Candice Miller

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, today we are debating an issue that has tremendous consequences, certainly for America, for Iraq, for the entire world. After the absolutely horrific attacks on our Nation of the 9/11, I think the al Qaeda thought America would respond by perhaps shooting off a few cruise missiles and go right back to our couches watching the football games. They calculated that Americans would not have the political will to respond; that we would be afraid that if we did respond, that terrorists might ratchet up their attacks against us. Well, they calculated wrong. They seriously underestimated the resolve of the American people, and they most certainly did not understand an American President who was not afraid, who was willing to take the fight to them. They never expected Afghanistan, and they certainly never expected Iraq. Today, we have successfully removed the regimes of both the Taliban and of Saddam Hussein, and, as we continue to successfully prosecute the war on terror, as we liberate millions of people, as we continue to export freedom and democracy and liberty across the world, the burden is on us to recognize that we are at a pivotal moment in world history, that we face the task of either stabilizing and ensuring a free Iraq, a democratic Iraq, or not. We need to decide if this war was truly about liberation and not occupation, or let the enemies of freedom point to the United States and say, see, they never really meant it, that this really was about the oil after all, anyway. Conflict with Saddam was never optional; it was only a matter of when. And if we would have waited, the cost would surely be higher, both in terms of dollars as well as in terms of human life. Our mission in Iraq has been incredibly successful, and that success has translated in mitigation against future terrorist attacks whose cost cannot be calculated. Today, the entire world watches this vote, and the citizens of the world will be trying to decipher the message that we are sending. I say the message that we should send is that America is there to help. America will not cut and run. America is serious about assisting them to build their own democracy. The world is watching us now. We must not fail. Pass the supplemental.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, last week we received very exciting and positive news that the Bush economic plan is working. Both business and individuals are seeing an upturn in the economy. In September, payrolls increased by 57,000 jobs, showing increased confidence on behalf of job providers. Personal income and personal spending were both up, indicating increased consumer confidence in the economy. Clearly, the tax cuts are working, and our economy is improving. But we do have more work to do. We must pass a comprehensive energy policy to help fuel our economy. We must open more markets abroad to export our manufactured goods. We must rein in out-of-control litigation, which is a hidden tax on our economy. We must make health care more affordable for families and businesses. And, finally, we must make the Bush tax cuts permanent so that there is certainty for families and small businesses as the recovery moves forward. We know what we have to do to further expand our economy. It is time to get the job done.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I come to the floor today to urge my colleagues to support H.R. 408, to provide for the expansion of the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Lakeshore, of course in my home State, the great State of Michigan. I also want to thank my colleagues, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Camp) and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Stupak) for offering this legislation. As an avid Great Lakes sailor, I have been privileged to enjoy the natural beauty of our shoreline of my home State from both the land as well as the water. I am committed to preserving and protecting our lakeshore so that others can come to see the breathtaking splendor that we know as Michigan. No part of our lakeshore is more spectacular than the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. Congress established the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Lakeshore in 1970 to preserve this national treasure along the shores of Lake Michigan for all time. For generations, Michigan citizens and tourists from around the Nation and the world have come to the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes to enjoy the spectacular beauty of our shoreline and to enjoy the forest and the wildlife that this area does have to offer. The Sleeping Bear Dunes were actually created by the retreat of the glaciers from the area, and they rise 400 feet above Lake Michigan. They offer an incredible view of this wonderful lake, and it is difficult, I think, to imagine a more beautiful view anywhere in the Nation. In addition to the view offered atop the dunes, families can also explore beech and maple forests, beautiful meadows, wetlands lakes and streams. Wildlife is bountiful all over the park there. We have over 160 different species of birds nesting in the area, as well as red fox, coyotes, and our Michigan white-tailed deer. The expansion of this park, I believe, is needed to preserve