Hank Johnson

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, how many times will Republicans attempt to rob innocent Americans of their health and their wellness? First, they morally bankrupted themselves when they took a hatchet, or I should say a scythe--that's that thing that the Grim Reaper walks with--they took a scythe to Medicare in the Ryan budget, attempting to increase the health care cost to seniors, and passed it unanimously, unanimous Republican support for the Ryan ``Grim Reaper'' budget plan that cut Medicare. It really destroyed Medicare as we know it and replaced it with a voucher system. That's what they have passed in this House. And now the Grim Reaper is coming again, not to cut tax cuts to the rich, not to cut tax subsidies to big oil companies. The Grim Reaper is not here to cut from wealthy individuals all of the tax breaks that they have been getting. No, the Grim Reaper is here to cut something that is fundamental to life, and that is money for food for human beings. The Grim Reaper, moving slowly, not bouncing at all, just creeping through the night with his scythe, ready to cut the WIC program. I'm opposed to any effort to remove funding for nutrition assistance for women and children, leaving them to go hungry in the streets. During these difficult times, soup kitchens, pantry shelters, churches, nonprofits, including many in my district, they have reached their limits in terms of the assistance that they can give to those who need it. Mr. Chairman, the budget brought to the floor today will lead to a drastic multimillion-dollar shortfall for the WIC program, not only resulting in more individuals going hungry, but placing additional strain on many aid agencies who have already reached the end of their rope. This week, I have spoken to pastors, rabbis, and faith-based leaders of all stripes and haven't heard a single one of them express support for reducing nutrition assistance. In fact, many of them today right now are roaming the halls of Congress speaking to anyone who cares to listen to express their opposition to this bill. They are desperate, desperate to talk about the effects of these drastic cuts. I came down to the well of the House earlier today to speak about Republican efforts to take food out of the mouths of mothers and children across the country. Today, with the help of this bill, this Congress will accomplish something that has not been done in 14 years. Today, it looks like this Congress, as the Grim Reaper, will pass a bill that doesn't provide enough money to serve all WIC participants. Instead, we will pass a bill that forces vulnerable families to depend completely on the same food banks that have run out of food while we continue to subsidize tax breaks for millionaires, billionaires, and Big Oil. The Grim Reaper is not coming for them, doesn't want to bother them. I can't, in good conscience, support this effort of the Grim Reapers to rob low-income Americans of basic necessities like food while giving millions to those who no longer need our assistance. In a Nation as great as the United States, we should not be promoting corporate welfare while taking food out of the mouths of hungry children.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, the 90th anniversary of White Castle, the 25-cent hamburger I used to remember, it came in that little cardboard box. You could buy four of them for a dollar. The price has gone up now, but I've got a feeling if this Congress continues to do business like it has, we will be eating about two of those little, small hamburgers, for dinner every single day. What they want to do, ladies and gentlemen, on the Republican side is to cut Medicare and gut Medicaid and do everything they can to take care of their wealthy patrons with another round of tax cuts. It's like a drunken binge that they have been on with these tax cuts. Trickle-down economics, ladies and gentlemen, does not work. It has not trickled down. And, in fact, it has closed off to where all of the money stays up top. It never trickles down to the bottom. We have got to change that.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Whereas, in the mid 1800s, the union of Henryetta Hubboard and William Johnson in Choctaw County, Mississippi has blessed us with descendants that have helped to shape our Nation; and Whereas, the Hubboard and Johnson union produced many well respected citizens, today we honor all of the matriarchs and patriarchs, who are pillars of strength for the Edwards, Johnson and Hubboard families; and Whereas, in our beloved Fourth Congressional District of Georgia, we are honored to have many members of the Edwards, Johnson and Hubboard families, such as Ms. Dorothy Edwards, who are some of our most productive citizens in our District; and Whereas, family is one of the most honored and cherished institutions in the world, we take pride in knowing that families such as the Edwards, Johnson and Hubboard families have set aside this time to fellowship with each other, honor one another and to pass along history to each other by meeting at this year's family reunion in Georgia; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize the Edwards, Johnson and Hubboard families; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr., do hereby proclaim July 22, 2011 as