Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to congratulate Southwest Airlines on the 40th anniversary of the airline's first passenger flight on June 18th, 1971. I also commend Herb Kelleher and Rollin King who came up with a vision for a low cost and quick airline. Together they came up with the idea of Southwest Airlines in 1967. Unfortunately, Southwest was forced to hold off on its plans as it was being held in litigation for three and a half years. And on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines started service among Dallas, Houston and San Antonio with three Boeing 737s. Right from the start, Kelleher and Southwest emphasized the business philosophy of taking care of employees first, and they will take care of your customers. In 1973, when Southwest ran into some financial difficulties, they had the choice of either letting go of some of their employees or selling one of their planes. They sold the plane and kept their employees. Kelleher infused Southwest's culture with his personal values-- humbleness, warmth, sincerity and a care and service of people. If you treat people with respect, they will feel valued and add their own personality to whatever they do. If you empower people at all levels of the organization to be able to make decisions, you'll make leaders everywhere. It's about putting the team first and serving the greater good. In May 2008, Kelleher stepped down as the airline's Chairman, but stayed on as an adviser and employee. Kelleher, who turned 80 this year, is chairman emeritus. Mr. Speaker, as a Member of the House Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation and a senior Texan on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am pleased to recognize Southwest Airlines' great contribution to the transportation industry.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, June 18, 2011, the people of Dallas, Texas and the United States suffered a great loss with the passing of Al Lipscomb. Al Lipscomb was a strong community leader, businessman and a devoted public servant. He was never afraid of controversy; he was a true advocate for peace, racial justice, and social equality. He was 86 years old. Mr. Lipscomb was born in East Dallas. He was educated in the Dallas public schools, attending Booker T. Washington High School and graduating from Lincoln High. He joined the Army Air Force in California with the military police in 1943. He returned to Dallas in 1950, married and became the head waiter in the executive dining room of the First National Bank. He was reprimanded by his boss after going to the courthouse to watch Thurgood Marshall file a Dallas school desegregation case. In 1966, he became a neighborhood organizer for the Dallas Community Action Agency. He was also an organizer for the Dallas chapter of Dr. King's Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Al Lipscomb is known for filing a groundbreaking lawsuit that forced Dallas to elect council members by individual districts. He served on the city council for 15 years and was the first black person to run for Dallas mayor. In 1972, Mr. Lipscomb opened the South Dallas Information Center on Pennsylvania Avenue, where he handled a constant stream of phone calls and questions from passersby seeking assistance. The center was supported by donations. He also kept a high profile by making the rounds at public meetings, asking tough questions, and offering suggestions. In 1984, he was elected to the City Council and became a vocal critic of the Dallas Police Department's treatment of minorities. And in the late 1980s, Mr. Lipscomb and Ms. Diane Ragsdale--the only black members of the council--drew national media attention and local death threats. Despite the hostilities toward him, he remained both a critic and a skeptic of the city he loved. ``I see a great change,'' he said. ``I see a great change, a change for the better.'' Al was a man of great commitment. He provided tremendous support for me as a public official. I am deeply grateful for his counsel, support, assistance, and unquestionable trusted friendship. I remember him as being extremely affable, charismatic, and passionate about the needs of community. For all of us he was as one of the most accessible elected officials, always available to listen and reach out to us in addressing complex issues in a hands-on and collaborative fashion. Today, Texas's 30th Congressional District salutes and honors Al Lipscomb. We thank Mr. Lipscomb's wife, Lovie, his children, and his grandchildren for sharing his exuberant and compassionate spirit with us. His family was always supportive and understanding of his commitment. His fight for justice and equality should not, can not, and will not be forgotten.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ms. Lovie Mae Kazee who will turn 95 on July 1, 2011. Ms. Lovie Mae Walker Kazee was born July 1, 1916 to Bob and Gertie Walker in Hearne, Texas. She married Lueranze Kazee on November, 3, 1932 in Marland, Texas. They moved to Dallas in 1944, where she began work as the housekeeper and nanny for The Richard Gump family. She served in that capacity for over 50 years. She retired in 1997 to care for her ailing husband who passed away in 1999 after 67 and a half years of marriage. To this union 10 children, 27 grandchildren, 78 great grandchildren, 138 great great grandchildren and 3 great great great grandchildren have been born. She is blessed to have 5 generations of heirs celebrating her birth. Ms. Lovie attributes her longevity to living a faithful Christian life, putting God first in all that she does, never drinking alcohol, nor smoking and remaining physically active. Ms. Lovie has never been sick and remains an active member of Dallas West Church of Christ. She is the last of the original eight founding members of the congregation, which was started in 1947 and presently meets at 3510 North Hampton Road, Dallas, Texas. Elder Sam Berry is the ministering servant. