Mary Jo Kilroy

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Meribah Mansfield for nearly four decades of service to Ohio's libraries and to congratulate her on her upcoming retirement. Meribah has spent the last 38 years working in central Ohio's libraries and has served as the Director of the Worthington Libraries for the last nineteen years. An outstanding leader, Meribah is a past president of the Ohio Library Association and a past chair of the Ohio Library Council Board of Trustees. Over the course of her career, she has made countless and lasting contributions to Ohio's libraries including her involvement with the construction and renovation of the Columbus Main Library, the Worthington Northwest Library, and the Old Worthington Library. Meribah also has directed the creation of a Web site that commemorated the City of Worthington's bicentennial. Public libraries play a crucial role in our communities, and we are indebted to all librarians, especially Meribah, for the indispensable service they perform. Following her July 23rd retirement, Meribah plans to pursue her dream of becoming a deacon in the Episcopal Church. She also looks forward to spending time with her husband Bruce, children Matthew and Jessica, and grandchildren Owen and Connor. It is with great pride that I rise to honor Ms. Mansfield for her contributions to Ohio's libraries. I wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 200th anniversary of Madison County. This central Ohio county has reached its bicentennial milestone, during which we reflect on the history of the region and pay tribute to the proud and industrious families who live and work in Madison County today. On February 16, 2010, Madison County residents celebrated two centuries of accomplishments, challenges, and growth. Established in 1810, Madison County was named after America's fourth president, James Madison and encompasses 467 square miles in central Ohio. Whether they are members of close-knit communities such as Mount Sterling, Plain City, West Jefferson, London, Midway, and South Solon, or part of the larger agricultural heritage of the surrounding homesteads, roughly 43,000 Ohioans call Madison County home. The county also offers a diverse workforce. From innovators that develop breakthroughs in research at Battelle Labs in West Jefferson, to the Amish farming tradition around Plain City, residents are both forward-thinking and grounded by their strong work ethic. Madison County has been one of America's agricultural leaders. To this day, 88% of the land in the county is utilized for farming, ranking fourth in soybean and corn production in the state of Ohio. Because of the critical position agriculture holds in Madison County agricultural industry, it annually hosts The Ohio State University's Farm Science Review, one of the largest farm exhibitions in the world. Madison County is home to Ohio's only natural plains, smaller versions of the Great Plains found in the West. They are dotted by family cemeteries of original settlers, often studied by genealogists across the state. Numerous attractions--such as the Madison Lake State Park, Lake Choctaw, the Red Brick Tavern, the Jonathan Alder Cabin, and Big Darby Creek State and National Scenic River--as well as many local parks and segments of the Prairie Grass Trail make Madison County a great place to live, work, and visit. For two hundred years, Madison residents have played a vital role in the growth of central Ohio and particularly to Ohio's 15th Congressional District. I am proud to represent the residents of Madison County and to honor them as they celebrate two hundred years of history and achievement.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Columbus Chapter of the MOLES on its 50th Anniversary. The MOLES, an acronym for Maturity, Optimism, Loyalty, Enthusiasm, and Sparkle, is a social organization consisting of nearly 1,000 women in 30 chapters across the United States. The MOLES was chartered in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1950. Although the original purpose of the group was to foster fun, pleasure and fellowship, the members soon realized that some in their respective communities needed a helping hand. Chapters across the country have contributed to the health and physical needs of the less fortunate, provided scholarships, assisted the aged, blind and underprivileged, and encouraged racial equality in their communities. In 1960, fourteen women dedicated to the ideals and goals of the MOLES organization formed the Columbus Chapter. This sisterhood of joyful and compassionate women has remained a steadfast component in Franklin County. On February 27, 2010, the Columbus Chapter of the MOLES celebrated its 50th year of fellowship and service to others. In attendance that night was Eleanor DeLoache, one of the original members of the Columbus chapter. The Columbus MOLES has been an exemplary social and service organization for 50 years, and I am proud to offer them my congratulations and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lonnie Carmon, who in 1926 became the first African American to fly a plane in central Ohio. Through his persistence, creativity, and ingenuity, Lonnie contributed to the evolution of aviation as well as the advancement of African Americans. The Ohio Historical Society has honored Lonnie Carmon for his role in the history of aviation in Ohio with a tribute to aviators who lived and flew out of Columbus. Lonnie Carmon was affectionately referred to as the ``junk man'' for his recycling business, in which he would take discarded goods and sell them to people who could use them. Lonnie was a creative and inventive man who built his aircraft himself with little guidance, using materials he came across in his recycling business. His ability to turn what others considered trash into a working airplane has made him a pioneer in the field and for this reason he is celebrated during National Aviation Month every November. Lonnie Carmon was recognized in 2004 by the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, which dedicated its 2003 Annual Report to the celebration of the History of Aviation in Central Ohio during the 75th anniversary of Port Columbus International Airport. The Annual Report included a photograph of Lonnie and the aircraft he built and flew. Lonnie Carmon was honored by his granddaughter and other members of the Columbus community on February 20, 2010, at the Ohio Historical Center where he received a Citation of Achievement from Mayor Michael Coleman. State Representative and House Majority Floor Leader Tracy Maxwell Heard also issued a resolution of recognition in celebration of Lonnie's accomplishments. Lonnie Carmon, along with all those who contributed to the history of flight in Ohio, will continue to be honored and recognized for his impact on aviation. I am proud to honor Lonnie Carmon, for his drive, innovation, and ability as a pioneer in Ohio aviation history.