35th Anniversary of Earth Day

United States Marks 35th Anniversary of Earth Day

As the United States marks Earth Day, there is much to celebrate. The environment of the United States is healthier today than it was 35 years ago when America celebrated the first Earth Day. Although complex environmental challenges remain, the United States is committed to confronting them and continuing its longstanding stewardship of the nation’s air, water, and land. As a key player in this effort, the State Department advances a robust array of international environmental initiatives. A small sampling follows. For more information, please see: state.gov/g/oes.

Sustainable Development: The leading donor nation in the world, the United States provides $19 billion annually in official development assistance (almost a doubling since 2000) to accelerate economic growth and social development and enhance environmental stewardship in developing nations. Additionally, the United States has joined or launched hundreds of public/private partnerships in these critical areas. The Safe Water System Partnership, for example, has distributed or sold at low cost about 8 million bottles of disinfectant solution, providing safe drinking water to thousands of people.

Climate Change: The State Department has initiated 14 bilateral climate partnerships with countries and regional organizations that, with the United States, account for more than 70% of the global greenhouse gas emissions. Also, the Administration’s 2005 budget includes $5.2 billion for climate-related activities, including five cutting edge multilateral energy initiatives to develop technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally, and the Group on Earth Observations, an international partnership to improve our ability to understand planetary change.

Biodiversity: To promote global biodiversity, the United States secures protections for dozens of species. Through the International Coral Reef Initiative, the United States ensures that coral reefs remain vibrant, viable ecosystems. The United States has also launched an historic effort with 25 Western Hemisphere nations to conserve that region’s migratory wildlife.

Forests: The United States is spearheading the Congo Basin Forest Partnership, a

$53 million initiative to establish networks of protected areas and improve forest management across central Africa. Joined by over 30 partners, we have the potential to develop 27 national parks and protect more than 25 million acres of land. Through the President’s Initiative Against Illegal Logging, the United States is safeguarding forest ecosystems worldwide, including in post-conflict Liberia.

Oceans/Fisheries: The United States is pioneering new techniques to crack down on illegal fishing worldwide. It also leads efforts to limit the capacity of the world’s fishing fleet to sustainable levels and to prevent marine mammals and seabirds from being accidentally swept into fishing nets or hooked in longline fishing operations.

International Conventions: The United States participates in more than 200 international environmental treaty negotiations including those to protect the ozone layer, preserve wetlands, safeguard endangered species, and reduce hazardous chemicals.

2005/437 Released on April 21, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 21, 2005

H. R. 6 Energy Policy Act of 2005

H. R. 6 Energy Policy Act of 2005 To ensure jobs for our future with secure, affordable, and reliable energy.

Mr. BARTON of Texas (for himself, Mr. POMBO, and Mr. THOMAS) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Education and the Workforce, Financial Services, Agriculture, Resources, Science, Ways and Means, and Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned FULL TEXT H.R. 6

109th CONGRESS 1st Session IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES April 18, 2005 Bill Summary & Status for the 109th Congress FINAL VOTE RESULTS FOR ROLL CALL 132

Growth in biomass road to energy independence

Growth in biomass could put U.S. on road to energy independence

OAK RIDGE, Tenn., April 21, 2005 — Relief from soaring prices at the gas pump could come in the form of corncobs, cornstalks, switchgrass and other types of biomass, according to a joint feasibility study for the departments of Agriculture and Energy.

The recently completed Oak Ridge National Laboratory report outlines a national strategy in which 1 billion dry tons of biomass – any organic matter that is available on a renewable or recurring basis – would displace 30 percent of the nation's petroleum consumption for transportation. Supplying more than 3 percent of the nation's energy, biomass already has surpassed hydropower as the largest domestic source of renewable energy, and researchers believe much potential remains.

"Our report answers several key questions," said Bob Perlack, a member of ORNL's Environmental Sciences Division and a co-author of the report. "We wanted to know how large a role biomass could play, whether the United States has the land resources and whether such a plan would be economically viable."

Looking at just forestland and agricultural land, the two largest potential biomass sources, the study found potential exceeding 1.3 billion dry tons per year. That amount is enough to produce biofuels to meet more than one-third of the current demand for transportation fuels, according to the report.

Such an amount, which would represent a six-fold increase in production from the amount of biomass produced today, could be achieved with only relatively modest changes in land use and agricultural and forestry practices.

"One of the main points of the report is that the United States can produce nearly 1 billion dry tons of biomass annually from agricultural lands and still continue to meet food, feed and export demands," said Robin Graham, leader for Ecosystem and Plant Sciences in ORNL's Environmental Sciences Division.

The benefits of an increased focus on biomass include increased energy security as the U.S. would become less dependent on foreign oil, a potential 10 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and an improved rural economic picture.