even more of the surrounding beach front for future generations to enjoy. Most people do not know that in Michigan, actually, we have 2,242 miles of shoreline and another 879 miles, if the islands are included as well. We actually have the longest shoreline, outside of Alaska. This actually equals the length of the Atlantic coast, if you think about it, from Maine to Florida. So the Great Lakes shoreline is an important part of our identity. I just want to demonstrate how important the Sleeping Bear Dunes actually are to the State of Michigan. This is a children's book. At one time it was the best-selling children's book in the entire State of Michigan. It tells the old Indian legend of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, where the mother bear and her two cubs were swimming across Lake Michigan, and the mother bear made it to the Sleeping Bear Dunes area, and the two cubs did not. They became North and South Manitou. But this is a wonder, wonderful children's book. It is the kind of children's story that we talk to our children about in Michigan when we put them to sleep at night. So, really, the Sleeping Bear Dunes is such a critical part of our identity in Michigan. I certainly urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, today marks another watershed moment in the liberation of the Iraqi people. Today, the children of Iraq return to school. Only this year, things will be much different. When they enter their schoolroom, for the first time in their lives, they will not have their oppressor staring at them from a picture on the wall. Nor will they be subject to torture and prison for not swearing allegiance to that oppressor. For the first time they will be free to learn. They will be focused on reading, writing and arithmetic, not on hate, incitement, and brutality forced on them by the former dictator. Operation Iraqi Freedom has brought freedom to the children of Iraq. They will now be free to learn, free to achieve, and free to help build a new society based on freedom, which is now a reality. For all of those who question whether we have been successful in Iraq, I ask that they look at the faces of the Iraqi children who will be tasting freedom for the first time in their young lives and ask if they would be better off with Saddam staring at them from a wall. Today is a day to celebrate the freedom of Iraqi children and the hope for a new generation.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to support adoption of H. Res. 357. I congratulate the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Miller) for shepherding this through the committee process, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on H. Res. 357.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, this resolution, of which I am a very proud cosponsor, honors the life and legacy of Bob Hope. He dedicated his life to the Nation he loved, and with House Resolution 357 we in Congress can honor his life. Bob Hope not only entertained America, he contributed to the welfare of our society through his generosity. He donated more than $1 billion to hospitals and charities and civic organizations. He donated his time, and he risked his life for the benefit of his fellow citizens serving in the Armed Forces. Throughout his life, he gave of himself to others. He represented the United States and its citizens selflessly. This Nation is blessed to have had the pleasure of knowing him. ``Bob, thanks for the memories.'' Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Miller), the sponsor of this well-deserved resolution, and I commend him for his work on the resolution.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 357) honoring the life and legacy of Bob Hope.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, this House justifiably honors numerous Americans each Congress, many of whom we know well and others who are less famous; but we may never pay tribute to anyone who selflessly devoted more time and energy toward promoting the general welfare in this country than the incomparable Bob Hope. This legislation, H.R. 3011, introduced by the gentleman from California (Mr. Schiff), designates the postal facility in Burbank, California, as the Bob Hope Post Office Building, and all 53 members of the California State delegation have signed on as cosponsors of this legislation. Bob Hope lived a wonderful life that spanned one full century. Towards the end of his life he was perhaps the biggest giant in the American entertainment industry; and whether it was vaudeville or Broadway, TV, movies or radio, America grew up with Bob Hope during the 20th century, and we laughed all the way. The legendary star of radio, television and film was born in Eltham, England, on May 29, 1903. The Hope family moved to Cleveland, Ohio, when Bob was 4, and he became a United States citizen in 1920. With his passing on July 27, 2003, the country that he loved and gave so much to mourned. This Nation can never repay Bob Hope or his family for his commitment or his love of country. But with the passage of H.R. 3011, this House can speak for the citizens of this land in saying, ``You were a great American, Bob Hope. Thank you.'' The son of a stonecutter and an aspiring singer and entertainer, Bob Hope exemplifies the American Dream. To supplement