Ron Lewis

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Martha Page, a distinguished citizen from my congressional district who was recently awarded the Excellence in the Classroom and Educational Leadership (ExCEL) ``Teacher of the Year'' Award for her exceptional service at the Hodgenville Elementary School in Hodgenville, KY. A kindergarten teacher for more than thirty years, Ms. Page maintains a unique passion for teaching that focuses not only on the academic progress of her students, but also on their emotional, social and cognitive growth. Year after year, her innovative approach to teaching is driven by a genuine care for the happiness and success of young people. Through her own example, Ms. Page consistently demonstrates to her students the importance of character: honesty, goodness, and making life count. Martha Page's dedication to students often transcends the classroom, leading her to play an active role in after school programs and frequent parent-teacher interface. In addition to her work in the classroom, she serves as a mentor to student teachers and is a valuable resource to her colleagues. Ms. Page is also a longtime member of the LaRue County Board of Education and remains actively involved in numerous state and local professional associations. I applaud Martha Page's accomplishments in public education, an occupation of great responsibility and even greater reward. On behalf of so many in the Hodgenville area, I would like to express my profound appreciation for her service and inspiration as she motivates young people to recognize and develop their talents and abilities. It is my great privilege to recognize Martha Page today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for her achievements as an educator. Her unique dedication to the development and well-being of young people and the communities they will someday serve make her an outstanding citizen worthy of our collective honor and respect.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome home the 233rd Heavy Transportation Company of Fort Knox, Kentucky, and pay public tribute to their recent courageous service during their deployment in the Middle East. This was the fourth deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom for the 233rd. The unit, made up of more than 120 troops, transported vehicles and supplies back and forth between bases in Kuwait and the war theater in Iraq. The entire unit returned safely home last week, completing their mission without any serious injuries or fatalities. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the 233rd for selflessly standing in harm's way, transporting critical supplies over millions of miles of dangerous roads, to protect our freedom and way of life. Their distinguished service epitomizes values--duty, honor, country--that make our nation an example of freedom and prosperity for the rest of the world. In the spirit of Fort Knox soldiers of generation past, their courage and sacrifice significantly contributed to a supreme level of safety and readiness during uncertain times. They were selfless in their sacrifice, taking time away from their families to keep others safe. For that they deserve the admiration and thanks of a grateful nation. It is my privilege to recognize the 233rd Heavy Transportation Company today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for their generous service and unflinching duty to our great country. Welcome home!

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of a remarkable citizen from my congressional district. Ronald Hudson, a longtime resident of Leitchfield, Kentucky, passed away February 20th at age 65. Mr. Hudson was a colorful and widely respected figure in Grayson County, having served on the Leitchfield Fire Department for 46 years, 31 of those as Chief. In a recent feature story in the Grayson County News-Gazette, Chief Hudson described himself as ``not a poster boy firefighter'' when he first joined the department in 1959. With typical self deprecating humor, he described himself as ``too short and too skinny, with trouble taking anything serious for any length of time.'' He credited the late Murrell Conklin, then Chief Emeritus of the Leitchfield Department for coaching him through his first few years, helping to mold him into a serious firefighter and public servant. Ronald Hudson was named Chief after only 12 years of service on the department. As Chief, he was responsible for training and managing a diverse crew of firefighters, purchasing and maintaining fire apparatus, and perpetually pursuing sources of funding to keep the department running. Chief Hudson was personally responsible for countless acts of heroism throughout his four decades as a firefighter. Yet he always humbled himself with the tough reality of all emergency personnel: You can go from hero to zero and back again in a matter of seconds. Chief Hudson's contributions to his community, staring down danger time and time again to save lives and protect the safety and comfort of his neighbors, has made Leitchfield a fine place to live for many years. Ronald Hudson's life, career, and especially his final years fighting against his own declining health, was the true epitome of courage and generosity of spirit. In addition to his position on the Fire Department, Chief Hudson also served as Grayson County Coroner and was a member of the American Legion Post 81, the Leitchfield Masonic Lodge, and the Fraternal Order of Police. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and owned and operated a small business from 1983 to 2002. Ronald Hudson's distinguished life of service to his community and his country, along with his unwavering dedication to his family and fellow firefighters, is a portrait of outstanding citizenship worthy of our collective respect and appreciation. It is my great privilege to honor his memory today before the entire United States House of Representatives.