Current production of ethanol is about 3.4 billion gallons per year, but that total could reach 80 billion gallons or more under the scenario outlined in this report. Such an increase in ethanol production would see transportation fuels from biomass increase from 0.5 percent of U.S. consumption in 2001 to 4 percent in 2010, 10 percent in 2020 and 20 percent in 2030. In fact, depending on several factors, biomass could supply 15 percent of the nation's energy by 2030.

Meanwhile, biomass consumption in the industrial sector would increase at an annual rate of 2 percent through 2030, while biomass consumption by electric utilities would double every 10 years through 2030. During the same time, production of chemicals and materials from bio-based products would increase from about 12.5 billion pounds, or 5 percent of the current production of target U.S. chemical commodities in 2001, to 12 percent in 2010, 18 percent in 2020 and 25 percent in 2030.

Nearly half of the 2,263 million acres that comprise the land base of the U.S. has potential for growing biomass. About 33 percent of the land area is classified as forest, 26 percent as grassland, 20 percent as cropland, 13 percent as urban areas, swamps and deserts, and 8 percent as special uses such as public facilities.

The report, titled "Biomass as Feedstock for a Bioenergy and Bioproducts Industry: The Technical Feasibility of a Billion-Ton Annual Supply," was sponsored by DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renwable Energy, Office of Biomass Program. Lynn Wright and Anthony Turhollow of ORNL, Bryce Stokes of the USDA Forest Service and Don Erbach of the USDA Agriculture Research Service are co-authors of the report. The complete report is available in PDF Format at: feedstockreview.ornl.gov/ Oak Ridge National Laboratory is managed by UT-Battelle for the Department of Energy. SOURCE: Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)

Media Contact: Ron Walli Communications and External Relations 865.576.0226

Repairs at Fallujah School 5th Civil Affairs Group

Repairs at Fallujah School completed

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – Children at the Palestine Primary School now play and study on school grounds cleared of rubble and broken glass and have access to a renovated restroom due to the work of local Iraqi contractors and the aid of a U.S. military civil affairs team.

The $28,000 project started in March. Repairs were made to the damaged walls, doors and classrooms and electrical wiring. The money also went toward new doors, exhaust fans, six water tanks, a water pump and toilets for a student bathroom.

Although the school remained open during the renovations, the headmaster and students held an opening ceremony last week.

“The kids did a presentation and recited their studies,” said Sergeant First Class Gregg Reinbold, civil affairs team sergeant, B Company, 445th Civil Affairs Battalion attached to the 5th Civil Affairs Group.

The project was slated to finish at the end of this month, but the contractor completed work early.

In addition to the renovations at the Palestine School, the following is a list of recently completed school projects:

· The Aabid and Nahda Schools also were refurbished for $28,000 in early April. The repairs included installing new doors, water tanks and a water pump and repairing electrical wiring and removing of broken glass.

· Repairs to the Mina Primary School for Girls and the Janeen Secondary School for Girls were completed in March, 2005, for $24,000.

SOURCE: mnf-iraq For more information, please contact Capt. Julianne H. Sohn, public affairs officer, 5th Civil Affairs Group, at sohnjh@cemnf-wiraq.usmc.mil. Release #050420c

Forward Operating Base Salerno

TASK FORCE CLASHES WITH INSURGENTS NEAR SALERNO

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – More than a dozen insurgents were killed late Tuesday night as Coalition helicopters, aircraft and artillery responded to a rocket attack at Forward Operating Base Salerno.

“It was a combined-arms effort,” said U.S. Army Maj. J.R. Mendoza, Task Force Thunder’s brigade fire support officer. “We were able to see the launching point of the rockets and we brought everything we had to bear on it.”

Mendoza explained that the base was postured to respond to just such an attack.

“They shot at us with rockets and we were responded with artillery, fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft,” Mendoza said.

U.S. Air Force A-10s and an AC-130H expended two 500-pound bombs, 10 rockets, 565 30mm rounds, 8 105mm rounds and seven 40mm rounds.

“These rocket attacks are, by their nature, indiscriminate. They attack not only our forces but innocent civilians as well. This seems to be the norm with insurgent rocket attacks,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Robert Cornejo, Combined Joint Task Force-76’s fires chief. “Our fires, by contrast, are precision-oriented fires and are only launched after precautions are taken to prevent collateral damage.”

The base came under attack from an initial volley of four rockets Tuesday night. No one was injured and no equipment was damaged as a result. Initial reports indicated that the insurgents intended a second volley but Task Force Thunder’s counterattack prevented it. -30-

SOURCE: United States Central Command NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard
MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894 April 21, 2005 Release Number: 05-04-15 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

U.S. MIA Team (DPMO) Visit to North Korea Announced

U.S. MIA Team Visit to North Korea Announced

The Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that for the 10th consecutive year, teams of U.S. specialists have begun recovery missions of missing in action (MIA) servicemen in North Korea.

