National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. RES. 202

Designating June 27, 2011, as `National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day'.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

May 26, 2011

Mr. CONRAD (for himself, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. ROCKEFELLER, Mr. DURBIN, Ms. SNOWE, Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. WARNER, Mr. CASEY, Mr. LEAHY, Mr. CARDIN, Ms. STABENOW, Mrs. FEINSTEIN, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. ROBERTS, Mr. ISAKSON, Mr. SANDERS, Mr. COONS, Mr. BROWN of Massachusetts, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, and Mr. HOEVEN) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

June 21 (legislative day, June 16), 2011

Committee discharged; considered, amended, and agreed to

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RESOLUTION

Designating June 27, 2011, as `National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day'.

Whereas the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces, who proudly serve the United States, risk their lives to protect the freedom of the United States and deserve the investment of every reasonable resource to ensure their lasting physical, mental, and emotional well-being;

Whereas 2.4 percent of servicemembers returning from deployment to Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom are clinically diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (referred to in this preamble as `PTSD') and up to 17 percent of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans exposed to sustained ground combat report PTSD symptoms;

Whereas up to 10 percent of Operation Desert Storm veterans, 30 percent of Vietnam veterans, and 8 percent of the general population of the United States suffer or have suffered from PTSD;

Whereas the Department of Veterans Affairs reports that more than 438,000 veterans were treated for PTSD in 2010 alone;

Whereas many cases of PTSD remain unreported, undiagnosed, and untreated due to a lack of awareness about PTSD and the persistent stigma associated with mental health issues;

Whereas PTSD significantly increases the risk of depression, suicide, and drug- and alcohol-related disorders and deaths, especially if left untreated;

Whereas the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs have made significant advances in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD and the symptoms of PTSD, but many challenges remain; and

Whereas the establishment of a National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day will raise public awareness about issues related to PTSD and help ensure that those suffering from the invisible wounds of war receive proper treatment: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates June 27, 2011, as `National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day';

(2) supports the efforts of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Defense to educate servicemembers, veterans, the families of servicemembers and veterans, and the public about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder; and

(3) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit a copy of this resolution to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Defense.

National Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. RES. 215

Designating the month of June 2011 as `National Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month'.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

June 23, 2011

Ms. MIKULSKI (for herself and Ms. MURKOWSKI) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to

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RESOLUTION

Designating the month of June 2011 as `National Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month'.

Whereas congenital Cytomegalovirus (referred to in this preamble as `CMV') is the most common congenital infection in the United States with 1 in 150 children born with congenital CMV;

Whereas congenital CMV is the most common cause of birth defects and childhood disabilities in the United States;

Whereas congenital CMV is preventable with behavioral interventions such as practicing frequent hand washing with soap and water after contact with diapers or oral secretions, not kissing young children on the mouth, and not sharing food, towels, or utensils with young children;

Whereas CMV is found in bodily fluids, including urine, saliva, blood, mucus, and tears;

Whereas congenital CMV can be diagnosed if the virus is found in urine, saliva, blood, or other body tissues of an infant during the first week after birth;

Whereas CMV infection is more common than the combined metabolic or endocrine disorders currently in the United States core newborn screening panel;

Whereas most people are not aware of their CMV infection status, with pregnant women being 1 of the highest risk groups;

Whereas the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that OB/GYNs counsel women on basic prevention measures to guard against CMV infection;

Whereas in 1999, the Institute of Medicine stated that development of a CMV vaccine was the highest priority for new vaccines;

Whereas the incidence of children born with congenital CMV can be greatly reduced with public education and awareness; and

Whereas a comprehensive understanding of CMV provides opportunities to improve the health and well-being of our children: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates the month of June 2011 as `National Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month' in order to raise awareness of the dangers of Cytomegalovirus (`CMV') and reduce the occurrence of congenital CMV infection; and

(2) recommends that more effort be taken to counsel women of childbearing age of the effect this virus can have on their children.

American Eagle Day

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. RES. 206

Designating June 20, 2011, as `American Eagle Day', and celebrating the recovery and restoration of the bald eagle, the national symbol of the United States.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

June 8, 2011

Mr. ALEXANDER (for himself, Mr. INOUYE, Mr. HOEVEN, Mrs. FEINSTEIN, Mr. ROBERTS, Ms. LANDRIEU, Mr. BROWN of Massachusetts, Mrs. BOXER, and Mr. CORKER) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to

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RESOLUTION

Designating June 20, 2011, as `American Eagle Day', and celebrating the recovery and restoration of the bald eagle, the national symbol of the United States.

