Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 11th Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day, Thursday, February 6, 1997. This day has been set aside to show the Nation's commitment to promoting the physical well-being and mental health of women and girls through physical activity. National Girls and Women in Sports Day is instrumental in encouraging females of all ages to participate in sports. Regular exercise increases physical condition by lowering levels of blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. In addition, sports has been shown to help women feel greater confidence, self esteem and pride. As the celebration of Black History month begins, it is my hope that this day will open the eyes of many African-American women who are twice as likely to be overweight as white women and 20 percent less likely to exercise regularly. Compared to white Americans, African- Americans under the age of 64 are 10 percent more likely to get heart disease, 30 percent more likely to have diabetes, and over 50 percent more likely to suffer from hypertension. Mr. Speaker, I would like for my participation in today's events to serve as a model of the dedication to physical fitness that should be exhibited by other women, particularly African-American women. Finally, I would like to applaud the organizations whose combined efforts made this day possible: Girl Scouts, Girls Inc., the National Association for Girls and Women in Sport, the Women Sports Foundation, and the YWCA.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute and remember my friend, colleague, and a great American, Congressman Frank Tejeda. His untimely death is a great loss for the constituents of district 28, all of Texas, and the citizens of the United States. Congressman Tejeda and I worked together for many years in many capacities. He and I were colleagues in the Texas House and the Texas Senate. We were elected to this office in the same class in 1992. He was a patriot, a Vietnam veteran who risked his life many times to defend his fellow marines. He was honored with many medals. He was a true American hero. My colleague, Frank Tejeda, has been an example and role model for many people in many ways. He proved that you can achieve success with determination and hard work. He ended his life with the same quiet dignity he always showed. Mr. Speaker, I overwhelmingly agree with my colleagues from Texas that we should honor Congressman Tejeda's memory and his family by naming a post office in San Antonio as the ``Frank Tejeda Post Office.'' I urge support for the passing of this resolution and we name this building for a great Texan-American. My heart and prayers are with his family.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the first recipient of the J. Erik Jonsson Ethics Award, Mr. Curtis W. Meadows, Jr. On October 22, 1996, Southern Methodist University's Cary M. Maguire Center for Ethics and Public Responsibility presented Mr. Meadows this award for his commitment to philanthropy and to serving the needs of the Dallas community. Mr. Meadows was president and director of Dallas' Meadows Foundation, one of the largest community foundations in the United States, for 18 years between 1978 and 1996. The Foundation, created by Mr. Meadows' uncle Algur H. Meadows nearly 50 years ago, has made over $300 million in charitable contributions to benefit health, education, arts and culture, civic and public affairs, and human services programs throughout Texas. Mr. Meadows has served on the boards of the National Council of Foundations, the Conference of Southwest Foundations, the Dallas Bar Foundations and on the advisory boards of more than 40 nonprofit organizations including the Dallas Citizens Council, Habitat for Humanity, and the Suicide and Crisis Center. He has served on the building committees for the Dallas Museum of Art and the Museum of African-American Life and Culture, and has participated in the Mayors Task Force on Homelessness. To be the first recipient of an award named for Mr. J. Erik Jonsson is a great honor indeed. Mr. Jonsson was a mayor of Dallas from 1964 to 1971, and under his leadership, a number of public buildings including the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, city hall, and the Dallas Public Library were constructed and improvements to the city's public schools were made. Both Mr. Jonsson and Mr. Meadows have demonstrated the public virtue that this Ethics Award represents. Congratulations, Mr. Meadows, and thank you for all that you have done for Texas.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as we enter the 21st century, it is unacceptable for men to use human nature and sexuality as an excuse for sexual crimes and gender discrimination. We cannot regress two decades of advancement for women based on the inability of some who cannot control their sexuality. Harsh disciplinary procedures must be enacted in order to ensure that women have a fair and equal opportunity to serve this Nation. The separation of the sexes is not a solution to the problem. Rather, General Reimer's suggestion is a slap in the face to men because it suggests that men operate solely on animal instinct. Additionally, General Reimer's suggestion increases the problem because if men are rarely in an environment with women, they will never know how to interact with them. It is time for women to be treated as equal peers of men, and not as sexual objects.