his income when he began working in his teenage years, Bob began to follow in his mother's footsteps by doing some singing in nearby restaurants. Finally, he learned the art of vaudeville, and by 1928 he had adopted his stage name Bob Hope. Bob eventually secured a variety show on NBC radio that lasted 18 years. By 1940, it was the most widely listened-to show in America. In 1950, he signed an exclusive TV deal which spawned a partnership that lasted more than 40 years and produced hundreds of programs and specials. On the big screen, he costarred with Hollywood legends like Bing Crosby, Shirley Ross, Paulette Goddard, and Dorothy Lamour during his movie career that lasted from the late 1930s through the Forties and Fifties. Before it was all over, he had starred in 75 motion pictures, nearly 500 television shows, and literally thousands of radio programs. However, most Americans remember Bob best for his performances for the U.S. troops through the United Service Organization. During the early years of World War II, in 1941, he visited troops stationed in California to tape his radio show. After doing both radio and television shows over nearly five decades for U.S. troops located all over the globe, Bob Hope performed in front of troops for the last time in 1990 for servicemen and women readying to fight in the Persian Gulf War. Over the years, he traveled to bring a little bit of home to American soldiers abroad in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The gift that Bob Hope gave to the soldiers defending our freedom is priceless. In a time of great danger, the soldiers were entertained and were able to escape the trying times of their lives just for a moment. Mr. Speaker, Bob Hope expressed the love of a Nation for the men and women risking their lives for all of us back at home. He touched the lives of these brave men and women because he knew that they were fighting for us, for our freedoms. Bob Hope passed away at 100 years of age, and we all greatly miss him. But he passed away serenely one evening. In fact, to quote his daughter, Linda, she said, ``I don't think you could have asked for a more peaceful, beautiful death. And I think all the good vibes my father put out during his lifetime came back to take him up.'' There is little that can be said that has not been said about what a wonderful person Bob was. He was given 54 honorary doctorates, the Congressional Medal of Honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, and was even knighted by his native Great Britain. But today, I am sincerely proud that we have a chance to say just a few more words about Bob and his legacy. Every American owes Bob a little something for his contributions to the fabric of this Nation. It is certainly appropriate that this House give at least a little bit back to Bob Hope by naming after him this post office in Burbank, California, where the NBC Studios are located, a place we all know he spent much of his career. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to vote for the passage of H.R. 3011 that commemorates the matchless life of Bob Hope, and I congratulate the gentleman from California for his work on this bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on the bill under consideration.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume to simply say that this is truly a worthwhile measure, and I want to again commend the gentleman from California for his work on it. I certainly urge all my colleagues to support the passage of this measure.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3011) to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 135 East Olive Avenue in Burbank, California, as the ``Bob Hope Post Office Building''.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support today of H.R. 13, the Museum and Library Services Act. I would like to thank my distinguished colleague and friend, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Hoekstra) for introducing this legislation. His leadership on education issues has been instrumental, quite frankly, in preparing our Nation's youth for their future and for ensuring a high quality of life in our communities. As a cosponsor of H.R. 13, I urge my colleagues to pass this very important legislation. The Museum and Library Services Act does more than simply authorize funds. It improves the efficiency and delivery of the services that libraries and museums supply to facilitate access to important resources such as reference materials, classical literature and the Internet also. In addition, this legislation coordinates services offered by libraries and museums so they can match these goals outlined in No Child Left Behind. By giving these great institutions the tools they need to maximize their impact on schools and communities, this House can confirm its commitment to ensure that, indeed, no child is left behind. The effect of libraries and museums on education cannot be overlooked, but we must also examine the role these institutions play in improving the quality of life of the communities that they serve. Libraries and museums are cultural centers and meeting places for friends and for families. They are foundations of learning and of entertainment. We must support these institutions so that they can continue to support our