Whereas on June 20, 1782, the bald eagle was officially designated as the national emblem of the United States by the founding fathers at the Second Continental Congress;

Whereas the bald eagle is the central image of the Great Seal of the United States;

Whereas the image of the bald eagle is displayed in the official seal of many branches and departments of the Federal Government, including--

(1) the Office of the President;

(2) the Office of the Vice President;

(3) Congress;

(4) the Supreme Court;

(5) the Department of the Treasury;

(6) the Department of Defense;

(7) the Department of Justice;

(8) the Department of State;

(9) the Department of Commerce;

(10) the Department of Homeland Security;

(11) the Department of Veterans Affairs;

(12) the Department of Labor;

(13) the Department of Health and Human Services;

(14) the Department of Energy;

(15) the Department of Housing and Urban Development;

(16) the Central Intelligence Agency; and

(17) the Postal Service;

Whereas the bald eagle is an inspiring symbol of--

(1) the spirit of freedom; and

(2) the democracy of the United States;

Whereas, since the founding of the Nation, the image, meaning, and symbolism of the bald eagle have played a significant role in the art, music, history, commerce, literature, architecture, and culture of the United States;

Whereas the bald eagle is prominently featured on the stamps, currency, and coinage of the United States;

Whereas the habitat of bald eagles exists only in North America;

Whereas, by 1963, the population of bald eagles that nested in the lower 48 States had declined to approximately 417 nesting pairs;

Whereas, due to the dramatic decline in the population of bald eagles in the lower 48 States, the Secretary of the Interior listed the bald eagle as an endangered species on the list of endangered species published under section 4(c)(1) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1533(c)(1));

Whereas caring and concerned individuals from the Federal, State, and private sectors banded together to save, and help ensure the recovery and protection of, bald eagles;

Whereas, on July 20, 1969, the first manned lunar landing occurred in the Apollo 11 Lunar Excursion Module, which was named `Eagle';

Whereas the `Eagle' played an integral role in achieving the goal of the United States of landing a man on the Moon and returning that man safely to Earth;

Whereas, in 1995, as a result of the efforts of those caring and concerned individuals, the Secretary of the Interior listed the bald eagle as a threatened species on the list of threatened species published under section 4(c)(1) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1533(c)(1));

Whereas, by 2007, the population of bald eagles that nested in the lower 48 States had increased to approximately 10,000 nesting pairs, an increase of approximately 2,500 percent from the preceding 40 years;

Whereas, in 2007, the population of bald eagles that nested in the State of Alaska was approximately 50,000 to 70,000;

Whereas, on June 28, 2007, the Secretary of the Interior removed the bald eagle from the list of threatened species published under section 4(c)(1) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1533(c)(1));

Whereas bald eagles remain protected in accordance with--

(1) the Act of June 8, 1940 (16 U.S.C. 668 et seq.) (commonly known as the `Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1940'); and

(2) the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.);

Whereas, on January 15, 2008, the Secretary of the Treasury issued 3 limited edition bald eagle commemorative coins under the American Bald Eagle Recovery and National Emblem Commemorative Coin Act (Public Law 108-486; 118 Stat. 3934);

Whereas the sale of the limited edition bald eagle commemorative coins issued by the Secretary of the Treasury has raised approximately $7,800,000 for the nonprofit American Eagle Foundation of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to support efforts to protect the bald eagle;

Whereas, if not for the vigilant conservation efforts of concerned Americans and the enactment of strict environmental protection laws (including regulations) the bald eagle would probably be extinct;

Whereas the American Eagle Foundation has brought substantial public attention to the cause of the protection and care of the bald eagle nationally;

Whereas November 4, 2010, marked the 25th anniversary of the American Eagle Foundation;

Whereas the dramatic recovery of the population of bald eagles--

(1) is an endangered species success story; and

(2) an inspirational example for other wildlife and natural resource conservation efforts around the world;

Whereas the initial recovery of the population of bald eagles was accomplished by the concerted efforts of numerous government agencies, corporations, organizations, and individuals; and

Whereas the continuation of recovery, management, and public awareness programs for bald eagles will be necessary to ensure--

(1) the continued progress of the recovery of bald eagles; and

(2) that the population and habitat of bald eagles will remain healthy and secure for future generations: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates June 20, 2011, as `American Eagle Day';

(2) applauds the issuance of bald eagle commemorative coins by the Secretary of the Treasury as a means by which to generate critical funds for the protection of bald eagles; and

(3) encourages--

(A) educational entities, organizations, businesses, conservation groups, and government agencies with a shared interest in conserving endangered species to collaborate and develop educational tools for use in the public schools of the United States; and

(B) the people of the United States to observe American Eagle Day with appropriate ceremonies and other activities.

