Nick Lampson

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I think that the NASA Langley is a real jewel for advancement of science and engineering in the United States of America, and I think it's fitting that we recognize this anniversary, their 90th, and at the same time, honor our colleague Jo Ann Davis for the hard work that she did, the great work that she did in the United States House of Representatives. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. LAMPSON. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Let me just raise another point. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Gilchrest spoke of the amount of time that many of our forces served without break. We saw just recently a proposal made in the Senate that I would like for us to add to the list of things that you have already delineated and that we will be discussing, a way that we can assure that our troops get at least the amount of time off that their last deployment involved before being sent back into the war activity. That is a proposal that, in the Senate, drew significant bipartisan support. It came very, very close to passage, and it's one that, again, finds something that hardly anyone will disagree with. It is a change in the policy that we have to make, obviously, to the way that our military operates, and again, is to be debated on this floor. But if I may put that issue on the table for us to discuss some during the evening, I would appreciate that as well. And I yield back.

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to join Mr. Israel and all of my colleagues tonight for something that is special. I want to first start out by telling our colleagues and the Speaker and others that even though there is a tradition that typically a Democrat will speak from one side of the well, and the Republicans the other, tonight is not about where we will sit or stand in this room. It is more about where we will sit or stand in relation to the needs of the people of the United States of America. The Center Aisle Caucus is an organization of Members of Congress who are indeed going to look for ways to move issues forward that can make a difference for our families, our communities, and our States and Nation. My involvement with this began actually on a trip, I guess, with Mr. Gilchrest some years back; and then when I returned to Congress after what I found to be some very difficult times where camaraderie broke down and it was very difficult for us to feel comfortable working with each other and discussing difficult issues, where oftentimes it did break down into the partisan bickering and the screaming and shouting and little getting resolved, to the point where we gathered some of our colleagues to sit down and have coffee and ask: What can we do and do differently? What can we do to begin to get our friends to come and sit down with each other and talk about these issues respectfully, talk about them in the depth that I believe our constituents all expect us to be talking about, and find the acceptable solutions to the very difficult, difficult issues that face us in this Nation, and they are. You said it, Mr. Israel. Politics are suffocating the debate on Iraq in nearly every issue that we have faced in this Congress. If we can't come together and work honestly to find compromise on a critical issue like Iraq, what can we expect for other issues that are facing us? We can't allow for progress to be stymied by partisan politics and vitriol. We must not let any political organization or campaign detract for the purpose we are all here for, which is to work on behalf of our constituents for the good of our country. What is needed now is thoughtful debate that considers Republican and Democratic ideas. We are getting there. That is what tonight is going to be the beginning of, I believe, and I look forward to a wonderful relationship with all of the friends that we are going to make in carrying all of this forward. We owe it to our troops abroad, to our children in need of health care, to our students, the hardworking taxpayers and the people that we represent to work together to provide a new direction for America. I believe that the Center Aisle Caucus is an organization within our Congress that is going to be able to help pull that together. It is wrong for any party to think that they are solely right or wrong, and I am proud to be able to join those of our colleagues who have been willing to step forward, come to the middle and begin this debate. I will yield back, but I would like very much to speak again in another few minutes as we go through this process this evening.

Mr. LAMPSON. I certainly agree with everything that Mr. Dent has said and that Mr. Gilchrest has said and that you, Mr. Israel, have said. I think it's worth repeating some of it. I think it's worth emphasizing the importance of this being a first step and really trying to change the attitude of our body to achieve what the Founding Fathers of this Nation attempted when they designed this body, which is supposed to be deliberative. It's supposed to be able to come together with tolerance. I was looking at the words that are embedded in this desk here before us that we should listen with respect to each other, and words that Mr. Dent just gave us as far as where we can go, what we can be doing to begin to craft a direction for us. Just this past weekend, I was at a ceremony with many Gold Star Mothers, parents who had lost their sons or daughters in either Afghanistan or in Iraq. I guess all of us have friends or parents or grandparents or someone that has lost someone there, pastors in our districts, perhaps, who are mourning the loss of some of our best and bravest that America has to offer. The best way that we can honor these soldiers, I guess, as Mr. Gilchrest was referring to a few moments ago, the best way that we can do things to honor them and family is to work together as our Founders and Framers envisioned to answer the difficult questions that are facing us. I think that it's tremendous that the Center Aisle Caucus has taken the step. I wanted to congratulate you and the other members who have started to ask Members of our Congress to join us. I hope that other colleagues will grow this into a large body. I would like to hear some of the things that you are proposing at this time to move us forward on the issue of Iraq.

