Hal Rogers

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a true Kentucky Artisan, small businessman, veteran, teacher, and community leader, Alfred Cornett, for his many years of service and dedication to the Harlan County community. As a native son of the Commonwealth and a World War II veteran, Alfred has been a valuable member and admired citizen of the Cumberland, Kentucky community for many years. Upon his high school graduation, Alfred honorably served his country as a member of the United States Army, where he rose to the rank of sergeant and was a member of the famed ``Phantom Army.'' His unit was involved in several key battles that were crucial to the success of the Allied Forces, including the Battle of Britain and the Battle of the Bulge. Upon his return from the war, Alfred began his career working for Chrysler and General Motors in Dayton, Ohio while attending classes at an industrial electrical school in Chicago. Eventually Alfred moved to Harlan County, where he operated Cornett's Home Supply Company and Al's Radio and TV for many years. In his time living in Kentucky, Alfred has become well-known for his craftsmanship of exquisite Appalachian dulcimers. Using wood native to the Appalachian region, Alfred has fashioned over 1,000 stringed instruments, highly sought after by musicians and collectors throughout the country. As the head craftsman at Southeast Community and Technical College, he has generously shared his extraordinary talents with the community through teaching numerous dulcimer-making classes and inspiring a new generation of craftsmen. Alfred is an active member of his community, and has devoted his time and talents to many charitable projects through his participation in the Lion's Club. He is also involved in his church, Cumberland Missionary Baptist Church, where he has been a member since 1959. Alfred currently lives in Harlan County with his beloved wife of 56 years, Geneva. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Alfred Cornett for dedicating years of service to Harlan County and for sharing his extraordinary talents as a woodworker and dulcimer craftsman.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. The real problem today lies with exploding and unsustainable mandatory and entitlement spending, which the Budget Committee should be addressing forthwith. Mandatory spending comprises two-thirds of the Federal budget. We only deal with a third on discretionary--most of that military--and it continues to blow up the Nation's deficit and debt at these rapid rates, putting our economy and the stability of our Nation at risk. I urge my colleagues to look beyond the opportunity for the easy press release in order to see that the line-item veto does more harm than good. We can't dismiss the fundamental tenets of the Constitution, and we can't pretend that it will have any positive effect on the Nation's financial predicament. We must put an end to these budgetary smoke screens to find more appropriate and effective ways to address our budget crisis and focus our efforts on mandatory entitlement spending, which is where the real problem is.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this bill. In article I, section 9, clause 7, the U.S. Constitution bestows upon Congress what we now call the ``power of the purse''--that the representatives of the people should distribute taxpayer dollars as warranted and needed. The line-item veto would weaken that power, shifting budgetary authority to the executive branch and giving the President a power that our Founding Fathers did not see fit to give to him. In fact, a previous effort to provide the President a line-item veto, as has been noted, was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 1998. Two weeks ago, during his State of the Union address, we heard how the President would choose to spend our precious taxpayer dollars. The line-item veto would strengthen the President's ability to give preference to his spending priorities over those of the Congress and the constituents that you represent. Our Founding Fathers had seen firsthand what an absolute authority could do when wielding too much influence, particularly over spending and taxation, and they drafted our Constitution accordingly, providing for checks and balances to prevent too much power from falling into the hands of one branch of government, the executive. The Framers would surely shake their heads at the idea of transferring this much authority to the executive branch. So powerful was this defense of Congress' role that James Madison in Federalist Paper No. 58 stated: The power over the purse may, in fact, be regarded as the most complete and effectual weapon with which any constitution can arm the immediate representatives of the people for obtaining a redress of every grievance and for carrying into effect every just and salutary measure. Not only does the line-item veto fly in the face of our Constitution and the Framers' protections, but budget experts also doubt its effectiveness as a spending reduction tool. Look back to Congress' experience with the line-item veto under President Clinton. He wielded this authority to little effect in saving taxpayer dollars. In fact, Congress declared that he ``misused'' that authority, and overturned nearly half of his cancellations. So, to summarize the line-item veto: It is a power likely to be abused and not likely to save money. In an effort to better this flawed bill, to at least improve its chances at having a tangible effect on government spending, we offered an amendment in the Rules Committee that would have made the bill also apply to tax benefits and runaway entitlement spending. However, that amendment was ruled out of order. The amendment wouldn't have made this bill perfect nor would it have solved the constitutional problem, but it would have at least increased the potential for achieving actual budget savings. Nearly 25 years ago, former CBO Director Rudolph G. Penner famously said in reference to our budget: ``The problem isn't the process. The problem is the problem.'' Mr. Chairman, today's problem isn't with whether or not the President can veto budget line items nor is it even with annual discretionary spending. On that front, we've saved more than $95 billion over the last 2 years, thanks to the support of this House.