E. Shaw

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 86) approving the renewal of import restrictions contained in the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003, and for other purposes.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Chairman, I reserve a point of order on the amendment.

Mr. SHAW. Yes, I do, Mr. Chairman. I raise a point of order against the amendment on the grounds that this amendment violates clause 5(a) of the House rule XXI because it is a tariff legislation not reported by a committee with jurisdiction over revenue measures. The countervailing duty law provides special treatment to the World Trade Organization members. This amendment would impact Russia's membership in the World Trade Organization and thus impact the tariff treatment of Russia under the countervailing duty law in the Tariff Act of 1930. The rule referred to is very specific that that is reserved to the House Ways and Means Committee, and the second portion of that rule provides, for purposes of this paragraph, a tax or tariff measure includes an amendment proposing a limitation on funds in a general appropriation of a fund for administration of a tax or tariff. I insist on my point of order.

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Chairman, very briefly, I would like to respond to the gentleman and his comments. Actually, last month, the committee of jurisdiction, which is the Ways and Means Committee, and the Finance, sent a very strong bipartisan message to the administration, which I am sure you quite approve of, opposing concluding even a bilateral market access deal with Russia until that country meaningfully addresses its rampant IPR piracy problems. The committee of jurisdiction is monitoring this issue very closely and is consulting with the U.S. Trade Representative at every step. The administration assures us that it will not allow Russia to join the World Trade Organization unless we achieve strong intellectual property rights protection with Russia. The United States will not allow Russia to become a World Trade Organization member until this is confronted. Simply not negotiating with Russia, however, would be a mistake and would not be productive. Congress will have the opportunity to impact the World Trade Organization accession process because it must pass permanent normal trade relations in order for this to happen.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Chairman, I, along with my colleague Ms. Ginny Brown- Waite, have introduced the Homeowners Insurance Protection Act. The bill provides financial protection to all Americans that live in natural catastrophe-prone areas through a three-layered approach. Our goal is to keep homeowners' insurance premiums at affordable rates. This program would assure that when a big one hits, the responsibility for insured losses is with insurance companies and not with the bailouts from the Federal Government, such as FEMA. First, this bill would create the Federal Catastrophe Fund, to be known as the Hurricane and Earthquake Loss Protection Fund, or the HELP Fund. Second, each State that chooses to participate in this voluntary program must establish a State Catastrophe Fund, which we call the CAT Fund, similar to that which we have in Florida. Third, the State CAT fund then purchases reinsurance from the Federal HELP fund. The HELP fund is thus financed directly by insurance premiums and not by taxpayer dollars. We live in a diverse nation facing diverse natural catastrophes. This bill encourages States to take responsibility for their residents and gives the States the discretion of insuring for their own catastrophic needs. I yield to the chairman.

Mr. SHAW. I thank the chairman for his comments. I would just add, in closing, that we are facing a tremendous catastrophe in Florida, the economy. The gentleman from Pensacola can verify this. Insurance is almost unaffordable. We need a secondary insurance that would back this up, that would spread the risk further than just throughout one State. This isn't just Florida. This is all the gulf coast. The gentleman from Louisiana seated behind me will certainly verify that. So it is a good bill. It prepares for the future and it does it in a very conservative and practical way.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life and memory of Mr. Rick Merritt of Lighthouse Point, FL. Rick passed away on Father's Day, June 18, 2006, after a courageous battle against cancer. I had the privilege of meeting Rick in 2002, as he was extremely helpful to me during my time in the House of Representatives. Rick was a talented ally who used his ability and creativity to develop his own computer software programs. He was a patient man who spent many hours educating folks on technology. and how they could use computer software programs for their benefit. Rick's personable demeanor made him approachable and always accessible. He truly used his talents to teach others and better serve his fellow man. Rick was also a strong advocate in protecting consumers and businesses in their dealing with the U.S. Postal Service. To this end, Rick was Executive Director of Postal