Edwards, Johnson & Hubboard Family Reunion Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 22nd day of July, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Whereas, our lives have been touched by the life of this one woman . . . who has given of herself in order for others to stand; and Whereas, Mrs. Adele Wilson's work is present not only in the city of New Orleans, but around the nation for all to see, being an usher, missionary and friend; and Whereas, this giant of a woman gave so much to her family, her community and her church; and Whereas, this remarkable woman gave of herself, her time, her talent and her life; she never asked for fame or fortune to uplift those in need, she just wanted to do what was right and she not only talked the talk, she walked the walk for others to get involved in matters of the community; and Whereas, Mrs. Adele Wilson led by doing, she was a warrior for education, a beacon of light for all people, a wife, a mother, a daughter, a friend; she was a Proverbs 31 woman, our matriarch, a woman of great integrity who remained true to the uplifting of our community until her end; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to bestow an honorable mention and recognition on Mrs. Adele Wilson for her leadership, friendship and service to all of the citizens of the United States of America; a citizen of great worth and so noted distinction; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby attest to the 112th Congress that Mrs. Adele Wilson of New Orleans, Louisiana is deemed worthy and deserving of this ``Congressional Honorable Mention.'' Mrs. Adele Wilson, U.S. Citizen of Distinction in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 11th day of June, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of the amendment offered by the gentleman from New York, Congressman Higgins. The Urban Area Security Initiative is administered by the Department of Homeland Security. It's a critical program focused on enhancing regional preparedness in high-risk areas by fostering better communication and collaboration among local first responders. These grants provide local authorities, first responders, and law enforcement with the resources they need to prepare for, prevent, and recover from attacks and other disasters impacting communities across America. This Homeland Security appropriations bill is dangerous as it restricts the initiative to allow only 10 urban areas to be eligible for the program and its funding. This would cause more than 50 cities, including Atlanta, to lose funds. Mr. Chair, as we all know, terrorists do not limit their attack to only 10 cities. We should not leave Americans who do not live in these 10 cities unnecessarily and arbitrarily vulnerable to disaster. My home State of Georgia greatly benefits from the Urban Area Security Initiative grants. In 2010, the Atlanta urban area received $13.5 million in grants. Atlanta, one of the most populous and fast-growing cities in the region and home to the world's busiest airport, and already the scene of one terrorist attack during the 1996 Olympics, would lose critical funding under this bill. The Fusion Center in Atlanta not only benefits the metropolitan area, but the entire State of Georgia. The Fusion Center is an information hub for the State. Local law enforcement and officials collect suspicious activity reports and send them to Federal law enforcement officials. In the Fourth District of Georgia, the DeKalb County Fire Rescue Corps recently received an Urban Area Security Initiative grant from FEMA, which will enable it to operate a mobile canteen rehab unit that supplies food and beverages for firefighters and emergency responders during lengthy emergency incidents. The funds have also been used to support citizens corps and community efforts towards preparedness and community response efforts. These funds are critical to helping Georgia develop a regional exercise plan, develop annexes to include tactical operations for use during an evacuation and for emergency public information. Mr. Chairman, I stand here in support of this bipartisan amendment that would remove this arbitrary restriction on this program from this bill. I urge all my colleagues to support this commonsense amendment, which would not add one penny to the debt or deficit. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation. Whereas, the works of Dr. Charles R. Drew have been and continue to be credited for medical innovation and saving lives throughout the world; and Whereas, Reverend Furquan R. Stafford, Sr., has given of himself to continue the works of Dr. Drew in the U.S. Plasma Collection Industry and to educate and motivate our youth; Reverend Stafford has given exceptionable and distinguished service to our citizens by providing guidance, service and leadership; and Whereas, Reverend Stafford is a proven leader and advocate with the heart of a lion and the spirit of an angel; and Whereas, his determination and will is a testament that one man can make a difference; and Whereas, Georgia is proud to have Reverend Stafford, who gives of himself daily without any need for praise and fame; he always serves valiantly and with honor, a modern-day knight; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Reverend Furquan R. Stafford, Sr., for his