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and recognize Mr. Kirk Johnson who was recently honored as Employee of the Month at Integrated Tax System. Mr. Johnson, who trains employees on tax codes, was commended by ITS for his excellent teaching skills, professionalism, and extensive knowledge. His trainees have praised him by saying, ``The trainer created a relaxed atmosphere conducive to the exchange of information'' and ``The instructor was very educational and professional.'' In addition to teaching, Mr. Johnson is the creator of the ITS Bulletin, which has proved to be very popular among ITS users around the State, and a quick reference card for ITS that is still in heavy demand. Congratulations, Kirk, for your outstanding accomplishments in your profession and the recognition of that by ITS through the Employee of the Month Award. I am very proud of you, son.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate students from my district for their outstanding accomplishments. Ten students were awarded 4-year scholarships which range from $4,000 to $25,000 by Texas A&M University as part of its incoming class. The scholarship winners are Richard D. Weaver, Jr., of Carter High School; Julie A. Contreras of Irving High School; Tatiana Alexander of Kimball High School; Edward N. Brown, Jr., and Crystal D. Caldwell of South Oak Cliff High School; Paul L. Andres, John P. Broadnax, and Elizabeth A. Flotte of Talented and Gifted Magnet High School; Kaushawn P. Hicks of Townview Magnet Center; and Martha R. Wilson of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. In addition, Leaksha Dunn, a senior at James Madison High School in Dallas, took top honors in the Dallas County Historical Commission's Heritage Education Essay Contest for her treatise on ``James Thibodeaux, a Living Legend in South Dallas.'' Leaksha won $50 from the commission and $500 for the high school's history department. The hard work and dedication of these students is admirable. Congratulations students, and good luck in all your pursuits.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember and pay tribute to my friend, colleague, and a great American, Congressman Frank Tejeda. His untimely death is a great loss for the constituents of District 28, all of Texas, and the citizens of the United States. Congressman Tejeda and I have worked together for many years in many capacities. He and I were colleagues in the Texas House and the Texas Senate. We were elected to this office in the same class in 1992. He was a patriot, a Vietnam veteran who risked his life many times to defend his fellow marines. He was honored with many medals. He was a true American hero. My colleague, Frank Tejeda, has been an example and role model for many people in many ways. He proved that you can achieve success with determination and hard work. He ended his life with the same quiet dignity he always showed. My heart and prayers are with his family.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in remembrance of Joe H. Golman who passed away September 23, 1996 in Dallas, TX. Mr. Golman was a distinguished member of the Dallas City Council, Texas Legislator, businessman and a religious leader in the Jewish community. At an early age, Mr. Golman brought his vision of public service to the greater Dallas area. A year after losing a council election at the age of 23, Mr. Golman won appointment to the city plan commission. His successful and effective political career continued as he became chairman of the Dallas Zoning Board of Adjustment, city council, deputy mayor pro-tem and the Texas State Legislature where he served with distinction until 1973. Mr. Golman was also at the forefront of economic development, entrepreneurship and commerce, serving Dallas' food service industry as president of Golman-Hayden, a produce brokerage and consulting service; and president of Circle T Foods Co. He was a member of the Greater Dallas, East Dallas, and Oak Cliff Chambers of Commerce and a member of the Salesmanship Club of Dallas for more than 50 years. Mr. Golman also fulfilled the true measure of leadership: Passing on the torch of leadership to young people in his capacity as a charter member of the Dallas Assembly, which sought to groom young city leaders. Political and business success did not remove his compassion, activity and energy from his religious beliefs. Mr. Golman was a life board member of the Jewish Community Center and as president of the National Jewish Welfare Board's southern region. I wish to extend my condolences to his family and his many friends and supporters. Mr. Golman was the epitome of the true public servant and his years of unselfish contributions to the political, business, and religious environments of Dallas are very much appreciated by its citizens. His work will be sorely missed, but not forgotten.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to give recognition to a Dallas unsung heroine, Chryste Gaines, a 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist. Ms. Gaines propelled the team to its victory as the first leg of the 4100 women's relay. Chryste Gaines' fruitful track career began as she set many personal and team records in the State of Texas. She has also received a gold medal at both the world championships 4100 relay and at the Pan Am games in the 100-meter dash. In addition, she has brought home many medals from the World University Games, NCAA indoor and outdoor meets, grand prix, and world indoor championships. Furthermore, Ms. Gaines has run on the U.S.A. Pan Africa Team and the U.S.A. versus Great Britain Team. Not only is Ms. Gaines exceptionally talented in track and field, she has also excelled in her academic studies. She graduated valedictorian of South Oak Cliff High School in 1988 and went on to Stanford University to obtain a bachelor of science degree in psychology. Ms. Gaines is a member of the alpha Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I wish to extend my congratulations to Chryste for your outstanding performance. We hope to see you in the year 2000 at the Olympics in Sidney, Australia.