Chip Pickering

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, consistent with House Republican Earmark Standards, I submit the following earmark disclosure and certification information for one project request I made included within the text of H.R. 2638, the ``The Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2009.'' Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill. Project: Advanced, Long Endurance Unattended Ground Sensor Technologies. Project Amount: $3.6 million. Account: Defense-wide; RDT&E. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Special Operations Command. Address of Requesting Entity: Tampa, Florida. Description of Request: A significant challenge in modern military operations is the ability to achieve and maintain real-time battlefield situational awareness. Achieving battlefield situation awareness requires the ability to robustly and persistently monitor the movements of the adversary in near real-time across a wide range of operational environments including foliage, mountainous, and urban terrain. The funding will continue the research and development of small, low power UGS technologies that support critical USSOCOM reconnaissance and surveillance missions by providing robust: (1) target detection, classification and tracking; (2) high bandwidth, covert communication of data, voice and video, and (3) data/information exfiltration via satellite communications (SATCOM) for displaying advanced visualization technologies. The proposed UGS capability will provide USSOCOM with the ability to relay critical, actionable intelligence from remote areas of interest to analysts and commanders worldwide in near real-time-- ultimately allowing special operations forces (SOF) to think and react more quickly than the adversary. The proposed research program will also have applications in other areas such as border patrol.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, this is my last speech, will be my last vote. For all of us in this institution, it will be a legacy vote. I came to Washington almost 20 years ago and worked in the first Bush administration as communism collapsed. I worked to see those countries, the Soviet Bloc, move to free markets and democracy. This, my last vote, is to preserve those things that I believe in most: a free market capitalist system, that if we can intervene now and stabilize what we preserve and keep the freedoms of our economy and the strength of our Nation from going into decline so that our fiscal house here doesn't worsen, so that our families at home aren't hurt more badly. This afternoon I will cast this vote, and then I will leave, and I will go home and I will watch my sons play high school football. I hope that it is with a great sense of pride in this institution that when a crisis came and our character was tested, we didn't do what was easy, but we did what was right--to save what we care about most deeply.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, consistent with House Republican Earmark Standards, I submit the following earmark disclosure and certification information for seven project requests I made included within the text of H.R. 2638, the ``The Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2009.'' Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill. Project: Regional Counter Drug Training Academy. Project Amount: $2.5 million. Account: 01 Operating Forces Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Regional Counterdrug Training Academy. Address of Requesting Entity: 219 Fuller Road, NAS Meridian, Mississippi 39309. Description of Request: NGB identified an FY2009 unfunded requirement of $24.2M for Counterdrug Schools. Funding for NGB Counterdrug Schools is essential. Current Counterdrug (CD) Schools funding status impacts their ability to support DoD and Law Enforcement/Community Based Organization training and CNNTF support. Inconsistent funding has prevented CD schools from developing long-term training plans to maximize their capabilities. In FY2006, non-availability of funds forced one of the five Counterdrug schools to shut down. Failure to correct this unacceptable trend will increase the Nation's ability to field an adequate number of law enforcement professionals dedicated to combating drug trafficking at the national, state, and local levels. With appropriate funding, CD Schools will also be better positioned to provide counter narcotics-based training programs critical to domestic law enforcement against Narcoterrorism. The RCTA Meridian budget has shown little growth since FY2000, yet the costs associated with training law enforcement officers have increased by approximately 20%. The requested funding would restore training opportunities to the FY2000 level of approximately 5000 students per year. Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Military Construction/Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill. Project: Fitness Center Addition. Project Amount: $6.34 million. Account: Military Construction; Navy & Marine Corps. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Naval Air Station, Meridian. Address of Requesting Entity: 255 Rosenbaum Avenue, Meridian, Mississippi 39309. Description of Request: This project would add to the existing fitness facilities in order to ease overcrowding. It will also upgrade mechanical and electrical systems, reduce maintenance costs, and provide space for military water survival training. The Fitness Center is required to support 4078 active duty and reserve military, DoD and Contract personnel. The existing fitness facilities are incapable of meeting the present DoD Fitness Standards. Additionally, some of the facilities such as the gymnasium have significant roof leaks which contribute to maintenance, mold, and mildew problems. Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill. Project: MQ-5B Hunter Tactical Unmanned Aircraft (UAS). Project Amount: $5 million. Account: Op;A Other Procurement, Army; Tactical Unmanned Aerial Sys (Tuas)Mip. