Kenny Marchant

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3803, the District of Columbia Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, authored by my colleague, Congressman Trent Franks. I am an original cosponsor of this bill that would prohibit abortions in Washington, DC, after 20 weeks of pregnancy, except when the mother's life is at risk. I am proud that a majority of the U.S. House of Representatives has joined me and cosponsored this bill. Ample scientific evidence shows that at 20 weeks, fetuses can feel pain. Think about that for a moment. They feel it. This is especially upsetting because most late-term abortions involve procedures that are particularly heinous. Yet the Washington, DC, government allows abortions at any time for any reason, up until the moment of birth. This is unconscionable. The vast majority of Americans do not support a policy of ``abortion on demand'' after the point at which fetuses can feel pain. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3803, the District of Columbia Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as an original cosponsor of the Federal Reserve Transparency Act of 2011, authored by my colleague from Texas, Ron Paul. I commend Congressman Paul for his years of diligence in pursuing this issue. It has long since been time for the Federal Reserve to commit to an audit. This legislation requires the Comptroller General to complete an audit of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and of the Federal Reserve Bank. Many of my constituents have been calling and writing and asking me for this significant new transparency of the Federal Reserve. I agree with them on the urgent need for accountability. This legislation is an important step forward in achieving that goal. I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting the Federal Reserve Transparency Act.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate two important anniversaries this month in relation to our close friend and ally: the country of Taiwan. Mr. Speaker: Since the end of World War II, the United States and Taiwan have fostered a close relationship that has been of enormous strategic and economic benefit to both countries. When the United States shifted diplomatic relations from Taiwan to the People's Republic of China in January 1979, Congress moved quickly to pass the Taiwan Relations Act, TRA, to ensure that the United States would continue its robust engagement with Taiwan in the areas of commerce, culture, and security cooperation. On April 10, 1979, this important and lasting piece of legislation became the ``Law of the Land'' and has since served as the statutory basis for U.S.-Taiwan relations going forward. After 33 years, the TRA still stands as a model of Congressional leadership in the history of our foreign relations, and, together with the 1982 ``Six Assurances,'' it remains the cornerstone of a very mutually beneficial relationship between the United States and Taiwan. These ``Six Assurances'' were designed by President Reagan to further clarify U.S. policy toward Taiwan (in particular to the sale of arms to Taiwan to reiterate our commitment to Taiwan's security under the TRA and to reaffirm our position on Taiwan's sovereignty. It also stipulated that we would not pressure Taiwan to enter into negotiations with the PRC. July 14th marks the 30th anniversary of President Reagan issuing said Six Assurances in 1982. It also marks the 25th anniversary of the lifting of martial law in Taiwan in 1987. Martial law was promulgated in Taiwan on May 19, 1949 by the Chinese Nationalist government, and was ended 38 years later. July 14, 1987 set the stage for a momentous process of democratization in Taiwan that continues to this day. We very are glad to see that Taiwan has transformed into a full fledged Democracy since then. Over the past three decades, Taiwan has remained a trusted ally of the United States that shares with us the ideals of freedom and democracy. However, the people of Taiwan continue to live day after day under the ominous shadow cast by over 1400 short and medium-range ballistic missiles that the People's Republic of China, PRC, has aimed at them. The PRC persists in claiming Taiwan as a ``renegade province,'' refusing to renounce the use of force to prevent Taiwan's formal de jure independence. Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Six Assurances and the 25th anniversary of the lifting of martial law in Taiwan, to further underline our unwavering commitment to the people of Taiwan and to affirm our support for the strong and deepening relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4133, now S. 2165, the U.S.-Israel Enhanced Security Cooperation Act of 2012. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation and I urge all of my colleagues to join me in voting for this bill. Israel continues to face unprecedented and unpredictable challenges from many of its neighbors. American support for Israel must remain unequivocally solid. This legislation is the latest important effort to continue and expand our deep mutual relationship. I am pleased that the House of Representatives is considering H.R. 4133 today, as it is of the utmost importance. In addition to reaffirming our continued commitment to Israel, this legislation will provide Israel with many new military capabilities needed to defend itself against any threats. It is important for those who may wish to do Israel harm to know that they will not be successful. Specifically, this bill will provide Israel with new missile defense capabilities, mid-air refueling tankers, and specialized munitions. Each of these are key components for ensuring Israel's continued sovereign right to exist. In addition