The 27-man team entered North Korea April 16 and deployed to two base camps from which the remains recovery work will be done. One of the primary areas of operations will be in Unsan County, about 60 miles north of Pyongyang. The other will be near the Chosin Reservoir in the northeast part of the country.

In Unsan County, U.S. forces battled Chinese units in the battles of Unsan and the Chong Chon River November-December 1950. About 300 U.S. soldiers are believed to be missing in Unsan County from those battles. During the Chosin Campaign, also November-December 1950, more than 1,000 Americans are missing from combat against Chinese forces.

Specialists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) are scheduled to carry out their work during five month-long periods between April and late October. The current operation will end mid-May. Since 1996, these teams have recovered remains believed to be those of more than 200 Americans. Twenty have been identified and returned to their families.

Operations for 2005 were set in DPMO-led negotiations with North Korea last November. U.S. teams in the field number up to 13 men each, with two additional personnel in Pyongyang to provide logistical and communications support. The teams are comprised of both civilian and military specialists. The lead scientific officer at each site is a forensic anthropologist or archeologist from JPAC, with support from specialists in mortuary affairs, explosive ordnance disposal, medicine, vehicle maintenance and linguistics.

Of the 88,000 Americans missing from all conflicts since the beginning of World War II, more than 8,100 are from the Korean War.

For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at dtic.mil/dpmo, or call (703) 699-1169.

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release On the Web: defenselink.mil/releases/ Media contact: +1 (703) 697-5131 Public contact: dod.mil/faq/comment or +1 (703) 428-0711 No. 381-05 IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 20, 2005

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, 2005

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, 2005, A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Physical fitness is vital to a healthy lifestyle. During National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, we highlight the importance of integrating exercise into our daily routines and encourage all our citizens to live more active lives.

Physical fitness benefits both the body and the mind. Regular exercise, along with healthy eating habits, helps prevent serious health problems, improves productivity, and promotes better sleep and relaxation. Maintaining an active lifestyle reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and certain cancers. Americans can improve their health and well being by dedicating a small part of each day to physical activity.

As children grow, athletic activities teach them important life lessons and help prepare them for the opportunities ahead. Sports are a way for young Americans to meet new friends, discover the value of teamwork, discipline, and patience, and learn to win and lose with respect for others. From baseball to mountain biking to swimming, sports and physical activities can be a great chance to get outdoors and enjoy memorable experiences with family and friends.

Through the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, my Administration is promoting the incorporation of physical activity into daily life and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The Council's website, www.fitness.gov, provides information on steps individuals can take to live better and more productive lives. Programs like "The President's Challenge" help individuals set fitness goals and work hard to achieve them.

I urge all Americans to set aside time to improve their health through physical fitness and sports, and I encourage individuals to help motivate their family and friends to get out and exercise. By contributing to a culture of health and well-being in America, citizens help demonstrate the strength and character of our great country.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2005 as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. I call upon the people of the United States to make daily physical activity a priority in their lives and to recognize the numerous benefits of an active lifestyle. I also call on all Americans to celebrate this month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty ninth.

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 20, 2005

Secretary Rice Travel to Europe 04/19/05 to 04/21/05

Secretary Rice visited Moscow, Russia, April 19-20. The Secretary met with President Vladimir Putin, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, and other Russian officials. The focus of the Moscow visit was preparing for President Bush’s visit to Russia during the May 9 observances commemorating the end of World War II.

From there she traveled to Vilnius, Lithuania, for a regular meeting of NATO foreign ministers, as well as the NATO-Russia Council and the NATO-Ukraine Commission.

The Secretary also met Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus and Foreign Minister Antanas Valionis to discuss efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq and promotion of democracy.

Secretary Rice will return to Washington, DC, on April 21. [photo gallery]

Remarks by Secretary Rice 2005/04/21: Interview With James Rosen of Fox News 2005/04/20: Remarks to the Press with Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus 2005/04/20: Remarks to the Press En Route to Vilnius, Lithuania 2005/04/20: Remarks with Russian President Vladimir Putin Before Their Meeting 2005/04/20: Remarks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov 2005/04/20: Interview with Aleksey Venediktov of Ekho Moskvy Radio2005/04/20: Interview with Alexsey Pivovarov of NTV 2005/04/20: Interview with Jill Dougherty of CNN 2005/04/20: Interview with Wyatt Andrews of CBS 2005/04/19: Briefing en Route to Moscow, Russia 2005/04/15: Remarks to the Annual Convention of the American Society of Newspaper Editors

Related Information NATO Ministerial Meetings SOURCE: state.gov

Statement from Majority Leader Tom DeLay

WASHINGTON – House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas) issued the following statement regarding House Republicans’ efforts to forge a compromise to get the House Committee on Standards of Official Conduct up and running:

“I appreciate House Republicans’ continued efforts to search for a way to get the House Committee on Standards of Official Conduct up and running. Republicans agree that the House of Representatives needs a functioning Committee on Standards of Official Conduct.