Juneteenth 2011

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Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I rise today in celebration of the 146th anniversary of Juneteenth, the oldest continually celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. This significant historical event is appropriately observed as an important part of American history. Though the Emancipation Proclamation officially took effect on January 1, 1863, many slaves did not find freedom until Union troops were able to reach the Southern States to enforce the order. Lincoln's order initially directed the Confederate States to end slavery, but allowed the States that remained in the Union during the Civil War to maintain the peculiar institution of slavery. It wasn't until December of 1865 that the 13th amendment marked the complete abolition of slavery in this country. Juneteenth was an important first step toward inclusion in the greater American dream.

It is a time of reflection, healing and an opportunity for our country to have meaningful discussions about our legacy of slavery and inequality and our ambitions for a more perfect Union.

With the breadth of technology we have today, it is difficult for many to conceive of a time where news traveled over days, months and even years depending on where the communication began and ended. The real-time dissemination of information via mobile phones, BlackBerries and Skype video chat makes it easy to forget a time when things moved at a much slower pace. In the 1860s horses were widely used for carrying mail, although parts of the country were building out railroads--with locomotives powered by steam traveling approximately 15 miles per hour.

On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, TX, to deliver freedom to slaves still held in bondage. Because of the amorphous period between the Emancipation Proclamation and the official implementation of freedom for America's slaves, Juneteenth is celebrated not only on June 19, but the entire month of June, to represent the slow spread of freedom during the war. The culminating reading of General Order No. 3 on June 19 sparked spontaneous and jubilant celebration, and the spirit of that celebration has thrived in every African-American community from that day forward.

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While Juneteenth represents an import phase in our history, it does not represent the end of discrimination and prejudice. African Americans would continue to struggle to establish equality as citizens, in education, professional careers and socioeconomic status because of Jim Crow laws and other forms of insidious discrimination.

In marking this occasion, it is appropriate to reflect on what was responsible for its creation. Millions of Africans, kidnapped by traders or sold into bondage by warring African kings, were ripped from their ancestral homes and carried across the Atlantic Ocean under hellish conditions known as the Middle Passage. While estimates vary, it is likely that as many as 2.5 million Africans died before ever reaching the shores of the ``New World.''

No comfort found them upon their arrival, as they were treated as chattel and sold to merchants and farmers. Their daily lives included intense, back-breaking physical labor for long hours in poor conditions, with no hope of attaining freedom or economic advancement. Maryland was complicit in this bondage, and at one point in the late 16th century, slaves made up approximately a third of the State's population.

Maryland, however, helped to lead the abolitionist movement as well. The underground railroad, vital to the freedom of many slaves, ran through Maryland's Eastern Shore and Chesapeake Bay. Its operation relied on the kindness and secrecy of a vast network of often anonymous citizens, many who lived in Maryland, all equally dedicated to ferrying fleeing slaves to freedom in New York, Massachusetts, and Canada.

Indeed, determined slaves from Maryland would leave an indelible mark on our national landscape. Harriet Tubman, a slave from Dorchester County, MD, went on to guide her family as well as 300 other slaves over 19 trips into the South out of slavery and into the North. During her clandestine daring, she never lost a single ``passenger.''

Frederick Douglass, born in Talbot County, escaped northwards at age 20 and began a long life of fiercely advocating for racial equality not only in the United States but abroad as well. He established the hallmark arguments that abolitionists would echo for years to come, until Emancipation was finally proclaimed.

Emancipation was not the end of the struggle. Explicit laws and implicit associations would continue to create and sustain dire inequalities in the African-American community. Maryland passed 15 Jim Crow laws between 1870 and 1957, laws that would meaningfully segregate almost every area of public life, and would contribute to the man who would later argue the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case, Thurgood Marshall, being denied admission to the University of Maryland Law School. Marshall would go on to become the first Black Supreme Court Justice, and would help to safeguard the rights and freedoms of all Americans, regardless of race.

This Juneteenth, we must recommit ourselves to fighting racial disparity and prejudice. As we look back at the legacy of Juneteenth, and how the slow spread of the news of freedom brought forward a new era in our country's history, we must recommit ourselves to the hard work of ensuring that equal representation, equal opportunity, and equal justice are spread everywhere as well. Though the progress and spread may be slow, it will reach every American if we continue to vigilantly demand equality to access to health care, equal treatment by financial institutions, equal educational opportunities, and adherence to the words of our forefathers that ``all men are created equal.''