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: UAS Project Office, Redstone Arsenal, PM Tactical Concepts, UAS Project Office, SFAS-AV-UAS. Address of Requesting Entity: Redstone Arsenal, AL. Description of Request: The MQ-5B Hunter units provide Army Warfighters with real-time Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (RSTA) and Strike (Armed Reconnaissance) employing the Viper Strike munition. The Hunter has now flown approximately 60,000 flight hours and nearly 30,000 hours in the OIF theater. The system has proven a proactive platform in winning the IED fight by providing ``eyes'' over the U.S. Army's main supply routes in OIF. Demand for the MQ-5B Hunter's day/ night and Strike capability will remain high even as overall troop levels in a theater of action draw down. Funding will (1) provide four new production or eight retrofit MQ-5B Air Vehicles to replace `A' configuration Air Vehicles deployed with the 1st Armor Div Combat Aviation Brigade in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and (2) support another unit scheduled for employment in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill. Project: Simultaneous Field Radiation Technology (SFRT). Project Amount: $2.3 million. Account: RDT & E, Defense-Wide; Advanced Concept Technology Demonstrations. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Navy, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command. Address of Requesting Entity: U.S. Navy, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, North Charleston, South Carolina 29419. Description of Request: Early research of Simultaneous Field Radiation Technology (SFRT) has provided initial findings that strongly indicate the potential for significant improvement over conventional antenna technology. Research conducted in 2006, and validated by SPAWAR, resulted in the transitioning of SFRT from a pure theoretical model and conceptual prototype. Preliminary tests with the National Guard and Coast Guard have generated a keen interest within DoD for assessment of SFRT in a multi-dimensional operations environment of networked manned and unmanned tactical and wireless systems. The FY09 request is intended to provide the means to incorporate the technology baseline of SFRT with emerging technology as a new generation of advancements could significantly reduce antenna size and weight, minimize the negative effects of required antenna vertical polarity, and measurably enhance the performance of robots and unattended ground sensors. Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill. Project: Silicon Carbide Power Electronics for More Electric Aircraft (MEA). Project Amount: $3.2 million. Account: RDT & E, Air Force. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Air Force Research Laboratory, Propulsion Directorate AFRL/PRPE. Address of Requesting Entity: Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright- Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433. Description of Request: The Joint Strike Fighter Program has documented that Silicon Carbide (SiC) power electronics technology reduces weight and expense in technology for the MEA program. This technology is a key to the Air Force's high-temperature power electronics planning, as presented in the Air Force's planning chart. This project provides a strong base of funding to develop the core SiC high-temperature power electronics needed for the high-temperature engine and flight actuators on JSF and other platforms. SiC based power electronics have been identified as a critical technology to achieve high-speed Mach 2 and Mach 4 aircraft where temperatures required can be up to 350 degrees Celsius, twice the capability of conventional power technologies. This capability will enable improvements in the More Electric Aircraft program and provide substantial benefits for Long Range Strike aircraft programs, ensuring that the United States is able to protect itself quickly, and with improved safety for the war fighter. Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill. Project: F/A-18 Expand 4/5 Upgrade for USMC. Project Amount: $7.6 million. Account: Aircraft Procurement, Navy; F-18 Series. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Naval Air Systems Command. Address of Requesting Entity: Patuxent River, Maryland 20670 Description of Request: FY09 funding will provide radar upgrades for 15 Marine Corps APG-73-equipped F/A-18s. Expand 4/5 allows for very high resolution radar maps to provide long range, all weather target recognition and precise target coordinate generation needed for precision weapons employment. Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Bill Number: FY 09 Defense Appropriations Bill. Project: Silicon Carbide Electronics Material Producibility Initiative. Project Amount: $4.8 million. Account: RDT & E, Air Force. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Air Force Research Laboratory-- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate Survivability & Sensor Materials Division (AFRL/MLPS). Address of Requesting Entity: Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433 Description of Request: FY09 funding will enable significant reductions in the size and weight of a vast number of military electronic platforms and dramatically improve capabilities and performance at significantly lower costs. The program will accelerate semiconductor technology integration and development of a domestic second source of production capacity for silicon carbide (SiC) based materials and devices. These devices are required for high performance and high frequency power components for critical next-generation Department of Defense (DoD) systems. These systems include solid state power substations (SSPS) for future all-electric warships with Integrated Power Systems (IPS); hybrid electric military vehicles (HMMWV); high power naval surface radars for DD(X) and CG(X); and airborne radars for F22, F35, tactical UAVs, AWACS, JSTARS, and TPS-75.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Thank you, Mr. Deal, the gentleman from Georgia. I want to thank him for his leadership of the subcommittee as the ranking member and previously as the chairman of the subcommittee. I want to thank Congressman Gene Green for his work as we did work together in a bipartisan fashion, all the committee staff. As I come close to the end of my service in Congress, I can think of no better thing to go out on as the reauthorization, the expansion, and the funding, and modernization of the community health centers for what they do to create healthy communities and strong communities and to help the families most in need in our States and districts back home and in small towns and cities. I know from Mississippi, community health centers have made a tremendous difference after Katrina and getting those who were evacuated after a disaster the help, but more importantly, every day those mothers and the elderly and the low income who otherwise would not have the best care and affordable, accessible means. Community health centers have played a vital role to my home State of Mississippi, and I'm very proud to be a part of this reauthorization and to see it done before we leave this session. I want to thank Mary Martha Henson for her tremendous work on this, as well as the other staff.