Ted Poe

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. I thank the chairman for yielding. Thank you for sponsoring this Special Order where we can, as a body, recognize our friend and fellow Texan, Chairman Ralph Hall. Mr. Speaker, we Texans are proud of our State, we're proud of our heritage, and we're proud of the people that have been in our State. Texans have a long history of remarkable Texans in our history, men and women with, I shall call it, personality, uniqueness, all the way back to General Sam Houston--and there are many others. But on that list will be, and is, Chairman Ralph Hall. He is a person of personality and character--and quite a character. He has not always been a Republican. At one time he sat over here. He was a Democrat. He switched, got religion, and came over and became a Republican. But his principles have never changed; they have always been the same. Whether he sat over here or whether he sat over here, he has always been a man of remarkable character and always voted his principles. He is a World War II veteran. We have a special place in this country for veterans like him that served in the great World War II. My dad served in World War II. He was on the other side of the world while Ralph was flying off of aircraft carriers in the Pacific. There is a special something about World War II veterans. They understand American history. They understand the importance of our military and how it's important for us as a Nation to always do two things--have a strong military, and then support our veterans when they return home, whether they return home as wounded warriors or whether they return home with the scars of war, and some that return home in those caskets. Ralph Hall makes sure that we remember our veterans. He was a business owner. He ran for office because his wife wanted him to run for office. Mary Ellen was responsible for him spending many years on the campaign trail running for office. As the chairman of the Science Committee, he has been a special fan of NASA. We in Texas, we love NASA. When he learned--rumor has it--that the space shuttle was going to New York City instead of Houston, Texas, rumor is that he was trying to get a posse to go up to New York and bring that shuttle back to Houston where it belongs. I don't know if that's true or not. Ralph Hall loves America, he loves this body, he loves Texas, but most of all he loves the American people. It's a great honor to recognize you, a statesman and favorite son of Texas, Chairman Ralph Hall. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Madam Speaker, sirens wailed the warning as over 300 rockets from Hamas in Gaza rained down on Israel this week. Israelis were injured--and at least one was killed. But ensuring its absolute right of self-defense, Israel responded to defend its people. Prime Minister Netanyahu said it best: The terrorists are committing a double-war crime. They fire at Israeli citizens and they hide behind Palestinian civilians. But the new Muslim Brotherhood government in Egypt, which was backed by the administration, has condemned Israel, not Hamas. The terrorist group Hamas doesn't want peace with Israel. It wants war. Hamas is the aggressor here. It kills Israeli citizens and then hides behind the skirts of Palestinian women. The world should condemn Hamas, not Israel. Israel has the moral right and legal duty to defend itself from the attacks by the barbarians Hamas. The United States should be bold in its total support of Israel, our ally. The United States should be bold in its condemnation of Hamas. And the United States should be bold in denouncing this continuing war by terrorists like Hamas on civilized nations. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today, I want to recognize a unique event in the state of Texas that attracts more than 85,000 people from Houston and around the globe. The Wings Over Houston Airshow showcases the best of American aerial military might in a thrilling display of everything from vintage World War II aircraft to the marvels of modern aviation. A non-profit event produced by a collaborative volunteer effort of the Gulf Coast Wing and West Houston Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force, this year's Wings Over Houston Airshow dazzled the crowds with several new additions, including the U.S. Air Force's newest fighter aircraft, the F-22 Raptor, the U.S. Marine Corp MV-22 Osprey demonstration and the Air National Guard Flash Fire Jet Truck. The biggest feature this year was the Navy's Blue Angels, which is the second oldest flying aerobatic team. They impressed bystanders with their daring and impressive routines, at one point even flying only 18 inches from each other during their four-jet Diamond Formation. For 28 years, Wings Over Houston has benefited a variety of nonprofit organizations and charities. This year's air show benefitted the Wings Over Houston Airshow Scholarship Program, Aviation Career Education Academy, Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Westchase Rotary Club and the Commemorative Air Force aircraft restoration and flying historical programs. As a spectacular aerial show and an impressive charitable community effort, the Wings Over Houston Airshow inspires both charity and patriotism in Houstonians and all Americans. It's a significant part of Texas history, as the event conserves a little piece of our military's aviation history and ensures that it'll be around for years to come. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as waves crashed across the east coast a few weeks ago, taxpayer dollars were still being funneled as foreign aid around the globe. And while families watched as superstorm Sandy washed away their homes and the livelihoods they had built for many years, over 158 countries were still busy cashing checks from America. Mr. Speaker, out of all the countries we give aid to, I understand Israel was the only country to send a lifeboat in the wind and rain and flood to help our victims in America. Israel took the initiative to help the victims during this natural disaster. The Israel Flying Aid organization has been giving gas to hospitals and batteries, food, and generators to superstorm Sandy victims. We've been there for many countries in the world. We send them our money, but it's no secret that many of them hate us. They betray us, and yet we still write them checks. While the United States needs to reevaluate giving foreign aid to nations that hate us, thanks should be given to our faithful ally Israel. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a dear friend, JC Burnham of Liberty, Texas. A fine businessman, rancher, husband, father, friend and devoted family man, who spent his entire life serving his community while striving to make others happy. The City of Liberty and, indeed, the entire state of Texas lost a dedicated community leader, as well as friend, on October 30, 2012. JC was born December 15, 1937, in Houston, Texas. He was truly a remarkable Texan who achieved extraordinary things in his career and for his community. Hard work and love of his community earned him enduring respect amongst the many touched by his deeds. It is an honor to recognize the great contributions that JC made to the city of Liberty, Liberty County, and the great State of Texas. As a child, JC began his working life at Stubbs Grocery Store. In high school he was both a good student and athlete. He went on to attend College at my alma mater, the University of Houston. After graduation, JC got his foot in the door in the auto industry by working in the mailroom at General Motors. Through JC's hard work and dedication he held eleven different positions within General Motors, eventually owning his own dealership. In 1973, he purchased Mearns Chevrolet in Liberty, Texas, a close- knit city near Houston. For over 30 years, his family owned business, thrived. He even added an Oldsmobile-Cadillac and a Buick-Pontiac-GMC store. JC was a man of true character and a Liberty resident for over 39 years, his Texas spirit and love of the community made him a natural promoter of Liberty, Texas. Not only was JC a dedicated businessman, he also had a long career in public service. Throughout the years, he assisted and was recognized by numerous boards and organizations. He was a past board member of the Magnolia Ridge Country Club, Texas 4H Youth Development Foundation, Liberty Dayton Hospital, Liberty County Central Appraisal District and the Sam Rayburn Municipal Power Agency. Always understanding the importance of education and our nation's youth, JC was a life time supporter of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Trinity Valley Exposition and 4H Alumni Association. He served and supported the Liberty-Dayton Chamber of Commerce, Liberty Rotary Club, 100 Club, Liberty Elks Club, Liberty County Texas Farm Bureau, Texas Thoroughbred Association and Southwest Cattle Raisers Association. He started the Burnham Classic Golf Tournament which donated over $450,000 for South Liberty State Center/Tri-County Services. The list of this model citizen's accomplishments will have lasting effects on the city of Liberty and surrounding areas. It is my hope that he will be remembered as a true visionary and strong community supporter, and that others will follow his lead. My thoughts are with the love of JC's life, Kathleen--his wife of 21 years. They shared the same passion for their community, their farm and their love of slow race horses. Last spring, I visited JC at St. Luke's in Houston and I observed Kathleen in the caretaker role as she poured out her love, spirit and fight for JC. The passing of JC has left a son and daughter in mourning of their father--Bruce Burnham and Cyrese Jezek. His memory will live on, in the many lives he touched along the way. On the evening of November 4, 2012, hundreds of Liberty, Texas residents waited in line at the First United Methodist Church of Liberty to pay their respects to the family of this honorable man. JC was a loyal friend to me, and although I am saddened by his loss, I feel very fortunate for the time and friendship we shared. He will be remembered by many as a devoted community leader, a genuine friend and a great Texan. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H. Res. 808.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, every morning, at the crack of dawn, there's a nostalgic aroma of warm donuts, fresh out of the oven, coming from a local Shipley Donuts. The smell takes me back through memories from when I was a boy, walking around the corner to a Shipley's in Houston, Texas, reaching into my pockets for some spare change to buy a donut. It was such a treat. I can still remember when there were only a few Shipley's in town. Only a few on each side of the city. And today, the evolution of this once small donut shop continues to amaze me. The donut chain, now with more than 200 stores across the southern region of the United States, originated in Houston. In 1936, near the end of the Great Depression, Lawrence Shipley, Sr. stirred up some special ingredients and came up with his very own recipe for donuts. He cut them by hand and served them warm every day. There was no other way for him to serve the donuts but hot and fresh. It was his secret to loyal customers that would later grow his business. Mr. Shipley became Houston's go-to man for donuts. People couldn't get enough; his donuts were such a hot commodity around the city that they began to sell in the retail markets in the 1940s. Through Mr. Shipley's strong vision of becoming a place for families to gather and enjoy a warm donut over a good conversation, that is what Shipley Donuts became. When customers walked into the store, their eyes instantly traveled to the trays of fresh glazed, chocolate, strawberry, and golden glazed twist donuts behind the glass counters. The sweet smell of the round pieces of bread filled the air in the mornings and brought people in the shop. It was a well-known smell that people couldn't resist. When Mr. Shipley, Sr. passed away, his special recipe lived on through his son, Lawrence Shipley, Jr. He grew his family's business from just one store to several in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas, with 86 in the Houston area alone. Together with his son, Lawrence W. Shipley, III, Shipley Jr. perfected the donut and branched out to making kolaches, now one of their signature products. Shipley, III, is currently president of the Shipley Donuts company and strives to maintain the same gourmet donut products his grandfather worked hard to perfect for many years. And it wasn't something that happened overnight. Shipley Donut means more than just a warm, glazed donut that slowly and sweetly dissolves in my mouth after every bite. This fine company represents community, a strong business, and quality service. Of course, the irresistible, sweet smell of the donuts baking inside is what brings people inside, but customers are also always greeted with a warm smile behind the counter of donuts upon entering. And although it is a true Texas tradition, it is a model for businesses in the Houston area and states across the southern line of the country. Shipley products are not only a Texas tradition but are also a personal tradition for me. When I drive down North Park Drive and pass a local store, the smell tempts me every time. I reflect on my childhood and can't help the urge to pull into what is now a Shipley Donuts drive thru. A trip to the donut shop is a personal tradition that I've passed onto my family, too. When my grandchildren tug away at my sleeve, begging me for a sweet treat, I tell them I know exactly the place to go. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Elm from Houston, Texas, wrote me this: My grandparents immigrated to the United States from the Philippines in the sixties. They spoke no English, had very little money and virtually no contacts, yet they were able to create a legacy. They legally became American citizens. They built a strong life and worked hard. Our family became successful through self-dedication, self-worth, self-drive, and self-perseverance--similar to many immigrants before them. We did this without the help and having to rely on government handouts or legislative attempts to redistribute wealth through mass programs. In return, our family gave back to this great country. Since then, we have had four generations of military service in the United States Navy or the United States Army. We worked hard. We beat adversity. We gave back and we served this country. Mr. Speaker, Elm and Elm's family worked hard for their American Dream. This is an immigrant success story in spite of and without the help of big, oppressive government. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it's been 2 months since four Americans were murdered by terrorists in Benghazi, Libya. For 2 weeks the administration claimed this was a spontaneous protest in response to a movie, but now we know that was all a charade. The administration knew within 2 hours that the terror group Ansar al-Sharia was claiming responsibility for this well-planned ambush and assassination. Allegedly, the administration also watched the attack occur in the White House's Situation Room, and that's when a request for military help was made and denied. CIA operatives were twice told to stand down instead of helping the Ambassador. Why did the Ambassador's calls for help go unanswered? The American people need to know this: What happened? Why didn't the U.S. help the Ambassador when he was under attack? And what individuals killed the Ambassador? And what has the United States done to track these outlaws down, hold them accountable for this--yet another attack on 9/11? And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Army Sergeant Curtis Davis returned to America from his last deployment in a wheelchair. He thought he would never be able to walk again. However, he was welcomed back with open arms by his family and friends who told him that wasn't so. Sergeant Davis did not immediately have the physical ability to get back into the active father role of running around with his kids or participating in physical activities that our military men and women dream of doing when they return from serving overseas. Today, Sergeant Davis is back up on his feet thanks to Horses for Heroes, a program located northwest of Georgetown, Texas, dedicated to improving the lives of injured veterans. Prior to becoming involved with Horses for Heroes, Sergeant Davis could not balance on his own two legs and was unable to walk without a cane or crutches. And after several rides on a horse, his life has improved. He can now walk. He has also learned peace and a therapeutic connection to a horse. Just like Sergeant Davis, there are several service men and women who were injured in Iraq or Afghanistan. Some of them were physically injured, others were emotionally injured. Horses for Heroes has helped heal these men and women who risked their lives for our freedom. The organization has created a special environment where our injured veterans have gone for support, recovery, and inspiration, all on a horse with a veteran at their side. Improved balance, motor skills, speech, morale, and well being are only a few of the benefits of Horses for Heroes treatments. Post-war life is a difficult adjustment. It is great to see a local Texas organization investing in the physical and emotional lives of our American heroes. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, 20 years ago this week then President George H.W. Bush signed the FREEDOM Support Act into law. This law gave money to the countries of the former Soviet Union to help them build democracies from the rubble of failed communism. That is, except one. Wrapped up in this big bill was a tiny provision, called ``Section 907,'' that forbid any money from going to the Republic of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan is a strong partner of the United States. After 9/11, Azerbaijan allowed our planes to fly in its airspace and contributed troops to Afghanistan. With 7 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, it will be an important player in increasing Europe's energy security. The country is also a predominantly Muslim country that is a friend of Israel and the free market system, unlike its tyrannical neighbor Iran. Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama recognized the importance of our alliance with Azerbaijan and waived Section 907 via Executive Order every year since 2001. In fact, from Secretary Albright to Secretary Powell, Secretaries of State from both Republican and Democrat administrations over the last 20 years have supported the repeal of Section 907. Congress should do away with this archaic and obsolete relic of the past and repeal Section 907. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I have heard from many Texas business owners who built their own business without government help. Here's what Pam from Liberty, Texas, has to say: We are college educated, taxpaying citizens who have a lifetime of hard work under our belts. We have stayed up nights trying to figure out how we were going to pay our taxes, insurance, employees, and bank notes. We started from scratch, owning convenience stores, car washes, mini storage businesses, a clothing business, and also operated/owned two small-town movie theaters that were built by my husband's grandparents and parents. The latest is a real estate business. There's not much that anyone can tell us about the sacrifices that have to be made when you start up your own business. We have done it all, including working full-time jobs for someone else to make ends meet. No government agency has ever helped us with one thing, but the government certainly has made our work harder and more expensive to run/ operate our businesses. Mr. Speaker, people--not the government--make America's businesses successful. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today, I want to recognize the important contributions that the Robert E. Lee High School Interact Club has made to the Baytown, Texas community. For over 50 years, the club has proudly served our community. This is quite an accomplishment in and of itself, but in the last year alone, the club has completed over 900 hours of community service. Sponsored by the Baytown Rotary, the club's community service projects last year included the annual cancer fundraiser, Relay for Life; campus clean up events; hosting a Red Ribbon Week, and serving meals at the Baytown Thanksgiving community dinner. The club also held a Trick-or-Treat for Hunger event where it collected 1,587 canned goods to donate to our community. With a motto of ``service above self'', the club's members are learning many important life lessons: how to be selfless; how to be a leader; how to be a person of integrity; how to respect others and how to help someone during a difficult time. The members may be young in age--only teenagers--but they are putting these life lessons into action and making important contributions to the Baytown community. The Baytown community has been enriched by the members of the Robert E. Lee Interact Club and will continue to be as the students put service above self for the next 50 years. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, from September 15 to October 15 America celebrates National Hispanic Heritage month to recognize citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. These individuals contribute to the amazing melting pot of unique identities that is the United States of America. I would like to honor one particular Hispanic individual, a law enforcement officer from the Second Congressional District of Texas who lives his life under the lessons and values that his father and grandfathers instilled in him to serve our community. Sgt. Jose Noe Diaz, Jr.