Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I have no other requests for time, and I yield the balance of the time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baird).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I support the passage of H.R. 6316. This bill extends through December 31, 2008, the authority of the Secretary of the Army to accept and expend funds contributed by non-Federal public entities to process permits under the Clean Water Act and the Rivers and Harbor Act of 1899. The current authority for this program expires on December 31 of this year. The program is popular and well-received, particularly in the northwest part of the country. I congratulate my committee colleague Mr. Baird for his attention to this issue and for securing today's consideration of this bill. I can think of no other Member who has served his local or regional issues with more enthusiasm and effectiveness. The language in H.R. 6316 is similar to the two previous extensions of this program which passed the House September 20, 2005, and March 14, 2006. Both of these votes to extend the program received strong support from the House. The language in this legislation is modeled after the language contained in H.R. 2864, the Water Resources Development Act of 2005, which passed this House on July 14, 2005, by an overwhelming vote of 406-14. While my preference would be to address the extension of this program through passage of the broader Water Resources Development Act, at this later hour in the session it seems increasingly unlikely that work can be completed on the larger bill. This really is unfortunate because it only further delays the opportunity for the Corps of Engineers to provide essential flood control, navigation and ecosystem restoration projects to our Nation and vital public safety and economic benefits to our constituents. We are now just one week shy of 6 years since the last water resources bill was enacted, and this is really far too long. I am certain that there will be questions as to why Congress was unable to enact a water resources bill in the 109th Congress, especially since this is the first time since 2000 that both the House and Senate Chambers were able to approve legislation for the other body to consider. However, in spite of this significant achievement and roughly 5 months of staff negotiations towards a conference agreement, the fact remains that no agreement has been reached, and we are days away from the adjournment and facing one more year without a water resources bill. Mr. Speaker, the current administration has no commitment to the Nation's premier water-related infrastructure agencies. This administration fails to understand the importance of the Corps of Engineers and the vital work that this agency does for the American people. The administration's lack of support for a comprehensive Water Resources Development Act has only made Congress's work more difficult. During the consideration in both the House and Senate, the administration released two statements of administration policy that were highly critical of the Congress's efforts, especially of the administration's concern with the overall cost of two bills. However, what the administration fails to recognize is that the roughly $10 billion project authorizations contained in this House-passed version and the $12 billion in the Senate-passed version reflect 6 years of requests since the Water Resources Development Act of 2000. Should Congress fail to approve this Water Resources Development Act this year, we should expect that next year's bill will cost more than both the House and Senate versions, perhaps as much as $15 billion. However, the Department of Transportation predicted it would be $19 billion this year. These numbers are consistent with the historical costs of past water resources bills, and further delay only results in making these vital projects more expensive over time. Yet Congress must also share the blame for its failure to deliver a comprehensive water resources bill this year. With both the House and Senate and the White House under Republican control, it would seem that passage of this legislation would have been achievable. In spite of these significant efforts of both the chairman of the conference committee and my chairman, Mr. Young, the House and Senate has been unable to reach agreement on a final package. I am confident that our committee, under the leadership of our incoming chairman, Mr. Oberstar, will make the passage and enactment of the Water Resources Development Act a number one priority in 2007. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this bill and reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, within the first 100 hours of the next Congress, we will have the opportunity to pass six initiatives that should garner bipartisan support. First, we will increase the minimum wage for the first time in 9 years. Secondly, we will propose a tough ethics reform bill that finally addresses the link between the politicians and Washington lobbyists. Third, Democrats will make our Nation safer by implementing the nonpartisan 9/11 Commission recommendations. And we will move our Nation closer to energy independence by investing in critical biofuel research. Fifth, we will help millions of American families better afford college by cutting the loan interest rates in half. And finally, Democrats will fill in the doughnut hole so millions of American seniors no longer must choose between their drugs or their groceries. Within the first 100 hours, we will bring these six bold proposals to the House floor, and I am hopeful that they will be embraced by Democrats and Republicans alike.