Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise to today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas. The church's theme for its 100th year is ``revitalization.'' Founded in 1910, the congregation of New Friendship has faithfully marched on through World War I, a 1928 fire, the Great Depression, World War II, desegregation, and a long list of other historic events that many other institutions did not survive. This congregation has been under the leadership of a host of the country's foremost preachers. Through their leadership, New Friendship has built and completely paid off two mortgages while always keeping their pledge to be debt free. Fifteen founding members organized the church in the home of their first pastor. The congregation grew from this small but dedicated group to a congregation of 200 by 1953 to 500 in 1979 and to today's active membership. Under the leadership of the current pastor, Reverend Johnny A. McGee, who has been with the church since 1988, New Friendship has implemented important ministries serving the community, couples, and prison inmates, as well as providing food and bus services for those in need. The church pastors, deacons, associate ministers and the active members have created a strong foundation of love and faith for this church to stand. I urge my fellow colleagues to join me in congratulating and celebrating the 100th anniversary of New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, January 12, I requested and received a leave of absence until January 27, 2010. For the information of our colleagues and my constituents, below is how I would have voted on the following votes I missed during this time period. On rollcall 1, Establishing a quorum in the House of Representatives for the Second Session of the 111th Congress, I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 2, Disposing of the President's Veto of H.J. Res. 64 (H.J. Res. 64), I would have voted ``no.'' On rollcall 3, Honoring the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., (H. Res. 1002) I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 4, Supporting the initiatives of Chicago Wilderness and the Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights (H. Res. 860), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 5, To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 101 West Highway 64 Bypass in Roper, North Carolina, as the ``E.V. Wilkins Post Office (H.R. 3892), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 6, Congratulating the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine for its 150 years of commitment to advancing science and improving health (H. Res. 1004), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 7, Congratulating the Penn State women's volleyball team on winning the 2009 NCAA Division I national championship (H. Res. 1015), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 8, Commending the University of Virginia men's soccer team for winning the 2009 Division I NCAA National Championship (H. Res. 991), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 9, Motion on Ordering the Previous Question on the Rule providing for consideration of H.R. 3254-Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act--H.R. 3342 Aamodt Litigation Settlement Act--and H.R. 1065-White Mountain Apache Tribe Water Rights Quantification Act of 2009 (H. Res. 1017), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 10, Castle Nugent National Historic Site Establishment Act of 2009 (H.R. 3726), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 11, Idaho Wilderness Water Resources Protection Act (H.R. 3254), I would have voted ``no.'' On rollcall 12, Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act (H.R. 3254), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 13, Aamodt Litigation Settlement Act (H.R. 3342), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 14, White Mountain Apache Tribe Water Rights Quantification Act of 2009 (H.R. 1065), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 15, Expressing Condolences to and Solidarity with the People of Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating Earthquake of January 12th, 2010 (H.R. 1021), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 16, Nuclear Forensics and Attribution Act (H.R. 730), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 17, Expressing support for designation of January 2010 as ``National Mentoring Month'' (H. Res. 990), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 18, Recognizing the importance of cervical health and of detecting cervical cancer during its earliest stages and supporting the goals and ideals of Cervical Health Awareness Month (H. Res. 1011), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 19, Expressing support for the designation of January 10, 2010, through January 16, 2010, as National Influenza Vaccination Week (H. Res. 1003), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 20, Rule providing for consideration of H.R. 4474--Idaho Wilderness Water Facilities Act--and H.R. 3726-Castle Nugent National Historic Site Establishment Act of 2010 (H. Res. 1038), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 21, Expressing support for designation of January as Poverty in America Awareness Month (H. Res. 1024), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 22, Idaho Wilderness Water Facilities Act (H.R. 4474), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 23, Castle Nugent National Historic Site Establishment Act of 2010 (H.R. 3726), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 24, To provide for an additional temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 (H.R. 4508), I would have voted ``yes.'' On rollcall 25, Honoring the 95th anniversary of the signing of the Rocky Mountain National Park Act (H.R. 1020), I would have voted ``yes.