Tom Petri

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of House Resolution 1361, recognizing North Carolina Central University on its 100th anniversary. Since 1910, the mission of North Carolina Central University has been to prepare students academically and professionally to become leaders. NCCU was founded by Dr. James E. Shepard as the National Religious Training School and Chautauqua for the Colored Race, with the purpose of developing African American men and women into citizens of fine character and sound academic training. After several name changes in the early 1900s, the college saw a significant expansion between 1927 and 1929 through additional funding from the General Assembly, a generous gift from B.N. Duke, and contributions from the citizens of Durham. NCCU is a comprehensive institution which offers bachelor's degrees in more than 100 fields of study and awards graduate degrees in an estimated 40 disciplines. The university has a state-of-the-art biotechnology research institute, which collaborates with pharmacy and biotech companies in the much-touted Research Triangle Park area, where NCCU is found. With nearly 9,000 students enrolled, this Historically Black University is diverse. International studies and exchange programs attract exchange students from more than 12 countries, including Liberia, India, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Nepal, China, the Czech Republic, Nigeria, South Korea, Russia, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and South Africa. Through the scholarship and teaching of its faculty and the many contributions to society of its alumni, NCCU seeks to fulfill its motto of ``Truth and Service.'' I'd like to congratulate NCCU Chancellor Charlie Nelms, the faculty, staff, and students, as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. I ask my colleagues to support this resolution. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, the resolution before us--introduced by the co-chairs of the GA Caucus, Dr. Ehlers and Mr. Boyd--expresses support for the designation of the third Saturday in May as ``International Learn to Fly Day.'' The resolution recognizes aviation's tremendous impact on the imagination, innovation, and economy of the United States. Pilots are obviously a critical component of our aviation system and this resolution recognizes the need to cultivate the Nation's next generation of pilots. It is fitting to recognize the international nature of aviation. The era of flight has certainly brought the world closer together. Positioned between two major general aviation events in the United States, Sun and Fun in Lakeland, Florida and the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, International Learn to Fly Day is a great time to encourage young people to take an interest in flying. These air shows offer a great opportunity to get an up-close and personal look at the aircraft and interact with the pilots who make general aviation such a vibrant part of the aviation community in the United States, and around the world. The International Learn to Fly Day is also a great way to encourage would-be aviators to follow in the footsteps of other aviators who have helped create the aviation system we all enjoy today. Mr. Speaker, I support the adoption of the resolution, and urge my colleagues to support the resolution.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of Senate Concurrent Resolution 61, Expressing the sense of the Congress that general aviation pilots and industry should be recognized for the contributions made in response to Haiti earthquake relief efforts. On January 12, 2010, Haiti experienced a disastrous earthquake that overwhelmed its disaster relief capabilities. The world responded. In addition to relief offered by governments from around the world, individual general aviation pilots did what they could to support the relief effort. To help meet the desperate need for supplies to help those displaced by the earthquake, general aviation pilots made over 4,500 relief flights within the first thirty days after the disaster. Some 3,500 passengers and 1 million pounds of cargo were transported by large general aviation aircraft, and general aviation pilots in smaller aircraft were able to serve areas that larger aircraft could not access, delivering critical medical personnel and supplies. This concurrent resolution recognizes the magnanimous efforts of the general aviation community in the response to this terrible disaster. The extraordinary efforts of these general aviation pilots and the general aviation community saved countless lives and helped to ease the suffering of those in need. The Senate adopted this resolution by unanimous consent on April 29, 2010. On this, the 4-month anniversary of the earthquake, I urge my colleagues to adopt this resolution recognizing the efforts of those who came to the aid of the people of Haiti.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, few events resonate more within a community than marking a major anniversary of its only public high school. This year, in my home town of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, we are celebrating 150 years of continuing commitment to academic excellence that has been achieved by Fond du Lac High School. As described by G.K. Chesterton, one of the most influential English writers of the 20th century, ``Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another.'' I believe the generations of those who have lived in Fond du Lac since the high school first opened its doors in January of 1859 have been very well served. Fond du Lac is similar to many cities of its size throughout this great nation. Its citizens are hardworking and civic-minded; they are family-oriented and committed to their children; and they understand the value of a high-quality education. It is for these reasons the high school is such a source of community pride and so tightly woven into the fabric of the community. It was this commitment to education that initially drove concerned parents to petition for the creation of a high school in October of 1858 in order to develop their children's base of knowledge beyond the fundamentals. In what has become recognized as a typical American trait of every generation, they wanted their children to achieve more than they had and they knew education was the key. They also knew there needed to be a facility where the work of education could be completed. The first permanent high school in Fond du Lac was built in 1865 at a cost of $17,000. That building burned to the ground in 1868 but, undaunted, the community responded by building a four-story, brick and stone facility, which was completed in 1871 at a cost of $45,000. As the city grew, its citizens responded by building larger schools, expanding them, and when necessary replacing them, in a cycle that has been repeated many times over. How far we have come from the first high school classes held in the Sewell Store on Main Street to the expansive, multimillion-dollar, high-tech school we have today. But a high