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay public tribute to an exemplary public servant and citizen from my congressional district. Henry Travis Holman recently retired from Mammoth Cave National Park, drawing to a close a remarkable 32 year career with the National Park Service in Kentucky. Mr. Holman began his career with the National Park Service in 1971 as a cave guide. Two years later, he was appointed as a Park Technician for the Interpretation and Visitor Services Division. He was later reassigned to the Ranger Division, becoming a fully commissioned law enforcement officer for the National Park Service. In 1999, Mr. Holman was installed as Management Assistant for the Office of the Superintendent at Mammoth Cave National Park. In that capacity he skillfully coordinated all park projects, managed environmental compliance requirements, and developed important long-range planning initiatives. For his efforts, he received the 2003 National Park Service Honor Award for Superior Service, recognizing his many accomplishments as a top administrator. Henry Holman's three decades of service significantly enhanced park operations and community relations at Mammoth Cave. His vast knowledge, work ethic, and attention to detail exemplify true professionalism, a legacy that will long endure among his colleagues and members of the public. It is my great privilege to recognize Henry Holman today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for his leadership and service. His unique achievements and dedication to the National Park Service mission make him an outstanding American worthy of our collective honor and appreciation.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable soldier and citizen from my congressional district. Colonel James E. Bean, a longtime resident of Bardstown, Kentucky, passed away peacefully January 4th at age 82. Colonel Bean was a local hero, remembered for his athletic achievements as a young man and military heroism as a fighter pilot, flying combat missions in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Colonel Bean was born in 1923 on a farm at Cox's Creek, KY. He graduated from Bardstown High School in 1942. A football and basketball All Star, Colonel Bean was especially remembered for being the signal caller on offense and fullback of the legendary unbeaten 1941 Bardstown High School football team. He matriculated to the University of Kentucky on a football scholarship later that fall but cut short his collegiate career soon thereafter to join the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was called to active duty in early 1943, assigned to Foster Field, Texas as an Advanced Flying School inspector. He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in January, 1944 and assigned to the European Theater, where he flew 41 combat missions in Germany and France. Upon his return to the United Sates, Colonel Bean completed numerous assignments testing and flying Air Force fighter aircraft. He was assigned to Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada in 1960 to establish and operate the F-105 aircraft flight training program for all Air Force units. He later carried out assignments in Japan with the 8th Tactical Fighting Wing, completing several short tours in Southeast Asia, before returning to the United States to serve as an Air Force duty officer at the Pentagon. Colonel Bean volunteered and was assigned to the 388th Tactical Fighting Wing, Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in October, 1967. On January 3, 1968 while flying an F-105 combat mission over North Vietnam, his aircraft was shot down near Hanoi. Colonel Bean was captured by the North Vietnamese and held as a Prisoner of War until his release March 14, 1973. James Bean retired from the United States Air Force as a Colonel in 1974. He returned to Kentucky, where he enjoyed a peaceful retirement with his wife until his death in January. He was a member of the Bardstown High School Hall of Fame, State President of Future Farmers of America, a Shriner, Mason, Kentucky Colonel, member of the American Legion, Kentucky Pork Producers, and communicant at the Bardstown Baptist Church. James Bean's remarkable life is one of a true American hero. His distinguished service and unique sacrifice for his country represent the very best of what it means to be an American soldier. His achievements as a citizen, especially his unwavering dedication to his family and his community, are further marks of greatness worthy of our collective respect and appreciation. It is my great privilege to honor his memory today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives. May he rest in peace.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome home the 703rd Explosive Ordinance Disposal Detachment of Fort Knox, Kentucky, and pay public tribute to their courageous service during their six- month deployment in Iraq. This was the second deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom for the 703rd. As most of us know, EOD units have one of the most dangerous jobs in Iraq. The 703rd worked with Army and Marine Brigades to recover and dispose of explosive devices throughout a large portion of northern Iraq. The entire unit returned safely home last week, reuniting with family and comrades at a 3 a.m. welcome home ceremony held at Fort Knox. Tragically, two soldiers, Staff Sgt. Kimberly Voelz and Staff Sgt. Richard Ramey, paid the ultimate sacrifice for freedom during the unit's first deployment to Iraq. I would like to take this opportunity to honor these returning soldiers and the memory of those who have passed, all who have selflessly stood in harm's way as the guardians of our freedom and way of life. Their distinguished service epitomizes values--duty, honor, country--that make our Nation an example of freedom and prosperity for the rest of the world. In the spirit of Fort Knox soldiers of generations past, their courage and sacrifice significantly contributed to a supreme level of safety and readiness during uncertain times. They were selfless in their sacrifice, taking time away from their families to keep others safe. For that they deserve the admiration and thanks of a grateful nation. It is my great privilege to recognize the 703rd EOD today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for their generous service and unflinching duty to our great country. Welcome home!

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give well deserved recognition to an extraordinary law enforcement professional serving in my district. Officer Michael R. Smith, an honorable U.S. Army Veteran, is continuing his spirit of public service as a civilian police officer in Radcliff, Kentucky. Radcliff is home to the legendary Fort Knox military installation. Officer Smith's actions, on duty and off, demonstrate a genuine concern and personal involvement in protecting safety and improving quality of life in his community. His abiding friendship with many of Radcliff's elderly citizens and attention to their needs is especially noteworthy. I would like to publicly thank Officer Smith, on behalf of his colleagues and the citizens of Radcliff, for the example he sets in performing his job far beyond the call of duty. His sense of public service and altruistic spirit personify the term ``Peace Officer.''