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, last week the American people voted for change here in Washington. They were not happy with the party controlling both Capitol Hill and the White House. They want checks and balances, but more than anything, they want us to work together to address the concerns they face every day. The agenda that Democrats laid out over the last year is an agenda that all of us here in Washington should be able to support. If you want to help millions of hardworking Americans who have not received a pay raise in 9 years, you will join us in increasing the minimum raise in January. If you want to help more teenagers get a college education, you will join us in making it more affordable by cutting interest rates in half on college loans. This is the agenda that the American people supported last week when they went to the polls. In January, we will begin to implement this agenda, and I hope that our Republican colleagues will join us in this effort.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of Senate bill 3661. The bill passed by the Senate earlier today mirrors House bill 6228 previously scheduled for consideration today. At the outset, I want to extend my thanks to Chairman Young and Ranking Member Oberstar, Subcommittee Chairman Mica and Ranking Member Costello for their cooperation and support throughout this process. Each of you, in addition to the committee staff, has been extremely helpful in accommodating the requests of myself and north Texas colleagues, and I am truly appreciative. The road leading to this point has been long and arduous, but I am delighted that the bill before us today represents a bipartisan piece of sound legislation. The bill's fundamental objective is to open the north Texas market to more competition in air transportation, not to further restrict it, despite the claims of some. This bill phases out the Wright amendment completely in 8 years, offers immediate thru-ticketing in and out of Love Field, saving consumers an estimated $259 million annually. It will generate over $2 billion annually in spending and related economic activity for north Texas and for many communities outside the current Wright amendment parameter. It opens Love Field in a responsible way, ensuring resolution of Love Field-area residents' concerns over noise, traffic, and safety for the area. It protects safety by prohibiting the legislation from taking effect until the Federal Aviation Administration notifies Congress that the additional aviation operations in the Dallas/Fort Worth/Love Field airspace expected as a result of this Act can be conducted safely and without adverse effect on airspace use. It protects competition by preserving the FAA's authority to enforce airport rules that obligate Love Field to make its facilities available on a reasonable and nondiscriminatory basis to new entrant carriers, and stimulates competition and travel commerce throughout the United States. This bill is important to north Texas, the aviation community at large, and particularly my constituents, as Dallas Love Field Airport is located within the heart of my congressional district. Two months ago, the city of Dallas, the city of Fort Worth, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport reached a compromise to resolve long-standing issues regarding the Wright amendment. As many of you know, the three-decade-old legislation imposes long- haul flight restrictions to and from Dallas Love Field Airport. The agreement marks an important milestone, as efforts to repeal the restrictions over the past decades have served as a major point of contention among north Texas stakeholders and the aviation community at large. To have all the aforementioned entities in solidarity behind this compromise that ultimately lifts long-haul flight restrictions at Dallas Love Field is nothing short of amazing. I would like to impress the following upon my colleagues: It is important to note that the Wright amendment was a direct result of a community-crafted compromise between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, regarding two north Texas airports. Thirty years ago, north Texas, upon the recommendation of the Civil Aeronautics Board, decided that DFW Airport would be the region's primary air travel investment. This decision is captured in the 1968 Regional Airport Concurrent Bond Ordinance, which I will enter into the Record. In lieu of closing Love Field, the Wright amendment was crafted to protect the interests of the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport as well as those of Southwest Airlines. As the agreement said, that commercial traffic would close at the time that D/FW opened. The balance between our two airports as a result of the Wright amendment has served this region well. These airports are eight miles apart. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Love Field Airport are vital components to the overall health and success of the regional economy. Respectively, they rank third and fifty-fifth nationally in terms of total traffic enplanements. As such, I have felt quite strongly that any policy decision regarding the Wright amendment that could have implications for future aviation in north Texas should not be carried out without the input of the localities directly involved; and I have asked over and over again for the last 20 years to have the local entities to come to an agreement. My position has not always gone over well within certain segments of my constituency, but, for the record, I would like to reiterate that I am not anti-competitive, I am not anti-lower fares, I would be stupid to do that, nor am I anti-free enterprise. I am, however, pro principle. And it has always been my belief that the Wright amendment exists as a principled agreement between these two cities. Each time the subject of repeal of the Wright amendment has arisen, it has placed the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, 27 miles apart, on guard against each other because it violates the agreement. Over the past decades, this issue has created much grief, litigation, and oftentimes flat-out distrust among the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth. This type of back and forth over the past 30 years has not been healthy for north Texas, as we have many pressing challenges that require us to work together in good faith if we are to be successful as a region. Mr. Speaker, I support the compromise. The compromise outlined within Senate Bill 3661 requires give and take of all vested stakeholders. But, most importantly, Mr. Speaker, the measure represents a unified local consensus of which I am most proud. Further, many homeowners and constituent groups that live and work within the Love Field area also support this compromise. As I close, I want to commend the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth for coming to the table and acting in good faith to bring forth a compromise that I hope will allow us to once and for all bring an end to one of aviation's most storied standoffs. Is the compromise perfect? No. But I do feel it represents one of the best chances we as a region have to finally bring resolution to a long- standing dispute. I want to urge my colleagues to join me in voting ``yes'' on this bill. Congressional leaders have long urged the cities of Fort Worth and Dallas to come together and work toward a local compromise. This not only was instructed by two Secretaries of Transportation, the last two under the last two Presidents, but others as well to resolve the long- standing and divisive controversy over the Wright amendment. The communities have responded, and they are deserving of this body's support. 1968 Regional Airport Concurrent Bond Ordinance

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Meeks). (Mr. MEEKS of New York asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Yes.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Act. For years, reports have indicated that minority-serving institutions such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities have produced the majority of African American scientists and engineers. These colleges and universities have created a strong pipeline of technical excellence among minority populations. Young African American and Hispanic students, rising through the ranks and full of promise, see role models in the professors and scientists with whom they interact at these institutions. The absence of consistent role models is a major contributing factor of why underrepresented minorities have faced challenges in increasing their numbers in our high-tech domestic workforce. The Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Act would establish a program at the National Science Foundation to award grants to such institutions to provide educational instruction in digital and wireless network technologies. If enacted, the bill would also help minority-serving institutions strengthen their digital and wireless infrastructure and would also give them an opportunity to provide input for how grant proposals would be reviewed and evaluated. One other nice point about the bill is that it encourages partnership formation between the institutions and third parties by requiring a matching recipient contribution of 25 percent of the federal assistance amount. Mr. Speaker, I believe that minority serving education institutions are extremely valuable in supporting our domestic minority workforce. Historically Black Colleges and Universities; Hispanic-, Alaska Native-, and Native Hawaiian-serving institutions; tribally controlled colleges and universities; and others tend to have a substantial high- need student population and deserve our support. Mr. Speaker, I support this bill and urge my colleagues to vote for its passage.