Jackie Speier

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, this evening I salute one of the young pioneers of the 12th Congressional District. T. Jack Foster, Jr. in his 80th year, is being honored by the Rotary Club of Foster City on Saturday, September 27, 2008. In 1960, after a successful career in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he constructed over 1500 single family homes, T. Jack Foster moved to San Mateo County to join his father, T. Jack Senior and brothers, J.R. and Richard, in planning and building a vital, safe and environmentally sound community that would become known as Foster City, California. Foster City is now a successful bedroom, office and retail community of 30,000 full-time residents and an equal number of employees who commute to the many companies doing business there. A city like no other, it is built around a series of lagoons and canals that not only provide beautiful views, but enhance the city with a vast array of recreational opportunities. Born July 21, 1928 in Norman, Oklahoma, Jack received a degree in Business Administration from the University of Oklahoma, where he was Editor of the Sooner Yearbook and inducted into Phi Eta Sigma and Beta Gamma Sigma honorary societies. After college, he served two years of active duty in the United States Air Force before launching his real estate career. Jack and his lovely and vivacious wife, the former Patricia Chesnut, live in San Mateo. They have a daughter, Lee and two sons, T. Jack III and Mark. Their six creative and energetic grandchildren take after talented grandpa, who is an accomplished singer, actor and tap dancer who has entertained thousands by performing in many local theater productions. Madam Speaker, Jack is a longtime friend and, on occasion, a gentle critic. He cares passionately about San Mateo County, its people, policies and environment. Jack has given back as much as he has received in his long and fruitful life. He has worked tirelessly to advance healthcare opportunities as President of the Comprehensive Health Planning Council of San Mateo County and first Chairman of the Health Network Consortium of San Mateo County. He has also served as Chairman of the San Mateo County Economic Development Association and is a past President of the Peninsula Community Foundation. Jack and Pat were notably and appropriately honored as 2000 Volunteers of the Year by the Volunteer Center. Madam Speaker, my district and our San Francisco Bay Area would be a different place without the vision and hard work of the Foster family. It gives me great joy to inform the rest of our nation of the lifetime of service of T. Jack Foster and his exceptional family. I wish him a very happy birthday and hopes for many, many more and bestow my congratulations on him for this latest honor.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, this fall, one of California's most dedicated public servants will retire as Mayor of the Town of Hillsborough in the 12th Congressional District. The Honorable Catherine Mullooly, ``Kitty'' to all who know her, has been a beacon of light and volunteer extraordinaire since relocating from her native Wisconsin to our beloved Bay Area some forty-three years ago. One year after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-- Whitewater in 1964, Kitty came west with her new husband Doctor Thomas Mullooly, DDS, where she taught at San Francisco's St. Stephen's Elementary School prior to giving birth to her first child, Michelle. Two years later, their family was joined by son, Michael, and shortly thereafter the Mulloolys moved to Hillsborough where they have been ever since. Kitty and Tom have brought smiles to peninsula residents for more than thirty years, through both dental healthcare and civic involvement. In fact, it is difficult to say ``Mullooly'' without smiling. Kitty Mullooly's charitable work was recognized by her adopted hometown with Hillsborough's Community Care Award in 1985. She was further honored as 1989's Hillsborough Citizen of the Year. Three years later, Kitty was elected to the City Council, where she quickly impressed her peers with her hard-work and was re-elected for three subsequent terms. During Ms. Mullooly's tenure in city government, she has been tapped to serve two terms as Mayor, including her current stint which began in 2006 and ends at the end of this year, when she will step down from her official role in city leadership. But Madam Speaker, I know Mayor Mullooly, and I can assure you that she will not stray far from Town Hall. In fact, she lives just two doors away and I have a strong suspicion she will continue listening to her scanner so she can race with the firefighters she has helped her whole career to any call that goes out. Kitty's commitment to our community has encompassed all aspects of daily life. She volunteered her skills for the Early Childhood Education/School Improvement Program, served on the Hillsborough Elementary School district Board of Trustees and the town's Recreation Commission and was the Chairwoman of our community's premiere charity event, the Hillsborough Concours d'Elegance. Regionally, Mayor Mullooly represents our community on the San Francisco Airport Community Roundtable, the San Mateo Area Emergency Services Council, and is a Board Member of Leadership San Mateo. Now that Michelle and Michael are grown and married, Kitty and Tom have turned their attention to their grandchildren, Ashley and Christopher. Like your own, Madam Speaker, Kitty's grandchildren are fortunate to have a grandmother that will serve as an inspiration and role model for the rest of their lives. Kitty is many things to me--my Mayor, my constituent and my friend. Any day spent with her is a good day. I have expressed my appreciation and admiration in private many times. A highlight of my short time in Congress is being able to do so in this most public of forums.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, our President had an opportunity last night, and he blew it. He could have reasserted his leadership by accepting responsibility for his disastrous policies, but he took a pass. Instead, he chose to blame the American people. Well, Mr. President, the American people did not spend the last 7\1/ 2\ years deregulating Wall Street. You did. The American people didn't spend $12 billion a month on an unnecessary war. You did. The American people didn't come up with the idea to give tax breaks to oil companies. You did. Whatever happens at the White House today, I can only hope that the man and the party responsible for this crisis finally decide to do the right thing. The American people are forgiving. It's time to man up and admit that your disastrous economic policies got us into this mess. Then, as we always do, we can all work together to repair the damage.