Robert Matsui

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in tribute to a man with a distinguished public service career. Throughout the course of his career, John Hein has served the people of California, especially its school children, with great success and distinction. John recently retired from his position as the Associate Executive Director for the California Teachers Association. It is my honor to ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting John Hein, a tireless and passionate advocate for public education in California. John Hein has undoubtedly been one of California's most effective education reformers and loyal supporters of public education in recent history. John possesses the necessary work ethic and conviction to successfully represent and advance the interests of California's 6.5 million school children. John's remarkable track record in moving an extraordinary agenda for California's school children is almost unparalleled anywhere in the field of education. John's insight and perseverance were instrumental in negotiating a settlement in the California Teachers Association v. Gould lawsuit that resulted in the largest decrease in class size in the history of California. John's masterful handling of this settlement also produced the largest financial commitment to instructional materials for each student in every subject, as well as the largest increase in professional development opportunities for classroom teachers in the Nation. Aside from being an astute negotiator, John was also a skilled organizer of a number of important public campaigns. John was a major organizer in a mass demonstration of teachers and other supporters of public education that played a big part in a $2 billion increase in general revenues to the public schools. To this day, this change in policy remains the largest single increase in school funding in the history of California. Driven by a deep commitment to increased local funding for public schools, John played a vital role in the successful effort to reduce the vote threshold for local school bonds from two- thirds to 55 percent. Passage of this measure resulted in a $26 billion increase in state funding for new and rehabilitated schools. John also lent his considerable talents to the fight against school vouchers. John was able to bring together a massive statewide coalition that delivered a resounding defeat to the voucher movement in California and across the nation. Time and time again, John has proven that he is one of the greatest friends of public education in California. John's relentless dedication to public education and his strong leadership have made the California Teacher's Association one of the most powerful organizations to lobby on behalf of public education and associated issues in the country. Under John's leadership, the California Teachers Association crafted the most rigorous academic standards in the nation, a new statewide testing system, a new school facilities law and other major education reforms. A man of many talents and considerable energy, John's leadership in California went well beyond public education issues. John has served on the executive boards of campaigns that sought to protect affirmative action, racial data collection, bilingual education, and immigrants' rights in California. John's commitment to public service has enabled him to make a positive contribution to the lives of all Californians. Mr. Speaker, as John Hein embarks on an exciting new chapter of his life, I am honored to pay tribute to a great champion of public education in California. The people of California have benefited greatly from John's leadership and we all owe him a debt of gratitude. I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing John continued success in all of his future endeavors, wherever retirement may lead him.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to a man with a truly distinguished public service career. For nearly four decades, Francis I. ``Butch'' Hodgkins has served Sacramento County with great class and distinction. Butch will soon retire from his current position as the Executive Director of the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency. As his friends, family and colleagues gather to celebrate Butch's illustrious career, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in saluting this outstanding citizen of Sacramento. Butch received his Associate of Science degree from Sacramento City College and then moved on to California State University, Sacramento for a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. In 1965, Butch began his four-decade long career with the County of Sacramento, Department of Public Works. From 1972 until 1988, he worked for Public Works Division of Sacramento County that dealt with the sewer system. In March of 1989, Butch was appointed Deputy Director of the Department of Public Works for Sacramento County. During his tenure at this position, he served as the project and construction engineer for a $100 million wastewater construction program. In addition, as Chief of the Division, he was responsible for a $50 million per year regional wastewater project. In September 1991, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors assigned Butch to the City and County Office of Water Planning. In his capacity as a Liaison for the City and County Office of Water Planning, Butch was charged with the formidable task of formulating an area-wide plan to provide safe and reliable water supply in such a manner which protects the environment for both the City and County of Sacramento. As he had demonstrated throughout his career up to that juncture, Butch achieved great success in this position. Butch soon developed a well deserved reputation as an effective problem-solver and a dedicated public servant. In September of 1994, Butch's outstanding track record would earn him the post of the Executive Director of the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA.) SAFCA is a joint organization with a Board of Directors comprised of members from Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, Sacramento City Council, Reclamation District 1000 Board of Trustees, American River Flood Control District Board of Trustees and Sutter County Board of Supervisors. Its primary function is to address problems such as regional flood control and levee instability in the Sacramento area. Under Butch's stewardship, SAFCA has grown in credibility, visibility, and reach. In a community in which everyone agrees that the region's current flood protection is woefully inadequate, but not everyone agrees on a solution, Butch has helped mold SAFCA into the definitive and unifying authority on all matters related to flood control in the Sacramento Area. Throughout his successful tenure as Executive Director, Butch has proven to be an affective consensus builder, pragmatic thinker, and tireless worker who has rightfully earned the respect and admiration of those who have worked with him. In his retirement, Butch can look forward to spending more time with his wife, Christine and daughters, Shelly Lynn and Laurie. I am confident that Butch would achieve great success and happiness in his retirement, just as he had throughout his professional career. Mr. Speaker, as Butch's friends, family and colleagues gather to celebrate his great career; I am truly honored to pay tribute to one of Sacramento's most honorable citizens. The Sacramento region has benefited greatly from having Butch's strong leadership during turbulent times. He will be missed greatly by all who worked with him. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in wishing Butch continued success in all of his future endeavors, wherever retirement may lead him.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, the Republican budget being debated today shortchanges California and shortchanges America. It is fiscally irresponsible, fails to address the tremendous challenges facing America today, and fails to invest in America's future. Rather than ensuring a stable source of income for seniors and the disabled, the Republican budget raids the Social Security trust fund. Rather than investing in health care, education and job creation, Republicans have chosen to spend trillions of dollars on tax cuts. As a result of the Republicans' misguided priorities and fiscal irresponsibility, America is facing record deficits, with no end in sight. These deficits threaten to lead to increased interest rates, uncertainty in financial markets and slower economic growth. The Republican budget fails to help those Californians who need it most. Republicans refuse to provide funds for the extension of unemployment benefits, despite the fact that an estimated 300,000 Californians will have exhausted their benefits by the end of June. Likewise, the Republican budget cuts funding for important child and family services like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the Earned Income Tax Credit, affordable housing and Medicaid. I am also concerned because I believe our troops and veterans have earned our honor and support. Yet despite their brave service to our country, the Republican budget denies promised benefits to our military personnel and their families here at home--by cutting funding for veterans' programs. On the other hand, Democrats have a budget that reflects the priorities of the people of California, and of all Americans. It extends unemployment benefits for workers looking for jobs; invests in programs that create good jobs; ensures retirement security; provides for affordable and accessible health care; funds education, including the ``No Child Left Behind Act''; and supports our troops and veterans. It is a fiscally sound plan that brings the budget back into balance within eight years. Moreover, to ensure fiscal discipline in the future, it requires that future tax cuts and mandatory spending initiatives be paid for without adding to the deficit. For those reasons, I will vote for the Democratic alternative. Where the Republicans budget fails, the Democratic budget provides sound economic and fiscal policies that reflect the priorities of people in California and across the country.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, as the war in Iraq continues, our military personnel, veterans and their families face a myriad of hardships. Our troops in Iraq have lacked adequate body armor and armored vehicles to keep them safe. Their families have to scrape by because of the pay disparity between serving in the military and in civilian life. When the troops return home, they do not have the health care and benefits they have earned through their service to our country. Republicans proposed a resolution to supposedly honor our troops. But it does not truly acknowledge the real hardships our troops and their families face. It merely ``commends the members of the United States Armed Forces and Coalition forces for liberating Iraq and expresses its gratitude for their valiant service.'' Republicans also say in their resolution we are safer now that Saddam Hussein has been removed from power. But we cannot claim the mission is accomplished. We must continue to fight the battle against terrorism to ensure safety and stability in Iraq. And we must be honest about the true task ahead of us, or risk America's credibility with our international partners diminishing further. Ironically enough, on the same day Republicans claim to honor our troops, they approved a budget proposal for the next year that would slash funding for military pay, health care, education and training for military personnel, veterans and their families. It also fails to extend imminent danger pay and family separation pay for troops in Iraq past December 31 of this year. I supported an alternative resolution that would appropriately honor the military personnel and veterans who have served our country so courageously. It praises the work our troops are doing and urges the President to provide protective gear for our troops, ensure quality health care to treat both short- and long-term injuries among our troops, and correct pay disparities among civilian and military pay for guards and reservists. We need to stand behind our courageous men and women in uniform who are bearing the burden of this military action in Iraq. Supporting our troops and giving them the tools they need to carry out their mission in Iraq is the only way to truly honor their service, courage and sacrifice.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 56 and commend the Japanese American, German American and Italian American communities for their efforts to commemorate and promote a National Day of Remembrance. Although this is a regrettable time in American history, we cannot let this period be forgotten. It is only by increasing public awareness of the events surrounding the restriction, exclusion and internment of individuals and families during World War II that we can guard against such future violations. Sixty-two years ago, the signing of Executive Order 9066 led to the forced internment of 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. They were held without cause and without recourse. These individuals and families suffered needlessly because of rampant fear, prejudice and a lack of political leadership. These pervasive feelings also imposed limits on the freedoms of German Americans and Italian Americans. The government restricted their travel and seized their property, and the public branded them as the enemy. In 1988, the Federal government acknowledged the tragic injustice of the internment. Due in large part to the efforts of the Japanese American community, the government issued a formal apology and offered redress to internees. We can never compensate for what was taken away from these families and individuals. But we can honor their struggle and their legacy by understanding the events that lead to their internment. It takes a strong and confident Nation to look introspectively at its own actions and admit that it made a mistake. Today, it is accepted that the World War II Japanese internment was a grievous error. Not only did these actions disrupt lives and communities, it has left a stain on America's history of freedom, tolerance, and liberty for all of its citizens. Marking the anniversary of the signing of Executive Order 9066 provides a time for political leaders to reflect on the lessons of the past and on the importance of principled leadership in the future. We must never again sacrifice the core values of our democracy and Constitution, especially in times of uncertainty and emergency. The National Day of Remembrance honors those who suffered and reminds us to strive toward a better society where such prejudice does not exist. We all have a role in ensuring that such injustices do not happen again. Once again, I want to join my colleagues in recognizing the very important work the Japanese American, German American and Italian American communities are doing in raising awareness of the National Day of Remembrance. I also want to commend Representative Honda for his efforts to bring this resolution to the floor. To those personally affected by these events, I especially want to thank you for sharing your stories and for your efforts in educating the American public. Your leadership inspires us all. Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for House Resolution 56 which was introduced by Mr. Honda of California last month. This resolution would create a National Day of Remembrance in honor of the Japanese-Americans, Italian-Americans, and German-Americans who suffered injustices during the Second World War. Before I begin, I would like to congratulate Mr. Honda on his new role as the Chairman of the Caucus of Asian Pacific American Caucus. He has long been a champion of the concerns of Asian Pacific Americans and will undoubtedly serve them well in his new role. In February of 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 that paved the way for discriminatory action against American citizens of Japanese, German, and Italian descent. Across the West Coast, Japanese-Americans were evacuated en masse from their homes and relocated to internment camps. German-Americans and Italian-Americans were often the object of discriminatory policies, as well. The residents in my home State of Connecticut were as deeply affected as the rest of the country by these political actions. A detention center for those considered to be `alien enemies' was established in a community center in Hartford. Japanese, Italian, and German resident aliens were required to carry their immigration papers at all times and their movement was restricted. In addition, many of the Japanese-Americans who were interned on the West Coast moved to the East Coast, including Connecticut, after their release. The suffering that these communities endured has remained with them and must be addressed. The apology offered by this government in 1988 is not sufficient. We must not allow the lessons learned from this chapter of our history to be lost, regardless of how painful they may be. It is this very pain that makes them so valuable. We cannot forget the suffering endured by our own citizens. Establishing a National Day of Remembrance is important in ensuring that this does not happen. The National Day of Remembrance is not simply a matter of honoring the past. The treatment of Japanese-Americans, Italian-Americans, and German-Americans during World War II has significant implications for us today. This country is in a war against terror. Our relations with other nations should not make way for injustice and discrimination toward our own people. The National Day of Remembrance would serve as a reminder that questioning the loyalty of our citizens without just cause is a grave mistake. I would like to commend Mr. Honda on his introduction of this resolution and his dedication to this important cause. The Japanese- American, Italian-American, and German-American people have expressed the desire that the experiences of their communities during World War II be remembered to serve as a lesson for future generations. This resolution is a valuable reminder that it is the work of this country to preserve the civil liberties of its people. It is often said that history tends to repeat itself. However, it does not have to. We have an opportunity to take action to prevent a similar threat to the civil liberties of innocent citizens as took place during World War II from occurring again. I hope that this is something that members on both sides of the aisle will be able to agree to do and I would therefore like to urge all of my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an organization with a distinguished history of community service to the Capital Region. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club will be celebrating their 50th Anniversary Celebration on March 6, 2004. As the members and friends of the Sacramento Senator Lions Club gather to celebrate this momentous occasion, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting one of Sacramento's most important and respected civic groups. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club was chartered on April 4, 1954 to become a part of the Lions Club, the world's largest service organization. Lions Clubs are non-political, non-sectarian service clubs composed of the community's leading business and professional people. The purpose of a Lions Club is more than good fellowship and club social life. The purpose is to recognize community needs and develop means of meeting them, either through its own effort or in cooperation with other agencies. Lionism is an active and effective medium for national and world service, exerting tremendous influence for national welfare, international amity and human progress socially, culturally and economically. For the past 50 years, the Sacramento Senators Lions Club embodies all of the best qualities that Lionism represents. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club was the first all Americans of Japanese ancestry in the United States. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club was founded upon the principle that the club should strive to provide its members with the opportunities to collectively serve the community through efforts of fund-raising and hands-on-service projects. Today, the Sacramento Senator Lions Club is a vital service organization that is composed of civic-minded persons of both sexes and many diverse ethnic backgrounds. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club has a history of community service that stretches beyond Sacramento and across international borders. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club reached a twinning agreement with the Osaka Tezukayama Lions Club of Japan during the International Lions Club in New Orleans in 1977. In recent years, mutual donations have been made to projects in Osaka, Japan. Donations to the Sacramento Senator Lions Club have played a great role in developing the fragrance garden for the visually handicapped and the Japanese garden for children at the Fairytale Town. In addition, the Sacramento Senator Lions Club is also actively involved in helping many other local organizations; Canine Companion for the Blind, City of Hope, My Sister's House for Abused Women, just to name a few. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club commitment to improve the quality of life for people from all different walks of life is truly commendable and admirable. The Sacramento Senator Lions Club is internationally renowned as one of the most successful and respected Lions Club chapters in the world. The lofty status of the Sacramento Senator Lions Club was confirmed when their member, Kay K. Fukushima, was elected to be the 86th President of the International Association of Lions Club for the year 2002-2003. Mr. Speaker, as the friends and family of the Sacramento Senator Lions Club gather to celebrate their 50 years of great service to the people of Sacramento, I am honored to pay tribute to one of the Capital Region's most active service organizations. I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing the Sacramento Senator Lions Club continued success in all its future endeavors.