Harry Mitchell

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1743, as amended, a resolution congratulating Gerda Weissmann Klein on receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Mrs. Weissmann Klein's story is remarkable and represents so much of what is so great about America. She was born in Bielsko, Poland in 1924. She was just 15 years old when Germany invaded her homeland in 1939, and the world she knew changed forever. Her brother, Arthur, was taken by the Nazis. Her parents were sent to death camps in Auschwitz. For 3 years, Gerda was forced to endure a succession of slave labor and concentration camps. In 1945, Gerda was one of 2,000 women forced by Nazis to walk a 350- mile death march, during which women were subjected to starvation, exposure, and arbitrary execution. The death march finally ended in Volary, Czechoslovakia, when the survivors were liberated by the United States Army. Gerda was one of fewer than 120 women who survived. One of the American Army officers who helped liberate Gerda that day was a German-born Lieutenant named Kurt Klein, whose parents had been murdered at Auschwitz. Gerda and Kurt fell in love, got married, and moved to the United States and started a family. Once here, Gerda and Kurt worked diligently to promote Holocaust education and remembrance. They taught tolerance and worked to combat hunger. Gerda became a United States citizen, a privilege for which she has devoted her life's work as gratitude. She founded Citizenship Counts, a nonprofit organization that teaches our youth to appreciate and celebrate the majesty of their American citizenship. In 1957, Gerda's first book, ``All But My Life,'' was published. It chronicles her courageous struggle for survival during the Holocaust. In 1996, ``One Survivor Remembers,'' a documentary about her experiences during the Holocaust, won an Academy Award. Gerda Weissman Klein's life and work have inspired generations of Americans and countless individuals around the world. Last month, President Barack Obama announced that Gerda Weissmann Klein would be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This is the highest civilian honor that can be bestowed, and it is well deserved. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, as amended. Before I yield, I want to thank Representative Jean Schmidt for partnering with me on this resolution. I also want to thank Chairman Towns and Ranking Member Issa, as well as both the majority and minority member staffs, for helping bring this resolution to the floor.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, Mo Udall once said that those elected to positions of leadership have a moral obligation to exercise leadership. Since coming to Congress, and throughout my whole career, I have always done what I believed was in the best interests for this district, for our State, and for our country. This is what I was elected to do, to make tough decisions, knowing that some were not always as popular as others; and I would not have changed one thing, not one vote, not one decision. When I think about what we have accomplished together in Congress over the last 4 years, I know that there are many reasons to be proud. We were able to make college more affordable for millions of young Americans. We were able to invest in clean energy technology that will clean our environment and set our Nation on a path to energy independence. We raised the minimum wage for working families across this country. We were able to ensure equal pay for an equal day's work for women. We passed historic health care reform that will benefit millions of Americans, making health care insurance more accessible and affordable for thousands of individuals, families, and small businesses. But I am most proud of the work we've done to take care of our Nation's veterans. Together, we made it possible for our veterans, active duty, National Guard, and reserve to empower themselves by furthering their education. I was honored to be part of an effort to pass the 21st century GI Bill into law. We also know that many of our returning veterans and those who served in past generations bear wounds that can't be seen. Too many continue to struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder and are at risk for suicide. Together, we've pushed the VA to provide more mental health assistance to those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan because our veterans deserve the highest attention and respect they have earned when they come home, and we have work to do to bring them all home. But as much as we've accomplished, there is still more to do. I have always said that you can't be successful unless a lot of other people want you to be. And I have been blessed to have so many people who have been supportive of me. For the better part of close to 40 years, I've held the titles of teacher, councilman, mayor, senator, and Congressman. And there are a lot of people I want to thank for being with me every step of the way. A special thanks goes to my family: My wife, Marianne; my son, Mark; my daughter, Amy; and my five grandchildren. I also want to thank my staff. They were the most hardworking, talented, and loyal bunch that you would ever find, and I am very grateful for them. Lastly, I want to thank the people of Arizona's Fifth Congressional District for allowing me to represent them in the United States Congress for the past 4 years. It's been an overwhelming honor to have had the opportunity to serve my district.