woman of the Year in 2008 by the Democratic Women's Club Palm Beach County. Mr. Speaker, Katherine was deeply loved and widely respected by everyone who knew her. Today, our nation has lost someone who represented all that is good in the world.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Ms. Yolanda De Venanzi and her efforts to raise HIV/AIDS awareness and education within the Hispanic community in South Florida. Yolanda De Venanzi is an outreach worker with the Comprehensive AIDS Program of Palm Beach County, working within the Hispanic community to help promote HIV/AIDS awareness, testing, and prevention. Among her many activities, she organizes discussion groups and distributes literature throughout the County. Her efforts indeed reach far and wide, including barbershops, the El Sol migrant labor center in Jupiter, and the Caridad Center in Boynton Beach, which provides health services to Hispanic farm workers. Furthermore, Yolanda also trains volunteers to spread information about HIV/AIDS prevention. One of her ideas that has proven extremely successful is recruiting drivers who work for the Golden Cab Company to distribute packets containing condoms and brochures about the disease. As with all volunteers, they are trained to discuss and promote behavior that helps prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS. This creative approach is truly a stroke of genius. A native of Venezuela, Yolanda has had a varied career, working as a psychology teacher and a mental health counselor. This experience has no doubt benefitted her in her work with the Comprehensive AIDS Program. In addition, she still teaches online classes in stress reduction and coping for Empire State College. Mr. Speaker, Ms. De Venanzi's compassion, concern, devotion, and brilliance are to be lauded. Moreover, her efforts represent the kind of community activism that is key to addressing the serious public health challenge that is HIV/AIDS.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jean Harper on the occasion of her 90th birthday. Jean was born on January 14, 1921 to David and Alda Sims Hart in Avondale, North Carolina. At a young age, Jean relocated to her home of Washington, District of Columbia. For thirty-two years, Jean served as a diligent employee at Freedman's Hospital as a Dietitian. While working at Freedman's Hospital, Jean met the love of her life, James ``Jimmy'' Harper. The couple soon married and had one daughter, Barbara Jean. In 1954, Jean and Jimmy moved to Taylor Street where she currently resides. Jean is a proud member of Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church where she serves as a missionary and works actively in the Pastor's Aide Club. In addition to working enthusiastically in her church, Jean devotes the majority of her time to her family. Invariably, she can be found with her daughter, her grandchildren, and her great grandson. Jean enjoys traveling, shopping, cooking, and socializing with friends and extended family. For her commitment to her family, to her community, and to her Nation, it is my privilege to wish Jean Harper a very happy 90th birthday.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the rule for the consideration of H.R. 2, the Repealing the Jobs-Killing Health Care Law Act. Instead of focusing on job creation and other efforts to grow our economy again, House Republicans have set the tone for the beginning of the 112th Congress by attempting to ram through a repeal of the most comprehensive health care reform legislation in our history. They want to ``repeal and replace'' the Affordable Care Act, but have yet to share with us and the American people what exactly they want to replace it with. ``Just trust us,'' they say. Well, their idea of trust is voting to strip middle class, working poor, and other vulnerable Americans of their access to affordable, quality health care now, and worrying about the costs later. What they call a ``job-killing health care law'' actually creates much-needed jobs and cuts the deficit. In fact, according to a preliminary estimate from Director Elmendorf of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), repeal of the Affordable Care Act will explode federal budget deficits by $230 billion through 2021 and by billions more in the following decade. The bottom line is that Republicans would rather help themselves by taking away over 32 million Americans' health care than help put our nation back to work. Simply put, a vote in favor of ``repeal and replace'' is a vote to: Take coverage away from young adults looking for jobs, children with pre-existing conditions, and low-income families; Impose lifetime limits on coverage; Allow insurance companies to spend more on CEO salaries, bonuses, and corporate profits than health care; and Increase preventive care and prescription drug costs for seniors under Medicare. Madam Speaker, yesterday in the Rules Committee, I asked all those in attendance whether their health insurance premiums over the past 20 years had gone down. Not one single person, and that would include my Republican colleagues, raised their hands. Need I say more? I urge a ``no'' vote on the rule and underlying bill.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated on the historic milestone of 100 years of serving local and international communities. On January 5, 1911, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated (KAC) was founded by ten distinguished, God-fearing, high achieving, young African-American gentlemen who had the vision to foster leadership through fraternal brotherhood and Christian ideals on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. These men had the determination to defy customs in pursuit of a college education and professional careers during an oppressive time in American history for African-Americans. Kappa Alpha Psi currently yields a membership of over 150,000 college trained men on more than 360 university campuses, with alumni chapters located in 347 cities, and has representation in five foreign nations. Since its inception, the brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi have fostered relentless support to our country. Through programs such as Kappa League and National Guide Right, the fraternity has provided thousands of at-risk youth in communities throughout the Nation with role models, mentors, and scholarships for higher education, which in return encourages our youth to make