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Today, we have before us the Social Security Protection Act. This legislation was developed over several years in conjunction with the Social Security Administration, its Inspector General, beneficiary representatives and others. The bill reflects a preconference agreement negotiated with the other body on a bipartisan basis and is supported by the Consortium for Seniors With Disabilities, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, the Association of Administrative Law Judges, the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives and others. I would like to take a few moments to highlight several items in this bill. The first deals with representative payees. Nearly 8 million Social Security and SSI beneficiaries who are unable to manage their own benefits have representative payees, including children, the mentally impaired and the very frail elderly. Most payees work hard to ensure that the benefits are spent to meet the beneficiary's needs. However, in some instances SSA's screening process for determining who should serve as a payee has failed to prevent the misuse of these benefits. This legislation gives SSA the tools it needs to reissue benefits that are misused. It provides for penalties for those who would take advantage of some of our most vulnerable citizens. It also strengthens Social Security's oversight of these payees. Second, the bill helps individuals with disabilities gain greater access to legal representation when filing for benefits. Social Security disability insurance beneficiaries already have this access, and the bill extends it to SSI claimants, as well, so they can get the needed help and ensure that their applications are fully considered. Finally, and very importantly, the bill prohibits paying Social Security benefits to fugitive felons and to those who have violated probation or parole. It is my strong belief that we should not be supporting fugitives who are fleeing the law, and this bill will help bring them to justice. Now, I would like to mention one provision in the bill that has generated some controversy. This is the provision that would modify an exemption to the government pension offset, or known as GPO, that is being used by some workers but is not available to all. My colleagues from Texas have discussed this specific provision in more detail during the debate on the rule and will discuss it further on this bill, but the larger issue here itself is the GPO. Across the country, people who have worked hard all their lives are unexpectedly faced with the loss of Social Security benefits that they had been counting on because of the GPO. The GPO, which was created in the 1970s and phased in during the 1980s, was designed to provide roughly equal treatment between people who work under Social Security and pay into the system and those who do not. It was designed to end a disparity between couples where in one couple, both members paid into the Social Security system and in another when one spouse paid into the system and the other spouse paid into a State retirement system. Unfortunately, we now know that the GPO often produces unfair results. It is a rough tool that clearly needs adjustments. Let me illustrate my point. Research shows that a widow needs 80 percent of the income needed to support a couple. Because of the GPO, the couple's income from Social Security can drop to zero when the husband dies. On average, the reduction caused by the GPO is $421 per month, which cuts the average widow's benefit in half, jeopardizing her ability to keep up with fixed costs of housing, health care and others that still exist after the death of her spouse. We tried to address some of these problems with the GPO during the committee markup last year, but we were rejected on party-line votes. We were also denied the opportunity to address the larger GPO problem in the Rules Committee when the bill came before the House last April. Finally today, my good friend from Texas (Mr. Frost) attempted to bring forward for debate a bill that would fully repeal the GPO, and he was denied that opportunity. The will to solve the problem with the GPO is clearly an issue of priorities. My Democratic colleagues and I have been prevented from bringing this issue before the Congress over and over again, while my friends on the other side of the aisle have continued to push policies that benefit the wealthy at the expense of this important issue. For example, the GPO affects 400,000 hardworking Americans every year and eliminating it would cost $31 billion over 10 years. Not $800 billion, not $1 trillion, but it would cost $31 billion over 10 years. In contrast, the 200,000 households that make more than $1 million each year will see $90 billion in tax cuts over that same period. That is half as many people being benefited at three times the cost. There are other examples of misplaced priorities. Congress could and should close corporate tax shelters and prevent companies from incorporating offshore. That would save $30 billion over a 10-year period and that amount would actually take care of dealing with the 10-year period of eliminating the GPO completely. This is an issue that should not go unaddressed any longer, and I hope that the Congress will make it a priority for consideration this year. While I am disappointed that we are not addressing this important issue today, there are many other provisions in this bill that I mentioned that will strengthen the Social Security system, and I intend to support this bill; but it is my hope that we do address the issue of the government pension offset because it is creating a great deal of consternation and damage to many people who obviously lose their spouse. I support the legislation, but I just hope that we can take some action on the GPO in the future. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hinojosa).

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from the State of Texas (Mr. Green).

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the distinguished gentleman from the State of Maryland (Mr. Cardin), member of the Committee on Ways and Means. (Mr. CARDIN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would just like to make an observation. I would not have so many problems with this were it not for the fact that there are many other loopholes that have actually been passed through this House over the last few years. For example, if a corporation in the U.S. goes to Bermuda to avoid U.S. taxes, we tried time and time again to close that loophole. But the other side of the aisle, in fact the gentleman who just spoke, denies the ability for us to even bring such a bill to the floor. I guess that is where the frustration lies, is when we close loopholes, we pick on the people that are firefighters and teachers; but we let large corporations who avoid U.S. taxes go from that. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from the State of Texas (Mr. Lampson).

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green).

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time I have remaining.

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Turner), the ranking member of the Committee on Homeland Security.