Watch, a national watchdog group committed to advocating a consumer approach to postal reform. He was also active in the Wednesday Meeting that brought together folks. from around the country to Washington, DC to discuss issues facing our Nation. Roughly a year ago, Rick was diagnosed with cancer. Instead of withdrawing from his fight against cancer, Rick faced the challenge with courage and a spirit of determination. Although Rick lost his battle with cancer, his spirit lives on among his family and friends. My thoughts and prayers are with Rick's wife, Debbie, his daughter, Tobi; his mother, Lois; brothers, Scott, Mark and Michael; and the rest of the Merritt family during this time. Rick loved his country, stood by his principles, was never afraid to take a risk and could always be counted upon to be there during the toughest times for his family, his colleagues and his friends. Mr. Speaker, I was privileged to call Rick Merritt my friend.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 861, a resolution declaring that the United States will prevail in the Global War on Terror, the struggle to protect freedom from terrorist adversaries. This is a critical time in American and world history. Only 5 years have passed since the al Qaeda network attacked us on our homeland. Over 3,000 people died on September 11, 2001, and the world as we knew it changed instantly. Our principal terrorist enemies seek to establish regimes that rule according to a violent and intolerant distortion of Islam. As illustrated by Taliban-rules Afghanistan, such regimes would deny all political and religious freedoms and serve as sanctuaries for violent extremists to launch additional attacks--not only against the United States and its partners but the Muslim world itself. The enemy uses suicide bombings, beheadings, and other atrocities against innocents as a means to achieve their dark vision. Their demonstrated indifference to human life and desire to inflict catastrophic damage on the United States and its partners around the world has fueled their pursuit of and intent to use WMD. We cannot permit the world's most dangerous terrorists and their regime sponsors to threaten us with the world's most destructive weapons. Our national strategy is to stop terrorist attacks against the United States, our citizens, our interests, and our friends and allies around the world. We have and continue to defeat terrorists by attacking their established infrastructure, such as safe havens, management, power, and infrastructure. This disruption will naturally force the terrorists to disperse and decentralize, thereby removing their global influence. We have and continue to deny terrorists support. Separating terrorists from their sponsors and support will deny availability of critical assets needed to plan, train for, and conduct operations. Denying sanctuary will prevent the terrorists from having the opportunity to reorganize and reestablish a global threat. A terrorist that is constantly on the move to survive does not have time to plan or conduct major operations. We have and continue to work with the international community to diminish the underlying conditions that terrorists seek to exploit. It is in our best interest to continue focusing on resources and efforts towards at-risk regions to prevent the emergence or the reemergence of terrorists. The United States Government, through our dedicated public servants, courageous men and women in uniform, and attentive intelligence officers are protecting the United States, our citizens, and our national interests at home and abroad--24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Today, American values, liberty, and lives are still at stake. While we engage the enemy on foreign soil, we are also simultaneously establishing homeland defenses, and extending such defenses to identify and neutralize any emerging threats as early as possible. The American public is one of the world's most informed societies-- the American people understand that the threat against our Nation and values are real and imminent. And to mischaracterize the American people's support for the global war and the men and women in uniform fighting at the front lines of this war is unpatriotic and disingenuous. U.S. forces will withdraw from Iraq as soon as the mission is successfully accomplished. Success will be achieved when there is a free Iraq in which Iraqis themselves are sponsors of their own liberty and security. The criteria for withdrawing Coalition forces from Iraq are conditions based, not calendar based. For America will remain the land of the free, home of the brave as long as Americans are willing to fight for the principles of freedom and democracy. I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 861.