“I’ve sent letters to the committee asking to appear before the chairman and ranking member to discuss matters. And for more than a month I’ve said I hope for a fair process that will afford me the opportunity to get the facts out and set the record straight. I welcome the opportunity to address this with the committee.”

SOURCE: Majority Leader : Tom DeLay Wednesday, April 20, 2005

Hmong Refugee Resettlement

Hmong Refugee Resettlement

The United States is not conducting any registration of Hmong residing in Thailand for resettlement in the United States. There are no plans for an additional Hmong resettlement program once the current Wat Tham Krabok program concludes.

The United States does not require or accept registration fees for the U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program. No one has been authorized to collect fees or register new applicants for a new Hmong resettlement program. The 2004 registration for the current resettlement program for Hmong from Wat Tham Krabok in Saraburi, Thailand was available without charge or fee.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/435 Media Note Office of the Spokesman, Washington, DC April 20, 2005

Rewards For Justice Offering New Rewards

Rewards For Justice Offering New Rewards

The Rewards for Justice Program is offering two rewards of up to $5 million each to encourage individuals to come forward with information regarding Abderraouf Ben Habib Jdey and Faker Ben Abdelaziz Boussora.

Abderraouf Ben Habib Jdey, also known as Faruq al-Tunisi, has an extensive history of extremist affiliations. He has been closely linked with al-Qaida operatives and is being sought in connection with possible terrorist threats in the United States. Jdey, believed to be a Canadian citizen, is an associate of al-Qaida trained operative Faker Ben Abdelaziz Boussora.

Faker Ben Abdelaziz Boussora, also known as Abu Yusif al-Tunisi, is also believed to be a Canadian citizen and has extensive connections to radical Islamic extremism. He has declared his intention to become a martyr in a suicide attack and is believed to be traveling with Jdey.

We encourage anyone with information on the location of Abderraouf Ben Habib Jdey and Faker Ben Abdelaziz Boussora to contact Rewards for Justice via e-mail at mail@rewardsforjustice.net or via telephone 1 (800)-877-3927. 2005/436 SOURCE: state.gov Released on April 20, 2005

Arrest of Sabirjon Yakubov by Uzbekistan Authorities

Arrest of Journalist Sabirjon Yakubov by Uzbekistan Authorities

Question: Reporters Without Borders is protesting the arrest of journalist Sabirjon Yakubov by authorities in Uzbekistan. Does the State Department have any reaction to his arrest?

Answer: We are aware of the arrest on April 11 of Mr. Yakubov on charges of anti-constitutional activity. Our embassy is in contact with the Uzbek authorities and has urged observance of due process and fair and humane treatment for Mr. Yakubov. As noted in our 2004 Human Rights Report, in the past journalists have been harassed by the Uzbek government in an apparent effort to limit publication of critical stories. We will be following this case closely.

2005/433 Released on April 19, 2005

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 19, 2005 Question Taken at April 19, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

U.S. Israel Joint Economic Development Group

U.S. – Israel Joint Economic Development Group

Following is the text of a joint U.S. – Israel statement released at the conclusion of the Joint Economic Development Group meeting of April 18, 2005.

Begin Text:
On April 18, delegations of Israel and the United States held useful, in-depth discussions on the implementation of Israel’s economic reform program and the developments of the Israeli economy. The U.S. delegation applauded Israel’s progress toward achieving the goals of the economic plan presented to the JEDG at its last meeting of February 2004 in Israel. The United States underscored the importance to Israel’s economy of fiscal discipline – particularly limiting the growth of government expenditures – and continued economic reform. The Israeli delegation reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining its reform program in the years ahead.

The Israeli delegation was chaired by Dr. Joseph Bachar, Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Finance. The U.S. delegation was chaired by E. Anthony Wayne, Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs, who was joined by Randal Quarles, Assistant Secretary of Treasury for International Affairs.

Mr. Wayne hosted a working lunch to open the meeting, at which Dr. Bachar presented an overview of the Israeli economy and discussed recent economic developments and macroeconomic forecasts. Additional topics during the course of the afternoon included capital market reform, monetary policy, and labor market developments.
Pursuant to Congress’ decision to extend the period of the Loan Guarantee Program for two additional years to 2008, the delegations agreed on a mechanism for implementing that decision. In light of this extension, it was agreed that the remaining $3 billion in loan guarantees should be authorized in annual $1 billion tranches. The delegations agreed on the broad terms for release of the 2005 tranche of U.S. loan guarantees in the amount of $1 billion and reaffirmed their intention to continue to monitor progress on economic reform and fiscal restraint through regular meetings of the JEDG, at which the remaining $2 billion would be released. The Israeli delegation expressed its deep gratitude for the economic support it has received from the United States.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/434 Released on April 19, 2005 Joint Statement, Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC April 19, 2005