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a couple with a truly outstanding history of community service and philanthropy. From their modest upbringing to the present day, Sy and Estelle Opper have always been generous with their time and resources and giving with their heart. Sy and Estelle have come to embody the best qualities of community service and citizenship. As their friends, family and many admirers gather for the Shalom School Lighting the Way Gala in honor of their wonderful contributions to the Jewish community, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting one of Sacramento's most respected couples, Sy and Estelle Opper. Sy and Estelle Opper are lifelong Sacramento residents who were raised with great family support and strong family values. Sy and Estelle were both encouraged by their loved ones to lend a helping hand to those who are in need. In the years after, Sy and Estelle have worked hard to transform this valuable lesson from childhood into a lifelong commitment to improve the lives of those who are less fortunate. Perhaps, more importantly, Sy and Estelle have passed the important values that they learned from their respective families to their four children and seven grandchildren. The people of the Capital Region should take great comfort in knowing that the Oppers' trademark spirit of philanthropy and sense of humanity will continue to bless us for generations to come. In 1946, Sy Opper opened five plumbing stores, Harold's Plumbing Supply. The last of this successful chain of plumbing stores would remain open until 2000. In spite of the considerable time commitment that is required to run a successful business, the Oppers never allowed their busy schedules to interfere with their resolute dedication to community service. Throughout the years, Estelle Opper has been active in a number of Jewish organizations including: Hadassah, TDX, Sisterhood, Jewish Family Service and the Grandparents Club at Shalom School. In addition, Estelle has also lent her name and efforts to help fundraise for Cancer research, the Breast Cancer fund of San Francisco and the River Oaks Center for Children, a multi-service behavioral healthcare agency for abused children and their families. As for Sy Opper, he has served as president of the board for many Jewish organizations such as the Jewish Federation and B'nei Israel Congregation. Much like Estelle, Sy has also been active in a number of fundraising efforts. Sy played an instrumental role in the construction of the Washington Neighborhood Center of Sacramento, a place that provides after school programs such as free tutoring, computer workshops, dance classes and fine arts programs for at risk children and teens. Currently, Sy serves as on the board of The Trust Fund for Jewish Elderly and on the Jewish Family Service Board. Together, Sy and Estelle Opper have supported a number of important causes. Locally, Sy and Estelle have long been strong supporters of the regional theaters. Sy and Estelle were major donors and participants in the purchase of the property and building for the Jewish Foundation, where the area's only Jewish Day School, Shalom School, is located. On a national level, in addition to being long time members of AIPAC, the Oppers have been closely involved with the fundraising efforts for City of Hope National Medical Center, a place that provides essential help to millions of people facing life-threatening diseases. The goodwill of the Oppers extends well beyond the boundaries of the United States. Over the years, Sy and Estelle Opper have participated in a number of missions to Israel. Mr. Speaker, as Sy and Estelle Opper's friends and family gather to celebrate and pay tribute to their wonderful legacy of community service I am honored to pay tribute to two of Sacramento's most honorable citizens. The Oppers continuous philanthropy is a true testament to the spirit of giving and helping those who are in need. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in wishing Sy and Estelle Opper continued happiness and success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a woman with a long and impressive list of contributions to the County of Sacramento. To say that Muriel Johnson is an important and treasured member of our community would only begin to skim the surface of the extraordinary service that she has given our communities over her 41 years as a Sacramento resident. Muriel, who is currently in the last year of a successful 12-year stint as a Sacramento County Supervisor, has deservedly been acknowledged by the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce as the recipient of the 2003 Sacramentan of the Year Award. As her friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate Muriel's illustrious career, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting one of the Capital Region's most accomplished and widely respected leaders. Muriel Johnson grew up in Nebraska and earned a bachelor of music degree from the University of Nebraska. Before beginning her formal career in public service, Muriel contributed to the betterment of her community by serving as a high school English and music teacher. In addition, Muriel also taught ``Management by Objectives'' during her teaching career. Even before she was elected to the Sacramento Board of Supervisors, Muriel was an active and instrumental member of the local volunteer community. Muriel played a vital role in raising more than $10 million dollars for a number of community service projects, the arts, and local charity. Muriel served as President of the Crocker Art Museum Board, the Sacramento Junior League, the Sacramento/El Dorado Medical Association Alliance, the History Museum, and the Sacramento Symphony League. She also chaired the Advisory Board for California State Historic Park, and was a Mayor's appointee on the Downtown District Study. Muriel's close involvement with the diversity of community organizations is a testament to her unyielding commitment to bring about positive changes to her community and improve the quality of life of her fellow citizens. In 1992, Muriel Johnson was first elected to the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors. Muriel represents approximately 250,000 people living in the County's Third District. The Third District includes the communities of Arden/Arcade, Carmichael, Campus Commons, East Sacramento, College Glen, College Greens, East foothills Farms and a portion of North Highlands. During her tenure, Muriel has served as the Chair of the Board of Supervisors in 1995 and 1999. In addition to her duties as County Supervisor, Muriel has also served admirably as the Chair, President and Board Member of the following organizations since first being elected as supervisor: Sacramento Area Council of Governments, Sacramento Public Library