positive contributions to society through leadership and service. Kappa Alpha Psi holds an annual Holiday Food Drive to provide citizens of underserved communities with food, clothing, and toys throughout the United States. The men of Kappa Alpha Psi also volunteer through hands-on partnerships with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (Memphis), and many more. On any given day you can see the notable accomplishments from the Kappa Alpha Psi brotherhood in Congress. Each day, as members, we strive to ensure that our brotherhood continues to exemplify achievement in every field of human endeavor. Kappa Alpha Psi sponsors events such as ``Kappas on Capitol Hill'' to increase member awareness about the political process as well as an undergraduate leadership institute to enhance the skills and abilities for the fraternity's top student leaders. Madam speaker, in 1954, I made one of the best decisions of my life, I joined the noble clan of Kappa Alpha Psi, crossing the sands with Laurel Wreath holder Dr. W.H. Greene. Since that wondrous time, I have enjoyed 56 years of involvement with our Bond. I am awed and indebted to all of our Brothers. For us to celebrate 100 years is a crowning achievement. I am extremely proud to be a part of such a distinguished brotherhood that continuously contributes to the improvement of society. Again, I say congratulations to my brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi for 100 steadfast years of serving local communities and elevating the lives of collegiate men throughout our great Nation.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. Once again, the House of Representatives has acted to lift the ban on gay and lesbian Americans serving openly in the military by passing H.R. 2965, the ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010'', by a vote of 250-175. Earlier this year, the House also passed national defense authorization along with a repeal provision. I applaud Majority Leader Hoyer and Congressman Murphy for their leadership in this effort. Strong leadership has been, and remains, the key to successfully repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell and replacing it with a policy of inclusion and non-discrimination. It is now up to the Senate to seal the deal. I urge the Senate in the strongest possible terms to act as soon as possible to pass the legislation necessary to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell before the end of the year. I stand with President Obama, Defense Secretary Gates, Admiral Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the majority of servicemembers and Americans on this matter. It is clear from the Pentagon's recently concluded study that the 1993 Don't Ask, Don't Tell law runs counter to the values that our Armed Forces embody and, indeed, our brave men and women in uniform. Furthermore, it dispels the argument that Don't Ask, Don't Tell repeal would harm military readiness and unit cohesion. In fact, approximately 70 percent of servicemembers, including their families, support open service by gay and lesbian Americans and that Don't Ask, Don't Tell repeal would have no negative effects on their units' ability to ``work together to get the job done.'' There is no doubt in my mind that the Pentagon will be able to move forward with repeal in a manner that ensures our military's readiness and our national security while meeting the needs of our servicemembers and their families. Despite everything that has already been said, however, there are those who will vote to preserve Don't Ask, Don't Tell. I can think of only one reason why anyone would vote to condone such a farce of a policy rather than support our troops, and that, Mr. Speaker, is prejudice. At this moment, we stand closer to repeal than ever before. I could go on and reiterate all the reasons why we should repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell, but the time for talk is over. After 17 years of discussion, the only thing left remaining to do is to repeal it. It is the right thing to do for our troops, the American people, and our nation as a whole.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce a House resolution welcoming the release of Burmese democracy leader and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest on November 13, 2010. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi had been imprisoned in Burma for 15 of the last 21 years. She was first put under house arrest on July 20, 1989, and was offered freedom if she left the country, but refused. Even under house arrest, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi demonstrated unwavering and determined political leadership, provided inspiration, and garnered respect from the people of Burma and democracy-loving people around the world. As one of the world's only imprisoned recipients, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her nonviolent struggle against oppression, with the Norwegian Nobel Committee citing her as ``one of the most extraordinary examples of civil courage in Asia in recent decades.'' Today, however, we must not rejoice. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has called on all world leaders to stay focused on the plight of each one of the millions of Burmese struggling against the military rule, on the over two thousand two hundred political prisoners suffering unjustly in Burmese prisons, and the thousands of women and children being systematically raped and taken as sex slaves and porters for the military whose rule they suffer under. Aung San Suu Kyi was awarded both of the highest civilian awards in the United States: the Presidential Medal of Honor in 2000 which recognizes those individuals who have made ``an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors'' and, in 2008, the Congressional Medal of Honor for her ``courageous and unwavering commitment to peace, nonviolence, human rights, and democracy in Burma.'' In one of her most famous speeches, she poignantly conveyed: ``It is not power that corrupts but fear. Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it and fear of the scourge of power corrupts those who are subject to it.'' Even Aung San Suu Kyi herself freely notes that her release does not constitute a change in the military junta regime's choices in leadership. Six days before her release were the highly- contested November 7th Burmese elections, which were clearly based on a fundamentally flawed process and demonstrated the regime's continued preference for repression and restriction. Aung San Suu Kyi's freedom must not be restrained. She must be able to travel freely without fear of her recapture at any given moment. Furthermore, this resolution calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners and prisoners of conscience in Burma, including Aung San Suu Kyi's supporters in the National League for Democracy and ordinary citizens of Burma, including ethnic minorities, who publicly and courageously speak out against the regime's many injustices. The ruling junta in Burma must be denied hard currency to continue its campaign of repression and we can do that by working with governments around the world to strengthen sanction regimes against Burma. And, it is time for the Administration to appoint a United States Special Coordinator for Burma. Madam Speaker, today the House of Representatives has the opportunity to celebrate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's freedom. And, yet, we celebrate with a heavy heart for all of the millions still suffering in Burma. I urge my colleagues to stand firmly in solidarity with Aung San Suu Kyi and the people of Burma with your support of the passage of this resolution, human rights, an end to the junta-imposed violence, democratic progress, and for the release of all prisoners of conscience in Burma.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a legacy of funeral service by the 100 Black Women of Funeral Service and recognize the 2010 African American Funeral Home Hall of Fame inductees. Funeral service has been a proud and distinguished tradition in the African American community for over a century. Throughout segregation in the United States, the funeral service industry was often the only sector that provided African Americans with entrepreneurial opportunities. The 100 Black Women of Funeral Service proudly continues that legacy today by serving their respective communities with great compassion and professionalism. Founded in San Antonio, Texas, in 1993 by Ms. Elleanor ``Mama Starks,'' the 100 Black Women of Funeral Service provides African American mortuary students and funeral service professionals with an excellent opportunity to work together and learn from each other. Its membership has grown to include the United States, Canada, and various African and Caribbean nations. Among the many honors that 100 Black Women of Funeral Service members have received are The President's Award and The Living Legend Award. Networking, sisterhood, scholarship, mentoring, leadership, service, and professional development are the tenets of the 100 Black Women of Funeral Service as it continues to provide support to those entering the funeral service profession. Every 5 years, the African American Funeral Home Hall of Fame recognizes the important work performed by African Americans in the funeral service industry. This year, 26 funeral homes from across the country were inducted into the African American Funeral Home Hall of Fame. These inductees have been serving their communities for over 100 years and are still operated by third to sixth generation family members. This is truly incredible. It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the following funeral homes on their recent induction into the African American Funeral Home Hall of Fame: Joseph Locks Funeral Home of Baltimore, Maryland (founded in 1837); Carl Miller Funeral Home of Camden, New Jersey (founded in 1861); JW Wilkerson Funeral Establishment of Petersburg, Virginia (founded in 1874); Gertrude Geddes-Willis Funeral Home of New Orleans, Louisiana (founded in 1879); Berry and Gardner Funeral Home of Franklin, Tennessee (founded in 1882); Charbonnet-Labat Funeral Home of New Orleans, Louisiana (founded in 1883); Rhodes Funeral Home of New Orleans, Louisiana (founded in 1884); Jarnigan and Son Mortuary of Knoxville, Tennessee (founded in 1886); Hutchings Funeral Home of Macon, Georgia (founded in 1895); Grays Funeral Home of Cape Charles, Virginia (founded in 1895); Davenport and Harris Funeral Home of Birmingham, Alabama (founded in 1899); Mrs. JW Jones Memorial Chapel of Kansas City, Kansas (founded in 1899); James E. Churchman, Jr. Funeral Home of Newark, New Jersey (founded in 1899); Cox Bros Funeral Home of Atlanta, Georgia (founded in 1900); Elliott Funeral Home of Albany, Georgia (founded in 1900); Stewart Funeral Home of Washington, DC (founded in 1900); Collins Funeral Home of Jackson, Mississippi (founded in 1903); Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Service of Columbus, Ohio (founded in 1905); EF Boyd and Son Funeral Home and Crematory in Cleveland, Ohio (founded in 1905); Marion Daniels and Sons Funeral Home of New York City (founded in 1905); Larkin and Scott Funeral Home (founded in 1905); Larkin and Scott Funeral Home of Demopolis, Alabama (founded in 1907); Murray Henderson Funeral Home of New Orleans, Louisiana (founded in 1909); Lewis Funeral Home of San Antonio, Texas (founded in 1909); and Scott's Funeral Home of Richmond, Virginia (founded in 1910). Madam Speaker, as we celebrate the rich history of African Americans in the funeral service profession, I would like to thank the 100 Black Women of Funeral Service and the 2010 African American Funeral Home Hall of Fame inductees for all that they have done, and continue to do, for their communities and the funeral service tradition.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, on December 2, 2010, I was on official leave to attend to a medical matter. I was unable to cast votes on the extension of the middle class tax cuts, as well as the censure of Representative Charles Rangel. However, I strongly support extending tax cuts to the middle class, and would have voted favorably. On the matter of Representative Rangel, I would have voted ``yes'' on the reprimand but ``no'' on the censure.