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ms. Lovie Mae Kazee who turns 95 next month and I encourage my colleagues to join me in this effort and celebration.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a distinguished journalist. On May 12, 2011, Jim Lehrer announced that he is leaving the ``NewsHour'' as a regular anchor effective the week of June 6, the final step in a carefully planned retirement. He said he will still appear many Fridays to moderate an analysis of the week's news. Born in Wichita, Kansas in 1934, Jim Lehrer received an A.A. degree from Victoria College and a B.J. in 1956 from the University of Missouri before joining the Marine Corps. From 1959 to 1966, he was a reporter for The Dallas Morning News and then the Dallas Times-Herald. He was also a political columnist at the Times-Herald for several years and in 1968 became the city editor. Lehrer's newspaper career led him to public television, first in Dallas, as KERA-TV's executive director of public affairs, on-air host and editor of a nightly news program. He subsequently moved to Washington, DC to serve as the public affairs coordinator for PBS, and was also a member of PBS's Journalism Advisory Board and a fellow at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Lehrer went on to join the National Public Affairs Center for Television. (NPACT) as a correspondent. Lehrer has been honored with numerous awards for journalism, including the Chairman's Award at the 2010 National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences News & Documentary Emmy Awards, the 1999 National Humanities Medal, presented by President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and in October 2011, the National Press Club will present him with their top honor, the Fourth Estate Award. In 1999, Lehrer was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame with Robert MacNeil and into The Silver Circle of the Washington, DC Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. He has won two Emmys, the Fred Friendly First Amendment Award, the George Foster Peabody Broadcast Award, and the William Allen White Foundation Award for Journalistic Merit and the University of Missouri School of Journalism's Medal of Honor. In 1991, he was elected as a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jim Lehrer on an extraordinary career. This trailblazing journalist has made a lasting impact on his profession. I thank Jim for his important contributions, and wish him a happy and healthy retirement.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, first, again, I want to congratulate those Dallas Mavericks for winning the NBA championship, and also to rise in opposition to the Republican plan to end Medicare. The Republican budget replaces Medicare with an underfunded voucher system that eliminates the guaranteed Medicare benefit for everyone under the age of 55. In the Dallas and north Texas region, the Republican plan would increase the out-of-pocket costs of health care coverage by over $6,000 per year for 630,000 individuals under 55. The Republican plan would immediately cut benefits and would require seniors in my congressional district to pay an extra $47 million for prescription drugs over the next decade. I urge my colleagues to protect our seniors and defend them against these reckless attacks on their health care and economic security, and also their peace of mind.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Dallas Mavericks, on winning the 2011 National Basketball Association Championship. This is the organization's first NBA World Championship title. I congratulate team owner Mark Cuban, Coach Rick Carlisle, his staff, and the entire Maverick organization for their accomplishment in winning basketball's coveted Larry O'Brien championship trophy. I also congratulate the team's captain, Dirk Nowitzki, on being named the recipient of the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award. The Maverick's success is a result of contributions by the entire team, including players Jose Barea, Rodrigue Beaubois, Corey Brewer, Caron Butler, Brian Cardinal, Tyson Chandler, Brendan Haywood, Dominique Jones, Jason Kidd, Ian Mahinmi, Shawn Marion, DeShawn Stevenson, Peja Stojakovic, and Jason Terry; head coach Rick Carlisle, and assistant coaches Terry Stotts, Dwane Casey, Darrell Armstrong, Monte Mathis and Robert Hackett, head athletic trainer Casey Smith, and assistant trainer Dionne Calhoun, led the Mavericks to their first NBA championship by stressing teamwork and determination. The Mavericks have such a loyal following not only because they are champions on the court, but because they are champions in the community as well. The Dallas Mavericks possess a strong sense of social responsibility, acknowledging that a community is only as strong as its weakest link. The team displays a strong commitment to the community through its foundation. The Dallas Mavericks Foundation is dedicated to inspiring and motivating youth to take their education seriously, strive for healthy bodies and minds, become involved in community service activities, set personal goals, visualize their dreams and take responsibility for their own lives and neighborhoods. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating each member of the 2011 NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks for their many victories on the court and in the community. They are champions to their sports fans, to beneficiaries of their Foundation, and to the entire Dallas community. We thank them for bringing the NBA championship trophy where it belongs--the American Airlines Center located in the heart of the 30th Congressional District of Texas.