Authority, California State Association of Counties, Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency, Cable Commission, Sacramento Regional Sanitation District, Sacramento Regional Transit, Sacramento Air Quality Management District, and California's Elected Women's Association of Education and Research. In recognition of her dedication to public service, Muriel is the rightful recipient of a number of community service awards including: the California Medical Association Alliance 1999 Member of the Year, the National Philanthropy Day Award for Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser, the first E.A. Combatalade Community Service Award, Soroptimist Woman of the Year, the 1993 Business Volunteers for the Arts Award for Individual Service, the Women's Transportation Seminar 2002 Woman of the Year Award, the 2003 Shots for Tots Immunization Registry, and the 2003 American Society for Public Administration's Excellence in Public Arts Award. Throughout her term as County Supervisor, Muriel Johnson has remained a steadfast supporter of neighborhood preservation, more efficient transportation, better air quality, health and welfare issues, sound economic development, better schools for our children and flood control. There is no doubt that every one of Muriel's constituents has benefited in one way or another as a result of her hard work, dedication, and vision. Mr. Speaker, as Muriel's friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate her great career and acknowledgement as Sacramentan of the Year, I am honored to pay tribute to one of Sacramento's most respected leaders. Muriel's continuous leadership is a true testament to public service. Although her career in public service may soon be over, her involvement in community service is, fortunate for us, far from over. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in wishing Muriel Johnson continued success in all her future endeavors.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a woman with a long and fruitful career in California state government. Teresa Fontenette is set to retire from a remarkable career that has spanned five decades. As her friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate Teresa's, affectionately known as Terri to those who know and love her, illustrious career, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in saluting this outstanding citizen of Sacramento. After completing high school with the inaugural graduating class of St. Francis School for Girls in Sacramento, Terri made her first foray into California state government by serving as a Junior Clerk Typist with the California State Personnel Board. Shortly thereafter, Terri became the Junior Stenographer with the Department of Motor Vehicles and General Services. In 1967, Terri was promoted to Stenographer II at the Department of Health Services. In 1971, Terri joined the Department of Finance. Through hard work and dedication, Terri became the Secretary to the Personnel Office. During her tenure with the Department of Finance, Terri enjoyed great access to some of the most influential policy makers in California. Terri still fondly recalls sharing her peanuts and candy with several Governors of California during her time in the State Capitol. Terri's desire to maximize her considerable talents led her to quit state service and enroll at Sacramento City College. Terri's leadership qualities were evident to those as Sacramento City College as she became the President Of the Black Student Union. Terri would eventually receive the prestigious President's Scholarship to attend California State University, Sacramento. Terri would rejoin the Department of Finance part-time Student Assistant. After graduating with a degree in Social Work/Psychology in 1979, Terri was promoted Administrative Assistant II in 1981. In the next four years, Terri's outstanding work continued to earn her a number of promotions; as Terri went from being an Associate Governmental Program Analyst to the Assistant Public Information Officer for the Governor's Exempt Program. In 1985, Terri was asked to be part of the start-up team for the California Lottery. Terri would begin her service to California State Lottery as the Staff Services Manager I and Minority Affairs/Contract Compliance Manager. In the next eighteen years, Terri would serve with great distinction as a valued member of the Senior Staff. Terri offered her considerable knowledge to the Marketing Division as she was the primary liaison to the advertising agency developing African-American consumer marketing strategies. Terri's outstanding professional accomplishments have rightfully earned her a number of awards in recognition of her excellence. Terri was named the Corporate Individual of the Year by Black Business Listings & Black Expo in 1996. The year after, Terri was appointed to the Corporate Advisory Council by the Asian Business Association. In 2000, Terri was acknowledged by the California Department of General Services for her contributions in furthering small business and disabled veteran business participation in state contracting. Mr. Speaker, as Terri's friends, family, and colleagues gather to celebrate her great career; I am honored to pay tribute to a dedicated and successful public servant. Terri's career is a true testament to the value of public service. Although her career with the California state government may be over, her commitment to make a positive impact in the community, fortunate for us, is far from over. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in wishing Terri Fontenette continued success in all her future endeavors.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to The Shiloh Baptist Church and The Reverend James B. Rodgers. On December 21, Reverend Rodgers will officially be installed as the twenty-seventh Pastor of the Shiloh Baptist Church, the oldest African-American church west of the Mississippi River and the first Baptist Church organized by African-Americans in Sacramento. I ask all my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Shiloh Baptist Church family and Dr. James B. Rodgers, Pastor, on this momentous occasion. The Shiloh Baptist Church, located in the Fifth Congressional District of the State of California, was established in 1856 as the oldest African American Baptist Church West of the Mississippi River and the second oldest African American church in the City of Sacramento. Since the church had no facilities upon its establishment in which to hold religious services, it forged a strong relationship with the Chinese Americans in the area, which resulted in an offer being extended for Shiloh to hold religious services at the Chinese Chapel, located at historic Sixth and H Streets in Sacramento. Shiloh has overcome many obstacles to its missionary services, including bank