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to James I. Thacker, a dedicated public servant and brave member of the Pike County Sheriff's Department in Pikeville, Kentucky. His passing is a great loss and he will be deeply missed in Pike County. For law enforcement officers and other first responders, a routine assignment can become dangerous at any moment. On Monday, January 23rd, James was serving papers at the end of his shift, when a vehicle crossed the center line on U.S. 460 and hit him head on. His comrades rushed to his aid, just the same as he had done so many times before for them. James will always be remembered for his service to Pike County, both for his time as a Deputy Sheriff and his faithful years as a Constable. He served with compassion, loyalty and the utmost integrity. James' comrades highly respected him, and described him as someone who treated others as he wanted to be treated. He was an excellent officer and was always prepared to answer the call of duty. James was a loving husband, a father of four, a grandfather and a former road foreman. His loss will be felt across the county and his legacy will carry on in the hearts and lives of those who love him. Let us remember that everyday our law enforcement officers are putting their lives on the line and that a routine day is never routine. On behalf of my wife Cynthia and myself, I want to extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Thacker family. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a brave, public servant for the people of Pike County, Kentucky, the late James Thacker.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the late George ``G.W.'' Griffin, a successful businessman in the food industry and admired leader in his community of London, Kentucky. George began his career in 1950, at Laurel Grocery, a local wholesaler based in London, KY, where he served as President for 34 years up until his retirement in 1997. Using honesty and wisdom as the secret to his business success, George taught his co-workers to be forthright in following through with their commitments and careful in not committing to something they could not accomplish. George's other grocery industry activities included chairing the Food Marketing Education Council, as well as sitting on the boards of the National-American Wholesale Grocers Association, and the Kentucky Grocers Association, of which he was elected president in 1979. A passionate and highly regarded businessman, Griffin was named the ``Grocer of the Year'' in 1986 and in 2005 he was honored as the first inductee into the Kentucky Grocers Hall of Fame. Outside of his professional commitments, George served proudly in the United States Navy during World War II, and was very active in civic events and in service to his community. An avid golfer and thoroughbred horse owner/racing enthusiast, George traveled throughout the world to pursue his passions. As a graduate from University of Kentucky and a member of the board of trustees for 16 years, George was a diehard Kentucky fan, and never missed a home football game until he became too ill to attend. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in memory of George ``G.W.'' Griffin for his dedication and service to the leaders and families of Eastern Kentucky. His enthusiasm and zeal will be greatly missed.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of my most trusted advisors and one of southern Kentucky's most savvy political strategists, Donnie Girdler. Donnie proudly served Kentucky's Fifth Congressional District as my field representative for nearly a quarter of a century. With sheer tenacity and courage of conviction, Donnie played a key role in orchestrating new opportunities and projects for southern and eastern Kentucky. However, it was his passion for politics that many sought during campaigns. Donnie's political insight was invaluable to local, state and federal leaders across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. In fact, he became acquainted with five U.S. Presidents and assisted with presidential elections. Donnie befriended people from all walks of life and had a keen perception of character. As a former U.S. Marine and a former Commonwealth's Detective, Donnie was a man of integrity and loyalty. He pledged his life to his country, his home region and especially his family. My wife Cynthia and I extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Girdler family. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a dear friend and a true patriot, the late Donnie Girdler.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the late Odell Merrick, a successful Kentucky businessman and longtime community leader of Pulaski County, Kentucky. His passing is a great loss to his family, his community, and to me personally. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Cumberland Wood & Chair, Co-Owner of Somerset Wood Products, and Director of Citizens National Bank, Odell Merrick has left behind a legacy of successful business ventures. In 1985, Odell founded Somerset Wood Products, alongside his son, Steve Merrick, which grew over the years to become a nationally- recognized manufacturer of hardwood flooring. Odell remained a co-owner with the company up until his death last November. In addition to his many successful business ventures, Odell was a highly active member of his church, where he taught Sunday school for more than 30 years. Serving as both a Deacon and Chairman of his church, Odell has been highly involved in many church projects, including the founding of Somerset Christian School. Odell was a man of service and dedication to his community and in 2010, he was honored by the Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce with the highest honor for those who have made significant contributions to the community, the ``Distinguished Community Service Award.'' Odell Merrick leaves behind a devoted family: his loving wife of more than 53 years, Nancy Routt Merrick; their children, Steve Merrick and Debbie Eades of Somerset, KY, along with four sisters and grandchildren. On behalf of my wife Cynthia and myself, I want to extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Merrick family.