Lucille Roybal-Allard

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Chair, I rise in strong opposition to this continuing resolution because it ignores the needs of America's families and does nothing to create jobs, strengthen the middle class, or effectively lower the deficit. The $1.3 billion cut to community health centers is astounding. In my district alone, if these cuts are enacted, over 112,000 individuals will suffer a significant loss in primary health services, and they will be forced to use costly hospital emergency care. Nationally, these cuts mean health centers will be unable to serve 11 million patients over the next year. It means 127 new health centers in underserved districts will lose their funds. And it means the loss of thousands of health care jobs. Also on the chopping block is the title X program, which provides over 8,000 men and women in my district with reproductive health care and cancer screening. Nationally, the $317 million cut to title X will force many clinics to close, eliminating another primary care safety net for 5 million men and women. Also unbelievable is the $210 million in proposed cuts to the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant program. This cut will devastate primary and preventive health services in California for an estimated 2.6 million pregnant women, infants, and special needs children. The cuts also endanger other critical programs such as California's newborn screening program, which last year tested almost 550,000 newborns for treatable genetic and metabolic diseases, which if undetected could have become painful and life threatening. On the national level, these cuts in MCH grants will reduce or eliminate prenatal health services for 2 million women and primary health care for more than 17 million children. In a country that ranks far behind almost all other developed nations in maternal and infant outcomes, we can ill-afford to slash funding for the only Federal program that focuses solely on improving the health of mothers and their babies. Madam Chair, this bill is a Trojan horse that pretends to address our Nation's deficit crisis at the expense of the most vulnerable among us. This bill is not worthy of this House, for it fails to honor the true priorities and values of the American people, and I urge my colleagues to join me in rejecting this irresponsible resolution.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Chair, I move to strike the last word.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Retirement Housing Foundation--also known as RHF--on the occasion of the organization's 50th anniversary of providing quality and affordable housing and services to more than 17,000 seniors, low-income families and people with disabilities. With a strong mission to provide dignified, affordable housing and services for the elderly, RHF is one of the nation's largest non-profit sponsors and managers of housing and services for older adults, persons with disabilities, and low-income families. RHF was formed in 1961 by three visionaries: two California United Church of Christ clergymen and one layman. The organization, which began with a $7,000 grant, today operates 161 communities in 25 states throughout the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. While these communities are comprised of mostly apartments, RHF also provides senior housing with assisted living units and skilled nursing beds. A total of four RHF communities are located within the 34th District. The Rio Vista Village for low-income families is located in Boyle Heights. RHF operates three communities for low-income seniors: Colonia Jess Lopez in Boyle Heights, which is named after a strong community activist and outspoken advocate of older Americans whom I was proud to call a friend; Sangnok Villa in Westlake; and Angelus Plaza in Downtown Los Angeles. During my years in Congress, I have had the privilege of working closely with RHF as a member of the Advisory Council for Angelus Plaza--the nation's largest affordable housing community for seniors in the country. Angelus Plaza is the only facility of its kind in the country. Covering two city blocks and two postal zip codes, it has nearly 1,100 apartments. Angelus Plaza is home to 1,300 independent seniors whose average age is 82. RHF prides itself on its culturally diverse programs and services offered to Angelus Plaza's residents who speak more than 10 different languages. Angelus Plaza's six-story senior center offers more than 100 monthly classes and activities for seniors throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area. The complex also houses the Tom Bradley Senior Health Center (operated by Good Samaritan Hospital) as well as a continuation high school operated by the L.A. Unified School District and office space for more than 10 non-profit organizations and senior groups. In addition, RHF continues to partner with local organizations and government agencies to secure support and funding for affordable housing throughout the country. RHF preserves properties within the HUD inventory by acquiring those properties in danger of becoming market rate. RHF also reinvests in its own properties to ensure that they remain viable affordable communities for decades to come. In the last five years, RHF invested more than $95.9 million to rehabilitate and update existing communities. RHF takes its role as an affordable housing advocate seriously. As a respected national voice in this area, Dr. Laverne Joseph, RHF's President and CEO, has testified before various Congressional Committees about a variety of affordable housing-related issues. Mr. Speaker, as the organization prepares to mark its 50-year milestone at a special February 18 anniversary celebration at their annual conference in Downtown Long Beach, I ask my colleagues to please join the Los Angeles County community and me in recognizing the Retirement Housing Foundation for its steadfast commitment to providing quality, safe and affordable housing and services for America's seniors, low-income families and persons with disabilities. I also commend RHF's Board Chair, Don King, its National Board of Directors, its President & CEO, Dr. Joseph and the 2,600 dedicated staff throughout the country who make this organization the safety net that it is today for thousands of America's most vulnerable residents and I wish them many more years of continued success.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Japanese American National Museum, the private nonprofit national institution dedicated to sharing the experiences of Americans of Japanese ancestry in the United States. Located in the historic Little Tokyo district of Downtown Los Angeles in the 34th Congressional District, I had the privilege of nominating the Japanese American National Museum for an especially prestigious honor. The Institute of Museums and Library Services bestowed upon the museum its National Medal in recognition of the museum's ``extraordinary civic, educational, economic, environmental, and social contributions.'' The museum was one of only 10 institutions in 2010 to receive the institute's National Medal--America's highest honor for museums. The Japanese American National Museum is only the second museum located in California to be recognized with this national distinction. The concept for the museum originated more than 25 years ago when members of the Japanese American community realized that their families' storied history was being lost to time. The families especially wanted to preserve for future generations the stories of the tremendous hardships endured by Japanese Americans during World War II. During this time, thousands of Japanese American families lost their homes, their businesses and most of what they owned when the United States Government unconscionably incarcerated them in detention camps. Despite this injustice, many Japanese Americans responded to the military needs of our country during World War II with great patriotic fervor. The famed 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team--made up almost entirely of Japanese Americans--became the most decorated units for their size and length of service in the history of our Armed Forces. In addition, Japanese Americans who became members of the United States Military Intelligence Service during World War II saved thousands of American lives by using their Japanese- language skills to serve our country as translators, interrogators and code breakers in the Pacific Theatre. In 1985, the museum was founded as an almost all-volunteer organization composed of 13 different committees and only one full-time staff member with no permanent site and no endowment. In 1992, the museum renovated an important historic building for their headquarters and then expanded to a modern Pavilion in 1999. Throughout this time, the Japanese American National Museum became the repository of the history of people of Japanese ancestry in the United States, collecting more than 80,000 artifacts, photographs, documents and ephemera (such as letters, posters, and newspaper articles) that help to preserve and share their stories with all Americans. An average of 25,000 students annually make visits to the Japanese American National Museum, guided by volunteers who lived through much of this amazing history. Visitors to the museum learn about the commonalities of the Japanese American experience with that of other ethnic groups in our country as part of the museum's core exhibition entitled, ``Common Ground: The Heart of Community.'' The museum's new exhibition entitled, ``Fighting for Democracy: Who is the 'We' in 'We, the People'?'' features profiles of seven people of various backgrounds and ethnicities who actively supported the American war effort, but who also wanted our democracy to truly serve all the people in the post-World War II era. This exhibition has traveled to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, the National Archives and the Tuskegee National Institute Historic Site in Alabama. The museum also organized a five-state educational project entitled, ``Enduring Communities: The Japanese American Experience in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah.'' The 3-year project--which involved local institutions within each state--culminated with a national conference in Denver in 2008 attended by teachers, scholars and the people from the communities who lived this history. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of the museum's 25th Anniversary and its receipt of the Institute of Museums and Library Services' National Medal, I ask my congressional colleagues to please join me and the residents of the 34th Congressional District in congratulating the Japanese American National Museum for its extraordinary achievements. I congratulate Museum President and CEO Akemi Kikumura Yano, the members of the museum's Board of Governors and Board of Trustees and all of the community members whose dedication to preserving the Japanese American story make the museum the local and national treasure that it is today. I wish the museum and everyone involved in its growth and educational mission many more years of continued success.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, today, millions of Americans have more freedom to choose and control their health care as a result of the Affordable Care Act. In my congressional district, nearly 40 percent of my constituents were uninsured. Thousands more were underinsured and living on the brink of financial disaster when facing a serious illness or accident. With health care reform, positive change is taking place for them and for individuals, families, and small businesses throughout the country. Young adults are grateful they can remain on their parents' insurance until age 26; seniors living in fear of not being able to afford their medications are thankful for discounts on brand-name drugs when reaching the doughnut hole; families with preexisting conditions are comforted by the new high-risk insurance pool; and those facing serious illness are relieved their insurers can no longer drop them when they need coverage the most. Small businesses, which abound in my district and which are a mainstay in our Latino and minority communities, can take advantage of tax credits to offer health insurance to their employees. A 2009 study by MIT economist Jonathan Gruber found that, without reform, over the next decade employers will pay trillions of dollars in employee health costs; will potentially cut 170,000 small business jobs; and will lose $51.2 billion in profits. That is why John Arensmeyer, founder and CEO of the Small Business Majority, supports health care reform. Madam Speaker, H.R. 2 will hurt small business. It will repeal the freedoms and protections Americans now have, and it will return control of their health care to the insurance companies.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late John A. ``Jack'' Kyser. Born in Huntington Park in the 34th Congressional District, he was a leader in the community and someone who was often called ``the voice'' or ``the guru'' of the Los Angeles economy. Mr. Kyser passed away unexpectedly on December 6 at the age of 76 at his home in Downey, CA. As the ``go to'' economy expert in Los Angeles County, Mr. Kyser was respected and admired by a diverse group of people--from industry experts to television viewers--who appreciated his ability to make complicated facts and figures understandable as well as his in-depth knowledge about the local and national economy. Mr. Speaker, as my fellow Angelenos prepare to attend his memorial service on January 12 at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, I ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing Mr. Kyser's lifetime contributions to Los Angeles and the Southern California region. To further pay respect to him, I would like to submit into the Congressional Record excerpts from the following December 7 Los Angeles Times obituary which provides a thorough and touching overview of Mr. Kyser's life and many accomplishments. John A. `Jack' Kyser Dies at 76; Expert on L.A. Economy (By Roger Vincent and Hugo Martin) John A. ``Jack'' Kyser, the dean of Los Angeles economists who spoke as an expert on Southern California to observers around the world, has died. He was 76. Kyser devoted his long career to focusing on the workings of the region's economy. As the former chief economist of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp. he was in steady demand as a speaker at business events and a reliable source who was quick with an insightful quote for reporters on deadline. ``Jack was truly the authority on L.A'.s economy,'' said Mark Liberman, president of LA Inc., the Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau. ``If he said it, you knew it was true, because his voice influenced every projection about L.A.'s economy.'' Kyser moved among the business elite but often spoke comfortably of his humble upbringing in working-class Downey. He was born April 20, 1934, in Huntington Park and raised in Vernon and Downey, where he lived much of his life. Kyser earned a bachelor of science degree in 1955 and an MBA in 1968 from USC, but was not formally trained as an economist. His street-level knowledge of the local economy was unsurpassed, though, and helped make him a confidant to the powerful. ``Generations of leaders in L.A.--including mayors, councilmen and governors--relied on him as an advisor and counselor, and benefitted from his wisdom,'' said Bill Allen, chief executive of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp. Kyser found work after his undergraduate years as a forecaster for Union Pacific Railroad in Omaha, but was laid off four years later during an economic downturn. He found paid work anchoring a news show at a local public radio station where he had been volunteering. Kyser returned to Southern California in about a year to work for United California Bank, then spent eight years as an economist with the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. Kyser began with the economic development corporation in 1991, when it had no economics research department. Kyser retired from the economic development organization in June, but returned to the public eye almost immediately as an economic spokesman for the Southern California Assn. of Governments. Kyser's opinions were sought because ``he had credibility,'' said Carol Schatz, president of the Central City Assn., a Los Angeles business advocacy group. ``He remained independent through the political pressure that plays a role with economic forecasting.'' The president of the Los Angeles Sports and Entertainment Commission, Kathryn Schloessman, said Kyser ``was the person our industry went to when asked about economic impact of anything happening in this city. He was a Los Angeles treasure.''

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 2925, the Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Deterrence and Victims Support Act. It is fitting that as one of the last acts of this Congress which has done so much to aid the most vulnerable in our society, we are considering legislation that would protect children from sex traffickers. Tragically, this heinous crime is becoming more common with as many as 100,000 young people trafficked every year within our borders. To address this heartbreaking trend, the legislation before us authorizes a comprehensive grant program to identify and assist victims and strengthens the National Crime Information Center, NCIC, database that enables law enforcement officials to track missing and exploited children. These commonsense steps will make a real difference in the lives of thousands of kids who have experienced unimaginable ordeals. S. 2925 mirrors House legislation authored by my colleagues Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney and Congressman Chris Smith. I applaud their hard work on behalf of these forgotten young people and commend them for their leadership in devising smart solutions to fight the scourge of child prostitution in America. The Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Deterrence and Victims Support Act will significantly augment our efforts to help children traumatized by the worst kind of criminal act and I urge its swift passage. In an era characterized by bitter partisanship, it is exceedingly gratifying for me that members of this body can still reach across the aisle and stand together in defense of children caught in perilous circumstances. It is my sincere hope that next year we can come together in the same spirit of bipartisanship to help young people apprehended along our southern border.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Chair, it is with a great deal of regret that I will vote against H.R. 4853, the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act. Reaching this decision has not been easy because President Obama fought for and succeeded in getting several provisions into this bill which I wholeheartedly support. Among those provisions is the extension of unemployment insurance for millions of American families who through no fault of their own have lost their jobs, the child tax credit, the middle class tax cuts, the earned income tax credit and tax breaks for small business. These were major victories for President Obama. My concern is that the provisions in the bill demanded by Republicans come at too high a price and impact the future well being of our country and our children. Based on the calls I have received, the majority of my constituents agree. According to economists the demands by Republicans to give the 6,600 wealthiest Americans a tax break of $23 billion will do nothing to stimulate our economy or create one job. What this one provision alone will do, however, is increase our out of control deficit by another 8 percent. This is irresponsible and will make it even more difficult for our country to stop mortgaging our future to China; a mortgage which will ultimately fall on the backs of our children and our grandchildren in the years to come. I also have a deep concern about this bill's impact on Social Security. My fear has to do with the 2 percent reduction in employee contributions to Social Security which has the potential to destroy the guaranteed safety net which keeps millions of older and disabled Americans out of poverty. While this provision is intended to be temporary, I have learned in my 18 years in Washington that tax cuts are seldom temporary. It is always easier to cut taxes than it is to restore them as this very bill demonstrates. The Social Security payroll tax provides an independent revenue stream which keeps Social Security from contributing to our nation's budget deficit and outside of the budget process. If the payroll tax is not restored, which I believe is likely with a Republican majority in the House, Social Security would become dependent on the general fund for revenue. This would threaten the safety net for seniors and the disabled by making it vulnerable to budget cuts and competition with other essential programs like veterans benefits and safety net programs for children. By doing this, we could be sowing the seeds for the privatization of Social Security. Therefore, while this bill does provide short term relief, the potential long term suffering and negative impact of this bill are too high a price to pay. I cannot in good conscience support this bill with the potential long term negative impact on Social Security and the unnecessary increased burden the tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans will put on the shoulders of our children and grandchildren. I am saddened that my Republican colleagues demanded these irresponsible tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans in exchange for the very critical provisions of this bill supported by the President. While I am heartened that we are acting to extend unemployment insurance and protect those still struggling to find work, there is too much in this bill that only adds to our already uncontrollable deficit and does nothing to help our economy or create jobs.