--known as Noe--is a Texas Ranger in Houston. He is a fourth generation Mexican-American. Both of his grandfathers (still alive) proudly served in World War II as infantrymen. His father was a migrant worker who worked his way through college and later became a school teacher. They taught him respect for others, honesty and hard work as the formula for success. Sgt. Diaz is proud of his heritage and works tirelessly to ensure that his children understand the importance of public service and giving back to the country that they love. It is evident that the values he inherited from his family have contributed to his success in his career and in life. Originally from South Texas, Sgt. Diaz has lived in the greater Houston area since 1987 when he began his career as a Texas Department of Criminal Justice Prison Guard. In 1996, he was accepted into the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Academy and assigned to the Texas Highway Patrol in Katy. In 2001, he was promoted into the Narcotic Division of DPS and assigned to the Harris County Organized Crime Task Force, DEA-Houston and the Houston Police Department's Targeted Narcotics Enforcement Team. In January 2008, he was appointed to the Texas Ranger Division and assigned to Company ``G'' Rio Grande City, Starr County. Later that same year, he transferred to Company ``A'' Houston where he is currently assigned. Sgt. Diaz's current duty assignment with the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Houston targets Public and Police Corruption. Sgt. Diaz is happily married to his wife, Sheila, with whom he has two adult children Justin (a Senior at the University of Texas--Austin) and Stephanie (a Sophomore at Our Lady of the Lake University--San Antonio). Sgt. Diaz holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Houston-Downtown and is pursuing a Masters in Criminology from Lamar University--Beaumont. Sgt. Diaz is an admirable and dedicated leader to our community, and this Hispanic Heritage Month we recognize his accomplishments and his rich heritage that has contributed to his success. We value his role in our community and appreciate his hard work to make it a better place to live. Sgt. Diaz, thank you for your service and for being a role model to many. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, in this day and age when most people think of things in terms of me and mine, there are still a few rare individuals who put others first. Regina Rogers is one of those rare individuals. At an early age, a very important question was engrained into Ms. Rogers' memory, and that question has been the motivation for much of what she does. The question was, ``What did you do for someone else today?'' I think it is safe to say that Regina has spent every day of her life doing extraordinary things for others. She is an active participant in community affairs and is the founder of several nonprofit organizations that provide assistance to the underserved communities of southeast Texas. In 1988, she founded and serves as Executive Director of the Ben Rogers/Lamar University/Beaumont Public Schools: ``I Have A Dream'' program. The organization has made available mentoring and guidance, along with $4,000 scholarships to nearly 400 academically talented students who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend college. Ms. Rogers is a Member of the Board of the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, the Harris County Hospital District Foundation, the Pauline Sterne Wolff Memorial Foundation. She serves on the boards of the Children's Defense Fund Texas Advisory Board, the Babe Didrikson Zaharias Foundation, and the Holocaust Museum of Houston. She is also President of the Joe Louis International Sports Foundation, established in 1972 by her late father, Ben Rogers. She was the first female regent of Lamar University. For six years, she served as a member of the Texas College and University System Coordinating Board, where she was Chair of the Educational Opportunity Planning Committee for Minority Education in Texas, helping implement programs to increase admissions and retention of minority students and the hiring of minority faculty in colleges and universities throughout Texas. Ms. Rogers established and serves as chair of the Julie Rogers ``Gift of Life'' program, which annually makes available more than 1,800 free mammograms (more than 18,000 since inception) and 500 prostate cancer screenings (more than 6,000 since 2000) for the medically underserved population of southeast Texas. In addition, the ``Gift of Life'' offers education that focuses on breast, ovarian, and other gynecological cancers, prostate, testicular, and lung cancer at 80 or more outreach programs a year, impacting nearly 17,000 people annually, as well as smoking prevention programming through its ``Don't Smoke Your Life Away'' campaign. While Chair of the Southwest Regional Board of the Anti-Defamation League in 1994, Rogers helped found the Coalition for Mutual Respect, a group of religious and lay leaders whose annual programming includes pulpit exchanges that promote positive intergroup relations by encouraging understanding and respect among Houston's diverse population. In 1997, Ms. Rogers established Inspire, Encourage, and Achieve, a program designed to perpetuate her father's legacy of helping young people achieve dignity and respect through knowledge, compassion, understanding, and love. IEA emphasizes rehabilitation for youth in detention and/or on probation, annually impacting more than four hundred juveniles in the Minnie Rogers Juvenile Justice Center and through its Ben's Kids outreach activities. Following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, Ms. Rogers co-founded the Southeast Texas Emergency Relief Fund (SETERF) that provided several million dollars in assistance to thousands of people after the storms, including gift cards to social service agencies, grants to faith-based organizations to assist with home repairs; and loans to small businesses affected by the storms. Regina also helped individuals who suffered losses from Hurricane Ike. She also served on the Bush- Clinton Coastal Recovery Fund and the Texas Governor's Disaster Recovery and Renewal Commission. Ms. Rogers excellence has been recognized by others throughout the years. She was selected as a Distinguished Alumna of the University of Houston in 1994, and was named a Distinguished Woman of Northwood University. She was named a Child Advocate of the Year by CASA of southeast Texas; a Pacesetter of the Year by the Cancer League; a Woman of Distinction by KTRK/Channel 3 in Houston; and was a recipient of the Cherish our Children Award from the Child Abuse Prevention Network in Houston. She received the Press Club's 2002 Southeast Texas Newsmaker of the Year award; was a recipient of the 2003 Humanitarian Award from Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Beaumont, Inc.; named a 2005 Citizen of the Year by the Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission; and was a recipient of the Cris Quinn Community Service Award in 2009 by the Jefferson County Bar Association. Regina Rogers learned the importance