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, for the last 2 months, I have assisted my constituents, Charles and Annette Casto, in attempting to locate information regarding the death of their son, L. Cpl. Anthony A. Casto, U.S. Marine Corps. After a hurried investigation, the Marine Corps concluded that Anthony Casto died as a result of suicide. The few material possessions given to the family, brief and uninformative talks with senior military personnel and the investigative branches involved in the process, yielded more questions and uncertainties than answers to Anthony's death. The families which appeared before the subcommittee were in concurrence that the military's death investigation process is fractured. Currently, separate entities come to conclusions on a single death and withhold information underlying their conclusions. This is the antithesis to freedom of information and contrary to families' legitimate expectations that services will be forthcoming and truthful about the cause of a loved one's death. All governmental entities and departments are accountable to the citizenry. I am not overzealous when I say that, just as we expect our government to be effective, it should be standard that it is also compassionate when dealing with the families of those who sacrifice their lives for our country. Unfortunately, the personal experiences of families of deceased military personnel illustrate a different picture. Though the people and places were different, there was a common theme that the investigative process treated families as outsiders, not obligated to knowing how their sons and daughters died while serving our country. I know that the members of the subcommittee listened to the stories on September 12 with sincere interest, professionalism, and sympathy. However, I ask that the subcommittee lead this Congress in a first, but major step, in reforming the military death investigation process to transform it into one that is efficient, responsive, accountable and most importantly, one that is respectful and compassionate to our deceased servicemen and women's families.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it brings me great pleasure to honor and applaud an extraordinary colleague who will be retiring at the end of the 104th Congress, the Honorable Cleo Fields of Louisiana. Congressman Fields came to Washington as a member of this body in 1992 along with me which makes this tribute extra special. Congressman Fields pursued his seat relentlessly, starting with the redistricting struggle he fought as a member of the State senate in the early 1990's. He was the youngest State senator in Louisiana history at the age of 24. In the legislature, he was a leader against illicit drug use and was regarded favorably by environmentalists, but not so much so that he was perceived as an enemy of the State's powerful natural gas industry. Mostly Congressman Fields showed a knack for positioning himself to win elections. He also demonstrated the drive and energy to make good on his opportunities. Congressman Fields' actions and his words have focused on improving the future for our Nation's youth, and recognizing the importance of opportunity for all his constituents. As chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus Task Forces on Church Burnings and Redistricting, he has helped every member of this body to recognize the importance of these issues and how they effect every one of us. As a member of the Banking and Financial Services Committee, he led efforts to insure that no consumers are taken advantage of by ATM user-fees, and that all Americans will continue to be protected by the Community Reinvestment Act, the Truth in Savings Act, the Truth in Lending Act, and other consumer banking laws. Mr. Speaker, it has been both a pleasure and an honor to serve next to and with Congressman Cleo Fields of Louisiana. I, like the rest of my colleagues, wish him well in his future endeavors.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of our seven retiring women Members of Congress, women who have diligently served their constituents and paved the road for many women ahead. cardiss collins First, I wish to recognize Congresswoman Cardiss Collins, the longest serving African-American woman in Congress. Congresswoman Collins has worked to improve the quality of health care for women and minorities. She has authored legislation which expanded Medicare coverage for mammographies and Pap smears which detect cervical and uterine cancers. In addition, the Congresswoman was the guiding force for legislation which established a permanent office on minority health within the National Institutes of Health. Not only has Congresswoman Collins forged the way for women and women's issues, she has also made significant strides in other legislative areas. As chair of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Competitiveness, she enacted the Child Abuse Prevention Act and the Child Safety Protection Act. The Congresswoman's efforts also led to the adoption of the Aviation Security Improvement Act. Congresswoman Collins has been the first in many of her endeavors, including: First woman and African-American to be Democratic whip-at-large; And, first woman and African-American to serve as chair of two subcommittees: (1) the Government Operations Subcommittee on Manpower and Housing, and; (2) Subcommittee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Competitiveness. And the list goes on. Our working together in Congress has been great, but it does not surpass our social and personal relationship that has grown over the years. I met Cardiss shortly after she came to the Hill, and I was one of her sponsors for membership in both Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Links Inc.