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5987, the Seniors Protection Act. H.R. 5987 would provide a one-time payment of $250 to 54 million American seniors, retired and disabled veterans, and disabled individuals. Due to low inflation rates, there has not been a COLA, or cost of living adjustment, in an unprecedented two years. But that doesn't mean America's seniors aren't hurting. In the absence of a COLA this modest payment will help America's seniors weather these tough economic times. In today's economy seniors are confronted by loss of pension income and retirement savings, high prescription drug costs, and reduced access to affordable housing. While Republican politicians turn a blind eye to seniors and defend America's millionaires club, the leaders in the Democratic Party continue to work for the dignity of older Americans. The Seniors Protection Act is another effort in the time tested tradition of the Democratic Party defending the rights and interests of America's senior citizens. We are the party that established Medicare and Social Security, and last year instituted the Seniors Task Force to continue the work the Democrats have done on behalf of seniors. If not for Social Security assistance, more than 13 million low- income elderly Americans would fall into destitution. With so many seniors this close to the poverty line, you can be sure that this payment--while small--will have a significant impact on the economic security of millions. Aside from the import this will have on America's seniors, studies show that disbursements of this nature are a very effective economic stimulus. When Social Security beneficiaries received $250 payments as part of the 2009 Recovery Act, 125,000 jobs were created or saved. We have an opportunity here to make immediate, tangible improvements to both the lives of millions of seniors and the American economy. Please join me, and my colleagues on the Seniors Task Force in supporting H.R. 5987--The Seniors Protection Act.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, DREAM Act youth are not criminals and bear no responsibility for the actions of adults who brought them here illegally as children. Raised in the United States, they have the same American values and love of our country as children born here. Sadly, because of the actions of others, they live in fear of deportation from the only home they know. The DREAM Act, which is not amnesty, will help correct this unfairness. With stringent criteria to qualify for legal status and a 10-year requirement toward earned citizenship, the bill would remove impediments so our country can benefit from their talents and enhanced contributions to our country. In fact, a recent UCLA study found DREAM- eligible students have the potential to earn $1.4 trillion in additional income that could help fuel our country's economic growth over the next four decades. Mr. Speaker, we are a country that values children, not one that punishes them for the wrongdoing of their elders. Yet that is exactly what is happening to these children today. I urge my colleagues to support the DREAM Act.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of Calvary Baptist Church in Bellflower in the 34th Congressional District. I ask my colleagues to please join me along with the church's pastor, Dr. Michael Melton Kalapp, and his nearly 800 parishioners, in celebrating this significant milestone. In honor of the occasion, I would like to submit into the Record a detailed historical overview provided by the church chronicling its incredible growth throughout Calvary's many years of spiritual service to families in Bellflower and throughout the world. A History of Calvary Baptist Church in Bellflower (By the Calvary Baptist Church) In September, 1935, a group of 14 believers, led by Reverend True H. Maxfield, sought to start a place of worship in the Bellflower area after holding a successful tent meeting. A lot located at Santa Ana and Mayne was purchased for $275. Two months later, on November 11, 1935, a group of men began erecting a small building that would become The First Fundamental Church of Bellflower. In 1943, the church changed its name to Calvary Baptist Church of Bellflower. By 1949, the church boasted 175 members and new property was purchased--``way out in the country''-- on Ardis Avenue. It was there that volunteers built the new church, which held its first service on December 23, 1949. A farming community at the time, Bellflower would not become the 59th city in the County of Los Angeles until 1957. In 1950, the church membership nearly doubled to 340 and additional property around the church was purchased. Seven years later, in 1957, Calvary expanded its ministry to support the Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MO. The church also supported the Pima Indians in Arizona. On June 16, 1963, after several years of leadership changes, Dr. H. Frank Collins and his family began their ministry at Calvary. Building on the church's rich history of reaching out to the community, Dr. Collins led the church to purchase a bus to provide members without transportation the opportunity to come to Calvary to worship. At its peak, this effort would grow to include 17 buses, transporting nearly 600 people to church weekly. During Dr. Collins' 26-year ministry, he led the church through its largest expansion in buildings, membership and outreach. Unfortunately, rising costs would eventually end the church's bus ministry, as well as its television (Channel 9) and radio programming (on KGER 1390 AM). Calvary, however, continued to grow in other ways. In 1984, the completion of the H. Frank Collins/Calvary Baptist Church Family Center enabled the church to expand its ministry for its members and the community. This multi- purpose facility contains classrooms, a board room, counseling rooms, office space, a full-service kitchen, showers, gymnasium, and banquet seating for approximately 400 people. Upon Dr. Collins' retirement in May 1990, Dr. Michael Kalapp became Calvary's new pastor. Under his leadership, Bible-centered life groups, and one-on-one mentorship programs were launched. Four years later, when Calvary purchased the last remaining parcel of property on what is today the church campus, Calvary realized its dream of having a Missions home. Today, the facility serves as a Missions House and Missions Apartment, giving the church's missionaries a place to rest while in the United States. During the first decade of this century, Calvary was instrumental in the planting of new churches in Sauharita, AZ; Banning, CA; and Boston, MA. Calvary has also given more than $1.5 million to missionary work in far reaching places such as Africa, China, Japan and the Philippines. Calvary's growing ministries encompass a wide variety of community programs and initiatives. On a weekly basis, Calvary provides the facilities and works with other local churches to feed, shower, and cloth people who are homeless. Church members donate food for its food pantry that serves more than 100 families a year. This Thanksgiving, church members will serve dinner to more than 500 people in the community. To help individuals fighting addictions, Calvary operates a ``Celebrate Recovery'' church-based spiritual support program. The church also provides space for weekly Nicotine and Narcotics Anonymous meetings. This past October, more than a thousand people from throughout the area enjoyed a free fun-filled day of games, face painting and other activities at its annual Harvest Festival. The church also hosted the Children's Summer Spectacular--a day camp for more than 60 children from throughout the community that includes Bible study, field trips and other activities. Parishioners also donate the labor, supplies and funds each year to ``makeover'' homes to members in need. To raise funds for its missionaries, Calvary holds a Christmas boutique in late October. Handmade items by parishioners are sold at the annual boutique to raise funds for the church's mission work in this country and around the world. This year's boutique raised more than $7,000. Calvary also holds a parking lot sale featuring donated items by church members to raise funds for its missions. This year's event generated $3,000. As Calvary celebrates its 75 year anniversary, the church is extremely proud that its central message to its congregation since its founding ``way out in the country'' has always remained devoutly the same: to ``LOVE GOD, LOVE

