Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is with the utmost respect and admiration for the late Senator Robert Carlyle Byrd that I recognize his passing. Senator Byrd was known as a man of the people. He dedicated his life's work to the American citizens and his beloved constituency in the Mountain State of West Virginia. Born November 20, 1917 in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, the young Byrd moved with family to West Virginia where he grew up and would later meet his soon to be wife, Erma Ora James. Their marriage spanned more than six decades until her death in 2006. Initially, he was unable to afford college, but eventually attended Beckley College, Concord College, Morris Harvey College, and Marshall College, all in West Virginia. Senator Byrd's public service career began after he won a seat in the West Virginia House of Delegates in 1946. Six years later, he was elected to the United States House of Representatives. It was during this time he began night classes at American University's Washington College of Law in 1953. With a tenacious spirit and made up mind, he would earn his law degree some ten years later in 1963. Along the course of his professional and academic career, Byrd was elected to the United States Senate and would serve 51 years making him the longest serving senator in history. His time in office was well- spent and fruitful where he would serve in a myriad of leadership roles. Most notably: President Pro Tempore of the United States Senate; Democratic Caucus Senate Majority leader; Senate Minority leader; and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations. Senator Byrd, like many of us, lived a full life filled with high peaks and valleys low. I too, had some reservations about meeting this one-time member of the Klu Klux Klan who for 14 hours filibustered the Civil Rights Act of 1964. But, when our paths crossed, I soon learned of the great character of man he truly was. He believed whole-heartedly in the United States Constitution and a clear demonstration was the pocket version he always carried in his coat pocket. Another love he had was for taking afternoon walks on the West Front side of the Capitol. It was during that time of day where I knew I could find him whenever I needed to seek the voice of wisdom. Mr. Speaker, I will miss those afternoon strolls with the Historian of the Senate. Senator Byrd loved the American people, loved his state and loved our great nation. Although he no longer is with us on the terrestrial, his legacy will live deeply within the halls of Congress and in the hearts of humanity.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my strong support for the passage of H.R. 5618, the Restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act. Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefits have expired as of June 1st, leaving millions of Americans without the financial lifeline they rely upon. Each week that Congress fails to pass this extension, another 200,000 Americans lose their benefits. These are not people freeloading off the government. They had jobs, and the years that they worked are reflected in the weeks of benefits they receive. They are also required to look for work in order to receive benefits. With a 9.9% unemployment rate, job prospects remain dismal for the unemployed. With hundreds of applicants for each opening, some hiring managers have even gone so far to exclude the unemployed from applying within their job advertisements. Without this extension hundreds of thousands of Americans will fall into poverty. Many more will have to make the excruciating choice between basic needs for their family; choices such as going without food or medicine in order to pay the rent or mortgage. Economists have pointed to the economic value of unemployment insurance benefits. These are dollars that are going back into the market, raising consumption and creating jobs. If we allow millions of Americans to slip into economic peril, it will only serve to hurt the economy and stall the recovery. This is economically important and ethically important, and I fully support the immediate passage of the restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefits.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 402, 403, 404, and 405, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on each.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, we continue to see a growing sign of economic recovery resulting from the economic policies of the Democratic Congress and the Obama administration responding to the Bush recession and the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. More must be done to create jobs and save jobs, but the latest signs of recovery include: Industrial production has increased a cumulative 8.1 percent during the last 11 months, the largest 11-month gain since 1997. Total industrial production rose 1.2 percent in May. The increase, slightly above market expectations, was led by a strong .9 percent growth in manufacturing output. Industrial production has grown at a rate of 7.4 percent annually for this past quarter, on the heels of 7.6 percent annualized growth in the first quarter. Madam Speaker, we are on our way in the right direction.