outstanding leadership and service to our District; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim May 19, 2011 as Reverend Furquan R. Stafford, Sr. Day in the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia. Proclaimed, this 19th day of May, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation. Whereas, in the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia, there are many individuals who are called to contribute to the needs of our community through leadership and service; and Whereas, Mrs. Glenda F. Britton has answered that call by giving of herself as an educator at Edward L. Bouie, Sr., Traditional Theme Elementary School, and as a beloved wife, daughter, mother and friend; and Whereas, Mrs. Britton has been chosen as the 2011 Teacher of the Year, representing Edward L. Bouie, Sr., Traditional Theme Elementary School; and Whereas, this phenomenal woman has shared her time and talents for the betterment of our community and our Nation through her tireless works, motivational speeches and words of wisdom; and Whereas, Mrs. Britton is a virtuous woman, a courageous woman and a fearless leader who has shared her vision, talents and passion to help ensure that our children, receive an education that is relevant not only for today, but well into the future, as she truly understands that our children are the future; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Mrs. Glenda F. Britton for her leadership and service for our District and in recognition of this singular honor as 2011 Teacher of the Year at Edward L. Bouie, Sr., Traditional Theme Elementary School; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim April 22, 2011 as Mrs. Glenda F. Britton Day of Remarks in the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia. Proclaimed, this 22nd day of April, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation. Whereas, Thirty plus years ago a virtuous woman of God accepted her calling to serve the DeKalb County School System; and Whereas, Ms. Patricia A. Mayo was born in Wrens, Georgia, she began her educational career as a student in Jefferson County Public Schools, she furthered her education by obtaining her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Savannah State College in Savannah, Georgia, she continued her studies at Georgia Southern University and Cambridge University; and Whereas, this phenomenal woman has shared her time and talents as a Teacher and Motivator, giving the citizens of DeKalb County, Georgia a person of great worth, a fearless leader, a devoted scholar and a servant to all who want to advance the lives of our youth; and Whereas, Ms. Mayo is a daughter, sister, mother and Eastern Star, she is also a cornerstone in our community that has enhanced the lives of thousands for the betterment of our District and Nation; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Ms. Patricia A. Mayo on her retirement from the DeKalb County School System and to wish her well in her new endeavors; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim May 18, 2011 as Ms. Patricia A. Mayo Day in the Fourth Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 18th day of May, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation. Whereas, John D. Defoor was born on October 2, 1945 and departed this life on March 19, 2010; and Whereas, today we gather to memorialize the life of Mr. John D. Defoor, his accomplishments and his service to our Nation; and Whereas, seven years and eleven months of the life of Mr. John D. Defoor was given to serve our country as a soldier in the United States Army, where he fought with valor and honor during the Vietnam War; and Whereas, he gave of himself, his time, and his talent as he served his country and fellow soldiers, wherein he was awarded various medals for his courage and service during his tour of duty in the Republic of Vietnam; and Whereas, Mr. John D. Defoor was a son, a friend and a man of great integrity who remained true to the uplifting of our Nation; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to bestow a special recognition on Mr. John D. Defoor for his leadership, friendship and service to all of the citizens of Georgia and throughout the Nation as a citizen of great worth and so noted distinction; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby attest to the 112th Congress of the United States that Mr. John D. Defoor of Doraville, DeKalb County, Georgia is deemed worthy and deserving of this ``Congressional Recognition'' by declaring Mr. John D. Defoor U.S. Citizen of Distinction in the Fourth Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 30th day of April, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation. Whereas, Poplar Springs Baptist Church is one of our most beloved treasures in the State of Georgia; and Whereas, Pastor Ulysses and First Lady Annie Ponder are the two jewels that have been placed by God to lead and serve the members of Poplar Springs Baptist Church for the past 23 three years; and Whereas, this tenacious man and virtuous woman of God give of themselves daily in order to uplift the kingdom, serve the community and to give to those in need; and Whereas, honor, humility, courage and foresight are words that describe the Pastor and First Lady, we would be remiss if we did not speak of the