Daniel Lipinski

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from California, a new member of the Science Committee and an engineer himself, Mr. McNerney.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 521, the Lane Evans Post Office Bill. By naming this Post Office after our distinguished former colleague, we pay tribute to Lane Evans and recognize his long, distinguished career of public service. Prior to being elected to the House of Representatives in 1983, Lane Evans served in the Marine Corps at the time of the Vietnam War. His experience in the military and his firsthand knowledge of veterans' issues led Lane to become a leading advocate for veterans during his time in Congress. On issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, homelessness among veterans, and the aftereffects of exposure to Agent Orange, Lane Evans consistently took the lead in crafting real policy solutions. Lane's leadership on veterans' issues was formally recognized in 1995, when he was named Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. In addition, Lane always dutifully served his constituents and the state of Illinois. He was a strong advocate for working Americans and was one of the first to see the need for renewable forms of energy such as ethanol. With Lane Evans' decision to not seek reelection last year, Congress, Illinois, and the nation lost a great public servant. Now, by naming a Post Office after our former colleague, we can say thanks to Lane, and lift up his impressive legacy of service as an example for others to follow.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as much time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 51 honoring National Catholic Schools Week and the tremendous contributions that Catholic schools make to our country. Since 1974, Catholic Schools Week has celebrated the important role that these institutions play in America and their excellent reputation for providing a strong academic and moral education, as well as teaching community responsibility and outreach. I am proud to sponsor this resolution as my first resolution of this new Congress, and I would also like to thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella) for his work on this resolution. Unfortunately Mr. Fossella today has been unable to make it. He is stuck in New York today. But he would like to be here also to speak of his support for this resolution on Catholic Schools Week. This year's theme of Catholic Schools Week is ``Catholic Schools: The Good News in Education.'' This theme has multiple meanings for Catholic schools. At the center of Catholic education is the ``Good News'' or Gospel of Jesus and salvation. Jesus taught love and service. And the history of Catholic schools reveals an ongoing emphasis on the Gospel values of reaching out and serving others. But the ``good news'' in Catholic education is also the news of success in shaping the lives of so many young men and women. Nationally about 2.4 million young people are enrolled in nearly 8,000 Catholic schools. These schools have more than 160,000 full-time professional staff, boasting a student/teacher ratio of 15:1. On average, Catholic school students surpass other students in math, science and reading in the three grade levels of the NAPT test. The graduation rate for all Catholic high school students is 95 percent, and 83 percent of Catholic high school graduates go on to college. These are amazing statistics in America today. Catholic schools are also highly effective in educating minority students and disadvantaged youth. The percentage of minority students in Catholic schools has more than doubled in the past 30 years, today representing more than one-quarter of all those enrolled. And almost one in seven students in Catholic schools is not Catholic. The success of Catholic schools does not just come from selectivity. On average, Catholic schools accept about nine out of every 10 students who apply. One of the reasons for the ``good news'' of Catholic schools is that in addition to learning reading, writing and arithmetic, students also learn responsibility and how to become persons of character and integrity. Community service is a priority in Catholic schools; 94 percent of schools have a service program, with the average student completing 79 hours of service. I was born, raised and lived in the Chicago Archdiocese, which has one of the most successful school systems in the country. Today more than 106,000 students attend 276 schools. In my district alone there are five Catholic high schools and 34 grammar schools, including one of the best in my home parish of St. John of the Cross. The success of students in archdiocesan schools is phenomenal, with the high schools having an amazing graduation rate of over 99 percent, and 95 percent of graduates from Catholic schools go on to college. This is certainly a record to be proud of. My wife and I are each products of 12 years of Catholic education. My wife in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, at St. Patrick's Grade School and Bishop McCourt High School; myself in Chicago at St. Symphorosa Grammar School and St. Ignatius College Prep. Like so many others, I understand how important Catholic schools are in providing a spiritual, moral and intellectual foundation. My 12 years of Catholic education provide me with the knowledge, discipline, desire to serve, and a love of learning that enabled me to go on to earn my Ph.D. and become a teacher before I was elected to Congress. As we recognize Catholic Schools Week, we must pay special tribute to the dedicated teachers and administrators who sacrifice so much, usually getting paid much less than they could to dedicate their lives to teaching at Catholic schools. I have fond memories of my teachers, who taught me not only the value of a good education, but also the values of faith and service. Although it was 35 years ago that I started school, I can still fondly remember all my teachers, from first grade, Sister Mildred; second grade, Miss Ivers; and on and on. And I will never forget Sister Diane, my coach on the Student Congress in high school. And to this day, when I speak to a crowd, I always remember her sitting there nodding her approval as I gave my speeches, as I was a nervous young kid in high school. Millions of