Betty McCollum

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 5827, the Protecting Gun Owners in Bankruptcy Act. This legislation would provide a special exemption to allow gun owners to keep certain firearms during bankruptcy proceedings. Bankruptcy is a difficult and trying time for all families who face it. The federal system is designed to protect some personal items from being seized, because they are essential to an individual or family's livelihood. Assets such as clothing, household furnishings, retirement funds, and social security benefits are exempt from seizure--within certain limits--so that those struggling through bankruptcy have something to restart their lives with. While this bill may be a political victory for the American gun lobby, a special carve-out for guns would do nothing to help families emerge from the crisis of bankruptcy. In these times of economic hardship, millions of working families are facing bankruptcy and foreclosure. They need real help, not carve-outs for special interests.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise to commemorate the centennial season of the Fitzgerald Theater, located in downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota. On September 18th, 2010, Minnesota Public Radio, which owns the theater, will celebrate the 100th season of ``the Fitz,'' as it is affectionately known, and commemorate its placement on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally called the Sam S. Schubert Theater when it opened in August 1910, this theater has long served as a cultural center for the many visitors and residents of Saint Paul. In 1910, a young Saint Paul resident named F. Scott Fitzgerald was only 14 years old and yet to author the great American novel, ``The Great Gatsby.'' Eighty-four years later, another great artist and resident of Saint Paul, Garrison Keillor, led the charge to rename the theater in honor of F. Scott Fitzgerald and his role in American letters. And thus, in 1994, what began as the Schubert was reborn as the Fitzgerald Theater. Now, at 100 years old, the building is the oldest surviving theater space in Saint Paul and is a cultural landmark for the state of Minnesota. The 1,000-seat theater continues to serve and strengthen regional and national communities as Minnesota Public Radio's largest broadcast studio. The Fitzgerald Theater is also home to the nationally-broadcast radio show, A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor. More than 100 years after its opening night, the Fitzgerald Theater continues to evolve, while maintaining its commitment to compelling performances, live radio shows, and a legacy of significant literary programming. Without any doubt, the Fitzgerald Theater has contributed a century's worth of memories, ideas, and insights to Saint Paul and the national cultural and literary community. The Fitzgerald will thrive into the 21st century, playing a critical role for future generations in bringing ideas and information in the areas of news, culture, literature, and music to a broad audience, both in Saint Paul, Minnesota and nationwide. Madam Speaker, please join me in rising to honor the centennial season of the Fitzgerald Theater and its contributions to the rich history and culture of the city of Saint Paul and the state of Minnesota.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today the House of Representatives is voting on a jobs bill that will keep Americans working. This is a jobs bill that will keep 161,000 teachers in the classroom rather than in the unemployment line. This is a bill that prevents thousands of first- responders who are protecting our communities today from losing their jobs tomorrow. Passing this jobs bill is not a luxury or an act of political patronage as some Republicans claim. This bill is about saving and creating jobs while keeping communities in Minnesota and across the country safe, strong, and sustainable as this economy recovers. The Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, is to be commended for calling the House back into session during this August recess. The Education Jobs and Medicaid Assistance Act (H.R. 1586) needs to be passed and signed into law as soon as possible. Jobs are at stake. Families are at stake. The education of millions of students is at stake. Speaker Pelosi recognizes the crisis that state and local governments are facing, and she is committed, along with many of us, to making sure teachers stay in the classroom and states receive essential Medicaid assistance, FMAP, as soon as possible. With states facing a $140 billion fiscal year 2011 cumulative budget gap, there is a critical need for Washington to provide state fiscal relief that can sustain the economic recovery. The state fiscal crisis is tearing an already fragile safety net, hurting communities, and inflicting hardships on our most vulnerable citizens. Dozens of states, including Minnesota, have been hit hard by a loss of tax revenue as a result of workers losing their jobs and unemployment remaining high. State and local governments have been forced to cut 100,000 jobs in the last 3 months alone as they struggle to balance budgets. We know that police officers, first responders, teachers, and other vital government workers who keep our communities safe, strong, and sustainable are getting laid off when our families need them on the job. The $26.1 billion in federal support for teachers and Medicaid provided in this bill is completely paid for by closing foreign tax loopholes exploited by corporations, rescinding funds from outdated programs, and cutting funding for other programs. This bill is not deficit neutral; it actually reduces the deficit by $1.4 billion over 10 years. While paying for a bill that is projected to save or create nearly 320,000 jobs is not easy, I cannot hide my disappointment that nearly $12 billion