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the crisis of HIV/AIDS among African Americans. There are currently more than 68,000 Texans living with the disease. Americans should be reminded that HIV/AIDS does not discriminate when it comes to who can catch the disease. In fact, HIV is taking a devastating and disproportionate toll on people of color. Among women living with HIV in Texas in 2005: 19 percent are White, 18 percent are Hispanic, and over 60 percent are African American. The Congressional Black Caucus will continue to lead the HIV/AIDS fight in Congress and support programs that are making progress against this devastating disease. We can and must all do more. Governments, corporations, foundations, religious groups and private citizens must unite to win the war on AIDS. There is no other moral or practical choice.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge Azerbaijan's 15th anniversary of its re-independence on October 18. In the current global political climate, Azerbaijan is unique among democracies as the world's first Muslim democratic republic. Azerbaijan is one of the United States' most important friends and supporters. We share important political, economic and security interests. Azerbaijan was the first among nations to offer the United States unconditional support in the war against terrorism, providing airspace and airport use for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Azerbaijan cooperates with the United States within international and regional institutions including U.N., Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe--OSCE, and NATO's Partnership for Peace program. Azerbaijan also works together with the United States within the framework of the Organization for Democracy and Development--GUAM which is comprised of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. The group was created as a political, economic and strategic alliance aimed at overcoming common risks and threats and strengthening the independence and sovereignty of its member states. The Republic of Azerbaijan is a standout nation among the South Caucasus countries, with a population of 8 million people and an ambitious economic policy. During the last decade Azerbaijan has been implementing structural reforms and adopting numerous laws and legislative changes, paving the way toward further integration within the global economy. The Nation has been moving toward a more diversified economy to achieve sustainable growth and to meet the social and development needs of its population. As reported by the International Monetary Fund, IMF, Azerbaijan's macroeconomic performance ``has been impressive with strong growth, low inflation, and a stable exchange rate.'' Real GDP grew by an annual average of over 10 percent during the last 6 years and build up to 34.4 percent in the first 8 months of 2006, driven by investments in the energy sector, followed by growth in the construction and transportation sectors, and agriculture. Since signing the ``Contract of the Century'' in 1994, Azerbaijan has developed its energy sources within the Caspian region to diversify western energy supplies. On July 13, 2006 the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan main oil export pipeline was inaugurated. Diversification of the economy and ensuring the development of non- oil sectors is a priority for the government. This policy includes implementation of projects and programs that create favorable conditions for development of private entrepreneurship, attracting investment in non-oil sector, creating new jobs, evaluation of potential industries and markets and development of infrastructure in the regions. A democratic, prosperous, and peaceful Azerbaijan will be a strong partner and ally for the United States. I look forward to working with the Azerbaijani Government and people to develop this relationship. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in the House of Representatives today in commemorating Azerbaijan's independence. I look forward to the bonds of friendship between the United States and Azerbaijan becoming even stronger in the future.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of runaway youth prevention programs. Children are our greatest resource, and positive investment in our children is essential for America's future. We are facing a potential crisis in America. There are nearly 20 million American teenagers that are at serious risk of not achieving a positive adulthood. For our Nation's homeless youth, this path towards positive adulthood is even more challenging. It is estimated that each year there are 1.5 million runaway and homeless youth in the United States. Last year, in Dallas County we saw about 9 thousand children ran away from home. We cannot simply forget these children. They need a life-line, a place to stay, and the tools to have a bright future. The Promise House Emergency Shelter and Street Outreach Programs are exceptional programs that are vital to Dallas. Promise House offers invaluable services for runaway and homeless youth. I have seen first-hand the outstanding contributions Promise House has made to the Dallas Community. Promise House not only gives these young people a safe place to stay, but it gives them a life-line, and a chance to change their outlook and situation. I would like to commend the staff of Promise House, Dr. Harriet Boorhem, and the many volunteers for the extraordinary service they provide to the Dallas community. I would also like to thank Mr. Porter for offering this Resolution.