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, let me begin my thanking my friend and colleague, the gentlewoman from Ohio, Congresswoman Fudge, for anchoring once again tonight's Congressional Black Caucus' special hour. This Congress and President Obama have made tough choices and taken effective steps to bring our economy back from the brink of disaster. The Recovery Act has already saved or created up to 2.8 million jobs and much of the TARP funding repaid. Now we are taking another key step forward with a final agreement on the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. For many months now, members of the Congressional Black Caucus continue to be laser focused on financial reform. We have sought to engage the Obama administration, House and Senate leadership, committee chairs, and our coalition partners to develop a legislative strategy aimed at addressing the needs of millions of Americans who are struggling in this tough, economic environment. Mr. Speaker, we must reform Wall Street to end risky practices that have caused millions of Americans to lose their jobs, their homes, and life savings. The House passed a financial reform bill that will protect consumers and prevent the irresponsible behavior that caused the financial melt down. I was proud to join a majority of my colleagues in this body in supporting passage of Wall Street. We are committed to protect American families and their savings. We ended the practice of ``too big to fail.'' We established safeguards to ensure that the abuses of the past are never again repeated. Mr. Speaker, the House made Wall Street reform a priority. Every day of delay is one more opportunity for a recurrence of economic uncertainty and even collapse. Last Thursday's roller coaster on the stock market was a clear reminder that we cannot allow a willful lack of responsible oversight to expose American families, American business, and our whole economy to such potential risk. Mr. Speaker, Members of Congressional Black Caucus continue to support the efforts to reform Wall Street.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, every year Newsweek magazine selects the best high schools in America. For the third time in four years, the School for the Talented and Gifted at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center located in Dallas ranks number one. The school is part of the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) that enrolls students in grades nine through twelve. Known for its intimate student-to-teacher ratio and progressive liberal arts Advanced Placement Program, the School for the Talented and Gifted is an ideal learning environment. With a total of 277 students, Townview Magnet Center's mission is to ``educate and graduate students who are college ready and who will be successful in college''. This year, the 2010 senior class students combined earned scholarship and grant offers summing to approximately $12.5 million. Furthermore, Townview is comprised of six different schools of concentration to include: (1) the School for the Talented and Gifted; (2) the School of Science and Engineering; (3) the School of Business and Management; (4) the School of Health Professions; (5) the School of Education and Social Services; and (6) the School of Government and Law. Madam Speaker, this public college preparatory magnet secondary school is applauded for its tremendous accomplishments, superb students, and committed faculty.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss a very important matter, job creation. 2010 has shown that America is slowly getting back to its feet in terms of recovery. The newest job numbers indicate that over 419,000 jobs were created last month. According to a recent Associated Press release, Texas has the greatest amount of job creation in 2010. Texas employers expanded payrolls by 43,600 during the month of May, making it the State's largest monthly gain in more than 3 years. Companies like American Airlines, AT&T, and Texas Instruments are creating jobs in my district because north Texas is a good place to do business. As a country, we are getting stronger and stronger, but we still have a long ways to go. We must continue to invest in American businesses and in the American people. I urge my colleagues both in the House and Senate to come together to enact policies that create and encourage job creation.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of National Homeownership Month. This month marks the 42nd anniversary of the landmark 1968 Fair Housing Act which opened the dialogue of equal homeowner opportunities and growth. National Homeownership Month continues its same principles by promoting the very core of American values of fairness, opportunity, and growth. National Homeownership Month reflects the importance of homeownership and the American dream. For most Americans, owning their own home will be their largest and most significant financial investment. It represents security, builds neighborhood pride, and is essential in creating positive productive communities. National Homeownership Month reaffirms the importance of homeownership in the Nation's economy and its central role in our national economic recovery. Home affordability and financial education is the key to overcoming the housing crisis and promote good housing practices and policies. Financial education not only directly benefits American families, but, in turn, helps to ensure a robust and strong economy. Mr. Speaker, it is vital that we continue to empower people of all races, economic status, and backgrounds who desire to own their own home. It is a valuable stabilizer for both families and communities.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of the conclusion of the United Sates-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security and expressing appreciation to the Government of Japan and the Japanese people for enhancing peace, prosperity, and security in the Asia-Pacific region. The U.S.