community. Mr. Speaker, I found it imperative that I speak today on H.R. 13. As my distinguished colleague had mentioned, as Michigan's former Secretary of State, actually part of my responsibilities for 7 years was serving as Official Historian of the great State of Michigan and the department I oversaw had jurisdiction, of course, over the Michigan Historical Center. This center is truly one of the greatest cultural assets in our State, and so I have firsthand knowledge of the great work of our State's libraries and of our museums, and with the passage of H.R. 13, these institutions will be able to continue their great work. In October of this year, the Clinton-Macomb Public Library will be dedicating its new main library back in my home County of Macomb. This facility will be the largest library in Macomb County and actually will be the seventh largest library building in our great State of Michigan. The services of this new state-of-the-art library, some that they will provide, are simply remarkable. Not only will it have the newest technology that is available, but the library will enact a 24-hour delivery system. This will actually be the first of its kind in the world. Additionally, its automated sorting will be only one of 10 in the United States. The Clinton-Macomb Public Library will be more than a collection of books or microfilm, its children services have been designed to meet the literacy needs of our children with a strong focus on pre- schoolers. The new library will include learning centers for children and there will be computers with educational software designed to inspire learning in young children. In addition, new technology will be available to all library users regardless of age. The construction of this library is truly a great thing. With the advent of the Internet many believed that libraries would be a thing of the past. The Clinton-Macomb Public Library is proof positive that this is not true. Instead, the demands for services provided by libraries has absolutely exploded. It has expanded. The libraries and museums are often on the cutting edge in utilization of technology as a tool for customer service. Mr. Speaker, this legislation is good government. It supports the institutions that positively affect the lives of our citizens, and in a time when our children are exposed to so many things that are negative, libraries and museums offer services and resources that help our children grow and learn. I was proud to cosponsor this bill. I was proud to vote in favor of this bill in March of this year, and I am certainly proud to speak in favor of the bill today.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, in the hustle and bustle of doing the people's work here in the Nation's capital, we sometimes neglect to recognize the people who make America the great nation that she is. America's greatness can be found in everyday people who work hard, raise their children as best they can, and sacrifice for their country. In short, America's greatness can be found in people like Alice Errington of Harrison Township, MI. Alice was born and raised on Staten Island, New York, and attended Hunter College in Manhattan. In 1951, she married Bill Errington just after he completed pilot training in the United States Air Force. The couple lived in Texas, Arizona, Florida, Bermuda, California, and New Mexico before moving, to Michigan in 1966. Their first two children, Glenn and Claire, were born in Arizona, son Daniel in Bermuda, and daughter Joan in California. After Bill retired from the Air Force, the family moved to Harrison Township, MI. Alice started her career in public affairs in 1973 as a GS-03 clerk- typist at the Selfridge Air National Guard Base. As the organization of the Guard units at Selfridge evolved, Alice remained in public affairs and became a public affairs specialist. In 1992, she became the public affairs officer. In addition to being a busy Air Force wife and mother to four children, Alice worked as a substitute teacher in the public schools, and was active in chapel and garden club activities. Since 1972, she has been a member of Knox Church, where she is a Sunday School teacher and treasurer of the adult Sunday School class. Alice is also a board member of the Michigan Air Guard Historical Association, a volunteer at the Selfridge Air Museum, and a member of the Mount Clemens Chapter of the Air Force Association, where she serves as military liaison. Alice will soon be retiring, and she looks forward to spending more time with her family, which now includes eight grandchildren. She will combine that with the pursuit of studies and hobbies that she has placed on the back-burner for awhile. Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing the greatness of America as found in Alice Errington and people like her. I yield back the remainder of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, 2 years ago cowardly terrorists attacked our Nation, killing innocent Americans who were simply going about their daily lives, and the aim of those terrorists was to change America. Well, the terrorists did change America, but not how they had hoped, because they renewed our patriotic pride for our Nation and what it stands for. They steeled our resolve and commitment to defeat the enemies of freedom. The true spirit of America is not to run away from a fight or wring our hands. Our true spirit was shown by the brave firefighters and police officers who charged into those burning towers to save fellow citizens. Our true spirit has been reflected by our men and women in uniform who have toppled the Taliban and Saddam Hussein bringing freedom to Afghanistan and Iraq. My message to the terrorists is this: You have failed. America's spirit has been strengthened, our purpose renewed, our dedication to freedom is stronger than ever. God bless America.