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Nathan Elfrink, an energetic, passionate young man. Despite having spent most of his life fighting a brain tumor, Nate never let his illness diminish his thirst for adventure. He passed away at the age of seven on February 26, 2010. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all those who have been touched by Nate's kindness and bravery. Nate never complained about his illness, the doctor's appointments, or the difficult treatments. Instead, he often asked his mom when he could go play on his way to appointments. He was a caring boy who would bake cookies for his teachers and friends. Nate was active in various community events around central Ohio and he led a group, known as ``Nate's Mates,'' at a local Relay For Life to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Nate's favorite holiday was Christmas. Last year, Nate's mother posted an online update about his condition and said that he would enjoy receiving Christmas cards. A subsequent Facebook group was initiated asking for one million Christmas cards for Nate. As cards poured in from all 50 states and 63 countries, the town of West Jefferson came together to open all the cards and read the most notable to Nate. Nate always had a passion for sports and despite his worsening condition, Nate watched the entire Winter Olympics opening ceremony and enjoyed pointing out all the countries from which he received cards. Nate enjoyed his life the best he could. His family plans to keep the cards Nate received and hold a Christmas in July celebration on what would have been Nate's eighth birthday. I am proud to honor Nate Elfrink for his courage and optimism throughout his illness; this inspirational member of our community will be sincerely missed.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4840, a bill to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1979 Cleveland Avenue in Columbus, Ohio, as the ``Clarence D. Lumpkin Post Office'' in honor of Clarence Lumpkin, a long-time community activist who has worked tirelessly on behalf of his Columbus neighborhood of Linden. Mr. Lumpkin has had a profound impact on many families in central Ohio, and his community involvement and activism have helped ensure that the Linden community retains its post office. Growing up in the rural South, Clarence Lumpkin first moved to the Linden neighborhood after serving in the Army during World War II. Proving to be a tireless community activist, Mr. Lumpkin became affectionately known as ``the Mayor of Linden'' for his efforts. He successfully advocated for the needs of his community numerous times over the past several decades, persuading the city to separate storm and sanitation sewers to stop basement flooding, to build a long-needed new fire station, and ensuring the Department of Transportation did not divide the Linden community with interstate highway construction. His many accomplishments also include his work with the Community Development Block Grant task force to secure home improvement grants for seniors and low-interest loans for Linden residents, leading anti- drug marches, and making Linden the first inner city community with lights on every residential street. Mr. Lumpkin once presented a speech before the Columbus City Council in 1974 regarding the needs of the Linden community, calling for ``a point of pride'' to be developed to motivate interest in Linden and give the community a sense of direction. His vision became reality in 2007 with the dedication of the ``Clarence D. Lumpkin Point of Pride Building,'' the last building to be built by the Greater Linden Development Corporation as a part of its Four Corners Vision Plan for commercial redevelopment, and a testament to his diligence and activism. As a father, grandfather, and mentor, Mr. Lumpkin worked to instill in others the same virtues of hard work and community involvement that drive him. His son, Doug, and his daughter, Carolyn, who worked with me during my time as a county commissioner, continue his legacy of public service through their work in state and local government. Mr. Lumpkin also had a tremendous impact as a mentor through the Simba program, a program in which African-American men mentor African-American boys, most of whom have no father or other adult male in their lives. Because of his efforts, a young man Mr. Lumpkin mentored is expected to graduate from college in 2011. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation and to recognize Mr. Lumpkin's many achievements and decades of service to his community. I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Clarence Lumpkin and his lifetime of community involvement and activism by supporting the passage of H.R. 4840.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I believe that a great strength of our democracy is in our First Amendment. It allows for the robust exchange of ideas and opinions. I welcome that. I want to hear what my constituents are thinking, what concerns they have, concerns about how health care will work for them. I want to listen to them discuss the lack of health care and how that affects their life, the high cost of health care and how they are coping with that. I have held town halls, roundtables, small groups, over 20 meetings in my district over health care. And this week demonstrations for and against health care reform were held in front of my district office. Unfortunately, some of those opposing health care reform went too far. Instead of making their arguments against the bill, they engaged in abusive language directed at one of my constituents who suffers the terrible ravages of Parkinson's disease. They treated him like a beggar. They threw dollar bills at him. They did not respect his humanity, did not respect his right to give his opinion on the health care bill. This type of protest goes too far. It has crossed a line. The health care legislation is about respecting each other's rights as human beings. And when it comes to needed medical care, it should respect our rights as citizens to express our opinions.