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, this week marks a milestone in a half century long journey to provide safe and scenic passage along the beautiful San Mateo County coastline and honors the tireless dedication of my predecessor in Congress, Representative Tom Lantos. On Friday, September 26, 2008, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), along with project contractors, citizens and elected officials, will officially unveil two newly-constructed bridges at Devil's Slide on State Route One. These bridges are part of a larger project which will connect them to twin four thousand, two hundred foot tunnels. Together, the bridges and tunnels will bypass a historically-dangerous stretch of Route One that over the past twenty-five years has seen three closures and reconstructions due to erosion of the cliff upon which the road sits. The existing roadway between the cities of Pacifica and Half Moon Bay was first opened in 1935. By 1958, local citizens were clamoring for a safer road, but environmental, financial, geological and land-use issues complicated the process until 1996, when San Mateo County voters passed Measure T by 76 percent, authorizing the bridge and tunnel construction. The project, though, would have been impossible were it not for the passionate work here in the House of Representatives by the late Congressman Lantos, who was present last year as crews broke ground for the tunnels' construction. In honor of his invaluable efforts, the California State Legislature passed a resolution in July 2008 to name the tunnels the ``Tom Lantos Tunnels at Devil's Slide.'' Since breaking ground, significant progress has been made on this ambitious and environmentally sensitive project. Along with the completion of the two bridges, crews have excavated a combined two thousand six hundred feet in the northbound and southbound bores of the tunnels. With specialized equipment, leading edge technology and carefully designed and engineered plans, crews work twenty-four hours a day on the tunnels which will eventually connect with the newly- constructed bridges. The resulting road of just over a mile will realign Route One into a safer, more reliable passage around Devil's Slide. Madam Speaker, Tom Lantos' legacy in this chamber is well-known. With the opening of this important north-south roadway along one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in this or any country, his work will be memorialized for residents of our district and passing motorists for generations to come.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, if the world has seemed a bit grayer in recent weeks, it is no doubt due to the passing of one of its brightest lights. Ellen L Wolfe, the highly respected and much-loved registered nurse and Doctor of Public Health, left us on August 4. As director of Children's Medical Services for the City and County of San Francisco and throughout her career, Ellen dedicated her life to the care and well being of underserved children and their families. Dr. Wolfe was a pioneer in the field of children's health and a passionate advocate for abused children. She served as director of the Early Parenting Project, San Francisco General Hospital's landmark abuse prevention program, and was instrumental in creating the Child Protection Center at SFGH, serving as the program's Associate Director for Health Care Services from 1989 through 2005. Madam Speaker, a measure of anyone's life is how fondly they are remembered after their passing. By this yardstick, Ellen surpasses all measurements. Thousands of San Franciscans owe their health, mental well-being and, in many cases, very lives, to the intellect, instinct and intervention of this intrepid public servant. Ellen came to us by way of Denver, Colorado. She attended the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley on a music scholarship and her love of the violin and classical music only grew stronger after graduation. Ellen received a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of California, San Francisco and a Master and Doctor of Public Health from UC Berkeley. Her accomplishments in San Francisco are many and notable, including the development of a Health Passport system for children in foster care, creation of a widely-used child abuse manual for doctors and nurses, and educating foster parents, health professionals and students about child abuse reporting and health issues. A tireless advocate, Ellen served on the California Subcommittee on Medically Fragile Children in Foster Care, the Personnel Advisory Committee for Early Intervention Services, and the San Francisco Child Abuse Prevention Center. Dr. Wolfe authored numerous professional publications addressing foster care and prenatal drug and alcohol use and served as an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Family Health Care Nursing at the UCSF School of Nursing. Outside of work, Ellen is remembered as a passionate woman who embraced life to its fullest. She is missed dearly by her mother Marian, sisters Christine and Charlotte, brothers Fred and Sam, and a great many close friends and colleagues. They remember fondly her love of classical music, fine food and the great outdoors, which were eclipsed only by her commitment to children's health. Madam Speaker, when those of us from San Francisco are asked what makes our city so special, we often say, ``the people.'' With the passing of Ellen Wolfe, our beautiful hometown has lost a favorite sister, but her legacy of good works and sound public policy will outlive all of us.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, the consumers of California and our nation will lose their premier protector when Herschel Elkins retires from the California Attorney General's Office this month. Mr. Elkins has devoted his entire career to public service and protecting California's consumers. He is the most senior attorney and longest-serving employee in the AG's office, having celebrated his 50th anniversary in December, 2006. Herschel Elkins received his J.D. from UCLA in 1956 and began work the same year as a Deputy Attorney General, where he served briefly in the criminal section before transferring to the civil division. Following the Watts riots in 1965, a report commissioned by Governor Pat Brown cited a contributing factor as frustration in the community with merchants taking unfair advantage of the poor. The legislature acted by bolstering the Attorney General's nascent Consumer Fraud Unit and Mr. Elkins was appointed to lead the effort, a position he occupied until 2004 when he was appointed Special Assistant Attorney General for Consumer Policy, Coordination and Development. During his long tenure with the Consumer Law Section, Herschel used all the arrows in his quiver--litigation, legislation and