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, today I introduce a resolution to designate October as Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. By selecting this month as Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, we can promote awareness of this tragic disease, and support the goals of a ``National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month.'' The Heart Rhythm Society states that Sudden Cardiac Arrest takes the lives of more than 250,000 people in the United States each year and has approximately a 95 percent mortality rate according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. In order to survive the attack, the American Heart Association states that victims of sudden cardiac arrest must receive a lifesaving defibrillation within the first 4 to 6 minutes of an attack. Sean Patrick O'Hara, a 21-year-old University of Mississippi student, died of Sudden Cardiac Arrest while studying for final exams. Sean's mother, Dawn Cartwright, has started the only Sudden Cardiac Arrest Chapter in Mississippi to spread awareness, educate the public, and to help provide Automated External Defibrillators in all public venues. Through tireless dedication, Ms. Cartwright is working to raise public awareness about the devastating effects of Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Education and public awareness about sudden cardiac arrest, the warning signs and the need to seek medical attention are critical to preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest deaths. I hope that my colleagues will join Ms. Capps and myself to help save lives and inform the public about this critical disease by naming October National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 420, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' The question is on the passage of the bill.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, consistent with House Republican Earmark Standards, I am submitting the following earmark disclosure and certification information for one project authorization request that I made and which was included within the text of H.R. 5658, the ``Duncan Hunter Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009.'' Requesting Member: Congressman Chip Pickering. Project: Advanced, Long Endurance Unattended Ground Sensor Technologies. Project Amount: $4.2 million. Account: Defense-wide (DoD); RDT&E; Special Operations Intelligence Systems Development. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Special Operations Command. Address of Requesting Entity: 7701 Tampa Point Boulevard, Florida. Description of Request: A significant challenge in modern military operations is the ability to achieve and maintain real-time battlefield situational awareness. Achieving battlefield situation awareness requires the ability to robustly and persistently monitor the movements of the adversary in near real-time across a wide range of operational environments including foliage, mountainous, and urban terrain. The funding will continue the research and development of small, low power UGS technologies that support critical USSOCOM reconnaissance and surveillance missions by providing robust: (1) target detection, classification and tracking; (2) high bandwidth, covert communication of data, voice and video, and (3) data/information exfiltration via satellite communications (SATCOM) for displaying advanced visualization technologies. The proposed UGS capability will provide USSOCOM with the ability to relay critical, actionable intelligence from remote areas of interest to analysts and commanders worldwide in near real-time- ultimately allowing special operations forces (SOF) to think and react more quickly than the adversary. The proposed research program will also have applications in other areas such as border patrol.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, today I submit into the Record Concurrent Resolution No. 667 adopted by the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives. The resolution urges the United States Congress to accept the decision of the United States Air Force concerning the award of the jet tanker contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation and EADS North America. Each day we delay approving this contract, we prevent the Air Force men and women from receiving the equipment necessary to ensure our national security. I encourage my colleagues to review this resolution. Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 667 Whereas, after an extensive evaluation process, the United States Air Force awarded a $35 Billion jet tanker contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation and EADS North America; and Whereas, these vital military aircraft will be built at Mobile Brookley Field Industrial Complex, creating more than 2,000 new jobs for workers in the States of Mississippi and Alabama; and Whereas, efforts to overturn the decision of the United States Air Force concerning its detailed analysis are irresponsible and a true threat to our national security; it is imperative that elected officials support the decision makers whom they entrust with these important determinations; and Whereas, Mississippi workers are ready, able and eager to begin constructing the aircraft that the Untied States Air Force has rated as superior in five-out-of-five categories, and the interest of national defense should clearly rule over regional political posturing: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate of the State of Mississippi, the House of Representatives concurring therein, That the United States Congress is respectfully encouraged to accept the decision of the United States Air Force concerning the awarding