love and admiration they have towards God, the Church and the Community; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Pastor Ulysses Ponder and First Lady Annie Ponder as they celebrate 23 years of outstanding leadership and service; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim May 1, 2011 as Pastor Ulysses and First Lady Annie Ponder Day in the Fourth Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 1st day of May, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 3, the ``No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act.'' The title of this bill is misleading. This is not about funding abortions; it's about restricting a woman's right to choose. This bill is not necessary--the Hyde Amendment already prohibits federal funds from being used for abortion. This bill also raises taxes and penalizes individuals and small businesses that chose health plans that include abortion care. The majority is using this bill as a tool to push the abortion debate into the tax code. H.R. 3 would increase taxes in order to prevent women from obtaining abortion care. Under the confines of the bill, rape victims could be subject to invasive IRS audits to prove that their assault qualifies for abortion care. The same lawmakers who campaigned on growing our economy and cutting taxes are now trying to impose new tax penalties on individuals who happen to choose a procedure that they do not agree with. The majority campaigned on a promise of job creation. Instead the majority is pushing H.R. 3 which would make it more difficult for women to obtain reproductive healthcare services. Judging by the number of this bill, it is the third highest priority for the majority. At a time when America is digging itself out of a recession, and nearly 14 million people are out of work, we should not be prioritizing bills that limit and restrict a woman's access to health care services. We should be focusing on growing the economy and creating jobs. I am ready to get to work and move legislation that would create jobs and revitalize the economy, not restrict women's healthcare coverage. This bill is nothing more than a mean-spirited attack on women's healthcare. It targets women, many of whom are low-income and women of color, and seeks to permanently deny them coverage for a pregnancy- related healthcare benefit. Then, under the misleading guise of protecting tax-payer dollars, it manipulates the tax code to advance the majority's ideological agenda. I cannot vote for a bill that punishes women for making their own private healthcare decisions and subjects them to government intrusion. Madam Speaker, I strongly oppose this bill and urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following proclamation: Whereas, in the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia, there are many individuals who are called to contribute to the needs of our community through leadership and service; and Whereas, Mrs. Glenda F. Britton has answered that call by giving of herself as an educator at Edward L. Bouie, Sr., Traditional Theme Elementary School, and as a beloved wife, daughter, mother and friend; and Whereas, Mrs. Britton has been chosen as the 2011 Teacher of the Year, representing Edward L. Bouie, Sr., Traditional Theme Elementary School; and Whereas, this phenomenal woman has shared her time and talents for the betterment of our community and our nation through her tireless works, motivational speeches and words of wisdom; and Whereas, Mrs. Britton is a virtuous woman, a courageous woman and a fearless leader who has shared her vision, talents and passion to help ensure that our children receive an education that is relevant not only for today, but well into the future, as she truly understands that our children are the future; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Mrs. Glenda F. Britton for her leadership and service for our District and in recognition of this singular honor as 2011 Teacher of the Year at Edward L. Bouie, Sr., Traditional Theme Elementary School; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim April 22, 2011 as Mrs. Glenda F. Britton Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 22nd day of April, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following proclamation: Whereas, one hundred years ago a virtuous woman of God was born in Houston County, Georgia, on April 15, 1911; and Whereas, Mrs. Nora Lee Adams moved to Dooly County, Georgia, where she married Mr. Henry Adams and through their union was blessed with 12 children, 27 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 31 great-great grandchildren; and Whereas, this phenomenal Proverbs 31 woman has shared her time and talents as a wife, mother and motivator, giving the citizens of Georgia a person of great worth, a fearless leader and a servant to all who wants to advance the lives of others; and Whereas, Mrs. Adams has been blessed with a long, happy life, devoted to God and credits it all to the Will of God; and Whereas, Mrs. Adams along with her family and friends is celebrating this day a remarkable milestone, her 100th birthday, we pause to acknowledge a woman who is a cornerstone in our community in DeKalb County, Georgia; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Mrs. Adams on her birthday and to wish her well and