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 158 to express my support for the designation of an early detection month for breast cancer and all other forms of cancer. Early detection is incredibly important in saving the lives of victims of cancer. While this is true for people suffering from every form of cancer, it is particularly important for those suffering from breast cancer. Breast cancer can be detected through procedures that screen for abnormalities in breast tissue, and it is considered to be the best way for women to lower their risk of dying from the disease. Essentially, these screenings find the cancer early, when it is most treatable, and for this reason, designating an early detection month is incredibly important to help save the lives of the almost 200,000 women in the United States who are diagnosed with invasive breast cancer each year. It is important to note, as well, that the risk of getting breast cancer is much lower for African-American women than white women; however, African-American women are more likely to die from breast cancer. This is attributed partly to the fact that African-American women are less likely to get regular mammograms, resulting in a diagnosis of breast cancer at a later stage. This is one more reason why designating an early detection month is so important. In my district, we are doing our part to ensure early detection. Susan G. Komen for the Cure is one of the leading advocates for breast cancer awareness and actively promotes early detection. From their headquarters in Dallas, they have been advancing the cause for breast cancer prevention and awareness across the country. I am proud of the work they have done to save countless lives across the country. Mr. Speaker, today I encourage my fellow colleagues to join me in supporting this very important resolution that expresses support for the designation of an early detection month for cancer and breast cancer.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1008 to honor the contributions of Catholic schools. The tradition of Catholic schools in America dates back to settlement of the new world, and through the centuries, Catholic institutions have been incredibly effective at educating young people in the United States. Today, enrollment in Catholic institutions numbers at above 2 million students across the country with a student to teacher ratio of approximately 14 to 1. Additionally, Catholic schools graduate roughly 99 percent of their students with 97 percent of those graduates pursuing degrees at institutions of higher education. Mr. Speaker, as we become a more inter-connected and global society, the education of our young people will become increasingly important. Catholic institutions help to ensure that those same young people receive quality educations, and I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in supporting H. Res. 1008 to honor the contributions of Catholic schools.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support the resolution expressing condolences to and solidarity with the people of Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake of January 12, 2010. With reports of up to 200,000 deaths and more than 1.5 million people left homeless, this is the worst natural disaster incurred by Haiti in more than 200 years. As the poorest and least developed country in the Western Hemisphere, it is reassuring to see the United States and the international community coming together in solidarity to help this country in its hour of need. The 7.0 earthquake has caused upheaval for almost one-third of the Haitian population and wrecked the existing infrastructure, making roads impassable, hindering rescue/aid flights, and tainting water supplies. The earthquake's destruction spared no nationality, no class, no age, no religion. Thousands of American volunteers and missionaries were also lost; however, due to the selflessness and quick action of first- responders, we are able to celebrate each life as survivors are found. The rescue effort has been led by rescue teams from around the world. Teams in Texas eagerly await the opportunity to deploy to Port-au- Prince and various organizations in my district have been holding fundraisers to contribute to the effort. Americans have contributed over $200 million to major relief groups in just 7 days since this disaster, and their generosity will be important in the coming months as Haiti rebuilds its tangible resources as well as its national consciousness. Haitian recovery from the tragic events in its capital city will require continued support from the international community, and I urge my fellow colleagues to join me in supporting the resolution expressing condolences to and solidarity with the people of Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake of January 12, 2010.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express condolences and honor the life of my dear friend, political activist, and Dallasite, Goldye Levi. Mr. Levi, a life-long Democrat, gave so much of his time and energy supporting his party by serving in national and local leadership positions. He had a front-seat to one of the most intriguing points in American history as the Treasurer of the Democratic National Committee during the 1972 break-in of the Watergate building. He brought his expertise of the political process to Dallas County as a Democratic Precinct Chair, and through the years he encouraged countless Democrats to get out and vote. As a candidate for Dallas County Tax Assessor, he also sought to use his experience as a certified public accountant to serve his community. Mr. Levi demonstrated the ultimate in civic duty and Dallas has lost a great advocate. Our government, ``by the people,'' rests wholly on the willingness of citizens to actively participate in the political process--citizens like Mr. Levi. I urge my fellow colleagues to join me in expressing condolences and honoring the life of Mr. Goldye Levi.