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today in solemn observance of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims and their Families, which was observed on Sunday, November 21, 2010. I offer my heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost loved ones to road crashes. This observance spans the globe, uniting every person regardless of age, class, gender, race, nationality, or geography, as road crashes can devastate any life at any time. Indeed, road crashes profoundly alter the lives of millions of people. The leading cause of death throughout the world for people ages 5 to 29 is not disease or war but road crashes. A staggering 1.3 million people are killed in road crashes every year, and another 20 to 50 million are injured in traffic accidents. On average, over 1,000 people under the age of 25 die every single day on the world's roads, and the annual monetary cost of motor vehicle crashes worldwide is currently estimated at $518 billion. These numbers are increasing dramatically and place particular strain on underdeveloped and developing nations, where crash rates are at their highest. In developing countries, road crashes have a dramatic impact on fragile economies, costing an estimated $100 billion and often exceeding the total amount received by these countries in development assistance. Furthermore, road crashes affect first responder services, health care services, and health insurance services, as many victims require extensive, and expensive, critical care, as well as follow-up care and rehabilitation. Road crashes are particularly devastating when examining the effect on young people. Globally, more than 40 percent of all road traffic deaths occur among individuals under 25 years old, and crashes are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 10-25 years old. Over the next decade, this is estimated to become the leading cause of death for children 5 and older worldwide. It is my fervent hope that our observance of the World Day of Remembrance will help to prevent the needless end of so many young lives in the future. Unlike other epidemics and tragedies which modern science has not yet found ways to eradicate, the cure for road crashes is within our grasp, and the United States has taken a critical, active role domestically and internationally to address this problem. In November 2009, the Moscow Declaration, signed by 150 countries, encouraged the establishment of a Decade of Action for Road Safety from 2011 to 2020, and laid the foundation for United Nations General Assembly Resolution 64/255 adopted in March 2010. This U.N. resolution recognizes that the devastation caused by road crashes negatively impacts the social, economic, and health targets of the Millennium Development Goals. The United States now takes the lead in furthering the goals of this initiative and setting an example for the rest of the world by improving transportation management, infrastructure, vehicle safety, education, and post-crash care and rehabilitation here at home. It is of the utmost importance that we continue to support public policies designed to reduce key risk factors like speeding, drunk driving, distracted driving, and the failure of many Americans to use seat belts, child restraints, and other safety devices. The Decade of Action for Road Safety has not been declared to merely raise awareness, but also to take action. We all use roads, cars, buses, and bicycles every day. It is easy to take our safety for granted. But too many tragedies remind us that road fatalities and injuries have an enormous impact on our lives. This resolution expresses the House of Representatives' support for the Decade of Action and encourages the federal government to support efforts to reduce road fatalities, preventing needless deaths and injuries both here at home and around the world. Madam Speaker, as Americans travel the world more and more and as our global society grows ever more close-knit, the pressing importance of our observance of the World Day of Remembrance only grows as well.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rev. Gerald Kisner on his 15th anniversary as pastor of the Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in West Palm Beach, Florida. He has had a very long and honored career. After receiving his Master's degree from Case Western Reserve University, he graduated from Harvard University School of Law, where he was awarded a Dwight D. Eisenhower Scholarship, and received his Master of Divinity degree from Howard University. Before being called to the ministry, Rev. Kisner educated young people as a professor at Boston State College, Boston University and Palm Beach Atlantic College. He is currently an Adjunct Professor at Palm Beach Atlantic University's School of Ministry. He has demonstrated his love for his fellow man by serving as Assistant Director of Social Services in the Boston, Massachusetts Department of Public Welfare and, later, as the Assistant Director of Medical Care for that agency. Rev. Kisner's love for the law led him to become a Prosecutor and Law Director for the city of East Cleveland, Ohio and an Associate and Partner in two Cleveland area law firms. In Washington, DC, he joined one of that city's prominent firms and eventually opened his own practice. While in Washington, Gerald Kisner served as Director of the Office of Private Sector Development, again demonstrating his love for humanity. Still in Washington, his legal experience served him well as Deputy General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Moving to Atlanta, Georgia, Rev. Kisner became Executive Director of the English Avenue Community Development Corporation, continuing his service to government and people in need. Since November 1995, he has been pastor of the Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in West Palm Beach. Over the course of his career, he has received many prestigious awards, including the Bishop Wilfred Wood Award from Howard University, the Dr. Martin Luther King Service Award from the Urban League of Palm Beach County and a Spiritual Enlightenment Award. In 1999, he was inducted into the Board of Preachers of Martin Luther King International Chapel at Morehouse College. Madam Speaker, Gerald Kisner is a remarkable human being and a person who sets a fine example for us all to follow. I am fortunate to count him as a friend and I am pleased to join his family, many friends and colleagues and all who love and respect him in honoring him today.