recognize her for an exemplary life which is an inspiration to all; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim April 15th , 2011 as Mrs. Nora Lee Adams Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 15th day of April, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following proclamation: Whereas, Reverend Obbie L. Burns today begins a new chapter in his life and the life of New Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia; and Whereas, Reverend Obbie L. Burns under the guidance and favor of God, will this day be installed as Pastor of the New Macedonia Baptist Church and under his leadership he will be charged to pioneer and sustain New Macedonia Baptist Church, as an instrument in our community that uplifts the spiritual, physical and mental welfare of our citizens; and Whereas, this remarkable and tenacious man of God has given hope to the hopeless, fed the hungry and is a beacon of light to those in need; and Whereas, Reverend Burns is a spiritual warrior, a man of compassion, a fearless leader and a servant to all, but most of all a visionary who has shared not only with his Church, but with our District and the world his passion to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Reverend Obbie L. Burns on his installation as Pastor; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim April 17, 2011 as Reverend Obbie L. Burns Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 17th day of April, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation: Whereas, the accomplishments of many start with the works and words of one; and Whereas, Waymon Sims was born and raised in Athens, Georgia, where he began his athletic career as a teenager participating in football, track and basketball earning varsity letters while maintaining his membership in the National High School Honor Society at Athens High & Industrial School; and Whereas, upon his graduation from Athens High & Industrial School in 1959, Waymon Sims entered Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia wherein he continued his athletic career in track and football while earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics; and Whereas, Waymon Sims served our country honorably in the U.S. Navy during a time of war, he returned home to Georgia, entered John Marshall Law School, coached little league softball and baseball in DeKalb County, Georgia, won numerous championships for his girls and boys teams but most of all, he shared his time and talents for the betterment of his community and his nation through his tireless works, words of encouragement and inspiration that have and continue to be a beacon of light to those in need; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Waymon Sims the Athlete, Coach, Attorney and Community Leader on his induction into the Athens Athletic Hall of Fame in his hometown of Athens, Georgia and to congratulate him as a constituent who now lives in our District; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim May 18, 2009 as Waymon Sims Day in the Fourth Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 18th day of May, 2009.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following proclamation: Whereas, in the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia, there are many individuals who are called to contribute to the needs of our community through leadership and service; and Whereas, the Georgia Sustainable Communities Alliance was created to build an alliance of professionals with various skill sets to build Green sustainable communities throughout the state; and Whereas, Mr. Derold McIver, BB&T's CRA/Community Development, and many others held its first meeting of the Georgia Sustainable Communities Alliance on November 5, 2010; and Whereas, this unique board has given of themselves tirelessly and unconditionally to preserve integrity, advocate for the betterment of citizens as it relates to Economic Development, Housing Development, Education and Healthcare; and Whereas, the Georgia Sustainable Communities Alliance consists of members from the Not For Profit Sector, For Profit Sector, Commercial Lenders, Corporations, Government, Educational Institutions and many more; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize the Georgia Sustainable Communities Alliance for their outstanding service to our District; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim December 8, 2010 as Georgia Sustainable Communities Alliance Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 8th day of December, 2010.