Kendrick Meek

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize and commemorate the grand opening of the historic exhibition, Black Crossroads: The African Diaspora in Miami. The exhibit, which will be on display at the Historical Museum of Southern Florida from March 5, 2009 to January 24, 2010, depicts the diverse groups of the African Diaspora who have come to settle, work and struggle for freedom in Miami since its incorporation in 1896 to the present day. Celebrating the diversity and richness, Black Crossroads: The African Diaspora in Miami explores the enduring presence and impact of African- Americans, Africans, black Caribbeans, and black Hispanics in Miami. The many significant political, economic and cultural contributions are shown through historic photographs, oral histories, memorabilia, film/ video, and artifacts. These contributions will be related to black pioneers, families, laborers, communities, and organizations spanning over 100 years of history of black migrations to Miami. Black Crossroads: The African Diaspora in Miami documents an important aspect of Miami's cultural history, and bring this vital information together in one place and at one time for the people of South Florida. I applaud the Historical Museum of Southern Florida for displaying this exhibit for all to see. I also commend Dr. Joanne Hyppolite, the Chief Curator at the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, for her achievements and successes with the Black Crossroads: The African Diaspora in Miami thus far. Dr. Hyppolite has strived to show a clear reflection of what Miami has always been: a meeting point for intersections of many members of the African Diaspora since as far back as the 1800s. The exhibit also shows Miami's importance as a popular southern migration site for blacks from the Upper South, Northern Florida and the Caribbean. I am pleased to join all those in attendance at the opening of the exhibition in wishing the Historical Museum of Southern Florida and Dr. Hyppolite continued success in preserving and promoting an awareness of the diverse groups of the African Diaspora in Miami. Educating the public with a broader perspective of the traditions and struggles many have faced in their efforts to be treated as equal citizens will assure that generations to come will have access to objects and photographs that will enable them to contextualize life in Miami.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 54, 55 & 56, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on all three.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I recognize and pay tribute to MAJ Gerald A. Thomas, U.S. Marine Corps, on the occasion of his retirement from active duty. Major Thomas has served our great Nation for more than 21 years, earning many decorations, among them the Bronze Star with Combat ``V''. I, and many other members of this chamber, have had the pleasure of working with him over the past 3 years that he has served as part of Headquarters U.S. Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs and as the Deputy Director of the U.S.M.C. Liaison Office in the U.S. House of Representatives. Major Thomas distinguished himself through exceptional meritorious service while serving as the Deputy Director. Every day he served in direct support of not only the Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs but in direct support of every member of Congress, every Marine and every American. His keen abilities in organization, interpersonal relationships, and communication were extremely critical to the successful accomplishment of the Marine Corps Office of Legislative Affairs' mission. His achievements and ability to get the job done have been understated but always effective and noteworthy. While serving in the Liaison office, Major Thomas was able to develop and execute legislative strategy for the United States Marine Corps that was instrumental in creating a fiscal and policy landscape conducive to training and equipping the Nation's most elite fighting force, ensuring their success on the battlefield. He routinely turned broad guidance into action which energized the Office of Legislative Affairs and members of Congress alike. His actions allowed the Marine Corps to engage members of Congress and their staffs, directly facilitating the increased emphasis on improving Congressional relationships--a cornerstone of CMC's strategic vision. The Marine Corps House of Representatives Liaison Office that Major Thomas leaves behind is functional and responsive, highly integrated, and favors a proactive legislative strategy. While leading the House Liaison Office through the extraordinary challenges associated with Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the ongoing Global War on Terror, he concurrently ensured that a myriad of daily Congressional communications, taskings and events were executed flawlessly. The leadership and direction that Major Thomas provided was instrumental to the Marine Corps' tremendous success during a period of extraordinarily high operational tempo and unprecedented Congressional interest in Marine Corps activities. During Major Thomas' two years as the Deputy Director, he accomplished the full spectrum of the Marine Corps' legislative mission. Members and staffers alike respected and trusted Major Thomas' straightforward and dependable assistance. He exemplified the candor and knowledge that we have come to expect from the Marine Corps and he played a key role in maintaining superb relationships between the Marine Corps and the House of Representatives. Throughout his tour, Major Thomas effectively responded to several thousand congressional inquiries, many of which gained national level attention. He demonstrated a unique ability to translate the language of the House of Representatives to the language of the Marine Corps and vice versa, enabling him to provide us with a clear sense of what the Marine Corps could accomplish. Because of the Major, Members of Congress were able to establish lasting professional relationships with senior members of the Marine Corps that didn't exist prior to his arrival. During his time on Capitol Hill, Major Thomas successfully planned, coordinated and escorted over 50 international and domestic Congressional and Staff Delegations. His detailed coordination with foreign government officials, U.S. State Department, and senior military officials ensured that each delegation was conducted professionally. His attention to detail and anticipation of requirements allowed Representatives to focus on fact-finding and gleaning new insights that informed critical decisions to support the people of the United States. With more than 15 delegations to Central Command Major Thomas assisted in educating Members of Congress on the successes and challenges facing our service men and women that could only be gained from first-hand observation and face-to-face interaction. Due to his professionalism, dedication and keen knowledge, Major Thomas became the most sought after military escort for delegations traveling into Central Command. The time he has spent supporting Members of the House has been truly noteworthy. He has made lasting contributions to the House of Representatives. Major Thomas has also made a lasting contribution in the sustainment of today's readiness and the shape of tomorrow's Marine Corps. Maj Thomas' distinguished service has left a mark of true excellence that will last long after he has departed the Office of Legislative Affairs. The Marine Corps will miss him, but Major Thomas leaves a tremendous legacy for others to follow and emulate. I wish Major Gerald Thomas congratulations and all best wishes as he enters this new chapter of his life. During his 21 years of service, Maj Thomas has served as: Communications Marine--Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune; Student--Marine Corps Education Program--University of Arizona; Platoon Commander--Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines; Platoon Commander--Weapons Platoon, Echo Co, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines; Executive Officer--Echo Co, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines; Staff Platoon Commander--The Basic School; Executive Officer--Alpha, Charlie, & Echo Companies; The Basic School Instructor--Infantry Officer Course; Student--Infantry Officers Captain's Career Course; Company Commander--Lima Co, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines; Congressional Fellow--Office of Rep. Sanford Bishop; Joint Action Officer--Plans, Policies, and Operations Department, HQMC; Deputy Director--Marine Corps House Liaison Office.