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize FoundCare Health Center (FoundCare) in West Palm Beach, Florida, which recently received Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alike status. As you know, the FQHC Program is administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the Department of Health and Human Services and designates health centers that provide essential primary and preventive health care services to low-income, medically underserved, and vulnerable populations that traditionally have limited access to affordable services and face the greatest barriers to care. FoundCare's mission to provide health care services to all people, regardless of their ability to pay, is to be lauded. The designation of FoundCare Health Center as the first FQHC Look- Alike in the State of Florida is a true testament to health care reform and expanding access to affordable, quality health care for all. At a time when millions of Americans are unemployed and uninsured, FoundCare provides an invaluable service to the community and is a vital component in our nation's health care network. The sad reality is that more than a quarter million children and adults in Palm Beach County are uninsured. To make matters worse, 60 percent of the uninsured are eligible for some type of insurance program but are not enrolled. It is unconscionable that so many families and individuals continue to suffer when help is available to them. FoundCare provides essential primary and preventive health care services to those who might otherwise forgo medical care for themselves and their children. To best meet the needs of its patients, it operates with expanded hours to accommodate families, provides multilingual services in English, Spanish, French and Creole, employs efficient electronic medical records systems of care, and will soon also provide dental and pharmacy services. Furthermore, FoundCare helps individuals navigate the application process for Medicare, Medicaid, Florida KidCare, and other programs, and, together with Project Access partners, makes sure that patients can also access the specialty care they need. When fully funded, FoundCare has the capacity for more than 10,000 unduplicated patients per year. This is truly remarkable. I have had the privilege of being involved with this visionary project from the start and am continually amazed by the extraordinary dedication and compassion of the men and women who work at FoundCare. Since it opened its doors in January 2009, FoundCare has provided access to quality health care for over 2,400 new uninsured and underinsured Palm Beach County residents. Currently, 77 percent of FoundCare's patients, who range in age from infancy to 84 and are nearly two-thirds female, do not have health insurance. In addition, more than 70 percent of patients have incomes below the federal poverty level. They visited FoundCare an average of nearly three times per year for various health concerns, including hypertension, diabetes, infectious disease, asthma, obesity, and women's health. Madam Speaker, FoundCare's commitment to improving community health is an inspiration to us all. There is no doubt in my mind that, at this rate, it will soon become a Federally Qualified Health Center. As we recognize FoundCare's tremendous success, I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every member of the FoundCare team for all the hard work that they continue to do on behalf of their community and the health of our nation as a whole.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise in proud support of H. Con. Res. 323, a resolution supporting the goal of ensuring that all Holocaust survivors in the United States are able to live with dignity, comfort, and security in their remaining years. Following the tragic and unforgivable circumstances of their youth, these survivors came to the United States seeking a better life. They found a new home here in America, and it is our duty to provide for their well-being as best we can. Over 127,000 Holocaust survivors live in the United States, about three-fourths of whom are in their 80s and 90s, and a majority of whom live alone. Sadly, more than half of these survivors fall beneath the 200-percent threshold for the federal poverty line, meaning they earn less than $21,660 a year. In fact, Holocaust survivors are five times more likely to be living below the poverty line than other older Americans. My constituents in South Florida are not immune from this reality, and they need our support. Holocaust survivors have special needs that would greatly benefit from access to social service programs that would enable them to age in place in their current residences, with access to transportation and other services to ensure their health and well-being. This legislation encourages the Department of Health and Human Services and the Administration on Aging to expeditiously develop and implement programs that ensure Holocaust survivors have access to the care they need and deserve. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to stand with so many of my colleagues on this important resolution, and I applaud the efforts of the many nonprofit organizations and agencies which work tirelessly to honor and assist Holocaust survivors throughout the United States. Freedom and liberty, justice and human rights--these are the values represented by the survivors of the Holocaust. We have a moral obligation to acknowledge their plight and uphold their dignity to ensure their well- being in their remaining years. I urge my colleagues to support the passage of this worthy legislation.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 325, a concurrent resolution to support the goals and ideals of a National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day, in recognition of the people who have died on our streets, in emergency shelters, condemned or abandoned properties, and from elements directly related to homelessness. On or near the first day of winter and the longest night of the year, National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day events have been held nationwide every year since 1990 to remember the homeless persons whose lives and deaths might otherwise go without any recognition. Throughout my home state of Florida, this important day is recognized, along with over 200 other local municipalities, organizations, and statewide organizations throughout the United States holding communitywide vigils, memorials, and service events. With the support of more than twelve national organizations, including the National Coalition for the Homeless, the National Consumer Advisory Board, and the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day brings attention to the tragedy of homelessness and memorializes our homeless neighbors and friends who have lost their lives because of our