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I commend my colleagues to an article entitled, ``Luring Business Developers Into Low-Income Areas'' that appeared in the New York Times on Wednesday, January 25, 2006. The article details how the New Markets Tax Credit is transforming low-income urban and rural communities across the United States. The New Markets Tax Credit works by providing investors with a tax credit worth thirty-nine cents over seven years for every dollar in private capital they invest in economically distressed communities. These investments flow to the low-income areas through intermediaries called Community Development Entities or CDEs. The CDEs are extremely knowledgeable about the communities they serve. They also are very experienced in providing the types of patient, flexible capital which conventional lenders and investors are unable to provide directly in that market. The empowerment of CDEs is just one example of what sets the New Markets Tax Credit program apart from other anti-poverty initiatives. It also makes sense from a business standpoint since it helps to manage the risk to investors, many of whom had never before invested in a low income community. In Kentucky, the Credit is being utilized to finance economic development projects, invest in new and expanding businesses, provide community services including health care and child care, and create new jobs. Since the first allocations were awarded in March 2003, seven Community Development Entities in Kentucky have been awarded a total of $153 million. These investments are supporting a wide range of projects in Kentucky, particularly in rural areas where the need is so great. Community Ventures Corporation, a CDE based in Lexington, is using the Credit to enable a coffee company to purchase land in West Louisville, build a new 17,500 square foot facility, and renovate a 4,000 square foot structure. The new business site is located in a census tract where the poverty rate is 44.8%. This project doubled the number of employees at the company, enabling it to develop new product lines, allowing it to start a new division to refurbish coffee-brewing equipment, and even made possible the enhancement of its employee- training program. Another Kentucky-based CDE, Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation, was awarded $22 million in New Market Tax Credits last year. It plans to use its allocation to invest in health-related businesses and health care facilities throughout rural Eastern Kentucky where many counties are considered to be medically underserved. In September, I introduced a bipartisan bill, H.R. 3957, which extends the Credit for five years. I hope my colleagues will take some time to read the attached article, learn more about how the program is improving economically distressed urban and rural areas across America and support our efforts in Congress to extend this program. [From the New York Times, Jan. 25, 2006] Luring Business Developers Into Low-Income Areas (By Lisa Chamberlain) When the low-income housing tax credit was created in 1986, it took years for developers, investors and advocates to understand the program and to learn how to make the most use of it. Now it is one of the most important tools for low- income residential real estate, responsible for creating approximately 1.5 million units of affordable housing to date. Advocates of a little-known development tool called new- market tax credits, the only federal tax credit program for commercial projects in low-income areas, believe the same thing is beginning to happen with commercial real estate. Efforts are already under way to reauthorize the program, which expires next year. Enacted in December 2000, the new-market tax credit program is helping to create jobs and revitalize streets and even entire downtowns. Projects large and small that most financial specialists agree would never come to fruition otherwise are taking shape because of tax credits worth $500,000 to $150 million and even more. For instance, the tax credits are currently financing the rebuilding of a butter manufacturing cooperative in New Ulm, Minn., that was damaged in a fire. The loss of the cooperative put 130 people out of work, caused economic hardship for 400 family farms and indirectly affected hundreds more jobs in the low-income rural area. Just south of the central business district in Grand Rapids, Mich., is a nearly completed arts-related mixed-use redevelopment project in an area largely abandoned since the 1950's. Called Martineau Division-Oakes, the 12,000-square- foot commercial space is occupied by the art department of Calvin College and a cafe. There are also 23 spaces for artists to live and work in. Once the project got off the ground, the city committed $2 million to landscaping, repaving, new lighting, signage and sidewalk improvements in the development's neighborhood. ``It's a very flexible and powerful program,'' said Robert Poznanski, president of the New Markets Support Company, one of the main recipients of credits from the Treasury Department, which administers the program. ``It's driven by market forces. The federal government doesn't say, `Use it for this type of business.' It can be used for commercial real estate, a charter school or a community center, as long as the application is competitive and the project is in a low-income area as identified by census tract data.'' Tax credits make riskier projects more viable by reducing the debt associated with development costs. Private investors pay less in taxes and the developer passes the savings on to the community by, for example, lowering rent per square foot. The federal program will allocate up to $15 billion in tax credits to community development groups over seven years to make businesses or commercial real estate projects in low- income areas more attractive to private investors. Applicants vie for the credits, and so far the process has been highly competitive. In the first three rounds of allocation, beginning in 2003, demand for the credits has outpaced supply by 10 times, according to figures provided by the Treasury Department. Though the tax credits can be used for business development, the majority are used for commercial real estate because of the way the program is structured. The most recent allocation was completed last fall, bringing the total disbursement to $8 billion to date. Recipients have five years to use the tax credits to attract private investment, or they are withdrawn and can be reissued elsewhere through 2014. Dennis Sturtevant, president of Dwelling Place, a nonprofit community development organization, spearheaded the Martineau Division-Oakes project in Grand Rapids. The project used historic tax credits and other grants, in addition to new- market tax credits, to generate $2.2 million in equity from National City Bank. ``When you're talking about tough neighborhoods and all the costs associated with renovating dilapidated, obsolete buildings with lead and everything else,'' Mr. Sturtevant said, ``you need to combine all these resources to make it work.'' Sean P. Welsh, regional president of National City Bank, said: ``It required a lot of creativity. It's complicated, but it's really driving a lot of the urban