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, when are the House Republicans going to allow a minimum wage bill to come up on the floor where we actually vote on the minimum wage? It needs to become law. As health care, groceries, energy, housing costs skyrocket for average consumers, House Republicans would rather help their CEO friends than average Americans who are just trying to make ends meet. Today, full-time workers who earn the minimum wage are only bringing home $10,700 a year. The average corporate CEO makes that much money during his first 4 hours of work for the year. This is simply not fair. Yet, for months, House Republicans have refused to allow a clean minimum wage vote on this House floor. Do House Republicans really expect that a family can live on less than $11,000 a year? The Democrats want to take the Nation in a new direction, one where the needs of all Americans are addressed. We want a clean vote on the minimum wage. And, Mr. Speaker, in light of the Republican leadership's unwillingness to move legislation on the minimum wage, I ask unanimous consent to bring up H.R. 2429, the legislation to increase the minimum wage.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in great sadness to pay tribute to my good friend and one of Texas' most outstanding public servants, Greg Cooke. Greg Cooke passed away recently at the age of 51. Mr. Cooke served as the top ranking EPA official in the area that encompasses Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. Mr. Cooke was an outstanding and dedicated citizen, and his commitment to Texas was instrumental in developing clean air plans for both Dallas-Ft. Worth and Houston-Galveston in partnership with the State of Texas. These plans contained innovative provisions that incorporated economic incentives, as well as, traditional mandatory measures. His clean air plans also included development of an innovative ``compact'' to facilitate early compliance with EPA's upcoming 8-hour standard for such cities as Austin and San Antonio, Texas. Mr. Cooke served as Regional Administrator of EPA Region VI for the past 4\1/2\ years. He was appointed to the post by President Clinton and was the only political appointee in the EPA retained by current President George W. Bush. Greg Cooke exuded class--not only in the way he practiced law but also in the way he lived his life. He had a straight-ahead, just-the- facts writing style that belied his passion for environment. Mr. Speaker, with Greg Cooke's passing, we have lost an impressive individual and a true leader. He championed the interests of Texas and environmental issues. Greg Cooke was a caring and compassionate man and a tremendous political leader and public servant. I extend my deepest sympathy to Greg Cooke's family.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to take this opportunity to recognize and congratulate the accomplishments of Bishop J. Neaul Haynes. A graduate of the University of North Texas, Bishop Haynes has a longstanding commitment to the ministry and the Oak Cliff community. Prior to his appointment as Prelate of Texas Northeast Jurisdiction, Bishop Haynes served the Jurisdiction in many capacities. He became a member of the Texas Northeast Jurisdictional Trustee Board; appointed District Superintendent of the Dallas West District in 1967; began serving as Assistant to the Jurisdictional Secretary in 1969, and was appointed as Administrative Assistant to the Jurisdictional Bishop in 1973. J. Neaul Haynes was elevated to the episcopacy as Prelate of Texas Northeast Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction in 1978. Bishop Haynes also served the Church of God in Christ on a National level in varied capacities. In 1972 became a member of the National Trustee Board, and from 1972 to 1984 he served as Assistant General Secretary/Registration. In 1984, Bishop Haynes was elected to serve as a member of the General Board (Presidium) of the Church of God in Christ, Inc. He became the Secretary of the General Board in November, 1988. In November 1995, Bishop Haynes ascended to the position of Second Assistant Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ, Inc. And in April, 1997, Bishop Haynes was further promoted to the position of First Assistant Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ Worldwide. In November, 2000, the Church of God in Christ elected a new Presiding Bishop, Bishop Gilbert E. Patterson. Bishop Haynes is now serving in the new administration as the Second Assistant Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ. Bishop Haynes's community involvement and civic contributions demonstrate that he is a man of great vision and excellence. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to stand before my colleagues on behalf of the citizens of Dallas to congratulate Bishop J. Neaul Haynes on his selfless dedication to the Saintsville Church of God in Christ and to the Oak Cliff community. May God bless Bishop Haynes and allow him to continue his service to those in need of faith, hope, and charity.