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of John Ore and his lifetime of service to the citizens of Tempe, Arizona. I wish to thank him for his dedication to public service, a remarkable record of success and accomplishment, and many years of friendship. Judge Ore's law enforcement career began on May 28, 1969, when he joined the U.S. Army and attended military police training. After the army, John joined the Tempe Police Department and within three years, received a number of awards for his work, including the Tempe Police Meritorious Service Award and the Outstanding Young Law Enforcement Officer Award. John quickly rose through the ranks at the Tempe Police Department and was promoted to Commander in July of 1988. After a distinguished 22 year career in the police force, John was elected to serve as Tempe Justice of the Peace. Judge Ore's strong commitment to volunteerism, service, and civic engagement is not only incredibly honorable, but also unmatched. For example, John has served on the Board of Directors for Friends of the Orphans, and spearheaded an effort to send relief supplies to the war zone in Bosnia on behalf of Tempe South Rotary Club and Project Lifeline. He was awarded the Hon Kachina Award as one of Arizona's 12 outstanding volunteers in 1998 and also received Rotary International's Service Above Self Award that same year. To this day, John remains active in the community and is involved with service activities through the Tempe South Rotary Club. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing John Ore for 40 years of outstanding service to my home town of Tempe, Arizona.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a member of the Armed Forces from my home State of Arizona. Each month, Scottsdale Healthcare recognizes service members who perform diligent service to our country. Scottsdale Healthcare has recognized Staff Sergeant (SSgt) Thomas D. Gordy, Jr. for the month of December. I commend Scottsdale Healthcare for paying tribute to this outstanding service member for his commitment, dedication, and service to our country. SSgt Gordy joined the United States Air Force out of high school in 1968. He served our Nation for four years as a Physiological Training Specialist and was responsible to ensure the readiness of pilots in all services for the rigors of combat aviation. This specialty requires spending many hours in a high altitude chamber to train and monitor flight crews while exposing them to the dangerous conditions of hypoxia and the potential for decompression sickness. By educating pilots and crews on their individual vulnerabilities to these life threatening conditions, SSgt Gordy was instrumental in creating medically ready and trained individuals to engage in the U.S. conflict in Vietnam. Additionally, SSgt Gordy was trained to treat aviation related medical issues that arise from the demanding effects of military flight. He has logged over eighty hours in hyperbaric chambers assisting our wounded warriors and helping them in their return to duty. SSgt Gordy's awards include the National Defense Service Medal and an Outstanding Unit Award. SSgt Gordy has been a Scottsdale Healthcare employee for six years, working in the Emergency Department at the Osborn Campus where he has filled positions as a staff nurse, clinical educator, and currently the department manager. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing this outstanding Soldier for serving our country.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jerry Brock, a Tempe, Arizona resident who was recently honored with the third annual Guiding Light Philanthropy Award by the Tempe Community Council. The Tempe Community Council was founded in 1972 with the mission of ``connecting those in need with those who care.'' Jerry started his career working in his father's auto salvage yard in Tempe over 50 years ago. Through his impeccable work ethic over the years, Jerry has become a national leader in the wholesale auto parts industry, through his company, Brock Supply Co., which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Just as Jerry worked steadily to build his company, he has worked tirelessly to improve his community. Jerry has been giving back to his community continuously through the years. He recently crossed the $1 million mark in charitable gifts, primarily to causes within his home community of Tempe. Among the organizations that Jerry has supported over the years are the Cancer Foundation, East Valley Boys and Girls Club, Community Bridges and the Tempe City Council. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Jerry Brock for his well deserved recognition as the recipient of the third annual Guiding Light Philanthropy Award. I am proud to call Jerry not only a constituent and fellow Tempe resident, but also a friend. The philanthropic efforts of individuals like Jerry help strengthen our communities and our Nation.