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise in full support of H.R. 2 and am proud to cast this vote in favor of it. Providing health care coverage for 11 million children has been a top priority of mine and the vast majority of both the 110th and 111th Congresses. And, after several attempts, we are now only minutes away from sending this important legislation to a President that we know will sign it the moment it lands on his desk. This is a great piece of the change promised in November and a win for the families of 4.1 million currently uninsured children. In my home state of Florida, passage into law of this bill will mean that 290,000 children will have affordable access to healthcare that they do not have right now. That will lessen the number of uninsured children in Florida by 36%. This bipartisan legislation renews and improves SCHIP, providing health care coverage for 11 million children--preserving coverage for the roughly 7 million children currently covered by SCHIP and extending coverage to 4.1 million uninsured children who are currently eligible for, but not enrolled in, SCHIP and Medicaid. Covering more eligible children is not only the right thing to do-- it's also much more cost-effective for taxpayers than using the emergency room as a primary care provider. In addition, a healthy child is better prepared for learning and success. I commend the willingness of those who are paying for this legislation, particularly the small businesses, local cigar importers, who showed a great willingness to do their part to see the SCHIP legislation passed despite the sacrifices they will have to make. This is a proud day in the House of Representatives. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in voting for this important legislation.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Chair, I support the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the important first step it takes toward reinvigorating our faltering economy. The bill invests critical dollars in nearly all major industries and will create more than 4 million jobs by the fourth quarter of 2010. Over 300,000 jobs will be saved in Florida alone, reducing unemployment by 2.4%. The $102 billion investment in increased income support will go to those families who are feeling the strains of financial pressure the most, providing increases in unemployment benefits, food stamps and COBRA healthcare. Floridians can expect to see over $29.8 million directed to Head Start, over $105 million directed to child care and development block grants, over $13 million for low-income energy assistance, over $15 million for elderly nutrition programs, and nearly $9 million aimed for preventative health services. This will help us ensure that those who have fallen with the economy won't be beaten down, but are given the protection and help they need to get back up. I am proud the bill provides $211 billion in aid to state and local governments for vital services such as public education and law enforcement. My own state of Florida is grappling with significant fiscal problems, due in large part to our foreclosure crisis, which has resulted in shrinking tax revenue, declining property values and slow retail sales. I know that this federal aid to state and local governments will help fill in the gaps, ensuring our children get the educational support they need to complete on the global market. The bill provides over $654 million for grades K-12 and over $306 million for higher education institutions to modernize, maintain and repair their facilities in Florida. The inclusion of the repeal of the 3% tax withholding on payments made to vendors by government entities will also help stimulate our economy, relieving small business and local governments from this unfair and burdensome requirement. Tax cuts in the stimulus plan will help those with the lowest incomes save more of their hard earned dollars. In Florida this means those from the lowest end of the scale to those with middle incomes will see their taxes cut by more than 20% in 2009. I am also pleased that the bill uses this opportunity to look forward, investing in clean and renewable energy and green infrastructure, to create jobs, reduce pollution and help to bring us to a clean energy future. Mr. Chair, I support this bill and urge its passage.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, during the vote today on House Joint Resolution 3, rollcall vote No. 27, I inadvertently voted ``yea.'' My intention was to vote ``nay.''

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Chair, I rise in general support of H.R. 384. The bill requires that the Treasury implement some combination of programs designed to mitigate foreclosures. This is very important to the people of my home state of Florida. Florida has the second highest foreclosure rate in the nation, placed only after Nevada. In November of 2008, one in every 173 Florida housing units received a foreclosure filing, nearly three times the national average. Broward County leads the state with over 6,800 new foreclosures in November, while Miami-Dade County follows close behind with over 6,400 new foreclosures filed in November. In the last economic stabilization package the Troubled Asset Relief Program, TARP, was created. Money for this program was supposed to go to help stabilize banks, and was originally thought to be used for lending and the prevention of foreclosures. So far, the money has only been used to help shore up banks, and has not actually been used to restructure mortgages or otherwise prevent foreclosures. Frank's bill H.R. 384 requires the commitment of between $40 billion to $100 billion to help mitigate foreclosures. The bill does not lay out a substantial plan to use this money to prevent foreclosures, but instead requires any plan created by the Secretary to comply with several elements, leaving the door open as to how exactly the funds will be used. While the bill grants the Treasury flexibility in designing programs to stabilize the industry, I will be asking the new Secretary to make refinancing and modifications of current mortgage notes a requirement for participation by any lender in a program that seeks to purchase all or part of a troubled asset. I have filed H.R. 421, which requires that lenders must attempt to refinance and modify the loans of their borrowers who are facing down foreclosure to a payment that is 30 percent or less of their gross monthly income to the extent that they are capable of doing so. If they do this, then the Treasury would be authorized to purchase the difference between the original note and the modified note. Not only would this keep homeowners in their homes, it would provide them with means to pay other bills, invest, and otherwise contribute to the economy. This would provide an incentive for banks to work with borrowers whose homes are in pre-foreclosure rather than simply giving them a backstop to protect their bottom line. Banks must document their best efforts to create these affordable payment plans before foreclosure if affordable payment plans cannot be made with the borrower. My concept's priority is to keep people in their homes through affordable payment plans and help them regain their economic purchasing power. But, the added benefit is that this program would be less costly to the Federal Government than one which simply buys out troubled assets at the full amount of the loan. H.R. 384 gives the Secretary of the Treasury the means to pursue this course of action, while also giving the Congress significant oversight over the people's money. I support H.R. 384 and hope my colleagues will join me in voting ``yes'' on this bill.