education--to protect the rights of consumers and push California to the forefront of consumer protection. Mr. Elkins drafted or shepherded many of our state's vital consumer protection laws, including anti-pyramid statutes, the establishment of the Bureau of Auto Repair, laws providing for a ``cooling off period'' for home solicitations, and mandating civil penalties for unfair competition. As a litigator, Mr. Elkins has represented the Attorney General in more than 150 appellate cases. He has also publicized the Section's work and educated the public about their rights on hundreds of radio and television programs. Madam Speaker it was a distinct privilege to work side-by-side with Herschel on consumer issues during my time in the California legislature. His knowledge, passion and creativity improved every piece of legislation he reviewed and made those of us whose names were on the bills look that much smarter. I am just one of hundreds of legislators who owe him a sincere debt of gratitude. After so many years looking after the public welfare, Herschel and Miriam, his wife of 48 years, will enjoy a retirement devoted to their inspiring and growing family. They will travel to Israel, New York and Pennsylvania to spend time with their three sons, David, Jeremy and Joel and their families. Herschel, known as much for his storytelling ability as his legal brilliance, will entertain his grandchildren and, no doubt, pass along his commitment to community and his profound sense of justice. Our state's loss is the Elkins family's well-earned gain. But Madam Speaker, a dedicated public servant like Herschel Elkins doesn't just walk away from his life's work. Something tells me that Herschel will make himself available to members of the Consumer Law Section and others devoted to the public good who seek his help and guidance. On behalf of the many millions of protected consumers in the State of California, I ask that the United States House of Representatives join me in saluting Mr. Herschel Elkins for his long career devoted to protecting and guaranteeing a vibrant, just and equitable marketplace.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I would like to draw the attention of Congress to the passionate work and unparalleled leadership of Barry Weiss, who is retiring as Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of San Carlos. Under Barry's leadership, his department received more than two dozen state and local awards for facility design, park planning, economic development and programming. Barry, himself, is the recipient of numerous honors, including the Statewide Citation Award, Presidential Award and Achievement Award from the California Park and Recreation Society, Distinguished Alumni Award from California State University at Hayward and Outstanding Youth Sports Leader from the National Alliance for Youth Sports. Barry Weiss served as President of the California Park and Recreation Society in 2004-2005, where he shared his knowledge and expertise with others in his field on park planning and encouraging community involvement. Attesting to his success as a parks and recreation administrator, Barry is a highly sought-after lecturer on the subject, being invited to share his knowledge with professionals in Arizona, Washington, Michigan and all across California. Barry received his Bachelors Degree in Recreation and a Lifetime Teaching Credential in Social Science from California State University, Hayward. He is also a graduate of the Pacific Revenue Sources Management School in San Diego, and the Inter-Governmental Management Training Program, based in St. Helena, California. Madam Speaker, Barry Weiss is truly an innovator. He developed the first Parks Master Plan for San Carlos, built the first disabled- inclusive playground in San Mateo County with 70 percent of features being accessible to children of all abilities and limitations, and was among the first to document the societal gains attributed to park construction and recreation programs. Some of these benefits to society include increased property values, reduced juvenile crime, increased academic performance and increased sales by downtown businesses. Along with the citizens of San Carlos, I am disappointed to see Barry go, but I am grateful for his service, his dedication to his community and the positive impact he has made on society.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I would like to pay tribute this evening to a dedicated public servant, Diane McGrath, the City Manager of the Town of Colma. Diane retires next month, capping a 36 year career in municipal government, which began in Breckenridge, Colorado. She moved to California in 1985 to serve Foster City as Deputy Executive Director of the Community Development Agency. After seventeen years in that post, she was hired by Colma as Deputy City Manager and impressed the City Council enough to be promoted, two years later, to City Manager. During her tenure, Ms. McGrath and her staff oversaw the design and construction of a state-of-the-art public safety facility and community center, completed the reconstruction and beautification of Junipero Serra Boulevard and remodeled the Town Hall Council Chamber and rotunda. Most impressive is that all these projects were accomplished in an era of ever-tightening municipal budgets. Ms. McGrath is a member of the International City Management Association and was President of Municipal Management Assistants of Northern California. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Long Beach and a Master of Arts from the University of Colorado. Madam Speaker, Diane McGrath is a role model to anyone who aspires to a career in government. She handles her professional responsibilities with the unflappable grace that only the mother of 6 children and grandmother of 4 can pull off. A renaissance woman, Diane is a brilliant conversation partner, whether the subject is ballet, politics or Cal football. While I wish Diane McGrath could continue in her job forever, she has earned her retirement. Along with husband Fred Biagini, she will travel the world and spend more time with her large family. In addition, I am confident that she will continue to be a dynamic force in her community for many years to come.