in offsets were achieved by reducing benefits to food stamp recipients starting in 2014. I hope the reductions in benefits, which are provided by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, are restored and hungry families are not forced to bear the burden of providing fiscal relief to state governments. As our economy slowly recovers it remains in a fragile state. Congress has an obligation to act to preserve jobs, sustain the economic recovery, and overcome the perpetual political game playing of a minority party that is willing to put 161,000 teachers in the unemployment line rather than keep them in the classroom. In Minnesota, this bill will provide $167 million to prevent 2,800 teachers from being laid off. It will save the State of Minnesota $346 million under a 6-month extension of the FMAP provision in the Recovery Act, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. In Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District, which I represent, nearly $30 million in funding will keep 411 public school teachers in the classroom to the benefit of our children and our community. It would be my hope that this bill will pass the House with bipartisan support. There is support from Democratic and Republican governors. Some 42 governors, including 16 Republicans, wrote to Congress seeking the Medicaid assistance provided in this bill. Their letter said the most efficient way to help states avoid further layoffs and service cuts that could otherwise slow the recovery is to provide a two-quarter extension of Medicaid aid. Unfortunately in Congress my Republican colleagues are more concerned about November's election and playing politics than keeping teachers in the classroom. The $10 billion provided to keep 161,000 teachers working for our children should be a litmus test for voters. This is a vote for jobs and for our children's future. This is a vote that will expose Republicans as either defenders of jobs or as nothing more than a party that cuts taxes for the rich, protects Wall Street executives, and is willing to throw 161,000 public school teachers out on the street while our children suffer. I am proud to vote for this bill. I am proud to support the men and women who have chosen a career of service as educators in public schools. The benefits of this bill will be felt in every state and every public school in the country and I urge all of my colleagues to vote for H.R. 1586.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize America's Korean War Veterans and their service to the United States on the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. On June 24th, 2010 the Department of Defense marked the beginning of a three year observance period for the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. I commend the Secretary of Defense for choosing to honor the sacrifices of our Korean War veterans. The American men and women who served in the Korean Theater sacrificed at great cost to protect our national security by preventing the expansion of communism on the Korean Peninsula. The legacy of their efforts is the democratic freedom enjoyed by the people of South Korea. The collective cost to the United States was terribly high, including more than 36,000 killed, 92,000 wounded, 7,000 taken prisoner of war, and 8,000 missing in action. Our country owes all veterans of this conflict a great debt for their service.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the United States Coast Guard Academy on its 100 years of operation in New London, Connecticut and in support of H. Con. Res. 258, sponsored by my friend and colleague, Mr. Courtney of Connecticut. Congratulations are due to the Commandant, the Superintendent, dedicated staff, cadets and all graduates of this fine U.S. Service Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy has educated and developed a century of U.S. leaders of character who have led and continue to lead men and women in the Coast Guard's unique role as a multi-mission, maritime military force. I am proud of those Minnesotans from my congressional district who have gone on to become leaders. The role of the U.S. Coast Guard has grown beyond maritime safety and security. Particularly since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the Coast Guard has answered the call to serve our community, country and fellow citizens through critical service in protection of natural resources, management of maritime traffic, commerce and navigation and our national defense. Madam Speaker, I am honored to submit this statement in honor of 100 years of excellence at the United States Coast Guard Academy. All Americans are fortunate to benefit from the leadership and service of its graduates.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 1401, a resolution expressing gratitude for the contributions of the air traffic controllers of the United States. The women and men who work as air traffic controllers are dedicated to the protection of the flying public. On a daily basis, their work requires quick and skilled reactions to complex and dangerous situations. The safety of our air space is required all day, every day of the year--including holidays. More than 15,600 Federal air traffic controllers, 1,250 civilian contract controllers, and more than 9,000 military controllers are committed to meeting this demand. Air traffic controllers allow all Americans to travel with assurance of safety and speed of travel. These individuals are quiet heroes deserving of recognition. With continued growth in air travel, the United States must invest in the modernization of our air traffic control system. These dedicated workers require the resources to carry out their mission.