Mr. LAMPSON. If the gentleman would yield. It's precisely the point of supporting our troops. This is the way to support our troops, to make sure that there is order in the manner in which they are deployed into combat and order in which they are called up and allowed to serve in certain different capacities, to make sure that we are debating the issues providing the resources, making sure that they have the equipment that's necessary as well as the moral support to make sure that their mission and their efforts are successful. I yield back.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I'm proud to be a Member of this Congress which has delivered to the American people real and meaningful change. We are fiscally responsible. We have instituted pay-as-you-go rules and deficit reduction discipline. Where our majority has made real progress is by creating greater opportunity and a chance for prosperity for all. Already we have reduced the cost on student loans and increased the size of Pell Grant scholarships, and President Bush signed our college affordability bill into law last week. We thank him. We gave millions of Americans a pay raise by increasing the minimum wage and restored government oversight lacking for the last 6 years, saving billions of taxpayer dollars and exposing corruption. These investments, done for all Americans, are a few examples of how this Congress is taking America in a new direction.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, as a longtime advocate and friend of the Muslim-American community, I am pleased to support H. Res. 635, a bill recognizing the commencement of Ramadan, and commending Muslims everywhere for their faith. I have always admired the unwavering commitment Muslims show towards their faith during the holy month of Ramadan. It has been an honor to join many of my Muslim friends during this month of family togetherness, selfless service, worship and spiritual rebirth. As the grandson of immigrants, I know true assimilation means preserving tradition while achieving success. I am in awe at how quickly the Muslim-American community has mastered both. In a matter of decades, the Muslim-American community has rapidly assimilated into American society. With shared values of hard work, discipline, community, family and culture, it's no wonder that Muslim-Americans are one of the fastest growing, most educated and highest earning ethnic groups in the U.S. America owes much of its vibrant society and rich culture to the contributions of Muslim-Americans. From the medical professionals who care for us, the educators who teach us and the titans of industry large and small, Muslim-Americans are one of the most indispensable parts of our nation's ever-growing melting pot. Muslim-Americans are authentic Americans, and proof that the American Dream continues to thrive.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for allowing me the opportunity to come and speak on this. I am proud to honor the Wings Over Houston Airshow because each year about 70,000 spectators from around the world gather in the 22nd Congressional District of Texas to view this historic Ellington Field and view re-enactments of great battles, see up-close views of vintage aircraft, and meet yesterday's and today's heroes. For the last 23 years, as you've heard, pilots from our Armed Forces and around the globe wow audiences with their high-speed acrobatics. And how often do we get to see real-life daredevils? Well, this weekend, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds will demonstrate their seven- to nine-plane close formations, tight turns, and head-on passes. Crowds will get to view state-of-the-art military aircraft, along with planes from days of old. This year, the air show brings history to life through authentic World War II vehicles, equipment and uniforms at a realistic military camp. They're going to re-enact part of the movie, ``Tora! Tora! Tora!'' As a former school teacher, I know activities like these help promote an understanding and appreciation of military history. Visitors are going to be able to see trainers, fighters, and bombers from the World War II, Korea and Vietnam era, and even NASA aircraft. The air show presents a unique opportunity to tour some of the largest aircraft in the world, including the Hurricane Hunter KC-135 and a C-5 cargo plane, walk over the wings of vintage airplanes, and even sit in the pilot's seat. Children have the opportunity to meet flying aces and decorated war heroes and to hear historical recounts from the people who were there. This year's show features both Pearl Harbor survivors and the Tuskegee Airmen, who were recently awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. I am proud of these folks, and I know that all Americans are as well. Meeting living legends and air show performers is inspiring for young and old alike, and this show is a rare opportunity to thank these heroes for their service and for their sacrifice. Wings Over Houston has spent, in the last 23 years, a quarter of a million dollars to help challenge young people to go into aerospace, engineering, and aviation. Many go on to careers in the military and go to work at NASA where they can also gain valuable experience as interns at the Johnson Space Center, which is across the street from Ellington Field. With its important contributions, Wings Over Houston ensures that our Nation leads the way in math and science. The air show has also donated proceeds to various local and national charities throughout the years, including the Texas Southern University Aviation Career Academy, the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, and the Commemorative Air Force aircraft restoration and flying historical programs. Together with their partner, Wings Over Houston, it has greatly contributed to the economy and growth of southeast Texas. So I want to thank the members of the House Armed Services Committee, and many of my Texas colleagues, particularly, for their cosponsorship of this resolution. I am pleased to honor the Wings Over Houston Airshow as a leader in the history and the future in the United States Armed Forces.