-Japan alliance has been tremendously beneficial to our two nations. It has affirmed our shared values and bolstered peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. This year, on the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the United Sates-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security, we have the chance to celebrate all our two nations have achieved and all we will achieve in the future. Since its inception, the U.S.-Japan alliance has had to deal with an increasingly unpredictable global security landscape. Throughout decades of Cold War to more recent terrorist threats, our alliance has remained strong. This lends a context of security that has allowed the Asia-Pacific region to thrive. Thanks to this important alliance, we can anticipate greater international cooperation in the future, both within Asia and between Asia and the U.S. Another reason our alliance with Japan has been and continues to be so effective is that it is supported by our two countries' common democratic and humanitarian values. In 2009, both Japan and the U.S. ranked among the top five nations providing foreign aid. In honoring what this alliance has done for both our great nations, we are also reiterating our commitment to provide needed humanitarian relief in the Asian-Pacific region and all over the world. Madam Speaker, I am proud to support this resolution honoring our alliance with Japan and expressing our heartfelt thanks to the government of Japan and the Japanese people.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, the Magazine of the Associated General Contractors of America proudly recognizes the new Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House and the AT&T Performing Arts Center Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre in Dallas, TX. Both buildings received an Aon Build America Award for their pioneering projects, commitment to safety, and community outreach. The one-of-a-kind 80,000- sq-ft AT&T Performing Arts Center Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre wins in the ``Building New'' category. Complimentary, the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House is the grand award winner for ``Construction Management New.'' The eye-catching opera house is built in the center of Dallas' arts district which anchors the AT&T Performing Arts Center Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre. The complexity and stunning aesthetics of the Dallas Opera House, constructed by Linbeck Group, received AGC's highest award. This European style opera house, built at $197 million, includes a performance hall that accommodates opera, musical theater, ballet, and many other dance forms. One of the most visually stunning elements in the theater is the red glass wall panels that encase the performance hall. This red curtain wall is made up of a shocking 1,100 glass panels. It includes a great feature that allows three operable sections to be lowered opening the building to the outdoors. For more than two decades these impressive awards were given to projects selected by a panel of tough critics and contractors. Now, Dallas can cheerfully accept this award and relish in their ``job well done!''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is well known that one of the most important factors in access to medical care is health insurance. Recent Center of Disease Control and Prevention data show that young men are 36 percent more likely to be uninsured than young women. Additionally, young adults without insurance are four times as likely as those with private insurance to have unmet medical needs. However, even when young men have insurance, they are less likely to seek medical care. Less than 60 percent of young men with Medicaid coverage had an annual doctor visit, compared to over 90 percent of young women. These behavior patterns can lead to missed opportunities for early intervention in a number of medical conditions and chronic illnesses, especially those that are exclusive to or disproportionally effect men. Beyond expanding health insurance coverage, therefore, it is necessary to improve men's uptake of healthcare services. The first step towards this goal is to increase awareness about men's health issues. I applaud the current resolution in support of National Men's Health Week, as well as the request that interested groups observe with appropriate ceremonies and activities. By educating men about the available predictive screening and preventive care, we can help our nation's fathers, husbands, brothers and sons to live longer, healthier lives.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the School for the Talented and Gifted and the School for Science and Engineering at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center for receiving the extraordinary honor of being ranked as the number one and number four public schools in the nation by Newsweek. Each year, Newsweek ranks the top public high schools out of a possible 27,000 schools. This year, only the top 6 percent of schools made the final list, placing these two schools in the top four out of the 1,600 schools listed. For 2010 the Magnet School for the Talented and Gifted ranked number one, with the Magnet School for Engineering and Science ranking number four. I am delighted that these two schools have achieved such a distinction, placing them among the elite public institutions in this country. Located in my district of Dallas, Texas, Townview Magnet is one of the most diverse schools in the state, with minorities representing over half of the student population. Given the diverse nature of the City of Dallas itself, and the increased globalization of most industries, the students attending these two schools will have the opportunity not only to impact the future of the Dallas area, but on a worldwide scale as well. With this quality of education, Americans will be able to compete for success in this growing global economy. This marks the fourth time in five years that the School for the Talented and Gifted has been ranked number one in the nation by Newsweek. This honor shows the values of a good educational environment, as many of the students attending these two schools will have opportunities to be the future leaders of this country. This honor will serve as an inspiration to the faculty, staff and students of Townview Magnet School to maintain a high level of work. I extend my appreciation for the hard work of everyone involved in achieving this honor, and lend my support to the future success of Townview. Madam Speaker, again, I congratulate the students, teachers, principals and parents of Townview Magnet School for the Talented and Gifted and the Magnet School for Science and Engineering on honor.