to these items this bill thoughtfully provides Israel with certain defense equipment that is being left behind by the withdrawal of American forces from Iraq. In addition to the conveyance of equipment, this bill greatly increases our intelligence sharing operations and offers the Israeli Air Force aditional training resources in the United States. This is very important given the severely limited training grounds for the Israeli Air Force in its own country. I am especially pleased with the agreement for increased intelligence cooperation. This new level of intelligence collaboration will substantially assist our own intelligence services in keeping Americans safe. This legislation greatly benefits both countries; it is truly a remarkable partnership. These efforts are paramount, but we must not rest. When we pass this legislation today, we must know that this is only the next step, and is not the final step in ensuring Israel's freedoms and right to exist. I remain committed to work with my colleagues for helping expand the US- Israeli partnership.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of Rice University. Throughout the last century, Rice has not only developed into one of the most prestigious and exemplary academic institutions in Texas, it has also matured into one of the leading research universities in the United States. The first president of Rice University was Edgar Odell Lovett, and he set forth an ambitious vision to become a premier research university. However, since its inception in 1912, Rice has been exceptional in both academics and athletics. Rice now plays a leading role in research in many fields including nanotechnology, space, cellular technology, bioinformatics, energy, health, and the environment. Their athletic program is constantly one of the best in Conference USA and their championship win in the 2003 College Baseball World Series serves as further evidence that the Rice Owls are extraordinary across the institutional spectrum. Rice has been ranked among the top 20 universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report every year since the rankings began in 1983. In recognition of their dedication to keeping high quality education affordable, Princeton Review ranks Rice among the top 10 best value private colleges. Mr. Speaker, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing the 100th anniversary of Rice University. Rice has pushed the boundaries of education and research since 1912, and this institution will undoubtedly be a leader for years to come.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in voting for H.R. 6079. Though the Supreme Court opinion didn't strike down the entire law, it did prohibit the federal government's ability to coerce state governments in accepting major expansions to Medicaid. Now that many states have indicated they will not accept the Medicaid expansion, this seriously undermines a major premise of Obamacare. Even before the Supreme Court's ruling on Medicaid, patients were already seeing higher premium costs and fewer choices. We need to start over and craft a health care plan that will actually increase patient access and lower premiums. We can do this while working with our state governments rather than trying to force a Washington-knows-best plan.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 6079. It hasn't taken very long for the weight of ObamaCare to become a significant drag on our economy and our family budgets. Just 2 years since it was enacted, there are already 12,825 pages of ObamaCare-related regulations and notices published in the Federal Register. Nobody knows what the final number of regulations will be, and let's hope that we never find out. It is this high level of uncertainty that is preventing many businesses in my district from hiring new workers and growing. This is particularly true among small businesses looking to expand. We must repeal this law now that is a disincentive for any small business to grow. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for repeal.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, the Supreme Court ruled that the individual mandate was Constitutional. But the cost of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, or ``Obamacare'', remains grievously unsustainable. Unless Obamacare is repealed, either in whole or in part, America's healthcare system will prove to be a ticking fiscal time bomb. Regardless of the Obama plan, healthcare payment rates across Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance are alarming. According to the Congressional Budget Office, between 1975 and 2005, annual per- person health spending in the United States rose, on average, 2 percentage points faster than per-person economic growth. In other words, healthcare costs have outpaced our national income. Now add Obamacare: massive new entitlements, additional dependence on government, tax hikes, bureaucratic micromanagement of healthcare, and the possibility of Congress taxing other forms of inactivity in the future. In 2014, Obamacare will significantly expand Medicaid to childless adults with incomes up to 138 percent of the poverty level. If states don't expand Medicaid, 11.5 million very poor adults will be on their own. That is more than the entire population of Greece. Americans that fail to follow the healthcare mandate will be required to pay a penalty, or an Obamatax, starting in 2014. When fully phased in two years later, the penalty will be $695 for each uninsured adult or 2.5 percent of family income, whichever is greater, up to $12,500. Madam Speaker, America is facing a genuine healthcare crisis. But our country also has 13 million unemployed and millions of others are struggling. They simply can't afford a new tax imposed by Washington. There is a way to improve both our healthcare system and fiscal outlook, and it starts by repealing Obamacare.