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Harold Paul Altshuler, a Dallas insurance executive who passed away on December 16, 2009, at the age of 88. Mr. Altshuler was born on November 19, 1921, in Paterson, New Jersey. He graduated from Bard College and entered the United States Air Force where he flew 33 bombing missions over Germany during World War II. For his brave and courageous actions he twice received the Purple Heart, and after Victory in Europe Day, he continued his service by flying damaged aircraft back to England for the Air Transport Command. After the war, Mr. Altshuler completed a doctor of laws degree from the University of Virginia and founded Republic Bankers Life which later became Life of America Insurance Co. He settled in Dallas in the 1950s and actively developed his insurance and banking business. There he made a name for himself as one of the leading insurance executives in the industry and was active in the community where he served on the board of Allied Bank in Oak Cliff, Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in honoring Harold Paul Altshuler who diligently served his country in time of war and was an icon in the Dallas community. He will be truly missed.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lucy Billingsley who founded the Chiapas Project, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to lifting women out of poverty in Latin America. The Chiapas Project was founded in 2003 when Ms. Billingsley, a Dallas real estate developer, traveled to Chiapas, Mexico with thirty other women to see firsthand how microfinance and microloans effectively helped some of the most disadvantaged women in Mexico's poorest state. The group returned to North Texas with vigorous determination and raised $790,000 to fund the expansion of a microfinance institution called Alternative Solidaria in Chiapas. This money ultimately lifted roughly 4,000 women out of poverty. Today, the Chiapas Project has set new goals and is working toward raising more money for microfinance initiatives across Latin America. Recently Ms. Billingsley was honored at the Dallas Regional Chamber's 14th Annual International Business Achievement Awards luncheon where she received the Individual Award. Additionally, the Chiapas Project was commended for raising the global awareness of North Texas as an international business center in Latin America and across the world. Madam Speaker, I encourage my fellow colleagues to join me in recognizing both Lucy Billingsley and the Chiapas Project for the great work they have done to help disadvantaged women and families in Latin America.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mattie Lee Nash who passed away recently at the age of 87. As a remarkably civic-minded resident of West Dallas, Ms. Nash was constantly working to better her community. She was frequently referred to as the ``Mayor of West Dallas,'' and during the 1980s she served on the Dallas Housing Authority's board where she gave a voice to the often forgotten neighborhoods west of the Trinity River. In 1991, she was elected to the Dallas City Council after the adoption of the single-member-district system that helped to ensure diverse representation on the city council. Throughout all of this, she maintained a tireless sense of hope that emboldened citizens across the city of Dallas. Twenty-five years after her term on the city council, we remember Ms. Nash with warm thoughts and heavy hearts. Her actions so struck people in the community that the city recently honored her by naming a recreation center in her honor. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in honoring Ms. Mattie Lee Nash who worked tirelessly for the citizens of West Dallas to ensure that they were actively and fairly represented.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an incredibly gifted teacher and devoted citizen of the Dallas community, Mrs. Mildred DeLoache Winston Thomas, who passed away on December 29, 2009 at the age of 93. Mrs. Thomas was born in Cedar Creek, Texas on May 12, 1916. A lifelong Christian, she spent her formative years at Mount Olive Baptist Church where she was baptized and completed primary school. She later went on to graduate from Emile High School and receive a Bachelor of Science Degree from Tillotson College in Austin, Texas. Throughout her remarkable life, Mrs. Thomas worked diligently to better herself, her family, and her community. She began a career in education that would last roughly 40 years, spending 36 of those years with the Dallas Independent School District. While working as a full time mother and teacher, she completed a Master of Science Degree at the University of North Texas at Denton where she was one of seven African Americans to integrate the university. Upon retirement in 1986, Mrs. Thomas continued to be active in civic life. She served as a docent for the Dallas African American Art Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Dallas Arboretum. As a woman committed to her faith, she continued to be active in various ministries at New Hope Baptist Church where she was a deaconess. Mildred Thomas lived a spirited life and carried herself with dignity, elegance, grace and warmth. She held deep beliefs on fairness, right and wrong, and was unflinching in her defense and support of those she loved. Madam Speaker, with the passing of Mrs. Thomas, Dallas has truly lost an honorable and dedicated citizen, and I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in celebrating her long and accomplished life.