other Americans have similar memories of teachers who gave their heart and soul and made such a big difference in the lives of their students. Mr. Speaker, as an important complement to public schools and other private institutions, Catholic schools contribute a great deal to America. They have made a big difference in my life and in the lives of countless others. As Father William Davis, Interim Secretary for the Conference of U.S. Catholic Bishops, said, ``High achievement rates, high retention rates, high moral values, and high student and parent satisfaction are the distinctive marks of a Catholic school. That's the good news and we want to share it.'' For this good news, America's Catholic schools deserve our praise and our support, and to share our praise and support, I urge my colleagues to pass this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution honoring Illinois State University on its 150th anniversary. I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Weller) for sponsoring this resolution. I want to add my voice as a Representative who has many hundreds of students and alumni from Illinois State University. I want to congratulate all of those associated with the university through those 150 years. With all of the years of success that they have had, it is a great value, a great part of our public university system in the State of Illinois. As a former college professor, I understand the importance of an education. I know how difficult it is today, especially, to pay for education. Schools like Illinois State give the opportunity for students in Illinois to get a great education at a great value and allow them to pursue so many things as they move forward. So today I just want to congratulate the students, the alumni, the teachers, the administrators, everyone at Illinois State University on their 150th anniversary.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Agnes Flaws Husak on her 100th birthday. Mrs. Husak is an outstanding resident of the Third Congressional District of Illinois and has dedicated her life to public service. Mrs. Husak was born January 12, 1917, on Union Street, in Chicago, IL. There, her family was at the technological forefront of the era-- having the first house on the street with electricity, as well as a telephone. Mrs. Husak continued the family's innovative tradition while working for the GSA in 1940, utilizing revolutionary card punching equipment--the predecessor to the modern computer. At the GSA, Mrs. Husak rose through the ranks and ultimately became head of her department. In retirement, Mrs. Husak has been an active member of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association and continues to play an integral role in this organization today. When asked the secret of living a long life, Mrs. Husak once responded, ``Where's your calendar? Show me your calendar.'' She believes it is important to stay active and certainly does this herself--attending the Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, tending to her rose bushes, and playing Scrabble with her son. It is my honor to recognize Mrs. Agnes Flaws Husak on the celebration of her 100th birthday, an exceptional lady and an inspiration to all generations.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlelady from Colorado for yielding me time, although today I rise in opposition to H.R. 3. Mr. Speaker, no one likes to see another human suffer or struggle. This bill intends to provide hope. I can personally appreciate hope because I have juvenile diabetes. I take at least four shots a day and draw blood at least five times a day. But the bigger struggle is steering myself through the shoals of high and low blood sugar levels, and the very serious long-term and short-term consequences of both of those. I want a cure for diabetes and for other diseases that are far more devastating, but I don't believe this bill is the way to get there. I sit on the Science Committee because I believe a key to our better future is scientific research, especially in medicine. Last year I helped introduce and get signed into law the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act that provides for the collecting and researching of human cord blood stem cells. This week it was reported that a hospital in my district, Hope Children's Hospital, cured a girl suffering from leukemia using cord blood stem cells. This year we need to pass the Alternative Pleuripotent Stem Cell Therapies Enhancement Act that recognizes that there are many forms of stem cells that offer great promise. Very recently, we were shown great promise that amniotic stem cells are pleuripotent, and this feature gives them the same advantage as sought in embryonic stem cells. But amniotic cells avoid not only the ethical pitfalls of embryonic cells; they also have been shown to be much better because they do not tend to produce tumors as embryonic stem cells do. This is all in addition to adult stem cells that are being used today in clinical trials and clinical practice to treat 72 diseases. Yes, I desperately want to be cured of diabetes, and I want to see the suffering end for so many other people; but science continues to demonstrate we don't have to choose between advancing medical techniques and contentious life issues. So, today, I urge my colleagues to reconsider this bill and defeat it.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, President Bush's misadventure in Iraq may be the worst foreign policy disaster the United States has ever been involved in. It is good that Saddam Hussein is out of power, but it has come at an incredibly high price. More than 3,000 of America's soldiers have been killed and thousands more have been wounded, many very seriously. And hundreds of billions of tax dollars have been spent, and in some cases wasted, in Iraq. This has occurred because of the errors in judgment, tactical mistakes, and other major missteps by the Bush administration that have plagued this endeavor since the brave men and women in our military ended the tyrannical reign of Saddam Hussein. In addition to the high cost in lives and dollars that we have suffered, the reasons for going to war in Iraq in the first place have proven faulty. Furthermore, as the recent report from the Iraq Study Group, ISG, states, the situation in Iraq is ``grave and deteriorating,'' with violence among sectarian groups increasing. Threats to security come from many sources, including the Sunni Arab insurgency, Shiite militias, and al Qaeda, not to mention widespread organized crime. Millions of Iraqis have either fled Iraq or are displaced within their country. Given all of this discouraging information, we need to ask--Why are our soldiers still in Iraq and why should they not come home immediately? Unfortunately, it is not possible to turn back the clock 4 years and start again. The United States and the rest of the world, not to mention the Iraqi people, have to construct a policy that deals with the current conditions that have created new threats. If Iraq did not occupy such a critical place in the world, it might be the best policy for America to simply pull our troops out as soon as safely possible and leave the Iraqi people to work out a solution. But, Iraq is in one of the most important locations in the world, and although the situation in Iraq is dire, it could get much worse. First, Iraq sits on the world's second largest oil reserves. While I have been working hard to bring about an energy policy that will wean America and the world off our dependence on this fossil fuel, it will continue to be an extremely valuable commodity for whoever controls it. That is why we must ensure that Iraq's oil does not fall into the hands of radical groups. Oil revenue could be used to fund the spread of radical Islamist revolution to other countries as well as threaten the rest of the world with terrorist attacks. The United States abandoned Afghanistan after the Cold War ended and that country became a haven for terrorists who planned the 9-11 attacks. Iraq would likely become an even worse terrorist training ground. Second, Iraq is wedged between two countries that have shown themselves to be belligerent, Syria and Iran. Iran is working on building a nuclear weapons capability and has threatened to destroy the state of Israel. Syria has continuously meddled in the affairs of Lebanon and provides ongoing support to terrorists in Palestine. Both of these countries have been active in supporting groups in Iraq who are wreaking havoc and both seek to increase their power by exploiting the situation in Iraq. Leaving Iraq immediately would only embolden these regimes and allow them greater influence throughout the Middle East. Consequently, a stable Iraq is necessary to limit the power of these two dangerous countries. Third, an immediate withdrawal of U.S. troops would create regional instability that could result in a large-scale war. If Iraq falls into complete chaos, Iran and Syria will likely get more directly involved in the fighting. In addition, Saudi Arabia has said that they may intervene militarily in Iraq if they believe it is necessary to stop a widespread slaughter of Iraqi Sunnis. If chaos in Iraq propels Iraqi Kurds to attempt to break away and form their own country in the north of Iraq, Turkey may feel the need to intervene so as to quell any nationalist uprising of Kurds within their own borders. And these are only a few of the likely scenarios for a larger conflict. Clearly, the prospect of a multi-nation war is even less appealing than the current situation, and the United States must act to try to head-off conditions that may lead to such a catastrophe. As long as there is still hope that we can serve a positive role in Iraq, the U.S. must not abandon Iraq and leave the situation to deteriorate. However, a new strategy in Iraq is needed now. This new Iraq policy must be based on the understanding that the keys to a solution in Iraq are political and social. Although it is important to recognize that an enforcement capability is necessary for security at any given place and time, peace and stability in Iraq cannot be won and maintained simply through military force. Therefore, the United States should implement a new Iraq policy based on three important components: (1) Bring the world community together to seek solutions in Iraq, including calling an international conference that will work on putting together a peacekeeping force and setting up an international reconstruction program. (2) Encourage achievement of important goals in national reconciliation, security, and governance by arranging a peace conference for Iraq's ethnic and religious factions, similar to the conference that led to the Dayton Accords. (3) Require the administration to give Congress detailed reports on the situation in Iraq so that informed decisions can be made regarding funding Iraq's reconstruction and deciding when American forces can be redeployed. First, the United States must bring the world community together to seek solutions in Iraq. Iraq's oil reserves, strategic location in the Middle East, and its potential to become a failed-state breeding ground for international terrorism dictate that the entire international community has an interest in Iraq's success. The administration and the State Department must make more of an effort to utilize America's considerable diplomatic resources in order to rally international involvement in Iraq. In rallying support, the U.S. should start by talking to all of Iraq's neighbors, including Iran and Syria. Iraq's sectarian violence, while rooted in centuries old conflicts, is being at least partially fueled by Iran and Syria. Consequently, the United States must be willing to work with Iran and Syria as well as all other nations in the region and around the world. But talking does not mean ceding to all requests that these countries make. Iran must not become a nuclear power and Syria must not once again move into Lebanon. But the United States should be willing to engage with these and other nations if we are to move forward with international cooperation on Iraq. As part of bringing the world community together, the U.S. should call an international conference on Iraq. This conference will work on putting together an international peacekeeping force that will replace American and other troops that are currently in Iraq. A second purpose of this conference will be to put together an international reconstruction plan for Iraq. Iraq still suffers from critical shortages in electricity and drinking water, while infrastructure such as oil wells and roads remain in a state