redevelopment in this and other areas around the country.'' One deal that most everyone agrees would have never happened were it not for the tax credits is Plaza Verde in South Minneapolis. Formerly an abandoned building in a low- income Hispanic neighborhood, it is now a 43,000-square-foot business incubator, with locally owned retailing on the ground floor, office space on the second level and a theater company on the top floor. JoAnna Hicks is the director of real estate for the Neighborhood Development Center, the nonprofit organization that spearheaded Plaza Verde. Even after expenses were deducted, including legal fees, new-market tax credits created almost $1 million in equity for a project that cost $4.2 million total. ``Because it's such a complicated financial tool, it's hard for small nonprofits to use,'' Ms. Hicks said. ``But now that we understand it better, we're able to apply it to other projects as well.'' Using another allocation of the tax credits, Ms. Hicks's organization has also undertaken the development of a nearly completed public market, called Midtown Global Market, a $17 million project that will be home to more than 60 vendors selling fresh and prepared foods, as well as handmade arts and crafts. As the program has only begun to mature, larger projects are just getting under way. Bridgeport, Conn., is undertaking a major redevelopment of its downtown, with approximately 25 percent of the financing coming from new-market tax credits. The total project is estimated to cost up to $150 million. ``If structured properly, it makes a real difference between a scary development and the deal not being done at all,'' said Kevin Gremse, director of the National Development Council, which provides financial advice and services to municipalities. Mr. Gremse used his organization's new-market tax credit allocation to attract a New York City-based private developer, Eric Anderson of Urban Green Builders, to take on the task of reviving downtown Bridgeport, which has suffered years of decline. Advocates are cautiously optimistic that the program will be reauthorized in 2007. Congress recently passed a bill to assist Gulf Coast states with rebuilding efforts after Hurricanes Rita and Katrina, which included $1 billion more for the new-market tax credit program geared toward that region. ``The fact that Congress expanded the program is a good sign,'' said Robert Rapoza, who manages the New Market Tax Credit Coalition, an advocacy organization pushing for the program's reauthorization. ``But we have work to do. This is a new tool and government-sponsored finance is relatively uncommon. We're continuing to put together data to strengthen our case.'' Of course, it helps to have banks advocating for the tax credit as well. As one of the more active players in the tax credit industry, Zachary Boyers, a senior vice president of US Bank in St. Louis, closed more than 50 deals involving new-market tax credits in 2005 alone. ``The banking community is behind this,'' Mr. Boyers said. ``We are deeply involved in spreading the word. We are working on ways to quantify its impact, which is not easy to do. But other investors, including banks and large corporations, would confirm that they would never be investing in these projects without it.''

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to introduce Reverend Don Davidson, Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, joining us to deliver this morning's prayer. Reverend Davidson is a remarkable man and Christian witness whose vocation has touched the hearts and moved the spirits of countless men and women throughout his three decades of pastoral service. Born in Suffolk, Virginia, Reverend Davidson earned degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University and Southeast Baptist Theological Seminary at Wake Forest, North Carolina. His Christian mission has brought him and his equally gifted wife Audrey to pastorates in Farmville, Virginia; Henderson, North Carolina; Orlando, Florida; and Danville, Virginia before being called to the First Baptist Church of Alexandria this past September. The First Baptist Church has been a place of worship for numerous Members of Congress and their staff throughout its 200-year history. In fact, Reverend Davidson first came to my attention through Darla Tomes, a former member of my staff, who works for the Department of Defense. Thank you, Reverend Davidson, for being here today to invoke God's divine guidance as we start this Second Session of the 109th Congress. I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming you to the House of Representatives.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jessica Turner, an exemplary citizen from my district who was recently named recipient of the Elizabethtown Independent Schools' 2005-06 Excellence in the Classroom and Educational Leadership (ExCEL) Award. A teacher for more than six years, Ms. Turner promotes a unique style in her classroom that incorporates hard work, cooperation and respect among her kindergarten and first grade students at the Helmwood Heights Elementary School in Elizabethtown, KY. Year after year, she continues to capture the attention of her students, encouraging them to feel comfortable with themselves and with each other as she blends activities with lessons to keep them engaged and learning. In addition to her work in the classroom, Jessica Turner oversees the professional development of kindergarten, first-grade, and second-grade teachers and is a valuable resource to new faculty. Ms. Turner is also actively involved in numerous teacher training programs including the Kentucky Reading Project and the Louisville Writing Project. I applaud Jessica Turner's accomplishments in public education, an occupation of great responsibility and even greater reward. On behalf of so many in the Elizabethtown area, I would like to express my profound appreciation for her service and inspiration as she motivates young people to recognize and develop their talents and abilities. It is my great privilege to recognize Jessica Turner today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for her achievements as an educator. Her unique dedication to the development and well-being of young people and the communities they will someday serve make her an outstanding citizen worthy of our collective honor and respect.