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, the most successful and profitable television show in this country is ``American Idol'', produced by FremantleMedia North America. ``American Idol'' and other FremantleMedia productions entertain many millions worldwide with the promise of providing an opportunity for young talented people to display their abilities and be rewarded for their hard work. That is why it is such a shame that FremantleMedia refuses to offer the same basic opportunity to its writers and other employees. The California Labor Commissioner has recorded claims from ``American Idol'' and other FremantleMedia employees totaling more than $300,000 in unpaid wages and unsafe working conditions. The State Labor Commissioner has conducted serious investigations into FremantleMedia productions and has even been forced to cite the company for failure to pay overtime to their employees. Madam Speaker, I have watched ``American Idol'' with my teenage daughter on many occasions. I am well aware of its impact on society and the enormous profits it generates for Fox Television and its producers and advertisers. In 2007, the show allegedly generated over $200 million in profits for the Fox network, while FremantleMedia's worldwide profits exceeded $1.8 billion. Why then, are they unable to pay a fair and equitable wage to its employees who provide the written content or other services that make these shows so successful? In an April 2008 filing with the California Department of Labor Standards, ``American Idol'' employees reported working 15-20 hour days, 7 days a week and FremantleMedia avoided paying any overtime by declaring that a substantial majority of their employees are ``exempt.'' In addition to failing to abide by California's wage and hour statutes, Fremantle refuses to offer most of their employees access to health coverage. For such a popular and profitable show, I find this behavior reprehensible. American reality show fans should not be confused. The reality is, ``reality'' shows are written. The plot lines, the banter between personalities, the contests that are at the heart of the shows; all are created by talented members of the creative community. These individuals should be paid fairly and like other American workers, allowed to join a guild to collectively bargain on their behalf. Madam Speaker, no one wants to shut ``American Idol'' down. All I am asking, all the American people are demanding, is that those talented Americans who create content for these vastly profitable enterprises be paid fairly with industry-standard benefits and in accordance with federal and state laws. We are asking that one of the country's most popular and profitable shows treats its employees with the respect and dignity they deserve. You can bet that the on-air personalities who read the words are paid dearly. It's time that Fremantle allow those who put the words in their mouths simply be allowed to be represented at the bargaining table.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Mr. Speaker, despite what Senator McCain's top economic adviser believes, Americans are not whining when they express concern about today's economy. With two oil men in the White House, gas prices have nearly tripled and Big Oil's profits have skyrocketed. The President's action to lift the offshore drilling ban does nothing to lower gas prices now. In fact, his own Energy Information Administration says it will not affect gas prices for nearly 20 years, and even then it will only drop the cost of a gallon of gas by two pennies. Mr. Speaker, Americans are hurting now and cannot wait 20 years. That's why House Democrats continue to urge the President to release our oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, an action that is not new nor untested and has proven to reduce prices at the pump immediately. Additionally, I would like us to consider setting a national speed limit at 60 miles per hour. That would reduce the cost of gas by 30 cents a gallon.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I rise this evening in celebration of a true humanitarian and community leader, Albert Mario Teglia, who has served his community and our nation for well over half a century as a public employee, elected official and mentor. Albert Teglia has lived his entire life in San Mateo County. Born in Colma on June 27, 1931, as a teenager he moved to Daly City, a community he would serve with distinction as a Trustee of the Jefferson Union High School District, Daly City Councilman, and Mayor. During his long tenure in public office, Al was widely-respected as a hard worker, unabashed community booster and savvy coalition-builder. I had the privilege of working with Al on many issues, as well as the daunting challenge of opposing him on a handful of others. Whether sitting side- by-side or across the table, Al always earned my complete respect for his thoughtfulness and honesty. Upon his retirement after 38 years with the San Mateo Union High School District and 26 years in elected office, Al continued his service as Legislative Aide to San Mateo County Supervisor Mary Griffin. From there, at the sprightly age of 69, he became a family and children advocate for the San Mateo County Human Services Agency, where he has been instrumental in founding programs such as Jobs for You, which provides employment for young people; the Peddler Program, Children's Fund, and the Italian Catholic Federation's Gifts of Love, which gather donations of cash, household items, food and toys for local families in need; and the Uninsured Children's Dental Program, which finds dentists for children from underprivileged families. Madam Speaker, how a life this full allows any time for socializing, I can't fathom. But Albert Teglia, true to his Italian heritage, is a man of boundless energy and passion. This is evidenced by his membership in the Italian Catholic Federation, where he served as Grand President and in many other capacities since joining in 1948. It was at the ICF that he met the beautiful and vivacious Frances Foglia, a one- time Sacramento District President who, after decades of friendship, consented to marry the still-handsome Albert when both found themselves newly-single in their later years. On April 1st of this year, Albert and Frances, both 77 years young, were married. Albert joins Frances' large and boisterous family of two children, three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Of all the responsibilities and projects Al has taken on in his busy and productive life, none will be as rewarding, fulfilling (and exhausting) as becoming a new great-grandfather. But, Madam Speaker, those of us who know Al Teglia know that he will succeed in this new challenge as he has succeeded in every task he has undertaken. He will do it with grace, compassion, intellect and an undeniable charisma. The Foglia family is fortunate to have him join them, just as I am honored to have him as a constituent and proud to call Albert Teglia my friend.