collective failure to end homelessness. More than half a million people in the United States do not have a place to call home each night and half of them are without shelter. Nationwide each year, an estimated 2,000,000 people experience homelessness. Furthermore, the mortality rate among homeless populations has been shown to be almost four times that of the general population. Homelessness is expensive and can be prevented. This resolution provides us with the opportunity to commend the efforts of the States, territories, and possessions of the United States who support the goals and ideals of National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day, to encouraged those not already doing so, and to salute the dedicated professionals and organizations who provide assistance 365 days a year to people in need. Most importantly, a national memorial day will ensure that we keep the problem in perspective. Through all the statistics on homelessness, all too often, we forget that numbers correspond to actual individuals with actual lives and families. As the 2010 Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness declares: ``There are no `homeless people,' but rather people who have lost their homes who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.'' In remembering those who died on the streets, the cause of ending homelessness is kept urgent as is the Nation's collective commitment to preventing such deaths in the future. Mr. Speaker, we must remember their lives--men, women, and children-- and we must remember why they died. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution and reaffirm Congress' commitment to ending homelessness by promoting a comprehensive national response that addresses the housing, health care, income, and civil rights causal factors and consequences of extreme poverty. Let us make this year's first night of winter and longest night of the year, December 21, 2010, a true National Memorial Day.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my dear friend, Mr. Edward L. Blacksheare, Sr., on being honored by the Crooms Academy Alumni Association, Inc. at its first-ever ``Legacy of Hope and Love Banquet.'' This ceremony will honor Mr. Blacksheare's distinguished career as an educator and his countless contributions to the Sanford community. Mr. Blacksheare has always welcomed the challenge to serve the underserved, and it is this devotion that has earned him recognition from the Crooms Academy Alumni Association. Mr. Blacksheare carries himself with integrity, respect, and dedication in everything he does for his profession and community. A look into his background shows just how successful he has been on both of these fronts. As a Sanford, Florida native, Mr. Blacksheare attended Crooms Academy, graduating in 1943. After college, Mr. Blacksheare came back to Sanford and began his career as an educator at Oviedo High School. In 1948, he returned home to Crooms Academy as a teacher, which marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career. Mr. Blacksheare was appointed assistant principal in 1960 and was elevated to principal in 1964. After serving as principal for 21 years, Mr. Blacksheare took a position with the Seminole County School Board before retiring in 1992 with 43 years of service in education. In addition, Mr. Blacksheare is also a proud Kappa man. He was a great role model for me and others in our community, serving Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity in many leadership roles. In fact, I became a Kappa at Fisk University because of Mr. Blacksheare. When he found out that I had pledged Kappa at Fisk University, he was so excited. Years later, when I was nominated for Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity's highest award, the Laurel Wreath, he wrote one of the first letters to the Laurel Wreath Committee on my behalf. Brother Blacksheare truly knows the meaning of PHI NU PI. Mr. Blacksheare is a man of great faith and excellent character. He is a man known for his many good works and his love for his students, family, and friends. As a Crooms Academy alumnus, I am grateful for the many years of guidance and leadership Mr. Blacksheare devoted to my alma mater. He has always displayed selfless compassion and a desire to help those around him. A student in the Class of 1976 described Mr. Blacksheare as, ``a man of great strength and patience . . . a principal who is interested in today's youth, concerned with our welfare and our school.'' I can think of no one else more deserving of this tremendous honor, which will be bestowed upon him at the ``Legacy of Hope and Love Banquet.'' Madam Speaker, it is truly a privilege and an honor for me to recognize Mr. Edward Blacksheare, Sr., for his dedication to education, Crooms Academy, its students, and the Sanford community as a whole.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to introduce a resolution in support of the Republic of India gaining a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Addressing a joint session of India's Parliament this past November 8, President Obama said that ``the United States not only welcomes India as a rising global power, we fervently support it.'' I could not agree more. In recent years India has proven to be a solid and supportive ally of the United States. As the international community looks to reform the policies and procedures of the Security Council, no nation deserves a seat at the table more than India. As the world's most populous democracy--and second most-populous nation--India is an increasingly influential power, not only in its neighborhood in South Asia but also on the world's stage. India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, enjoys the second- largest labor force, and is rapidly becoming a major hub for high-tech industry, telecommunications, and automobile manufacturing. As a major export/import nation, India is an important trading partner for dozens of countries around the world. India's position at the nexus of global security issues, from Pakistan and Kashmir to China and the Indian Ocean, makes its participation in international security decisions essential. Having already provided tens of thousands of troops for dozens of UN peacekeeping missions around the world, India has earned a permanent role for itself in security decision- making, global conflict resolution, and questions of war and peace. As a nation which