of disrepair. Many Iraqis remain unemployed and impoverished, making them easy recruits for sectarian militias and terrorist groups. While Congress must be given more complete information and oversight over U.S. reconstruction aid being sent to Iraq so that American money can be spent more effectively, the international community must also be called upon to provide other aid and plans for Iraq's rebuilding. Second, the United States should join with other nations to arrange a peace conference--akin to the meetings that led to the Dayton Accords-- that will bring together Iraqi leaders to achieve important goals in national reconciliation, security, and governance. Broad-based pressure from a variety of international sources can make a difference in situations like Iraq's, as evidenced by the 1995 Dayton Accords that ended the war in Bosnia. Much like the current conflict in Iraq, the war in Bosnia was fueled by ethnic and religious divisions. However, after intense pressure from the international community, the warring parties came to the negotiating table in Dayton, Ohio and an agreement was reached. With similar international pressure applied to Iraqi leaders, and promises of international peacekeeping forces and increased reconstruction aid, it is my hope that Iraq's warring factions would peacefully come to the negotiating table. Peace discussions could take place in a country seen as a more neutral arbitrator than the U.S. such as El Salvador, which has proven its commitment to Iraqi stability by providing over 300 soldiers for peacekeeping operations. El Salvador would serve as a good location because it is physically far away from Iraq and provides an easily secured environment. In addition, El Salvador has special standing because it has had experience with its own civil war and subsequent aftermath. Third, the administration must be required to give Congress detailed reports on the situation in Iraq, especially in regard to security and progress on reconstruction. One of the reasons Iraq has reached this point is that the Republican Congress gave the administration free rein on Iraq policy without asking questions. The Democratic Congress must, and will, act differently. The start will be bringing the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, military commanders, the members of the Iraq Study Group, and other leading experts on Iraq to testify before congressional committees. Also, we must require from the administration a written, detailed report on the current security and reconstruction situation in Iraq with mandatory monthly follow-up reports. Up to this point it appears that decisions regarding Iraq have been made based upon politics and not facts, political calculation instead of national interest. There is no place for partisan politics when it comes to the use of military force. The lives of our brave men and women should not be affected by political whims. That is why Congress must demand information from the administration. When Congress is fully informed we will be able to make intelligent decisions, based on our national interest, about when U.S. forces can be redeployed from Iraq. I believe that with congressional oversight and greater international involvement, U.S. troops will be able to start redeployment from Iraq in 2007, with or without the President's leadership. Clearly, America needs a new direction in Iraq. President Bush is scheduled to announce his new plan very soon. Since the overthrow of Saddam Hussein, nothing that this administration has done has yet proven to be successful in Iraq. But I will wait to hear the President and I will listen to the congressional hearings before I make a final decision on his proposal. However, if President Bush were to follow the three-point proposal laid out here, we would truly be moving forward in a new direction that will help stabilize Iraq and bring our troops home soon.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Nancy Roberts Garrity, a teacher at St. John Fisher School and recipient of the National Catholic Educational Association's Distinguished Teacher Award. Mrs. Garrity will receive her award at the NCEA annual conference on April 10, 2007. She was selected out of a pool of more than 100,000 nominees. The National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), the largest professional association in the world, offers guidance and educational services to its 200,000 members. During the Fall of each year, every member school is invited to nominate one teacher for the Distinguished Teacher Award. This award was established in honor of Sister Miriam Joseph Farrell, who served as executive secretary of the NCEA's Department of Elementary Schools. The NCEA divides the country into 12 geographic regions, with one teacher in each region receiving this award. St. John Fisher School is located in Chicago's West Beverly neighborhood. This parochial school provides educational opportunities for preschool through eighth grade students, where teachers serve as influential figures in developing students' lives. Mrs. Garrity is guided by the belief that each student uniquely contributes to her classroom. She utilizes creative teaching methods in order to cater to individual educational needs. For example, when teaching her class about A Christmas Carol, she plays the part of Jacob Marley's ghost, complete with chains and a ghostly voice. During the poetry section of her reading class she dresses up as a hippie. Mrs. Garrity's creative methods of teaching allow her students to reach their full potential. Mrs. Garrity has been a teacher at St. John Fisher School since 1990. The Catholic educational system has given her the ability to influence her student's lives with her passion for teaching, which is evident in her students' drive to succeed. It is my honor to recognize Mrs. Nancy Roberts Garrity as a recipient of the Distinguished Teacher Award. Teachers, like Mrs. Garrity, are key to our children's futures.