of public service from her parents. She has carried on her parents' legacy by being a tireless advocate for those in need. She is an incredible woman with an abundance of energy, and a heart as big as Texas. Through her personal involvement in, and financial contributions to numerous organizations, she has left an indelible mark on southeast Texas. Our community is better because of her compassion and generosity. Regina Rogers is the epitome of charity, and a perfect example of what we should all aspire to. In the words of Ms. Rogers' late father, Ben Rogers, I ask you, ``What have you done for someone else today?'' And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, there are thousands of individuals who make it their life's work to make communities safer while holding criminals accountable for their actions. One of the best is Judge Michael T. McSpadden. I have known Judge McSpadden for what seems like forever. We served in the district attorney's office as prosecutors together. Judge McSpadden prosecuted criminals for 8 years in the Harris County district attorney's office under the leadership of District Attorney Carol Vance. In 1982, Judge McSpadden became a Criminal District Court Judge in Harris County, Texas. He tried felony cases. Judges in Texas are elected on a partisan ballot and Judge McSpadden has been elected 8 consecutive times to the bench of the 209th Criminal District Court. We served as judges together and I witnessed his remarkable dedication to the law and justice. As a community, we are truly privileged to have such an extraordinary man answer the call to public service and as an individual, I am grateful to call Judge McSpadden a friend. Judge McSpadden has served the citizens of Harris County, Texas for over 35 years. A graduate from the University of Oklahoma (though we don't hold it against him), he has worked diligently to rise through the ranks in Texas courts. He started his legal career in the Harris County District Attorney's office as an Assistant District Attorney, and then he became the Chief Prosecutor of the 209th District Court. In 1982, Judge McSpadden was elected as a judge for the same court and, for the last 30 years, he has continued to preside over the 209th. His extensive knowledge of the justice system and his incredible work ethic have gained the respect of many in the law profession. Over his career, he has earned the respect and admiration among lawyers and judges within the legal community: he is always among the highest rated judges by members of the Houston Bar Association and was the highest rated judge in Harris County in the 2011 Houston Bar Association Judicial Qualification Poll. Our community has benefited greatly from the many, many years of service that he has dedicated. In addition, Judge McSpadden has been recognized by the Houston Police Officer's Association and Harris County Deputy Sheriffs Association. He has also been honored and named Champion of Crime Stoppers by the Bay Area Crime Stoppers. These organizations recognized that he has not only dedicated his professional time to helping others, but he has dedicated his personal time to helping the next generation as well. In 1994, Child Advocates honored him for his efforts to help children. He has been also honored by the Samaritan Center and the Assistance League of Houston for his work with inner city youth. Judge McSpadden is a positive mentor to young males at risk. In 2002, he was the first recipient of the Chuck Norris Team Spirit Award for his work with Kick Drugs Out of America. He continues to serve on the advisory boards of many non-profit organizations. By giving his time and lending his hands, Judge McSpadden has changed many lives, and I want you to know that our Nation is a better place because of his commitment to helping our communities become safer. Prior to his three decades of public service in the courtroom, Judge McSpadden also served his country as a United States Marine. While enlisted, he even found time to win the Marine Corps Tennis Champion title. He is a 3-time Big 8 Conference Tennis Singles Champion and still enjoys playing at River Oaks Country Club. The impact of Judge McSpadden's work is far reaching. He truly is an unsung hero whose efforts are felt in communities, neighborhoods and homes across Texas each and every day. Judge McSpadden's achievements at the 209th and in the community far surpass these recognitions. His innovation, determination and compassion for serving others make him one of the best judges in the Nation. Judge McSpadden is a close personal friend, excellent lawyer, tremendous judge, and amazing public servant for Texas. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an important upcoming date--October 10, 2012--which marks more than 100 years since the founding of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The United States and Taiwan share a common vision of democracy and liberty. It is important that we take a moment and recognize the successes of this great friend and ally. Often through struggle, Taiwan has used the last 101 years to bring peace and prosperity to its people. A beacon of democracy in the Asia-Pacific region, President Ma and the people of Taiwan should be commended for living in peace and for implementing pro-growth policies that have led to economic prosperity. They are a model for the region and the world. We are fortunate to call Taiwan a friend and ally. I also would like to congratulate Ambassador Jason Yuan, Representative of the ROC (Taiwan) to the United States, on his new post as Secretary-General of the National Security Council of Taiwan. I cherish the friendship with Ambassador Yuan and wish Ambassador and Madame Yuan the very best.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, there are thousands of individuals who make it their life's work to make communities safer while holding criminals accountable for their actions. One of the best is Judge Michael T. McSpadden. I have known Judge McSpadden for what seems like forever. We served in the district attorney's office as prosecutors together. Judge McSpadden prosecuted criminals for 8 years in the Harris County district attorney's office under the leadership of District Attorney Carol Vance. In 1982, Judge McSpadden became a Criminal District Court Judge in Harris County, Texas. He tried felony cases. Judges in Texas are elected on a partisan ballot and Judge McSpadden has been elected 8 consecutive times to the bench of the 209th Criminal District Court. We served as judges together and I witnessed his remarkable dedication to the law and justice. As a community, we are truly privileged to have such an extraordinary man answer the call to public service and as an individual, I am grateful to call Judge McSpadden a friend. Judge McSpadden has served the citizens of Harris County, Texas for over 35 years. A graduate from the University of Oklahoma (though we don't hold it against him), he has worked diligently to rise through the ranks in Texas courts. He started his legal career in the Harris County District Attorney's office as an Assistant District Attorney, and then he became the Chief Prosecutor of the 209th District Court. In 1982, Judge McSpadden was elected as a judge for the same court and, for the