Doris Matsui

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the men and women of the Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 9, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 18, Detachment 0818 and other mobilized Sailors from the Navy Operational Support Center Sacramento, as they gather for a welcome home ceremony. I ask all my colleagues to join with me and recognize the dedication that each of these men and women have shown their country. Since 2008, 215 Sailors have been deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, and across the world in support of U.S. operations. These men and women have displayed the honor, courage, commitment, and teamwork that we have come to expect from those that serve in our military. Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 9, also known as MSRON 9, provided over 18,000 days of operational support to protect the Al Basrah Oil Terminal, which lies just offshore of the Iraqi coast. The oil terminal is one of the most important assets to the people of Iraq, accounts for over 85 percent of Iraq's gross domestic product, and is key to the country's future. For nearly a year, MSRON 9 provided vigilant security for the facility, and without their presence the people of Iraq would not have experienced much of the stability they have seen in recent years. In Afghanistan, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 18, Detachment 0818 provided over 16,000 days of operational support building schools, airfields, electrical infrastructure, and other such facilities across the country. Facing constant danger, they have brought hope and modern infrastructure to many Afghanis. One Sailor, UT1 Ronald Christopher Marquart, was hit by rocket shrapnel while working at Kandahar Airfield and was awarded a Purple Heart. All of the Sailors of MSRON 9, NMCB 18, and the subordinate commands at the Naval Operations Support Center Sacramento are Reservists, called up to serve their nation. They have spent a great deal of time away from their families, often at extraordinary personal sacrifice. For this reason, we must also thank and acknowledge the families and friends of these Sailors who stood by them while they were deployed. Their sacrifices, along with the sacrifices of their loved ones, should not be lost on Congress or our constituents. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending my sincere thanks for a job well done, and welcome home to the men and women of Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 9, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 18, Detachment 0818 and all Naval Reservists that have been called to serve.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chair, I move to strike the last word.

Ms. MATSUI. I rise today in opposition to the underlying bill. This legislation makes dangerous cuts to essential antihunger and nutrition programs. In addition to their plan to privatize Medicare, House Republicans are now proposing to cut the Women, Infants and Children program, otherwise known as WIC. This is a much-needed, Federally funded health and nutrition program which provides support, resources, and education to low-income women. This preventative public health nutrition program connects mothers with prenatal care, increases healthy birth outcomes, and educates new mothers about caring for their children and providing healthy food options for their families. In my home State of California, there are 82 WIC agencies serving over 1.4 million women, infants, and children, but the bill before us today cuts $650 million from the program, and these cuts we cannot afford to make. There are two WIC programs at work in my district, and I recently saw firsthand the critical demand and needs for their services. I witnessed a long line of women trying to provide for their families and trying to receive the support they need to have a healthy pregnancy. This WIC office alone has a case load of over 32,000 individuals a month but can only serve 30,000 because of a lack of resources. In this economic downturn, people who never before knew about WIC now find themselves relying on its services to feed their families. These include State workers who were furloughed, nurses and teachers who have lost their jobs. Unfortunately, demand for these programs is increasing, not decreasing. With Sacramento's unemployment rate at 12 percent, these resources are not only needed and appreciated but are vital. One recipient is a mother who once thought WIC was only about giving free food or formula to low-income families, but her perspective about the program changed dramatically when she enrolled in the program herself. As she was expecting her first and only child, she entered the program to help her family make ends meet. Throughout her pregnancy, she received nutrition information and referrals. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, but because she was on WIC at the time she was seen by a dietitian every month. With WIC's support, her baby was born healthy and she had the support she needed to provide for her family. But the cuts in this legislation do not end at WIC. The Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which helps supplement meals for low-income individuals, and The Emergency Food Assistance Program, otherwise known as TEFAP, which provides food banks with food they distribute, are both on the chopping block. A month ago, I visited the Stanford Settlement Senior Center, which participates in the California Emergency Foodlink Senior Brown Bag Lunch run by volunteers, many of whom are recipients themselves. The California Emergency Foodlink distributes over 80,000 pounds of food per month to approximately 8,000 low-income seniors in need in Sacramento County. For many of these seniors this is the only nutritious food they will have for a week. TEFAP also provides funding for approximately 18 percent of food that comes into the Sacramento food bank. This food bank provides a 5-day supply of emergency groceries to those who are struggling to get by, and over 18,000 individuals receive fresh groceries from this site every month. In addition to all of the cuts I've mentioned, the legislation also includes report language to stop the process of updating the school nutrition standards. It is essential for our students to have the nutrition they need to be productive and successful at school. In the Sacramento City Unified School District, approximately 67 percent of students are eligible for free and reduced lunches. Without an investment in proper nutrition, these students will not only fall behind in their studies, they can also face serious health issues. Unfortunately, the legislation before us proposes some of the hardest cuts to endure. I urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, earlier this week our nation learned that Capt. Joseph W. Schultz died May 29, 2011 while on a mounted patrol when the vehicle he and his Special Forces team were traveling in struck an IED in the Wardak Province, Afghanistan. He was born March 20, 1975 and grew up in Sacramento, California and graduated from El Camino High School in 1993. He graduated from the University of Oregon in 1997 and received his commission as an intelligence officer from Officer Candidate School in 2003. His first assignment was to 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, PIR, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC. He then served as the assistant battalion intelligence officer and as a rifle platoon leader in Company A, 1-504 PIR. Upon completion of his tour with the 1- 504 PIR, he then went on to serve as the counterintelligence/human intelligence operations manager for the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division; and