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a member of the Armed Forces from my home state of Arizona. Each month, Scottsdale Healthcare recognizes service members who perform diligent service to our country. Scottsdale Healthcare has posthumously recognized Sergeant James Lane Talley for the month of November. I commend Scottsdale Healthcare for paying tribute to this outstanding service member for his commitment, dedication, and sacrifice for our country. Sergeant (SGT) Talley entered the U.S. Army during the beginning years of the Vietnam conflict and joined the ranks of Special Forces soldiers assisting the Republic of Vietnam, RVN, as an advisor. In June of 1964, Sergeant Talley and two other Americans along with 103 Montagnard soldiers left their base camp for a dismounted patrol. In a firefight two days into the patrol, SGT Talley fought valiantly but was ultimately captured by North Vietnamese soldiers. Although the Military conducted an extensive search, SGT Talley has never been found either dead or alive. He is officially listed as killed in action, body unrecoverable. For the heroism displayed during this battle, SGT Talley was awarded our nations third highest award for valor, the Silver Star. SGT Talley's other awards include the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam (RVN) Campaign Medal, the RVN Wound Medal, and the POW Medal. Additionally, SGT Talley earned the Special Forces Tab, the Basic Parachutist Badge, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. SGT Talley is the father of Scottsdale Healthcare's Roland Breidel, from the Osborn Construction Department. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing this outstanding Soldier for serving our country and making the ultimate sacrifice.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Desert Botanical Garden on being awarded accreditation by the American Association of Museums, which is the highest recognition of a museum's commitment to public service, professional standards, and excellence in education. A small group of passionate, local citizens started the Desert Botanical Garden in the 1930s when they saw the need to conserve their unique desert environment. The Garden, which is now located on 145 acres in Phoenix, has emerged as an Arizona treasure. The Garden boasts more than 50,000 plants, 1,100 volunteers, and 640,529 attendees every year. Since the Garden's beginning, it has been steadfast in its commitment to advance excellence in education, research, exhibition and conservation of desert plants of the world, with emphasis on the southwestern United States. For more than 70 years, it has been teaching and inspiring visitors from around the world to help them understand, appreciate and preserve the desert's natural beauty. The Garden now joins an impressive group of 778 institutions currently accredited by the American Association of Museums, which includes only those museums that have demonstrated a firm commitment to providing outstanding programming and experiences to the public while also meeting the highest standards of collections care. In fact, it is 1 of only 44 botanical gardens accredited by the association. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing and congratulating the Desert Botanical Garden for its impressive and unique contribution to Arizona.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Catherine May and Dan Abbott, the Tempe couple recently named the 2010 Don Carlos Humanitarians of the Year by the Tempe Community Council. The Tempe Community Council was founded in 1972 with the mission of ``connecting those in need with those who care,'' and has been honoring exceptional individuals with the Don Carlos Humanitarian Award for the past 26 years. This award honors a Tempe resident or couple who upholds the humanitarian ideals of Charles Trumbull Hayden, Tempe's founder, referred to as ``Don Carlos'' by Hispanic pioneers due to his generosity and compassion for people in need. Catherine and Dan truly live a life of generosity and compassion and are both incredibly deserving of this award. Catherine, a senior research analyst for the Salt River Project and Dan, a retired social worker who specialized in emotionally disturbed youths, were both active volunteers prior to their marriage fifteen years ago, and have been enthusiastically volunteering ever since. Both are involved with the University Presbyterian Church which has been a big influence in their outreach efforts. Their outreach into the community touches on human issues at both the state and community levels and includes hunger, homelessness, mental health, counseling, child abuse prevention, GLBT tolerance advocacy and humane treatment of documented workers. Catherine and Dan's direct influences on the community are numerous and include the annual Tempe Empty Bowls event. Catherine and Dan made the original proposal to establish the event which has since raised more than $100,000 for the Tempe Community Action Agency and United Food Bank. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Catherine May and Dan Abbott for their well deserved recognition as the 2010 Don Carlos Humanitarians of the Year. Couples like Catherine and Dan help strengthen our communities and our nation.