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I rise in heartfelt gratitude to Assistant Principal Toni Ann Secrest who is retiring after 38 passionate years of service to the students, faculty and parents of Mercy High School in Burlingame, California. Ms. Secrest arrived at Mercy in 1970, just two years after I graduated. While I had the best teachers a student could ask for, Toni Ann Secrest is one more reason why I wish I was just a little younger. Her energetic approach to teaching, her love of all things historical and her captivating and entertaining storytelling ability are legendary. Toni Ann's students, it is said, never graduate. She instills in them the love of critical thinking and intellectual examination that inspires them to continue along the path of lifelong learning. This didn't stop when she moved out of the classroom and into the counselor's chair. Seeing the mission of her new job as much more than advising on college and careers, Ms. Secrest offered real counsel. Students always left her office more inspired and infinitely more hopeful than they went in. As Assistant Principal, Toni Ann Secrest was without peer. She brought Mercy High School into the information age by revamping the curriculum to replace typing classes with computer science. She brought the faculty and administration up-to-date also, even if it meant dragging them against their will to learn and embrace new technologies. Toni Ann is adored by her former students. To a person, they remember her intellect, her kindness and her style. Toni Ann dresses like she lives. She sets an example. As one student recalled, ``Ms. Secrest always had it going on.'' To this day, she is the best-dressed person in any room. Madam Speaker, like you, Toni Ann Secrest is a pioneer. She was a member of the first co-ed graduating class of the University of San Francisco, where she got her degree in History. She also has a master's in Counseling from USF and has earned her Secondary Teaching Credential for Life and a Pupil Personnel Credential for Life. And what a life! Admired by all who work with her (especially me), appreciated by the thousands she has mentored, loved by her large extended family and appreciated by her community.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, when are we going to stop pulling the wool over the eyes of the American people? The proposed FISA law protects no one other than the administration and those within it who may use this new-found power to snoop and spy in areas where they have no business looking. We are giving broad new powers to political appointees who have repeatedly disregarded the Constitution and ignored the most basic rights of Americans to live their lives without Big Brother peeking his nose into their private matters. This FISA bill gives the federal government sweeping powers to gather wide swaths of information from foreign sources while providing little or no justification for the national security value of that information. The FISA Court set up to police the process isn't a court at all. Under this bill, the government can gather as much intelligence as it chooses for seven days prior to going to the court. Then, if the court says ``No'' to the request, the government can continue to gather intelligence for 60 days while they appeal. Any first year law student knows that is not how courts work. If this were a real court, the government would be required to abide by the decision of the court and seek the warrant prior to conducting surveillance. It is fundamentally untrue to say that Americans will not be placed under surveillance after this bill becomes law. The truth is, any American will subject their phone and e-mail conversations to the broad government surveillance web simply by calling a son or daughter studying abroad, sending an e-mail to a foreign relative, even calling an American company whose customer service center is located overseas. Once again, our government puts a feel-good name on something that doesn't live up to its billing. Calling the FISA rubber stamp panel a court is akin to the President's ``Clear Skies Initiative'' which relaxed pollution regulations or ``No Child Left Behind'' which instead of helping schools, punishes them if they have children who are, indeed, lagging behind. This bill sets out to reassure Americans that, because there are warrants and a ``court'', due process is taking place. But like the pseudo-court, FISA warrants aren't warrants at all. A warrant is permission by the court to look for a specific thing from a specific person or group for a specific reason. The FISA warrant is given after the fact and can be as broad as gathering all electronic communication coming into or out of a foreign country. Madam Speaker, America isn't simply `guided'' by our Constitution, it isn't a set of ``suggestions'' but rather, the law of the land. It is the existence of this great document and our unswerving loyalty to it that makes America the greatest nation in the history of our planet. We can't be sacrificing basic constitutional principles like the fourth amendment simply because it's an election year and we want to make it look like we're fighting terrorism. I join my colleagues in our unified fight to defeat the global terrorist movement. But we don't do that by sacrificing our hard-earned Constitutional rights and forgiving telephone companies who knowingly violate those rights. The bottom line is, this FISA bill permits the collection of Americans' emails and phone calls if they are communicating with someone outside of the U.S. This is especially true when it comes to emails, because the World Wide Web has no area codes, so it is impossible to tell where email communications originate from. The Government is under no obligation to seek a warrant in order to monitor an email account unless it knows the account belongs to an American. And once your email account is swept up in the system, it can be monitored. Regardless of the relevance of your personal information, once it is gathered by the government, it is never destroyed. One only has to recall the recent incident in the State Department where candidates' passport information was breached to know that this information isn't handled by robots, but people. And people can do any number of things with personal informations. Out of respect to the United States Constitution and the basic rights of Americans to live free of intrusive eavesdropping by their government, I strongly oppose HR 6034, the FISA Reauthorization Act.