later as the G-2 advisor, 10th Iraqi Army Division. After completing Special Forces Selection and Assessment, he graduated from Special Forces Qualification Course at Fort Bragg, NC. Upon graduation and receiving his green beret, Schultz was assigned to Co. C, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) where he served as the Detachment Commander of Special Forces Operational Detachment--Alpha 3333. Schultz deployed in support of various operations across the globe, including: Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq and this deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom with Company C. His military education includes: the Military Intelligence Officer Course, Infantry Captain Career Course, Defense Strategic Debriefer Course, Airborne School, Ranger School, and the Special Forces Qualification Course. Schultz's military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal; Purple Heart; Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal with one campaign star; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Overseas Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Combat Infantryman Badge and Parachutists Badge. He also wore the Special Forces Tab and the Ranger Tab. Prior to his military career, Schultz worked for California Governor Gray Davis and later the U.S. State Department, where he was assigned to the Middle East desk. Capt. Schultz is survived by his mother Betsy Reed Schultz of Port Angeles, Washington. Condolences from our nation to his family, friends and fellow service members who mourn his loss.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the amendment. The intention of this amendment is to restore funding to the Urban Areas Security Initiative, or as we call it, UASI. In my district of Sacramento, California, funding from the UASI program has gone to critical counter- terrorism initiatives, giving law enforcement officials and first responders the tools and training to protect our community. - Sacramento is the capital of California, the most populous State in the Union and the seventh largest economy in the world. It is critical to continue to support the antiterrorist work being done there, and it is unacceptable to leave this region without appropriate funds for protection. With potential targets like the Folsom Dam, which is upstream of the city of Sacramento, key transportation systems, and numerous State and Federal facilities, UASI funding for the Sacramento region ensures protection from attacks and cooperation among local, State, and Federal agencies. Not receiving UASI funds would devastate one of the Nation's most proficient counter- terrorist and readiness task forces, located at the former McClellan Air Force Base in my district. This facility creates greater collaboration and communication among State and Federal law enforcement and first responders. Mr. Chairman, this amendment will bolster our Nation's security by giving our communities the tools and training necessary to keep us safe. I urge my colleagues to vote in support of this amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I rise to strike the last word.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the amendment offered by my colleague regarding UASI. This amendment will better ensure that all cities and localities will be eligible for critical UASI funding, not just those under the arbitrary caps that are in the underlying bill. UASI funding is critical to my district of Sacramento, California, and a number of other major American cities. It has helped create and develop one of the Nation's foremost counterterrorism and readiness task forces located at the former McClellan Air Force Base in my district. This facility has greatly enhanced the collaboration and communication amongst local, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies and first responders. From there, officials are better able to prevent attacks by training, sharing information, and coordinating investigations. And in the unthinkable scenario in which an attack does occur, this facility, funded by UASI dollars, will better able the region's law enforcement and first responders to react and respond to an attack.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Courtney, Petri, Matsui Amendment, to expand and improve our Nation's existing Troops to Teachers program. I am pleased to introduce this amendment with my colleagues, with whom I also sponsored the Post 9/11 Troops to Teachers Enhancement Act of 2011. Our amendment would make the program more accessible to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan by reducing the military service requirement from 6 years to 4 years. It would also expand the number of school districts eligible to participate, and create an advisory board to increase awareness about, and participation in the program. Finally, this amendment transfers the program from the Department of Education to the Department of Defense. Currently, the program is operated by the Department of Defense, but funded through the Department of Education. By housing the administration and funding of Troops to Teachers in the same Department, we will be able to streamline this program for the benefit of all of its participants and the students it serves. With their proven service, diverse backgrounds, and leadership traits our Nation's veterans can serve their country again, by serving as teachers in our country's most vulnerable schools. With more veterans returning home from overseas we need to support programs such as Troops for Teachers that successfully transition them from the military back into civilian life. I have seen firsthand the success of this program by visiting teachers in my district who returned from service and used the program's stipend to help pay for teaching certification classes and exams. This amendment is a win-win for our veterans and our students. I urge my colleagues to vote in support of this bipartisan amendment.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Father George Wanser, who has served the people of Sacramento since 1994 as a priest, campus minister, and chaplain. He has been with the Newman Catholic Community in Sacramento for close to 10 years, and as he moves on this summer to the Most Holy Trinity Parish in San Jose, I ask my colleagues to join me in saluting this man for the dedication he has shown the Sacramento area. At a young age, Father Wanser became involved in the church. He excelled at both Fordham University and the Pontificia Universidad Catolica Javeriana de Bogota in Columbia. Father Wanser taught history, religious studies, and English in Puerto Rico from 1970 through 1973. He taught music, was head wrestling coach, and worked as the Puerto Rican High School Athletic Alliance Wrestling Commissioner. In the 1970s, Father Wanser moved back to the U.S. and was ordained. He was assigned to several community organizing projects all over California, including churches in Fresno, Santa Ana, Fullerton, and San Diego. Father Wanser arrived in Sacramento in 1999 when he began at Jesuit High School. Since his arrival he has contributed much to the Sacramento area. He has spent the last several decades as a campus minister and chaplain, and has also worked at Christian Brothers High School, UC Davis, and Cristo Rey High School. Father Wanser has served the Newman Catholic Community of Sacramento for the past 10 years, and has inspired countless people through his goodwill and leadership. His friends and followers have expressed their gratitude for his strength and conviction, and his presence will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to recognize the contributions that Father Wanser has made to Sacramento. His sincere