foreclosure in the 1860s; significant reductions in its membership because of relocations; destruction of the church facility by fire in 1861 and 1905; and the inability to secure building loans on several occasions. However, today Shiloh stands firm as a testament to the strong faith, perseverance, determination, character and courage of its founders and early congregations. Since its establishment, Shiloh has provided dedicated service to the citizens of the Capital Region, much of which was accomplished during 26 plus years of outstanding leadership by Pastor Emeritus Willie P. Cooke. Shiloh has provided many services through its many ministries and has participated in numerous community based programs, including but not limited to, establishment of an Elderly Appreciation Day; the participation in the annual Sacramento Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration; host church for the Sacramento Children Summer Food Program; organized a prison ministry for youth incarcerated in the California Youth Authority and the Sacramento County Probation Department; and instituted a Care-giver's Program to provide services to sick and residence-bound citizens. In recognition and appreciation of these community services, Shiloh has received numerous Presidential, Congressional, Gubernatorial, and State Legislative commendations dating back more than 40 years. For the past 18 months, Shiloh has continued its mission under the direction of Pastor Emeritus William P. Cooke. However, Shiloh recently called on Dr. Rodgers to serve as its 27th pastoral leader and to add to the rich religious and community history it has developed over the past 147 years. The Reverend James B. Rodgers has served faithfully in the ministry, preaching and teaching the gospel for over 32 years. In preparation for his calling to the ministry and in continuation of his ministerial duties, Dr. Rodgers commenced his academic studies with the United States Naval Academy and has earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Business; a Bachelor of Arts in Theology; a Masters of Theology; a Doctorate of Theology; and a Masters in Education Administration. Dr. Rodgers' official installation as pastor will occur during a three-day ceremony at Shiloh Baptist Church commencing with a community night on Friday, December 19, 2003, and concluding with the installation on Sunday, December 21, 2003. These services are designed to introduce Dr. Rodgers to the Shiloh family and to the Greater Sacramento community. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to thank and congratulate the Shiloh Baptist Church for nearly 150 years of invaluable service to the City of Sacramento. I would like to especially welcome Dr. James B. Rodgers to our community and to the Shiloh Baptist Church. I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing the Shiloh Baptist Church and Dr. Rodgers continued success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to Pastor Ephraim and Mrs. Carrie Sue Williams as they celebrate a personal milestone. On November 22, 2003, Pastor Williams and his beloved wife will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. As their friends and family gather to commemorate this momentous occasion, I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing one of Sacramento's most revered couples a happy anniversary and continued happiness in the future. For the past 32 years, Mr. and Mrs. Williams have served with great class, dignity, and distinction as the Pastor and First Lady of the St. Paul Baptist Church in Sacramento California. As Pastor, Mr. Williams has played an instrumental role in directing and coordinating all aspects of the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Williams made vital decisions related to staffing, church organization structure, finances, and the modification of facilities. Pastor Williams was the driving force behind the construction of a seventy-nine square foot edifice, which includes an administration wing, sanctuary, fellowship hall and classroom wing. Pastor Williams spearheaded a 7-year effort that liquidated a $4 million debt for the church so that it could cover the $7.7 million that was required for the construction project. Pastor Williams is currently leading the church in the building of a multi million-dollar Family Life Center that will include a gymnasium, classrooms, computer lab, dance rooms, nursery, office space, library, weight room and conference room. Pastor Williams' commitment to improve the church is great proof of his willingness to work hard to improve the lives of other people. Mrs. Carrie Sue Williams is a former business owner and she has brought her trademark grace and dignity to her role as the First Lady of St. Paul Baptist Church. As the First Lady, Mrs. Williams regularly visits the sick and the confined. She also counsels women and couples. Mrs. Williams helped to design the St. Paul Children and Youth Reading Ministry, a program that is designed to motivate and reward children for their reading efforts. Pastor Williams is undoubtedly one of the strongest civic leaders in the Capital Region. Pastor Williams' leadership capacities have included: President of United Pastors of Sacramento, Vice President of the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A., Inc, President of the California State Baptist Convention and President of the Northern District Baptist Association. Pastor Williams is the current President of the Oak Park and St. Paul Community Outreach Program. Pastor and First Lady Williams are the proud parents of Gwen and Ephraim Jr., although he has since passed on. They also enjoy the love and companionship of their four grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate Pastor Williams and First Lady Williams on their 50th wedding anniversary. As the family and friends of the Williams family gather to celebrate this terrific milestone, I would like to especially thank Pastor Williams and First Lady Williams for all their great service to their community. I ask all my colleagues to join with me in wishing Pastor Ephraim Williams and First Lady Carrie Sue Williams continued success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong opposition to the Medicare conference report before us today. It shortchanges seniors who have waited far too long for a comprehensive, affordable prescription drug benefit and it undermines the Medicare coverage they have counted on for almost four decades. First, the drug benefit in this bill is woefully inadequate. Seniors will have to pay a $250 deductible before they receive any benefit, and there is a significant gap in coverage, or ``donut hole'', where seniors will continue to pay monthly premiums but receive no assistance towards the cost of their drugs. In fact, a senior with $5,100 in annual drug costs would pay $4,020 of that cost out of their own pocket. The fact that seniors have to pay 80 percent of their first $5,100 in drug costs is appalling. But, it doesn't stop there. This bill does nothing to lower drug prices. To the contrary, it explicitly prohibits the government from using the collective purchasing power of more than 40 million seniors to negotiate lower drug prices. So, not only does this bill make seniors pay 80 percent of their first $5,100 in drug costs, it prevents the use of reasonable tools to bring those costs down. Now, let me address for a moment the 12 million retirees who already have health insurance from their former employers. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that this bill will cause 2.7 million of them to lose their existing coverage. This happens because the bill excludes employer contributions from counting towards the prescription drug catastrophic cap. This will incentivize employers to reduce their coverage to the level in this bill or drop it altogether to avoid having to pay the cost of prescription drugs in the donut hole. Finally, this bill undermines the fundamental commitment of Medicare to seniors. Beginning in 2010, Medicare will be forced to compete with private companies for the provision of all Medicare and prescription drug benefits. Often referred to as ``premium support'' or ``privatization'', this provision shifts Medicare from the guaranteed, defined-benefit program it currently is to a defined contribution plan. Under this legislation, privatization is aided by almost $20 billion in subsidies to insurance companies and HMO's, creating a competitive advantage that allows them to attract healthier seniors, leaving sicker or chronically ill seniors in Medicare. The result will be a Medicare program that is unaffordable for the seniors who need it the most. Mr. Speaker, as we consider the merits of this legislation, it is critical to look at the history of health coverage for seniors in this country. Medicare was created in 1965 because seniors were unable to find health insurance in the private marketplace. The bill before the Congress today would return us to that very same scenario and I urge my colleagues to vote against it.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, yesterday's Congressional Record reflects my vote as ``yea'' on rollcall Vote 624, Representative Obey's motion to instruct conferees on the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2004. I would like to state for the Record that my vote should have been ``nay.'' I have long opposed the reimportation of prescription drugs because it creates a significant safety risk for consumers. A recent examination of several mail facilities by FDA and U.S. Customs reinforces these concerns. After six days in four cities, these examinations found drugs being reimported that have never been approved by the FDA, without labeling or instructions for safe use, and even some that the FDA has withdrawn from the U.S. market for safety reasons. In addition, expanding the importation of prescription drugs increases the likelihood that seniors will receive counterfeit drugs, a potentially very serious health hazard. Finally, liberalizing the importation of prescription drugs does not address the underlying problem of high prescription drug costs. There are other legislative remedies that can decrease prescription drug costs without undermining consumer safety. For these reasons, I oppose the Obey motion to instruct conferees on the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004.

Mr. MATSUI

Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Conference Report on H.R. 2754, the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2004. As this Congress is well aware, my district of Sacramento, CA, is the most at-risk river city in the Nation. Situated at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers, Sacramento has narrowly escaped certain disaster twice over the last two decades. My number one priority as a Member of this body has always been to put an end to this grave public safety risk and to provide my constituents with the flood protection they both need and deserve. I am happy to say this bill will do just that. In fact, in the eyes of Sacramento, the passage of this bill is an historic moment. A major flood along the American River would cripple this economy, causing between $7 and $16 billion in direct property damages and likely result in significant loss of life. The Sacramento floodplain is home to half-a-million people, 5,000 businesses providing 200,000 jobs, 160,000 homes, 1,300 government facilities including the State Capital, over 100 schools, six major hospitals, 26 nursing homes, three major freeways systems, and a regional economy that supports over one million people. For almost as long as Sacramento has been at risk of a catastrophic flood, there has been a dispute over how to resolve the issue. Earlier this year, my colleague John Doolittle and I reached an agreement that moves forward the two most pressing issues for Northern California: flood control and water supply. This bill contains that agreement and successfully addresses both of those issues for the indefinite future. I would like to take a moment and recognize the tremendous efforts that have made this possible. Without the leadership of Chairman Hobson and Ranking Member Visclosky of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee and Chairman Young and Ranking Member Oberstar of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Sacramento would still be fighting for incremental flood control projects. Their recognition of Sacramento's dire flood control situation advanced this solution. On behalf of my constituents, thank you. More specifically, this bill provides for the construction of the Folsom Dam Mini-Raise. This is the crowning project in a series of vital flood control improvements and surpasses the region's long held goal of reaching 200-year level protection. By raising the existing Folsom Dam seven feet, Sacramento's flood control system will be able to weather a storm 50 percent larger than anything in the recorded history of the watershed. In addition, the project provides a new permanent bridge to replace the Folsom Dam Road, which was closed in February due to security concerns, and for ecosystem restoration on the lower American River. Congressional approval of the Mini-Raise benefits the entire Sacramento region, by addressing not only the area's flood control needs, but also ecosystem restoration, transportation issues and Homeland Security needs. I am grateful for the continued Federal assistance that Sacramento has received throughout the years to bring us to this moment. That commitment is evident in this bill and will ensure that those living and working in the region will be kept out of harm's way.