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to the life and legacy of the late Willis ``Snake'' Murray, an outstanding Floridian who is one of the most unsung leaders of our Miami-Dade County community and Florida. A native of Miami, Mr. Murray was born to Willis and Mazie Murray on October 9, 1923, in Sanford, Florida. One of the distinguished members of Booker T. Washington's Class of 1943, he went on to obtain his bachelor's and master's degree from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, and attended postgraduate studies at Barry University and University of Miami. An avid football fan, Mr. Murray especially enjoyed attending Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University and Miami Dolphins football games throughout football season. Mr. Murray was a volunteer for the Alliance for Aging advocating for seniors, the American Cancer Society and the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Youth and Elderly Against Crimes Task Force. He was also a strong advocate for seniors. Each year he participated in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life, which raises money for cancer research and programs. Mr. Murray was a staunch believer who abided by the dictum that those who have less in life, through no fault of their own, should be helped by the government, regardless of their race, creed, age, or gender. As a community activist, Mr. Murray had a penchant for being at the forefront of African-American and other minority struggles in their quest for justice and equality. The unabashed and exemplary service demonstrated by Mr. Murray was evident in his desire for youth academic excellence and political empowerment for disenfranchised Americans. His commendable political activism has motivated countless others from all political and philosophical persuasions throughout Florida to follow his example of unrelenting defense of the ``forgotten man.'' Moreover, his charitable actions toward others served as the quintessential embodiment of the Judeo-Christian faith. Throughout Mr. Murray's commitment as a community activist, he remained devoted to his family. He will be missed by all who knew him. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family--his brother, James Murray; daughters, Barbara Walker and Karlar Arthur; and four grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished colleagues join me in recognizing Mr. Murray's contributions to South Florida. Mr. Willis ``Snake'' Murray's life was a triumph. He was blessed with a loving family who took pleasure in every aspect of his life and his interests. He will be remembered as a true pioneer and community activist.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to the life and legacy of the late Mrs. Ada McKinney DeVeaux, a Miami native who was known for her contagious spiritual, humorous, and endearing personality. It is with both profound sadness, but also an enduring sense of gratitude for the tremendous inspiration she provided to the South Florida community. Mrs. McKinney DeVeaux was born to Edmund Sr. and Mary Edwards McKinney on September 2, 1931 in Miami, Florida. One of the distinguished members of Booker T. Washington Senior High's Class of 1949 or the ``fantastic 49-ers'', she went on to obtain her Bachelor of Science degree and a degree in Registered Nursing from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University. Mrs. McKinney DeVeaux was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Father Richard DeVeaux. A dedicated registered nurse for 42 years, Mrs. McKinney DeVeaux distinguished herself in a number of professional appointments throughout her nursing career. She served the community at the Dade County Health Department's Overtown office, Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Medical School, and retired from the Miami-Dade County Health Department as supervisor of nursing in 1997. While she was a devoted member of numerous community organizations, Mrs. McKinney DeVeaux had a special love and dedication to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Throughout her 57 years of membership, some of the leadership roles she assumed were: multi-term chairperson of the Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter's annual Ebony Fashion Fair event, advisor to the undergraduate Iota Nu Chapter at University of Miami, chairperson of the health committee and founding member of the AKA WISH Foundation. In recognition of her 50 years of committed membership, she was crowned a ``Golden Soror'' in 2004. In homage to her profession and the community where she was raised (Overtown), she proudly served for 14 years as the recording secretary of the Board of Directors, Jefferson Reaves Sr. Health Center, Inc. Also, always the consummate ``Rattler'', she was a life member of the Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University Alumni Association. Mrs. McKinney DeVeaux remained devoted to her family, and will be missed by all who knew her. I offer my heartfelt condolences to her family--her children, Jennifer DeVeaux Robinson (Rodney) and Pierre Rutledge; sister, Barbara McKinney; brother, Robert L. McKinney, Esq.; special brother, Reverend Canon J. Kenneth Major; four grandchildren, as well as her nieces, nephews, Godchildren, and vast array of friends and colleagues. Madam Speaker, in the words of her Sorority's mission to provide ``service to all mankind'', Mrs. McKinney DeVeaux has embodied and wholeheartedly embraced this throughout her life. While she will indeed be missed, her legacy will live on and the outstanding contributions and service she made to the betterment of Miami-Dade County and South Florida will never be forgotten.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute and honor the life and legacy of Governor Lawton Mainor Chiles, Jr., on the 10th anniversary of his death. Throughout his 40 years of public service, Governor Chiles was committed to the betterment of Florida's children and families, as well as healthcare for all. As he stated in his 1997 State of the State Address, ``To be a successful State, we must nurture successful children.'' Governor Chiles' political career, which began in 1958 with his election to the Florida House of Representatives, was proven to be successful when he would continue to have the distinction of never losing an election. Governor Chiles was elected to the United States Senate in 1970 for the term commencing January 3, 1971, and was reelected in 1976 and again in 1982. He served as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee during the Reagan years, as well as chairman of the Special Committee on Aging and the Committee on the Budget. During his 1970 U.S. Senate campaign, Chiles became known as ``Walkin' Lawton'' after a 91-day walk across Florida from Pensacola to Key West. His 1,003 mile walk across Florida not only displayed his utmost devotion to his home State, but his dedication to Medicaid reform initiatives such as the Women, Infants and Children, WIC, food program and increased funding for prenatal care and childhood immunizations while serving his three terms in the U.S. Senate proved that he was truly a man of the people. In 1990, Governor Chiles was elected the 41st Governor of Florida. He was the first Democratic governor in State history to have a Republican-controlled legislature. A fourth generation Floridian, Chiles continued to advocate health coverage for the uninsured in Florida, the promotion of adoption, raising standards for education, and fighting back against big tobacco. Additionally, he fought for the creation of regional healthcare alliances throughout the State. The alliances allowed small businesses to pool their healthcare dollars and broaden coverage while saving money. He also created the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Florida Healthy Start program. The Governor and First Lady Rhea Chiles have four children: Tandy Chiles Barrett, Lawton (Bud) Chiles III, Ed Chiles and Rhea Chiles. On this 10th anniversary of Governor Chiles' passing, let us remember him for his outstanding public service, his commitment to children and families, his dedication to his State and country, and his contributions to our Nation's history. Governor Chiles once said, ``I didn't come to stay. I came to make a difference.'' He truly made a difference, and this proves to be remarkably consistent and in tune with his original vision.