school is more than just bricks and mortar; more important are the people who have worked there and have been a part of its development. As Fond du Lac celebrates this important milestone, it is appropriate to remember individuals like George B. Eastman, the first Superintendent of the Fond du Lac Union High School District; Edwin Johnson and M.S. Merrill, Fond du Lac High School's first teachers; and Julia Gibbons and John P. McGalloway, who were among those who served on the first elected school board in the 1920s. Those who belong to more recent generations will tell you not to forget Lowell P. Goodrich, who served as Superintendent from 1923 through 1940 and after whom the high school would be named for many years. Through the generations, Fond du Lac High School has graduated students who have gone on to contribute to their communities and professions in a wide array of occupations and pursuits, demonstrating that education is indeed ``the soul of a society.'' As we reflect on the profound impact of education, please join me in congratulating the people of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin as they celebrate the sesquicentennial of their high school this year.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, later this week, the 43rd Session of the United States-Japan Legislative Exchange Program and the 11th Session of the United States-Japan-South Korea Trilateral Exchange Program will commence here in the U.S. Capitol. These meetings are the result of the vision and initiative of Iwao Matsuda, a Member of the House of Councilors of the Japanese Diet. Sadly, it also will be the last that we will have the privilege of meeting with Mr. Matsuda as a Member of the Diet, as he will be retiring. For this reason, I want to honor Mr. Matsuda and officially recognize his many contributions to United States-Japan relations and for fostering greater friendship and cooperation between the U.S. Congress and the Japanese Diet. Born in Gifu-City, Japan, in 1937, Mr. Matsuda graduated from the University of Tokyo in 1967. He started his career in public service at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) with posting in various locations around the world--including the United States. He served in the House of Representatives of the Japanese Diet from 1986 to 1996 and was elected to the House of Councilors in 1998. Throughout his public service career, he has served in a variety of distinguished positions, such as the Minister of State for Science and Technology Policy, Food Safety and Information Technology. Early in his career in the Diet, Mr. Matsuda saw the need for more open communications between the U.S. and Japan. During that time, when Japan-U.S. relations could be tense regarding trade and other issues, Mr. Matsuda knew that personal interaction between Members of Congress and Members of the Diet could lead to greater understanding and cooperation between our two countries. In 1989, along with Rep. Norm Shumway and with assistance from professors at George Washington University and others, the first meeting of the United States-Japan Legislative Exchange Program was held. Semi-annual meetings have been held since and, in 2003, the exchange was expanded to include Members of the South Korean National Assembly. I have had the privilege of participating in many meetings over the years, and consider Mr. Matsuda to be a colleague and a friend. He is an example to all of us in his leadership, commitment to democratic values, and understanding of the importance of maintaining alliances with friends in good times and bad. Through his resolve in establishing the exchange, we are able to discuss issues of common concern in an open, informal way that leads to better understanding and stronger partnerships. So it is altogether fitting that we recognize the many contributions of Iwao Matsuda as his final exchange program begins. He has had a lasting impact on United States-Japan-South Korean relations, and we are thankful for--and honor--his leadership, service and friendship today.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, House Concurrent Resolution 264 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds for the 29th annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service to be held on May 15. The memorial service will be just one event of many planned for Police Week to honor the sacrifices of the men and women who serve in law enforcement and to give special recognition of those who lost their lives in the line of duty. In 1962, Congress established Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week through a joint resolution of Congress. And, in 1982, the first official memorial service took place in Senate Park with 125 people gathered to honor 91 officers. Since that time, law enforcement from around the world have come to D.C. to participate in week-long events to honor the brave service and sacrifice of officers who have fallen in the line of duty. Today, thousands of people participate in the events, including the memorial service, and over 3,000 law enforcement officers have been honored from around our Nation. Currently, there are approximately 900,000 law enforcement officers in the United States that selflessly risk their lives so that we can be safe and protected. Unfortunately, on average, 160 officers each year lose their lives in the line of duty. And there are approximately 16,000 assaults on police officers each year, resulting in nearly 60,000 injuries. This year, 324 fallen officers will be honored, including 116 who lost their lives in 2009. Police Week will serve to honor the service and sacrifice law enforcement officers make for us every day. I support this resolution and encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. In May of last year, the House passed H.R. 915, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009. Last month, the Senate passed its own FAA reauthorization bill which the House took up, amended and passed, and sent back to the Senate. While a conference has not been called, staff from both Chambers have begun informal discussions to reconcile the two versions of bill. This process will take time, and given that the current FAA extension expires at the end of this month, we need to again extend the FAA's taxes and authorities to allow time to get a final, conferenced FAA bill. H.R. 5147 would extend the taxes, programs, and funding of the FAA to July 3 of this year. This bill provides just over $3 billion in airport improvement program funding; extends the war risk insurance program; and extends other authorities related to small community air service, airport and safety programs. This bill will ensure that our national airspace system continues to operate and that the FAA continues to fund important airport projects while the Congress completes action on a final reauthorization bill. Mr. Speaker, I would now like to yield such time as he may consume to the senior Republican on the Public Works and Transportation Subcommittee, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mica).