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Ohio State School for the Blind Marching Band, who in January 2010, became the first blind marching band in the nation to march in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. Thirty-five talented and inspirational blind students, accompanied by their sighted marching assistants, demonstrated their unique abilities by marching alongside some of the nation's top marching bands. Located in Columbus, the publicly-funded Ohio State School for the Blind offers academic, vocational, and extra-curricular opportunities to its students. The school is committed to developing their students' potential by partnering with the community to ensure that their students' educational experience is both effective and enjoyable. The Ohio State School for the Blind has the only fully blind marching band in the nation. Before joining the Tournament of Roses Parade, the marching band performed at the Ohio School for the Deaf football games and other local events. This unique marching band was formed in 2005 and the members were thrilled to discover in October 2008 that their application to march in the Tournament of Roses Parade had been approved. January 1, 2010, was an exciting day for central Ohio. In addition to celebrating the victory of The Ohio State Buckeyes over the University of Oregon Ducks, I was proud to see the young people of the Ohio State School for the Blind Marching Band represent our district with such passion and skill. The marching band completed the full parade route of almost six miles and participated in the halftime show, wowing the crowds with their signature performance of Script Ohio in Braille. The Ohio School for the Blind provides an immeasurable service to our blind children and their families. Their marching band's recent trip to California is an excellent example of one of the many achievements these dedicated and talented students have attained. It is with great pride that I honor the Ohio State School for the Blind and congratulate its stellar Marching Band on such a remarkable achievement.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of The Shamrock Club of Columbus and its president Francis Doyle for their efforts to share and celebrate the historical, cultural, and social contributions of Irish-Americans. The Shamrock Club of Columbus is a non-profit social organization that hosts events throughout the year and builds lasting friendships between Columbus residents. On March 17, 2010, The Shamrock Club will join other members of our nation's Irish community in celebrating Saint Patrick's Day. Each year, The Shamrock Club celebrates the Feast of Saint Patrick with a procession, a mass, a parade, and the annual Irish Family Reunion. Since 1936, this group has organized and sponsored the traditional St. Patrick's Day Parade, which has become a beloved tradition for families throughout Columbus area. The Shamrock Club benefits from the leadership of President Francis Doyle, a man whose dedication to the Irish community of Columbus has made him an influential member of the group since he first joined over 40 years ago. Before being named president, Francis helped to organize the annual Irish Family Reunion, which brings together Irish families and supporters for an afternoon of activities and celebration. Francis has proven to be an energetic and intelligent president, and under his leadership The Shamrock Club has grown to almost 2,500 members. The members of The Shamrock Club and Irish-Americans throughout central Ohio have contributed greatly to the social and cultural development of our community. I am proud to honor Francis Doyle, The Shamrock Club of Columbus, and the large and vibrant Irish community in central Ohio as they join together to celebrate Irish heritage.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Elford, Inc. for a century of dedicated service to the Columbus area. Elford has remained true to its core values of integrity, consistency, and responsibility, while providing first-rate construction services to businesses, hospitals, schools, and other organizations throughout central Ohio. In 1910, Edward ``Pop'' Elford founded Elford, Inc. with the goal of providing honest, high-quality service through dedicated construction professionals. One hundred years later, Elford has grown to over 200 employees while staying true to its roots by building lasting relationships through expert advice and guidance on each of their projects. The company's commitment to excellence has been recognized with numerous awards and honors including the City of Columbus EOC Prime Contractor of the Year, the Governor's Award for Excellence, the Association of General Contractors Build Ohio Award, and the American Subcontractors Association Outstanding Contractor Award. In addition to providing superior project planning, general contracting, and building management services, Elford, Inc. has committed itself to improving the surrounding community. The company donates generously to many charitable and community-building organizations and the Elford employees carry on the values of this century-old construction company by donating their time to various causes including the American Red Cross, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America, local hospitals and health centers, Hospice, the Rotary Club of Columbus, and local teams and clubs that benefit Columbus' youth. Elford also strives to promote diversity within their business and partners with and mentors local minority and women-owned businesses. For 100 years, the honesty, dedication, and commitment to excellence that characterized ``Pop'' Elford has carried on through the high- quality and reliable services that Elford provides in central Ohio. I am proud to recognize and honor Elford for a century of service to the Columbus area and for its record as a company that has positively shaped our community.