President Signs Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention, Consumer Protection Act

President Signs Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention, Consumer Protection Act FULL STREAMING VIDEO Room 350 Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building

President's Remarks 2:42 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Please be seated. Welcome. Thank you very much for coming today. Today we take an important action to strengthen -- to continue strengthening our nation's economy. The bipartisan bill I'm about to sign makes common-sense reforms to our bankruptcy laws. By restoring integrity to the bankruptcy process, this law will make our financial system stronger and better. By making the system fairer for creditors and debtors, we will ensure that more Americans can get access to affordable credit.

I'm pleased to be joined today by the Attorney General Al Gonzales. I want to thank the bill sponsors in the House and the Senate -- Senator Chuck Grassley of the Senate -- I think you told me you'd been working on this bill for nine years. That's a long time. (Laughter.) I appreciate Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner from the House for being the sponsor in the House. Thank you.

I want to thank the Speaker. Yesterday, the Speaker and I, by the way, had the honor of opening the Lincoln Library in Springfield, Illinois. I know he'd be pleased to hear me say, if you're looking for something to do this summer -- (laughter.)

I thank Senator Mitch McConnell, Senator Orrin Hatch, Senator Jeff Sessions, and Senator Tom Carper. I appreciate the members of the House who are here -- Mike Oxley, Rick Boucher, Bob Goodlatte, Steve Chabot. Thank you all for coming, and thanks for working on this piece of legislation.

Our bankruptcy laws are an important part of the safety net of America. They give those who cannot pay their debts a fresh start. Yet bankruptcy should always be a last resort in our legal system. If someone does not pay his or her debts, the rest of society ends up paying them. In recent years, too many people have abused the bankruptcy laws. They've walked away from debts even when they had the ability to repay them. This has made credit less affordable and less accessible, especially for low-income workers who already face financial obstacles.

The bill I sign today helps address this problem. Under the new law, Americans who have the ability to pay will be required to pay back at least a portion of their debts. Those who fall behind their state's median income will not be required to pay back their debts. This practical reform will help ensure that debtors make a good-faith effort to repay as much as they can afford. This new law will help make credit more affordable, because when bankruptcy is less common, credit can be extended to more people at better rates.

The new law will also require credit card companies to let card holders know up front what they are expected to pay, and what the penalties they will face if they are late on a payment. When people get a credit card, they should not be trapped by a provision in the fine print.

To make the system more fair, the new law will also make it more difficult for serial filers to abuse the most generous bankruptcy protections. Debtors seeking to erase all debts will now have to wait eight years from their last bankruptcy before they can file again. The law will also allow us to clamp down on bankruptcy mills that make their money by advising abusers on how to game the system.

America is a nation of personal responsibility where people are expected to meet their obligations. We're also a nation of fairness and compassion where those who need it most are afforded a fresh start. The act of Congress I sign today will protect those who legitimately need help, stop those who try to commit fraud, and bring greater stability and fairness to our financial system. I'm honored to join the members of Congress to sign the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act. (Applause.)

(The bill is signed.) END 2:45 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release April 20, 2005

President, Commander-In-Chief' Trophy, Naval Academy

President Presents Commander-In-Chief's Trophy to Naval Academy FULL STREAMING VIDEO The Rose Garden President's Remarks 3:43 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Please be seated. Welcome to the Rose Garden. It is my honor to welcome the Midshipmen of the United States Naval Academy back here again. Coach Johnson told me last year -- he said, "Don't worry about it, Mr. President, we'll be back." (Laughter.) I like a man who keeps his word. (Laughter.)

The football rivalry of our military academies is one of the great American sports traditions. Once again, the Midshipmen set a standard of excellence on the field. This team is tough; it is talented; and you knew how to win. You whipped the Air Force Academy in a field goal in the last minute. I was there when you beat Army. (Laughter.) And you won the Commander-in-Chief Trophy again.

I want to thank our guests who are here. A member of the United States Senate is on his way who is a huge Naval Academy supporter, and that would be Senator John McCain. He will be here soon. I appreciate Mike McIntyre from North Carolina joining us. Congressman, thank you for being here. I appreciate Michael Steele, the Lieutenant Governor from Maryland. I appreciate Gordon England, who's the Secretary of the Navy, soon to be, upon Senate confirmation, the Deputy Secretary of Defense. We're glad you're here, sir. And I appreciate Vice Admiral Rod Rempt for your hospitality at the games.

Coach Johnson, welcome back. Congratulations on the award you have won. There's nothing like a good team to make you look good. (Laughter.)