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, Texas' mothers have sent more sons and daughters overseas for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom than any other state in America. We have endured more casualties than any other state but one. The American Gold Star Mothers in Texas and throughout this great nation have suffered the supreme sacrifice of motherhood by losing a child who served in the Armed Forces, and thus perpetuate the memory of all whose lives are sacrificed in war. Their sons and daughters served their country honorably and gave what Lincoln called ``last full measure of devotion.'' To these soldiers, we are grateful and humbled by their sacrifice. And to the Gold Star Mothers who have lost children our thoughts and prayers are with you always.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 895 and 896, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Madam Speaker, on the recent anniversary of our Nation's first Moon landing, I had the privilege of attending a grand opening ceremony at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, honoring the completion of a new facility to house the historic Saturn V rocket. Because it's been a while since we've used this marvel of engineering, it's easy to overlook the fact that this rocket was capable of sending our astronauts to the Moon. Many public and industry partners played a role in restoring the rocket to its original glory, and this new facility will allow everyone to appreciate the incredible historic impact of this wonderful machine. As we continue to advocate for human space exploration and reach out further in the universe, we will always look to the Saturn V as inspiration for our most important continued quest, reaching out into space.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Madam Speaker, interns are often overlooked as we all rush around the Capitol, but I believe that Washington, DC, would come to a halt if there were none. The importance of the interns' role cannot be overstated, for they handle many tasks that, while not particularly glamorous, create a much more efficient workplace and allow legislative staffers to concentrate on policies that benefit our constituents and people across the country. This summer, my office was fortunate enough to have six great interns: Sue Banerjee, Kelly Boss, Omar Farid, Miles Hilder, Jenna Kubecka, and Kelsey McDowell. Each intern performed exceptionally well and deserves much appreciation for their service to the people of Texas' 22nd Congressional District. Their hard work and determination was noticed by everyone in the office, as well as by constituents, and I am proud to have such a talented and competent group of individuals working in my office. I know that the work ethic they have demonstrated this summer will carry them far in life. These impressive young men and women are certainly poised to do great things and contribute significantly to our country's future. My staff, constituents, and I thank you all for your service and wish you the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Madam Speaker, knowledge is one of the greatest gifts teachers bestow upon students. They play invaluable roles in nurturing and giving young people the encouragement to grow and develop into productive members of society. We see the fruits of their patience and selfless dedication every day in our children and in ourselves. Building a cohesive relationship between teachers and the administration in charge of managing their school district is essential to extracting the most from our talented educators. This is why I am honored to recognize Dr. Sandra Mossman's contribution to the Clear Creek Independent School District. She has been nominated to receive the 2007 Superintendent of the Year Award given annually since 1984 by the Texas Association of School Boards in Austin. The award is adjudicated based on several criteria relating to the efficient administration of education in the district and is determined by an elected board of members representing over 4.5 million students. She represents one of 17 regional superintendents around the state who have been acknowledged for their outstanding leadership skills and commitment to education. Dr. Mossman has been an innovative superintendent, pursuing initiatives that diversify the educational experiences of her students. She was instrumental in introducing the Early College in High School track that would allow high school students to take classes at a local college and even receive a 2-year college degree after fulfilling all their requirements. This is just one example of Dr. Mossman's important role in raising the standards of education for our children, and I certainly hope she will be recognized for her efforts at the TASB Convention in late August in Dallas. I am sure she will continue to inspire and lead young people and her colleagues alike to strive for the highest goals when examining education in this country. As noted historian Henry Adams once said, ``A teacher affects eternity; they can never tell where their influence stops.'' It is a thought that should motivate all of us to follow the shining example Dr. Mossman has set of what it means to be a committed leader in education in Texas.