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Columbus Compact Corporation for its service to the city of Columbus, Ohio. The Columbus Compact Corporation, or the Compact, is a nonprofit community development organization that works to improve the quality of life in the central city neighborhoods of Columbus. On March 10, 2010, Columbus Compact Corporation will celebrate its 15th anniversary of serving central Ohio residents and businesses. The Compact's mission is to act as both a catalyst for positive change and agent for the growth and development of central city Columbus. Since 1999, the Compact has led the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-designated ``Columbus Empowerment Zone.'' This program implements community redevelopment strategies and directs resources to rebuild the city's most distressed urban neighborhoods, making Columbus a happier, healthier, and more desirable place to live, work, and play. The Compact also lends money to new and existing businesses to create jobs and bring vital goods and services to Columbus. Over the last 15 years, the Compact has focused on developing real estate in concentrated areas and on a scale that allows for larger redevelopment in the neighborhoods of Columbus while enhancing the variety and quality of the housing stock. The Columbus Compact Corporation strives to improve the city of Columbus by strengthening neighborhoods and encouraging people to reach their full potential. The Compact is continually working towards creating a healthy, thriving central city that is filled with successful and economically secure individuals, families, and businesses. I am proud to recognize and honor the Columbus Compact Corporation for its 15 years of dedication to improving the quality of life in the city of Columbus.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1047, bipartisan legislation I introduced to recognize the Ohio State University Buckeyes football team for its victory in the 2010 Rose Bowl. As a graduate of the Moritz College of Law at the Ohio State University, and the Representative of the 15th Congressional District, where Ohio State University is located, it is my very great pleasure to wear the scarlet and gray today, and to publicly and formally congratulate the Buckeyes on a wonderful season, particularly for its Rose Bowl win. I would like to thank the 26 cosponsors of this resolution for joining me in recognizing the Buckeyes' achievements, including all 18 members of the Ohio delegation. Buckeye football unites us across party lines. And I thank my Big 10 colleague from Wisconsin for his support of the resolution, and particularly for his kind words about Ohio State University's strong history of academic achievement. I am pleased that we can set aside partisan differences to come together and recognize the achievements of the student athletes of Buckeye football. I would also like to thank Chairman Miller for his help in bringing this resolution to the floor. On January 1, 2010, central Ohio cheered on the Ohio State Buckeyes as they defeated the University of Oregon Ducks 26-17 in the 96th Rose Bowl game. It was the Buckeyes' fifth straight BCS bowl appearance and seventh Rose Bowl victory in the program's history. The Buckeyes' strong defense held the high-powered Oregon offense to 27 points below its season average. While the win was a result of a tremendous team effort, quarterback Terrelle Pryor, son of Pennsylvania, Mr. Speaker, turned in an exceptional individual performance, throwing for 266 yards and rushing for 72 more, earning the Most Valuable Player award. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Buckeyes' worthy opponent, the Pac 10 champion Oregon Ducks, on a great season. Led by their quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and their running back LaMichael James, the Ducks came into the game ranked number seven and boasted one of the most prolific offenses in the Nation. Although the Buckeyes prevailed in Pasadena, Oregon overcame adversity all season and should also be proud of their achievements. A great thing about college football is that you see the students come and go and new teams every year. And so after losing a wealth of experience on both offense and defense, some thought that 2009 might be a rebuilding year for the Ohio State Buckeyes' football team. But instead, during a banner month of November, the Buckeyes tallied wins over then-number 10 Penn State and then-number 13 Iowa in a thrilling overtime game on their way to winning the Big 10 title. The Buckeyes achieved many historic achievements during the 2009 season. The team earned its fifth consecutive Big 10 Conference title, and its sixth in the last eight seasons. The Buckeyes also won at least 10 games 5 straight years for the first time in the program's storied history. The Ohio State defense was ranked in the top five nationally in four statistical categories, while shutting their opponents out three times. This year's senior class is the most successful in Ohio State history, winning a school record 44 games over the past 4 years. In addition, head coach Jim Tressel became only the second Ohio State coach, along with Woody Hayes, to win both a Rose Bowl championship and the national championship with the Buckeyes. Most importantly, 31 Buckeyes were named to the Big 10 all-academic team, and the Buckeyes have led the Big 10 in all-academic team honorees in eight consecutive seasons. One other comment about the Rose Bowl, this one about the Rose Bowl Parade. Many great marching bands, including those from Ohio, marched on that day in the Rose Bowl Parade, but it was a banner day when the marching band from the Ohio State School for the Blind marched the streets of Pasadena as part of the Rose Bowl Parade, an historic first. And I really congratulate those students, their teachers, and their band director. We are very proud of their outstanding achievement as well. As it turns out, the Buckeyes' victory in the Rose Bowl was a sign of good things to come for Ohio State athletics in 2010. The women's basketball team recently won the Big 10 regular season title for the sixth year in a row, a new record, and the Big 10 tournament title for the second year in a row. Meanwhile, the men's basketball team won a share of the Big 10 regular season championship going into this weekend's Big 10 tournament. I wish both of these teams the best of luck during their postseason runs. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan resolution recognizing the Ohio State Buckeyes' athletic and academic achievements. The 2009 Ohio State Buckeyes football team conducted itself both on and off the field with the excellence we have come to expect from this great program. I congratulate the Buckeyes on their season and look forward to cheering them on in 2010. As we say in Ohio, Go Bucks.