of the jet tanker contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation and EADS North America, refrain from turning this vital national security matter into a political free-for-all, and allow the competent and capable workers of Mississippi to immediately begin work on this critical contract. Be it further Resolved, That this resolution be transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to members of Mississippi's congressional delegation and to the Secretary of Defense and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, today I submit into the Record Concurrent Resolution No. 667 adopted by the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives. The resolution urges the United States Congress to accept the decision of the United States Air Force concerning the award of the jet tanker contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation and EADS North America. Each day we delay approving this contract, we prevent the Air Force men and women from receiving the equipment necessary to ensure our national security. I encourage my colleagues to review this resolution.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor Coach Philip Levy, as he leaves the Veritas School to pursue his law degree at the University of Mississippi. At the Veritas School, Philip taught both Latin and humanities while also serving as a coach. Philip Levy grew up in Jackson and has served as head soccer coach at the Veritas School for a year now. He coached both the high school boys and girls soccer teams. This year, he led the girls' team all the way to the State Championship. In his athletes, he built character, leadership, sportsmanship, and teamwork; in the classroom he trained his students to seek truth. The entire Veritas School is thankful for Philip's invaluable example that he provided to all of his students and athletes. Madam Speaker, I hope the Congress joins me in paying tribute to Coach Philip Levy for his leadership and for serving as a role model. He has touched the lives of many young students, and I know they will be forever grateful. I wish him well in Ole Miss Law School and know that he will be successful in his future endeavors.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, A man name Charles Meaders from Newton, Mississippi had a soldier's heart, a soldier's honor, and responded to our Nation's call with a soldier's duty. He passed away last month but due to a twist of fate, he did not receive soldier's burial. Mr. Meaders was in the United States Armed Forces during the Korean conflict. However, he contracted a serious case of pneumonia and was shipped home and discharged, short of the time required to be recognized for veterans' benefits. I've known the Meaders family for a long time and they are educators, soldiers, and hard working Mississippians. Mrs. Bobbie Meaders, who dearly loved her husband Charles, is an active and feisty 72-year-old former nurse. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the memory of Charles Meaders and for my office to deliver to his wife her only request, a proper American flag that memorializes her husband's service to the American armed forces. I hope Congress joins me and remembering this patriot and will hold Mrs. Bobbie Meaders in your thoughts during her time of grief.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, today I would like to honor a member of my staff, Brian Perry, as he leaves to join Mississippians for Economic Progress as executive director. Brian has served as my communications director for the past 5 years and has done an outstanding job handling the press inquiries my office has received from the national, State, and local level. He has served in a composed, calm, and patient manner; which is to be admired in a position so demanding. Brian grew up in the Nashville, Tennessee area and then moved to Mississippi where he attended Northwest Rankin High School. Once in Mississippi, he settled there and graduated from Belhaven College in 1997 with a bachelor of arts in philosophy and then obtained a masters in communication from Mississippi College. Before starting in my office, Brian was a reporter for the Madison County Journal, creator and editor of the Magnolia Report, and campaign director for Judge Keith Starrett's successful run for election. His personal experience as a journalist helped make him a very effective communications director for me. In addition to serving as my communications director, Brian also focused on education, human rights, and religious freedom issues. In 2006, Brian moved back to Mississippi to work in my district office in Pearl. We have missed having Brian in the DC office. Since moving back to Mississippi, Brian has been extremely involved in neighborhood and community activities. He is a loyal alumnus of Belhaven, living just one block from the school. Canoeing, fishing, and camping are among his favorite outdoor activities. He also enjoys listening to bluegrass, grilling with friends, and attending the Neshoba County Fair. Over the past 2 years, the district office has come to really know Brian and will remember him as an ardent 1st amendment defender, Christian advocate, political junkie, and the world's fastest eater. But most significantly, he will be remembered as a dedicated and conscientious member of my staff, a good listener, and a loyal friend to his fellow coworkers. As a tribute to Brian for his exemplary work, I would like to share some words from people he has worked closely with throughout his career. ``Brian Perry's five year tenure in Congressman Pickering's office is noteworthy, as his record of public service is marked by a strong commitment to excellence and professionalism. Personally, I am grateful for Brian's willingness to serve as the spokesman for my 2007 re-election campaign; his vision, maturity, and experience were nothing short of exceptional. I commend Brian for his outstanding career and look forward to his continued contributions to government and politics. ``--Governor Haley Barbour ``Brian Perry has served Congressman Pickering and the Third District with distinction. He is a man of unwavering conviction and his integrity is above reproach. That's why it is my distinct privilege to count Brian among my closest and most trusted friends, a relationship that has developed as I have worked with him professionally. He's always been willing and able to meet the request of our newspapers--and then some. He has always proven to be of the strongest character when dealing with members of the press.''