This team will be well-represented in the Navy record books. You won more games than any Navy team in 99 years. That's a long time. (Laughter.) The last time a team of Midshipmen won 10 games the Commander-in-Chief was Theodore Roosevelt -- who, by the way, built the West Wing. You finished the season ranked number 24 in the polls. The last time that happened, that you we're in the top 25, was 1979. None of the players on this team had been born then. You earned a trip to the Emerald Bowl in San Francisco and you beat New Mexico for your first bowl victory in nine years.

You also set -- Senator John McCain. Thank you, sir. (Applause.) Thanks for coming. The thing McCain loved about the Naval Academy was he got to study all the time. (Laughter.) He and I both showed that if you -- people with C averages can succeed. (Laughter.) Welcome.

The interesting thing about the football game at the Emerald Bowl was this -- I happened to watch it -- it was the drive that lasted 14 minutes and 26 plays -- like he kind of redefined the definition of ball control. The team was a source of pride for the brigade of Midshipmen and for Navy fans everywhere. The seniors on this team led one of the most dramatic improvements in college football history. Navy went 0 and 10 during your plebe year, and 10 and 2 this year.

I'd like for the record to show that your turn-around started the year I delivered the commencement. (Laughter.) I'm not, like, taking any credit for it. (Applause.) But I do appreciate the invitation to come back, and I'm looking forward to giving the commencement address this year at the Naval Academy. (Applause.)

You've inspired fans everywhere, so much so that Josh Smith's hometown radio broadcast the Navy games. And by the way, that radio -- that hometown is in Indiana.

The lessons you learned on the football field will prepare you for the win -- helping us win the war on terror. Midshipmen, you've developed leadership, teamwork, and strong character. You know the importance of setting high standards, and you know the importance of training hard to meet those standards. All these qualities will serve our nation well as you become commissioned officers in the finest military the world has ever known. (Applause.)

We are still at war, and many of your former teammates are serving and sacrificing at this very hour. Marines and sailors are leading vital missions in Afghanistan and Iraq and elsewhere. They're interdicting shipments of deadly weapons. They're maintaining America's command of the seas. You're helping to protect this country. And the citizens of America are grateful.

We've lost some of our finest men and women in the war on terror, including several former Navy football players. Our nation will always honor their sacrifice. The American people are safer and the world will be more peaceful because of the honor and courage and commitment of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.

I thank you all for volunteering to serve in a cause greater than yourself. I'm proud of what you achieved on the football field. I am confident that your service will bring even greater achievements in the years ahead. It's an honor to be the Commander-in-Chief of such a fine group of people.

Congratulations again on winning the football trophy, the Commander-in-Chief Trophy. May God bless you all, and may God continue to bless the United States of America. (Applause.)

END 3:49 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 20, 2005

Alex Azar II, Claude A. Allen

Alex Azar II, of Maryland, to be Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services, Vice Claude A. Allen, Resigned.

Nomination Sent to the Senate # # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 19, 2005

President Speaks to U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Conference

President Speaks to U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Conference, FULL STREAMING VIDEO Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, Washington, D.C.

President's Remarks 1:11 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Thank you all for the warm welcome, please be seated. Thank you. Thank you, Al, for your kind introduction. I've had this good man by my side for quite a while. When I was the governor of Texas, we worked together. There you go. (Laughter.) And now as the President of these United States, I'm proud to serve with Al Gonzales as our Attorney General. (Applause.)

I want to thank you for allowing me to come and speak to the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. It's an honor to be here. I see a lot of friends -- I was going to say a lot of old friends, but -- (laughter.) Some of you are younger than I am.

I appreciate your hard work and your commitment to the entrepreneurial spirit of America. You know, one of the great things about our country is the entrepreneurial spirit is strong. The dream of owning your own business is alive. The willingness for people to take risk is an important part of our society, and as a result, small businesses are being created throughout all our society, and the job base is increasing as a result.

I look forward to working with you the next four years to keep the prosperity of our country going. We share a common goal to make sure the American Dream is available for all. El sue o Americano es para todos. (Laughter.) This is the land of opportunity, and it must remain the land of opportunity, where our origins matter less than our aspirations. And this country's success depends not on accident of birth, but on personal effort and drive and determination. And so I'll continue to work with you to create a society where personal effort is rewarded and opportunity is within the reach of every one of our citizens. (Applause.)

In order to make sure opportunity is within the reach of every one of our citizens, we've got to have an economy that continues to grow and expand. Today I have come to talk about ways to make sure our economy continues to grow and expand, with special emphasis on an energy policy. To create jobs and prosperity in a new century, energy must be abundant and affordable for all our citizens. That means we've got to become less dependent on foreign sources of energy. (Applause.)

I appreciate Hector Barreto joining us today. He's been the Administrator of the Small Business Administration. Thanks for your good work. (Applause.) I want to thank the leadership of the Chamber. Thank you all for having me. I appreciate the chance to come and talk about a really important part of making sure America stays competitive and jobs continue to grow -- and that's a sound energy policy.