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the German Village Society for fifty years of dedication to preserving the unique, historical charm of the German Village community. German Village is one of the preeminent historic districts in the United States and is the first neighborhood in Ohio recognized by the White House as a ``Preserve America Community.'' Fifty years ago, community organizer Frank Fetch worried that the historical neighborhood south of downtown Columbus was deteriorating rapidly. He held a meeting to discuss ways to revive the neighborhood. This initial meeting led to the formation of the German Village Society, a group of devoted, preservation-minded residents intent on saving and restoring their neighborhood's historic charm. Under the guidance of its charter members and with the dedication of local volunteers, German Village's historical preservation continues to this day. Residents donate more than 10,000 hours of their time annually to the community. Due to their passion and dedication to German Village, the entire 233-acre neighborhood is now on the U.S. Department of the Interior's Nation Register of Historic Places. The German Village Society continues to enhance its reputation as one of central Ohio's best communities in which to live and work. The Haus Und Garten Tour event is recognized on the American Bus Association's ``100 Best Events'' list. The Society also hosts many free programs including Shakespeare in the Park, a summer series of Shakespeare's plays performed outdoors, and a weekly farmer's market. German Village is also home to the 23-acre Schiller Park, an anchor to the neighborhood for over 140 years, and numerous independent restaurants and businesses. With the continued support of local residents, the German Village Society continues to enrich their neighborhood and promote ``living'' history. On January 10, 2010, the German Village Society celebrated its 50th anniversary. I am proud to recognize and honor the German Village Society and all of its dedicated volunteers for five decades of meaningful work to strengthen and preserve the thriving historical neighborhood of German Village.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Stefanie Spielman, a dedicated activist who fought to increase funding for breast cancer research and raise awareness about the disease. Stefanie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998, survived four bouts of cancer and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the vital role routine examinations play for women. Stefanie's death in November 2009 was a tragic loss for her family and the Columbus community, but her legacy will live on. After her diagnosis, it became Stefanie's life mission to raise money for breast cancer awareness and research. Her initial efforts were focused locally. Her neighborhood grocery store asked shoppers to purchase paper footballs, the donations from which would be given to the Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital. The response was overwhelming. Within six months donations totaled $1 million, far exceeding the initial goal of $250,000. Inspired by this outpouring of support, Stefanie established the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research and Stefanie's Champions, an annual awards program recognizing those whose love, dedication and strength have had a powerful impact on the lives of cancer survivors. Stefanie's fundraising efforts continued over the next twelve years and at the time of her death, the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research had raised over $6.5 million for breast cancer research, education, and patient assistance. Stefanie also helped establish the Stefanie Spielman Patient Assistance Fund, which provides financial support to breast cancer patients and their families who are experiencing financial hardships. Through these efforts, Stefanie has touched the lives of countless individuals and families who have struggled with breast cancer. The Upper Arlington Historical Society and the city of Upper Arlington have chosen Stefanie Spielman as one of the 2010 inductees to the Upper Arlington Wall of Honor. Each year, the Historical Society and the city select members of the community who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and personal character, or provided valuable service to the community. The induction ceremony will be held on May 23, 2010, in honor of Stefanie, her contributions to Upper Arlington, Columbus, and the search for a cure for breast cancer. I am proud to honor Stefanie Spielman, whose leadership and courage in the fight against breast cancer in the Columbus and greater Ohio area has been and continues to be an inspiration.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Cindy Dyas, a strong, inspirational woman who fought to raise awareness for breast cancer as well as the care of patients suffering from the illness. Cindy, diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991, was instrumental in bringing both issues to the forefront in the Columbus community. Cindy Dyas played an integral role in bringing the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure to Columbus. Since the inaugural race in 1993, the number of participants has grown from 800 to 47,000 and has raised $13 million in support of Ohio cancer research. Currently the Columbus Race for the Cure ranks in the top 10 for participation among Race for the Cure events nationwide. Each year her contribution to breast cancer awareness and research in Columbus lives on through thousands of central Ohioans who take part in and support the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. After bringing the Race for the Cure to the Columbus area, Ms. Dyas walked in every race but one and was an active member of the Columbus Komen Board. In 2003 she received the Komen Cameo Award, the highest award given to a volunteer by the foundation. Upon her death in 2005, Susan G. Komen for the Cure established the Cindy Dyas Award of Heroism. The award is presented annually to a long-term breast cancer survivor whose dedication to the cure has given strength to others in the same way that Cindy Dyas has inspired countless cancer survivors. The Upper Arlington Historical Society and the City of Upper Arlington have chosen Cindy Dyas as one of the 2010 inductee for the Upper Arlington Wall of Honor. Each year the Historical Society and the city select members of the community who have demonstrated an outstanding achievement and personal character, or provided valuable service to the community. The induction ceremony will be held on May 23, 2010, in honor of Cindy Dyas, her contribution to Upper Arlington, Columbus, and the search for a cure of breast cancer. I am proud to honor Cindy Dyas, whose leadership and courage in the fight against breast cancer in the Columbus and central Ohio area has been and continues to be an inspiration.