--James E. Prince III, president, Prince Newspapers ``Brian Perry has been one of my closest and most trusted friends for well over a decade. We both met as activists in the Mississippi Republican Party. He has served as a loyal member of Congressman Chip Pickering's staff where he facilitated and communicated the various initiatives Congressman Pickering spearheaded in the interest of Mississippi's Third Congressional District. While serving as Republican Chairman of the Third District, and now as MRP Executive Director, Brian has proven himself over and over again to be a man of character whose integrity and professionalism are above reproach. Brian's mark of service to the Republican Party, Congressman Pickering, and Mississippi and even the nation will be long lasting.''--Brad White, executive director, Mississippi Republican Party ``Brian Perry worked very hard ensuring that the needs of rural areas were addressed along with the many other demands placed on Congress. He took a personal interest in the progress of Noxubee County and assisted us whenever possible. Brian's attention to detail and pride in his work was evident whether at his desk in the Cannon Building or during a much- deserved weekend break to fish the Shenandoah River. Brian Perry's presence on the Hill will be greatly missed by many Mississippians.''--Brian Wilson, executive director, Noxubee Economic and Community Development Alliance ``It has truly been a pleasure to get to know Brian Perry during his tenure with Chip. He and I have developed a special friendship. I appreciate his intellect and character. He is an excellent writer and conscientious in his work. His public service has made a difference to our nation, our great state, and to Chip and our family. I will always be grateful.''--Judge Charles W. Pickering, Sr. Madam Speaker, Brian has provided wise counsel, effective communication and a passion for service to Mississippi. He served with poise throughout the aftermath of Katrina and in congressional and confirmation battles. I treasure his faith, reason and friendship. He has my deep respect and appreciation for all the contributions he has made and the work he has done. I wish him the very best and know he has a bright future communicating and fighting for good causes.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, on May 4, 2008, First Baptist Church of Jackson, Mississippi will celebrate its 170th anniversary. First Baptist Church of Jackson has a rich history and has grown immensely in size over the years, not only in members but in its outreach to the community through different ministries. When the church was founded in 1838, Jackson was a 16 year old village with less than 600 people and was struggling to become the permanent seat of state government. Although the early years of the church proved difficult with an economic depression, a yellow fever epidemic, and the Civil War, the church still grew strong in its relationship to God and continued to reach out to others in the name of Jesus Christ. God has blessed First Baptist Church of Jackson because on May 4, the church stands 170 years old and occupies a 750,000 square foot facility in downtown Jackson. It also includes a sanctuary that seats 3,000; a chapel; two fellowship halls; a Christian Life Center with two regulation basketball courts; rock climbing wall; racquetball court; walking track; fitness facilities; and a fully staffed counseling center. Currently, they have a weekly television broadcast of their Sunday service that covers much of Mississippi as well as a national broadcast on Direct TV. In 2006, First Baptist Church of Jackson established a Madison Campus that has 200 active members today. First Baptist Church has centered its ministries on connecting people to God through faith in Jesus Christ so that their lives can be transformed into passionate followers of Christ. Today, ministries of the church include an inner-city ministry that has a medical clinic, dental clinic, and legal clinic as well as after school programs for children. Other ministries include help for women recently released from prison and a ministry for international citizens from over 26 countries that teaches them English and assists them in adjusting to life in America. Last year, First Baptist sent hundreds of members across America and throughout the world to build homes and churches, provide medical and dental care, and spread the love of God. Madam Speaker, I hope the Congress joins me in celebrating with First Baptist Church of Jackson. For 170 years, the church has served out its battle cry, ``Connecting People, Transforming Lives into Passionate Followers of Jesus Christ.'' This momentous occasion is a true testament of the service, commitment, love, and foundation this church is built upon. May the Lord continue to bless First Baptist in the years to come.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, Clyde Walker, Jr. served as the chief of the Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department for more than 35 years. The fire department was his life, and his love of volunteering and serving others showed drastically through his contributions to the department. Clyde had two major goals for the department and was extremely fundamental in obtaining both for the Collinsville community. First was to receive a Federal grant to purchase a combination brush and rescue truck. After three years of perseverance, including letters and phone calls, the grant was received. The second goal was to build a new fire station. Clyde inspired the community to give financial donations, time, and materials. A building estimated to cost from $60,000 to $80,000 was built, and when the volunteers moved in, they owed only $4,000. The new station was complete with 4 bays, a kitchen and meeting area, and a room for sleeping quarters and storage space. Clyde accomplished two major feats that would drastically improve the operations of the fire department. The amount of love and respect that the Collinsville community has for Clyde showed immensely in one of the most trying times, his death. The family asked that donations