commitment to those around him and his enthusiasm for inspiring others has made a difference for countless people in our community. I ask all my colleagues to join me in thanking Father Wanser for his years of leadership, and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the rule and the underlying legislation. H.R. 1216 would put the future primary care workforce into question. The Affordable Care Act included critical funding for several grant programs designed to increase the size of the health care workforce and, specifically, to increase the number of general practice and primary care physicians. Primary care has long been neglected in our country and it has been well documented that our country faces a looming shortage of primary care providers. The Affordable Care Act will help train and develop 16,000 new primary care providers. That means 16,000 more primary care doctors to help keep our children and families healthy, as studies strongly associate healthier outcomes with regular access to care. Unfortunately, the bill before us would call all of this into question. If this bill were enacted, we would no longer have the pipeline of primary care providers to meet demand and we would continue the status quo, which for too many is either foregoing care or seeking care in the emergency room. This perpetuates the onset of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. This is increasing costs and costing lives. I urge my colleagues to reject this rule and to vote down this bill for the future of our physical and fiscal health of our constituents and our country.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, it is with sadness that I rise in honor of Mary Hoze, who passed away on May 9, 2011 in Sacramento, California. Mary was born on April 16, 1930 in Shubuta, Mississippi to Willie and Fannie Penilton. She was the younger of the two children. Her life was filled with devotion and love for her husband, Walter Earl Hoze, and for her family. She and her husband raised eight remarkable children. In 1957 Mary and Walter moved to Sacramento, California where they became active and respected citizens in their North Sacramento community. She devoted her life to raising her children, caring for others and gardening. Mary loved reading and sharing God's word. She was a faithful member of Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Sacramento. She served as a Sunday school teacher, president, and bible teacher for the General Mission and Senior Women's organizations. She was also an active member of the Deaconess and Mothers' Boards. Mary was well known throughout Sacramento for her compassion, warmth and sense of humor. Mary is survived by her children: Bonnie, Johnnie, Gwen, Allen, Danny, Connie, Cynthia and Shelia. She also leaves behind nineteen grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, along with countless relatives and friends. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in paying honor to Mary Hoze for being an exemplary member of the Sacramento community. Her life and legacy--as a mother and member of our community--will be an inspiration to us all. I ask that we take a moment and extend our utmost respect and condolences to her family.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my support for Medicare and to once again state my strong opposition to the Republican budget plan introduced by Mr. Ryan of Wisconsin. This plan would end Medicare as we know it. Medicare is a program that Americans pay into their entire working lives and expect to benefit from when they retire. Unfortunately, House Republicans continue to support a proposal that would strip away the guaranteed benefits under Medicare. Their plan calls for Medicare to be replaced from a program of guaranteed benefits to one in which seniors would be given a voucher to purchase insurance from an insurance company. As if this were not bad enough, the vouchers this plan proposes to give Medicare enrollees would in no way keep up with the rising costs of health care. Therefore, enrollees would be saddled with more and more out-of-pocket expenses over time. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office Congress's official actuary projected that these vouchers could actually double out-of- pocket costs for the average beneficiary in the short-term and triple them in the long-term. This is something that I am adamantly opposed to and will fight against it taking place. Now, to be clear, these changes would not affect current enrollees but it would affect the next generation of retirees including many of our children and grandchildren. But the Republican plan would immediately strip away all the benefits seniors stand to gain and perhaps already are enjoying from the health care law enacted last year. The health care law is already closing the Medicare Part D coverage gap--known as the ``Donut Hole''--providing for free preventive care to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and ensuring that America's seniors have access to the care they need. The health care law also provides free preventive care for Medicare enrollees care that is often critical to helping you and your doctor diagnose and treat diseases or ailments as soon as possible. But the repeal of the health care law included in the Republican budget plan would change all this under the guise of ``deficit reduction.'' But the reality is that none of the cuts would help pay down the deficit OR balance the budget. These cuts would instead pay for tax cuts to those who need it the least providing subsidies to Big Oil preserving tax loopholes to companies that ship jobs overseas all this while they are making record profits. Tax cuts for Big Oil and the largest corporations should not be paid for on the backs of America's seniors! And this kind-of thinking does not reflect the needs or priorities of seniors and families in my district. I have heard from scores of Sacramentans about how the changes to Medicare included in the health care law has helped them. One gentleman in particular comes to mind. Gary, who takes 8 different name brand medications, regularly falls into the ``Donut Hole.'' But as a result of the health care law, he will save close to $1,000 per month which means that Gary will be able to continue to take his medication, and make ends meet. And his savings will only grow over time. However, people like Gary would lose out on this benefit, should the Republican proposal be enacted. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Seniors Task Force, I am working with my colleagues to ensure that proposals that would hurt seniors are not enacted. I believe that if someone works hard all their life and plays by the rules then they deserve high-quality health care and a secure retirement. I am committed to making that dream a reality and I am confident that as more and more people learn about what this plan would do the American people will speak out against it loud and clear. I thank Representative Tonko for his leadership on this issue.