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding educator in my district, Marianne McGuire, who has been nominated for entry into the 2007 edition of Who's Who Among American Teachers. For over 20 years, Mrs. McGuire has tirelessly served her students and the community at-large. Currently, Marianne McGuire teaches the fourth and fifth grades at St. Rene Goupil, a Catholic elementary school in Chicago's Clearing neighborhood. A graduate of Quincy University and a veteran teacher, Marianne brings valuable insight and perspective to the classroom. She has the reputation of being an excellent academic instructor who is involved in the lives of her students before and after school-- tutoring, assisting with the TerraNova tests, and coordinating the Geography Bee. Who's Who Among America's Teachers, first published in 1990, gives exceptional students an opportunity to honor the teachers who have positively contributed to their lives and invested in their futures. It is a great privilege to be included in this publication, which is meant to let teachers know that they truly make a difference. Mrs. McGuire's impact has given her a nomination to be included in this publication. It is my honor today to recognize Marianne McGuire for her achievements as an outstanding teacher. She and countless other educators serve to enhance our overall education system, while impacting one student at a time. I thank Marianne, along with all of our Nation's teachers, for their hard work, dedication, and noble service.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Catherine Lamy, an outstanding young artist from my district and recipient of the Art Portfolio Silver Award. This award, presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, recognizes outstanding talent and creativity displayed by young artists and writers. Under the guidance of her instructor at Stagg High School, Mr. Wesley Gonzalez, Catherine has created a remarkable portfolio, including eight award-winning pieces that are acclaimed by the Alliance. These pieces clearly demonstrate her incredible ability and potential as an up-and- coming artist. As a recipient of this award, Catherine serves as an example to other young students who aspire to advance their creativity as a life path. This year, the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers recognized a total of 1,448 students in the organization's Scholastic Art & Writing Awards in New York City. The students were honored by their peers at Carnegie Hall, where they had an opportunity to review the work of other students and meet with professional atiists and wliters. It is my honor today to recognize Catherine Lamy as one of the outstanding young creative minds in our country, I am also pleased to acknowledge the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers for their work in encouraging the talent of young people. We must continue to encourage, foster, and recognize the skills and abilities of our Nation's youth not only on special occasions, but on a daily basis.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my colleague from Illinois, Lane Evans, and recognize his long, distinguished career in public service. From his time in the U.S. Marine Corps to nearly a quarter century in the House of Representatives, Lane has always put his country first, and now with his retirement at the end of the 109th Congress I join my colleagues in thanking Lane for his great service to his district, the State of Illinois and our Nation. Lane Evans bravely served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. His experience in the military and his firsthand knowledge of veterans' issues led Lane to become a leading advocate for veterans during his time in Congress. On issues critical to veterans, such as post- traumatic stress disorder, the effects of Agent Orange, and homelessness to veterans, Lane Evans was consistently a leader in crafting real policy solutions. Lane's leadership on veterans' issues was formally recognized in 1995 when was named ranking member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. In addition to his great work on veterans' issues, Lane has always dutifully served his constituents and the State of Illinois. He has been a strong advocate for working Americans and was one of the first to see the need for renewable energies, especially for ethanol. My own experience in the hallowed halls of Congress began more than 20 years ago when I worked as an intern in Lane Evans' office. I will never forget how he was a great example to me. He showed how to be a truly compassionate and effective leader in the House. Lane Evans' legacy will certainly reflect his commitment to our great Nation. His insight, passion and presence will be deeply missed by all of us. I wish Lane all the best in his retirement, and we are all truly grateful for his dedicated service, and we will truly miss the man and his dedication and the friend that he was to so many in this chamber.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Thank you, Congressman Kirk, for the opportunity to come today to speak about Henry Hyde, who has been a great statesman, who has served his district from Illinois and the Nation in such a great manner for so many years. It is a great honor to rise to recognize his dedication as a public servant and as a skilled legislator, and a real pillar, especially in the foreign policy community. Since 1975, Congressman Hyde has faithfully served his constituency in the Chicagoland area. And all Americans, now, on his retirement, we take this opportunity to thank Henry for his outstanding contributions and influence on our country. Before entering the U.S. House, Representative Hyde served in the Illinois General Assembly, beginning in 1966, which I note is the year that I was born. So I don't quite remember that, when Henry first started serving the State legislature. But he rose in the State legislature to the position of majority leader, and he earned a reputation as an articulate debater. When he was then elected to Congress, he brought his knowledge, his skills and his passion to the House to serve our country. In the House he has served on the Select Committee on Intelligence, he has chaired the Committee on the Judiciary, and currently chairs the Committee on International Relations. Because of his work, his tenure and his record, the Chicago Tribune has called Hyde one of the most respected Members of Congress, and an eloquent and intellectual powerhouse. Now, I remember back in 1983, my father had first been elected to the House. I remember coming here and how thrilled I was to have the opportunity to meet Henry Hyde. He was so well