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1008 to honor the contributions of Catholic schools. The tradition of Catholic schools in America dates back to settlement of the New World, and through the centuries, Catholic institutions have been incredibly effective at educating young people in the United States. Today, enrollment in Catholic institutions numbers at above 2 million students across the country with a student to teacher ratio of approximately 14 to 1. Additionally, Catholic schools graduate roughly 99 percent of their students with 97 percent of those graduates pursuing degrees at institutions of higher education. Mr. Speaker, as we become a more interconnected and global society, the education of our young people will become increasingly important. Catholic institutions help to ensure that those same young people receive quality educations, and I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in supporting H. Res. 1008 to honor the contributions of Catholic schools.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Martin Luther King, Jr. and to honor this great civil rights leader by supporting and continuing the tradition of a national day of service in his memory. As a profoundly diverse country, our greatest strengths are evident when we come together in the spirit of community and work toward a greater good. This notion of service was remarkably evident in Dr. King's work, and it is fitting that we honor his legacy by working with our neighbors and fellow citizens to better our communities and country. When Dr. King saw injustice, he worked diligently and by peaceful means to bring about positive change. Today, it is important to remember that all of us can make a difference and emulate Dr. King's efforts by working together. In my district, there are major celebrations planned to honor the life of Dr. King, including a candle-lighting ceremony and a parade. Students in the Dallas Independent School District have submitted essays that discuss the life and work of Dr. King, and additionally, people across the area will participate in service-oriented projects and volunteer for various organizations. I am proud of the hard work they are doing to make North Texas a better place. Today, we move forward by honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. and his great dream with renewed optimism. It is my hope that this Day of Service will be a true reflection of his legacy and serve as a catalyst for good across the country.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Henry S. Miller, Jr. who passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2009. Mr. Miller was an icon in the Dallas community who created a real estate empire with over 1,300 employees and 41 offices. After joining the business his father founded, Miller steered Henry S. Miller Co. to success by pioneering the concept of specialization of services. Essentially, Miller championed the idea of creating specialists in commercial real estate fields like industrial, retail, and multifamily. By doing this, he created a real estate culture that encouraged employees to be incredibly knowledgeable in specific areas, allowing the company to move forward quickly and effectively in those fields. Throughout his career and life, Mr. Miller was regarded as an honest and humble man, and maintained these traits in an industry where it is easy to devolve into something much different. Known throughout the community as a businessman of integrity and knowledge, he was a pioneer in the Dallas real estate industry and helped to develop it into the powerhouse that it is today. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in honoring this great man who truly was ahead of his time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Henry S. Miller, Jr. who passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2009. Mr. Miller was an icon in the Dallas community who created a real estate empire with over 1,300 employees and 41 offices. After joining the business his father founded, Miller steered Henry S. Miller Co. to success by pioneering the concept of specialization of services. Essentially, Miller championed the idea of creating specialists in commercial real estate fields like industrial, retail, and multifamily. By doing this, he created a real estate culture that encouraged employees to be incredibly knowledgeable in specific areas, allowing the company to move forward quickly and effectively in those fields. Throughout his career and life, Mr. Miller was regarded as an honest and humble man, and maintained these traits in an industry where it is easy to devolve into something much different. Known throughout the community as a businessman of integrity and knowledge, he was a pioneer in the Dallas real estate industry and helped to develop it into the powerhouse that it is today. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in honoring this great man who truly was ahead of his time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 978, 979, and 981, I would have voted ``yea.'' On rollcall No. 980, I would have voted ``aye.''