--two organizations that are near and dear to my heart. I have enjoyed sharing my family with her family. She knows that my door is always open to her, and vice versa. I have always been greeted with open arms and enjoyed her home-cooked meals * * * and there is nothing better than Cardiss Collins home-cooked rolls! There is no doubt that I, along with your constituents and other Members of Congress will miss the wisdom and energy you brought to the House. Congresswoman Collins, please know that we appreciate all that you have done and what you symbolize. I know that you have inspired other women to fulfill their leadership potential. Patricia Schroeder As the longest-serving woman in the House, Congresswoman Schroeder's outspoken and independent voice will be greatly missed by all of us. Through the years, Congresswoman Schroeder has worked tirelessly and has demonstrated leadership in the areas of foreign and military policy, arms control and disarmament, as well as women's economic equity and health, and educational opportunity. From 1979 until 1995, Congresswoman Schroeder cochaired the Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues. Under her leadership, the Caucus launched an effort to improve women's health policies by submitting a comprehensive legislative package entitled the ``Women's Health Equity Act.'' During the 103d Congress, several bills from this act were signed into law. On a more personal note, I was a part of your audience during your brief pursuit for the office of the Presidency. I have no doubt that with all of the knowledge and leadership abilities that you possess, we will definitely see you again in the political arena. Congresswoman Schroeder, tonight I join with my colleagues in commending you for your many hard fought battles on behalf of the women and children of the world. barbara rose collins As a fellow Congressional Black Caucus member, I would also like to wish Congresswoman Barbara Rose Collins well in her retirement. blanche lambert lincoln Congratulations also to Congresswoman Blanche Lambert Lincoln, my classmate from the neighboring State of Arkansas. Congresswoman Lincoln, you are a bright and rising star. Good luck as you take your sabbatical to share your time with your family. Finally, though I have not had long acquaintances with the other retiring Members, I hear that there is life after office. I hope that you will have positive and fruitful experiences whether you choose to focus on family or continue to serve the public. Best wishes all.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the work that Trooper Barry Washington has done in curtailing drug trafficking in the State of Texas. Trooper Washington is doing his part in helping Americans win the war on drugs. Each year, he hauls in more than 1,000 pounds of marijuana and 20,000 grams of cocaine according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. In an average week, Trooper Washington sends two drug- trafficking suspects through the local court system. As a result the system has become so taxed with drug arrests that the legislature granted a county court wider jurisdiction so that they could help handle the backlog. And drug smugglers, many of whom depend on the stretch of U.S. 59 that Trooper Washington patrols, have noticed. Authorities say the smugglers are finding other routes to get drugs from Houston to other parts of the Nation. Some have suggested that Trooper Washington finds drugs only because he is allergic to them; however, he would need more than an allergic reaction to start a search. He begins searches because he studies the fourth amendment and tries to read as many law cases that deal with searches and seizures as he can. He has taught classes on the subject to several city and county police departments. Additionally, he uses modern technology--his cruiser is equipped with a video recorder, and he wears a microphone on his uniform. During some of his travels up and down highway 59, he has found drugs inside tires, dashboards, headlights, doors, and just about every other part of a vehicle where something can be hidden. I want to thank State Highway Patrol Trooper Barry Washington for his incredible record of service to our State and our community. I salute him for his commitment to keeping our streets safe from drugs and drug dealers. I congratulate him for a job well done and I hope he continues to match or beat his own records of bringing drug trafficking to an end.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate and recognize Mr. Anthony Mark Hankins who is being honored as a fashion designer in Washington, DC. At the age of 7, Anthony Mark Hankins designed and stitched a suit for his mother which she actually wore to an important wedding--crooked seams and all. She bragged to her friends that ``little Anthony'' had made her suit. With this, a designer was born. Mr. Hankins began his career designing and sewing clothes for other women in town, prom dresses for his peers, theatrical costumes, and marching band uniforms. He enrolled at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, then traveled to Paris to study at the Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture. After returning to the United States, he worked for two seasons with Adrienne Vittadini before taking a job with the J.C. Penney Co. as a factory field inspector in their quality control division. Anthony Mark Hankins is a consummate professional. He is a fashion designer who designs his clothes at a reasonable price so that those who might not otherwise be able to purchase quality clothing will be able to do so. Mr. Hankins was cited in the Wall Street Journal in a front page story as ``the Calvin Klein of the coupon clipping set.'' I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Hankins and best wishes for continued success for all of his endeavors with his high-quality, price-conscious clothing line.