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 125th anniversary of Good Samaritan Hospital located in Downtown Los Angeles in my congressional district. Since 1885, when the hospital was founded as a 9-bed infirmary by Sister Mary Wood, the hospital has been fulfilling its mission to provide accessible, quality, cost-effective and compassionate health services to the community. A year after its founding, the facility adopted its current-day name in tribute to a Good Samaritan--Mrs. Mark Severance--who donated $4,000 for the purchase of land for the construction of its first hospital building. Today, Good Samaritan Hospital located at 616 South Witmer Street in Downtown Los Angeles is much more than a community hospital. With 408 licensed beds, the hospital has earned a reputation as a world-class academic medical center that is affiliated with the USC Keck School of Medicine. For 4 years in a row, Good Samaritan has been recognized as ``One of America's 50 Best Hospitals'' by HealthGrades, Inc., the nation's leading independent health care ratings company. U.S. News & World Report also recognized Good Samaritan as one of ``America's Best Hospitals for Top Medical Care in 16 Specialties'' in 1998. In addition to providing outstanding diagnostic, surgical and therapeutic care in a state-of-the-art setting, Good Samaritan supports eight Centers of Excellence that focus on advancing the science of medicine while providing outstanding patient care. The hospital's acclaimed oncology program, for example, offers the widest range of options for gynecological, breast, brain and prostate cancers. Under the leadership of Charles T. Munger, head of the hospital's Board of Trustees, and Andrew B. Leeka, the hospital's president and chief executive officer, Good Samaritan admits approximately 17,000 patients annually (excluding births, which would add approximately 3,600 more to the total) and handles more than 93,500 outpatient visits. More than 7,500 surgeries are performed annually in 18 surgical suites. Good Samaritan is also a sizeable employer in the community. The hospital employs more than 1,500 employees, including approximately 650 physicians and 550 nurses on its medical staff. Together, the medical staff and employees speak more than 54 languages and dialects, a direct reflection of the hospital's international reputation and diverse patient base. The broad range of renowned medical services and programs at Good Samaritan include the Heart Institute, which offers a complete heart care program including invasive and non-invasive cardiology, electrophysiology and cardiothoracic surgery. The Neurosciences program features Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for brain tumors. The Orthopedic Institute combines many subspecialties together in one centralized location designed to take care of any orthopedic problem including serious injuries to the pelvis, hip and knees. The hospital also offers specialized medical services that include a state-of-the-art Gastroenterology Program, Women's Health Services (obstetrics, gynecology, gynecologic-oncology, perinatology, neonatal intensive care, breast care and assisted reproductive services), Ophthalmologic care (including retinal surgery), Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) treatment, comprehensive Oncology Services (including High-Dose Rate and IMRT treatment), the busiest Kidney Stone Service in the western U.S., and a Transfusion-Free Medicine & Surgery Center. Other special services include housing accommodations for patients and families at the Weingart Guest House located on the hospital campus and specialized ground and air transport programs for critically ill cardiac and maternity patients. Plans are also underway for the completion of the hospital's new Medical Plaza & Outpatient Pavilion in 2012. Good Samaritan also provides significant community outreach. In the last Community Benefit Plan update, the quantifiable costs to Good Samaritan Hospital for its community benefits activities totaled more than $21.4 million, including unreimbursed medical care, services to vulnerable populations, and funding for health research, education and training. Madam Speaker, I have had the privilege of working closely with Good Samaritan Hospital over the years. I have seen firsthand the important role the hospital plays in improving the health of our communities and I am very proud to have a top-notch hospital such as Good Samaritan in my district. I ask my colleagues to please join me in congratulating Good Samaritan on its 125th anniversary of serving the health care needs of families in our community and I extend to this world class medical facility, and all of the individuals who make it the success that it is today, many more years of healing, growth and innovation.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the John Wesley Community Health Institute--also known as the JWCH Institute--on the occasion of the organization's 50th anniversary of providing quality and affordable health care to thousands of uninsured patients throughout Los Angeles. During my years in Congress, I have had the privilege of working closely with JWCH as well as the other community health centers in my district. I have seen firsthand the important role they play in improving the health of our communities, especially among Latinos, African Americans, the homeless and people with physical and mental health problems. As a safety-net provider, I am proud to say JWCH is a true leader in this arena. The Institute was established in 1960 by a group of concerned physicians at the John Wesley County Hospital, JWCH, as a vehicle for obtaining additional funds to support and augment patient care, education, and research. When the hospital was demolished in 1979, medical services and patient education took priority with a refined and expanded focus on community-based health education and social support programs. Today, the center's mission is being accomplished through a wide variety of programs and activities. In addition to providing primary medical care, the agency's services include: medical outreach and referrals for medical care; HIV services and drug treatment; health education; psychosocial assessment and intervention; family planning services; and research. Since its inception, JWCH has grown from a very small entity housed in a county building to a $21 million Federally Qualified Community Health Center. Last year, the private non-profit agency provided 84,191 medical visits to the indigent at 13 locations, including clinics in Skid Row and Bell Gardens in the 34th Congressional District as well as South Los Angeles, East Los Angeles, El Monte, Lynwood and Norwalk. A recent highlight of this innovative growth, JWCH opened the Center for Community Health last year. Located at 522 S. San Pedro Street in Skid Row, the center is the first fully integrated system of care for homeless persons on the West Coast. The center offers a ``one-stop shop'' approach to addressing the complex health care needs of homeless individuals and families, which includes providing patients one complete medical record to better ensure a continuum of care. Madam Speaker, as JWCH prepares to mark its 50-year milestone at a special October 19 anniversary celebration at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Downtown Los Angeles in the 34th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to please join the Los Angeles community and me in recognizing JWCH for its steadfast commitment to strengthening the safety-net for the county's medically underserved. I also commend JWCH's Board Chair, Cesar Portillo, its Chief Executive Officer, Al Ballesteros and all of the many dedicated people who make this health care organization the safety net that it is today for thousands of Los Angeles County residents. JWCH provides critical resources and services that enable our community members--including the most hard-to-reach and at-risk patients--to stay healthy and strong, and I wish everyone involved with this fine organization many more years of continued success.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Chair. I am pleased to rise in support of H.R. 5850, the Fiscal Year 2011 Transportation Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill. As a member of the Subcommittee, I would like to thank Chairman John Olver and Ranking Member Tom Latham for their hard work on this bill. At a time when so many are struggling to keep roofs over their heads and to stay employed, I believe this bill makes wise investments in our nation's housing and transportation infrastructure needs. For example, the FY11 THUD Appropriations bill will allow HUD to renew all project-based Section 8 rental contracts for a full 12 months. This will help ensure that the nearly 1.3 million low-income families that currently reside in project-based Section 8 housing will not lose their homes. The Committee has also recognized the unique housing needs of some of our most vulnerable Americans, restoring and increasing funding for the Section 811 and Section 202 programs for the elderly and the disabled. The bill provides $85 million in vouchers to get homeless veterans off the streets and it increases funding for Homeless Assistance Block Grants, which provide permanent and transitional housing for homeless families and individuals. In addition to these important housing programs, the bill makes important investments necessary to maintain and expand our nation's transportation infrastructure which is critical to our continuing economic recovery efforts. At a time when high unemployment persists, focusing on investments in our transportation infrastructure is an essential job-stimulator. I want to also specifically highlight two rail issues that I requested the committee to address in the bill: positive train control and environmental and quality of life concerns along proposed high speed rail routes. First, the bill includes funding for positive train control (PTC) to help prevent railroad collisions. In 2008 the community of Chatsworth in Los Angeles County suffered a tragic head-on train collision between a commuter train and freight train. Tragically eleven lives were lost and dozens more were injured. That awful accident, as well as the deadly 2009 WMATA collision here in our nation's capital, could have been prevented had this train control technology already been operating in both of these rail systems. The funding in the bill will help with the development of technologies to override human error or mechanical failure and automatically prevent collisions such as the Chatsworth crash. The second rail issue concerns our commitment to protect the residents along new high speed rail routes. In the rush to build a national high speed rail system in our country, I believe it absolutely essential that we ensure careful and thoughtful decisions particularly as they regard impacts on residential communities. Accordingly, the committee report includes important language to ensure that the concerns of poor and minority communities are taken into account in routing these projects. Building a high speed rail route along existing transportation corridors in communities like Los Angeles may minimize the negative impact to many communities. However, the damage done decades ago to many poor and minority neighborhoods along those corridors by rail and interstate system construction may be exacerbated by construction of the high speed rail system. These communities continue to suffer from the environmental and health impacts long after their neighborhoods were dissected by past construction. The report directs the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to carefully consider the effects of using existing or new transportation corridors in its analysis of proposed routes. The report also directs the FRA to identify appropriate mitigation measures particularly to offset any negative effects identified in regards to minority populations and low-income populations. Mr. Chair, I am happy to support passage of this important bill. The funding included in this legislation is critical to building and maintaining our transportation infrastructure, creating jobs, and protecting the housing needs of America's most vulnerable populations. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Los Angeles Garment & Citizen newspaper in Downtown Los Angeles, which, after 10 years in publication, is closing its doors this month. With a weekly circulation of 10,000, the Garment & Citizen covered Downtown and the adjacent areas of Echo Park, Angeleno Heights, Silverlake, Westlake, Pico-Union, Chinatown, Little Tokyo, the Arts District and portions of south Los Angeles. As the member of Congress who represents Downtown, I know the closure of this free weekly will leave a void. Jerry Sullivan, the paper's founder, editor and publisher, started the Garment & Citizen in 2000 to report Downtown area news and events that were not being reported elsewhere. Every week, one could always count on Jerry to run news items that directly related to the diverse readership he served. The articles heralded the achievements of Downtown students, workers, families and businesses, and provided a vehicle for residents to share a wide range of viewpoints. I also salute the paper's contributors. They include John Fish, Roberto Porras, Sam Hassan, Rick Ness, J.C. Choe, Raby Savage, Eugene Yi, and Elias Cruz, among others. As Jerry says, they all served the Garment & Citizen and the community with great skill and dedication. I wish Jerry well as he pursues new endeavors. While the Echo Park resident will no longer hang his notorious fedora in the office of the Garment & Citizen, all of us here in the U.S. House of Representatives will continue to have a unique connection to Jerry. We have the privilege of working closely with one of Jerry's eight siblings, John Sullivan, who has served as House Parliamentarian since May 2004. Upon learning of this tribute, John said of his brother, ``It is impossible for me to overstate how proud I am to be Jerry's brother, and I know I can say the same for each of our brothers and sisters.'' Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to please join me in thanking Jerry and his team for their accomplishments and success in publishing the Garment & Citizen. To fully tell the story of the newspaper, I would like to submit into the congressional record Jerry's own reflections. They clearly reveal his passion and commitment to the news industry and Los Angeles' culturally rich Downtown neighborhoods that he and I both know well, love and celebrate. What Worked (By Jerry Sullivan, Editor & Publisher, Los Angeles Garment & Citizen) ``A lot of famous folks have said that they wouldn't change a thing if they had it all to do over again. I don't think any of them ever had to shut down a community newspaper. I would change some things if I had it to do over again. I'd make some changes--apply the lessons of experience-- because whatever I did as the founder and editor and publisher of the Los Angeles Garment & Citizen didn't get the newspaper through these historically tough economic times. I can carry the weight of that outcome because--while I would make some changes if I had it all to do over--there are so many things that I would make sure to do again. I would again keep my eyes and my mind wide open in order to give the community the coverage it deserves. I'd still tell everyone's truth--not just this niche or that demographic group. I'd keep striving to tell the stories of the entire community, and to explain how and why this segment or demographic group matters to the other. I'd continue to acknowledge the fact that readers are smart. I'd keep giving advertisers credit for their roles as members of the community. I'd always do my best to hold both readers and advertisers accountable for their actions as community members. I'd keep assuming that immigrants are part of our American culture--whether they've obtained citizenship or remain uncertain about taking that step. I'd still speak truth to power in plain language. I'd still keep a civil tone in all matters. I'd still receive whoever found their way to my office, and listen to their story even if their only point is to let someone know that they weren't always in the shape they're in today. I'd continue to make ideas the heart of reporting. I'd keep in mind that important and even great ideas can come from unexpected sources buried deep in conversations. I'd keep the Letters to the Editor section as a truly open forum for all voices and viewpoints in the community. I'd continue to laud police officers for the job they do so well the vast majority of the time. I'd keep calling police officers to task--and give others the opportunity to do so--on matters of public concern. I'd continue to make space for the poets who happen to wash dishes or manufacture garments on their day jobs. I'd keep reminding longtime, hard-pressed Downtown residents that property owners have a right to build lofts-- and young, upscale tenants have a right to move into them. I'd still tell developers and young, upscale tenants that a community existed Downtown long before anyone built any lofts--and remind them that all communities deserve respect. I'd keep telling the folks in Echo Park about the Lions Club. I'd continue to highlight the success stories of youngsters in Westlake and Pico-Union. I'd keep mentioning Angeleno Heights at every legitimate opportunity. I'd always expect the unexpected in Chinatown. I'd still keep some space reserved on deadline for late- breaking news on the latest community cause in Little Tokyo. I'd keep asking why suffering has such a comfortable home on Skid Row. I'd remember to always respect my elders on Bunker Hill. I'd continue to appreciate the artists of the Arts District. I'd continue to learn from the contentious culture of the Fashion District. I'd keep marveling at the blend of old and new ways in the Jewelry District. I'd still highlight folks who work hard and choose decency every day as the Local Heroes of our society. There are many more things I would do again, because the Garment & Citizen earned some great victories. Our coverage has mattered. We saved taxpayers money. We gave credit where it was due to the mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, and workers and business owners who make our city work. We added valuable insights, criticisms and plaudits to the public debate. The Garment & Citizen served with honor and distinct style. We developed a voice that reached our readers and earned a strong and unique connection with their lives. We reached rich, poor, working-class and middle-class individuals and families. We reached across ethnic and racial and religious lines. We reached them all--and called them a community. The Garment & Citizen will disappear but the community shall remain. It's now up to others to serve this community with the comprehension, courage, and clarity that's called for by the guarantee of freedom of the press that we enjoy under the 1st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The Garment & Citizen has demonstrated that it can be done. Our fate also shows that it could be done better. I will look upon the next effort with interest. Respectfully, Jerry Sullivan.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my friend, Carol E. Schatz, on the occasion of her 20th anniversary with the Central City Association (CCA) of Los Angeles in the 34th Congressional District. During her tenure with the association, I have had the pleasure of working closely with Carol in our joint efforts to revitalize Downtown Los Angeles. Carol started her career with the CCA in 1990 as the Director of Legislative Affairs. Five years later, she became the association's President & CEO--the first woman in the association's history to hold this leadership position. Established in 1924 as an advocacy organization for businesses, the CCA represents more than 450 member businesses and organizations, many of which are located or have business interests in the Downtown area. In 1997, Carol's vision led to the creation of the Downtown Center Business Improvement District (DCBID). As the DCBID's President & CEO, Carol's leadership has been instrumental in the district's growth to include more than 2,200 parcels and 1,200 property owners located in the 65-block Central Business District of Downtown Los Angeles. Today, this influential business district is among the largest of its kind in Los Angeles County. Revenue generated from property tax assessments within the district pay for more than 140 employees to provide security, cleaning and other services in the area. The district also promotes business retention and recruitment, acts as a housing resource to potential residents and developers, and carries out a Downtown marketing program that includes special events, promotional offers, advertising campaigns and other public relations efforts. With a budget of more than $6 million, the DCBID has made Downtown safe and clean and provided a catalyst to bring incredible new residential and commercial investment to Downtown Los Angeles. Under Carol's dual leadership, the Downtown Center Business Improvement District working in conjunction with the Central City Association of Los Angeles operate under a shared mission--to enhance the quality of life in Downtown. Under Carol's direction, CCA created the ``Downtown Development Strategy'' as an updated supplement to the 1985 Downtown Strategic Plan. The plan includes all aspects of a revitalized Downtown, from the creation of