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 6079, the Repeal of Obamacare Act. Last Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that, for the 41st straight month, we had an unemployment rate of above 8%. As a small businessman, this comes as no surprise to me. The President has done little to inspire confidence in job creators. From new, burdensome regulations and stifling tax hikes, the legislative agenda of this Administration's first two years is still wreaking havoc on the economy. I say this just a day after the President reiterated his commitment to the notion that we ought to increase taxes to feed more big government, the same big government that has let our deficits spiral out of control and our credit rating downgraded. We have much work to do to rein in government. Repealing this monument to bloated bureaucracy is but the first step we must take to signal to the private sector that success will not be punished.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pride and pleasure to rise today to recognize and commemorate the heritage of the Carrollton Black Cemetery. Buried beneath its soil are the men and women who forged the pathway for the Carrollton community. Today we recognize those who have gone before us, the sacrifices they have made, and the impact they have had on the lives of today's Carrollton citizens. In 1850, the first recorded burial in the cemetery was Mary Lamer, an immigrant from Illinois and the original owner of the property. In 1871, the Carrollton Black Cemetery was established on a forty-acre sited owned by Mr. Scott Boswell, an early African American Carrollton farmer. By 1915, Mr. C.B. Baxley purchased the land with a deed exclusion to keep the cemetery intact. Up until the Civil War, it was customary to bury slaves on their owner's land. After Emancipation, freed slaves and their families wished to have their own burial locations. Unfortunately, the Carrollton Black Cemetery has undergone flooding from the Trinity River which has caused the loss of many of its gravestones. In 1981, to preserve the cemetery's history, a fence was erected around its perimeter. On Saturday, June 23, the cemetery was identified as a Texas historical site. The Carrollton Black Cemetery is referred to by many names including the Carrollton Community Cemetery and the Carrollton Memorial Cemetery. The record of the Carrollton Black Cemetery reflects the rich history of the African American community in Carrollton. Many of the people buried in the Carrollton Black Cemetery were trailblazers of growth, development, and continued successes in the Carrollton community. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the Carrollton Black Cemetery for the heritage and history it brings to the 24th District of Texas. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring the Carrollton Black Cemetery and in commending the current citizens who care for it.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I celebrate the 50th anniversary of Boy Scout Troop 175 of Irving, Texas. The troop has a remarkable history of serving the community and developing young men into leaders. Troop 175 was originally chartered at W.T. Hanes Elementary School in Irving. It then relocated its charter in 1981 to Northgate United Methodist Church in Irving. Since its founding in 1962, Troop 175 has produced 27 Eagle Scouts with the first recorded promotion in 1971. The distinguished group of Eagle Scouts from Troop 175 include Craig Barton (1971), Paul Roberts (1975), Bobby Bell (1976), William Meers (1976), Mark Corry (1977), James Bush III (1986), Clyde Hogan Jr. (1988), Adrian Carrales (1989), Joseph Bush (1989), Andrew Bartlett (1991), Gregory Yoas (1992), Robert Daniel (1992), Travis Brandt (1998), James Cross (2000), Ryan Scott Barnett (2003), Stefan Austin Hopkins (2004), Reagan McNabb (2005), Ashwin Tharappel (2005), Robert Samczuk (2006), Frank Wright III (2006), Alexander Bichler (2007), Anish Tharappel (2007), Austin McNabb (2008), Samuel Anderson (2008), Colton Sligar (2010), Campbell Castleberry (2011), and William Canales (2012). Throughout its 50 years, the troop has been guided by the leadership of Scoutmasters including Clyde Hogan, David West, Jerry Cross, Peter McNabb, James Roman, and Mark Sligar. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Boy Scout Troop 175 for its 50 years of developing fine young men and community involvement.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, this legislation will stop an impending tax created by Obamacare on medical devices. This tax stifles innovation, reduces jobs, and increases costs on patients. Congress must act to ensure that the medical device tax does not come in to effect. Additionally, I support the new choices this bill gives consumers. Users of Health Savings Accounts will once again be able to access their HSA funds for over-the-counter purchases. This change reduces unnecessary doctor's office visits that are being made solely to obtain a prescription to use HSA funds. Lastly, this bill greatly improves Flexible Spending Accounts. Rather than forcing unneeded end of year purchases, this bill allows for a $500 cash-out option to be considered as taxable income. This change makes FSAs much more attractive, giving consumers another choice to determine the health care plan that is best for them--rather than the government making that choice. I urge support of the bill.