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate a former Dallas Cowboy and good friend, Mr. Mel Renfro, for his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He is the seventh Cowboy to be inducted. After leaving the Dallas Cowboys, Mel Renfro worked as a scout for the Cowboys and dabbled in various business deals. In 1983, Mr. Renfro began a sojourn that took him all over the United States until he settled in Portland, OR. He returned to Portland with a dream of revitalizing the northeast community where he grew up. He understood the importance of giving something back to his community. From the very start of Mel Renfro's tenure with the Dallas Cowboys, he was known as an impact player. In the Cowboys' man-to-man scheme, Mr. Renfro eliminated receivers from the game. His long arms and instincts allowed him to anticipate routes and deflect or intercept passes. One of Mr. Renfro's biggest assets was his ability to sprint backward, meaning he didn't have to come out of his backpedal until late in the route. He was very much the Deion Sanders of the Cowboys for the seventies and early eighties. Mel Renfro's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a well- deserved reward, and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate him for his well-deserved recognition. I urge my colleagues to join with me in thanking him for his work. He is proud to have been a Dallas Cowboy and he richly deserves his Pro Football Hall of Fame designation.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize four pillars of the local art community who were honored by the Dallas Visual Art Center. This distinction was presented by the Dallas Visual Art Center to individuals who have contributed to the advancement of the visual arts in Texas. The four recipients of this award are: Mr. Raymond D. Nasher, art collector; Mr. Barney Delabano and Mr. Octavio Medellin, both artists; and Patricia Meadows, the center's cofounder-- who received special recognition. In Dallas, we enjoy a rich heritage of philanthropy. We live in a giving community, and all four of these gifted individuals believe in giving back to the community. Together, the honorees represent the necessary components of a cultural community--the teacher, the artist, the patron, and the promoter.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in remembrance of a great man of Texas. The passing of Mr. Hector P. Garcia of Corpus Christi was a significant loss to the State of Texas and to Mexican-Americans throughout the Southwest. Dr. Garcia was a caring physician and a leader in the postwar struggle for Hispanic civil rights. He was the first Mexican-American appointed to serve on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. In 1984, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In 1954, the American GI Forum, of which he was the founder, joined with the League of United Latin American Citizens to send a team of attorneys to successfully argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court. The decision cleared the way for Hispanics to serve on trial juries. A veteran of World War II campaigns in North Africa and Italy, Dr. Garcia always held America to its promises. He first gained national prominence because of a civil rights case in Three Rivers, TX. A funeral home there denied the use of its chapel to the family of a Mexican-American soldier who had been killed in the Philippines 4 years earlier and whose remains had just been transported to Texas for burial. Through the efforts of Dr. Garcia and then Senator Lyndon Johnson, the young Mexican-American was buried with full honors in Arlington National Cemetery. With his passing, Texas has lost a great civil rights leader, and a great man.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in remembrance of one of the greatest Congressmen from New York State, Mr. Hamilton Fish, Jr., my friend and colleague with whom I had the pleasure of serving in Congress during my first term. Although we sat on opposite sides of the aisle, we shared many interests and common goals. Congressman Fish, who was known for his ability to compromise, worked on some of the major legislation for the last half of the 20th century. He spearheaded legislation for his party which led to the passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1988 and the Americans With Disabilities Act in 1990. He was a principal sponsor of the Civil Rights Act of 1991, legislation that was denounced by President George Bush as a quota bill. Representative Fish also sponsored amendments to the Voting Rights Act and the Fair Housing Act. Hamilton Fish's inspiration and leadership will be remembered. He was a tremendous decent man. His legacy to the United States has been legislation like the Americans With Disabilities Act which now allows people with disabilities to be treated equally and to have equal access to buildings, education, and employment. I will miss him, and I will miss his decency--I believe all Americans will. Mr. Speaker, I extend my condolences to the family of this fine public servant.