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, my constituents didn't cause this economic mess, but if our action to this crisis is inaction, they would disproportionally bear the brunt of this financial meltdown. The credit market would severely tighten, preventing consumers with excellent credit scores from purchasing a new automobile, sending a son or daughter to college, or refinancing their mortgage to avoid foreclosure. Pension funds would erode, putting senior citizens from our community in an impossible financial situation. Layoffs would be felt throughout south Florida, and inflation would erode buyers' purchasing power. The Department of Labor reported today that the American economy lost 159,000 jobs in September, bringing the total number of jobs lost in 2008 to 760,000. A Wall Street banker will never bear the brunt of this economic downturn like a small business owner, high school teacher, or law enforcement officer struggling to get by in this economy. To stabilize our economy and insulate Main Street from Wall Street, we must reinvest in the troubled markets, reimburse the taxpayer by requiring the plan to be repaid in full, and reform how business is done on Wall Street by enacting strict oversight measures and limiting excessive compensation for CEOs and executives. Florida is ground zero for the housing foreclosure crisis, and this legislation provides property tax relief for up to 30 million homeowners nationwide and allows the Government to now work more directly with loan service providers to make problem loans more affordable. I have significant reservations about this financial recovery legislation, as do many of my Democratic and Republican colleagues. This is a vote that I did not cast lightly, but knowing that families, retirees and small business owners were suffering along Main Street, I was left with no option but to support the package.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and congratulate a dear constituent of mine, Ms. Fredericka D. Wanza on her 90th birthday. As members of my community gather to celebrate Ms. Wanza, I take this opportunity to convey to her warm wishes on this milestone occasion. Fredericka D. Wanza was born on September 28, 1918 to Fredrick Dean and Gladys Ward-Dean in Overtown-Miami, Florida. Her parents died when Fredericka was a very young girl and she and her five sisters were cared for by her Grandmother and then her Aunt and Uncle in Miami and Ocala, Florida. Fredericka D. Wanza married James Willie Wanza, former Northwestern Sr. High School Coach, approximately 35 years ago and out of this union, a daughter Theta Wanza Shipp and James Willie Wanza II were born. Today, Fredericka Wanza has 5 grandchildren and 8 great- grandchildren. Fredericka Wanza was educated in Miami-Dade County Public Schools and matriculated from Florida A&M College in Tallahassee, Florida. Fredericka Wanza was the first African American visiting teacher for Miami-Dade County Public Schools, she retired in 1975. From 1976-1982 she managed her own real estate company; servicing Miami-Dade, Broward and Leon counties. In 1982 she opened her own day care center in Miami Gardens, Florida. Fredericka D. Wanza is the Founder and Director of Wanza and Braxton Day Care Center, where she dotes on the young children and instills good behavior all while preparing them for primary school. Fredericka D. Wanza is a life-long member of St. Agnes Episcopal Church and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. The 17th Congressional District of Florida is blessed to have a leader and role model like Fredericka D. Wanza.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to Dorothy ``Dottie'' Johnson on the occasion of her retirement from the United States Postal Service, South Florida District. Dottie will retire as manager of diversity development, and can look back on a proud career of service and distinction in community leadership. A native Miamian, Dottie attended Miami Northwestern Senior High School where she graduated with several honors and awards. In order to further her education, she attended Miami Dade College majoring in criminology, postal management and public administration. In May 1996, she was trained and certified as a Federal mediator. In 1997, she completed several business courses at the University of Michigan. In October 2000, she was trained and certified as a global career development facilitator. In 2001, she was trained and certified as a county mediator. In October 2003, she was trained and certified as an organizational development practitioner. She complemented her educational achievements with her involvement in various organizations such as the Florida Minority Business Council Inc.; Miami-Dade Branch of the NAACP; South Florida Federal Executive Board Diversity Council; South Florida Federal Executive Board; South Florida Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc; Excel Academy Inc.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Festivities Committee, Inc.; The Historic Hampton House Community Trust, Inc.; North Dade Federal Community Development Credit Union; UP-PAC; Broward County Business and Professional Women's Network; and mentor at North Dade Middle School and Nathan B. Young Elementary. Dottie has lectured to various audiences and has served as an instructor, facilitator and motivational speaker on issues pertaining to affirmative action, women's issues, diversity awareness, community empowerment and workforce development. In addition, she is very active in the community and is often called upon to be a speaker, advisor, and/or mediator by local schools, colleges, universities, churches, local/Federal government, and civil and professional organizations. In April 2000, she founded and currently serves as the president/CEO of The Portrait of Empowerment Inc., a not-for-profit community based organization. This organization is dedicated to enabling individuals and families to become self-sufficient, which ultimately will improve the economic development as well as the quality of life in the community-at-large. In May 2001, she graduated from the Interdenominational Theological Center with a certificate of theology in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2002, she was elected as the vice-mayor for the city of Opa-Locka, Florida, and also served as the interim mayor. She also serves as the volunteers' coordinator for the Carrie Meek Foundation, Inc. This public servant is married to Roy Johnson, has two daughters, Roilanda and Tamika, and two grandchildren, Joshua and Nisiah. Dottie is known in the community as ``Lady Justice''. It is an honor to have the privilege of knowing this valued leader of the Miami-Dade County community and beyond. I salute Mrs. Dorothy ``Dottie'' Johnson on behalf of a grateful community that she truly loves and cares for. Now, in retirement, she embarks upon new challenges in life and I am certain her legacy of greatness will only grow and develop as she enters this new phase of life. I wish her every happiness and success.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. I want to thank the gentlewoman from the great State of Ohio for yielding to me and my good friend from North Carolina. Both of their explanations about H.R. 6853 are very accurate of the situation. Mr. Speaker, we have a number of Americans that are trying to get homes or tried to get homes, and we have individuals that are preying upon them. This is really one of the most egregious white-collar crimes that are out there right now. With this bill, it will give the FBI some direction in working with local law enforcement to bring about the kind of coordination we need in our country to be able to assist Americans or be able to save Americans from falling victim to mortgage fraud. In my community alone, in Miami-Dade County, there was a task force set up. Just last year, they were able to not only arrest 71 individuals, but they were able to generate more cases because of the coordination they have and expertise that they have, but that's a metropolitan city. With this legislation, it will bring about the coordination of smaller police departments and also prosecutor offices that will be able to move faster on these mortgage crimes. Many of the Members have been given the statistics that have plagued our country thus far, but this legislation is very, very urgent. Right now, we are facing a crisis on Wall Street, but we have a number of Americans that are facing a crisis because they have been had by those that are out there preying upon them and