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize retiring Corporal Roger Gatlin for his 30 years of public service with the Euless, Texas, Police Department. Corporal Gatlin graduated from Lexington High School in Lexington, Tennessee. Following high school, Cpl. Gatlin continued his education at West Tennessee Business College in Jackson, Tennessee, and Tarrant County College in Fort Worth in pursuit of a degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Business. His post-secondary education included over 280 academic hours and over 1630 training hours. Cpl. Gatlin has received training in: Background Investigations, Crisis Intervention, Terrorism and Homeland Security, Narcotics Investigations, Family Violence and Child Abuse, Management and Supervision, and SWAT/Tactical Training. He holds the following licenses: Master Peace Officer, Mental Health Officer, School Resource Officer, and Basic Instructor. For the past several years, he has been working at Central Junior High in Euless as the School Resource Officer. Cpl. Gatlin's career as a police officer began with the Jackson, Tennessee, Police Department in 1975 where he served until 1976. From 1976 1980, he worked in Communications for the Tennessee Highway Patrol. In September, 1980, Cpl. Gatlin moved to Texas where he joined the Euless Police Department and served until November 1982. After a brief absence, he returned to the Euless Police Department in September 1984. While with the Euless Police Department, he has held the positions of Police Officer, Field Training Officer, Acting Sergeant, and Corporal. Cpl. Gatlin is a member of the Euless Peace Officer Association. He was awarded the 1987 Euless Police Officer of the Year. In his spare time, he enjoys golf, baseball, traveling, and woodworking. I am very proud of the Euless Police Department, and I am honored to recognize Corporal Roger Gatlin for his contribution to the community. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in thanking Roger Gatlin for his service as a police officer.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize the Student Council of Carroll Senior High School for winning a State medal in the Texas Future Problem Solving Program. The young people who serve on an effective Student Council are skilled leaders, and nowhere is that more evident than in an exceptional school like Carroll Senior High. In addition to fulfilling their demanding leadership duties, many of the members of the Student Council participate in the Future Problem Solving Program. This international program aims to foster students' skills in creative thinking and working together to solve real and significant problems. They then take these skills and bring them to the world beyond the classroom walls as they grow into tomorrow's leaders. In Carroll Senior High School, Greg Lang, Courtney Smith, Megan Gill, and Mattie Shirley worked tirelessly on their project, ``Dragons Dig Deeper''. They looked to their special needs peers right at home in the halls of Carroll and improved methods of including them in the community. As a Community Problem Solving effort, ``Dragons Dig Deeper'' received a State medal from the Texas Future Problem Solving Program. The compassion exemplified by these students serves as an example to us all and encourages my hope for a better future both in my district and in our Nation. I would also like to recognize the fine work of the Student Council's director, Niki Gilley, and the invaluable assistance of Laura Wood-Smith. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating the Student Council of Carroll Senior High School on their earning a State medal in the Future Problem Solving Program. And I also ask that we thank the members of the council for the service they have lent our community.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize the Odyssey of the Mind teams of Carroll Senior High School for their winning the state championship in two categories this year. Odyssey of the Mind is a widespread program for students that develops team problem-solving and creative thinking. Grouped into teams, students spend many weeks working on solutions to long-term problems which they then present at competitions along with a short- term problem and solution that they are given at the competitions. Odyssey fosters creativity by allowing students to choose from problems that each have multiple possible solutions. There were 115 teams participating in the Texas state competition this year and Carroll Senior High produced two teams that won state titles. Ann Dahl, Allison Newman, Braden Anderson, Christie Ballew, Spencer Lankford, Mackenzie Murphy and Jack Veenker earned the state title for Vehicular Problem-Solving and also the award for Most Creative team. The team was led by coaches Megan Anderson, Carl Anderson, and Shauna Newman. A second team, comprised of Jenna Buckley, Nico Scalzo, Emilie Featherston, Nathalie Scherer, Annie Newman, and Lindsey Weiss, won the state title for Technical Problem-Solving. Their coaches were Cindy Featherston and Micki Scalzo. In the course of their accomplishments, these students developed and demonstrated skills in creativity, dialogue, and teamwork. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating the Carroll Senior High School Odyssey of the Mind Teams for their respective titles at the Texas state competition.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize Courtney Kreighauser. She is a student at Carroll Senior High School who won a state championship at the University Interscholastic League's State Championship for Track and Field. Every year, top high school athletes in Texas compete for the opportunity to advance to the UIL's State Championship. Only the extraordinary athletes that advance from the district and regional meets are qualified to continue to the state competition held in Austin, Texas. Courtney Kreighauser from Carroll Senior High won the 5A Girls 1600 race. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Courtney Kreighauser for her state championship title in track and field.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize the accomplishments of Arvind Venkataraman and Azar Hussain, both students of Carroll Senior High School, in the field of forensics activities. Forensics competitions consist of multiple formats of speech and debate in which students demonstrate their respective skills with the spoken word. The Speech and Debate team at Carroll High, ably led by their director, Diana Forbes, has a strong tradition of success in these competitions. This school year, 1,600 students from 200 high schools competed in the Texas Forensic Association State Tournament at which Carroll produced two champions. Senior Arvind Venkataraman won the state championship in Foreign Extemporaneous Speaking and freshman Azar Hussain won the state championship in Congressional Debate. Their excellence in speech and debate reflects a talent and a work ethic worthy of recognition. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Arvind Venkataraman and Azar Hussain on their state championships in forensics.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize both the boys' and girls' Swimming and Diving teams of Carroll Senior High School for winning the state championship titles. Carroll High School competes in the University Interscholastic League Class 5A, the most competitive athletic class composed of the largest schools in Texas. It is an unbelievable achievement for a 5A high school to have both the boys' and girls' teams to win state title championship in the same category. The Carroll ISD boys' state championship team included John Ausdenmoore, Curtis Goss, Austin Nguyenphu, John Remetta, Jonathan Roberts, Ted Singley, and Ryan Walker. The girls' championship team included Alexa Baran, Emily Gibson, MacKenzie Leonard, Elise Weisert, Lauren Crown, Lyndsie Gibson, Lindsay Schultz, Sydney Wheeler, Taylor Dereyanik, Grace Kazmierski, Rebecca Upton, and Emily Zapinski. The Dragon swim teams were led by Coach Kevin Murphy along with the help from Assistant Swim Coach Lynne Gorman and Diving Coach Carolyn Hryorchuk. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating the Carroll Senior High School Swim and Diving teams for their championship titles at the Texas state competition.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize Neha Jain, Holly Rosenberg, and Taylor White. All three are students at Carroll Senior High School and were selected for components of the Texas Music Educators Association's All-State Band for 2012. Every year 60,000 high school musicians in Texas compete for the opportunity to be among the 1,500 chosen for various All-State ensembles. Band students first audition before judges in one of twenty- eight regions, and the highest ranked musicians from each Region then participate in one of seven Area competitions. The best among the Area participants then go on to the annual clinic and convention hosted by the Texas Music Educators Association, TMEA. The clinic consists of three days of rehearsal with prestigious musical conductors and culminates in a grand All-State performance. Being selected for one of the three All-State Band ensembles is indeed a high honor for any high school musician and is a testament to their hard work, talent, and dedication. Neha Jain, who plays the flute, and Holly Rosenberg, who plays the piccolo, both made it to the 5A Concert Band for 2012. Taylor White, who plays the cornet and trumpet, performed in the Philharmonic Orchestra this year. It was his fourth year in an All-State ensemble, and it was Holly's second. Together, these three exceptional students are continuing to build a strong tradition at Carroll Senior High School. Their success is truly admirable and highlights the astounding work and contributions put forth by their band director, Jay Bach. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Neha Jain, Holly Rosenberg, and Taylor White for being chosen for their respective components in the TMEA All-State Band.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with exceptional pride that I recognize Brian Bourcy, Colin Kantor, Patrick Liu, Conner O. Mitchell, Lauren Rutherford, Christian Shannon and Hannah Walcek, each of whom is a National Merit Scholar Finalist from Carroll Senior High School. Every year, approximately 1.5 million high school students take the Preliminary SAT, which doubles as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The test is a preview to the SAT and covers reading, writing, and math. Students who do exceptionally well become competitive in the National Merit Scholarship Program. To be a National Merit Scholar semifinalist is a well-recognized achievement that tends to open many doors in a student's academic life. To become a finalist requires another level of application and assessment, and only 15,000 students nationwide (1% of the total entrants) reach this prestigious level. I am so pleased to convey that seven students from Carroll Senior High have earned their way to become National Merit Scholar Finalists. Their accomplishment is truly a rare one and is a testament to their brilliance and hard work. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Brian Bourcy, Colin Kantor, Patrick Liu, Conner O. Mitchell, Lauren Rutherford, Christian Shannon and Hannah Walcek on their becoming National Merit Scholar Finalists.