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great leader, public servant, and an inspiration, Gene Huff. Although he was born and raised in Ohio, Gene Huff planted his home in London, Kentucky, where he raised his family and pastored the First Pentecostal Church for 25 years. When he retired in 1994, he took the Great Commission to the airwaves with the launch of a 50,000-watt Christian Radio Station, WYGE. In combination with his desire to communicate, his passion for public service expanded beyond the stained glass windows, into the state capitol. Gene was successfully elected to two terms in the Kentucky House of Representatives before he was elected in 1971 to the state Senate where he spent more than 22 years. During that time, he stood firm on conservative principles, representing his constituents with great honor and loyalty. Gene Huff leaves behind a devoted family: his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Ethel Dayberry Huff, five children, 19 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, with more on the way. My wife, Cynthia and I extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Huff family. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a divine public leader and minister of God, the late Gene Huff.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Mill Springs and to honor the soldiers who fought and died in this significant battle during the Civil War 150 years ago today. The Battle of Mill Springs took place on January 19, 1862, in Pulaski and Wayne Counties in Kentucky and was the first significant victory for the Union Army in the west during the Civil War. The battle marks the death of Confederate General Felix Zollicoffer, who was the first general to die in the Civil War. The Battle of Mill Springs was the second largest battle to take place in Kentucky and engaged over 10,000 soldiers. The outcome of this battle broke the main Confederate defensive line that was anchored in eastern Kentucky and opened the path for the Union Army to move through Kentucky and into Tennessee, affecting the outcome of the war. The Mill Springs Battlefield is considered a National Historic Landmark, as the Mill Springs Battlefield Association along with countless volunteers have made significant strides in preserving the site and educating the public about this historic event. With the Mill Springs Battlefield Association Visitor Center providing visitors with battlefield tours, access to Civil War artifacts, and a Civil War library, there have been 50,000 Civil War enthusiasts who have traveled to this uniquely preserved, nearly 500 acre historic battlefield. On this anniversary, I would like to honor and thank the Mill Springs Battlefield Association for preserving this important site, particularly Chairman Bill Neikirk, who has dedicated significant time and energy to the museum and battlefield acquisition. In honor of those who fought valiantly during the battle 150 years ago and in appreciation for all that Chairman Neikirk has done in preserving this historic site, an American flag will be flown over the Capitol Building on the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Mill Springs. Today I am also introducing non-binding legislation which commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Mill Springs and its significance during the Civil War, as well as binding legislation that directs the Department of the Interior to conduct a study which evaluates the feasibility of incorporating the battlefield into the national park system. Such an addition will ensure its preservation for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand with the Mill Springs Battlefield Association and Civil War enthusiasts in commemorating this anniversary today and in seeking to preserve these hallowed grounds for tomorrow's visitors. I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Mill Springs and to recognize those who bravely fought to help preserve the union of the United States.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great leader, entrepreneur and motivator, James Lawrence ``Jim'' Rose. He was a great inspiration and will be missed across the Commonwealth. Jim Rose was a successful businessman with a thriving entrepreneurial mind and a philanthropic spirit. After attending Berea College and the University of Kentucky, Jim's first taste of success started in his hometown of Manchester, Kentucky. He launched a small coal company in 1959, leading to his post as president and chief executive officer of Interstate Coal Company, continuing to span his company across a dozen counties in eastern Kentucky. When he retired in 1993, the company was one of the top three producers of coal in the Commonwealth and was nationally renowned for its safe coal mining practices and mine rescue team. In the late 1970's, Jim launched two successful banking ventures. He formed the United Bancorp of Kentucky, Inc. and guided a successful merger with National City Corporation in 1995. He and his wife Judy also became majority stockholders, in the Bank of Lexington and Trust Company and subsequently sold it. His savvy business instincts were coveted across the country and he proudly served as a director or member of numerous trade associations. With a golden heart of generosity, Jim committed a vast majority of his time to civic and charitable organizations. He served on the Board of Trustees of the University of Kentucky and the Albert B. Chandler Medical Center, Centre College, and Lees College. He was a founding member of the Commonwealth Endowment for Kentucky Educational Television and served as a member of Kentucky's State Investment Commission. He left one of his largest footprints at the Lexington Christian Academy, where the ``Rose Campus'' covers 75 acres in Lexington, Kentucky. Jim Rose leaves behind a devoted family: his loving wife of 49 years, Judy Sizemore Rose; his son, James F. ``Jamie'' Rose and his wife Kris; his daughter Sonya Rose Hiler and her husband Ken; eight grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. On behalf of my wife Cynthia and myself, I want to extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies to the Rose family. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a dear friend and inspiration, the late Jim Rose.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following regarding H.R. 3672, Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2012:

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the distinguished chair of the State-Foreign Ops Subcommittee, the gentlelady from Texas (Ms. Granger).

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Cole), a very hardworking member of the Appropriations Committee.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the very distinguished chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Appropriations, the gentlelady from Missouri (Mrs. Emerson).

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. I thank the gentleman for those comments. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the chairman of the Interior Subcommittee, the gentleman from Idaho (Mr. Simpson).

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. I thank the gentleman for yielding. This continuing resolution ensures that government operations will continue to be funded through December 23. The resolution is a simple date extension that gives Congress time to prepare the consolidated appropriations bill for presentation to the President. This is a noncontroversial measure that has signoff from both sides of the aisle, and I urge its adoption.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I send to the desk a joint resolution (H.J. Res. 95) making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes, and ask unanimous consent for its immediate consideration.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise their remarks and include extraneous material on the conference report on H.R. 2055, H. Con. Res. 94, and H.R. 3672, and that I may include tabular material on the same.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise to present H.R. 3672, the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, which is the third bill in our final appropriations package for fiscal year 2012. This bill provides a total of $8.1 billion in funding for critical aid and recovery assistance for disaster emergencies. Of this total, $6.4 billion will go to FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund. This includes funding for fire assistance, emergency declarations, major disasters, surge operations, and disaster readiness support. In addition, these funds will help cover costs from large-scale previous disasters such as the summer 2011 tornadoes and Hurricane Irene. We've had a historic chain of disasters in this country over the last year or so. The legislation also provides $1.7 billion in funding for disaster recovery assistance through the Army Corps of Engineers. This funding will help repair damage to critical infrastructure caused by recent storms and floods and will help prepare for future disaster events. This total adheres to the total disaster funding level agreed to under the Budget Control Act this past summer. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, to provide our communities and families with the support they need as they recover from these devastating natural disasters. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time and urge an ``aye'' vote.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the distinguished chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Appropriations, the gentlelady from Missouri (Mrs. Emerson).

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to yield back if the gentleman is.

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky

Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I send to the desk a joint resolution (H.J. Res. 94) making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes, and ask unanimous consent for its immediate consideration.