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss the importance of putting Americans back to work. You know, we cannot overturn and change 8 years of Republican rule with simply a snap of a finger. However, the Democratic Caucus is on its way to restoring this country's economic well-being. The House passed the Small Business and Infrastructure Jobs Tax Act. The legislation will create 160,000 jobs and extends successful Build America Bonds for schools, roads and bridges. We also passed the Summer Jobs Act which creates 300,000 summer job opportunities for our youth. We have seen an increase in GDP, and we've seen an increase in manufacturing, and we've seen a significant increase in economic indicators. As President Obama said, this is the Nation where anyone with a good idea and the will to work hard can succeed. Dallas, my hometown, is no stranger to good ideas, hard work, or small businesses. I commend Dallas' small businesses which have created hundreds of jobs, provide valuable goods and services, and help drive our local economy. I encourage my colleagues in the House and in the Senate to work together to enact policies that creates and saves jobs. House Democrats are committed to create good American jobs, build a strong foundation for the economy, and work to turn around our Nation's economy.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, it is with great sorrow that I recognize the life and passing of Tom Lardner. I have known this accomplished person for a long time. He was a visionary who was not afraid to take risks. We have lost a great businessman, an exceptional husband and terrific father. Tom Lardner, born in Port Huron, Michigan earned his bachelor's degree in business from Michigan State University. Mr. Lardner earned a master's degree in education from Michigan State. Before beginning his real estate career he was a coach at St. Gabriel High School football team in East Lansing, Michigan where he also served as a history teacher. While running his real estate investment firm, Lehndorff USA, in Chicago he spotted the potential of the area just north of the central business district in Dallas, Texas. Eager to map out his plans he moved to Dallas. He then saw his dream transforming into reality after years of hard work with the construction of a luxury apartment building, which would be the earliest of many. Lardner purchased a large amount of the land surrounded by McKinney Avenue, Pearl Street, Woodall Rodgers Freeway and North Central Expressway for development. He also worked alongside city officials to establish a tax increment financing district that would pay for street improvements as well as other infrastructure improvements. Although Lardner was known for his keen eye in real estate with the development of the Uptown area of Dallas, he was also concerned about the environment. Lardner's support for Texas Business for Clean Air, allowed him to oppose the fast-tracking of the coal-fired plants. Concerned that the electric generating plants would hurt the North Texas air quality the group strongly opposed the environmental abuse. Madam Speaker, Tom Lardner's loss will be deeply felt among many, but his work will not be forgotten. His caring nature and the creative vision he possessed will live forever.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Dallas Police Department's new Chief of Police, David Brown. A 27-year veteran of the Dallas Police Department, Chief Brown was sworn in to his new role earlier this month. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University and Amberton University, Chief Brown has spent his entire police career with the Dallas Police Department. He has served as police Lieutenant, Sergeant, Senior Corporal, Officer, Deputy Chief, First Assistant Chief, Interim Dallas Assistant City Manager, and First Assistant Chief. His expanse of experience within the police department will certainly serve him well in his role as chief. Chief Brown is a strong and dedicated manager who is extremely knowledgeable about and dedicated to the Dallas community. A native of Oak Cliff, Chief Brown has deep connections to the community he protects. He is known in the department for leading innovative projects to reduce crime, and plans to continue to explore new methods of crime prevention. I look forward to working with Chief Brown as he seeks to increase the visibility of the Dallas Police Department and reduce crime. He has an important job ahead of him and I am confident that the dedication that has dictated his career will continue in his new role as chief.