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the American Legion for the outstanding work they do on behalf of and for our nation's veterans. Today we celebrate American Legion Day, the 91st anniversary of the date that the American Legion received their charter from the U.S. Congress. Over the past nine decades, the American Legion has never wavered from their commitment to support our veterans, our country and our communities. The American Legion is a tremendous advocate for war-time veterans through their legislative outreach. Over the years, the Legion helped write and successfully advocated for the original ``GI Bill of Rights'' during World War II and the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals, among other important accomplishments. In addition to working directly with and for veterans, the Legion has also played an important role providing community support in areas such as mental health, children's welfare, and disaster relief. As the House sponsor of the 21st century Post 9/11 GI Bill, I am particularly grateful to the work the American Legion once again put forth to advocate for improved and enhanced education benefits for today's veterans. From helping to craft language and whipping support among lawmakers and the public, the Legion was an irreplaceable partner in this great step forward. Thanks to the Legion's grass-roots efforts, today there are more than 330,000 veterans across the country now enrolled and using GI Bill benefits. I am grateful for the many opportunities I have had to work with the Legion on both the national and local level. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing American Legion Day and honoring the decades of service to our veterans, and the vital work they continue to perform for our country.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jody Bock, the recipient of the Heart Failure Nurse Maven Award. Jody Bock is a registered nurse, a heart-failure care coordinator, and the director of professional practice at Banner Heart Hospital. Heart failure is a leading cause of death in the United States, affecting 8 million Americans and their families. It is only through the efforts, technical expertise, and compassion of nurses like Jody Bock that those who struggle with heart failure can learn to accept and fight this terrible disease. The Healthcare Accreditation Colloquium awards the Heart Failure Nurse Maven Award to recognize these remarkable nurses for their essential roles in the lives of people with heart failure. Jody Bock began her career in nursing in Illinois, but moved to Arizona soon after receiving her master's degree and becoming a nurse specialist with a focus on heart-failure care. Employed at Banner Heart Hospital for her specialization, Jody Bock was part of a group which contributed to the hospital's certification as an Accredited Heart Failure Institute. As a recipient of the Heart Failure Nurse Maven Award, nurse Bock has demonstrated her talent and empathy for her patients and their families. The challenging work she does daily helps to improve the lives of those dealing with heart failure. For this, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing this exceptional nurse, Jody Bock, for her service as a nurse in the community.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ms. Romonia Dixon of Tempe, the recipient of the 2010 Boys and Girls Club of America National Youth of the Year Award. Mona's remarkable story begins with a difficult past. For much of her life, her family did not have a home of their own and she moved from shelter to shelter to find a place to sleep at night. Sometimes the family was even split up in order to find enough spaces to sleep. Mona did not let difficult circumstances get in the way of her success, however. She worked hard in all aspects of her life; she excelled in school, she financially contributed to her family by holding a part- time job, and she was active in Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley in Tempe, AZ. Dixon went on to graduate with a 3.92 GPA, placing her third in her class of 280. She was also captain of the basketball team and participated in the National Honor Society, Peer Leadership, Student Council and the Math Team. Dixon is currently a freshman at the Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University, and is well on her way to a planned master's degree in international retail management. We have something in common. She attended Tempe High School, my alma mater and a place I called home for 28 years as a Government teacher and, as I said, she is currently a freshman at ASU which is also my alma mater. With our similar academic paths, Congress may not be far behind for this young woman. This week, I had a chance to sit down and talk with her. I was very impressed with her commitment to her community and expect she will accomplish great things in the years to come. With this award, she receives a number of scholarships, but the meaning of this award goes far beyond that. It would have been easy for her to take a different path, but she made decisions that would better her life and that has brought her here, today. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mona for her tremendous accomplishment and for setting an example for the young people of our nation.