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the wonderful City of Lighthouse Point, Florida. I am proud to have represented the residents of this city for the 26 years I have served in Congress. Incorporated on June 13, 1956, Lighthouse Point derived its name from its location under the beam of the famed Hillsboro Lighthouse. Armed with a petition signed by over 100 residents favoring incorporation, community leaders traveled to Tallahassee to seek approval. Story has it that 77 names on the petition were Republicans and they were required to re-register before incorporation approval would be given by the state's Democrat leaders. All 77 agreed to re-register as Independents and incorporation of Lighthouse Point was approved. In 1956, approximately 150 people resided in the newly incorporated area. Most of these residents had grown up in other parts of the country during the 1920's and 1930's and many had served in WWII. What had originally been farm land was now a network of canals and residential lots providing residents with waterfront living and easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the ocean beyond. It was an idyllic place to make a new life for yourself and your family. In 1956, Dwight Eisenhower was elected President and Leroy Collins was elected Governor of Florida, both for second terms, a first class postage stamp was three cents and Elvis Presley's ``Don't Be Cruel'' was the number one record. Today, Lighthouse Point is a thriving community of approximately 10,767 residents. It has moved from services provided by volunteers to a full service city with its own police, fire, and public works departments. Although it has grown dramatically, as has all of South Florida, it has retained its feeling of a small town community. Eighteen miles of canals, parks and numerous recreational activities and special annual events such as Keeper Days and Lighthouse ``A'' Glow all contribute to the hometown feel of Lighthouse Point. It continues to maintain its heritage and its standard of striving to be the best place to live and raise a family. Mr. Speaker, Lighthouse Point is a jewel in the landscape of South Florida. I am honored to represent the city and her residents in the U.S. House of Representatives. I am also pleased to take this opportunity to recognize and congratulate Lighthouse Point on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the wonderful city of Lighthouse Point, Florida. I am proud to have represented the residents of this city for the 26 years I have served in Congress. Incorporated on June 13, 1956, Lighthouse Point derived its name from its location under the beam of the famed Hillsboro Lighthouse. Armed with a petition signed by over 100 residents favoring incorporation, community leaders traveled to Tallahassee to seek approval. Story has it that 77 names on the petition were Republicans and they were required to re-register before incorporation approval would be given by the State's Democrat leaders. All 77 agreed to re-register as Independents and the incorporation of Lighthouse Point was approved. In 1956, approximately 150 people resided in the newly incorporated area. Most of these residents had grown up in other parts of the country during the 1920s and 1930s and many had served in WWII. What had originally been farm land was now a network of canals and residential lots providing residents with waterfront living and easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the ocean beyond. It was an idyllic place to make a new life for yourself and your family. In 1956, Dwight D. Eisenhower was elected President and Leroy Collins was elected Governor of Florida, both for second terms; a first class postage stamp was three cents and Elvis Presley's ``Don't Be Cruel'' was the number-one record. Today, Lighthouse Point is a thriving community of approximately 10,767 residents. It has moved from services provided by volunteers to a full service city with its own police, fire, and public works departments. Although it has grown dramatically, as has all of South Florida, it has retained its feeling of a small town community. Eighteen miles of canals, parks and numerous recreational activities and special annual events such as Keeper Days and Lighthouse ``A'' Glow all contribute to the hometown feel of Lighthouse Point. It continues to maintain its heritage and its standard of striving to be the best place to live and raise a family. Mr. Speaker, Lighthouse Point is a jewel in the landscape of South Florida. I am honored to represent the city and her residents in the U.S. House of Representatives. I am also pleased to take this opportunity to recognize and congratulate Lighthouse Point on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a wonderful woman, Ms. Karen Hogan, who has worked tirelessly or the people of the State of Florida for over two decades, and to congratulate her on her retirement. Karen Hogan has worked in the State of Florida's Washington, D.C. office since 1995. Most recently, Karen served as Senior Management Analyst for the Florida Department of Children and Families. In this capacity, she represented and advised the Governor and the Department Secretary on national issues relevant to the State, such as healthcare, immigration, the elderly and welfare. Karen is truly an expert on Health and Human Services issues, especially the welfare Program. Before her service in the State of Florida's Washington office, Karen was Chief of Staff for our colleague and friend, the late U.S. Representative