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the 100th Anniversary of Linder's Garden Center in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Linder's is a family-owned greenhouse that began as a small business selling fresh produce to local restaurants, and has grown into a Garden Center selling more than 25 million plants each year. In 1910, a Swiss immigrant with humble beginnings named Albert Linder brought his horse drawn wagon filled with celery stalks and other fresh vegetables to local markets and restaurants. Linder soon found success as a result of his hard work and dedication to plants. At its peak, this burgeoning small business operated six greenhouses for celery seedlings. By the 1940's, Linder had stopped using horse drawn wagons because trucks enabled him to expand his business to customers located farther away. Facing strong competition and celery blight, Linder was eventually forced to change the model of his business. He decided to move away from celery seedling and focused on cut flowers and bedded plants. This change proved profitable for Linder's and allowed Linder to remain successful even during difficult economic times. Modern day Linder's continues to focus on flowers and plants, but has expanded to include green houses, and a garden center which hosts educational classes that allow budding urban gardeners to learn more about plant care. In 1970, the third generation of the Linder family took over the business. Robert, Dave and Lillian Linder have successfully continued their grandfather's business and continue to make our community beautiful. Madam Speaker, please join me in rising to honor Linder's 100th Anniversary. I am honored to submit this statement recognizing this resilient and successful Saint Paul family-owned business. They are truly an example of the American dream being fulfilled. Their hard work and dedication have made them a successful Minnesota business.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 725, the Indian Arts and Crafts Amendments Act of 2010, and specifically the tribal law and order provisions now included. The federal government has a unique trust relationship with the 564 sovereign tribal nations in the United States, and it is part of this trust responsibility for the federal government to provide law enforcement in Indian Country. The United States is not meeting its obligation. There are not enough law enforcement officers patrolling reservations, and the statistics illustrate the consequences. American Indians and Alaska Natives suffer from the highest crime rates in the nation. Federal law enforcement failed to prosecute more than half of the violent crimes in Indian Country, including sexual assault cases. This is especially troubling because the U.S. Justice Department found that one in three Native women will be raped in her lifetime. That is why I urge my colleagues to support this bill and the tribal law and order provisions within it. This legislation improves law enforcement on tribal land by encouraging the prosecution of more crime, by increasing penalties for reservation offenders and by establishing protocols to address sexual violence. It encourages coordination between federal agencies, law enforcement officials and tribal communities for investigation and prosecution purposes. Under this act, tribal courts would be able to sentence offenders up to three years; currently, they can only sentence for up to one year. These changes are desperately needed. This bill is a positive step towards meeting our trust responsibility and protecting Indian Country. As a member of the Congressional Native American Caucus, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 725.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate the Volunteers of america on the 40th anniversary of the Maplewood Care Center, and the 15th anniversary of The Homestead Assisted Living Center. These centers provide a caring community through assisted living housing, short-term rehabilitation, long-term care and dementia care for senior citizens. The Volunteers of America are a national, non-profit organization that has been active in Minnesota for 114 years. Providing quality community programs and services to those in need for over a century has made them a leader among Minnesota's human service organizations. A dedication to caring for Minnesota's seniors led the Volunteers of America to open the doors of its Maplewood Minnesota Care Center in 1970. This quality center has provided my community with skilled nursing care for individuals with chronic diseases and for those recovering from illness or injury. In addition to participating in both the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Joining the Maplewood Care Center, on what is now known as the Volunteers of America Maplewood Campus, in 1995, The Homestead Assisted Living Center provides care and an atmosphere of independence for seniors. An on-site Dementia Support group provides support for families with loved ones with dementia. I commend Volunteers of America for their commitment to Minnesota seniors and for their dedication to providing compassionate, quality care, and housing for those in need. Madam Speaker, in honor of Volunteers of America, I am pleased to submit this statement.