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I have been struggling with this issue, and unlike so many other Members of this House who have had a position either for or against the voucher issue, in Michigan we actually had a statewide voucher proposal initiative on the ballot about 2\1/2\ years ago and it was defeated. I voted against the voucher initiative. All of the arguments that are being advanced here today were part of our debate in Michigan. They were part of the debate in the Committee on Government Reform, on which I sit: Concerns about cherry-picking students where the private schools have their very high standards and the smart ones are picked, but the slower ones may be left behind. Concerns about religious schools where by taking tax dollars, suddenly the government begins to enforce certain requirements. And it is the old saw: Once you take the shekel, the shackle will follow. I am a product of public education. I believe in public education. My grandmother was a schoolteacher in the public education system for almost 40 years, and I believe that public education has been the backbone of America. The educational opportunities may vary, but at least everyone has a chance at an education. However, this proposal is quite different, quite different from what happened in the great State of Michigan. In our State we were talking about a Constitutional change, and it would have affected literally every school district, even those considered blue-ribbon schools. This proposal only deals with the D.C. schools, which by any definition are almost the worst in the Nation. Quite frankly, I cannot imagine how it can get any worse, and I cannot turn my back when so many parents are literally on their knees begging for a chance for their children. I feel the D.C. case is an exception. First of all, the schools are not forced to participate. Secondly, we are assured by this legislation that we will be closely tracking the progress of this program to benchmark progress and to ensure scrutiny and oversight. Where our referendum in Michigan would have actually made the voucher proposal permanent by changing our Constitution, this proposal in D.C. is temporary, and it must show marked improvement in order to be reauthorized after 5 years. The elected leadership wants it. The mayor has spoken out. I think if we are truly compassionate, we must support this proposal and give these children a chance. Some are saying that we are voting for choice, and I say we are voting for chance. Give these children a chance.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, since September 11 our Nation has faced very trying times. For the first time in decades we have been threatened on our very own soil. We have seen American lives and the lives of others tragically lost. Proud symbols of the American dream and our prosperity have also been lost. But thankfully the American spirit was not. We have seen heroes rise from the dust where the World Trade Center towers once stood. American willpower and determination have united a Nation precisely when evildoers sought to divide us. We are resilient, proud, and since that fateful day, determined as ever. One nation, the United Kingdom, has stood proudly with us, shoulder to shoulder and shown solidarity and support as we vowed to end terrorism worldwide. The United States has no better friend than the United Kingdom and its leader, Prime Minister Tony Blair. Since day one, he has been a steadfast supporter of America in the war on terrorism and the ensuing campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq. In recognition of his unconditional support of our Nation, I strongly encourage my colleagues to join me in passing legislation to award Tony Blair the Congressional Gold Medal. There are no words to express America's deep-felt appreciation towards Mr. Blair; and while this award esteems a well-deserved honor to Mr. Blair, it hardly scratches the surface at how grateful we are for his support and the support of his country. The Congressional Gold Medal has a long history of recognizing military leaders, from its first recipient, George Washington, to Mother Teresa, Prime Minister Winston Churchill and current leaders like then-General Colin Powell and now Secretary of State. Prime Minister Blair has certainly demonstrated the bravery, the dedication and conviction to join this elite group of awardees. Moreover, he has shown himself to be a true friend; and for that I commend him, and I look forward to voting ``yes'' on H.R. 1511.