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Thank you, Chairman Conyers, for allowing me this opportunity. Also, I want to give thanks to the work of my freshman colleagues, Tom Perriello and Betsy Markey, for their work on this important piece of legislation that I am very proud to be a cosponsor of. I have been listening to this debate this afternoon, and it is very surprising--and actually highly ironic--to hear the opposition from the Republican side of the aisle to a bill that would simply make the health insurance industry operate fairly in a competitive marketplace. After all, it was a great Republican President, Teddy Roosevelt, who was the great trust buster, the one who brought antitrust principles into American jurisprudence and legislation. And as we have heard this afternoon from others, versions of this bill have had bipartisan support over the course of the years when there have been attempts to introduce antitrust legislation addressing this issue with respect to the health insurance industry. After all, competition is the engine that drives our economy, spurs innovation, and ensures that the American consumer would receive a fair deal. But for far too long the insurance industry has been able to avoid accountability by dividing up the territories among themselves like the robber barons once did on the backs of ordinary Americans. I also serve with several of my colleagues on the Competitiveness Task Force, and I know that for our economy to regain its footing, we need central Ohio and American business to be competitive, something this bill will help to ensure. This bill is needed because the health insurance industry is sick, and we need to fix it. We know that we have an unhealthy insurance system because we see that the signs and symptoms are there. Ninety-six percent of all health insurance markets are highly concentrated, meaning consumers have little or no choice between insurers, and it is too easy for insurance industries to conspire on practices. I urge my colleagues to support passage of the Health Insurance Industry Fair Competition Act.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Thank you, my colleagues. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1074, legislation that I introduced to honor the life of Hermine ``Miep'' Gies, who aided Anne Frank's family while they were in hiding and who preserved her diary for future generations. I want to thank Chairman Berman and Ranking Member Ros-Lehtinen for their support in bringing this resolution to the floor. Why is it important to honor Miep Gies? I recently visited Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial in Jerusalem. It is an overwhelming experience, and as we ponder the horror of Hitler's plan to eradicate the Jewish people, we ask ourselves: How could this have happened? How could so many stand by silently? How could so many actually participate? So it is important, I think, to understand that there are some who spoke up, heroes like Miep Gies, and it is important to honor people like her, people who helped the Jews, who worked against the sea of hatred that had enveloped most of Europe at that time--people like Miep Gies, an ordinary woman, who did an extraordinary thing. She was born to a German Catholic family in Austria on February 15, 1909. When she was 11, her family sent her to live with a foster family in the Netherlands to escape food shortages in postwar Austria. She worked as a servant, as a seamstress, as waitress. Then, in 1933, she took a job with an Amsterdam manufacturing company owned by Otto Frank, a German Jew, who left Frankfurt when Hitler became Chancellor of Germany and when the organized attacks on the Jews began, including the boycott on Jewish businesses. Ms. Gies quickly became friends with the Frank family. On July 6, 1942, more than 2 years into the German occupation of the Netherlands, Otto Frank; his wife, Edith; and his daughters, Margot and Anne, went into hiding in a secret annex behind a bookshelf in Otto Frank's office. They were later joined by Hermann and Auguste Van Pels; their son, Peter; and Fritz Pfeffer. For 2 more years, Miep Gies, along with her husband, Jan, and three other employees of Otto Frank, risked their lives to supply the eight people in hiding with food, clothing, with news from the outside, and with paper for Anne to write on. As Anne noted in her diary, ``Miep has so much to carry; she looks like a pack mule. She goes forth nearly every day, scrounging for vegetables, and then bicycles back with her purchases in large shopping bags.'' Miep is also the one who brought five library books to Anne every Saturday. She did this during a time of war. It was a time of shortages, a time when getting food meant managing ration coupons. Despite their efforts, though, on August 4, 1944, the Gestapo raided the secret hiding place, and they captured the eight hideaways who were betrayed by an anonymous tip. Miep Gies discovered the pages of the diary that Anne kept during her time in hiding, and Miep locked them in a desk drawer for safekeeping. When she learned that Margot and Anne had died of typhus at the Bergen- Belsen concentration camp, she returned Anne's diary to Otto Frank, the only one of the eight to have survived the Holocaust. Later in her life, she testified against the Neo-Nazis, who denied the authenticity of the diary. She helped in the establishment of a museum in the small building where Anne and her family had hid. As was noted, she passed away recently, on January 11, 2010, at the age of 100, but she kept alive a very important part of Holocaust history by preserving Anne's diary and by helping us to learn, to understand and to remember so it will not happen again. The ``Diary of a Young Girl,'' by