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss how the proposed Republican policies will harm our seniors. Republicans are attacking our seniors' most vital support systems. The Republican budget would replace Medicare with an underfunded voucher system that eliminates guaranteed Medicare benefits. Private insurance companies, which would be much more expensive than traditional Medicare, would be in charge of seniors' health care for those currently under the age of 55. It is estimated that seniors' health care costs would increase by more than $6,000 a year and costs would continue to skyrocket over time. Republicans have claimed that their budget does not affect current Medicare beneficiaries; however, this claim is false. In fact, the Republican proposal would immediately cut benefits and would require seniors to pay more out-of-pocket for prescription drugs. With respect to Medicaid, the Republican budget would cut almost $800 billion dollars over the next decade. Currently, Medicaid is the primary payer for nursing home care; massive cuts in this area would result in staffing shortages and reduced care quality. At a time where our seniors are struggling to stay afloat in an unstable and unpredictable economy, we should be creating policies that will protect them instead of proposing policies that will place them in harm's way. Balancing the budget on the backs of seniors is reprehensible to say the least. We must fight for our nation's seniors and defend them against these reckless attacks on their health, economic security, and peace of mind.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Dallas Mavericks on winning the 2011 National Basketball Association Championship. This is the organization's first NBA world championship title, and I congratulate the team owner, Mark Cuban, Coach Rick Carlisle, his staff, and the entire Mavericks organization on this great accomplishment. I also congratulate the team's captain, Dirk Nowitzki, on being named the recipient of the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award, so much deserved. The Mavericks also display a strong commitment to the Dallas community through its foundation. The Dallas Mavericks Foundation is dedicated to inspiring and motivating our youth to take their education seriously and to strive for healthy bodies and minds. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating each member of the 2011 NBA Championship Dallas Mavericks for their very many victories, but their very first championship, the champions of our community.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the legacy of an exceptional public servant, Lindy Boggs. The former Congresswoman and Ambassador celebrated her 95th birthday earlier this year. As the first women elected to Congress from Louisiana, Lindy Boggs served as a Member of the House of Representatives for 17 years. However, her political involvement and dedication to public service began long before that election. Lindy Boggs was greatly involved in the political campaigns and Congressional work of her late-husband, Hale Boggs. Following his presumed death in 1973, Lindy Boggs was elected to his seat and went on to represent the 2nd Congressional District of Louisiana with distinction. Congresswoman Boggs helped cofound the Congressional Women's Caucus and played an instrumental role in creating the Select Committee on Children, Youth, and Families. Known for compassion and kindness, Lindy Boggs was a leader in the halls of Congress, and served as a strong proponent of economic and social equality for women and girls. Following her retirement from Congress, Lindy Boggs went on to serve as Ambassador to the Vatican. Throughout her career, Lindy Boggs has remained extremely dedicated to her family. The success of her children is a testament to that dedication. Although I did not have the honor of serving in the House with Congresswoman Boggs, her leadership and legacy have left their mark for every women in Congress. Lindy Boggs has served this country with honor and I wish her well on the occasion of her 95th birthday.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Cedric Allen, a leader in helping to support struggling families and an instrumental person in the battle against premature births, birth defects, and unhealthy pregnancies. Cedric lives in Allen, Texas, a suburb just north of Dallas, and serves as a security officer at the Trammel Crow Center in downtown Dallas. During his high school years in Mansfield, Louisiana, Cedric had a brief interaction with the March of Dimes. Throughout the progression of his adulthood he saw many people that he knew personally have premature births. It was then that Cedric knew that he had to make a difference. He rose to become an advocate for the March of Dimes. Raising over $250,000 for the March of Dimes foundation, Cedric has become the top individual fundraiser for the March of Dimes Dallas Division for the past 14 years. Cedric has also been ranked as the no. 4 walker in the state of Texas and ranks 12th in the nation. Cedric understands the importance of research for pregnancies and infant health. Prematurity is the leading cause of death before one year of age. 1 out of 7 babies are born prematurely in Texas each year compared to 1 out of 8 babies throughout the U.S. Premature birth can have lifelong consequences including cerebral palsy, hearing, vision and breathing problems. Cedric continues to work towards advancing research and community programs belonging to the March of Dimes. Hundreds have benefited from Cedric's tireless efforts at fundraising and his many other contributions. Mr. Speaker, I take great pride in joining his friends and colleagues to salute an extraordinary leader, Cedric Allen.