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Greg Bunker and his remarkable leadership as Executive Director of the Francis House, a Sacramento-based homeless services agency. Greg passed away in December, and his contributions to Sacramento are being recognized at this year's Feast for the Streets fundraiser. For 21 years, he was a tireless advocate for Sacramento's homeless population. Greg was a remarkable leader who inspired an entire community with his unrelenting optimism. He cared deeply about his work and the people around him. He will be sorely missed. Born in Ohio, Greg moved to California after serving in the Vietnam War. He intended to make a change in the world, and his unrelenting support for the needy allowed him to do so. He soon joined the Francis House and led it as it grew and prospered. Through the years, the Francis House has offered a wide range of services and resources for Sacramento's homeless population, and, because of Greg, it has become well-known in the Sacramento area and beyond as a non-profit that passionately fights for the needs of the homeless. Greg initiated a campaign for a safe place for the city's homeless, and he brought the issue of poverty to the forefront of the public's attention. For over two decades, he made sure that the thousands of people who needed help were not overlooked, and Sacramento is a better place because of him. Around 30,000 people come to the Francis House each year for assistance, and Greg's daily vigor and hunger for change was a blessing for them. Whether it was through transportation vouchers, emergency housing, or simply emotional support, Greg was always there to help. His sincere and long-term dedication to the homeless cause truly made a difference to many people. He never turned anyone away from the Francis House, and his kindness was a light for people who rarely encountered true compassion. Sadly, Greg passed away much too early in December. The outpouring of support has been inspiring, as the tens of thousands of people that he helped through the Francis House, as well as the countless others who have been touched by Greg's selflessness, have shown their gratitude to his family. In addition to Greg's achievements helping the homeless, he was a loving husband and father. I would like to recognize Greg's wife Stephanie and his two sons, Jesse and Simon, and express my sincere condolences for their loss. Mr. Speaker, I feel honored to join the many Sacramentans who are paying tribute to this incredible man. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in remembering Greg Bunker, and to continue his work by being passionate about helping those less fortunate.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Chi State Organization of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International as they join together to celebrate their 75th year in California. It is a great pleasure to recognize the Chi State Organization of the Delta Kappa Gamma International Society's dedication to promoting the professional and personal growth of women educators, and excellence in education. Over 6,000 California members will celebrate this historic milestone at their annual convention this year, themed ``Soar on Wings of Transformation.'' I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring their leadership in our community, our state, and throughout the country. Delta Gamma Society International was founded in 1929 and the Chi State Organization was established in 1936. The seven purposes of the organization are: to bring women educators of the world together; to honor women who are committed to distinctive service in the field of education; to advance the professional interest of women in education; to initiate, endorse and support legislation and public policy that is in the interests of education and of women educators; to endow scholarships to aid outstanding women educators; to stimulate the personal and professional growth of members; and to inform the members of current economic, social, political and educational issues so that they may participate effectively in our society. Over the last 75 years, the Chi State Organization has funded and participated in a number of literacy projects throughout California, given scholarships to members and grants to non-members to pursue continuing education, and volunteered in classrooms and communities. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Chi State Organization of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International on their 75th anniversary, and their outstanding commitment to California's teachers and students, while promoting excellence in education.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Robert Fletcher, Jr. for his commendable service to Sacramento Japanese-American families during World War II and his work in the Sacramento community. Bob Fletcher was born on July 26, 1911 in San Francisco, California to Robert Fletcher, Sr. and Olive Barkley. Following his upbringing in Redwood, Bob attended the University of California, Davis, where he received a degree in Agriculture Science in 1933. Following his graduation from UC Davis, Bob worked as a state fruit and vegetable inspector at various locations, including the Florin Train Station, where he became friends with several local Japanese- American farm owners. In 1940, Bob became the director of the Sacramento County Farm Bureau. After the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent internment of Japanese-Americans, Bob quit his job as a state agriculture inspector and took control of three Japanese-American family farms belonging to the Tsukamotos, Nittas and Okamotos. He farmed the 90 acres of land until they returned home in 1945, when he returned their land to them and split half the profits. Bob's desire to improve his community continued, and, in 1953, he helped form the Florin Fire Protection District, a local volunteer fire department at which he served as a volunteer Assistant Chief for 20 years, then served as the Chief for an additional 12 years. He retired in November of 1974. In October of 1959, Bob helped found the Florin County Water District, to protect the water rights of local farmers and provide clean water to the community. After more than 40 years, Bob continues to serve as a board member to this day. In 1985, Bob helped form the Florin Historical Society, and donated five acres of his land to build the Florin Community History Center and adjacent park, to preserve the history of the Florin community. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Mr. Robert Fletcher, Jr. for his meritorious work in the Sacramento community, his ability to look past racial barriers and help save the farms of three Japanese-American families, and his more than 80 years of outstanding civil service. I ask all my colleagues to join me in commending Bob Fletcher for his truly remarkable service.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong opposition to the Republican budget plan. The federal budget should reflect the priorities and values of our nation, but the Republican plan instead looks out for the likes of big corporations who would get enormous tax breaks. What's more, the Republicans are asking America's seniors to pay for it. In fact, the Republican budget would end Medicare as we know it. And it would devastate Medicaid. Moreover, the Republican budget hurts our economy and in particular investments in innovation. Mr. Speaker, the Republican budget proposal will severely unravel our nation's gains in the clean energy economy. At the same time, it proposes significant tax subsidies for Big Oil. There is something not right with that picture. In fact, I believe the Republican budget is severely short-sighted. It offers our competitors, China and Germany, a free-pass to dominate an ever-growing clean energy manufacturing economy and job creation. The Sacramento area has over 220 clean energy companies, and I can tell you that many of those small business CEOs are seeking continued investment and support from this Congress. Mr. Chair, we should be promoting policies like the Make It in America agenda to boost America's manufacturing industry and make products here this country. In order for America to remain competitive, innovative, and a global leader, we must make responsible choices. Unfortunately, the Ryan budget does not. I urge my colleagues to vote against this misguided Republican budget plan.