that are coordinating themselves in a more detailed way than law enforcement at this time. But we are catching up and legislation, like the legislation that is before us, will allow us to do so. I want to commend the FBI for what they have been able to do thus far. With this legislation, it will give even more focus to mortgage fraud. Also, I just want to state for the record that we have been in communication with the FBI. They are fully aware of this. I think the reason why we have an amendment, this bill has been amended, is the fact that the coordinator will serve better than just an overall task force that will create regional task forces, that will then come back to the Congress and give us some legislative ideas on how we can even pinpoint more efforts towards this particular crime. As you know, many, many Americans, many Americans have saved up their money to be able to purchase their first home. Many of these individuals that are out there coordinating to take their money, to take their life savings, to be able to take every little thing that they have punched in for and punched out for many, many years, some of them have taken the money their loved ones left for them once they have passed on to be able to buy that first home, and for them to be taken advantage of is one of the bad things that we look at in our society. We do know we have undesirables out there that are willing to prey on hardworking Americans. This legislation is urgent. It's right now for the moment. I am glad we are on the floor. I want to thank the chairman of the committee, and, also, our colleagues on the other side of the aisle, for working to push this legislation to passage here in the House and hopefully through the Senate and on to the President of the United States, so that we don't have to continue to see the number of victims, especially seniors and especially first-time home buyers, fall victim to these individuals that are out there. I ask for the Members to please support H.R. 6853, the legislation that would create a nationwide mortgage coordinator in the FBI.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 30th year of operation of the Afro-In Books and Cafe, Inc. in Miami, Florida. Three decades ago, founders Dr. Earl A. Wells and his wife Eursla Wells envisioned a community where people of all ages could congregate with hunger and thirst for the wisdom of their ancestors and explore all there is to know about the great people from which they come. All the while, the Afro-In Books and Cafe, Inc. has retained its prominence as Miami's oldest and largest black book store. Founded in 1978, Afro-In Books and Things served as a meeting place for artists and intellectuals to discuss the important issues of the day. Both founders are retired educators from the Miami-Dade County Public School System and fulfilled their dream of bringing quality books, periodicals, and literature to the inner city community of Greater Miami. Since its opening, the bookstore always made it a point to feature books written by and about people of color. Additionally, Dr. and Mrs. Wells were instrumental in the development of the Miami International Book Fair which has grown tremendously over the years. The Afro-In Books and Cafe, Inc. remains an annual participant in the book fair. From 1996 to December 2005, the operation of Afro-In Books and Things was managed by Mr. William D.C. Clark and his wife Stephana, who is the grand-daughter of Miami pioneer Dr. D.A. Dorsey. They significantly expanded the selections offered in the bookstore. In February 2006, Afro-In Books and Things was obtained by Ms. Jamila Capp and her father, Dr. Larry Capp. The bookstore was renamed, Afro-In Books and Cafe, Inc. and was remodeled to include a cafe, patio dining, and Internet services. Currently, the new Afro-In Books and Cafe, Inc., has hosted many book-signings by such luminaries as Dr. Rudy Crew, Paul Robeson Jr. and many local authors. In addition, lectures, poetry readings, political, and community meetings are held regularly at the bookstore. Over the years, the Afro-In Books and Cafe, Inc., has hosted many celebrities including Maya Angelou, Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith, Bernadette Stanis, and many others. Madam Speaker, please join me in applauding the Afro-In Books and Cafe, Inc. as it celebrates 30 years of synonymous quality and exceptional public service. From its early days, the bookstore has possessed a commitment to preserving history, educating the community, and upholding a determination to create an environment that welcomes all who are prepared to enrich their knowledge.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the 50th anniversary of the Church of the Open Door, United Church of Christ in Miami, Florida. Since its inception, the church has stood in the community as a symbol of perseverance and inspiration. This historic anniversary of the Church of the Open Door, United Church of Christ marks a time of remembrance of a storied past and renewal for a bright future. In April 1958, Marie Faulkner Brown, daughter of Congregational minister Rev. Dr. William F. Faulkner, sought to fulfill a specific need of her Congregational background through spiritual guidance. She called together a group of 10 people with a Congregational denominational background similar to hers to discuss the possibility of forming an interracial Congregational church in Miami. The small group continued to meet regularly and chose the name, Congregational Christian Fellowship. The superintendent of the Florida Conference, Rev. Dr. Robbins Ralph was impressed with the honesty and eloquence of this beginning group and appointed Dr. Wiley Scott, pastor of Miami Beach Community Church, to chair a steering committee that provided leadership for the group from local Congregational ministers. Superintendent Ralph and Dr. Scott were instrumental in sharing their favorable impression of this beginning church with the national church. The national church was generous with funds to buy a parsonage on Northwest 9th Avenue, and subsidized the group for 5 years. It also gave financial support to purchase the property where the church is now located, the current edifice and the family life center. The group began meeting in the Florida room of Dr. Kelsey L. Pharr and later moved to Bethany Seventh Day Adventist Union Academy for Sunday morning worship services. The name Church of the Open Door, Congregational, was voted on September 20, 1959. The church was incorporated on September 28, 1959, with 75 charter members. The first interim pastor, a Congregational minister, was Rev. Dr. Charles Wicks. Rev. Dr. Henry Curtis McDowell, a missionary to Angola, West Africa, for 40 years, served as the founding pastor. The current pastor, who previously served as pastor of Amistad United Church of Christ in Maryland, is Rev. Dr. R. Joaquin Willis. Madam Speaker, please join me in applauding and honoring the Church of the Open Door, United Church of Christ as it celebrates 50 years of dedicated fellowship. Throughout the past 50 years, the clergy and members have dedicated themselves to providing spirituality, service, and guidance to the church and greater community of Miami, Florida. It is my hope the Church of the Open Door, United Church of Christ continues to stand as a beacon of resolve, inspiration, and worship for many years to come.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Thank you so very much, Madam Chairman. I would like to thank my leader and colleague from the great city of Detroit, Ms. Kilpatrick, for yielding the balance of the time. We will continue to go down the list I have been given here, Mr. Speaker, as we continue to honor our fallen colleague. Next on this list I have Congressman Danny Davis from the great State of Illinois, a very good friend of the Congresswoman, Stephanie Tubbs Jones. (Mr. DAVIS of Illinois asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. MEEK of Florida. I thank you so much, Congressman Davis. And she was very proud of the fact that she was able to work with you on the Second Chance Act, and was there when the bill was signed. I want to call on my very good friend and Stephanie's good friend, I call her my Brooklyn Congresswoman, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke from the great State of New York.