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate David Nach, one of the four recipients of the John J. Ross Memorial Award for Excellence in Law-Related Education. Though he received his law degree from Arizona State University and was certified by the State Bar of Arizona, Mr. Nach forwent a career as a lawyer and instead became an educator. Currently a professor of criminal justice, advanced placement economics, and regular economics at Mountain Pointe High School, he truly prepares his students for the future. For those in his economics class, he introduces bankruptcy lawyers and judges to tell students about the dangers and proper use of credit cards. He also employs the auction website, eBay, to show students an example of what he calls ``a near-perfect market.'' In his course on criminal justice, guest speakers include judges, crime scene investigators, and prosecutors, and students are taken on a field trip to a juvenile detention center. In addition to teaching his classes, Mr. Nach heads up the Mountain Pointe Teen Court Program, a program in which teens conduct a trial and decide the consequences for the actions of real juvenile defendants. As a former teacher, I recognize the importance of preparing our youth for their future in a competitive and complex global economy and world. This preparation begins with a first-rate and comprehensive education through inspiring and creative teachers like Mr. Nach, who go above and beyond to reach their students. I commend his efforts at Mountain Pointe High School and have no doubt that he will continue to inspire students throughout his career as an educator. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mr. David Nach, a member of Arizona's Fifth Congressional District and one of the four recipients of the John J. Ross Memorial Award for Excellence in Law- Related Education.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Coach Jerry Dawson's retirement as Chaparral High School's Head Baseball Coach after 37 inspiring and exceptional years. Coach Dawson is a well-known figure at Chaparral High School in Arizona's 5th Congressional District. Since the school's very first varsity baseball season in 1974, he has been at the helm of the team as the head baseball coach. During his tenure, he led the Firebirds' baseball team to an amazing 23 regional championships, finished in the ``final four'' 19 times, attained state runner up on four occasions, and won the state champions eight times. Coach Dawson's dedication to baseball and the students of Chaparral High School is remarkable. In addition to creating and managing a successful baseball program, Jerry Dawson contributed much of his time to students as an instructor of Physical Education and as the school's Athletic Director. Through these careers, he has inspired thousands of Arizona's youth and been recognized as the ``Coach of the Year'' in Arizona nine times and the national ``Coach of the Year'' three times. And, although he is retiring as a coach at Chaparral, I am pleased to note that Coach Dawson will continue to motivate young baseball players in the upcoming season as an assistant baseball coach at Yavapai College. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the retirement of an outstanding member of Arizona's 5th Congressional District, Coach Jerry Dawson, and congratulate him on his new position as the assistant coach at Yavapai College.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the International Taoist Tai Chi Society on their organization's 40th anniversary. Predominantly managed by volunteers, the Taoist Tai Chi Society instructs members in internal arts and methods which focus on recovering, improving, and maintaining health and wellness. In following the aims and objectives of its founder, Master Moy Lin-shin, the society also promotes preserving the ``essence of tradition in the modern world'' and the ``dual cultivation of mind and body.'' With locations in more than 25 countries around the world, the International Taoist Tai Chi Society unites individuals of different cultures and dialects, creating an international community. I am pleased to note that, in my own 5th Congressional District, the society opened a non-profit, Arizona Chapter in 2008. This chapter has both helped to improve the health of members in my district and facilitate their connection with others throughout the world interested in similar practices. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Arizona Chapter of the International Taoist Tai Chi Society and the entire organization on its 40th anniversary.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mr. Duane Fouts, who was recently elected the 2011 President of the Arizona Association of Realtors'. Mr. Fouts will be installed as President on October 6, 2010. Though his career began in 1988 as a salesperson, Mr. Fouts climbed his way up the proverbial ladder of the real estate industry. Frequently recognized for his contributions and leadership in the past, I am confident that Mr. Fouts will continue to demonstrate such leadership and admirably represent the 42,000 plus membership of the Arizona Association of Realtors'. Mr. Fouts has earned numerous leadership appointments and industry awards for professional contributions, including the 2008 Realtor of the Year in Phoenix. He also gives back to his community as volunteer for the Scottsdale Boys and Girls Club as a basketball coach, and with Habitat for Humanity. I am proud to represent Mr. Fouts and his family--he and his wife Jill have two children and five grandchildren-- in Arizona's 5th District. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mr. Duane Fouts as an important member of Arizona's 5th District and the 2011 President of the Arizona Association of Realtors'.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ms. Romonia Dixon of Tempe, the recipient of the 2010 Pacific Youth of the Year Award. This national award, granted by the Boys and Girls Club of America, recognizes Mona's academic excellence and outstanding contributions to her school and community despite personal challenges and obstacles. For much of her life, Romonia has been moving with her family to different cities and homeless shelters--often times getting separated from her family to ensure each person had a safe haven for the night. Romonia reached out to the Boys and Girls Club-Ladmo Branch five years ago for stability and support and has since become a beacon of inspiration and motivation for younger members. This remarkable young woman has taken every opportunity to teach the importance of being a conscientious, caring and productive member of society. Romonia participates in the Keystone Club, a leadership and service group for teens, takes part in ``Read to Me'' volunteer program for kids at a shelter where she once lived, and organizes canned food drives. Romonia's excellence is further reflected in her commitment to her education at Tempe High School. Being a former graduate and teacher at Tempe High School, I am immensely proud of Romonia's achievements-- graduating third in her class with a 3.92 grade point average. Romonia's merits extend beyond the classroom where she served as the varsity basketball team's captain, and belonged to a number of school organizations. Being named Pacific Region Youth of the Year will grant Romonia $24,000 in college scholarships from founding sponsor Reader's Digest Foundation. This will be in addition to the $30,000 in scholarships that Romonia has earned by being named Boys and Girls Club of the East Valley's Youth of the Year. Romonia will spread her talent further as she enrolls at my alma mater, Arizona State University, where she will be a member of the professional program at the W.P. Carey School of Business and the Barrett Honors College. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Romonia Dixon for her inspiring efforts, talents, and service to our community through the Boys and Girls Club.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Phoenix Mercury for their championship victory during the 2009 Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) Finals. On October 9, 2009, the Phoenix Mercury defeated the Indiana Fever in a best-of-five series. The Phoenix Mercury has won the WNBA Championship twice in the last three seasons and they are now set to solidify their mark in women's basketball. The Mercury proved to be the best team in the WNBA from start to finish, ending with the best record in their conference and in the league. The Mercury succeeded through the dedication, hard work, and passion of the players, coaches, and staff. More importantly, this team owes a great deal of its success to their fans, which have demonstrated their support in record numbers. Arizonans and WNBA fans across the world share in the excitement and pride that the Phoenix Mercury displayed both on and off the court during this inspiring victory. Madam Speaker, I am honored to congratulate the Phoenix Mercury team, including Head Coach Corey Gaines and his Assistant Coaches, Julie Hairgrove and Bridget Pettis; and players Dawanna Bonner, Candice Dupree, Sequoia Holmes, Tameka Johnson, Taylor Lilley, Nicole Ohlde, Brooke Smith, Tangela Smith, Ketia Swanier, Penny Taylor, and Diana Taurasi. I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the remarkable success of this team, whose achievements and camaraderie should be models for other teams across the country. Congratulations to the Phoenix Mercury on an impressive season and best of luck in continuing your championship stride.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Diana Taurasi on being voted the 2009 Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) Most Valuable Player, the 2009 WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player, and the recipient of the 2010 ESPY Award for Best WNBA Player. During Ms. Taurasi's 2009 MVP campaign, she ranked among the WNBA's top ten leaders in nearly every statistical category, including points per game, three point field goals made, three-point field goals attempted, three-point field goal percentage, free throws made, free throws attempted, free throw percentage, field goals made, field goals attempted, blocks per game and defensive rebounds per game. In 2009, Ms. Taurasi became the fastest WNBA player to reach 4,000 career points, while leading the WNBA with 20.4 points per game. Ms. Taurasi also ranks 13th in WNBA history for points scored and third in all-time points per game. Ms. Taurasi is one of two players in WNBA history to win an MVP Award, a WNBA championship and the finals MVP in the same season. I am truly privileged to honor Ms. Taurasi for her accomplishments. Her commitment to excellence should serve as an inspiration for all. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Diana Taurasi as she is honored as being the 2009 WNBA Most Valuable Player, the 2009 WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player and the 2010 ESPY Best WNBA Player.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of bipartisan legislation I introduced yesterday with my colleague Congressman Brian Bilbray: the Stop the Drop Houses Act. The Federal Government's failure to secure the border and fix our broken immigration system has allowed smugglers and Mexican cartels to set up vast networks of drop houses, which operate as way stations for criminal enterprises. In Phoenix we have as many as 1,000 drop houses. They are dangerous magnets for violent crime. Even more alarming is the fact that a loophole in Federal law prevents authorities from using civil forfeitures to seize these houses. Authorities can seize vehicles or even airplanes, but they can't use civil forfeiture against the actual drop house itself. The Stop Drop Houses Act would close the loophole and allow authorities to use civil forfeitures to seize these drop houses. Obviously it will take much more to fix our broken system, but this is one obvious and important step that Congress can take right now to make our communities safer. I urge my colleagues to pass the Stop the Drop Houses Act.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of bipartisan legislation I introduced earlier today with my colleague Rep. Brian Bilbray of California: the Stop the Drop Houses Act. Border States continue to pay a heavy price for the Federal Government's failure to secure the border and fix our broken immigration system. Arizona has been especially hard hit. More than half the illegal crossings across the U.S.-Mexico border happen in our State. But this isn't just a crisis for communities along the border. This is a crisis in the interior--in places like Phoenix, where smugglers and Mexican cartels have set up vast networks of drop houses, which operate as way stations for criminal smuggling enterprises. It has been estimated that there may be as many as 1,000 such drop houses in the Phoenix metropolitan area alone. The crime associated with these drop houses is brutal and alarming. Phoenix now experiences upwards of 300 kidnappings a year. I had the opportunity to visit a drop house in Phoenix yesterday, and I saw where smugglers had kept victims behind barred doors and windows while they extorted money for their release. I also visited another home in the same neighborhood, the site of a drug-cartel kidnapping, where smugglers had begun digging a grave for one of their captives, right there inside the house. These violent thugs put innocent, law-abiding citizens at risk as well, when fights between rival cartels over smuggled cargo devolve into gunfire. And these drop houses are everywhere. Living in an upscale neighborhood doesn't immunize you from their threat. If there is anything more disturbing than these drop houses, it is the fact that we still have a loophole in Federal law that stops Federal authorities from using civil forfeiture to seize homes that are used as drop houses. Under current law, civil forfeiture can be used to seize all kinds of other property used to facilitate smuggling crimes, such as vehicles or even airplanes. However, civil forfeiture cannot be used against the actual drop house, itself. This just doesn't make sense. That is why Rep. Bilbray and I have introduced bipartisan legislation to fix this. Our bill would close this loophole, and allow Federal prosecutors to use civil forfeiture to seize homes used as drop houses. This is, of course, no substitute for the kind of comprehensive fix we need for border security and our broken immigration system. But this is one obvious, and vitally important step that Congress can take, right now, to make our communities safer. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass the Stop the Drop Houses Act.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, I am troubled by recent press reports suggesting that the Justice Department has decided to sue to block Arizona's new immigration law, SB 1070. I believe this is the wrong direction to go. I believe the administration's time and efforts would be much better spent securing the border and fixing our broken immigration system. If there's one message that Washington should receive from the enactment of SB 1070, it is that Arizonans are fed up with waiting for the Federal Government to address this vitally important issue. A lawsuit won't solve the problem. It won't secure the border and it won't fix our broken immigration system. Neither will boycotts, which are shortsighted and detrimental to our economic recovery. The only thing that protracted litigation will do is once again demonstrate to Arizonans that Washington just doesn't get it. It will embolden those on all sides who prefer to grandstand and score political points, instead of working toward real solutions. Arizonans are tired of grandstanding and tired of waiting for real help from Washington.