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the late Governor Bill Clements. Governor Clements leaves behind a deep legacy as an entrepreneur, leader, and public servant. A true Texan, Governor Clements was known for his direct style, dedication and drive. A native of Dallas, Governor Clements was a graduate and great supporter of Southern Methodist University (SMU). A proud Texan and patriot, he proudly served his country during World War II in the Army Corps of Engineers. In the 1940s, he helped found SEDCO, which at the time was one of the biggest oil drilling contractors in the world. Governor Clements began his political career serving as Deputy Secretary of Defense from 1971-1977. Thought of as the father of Texas conservatism, Bill Clements became the first Republican Governor of Texas since Reconstruction when elected in 1978. He went on to serve a total of 8 years as the Governor of Texas. An indelible personality, Governor Clements certainly left his mark on Texas politics. He did what he felt was right for the State, and stood by those convictions. Governor Clements never forgot his roots and remained dedicated to the Dallas community throughout his life. In 2009, he donated $100 million to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. This represents the largest civic donation in Dallas history. Governor Clements passed away this weekend at the age of 94. He is survived by his wife Rita, and his daughter. I offer my condolences to them, and his many friends and family. His many contributions to the State of Texas and to America will not be forgotten.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 1082, the Small Business Additional Temporary Extension Act of 2011. I commend this legislation, which will provide for an additional temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, including the SBIR and STTR programs. We all recognize the important role that small businesses play in fueling technological innovation and creating jobs in the United States. That being the case, we should be doing what we can to foster a vibrant small business community and give our small businesses the tools that they need to succeed. The SBIR and STTR programs are such tools--they have been critically important programs for fostering innovation by small businesses. Through these two competitive programs, the Small Business Administration ensures that the nation's small, high-tech, innovative businesses are a significant part of the federal government's research and development efforts. Providing more than 50,000 patents since its inception, the SBIR is the nation's largest source of early stage research and development funding. Unfortunately, the SBIR and STTR programs are set to expire tonight. This short-term extension of the SBIR and STTR programs will provide for the continuation of these important programs as we continue our efforts to enact a comprehensive, long-term reauthorization. Extending the programs by four months will give us the time we need to resolve the few remaining issues, including the establishment of a formal outreach program for women and minority-owned small businesses. Increasing participation is one of the stated goals of the SBIR program, and one for which the National Academies found a decidedly mixed track record. As we continue our efforts to keep our economy on the path to recovery, it is more important than ever that we recommit ourselves to these programs and get a comprehensive reauthorization bill enacted. In the meantime, I urge my colleagues to support the Small Business Additional Temporary Extension Act of 2011.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I requested and received a leave of absence on May 13, 2011. For the information of our colleagues and my constituents, below is how I would have voted on the following votes I missed during the day. On rollcall vote No. 323, Rogers Amendment that would clarify that Section 411 of the bill, which provides certain authorities for Defense Intelligence Agency expenditures, I would have voted ``no.'' On rollcall vote No. 324, Gibson Amendment that would require the Director of National Intelligence to submit to Congress a report containing recommendations the Director considers appropriate for consolidating the intelligence community, I would have voted ``no.'' On rollcall vote No. 325, Hinchey Amendment that would require the Director of National Intelligence, DNI, to report to the House and Senate Intelligence panels on information it has regarding the human rights violations of the military government in Argentina that resulted in 30,000 disappearances between the mid-1970's and mid-1980's, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall vote No. 326, Carney Amendment that would establish the sense of Congress that railway transportation should be included in transportation security plans for intelligence agencies, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall vote No. 327, Reed Amendment that would commend the United States intelligence community for their successful operation in bringing Osama bin Laden to justice and their continued efforts against al Qaeda, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall vote No. 328, on Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 754, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall vote No. 329, on final passage of H.R. 754, Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011, I would have voted ``yes.