We must continue to eliminate inequality so we can truly honor the spirit of Juneteenth.

(Senate - June 16, 2011)

Father's Day - Recognizing the Immeasurable Contributions of Fathers

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

H. RES. 315

Recognizing the immeasurable contributions of fathers in the healthy development of children, supporting responsible fatherhood, and encouraging greater involvement of fathers in the lives of their children, especially on Father's Day.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

June 16, 2011

Mr. PITTS (for himself, Mr. MCINTYRE, Mrs. SCHMIDT, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, Mr. BERG, Mr. PEARCE, Mr. STUTZMAN, Mr. HUELSKAMP, Mr. FLEISCHMANN, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. WEBSTER, Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mr. FLEMING, Mr. BUCSHON, Mr. GINGREY of Georgia, Mr. ROONEY, Mr. HARRIS, Mr. SOUTHERLAND, Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio, Mr. PENCE, Mr. SCALISE, Mrs. BLACKBURN, Mr. FLORES, Mr. JORDAN, Mr. JONES, Mr. HOLDEN, Mr. GARRETT, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. POE of Texas, Ms. RICHARDSON, Mrs. CAPITO, Mr. NEUGEBAUER, Mr. FORTENBERRY, Mr. GOHMERT, Mr. WOLF, and Mr. CALVERT) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce

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RESOLUTION

Recognizing the immeasurable contributions of fathers in the healthy development of children, supporting responsible fatherhood, and encouraging greater involvement of fathers in the lives of their children, especially on Father's Day.

Whereas fathers factor significantly in the lives of children;

Whereas fathers play an important role in teaching their children life lessons and preparing them to succeed in school and in life;

Whereas children with involved fathers are more likely to do well in school, have a better sense of well-being, and have fewer behavioral problems;

Whereas supportive fathers promote the positive physical, social, emotional, moral, and mental development of children;

Whereas promoting responsible fatherhood can help increase the chances that children will grow up with two caring parents;

Whereas, when fathers are actively involved in the upbringing of children, the children demonstrate greater self-control and a greater ability to take initiative;

Whereas responsible fatherhood can help reduce child poverty;

Whereas responsible fatherhood strengthens families and communities; and

Whereas Father's Day is the third Sunday in June: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives--

(1) commends the millions of fathers who serve as a wonderful, caring parent for their children;

(2) calls on fathers across the United States to use Father's Day to reconnect and rededicate themselves to their children's lives, to spend Father's Day with their children, and to express their love and support for their children;

(3) urges men to understand the level of responsibility fathering a child requires, especially in the encouragement of the mental, moral, social, academic, emotional, physical, and spiritual development of children; and

(4) encourages active involvement of fathers in the rearing and development of their children, including the devotion of time, energy, and resources.

Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Week

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. RES. 205

Designating the period beginning on June 19, 2011, and ending on June 25, 2011, as `Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Week', and raising awareness and understanding of polycystic kidney disease and the impact such disease has on patients.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

June 8, 2011

Mr. KOHL (for himself and Mr. HATCH) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to

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RESOLUTION

Designating the period beginning on June 19, 2011, and ending on June 25, 2011, as `Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Week', and raising awareness and understanding of polycystic kidney disease and the impact such disease has on patients.

Whereas polycystic kidney disease, known as `PKD', is one of the world's most prevalent life-threatening genetic diseases, affecting an estimated 600,000 people in the United States, including newborns, children, and adults regardless of sex, age, race, geography, income or ethnicity;

Whereas there are 2 forms of polycystic kidney disease, autosomal dominant (ADPKD), affecting 1 in 500 people worldwide, and autosomal recessive (ARPKD), a rare form, affecting 1 in 20,000 live births and frequently leading to early death;

Whereas polycystic kidney disease causes multiple cysts to form on both kidneys (ranging in size from a pinhead to a grapefruit), leading to an increase in kidney size and weight;

Whereas polycystic kidney disease is a systemic disease that causes damage to the kidneys and the cardiovascular, endocrine, hepatic, and gastrointestinal systems;

Whereas patients with polycystic kidney disease often experience no symptoms early in the disease, and many patients do not realize they have polycystic kidney disease until other organs are affected;

Whereas symptoms of polycystic kidney disease may include high blood pressure, chronic pain in the back, sides or abdomen, blood in the urine, urinary tract infection, heart disease, and kidney stones;

Whereas polycystic kidney disease is the number one genetic cause of kidney failure in the United States;