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this resolution. Millions of Americans across the country rely on Planned Parenthood as their only source of medical care. More than 90 percent of the care that Planned Parenthood provides in our communities is primary and preventive services. Such care keeps our communities healthier, and keeps health care costs down. However, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are attempting to misrepresent federal funding for Planned Parenthood as federal subsidization of abortions. Federal law already prohibits federal dollars from funding abortions. And today's resolution would take funds from cancer screenings, birth control, HIV testing, and other life saving care. It would effectively cripple the largest provider of reproductive health services in our country and it would take funding away from health care that primarily serves low-income Americans. It would take away health care services from women in my hometown. Women like Kari. Kari shared with me that she did not have health insurance when she went to Planned Parenthood to receive a free cancer screening. The screening showed that Kari had cervical cancer. But Planned Parenthood--in addition to offering the free screening--continued to provide Kari free care through subsequent visits. Today, Kari is a cancer survivor. Without Planned Parenthood's services Kari's story could have had a very different ending. And while this Congress should be working to improve access to health care services to help millions of men and women just like Kari, this resolution does just the opposite. Today's resolution is an attack on women, on low-income Americans, on community health centers, and on primary care. I urge my colleagues to oppose this harmful bill.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to voice my strong opposition to the Republican budget plan and its effects on America's seniors. I believe that we must address our national deficit, but I believe we can do it in a responsible manner that does not hinder our fragile economy and does not risk important programs. I support the Democratic budget proposal, which makes practical cuts to reduce our Nation's deficit but without hurting America's seniors and sacrificing their health and financial security. Madam Speaker, the Republican plan is irresponsible. It would hurt America's seniors while giving enormous tax breaks to the top 2 percent of the wealthiest Americans. It does nothing to create jobs but gives billions in corporate loopholes and subsidies to Big Oil. Most notably, the Republican plan would literally end Medicare. And while this may be a new plan, these are not new ideas. The Republicans' 2012 budget attempts to do to Medicare what President Bush wanted to do to Social Security in 2005--privatize it and severely cut benefits. Madam Speaker, can you imagine if we had privatized Social Security in 2005 the way the Republicans wanted to do just before the biggest financial collapse since the Great Depression? Is that what we really want to do with Medicare? We cannot afford to have Wall Street control the fate of our seniors. The Republican plan would convert Medicare into a voucher program that forces seniors to buy costly private insurance plans. It asks seniors, half of whom have less than $19,000 a year in total income, to pay more and get less. If this plan were put in place, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has estimated that the average senior would end up paying nearly three times more out-of-pocket expenses. Meanwhile, the health care law enacted last year is already helping to close the gap in prescription drug coverage known as the doughnut hole and provides annual exams and preventive services. But a repeal of the health care law, as the Republican budget plan calls for, would eliminate these benefits. Madam Speaker, these benefits for Medicare patients are making a real difference in the lives of my constituents. I recently heard from a 71-year-old woman from Sacramento who requires several expensive drugs to maintain her health. In October of 2010, she was worried about her ability to pay for her medication because she fell into the coverage gap. But she was relieved to learn that she would get $250 in 2010 and that 50 percent of her costs would be reimbursed this year and even more would be reimbursed in the future. But now Republicans want to pull the rug out from under our seniors and their families. What is astonishing to me is that in addition to privatization of Medicare, the Republican plan also goes after Medicaid. Instead of making real reform to the Medicaid program, the Republican budget calls for converting Medicaid into a block grant program. That would sharply reduce funding for seniors and low-income Americans on Medicaid so that it would not keep up with health care costs. Medicaid helps keep our seniors in their homes and helps them afford nursing homes if they need them, but the Republican plan would leave seniors on their own and ignores the promise that our country has made from one generation to another. Madam Speaker, the Federal budget should reflect our American values that have been passed down for generations where seniors earn the benefits that they have paid into and have been promised and are able to enjoy their retirement after working hard in their careers. That is why I will continue to fight to protect the dignity of America's seniors and protect them against the devastating effects of the Republican budget proposal.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this resolution. Mr. Speaker, the enactment of the Affordable Care Act was historic. It made the necessary steps to reform our health care delivery system and put patients first. A full repeal of this law will nullify all of the popular provisions it put in place, and will once again leave Americans at the mercy of insurance companies. Young adults in their 20s who are looking for jobs in this difficult economic climate, for instance, would suddenly find themselves without insurance and without the option of staying on their parent's plan. Recently, I heard from Michael, a Sacramento native. Michael has a 23-year-old son who was kicked off of his health plan at the age of 22. A few months later, still unable to obtain affordable coverage, he had to undergo an emergency tonsillectomy--a fairly common procedure that can cost thousands for those without coverage. Because Michael's son was kicked off of his plan his son now has massive medical debt and is still only in his early twenties. Mr. Speaker, we passed the Affordable Care Act last Congress because our health care system needed to be reformed. We spend $2 trillion a year on health care costs--far more than any other country--and we are by no means a healthier nation; far from it! My colleagues on the other side of the aisle say they are for reducing spending. Well, Mr. Speaker, repealing the Affordable Care Act will only increase the amount we spend every year on health care, both at the federal level, and on the personal level. It will leave millions without insurance and end up costing all of us more. I urge my colleagues to oppose this harmful legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I am in strong opposition to the rule and the bill before us today. In 2008, I introduced legislation to create a Prevention and Wellness Trust Fund. Much of what I see in the Prevention and Public Health Fund resembles the goals in my legislation. I introduced the legislation and fought for these preventive care provisions during the Energy and Commerce Committee debate on the health care law. I believe investing in preventive health care is vital to helping Americans access the care they need to