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Thank you so very much, Congresswoman. And I know that Ms. Tubbs Jones meant so much to you. I would like to call on another good friend and new friend, but a colleague of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones, Ms. Donna Edwards from the Fourth District of Maryland, who posted her condolences statement on the 21st of this month, Mr. Speaker, the passing of Ms. Tubbs Jones.

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Thank you so very much for that very kind and moving dedication to Congresswoman Tubbs Jones. One of my good friends from California, Laura Richardson, who has taken this Congress by storm and has worked very well in the 37th Congressional District of California, Mr. Speaker, it is very unique having women that have come to Congress because, as you know, the Congressional Black Caucus has been hit hard this particular Congress with losing three women of our caucus in this 110th Congress alone. And all of them played a very substantial role. This next speaker is, I wouldn't call a replacement, but an addition to that greatness as we continue to march on to allow good representation from all over the country here, Congresswoman Laura Richardson.

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Thank you so very much, Congresswoman. Mr. Speaker, I am just going to yield time for my good friend and a good friend of my mother's, Congresswoman Carrie Meek, Marcy Kaptur, who is the Dean of women here in the House, longest serving woman on the Appropriations Committee, and also Dean of the Ohio delegation that held an hour prior to this one as we dedicated a resolution and condolences of the House to Stephanie Tubbs Jones. And as she sat here listening to the stories and testimonials of members of the Congressional Black Caucus of how we remember Stephanie Tubbs Jones, I turned around and I said, Marcy, do you have anything else that you would like to share with the House? And she said, I want to talk about the red dress. So I want to hear this too. I yield to Ms. Kaptur.

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Thank you so very much. And Marcy, I just want to thank you for being a good friend of Stephanie's, and continuing to carry the flag here in the House. I would like to bring on another Member, a great Member of Congress, and she is a good, good sister of Stephanie's, was a good friend and traveled to Cleveland in between Stephanie's departure and her homegoing service to be with Stephanie's family. And we know her as Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee. And she was another fighter here in Congress that sleeps with her fists balled up. And Stephanie and her were sisters as it relates to that. So my good friend from the great State of Texas, Sheila Jackson-Lee.

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Thank you so very much, Congresswoman. And it is a very kind tribute and kind words given to our colleague. Mr. Speaker, I just want to take the remainder of our time just to speak a few minutes on reflection of my friend and colleague, Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones. I can say that there has been several days of reflection and testimony to her life and her presence here in this Chamber. I can also share with the House, Mr. Speaker, that this tribute will continue on Wednesday. The Speaker has called a memorial service of the House and of the Congress in Statuary Hall at 11 a.m., so those Members of the House or staff and friends can come and reflect and hear further stories of Stephanie and her contributions to this great country. The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation will host a reception for all in the Rayburn room afterwards, which we will post pictures of Stephanie and the contributions that she's not only made to this country but also to young people who are walking the Halls of Congress. She spearheaded efforts within the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation to provide internships and fellowships for so many students who ordinarily wouldn't have the opportunity to do it working along with our Congressional Black Caucus spouses. I came to the Chamber today with mixed feelings. It was a special kind of warmness that hit me when I walked into the Chamber because so many times we would have the chance to talk and laugh and talk about things that took place either over the weekend or over the break. And ``Stephanie Hall,'' like leader Boehner talked about a little earlier today, her office is right down the hall from my office, and we served on the Ways and Means Committee together. So it's almost like not only Congresswoman Tubbs Jones, but her staff and my staff, it was almost like having a good neighbor, someone you can go get a cup of sugar from. Someone you can go sit down and hold common goals with. And we all know--and you heard a lot of folks saying you're going to miss her because she was one of those individuals that you assumed was just going to pop up at any moment. I was talking with my wife when we attended her home-going service in Ohio, and she said, ``It just seems like Stephanie's going to walk up behind us and say, `Hey, what's going on,' '' because that was the kind of unique person that she was. I think during this whole time as I continue to reflect and really live deep in the spirit of how good God is, here in the present to have served with someone like Stephanie, to have folks on both sides of the aisle, to have people who know what it means to punch in and punch out every day when they go to work, those that wake up early to catch the bus to go to work, those that are cleaning hotel rooms, those that are driving the carts at Cleveland Airport. There are so many times that Stephanie would talk to them and make them feel like real people. All of them, including what we may call the ``blue shirts'' here in the Capitol building, those that work here, those that clean, those uniforms, the police officers, everyone knew Stephanie for being the person that will treat them the same way they would treat a Member of Congress or a President or a leader of a country or what have you. I say all of that to say that the best conversation that I keep going back to, and I spoke of this at her memorial service, was a conversation that I had with my mother about Stephanie Tubbs Jones. Stephanie was a member of our family. Period. Dot. And she would travel to south Florida and would do things together with my mother, and they had a relationship prior to my arrival because they were both Delta sisters. And it took me, Mr. Speaker, a while, because my mother and I really work hard to talk every day. And I was holding off from calling her because I said I know if I call her, we're going to get in the middle of this conversation about Stephanie. And sure enough, we did. And my mother, who I consider the person in my family that's closest to the cross--that's not in the way of saying that she's about to pass on, but she's very spiritual--and a woman who has traveled a similar route as Stephanie has traveled in her time. We were talking, and all of a sudden she just rained down on the phone and said, ``Kendrick, she had an appointment with the Maker.'' And that has provided more comfort to me, and I believe to others, of saying that why would she have to have such an untimely death. Well, it's not up to us to say what is timely and what is untimely. That's something that's already planned from birth. And just looking at her trail and her track as we continue to reflect on her light, that God would allow her to play a national role in the primary election and to be judged by others and cherished by certain individuals and to be known nationally and internationally for her presence in the primary election, this Presidential election. And then after the primary is over, be the person, serve as the instrument to bring those that were the two that were running for office against one another together in a special way. And to be able to work on behalf of Senator Obama, to have that opportunity before her death to be able to bring them together at her homegoing service is beyond coincidental. So we have to really look at every day, cherish every day as though it's our last day to serve. Stephanie spent a number of days, a number of hours hugging those that may have had some doubt about her judgment and her actions, but that's the kind of person because she had this uniqueness that very few may have. So I close with this, Mr. Speaker, because I almost feel like a visiting Baptist preacher. If I had time, I would really be able to get into the deepness of Stephanie's presence, and it will always be here in this Chamber. I'm glad she lived life in the way she lived it because so many times those that pass and they move on, they say, ``Goodness. I wish they would have had the opportunity to do this, this, and this,'' and I can't say that about Stephanie because she did it