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition of H.R. 123, the misnamed English Language Empowerment Act. Mr. Chairman, English-only laws, especially eliminating ballots in other languages, will disconnect millions of Americans from their Government. Denying citizens minority language assistance in voting will not force or encourage them to learn English. On the contrary, it will lead to less integration or inclusion of these citizens in mainstream society. According to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, over 97 percent of Americans can speak English. Research has illustrated that today's immigrants are learning to speak English even faster than previous generations. Publications and information materials in other languages allow those who are learning, but not yet fluent in English, the opportunity to participate in our democracy by making informed decisions. Laws to make English official in all governmental services and departments is an avoidance and dismissal of the fact that above all institutions, our Government should respect the differences in our social mosaic. Providing multi-lingual services promotes participation by all persons in this country and recognizes that people who contribute to our tax base should have access to services for which they are eligible. Mr. Chairman, another concern of mine is that as we force non-English speaking Americans to learn the English language, we hinder their efforts to learn English by eliminating funding for bilingual education programs. Rest assured, Mr. Chairman, that I will continue to preserve our American heritage, however, I cannot deny that the American heritage has been enriched by the culture of other nations. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to defeat this divisive bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, during rollcall vote No. 322 on H.R. 3756 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``No.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3161, which authorizes the President to extend permanent most- favored-nation treatment to Romania. The bill recognizes that Romania is making progress toward democracy and a free market economy, and the extension of MFN will encourage that process to continue. Additionally, Mr. Speaker, Romania is an important trading partner for my home State of Texas. Texas ranks No. 2 among the 50 States in exports to Romania, and in the period from 1992 to 1994, Texas exported more than $110 million worth of products to Romania. The products Texas exports to Romania are many, and they range from energy development products to transportation equipment and paper products. After the recent debate over extending MFN to China, it is easy to see the benefits of permanently extending MFN to an emerging democracy like Romania. Romania has adopted a new constitution since overthrowing its Communist dictatorship in 1989, and is improving in the areas of human rights, freedom of expression, and economic reforms. Romania is also a member of the World Trade Organization, and extending MFN allows the United States to have our full rights under the terms of the GATT with respect to Romania. The extension of MFN to other Eastern European nations has already occurred, and it is time for us to extend MFN to Romania as well. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I have very, very respected colleagues on both sides of this issue. I am certain that there might be questions about why I would stand here firmly in support of MFN. I ask my colleagues to oppose the resolution before us. Many Members of the House are concerned about the human rights record of the People's Republic of China, and rightfully so. Clearly I have many concerns about human rights. The questions for those of us with these concerns is how can we improve the situation in China? Mr. Speaker, I believe that a policy of engagement in China gives us the best opportunity to influence the Chinese Government and the Chinese people in a positive manner. Ideals of freedom will be experienced by the common man in China. Free trade encourages interaction between the Americans doing business in China and their Chinese counterparts. Additionally free trade with China will allow the average Chinese citizen to develop more of his or her own wealth, and the accumulation of personal wealth is the only way people can be independent. An improved standard of living in China will encourage free market principles in that nation and will assist the citizens of China in their effort to gain more freedom. June 24, 1996. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson, U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Representative Johnson: I write to thank you for your support of President Clinton's decision to renew MFN for China this year. On my recent trip to Washington, I met with a number of your congressional colleagues to explain the threats to democratic institutions, human rights and the rule of law in Hong Kong and to urge them not to unintentionally compound the difficulties for Hong Kong in their efforts to punish China for failure to adhere to international norms in a wide range of areas, particularly human rights. I am grateful to Congress for its continued interest in Hong Kong and for the deep concern members have expressed about human rights violations in China. I too have serious concerns about the human rights situation in China and the prospects for safeguarding human rights in Hong Kong after 1997. However, as an elected representative of Hong Kong people, I cannot ignore the damage