Whereas more than half of polycystic kidney disease patients will reach kidney failure and require dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive, thus placing an extra strain on dialysis and kidney transplantation resources;

Whereas there is no treatment or cure for polycystic kidney disease; and

Whereas there are thousands of volunteers nationwide dedicated to expanding essential research, fostering public awareness and understanding, educating patients and their families about polycystic kidney disease to improve treatment and care, providing appropriate moral support, and encouraging people to become organ donors: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates the period beginning on June 19, 2011, and ending on June 25, 2011, as `Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Week';

(2) supports the goals and ideals of Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Week, to raise public awareness and understanding of polycystic kidney disease;

(3) recognizes the need for additional research to find treatments and a cure for polycystic kidney disease; and

(4) encourages the people of the United States and interested groups to support Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Week through appropriate ceremonies and activities, to promote public awareness of polycystic kidney disease, and to foster understanding of the impact of such disease on patients and their families.

Greater Washington Soap Box Derby

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Mr. DENHAM. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure be discharged from further consideration of House Concurrent Resolution 16 and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

The Clerk read the title of the concurrent resolution.

The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from California?

There was no objection.

The text of the concurrent resolution is as follows:

H. Con. Res. 16

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring),

SECTION 1. USE OF CAPITOL GROUNDS FOR SOAP BOX DERBY RACES.

(a) In General.--The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby Association (in this resolution referred to as the ``sponsor'') shall be permitted to sponsor a public event, soap box derby races (in this resolution referred to as the ``event''), on the Capitol Grounds.

(b) Date of Event.--The event shall be held on June 18, 2011, or on such other date

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as the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate jointly designate.

SEC. 2. TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

(a) In General.--Under conditions to be prescribed by the Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police Board, the event shall be--

(1) free of admission charge and open to the public; and

(2) arranged not to interfere with the needs of Congress.

(b) Expenses and Liabilities.--The sponsor shall assume full responsibility for all expenses and liabilities incident to all activities associated with the event.

SEC. 3. EVENT PREPARATIONS.

Subject to the approval of the Architect of the Capitol, the sponsor is authorized to erect upon the Capitol Grounds such stage, sound amplification devices, and other related structures and equipment as may be required for the event.

SEC. 4. ADDITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS.

The Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police Board are authorized to make such additional arrangements as may be required to carry out the event.

SEC. 5. ENFORCEMENT OF RESTRICTIONS.

The Capitol Police Board shall provide for enforcement of the restrictions contained in section 5104(c) of title 40, United States Code, concerning sales, advertisements, displays, and solicitations on the Capitol Grounds, as well as other restrictions applicable to the Capitol Grounds, with respect to the event.

The concurrent resolution was agreed to.

A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.

(House of Representatives - May 11, 2011)

33,640 Days: Honorable Graham P. Purcell, Jr.

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The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Thornberry) for 5 minutes.

Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform the House that one of our former colleagues, the Honorable Graham P. Purcell, Jr., has passed away at the age of 92.

Graham Purcell was a larger-than-life figure who led a remarkable life of service. Whether it was as a soldier in World War II, a State judge, or a U.S. Congressman, he served with a strength of character and with a love of country that has provided an example and an inspiration for many people, including me. A man of deep faith, Graham possessed a generosity of spirit that extended to all aspects of his life. He was a member of the Greatest Generation that saved the world from totalitarianism and then came home to build the most prosperous nation the world has ever known. But Graham Purcell was also an individual who would stand out in any generation, rising from humble roots to help make history.

He was born in Archer County, Texas, on May 5, 1919. After high school, he enrolled in Texas A&M, but the war came, and shortly after Pearl Harbor he entered the Army, serving in Tunisia and in Italy, and earning, among other awards, the Silver Star. Even after he was discharged, he continued to serve in the Army Reserves for a number of years. When he returned from the war, he finished his degree at Texas A&M and then Baylor Law School. After practicing law for a few years, he was appointed judge for the 89th district court in Texas, and served from 1955 until 1962, when he resigned in order to run for Congress in a special election.

Serving in the House from January 1962 until January 1973, Congressman Purcell focused primarily on his work on the Agriculture Committee, serving as chairman of the Livestock Subcommittee. He also played a key role in the Congressional Prayer Breakfast, and served the people of North Texas with integrity and distinction for 11 years. After Congress, Graham practiced law and helped found a large law firm and then served as a visiting district judge in Texas. But in whatever capacity--soldier, judge, Congressman, citizen--Graham was committed to serving others. He and his wife, Nancy, just recently received an award for helping children in crisis in the Wichita Falls community.