mixed-use/mixed-income projects to new transportation amenities. Carol was also instrumental in initiating the Figueroa Corridor Plan and the reauthorization of the Civic Center Authority, which led to the Civic Center Master Plan. In one of her most significant achievements, Carol utilized the full force of the association's lobbying muscle to win a legislative victory key to the Downtown Los Angeles Renaissance. Passed in 1999 by the Los Angeles City Council, the Adaptive Reuse Ordinance championed by the association is widely credited for allowing developers to convert empty office buildings to housing. As a result of this property use conversion, Downtown today boasts more than 16,000 new residential units, a 141 percent increase since 1991. In addition, Downtown has experienced a dramatic population increase of residents from 19,000 in 1991 to 43,000 today. Tapping into this expanded pool of customers, the number of Downtown businesses has also increased, from 11,725 in 1991 to 17,028 today, including 180 new restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that have made Downtown Los Angeles an entertainment and dining destination. Carol embraces a vision of Downtown as a place where professionals live and work and families come to have fun. Her tenacious advocacy was instrumental in bringing the Staples Center to Downtown--the proud home of the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, Sparks, and Kings. Carol was also a strong proponent of the creation of LA Live, which has become one of the most vibrant centers for urban nightlife in the nation. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to please join me in thanking Carol E. Schatz on her 20 years of exceptional service to the Central City Association of Los Angeles. Through her tireless leadership and her skillful ability to work hand-in-hand with local, state, and federal officials, Carol has made a tremendous contribution on behalf of the Downtown business community, and I look forward to continuing to work with her to realize our shared dream for a thriving and prosperous Downtown for many years to come.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act. This legislation will extend unemployment insurance (UI) benefits, which expired seven long weeks ago, to millions of Americans families who rely on this assistance to make ends meet during these difficult economic times. I regret that due to Republican objections, delays and stalling tactics, Unemployment Compensation was allowed to lapse for so long. My colleagues in the House of Representatives and I have already passed this legislation three times since May. Unfortunately, the bill was allowed to languish in the Senate while millions of Americans were forced to do without this critical lifeline. With unemployment in Los Angeles County hovering at 12.2 percent, I continue to hear from my constituents how important these benefits are to them as they look for new employment during these difficult economic times. One constituent, a college graduate who lives in Los Angeles, wrote to inform me that he has been searching for a job for 18 months without success. He has long since run out of savings and without unemployment benefits cannot pay his rent. Another constituent, a mother of three children, was recently laid off and is relying on unemployment benefits to pay her mortgage payments and keep a roof over her family's head. It is for hardworking Americans like these, making good faith efforts to secure employment and trying desperately to find some stability in these uncertain times, that I vote for this important measure. While we act today to protect the unemployed and their families, I believe we must redouble our efforts to create job opportunities and get Americans back to work.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, each year over 4 million women give birth in the United States. Their care and that of their babies is a leading cause of hospitalization in this country and a major factor in our Nation's escalating health care costs. Yet, in spite of the fact we spend more than any country in the world on maternity care and more on mother and baby fees for childbirth than other types of hospital care, the United States ranks far behind nearly all developed countries in perinatal outcomes, and childbirth continues to present significant risks for mothers and babies, particularly in communities of color. There are many factors that contribute to these poor outcomes and high costs. The most disturbing is that our current health system fails to follow the vast body of research on the best evidence-based practices in maternity care. The result is a widespread overuse of expensive maternity practices, such as Cesarean sections and scheduled inductions, which only in limited situations are needed and beneficial. When used routinely and without medical necessity, these and other practices expose women and infants to unnecessary risk and are a major factor in pregnancy and delivery being our most costly Medicaid expenditure. Credible research tells us noninvasive, cost-effective, evidence- based maternity practices which result in safer and healthier outcomes for mother and baby are significantly underused in our country. To address these concerns, I am introducing the Maximizing Optimal Maternity Services for the 21st Century Act. The MOMS for the 21st Century Act expands Federal research on maternity practices and ensures the healthiest of maternity outcomes, and it authorizes a scientifically based media campaign to educate the public about those practices. In addition, the bill creates a national focus on maternity care by establishing an interagency coordinating committee to promote optimal outcomes for mothers and babies. To help address serious health disparities in maternity care outcome, the MOMS for the 21st Century Act directs the collection of data to determine the areas in our country which lack adequate access to maternity care providers. It also directs the Secretary of HHS to support the education of a more culturally and geographically diverse interdisciplinary workforce by convening a maternity curriculum commission to develop core curricula across maternity professional disciplines, establishing loan repayment programs for providers in maternity care shortage areas and by authorizing grant programs for maternity professional organizations to recruit and retain minority providers. Mr. Speaker, as Lee Jong-wook, former Deputy General of the World Health Organization once said, ``Mothers, the newborn, and children represent the well-being of a society and its potential for the future. Their health needs cannot be left unmet without harming the whole of society.'' Mr. Speaker, there is no doubt the future of our country depends on the health and well-being of our mothers and their children. I urge my colleagues to make evidence-based maternity care a national priority by cosponsoring and helping to pass the MOMS for the 21st Century Act.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Jorge J. Lambrinos, founding director of the University of Southern California (USC) Roybal Institute on Aging, who is retiring this month after more than 38 years of working in and out of government on behalf of older Americans. Jorge was born in Panama City, Panama and arrived to this country at the age of 11 speaking no English. He fondly recalls his first job, at age 12, shining shoes in the barbershop where his father worked. From then on, Jorge's strong work ethic and love for our country motivated him on a non-stop mission in pursuit of the American Dream--not only for himself but for our nation's elderly as well. Jorge first got involved in advocating for seniors as Director of Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development. There, he was instrumental in getting the City of Detroit to establish a senior center in the Latino community of southwest Detroit. Jorge's leadership in his adopted hometown led to a prestigious fellowship opportunity in our nation's capital. As one of 10 national Health, Education, and Welfare Fellows, Jorge worked under Arthur S. Flemming, the U.S. Commissioner on Aging at the Administration on Aging. After his one-year fellowship ended, Jorge became director of the U.S. Administration on Aging's Executive Secretariat and Special Assistant to the Commissioner on Aging. During that time, as an advisor to Commissioner Flemming, Jorge played a key role in the establishment of four national minority aging organizations. He also worked to ensure that minority communities had a voice in the emerging field of gerontology. Building on this area of expertise, in 1977, Jorge joined my father, Congressman Edward R. Roybal, as Director of the Subcommittee on Housing and Consumer Interests of the House Select Committee on Aging. During that time, Jorge guided the development of the Congregate Housing Services legislation signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, which authorizes all Sec. 202 senior housing to provide temporary supportive services to ailing residents. When my father became chair of the full Committee on Aging, Jorge served as the full committee's staff director--becoming one of the first Latino staffers to hold such a position. Several years later, Jorge then moved on to become my father's Chief of Staff. Together, they worked to address many critical priorities for older Americans, including the availability of congregate meals and stepping up research initiatives into the aging process as well as Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. Jorge is particularly proud of his work with my father to strengthen the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Jorge was integral in the formation of the Roybal Institute on Applied Gerontology. In my father's last few years in office, seniors from East Los Angeles petitioned California State University Los Angeles to establish an endowed chair in Congressman Roybal's name. Jorge's strategic recommendations resulted in the establishment of the Edward R. Roybal Foundation and the creation of the Institute. After my father's retirement in 1993, Jorge joined him at Cal State Los Angeles and became the first full time director of the Roybal Institute. He was responsible for the management of several health promotion and disease prevention projects, including a collaborative research project with the CDC to determine the levels of older adult vaccinations in the Latino community of East Los Angeles. He also collaborated with USC's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center to translate findings from its clinical trials research to community application. In addition, Jorge was the Principal Investigator of a project funded by the Association of Teachers of Preventive Medicine to develop interventions to reduce the incidence of falls and injuries among older adults. Jorge moved with the center from Cal State LA to its new home at the University of Southern California in 2006. Jorge Lambrinos has received numerous awards and appointments, including being named as one of the ``Top 100 Most Influential Hispanics in the U.S.'' by Hispanic Business Magazine. He has served as a member of the National Advisory Council of the National Institute on Aging, the California Commission on Aging and the Executive Council of AARP California, where he continues to serve as health policy advisor. In addition to his work in public service, Jorge's dedication to our country is also evident through his distinguished military service. A graduate of the U.S. Army War College and a decorated Bronze Star Gulf War veteran, Jorge retired as a Lt. Colonel after 27 years of military service. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to please join me in recognizing Jorge's long record of service to our country. His significant contributions have made life healthier and more just for older Americans from all walks of life and I wish him many more years of fulfillment and success in retirement.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained and was not present for the vote on Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 1305 (rollcall vote 231). Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' Stated against:

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, on behalf of those of us who represent the great City of Los Angeles, I rise to honor Jim Seeley for the 34 years of service he has given to the city as our Chief Federal Legislative Representative. As delegation Members and their staffs gather tonight to celebrate our friend and to wish him all the best in his retirement, we wanted to share with our colleagues in the House the wonderful legacy that this Los Angeles ``institution'' leaves behind. Jim Seeley was born in the city he would one day represent, grew up in Los Angeles County, and made his way to Stanford University. He graduated in 1959, the same year he married the love of his life Jo Ann Browning. After a stint in Paris where Jo Ann studied at the Sorbonne, and then St. Louis where Jim did his six-month Army training, the couple settled in Washington, D.C. to build their successful careers and raise a large and wonderful family. Following 8 years with the Department of Commerce, Jim accepted a position in the Washington Office of the State of Illinois. Assisting Illinois businesses in promoting their goods abroad at trade shows and on trade missions, Jim began to hone his government relations expertise as Deputy Director of the office serving under two Governors. In 1976, after 7 years with the Illinois Washington Office, Jim returned to his roots when he accepted the position of Chief Federal Legislative Representative for the City of Los Angeles. Reporting first to the office of the Chief Legislative Analyst, and later directly to the Office of the Mayor, Jim has served the city and its residents with distinction under Mayors Tom Bradley, Richard Riordan, James Hahn, and Antonio Villaraigosa. Over the years, he forged close working relationships with the Los Angeles Congressional Delegation Members and their staffs, as he led his own staff to further the federal legislative agenda of the Council and Mayor. Jim has flourished for more than three decades in his role as the city's ``go to'' guy in the nation's capital. Through changes in Mayors, Presidents, and Democratic and Republican House and Senate majorities, Jim has been a constant, adjusting the city's advocacy strategies to the changing times. Jim guided the city's federal response to the Northridge earthquake in 1994, as city and county officials sought maximum federal relief to address the devastation caused by the quake. In the post 9/11 years, he has focused on homeland security and Los Angeles' efforts to improve airport security. He relished his work around the 1984 Olympics in his hometown, and has been an integral part of the effort to build our transportation infrastructure and move Angelinos out of their cars and onto subway and light rail. For 34 years, LA congressional offices have benefited from Jim's deep knowledge of the city and the federal policies that impact Los Angeles and our constituents. We also have benefited from the pleasure of his company, as ``Seeley'' was always a welcome visitor. When he dropped by to touch base with staff, check up on the latest legislative rumor, or just banter with the congressional colleagues who had long since become friends, I think we all felt like City Hall was down the street--not 2700 miles away. Jim officially retired from the City of Los Angeles at the end of March, but will continue to consult and share his vast institutional knowledge with the City of Los Angeles office. In the meantime, he and Jo Ann, who retired last year, will no doubt devote much of their free time to their 11 children and their 14 beautiful grandchildren. On behalf of the Los Angeles Congressional Delegation, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jim Seeley on his retirement, and in thanking this dedicated public servant for his 34 years of service to the City of Los Angeles. We send our very best wishes to Jim and Jo Ann for a happy and fulfilling retirement.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Claretian Missionaries' service to the first church of Los Angeles, Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church-- affectionately known to its parishioners in Spanish as ``La Placita'' or ``The Little Plaza'' church--located in Downtown Los Angeles in the 34th Congressional District. The Claretians are a Catholic missionary order founded in Spain in 1849 by St. Anthony Mary Claret. In 1906, the Claretian Missionary Fathers arrived in California to work in the San Fernando Mission. Two years later, the missionaries moved their headquarters to San Gabriel Mission where they continue to preach today. In 1910, the Claretian Fathers traveled 10 miles west to expand their ministry to La Placita. Father Rosendo Urrabazo characterizes the missionary vocation of the church as ``bringing the message of God's love, mercy and justice to every part of the world.'' This guiding principle is clearly evident at La Placita where the Claretian Fathers' dedication to spiritual and community service makes the church a home and refuge for people of all faiths and backgrounds. On any given weekend, thousands of parishioners from all walks of life attend religious services at La Placita offered in both English and Spanish. Whether the parishioners are homeless, recent immigrants from Mexico, Central and Latin America or vacationing families, La Placita welcomes everyone with open doors, love and compassion. Each week, pastoral services at the church include: 30 regular Masses; weddings and Quinceaneras; 10 scheduled hours of confession; baptism celebrations (totaling more than 25,000 last year alone); and religious education programs for children, youth and adults. The church also offers a monthly program to provide liturgical services to residents of a local housing project. In addition to addressing the spiritual needs of its parishioners, the church helps struggling families in a wide variety of ways. Assisted by more than 80 volunteers, the parish operates a full time social office that organizes community outreach services and programs, including a health clinic, English classes, food distribution for the elderly, meals for the homeless, legal aid for immigrants, income tax help and a weekly 12-step program for persons suffering from addiction. Madam Speaker, over the past 100 years, many Claretian missionaries have dedicated their lives to serving the families of the La Placita community. This anniversary, however, three missionaries in particular will be recognized for their outstanding service at the church's May 20 centennial dinner celebration. Selected by the centennial celebration committee for their tireless pastoral and humanitarian service, the following missionaries will be honored: Fr. Tomas Maten, CMF (1900-1975) who defended the rights of the displaced residents of the Chavez Ravine area now the site of Dodger Stadium; Fr. Luis Olivares, CMF (1934-1993) who worked tirelessly to bring the cause of the homeless and immigrants to the attention of local and national policy makers; and Fr. Albert Vazquez, CMF, (1928- ) educator and pastor who shaped the pastoral direction of the parish and its school for more than 27 years. Today, the clergy and parishioners of La Placita continue the tremendous work and legacy of these three exemplary missionaries. Recognizing the tremendous needs of immigrants to our country, the church is a local leader in raising awareness and support for comprehensive immigration reform. During the 1980s, the church called itself a sanctuary for refugees threatened with deportation to El Salvador. In recent months, I have had the privilege of participating in two immigration town halls held at La Placita, both of which were attended by hundreds of area advocates demanding the reform of our nation's broken and unjust immigration laws. The seamless transformation of this historic church from a place of worship to a town meeting hall for political action truly typifies the Claretian Fathers' dedication to achieving justice and social change on behalf of their parishioners and our community. Beyond the walls of La Placita, the Claretian Fathers' prayers could be heard across the country and throughout the halls of Congress on September 19, 2007 when Father Richard Estrada accepted a rare invitation to give the opening prayer in the U.S. House of Representatives. Calling on lawmakers to draw strength from their diversity and make laws to protect all of God's children, he prayed for God to, ``Inspire our nation's leaders to seek justice, defend liberty and unite diverse cultures and languages.'' Madam Speaker, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Claretian Missionaries' service at La Placita, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking and congratulating them for their devotion and enormous contributions on behalf of the most vulnerable in our community, and I extend to the Order our best wishes for many more years of doing God's work in the historic area of our great city's birth, Downtown Los Angeles.