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Charles Calleros on being honored by the State Bar of Arizona for his work in mentoring women and minorities. This award, the Committee on Minorities and Women in the Law Award, commends Mr. Calleros for his distinction and efforts on behalf of minorities and women in the legal field. Mr. Calleros, a professor at the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law located at Arizona State University, is deeply committed to promoting diversity in the legal field, both nationally and statewide. In 2005, he served as a member of the Minority Affairs Committee of the Law School Admissions Council, which strives to achieve diversity in law school applicants. In 2007, in collaboration with the Hispanic National Bar Association, Mr. Calleros started a mentoring program with the goal of reaching out to students before they graduate high school. Calleros, who teaches Contracts, International Contracts, and Civil Rights Legislation, has been at ASU since 1981. In addition to his dedication to ASU, Mr. Calleros has been a visiting professor at Stanford Law School and at the University of Santa Clara. Each year, he also teaches a weeklong course in American Contract Law and International Law at the University of Paris. Through all of these efforts, he strives to be a positive role model for Valley youth and students, and works to help them reach their full educational and leadership potential. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing and congratulating Charles Calleros for his valuable contributions to the Phoenix area.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Keith Burke of Tempe, the recipient of the Arizona Gang Investigators Association's Lifetime Achievement Award. Keith has dedicated the past 18 years of his career to the development of gang prevention programs in the city of Tempe. As a former mayor and lifelong resident of Tempe, and now my hometown's representative in Congress, I wish to congratulate Keith on this achievement and thank him for his efforts within our community. Keith's commitment to the development of Escalante Community Center has made a tremendous positive impact on that neighborhood and the broader community. His dedication and leadership helped lead to the expansion of the Escalante Community Center, which has grown from 3,000 square feet to 37,000 square feet. These facilities operate as an essential tool to provide a safe and entertaining place for teenagers and children. Through the center, Keith has established programs geared toward reducing gang-related crimes. His efforts at the Escalante Community Center have provided a model for similar community centers throughout Tempe. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Keith Burke, a truly valuable and inspirational member of our community, for earning this Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today once again to urge passage of a final bill to impose tough sanctions on Iran. A final bill is long overdue. The House passed the Iran Sanctions Enabling Act last year, and the Senate passed the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions Accountability and Divestment Act in January. Iran is not stopping its ruthless quest for nuclear weapons while Congress continues to deliberate. We simply cannot allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. We must act quickly and boldly to prevent that from happening. A nuclear Iran would not only pose a dire threat to Israel, a vitally important ally in the region, but to the United States as well. We need to act, and we need to act now. I hope the conferees will complete their work quickly so that a final Iran sanctions bill can be enacted soon.

Mr. MITCHELL

Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a distinguished member of the Armed Forces residing in my home state. In Arizona, Scottsdale Healthcare honors service members who perform diligent service to this country every month; for the month of May, they have recognized Captain (Retired) Stuart Alan Richards. I commend Scottsdale Healthcare for paying tribute to this outstanding service member for his commitment, dedication and service to our country. Captain Richards originally joined the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era, but subsequently transferred to the Naval Reserve in order to attain a college degree as a Physician's Assistant. After receiving his degree, Captain Richards became a Warrant Officer in the Army National Guard, quickly rising to achieve the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3 after returning to the Naval Reserve. Captain Richard's final career change occurred in 1988 with his transition into the United States Public Health Service. Once there, he worked at the Phoenix Indian Medical Center where he was deployed numerous times to support medical efforts during the shootings at Red Lakes Reservation in Minnesota and hurricanes in Florida. After 31 years of federal service, he retired in 2006. Today, Captain Richards continues his life's work of caring for the injured and sick as a Physician's Assistant with Scottsdale Emergency Associates who staff Scottsdale Healthcare's three Emergency Departments. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing this exceptional Military Officer for serving our country and caring for fellow service men and women in and out of combat.