Graham Purcell led a rich, full, remarkable life. How many others can say that they shook hands with Winston Churchill while serving as a soldier in Italy; had Vice President Johnson come pick him and his family up at the airport just after he was elected in a special election to take them to the Johnson home so they could stay for a while until they had a chance to find a place of their own; or, on the last night of President Kennedy's life spent more than an hour with him on the plane from Houston to Forth Worth, swapping stories back and forth, and then was in the motorcade the next day when President Kennedy was assassinated; or, made numerous trips back and forth to Vietnam to thank our soldiers for what they were doing there, always stopping at a burn unit along the way to make sure that those severely wounded would know that their country appreciated what they were doing; or, at age 92, just a few weeks ago, offer important guidance and advice to one of his successors about the importance of putting the country first ahead of party, ahead of personal considerations.

Although Graham loved history--and he certainly loved to regale family and friends with some of his amazing stories--he was also a person who was always looking forward. He was consumed by what kind of country would be left to his children and his grandchildren. And it was this focus on the common good that dominated his life story and really defined him as a man and as a public servant. He and his wife, Nancy, have 8 surviving children as well as 25 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, all of whom benefited from his loving care and will miss him greatly.

Although Graham had many titles and roles in his life, he knew that first and foremost he was a child of God. It was from this perspective that he lived--and it is in this assurance that he now rests.

(House of Representatives - June 15, 2011)

National Men's Health Week

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. RES. 207

Supporting National Men's Health Week.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

June 13, 2011

Mr. CRAPO submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to

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RESOLUTION

Supporting National Men's Health Week.

Whereas despite advances in medical technology and research, men continue to live an average of more than 5 years less than women, and African-American men have the lowest life expectancy;

Whereas 9 of the 10 leading causes of death, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, affect men at a higher percentage than women;

Whereas between ages 45 and 54, men are over 1 1/2 times more likely than women to die of heart attacks;

Whereas men die of heart disease at 1 1/2 times the rate of women;

Whereas men die of cancer at almost 1 1/2 times the rate of women;

Whereas testicular cancer is 1 of the most common cancers in men aged 15 to 34, and, when detected early, has a 96 percent survival rate;

Whereas the number of cases of colon cancer among men will reach almost 49,470 in 2010, and nearly half of those men will die from the disease;

Whereas the likelihood that a man will develop prostate cancer is 1 in 6;

Whereas the number of men who developed prostate cancer in 2010 is expected to reach more than 217,730, and an estimated 32,050 of those men will die from the disease;

Whereas African-American men in the United States have the highest incidence in the world of prostate cancer;

Whereas significant numbers of health problems that affect men, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, colon cancer, and infertility, could be detected and treated if awareness among men of those problems was more pervasive;

Whereas more than 1/2 of the elderly widows now living in poverty were not poor before the death of their husbands, and by age 100, women outnumber men by a ratio of 4 to 1;

Whereas educating both the public and health care providers about the importance of early detection of male health problems will result in reducing rates of mortality for those diseases;

Whereas appropriate use of tests such as prostate specific antigen exams, blood pressure screens, and cholesterol screens, in conjunction with clinical examination and self-testing for problems such as testicular cancer, can result in the detection of many of those problems in their early stages and increase the survival rates to nearly 100 percent;

Whereas women are 2 times more likely than men to visit their doctor for annual examinations and preventive services;

Whereas men are less likely than women to visit their health center or physician for regular screening examinations of male-related problems for a variety of reasons;

Whereas Congress established National Men's Health Week in 1994 and urged men and their families to engage in appropriate health behaviors, and the resulting increased awareness has improved health-related education and helped prevent illness;

Whereas the Governors of all 50 States issue proclamations annually declaring Men's Health Week in their respective States;

Whereas since 1994, National Men's Health Week has been celebrated each June by dozens of States, cities, localities, public health departments, health care entities, churches, and community organizations throughout the United States that promote health awareness events focused on men and family;

Whereas the National Men's Health Week Internet website has been established at www.menshealthweek.org and features Governors' proclamations and National Men's Health Week events;

Whereas men who are educated about the value that preventive health can play in prolonging their lifespans and their roles as productive family members will be more likely to participate in health screenings;

Whereas men and their families are encouraged to increase their awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and medical checkups;

Whereas June 13 through 19, 2011, is National Men's Health Week; and

Whereas the purpose of National Men's Health Week is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) supports the annual National Men's Health Week; and

(2) calls upon the people of the United States and interested groups to observe National Men's Health Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

25 Years: Au Pair Program

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Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, I would like to bring to the attention of my colleagues a milestone that has been reached by an important cultural exchange program administered by the State Department. In 1986, the United States Information Agency, USIA, exercised its authority under the Fulbright/ Hays Act to establish the Au Pair Program on a pilot basis. This initiative was designed to provide opportunities for young Europeans to live with an American family, care for children, and pursue their educational interests.