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. The Aqaba summit earlier this month seemed to offer hope for the road map to peace offered by President Bush. For the first time, a Palestinian leader had condemned in Arabic for the entire world to hear the use of terrorism as a solution to the problems in the Middle East. Unfortunately, terrorist groups like Hamas refuse to stop the violence. The Palestinian Authority must immediately begin to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure in the West Bank and in Gaza, because there is no chance for a Palestinian state if terrorism continues. It is in the interest of the Palestinians to put an end to the violence. The victims of these attacks are not only innocent Israelis but also the Palestinian people who continue to be held down by the most radical among them. These radical terrorists communicate to the world their ultimate goal, the destruction of Israel. Any other end is unacceptable to these terrorists. Therefore, peace will not be reached until the terrorists are destroyed. The time has come to rekindle the hope of Aqaba, to end the terrorism, to get back on the road map to peace.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, Medicare was enacted in the 1960s to address a serious problem, and that problem, of course, was the lack of quality health care for our Nation's elderly. In the past 40 years, Medicare has become actually one of the most popular Federal programs ever. But so much has changed in the days since Medicare was first enacted. In the 1960s, quality health care usually meant going to the doctor's office and receiving treatment for a particular ailment, and, in many cases, it meant hospitalization. But today, things are very much different. Advancement in the development and effectiveness of prescription drugs has made the trip to the doctor, and, more importantly, a trip to the hospital, unnecessary in many, many cases. Prescription drugs are helping America's seniors to live longer lives, and healthier and happier lives as well. And yet, Medicare has not changed to cover those life-extending drugs, and too many seniors are being forced to make the impossible choice between their prescriptions and their other basic needs like food or rent. That, of course, is simply wrong. No senior should ever have to make the choice between bills and pills. The high cost of prescription drugs are forcing seniors to find less expensive ways to get the drugs that they need. I represent a district that shares an international border with Canada. I was meeting actually just this morning with my counterpart in the Canadian Parliament. We spoke about a number of issues, and we spoke about health care generally. But, more specifically, we spoke about a cottage industry that is springing up, prescription drug outlets on the Canadian side of the border. For many reasons, prescription drugs are less expensive in Canada, and many American seniors are driving across the Blue Water Bridge, in my district, between the cities of Port Huron and Sarnia, to have their prescriptions filled in Canada. What happens is they receive a script from an American doctor. Then they have it transmitted to a Canadian doctor, and it is rewritten in Canada and filled at one of its Canadian pharmacies that literally dot the border area there now. Again, it is just simply wrong for America's seniors, that they have to go to such lengths just to get the drugs that they need. So it is time for Congress to act. We must address the requirements of our senior population, and we need to bring Medicare in line with the medical system of the 21st Century. When I was campaigning for this office, I met with literally thousands of senior citizens and I asked them what they thought they needed in a prescription drug benefit. Through those conversations, I came up with what I consider to be four main goals, four fundamental caveats that need to be met with any new benefit: Number one, the benefit absolutely needs to be voluntary, so that many seniors who already have an existing drug benefit are not forced into a government plan that might not provide equal assistance that they have currently. Number two, there needs to be immediate assistance so that seniors are no longer forced to make the decision between their prescription drugs and other needs. Number three, it needs to be permanent so that it cannot be taken away or used as a political weapon against them in some future Congress. Number four, it must substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs so that seniors can enjoy their retirement years and health and without draining their life savings to pay for drugs. I am very hopeful that the plans that are now being debated by the other body, in the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Ways and Means, will meet each of these tests. One of the big concerns about the prescription drug benefit being debated is, of course, the cost of such a program. In these very tight budgetary times, or at any time, for that matter, we must keep a very close eye on the bottom line. But I truly believe that this benefit in the long run could actually save taxpayers money. How is that so? Because if we work together to keep seniors healthy through therapeutic drugs, we will actually lower the instances of hospitalization, which costs much more than giving seniors prescription drugs. Of course, that is the old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. I think it is very appropriate in this instance. I also truly believe that you can judge a society by the way that society treats its seniors. Our seniors have given so much to our Nation. Their hard work, their sacrifice is what has made America into the greatest country the world has ever known. These are the people that have fought wars, to defeat fascism, to defeat communism, to spread freedom across the globe. They have worked to build industry, to build strong communities, to raise their families that continue the American dream. Our senior citizens deserve no less than our very best efforts to finally solve the problem of a prescription drug benefit within Medicare, because that is exactly what they have given us throughout their lives. I look forward to working with my colleagues to, once and for all, get the job done.