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. I rise in strong support of this bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Senate Amendments to H.R. 3590--the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This legislation represents a milestone in our Nation's history. Building on the promise that was begun with the passage of Medicare in 1965, we take an historic step today toward acknowledging health care as a universal right for everyone. The people of America have suffered far too long from a health care system that is unaffordable, discriminates on the basis of gender, disability, and pre-existing conditions, and frequently denies coverage for lifesaving services and treatments. While we pay more than any other country in the world for health care, we die younger with the highest rate of preventable deaths among 19 industrialized nations. Obviously this status quo is unsustainable and the time for change is now. The bill we are voting on today reflects many long months of discussion and compromise. Clearly it is not perfect, and many of us would have preferred to see the bill go much further towards granting universal access to health care for every man, woman and child in this country. But with an issue that impacts so many stakeholders, and involves so many competing interests, it is doubtful that any single legislative effort could ever satisfy everyone and address all the problems we face in our current system. So while this bill falls short of what many of us had hoped would be included in a final bill, I believe it is critical that we move forward today in response to a crippled health care system that has been failing our country. With the passage of this bill we will improve the quality and affordability of health services, prioritize prevention and the reduction of health disparities, and take the necessary albeit difficult steps to rein in the escalating costs of health care in this country. I will be voting for this bill today for the people in my 34th Congressional District of California. Over 23 percent of my constituents live below the federal poverty level, and 40 percent of them are uninsured. In 2008, over 1100 of my constituents faced health care-related bankruptcies caused primarily by health care costs that were not covered by their insurance. This bill will extend coverage to 185,000 of my constituents, and will guarantee that 28,500 residents with pre-existing conditions can obtain coverage while protecting those who do have insurance from bankruptcy due to unaffordable health care costs. I will be voting for this bill today for the small businesses in my District. With its passage, over 16,000 small businesses in my district that have 100 employees or less will be able to join the health insurance exchange, benefiting from group rates and a greater choice of insurers. H.R. 3590 will also help make small businesses more competitive by providing tax credits that will make it more affordable for them to offer health insurance to their employees. In my district approximately 15,000 small businesses would qualify for these credits. As chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Health Task Force, I will be voting for this bill today for Hispanic communities all across the country. It is of great concern to me that this segment of the population continues to face the highest uninsured rate of any racial or ethnic group within the United States. In fact, a recent report found that 42 percent of Hispanic adults lacked health insurance compared to the national average of 16 percent. This legislation will provide access to affordable health care to the millions of uninsured Latinos in this country through Medicaid expansion. The legislation will also provide access to health insurance exchanges and subsidies to help low- and moderate-income families. Additionally, the bill expands Community Health Centers which have been a cornerstone of primary care services in communities of color, and expands coverage for preventive care which has been disproportionately inaccessible to minorities. Finally, I will be voting for this bill today for the women and mothers in this country who have long managed the health care of their children, their spouses, and the elderly in their families. This legislation will mandate coverage for maternity care, so all women will be able to give their babies the healthiest start in life. By preventing insurance companies from dropping coverage for extended illness or denying coverage for pre-existing conditions, it will give moms the peace of mind knowing that their children and spouses will have the health coverage they need if they become ill or suffer from a genetic condition or disability. As their young adult children start out in life they can protect them by keeping them on their family insurance policy until their 26th birthday And who among us will not be more secure knowing that our parents will be protected from the Medicare Part D donut hole which has made life saving medications so unaffordable for those that need them most? Mr. Speaker, I thank you for your courage, tenacity and leadership throughout this year of deliberation on Health Care Reform. We owe you, the Majority Leader, and the Leadership team of this House a debt of gratitude for bringing this House to this historic day. I am proud to cast my vote for the passage of the Senate Amendments to H.R. 3590--the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD

Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mikawaya on the occasion of its 100 year anniversary. This historic Los Angeles- based family-owned bakery has been a fixture in Little Tokyo in the heart of my congressional district since its founding in 1910. Under the current dedicated leadership of Frances Hashimoto--the grand niece of the bakery's original founder--this successful enterprise continues to satisfy the sweet-tooths of Angelenos and dessert lovers throughout the country with its wide assortment of delicious and original bakery items. Mikawaya manufactures and sells traditional Japanese pastry and confectionary (wagashi), mochi ice cream, and gelato. In addition to its traditional ``mochi-gashi'' and ``manju'' that have been the foundation of the family business, Mikawaya has obtained nationwide popularity and success as the creator of Mochi Ice Cream along with its gelato offerings. Madam Speaker, as Mikawaya celebrates its 100-year anniversary at the Kyoto Grand Hotel on March 8, I ask my colleagues to please join me in congratulating the entire Hashimoto family and their dedicated employees for bringing smiles to the faces of generations of customers who have enjoyed the unique and delicious Japanese-inspired ice cream and pastries that this one-of-a-kind bakery has to offer. I extend to them my best wishes for many more innovative, productive and profitable years ahead. To fully capture the remarkable story of the Hashimoto family and the 100 year history of their bakery, I would also like to submit the following historical overview: ``Just after the turn of the 20th century, two Japanese entrepreneurs decided to open a manju bakery. One of them was from Mikawa, an old Japan province in the area that today forms the eastern half of Aichi Prefecture. The ``ya,'' or store in Japanese, was added to the end of the name to create the name ``Mikawaya.'' In 1910 Ryuzaburo Hashimoto purchased the company, which was located at 365 East First Street in Los Angeles' Little Tokyo district. His nephew, Koroku Hashimoto and his wife Haru, took over the operations 15 years later and reopened at the newly built Olympic Hotel on North San Pedro Street, also in Little Tokyo. Five years later, they moved the company back to First Street where they remained until 1942, when the U.S. entered World War II. From 1942 to December 1945, Mikawaya closed its doors as Executive Order 9066 forced more than 110,000 Japanese Americans, including the Hashimoto family, into U.S. internment camps for the duration of the war. On December 23, 1945, the Hashimoto family proudly reopened Mikawaya at 244 East First Street, next door to their pre-war location. In 1970 Frances Hashimoto, their youngest daughter, took over the family business. Having the foresight that the surrounding First Street area would become prime redevelopment property, she planned and built a new bakery on 4th Street, which was completed in 1974. With the new location on 4th Street, Mikawaya was able to expand its operations and product offerings. Hashimoto's husband and Mikawaya's Chief Financial Officer, Joel Friedman, happened on an idea when he visited Japan in 1984. In 1994, after spending 10 years of research and testing, his brainchild--mochi ice cream--became a reality. Mochi ice cream, which is a serving of ice cream surrounded by a thin layer of mochi (pounded sweet rice), has become a recognized addition to American pop culture like sushi and sake. Today, it is Mikawaya's signature product with mass appeal that has reached beyond Asian American tastes. Currently there are seven flavors of mochi ice cream, including: chocolate, coffee, green tea, mango, red bean (azuki), strawberry, and vanilla. Mikawaya's traditional Japanese confections and pastries are still available and made daily at its Los Angeles factory and are still a favorite in the Asian American community. Always innovators, Mikawaya now manufactures and sells gelato-- Italian-style ice cream made from milk, sugar, real fruit and other ingredients. Along with Mikawaya's centennial anniversary, the company opened a new 100,000-square-foot facility in Vernon, California. This facility is designed to meet the increasing demand for Mikawaya's products and will be the headquarters for new product research and development of frozen desserts. All of Mikawaya's desserts are manufactured in Southern California and are still held to Mikawaya's standards of high quality and taste. The bakery presently operates retail stores in Japanese Village Plaza, Little Tokyo Square, Pacific Square Shopping Center in Torrance, Mitsuwa Marketplace in Gardena and Shirokiya Department Store in Honolulu, Hawaii.''