One of the leaders in developing the concept of the Au Pair Program was the American Institute in Foreign Study, AIFS, located in my hometown of Stamford, CT. AIFS was one of the initial sponsors and worked in connection with the State Department to develop a comprehensive framework that supports American families and foreign nationals.

Over the past 25 years, the Au Pair Program has grown dramatically. Congress assisted in that growth by passing legislation, signed into law by President Clinton in 1997, which gave the Au Pair Program permanent authority under the J-1 visa program. This initiative has proven to be a remarkable success. In fact, over 180,000 au pairs from over 60 countries have lived with an American family for a year since the program's inception.

I can personally attest to the strength and value of the Au Pair Program. When our youngest daughter was growing up, Hadassah and I had several au pairs. They became part of our extended family and we still keep in touch with them today. The exchange experience enriched the lives of our au pair and my family through the sharing of culture, language, and religion.

I am pleased the U.S. State Department is holding a reception on June 9, 2011, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Au Pair Program. I commend all those who have made this program so successful, and in particular AIFS, for its vision and leadership.

(Senate - May 26, 2011)

World IPv6 Day - Test Flight

On 8 June, 2011, Google, Facebook, Yahoo!, Akamai and Limelight Networks will be amongst some of the major organisations that will offer their content over IPv6 for a 24-hour “test flight”. The goal of the Test Flight Day is to motivate organizations across the industry – Internet service providers, hardware makers, operating system vendors and web companies – to prepare their services for IPv6 to ensure a successful transition as IPv4 addresses run out.

Test Your Connection - Learn More

National Hunger Awareness Day

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Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to S. Res. 204, submitted earlier today.

The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will report.

The bill clerk read as follows:

A resolution (S. Res. 204) designating June 7, 2011, as ``National Hunger Awareness Day.''

There being no objection, the Senate proceeded to consider the resolution.

Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table, with no intervening action or debate, and that any statements be printed in the Record.

The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

The resolution (S. Res. 204) was agreed to.

The preamble was agreed to.

The resolution, with its preamble, reads as follows:

S. Res. 204

Whereas food insecurity and hunger are a fact of life for millions of individuals in the United States and can produce physical, mental, and social impairments;

Whereas recent data published by the Department of Agriculture show that approximately 50,200,000 individuals in the United States live in households experiencing hunger or food insecurity, and of that number, 33,000,000 are adults and 17,200,000 are children;

Whereas the Department of Agriculture data also show that households with children experience nearly twice the rate of food insecurity as those households without children;

Whereas 4.8 percent of all households in the United States (approximately 5,600,000 households) have accessed emergency food from a food pantry 1 or more times;

Whereas the report entitled ``Household Food Security in the United States, 2009'' and published by the Economic Research Service of the Department of Agriculture found that in 2009, the most recent year for which data exist--

(1) 14.7 percent of all households in the United States experienced food insecurity at some point during the year;

(2) 21.3 percent of all households with children in the United States experienced food insecurity at some point during the year; and

(3) 7.5 percent of all households with elderly individuals in the United States experienced food insecurity at some point during the year;

Whereas the problem of hunger and food insecurity can be found in rural, suburban, and urban portions of the United States, touching nearly every community of the United States;

Whereas, although substantial progress has been made in reducing the incidence of hunger and food insecurity in the United States, many Americans remain vulnerable to hunger and the negative effects of food insecurity;

Whereas the people of the United States have a long tradition of providing food assistance to hungry individuals through acts of private generosity and public support programs;

Whereas the Federal Government provides nutritional support to millions of individuals through numerous Federal food assistance programs, including--

(1) the supplemental nutrition assistance program established under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.);

(2) the child nutrition program established under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1751 et seq.);

(3) the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children established by section 17 of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1786);

(4) the emergency food assistance program established under the Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 (7 U.S.C. 7501 et seq.); and

(5) food donation programs;

Whereas there is a growing awareness of the important role that community-based organizations, institutions of faith, and charities play in assisting hungry and food-insecure individuals;

Whereas more than 50,000 local, community-based organizations rely on the support and efforts of more than 1,000,000 volunteers to provide food assistance and services to millions of vulnerable people; and

Whereas all people of the United States can participate in hunger relief efforts in their communities by--

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(1) donating food and money to hunger relief efforts;

(2) volunteering for hunger relief efforts; and

(3) supporting public policies aimed at reducing hunger: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) designates June 7, 2011, as ``National Hunger Awareness Day''; and

(2) calls on the people of the United States to observe National Hunger Awareness Day--

(A) with appropriate ceremonies, volunteer activities, and other support for local anti-hunger advocacy efforts and hunger relief charities, including food banks, food rescue organizations, food pantries, soup kitchens, and emergency shelters; and

(B) by continuing to support programs and public policies that reduce hunger and food insecurity in the United States.