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, yesterday we saw a truly historic event as President Bush pushed the Israeli-Palestinian peace process forward. The road map to peace that President Bush has laid out has been accepted by the Israeli government, Palestinian Prime Minister Abu Mazan and other Arab leaders. In fact, Abu Mazan became the first Palestinian leader to denounce terrorism as a solution to the conflict with Israel; and, significantly, those words were spoken in Arabic for the entire Arab world to hear. Prime Minister Sharon also has helped move the process forward by not only continuing the dialogue but by taking concrete steps to show the commitment of the Israeli people to peace. This is all very promising, but now words need to be backed up with action. None of this would have been possible without the bold leadership of President George W. Bush. I praise President Bush for his efforts. This is just another example of the President's consistent message to the world that the United States is ready to lead the world in the fight against terrorism and in the pursuit of peace and freedom.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in the defense of the most defenseless population in our society, unborn children. Specifically, I rise to support the ban on partial-birth abortion. This procedure is so horrific that no justification can be given for its continuation. In this procedure, a baby is brought through the birth canal and just as the baby is about to take his or her first breath, the child is killed. If this procedure were done just seconds later, it would be considered murder. I cannot think of a set of circumstances that would justify this brutal act. To allow the continuation of this practice is to devalue the sanctity of life itself. We cannot allow children, almost born and completely viable outside of the womb, to be disposed of in such a heartless manner. Our society is based on the idea that every individual should have the right to life. I believe that right extends to those who are just about to enter our world. I urge my colleagues to help defend those who cannot defend themselves.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I am proud today to rise to support this resolution honoring our Nation's business owners for their very strong support of our employees who are members of the National Guard and Reserve. The world really witnessed the capability of our troops as they brought down the repressive Taliban regime in Afghanistan and, of course, brought freedom to the Afghan people. We again saw recently the brilliant performance of our troops as they drove out the brutal regime of Saddam Hussein and freed the Iraqi people. A major component of both of those efforts was the contribution of the members of the National Guard and Reserve. I come from Macomb County, Michigan, very proud home to Selfridge Air National Guard Base. In fact, Selfridge is somewhat unique in the inventory, I think nationally, because almost every facet, in fact every facet of the military is represented there. As I say, it is a Guard and Reserve base and it became sort of a staging area almost in the region, and we watched so many of those very brave citizen-soldiers mobilizing to defend our Nation. They left behind their jobs, they left behind their families to unselfishly serve to protect our freedom at home and abroad. This service absolutely could not have been possible without the commitment, without the support of the business owners who do their patriotic duty and support their employees who are called upon by their Nation. This, of course, is some hardship to many of these employers. And oftentimes we see that the Guard and Reserve, many members of them are members of their local fire fighting force, members of their local police agency or law enforcement; yet they have the full support of their employers. The Guard and Reserve are such an important component of our national defense, as many times has been said, a critical component of the total force concept. We must continue to fully support them in their vital mission. I certainly join my distinguished colleague from Michigan. Both of us are so proud of having Selfridge. Of course it is in my district, but Mike Rogers is almost right next door there. He is very familiar, as I am, with the incredible mission of Selfridge Air National Guard Base as we see what is happening in our Great Lakes State of Michigan and throughout our Nation with our Guard and Reserve. I join him in recognizing the commitment of our Nation's employers because without their continuing support, none of the service of the outstanding Guard and Reserve members would be possible.