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to Frank Branson of Dallas on being honored by the 2010 Edition of the Best Lawyers in America and recognized as one of Texas's best lawyers. Best Lawyers is the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession. Best Lawyers compiles lists of outstanding attorneys by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers. In the U.S., Best Lawyers publishes an annual referral guide, The Best Lawyers in America, which includes 39,766 attorneys in 80 practice areas, covering all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Mr. Branson is the founder of Dallas' The Law Offices of Frank L. Branson, a nationally recognized litigation firm. A graduate of SMU Law, Mr. Branson joins a distinguished list of alumni to earn the annual honor, which is based on outstanding achievements, public service and commitment to the legal profession. Mr. Branson has secured record courtroom recoveries and landmark verdicts for clients seriously injured by dangerous products, medical negligence, transportation injuries, industrial catastrophes, and, in recent years, commercial torts. He is a past president of the Southern Trial Lawyers Association, Dallas Trial Lawyers Association, and Dallas Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Additionally, he is a fellow in the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and the International Society of Barristers. Throughout his career Mr. Branson has consistently prided himself in his tenacious preparation, as well as his imagination in the courtroom. His firm has a nationwide reputation for its use of advanced, state-of- the-art trial techniques such as digital video, computer animation, medical art and individualized anatomical models. Mr. Branson's prestige within the law community has been acknowledged since 1987. Forbes magazine recognized him as one of the most successful trial lawyers in the country, and D CEO Magazine recently named him as one of the top five lawyers corporate adversaries never want to face in court. His trial work was highlighted in The National Law Journal's Top 100 Verdicts in America in 2007. Mr. Branson's importance to Dallas extends beyond the legal community. He has been recognized by the Vietnam Veterans of America's distinguished service award and the American Heart Foundation's Chip Moody Eagle Award. Mr. Branson is also a Garland Community Hospital Trustee. Madam Speaker, I would like to join with the people of Dallas in commending Frank Branson on his continual striving for excellence within the field of law and congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, because of the policies of the last administration, the Bush administration, our Nation is going through the most difficult economic times in its history, and unemployment is around 10 percent. We must do everything we can to help create jobs, especially for those struggling to support their families. That is why I support the goals of the Local Jobs for America Act. We need a bill that will create and save millions of public and private jobs in local communities. This bill is intended to help ensure that local communities can still operate essential services, to help prevent State and local tax increases, to stimulate local businesses, and create more jobs in the local community. The Local Jobs for America Act is aimed to get our economy back on track and Americans back to work. We have short memories sometimes and we forget where the problem began. It did not start with this administration. It was done by the last administration.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the courage and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces and our Veterans. May is National Military Appreciation Month, a tine when we honor the bravery and service of our Armed Forces, veterans, and their families. Members of our Armed Forces leave behind their homes, families, and jobs in times when duty calls. They protect America and American Allies, provide support in times of disasters, and help bringing stability to areas of unrest. From my time as a psychiatric nurse in the Dallas Veterans Affair's Hospital, I know firsthand the burden placed upon those who serve in our Armed Forces. People around the world owe their freedoms and liberties to the courage, service, and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces. I urge all Americans to recognize and honor the courage and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform and thank them for their service.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1316 to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and pay tribute to the many achievements of Asian Pacific Americans across our Nation. The month of May marks several historical events in Asian Pacific American history. On May 7, 1843, the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States, paving the way for a great movement of Asian and Pacific peoples to immigrate to the United States. Only 26 years later, on May 10, 1869, the transcontinental railroad was finished, the completion of which is largely credited to Asian Pacific Americans. Due to these vents it is appropriate to celebrate the month of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and honor the sacrifices and contributions of this great community. Through the years, the Asian Pacific American Communities have made significant contributions to Texas's diverse culture. In Dallas, I am privileged to represent the largest Asian American Chamber in the United States. I believe that we all learn from those who come from different backgrounds, and I can truly say that I have learned a great deal from my Asian Pacific friends and constituents. Today, there are over 15.2 million Asian Pacific Americans living in the United States, representing nine percent of the population. The rich history associated with the Asian Pacific American community has left a lasting and important imprint on our country. I would like to acknowledge the devastating earthquake that shook Yushu County in the Qinghai province of China on April 14, 2010 which killed or injured over 10,000 civilians. My deepest condolence goes out to the friends and families of the victims. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support this resolution and the Asian Pacific American communities in North Texas and across the United States.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1258, in expressing support for designation of May 2010 as Mental Health Month. The time has come to pay special recognition to the needs and shortfalls that are associated with mental health in the United States. Mental health and the well-being of people of the United States is a critical issue that affects not only quality of life, but also the health of communities, families, and economic stability. Often it is the youngest among us, our children, which suffer from the lingering stigma of mental illness. Words, that make fun of those diagnosed with mental health can sometimes create a sense of shame, feelings of guilt, and loss of self esteem. Statistically, the figures associated with mental health are quite staggering. It is estimated that more than 57 million people in the United States suffer from mental illness. Furthermore, 1 in 5 children and adolescents have a diagnosable mental order. And in 2005 alone, over 32,000 individuals died by suicide in the United States, nearly twice the rate of homicide. The goals of Mental Health Month are to bring these figures to light in order to draw more attention and support for addressing this health crisis. From my time as a psychiatric nurse in the Dallas Veteran Affair's Hospital, I know firsthand the burden placed upon those who serve in our armed forces suffering from mental illness. More than a quarter of the members of the United States Armed Forces suffer from psychological or neurological injuries sustained from combat, including major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. For far too long the disparities of taking care of our veterans in regards to mental health went unaddressed, and too many suffered because of it. In closing, I encourage all organizations and health practitioners to use Mental Health Month as an opportunity to promote mental well-being and awareness, ensure access to appropriate services, and support overall quality of life for those living with mental illness.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1258, in expressing support for designation of May 2010 as Mental Health Month. The time has come to pay special recognition to the needs and shortfalls that are associated with mental health in the United States. Mental health and the well-being of people of the United States is a critical issue that affects not only quality of life, but also the health of communities, families, and economic stability. Often it is the youngest among us, our children, which suffer from the lingering stigma of mental illness. Words, that make fun of those diagnosed with mental health can sometimes create a sense of shame, feelings of guilt, and loss of self esteem. Statistically, the figures associated with mental health are quite staggering. It is estimated that more than 57 million people in the United States suffer from mental illness. Furthermore, 1 in 5 children and adolescents have a diagnosable mental order. And in 2005 alone, over 32,000 individuals died by suicide in the United States, nearly twice the rate of homicide. The goals of Mental Health Month are to bring these figures to light in order to draw more attention and support for addressing this health crisis. From my time as a psychiatric nurse in the Dallas Veteran Affair's Hospital, I know firsthand the burden placed upon those who serve in our armed forces suffering from mental illness. More than a quarter of the members of the United States Armed Forces suffer from psychological or neurological injuries sustained from combat, including major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. For far too long the disparities of taking care of our veterans in regards to mental health went unaddressed, and too many suffered because of it. In closing, I encourage all organizations and health practitioners to use Mental Health Month as an opportunity to promote mental well-being and awareness, ensure access to appropriate services, and support overall quality of life for those living with mental illness.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5325, the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act for 2010. It was once said, ``When the world says, Give up, Hope whispers, Try it one more time.'' America cannot afford to give up on science, innovation, and education. I want to applaud my colleagues, the leadership, as well as the entire Committee on Science and Technology for their hard work on this legislation. Our Nation is being outpaced by competitors in graduating scientists and engineers. It is so important to invest wisely in programs that truly make a difference in the achievement of our young people. America COMPETES is about our future. It's about ensuring that we are taking the right steps toward increasing American competitiveness and innovation. It is also about strengthening diversity in our Nation's scientific enterprise so that all Americans can compete in the 21st century. We have an obligation to the future of our Nation to ensure every segment of our population has equal access and opportunity to pursue these careers in STEM. The bill was put together in a bipartisan fashion and represents a concerted effort to create a more competitive science and engineering workforce. This is the goal of America COMPETES, and I am pleased that the provisions are in this bill for all Americans. I will fight for innovation, justice, parity, and equality for all Americans as long as I can.