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of our nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This past July, I was able to offer on the House floor a resolution recognizing National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week. The week of September 10th is officially HBCU week. I am pleased to be able to join with my colleagues today to recognize these fine institutions of higher learning. For over 170 years, our Historically Black Colleges and Universities have been on the forefront of preparing our nation's youth for a bright path and successful future. Originally founded for the purpose of providing educational opportunities for African Americans, HBCUs have profoundly changed the American economic and social climate. The fact is that until 1964, HBCUs represented one of the only opportunities African American students had to obtain a degree in higher education. HBCUs have changed the face of this nation and have opened the door for many generations of African American students. Today, America's HBCUs continue to provide excellent educational opportunities to all Americans. Over 200,000 diverse students across the United States attend HBCUs today. I am proud to represent Paul Quinn College, the oldest historical Black college west of the Mississippi River. For over 130 years, Paul Quinn has provided their students with the tools to become successful leaders. Because of their unique resources, HBCUs continue to be extremely effective in graduating African American students and preparing them to compete in the global economy. HBCUs graduate over half of all African American professionals, and fifty percent of all African American school teachers. Additionally, HBCUs remain extremely successful in graduating African American Ph.D's and scientists. The fact is that we cannot move forward as a country until all our children have the opportunity to succeed academically. Each day HBCUs help us bridge that achievement gap. National HBCU Week allows us to reflect upon the impact these institutions have had on our history and to celebrate their continued commitment to outstanding education. I would like to thank my colleagues for their support in passing the national HBCU week resolution.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart on the passing of my dear, trusted and longtime beloved friend, the late Governor Ann Richards. I also rise to pay tribute to her many contributions and her sincere dedication of public service to our great State of Texas and to extend my deepest sympathies to her family and friends everywhere who share in my sadness. I not only lost an esteemed colleague with whom I could always count on for support, since so often we agreed on social and political issues, but also a dear and trusted friend whom I shared many fond moments and with whom I shared a vision for our great State of Texas. Our friendship expanded more than 40 years; I first met Ann when she lived in Dallas before moving to Austin where she ran for Travis County Commissioner in 1976 and I was elected to serve at the Texas House of Representatives. Our first taste of government was as outsiders and sideline players who were mainly called upon to help others win the races. Texas in the 70's wasn't open to allowing women a seat at the political table so our admittance was earned vote by vote. As women in Texas politics, we shared the same struggles and the many sacrifices which are often not asked of men in politics. In her popular address to the Girls State in 1993, she commented that `as a woman you cannot count on Prince Charming to make you feel better about yourself or to take care of you, like some funhouse mirror that reflects you at twice your real size because Prince Charming may be driving a Honda and telling you that you have no equal ...but that won't do you much good when you've got kids and a mortgage. . . and he has a beer gut and a wandering eye.' Ann believed in telling people the truth, especially young girls who were in danger of not maximizing their full potential. For those of us who knew Ann, she would be pleased that her many distinguished accomplishments as a woman in the male dominated Texas politics represented a beacon of hope to many young women who shared her unconventional aspirations. In 1982 when a seat opened as the State Treasurer, Ann sought the Democratic nomination after the incumbent withdrew from the race. As State Treasurer and as a true pragmatist with a keen eye for technology, she transformed the Texas Treasury into a modern operation which encompassed electronic funds transfer, modernized investments and cash management systems. Along the way, Ann earned the respect and admiration of the business community who appreciated her foresight and vision. In 1990 as the first woman Governor of Texas in 50 years, Ann aligned herself with the late Lt. Gov. Bob Bullock and Comptroller John Sharp and together formalized a statewide performance review of agencies that inevitably led to much needed recommendations for change. In her tenure as Governor she was adamant about appointing minorities on state boards and commissions. Ann wanted Texas Government to reflect the people of the State and was proud of the rich cultural and vast diversity engrained in every corner of Texas. Ann is survived by her four children: Cecile, Daniel, Clark and Ellen and their spouses: Kirk Adams, Linda Richards, Sharon Zeugin and Greg Johnson and her much beloved eight grandchildren. Mr. Speaker in closing, it is worthy to mention Ann's legacy as an independent thinker, a strong-minded and compassionate woman with a sharp wit and charming personality who loved her State and the people of Texas so much she dedicated 12 years of her life to serve them. I am saddened at the loss of Governor Ann Richards but I am certain that her legacy will live in the minds and hearts of young women everywhere who now have Ann to remind them that there is nothing as women they cannot accomplish.