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the Telework Improvement Act. This bill will help to modernize the Federal Government by expanding and improving the availability of teleworking in federal agencies. I thank Chairman Towns and the House leadership for their work on this legislation. With this bill, Congress takes important steps to improve the efficiency of the Federal Government by allowing more Federal employees to have access to telework. Today, many private companies have more vigorous and flexible telework policies that result in increased efficiency and productivity. Yet telework continues to be under- utilized by Federal agencies. H.R. 1722 will require Federal agencies to develop policies within one year that allow qualifying employees to telework. This bill ensures accountability by directing the Office of Management and Budget to issue guidelines to prevent improper uses of official time or resources by those working outside the office. Madam Speaker, I also oppose the Republican Motion to Recommit on H.R. 1722. The underlying legislation makes clear that Federal employees are strictly prohibited from visiting inappropriate websites using government computers. In addition, this motion contains a provision designed to indiscriminately and unfairly prohibit an employee from collective bargaining activities while they are teleworking. Under current law, official time for union activity may only be used to represent employees in adverse actions, attend official meetings with management, and bargain union contracts. To disallow these activities from being performed through telework would constitute a rollback of existing policy. I urge a ``no'' vote on the Republican Motion to Recommit and urge my colleagues to support final passage.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the service of Kenneth Canter, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, who recently retired after 32 years serving our veterans at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. Dr. Canter received his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland in College Park, Maryland and his medical degree from the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1972. He began his career with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Minneapolis in 1977 as one of the first 35 podiatrists hired to treat our veterans. For 32 years, he worked at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, retiring as Chief of Podiatry in June 2010. Dr. Canter cared for Minnesota veterans with compassion and respect, always taking additional care to render the finest and most effective treatments. Aside from treating his patients, he authored scientific articles and mentored podiatrists who came to the VA for post-graduate training. Dr. Canter's dedication to outstanding medical care and sincere concern for our nation's veterans are the qualities of a truly great VA doctor, and I am proud that he is a resident of my Congressional District. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Dr. Kenneth Canter for his distinguished 32 years of service to Minnesota veterans.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Nina Archabal for her 33 years of service to the Minnesota Historical Society, including 23 years of service as the Director The Minnesota Historical Society is a private nonprofit organization that was founded in 1849 to preserve the history of the State of Minnesota, while providing educational and cultural learning opportunities. Today, the society operates 26 historic sites and museums throughout the state of Minnesota. Ms. Archabal began her distinguished career with the Minnesota Historical Society in 1977. In 1987, Archabal became the Historical Society's 10th Director after serving nine years as deputy director. While at the helm of the Historical Society, Archabal oversaw several major projects including the construction of the Minnesota Historical Society Center in Saint Paul, the Mille Lacs Indian Museum in Onamaia and the Mill City Museum in Minneapolis. These projects have helped to preserve and protect Minnesota's past and tell Minnesota's story. Visitors to Historical Society sites learn about our past through unique and engaging exhibits, including ``living history'' demonstrations like the beloved celebration of the holidays at the Saint Paul home of Minnesota's first territorial governor, Alexander Ramsey, where visitors experience Christmas 1875 by meeting ``members'' of the Ramsey family, sampling fresh cookies from the wood-burning stove. These unique traditions make history accessible and understandable to young and old alike. Throughout her career, Nina Archabal has demonstrated strength of character, hard work, dedication and perseverance that has made the Minnesota Historical Society a national model for historic preservation and interpretation. I value her service and commitment, which will be felt by generations of Minnesotans in the future. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Nina Archabal for her 23 years of service for the state of Minnesota. It is my honor to submit this statement.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, across our country there are communities, businesses, and families that continue to struggle to escape an economic recession that has caused far reaching hardship and too much pain. Congress has a responsibility to ensure the economic security of the American people, as well as defend the national security of the Nation. This appropriations bill does not adequately meet the needs of the American people and I will not vote to pass it. Today's vote on the emergency supplemental appropriation provides $37 billion to continue the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, plus nearly $3 billion for the crisis in Haiti. There is also $13 billion in funds for Vietnam War era veterans which I strongly support. To my great dismay the funds previously passed by the House to address urgent domestic needs such as securing our borders, preventing 100,000 teachers from layoffs, creating youth summer jobs, and financing Pell grants for higher education have been stripped from this bill by the U.S. Senate. Unlike the war funding which is financed by deficit spending, the House fully paid for the domestic priorities that were removed. It is simply unacceptable to abandon the serious needs of our communities while calling the war in Afghanistan--the longest war in the history of the United States--an ``emergency.'' Since 2001, following the September 11th attack on the U.S., I have supported military action in Afghanistan