Tom Lewis (R-FL), for the 12 years he served in the U.S. House of Representatives. I know Tom's wife Marian Lewis joins me in offering thanks to Karen for her service to the residents of South Florida. I congratulate Karen on her well deserved retirement. It has been a true joy to work with her over these many years. Karen epitomizes the phrase ``consummate professional.'' Karen's knowledge on State and Federal policy issues is far reaching. She has always been extremely helpful to everyone in the Florida Congressional delegation and she will be dearly missed by all Members and staff. Karen is a former resident of Palm Beach County, Florida, and is the mother of five children--Christina Kuminski, Richard Craney, Cathy Schwink, Wendy Daniels and Patrick Hogan--and grandmother of eight grandchildren--Alyssa, Keith and Jonathan Kuminski, Ryan Craney, Taylor, Alex and Spencer Schwink, and Carter Daniels. Karen is active in her church and bible study. I have no doubt that Karen will be looking forward to spending more time gardening, a hobby which she loves dearly. If you ask her, Karen would probably say that she isn't retiring, that she's just moving on to the next phase in her life. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Florida Congressional delegation, I wish Karen Hogan all the best in her next phase of life.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, on Thursday, May 25, 2006, 11 outstanding Broward elders will be honored at the Annual Senior Hall of Fame Breakfast. These 11 seniors being honored have volunteered in their communities and have contributed countless hours to helping others. Their outstanding character and compassion have truly set them apart. Those being honored are Judith Armstrong, Frieda Kramer, Reverend James Gooden, Helen Landers, Marie Long, Robert Millikan, June Sragow, Shirley Strassler, Jean Thompson, Mayor Joe Varsallone and Sunny Wein. Judith Armstrong of Fort Lauderdale volunteers with the MediVan Health and Community Services' MediVan Project, providing critically needed primary medical care and prescription medicines to Broward's uninsured, low-income, elderly community. Ms. Armstrong is active on many different senior committees and manages multiple worthwhile projects, making her an incredible asset to the community of Fort Lauderdale. Frieda Kramer of Coral Springs has dedicated over 20 years of service as a volunteer. She worked as a Medicare counselor with the Jewish Family Service at the Coral Springs Medical Center and with the SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) Program as a counselor. Frieda's dedication to helping the elderly with Medicare and medical needs goes above and beyond the call of duty. Her contributions of time, talent and energy have inspired all. Reverend James Gooden of Fort Lauderdale has contributed countless hours to the Broward Schools Bi-racial Committee, the City of Fort Lauderdale Redevelopment Committee, and the Planning Committee for the North Broward Hospital District's Seventh Avenue Family Health Center. Reverend James Gooden is truly dedicated to helping those less fortunate and his love for humanity is demonstrated through all of his actions. Helen Landers of Fort Lauderdale has dedicated her life's work to improving the status of women in our Nation's history. As chair of the Florida Education and Employment Council for Women and Girls, Ms. Landers has helped improved the status of all females. She is not only an outstanding advocate for women, but also for the environment. Ms. Landers is a Florida and Broward County Women's Hall of Fame Award Member and a valued historian. Marie Long of Coral Springs is a very youthful 90-year-old volunteer at the Coral Springs Medical Center. Ms. Long has totaled more than 8,000 volunteer hours and has assisted her community through her passion for the latest computer technology. Marie's positive outlook and motivation support her life motto, ``Youth is in the mind, not the age.'' These words come from an inspirational and well respected lady who leaves a legacy everyday in her community. Robert Millikan of Coconut Creek is the face of the Breakfast Club at the Northwest Focal Point Senior Center. The center is a congregate lunch site, however, thanks to Robert participants have enjoyed breakfast, as well, for 8 years. Robert is beloved by both seniors and staff for his humble service and friendship. His kind heart has been a gift to everyone who has known him. June Sragow of Hollywood is a retired educator who devotes her time and teaching skills to improving the lives of her peers. For over 8 years she has volunteered at Southeast Focal Point Senior Center teaching American History and Current Affairs, as well as tutoring non- English speaking seniors in the English language. June devotes her free time to Hospice of Southeast Florida. June's enthusiasm and desire to give back are evident by her visible presence in the community. Shirley Strassler of Tamarac recently celebrated her 96th birthday, making her the hardest and oldest working volunteer. Ms. Strassler averages over 300 hours of service a year. Her work has involved: collecting canned