last 30 years, he has continued to preside over the 209th. His extensive knowledge of the justice system and his incredible work ethic have gained the respect of many in the law profession. Over his career, he has earned the respect and admiration among lawyers and judges within the legal community: he is always among the highest rated judges by members of the Houston Bar Association and was the highest rated judge in Harris County in the 2011 Houston Bar Association Judicial Qualification Poll. Our community has benefited greatly from the many, many years of service that he has dedicated. In addition, Judge McSpadden has been recognized by the Houston Police Officer's Association and Harris County Deputy Sheriff's Association. He has also been honored and named Champion of Crime Stoppers by the Bay Area Crime Stoppers. These organizations recognized that he has not only dedicated his professional time to helping others, but he has dedicated his personal time to helping the next generation as well. In 1994, Child Advocates honored him for his efforts to help children. He has been also honored by the Samaritan Center and the Assistance League of Houston for his work with inner city youth. Judge McSpadden is a positive mentor to young males at risk. In 2002, he was the first recipient of the Chuck Norris Team Spirit Award for his work with Kick Drugs Out of America. He continues to serve on the advisory boards of many non-profit organizations. By giving his time and lending his hands, Judge McSpadden has changed many lives, and I want you to know that our Nation is a better place because of his commitment to helping our communities become safer. Prior to his three decades of public service in the courtroom, Judge McSpadden also served his country as a United States Marine. While enlisted, he even found time to win the Marine Corps Tennis Champion title. He is a 3-time Big 8 Conference Tennis Singles Champion and still enjoys playing at River Oaks Country Club. The impact of Judge McSpadden's work is far reaching. He truly is an unsung hero whose efforts are felt in communities, neighborhoods and homes across Texas each and every day. Judge McSpadden's achievements at the 209th and in the community far surpass these recognitions. His innovation, determination and compassion for serving others make him one of the best judges in the Nation. Judge McSpadden is a close personal friend, excellent lawyer, tremendous judge, and amazing public servant for Texas. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on a spring day, 55 men walked from a cobblestone street into the Pennsylvania state house. They had important business to discuss, and guards kept watch to keep any curious people at bay. The men, all respected, half university- educated, had an average age of 42 years old. The youngest was a mere 27. In their first order of business, they formally nominated one man to be their leader: General George Washington. This was the scene 225 years ago when our Founding Fathers met in Philadelphia. The 13 colonies had declared and won independence from King George, and were operating under a ``league of friendship'' or the Articles of Confederation. They knew that the fledgling nation was tinkering on failure: it could not regulate commerce between the states, raise revenue, or support a national defense. A few months before, a man named Daniel Shays had led a group of farmers, who wore hats adorned with twigs, to rebel in Massachusetts. The new nation had some trouble spots of anarchy. Something had to be done. Over the next few days, the men debated in secret. There was no transparency, no reporters and no visitors. Men from large states, like Edmund Randolph of Virginia, argued for a strong national government, while men from smaller states, like William Patterson of New Jersey, balked at this. Alexander Hamilton of New York tried to convince his colleagues to follow the British government--``the best in the world''--a mistake to a group of proud patriots who had just defeated King George III. Their differing ideas led to compromises and a new government. Largely influenced by James Madison, credited as the Father of the Constitution, a Constitution was written that established three separate branches of government on the federal level, a decentralized national government with enumerated powers and individual state governments empowered with those powers not outlined. It was built on a system of federalism, a system of separation of powers between the states and the federal union. The fact that 55 men showed up was something of a feat in and of itself. Seventy-four were appointed to attend, but 19 chose to skip the meeting. They were wise in their suspicions that the goal was to give the national government more power, but missed a tremendous opportunity to shape the nation that they all loved. Sixteen men refused to sign the Document. One of them was firebrand orator Patrick Henry (my favorite of all of the Founders). He refused to sign the Document because it contained no ``Bill of Rights.'' Another, George Mason, declared that he ``would sooner chop off his right hand than put it to the Constitution as it now stands.'' Yet, the Document was signed by 39 men, and they left Philadelphia with the challenge of convincing the states to ratify it. Largely thanks to the efforts of James Madison, Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, through the Federalist Papers, the required nine states had ratified and the Constitution took effect. Two years later, James Madison introduced the Bill of Rights in the U.S. House of Representatives, outlining specific rights that each American should be guaranteed and limiting what government could do to the people. Without the Bill of Rights, we would not be the America that we are today. It guarantees that we can live in a country where we can speak our opinions without fearing punishment; where you can practice the religion of your choice in peace; where you have the right to share your ideas or complaints with the government; where you have certain inalienable rights--the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. On September 17, we celebrated Constitution Day, a national holiday that celebrates the one document that has made America what it is today: the land of the free and the home of the brave. In the 225 years since the signing of this great document, this nation has grown, adding territories and states, including Texas in 1845 (by 1 vote, I must say). What was in 1787 a new nation trying to get on its feet and find its way, is today a robust beacon of freedom and democracy. May we never forget what this nation stands for. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Elizabeth from Houston wrote me this about her business: My immigrant parents came to the United States legally. They had to learn English. My dad worked very hard. He opened several bars and restaurants, hired wait staff, cooks, bartenders, and cleaning people. There was never a dime of government assistance. Hard work, long hours, and sleepless nights were the norm for all of us. I learned their work ethic early, and I also have worked very hard for my family. No welfare, no government handouts. This is my country, and I love this country as much as my parents did. But I do not respect the current President or his administration. They want to be in charge of all of us, from cradle to grave. That is not the American way. That is exactly what my parents and grandparents fled from. Please take us back to the right way. Mr. Speaker, Elizabeth's family did it the right way--and without Big Government getting in the way. They built their American Dream all on their own. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Monica and Ivory Garrett from Beaumont, Texas are truly Angels--Angels in Adoption. Forty-three foster children have been blessed with the Garretts' love and care over the years; Forty-three lives have been changed because of the Garretts. Mrs. Garrett began her involvement in the foster care system in 1997 as lead staff at a Buckner International group home for foster children. Through her work, she realized that this was God's calling for her, and a few years later, the Garretts were licensed as foster parents and began welcoming children into their own home. After caring for 25 children, the Garretts' felt that God was calling them to something even bigger. The Garretts then opened a group home for children with therapeutic needs in 2009. They consider all of these children their own, providing a loving home and ensuring that they get the most out of life. Their children are all encouraged to explore their talents, participating in choir, sports, and various other activities. The Garretts are unsung heroes, a family with bountiful love, and truly Angels in Adoption. I was honored to recently award the Garretts with their Angels in Adoption award. They are an incredible family that has dedicated their lives to help and change children's lives. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, America is about people. Who we are and what we are is because of the people who have come to America. We have always been and will always be a nation of immigrants. They are individuals who have lived and died and influenced the rest of us because of their tenacious spirit and determination. Roy Benavidez was one of those Americans. He was born in South Texas in a small town called Cuero, August 5, 1935. He was the son of a sharecropper. He was an orphan and he had mixed blood of Yaqui Indian and Hispanic. He lost his family at a young age and dropped out of school in the 7th grade. He didn't see the need for an education at that time. He was a migrant farm worker. He worked all over Texas and as far as Colorado in the sugar beet fields and the cotton fields. In 1955 decided to join the United States Army, and he joined in Houston, Texas. He was in love with his hometown sweetheart, Lala Coy. While he was away in Germany on active duty, he asked a local priest, his grandfather and his uncle if they would go to Lala's father and ask permission for Roy to marry her and he agreed. While he was in the Army, however, he was in a lot of trouble, even though he was a member of the Military Police. So he finally joined the Special Forces training at Fort Bragg where he reached the rank of staff sergeant and went to Vietnam as a Green Beret. But on May 2, 1962, his life changed forever. It is a story that is almost unbelievable. On the morning of May 2, 1968, a 12-man Special Forces team was inserted in Cambodia to observe a large-scale North Vietnamese troop movement, and they were discovered by the enemy. Most of the team members were close friends of Roy Benavidez, who was the forward operating officer in Loc Ninh, Vietnam. Three helicopters were sent to rescue this 12-man team, but they were unable to land because of the heavy enemy concentration. When a second attempt was made to reach the stranded team, Benavidez jumped onboard one of the helicopters, armed only with a Bowie knife. As the helicopters reached the landing zone, Benavidez realized the team members were likely too severely wounded to move to the helicopters. So he ran by himself through heavy small arms fire to the wounded soldiers. He was wounded in the leg, the face, and the head in the process. He reorganized the team and signaled the helicopters to land. But despite his injuries, Benavidez was able to carry off half of the wounded men to the helicopters. He then collected the classified documents held by the now dead team leader. As he completed this task, he was wounded by an exploding grenade in the back and shot in the stomach. At that moment, the waiting helicopter's pilot was also mortally wounded, and that helicopter crashed. He ran to collect the stunned crash survivors and form a perimeter. He directed air support, ordered another extraction attempt and was wounded again when shot in the thigh. At this point he was losing so much blood from his face wounds that his vision became blocked. Finally, another helicopter landed and as Benavidez carried a wounded friend to it, he was clubbed in the head with a rifle butt by an enemy soldier. That soldier bayonetted Benavidez twice. Mr. Speaker, Benavidez was wounded in that one battle 37 times; Seven gunshot wounds, he had mortar shrapnel in his back, and two bayonet wounds. He was taken for dead and left for dead and zipped up in a body bag, but right before they zipped the bag up, he spit in the doctor's face, letting the doctor know he was yet alive. He later recovered. He received the Distinguished Service Cross and then many years later Ronald Reagan presented him with the Congressional Medal of Honor. President Reagan stated that if this were a movie, no one would believe it because of the heroic deed of Roy Benavidez. Mr. Speaker, after he retired from the military, Roy Benavidez went around America talking about the importance of an education, since he only went to the seventh grade. He talked to young gang members, he talked to youth, telling them to stay in school and get an education. He was a remarkable individual. A Navy ship has been named after him, several elementary schools in Texas have been named after Roy Benavidez, and even a toy company has issued a Roy Benavidez GI Joe action figure. As we prepare to celebrate and honor Hispanic Heritage Month, one of those great Hispanic Americans was Roy Benavidez, a Texas hero, an American hero, a war hero that loved America and, as he said, got to live the American Dream the way that he wanted. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, since its founding in 1909, Lamar State College--Port Arthur has undergone many changes, growing from a petrochemical industry training ground to a flourishing two-year college, offering degrees in numerous highly valued skills. But for 38 years, there has been one constant on campus and that's the leadership of President Dr. Sam Monroe, now recognized as the longest-serving president of a Texas higher education institution. While Dr. Monroe was not born in Port Arthur, he got there as fast as he could. He moved from College Station at an early age and has remained in the Southeast Texas area ever since, keeping him tuned in to the needs of the surrounding community. Dr. Monroe's career began at the former Port Arthur College, serving as Executive Vice President before being elected President in 1974. Wasting no time making significant changes, he proposed a merger with Lamar University in nearby Beaumont a year later, forming Lamar University--Port Arthur. Dr. Monroe has overseen a great expansion during his tenure. In 1999, they were granted admission into the Texas State University System then renamed Lamar State College--Port Arthur. A $5.9 million Performing Arts Center opened in 2004, and a 7,500 square foot Student Success Center was completed in 2011. Dr. Monroe was instrumental in founding and operating the Museum of the Gulf Coast, located in downtown Port Arthur, which tells the history of this special region. 