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation: Whereas, Reverend Obbie L. Burns today begins a new chapter in his life and the life of New Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia; and Whereas, Reverend Obbie L. Burns under the guidance and favor of God, will this day be installed as Pastor of the New Macedonia Baptist Church and under his leadership he will be charged to pioneer and sustain New Macedonia Baptist Church, as an instrument in our community that uplifts the spiritual, physical and mental welfare of our citizens; and Whereas, this remarkable and tenacious man of God has given hope to the hopeless, fed the hungry and is a beacon of light to those in need; and Whereas, Reverend Burns is a spiritual warrior, a man of compassion, a fearless leader and a servant to all, but most of all a visionary who has shared not only with his Church, but with our District and the world his passion to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Reverend Obbie L. Burns on his installation as Pastor; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim April 17, 2011 as Reverend Obbie L. Burns Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 17th day of April, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation: Whereas, One hundred years ago a virtuous woman of God was born in Houston County, Georgia on April 15, 1911; and Whereas, Mrs. Nora Lee Adams moved to Dooly County, Georgia, where she married Mr. Henry Adams and through their union was blessed with 12 children, 27 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 31 great-great grandchildren; and Whereas, this phenomenal Proverbs 31 woman has shared her time and talents as a wife, mother and motivator, giving the citizens of Georgia a person of great worth, a fearless leader and a servant to all who want to advance the lives of others; and Whereas, Mrs. Adams has been blessed with a long, happy life, devoted to God and credits it all to the Will of God; and Whereas, Mrs. Adams, along with her family and friends, is celebrating this day a remarkable milestone, her 100th birthday, we pause to acknowledge a woman who is a cornerstone in our community in DeKalb County, Georgia; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Mrs. Adams on her birthday and to wish her well and recognize her for an exemplary life which is an inspiration to all; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim April 15th, 2011 as Mrs. Nora Lee Adams Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 15th day of April, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to stand up for the middle class, the working poor, and the poor of this great Nation. They deserve honesty and a fair shake from their government. I'm here to tell the American people the honest truth that the Republican budget of fiscal year 2011 would destroy 700,000 jobs and derail our economic recovery. Their plan, H.R. 1, would cut funding for government programs with the precision of a chain saw. The Republicans are ignoring the fact that the policies of the 111th Congress and of our President saved America from an economic free fall. These same policies have been responsible for the unemployment rate falling to 8.8 percent last month, a 2-year low. I think last month was the 14th straight month of jobs being created as opposed to jobs being cut. Instead of funding programs that are helping our economy, these Republicans are poised to shut down the government. Today, every Republican in unison speaks about this shutdown in hushed and somber tones so as not to appear to be gloating. But they really don't care about you, the middle class, and they don't care about how a shutdown will affect you. And they all, in unison, cast blame on Harry Reid. He's going to be the whipping boy that we hear on FOX News tonight. Mr. Speaker, a recent study found that more than 40 percent of House freshmen are millionaires. They have net worths of up to $40 million. And some of these freshmen, who have yet to become millionaires-- they're wannabes--but they enjoy a median estimated wealth for these House freshman of $570,000 each. In contrast, according to the U.S. census, the median estimated wealth for the average American is $120,000. It's a big contrast. Instead of funding problems that are helping our economy, they're poised to shut down the government. Today, for minorities, the median estimated wealth is $27,000. And what the Republicans are doing is trying to get us out of this budget turmoil that we're in on the backs of the middle class and the poor. It's wrong.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following proclamation: Whereas, over One hundred forty nine years ago, Ms. Hattie Hawkins in the state of South Carolina has blessed us with descendants that have helped to shape our nation; and Whereas, the Hawkins Family has produced many well respected citizens and three of the matriarchs of the family Ms. Addie Rankin Hawkins, Ms. Virginia Hawkins Clarke and Ms. Florence Amanda Hawkins Wilson are pillars of strength for these families; and Whereas, in our beloved Fourth Congressional District of Georgia, we are honored to have many members of the Hawkins family, including Mr. Norm Fikes one of our most beloved citizens in our District who resides in Stone Mountain, Georgia; and Whereas, family is one of the most honored and cherished institutions in the world, we take pride in knowing that families such as the Hawkins family have set aside this time to fellowship with each other, honor one another and to pass along history to each other by meeting at this year's family reunion in Atlanta, Georgia; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize the Hawkins family in our District; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim Saturday, July 12, 2008 as Hawkins Family Reunion Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 12th day of July, 2008.