goods, shopping for food and getting clothing to those in need during the holidays, and helping the senior program with various activities. Shirley won Volunteer of the Month in January 2003 for her outstanding dedication and inspiration to South Floridians she has touched along the way. Jean Thompson of Fort Lauderdale has given countless hours of her time, since 1982, serving the less fortunate and homeless. Jean volunteers her time providing food, clothing, and medical supplies to the homeless of all ages. Jean has given hope to those who have lost their way and changes lives with her unconditional love. Joe Varsallone of Margate has diligently served the city of Margate as mayor, vice mayor, and commissioner for more than 20 years. Mayor Varsallone continues to assure that the needs of Broward's senior population are met by voting to appropriate funding to the Aging and Disability Resource Center. Joe Varsallone's generosity and grand presence within the community gives Broward County seniors the ability to live in their accustomed environments, without losing their independence. Sunny Wein of Tamarac has volunteered with the city of Tamarac for approximately 26 years. Ms. Wein began calling and coordinating volunteer drivers to pick up elderly residents for medical and shopping appointments. She also assisted Hall of Famer Helen Sobel in collecting clothing, food and other items for needy families in Tamarc. Sunny is a hard working, dedicated volunteer who loves interacting with people and enjoys helping others. Mr. Speaker, I would like to again congratulate these 11 outstanding Broward County citizens who are being honored at the Annual Senior Hall of Fame, and thank them for their years of service to their fellow Floridians.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA). HOSA is a national career and technical student organization endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Occupations Education Division of the Association for Career and Technical Education. HOSA provides a unique program of leadership development, motivation, and recognition exclusively for middle school, secondary, postsecondary, adult and collegiate students. HOSA is not a club to which a few students in school join. Rather, HOSA is a powerful instructional tool that works best when it is integrated into the health science curriculum and classroom. Health Occupations instructors are committed to the development of the total person. Those who join the Health Science-HOSA Partnership recognize the importance of providing students with training far beyond the basic technical skills needed for entry into the health care field. The rapidly changing health care system needs dedicated workers who, in addition to their technical skills, are people-oriented and capable of playing a leadership role as a member of a health care team. Nationally, HOSA has grown to over 78,000 members in almost every state, and soon, over 5,000 HOSA members will gather in Anaheim, California, for their annual leadership conference. This opportunity provides tours of health care facilities, exhibits presented by professional health care associates, as well as an Educational Symposium--workshops presented by professional partners that provide information about current health care issues. The members of HOSA, through a student-led pipeline, are making a significant contribution to overcoming the shortage of health care workers in our country, guiding more than 1 million students into health professions. I am proud to say that the Florida HOSA has the fourth largest membership at more than 6,700 members. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Health Occupations Students of America on celebrating their 30th anniversary, and I wish them luck on their continued success.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding at this time, and I compliment him for this very good, well-thought-out amendment. You are hearing a lot of statistics on the floor here, but let me throw some out there that are absolutely correct, and they are backed up by the references that I will make. The sugar program costs the United States consumers up to $1.9 billion every year, and a recent Department of Commerce report noted that the domestic price of United States wholesale refined sugar over the last 25 years has been two to three times the world price, two to three times the world price. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Department of Commerce, American taxpayers are paying over $200,000 per job for every year, every year, to subsidize low-wage, low-skilled growing and harvesting jobs. This is absolutely nuts. The Department of Commerce estimates that between 1997 and the year 2002, 10,000 confectionary manufacturing jobs were lost due to the high price of sugar right here in the good ole U.S.A. A responsible sugar policy would result in a net increase in employment in the higher paying sugar manufacturing and confectionary industries and in increased savings to the American taxpayer. I urge my colleagues to support a responsible sugar policy that benefits U.S. food manufacturers, increases U.S. exports, helps consumers save money at the grocery store, decreases government spending, and creates more jobs for U.S. workers. That's why I'm voting for the Blumenauer-Flake Amendment to H.R. 5384.