I want to thank the members of the Hispanic Chamber for allowing me and Al to come by to say "hello." You see, one of the things I do want to share with you is we've got an ambitious agenda to keep the country safe and prosperous and free. The war on terror continues. We're still at war. There is an enemy that still would like to harm America, an enemy which hates what we stand for. I can assure you that this administration will be relentless, untiring in our efforts to bring the enemy to justice. We will work with our friends and allies to keep the pressure on these people. Our most important job in America is to keep this country secure, and that's exactly what we'll work hard to do. (Applause.)

I'll work with Al and other members of my Cabinet to make sure that we do everything we can to improve the security at home. But I want you to know what I think. I think in the long-run, the best way to protect America, the best way to spread the peace, the best way to leave a legacy for our children and grandchildren is to spread freedom around the world. I do not believe freedom is America's gift to the world. You've just got to know that about our foreign policy. I do believe that freedom is a gift from the Almighty to each person in this world. And I know that free societies will be peaceful societies. (Applause.)

At home, we'll continue to pursue pro-growth economic policies so that America is the best place in the world to risk capital and do business. Listen, we have faced a lot, you know it just as well as I have. You have been on the front lines of job creation. You understand what this economy has been through. We've been through a stock market decline. We have been through corporate scandals. We've been through a terrorist attack. We've been through a recession and an ongoing war. But we have confronted the challenges head-on. This economy of ours today is the fastest-growing of any major industrialized nation. Economists see solid growth for the years ahead, and that's positive.

I don't know if you know this or not, but we've now added more than 3 million jobs over the past 22 months. Today, more Americans are working than any time in our nation's history. (Applause.) The unemployment rate amongst Hispanics has dropped to 5.7 percent, a figure still too high -- but that is down from 8.4 percent over the past two years. Today, more Hispanics own their own homes than ever before in our nation's history. (Applause.) The Small Business Administration is lending to Hispanic-owned companies a lot. The lending has nearly doubled since I took office in 2001. The thing about the Hispanic community that I know well -- I was taught this by a lot of my friends in Texas -- is that the entrepreneurial spirit is strong in the Latino community. There are a lot of great business owners and risk takers, people who know what they're doing when it comes to running a business and creating jobs.

And so one of the things that you must ask about people in Washington, D.C.: one is, do you understand that; and, two, if you do, how are you going to make sure opportunity continues to grow? What are you going to do to make sure that our economy is strong today and strong tomorrow? It's hard to be a successful entrepreneur if the economy is in the doldrums.

So here are some ideas that I want Congress to listen to. One, in order to help small businesses, Hispanic small businesses grow, we've got to make sure small businesses are allowed to pool risk, come together and to join in associations across jurisdictional boundaries, so small businesses can buy insurance at the same discounts that big businesses are able to do. (Applause.)

Senator Jim Talent from Missouri, who is one of the leading advocates of association health plans, plans that will enable small businesses to better afford health care, was to be here, he got called away for a vote. I excuse him -- (laughter) -- so long as he votes the right way. (Laughter and applause.)

Many small businesses are organized as sub-chapter S corporations or limited partnerships, and therefore pay tax -- income tax on the personal scales -- personal income tax scales. So when we reduce personal income taxes, we reduce the taxes on many Latino-owned businesses around the country. In order to make sure this economy continues to grow, we have got to keep taxes low on the job-creators of America. (Applause.)

We'll continue to work to protect small business from needless regulation and from the burden of junk lawsuits. We need an immigration reform plan that does not grant amnesty but does match willing foreign workers with willing American employers when no Americans be found to fill the job. (Applause.)

We need to continue to knock down trade barriers across the world so we can open up new markets for America's entrepreneurs. To create jobs and to strengthen democracy in our hemisphere, the Congress needs to pass the Central American Free Trade Agreement. (Applause.)

To guarantee Americans a secure and dignified retirement -- I'm talking about younger Americans, not baby boomers like me and you; we're fine when it comes to Social Security -- but to make sure that younger Americans aren't saddled with enormous tax burdens, to make sure that there is -- that unfunded liabilities don't loom over the capital markets, we need to modernize the Social Security system for our children and our grandchildren.

As we grow the economy, we need to be responsible stewards with your tax -- with your money. And that's why I submitted a disciplined federal budget. Both the House and the Senate have passed budget resolutions. Congress needs to get together and iron out their differences, and sends me a budget that meets priorities, restrains federal spending, and keeps us on track to cut the deficit in half by 2009.

Here's what I think -- and I think it makes sense; as taxpayers, you should think it makes sense -- a taxpayer dollar must be spent wisely, or not at all. (Applause.)