to remove the Taliban from power and eliminate al-Qaeda. During this time U.S. and NATO troops have bravely pursued a military strategy that has provided the Afghan people with an opportunity to rebuild their country and determine their own future. It is now time for Afghans to be fully responsible for their own destiny without dependence on 100,000 U.S. troops. After nine years of war and more than $300 billion of war funds added to our national debt, it is clear that an open ended U.S. military presence in Afghanistan is not acceptable to Afghans or Americans. President Obama is correct to have established a July 2011 date to begin withdrawal of U.S. forces. Still I question whether an additional eleven months of U.S. troops in combat will result in a security and political environment that will be significantly improved from what exists today. I believe now is the time for a movement away from an expanded military presence in Afghanistan towards a strategic drawdown of U.S. troops and a refocus on a counter-terrorism strategy to prevent al-Qaeda from again taking root. On July 1, 2010 during debate on this supplemental bill, I supported amendments to move towards ending the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan by putting limits on the funds appropriated. Unfortunately those amendments failed. I voted for the ``Lee Amendment'' to limit the use of military funding for Afghanistan to activities related to the safe withdrawal of troops and the continued protection of civilian and military personnel in the country. I also voted for the ``McGovern, Obey, Jones Amendment'' which calls for a plan for the safe, orderly and expeditious redeployment of U.S. troops from Afghanistan. Today's vote allows no such amendments to be offered. It was a surprise to listen today to one of my Republican colleagues, the Armed Services ranking member, who stated during debate on this bill that the U.S. will succeed in Afghanistan if Congress only gives the military the ``time, space and resources.'' This Republican call for apparently endless resources for Afghanistan is in sharp contrast to their policies here at home in which ``no'' is their position on providing emergency assistance for our own citizens. Madam Speaker, I would like to commend the courage and determination of all U.S. troops who are serving in Afghanistan or have served there since 2002. The Afghan people suffered mercilessly under the Taliban regime and it was U.S. and NATO troops who freed them from a medieval existence. It is not an appropriate role for U.S. troops to rebuild a country that has experienced 30 years of war nor can they provide on- going security for a government which has not earned the trust of its own people. U.S. troops deserve a mission that is clear and achievable so they can return safely home with the knowledge that they have helped to keep America secure and allowed the Afghan people to make their own future. It is now time for the Afghan people to make that future.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate the men's basketball team of Northwestern College in Roseville, Minnesota. The Eagles are the 2010 National Christian Collegiate Athletic Association (NCCAA) Division I Men's Basketball National Tournament champions. The players and coaches of the Northwestern men's basketball team worked diligently throughout the season--ultimately finishing with a 22-7 record, and winning 18 of their last 19 games. They earned this championship title through much hard work and determination. This is their first NCCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship, and they have made their fans, their university, and the state of Minnesota proud. The odds were against the Eagles from the start of the tournament. They were ranked number six out of eight teams, and Northwestern was one of only two Division III universities competing for the title. The team members and coaches were aware of their apparent disadvantage, but they worked their hardest to prove their skeptics wrong. The championship game was a close competition between Northwestern and their opponent, King College, which was ranked number one in the tournament. Both teams played admirably, but the Eagles' stellar offense and solid defense propelled them to victory over King College. The dedication and strength of character this team has shown are an inspiration to persevere even in the face of defeat. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the players and coaches of the men's basketball team of Northwestern College, whose talent and perseverance led them to the 2010 NCCAA Division I championship.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (H.R. 4173). This legislation will finally bring accountability to big banks and ensure Minnesota families are protected from high-stakes Wall Street speculation. I want to thank my colleagues on the House-Senate conference committee for their hard-fought negotiations to finalize this landmark bill. In the fall of 2008, our country's financial system stood on the brink of collapse. The failure of large financial institutions quickly led to sinking home prices, a collapse in retirement savings, and job losses on a scale not seen since the Great Depression. Despite overwhelming opposition from Republicans and relentless lobbying from special interests, Congress has responded with legislation that imposes the toughest regulation of Wall Street in a generation. House Republican Leader John Boehner told the Pittsburgh Tribune- Review on June 29th, 2010 that these tough new rules are like ``killing an ant with a nuclear weapon.'' I could not disagree more. Wall Street's recklessness cost Americans 8 million jobs and $17 trillion in retirement savings. When Republicans controlled Congress and the White House, they weakened the regulations American families relied upon for protection and left the economy vulnerable to financial crisis. H.R. 4173 restores common sense rules for banks and creates new protections for consumers after a decade of recklessness. The passage of this legislation protects taxpayers and their retirement funds, college accounts, and homes from risky decisions by CEOs, lenders, and speculators. The era of Wall Street gambling with the economic security of the American people is over, and a new age of financial accountability and transparency is about to begin. Rebuilding the American economy and putting people back to work requires a stable financial sector that is regulated responsibly. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this historic legislation.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join my fellow Minnesotans in celebrating Canada Day and to recognize the 40th anniversary of the Canadian Consulate General in Minneapolis that serves the Upper Midwest region of the United States. Canada and Minnesota are great neighbors, and the past 40 years have helped to strengthen our friendship through growing bilateral trade and investment ties. Canada remains as Minnesota's number one international trading partner, with an average of $16 billion in trade each year. Approximately 141,000 Minnesota jobs and more than 8 million jobs across the United States result from trade with Canada. Additionally, our Canadian neighbors make 2 million visits to states in the Upper Midwest and more than 645,000 residents of our region visit Canada each year for business and tourism. I must also be highlighted that during peace and war time, Canada has always been a vital ally. During the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Canadian people have shared their enormous sacrifices with our military, and our nation is grateful for their deep contributions to national and international security. It is an honor to join all residents in Minnesota's 4th Congressional District in commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Canadian Consulate General in Minneapolis, and for the celebration of the many ties between Canada and Minnesota on this grand opening of the ``Canadiana'' exhibit at the Minnesota History Center in Saint Paul.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the members of Beth Jacob Congregation, a Jewish congregation in Mendota Heights, Minnesota, who will celebrate the 25th anniversary of their faith community on June 27th. Beth Jacob was formed in 1985 when two Twin Cities synagogues, Sons of Jacob and New Conservative Congregation, merged. Founded as an orthodox synagogue in the early 1870s, Sons of Jacob was one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the Twin Cities, while New Conservative Congregation was one of the area's youngest congregations. Seemingly very different faith communities, the members of the two synagogues found that they possessed similar values and needs. The new faith community they formed adopted the name Beth Jacob Congregation. In 1986, the congregation selected Rabbi Morris J. Allen as its religious and educational leader, and in 1987 they broke ground to build their synagogue. Since then, Beth Jacob has steadily grown in size and influence thanks to the dedication and leadership of Rabbi Allen and the involvement and commitment of its members. Beth Jacob is not simply a synagogue or a place of worship--it is a community. Its members are engaged in studying their faith and participating in Shabbat service. Additionally, members are active participants in their neighborhoods and cities. Beth Jacob is well known for its involvement in our community through interfaith dialogue programs, food shelf donations, assistance to immigrant workers, affordable housing initiatives, and disaster relief efforts. Its contributions to the Jewish community as well as the Twin Cities at large are unparalleled, and I am proud to say that such an active and dedicated Jewish Congregation is located in the Fourth Congressional District of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, please join me in rising to honor the 25th anniversary of Beth Jacob Congregation, a faith community rich with tradition that is committed to serving the needs of its members and giving back to our community.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Federal Housing Administration Reform Act of 2010 (H.R. 5072). This legislation will help ensure the availability of affordable home loans while safeguarding the interests of the American taxpayer. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has played a crucial role in stabilizing the nation's housing market during the current recession. Since the financial crisis and credit crisis that followed, nearly 40 million qualified Americans became homeowners and arne insurance through the FHA. The FHA was critical to keeping mortgage loans flowing to credit-worthy home buyers during the foreclosure crisis. As private lenders fled the housing market, the insurance provided by the FHA helped prevent the housing decline from becoming even more severe. The FHA Reform Act of 2010 will strengthen the FHA loan insurance program and help keep credit available and affordable to responsible homebuyers. Over the last year, the FHA implemented a number of policy changes aimed at curbing risk and increasing its capital reserves. This legislation builds on these reforms and helps reduce risk by increasing net worth requirements for FHA loan originators and providing the FHA with authority to prevent fraudulent lending. In addition, this bill increases accountability by requiring the FHA to modernize its reporting systems to better manage risk and to provide transparent data to the public and Congress. This legislation helps restore fiscal accountability by reducing our deficit by $2.5 billion over five years. The Federal Housing Administration Reform Act of 2010 makes essential reforms to strengthen the financial footing of the Federal Housing Administration and stabilize the mortgage market. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 101st anniversary of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, NAACP, which was founded on February 12, 1909. Throughout its existence, the NAACP has faithfully promoted equality in all areas of American society, from suffrage and public accommodation to justice in our Nation's courts and equality in employment. For nearly a century, the NAACP has pressed for an inclusive American society, one that would grant all people the equality they deserve, regardless of the shade or color of their skin. The NAACP's principled efforts towards the advancement of people who were long denied their rightful place at work, school, and the ballot box have continued to come to fruition with the Civil Rights Acts, the Fair Housing Act, and other breakthroughs in the establishment of justice and quality in this country. A key component of the success of the NAACP has been the implementation of a nonviolent approach to achieve equality and justice. Its efforts include the promotion of understanding and education, to the eradication of race and other problems that have long plagued our society. The NAACP has helped put students through college, give the vote back to the voiceless, and ensure that the American people will not continue to be divided by differences, but rather be brought together by mutual compassion and kinship. The mission of the NAACP continues today and the Saint Paul Branch of the NAACP continues to work towards equality, education and justice for all. My local NAACP chapter is well known for its tireless work addressing the injustices affecting individuals and the diverse communities of Minnesota. It is with great admiration that I commend the NAACP on this occasion of their 101st anniversary. The necessity of the continued push for equality and justice for all citizens presents a great burden that we bear collectively, but the work of groups such as the NAACP gives our society the necessary guidance and reminder of our responsibilities towards one another. Mr. Speaker, please join me in paying tribute to the courageous and guiding history of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People on this day of their 101st anniversary.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1330, recognizing June 8 as World Ocean Day. This is only the second year that World Ocean Day has been officially recognized. Unfortunately, now is a tragically appropriate time for all of us to recognize and honor our nation's oceans. The ongoing British Petroleum oil spill makes all of us realize how much our lives and the fate of our planet are intertwined with the well-being of our oceans. It should not have taken millions of gallons of oil destroying the Gulf to have served as a wakeup call that our ocean waters are treasures that must be preserved and protected. The workers who risk their lives every day on oil rigs to provide for America's energy needs knew how vital these oceans were. So did those of us who enjoy the bounty of shrimp and oysters harvested from the sea. The dolphins, sea turtles and pelicans and thousands of species dependent on the health of our waters were already aware about the precarious state of our oceans. Oil-soaked beaches in the Gulf now threaten the livelihoods of thousands of small business owners and fishermen as well as wildlife on and below the water's surface. British Petroleum was drilling in waters owned by the American people. The ocean belongs to all of us collectively, and none of us as individuals--or corporations. Even before this disaster, they were in a crisis, thanks to coastal development and sprawl, pollution, overfishing and an absence of government leadership. I am pleased to support this resolution to highlight the many benefits the ocean provides. The oceans are an economic, ecological and cultural resource that we in Congress and the international community must exercise the proper stewardship over for our future generations. I urge my colleagues to take up this responsibility that has been entrusted to us and honor our oceans by supporting H. Res. 1330.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4213, the American Jobs, Closing Tax Loopholes and Preventing Outsourcing Act. This legislation accelerates our economic recovery by creating or saving over 1 million jobs and by providing emergency aid to American families. Our economic recovery is thankfully underway. The private sector is working again. Jobs are being added. The task before Congress is finding the right balance between addressing the federal budget deficits and debt and supporting American families still struggling with the lingering effects of the recession. This bill is a life-preserver for the millions of Americans who are still looking for work. For our youth experiencing record-high unemployment and looking for work this summer, this bill allocates funding that will support 350,000 jobs. It also provides emergency funding for a much-needed unemployment insurance extension through the end of November 2010. In addition to assisting those Americans hardest hit by the recession, these resources will stimulate the economy--every $1 spent in unemployment benefits generates at least $1.63 in economic activity. H.R. 4213 also addresses a major concern for seniors by preventing pay cuts that could discourage doctors from seeing Medicare patients. H.R. 4213 also makes long-term investments to support economic growth by extending tax incentives for research and development and American- made clean energy. This legislation will save and create jobs through Build America Bonds and Recovery Zone Bonds while rebuilding American infrastructure. This bill restores credit to small businesses and provides