(Senate - May 26, 2011)

Celebrate the Birthday of King Kamehameha

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Mr. AKAKA (for himself and Mr. INOUYE) submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was considered and agreed to:

S Con. Res. 16

Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring),

SECTION 1. USE OF EMANCIPATION HALL FOR EVENT TO CELEBRATE BIRTHDAY OF KING KAMEHAMEHA.

(a) Authorization.--Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center is authorized to be used for an event on June 5, 2011, to celebrate the birthday of King Kamehameha.

(b) Preparations.--Physical preparations for the conduct of the ceremony described in subsection (a) shall be carried out in accordance with such conditions as may be prescribed by the Architect of the Capitol.

(Senate - May 10, 2011)

100th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Field Artillery School

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Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the consideration of S. Res. 186, submitted earlier today.

The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will report the resolution by title.

The assistant legislative clerk read as follows:

A resolution (S. Res. 186) honoring the 100th anniversary of the United States Army Field Artillery School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

There being no objection, the Senate proceeded to consider the resolution.

Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, and the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table.

The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

The resolution (S. Res. 186) was agreed to.

The preamble was agreed to.

The resolution, with its preamble, reads as follows:

S. Res. 186

Whereas May 19, 2011, has been set aside as Field Artillery Day at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, the Home of the Field Artillery, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the School of Fire for the Field Artillery;

Whereas the School of Fire for the Field Artillery at Fort Sill was established on June 5, 1911, under the command of Captain Dan T. Moore, its first commandant;

Whereas the first class of 14 captains and 22 non-commissioned officers arrived on September 15, 1911, and the school continues to operate today as the world renowned United States Army Field Artillery School;

Whereas thousands of soldiers, Marines, and allied foreign military students have been trained for service in the Field Artillery at the United States Army Field Artillery School;

Whereas the Field Artillery lives up to its nickname, ``The King of Battle'', by continuing to be the most responsive all-weather fire support available to ground forces engaged in combat;

Whereas the modern Field Artillery branch employs, and the United States Army Field Artillery School trains troops on, a variety of powerful weapons, from the 105 millimeter M-199 howitzer, the 155 millimeter M-777 lightweight howitzer, and the 155 millimeter Paladin self-propelled howitzer to the Multiple Launch Rocket System;

Whereas the United States Army Field Artillery School has trained Field Artillery officers and non-commissioned officers to be the Army's experts on the employment of lethal and non-lethal effects that have contributed to our Nation's successes in Iraq and Afghanistan;

Whereas Field Artillery officers stand among our Nation's most revered civilian and military leaders, including founding fathers and Revolutionary War officers Alexander Hamilton and Henry Knox; Major General William J. Snow, the first Chief of the Field Artillery; Captain Harry S. Truman of the Missouri National Guard; Generals Jack Vessey, John Shalikashvili, and Maxwell Taylor, Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Generals William Westmoreland, Carl Vuono, and Dennis Reimer, Chiefs of Staff of the Army; General Tommy Franks, U.S. Central Command Commander who led coalition forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom; and General Raymond Odierno, U.S. Joint Forces Command Commander, who led Multi-National Forces-Iraq;

Whereas Field Artillerymen have fought with courage, strength, and fidelity in every United States conflict, and have been awarded more than 90 Medals of Honor, including, most recently, a Medal of Honor awarded posthumously to Sergeant First Class Jared Monti, a forward observer in Afghanistan who demonstrated conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as he called in artillery fire to save his outnumbered patrol and was mortally wounded as he attempted to save a fellow soldier; and

Whereas the people of the United States take great pride in the history of Fort Sill, the United States Army Field Artillery School, and the continuing critical role that the Field Artillery plays in the defense of the United States: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) honors the 100th anniversary of the United States Army Field Artillery School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; and

(2) honors the long line of men and women of the Army Field Artillery who have served and continue to serve in the protection of the national security of the United States.

(Senate - May 17, 2011)