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Southern Methodist University (SMU) on the occasion of their Centennial Celebration. I am a proud alumnus of SMU, and look forward to their four-year celebration to commemorate this anniversary. SMU has made amazing strides over the past century, rising from a small rural college to an internationally renowned university. From its founding in 1911 till today, SMU has graduated more than 100,000 alumni. The outstanding achievement and leadership of those alumni serves as a testament to SMU's tradition of success. With seven different schools, SMU ranks as one of the best universities in the Nation. The Cox School of Business is routinely ranked in the top 25 business schools in the United States. In addition to twelve alumni who are past and present Members of the U.S. Congress, SMU has graduated such notable individuals as: John Tyson, CEO of Tyson Foods; former- First Lady, Laura Bush; Lamar Hunt, founder of the American Football League; Harriet Miers, former-White House Counsel and Supreme Court nominee; James Cronin, Nobel Prize winning physicist; Mary Ellen Weber, NASA astronaut; and Karen Hughes, former Under Secretary of State. For these well-know alumni, myself, and thousands of former and current students, SMU holds a special place in our hearts. There is a strong sense of pride amongst the SMU community, and the values we learned in school have stayed with us throughout our lives. We were and always will be SMU Mustangs. With an eye towards the next generation, SMU is not only celebrating the past, but planning for the future. This Centennial Celebration will serve as a time to ensure the next hundred years are even more successful than the first one hundred. I congratulate SMU, its faculty, staff, supporters and alumni on this monumental occasion. I look forward to continued involvement with SMU, and hope we can work together to ensure outstanding achievement for the University in the years to come.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Keller Williams Realty, Inc., a real estate franchise organization which has recognized a significant need to give back to communities. In 2008, Keller Williams Realty designated and sponsored one day that year to encourage and allow its employees and associates, and other real estate professionals and members of the community, to sponsor and conduct charitable acts, and named and marketed that day as RED Day. RED stands for Renew Energize Donate. RED Day has inspired thousands of real estate professionals across America to volunteer in their local communities. Keller Williams Reality Inc. which is located in my home State of Texas, should be commended for performing charitable acts within the communities where its franchises operate. Keller Williams Realty is committed to maintaining, growing and celebrating RED Day every year and RED Day has contributed over one- hundred and fifty thousand hours of volunteer service in a single day in the past year alone. RED Day volunteers have helped rebuild houses, nursing homes, children's camps, animal shelters, clean parks and provide meals and activities for the elderly. The scope of the RED Day projects has been limitless. Mr. Speaker, RED Day volunteers model the best in citizenship and create a climate of goodwill that lasts far beyond one day a year. I ask my fellow colleagues today to join me in honoring RED day.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss Democratic initiatives for creating jobs and rebuilding the economy. While Republicans were busy voting to end Medicare in order to give more tax breaks to big oil, they forgot one important task--job creation. With the fragile economy just beginning to recover, Americans cannot afford the Republicans' reckless ``So Be It'' attitude toward job creation. Their failure to propose a single jobs bill after more than four months in the majority is alarming and is indicative of a general lack of concern for the needs of our constituents. Under the Obama administration, almost 2 million jobs have been created over the last 15 months. The 244,000 total jobs added last month is the largest in nearly a year, with broad-based gains in retail trade, manufacturing, health care, leisure and hospitality, and professional and business services. While this is an impressive feat, we need to dig deeper in order to replace the 8 million jobs that we lost during the Bush Administration. The African American community continues to bear the brunt of the unemployment crisis; close to 16 percent of African Americans are out of work and still looking for jobs. In some cities, African American unemployment rates have hit Depression levels. This is unacceptable. The American people have spoken and Democrats are listening; job creation is the key to economic recovery and growth. Democrats' ``Make It in America'' agenda is a powerful initiative based on the conviction that when more products are made in America, more families will be able to make it in America. This comprehensive domestic manufacturing strategy is about investing in innovation and clean energy, helping our small businesses and workers compete, rebuilding America, and keeping jobs here at home. For example, the Make It in America Block Grant Act establishes a grant program at the Commerce Department to provide small to medium- sized businesses, in communities hardest hit by unemployment, with the resources and strategies they need to transition to the manufacturing of clean energy, high technology, and advanced products. Equally promising is the Job Opportunities Between Our Shores Act, which establishes a Workforce Investment Act pilot program to provide education and training programs in advanced manufacturing. These bills, along with other Democratic initiatives, prove that Democrats are listening to the American people as they continue to ask, ``Where are the jobs?''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON. Mr. Speaker, due to a conflicting engagement at the White House I was absent during the votes on H. Res. 264 and H. Con. Res. 50. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on both measures.