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I introduce a new opportunity for future physicists in Southeast region of Texas. In a collaborative effort, the University of Houston and University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) are implementing a unique program for UHCL students pursuing a Masters of Science in Physics, who wish to continue in the University of Houston's Ph.D. Program. The program is tailored towards motivated students looking to advance their education in the field of physics. This newly established relationship offers the attainment of a doctoral degree at both campuses, as opposed to the previous arrangement that required students to commute to the University of Houston campus. The faculty will consist of professors from both universities, and the doctoral degree will be presented by the University of Houston. As a former science teacher, I have always valued education and research, and the potential benefits that arise from such hard work and dedication. This convenient initiative will not only enhance each student's performance, but will also mitigate the strains placed on students, teachers and their families by providing a more localized system in the Clear Lake area. It is my belief that educational facilities should ensure that the needs of their students are a top priority. University of Houston-Clear Lake and University of Houston have shown that a cohesive approach to education may prove to be both efficient and successful. I hope this recognition will bring awareness to such a distinctive program and facilitate future relationships between universities.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Thank you, Chairman Gordon, for your time and also for your great leadership on the Science Committee. All of us on the committee are doing great work. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to support the America COMPETES Act and to be a conferee on this important legislation. We are now showing that we are dedicated to investing in America's future. More specifically, we are investing in students and teachers and businesses and hardworking Americans to keep our great Nation the leader in the sciences. This bill, the product of hard work and bipartisan efforts, is inspired, some might say, by the National Academies' report, ``Rising Above the Gathering Storm,'' which raised the alarm that America could lose its competitive edge in sciences and academics unless we, the Congress, acted quickly. Well, we have acted, and this package of key bills addresses numerous areas, including stronger support for National Science Foundation and the National Institute for Standards and Technology, funding for more teachers in undergraduate education in science and engineering. Academics, industry and our economy all depend on strong Federal support. By authorizing billions for our research and education programs, technology, career and academic development programs, we ensure that America sets the gold standard in these various fields. I, of course, know the importance of this funding firsthand, having been a former teacher. My colleagues know how much of an advocate I am for NASA with the Johnson Space Center being in my district. I am proud to represent many of the Nation's best and brightest minds who continue to turn our dreams of further scientific knowledge and technological advancement into reality. It's not just talking about space travel. The energy industry plays a significant presence in my district, and the future of alternative fuels and higher fuel efficiency and stronger and more reliable infrastructure depends on training the energy experts of tomorrow. Well, the Texas Medical Center, also located in southeast Texas, is a leader in cutting-edge health care and technology and needs future health care providers who have a strong science background. Therefore, I know that the America COMPETES Act, by supporting both academics and science, will be a boon to southeast Texas for our Nation.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Madam Speaker, as you heard, Congresswoman Biggert and I had planned to offer an amendment today that would have designated $34 million for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. However, we weren't able to do so, because $34 million exceeds the Center's current authorization. This gives me an opportunity to discuss the importance of the work of the National Center and the need for increasing funding for the center. Since its creation in 1984, the center has played a critical role in locating and protecting children. The center is a primary component of the Missing and Exploited Children's Program and employs over 300 employees at its Alexandria, VA headquarters and regional offices in California, Florida, Kansas, New York, and South Carolina. These regional offices provide case management and technical support in their geographic areas. An Austin, TX office is scheduled to open this summer. The Center provides activities and services concerning (1) missing children, including those abducted to or from the United States; (2) exploited children; (3) training and technical assistance; (4) families of missing children; and (5) partnerships with State clearinghouses, the private sector, and children's organizations. In addition to funding through the missing and exploited children's program, the center is funded through contributions and the United States Secret Service, pursuant to Public Law 103-322. As two of the four cochairs of the Congressional Missing and Exploited Children's Caucus, we hope that our colleagues will join us in cosponsoring H.R. 2517, the Protecting Our Children Comes First Act of 2007, to reauthorize the center from 2008 through 2013. Authorization for appropriations for the center, under our bill, would increase from $20 million to $50 million, while funding for the Missing and Exploited Children program would remain constant. Again, the importance of the work performed by folks at the National Center cannot be underestimated.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me this morning for this rule. I first want to thank the members of the committee and the subcommittee for their hard work on this very important bill, particularly including the part concerning NASA, which I want to speak about for just a minute. Chairman Obey and Chairman Mollohan have been tremendously dedicated to assisting me and making good things happen. I applaud them. Mr. Speaker, my district includes NASA's Johnson Space Center, the crown jewel of the Nation's space program. The Johnson Space Center serves as a key component of the southeast Texas economy, employing the best and brightest minds who serve as leaders in the sciences, education, business, and human space exploration, not to mention the important roles they and their families play in our local communities. I will aggressively champion the work and dedication of these hardworking Americans and the many benefits they bring to all of our districts and our country. Mr. Speaker, when we talk about fiscal responsibility and doing our best to practice good government, we must be mindful of programs that are important to fund, those that return more on the taxpayer dollar and are wise investments. And I can think of no better example than investing in our future and the future of NASA. Over the years, the math shows that every dollar invested in the space program is returned exponentially in the form of new products, new technologies, and new businesses. Relative to our entire Federal budget, NASA dollars' share comes to less than 1 percent, about six- or seven-tenths of a percent. By comparison, Americans spend over $45 billion a year on soft drinks. NASA research and technologies have provided law enforcement with advanced equipment to detect suspicious liquids and substances, protective gear for chemical analysis, safer oxygen tanks for firefighters, equipment to treat children's cancer, improved cardiac care techniques, advanced aircraft technology for safer commercial flights, satellite technology to improve our understanding of the Earth's climate, and more accurate weather forecasting to better protect us from natural disasters. So for less than one-third of our national soft drink budget, NASA pushes the boundaries of the final frontier, creating commerce, assisting with education, increasing our economic competitiveness, enhancing health care, monitoring climate change, building stronger bonds with our allies, and ensuring the survival of the human race. So, Mr. Speaker, I kindly ask my colleagues, take a good look at the myriad ways NASA has benefited our great Nation. For me and for many of the folks who work at NASA and on NASA matters on a day-to-day basis, this isn't a Republican or Democratic issue; it is a matter of keeping America at the top of the space race and continuing the unparalleled legacy of achievement that so many NASA employees and partners have achieved. So I look forward to continuing to work with the committee members, the conferees and all my colleagues to increase NASA funding. I appreciate the work of the Rules Committee, and I ask all of our colleagues to support this rule.

Mr. LAMPSON

Mr. LAMPSON. Well, I appreciate the chairman's kind words on our combined efforts. I am thankful for his hard work and attention to this important matter. NASA is doing so many important things right now, including our work on the international space station, continued shuttle flights, and our transition to the next-generation crew exploration vehicle, advanced scientific experiments and many other projects, both large and small, that we can't afford to fall behind on these projects, and the various programs, program transitions that NASA is trying to make. I will continue to work with you and all of our colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to help maintain these funding levels as well.

Mr. LAMPSON. Thank you for entering into the colloquy. I look forward to working with you. Amendment Offered by Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Chairman, I want ask Chairman Mollohan to enter into a colloquy with me for just a minute. I want to thank the chairman for his efforts on behalf of NASA. As the chairman knows, the Johnson Space Center is the crown jewel of our Nation's space program and resides in my congressional district. The hard work of many bright minds down there has yielded tremendous accomplishments and results over the years. Of course, it's important to be fiscally responsible. I am glad that the chairman knows it's just as important to continue funding our Nation's top science projects, including NASA.

Mr. LAMPSON. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.