stay healthy, reduce their health care costs, and ease the burden on our overcrowded emergency rooms. Mr. Speaker, we spend more than $2 trillion annually on health care, more than any other nation on Earth. Yet tens of millions of Americans still suffer from preventable and chronic diseases. In fact, approximately 75 percent of the Nation's health care expenditure is spent on treating chronic conditions. These conditions account for seven of 10 deaths in America. For too long, the health delivery system in our country has been focused on only treating people after they get sick, not before. Prevention has been a luxury, if not an afterthought. Studies have shown that regular access to primary and preventive care can help keep people healthier, help avoid chronic conditions, catch diseases earlier, and therefore help lower costs. Sacramento resident Tyler, an active teenager, was a picture of model health. One day he noticed that he was having heart problems during football practice. Taking precautions, his parents took him to a doctor to run tests and found that he had a cardiac abnormality. Today, after taking the necessary preventive steps, Tyler is healthy. Thankfully, he sought preventive measures early, which kept his condition from worsening and likely saved his life. Not every story ends as happily as Tyler's, though. Millions of Americans every year are diagnosed with chronic diseases because they did not have such access to preventive care. That is the focus of this fund, to improve prevention. This funding will reduce individual and taxpayer cost while saving lives. However, that fact is being overlooked by my colleagues on the other side of the aisle. This bill before us will have a devastating effect on the future health of America, both in terms of our physical health and for our fiscal responsibility. In order to truly improve both our health and our health care in this country, we must focus on prevention. I urge my colleagues to oppose this rule and the underlying bill.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. I strongly urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation.

Ms. MATSUI. I thank the gentlelady for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to this resolution. Mr. Speaker, ahead of a looming potential government shutdown, it is ironic that we are considering this resolution today that would move towards shutting down a free and open Internet. On the CR, my Republican colleagues are overreaching and have unfortunately demonstrated an unwillingness to negotiate in good faith with congressional Democrats and the President. The resolution before us is an example of the flawed process. Under the terms of the Congressional Review Act, resolutions of disapproval are not open to amendment even for the most basic consumer protections. During the Energy and Commerce Committee debate, I offered an amendment that would preserve the transparency rule adopted by the FCC as part of the open Internet order, requiring broadband providers to make available their network management practices so that consumers and innovators can make informed choices. I offered the same amendment to the Rules Committee in hopes that the majority would make it in order and debate its merits. The transparency rule is the most basic of consumer protections, and it is also the least controversial aspect of the rule supported by broadband providers, high-tech companies and consumers groups, including all six witnesses during a committee hearing on this. Yet this resolution will remove this widely accepted practice to protect consumers and innovators as well. Mr. Speaker, it is unclear how the FCC will be able to address consumer protection issues with respect to broadband providers if this resolution is enacted. We need to consider these unintended consequences. This resolution is a blunt instrument that risks the future of competition, innovation, and an open Internet. Mr. Speaker, the FCC's open Internet order brings certainty and clarity to a debate that has consumed this industry for years. It allows Internet service and content providers to focus on what they do best, innovate and create jobs.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center's 75th anniversary. It is a great pleasure to recognize the Center's dedication to providing social services to the people of Sacramento. As the staff, supporters and beneficiaries of the Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center celebrate this historic milestone, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring their leadership in the Sacramento community. Over the last 75 years, the Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center has provided neighborhood outreach, emergency assistance, children's programs, a teen center, and senior services to all those in need of their help. Their work in the neighborhood helps residents connect to the community by hosting meetings with city officials, publishing a newsletter, and providing a wide range of programs, such as the Free Income Tax Assistance Program. Other programs, like the Emergency Assistance Program helps individuals and families with the immediate emergency assistance, such as food and crisis intervention. The Center's Children's Program consists of after school activities, a summer day camp, as well as supportive services for schools and families. The Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center has also grown to include the Carl R. Hansen Teen Center, and is geared towards students in middle and high school. The services they provide encourage children to stay in school, build healthy relationships, and achieve their academic goals. The Sister Jeanne Felion Senior Center provides many services to seniors and offers them with a place to socialize and stay active. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center, and their outstanding commitment to providing social services to all people, both young and old. The past 75 years have been tremendously successful and I am sure they will continue to enjoy success in the future. While the Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center's staff, supporters, and friends gather together to celebrate the organization's 75th anniversary, I ask all my colleagues to once again join me in honoring their outstanding work throughout Sacramento.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to submit a letter from a broad array of private sector organizations, in support of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The letter, which expresses opposition to efforts to reduce or eliminate federal funding for the Corporation, outlines the importance of federal funds, which drive private investment through matching programs. The Corporation for National and Community Service affects communities in all 50 states, and provides opportunities for Americans of all ages. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following letter, signed by 212 of America's foremost business leaders, on the importance of funding the Corporation for National and Community Service. Save Service in America Dear Majority Leader Reid and Speaker Boehner: We are writing to urge you to oppose any proposal that would eliminate or reduce the fiscal year 2011 funding for the Corporation for National and Community Service and the programs it funds, including Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions, RSVP, Learn and Serve America, VISTA, the National Civilian Community Corps, the Volunteer Generation Fund, the Social Innovation Fund and AmeriCorps. Local service programs create meaningful opportunities for Americans hard-hit by the downturn, teaching marketable skills and putting workers on a path to economic self- sufficiency. Elimination of these programs would result in the loss of nearly 150,000 jobs and nearly 5 million volunteer positions that provide critical services and improve the lives of people in communities across America. Funding for the Corporation for National and Community Service provides critically needed, and highly leveraged, support for programs that are making a major difference in communities across the country, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Citizen Schools, City Year, Habitat for Humanity, Jumpstart, YouthBuild, and Teach for America, as well as literally thousands of other local shelters, faith-based organizations, senior homes and schools. These programs are a model of government investment at its best--each program re-competes for funding annually, and only the best are invested in. Local leaders choose which service programs are needed in their community and secure matching funds. This is not ``top down'' government, but bottom-up, community leadership and investment. These programs are getting results--they are managed like businesses, and are held accountable to impact goals and results. As private sector leaders, our companies, and many of us as private citizens, have been investing matching dollars into these programs for nearly two decades--in fact this year alone, the private sector will invest more than $800 million in private matching funding in local, community based programs supported by the Corporation for National and Community Service. That figure represents nearly a one-to-one match of every dollar the federal government invests. The private sector also helps to power these community solutions by providing these worthy programs with millions of volunteer hours. National service is an extraordinary catalyst and force-multiplier for community volunteering--one study has shown that every AmeriCorps member helps to generate more than 30 additional volunteers. The private sector, however, cannot do it alone. We require the investment of the federal government, and we will continue to do our part. Together, we are tackling the most pressing problems of our society at the local level: helping to close the education achievement gap, helping seniors remain independent, promoting public health to control the cost of healthcare, moving families out of substandard housing and saving our precious environmental resources. All of this is done, with citizens leading the way with a ``can do'' American spirit that we are proud to support. The elimination or reduction in funding of the Corporation for National and Community Service and its programs would put this bi-partisan, public-private achievement in grave jeopardy. We know that you are faced with difficult budget decisions, but we encourage you to keep investing our taxpayer dollars where the return is so high. We believe cost-effective, efficient, citizen-centered initiatives will provide common sense solutions to the challenges facing communities and citizens across the country. We cannot turn our back on the enormous contributions and long record of success of the Corporation for National and Community Service and its local programs. At a time when Americans face mounting challenges, made even more difficult by the struggling economy, it is vital that Congress stand firm in support of the programs that bring citizens together and marshal their ingenuity to address critical problems and create opportunities for our nation. Thank you for your leadership and support. Sincerely, James Adler, Attorney, AdlerADR; Vijay Advani, Executive Vice President, Franklin Templeton Investments; Darren Aitken, Partner, Aitken*Aitken*Cohn; Wylie Aitken, Founding Partner, Aitken*Aitken*Cohn; Michelle AliDinar, President/ CEO, Educational Television Programs, LLC; Michael Alter, President, The Alter Group; Anthony H. Anikeeff, Partner, Williams Mullen PC; Barbara Arnwine, President and Executive Director, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law; William S. Ayer, Chairman, President and CEO, Alaska Airlines; Donald A. Baer, Worldwide Vice Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer, Burson-Marsteller; Ryan K. Bailer, Owner, Burson-Marsteller; Ryan K. Bailer, Owner, Ryan Bailer Support, LLC; Stephen Baker, President, Baker Design Group, Inc.; John M. Ballengee, President, United Way of Central West Virginia. Joe Banner, President, Philadelphia Eagles; Tim Bannister, President, Bannister and Co., Inc.; Bill Barke, CEO, Pearson's Higher Ed Arts & Sciences; Edmund Bartlett, Chairman (Retired), NRS-Express Payment Network; Josh Bekenstein, Managing Director, Bain Capital, LLC; Karl I. Bell, Senior Vice President, Invest Detroit; Joel Benoliel, Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, Costco; Tom Bernstein, President, Chelsea Piers; Fred Blume, Chairman Emeritus, BlankRomeLLP; William Bonk, CEO, Emerging Strategies; Carmel Borders, President, Tapestry Foundation; Berta Borgenicht Kerr, Trustee, The Borgenicht Foundation; Katherine Bradley, President, CityBridge Foundation; Michael Brennan, President/CEO, United Way of Southeastern Michigan. John Bridgeland, President and CEO, Civic Enterprises; Michael Bronner, Founder, Upromise; Lois Buntz, CEO, United Way of East Central Iowa; R. William Burgess, Jr., Managing General Partner, ABS Ventures; Beverly Burns, Partner, Miller, Canfield, Paddock & Stone, PLC; Chet Burrell, President and CEO, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield; Mark A. Burzynski, Chief Financial Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana; Tushara Canekeratne, CEO, Nadastra; David Carmel, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Carmel Asset Management; Jay Carney, President/COO, T. L. Wallace Construction, Inc.; Gary Clare, Partner, Bain & Company, Inc.; Wesley Clark, General (retired), US Army; Lee Cockerell, Executive Vice President (retired), Walt Disney World Resort; Rick Cohen, Chairman, President and CEO, Buchalter Nemer; David L. Cohen, Executive Vice President, Comcast; Charles H. Collins, Managing Director and Senior Vice President, The Forestland Group LLC; Chip Conley, Founder and Executive Chairman, Joie de Vivre Hospitality. Art Connelly, CEO, Laffey McHugh Foundation; John G. Davies, President and CEO, Baton Rouge Area Foundation; Cornell DeClouette, Principle, Decbritt Corporation; Richard A. Derevan, Partner, Snell & Wilmer LLP; Charles Dickey III, President, Wyco Inc.; David Dinour, President, Aviatrade; Shachar Dinour, President, Triumph Property Group; Josh Dorf, CEO, Stone-Buhr; Tom Dretler, President and CEO, Eduventures, Inc.; Ed Drilling, President, AT&T Arkansas; David E. Dukes, Managing Partner, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP; Dayton Duncan, Director and Producer, Florentine Films; Ed Eger, GM, North America and Emerging Markets, Paypal; Steve Ellis, World Wide Managing Director, Bain & Company, Inc.; Lynn L. Elsenhans, Chairman and CEO, Sunoco, Inc.; Timothy Ervolina, President, United Way Association of South Carolina; Gregory Evans, CEO and President, Integer Law Corporation. Charles Farmer Jr., President/CEO, CS Farmer Construction, Inc.; Jon Fee, Partner, Alston & Bird LLP; Kate Fenneman, Director, The Seinfeld Family Foundation; Jesse Fink, Co- Founder, Mission Point Capital Partners; Dean Fischer, CEO, West Monroe Partners; Linda D. Forte, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer, Comerica Bank; Jeff Galt, President and COO, Magi Real Estate Services; Kenny Gamble, Founder, Universal Companies; Eva Garza Dewaelshe, President and CEO, SER Metro-Detroit and SERCO, Inc.; Katherine Gehl, Chairman, Gehl Foods, Inc.; Pamela Gilbert, Partner, Cuneo Gilbert & LaDuca LLP; Michael Gilligan, Co-Founder/General Partner, Heritage