known. Everyone knew what an articulate man he was and how much passion he had, how much knowledge he had; and he was a true statesman. And I really respected his position that he took in his fight against the Soviet Union in the Cold War. That is something I really respected. And because everybody, no matter where they stood on any issue, had so much respect for Henry Hyde, it was a thrill back then to meet Henry. Now I have had the privilege of serving for 2 years with Henry in the House; and I know I have heard, through my 2 years, stories from Members and their experiences with Henry over the years. And I have talked with Jim Oberstar about the Hyde amendment and how Jim would talk with Henry about this and how they worked together to bring forth the Hyde amendment. Henry is willing to work together to reach consensus and to reach important goals for our country. No matter what you thought about where he stood on issues, you listened to Henry Hyde because you knew when he spoke he would be eloquent, he would have good arguments, and you should listen to him. Now, I am very happy that I had this opportunity to serve with Henry. He has served our Nation so well. He has served the State of Illinois so well, and I know that his legacy will certainly reflect his commitment to Illinois, to his district, and to our Nation. His insights, his passion, and his presence will deeply be missed. He truly was also a man of faith, which he brought here and always used that; it was always important to what he did in the House. We wish Henry all the best in his retirement. And we are all truly grateful for his service.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Terrence P. Lipinski of the Bridgeview Fire Department, in recognition of his retirement, after 30 years of dedicated service. Chief Lipinski has been an invaluable asset to the fire and emergency management community in the United States and we are forever grateful for his passion, wisdom, and guidance. Terrence Lipinski began his career with the Bridgeview Fire Department as a firefighter, rising to the ranks of lieutenant and shift commander before becoming chief. He has served as chief for over a decade, while simultaneously taking on other state and national leadership roles. During his career, Chief Lipinski has been president of the Bridgeview ETSB Board, president and vice president of the MABAS Division 21 Chief's Board, a trustee for the Bridgeview Fireman's Pension Fund, and a member of the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association Executive Board. During times of devastation and disaster, as in the aftermaths of the tornado in Utica, IL and Hurricane Katrina, Chief Lipinski has responded as a member of the first command incident team. He has also assisted in establishing a mutual aid system in Texas and, recently, the State of Illinois appointed him as a lead coordinator for a statewide exercise. Currently, Chief Lipinski is vice president of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System and serves on the Region 7 EMS Advisory Board, the Christ Advocate EMS Advisory Board, and the Moraine Valley Community College Fire Education Advisory Board. It is my honor today to recognize Chief Terrence P. Lipinski. After 30 years, the Bridgeview Fire Department is privileged to have had his dedication, determination, and impeccable service. Chief Lipinski's contributions, insights, and hard-work have truly made our great nation a better place to live. I wish him the very best in retirement and congratulate him on his accomplishments.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize November as National Diabetes Month. Since 1975, November has served as a time of increased public awareness and understanding of diabetes, as well as a time to celebrate the institutions and people that labor year round to improve diabetes care. This November, the American Diabetes Association has placed a specific focus on increasing care for those affected by the disease. As one of the 21 million Americans with diabetes, I truly understand the fundamental importance of diabetes awareness, education, detection, and research. Diabetes is a disease in which the body fails to produce or properly use insulin, a necessary hormone needed to process the sugar and starches that our bodies use for energy. The disease can lead to a series of complications, including increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Although research has yet to produce a cure, scientists continue to advance diabetes tests and insulin monitors--improving the quality of life for many affected by the disease. Advanced education, detection, and research are all essential considering that approximately one in three Americans born after 2000 will suffer from diabetes. Continuing to fight the struggle against diabetes, the American Diabetes Association participated in World Diabetes Day on November 14, 2006. The objective was to provide Americans with information on signs that show an increased risk of having diabetes. Additionally, the worldwide campaign raised awareness in communities around the globe that have difficulty assessing the impact of diabetes in their respective countries. It is my honor to recognize November as the National Diabetes Month and thank all those working to improve the quality of life for the millions of people affected by the disease. We continually strive to increase diabetes awareness and assist those with the disease not only during the month of November but at every opportunity throughout the year.