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5147, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, over the past 18 months, the President repeatedly said about his health care plan, If you like your current health insurance, you can keep it. The majority of Americans knew this was nonsense, and now the Department of Health and Human Services confirms it. A study just released by that department's chief actuary for Medicare concludes that the financial incentives in the new health care law will lead many employers to stop offering health care coverage altogether. That means about 14 million people with job-based insurance today will lose it, and instead will be required by law to obtain coverage individually. Further, seniors in my State of Wisconsin have become big fans of Medicare Advantage plans. But the chief actuary for Medicare estimates that the President's and the majority party's Medicare cuts will reduce Medicare Advantage enrollment by 7 million people. But there is more. The Medicare actuary reports that under the new health care law, 15 percent of all hospitals, nursing homes and other providers could be operating at a loss by 2019 which will jeopardize access to care. Doctors are threatening to drop out of Medicare because cuts in Medicare reimbursement rates mean they can't even cover their costs, much less make a living. Sadly, these few problems are just the tip of the iceberg, as will be revealed in the months and years ahead as the health care law takes effect.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Today we honor the men and women who have lost their lives on the job. With this resolution, we honor their sacrifice and offer our condolences to their families. And as ever, we use this occasion to recognize the importance of policies and practices that will encourage safe workplaces and prevent on-the-job illnesses, injuries, and fatalities. Bringing this resolution at this time is particularly important given the recent tragedies and loss of life in the mining accidents in West Virginia. Our diverse economy sometimes place workers in challenging situations. Some jobs are inherently more dangerous than others. Yet all workers should know the utmost precautions are being taken to limit dangers on the job. Employers must work diligently every day to provide safer work sites, free of hazards to ensure that all employees come home to their families at the end of the day. This resolution speaks to preventing accidents and injuries on the job. A proactive approach to safety creates a safe working environment. By working together, employers, employees, and government safety officials involved can ensure safer work sites. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of House Resolution 561, introduced by our colleague Mr. Maffei, congratulating the Onondaga Community College Lady Lazers for winning the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Women's Lacrosse Tournament. Noted for its hills, wooded terrain, and expansive view of the surrounding countryside, Onondaga Community College is a college of the State University of New York system. Onondaga is a diverse educational learning community, committed to creating and maintaining an atmosphere where individuality is not only recognized but encouraged to contribute to the fabric of the campus environment. Onondaga Community College serves the educational and economic development needs of the region. Their focus is on a student-centered environment, learning-focused institution with a community-oriented approach. In addition to its academic success, Onondaga Community College has a history of excellence in athletics and is proud of its more than 200 athletes who participate in one of the institution's 11 competitive teams. In the past 3 years, Onondaga teams have captured five national championships and, in 2009, became the first college in NJCAA history to achieve two simultaneous national championships in men's and women's lacrosse. On May 10, 2009, the Onondaga Lady Lazers defeated Monroe Community College 9-7 in the finals of the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Lacrosse Tournament. The Lady Lazers won the national title in their first year of existence. In addition, Lauren Welch, Amanda Cizenski, and Emily Pierson were named First Team NJCAA All-Americans. So today we congratulate Onondaga Community College, its students, faculty, and fans on their win. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of Representative Maffei's resolution, House Resolution 563, congratulating the Onondaga Community College Lazers for winning the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Men's Lacrosse Tournament. Onondaga Community College is a college of the State University of New York system and one of 30 locally sponsored community colleges throughout New York State. They offer 2-year degree programs that serve as transfer opportunities for baccalaureate degree programs at 4-year campuses and for direct entry to the workforce, and they offer certificate programs that can be completed in 1 year. The college currently has over 11,000 students enrolled and strives to provide the full college experience. The Onondaga Community College men's lacrosse team is an example of the college's excellence, with three national titles to its name. The team has included 35 All-American and 47 Lacrosse Coaches Association Academic All-Americans. The 2009 men's lacrosse team completed the season 16-0, an undefeated season. The team captured the 2009 NJCAA National Championship against Nassau Community College on May 10, 2009, with a 9-8 victory, closer than the ladies who won 9-7. Jerome Thompson and Jon Fiorillo were named the offensive and defensive players of the year, and Head Coach Chuck Wilbur was named the NJCAA Men's Lacrosse Coach of the Year. I stand to congratulate the Onondaga Community College men's lacrosse team, Coach Chuck Wilbur, the students and fans, and the faculty and staff at OCC. I urge my colleagues to support the resolution before us. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1280 expressing the support of the House of Representatives for the goals and ideals of National Healthy Schools Day. Most parents recognize the importance of keeping their children healthy, and strive to do so. National Healthy Schools Day recognizes the important role that schools also play in keeping students healthy and ready to learn. Approximately 55 million children spend 30-50 hours a week in our Nation's schools. Local communities strive to make their school buildings places that support positive environments in which learning can thrive. For example, by taking steps to improve indoor air quality, school districts can decrease irritants in the air that may aggravate asthma and allergies in some children. Districts are also responsible for ensuring that school buildings are safe from physical danger and that all children will be protected during their time at school. National Healthy Schools Day promotes schools that support parents' efforts to ensure their children are safe and healthy whether at home or at school. I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring local schools that meet the commitment to keeping all children healthy and safe. I have no additional requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1240, supporting the goals and ideals of Global Youth Service Day. Global Youth Service Day supports and encourages community service and service learning throughout these United States, and enables millions of students to make contributions to their communities. America's young people, from kindergartners to college students, have the desire, energy, and ability to make a real difference in their communities. Global Youth Service Day is an opportunity for them to convert their ideas and energy into action. Through community service and service learning, we can inspire, empower, and celebrate young people who recognize the need to do something for their communities, believe in their ability to get it done, and then take action. Service learning engages students in the educational process, using what they learn in the classroom to solve real-life problems. Service learning and community service enables students to not only learn about democracy and citizenship, but to become actively contributing citizens and community members through the service that they perform. There are a growing number of opportunities for youth to get involved in service activities through schools, service clubs, religious affiliations, family, or neighborhood-based volunteering. The challenge is to maintain youth interest and commitment to community service by showing them the benefits to the community that they are serving and to themselves. I stand before you today to commend the significant contributions our youth are making in our Nation's communities. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the lead coauthor of this legislation, our respected colleague from the State of Michigan (Mr. Ehlers).

Mr. PETRI. I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PETRI

Mr. PETRI. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the resolution before us, H. Res. 1293, expressing support for the goals and ideals of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Child abuse is an unfortunate reality for many of the Nation's children. No child should have to experience abuse or neglect, but cases of such are reported every day. Recent data from 2008 indicate that 772,000 children were victims of child abuse and neglect and that 1,740 children died as a result of child abuse and neglect. Eighty percent of those children were under the age of 4. Besides the immediate physical and emotional pain that abuse and neglect can inflict on a child, these experiences can have long-term effects on the victims as well. Data show abused and neglected children are at a higher risk of developing health problems, such as alcoholism, depression, drug abuse, and obesity in adulthood. A National Institute of Justice study indicates that children who are abused or who are neglected are 11 times more likely to be arrested for delinquent behavior as juveniles and are 2.7 times more likely to be arrested for violent and criminal behavior as adults. National Child Abuse Prevention Month aims to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and to encourage individuals and communities to support children and families, as community awareness and involvement is paramount to the prevention of child abuse and neglect, and the goals of National Child Abuse Prevention Month encourage members of every community to support the children in that community. I would like to thank my colleague, Congresswoman Judy Biggert of Illinois, for introducing this important legislation. I urge all of my colleagues to support House Resolution 1293, supporting the goals and ideals of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.