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize Paige Stinnett, of the Carroll Senior High School choir, for being selected for the Texas Music Educators Association's All-State Women's Choir. Every year 60,000 high school musicians in Texas compete for the opportunity to be among the 1,500 chosen for various All-State ensembles. Choir singers first audition before judges in one of twenty- eight Regions, and the highest ranked musicians from each Region then participate in one of seven Area competitions. The best among the Area singers then go on to the annual clinic and convention hosted by the Texas Music Educators Association, TMEA. The clinical consists of three days of rehearsal with prestigious musical experts and culminates in a grand All-State performance. Being selected for one of the three All-State choirs (Men's, Women's, or Mixed) is indeed a high honor for any high school choir member and is a testament to their hard work, talent, and dedication. That makes it all the more impressive that Paige Stinnett, who is a soprano, not only made it to the 2012 Women's Choir, but also achieved the same honor in 2011. Her success is truly remarkable. I would also like to recognize the valuable contributions made by Chris Hutchinson, the Carroll Senior High School choir director, whose commitment to his school's musical program has shown brilliantly through his students. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Paige Stinnett on being chosen for the TMEA All-State Women's Choir.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize the members of the Carroll Senior High School winterguard for winning first place in the Scholastic Triple-A Purple Division on March 30 in Forney, Texas. In Texas when the members of the colorguard finish their duties with the high school football season, their own season is just beginning as they transition to winterguard competition. From November through March the winterguard practices most days of the week, often hours per day, perfecting the team's choreography. This year, their centerpiece dance and performance was set to Eva Cassidy's cover of ``Bridge Over Troubled Waters''. Capping off a season of commendable dedication and hard work, the Carroll winterguard took home first place in the Scholastic Triple-A Purple Division, with a competition in Forney, Texas, where they earned 71.7 points. The students who carried on their school's strong tradition this year were Captain Nicole Elledge, Lieutenant Captain Mikaela Heming, Lieutenant Captain Mallory Wyatt, Gabrielle Allen, Nick Conard, Ann Dahl, Gabrielle Earley, Maher Gill, Caitlin Gillum, Emma Harding, Kim Hardy, Savahna Hensley, Morgan Howell, Haley Hurlburt, Olivia Jolley, Paige Lepp, and Amy Rasmussen. They were led by director Pam Randall and assisted by Amy Keller. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring the young people of the Carroll Senior High varsity winterguard on their accomplishments in Scholastic Triple-A Purple Division competition.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I recognize Colin Kantor, a member of the Latin Club at Carroll Senior High School, for his taking first place in the Classical Geography and Monuments competition (Level IV) at the Texas State Junior Classical league convention. As part of the Junior Classical League, Kantor is among 50,000 students in this worldwide organization. Twenty-two students from the Carroll Senior High Latin Club travelled to participate in the convention held by the Texas chapter in San Antonio in March. The convention hosts a variety of competitions, both academic and cultural, that relate to the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. A fourth year student of Latin, Colin entered two Level IV competitions at the convention, one in Roman History and another in Classical Geography and Monuments. He demonstrated excellence and studiousness and took home first place in the Geography category. We are very proud of Colin and thankful to Terra Windham for so ably sponsoring him and leading the Latin Club. I am told that the Latin Club at Carroll Senior High is growing in popularity as a result of its successes, and it impresses me that these young people are taking such an astute interest in a language and culture that has such a venerable heritage. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Colin Kantor on his earning a state title at the Texas State Junior Classical League convention.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share with you remarks I made earlier this week at home in North Texas in recognition of National Police Week. I was honored to be present with many constituents of the 24th District of Texas alongside the Addison, Carrollton, Coppell and Farmers Branch, Texas police departments remembering those brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our communities and neighborhoods. It was my honor to speak to this group and it is my privilege to express again my gratitude to the men and women who serve as peace officers and protect us each day. Address Given at Memorial Ceremony, May 15, 2012, Liberty Plaza, Farmers Branch, Texas Friends, it is with both pride and sadness that I am here before you today to recognize National Police Week. We come together today to recognize and honor those men and women nationwide who gave the ultimate sacrifice as officers of the peace. We must give thanks to them and the entire law enforcement family for their selfless actions in keeping our communities safe. National Police Week is a time for all of us to come together to understand the important role these officers play in protecting the rights and freedoms of our community. It is a time for citizens to reflect and understand the duties, responsibilities, and sacrifices of our law enforcement officers. These men and women provide a vital public service, risking their lives on a daily basis to protect our own. Today, May 15th, 2012, marks the 20 year