all. She held all of us up. She will continue to hold all of us up, and as long as I'm a Member in this Congress and a Member of the Ways and Means Committee and serving in the leadership position, she will be someone I will never ever forget because she called Tim Ryan and I--you know, we know about Mervyn--but we were her congressional sons. She would put it this way, ``Tim is my white son and Kendrick is my black congressional son.'' And Tim could not be here tonight, but I know he will be here in the future. And I want the Members to know that she loved this body. And we will forever, ever remember her, and we will continue to have this great celebration of life for the next coming days. Mr. Speaker, with that, I want to not only thank our chair, Congresswoman Kilpatrick, who serves as the Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, but all Members of Congress that have come forth this evening to share words of comfort with the family and the country for such a loss of a great leader, a great hero, and someone that has been an icebreaker for so many people. My love and all of our love and our condolences go out to the family and her staff, which was her extended family, here in Congress and back in Cleveland, and to the hundreds of constituents that wrapped the streets to pay their appreciation to Stephanie. And may her spirit live long in the Halls of Congress. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it's an honor to be on the floor. As you know, the 30-Something Working Group has been quite consistent coming to the floor over the years, sharing with the American people and the Members of this House, sharing with them and shedding light on things that we should be working on or things that we have worked on and try to push hopefully for their passage throughout this Congress and to get the President to sign many of these great reforms that we're actually doing now. Mr. Speaker, it has been quite interesting. I kind of got a false alarm that I needed to be on floor by 10 o'clock because the previous hour was going to end, but I'm kind of glad, Mr. Speaker, that that false alarm was wrong because I had a chance to do something usually I don't do, spend some time here prior to going on the floor. Our schedules are so tight, but I was actually running out to get here, and I'm sitting here and listening to the Members on the other side of the aisle, many of whom I would call colleagues and friends. But the thing about our democracy is that we can disagree on many issues and we can speak to each other and have debate, and at the same time come together as colleagues towards common change on some issues that we can work together on. But, as you know, many pages of the Congressional Record have my words and many words of Mr. Altmire and others that are here in this House in the 30-Something Working Group. I always say that we focus on fact and not fiction, and I could not help but listen to the colleagues on the other side saying they want votes up or down on drilling or they want to conserve or we need to move towards a greener America. And I lived through the 108th and the 109th Congress under Republican control. Conserve? Green? What's that? Efficiency? What are you talking about? I sit on the Ways and Means Committee, and we spend a lot of time trying to figure out how we could put forth tax credits to Americans who are looking to turn greener, have greener homes, and to be able to conserve and help us towards trying to push the scientists and industry, pushing them in the direction of alternative fuels so we can invest in the Midwest versus the Middle East. I just couldn't help, Mr. Altmire and Members, to listen to some of the Members that went over to ANWR this past weekend. It's quite interesting, because I took a trip down with the Speaker and several other Members down to Louisiana to fulfill our commitment to the people of the gulf coast that this government will never leave them behind as they were left behind in many areas immediately after the storm, and that's well documented. That's not me talking, you can get on the Internet or you can just remember how folks were stranded there. Now they are trying to bring their lives back together. I am very, very pleased and encouraged to report to the House, and I know that the Democratic leadership will share, but this was a congressional CODEL. It wasn't just a Democratic CODEL. We had Republican Members at the last minute drop out, some of whom are from Louisiana, whose districts we visited, their constituents, that we were concerned about what they haven't received yet and also looking at what has worked so that we can make sure that the taxpayers' dollars are being spent appropriately. When we look at the whole issue of the gulf coast and the rebounding of the gulf coast, you can't help but understand the gas down there is like $3.97. I even found gas there at $3.89. It was interesting, because the refineries are there, and it's closer for the transportation costs that many of us have to pay in your district and down in my district down in south Florida. But when we started talking about the solution, toward some of the issues that the Members from the other side were talking about, on the Republican side, I have the names, which I will not call, but 11 Members from the Republican side went on this ANWR trip, went to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. When they were in the majority, they didn't go. When they had the opportunity to deal with some of these issues, they didn't deal with them. They were too busy, some of them, watching this chart climb to the top, watching these record-breaking profits on behalf of Big Oil. I don't blame Big Oil, I just blame the old Republican majority for setting the stage and the administration for setting the stage for these record-breaking profits that these oil companies were making or are making. To try to turn this around and to hear now, talking about conserve and all, this has happened under their watch, this perfect storm that they had, both House and Senate and the White House. I am not going to dwell on that, but I just wanted to bring that chart out one more time, because I think it's very, very important to what we're looking at. Then when I start looking at the Members that went on the trip, the ANWR, quote-unquote, we're going to come up with a solution to bring gas prices down. On the DRILL Act, which encouraged use it or lose it, which was a Democratic initiative that we had votes on the floor, every last Member that went on that trip voted against that bill. That was about bringing gas prices down now. That was about let's deal with the Strategic Oil Reserve, bring them down now. Use it or lose it, another piece of legislation, H.R. 6251, every last Member that went on that trip voted no for gas prices to come down, price gouging. Every Member with the exception of two folks that went on that congressional CODEL trip voted ``no.'' This is the real kicker, H.R. 6049, and the reason why I am calling these House Resolutions out is that I don't want any Member or anyone that can hear me or see me to think that it serves any great pleasure for me to be here on the floor spreading fiction and stretching and embellishing. I don't have to do that. Go to the Congressional Record. H.R. 6049, Renewable Energy Act, every last Member that went on that trip voted no. So when you start thinking about it and you start hearing what's being said here, that's the reason why I like that we have folks that get all this information, we go back and forth, we meet weekly, and we try to get all this stuff together. We spend all this time, we come to the floor, I think that's the reason why the 30-Something Working Group has the credibility that we have and have built over the years, because we don't come to the floor for entertainment purposes. We come to the floor because this is serious business. There are people going through heartache and trying to figure out how they are going to get from point A to point B. We don't have time to say, well, if we could only have a vote. Well, you know something, we're having these votes, and the folks on the other side of the aisle are saying if we could only have a vote, they're just not there. Energy security, a number of them voted ``no.'' No OPEC price fixing, only five of those individuals out of 11 that went on the trip voted for no price fixing. So when you look at how you can make this turn, and many of those votes have sent a signal to the White House on some of these votes that he knows that we can't override them, because a number of Republicans have voted on behalf of a philosophy that has allowed Big Oil to make these record-making profits. So we are going to talk about many things, and I know that we are going to go around to Members here tonight. But I am just so glad to be here tonight like I am when we do get together to be able to talk about these issues. I yield to the gentleman from Pennsylvania.