be made to the department to help pay off the final debt. So far, more than $7,000 has been donated. Not only is this enough to pay off the final note, but also they plan to have a dedication service for the new fire department. Clyde served his community as an active member of Collinsville First Baptist Church. There he served as a deacon, Sunday school director, as well as on various committees. He was a charter member of the Collinsville Lions Club and a member of the Collinsville Community Development Club. Clyde also served as the director of the Lauderdale County Welfare Department until he retired in the 90s. He was married to Ellen Walker for 49 years, and they have three children. Their son Randy is married to Jo Ann, and they have two daughters. Their other son, Ricky, is married to Chris, and they have two sons. Their daughter Renee is married to Max, and they have a son and daughter. Randy, Ricky, and Ricky's oldest son, Davey, are all volunteers with the fire department. Madam Speaker, I hope the Congress joins me in remembering Clyde Walker for a lifetime of service. His contributions will be remembered by all who knew him. Clyde will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on through his family, friends, and especially the Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, today an effective and loyal member of my staff serves his last day in my office. But, he does not leave his service to Mississippi. Hugh Carroll, my legislative director, will be moving to the other chamber to serve in the office of Senator Roger Wicker, my friend and our former colleague in the House who is now serving out the remaining term of Trent Lott. Hugh came to Washington, DC, from Greensboro in the Piedmont of North Carolina. He earned his undergraduate and law degrees from the Catholic University of America here in Washington. Hugh served as a law clerk for the Architect of the Capitol and the General Services Administration. Prior to that, he interned both with the House Committee on the Judiciary as well as with Congressman Howard Coble. I first met and worked with Hugh when he served on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure staff as counsel. He worked closely with my office on Hurricane Katrina recovery legislation and investigations. At that committee, he helped draft ``A Failure of Initiative: The Final Report of the Select Bipartisan Committee to Investigate the Preparation for and Response to Hurricane Katrina.'' I served on that select bipartisan committee and grew to appreciate Hugh's work and insights. Hugh joined my staff in February 2007 to serve as my chief counsel and legislative director, and oversee my telecommunications policy. His tenacity and natural instincts fit my policy objectives, and he effectively assisted in moving my legislative and appropriation priorities forward. His knowledge of Hurricane Katrina issues provided the ready experience necessary to hit the ground running for my State's continuing recovery needs. I know that Hugh's parents, Marvin and Sandra Carroll, are proud of him and his work for the House of Representatives. I am proud of his work for Mississippi and while sorry to see him leave my staff, am glad he will continue to serve my district and my constituents as an aide to Senator Wicker. My staff will remember Hugh Carroll's dry humor, passion for the Boston Red Sox, love of his dog, and interesting wardrobe choices. I hope Hugh will remember all the work we have accomplished together, and also the symbolism of ``The Five Flags.'' We all will remember his good nature, determined work ethic, and professional accomplishment of his duties. I thank him for his hard work, and wish him the best of fortune in his new assignment and future endeavors.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, as we start this New Year, I would like to recognize the service of a special and gifted man who has touched the hearts of Mississippi. On July 4, 2004, the congregation of Galloway Methodist Church in Jackson, Mississippi was blessed with Reverend Ross Olivier as he delivered his first sermon. Sunday, January 13, 2008, his tenure ended and he preached his last message. Ross will travel back home to South Africa to be with his family. Ross Olivier came to Mississippi in 2004 through a partnership with the Mississippi Conference and the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. He entered Methodist ministry in 1980 and at the end of training received the Flowerday Memorial Award as the outstanding ordinand in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. He was appointed parish minister to the Heidelburg Circuit and was responsible for 24 racially and culturally diverse congregations. Throughout this time of ministry he touched and healed a broken community during some of the harshest years of the Apartheid era of Southern Africa. In 1994, he traveled throughout six countries, serving the MCSA with a Journey to a New Land, an initiative to refocus the mission of the church in the post- Apartheid years. Later in 1997, he became senior pastor of Northfield Church serving a congregation of 5,000 members. Two years later he was elected to serve the MCSA as General Secretary of 4,500 congregations and 25 million Methodists in Southern Africa. This challenging, yet gratifying career path gave him a respect for the differences in culture and the tools along with the expertise he needed to reshape the Galloway Methodist Church community in Jackson. To Mississippi he brought an open and compassionate heart. He strived to form a more inclusive church, one where all are welcomed into the house of the Lord. Through partnerships, he taught that the church could transcend barriers and that the focus should be on economic and social interest, not the color of your skin. He brought transformation, healing, and reconciliation to the state of Mississippi by using the church as a bridge between diverse communities. Reverend Olivier was also very instrumental in bringing about a Faith and Politics Institute pilgrimage to Mississippi. This journey will be co hosted by Congressman Bennie Thompson and myself in late March of this year. It is my hope that Ross will be able to join us then to experience firsthand the fruits of his labor. Madam Speaker, Reverend Ross Olivier has been an inspiration to Mississippi and to me. He taught a love and responsibility for community; we each have a role that we must honor and uphold. His teachings will be remembered and he will be greatly missed by his congregation and all who knew him. As he journeys back to South Africa to lead a congregation in Pretoria, the lives he touched in Mississippi will remain forever changed and grateful.