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my deep appreciation and gratitude for the exemplary service to the City of San Mateo by Arne Croce, who is retiring as City Manager after 18 exemplary years. Arne Croce has consistently impressed all who worked with him in his role as City Manager. During his tenure and through his efforts, San Mateo has continued to evolve and advance. In recent years, the city has added a new train station, state-of-the-art downtown movie theater, a fully-interactive new library, and will soon cut the ribbon on a true 21st century police station. Arne also oversees a program that provides scholarships to students pursuing studies in local government. His unceasing dedication to finding fresh, innovative ideas was a powerful force in keeping San Mateo solvent and thriving during economic hardships. Madam Speaker, Arne Croce has served not only his city, but all of California as the dean of city managers. In this role he has been a bulldog when fighting for cities and a stellar role model for anyone considering a career in municipal government. Arne is one of our best and brightest, a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, where he earned his MBA by attending night school. He worked for the Legislative Analyst in Sacramento, the Sacramento Area Council of Governments and the City of Visalia, where he held the positions of Solid Waste Manager, Director of Transportation and Deputy City Manager. In 1984, he became City Manager of Los Altos and in 1990, assumed the same job in San Mateo. All who know Arne regret that he is leaving, especially me, but local government's loss is the world's gain. His passion for service and commitment to helping people is not retiring. Arne wants to help teach developing countries the finer points of local government and developing citizen participation. He also plans to relocate to a village in Tanzania to work on restoring the local ecosystem with a reforestation project. Madam Speaker, it is this dedication, this drive to act and think both locally and globally, that has earned Arne Croce such widespread respect and admiration. He will be missed in San Mateo and throughout the 12th Congressional District. Even those who've never met Arne are forever in his debt.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 412, I was speaking with a constituent right off the floor and by the time I realized a second vote was called, I was too late to cast my vote in favor of this important legislation. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, 45 years ago today, President Kennedy signed a law to end what he called the ``unconscionable practice of paying female workers less wages than male workers for the same job.'' When President Kennedy signed the law, women earned 60 cents for every dollar earned by a man. In 2006, the woman's share is 77 cents. While we have made some progress in 45 years, it is scant at best. Since 1963 the ratio has narrowed by less than one-half cent per year. At this rate, my 13-year-old daughter will be close to retirement by the time President Kennedy's order is realized. That is why I am cosponsoring H.R. 1338, the Paycheck Fairness Act, which adds teeth to previous laws. Equal pay for equal work is as American as a principle can be. This is not about men versus women, but basic fairness. And its ramifications affect everyone. Paying women less hurts men who aren't hired because hiring a woman is cheaper. It hurts families by devaluing the work of women and mothers who are already paying out of pocket for child care so they can pursue a career. In short, it hurts all of America, and it must end right here, right now.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, this week, CORA--Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse--celebrates the thirtieth anniversary of comprehensive domestic violence support in San Mateo County. Three decades ago, a victim of domestic violence on the San Francisco peninsula had no resources outside of hospitals and the police. Then in 1978, La Casa de San Mateo opened its doors to become the county's first and only emergency shelter for domestic violence survivors and their children. La Casa later changed its name to the Center for Domestic Violence Prevention and in 2003, partnered with Sor Juana Ines, the first toll-free domestic violence hotline in the county, to become CORA. CORA's mission is to end domestic violence and abuse through intervention and prevention. The dedicated staff and volunteers respond to thousands of calls on the CORA hotline, and answer an equal number of requests for legal assistance each year. They serve more than 6,000 clients annually, providing legal, medical and mental health services, as well as counseling and safety in the county's only shelter for abuse victims and their children. This operation is overseen by the CORA governing board and a diverse staff of 35 who represent the vibrant cross-section of the county and region. Besides English and Spanish, CORA staff-members speak Tagalog, French, Mandarin, Italian, Korean, Hindi, and Farsi. Madam Speaker, domestic violence is a silent epidemic. Every nine seconds, a woman in our country is abused by someone she knows. Millions of children witness acts of violence involving one or more parents every year. And one in five female high school students reports being physically or sexually abused by a dating partner. Domestic violence impacts all of us. It is a significant drain on police and emergency resources and costs the national economy eight to ten billion dollars annually in medical bills, community support and lost wages and productivity. It is also a leading cause of homelessness and often leads to depression, substance abuse and--most troubling--an increased likelihood that victims and young witnesses will go on to become abusers themselves. Madam Speaker, thanks to increased public awareness, domestic abuse is emerging from the shadows of shame and ignorance. Still, there are far too many instances of cruel and dehumanizing behavior within what should be the security of the family home. Because of this, society will always need an organization like CORA. My sincere hope is that, someday, we will need them less.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my gratitude and admiration for Stephen J. Waterman on the occasion of his retirement as Superintendent of schools of Brisbane and Bayshore School Districts. Stephen Waterman is a special individual, an inspired educator and a passionate advocate for schoolchildren. For fifteen years, he has served as Superintendent of the Brisbane School District, a small, underfunded agency nestled in a bucolic hamlet overlooking San Francisco Bay. His work there to educate children, encourage teachers and motivate parents at a time of dwindling state resources and increased federal mandates was so well-received, that in 2002, neighboring Bayshore School District asked him to do the same for their students. While in the state legislature, I often met with school superintendents from my district. Even in a room surrounded by his peers, brilliant and committed educators who work against great odds to do the most important job in their communities, Steve Waterman stood out. His facile mind effortlessly navigated complex issues and his unassuming grace and quiet power built confidence in those around him. Madam Speaker, Superintendent Waterman is retiring much too soon. I understand that he wants to spend more