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay public tribute to Steve Montgomery, an exemplary community leader, businessman and citizen from Kentucky's Second Congressional District. A charter member of the CORE Committee at Fort Knox, Steve is stepping down from his duties after 14 years of dedicated service marked by tremendous growth and success. Steve Montgomery first came to Radcliff, KY in 1983 to buy and operate an auto dealership. He has remained in the community for 22 years, distinguishing himself as a business leader and good neighbor. As a charter member, Steve has served on the CORE Committee since its inception. One of Steve's first recorded duties was to arrange a meeting for the group with MG Foley, then Fort Knox Commanding General. MG Foley was briefed on the details of CORE activities and objectives at the congressional, state and Fort Knox levels. Following their initial meeting with Senator McConnell in 1992, the CORE Committee was directed to devote primary focus on securing the future of Fort Knox. In this effort, the Committee has ably managed numerous challenges throughout the years that have followed. In 1992, the Committee played a major role in the decision to relocate USAREC Headquarters to Fort Knox after Fort Sheridan closed. Soon thereafter, the CORE Committee began conducting informational briefings for local governments and business requesting monetary support. Steve Montgomery was elected Vice Chairman in 1993 and immediately worked to build a strong rapport with Kentucky's Congressional Delegation. Steve was elected Chairman of the CORE Committee in 1996. During his Chairmanship, Fort Knox has endured an especially active decade as the post adapted to a new security environment, carried on a wartime training mission, managed BRAC considerations and the significant administrative changes that have followed. Under Steve Montgomery's leadership, funding was secured to modernize facilities, such as the new STARBASE barracks, significantly enhancing Fort Knox's future viability. Perhaps Steve's greatest legacy will be his tireless promotion of Fort Knox's military value during Base Realignment and Closure proceedings in 2005. Because of his critical contributions, working with the Governor, Members of Congress, and private consultants, Fort Knox remains open today, adapting to a new mission as a vital multi-functional home to operational Army forces and various administrative commands. Steve leaves the CORE Committee having completed the mission he was assigned many years earlier in the committee's nascence. It is my great privilege to recognize Steve Montgomery today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for his example of leadership and service. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his invaluable contributions to the CORE Committee, Fort Knox, and the Greater Radcliff community. His unique achievements make him an outstanding American worthy of our collective honor and respect.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the North Metcalfe Elementary School 6th Grade Academic Team for their participation and high achievement in the Kentucky Colonel academic competition on December 3, 2005. In this competition, students competed in written assessment categories of math, science, language arts, social studies and arts and humanities. In these categories, team members placed first and second in math and second in language arts. Collectively, the team went home as first place Kentucky Colonels Quick Recall Champions and placed second in the overall competition, defeating six other teams. Together, they demonstrated great academic prowess, teamwork and sportsmanship before a regional audience, representing competitive values that make Kentucky proud. I would like to commend Kristen Compton, Price Bell, Lindsey Coomer and Chandler Staggs for their accomplishment. I would also like to recognize their coaches, two fine educators, Angela Welsh and Rachel Dial. I am very proud to represent these students, teachers and their families. I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in congratulating the North Metcalfe Elementary School 6th Grade Academic Team for their achievement and wish them continued success in their promising future years.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jennifer (Stelmach) Inman, an exemplary community leader and citizen from my district, who was recently named Alumnus of the Year at Western Kentucky University. A 1994 graduate, Jennifer was active in Alpha Gamma Delta, Spirit, and numerous other campus organizations while earning her BS in Agri- Business. Jennifer returned to her hometown of Owensboro shortly after graduation, where she has remained active in WKU alumni relations. She has played an integral role in revitalizing the Owensboro alumni chapter, first as Vice President and now as President. She is currently employed as a marketing consultant and commodities broker with Hayden- Hunt Agri-Marketing. In addition to her career and work on behalf of WKU alumni, Jennifer Inman is a very active member of the Owensboro community serving as the Vice Chair of the WKU-Owensboro Advisory Council, President of the Daviess County Extension Council, Secretary of the 4-H council, Vice President of the Kentucky Women in Agriculture, and Chair of the Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Committee. Jennifer is also a member of the Junior League of Owensboro, YMCA Board of Directors, Owensboro Daviess County Tourism Commission and the Mount St. Joseph Retreat Center Advisory Board. Jennifer has previously been nominated for the Athenia Award, recognizing outstanding women leaders in the Owensboro community. She has also served on the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and as Co-Chairperson for the Chamber Young Professionals. It is my great privilege to recognize Jennifer Inman today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for her lifelong example of leadership and service. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating her for being named Western Kentucky University Alumnus of the Year. Her unique achievements and continued dedication to her community make her an outstanding American worthy of our collective honor and respect.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, how do you withdraw from the war on terror when we have been attacked over and over and over again? We were attacked at the World Trade Centers, the first time by a bomb. Then our African embassies were attacked; the Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia where our young men and women were killed; the Cole naval vessel; and then 9/11. How do you tell Osama bin Laden and Zarqawi that we do not want to participate, we do not want to fool with fighting against terror? The last administration tried that, and we felt the pain of death and destruction on 9/11 from terrorist murderers' hands. We have to win in Iraq. By the way, we won the war in Iraq. Now we are fighting with our allies in Iraq to defeat terror. If we do not win in Iraq, we will fail in the greater Middle East, and what happens if Pakistan falls? What happens if Saudi Arabia falls? Weapons of mass destruction in the hands of Islamic extremists will be a disaster for the world.