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 90th birthday of Mrs. Maura McNiel, a leading women's rights activist whose legacy impacts women in Dallas and all over the United States. Maura McNiel was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on April 4, 1929 and grew up inspired by integration in Minneapolis-area schools. She moved to Dallas in 1953 and, dedicated to improve the lives of people and the world around her, became involved in the civil rights movement and environmental issues. Soon after, Ms. McNiel immersed herself in the feminist cause, for which she is applauded today. The list of Ms. McNiel's activities to improve the lives of others are endless: She spoke to reporters, politicians, organization leaders, and others and had a strong impact wherever she went. She founded Women for Change in 1971, the first women's center in Dallas, and then helped organize the Rape Crisis Center, the National Organization of Women and People for the American Way, Women's Coalition, Family Place (for battered women), the Southwest Credit Union, The Dallas Commission on the Status of Women and the Women's Issues Network. But it was the personal touch she brought to her efforts that made each one a success. She famously informed the all-male Rotary Club that just as birds flew better with two wings, marriages worked better as a partnership where both husband and wife shared responsibilities and demands. As her dialogue indicates, her approach was not antagonistic; rather, it was based upon building relationships. And that she did, with the Dallas City Hall, news organizations, and many, many others. It was this both passionate and rational approach to women's rights that enabled her to successfully fight for Title IX in 1972, which expanded women's education opportunities. She understood that the success of a movement lies not just on its present, but also its future. More importantly, she knew the importance of following words with action and personal sacrifice. As founding president of Women for Change, which created the first sanctuaries for family abuse victims, Maura took the lead by hosting the first woman in her own home. A wonderful mother, Sunday school teacher, community leader, effective activist, Maura McNiel's work has led to achievements in women's studies, modern social work, advocacy on behalf of abused women, promotion of the Equal Rights Amendment, and passage of Title IX. As her representative in Congress, it is my distinct pleasure to honor her today on the floor of the United States House of Representatives. I ask my colleagues to join Maura McNiel's family and friends in wishing her a blessed 90th birthday and continued health and happiness in the years to come.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor our nation's teachers during National Teacher Appreciation Week, which is being held this year May 1st-7th. This is a time to express our thanks and admiration for the more than 3 million teachers in the United States. I encourage everyone to express their appreciation for those teachers who have touched their lives or the lives of their children. Teachers are heroes in our communities, shaping the next generation of great minds. No great leader, scientist, or artist would be where they are today without the influence of caring and dedicated teachers. Thurgood Marshall once said, ``None of us got where we are solely by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps. We got here because somebody--a parent, a teacher, an Ivy League crony or a few nuns--bent down and helped us pick up our boots.'' There is perhaps no other occupation that influences the fabric of our society more than teachers, and we are fortunate to have this week dedicated to recognizing their contributions. I am particularly proud of our teachers from my home state of Texas-- serving as motivators and mentors for our future leaders. I remain dedicated to working in Congress to ensure that Texas teachers and all teachers have the resources necessary to successfully prepare our Nation's youth for a successful future.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Hilton Kelley, a leader in the battle for environmental justice on the Texas Gulf Coast. Hilton Kelley is an advocate for communities living in the shadow of polluting industries. A life-long resident of Port Arthur, Texas, Hilton joined the Navy which eventually brought him to the San Francisco Bay Area where he began working as a stunt man and actor on several major movies and television shows including CBS's Nash Bridges. During a visit home, 21 years after he left Port Arthur, Hilton found his community sickened by industrial pollution and on the brink of economic collapse. Hilton realized then that in order to save his community, he needed to first tackle the environmental problems first. He launched Community In-power and Development Association, CIDA, and began training local residents to monitor air quality. As a result of Hilton's advocacy, the local refinery installed state-of-the-art equipment to reduce harmful emissions and also negotiated with them a $3.5 million fund to help entrepreneurs launch new businesses in the community. Hilton recognizes the disproportionate burden from pollution on communities of color, low-income people and indigenous communities needs to be reduced. These Americans are experiencing the highest rates of morbidity and/or death from asthma, cancer, learning disabilities, lead poisoning, lupus, and several other diseases. Hilton continues to work tirelessly to bring attention to the disproportionate burden of pollution on the most vulnerable members of our society advocating for regulations on the Gulf Coast and serving on the EPA's National Environment Justice Advisory Council. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Hilton Kelley for his determination and hard work to these causes. Our country is a better one because of Hilton Kelley.