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4491, the Buffalo Soldiers in the National Parks Study Act. I commend this legislation which directs the Secretary of the Interior to study the role the Buffalo Soldiers played in the development of the National Park System. It is time more information comes to light regarding the contributions Buffalo Soldiers made to protect our National Parks until 1914. Few know the story of how Buffalo Soldiers once patrolled Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon parks. As their service has been nearly forgotten, I praise this legislation which will ensure their efforts to our Country are remembered. Buffalo Soldiers remain an integral element in founding our National Parks. These American soldiers carried out mounted patrol duties in the Western frontier and were among the first park rangers and backcountry rangers patrolling parts of the West. Mr. Speaker, the Buffalo soldiers blazed the trails and paved the way for what we now call our National Park System. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. R. 4491, the Buffalo Soldiers in the National Parks Study Act.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a truly remarkable man and exceptional citizen of Dallas, Texas, Mr. Pettis Norman. I am very privileged to consider Mr. Norman a dear friend, and it is an honor to recognize him before this Congress and the entire country. Pettis Norman has always been a man of strong character and deep emotional conviction. He was born to Fessor and Eloise Norman in Lincolntown, Georgia and spent his formative years in North Carolina. As the youngest child in a large family, he learned early on the value of his own personal integrity, and to this day, it remains one of his most admirable qualities. Mr. Norman received a degree from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina, and it was there that he became active in the civil rights movement. He participated in lunch counter sit-ins that ultimately spread to cities and states across the country. These sit-ins marked a turning point for the movement and served as a spark for the African-American community to organize, be heard, and protest peacefully. Mr. Norman took part in these with a deep sense of integrity and the simple belief that all people should be judged on the depth of their character and not the color of their skin. After Mr. Norman graduated from college, he moved to Dallas, Texas to play for the Cowboys in 1962. To this day, he is regarded as one of the greatest tight ends the team has ever had, and his resolve on the field has yet to be matched. Truly, the city fell in love with Mr. Norman just as Mr. Norman fell in love with Dallas, and I believe that the city has gained so much because of him. As a football player, Coach Landry held him in high regard, and still says that trading Mr. Norman to the San Diego Chargers was one of the most difficult decisions he ever made. Mr. Norman returned to Dallas after two seasons in San Diego to settle into a permanent home. He has been active in civic life ever since, and he is still highly regarded in the community. The people of Dallas consider him an all time favorite, and I believe that it is his moral character and steadfast nature that so endear him to the people he meets. Madam Speaker, Pettis Norman was an amazing football player and is an outstanding citizen today. I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in honoring this great man who has done remarkable things throughout his life and still considers his personal integrity his most variable trait.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and work of a great Texan and dear friend, Mr. Charles D. Kirkham, Jr. who recently passed away at the age of 84. Mr. Kirkham was a remarkable person who leaves behind a legacy of excellence and distinction. He led a passionate life that saw many unique events, and he worked diligently throughout his days to better himself and his family. I knew him to be a man that never bought into racial or gender bias, and instead admired people because of their character and sincerity. I send my deep condolences to his family for their loss, and my thoughts will be with them during this difficult time. Mr. Kirkham was born on July 28, 1925, in Cleburn, Texas, to Charles D. Kirkham, Sr. and Mary Ellen Payne Kirkham. He graduated from Cleburn High School in 1943 and shortly thereafter he left for Europe to fight in World War II with the 94th Infantry Division. It was there that he performed heroic actions that garnered him a Purple Heart and a Unit Commendation Bronze Star. He returned to Texas after the war and received a degree from Texas A&M University in 1950 where he served as President of the Student Senate. After completing his degree, Mr. Kirkham began a long and industrious career with Merrill Lynch where he worked for 45 years. He was a successful stock broker and made a name for himself that people still regard in high esteem today. He served in the Texas House of Representatives during the 53rd and 54th Legislature representing Cleburn and Johnson counties. Throughout his life, he was active with Texas A&M University and served on the Board of Directors of the Association of Former Students. Madam Speaker, I am so privileged to be able to bring the life of Charles Kirkham to the attention of this Congress. He was a man of great character and deep personal conviction, and he will be truly missed. I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in honoring the life of this great man who led a noble life and gave wholeheartedly to his community.