to Hong Kong that will occur if China's MFN status is not renewed. Because the United States and China are our two largest trading partners, disruptions in trade have a direct impact on Hong Kong's own economy. In the best of times it would be difficult to ride out the storm of a trade dispute between our two largest trading partners, but with the transfer of sovereignty barely a year away, the revocation of China's MFN status would deal an even more serious blow to our economy. Many of Hong Kong's friends in the international community are gravely concerned about China's recent decisions to abolish Hong Kong's elected legislature and replace it with an appointed one, to effectively repeal Hong Kong's Bill of Rights and to erode the independence of our judiciary and civil service. Indeed, many who wish to help Hong Kong by promising China through MFN, were unaware of the devastating effect non-renewal of MFN would have on Hong Kong's economy-- at a time when confidence in Hong Kong is already badly shaken. When explaining the effect of non-renewal of China's MFN status on Hong Kong, I often give the example of a father beating a child. Your first instinct may be to stop such brutality by punching the father in the nose. But when you approach, the child stands in the way, defending father. Do you knock over the child to teach the father a lesson? Hong Kong is like that child. Revoking MFN would hit Hong Kong first--and badly. At a time when Hong Kong people could least recover from such a blow. As you and your congressional colleagues debate China's MFN status in Congress, I hope you will take Hong Kong into account. I thank you once again for your consideration and continuing support for Hong Kong. Sincerely yours, Martin Lee, Chairman, The Democratic Party.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to business in my district, I was absent for rollcall votes 245, 246, and 247. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no'' on rollcall 245, ``yes'' on rollcall 246, and ``yes'' on rollcall 247. I ask unanimous consent that my statement appear at the appropriate place in the Record. A TRIBUTE TO MARINE PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION AS THEY JOIN IN CELEBRATION

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. I think we ought to look back in that testimony and see. I do not know that they can do it with $31 million. It might not make sense. I think that the gentleman from Pennsylvania ought to be the one explaining to me why they can make all these trips with $31 million rather than talking about and trying to excite the public.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, the ATP program was established in 1990 by President Bush. It seems to have worked very well. I do not know what has caused the chairman of this committee to just turn against it and seem like to have closed his mind on it. When the amendment was offered in committee, the majority of the committee members bipartisanly supported it. But he literally went over in committee and intimidated a Member to change his vote. It failed because it was a tie vote. It really says that most of us on this committee really do think about what the future is all about. We really do understand that we have to be a partner in creating these jobs and getting technology that saves money. You know, there are a lot of success stories of the ATP program. They are many, they are varied. But in the health care industry, for example, the ATP program for information infrastructure is assisting the industry in laying the foundation for the efficient use of technology in doctors' offices, hospitals, and clinics by cost- sharing with industry in the development of technologies, to reduce paperwork and bring better health care to rural areas. Many of our rural hospitals are at risk for closing. Mr. Chairman, this is the kind of technology we need. Health care costs about $1 trillion a year in the United States, and the process of information accounts for about 20 percent of that total cost, or about $200 billion annually. If we can get technology to reduce that cost, thereby reducing the cost to individual patients, it is worth that small investment. There are other examples of the ATP process. In Plano, TX, just outside my district but in the district of the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Sam Johnson, there is Microfab Technologies that hired 18 people. But they have come up, a very small company. I do not think you consider 18 people a large company, a big corporation. They have come up with product development from major, other companies. This new technology will significantly reduce hazardous waste. That is significant because soon we will be talking about Superfund reform and reauthorization. I should think we want to save dollars when we have that technology. I think it is not penny-wise but it is pound-foolish for us to just decide arbitrarily, almost single-handedly that we must not partnership for developing technology, bringing about more jobs and reducing costs on things that are done in a way that could be improved with technology. I really regret that we have forgotten that we hold the trust of the people in this country, and we ought to try to bring about these changes because other countries will pass us by and we will pay more for it. Rather than reducing ourselves to personality battles to show who is bigger than the other, that is irresponsible. I think that it is time for us to stop that and decide that we are here with the trust of people. We ought to stand and be responsible for what we are here about, and we cannot do it without these partnerships.