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 60th anniversary of the Johnson-Phelps All American VFW Post #5220 in Oak Lawn, IL. Since its establishment, Post #5220 has enriched the lives of its members and faithfully served the community. Today, Post #5220, under the guidance of Commander Joseph Stachon, has over 600 members and is one of the most active VFW Posts in the Chicagoland area. Area veterans, returning from the Second World War, formed the Johnson-Phelps VFW Post between 1944 and 1945 and received a formal charter in 1946. Initially, members gathered at the Oak Lawn Public Library and later held functions at Brandt's Dug-Out. In 1951, the Post moved into its current location at 52nd and Yourell Drive. Throughout its history, Post #5220 has successfully brought veterans of all ages and backgrounds together. Members of the Post and its Ladies Auxiliary have a strong reputation for participating in community service events, performing volunteer work at hospitals, and spearheading donation drives and fundraisers for charity. Through the work of its members, the Post continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and has a tremendous impact on the surrounding community. It is my great honor to recognize the 60th anniversary of the Johnson-Phelps All American VFW Post #5220 and commend the outstanding work of its members. As we celebrate the members' accomplishments today, we also thank them for their dedicated service in defending everything that our great Nation represents. Our society is forever indebted to our Nation's veterans for their unyielding bravery, courage, and perseverance.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative, an outstanding organization for teenagers and young adults, that serves several Chicago communities troubled with gang violence, high drop-out rates, and high unemployment. For more than a decade, the Collaborative's after-school programs have given students a vision and focus they need to become responsible leaders of their communities--leaders that are agents of change. Area churches, social service centers, recreational centers, and neighborhood organizations are responsible for the good work of the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative. They bring hope to participants through the recreational centers, a soccer league, and even a Hip-Hop Academy. Additionally, the organization offers mentoring and support programs that provide wisdom, understanding, and a second chance for many young adults. Recently, the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund awarded the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative a $25,000 grant in recognition of their after-school programming. The grant will help support these essential after-school life skills programs that make a difference in the lives of so many young people. It is my honor to recognize the Southwest Youth Services Collaborative for their role in providing opportunities for young people and making our community a better place to live. I also commend the staff, facilitators, and volunteers who truly make this organization possible. Their work positively influences the lives and outlook of many who face the pressures of life in disadvantaged areas.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dan Shannon, an exceptional citizen of the Third Congressional District of Illinois and founder of Operation Homelink. Operation Homelink seeks to establish a communication link between deployed military personnel and their families. The program not only serves as a means of contact for troops and their families, but as a strong show of support for American soldiers stationed overseas. Operation Homelink enables communication and encouragement by providing free refurbished computers to both deployed military units and their spouses or parents. Troops on the field then have the ability to e-mail their loved ones updates, while loved ones have the ability to relate local news and send their best regards. This excellent program truly makes a difference in the lives of our soldiers, as well as their families and friends. I ask my colleagues to rise with me to acknowledge Dan Shannon for his highly successful and significant program that supports our armed forces. Dan shows all citizens the importance of becoming involved to support our troops and how one idea can touch the lives of so many people. I commend him for his continued efforts and unyielding determination.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Greater Chicago Food Depository, a non-profit organization that provides food to a half-million adults and children every year. The Food Depository accomplishes this massive undertaking with a network of almost 600 food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in the Chicago area. Last year, the Food Depository distributed more than forty million pounds of nonperishable food, fresh produce, dairy products, and meat--the equivalent of more than 84,000 meals every day. Recently, the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund awarded a $60,000 grant to the Greater Chicago Food Depository, supporting two of its unique programs: the Kids Cafe and Nourish for Knowledge. These programs specifically focus on providing sustenance for the neediest children. The Food Depository administers nearly forty Kids Cafes in Cook County, serving over 1800 meals per day through this program. Kids Cafe is a place where underprivileged children can enjoy a warm meal, exercise, and receive tutoring/other educational services. The Food Depository also sponsors Nourish for Knowledge, a program that provides take-home bags of food on weekends to schoolchildren in low-income neighborhoods. Together, the Chicago Food Depository and the Chicago Public Schools offer bags of food and after school programming for students and their parents in sixteen community schools. Both Kids Cafe and Nourish for Knowledge act to mitigate the negative effects of hunger for young people. Today, I am honored to recognize the Greater Chicago Food Depository, their sponsors and partners, and all those making their work possible. The Food Depository's ongoing and innovative efforts to fight hunger serve as an inspiration to our community. In a world where hunger plagues many people, organizations like the Greater Chicago Food Depository make life-saving differences