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay public tribute to a remarkable public servant and citizen from my congressional district. Steve Furlong recently announced his retirement from the US. Army Corps of Engineers, bringing to a close 35 years of achievement and success managing lake projects in Central Kentucky. Raised on a farm near the Mammoth Cave National Park, Steve's career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began in 1970 at nearby Barren River Lake where he worked as a Temporary Laborer. Within a year, he was selected as a permanent Park Ranger at Green River Lake. Steve returned to Barren River Lake in 1974 to continue work as a Park Ranger. Three years later, he was assigned to oversee the construction of the project office at Rough River Lake. Due to his outstanding performance, he was selected soon thereafter to be the permanent Park Manager at Rough River Lake. Under Steve's management, Rough River Lake was named the 1980 National Project of the Year, among 400 Corps projects across the country. Steve was recognized for his efforts that year with receipt of both the Louisville District and the Ohio River Division Achievement Awards, along with the Commander's Award for the Louisville District. Steve was installed as Operations Manager of the Green River Area, with oversight of four regional lake projects, later that same year. Throughout the last 25 years, Steve's adept management and work ethic on behalf of the U.S. Corps of Army Engineers has established four nationally recognized recreational sites that will be enjoyed by many for generations to come. During his tenure, lake facilities have been upgraded and improved to meet changing demands, supporting high quality outdoor recreational experiences for over six million people each year. Combined, the Green River Area now contributes an estimated annual $1.7 million to the regional economy. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Steve Furlong has built a legacy as a model citizen and community leader, volunteering for a variety of local organizations including Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, the Board of Hospice, Boy Scouts of America, and Youth League Baseball. It is my great privilege to recognize Steve Furlong today, before the entire US. House of Representatives, for his leadership and service. His unique achievements and unwavering dedication to the communities of the Green River Area make him an outstanding American worthy of our collective honor and appreciation.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing today legislation to address longstanding inequities in Medicare's payments for graduate medical education. More than 600 hospitals across the country, many in my home state of Kentucky, receive less than the national average from Medicare to train and educate physicians. Medicare's formula for paying hospitals that operate teaching programs is based on costs reported in the early 1980s, significantly below current costs and expanded needs. This limits the ability for many hospitals to train a workforce sufficient to care for the growing Medicare population. In my state, teaching hospitals lose more than 2 million dollars a year as a result of Medicare's dated policy. In neighboring Ohio, Medicare's policy shortchanges hospitals more than $10 million each year. My bill will increase Medicare's Direct Graduate Medical Education (DGME) payments to hospitals to 100 percent of the national average per resident amount for facilities whose historical costs are less than the national average. Congress has made incremental improvements to DGME payments throughout the past 6 years. This began in 1999 with the implantation of a 70 percent minimum payment. In 2001, payments were raised to 85 percent of the national average. In the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, Congress again recognized the flaws in Medicare's payments to teaching hospitals by including a provision requiring that any resident positions redistributed to other hospitals be reimbursed at 100 percent of the national average. My bill continues this work by requiring Medicare to at least pay the average cost of operating a training program. Medicare's Direct Graduate Medical Education payments should be increased to the national average so no hospitals receive less than Medicare's fair share of the costs of operating a medical education program.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, due to a personal family matter I was not available for votes on November 7, 2005. Had I been present I would have voted: Roll Call: No. 572 Supporting the goals and ideals of National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. ``Yea''. No. 571 Senator Paul Simon Water for the Poor Act ``Yea''. No. 570 Recognizing the 40th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council's Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non- Christian Religious, Nostra Aetate, and the continuing need for mutual interreligious respect and dialogue. ``Yea''.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay public tribute to a remarkable soldier and citizen from my home state. Major General Terry Tucker recently relinquished command of the Fort Knox or School, bringing to a close a 3-year tenure marked by unprecedented growth and change at one of America's most important military installations. Generl Tucker joined the Army in 1972, signing in at the same building at Fort Knox where, 31 years later, he would take full installation command. Raised on a dirt farm in West Virginia, General Tucker, with the help of an Army scholarship was the first member of his family to graduate from college. After completing his initial 4- year obligation to the Army, General Tucker and his wife Patti went on to fulfill a wide variety of military assignments at home and abroad throughout their 33 years of service to our country. Upon his return to Fort Knox, first as Deputy Commanding General in 2000, then as Commanding General in 2003, General Tucker presided over a wide scope of critical responsibilities. Along with managing on-base training, he was authorized to develop and implement training for the entire United States Mounted Force, changing the way soldiers are trained to meet a new wartime mission. General Tucker successfully matched this training with a strong focus on improved combat systems and equipment, such as the Abrams tank and the Bradley IFV, to meet new and emerging threats. During his time at Fort Knox, General Tucker's leadership inspired officers and civilians to be good neighbors, making Fort Knox and its surrounding communities a better place to live and work. In this capacity, General Tucker worked hard to build partnerships with community organizations to support Fort Knox Soldiers and their families. General Tucker also oversaw critical improvements to the Garrison and IMA, modernizing facilities to enhance Fort Knox's future viability. Perhaps General Tucker's most enduring legacy to the citizens of my congressional district will be his tireless promotion of Fort Knox's military value during Base Realignment and Closure proceedings this year. Because of his efforts, Fort Knox remains open, adapting to a new mission as a vital multi-functional home to operational army forces and various administrative commands. It is my great privilege to recognize Major General Terry Tucker today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for his lifelong example of leadership and service. I would like to thank him personally for his exemplary stewardship at Fort Knox during a time of war and administrative transition. His unique achievements and dedication to the men and women of the U.S. Army make him an outstanding American worthy of our collective honor and respect.