tax relief to middle class families, who are experiencing the lowest taxes in 60 years. The many investments are fully offset by closing tax loopholes, ensuring that Wall Street investment fund managers paid their fair share of taxes on their income and ensuring that corporations stop abusing the foreign tax credit by shipping American jobs overseas. This legislation also begins to hold oil corporations accountable by increasing the fees they pay to the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund. Most importantly, the entire bill complies with statutory pay-as-you- go. Let me be clear. Our economy will recover and thrive again--we are on the right path--but until we reach a full and vibrant recovery, we have a responsibility to extend the safety-net of unemployment benefits for the millions out of work while we enact measures to create jobs. For all these reasons, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and create American jobs, close tax loopholes, and prevent outsourcing.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1178, which directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to compile the cost estimates prepared by the Congressional Budget Office which are included in reports filed by committees of the House on approved legislation and post such estimates on the official public Internet site of the Office of the Clerk.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the organization. Since it was established in 1985, this group has been dedicated to serving and promoting parks and green spaces in St. Paul, Minnesota, and surrounding communities. Executive Director Peggy Lynch has been there every step of the way, first leading a group of citizens to found the organization to keep a massive high-rise development out of Hidden Fall/Crosby Regional Park in order to preserve green space for everyone in our community. The Friends of the Parks and trails has since developed into a broad, membership-supported nonprofit group. The Friends of the Parks has proven their commitment to St. Paul and Ramsey County parks by promoting open space preservation, protection, improvement, and development of new parks. And as a vital member of the community the Friends of the Parks have successfully laid the foundation for lasting change by working with St. Paul and Ramsey County to require no ``net loss'' of parkland in any deals the city or county makes, and also helped to create city and county park commissions. Parks are essential to Minnesotans. They not only provide recreational opportunities and a connection to the natural world, they also provide employment, economic development and increase property values. For 25 years, the Friends of the Parks and Trails have been serving my community, ensuring that all Minnesotans have the opportunity to benefit from the positive resources provided by parks. This deserves our thanks, support and commendation. Madam Speaker, please join me in rising to honor the 25th anniversary of the Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County, Peggy Lynch, and all its members and volunteers for their hard work and constant dedication to ensuring parks and green space are available for all to enjoy.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, on June 9, 2010, I was detained and missed the vote on H. Res. 1178. I would have voted ``yea'' for this resolution.

Ms. McCOLLUM

Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1312, a resolution commemorating National Teacher Week. This week in May recognizes the millions of educators who play an integral role in shaping the lives of children across the country. Teachers are charged with the essential responsibility of preparing the youngest generation of Americans to compete and excel in our global economy. Every day, they sacrifice for the sake of their students. They are relentless and admirable in performing a difficult and sometimes thankless job. They walk into their classrooms and face a daunting task--ensuring each student learns and succeeds. That is why I'm working for our students, teachers and schools, especially during these economic hard times. Without federal aid to protect education jobs, budget crises at the State and local level will result in increased class sizes and massive layoffs. As a Member of Congress, it is my job to do what I can to make sure classroom doors stay open so students can learn. Last year, I voted for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (P.L. 111-5), which saved or created over 400,000 teaching jobs nationally, and nearly 7,000 in Minnesota. In addition, I support the creation of a $23 billion Education Jobs Fund. Without this injection of federal funding, hundreds of thousands of teachers across the country will be laid off, resulting in increased class sizes and reduced quality of education. This job-saving provision was incorporated in two bills I supported: the Jobs for Main Street Act, H.R. 2847, which passed the House last December, and the Local Jobs for America Act, H.R. 4812, still pending in the House. I join many of my colleagues in urging the Senate to include this fund in their next jobs package. Each one of us has had a teacher who made a difference in our lives. I am honored to commemorate this valuable core of our community. I am also pleased to join students and teachers at Maxfield Elementary in St. Paul Public School District 625 and all Minnesotans in congratulating 6th grade teacher Ryan Vernosh as the 2010 Minnesota Teacher of the Year. This recognition is a reflection of his commitment and dedication to making a positive impact on students' academic success in his classroom. Mr. Vernosh is one of our finest teachers and is deserving of this honor. For these reasons, I urge my colleagues to thank the teachers who have made differences in their lives and honor them by supporting H. Res. 1312.