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, for a lot of American families it is becoming more and more difficult to make ends meet in the Bush economy. With sky-high gas prices this summer, rising health care costs and stagnant wages, working Americans are feeling a serious squeeze on their family finances. Unfortunately, President Bush and the congressional Republicans refuse to address our economy because they think it is moving along smoothly. But that is simply not the case. While full-time minimum wage earners face a 50-year low in buying power, and all Americans face wages that are falling after inflation, corporate profits have reached their highest share of the economy since the 1960s. It would be nice if corporate CEOs and shareholders were not the only ones benefiting from the production American workers are bringing in every day. Democrats believe it is time for them to get their fair share. Mr. Speaker, working Americans are ready for a new economic direction, one where workers are justly compensated for their efforts and the benefits of increased productivity can be shared by all. The days of catering exclusively to the wealthiest have helped create the troubling economic conditions that our Nation now faces. It is time for a change.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Chairman, I strongly oppose the slaughter of horses for human consumption. For this reason I am a cosponsor of H.R. 503. This bill prohibits the shipping, transporting, moving, delivering, receiving, possessing, purchasing, selling, or donation of horses and other equines to be slaughtered for human consumption. An overwhelming majority of my constituents from the Dallas, Texas, area are opposed to horse slaughter, and my vote reflects their will. My office phone has been ringing off the hook with constituents opposed to horse slaughter. I have received more than 500 letters in the past few days. All are opposed to horse slaughter. Horses are a symbol of American freedoms. They are a part of our history, our culture, and they deserve better. Three slaughterhouses remain in the United States, and unfortunately two of them are in Texas. These meat factories kill about 100,000 American horses per year, sending the meat to countries overseas for fine dining. Madam Chairman, I vigorously oppose this gruesome practice. And I don't agree with the argument that shutting down these slaughterhouses will hurt the local economies or be inhumane for horses. In my opinion, this bill protects American horses from being raised-- and slaughtered--for human consumption. I support H.R. 503 and urge my colleagues to support it as well.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker it has been almost 10 years since we've seen an increase in the Federal minimum wage. Unfortunately, this bill here today is not about helping American workers. The bill is full of poison pills--tax breaks for the wealthy and hand-outs for special interests. This is nothing more than a backdoor attempt to put money in the pockets of the wealthiest among us. We're playing politics and decent hardworking Americans are the ones paying the price. The reality is that there are millions of workers trying to support their families on $5.15 per hour. Each day millions of minimum wage workers are forced to choose between food, shelter, health care or clothing. No American who works hard for a living should have to make those types of choices. Mr. Speaker, it is time for a new direction that truly reflects our core American values. These hardworking Americans deserve an up-or-down vote on a clean minimum wage bill.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to be able to offer this resolution recognizing National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week, and I want to thank Mr. Owens for all of his efforts over the years and thanks to all the cosponsors. For over 170 years, our Historically Black Colleges and Universities have been on the forefront of preparing our Nation's youth for a bright path and successful future. Many struggling, almost closing, and some did close, but determined to finish their mission. Originally founded for the purpose of providing educational opportunities for African Americans, HBCUs have profoundly changed the American economic and social climate. The fact is that until 1964, HBCUs represented one of the only opportunities African American students had to obtain a degree in higher education. HBCUs have changed the face of this Nation and have opened the doors for many generations of African American students. Today America's HBCUs continue to provide excellent educational opportunities for all Americans. Over 200,000 diverse students across the United States attend HBCUs today. I am proud to represent Paul Quinn College, the oldest historical black college west of the Mississippi River. For over 130 years, Paul Quinn has provided their student with the tools to become successful leaders. Because of their unique resources, HBCUs continue to be