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my support for the Energy Policy Act of 2005. H.R. 6 is a truly balanced bill that will ensure the infrastructure necessary to meet energy needs in the United States through future decades, reduce dependence on foreign sources of oil, making us safer at home, and create thousands of new jobs for American workers. This was accomplished, in large part, by the inclusion of several important energy tax incentives. Along with investments in renewable and clean energy incentives and domestic oil and gas production, H.R. 6 makes a significant commitment to coal. As my colleagues know, coal produces 51 percent of our Nation's electricity and many experts estimate that number will grow in the coming years. H.R. 6 includes a 7-year recovery period for new investments in pollution control facilities installed in coal-fired electric generation plants. The shorter recovery period will allow companies to make it easier to comply with new EPA regulations. For the first time we are making a real commitment to investing in clean coal technologies. The bill provides more than $1.6 billion in tax credits to fund IGCC and advanced clean coal projects. It is estimated that we have a 250-year supply of coal. H.R. 6 ensures that this source continues to be a part of our Nation's energy policy and today we make a real commitment to ensure that it is more efficient and cleaner. I would like to personally thank my chairman, Bill Thomas, and his staff for their hard work on the energy tax incentives package. Throughout the last 5 years, the Ways and Means Committee has been the genesis of many massive social and economic reforms including several important tax relief bills, a Medicare and prescription drug plan, and a critical trade agreement. H.R. 6, the Energy Policy Act of 2005, is yet another major accomplishment under Chairman Thomas's leadership.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise to register my strong support for H.R. 3045. For too long, the U.S. has watched from the sidelines while other nations have traded in the global marketplace. Thanks to the leadership of President Bush and the chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means, the gentleman from California (Mr. Thomas), we passed the Trade Promotion Authority Act in 2001. This important legislation allowed the administration to engage with other countries and find opportunities for U.S. companies to sell their products to new customers. DR-CAFTA is another step towards knocking down trade barriers and opening new markets for U.S. products. DR-CAFTA countries are the second largest U.S. market in Latin America. The debate on CAFTA has gone on for a long time. Like many of my colleagues, I have reviewed a lot of information. The most important thing we must remember is that this agreement levels the playing field. Right now, nearly 80 percent of imports from the DR-CAFTA countries already enter the United States duty free. Again, 80 percent of imports from CAFTA countries already enter the United States duty free. By leveling the field, we are opening markets to U.S. goods. After passage, DR-CAFTA will immediately provide duty-free treatment to 80 percent of U.S. industrial products and 50 percent of agricultural products. This means jobs for U.S. workers and farmers. For the textile industry, DR-CAFTA will maintain the link between the U.S. and the region. Once passed, more than 90 percent of all apparel made in the region will be sewn from fabric and yarn made in the United States. This will allow the U.S. and the region to compete against China imports. As we heard earlier, China is a concern to some of my colleagues. Finally, trade is key to freedom. By passing DR-CAFTA, we are making a firm commitment to the leaders of these Central American countries who are fighting corruption and supporting economic reform. President Bush has made DR-CAFTA his top priority. The U.S. Trade Representative has done an outstanding job in putting together this agreement, and Chairman Thomas and Subcommittee Chairman Shaw have successfully moved the agreement through the legislative process. Let us finish this job and pass CAFTA now, tonight.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2894, a resolution to designate the United States Postal Service facility located at 102 South Walters Avenue in Hodgenville, Kentucky, as the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Post Office Building. Hodgenville, Kentucky, is the birthplace and childhood home of our 16th President, one of the most influential figures in American history. Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809, in a one-room log cabin at the Sinking Spring Farm in what is now LaRue County, Kentucky. His family lived at Sinking Spring Farm for 2\1/2\ years before moving 10 miles away to Knob Creek Farm. Of his birth and childhood, Lincoln wrote: ``I was born on February 12, 1809, in then Hardin County, Kentucky, at a point within the now county of LaRue, a mile or mile and a half from where Hodgen's Mill now is. It was a wild region, with many bears and other wild animals still in the woods. There I grew up.'' Thousands of historians, students, and tourists visit the Lincoln birthplace and museum at Sinking Spring and nearby boyhood home each year. Both sites are managed by the National Park Service and maintain historic recreations of the original log cabins. The Hodgenville community is currently hard at work planning for the bicentennial celebration of Lincoln's birth in 2009. Lincoln's roots on the Kentucky frontier molded character traits, modesty, hard work, spiritual, and an intellectual fortitude and a sense of justice that made him a portrait of human greatness as a legislator, lawyer, father, and steward of his country through the most devastating experience in its national history. Lincoln's achievements as President saved the Union and freed the slaves, and his martyrdom in death as the war was drawing to a close made him one of the most revered and historically significant figures in American history. Carved in stone above the portals of the birthplace memorial are the eloquent and poignant words from his second inaugural address in which he urged ``malice toward none'' and ``charity for all'' in the peace to come. Abraham Lincoln's early life in central Kentucky is a source of great pride to me personally and many of my constituents. The birthplace and childhood home provide a great historic treasure in our community. In honor of President Lincoln's connection to Hodgenville and the upcoming bicentennial celebration of his birth, I urge my colleagues to join me honoring Hodgenville and Lincoln's memory by designating the current postal facility as the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Post Office Building.