time with his delightful and engaging wife, Paulette, his sons, Kailin and Christian, and grandson, Granite. If I could, I would introduce legislation to force Stephen to keep working--maybe even require him to take on a few more school districts. But, alas, I can't do that. Instead, I can only wish him luck in his future endeavors and trust that his replacements can build on Stephen's achievements. After growing up in Rochester, New York, Stephen received his Bachelor of Arts from Le Moyne University, a Master of Science from Southern Illinois, a Doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis and a Law Degree from the University of San Francisco. Throughout this time, he worked in virtually every job available in public education, from classroom teacher to program supervisor and eventually, superintendent. Madam Speaker, every year, Congress debates and passes legislation to improve or enhance some aspect of public education. We do that because, unfortunately, it isn't possible to create more Stephen Watermans. Throughout his life, Superintendent Waterman has empowered students with a love of learning. A man of his talents would excel in any field. But the world is a better place because he chose to devote his considerable intelligence, charm and energy to education. For this, thousands of past and present students, their fortunate parents and the entire 12th Congressional District are eternally grateful.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I rise this evening to praise and thank the dynamic, effervescent and talented Lee Foster for her service to the community and congratulate her on winning Hillbarn Theater's highest honor, the Bravo! Award. Madam Speaker, there are few areas of this country with a finer performing arts tradition than the San Francisco Bay Area. With top- notch professional theaters, operas, symphonies and dance companies, not to mention first-rate venues for live music and comedy, Northern Californians have a phenomenal choice for live entertainment. In this competitive, excellence-driven market, it is remarkable that a community organization like Foster City's Hillbarn Theater can not only survive, but thrive. Much of the credit for this is attributable to Lee Foster. Just ten years ago, Hillbarn was in dire straits. Faced with a debt in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, a dwindling audience and a roof the fire chief said wouldn't support his crew in the event of a fire, this proud institution, that entertained my family and thousands of others for more than a generation, was about to close its doors. When Lee took the helm as Executive Director, she set four goals: Hire a top notch Artistic Director, create new and strengthen existing relationships with local communities, build a sound financial foundation and most urgently, repair the roof. With the help of volunteers and a committed Board of Directors, Lee accomplished her goals. And in the process, Madam Speaker, she made the 12th Congressional District of California even more inviting than it was when she started. On top of her remarkable management and fundraising skills, Lee is also a many-faceted and inspiring performer. I have been fortunate to be in her audience for numerous productions and Lee has never been short of amazing. Lee's hard and selfless work has led to hundreds of opportunities for local actors, singers, dancers, set constructors, lighting and sound techs, and all the other volunteers who make community theater possible. Without Lee Foster, my blessed, beautiful and entertaining district would be a little less beautiful and entertaining.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, today marks the birthday of a civil rights icon and hero to millions of men and women, not just in San Francisco where he made his strongest impact, but all across the globe. Seventy-eight years ago, Harvey Milk was born in New York. After college at Albany State College, he enlisted in the United States Navy, but was dishonorably discharged when authorities discovered that he was gay. In 1970, Harvey landed in San Francisco, the city that would become his home and legacy. He opened a business there and began attending the Board of Supervisors meetings, using his bigger-than-life persona to introduce the public and San Francisco's elected officials to the plights of gays and lesbians. Today, there are many such voices, but Harvey Milk was a trailblazer. When he appeared on the scene, even in San Francisco, arguably the most tolerant city in our Nation, it wasn't safe or accepted to be outspoken on issues facing lesbians and gays. Even politicians within the community were silent, both about their lives and the issues that affected them. But Harvey wasn't one to be quieted or closeted. He told anyone who would listen--and more importantly, forced those who wouldn't--about the injustices, inequities and outright discrimination suffered by gays and lesbians. His voice resonated for anyone labeled ``different'' or outside the mainstream. In 1977, after three unsuccessful attempts for elected office, Harvey Milk won a hard fought race and was elected to the San Francisco County Board of Supervisors. Notably, he became the first openly-gay elected official in the United States. Tragically, Harvey's tenure in office was cut short. On November 27, 1978, just weeks after working with former Governor Ronald Reagan to defeat the Briggs Initiative that would have banned gays and lesbians from teaching in public schools, Supervisor Harvey Milk was assassinated in San Francisco City Hall, along with Mayor George Moscone, by former Supervisor Dan White. The episode and ensuing trial was one of San Francisco's darkest times. Harvey Milk's assassination, like that of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, provided a foundation upon which people of divergent views could come together. Today, gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered people have more than just one seat at the table and are represented by a wide range of officeholders at every level of government. If Harvey Milk were alive today, I believe he would be as proud of his legacy as we are of him. I also believe he would still be fighting for the dispossessed and voiceless everywhere. Madam Speaker, today the City of San Francisco unveils the Harvey Milk City Hall Memorial. I rise to commend the city for honoring this civil rights pioneer, devoted community leader, inspiration to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community, and truly great American.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 338, I was meeting with Emergency Room Physicians from California on H.R. 882, Access to Emergency Medical Services Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' Stated against:

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I come to the floor today to honor and praise one of America's truly fine teachers, James (Jimmy) Ikeda. Mr. Ikeda teaches Biotechnology at San Mateo High School and today was awarded one of six Amgen Awards for Science Teaching Excellence. Mr. Ikeda has dedicated himself to his students and has led the San Mateo Biotechnology Career Pathway since 2003. Under his leadership, the program has become one of the finest in the Nation. Educators from across the country visit Jimmy's program with hopes of duplicating his success in their communities. Jimmy Ikeda has a wonderful rapport with students, teachers and parents alike. His enthusiasm for science is infectious and his patience with the young people in his program inspires confidence and encourages them to take on further academic challenges. The Amgen Award comes with a $5000 grant for Mr. Ikeda, plus an additional $5000 for San Mateo High School to use for the expansion of their science program, additional science resources, or professional development of science teachers. Madam Speaker, our country has a tremendous need for more scientists. Teachers like Jimmy Ikeda are a valuable national resource. Our Nation owes him a debt of gratitude and our highest hopes for his continued success.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I stand before you this evening to discuss the plight of some 20,000 brave men who defended our country during World War II but have been neglected in their old age. I refer to the Filipino nationals who fought with American soldiers as part of the Recognized Guerilla Forces. Madam Speaker, the sacrifice and suffering of these brave warriors has been well-documented. Without their support, some say, American forces likely would have been outmanned and outgunned at many of the decisive battles in the Pacific Theater during World War II. But because of an unfair designation set into law, our government treats one class of Filipino veteran differently than another. In the days and months following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, more than 250,000 Filipino nationals swore allegiance to the United States of America with the same oath each of us took when we became Members of this body. They fought side-by-side with our fathers and grandfathers and suffered casualties at a far higher rate than native- born American forces. In return, the Filipino soldiers were promised the same benefits and support as their American counterparts. In fact, in October of 1945, Gen. Omar Bradley, then Administrator of the Veterans Administration, reaffirmed that they would be treated like any other veterans. But The Rescission Acts of 1946 changed that. As happens all too often in the halls of power, short-sighted political expediency won out over fairness and common decency. Faced with massive war debts, Congress excluded a class of veteran that had no voice and no vote. Since then, piecemeal attempts have been made to rectify the inequities of The Rescission Acts, but time is clearly working against us. Today, the few Filipino veterans who are still living are in their eighties. Their number is estimated to be at or around 20,000, with 7,000 living in the United States. Many of those veterans reside in my district, which boasts the largest number of Filipino Americans in the nation. Madam Speaker, I am not asking for special consideration. I am not seeking an earmark or a windfall or a handout. I am simply asking that we, as a nation, honor the promise we made to the brave souls who put their very lives on the line for the sake of America and all it stands for. Let us show our gratitude to the few remaining Filipino World War II veterans and restore the benefits due them and promised to them when they, like all of us here, raised their right hands and swore: I do solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the United States of America.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Mr. Speaker, Congress today is making an important first step toward protecting Americans from discrimination based on their genetic information. I support this bill and the premise that a predisposition to disease should never be a factor in access to employment or insurance coverage. However, this is only a first step. I am compelled to remind this House, and all Americans, that this bill does not guarantee genetic information will not be abused by employers or insurers. The passage of this legislation should not give consumers a false sense of security. Until access to health care is available regardless of current or future health conditions, the potential for genetic discrimination will remain. And until we completely limit access to employee health records, there will be the potential for discrimination by employers. Mr. Speaker, passage of the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act today is a strong step toward protecting sensitive genetic information, but no journey is completed in just one step. I look forward to addressing the underlying problems not fixed by this bill so we can truly protect Americans' privacy and guard against discrimination based on preexisting health conditions.

Ms. SPEIER

Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, today many of the 40,000 members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union--the ILWU--are expressing their outrage at the Administration's war policies and their effect on working families by staging a walkout at ports and other facilities along the West Coast. I stand in solidarity with these workers whom, like the truckers who mobilized in Washington earlier this week and many other working and middle-class Americans, have simply had enough of the diet of mistruths and deceptions that our President continues to feed the American public. Madam Speaker, Americans are saying enough is enough. We spend billions every week in Iraq while the government there banks its oil profits and refuses to pitch in to help fund the necessary projects required to get the Iraqi people back on their feet. Madam Speaker, my tenure in this house is short, but my interest in the institution has been a life-long pursuit. May I say that you have done more to bring peace to our nation and get our troops back home to their families than any other war-time Speaker in our history. I am proud to stand by you and the ILWU as we all do our part to bring an end to this war. It is time to bring our men and women home to their families and communities. It is time for all Americans, like the Longshore and Warehouse workers, to stand up and tell the President ``Enough is enough. End this war before your term is over. Eight tragic years for our country is bad enough, don't saddle future generations with a prolonged commitment in a country we never should have gone into in the first place.''