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, today I will vote against H.R. 2194, the Iran Refined Petroleum Sanctions Act. This legislation seeks to expand economic sanctions against Iran. I believe that the foundation of this act reflects a misguided and self-defeating approach to United States foreign policy. Economic sanctions will target the Iranian people not just the Iranian government. These sanctions seek to make the Iranian people miserable enough so they will pressure their government to change course. We have seen from the past Iranian Presidential elections that public pressure directed at the government has, and did not, work. We have seen from the past with countries, such as Cuba and Iraq, that these sanctions harm the people and not the ruling government. I believe that these economic sanctions take authority away from the President and States of Department by tying their hand from achieving a diplomatic national security strategy. Let me be clear, I do not approve of Iran's nuclear program or of this governments human rights record. I believe that we must trust in our President and State Department to lead international pressures on Iran. Madam Speaker, I have always promoted diplomacy, peace, and human rights. In 2001, I created ``A World of Women for World Peace'' to bring greater visibility to peacemaking and peace-building activities in communities around the world. I firmly believe that the burden of peacemaking, peace building, and nation building cannot be left to one institution, gender or political party. It must be a shared responsibility that encompasses all, regardless of race, class, gender and religion. If these sanctions are passed, they will block Americans and Iranians from working together promoting peace, nation building, and human rights.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 940 recognizing and honoring the National Guard on the occasion of its 373rd anniversary. The security and freedom we enjoy in the United States of America is due in great part to the sacrifices made by the oldest component of the Armed Forces, the National Guard. From the Revolutionary War to the latest military operations in the Middle East, the Citizen-Soldiers of the National Guard have competently responded to the call of duty. In addition to serving overseas, these men and women make up the forces in the state divisions, such as the Texas National Guard, and have been key in serving the local community during natural disasters and civil emergencies. As we reflect on the 68th anniversary of Pearl Harbor this week, it reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice members of the National Guard have bravely made, and will continue to make, for our country. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 940 to recognize and honor the National Guard on the occasion of its 373rd anniversary.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 35 to express the sense of the House of Representatives that Congress should provide increased federal funding for continued type 1 diabetes research. This legislation is particularly timely as roughly 3 million people suffer from type 1 diabetes across the country. It is important for us to move forward in the fight against this disease and increase funding for research that aims to prevent and treat diabetes. It is estimated that over $4 billion will be necessary to fund the National Institute of Health's research goals for type 1 diabetes through 2013, and as this disease continues to affect millions of people across America, it is imperative that we fund research at increased levels to see its end. I would also like to mention one of the efforts that we are undertaking in North Texas to help combat diabetes. Recently the Baylor Health Care System announced that it would be transforming the Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center in south Dallas to the area's first and only diabetes health and wellness institute. This center will help to save lives by offering improved diabetes care, educational programs, and conducting research in addition to encouraging healthy lifestyles for those living with the disease. The center will also educate the community on preventative measures for type 2 diabetes so that a preventative lifestyle becomes a natural and normal part of everyday life in this neighborhood. It is my hope that increased funding for diabetes research will encourage similar centers to be created across the country. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my fellow colleagues to join me in supporting this important resolution so that we recognize the need for diabetes research funding and help countless people across the country living with the disease.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an incredibly gifted personal injury lawyer and dedicated philanthropist, Mr. John O'Quinn. Mr. O'Quinn spent his career serving others by fighting to make sure the most vulnerable members of our society received justice. As a lawyer, his unwavering commitment to his clients was legendary, and throughout his legal career, he used his unique personality and staggering intellect as an advocate for the powerless. In his life, he was named one of the 100 Most Influential Lawyers in America by the National Law Journal, 100 Legal Legends of Texas by Texas Lawyer magazine, Five Best Texas Trial Lawyers of the Past Century by the Houston Chronicle, and was recognized in Harvard Law's ``Best Lawyers in America.'' It is important to note, however, that Mr. O'Quinn's remarkable capacity in the courtroom was only one part of his dynamic personality. As a notable philanthropist, he handsomely endowed his alma mater, the University of Houston, by helping to fund the John O'Quinn Law Library and the John O'Quinn Field at Robertson Stadium. He served as a Regent for the university as well as a Trustee for the law school foundation. Additionally, he assisted numerous other charitable organizations including the Children's Assessment Center, the Women's Center, Baylor College of Medicine, the End Hunger Network, St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, and the South Texas College of Law Advocacy Center. Madam Speaker, the world truly lost a gracious soul with the untimely death of John O'Quinn. I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in both honoring this brilliant attorney and celebrating his life and countless accomplishments. He will be truly missed.