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, in 1979, a small group of health care professionals and lay volunteers in Elizabethtown began meeting to explore the idea of establishing a hospice in Hardin County. On April 24, 1980, the Elizabethtown Area Hospice (EAH) served its first patient. The agency was staffed entirely by volunteers who provided care for patients and families living in and around Elizabethtown. In 1986, EAR became fully certified by Medicaid and Medicare. The next year EAH changed its name to the Hospice of Central Kentucky (HCK) and expanded its services to include five counties: Hardin, LaRue, Grayson, Meade, and Breckinridge. In 1989, HCK also began offering its services to patients living in Marion and Washington counties. In the spring of 1990, Taylor, Green and Adair counties became a part of HCK's service area. As the organization has grown and expanded its services, its base of operations has also changed. EHA was first headquartered in a small office in Hardin Memorial Hospital. Over the years, HCK has moved to different locations around Elizabethtown as the agency grew. After a successful capital campaign in 1993, HCK moved into its new main office building located on Diecks Drive in Elizabethtown. Since expanding its services to Taylor County in 1990, HCK has operated a satellite office in Campbellsville. A significant milestone in HCK's history occurred in 1996 when HCK joined with Hospice of Louisville to form the Alliance of Community Hospices, Inc. The following year HCK received its first certification from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. During its 25 years of existence, Hospice & Palliative Care has provided high-quality end-of-life care services to thousands of patients and their families living in the Central Kentucky area. In 2004, HCK provided almost 30,000 patient days of care to 625 patients and their families. These services include pain and symptom control, medication management, personal care, emotional and spiritual support, volunteer assistance and bereavement care. In addition to providing core hospice services, HCK also employs a children's counselor to provide children and adolescents with specialized counseling and support. HCK also sponsors a grief camp, Camp Evergreen, for grieving children and their families. Licensed by the state of Kentucky, HCK accepts Medicare, Medicaid and many forms of private insurance. With the help of donations from the community, HCK provides care for seriously ill patients and their families living in the Central Kentucky area regardless of their ability to pay for services. While HCK has grown and changed in many ways over the years, one thing has always remained constant and that is the agency's commitment to providing the highest quality, most compassionate care possible to patients with terminal illnesses and their families. HCK dedicates its 25th anniversary to its patients and families. Their courage and their faith, in the midst of illness and loss, is a source of inspiration to others.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in support of the U.S.-Dominican Republic-Central American Free Trade Agreement. This agreement will ensure America's competitiveness in Central America and throughout the world, benefiting millions of American farmers, manufacturers and businesses of all sizes. The CAFTA region currently imports $15 billion annually of U.S. agriculture and manufactured goods. Combined, DR-CAFTA countries represent our thirteenth largest export market. DR-CAFTA will significantly increase exports and boost earnings for American farmers and manufacturers. Upon enactment, 80 percent of U.S. industrial consumer products will immediately become duty-free, leveling the playing field for U.S. producers who have long been at a competitive disadvantage with other countries with pre-existing trade agreements in the region. The proposed agreement will also take important new steps to protect U.S. firms from unfair trading practices and elevate standards for workplace safety and environmental responsibility. DR-CAFTA legislation will also take important new steps to protect U.S. firms from unfair trading practices and elevate standards for workplace safety and environmental responsibility. DR-CAFTA legislation will be a catalyst for positive change in Central America, broadly opening new markets, supporting stability, and propelling emerging economies forward. As history has proven, politically and economically stable neighbor nations are vital to our own national security interests.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable individual from my home district. Dr. Robert Smotherman, school superintendent of the Bardstown Independent School System, is retiring this month, bringing his distinguished career as an educator to a close. Before becoming Superintendent in 1983, Dr. Smotherman spent a nine year tenure as principal and assistant superintendent in the Kingsport, TN school system. He earlier taught in schools in Atlanta, Birmingham, and Nashville. During his 22 years as superintendent, Bardstown Independent Schools has been a catalyst for many Kentucky firsts including first in the state to create a private educational foundation to raise money for the school district; the first district to offer an educational program for all three and four year olds regardless of economics or special needs; the first district to mandate school uniforms; and the first district in Kentucky to move to a year round calendar at all schools. He has also been a tireless advocate, throughout his tenure, for effective Adult Education. The current program offers a wide range of educational opportunity and the GED program, producing over 150 graduates annually. Dr. Smotherman has been a consistent recipient of academic and community honors including being named one of the ``Top 100 Superintendents in America'' by Executive Educator Magazine, the Kentucky Department of Education's ``Good Apple'' Award, the American Legion Award for Educational Excellence, and the Jenson Award from the National Association for Year Round Schools, recognizing his outstanding leadership in a movement that he helped to organize. Dr. Smotherman served on the NAYRE Board of Directors and was later elected President of the national organization, the first Kentuckian to hold that position. In 2003, Dr. Smotherman was named to the Bardstown- Nelson County ``Hall of Fame.'' I applaud Robert Smotherman's accomplishments in public education, an occupation of great responsibility and ever greater reward, motivating young people to recognize and develop their talents and abilities. On behalf of so many in the Bardstown area, I would like to express my profound appreciation for his service and inspiration to the countless men and women who have benefited from his generosity and vision. It is my great privilege to recognize Robert Smotherman today, before the entire U.S. House of Representatives, for his many achievements as an educator. His unique dedication to the development and well-being of young people and the communities they now serve make him an outstanding citizen worthy of our collective honor and respect.

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky

Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I was absent from the House on Monday, June 20, 2005 so that I could testify before the BRAC Commission regional hearing in St. Louis, MO on behalf of Ft. Knox, an Army instillation in my district designated for significant realignment. Had I been present, I would have voted the following way: H. AMDT. 328, Claiming religious proselytizing at the Air Force Academy, no; H. AMDT. 330, Prohibiting funds for activities in Uzbekistan, no; H. AMDT. 331, Prohibiting military action against Syria, Iran, N. Korea without Congress authority, no; H. AMDT. 333, Prohibiting funds for carrying out sections of the Small Business Competitiveness Demonstration Program Act, no; and H.R. 2863, On final passage of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2006, yea.