Mr. MEEK of Florida

Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I would like open by saying inclusion of all members of society regardless of race, creed or color, is the strength of our all volunteer Armed Forces. Saturday, July 26, 2008 will mark the 60th anniversary when President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9981 demonstrating the moral courage to ``do what was right and honorable''--to integrate the armed forces of our country. Since the Revolutionary War, African Americans have participated in cod every war or conflict. There were, at the time, countless examples of bravery and noteworthy service that spanned from Crispus Attucks to the 54th Massachusetts Regiment the Buffalo Soldiers, to the Tuskegee Airmen. Service in the greatest war or World War II was the culmination of much collective sacrifice and many individual acts of patriotism. The decision to issue Executive Order 9981 which integrated the armed forces confirmed that diversity is our strength and not our weakness. Since the signing of Executive Order 9981, I can forthrightly say that our country has been stronger and a better society overall. President Truman and his advisors recognized that complete racial integration at all ranks is an essential prerequisite to a cohesive and highly effective fighting force. We see success with the challenges of diversity as being critical to national security. One poignant example is the way our armed forces were hampered with racial conflict in the ranks during the Vietnam conflict in the 1960s and 1970s. This serves as an effective lesson on the importance of inclusion and equal opportunity at all levels of leadership. However, there has been progress, and I believe that the U.S. Military is a pioneer in providing equal opportunity for its uniformed members above and beyond what is usually seen in the civilian workforce. In truth, a senior military boardroom is a much closer semblance of our society than the average corporate boardroom. But, we can and should do better because it is simply the right and necessary thing to do. Senior military leadership diversity is a matter of strategic importance to the future well-being of our fighting forces. I have initiated dialogue with the senior leadership of each service branch to lay this issue on the table for a healthy discussion. Of particular note and at their request, I have met with the Commandant of the Marine Corps (General Conway), the Chief of Naval Operations (Admiral Roughead) twice, the Secretary of the Army (General Casey) and plan to meet with the new Secretary of the Air Force (nominee General Schwartz) in the very near future. Their willingness to discuss difficult topics and issues is a testament to their dedication to finding a suitable and longstanding resolution to establishing diversity within DoD. We collectively believe that diversity within DoD and more specifically at the most senior or Flag officer level is critical to recruiting and retention as well as the national security of this nation. Over the past few years there has been some progress in terms of promotion of Flag level officers and assignment to high profile positions critical to national security. Two examples are Lieutenant General Lloyd Austin currently serving as Commander Multi-National Forces (MNF) in Iraq and Major General Walt E. Gaskin who served as the Commander Multi-National Forces (MNF) West in Iraq. It is prudent that we accept the fact that diversity is a necessary component within the officer corps of the services and more specifically the Flag officer pool. Of greatest importance is the most senior flag level rank, which represents the major decision-making and influential officer level population within the Department of Defense. Rather than substituting my interpretation of the myriad ideas discussed in my recent meetings, I think it is best to provide a forum for all of the principal stakeholders and subject matter experts to delve deeper into the issue and provide the Committee on Armed Services with their recommendations. I have respectfully laid before the House Armed Services Committee language creating a Commission on senior military leadership diversity in the House FY09 NDAA. The Commission will review current policy and programs to provide recommendations to the Pentagon to insure that qualified minority and female officers are given the same career advancement opportunities as their counterparts. As you know, of the 39 active four-star Generals, there is currently only one minority, General Kip Ward of Africa Command (AFRICOM). Of the 141 three-star level or 0-9 rank Flag level officers, there are only six minority Generals and five female Generals. Minorities of African-, Hispanic-, Asian-, Pacific Islanders, American Indians, and Native Alaskan decent represent slightly over 19 percent of the over 207,000 officers in the four service branches, but make up over 38 percent of the enlisted ranks. I believe that just as President Truman had the courage to sign Executive Order 9981 that integrated the armed services in 1948 that it is now time to take a holistic look at the makeup of our officer corps from the most junior to the most senior leadership position to insure that it is diverse and balanced. We now have the opportunity in our nation's history to begin to put in place a long term solution to the long term challenge of establishing diversity at all levels within our military. I believe that the onus falls our shoulders to provide a continuation of the courageous initiative that President Truman undertook in order to fully realize integration at all levels within the armed forces and in particular at the senior leadership level. I respectfully request that the Congress continue to support the establishment of a Commission to discuss diversity in the officer corps and insure equal access to opportunities for the most senior leadership ranks of our Armed Forces.