Anne Frank, has been translated into 70 languages--an inspirational story about hope in the face of war and an important testament for future generations so that the horrors of the Holocaust will not be forgotten. Like so many others who read Anne's diary, as a young woman, I was deeply moved by her steadfast optimism even during a period of her life defined by the evil of that day. Thanks to Miep Gies' bravery, Anne's recollections have been preserved for future generations. Miep later described her efforts to assist the eight people in hiding, saying, ``Of course, it's nice to be appreciated, but I only did my duty to my fellow man. I helped people in need. Anyone can do that, can't they?'' This understated appraisal of her heroic acts is just one example of her modesty and her integrity. We can learn much from Miep Gies, an ordinary woman, who showed extraordinary courage in the face of unspeakable peril during Nazi occupation and the Holocaust. She is a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression and injustice. She is an example of our human capacity to rise even to the most daunting of challenges. I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing this incredible woman's life and legacy.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Merle J. Pratt, a great American who has worked for decades to protect our nation, advocate for our veterans, and strengthen the State of Ohio. Currently a resident of Powell, Ohio, Merle has loyally served our nation as a member of the United States Navy, an employee for the State of Ohio, and a leader in numerous community organizations. Merle served in the U.S. Navy for 26 years, including five years of active duty and over two decades in the U.S. Naval Reserve until his retirement in 1994 as a chief petty officer. Merle also served the Buckeye State in the Ohio Secretary of State's office and the Ohio Attorney General's office. After 26 years of service, Merle retired from his position as the Director of Constituent Services and Veteran Liaison for the Ohio Attorney General's office in 2009. His devotion to helping Ohio citizens and veterans inspired Ohio Attorney General Jim Petro to award Merle with the Innovation and Excellence Award in 2003. In addition to his career as a public servant in the State of Ohio, Merle has served as a trustee, chairman, or president for many organizations and chapters dedicated to helping our nation's veterans, including the Military/Veterans Educational Foundation, Vietnam Veterans of America, the Columbus Veterans Day Parade Committee, the American Legion, the Franklin County Veteran's Memorial Board of Trustees, the Ohio Governor's Veterans Advisory Committee, and the Ohio Attorney General's Veterans Advisory Council. He has also been a longtime member of the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Executive Committee, the Inter-Service Family Assistance Committee, the Ohio Veterans Employment and Training Council, and the Ohio Military Activation Task Force. Merle has been a Life Member of AMVETS Post 89 and served as the Chairman of the AMVETS State Legislative Committee from 1999 to 2009, during which he was awarded the prestigious AMVETS Silver Helmet Civil Servant of the Year award in 2004 for his passion and continued service to veterans in central Ohio. As a true public servant, Merle is continuing to actively participate in veterans services, and is currently serving as Commander for the AMVETS Department of Ohio. Throughout his life, Merle has inspired those around him with his continued dedication to helping veterans and military families. On February 20, 2010, Merle will be recognized by the AMVETS Department of Ohio for his decades of invaluable service. I am proud to join this group in honoring Merle Pratt, whose leadership and commitment to our veterans, both in the Columbus community as well as around the nation, has been an inspiration and a blessing in the lives of countless Americans.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Marina Davis for 40 years of dedicated service to the young adults of central Ohio. Marina Davis devoted her life to improving our education system and inspiring students to strive for excellence. She passed away in December 2009, but will be remembered by everyone who knew her as a dedicated educator and a role model. Marina Davis began her career in 1970 as a teacher at St. Anthony Grade School in Columbus, Ohio. She went on to teach English at St. Francis DeSales before becoming an assistant principal. While there, she chaired the St. Francis DeSales High School Committee, which received a Blue Ribbon Award for Excellence in Education from the U.S. Department of Education. In 1995 she became the first principal of Dublin Scioto High School, where she worked until her death this past December. As an advocate for her students, staff, and faculty, Marina continually worked to improve the quality of education at each school she served. As an innovative administrator she instituted the Professional Learning Community Model at Dublin Scioto, which in 2009 received a Silver Award of Accomplishment from U.S. News and World Report. Marina's passion and commitment to education allowed her to make a difference in the lives of thousands of Ohio students and families, and this tragic loss is being felt throughout the community. In memory of this outstanding public servant, the Dublin City Schools Board of Education has adopted a resolution formally naming the Performing Arts Center at Scioto High School in her honor. The Marina Davis Performing Arts Center will be dedicated on May 18, 2010, and will honor Marina's lifelong commitment to advancing the performing arts among Dublin students. Her contributions to the central Ohio school system will never be forgotten, and I am proud to recognize and honor this accomplished and devoted educator for a lifetime of service.