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the contributions Poland has made in the ongoing operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Poland has been a steadfast ally of the United States, and I thank the Polish people and government for their friendship. America has enjoyed strong ties with Poland since our Nation's founding. During the American Revolution, Polish patriots such as Casimir Pulaski and Tadeusz Kosciuszko made valuable contributions in securing our Nation's independence. Today, over 30 percent of my district and 9 million Americans across our country can claim Polish ancestry. The Polish and American Governments have enjoyed close, bilateral relations since 1989, when Poland became a free, democratic, and independent nation. Since that time, Poland has made dramatic strides in securing its democracy, improving its economy, and developing strong relationships with its neighbors in Europe and abroad. This is evident in Poland's joining of NATO in 1999 and the European Union in 2004. In addition to its membership in NATO, Poland's military has been very active in United Nations' peacekeeping forces and has played a vital role in the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Poland currently has 1,000 troops deployed in Iraq, and when a recent call went out to NATO nations asking for reinforcements to Afghanistan, Poland was the first to respond, pledging 900 additional troops to that country. Today, along with the Caucus on Central and Eastern Europe, I had the honor of hosting the chief of general staff of Polish Armed Forces, General Gagor. General Gagor is a distinguished soldier and a proven leader. I have no doubt that under General Gagor's watch the Polish military will continue to make valuable contributions to peace around the world. I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Poland's contributions in Afghanistan and Iraq and to recognize Poland as one of our Nation's most important allies.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the essential contributions of employees and volunteers across the country and abroad who maintain our nation's public parks and recreation facilities. In addition, I would like to commemorate National Recreation and Parks Month, celebrated annually since 1984 throughout the month of July. The purpose of National Recreation and Parks Month is not only to celebrate the start of summer programs but also to advocate for parks and recreation by encouraging communities to engage in outdoor physical activities and volunteering. Recently, I have undertaken a bipartisan proposal to stop the dumping of sewage into the Great Lakes. Initiatives like these are only the beginning. Through the efforts of Congress and the National Recreation and Park Association, America moves toward a brighter horizon in environmental policy. National Recreation and Parks Month is an important occasion to remind us of our dedication to the preservation of the environment, and serves as an aide-memoire for all Americans to enjoy the natural wonders of our nation. As a member of the National Parks Caucus, it is my honor to recognize the collective efforts of volunteers and staff alike whose contributions and involvement with the nation's public parks and recreation facilities continue to shape American communities as well as the environment. Today, we celebrate the National Recreation and Park Association's accomplishments and persistent efforts to preserve our environment and show appreciation for the nation's public parks and recreation facilities. The NRPA's initiative, along with support provided by volunteers and staff, truly sow the seeds for communal growth. Such achievements deserve recognition not just during this month, but at every opportunity throughout the year.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, the Government Accountability Office recently released a report showing that Medicare providers are failing our seniors when it comes to providing information about their prescription drug coverage. The GAO report says that the phone centers operated by private Medicare providers gave accurate and complete answers only one-third of the time when people called. On more than half of the calls, inaccurate or incomplete information was given, and in 15 percent of the calls, no information was given. It is absolutely inexcusable that providers seem to be incapable or unwilling to provide beneficiaries with good information. Our seniors should not be treated like this. Medicare must guarantee that these providers give accurate and complete information. But this also points out another problem. If Medicare providers do not yet understand these plans, how can our seniors? Congress must act to give seniors more time to sign up for a drug plan without the lifelong penalty they are now facing. Seniors should also be given a chance, if they have a plan that is not working for them, to immediately change that plan. We see there are many problems with this program. Seniors need to be given more time. Mr. Speaker, we must do better for our seniors.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, 230 years ago today, a small and rebellious colony did an extraordinary, but simple thing. It stood up to its powerful and mighty oppressors, exploded the shackles of their tyranny and declared itself an independent nation. I rise on this Fourth of July to remember the people who gave us our present freedom, and honor them for their ability to recognize that there will always be more to unite us than divide us. It seems obvious today that our country would be united, but in 1776, the thirteen colonies had less in common with each other than they did with their arch enemy. It is a tribute to the phenomenal leadership of our Founding Fathers that they had the vision to see past these differences, and to forge a common bond, founded on the principles that ``all men are created equal,'' and that no government has the authority to restrict the rights of the people to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These shared values are the essence of our Union. If the signers of the Declaration of Independence were the architects of the nation, the foundations they built for us were made of the strongest stone. Even during our darkest hours, we look back on the document that launched the ship of this Republic into the rough seas of the nations of the world, and we take solace in its good words. Mr. Speaker, the celebration of our independence is a celebration of the beliefs we hold together as a nation; it is a celebration of why we are a nation; and it is, above all, a reminder to us all that our country was founded in hope, and in the desire by the good people of the thirteen colonies to build a new nation where freedom would reign forever.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LIPINSKI. I thank Chairman Wolf, Ranking Member Mollohan for their support on this amendment; and I thank them for accepting the amendment.

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.