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of Sam Houston Elementary School in the Oak Lawn neighborhood of northern Dallas. On December 6, 1909, the Oak Lawn School opened its doors to roughly 200 students under the leadership of Principal Mary Spears. The school included eight classrooms, five of which were used for academic purposes, and was located near the corner of Throckmorton Street and Dickason Avenue. Within a year, a petition was filed with the Texas Board of Education to begin a kindergarten program in the unused rooms of the school, and in March 1910 the first free kindergarten under the control of the Dallas School Board opened with an attendance of 25 students. Shortly thereafter, the Oak Lawn School changed its name to the Sam Houston School in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto. Today, Sam Houston Elementary School stands as the oldest school in the Dallas Independent School District to continue to operate in its original building. For 100 years, the faculty and staff of this institution have educated young people in North Texas to become responsible and productive members of society. Through their hard work, Sam Houston Elementary has developed a legacy of excellence, and I am so proud to have this school within my District in Texas. Madam Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in celebrating the success of this institution's century of existence and to recognize the faculty and staff's hard work and continued determination to ensure a quality education for children in north Texas.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I support the Democratic health care bill because it eliminates disparities that harm a woman's health.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this bill, H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act. It is a long time we should have been here. We have been trying this for so very long. You know, if this bill said anything as bad as what I have heard from the Republicans, I wouldn't support it. But it does not do that. I don't know what bill they are reading. I want to share, though, that I know this will bring relief to my constituents. In my district, there are 35.6 percent of the residents uninsured, and the adjoining district, District 32 of Texas, has about the same number, but we are on different sides for bringing that relief. The American people have heard so many untruths, they must be confused. Having access, though, to better coverage will show them what the truth is. This bill is a win for all Americans. I stand in strong support of this legislation and urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this bill.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am very privileged today to recognize the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport as one of the country's leading green power purchasers. Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency released a list of the top twenty local government organizations that are green power purchasers in the United States. Both the City of Dallas and the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport were included in this listing. Impressively, the DFW Airport receives 18 percent of its total electricity from green power purchases, and this is equivalent to removing 7,000 vehicles from the road or powering 5,000 homes annually. Green power purchasing is important for a variety of reasons. The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport uses large amounts of energy, and green power purchases ensure that this energy is generated from renewable resources like solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and low- impact hydro. In turn, this leads to a reduction of green house gas emissions that will help to create a greener future for us all. While this is a very prestigious honor, it is important to note that this is one of numerous distinctions that the airport has received in recent years. As the third busiest airport in the world, the Dallas- Fort Worth International Airport offers over 1,500 flights per day and serves roughly 57 million passengers in a year. Despite its busy nature, DFW was named the ``Best Airport for Customer Service in North America'' by an Airports Council International survey of passengers in 2006 and 2007. Madam Speaker, I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments that the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport has achieved, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in celebrating this airport as a leader among green power purchasing organizations.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chair, on rollcall No. 869, I had a personal emergency. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Amendment No. 2 Offered by Mr. Barton of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the time has come-- it is long past time--that we should pass health care reform. I know there is a lot of influence that is passing out a lot of information that is not true. We are not cutting Medicare. We are rearranging it so that it can cover more people, but there is no cut in services. It's so easy to say things that are not true, to have scare tactics. Actually, all we have to do is try to understand the bill and tell the truth. The people of this Nation want this change. It is time for the change. It is time for all people to have access to insurance. All the people--47 million, or whatever--that are not insured now could very well be insured if the insurance companies would insure them and allow them to use the insurance. That is not happening. We have to think of another way. And the insurance companies can still live, but hopefully with some competition.