Partners, Inc.; Ben Goldhirsh, Founder and Owner, GOOD; Seth Goldman, President and TeaEO, Honest Tea; Todd E. Gordinier, Partner, Bingham McCutchen LLP; John Gordon, Vice President, Prudential Financial; Ted Granger, President, United Way of Florida, Inc. Richard Green, Vice Chairman and CEO, Firstrust Bank; Carl Guardino, President and CEO, Silicon Valley Leadership Group; Bruce G. Hain, President, Insource Services, Inc.; Ted Harbert, Chairman of NBC Broadcasting, NBC Universal; Andrew Hauptman, Chairman, Andell Holdings, LLC; Jeremy Hitchcock, CEO, Dyn Inc.; Jeff Hoffman, President, Jeff Hoffman & Associates; Gordy Holleman, CEO, Overland Advisors LLC; Robert D. Huth, President & CEO, David's Bridal; Brandy Johnson, Director, Michigan College Access Network; David Johnson, Founder, Act 4 Entertainment; Greg Johnson, President and CEO, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Michael A. Jones, President, Columbia Management; Deb Jones, President, Jones Training Associates, LLC; Peter H. Jost, Attorney, Dickstein Shapiro LLP; Andrew C. Kassner, Executive Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP; Kenneth C. Keller, President, Alberto Culver USA. Andrew Kerin, Executive Vice President and Group President, Global Food, Hospitality and Facility Services, ARAMARK Corporation; Judi Ketcik, Partner, CK&D; Bob Kimball, President & CEO, RealNetworks, Inc.; Tom King, President, US, National Grid; Darla King, President and CEO, King Business Interiors; Luther C. Kissam, IV, President, Albemarle Corporation; Klaus Kleinfelds, Chairman and CEO, Alcoa; John L. Knott, Jr., President and CEO, The Noisette Company, LLC; Philip D. Kohn, Partner and Pro Bono Coordinator, Rutan & Tucker, LLP; Michael Kong, CEO, MAPTI Ventures, former CEO Modern Luxury Media; Tom Krouse, CEO, Donatos Pizza; James R. Kruer, Partner, Chevalier Ginn Shirooni & Kruer, P.S.C.; Sherry Lansing, Founder and CEO, The Sherry Lansing Foundation; Jonathan Lavine, Chief Investment Officer, Sankaty Advisors LLC; Marguerite Lee, Corporate Community Relations Manager, Cisco; Martin V. Lee, Managing Partner, Famco Investments. William Lee, Co-Managing Partner, WilmerHale; Jeffrey Leonard, CEO, Global Environment Fund; William Lew Tan, President, Tan & Sakiyama; John Lim, Partner, Lim, Ruger & Kim, LLP; David Lincoln, Managing Partner, Element Partners; Bruce R. Lindsey, CEO, William J. Clinton Foundation; David Lissy, CEO, Bright Horizons Family Solutions; Jason Lutz, President and CEO, Villa, Inc.; Sharon Matthews, CEO, eLynx; Carlos Mazzorin, Group Vice President, Asia Pacific, South America and Global Purchasing (Retired), Ford Motor Company; Josh McCall, Chairman & CEO, Jack Morton Worldwide; Larry McCracken, Vice President, Talent Acquisition, Golden Key Group; Bill McDermott, Co-CEO, SAP; Hugh McDonald, President and CEO, Entergy Arkansas, Inc.; Ron McIntyre, Partner, Perkins Coie LLP; Thomas F. McLarty III, Chairman, McLarty Companies. Joseph P. McMillan, President and CEO, McMillan Bros., Inc.; Sharon McWhorter, President, American Resource Training System, Inc.; Lee Miller, Global Co-CEO, DLA Piper; Michael J. Miller, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP; Mark Minyard, Partner, Minyard Morris; Tom Monahan, CEO, Corporate Executive Board; Ben S. Moss, Managing Broker and Principal, The Campins Company; Will Muggia, CEO, President, and CIO, Westfield Capital Management; Shea Mullen, President, Give and Take; Robert Mulroy, President and CEO, Merrimack Pharmaceuticals; William Neukom, CEO, San Francisco Giants; Mark Nieker, President, Pearson Foundation; Lisa Paulsen, President and CEO, Entertainment Industry Foundation; Brian Payne, President and CEO, Central Indiana Community Foundation and The Indianapolis Foundation; Robert Perez, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Cubist Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; Carol Ann Petren, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, CIGNA Corporation; Julian Posada, President, Chicago Fire Soccer Club. Fred Prescott, Vice President and GMM, L.L. Bean-Retail; Anne Proctor, Pro Bono Counsel, Covington & Burling LLP; Thomas J. Raffa, President and CEO, RAFFA, P.C.; David B. Ramsay, retired, Chairman, President & CEO, SunTrust Bank, Northwest Florida; Michael A. Rashid, President and CEO, AmeriHealth Mercy Family of Companies; Rudy Redmond, Manager, KCP Initiatives; Colleen Regan, Partner, Seyfarth Shaw LLP; Sean Reilly, CEO, Lamar Advertising; Peter Remington, President, The Remington Group; Theodore Roosevelt IV, Managing Director, Barclays Capital; Steve Rosa, CEO, (add)ventures; Bob Rowe, President and CEO, NorthWestern Energy; Shirley Sagawa, Co-Founder, Sagawa/Jospin; Matthew Saiia, CEO, Collective Next, LLC; Ronald L. Sargent, Chairman and CEO, Staples; Daniel Sasse, Partner, Crowell & Moring; Jeff Schaffer, Vice President, Enterprise Community Partners. Cathleen Schmidt, President NH/VT, Citizens Bank; Lesa Scott, President, Heinemann Publishing Company; Jason Scott, CEO, EKO Asset Management Partners; Fred Sears, CEO and President, The Delaware Community Foundation; Bobbi Silten, President, Gap Foundation; Robert Small, Managing Director, Berkshire Partners LLC; Logan Smalley, President, Darius Goes West; Robert Smith, Founding Partner, Castanea Partners; Marsha Smith, Executive Director, Rotary Charities; Jonah M. Smith, Owner and Investment Advisor, Smith Pierce, LLC; Erik Smith, President & CEO, Blue Engine Message & Media; Stacey Snider, Co-Chairman and CEO, Dreamworks SKG; Karen Sock, President and CEO, Sock Enterprises, Inc.; Amanda Sodoma McMahon, Founder and Principal, McMahon Consulting LLC; Gene Sofer, Founding Partner, The Susquehanna Group. Javier Soto, President, The Miami Foundation; William M. Sowers, Principal, The Sandia Group; Fredric J. Spar, Managing Director, Kekst and Company; Chris Stadler, Managing Partner, CVC Capital Partners; Shirley Stancato, President/CEO, New Detroit, Inc.; Sue Suter, CEO, United Way of South Mississippi; Jeffrey Swartz, President and CEO, The Timberland Company; Marc Tarpenning, Co-founder, Tesla Motors; Ron Terwilliger, Chairman Emeritus, Trammell Crow Residential; Alice G. Thompson, CEO, Black Family Development, Inc.; Jonathan Tisch, Chairman and CEO, Loews Hotels; Susan B. Towler, Vice President, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Foundation; Rita L. Tuzon, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Fox Networks Group; Julia A. Uihlein, Vice President, David and Julia Uihlein Charitable Foundation, Inc.; Toni-Marie Van Buren, Senior Vice President, Partners for Community Change, United Way of San Antonio & Bexar County; John Van Camp, President/CEO, Southwest Solutions; David Van Patten, President and CEO, Dare Mighty Things. Jim Vella, President, Ford Motor Company Fund; Graeme W. Bush, Chairman, Zuckerman Spaeder LLP; Robert Waldron, CEO and President, Curriculum Associates; Mark Walker, Managing Director, Global Community Affairs, Applied Materials, Inc.; Jeffrey C. Walker, Chairman, Millennium Promise; Alexander J. Walker Jr., President, Devine Millimet; Hampton Walt, President/CEO, Inland Press; Benjamin Walton, Director, The Walton Family Foundation; Michael J. Ward, Chairman, President and CEO, CSX Corporation; Gail Warden, President Emeritus, Henry Ford Health System; Allen P. Waxman, Partner and Chair of the Life Sciences Group, Kaye Scholer LLP; Bernard White, President, White Construction; Kane Willyerd, CEO, Jambok; Steve Woodsum, Founding Managing Director, Summit Partners; Tae Yoo, Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Cisco; Mary Lou Young, President and CEO, United Way of Greater Milwaukee; Keith Zendler, CEO, Peoplemovers.com; Peter Zeughauser, Chairman, Zeughauser Group.