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the Putnam amendment that will be given later here this evening. We have heard a lot today about drilling off the coast of Florida. Let me make a parallel here and something every Member should think about. Would we allow oil rigs on the edge of the Grand Canyon, on the rim? How about at the foot of Old Faithful? The Florida beaches are really tremendously important. When you start to think about how far that this bill, as it is presently written, would bring these oil wells and gas wells into proximity to our beaches, we are talking about 3 miles. The line of sight is over 7 miles. This bill just goes way too far in really imposing mass destruction on our beaches and on our tourism. Florida beaches are really the most important thing that we have for our economy. It is the lifeblood of our economy, and the very thought that with the tremendous opposition that Florida has to this particular amendment that this body would do anything except strike it. I urge all my colleagues, Democrats and Republicans, this is a bad provision. Adam Putnam is going to be putting an amendment in this evening that would strip it out of this particular bill, and I think as Mr. Young said earlier, that if we are going to be doing this, you need discussion and you need to talk about it. It was said that we have talked about it. I cannot remember one time that we have ever talked about bringing them within 3 miles of the coastal State of Florida. I urge all my colleagues to vote with the Florida delegation. Kill this amendment to the appropriations bill that was put in inside the committee and support the Putnam amendment that would strip it out.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I think what we are seeing here is a basic difference between the two political parties. Ten years ago almost to the date I stood in this well, as well as Members from the other side of the aisle coming to this floor to speak, and the subject at that time was welfare reform. And what split us at that time, what split us was because the Republicans had faith in the human spirit. We heard time after time, speaker after speaker came to that podium right over there to my right and said women and children were going to be sleeping on grates. The reason is you had no faith in the human spirit. You had no faith that those that were poor wanted to do better. As a result, we created jobs. We created many, many jobs. Now you are showing that same skepticism with regard to what is going to happen if you let people keep more of their own money. Nearly 60 percent of those who are going to benefit by the capital gains rate being at 15 percent and also the dividend, tax on dividends at 15 percent, almost 60 percent earn incomes under $100,000. And what are these people doing, what is happening? They are reinvesting it in American business because they believe in the capitalistic system. It is working. We have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the entire world. The rate of 4.7 percent is lower than it was throughout the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. When I first came to Congress 26 years ago, we thought between 5 and 6 percent was a target for full employment. We have shattered that myth. Now it is 4.7. Why? Because we have faith in the system of capitalism which we embrace through this bill. People will reinvest their money. Where does it go? It creates jobs. The gentleman from Georgia was talking about putting clothes on the backs of the children. Yes, is there any prouder way to do it than through a job? A real job? We have created a tremendous number of jobs through the tax rates that we have put in place. This is a fair bill. This is a bill that is going to benefit all Americans. It will raise all ships.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Holocaust Remembrance Day. Holocaust Remembrance Day has been set aside as a tribute to the victims of the Holocaust and for reminding our nation that we must vigorously pursue justice for the victims of all acts of hatred and inhumanity, not only for their sake but for the sake of future generations. In addition, I have been concerned about the International Tracing Service (ITS) of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Bad Arolsen, Germany. Driven by frustration with the long delays and poor responsiveness of ITS, family members of victims of the Holocaust are calling for access to ITS to search for their missing family members. The American Gathering of Jewish Holocaust Survivors, which is the largest survivor organization in the world, has repeatedly called for the archives to be opened. In most instances they have received no response to their requests for information regarding the actual holdings of the ITS archives or on the issue of access. I sent a letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice requesting her to contact ITS and insist on making these archives available to the