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, the athletic tradition at Mississippi State University has celebrated the lives and accomplishments of many student and staff leaders over the years. Recently another has been added to this list when Straton Karatassos was inducted into the Mississippi Athletic Trainers' Association Hall of Fame. Straton has a lifetime of experiences and stories as a manager and trainer of athletic teams. While working with the Georgia Southern baseball team in 1973, he made his first visit to Mississippi State University for a game, and later that year returned as a graduate student. Now, three decades later, Straton has become inseparable from the MSU athletic family. He was named State's head trainer in 1981, later served as assistant athletic director for sports medicine, and now works as assistant athletic director for athletic development within the Bulldog Club. While he is a native of Savannah, GA, we like to claim him as a true son of Starkville. He and his wife, Harriet, of Batesville, MS, are central to the Bulldog community, and he is as much part of the teams at Mississippi State as are the players. Madam Speaker, I hope the Congress joins me in congratulating Straton Karatassos for a lifetime of service to sport and saluting him in his induction into the Mississippi Athletic Trainers' Association Hall of Fame.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, as we wrap up this year in Congress, I want to honor Mary Mills Ritchie, who left my staff earlier this year to return to Mississippi. She was a dedicated member of my staff who honorably served my office and the people of Mississippi. Mary Mills came to my office as our staff assistant in 2003, after graduating from the University of Mississippi earlier that year, and Jackson Preparatory School in 1999. She demonstrated her abilities to understand and affect public policy and with her dedicated work ethic, her role grew to Legislative Assistant for health care policy. She managed this legislative portfolio at a critical time, as we worked with seniors and communities to implement the Medicare Reform Act of 2003 that provides prescription drug benefits to needy Americans. She served as my liaison to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and assisted pharmacists, hospitals, and other health care providers in Mississippi move through the Washington bureaucracies. Following Hurricane Katrina, she played a critical role as we inserted language in the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 that provided funds for 8\1/2\ months of Mississippi's state Medicaid budget: $850 million in budget relief at a time when Mississippi was straining under the pressures of disaster recovery. While working in Washington, she met a young man from Texas named Spencer Ritchie and they married in March of 2005. But rather than carrying her away to the Lone Star State, she converted him into a Mississippian. He is now in law school at the University of Mississippi, where she works in Oxford. Mary Mills' hard work and success is a tribute to her parents, Sam and Leila Lane. I know they and her brothers, Samuel and Ben, are very proud of her. Madam Speaker, Mary Mills Ritchie left a formative mark on my health care agenda and on our office. We will not forget her good nature or her eagerness to learn and work. She possesses a rare grace and presence. This unique spirit carries her compassion and commitment to help, teach and serve others. She continues to bless the lives of all who know her. I thank her for her service to this office and to Mississippi.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, as we begin to wrap up this year's work in Congress, I wish to recognize a valued Mississippian who recently left my staff to pursue opportunities in the private sector back home in Mississippi. Mike Lipski served as my military legislative assistant and special projects director, and later, as my Legislative Director here in Washington, DC. Mike's heart has always been with his home on the Mississippi gulf coast; now he has returned there and taken a position as director of sector administration at Northrop Grumman. Mike's service to Mississippi and our country spans a lifetime of hard work. Mike's two-decade service in the Navy stretches from his time as a surface warfare officer on the USS Oliver Hazard Perry to service as a Navy Civil Engineer Corps officer, including time at the Pentagon on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations. He brought to my office experience as executive officer of Navy's Engineering Field Activity Southeast in Jacksonville, Florida, as well as a stint as a Navy Legislative Fellow serving on Senator Trent Lott's National Security staff. On my staff, Mike utilized, promoted, increased, and protected the defense community's value, not only for security, but also as an engine of the economy. He demonstrated his commitment to the needs of our war fighters--past, current, and future--with his work on veterans legislation; support and funding for our troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world; and preparation and planning for military training and base infrastructure around Mississippi and specifically at Meridian's Naval Air Station and our National Guard facilities. He served as the point person in my office during the most recent round of BRAC, base realignment and closure. He coordinated statewide efforts of military and community leaders to effectively communicate the national mission value of our bases and defend them in the face of downsizing and cuts. In my office, Mike provided calm and reasoned counsel and was a trusted advisor and effective implementer of my legislative agenda and appropriation priorities. He successfully worked with economic development interests to bring new and better jobs to Mississippi and implement strategic community development plans at our universities and industrial clusters. He has a