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Columbus Downtown Lions Club for its dedication to the improvement of the Columbus area. The Columbus Downtown Lions Club, which was officially re-chartered by Lions Club International on December 9, 2009, is committed to building a safer, healthier, and stronger community through volunteerism and support for local initiatives. The Lions Club International was founded in 1917 and today is the world's largest service club organization. The club, originally known for fighting blindness, continues that legacy today by conducting vision screenings, equipping hospitals and clinics, distributing medicine and raising awareness of eye disease. Lions Club International also supports community projects for children and schools through scholarships, recreation programs and mentoring. The Columbus Downtown Lions Club was originally chartered on June 17, 1920, and served the local community for over eighty years until it was disbanded in 2007 due to insufficient membership. I am proud of the individuals who have restarted this organization and committed themselves to continuing its legacy of volunteerism and generosity. I am excited and thankful in anticipation of the valuable service that this club will provide to our community. In the long-standing tradition of Lions Club involvement in central Ohio, the Columbus Downtown Lions Club has already begun to build relationships that will foster future volunteer activities. This Saturday, during the Downtown club's official charter celebration, the Downtown club will make a contribution to Honor Flight, an organization that pays for and organizes trips for our World War II veterans so that they can see firsthand our Nation's capital and their monuments. The members of the Columbus Downtown Lions Club are building a valuable network of service-minded individuals who will serve as role models and leaders in our community for decades to come. With the re-chartering of the Columbus Downtown Lions Club, the Lions community has once again demonstrated its generosity, compassion, and commitment to making a difference in the city of Columbus. I am proud to recognize and honor this organization and all of its dedicated volunteers for their exemplary record of service and their future contributions to the betterment of central Ohio.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Mr. Speaker, in my household, just like the households of my neighbors and people in my community in Central Ohio, when we want to spend money, we have to figure out whether it fits within our budget. And as a local official, we also needed to make sure that our budgets were balanced and that we had the right kind of priorities in our budgets as we decided our spending plan. That's why passing pay-as- you-go legislation is so important. It worked during the Clinton administration. We had to decide, Congress had to decide what the important priorities were, and it left a budget surplus at the end of the Clinton administration. During the Bush years, we saw the PAYGO legislation expire, and we saw that instead of making sure that we paid attention to the right kind of priorities, millions were given in tax cuts to the wealthiest, and our President was left with a budget deficit to confront. Right now, if we pass PAYGO legislation, it will make sure that we can afford to fund America's most important priorities: Education, clean energy, jobs. And I hope that our colleagues across the aisle will join us in pay-as-you-go legislation.

Ms. KILROY

Ms. KILROY. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. KILROY. I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of my amendment to H.R. 4061, the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2009, to expand outreach to high school and community colleges to help train and recruit the next generation of our Nation's cybersecurity and information technology workforce. One of the most important aspects of the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act is the establishment of the Scholarship for Service program currently administered by the National Science Foundation. The program would operate with the goal of recruiting and training our Nation's future cybersecurity professionals through scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students in cybersecurity fields, government internship opportunities for scholarship recipients, and competitive, merit-based grants for faculty development, institutional partnerships, and the development of cybersecurity courses at institutions of higher learning. My amendment will expand the Scholarship for Service program by making merit-based grants available for outreach to high schools and community colleges. Reaching out to high schools will help raise awareness of this program, steering students at an earlier age toward academic and professional careers in information technology and cybersecurity that they might not otherwise have considered. Young people are way ahead of us in terms of information technology and the use of computers but they still need the encouragement and guidance to pursue a cybersecurity career path. That guidance can be made possible through these kind of competitive grants. My amendment also will expand outreach to community colleges. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting small businesses, schools, and State and local institutions that lack the capabilities to adequately defend themselves against sophisticated cyberattacks. Encouraging students at community colleges to consider degrees in cybersecurity-related fields will help ensure that we have a workforce capable of defending our Nation's computer systems and networks at the State, local, and national level. As a member of the Homeland Security Committee's Subcommittee on Emerging Threats, Cybersecurity, and Science and Technology, I strongly support the efforts of H.R. 4061 to build our Nation's cybersecurity workforce, develop a strategic research plan for cybersecurity, and to secure our communications and information technology infrastructure. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. KILROY. I thank my colleague from Texas, who also serves with me on the Homeland Security Committee. I want to commend Chairman Gordon; Ranking Member Hall; Subcommittee Chair Lipinski, the sponsor of this legislation; and the Committee on Science and Technology for their hard work on H.R. 4061, to help build a strong cybersecurity workforce to protect and serve our Nation's communications and IT infrastructure. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to ensure that the Nation's essential infrastructure is protected, and I urge my colleagues to support my amendment expanding cybersecurity outreach to high schools and community colleges as part of the Scholarship for Service program. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. KILROY. Mr. Chair, I demand a recorded vote.