anniversary of the first National Peace Officers' Memorial Day Service. That first service was held in Washington, D.C., on Capitol Hill to commemorate the peace officers who had fallen nationally. In 1989, the first annual candlelight vigil was held at Judiciary Square in Washington, D.C. to honor the men and women who sacrificed their lives. In 1991, President George H. Bush dedicated a National Memorial for these fallen men and women, honoring them for eternity. This Memorial honors federal, state and local law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and protection of our nation and its people. On the walls of this memorial are the names of more than 19,000 officers who have given their lives in the line of duty throughout U.S. history. Today we celebrate the lives of all these brave public servants. Each spring since that first fateful day in 1982, we have gathered nationwide to celebrate and venerate these men and women for their bravery. I ask that you join me today in commemorating and remembering law enforcement officers past and present. These are diligent and loyal men and women. They are devoted to their responsibilities and are dedicated in their service to their communities. Their reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens should be honored along with their sacrifice today. Many officers have come from a home where their mother, father, brother or sister served their community in the same capacity. Family members often serve as an inspiration for their siblings, children and peers to serve as an officer. These inspired few that have the desire to protect and safeguard our communities are truly remarkable. It is that inspiration to protect and dedicate oneself to a community that brings us here today. These men and women who serve with one another are a family. This is a family that I am very proud to support. They have a deep partnership with their community and each other. When a fellow officer falls in the line of duty, they do not lose a colleague, but a brother or sister. These brothers and sisters may have different badges or different oaths, but their valor in the line of duty is what binds them together. This partnership and this family are being remembered nationwide today. Every day, officers put themselves in harm's way to protect the citizens and families they serve. These men and women are the continuous barrier between lawlessness and peace. As a former city councilman, mayor, state representative and now Member of Congress, I have had the privilege of working with our community law enforcement for quite some time. I have the honor of calling countless police officers my friends. I will continue to be proud of their deeds and accomplishments in protecting North Texas, my family and my friends in all of you. The honor these officers receive must be derived not only from their personal deeds, but the countless acts of violence and crime they have prevented. Today and every day we should remember that with courage, these fallen officers that we call to mind have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community. It is with a heavy heart that we celebrate the lives of these men and women today. Let us not forgot the service and duty they have done for us. And let us pay respect to the survivors of our fallen heroes, and we humbly thank their friends and loved ones for their sacrifice.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the National MPS Society for their 37 years of supporting families while searching for cures for this genetic disease. Mucopolysaccharidosis or MPS is a group of genetically determined lysosomal storage diseases that render the human body incapable of producing certain enzymes needed to break down complex carbohydrates. The damage caused by MPS on a cellular level adversely affects the body and damages the heart, respiratory system, bones, internal organs, and central nervous system. MPS often results in intellectual disabilities, short stature, corneal damage, joint stiffness, loss of mobility, speech and hearing impairment, heart disease, hyperactivity, chronic respiratory problems, and, most importantly, a drastically shortened life span. Symptoms of MPS are usually not apparent at birth and without treatment; the life expectancy of an individual affected begins to decrease at a very early stage in their life. Research towards combating MPS has resulted in the development of limited treatments for some of the MPS diseases. I ask my colleagues and their staff to join me in recognizing May 15, 2012 as National MPS Awareness Day. This is an important time during which the MPS disease community will help increase the awareness of this devastating disease, as well as supporting research to improve treatments, find cures and receive early diagnosis. The MPS families are encouraged to reflect and support each other and to reach out to those families who have lost loved ones to MPS. By wearing their purple ribbons and sharing these ribbons within their community, they are increasing public awareness about this disease. This date is also the start of the National MPS Run/Walk season along with other local community activities to raise awareness along with money for research and for family assistance programs. I commend the National MPS Society and their many volunteers for an unwavering commitment to bring about awareness of this disease and to continue to advocate for federal legislation to streamline the regulatory processes and to speed effective treatments and cures for their loved ones. More must be done to find cures and effective treatments, but let us reflect on the importance of this day. I ask that all of my colleagues join me in commemorating National MPS Awareness Day.