strong vision for our State and creative ideas to reach those goals. Hurricane Katrina presented unique challenges to all levels of leadership in Mississippi, from alderman to Congressman; from mayor to Governor. As we coordinated emergency response efforts on all levels of government, Mike Lipski served as my liaison to MEMA, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, and slept on a cot at their headquarters for several days, when he wasn't on the coast with a satellite phone making immediate needs assessments and providing logistical coordination and advice. Mike traded his cot and sat-phone for a tie and clipboard and returned to Washington where he worked closely with me in developing and implementing Katrina reform measures: Federal contracting reform, housing and infrastructure policy, Federal relief and emergency recovery funding. His knowledge and experience with the Corps of Engineers provided a unique resource both during reform and in oversight as committees investigated the Government response to Hurricane Katrina. Mike's wife, the former Jill Daria Wiltzius, has stood by him throughout his military career and his public service in my office. His transfers around the world have provided them both amazing international experiences but now Mike has convinced his Wisconsin girl to settle in Mississippi. Our State is a better place with the two of them as strong and honorable citizens. Jill is an outstanding educator and hopes to pursue her Ph.D. now that they are settled in Mississippi. I know Mike's family in Long Beach is very proud of him and his successful career is a tribute to his parents: John and Eleanor. Now Mike will have time to sail, canoe, fly fish, and indulge his outdoor passions, but I have no doubt he will be integral in rebuilding and leading the coast to a full recovery. Mike Lipski left a formative mark on the shape and operation of my office. We will miss his good nature, warm friendship, determined work ethic, and dry humor. I am proud of his service and the positive difference he has made for our State and the country. I am grateful to call him my friend. I thank him for his service to this office and to Mississippi and wish him the best of fortune in his new endeavors.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, I would like to ask unanimous consent to withdraw my name as a cosponsor of H.R. 1201.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Would the gentleman yield?

Mr. PICKERING. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3541. I, too, want to join in commending my colleagues, Mr. Butterfield, Mr. Stearns, and my good friend Congressman Doyle from Pennsylvania. I thank the leadership of the committee, Chairman Dingell and Congressman Joe Barton. Joe has been a good friend, and he has provided the support on our side, and Cliff Stearns, the leadership on our side. Mike Doyle has been a tireless champion on this, a bulldog, and a great advocate for keeping peace and goodwill through the Christmas season for the citizens of our country as we do something that is common sense and pretty straightforward and simple, and that is to extend the do-not-call. We do not want the cold calls to fill the stockings. We simply want the good cheer that will come from the time around the dinner table and the Christmas tree and the holiday season that all of us who want to be protected in that sanctuary of home will be, and this bill will do that. The other great benefit, if we're watching our budget around Christmastime as a country and in the Congress, this has no cost. And so for our friends on the Senate side who are known to be frugal, we can tell you this has no cost. It can be passed quickly. It should be passed quickly as a Christmas present for the citizens of the country. This is good government. It is time. And we can do this together, House and Senate, on a bipartisan basis. It is one of the most widely popular programs that we've had in this country; over 150 million people have signed up. I'm proud to be part of this effort, and I'm proud that I've worked with friends on the other side of the aisle to achieve this. This is good news, good legislation, and a good effort. And I do wish to commend the committee for their work. I thank Mr. Doyle again for his good leadership. As I previously stated, the Do Not Call legislation is extremely popular and has been effective in largely eliminating the unwanted intrusions associated with commercial telemarketing calls to the home. We should all be proud of the success of the legislation and I want to commend both the FCC and FTC for their efforts in this area. I am confident that this language will benefit both the American people and industry. FTC and industry concerns were well vetted and fully considered as the bill moved through normal process. We added the reporting requirement to ensure we are providing an accurate database to the telemarketing industry so they are not hindered by making registration permanent. Since the Do Not Call registry falls within the jurisdiction and enforcement of both the FCC and FTC, I hope there is continued consistent application, direction, and enforcement by both agencies. We have all worked hard to develop and implement the Do Not Call legislation, and we must be cautious in protecting its integrity and enforceability, particularly as it applies to charities and nonprofits. Inconsistent direction or enforcement ultimately will weaken the enforceability of the restrictions and undermine the statutory intent of this successful Government program. Again, I thank the committee and look forward to passage of this legislation.

Mr. PICKERING. I would be regretful if I did not mention the good work of the staff, as did Mr. Doyle. And for me, on my staff, Hugh Carroll has been tireless and has worked hard, and I appreciate his good work on this effort.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, I was unable to be present for rollcall vote 946 to H.R. 3246. I would have voted ``yes.'' My vote would not have changed the result, but I want this record to reflect my intention.

Mr. PICKERING

Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, I was unable to be present for Rollcall vote 948 to H.R. 3648. I would have voted ``yes.'' My vote would not have changed the result, but I want this record to reflect my intention.