2004 saw the Lamar State College--Port Arthur Seahawks begin play in Men's Basketball and Girl's Softball, helping to create an expanded athletic program and a full college experience. Many honors and distinctions have been given to Dr. Monroe. The Port Arthur News named him its Citizen of the Year in 2004. He was the first male recipient of the Quota International of Southeast Texas Man of the Year Award in 2005, the first time in almost 60 years that the award was open to both males and females. Earlier this month, he was recognized by Governor Rick Perry as the education president with the longest service in Texas. And, his dedication to the community has expanded outside of campus as Dr. Monroe has volunteered his time on such varied organizations as the Port Arthur Public Library and the Port Arthur Housing Authority. Thanks to Dr. Sam Monroe, Lamar State College--Port Arthur has transitioned from a small technical school to a sprawling, 40-acre campus home to over 3,000 students. I am proud to recognize his accomplishments. He has touched countless lives, and Southeast Texas is a better place for it. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Over the last week, we have watched as anti- American groups throughout the world have killed Americans, attacked our embassies, had protests, burned the American flag, and destroyed our property in many parts of the world. These events and events that have preceded them bring up that question again that these countries that we give aid to seem to be countries where there is violence against America. So I want to spend a few minutes talking about the aid Americans, when they write that check to the government, our government, spend all over the world. This is a map of countries in the world that the United States of America taxpayers give assistance to worldwide. You'll see there are three colors. The red are colors that the United States gives foreign aid to. And you can see that's most of the countries in the world--and it is most of the countries. There are 191 countries in the world. Sometimes there are 193, depending on whether those last two are really countries or not. And American taxpayers give money to 158 of them. So you see those that are in the red. The green represents countries that we give military aid to. And the few little blue countries--a couple in Europe, a couple in Africa--those are countries we don't give any money to. By far, the minority. So you see the massive world as we know it, American money goes to most of it. Now you notice over here there's a red block in this part of the world. And I'm sure, Mr. Speaker, you would recognize this massive country here. That's Russia. Yes, American aid goes to Russia. And did you know even though China controls so much of our debt, American money, yes, goes to China as well. So maybe we need to rethink how we do this. With all the problems we've got in the United States, the taxpayers are writing checks for countries throughout the world. And here's how we vote on foreign aid. And I suspect the Senate does it the same way. We put all the countries in a list and in a bill and the State Department usually submits an amount of money they would like us to give to this country. And then this House votes ``up'' or ``down'' on all 158 countries. Now maybe we ought to do business a little better. Maybe we should vote country by country. Some say, Oh, it'll take too long. Hey, we're talking about American money here. It wouldn't take very long at all. I think that if we voted ``up'' or ``down'' country per country, most of these countries are not going to get any aid from the United States in a bipartisan way. Of course, probably Israel would. And 80 percent of the money given to Israel is spent back in the United States. I think most Members support Israel. Maybe one or two other countries. Let's vote ``up'' or ``down'' country by country. And some of these countries that we've had unrest in in the last couple of weeks--like Libya, like Egypt--maybe we need to reevaluate the money we send to them. At the very least, what we ought to do in countries like Libya and Egypt, and in some of these other countries that are destroying American property as we speak, who have looted, pillaged, and destroyed our embassies, like in Egypt, the money that we're going to give them in aid, take a portion of it out to help rebuild the embassies that are in that country and pay for the property damage, and probably even take money out we've given to Libya and pay reparations to the four Americans that were killed in Libya. Let's use some common sense when we're spending money overseas. And maybe we shouldn't be trying to go all over the world and play nice with people. We've had a foreign aid problem since before I was born. We continue to give money to countries in the hope that they will like us. Well, how's that working for you? Not too good, is the way that I see it. Mr. Speaker, we don't need to continue to support countries like Pakistan. I'm astonished we will still give money to Pakistan. They harbored Osama bin Laden. They put in prison the informant that told us where he was hiding. I believe some of the money we give Pakistan ends up in the hands of the Taliban and corrupt military government. But yet we keep paying them. This summer the House did vote to cut $625 million from Pakistan. But yet when the CR came through last week--the continuing resolution--that money is back in, going to Pakistan. Pakistan is just one of many examples, Mr. Speaker. We don't need to pay these countries to hate us. We don't need to pay them to betray us. They will do it for free. And that's just the way it is.

Mr. POE of Texas

Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the United States granted Pakistan major non-NATO ally status to help us fight al Qaeda and the Taliban. This status gives special foreign aid and defense benefits such as an expedited arms sales process. But Pakistan has proved it's no friend to America. Pakistan said ``no'' when we asked it to go after the terrorist havens. Pakistan twice tipped off terrorists making IEDs that kill Americans. Pakistan's intelligence arm, the ISI, helped the Haqqani network, a designated foreign terrorist organization, to attack our embassy. Pakistan arrested and convicted the doctor who helped us locate Osama bin Laden, the world's number one terrorist. I believe some of the money that we have given them goes to the Taliban, but Pakistan has given us no reason to trust them. They are a disloyal ally, a Benedict Arnold friend. I've introduced H.R. 6391 to strip Pakistan of its major non-NATO ally status. We don't need to pay Pakistan to betray us. They will do it for free. Time for a divorce with Pakistan. And that's just the way it is.