U.S. government and other related government organizations. ITS was established by the Allied High Command after World War II to assist in reuniting families that were separated by concentration camps and confirm the fate of family members during the war. The initial document collections were deposited by the United States, United Kingdom and France, and included captured documents and Displaced Persons' (DP) camp records. The 30 million pages of archival material related about the approximately 17 million victims of Nazism, both Jews and non-Jews, includes records of concentration camps, forced and slave labor, deportations, and DP camps. The documents have an important memorial function to shed new light on our intellectual understanding of the Holocaust and its aftermath. As context for all of this human tragedy, the operation of the concentration camps, transport and deportation systems, and perpetration of the Holocaust at the human, not just the statistical, level. All of that, and more for us to learn and seek to understand, lies in the ITS archives. It is so imperative for the ITS archives to be opened to the public. To collect all this vital information and put a wall up around it so no one could get in, makes a horrific crime worse. I have received a response from Secretary Rice who stated, ``[t]he United States supports as open access system in Bad Arolsen for visiting researchers. Furthermore, the United States has proposed that the eleven countries making up the International Commission of the ITS receive a digitized copy of the archives so that individual member States can make those documents available for research purposes under their respective national privacy laws.'' I am encouraged that the German Ambassador to the U.S. Klaus Scharioth announced on April 24, 2006, that the German government is now our partner in getting the ITS archive opened and copies made as quickly as possible. I also rise today in recognition of the 58th anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel. On May 14, 1948, the State of Israel was established as a sovereign and independent state. I am an original cosponsor of a resolution to recognize this important anniversary. Since 1948, the United States and Israel have developed a close friendship based on common democratic values, religious affinities, and security interests. U.S.-Israeli bilateral relations are multidimensional. Both countries have long recognized that their mutual interests of deterring war, promoting stability and achieving peace are not far off. I am committed to maintaining the close relationship that the U.S. government enjoys with Israel to secure democracy in the Middle East.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, fifty years ago Dwight D. Eisenhower was President of the United States, the communist regime in Cuba was underway, Elvis Presley's ``Hound Dog'' topped the charts, Don Larson pitched a perfect game as the Yankees beat the Brooklyn Dodgers in the World Series, and the cost of a first class stamp was .03 cents. Amidst these historical events taking place, the Village of North Palm Beach was created. Much has changed in those fifty years in and around the village with new development, highways and a large population spurt to reach its present size, however, one thing that has not changed is the ``small town'' nature of the Village of North Palm Beach and its friendly residents. The village has been blessed over the years with outstanding local elected officials and a strong participation by its residents and civic leaders. Mr. Speaker, over the years I have proudly represented this community, I have witnessed time and time again where the community has pulled together to support a common cause. The spirit of togetherness and pride is ubiquitous in the Village of North Palm Beach. From the days that John D. MacArthur sold his property, which included a golf course and a country club, to create North Palm Beach, the first of Florida's master planned communities, the Village has always set the mark. Now with 13,000 residents, its well managed growth has been a model for future planned communities throughout the state and country. Environmentally, the Village is also ahead of the curve, when in 1989 the State of Florida purchased 437 areas of property from the Village along the Atlantic Ocean to preserve a natural coastal barrier Island. Preserved forever from being developed, it provides a home for nesting sea turtles, birds, indigenous plant and wildlife, reefs and a birthing and natural nursery for Florida Manatees. It is suitably named, MacArthur State Beach Park. In recent years, the Town has also enhanced our local and State governments by being the hometown and formative training ground of Palm Beach County Commissioner Karen Marcus and State Senator Jeff Atwater. Well done North Palm Beach in your first fifty years. You truly are ``The Best Place to Live Under the Sun.''

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 370) expressing the sense of the Congress that Saudi Arabia should fully live up to its World Trade Organization commitments and end all aspects of any boycott on Israel.