has suffered more casualties from terrorism than almost any other, India's commitment to effective counterterrorism measures is aligned with the United States' goals, and India has proved an indispensible ally with respect to our efforts in South Asia. Finally, India regularly participates in numerous regional and international organizations, including the G20, the World Trade Organization, the East Asian Summit, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. India has thus demonstrated a commitment to international dialogue and constructive engagement, and, indeed, enjoys good relations with most countries around the world. Madam Speaker, India is already a nation of great influence, respect, ambition, and ability, and a trusted member of the international community. An overwhelming majority of the United Nations General Assembly recently elected India to serve as the Asian regional representative to the Security Council. The permanent membership of the Security Council reflects the reality of global power in the immediate aftermath of World War II--not today's 21st century reality of rising powers. As President Obama and many other world leaders have pointed out, India deserves a permanent seat on a reformed Security Council, where its voice and clout will be a much-welcomed and much-needed addition to the global security regime. I strongly applaud this effort and urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the ordering of the yeas and nays be vacated with respect to the motion to suspend the rules and adopt House Concurrent Resolution 329 to the end that the motion be considered as adopted in the form considered by the House on Tuesday, November 16, 2010.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the ordering of the yeas and nays be vacated with respect to the motion to suspend the rules and adopt House Resolution 1677 to the end that the motion be considered as adopted in the form considered by the House on Wednesday, November 17, 2010.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Targeted Tax Lien Act of 2010. While a notice of a federal tax lien can be an effective tax collection tool, the automatic filing process currently utilized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) too often allows for erroneous and unnecessary filings. A public filing of a notice of federal tax lien often does little to increase the likelihood of collecting the tax liability, yet can impact a taxpayer's credit and ability to obtain financing, find or retain a job, secure affordable housing or insurance and ultimately, the taxpayer's ability to pay the balance. This legislation will provide the IRS with the means to ensure that a notice of a federal tax lien is filed only when it would be in the best interest of both the IRS and taxpayer. The Targeted Tax Lien Act of 2010 ends the IRS's current one-size- fits-all lien filing policies that, in the IRS Taxpayer Advocate's own words, ``circumvent the spirit of the law, fail to promote future tax compliance, and unnecessarily harm taxpayers.'' The bill requires an IRS supervisor to review and make an affirmative, specific finding on a case-by-case basis that a lien is warranted and not disproportionately harmful to the taxpayer. The bill provides a list of factors to consider, such as the amount due, the value of the property, a taxpayer's compliance history, and extenuating circumstances. Furthermore, the IRS's ability to collect tax liabilities will not diminish under these new policies. A recent IRS National Taxpayer Advocate study suggests that in most instances where the source of payment of a tax debt to the IRS is specified, more than 95 percent of all payments and more than 80 percent of all revenue collected did not result from a notice of lien filing and would have been collected even without the filing. Additionally, a separate analysis performed by the Advocate shows that only about five percent of all payment transactions and approximately twenty percent of the total dollars collected from these taxpayers are attributable to federal tax liens. These results suggest that the IRS's current use of liens may not be furthering revenue collection despite the impact liens have on taxpayers and their credit. Madam Speaker, the current automatic filing process can often result in the filing of a notice of federal tax lien when another collection technique would have been more appropriate and effective. It should come as no surprise that the taxpayers most often impacted by an erroneous notice of a lien filing are small businesses and middle class families. By making sure the IRS uses the tax collection method and strategy best suited to each particular taxpayer, the Targeted Tax Lien Act of 2010, not only helps buttress these bedrocks of our economy, but allows the IRS to avoid unnecessary expenses, ensuring it also can use its resources more efficiently. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation and reaffirm the commitment of Congress to small businesses and the middle class.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. We need people who blend in, people who look like America. And that includes every aspect, from Arab to Asian to Latin to African American, women, the whole nine yards. Mr. Speaker, I plead that after several years, we finally stand on the verge of enactment of an intelligence authorization act. I believe it's good for the Congress and for the intelligence community and for the American people. Mr. Speaker, I want to take this moment to personally thank Chairman Silvestre Reyes and the HPSCI staff for their hard work and dedication in helping to see this excellent bill to fruition. And this will be my last time speaking on a rule in the Intelligence Committee for the reason that now, after 10 years, I will no longer serve on that committee. It has been a humbling experience, and I am delighted and privileged that I have been given that opportunity in this great country of ours.