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chair, I rise today to speak in opposition to the Fiscal Year 2012 Budget Resolution that is before the House today, H. Con. Res. 34. As a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and as a Texan that cares deeply about adequately providing for our Nation's Transportation system, I cannot support the Republican Budget proposal that has been brought before us today. I share my colleague's concern regarding our national debt but this irresponsible bill makes drastic cuts to our Nation's infrastructure that will harm the American economy in the long run. This bill cuts nationwide funding for highway, safety, and public transportation investments over the next six years from $331 billion to $219 billion. This drastic cut of more than $100 billion over six years of Highway funding means that the State of Texas alone will lose over $1.9 billion in Highway funding at a time when revenue from the Highway Trust Fund is stretched thinner than ever. Additionally, assuming the widely accepted 2007 Federal Highway Administration model that every $1 billion of federal highway-aid investment creates or sustains 34,779 jobs over a seven-year period, this bill would destroy more than 490,000 jobs at a time when Congress should be helping grow and strengthen our economy, not stifling it as this Republican budget does. I am proud to support the Congressional Black Caucus Alternative Budget for 2012 that does honor our country's commitment to support and invest not only in transportation and infrastructure but also in education, job training, and research and development for Science and Technology. I must emphasize that our future economic growth, and therefore our ability to reduce our debt in the future, is tied very strongly to the investments we make in science and innovation today. Although the cuts to our Nation's Science programs are much less severe in the FY 2011 Continuing Resolution than H.R. 1, they still are damaging to our Science agencies, especially considering that current fiscal year is already half over. Across the world, growth in jobs in Science and Technology are increasing at a high rate and America should be supplying an adequate education and training for talented people to enter these industries. We are jeopardizing our country's future by threatening funding for programs which are helping American students develop the right combination of skills for these jobs. Mr. Chair, we cannot afford to shut the doors on America's ability to compete in these growing industries and we cannot afford to stifle maintaining and growing our transportation system by neglecting much needed investment in these sectors. I urge my colleagues to support the Democratic alternative budget that is before us and reject the Republican budget that destroys jobs and is no plan for the future.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a friend of mine, a maverick, a community visionary, a leader, and a true Texan and recognize the achievements and outstanding service of a very special person, Senfronia Thompson. Senfronia will be ``roasted'' by the Texas Southern University and Governor Rick Perry, Speaker Joe Straus, Senators Rodney Ellis and John Whitmire, Representative Sylvester Turner, former Representative Debra Danburg, former Representative Mark Stiles and others to raise funds for a wonderful cause, the Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP) administered by The Mickey Leland Center at the University. The event will be held at the Mickey Leland Center at Texas Southern University on April 11, 2011, at the University of Texas Alumni Center. The TLIP is a premier internship program that introduces the best and brightest of our Texas youth to the innerworkings of government and the true value of public service. The program, developed in 1990, is sponsored by Senator Rodney Ellis. Since its inception, more than 400 students accepted into the TLIP program have interned with members of the Texas Legislature, the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. This year, 63 interns are working in and around the Texas State Capitol during the current legislative session. In 1973, Senfronia Thompson was elected to the Texas State House of Representatives from Houston. She has continued to serve her constituents in honor ever since. She now ranks as the longest-serving woman and the longest-serving African-American in Texas State legislature history. Representative Thompson authored and passed Texas' first alimony law, the James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Act, laws prohibiting racial profiling, the state minimum wage, the Durable Powers of Attorney Act, the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act, the Sexual Assault Program Fund, the Model School Records Flagging Act, the Uniform Child Custody and Jurisdiction Enforcement Act, contraceptive parity, prohibiting small print in cell phone ads, and scores of other reforms benefiting women, children and the elderly. The former chair of one of the Legislature's most active committees, Judicial Affairs, Representative Thompson pushed through major reforms in child support enforcement, simplified probate proceedings, and complete overhauls of statutes dealing with statutory courts and municipal courts. Representative Thompson continues to be among the most successful House members in passing bills into laws. Representative Thompson has been in the forefront of every major campaign against discrimination in the last three decades. Ms. Thompson has among the highest ranks of any legislator for her voting record on issues of concern to women, minorities, labor, consumers, reform advocates, domestic violence victims, the elderly, teachers and civil libertarians. Among many other honors, she was named ``Woman of the Year'' by bipartisan Texas Women's Political Caucus in 1995. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to call Senfronia Thompson my friend and my colleague in public service. I had the pleasure of serving beside Senfronia Thompson, a champion of civic participation, when we were both freshman legislators together in 1973. It was an honor to serve with her then and it is an honor for me to be able to recognize her today. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and thanking Representative Thompson for her extraordinary service to Texas and our country.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Chairman Ralph Hall joins me as I rise today to recognize this week's 30th anniversary of the first flight of the Space Shuttle. On April 12, 1981, Space Shuttle Columbia was successfully launched from the Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A at 7 a.m. Under the capable control of Commander John W. Young and pilot Robert L. Crippen, the STS-1 mission showed that a safe launch into orbit and safe return of the orbiter and crew was possible. In performing the test flight, Space Shuttle Columbia traveled over 1 million miles at an orbital altitude of 166 nautical miles. This was the first of over 130 shuttle missions over a period of 30 years during which astronauts recovered and repaired satellites including the Hubble Space Telescope, conducted cutting-edge research, and built and supported the largest structure in space, the International Space Station. Mr. Speaker, on this 30th anniversary of the first flight of the Space Shuttle, we are also on the verge of retiring the Space Shuttle fleet. It is appropriate to honor the brave individuals who have paid the ultimate price so that the Nation could pursue its goals, vision, and leadership in human spaceflight and exploration and to recognize the bravery and heroism of all astronauts who have flown on the Space Shuttle. It is also appropriate to acknowledge the tireless and dedicated work of the men and women of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (``NASA''), its field centers, and its contractors without whom these achievements would not have been possible. The Space Shuttle has been a source of pride and inspiration for the American people. It sparked interest in many fields of engineering and science which benefitted the United States economy, inspired successive generations, and contributed to our leadership in science and technology. We must continue to provide our children and grandchildren with a similar source of inspiration. As the chapter on the Space Shuttle closes later this year, a new chapter in the book of human exploration begins. Today, unlike 30 years ago, our leadership in space is being contested by many other nations. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in reaffirming our support for NASA and in committing to a robust national program of human space flight and exploration. That will be the best way to mark this historic anniversary.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, understanding the basics regarding risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer, has made a positive continuous journey towards better management and victory over the disease. The American Cancer Society in 2010 estimated that among U.S. women there would be more than 207,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and nearly 40,000 breast cancer deaths. However, despite the alarming numbers, there remains hope for a cure of this disease. Because of the efforts of Nancy G. Brinker who lost her sister to the fight of breast cancer, Ms. Brinker has done everything in her power to fulfill her promise of ending breast cancer forever. And, I am proud that the Susan G. Komen for the Cure', is headquartered in my District, the 30th Congressional District of Texas. Beyond leading the charge of eradicating breast cancer for women in the United States, Susan G. Komen for the Cure' remains the premier global leader at the forefront of the breast cancer movement since their 1982 inception. Komen has significantly contributed to the advancement of breast cancer research, education, advocacy, health services and social support programs in the United States and through partnerships in more than 50 countries as sustained by more than 100,000 volunteers who work in a network of 124 affiliates worldwide. Further, the organization is attributed to investing more than $1.9 billion to the fight for breast cancer for women. I applaud the Susan G. Komen for the Cure' for their accomplishments, dedication, and commitment to unparalleled breast cancer advocacy efforts. As global citizens, by educating women about the available predictive screening and preventive care, we can successfully help our women, mothers, sisters and daughters to live longer, healthier lives.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to honor his legacy and recognize the innumerous Americans who continue along the path he paved towards justice and liberty for all citizens. It is rare that one person can change the fate of our Nation; however Dr. King was able to do just that. Dr. King relied on his relationship with God and his faith in justice to articulate his vision for America in a way that touched the hearts and minds of the American public. Dr. King called on all of us to no longer stand alone in silence, but to stand up together as a voice against injustice. He inspired us to fight for change through nonviolent means, and paved the road for us to continue that fight even after his death. Few people would sacrifice time and energy for loved ones, fewer for strangers, yet Dr. King humbled himself to do just that. He ultimately sacrificed his life and his family sacrificed their patriarch for the struggle towards political justice for all Americans. Today we pay homage for their selflessness and publicly thank them for their commitments to humanity. Dr. King left us with the challenge to courageously fight and secure the civil rights for all, from the impoverished and disenfranchised underclass to the politically and economically endowed. Although his challenge was issued 40 years ago, we still have not fully realized his noble request. Today, that legacy is as much about the past as it is about the future. Dr. King's dream is truly timeless, and I hope that our next generation will find inspiration in his faith and vision.