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I am delighted to introduce this resolution and support it, which has also the support of the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cardin) and I believe probably is one of the best bipartisan resolutions to come before this Congress in a while. This resolution would express the sense of the Congress that Saudi Arabia should fully live up to its World Trade Organization commitments and end all aspects of any boycott on Israel. In 2005, the United States supported the accession of Saudi Arabia to the World Trade Organization. During this process, Saudi Arabia reiterated its commitment to terminate the secondary and tertiary boycotts on Israel. Additionally, it committed not to discriminate against any World Trade Organization members; and specifically, it did not invoke the nonapplication provision of the World Trade Organization agreement. Because of this, Saudi Arabia has rights and obligation to all the World Trade Organization members, including Israel. Given this, we should not have to be here today debating this resolution on the floor of the House. Instead, today Members should be able to praise Saudi Arabia for its forward thinking and its upcoming expanded role in the global economy. Unfortunately, though, many of my colleagues and I have read press reports that an official of the government of Saudi Arabia has stated that Saudi Arabia has not committed to ending the primary boycott on Israel. This would be a clear violation of its World Trade Organization commitments to Israel. I am pleased that when United States Trade Representative Rob Portman testified before the Ways and Means Committee he stated that Saudi Arabia's application of the boycott is a big concern of the United States. He also reiterated that Saudi Arabia is required to provide nondiscriminatory treatment to Israel. I appreciate Ambassador Portman's efforts in this area. This resolution would provide further support for the stated position of the USTR by establishing that it is the sense of the Congress that Saudi Arabia should maintain and fully live up to its commitments under the World Trade Organization and end all aspects of any boycott on Israel. It also urges the President, the U.S. Trade Representative and the Secretary of State to continue their efforts to ensure that this is exactly what happens. I ask my colleagues to vote ``aye'' on this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, this resolution is important beyond just the pages of the resolution itself. It is important as to the future of world trade. Are we as a member of the World Trade Organization, are we going to support the values, the obligations that we have and that other nations have to other nations within the World Trade Organization? We pride ourselves as being a government of laws. This means that we have to adhere to our own laws. And also it goes beyond that. We have to adhere to our obligations. And our trading partners should also be required to do so. But this particular one, pinpointing this boycott of Israel, is particularly important because through free trade comes understanding. It comes the free flow of goods. It also brings about the free flow of ideas which brings about understanding, which brings about world peace. This is the pathway to world peace, and there is no place it is needed more than it is in the Middle East. And our good friend Israel needs help with regard to getting along with its neighbors. And this is a good step forward. So I would ask all Members to support this resolution.

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the subject of the bill under consideration.

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SHAW

Mr. SHAW. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 2006 (H.R. 2829). I am proud to have been involved in the creation of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) in 1988. Legislation I introduced became part of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988, which created the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Along with creating the office of the White House ``Drug Czar,'' my legislation also permitted the U.S. military to help interdict drugs, called for the seizure of aircraft involved in drug smuggling, sped up the interdiction of foreign vessels carrying drugs, required minimum sentences for crack cocaine users, and required drug testing of key transportation workers. The ONDCP is responsible for establishing policies, priorities, and objectives for our nation's drug control program. The reauthorization of ONDCP and its programs are essential to continue the reduction of illicit drug use, manufacturing, and trafficking, drug-related crime and violence, and drug-related health consequences. The ONDCP Reauthorization Act of 2006 improves the ONDCP and its programs in many important ways. The bill requires that the Director of ONDCP to have the same rank and status as other executive department heads. This will ensure that the ``Drug Czar'' will be able to interact with other executive department heads to coordinate with them on anti- drug policies and programs. The bill also preserves and strengthens the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. The HIDTA program is ONDCP's principal law enforcement program. Two counties in my district, Broward and Palm Beach, are part of the South Florida HIDTA. The mission of the South Florida HIDTA is to measurably reduce drug trafficking, related money laundering, violent crime and drug abuse in South Florida, thereby reducing the impact of illicit drugs in other areas of the country. The extensive shoreline of the Florida peninsula and the Florida Keys, combined with 3 major seaports and a close proximity to the Caribbean basin, make South Florida a prime target for maritime smuggling operations. The South Florida HIDTA designation makes the local law enforcement agencies in Broward and Palm Beach Counties eligible for federal grant funding in order to facilitate the attack and the dismantling of high- value drug trafficking and related money laundering and violent crime organizations working throughout South Florida. Mr. Chairman reauthorizing the ONDCP and it's programs will help us stay ahead of the war on drugs and drug abuse. I urge my colleagues to support the bill.