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. William ``Bill'' Kling for his continued service to America's veterans. Mr. Kling's unwavering patriotism and continued dedication to America's heroes are to be highly commended. Bill Kling served in the Navy during the Second World War. It was during his time in the Navy that Mr. Kling developed an unceasing devotion to his fellow servicemen. For over 35 years since, Mr. Kling has served his fellow veterans living in South Florida through community service and political activism. Mr. Kling currently serves as the Chair of the Broward County Veterans Council (BCVC), a coalition of 57 organizations in Broward and Palm Beach Counties that operates under a common plan to protect and implement benefits for veterans. Uniting behind its mission ``To Serve and Unite our Veterans,'' the BCVC has achieved substantial benefits for our veterans under Mr. Kling's leadership. As an advocate for better health care for veterans, Mr. Kling led the drive to build the new state-of-the-art Broward County VA Outpatient Clinic in Sunrise, FL. In addition to a successful campaign for a veterans state nursing home located in Pembroke Pines--a crucial service for veterans living in South Florida--Mr. Kling and the BCVC were also instrumental in delivering a VA hospital to Palm Beach, Florida. Mr. Kling's leadership has even had a national impact. Mr. Kling and the BCVC are responsible for the implementation of the handicapped parking signs that are now ubiquitous in shopping malls and public areas across America. Bill Kling's most recent service to America's veterans has focused on national legislation and keeping the BCVC's member organizations informed so that they may act accordingly. Mr. Kling has been an outspoken critic of the military's ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy and a leading voice in the fight for its repeal. Additionally, Mr. Kling has been actively working to ensure that military families receive the same benefits as private citizens under America's recent landmark health care reform. Mr. Kling's leadership will help 700,000 young adults whose families are members of TRICARE, which covers military families, become eligible for health insurance coverage. I have always valued Mr. Kling's insights and advice, and I proudly salute his exceptional service to our nation's veterans and, indeed, to all Americans. Not only is Bill Kling an American hero, Madam Speaker, he is a living testimony to the spirit of national service and a true role model.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Haitian Educational Empowerment Act of 2010. This legislation will allow those students who have had their studies interrupted as a result of the January 12th earthquake to complete their degrees at a U.S. university. It will also provide grants to American universities that have taken in Haitian students so that these schools can provide necessary support services. As we are all well aware, this past January, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake rocked the already struggling nation of Haiti. Approximately three million people were affected and 230,000 are estimated to have died. Those that survived are facing unimaginable conditions with a crumbling infrastructure that has hindered the availability of even basic necessities. However, in addition to the massive physical devastation and loss of human life, the earthquake also dealt a devastating blow to Haiti's already struggling higher education sector. With 87 percent of Haiti's universities located in the affected region, the earthquake leveled many university buildings and killed scores of students and academics. The State University of Haiti, the nation's largest, saw 80 percent of its buildings destroyed. Even if classes are able to resume under current conditions, many students have found that they can no longer afford to attend as they and their families struggle to recover from the earthquake. Additionally, prior to the earthquake, only 1 percent of Haitians between the ages of 18 and 24 were enrolled in a university. For many of these students, a college education was their ticket out of poverty. Now, they have not only seen their loved ones perish and their homes reduced to rubble, but their hopes for a better future have been dashed as well. My legislation will allow these students to complete their studies while requiring them to return to the island upon completion to put their education to work. At a time of extreme instability and crisis, the United States must do all within its power to help Haiti rebuild from this current tragedy. However, this recovery cannot be sustainable if Haitians lack the necessary skills to participate in the process. While investments are made to rebuild and expand Haiti's university system, it would be counterproductive if, in the meantime, we allow Haiti to fall even further behind in educational attainment. My legislation will not only provide immediate relief to those struggling students who saw their hopes squandered on January 12th, but will also help ensure a more robust, long term recovery. I ask my colleagues to support this legislation and urge the House Leadership to bring it swiftly to the House floor for consideration.

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida

Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the resolution I am introducing today that encourages all elected officials and political leaders in Iraq to redouble their efforts to form a government that is just, representative, and accountable to the people of Iraq. More than six months ago, on March 7, 2010, the Iraqi people went to the polls and elected 325 members of the Council of Representatives which, pursuant to the constitution of Iraq, must select the new Prime Minister and President. Iraq currently remains without a Prime Minster or President, and negotiations between the elected political parties seem to have reached a stalemate. This is not good for Iraq or for the region. The vacuum created in the absence of a new government has encouraged violent attacks against government officials and Iraqi civilians by terrorist thugs who are intent on destabilizing the country. Destabilizing as well is the fact that more than two million citizens of Iraq remain displaced both inside Iraq and in countries in the region and around the world, and the failure of the government of Iraq to enact comprehensive oil and gas sector framework and revenue-sharing legislation to meet development needs. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution that calls on the leaders of Iraq to form, as quickly as possible, a capable and representative government that is accountable to the people, to address the needs of its displaced citizens and to effectively, fairly and transparently develop its oil and gas resources in order to meet its pressing development needs.