extremely effective in graduating African American students and preparing them to compete in the global economy. While they may start behind going into the college, they have always been able to compete equally and competitively on the graduate level. HBCU graduates over half of all American professionals, and 50 percent of all African American school teachers graduate from HBCUs. Additionally, the Historically Black Colleges and Universities remain extremely successful in graduating African American Ph.D.s and scientists. The fact is that we cannot move forward as a country until all of our children have the opportunity to succeed academically. Each day, HBCUs help us bridge that achievement gap. Celebrated the week of September 10, National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week allows us to reflect upon the impact these institutions have had on our history and to celebrate their continued commitment for outstanding education. I would like to thank the House leadership and the Education and the Workforce Committee for allowing me to bring this important resolution to the floor, and I request the support of all my colleagues of Resolution 928.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, AIDS is a disease that knows no national borders. Approximately 40 million people across the globe are infected with this virus. There is no cure, and for many people, no hope. Between 1995 and 2005, the number of people living with HIV/AIDS has doubled, despite efforts to prevent transmission of the disease. New infections among women outpace those among men as a result of gender inequalities and violence toward women. Ninety- six percent of people with HIV live in the developing world, most in sub-Saharan Africa. Life-saving drugs to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the virus have been unavailable, and hundreds of thousands of infants have become needlessly infected at birth or through breastfeeding in the last year. Bill and Melinda Gates have done a great thing to provide hope to the millions suffering from AIDS. Yesterday, they announced that they have dedicated $287 million in the form of 16 grants over 5 years to set up an international network of HIV vaccine scientists. What is special about the grants is that they will be shared among 16 research projects in 19 countries. Five of the grants will pay for central laboratories to test researchers' findings and foster international collaboration. Importantly, the Gates Foundation's gift will encourage the 165 scientists receiving them to join forces. All the scientists involved have signed a collaboration agreement to openly share their data and results. This unique arrangement is designed to get an effective HIV vaccine quickly into clinical trials in humans. I have great respect for Bill and Melinda Gates, and I admire their desire to do good things at a global level. They are a model of charity. By this generous gift, the Gates are showing all of us how to look beyond our own borders and make a real difference in this world. Global health and equality are the true keys to bringing about world peace and understanding.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to honor a great man and a great artist, poet laureate Rayfer Earl'e Mainor. As our Nation's longest serving poet laureate, and the only current African American poet laureate, Rayfer Earl'e Mainor has shared his soul through his poetry for over 50 years. It is the responsibility of a poet laureate to uplift and raise the status of poetry in the everyday consciousness of Americans. Since 1969, Rayfer Earl'e Mainor has embodied those ideals and standards. All too often poetry has ignored the particular aspects and unique history of African Americans. Rayfer Earl'e Mainor's representations and imagery have shaped the way the world now views the African American experience. His poems have allowed us to reexamine and rethink our own views and experiences. Rayfer Earl'e Mainor has authored several works that have sought to inspire us including: Poems; Poems II; A Tribute to Blackness; The Life and Times of Sister Menefee; Mammoth Melting Sugar; and To Mister or Sarah Jean: A Love Story. Through his craft, Rayfer Earl'e Mainor has enlightened us with the narrative prose of the brutal murder of Emmitt Till, and poetry relaying the 1916 lynching of Jesse Washington. His work has also detailed the reflections and expectations surrounding expectant fatherhood. It is an honor for me to be able to recognize this outstanding man, artist, and lifelong member of Alpha Phi Alpha. His work and representations have brought reverence to the African American community and his brotherhood at Alpha Phi Alpha. I am fortunate enough to serve with several distinguished men of Alpha Phi Alpha, including: Congressman Charles Rangel, Congressman Gregory Meeks, Congressman Robert Scott, Congressman Chaka Fattah, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, Congressman David Scott, Congressman Danny Davis, and Congressman Al Green. I know that my fellow colleagues and Congressional Black Caucus Members equal the respect and admiration for Mr. Mainor. I have the highest esteem for Rayfer Earl'e Mainor and his work, and I look forward to many more bright expressions of poetry, prose, and art in the years ahead.