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following proclamation: Whereas, a tenacious man from Frogmore, South Carolina utilizes his gifts, talents and wisdom everyday to insure that veterans and their families are provided resources in the state of Georgia; and Whereas, Mr. Jonathan Smalls is a renowned leader not only for his hometown of Frogmore, South Carolina, but as a husband, father and community leader in DeKalb County, Georgia; and Whereas, Mr. Jonathan Smalls served our Country honorably for Twenty- eight (28) years in the U.S. Army as an Army Ranger, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major, he is a man of honor and a strong advocate of justice, education and family; and Whereas, this model citizen has shared his time and talents for the betterment of his community and his nation through his tireless works, words of encouragement and inspiration that have and continues to be a beacon of light to those in need; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Jonathan Smalls for his outstanding leadership and service to the citizens in the state of Georgia, his community temperament is to be acknowledged and his commitment to the citizens throughout the state continues to touch the lives of citizens in our District; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim March 20, 2011 as Jonathan Smalls Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 20th day of March, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following proclamation: Whereas, DeKalb County serves as home for many Veterans who have served honorably in the United States Military; and Whereas, the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 91 of Decatur is an organization that continues to serve those who have represented our nation in times of peace and war; and Whereas, our beloved county, continues to rely on the wisdom, leadership and service from the Disabled American Veterans to assist and build our community; and Whereas, this unique organization has given of themselves tirelessly and unconditionally to preserve integrity and advocate strongly for our disabled veterans and their families; and Whereas, the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 91 continues to serve our county by being the sword and shield of those who served our country in the United States military; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 91 of Decatur, Georgia for their outstanding service to our District; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim March 20, 2011 as Disabled American Veterans Chapter 91 Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 20th day of March, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation: Whereas, in the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia, there are many individuals who are called to contribute to the needs of our community through leadership and service; and Whereas, Ms. Bridgette Dixon Thurman has answered that call by giving of herself as an educator at Dunaire Elementary, and as a beloved daughter, mother and friend; and Whereas, Ms. Thurman has been chosen as the 2011 Teacher of the Year, representing Dunaire Elementary school; and Whereas, this phenomenal woman has shared her time and talents for the betterment of our community and our nation through her tireless works, motivational speeches and words of wisdom; and Whereas, Ms. Thurman is a virtuous woman, a courageous woman and a fearless leader who has shared her vision, talents and passion to help ensure that our children, receive an education that is relevant not only for today, but well into the future, as she truly understands that our children are the future; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Ms. Bridgette Dixon Thurman for her leadership and service for our District and in recognition of this singular honor as 2011 Teacher of the Year at Dunaire Elementary School; Now therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim March 23, 2011 as Ms. Bridgette Dixon Thurman Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 23rd day of March, 2011.

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia

Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following Proclamation: Whereas, in the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia, there are many individuals who are called to contribute to the needs of our community through leadership and service; and Whereas, Ms. Bridgette Dixon Thurman has given of herself as an educator of Dunaire Elementary, a daughter, a mother and friend; and Whereas, Ms. Thurman has been chosen as this year's Teacher of the Year, representing Dunaire Elementary school; and Whereas, this phenomenal woman has shared her time and talents for the betterment of our community and our Nation through her tireless works, motivational speeches and words of wisdom; and Whereas, Ms. Thurman is a virtuous woman, a courageous woman and a fearless leader who has shared with the world her vision and passion to help ensure that our future, our children, receive an education that is relevant for today, but also for the future; and Whereas, the U.S. Representative of the Fourth District of Georgia has set aside this day to honor and recognize Ms. Bridgette Dixon Thurman for her leadership and service for our District; Now Therefore, I, Henry C. ``Hank'' Johnson, Jr. do hereby proclaim March 23, 2011 as Ms. Bridgette Dixon Thurman Day in the 4th Congressional District. Proclaimed, this 23rd day of March, 2011.