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to defend not only the flag of the United States, but also what it stands for and for those who have defended it throughout our Nation's history. The American flag is the greatest symbol of hope and freedom in the world. Countless Americans have fought and died for the freedom that our flag represents, and the desecration of our great flag is an assault on their sacrifice. Police officers and firefighters, as well, wear the flag on their sleeves each and every day as they do their duty to protect our communities. And on September 11, every American witnessed those brave firefighters raising Old Glory out of the rubble of the World Trade Center. That was a symbol of America's resolve that our freedom will reign even in the face of unprecedented terror. To allow the desecration of the flag is to give hope to those whose goal it is to destroy our freedom. I urge my colleagues to stand up for the freedom that the flag represents, to stand up for those who have fought and died to defend our freedom, to stand up for those who protect our communities and our Nation, to stand up for our flag.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to proudly support H.R. 517. This is a bill which would direct the Commandant of the Coast Guard to convey the Coast Guard cutter, the Bramble, to the Port Huron Museum of Arts and History in Port Huron, Michigan, upon its decommissioning on May 22, 2003. The Bramble is also known by its nickname, ``The Thorn of the Great Lakes.'' It is concluding 59 years of service to our Nation. This proud ship has a remarkable history which began in the Great Lakes, has ended in the Great Lakes, and so it is fitting that she remain there to memorialize its great maritime past. First commissioned in 1945 in Duluth, Minnesota, she departed the Great Lakes for California to perform navigational duties. She continued these duties in Alaska in the Aleutian Island chain. She participated in ``Operation Crossroads,'' the first test of atomic bombs' effects on surface ships at Bikini Island. In 1957, after being outfitted as an icebreaker, the Bramble traveled 4,500 miles in 64 days, making her the first surface ship to circumnavigate the North American continent. In 1962, the Bramble returned to the Great Lakes, and today she resides in Port Huron, Michigan, also commonly known as the Blue Water Area. This is an area that is very rich with maritime heritage. Her duties include servicing hundreds of navigational buoys, weather buoys, fog signals, shore lights, and lighthouses as well. This good ship has received many awards during its tour of duty. Just to name a few: The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, the American Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, the Arctic Service Medal, and the Special Ops Service Medal. One additional duty that the Bramble has performed for many years has actually affected me personally. I race every year in the longest freshwater sailboat regatta in the world. It is called the Port Huron to Mackinac Sailboat Race. This is an event that attracts literally hundreds of boats and thousands of sailors, and as the fleet progresses its way up Lake Huron, the Bramble has traditionally followed the fleet, always on call in case of some tragedy. This has been a huge comfort to the sailors that participate in this race, including myself. This year will be my 27th such race. And actually after 25 of these races they induct them into something called the ``Old Goat Society,'' or in my case an old nanny goat. I think I am the only nanny goat in the United States Congress. This year, though, the Bramble will not be following the fleet. A new cutter called the Hollyhock will do the honors, and I am certain that the Coast Guard will continue to demonstrate the skill and the bravery and the professionalism that it has always been known for. Nevertheless, the Bramble has become an integral member of the Port Huron community, and over these many years of service, the community has come to view this ship as belonging to the town and to its people because this ship is part of our past, so much so that a charitable nonprofit organization made up of members of the community called the Port Huron Museum of Arts and History has been formed to take possession of and to administer the Bramble as a tangible example of Michigan's maritime character. Upon receiving the Bramble, these groups intend to open it to the public, both in Port Huron and other locations around the Great Lakes, as it promotes an appreciation for maritime history and education, as it partners with our local community college, the local school district, and provides a training platform for training cadets of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy. Passage of H.R. 517 would ensure that the Bramble will continue to loyally serve the communities. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank the distinguished gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. LoBiondo), chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, for his assistance in this matter. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 517.