To keep this economy growing, we need to ensure our nation has an affordable, reliable and secure supply of energy. Today, millions of American families and small businesses are hurting because of higher gasoline prices. If you're trying to meet a payroll, or trying to meet a family budget, you know that even small changes at the pump can have a big impact on your bottom line. If you're a business owner who has to make the choice between adding a new worker or paying a higher energy bill, you're going to be doing a lot less hiring.

Last week, I had the honor of paying tribute to some of our troops in Fort Hood, Texas. I sat down at a table with a bunch of the enlisted personnel, and we were talking about what's on their mind. A guy said, why don't you lower gasoline prices, Mr. President? (Laughter.) I said, I wish I could; I wish I could simply wave a magic wand and lower gas prices tomorrow; I'd do that. Unfortunately, higher gas prices are a problem that has been years in the making. One of the things we can do to try to help in the immediate term: we can encourage oil-producing countries to maximize their production overseas; we can make sure consumers are treated fairly, that there's not price gouging. But we must act now to address the fundamental problem. Our supply of energy is not growing fast enough to meet the demands of our growing economy.

Over the past decade, America's energy consumption has increased by more than 12 percent, yet our domestic production has increased by less than one-half of 1 percent. That means that our nation is more and more reliant on foreign sources of energy. At the same time, the global demand for energy is growing faster than the global supply, which has contributed to a steep rise in the price of crude oil, which is the feed stock for gasoline. Because our foreign energy dependence is growing, our ability to take actions at home that will lower prices for American families is diminishing. Our dependence on foreign energy is like a foreign tax on the American Dream -- the tax our citizens pay every day in higher gas prices, higher cost to heat and cool their homes -- a tax on jobs. Worst of all, it's a tax increasing every year.

For the sake of American workers and families, we have got to reduce our dependence on foreign sources of energy. It's a matter of economic security and it's also a matter of national security. When America depends on only a handful of countries for nearly 60 percent of our oil, the danger of major energy disruption grows. Some of you are old enough to remember the '70s, when we rationed the gasoline. The President of the United States and Congress have a responsibility to make sure America never returns to those days. And we've got to meet that responsibility.

Here in Washington, we have got to meet the responsibilities before us, and not duck behind partisan politics. And the problem is clear. This problem didn't develop overnight, by the way, and it's not going to be fixed overnight. But this problem -- to solve the problem, the nation has got to make a decision, members of Congress must decide: Do we want to continue growing more dependent on other nations to meet our energy needs; or do we want to take the necessary steps to achieve greater control of our economic destiny? Those are the questions before us.

I have my opinion. I believe America should not live at the mercy of global trends and the decisions of other nations. For more than a decade this country has not had a comprehensive national energy policy, and now is the time to change it. (Applause.)

That's why one of the first things I did when I came to office four years ago was to develop a national energy strategy. My first month in office I sent Congress a plan to put America on the path to greater energy security. For four years, Congress has discussed and debated, but they haven't achieved any results. Today, members of Congress began debating an energy bill, and this time they need to give us one. The summer travel season is fast approaching. Gas prices are on the minds of millions of Americans. Members of Congress can send an important signal that they are serious about solving America's energy problems by getting a bill to my desk before the summer recess. (Applause.)

The Congress needs to send a sound energy bill that meets four important objectives. First, the energy bill should encourage the use of technology to improve conservation and efficiency. Today the average American home loses between 10 to 50 percent of its energy through inadequate insulation and inefficient lights and appliances. Think about that: we lose 10 to 50 percent of its energy through inefficiencies.

The energy bill Congress is now considering would extend the energy star program that encourages the sale and production of energy-efficient products like super-efficient refrigerators that use less energy than a 75-watt light bulb. It would encourage energy efficiency and renewable energy research that would one day lead to zero-energy homes that produce as much energy as they consume. If we want to become less dependent on foreign sources of energy, we've got to conserve better. And we know from experience we can do this. Over the last 25 years, our economy has grown by 110 percent, while our energy consumption has grown by only 24 percent. We have become more efficient as a nation, and there's more we can do. And the bill in front of Congress encourages conservation and efficient use of energy.

Secondly, as we promote conservation, the energy bill must also expand domestic energy production in environmentally sensitive ways. We have the most innovative economy in the world. America must put its innovative spirit to work to make sure we can find and use resources in a better way. And we can begin by making sure we can use our most abundant energy source in a smart way. Our most abundant energy source is coal. We have enough coal to last for 250 years, yet coal also prevents an environmental challenge. The energy bill now being considered before Congress would help us make cleaner use of this resource by authorizing more than a billion dollars for the Clean Coal Power Initiative, a program that will encourage new technologies that remove virtually all pollutants from coal-fired power plants.

To achieve greater energy security, we have got to harness -- harness the power of clean coal. We should also open up new areas to environmentally responsible exploration for oil and natural gas, including the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. (Applause.)

The Department of Interior estimates that we could recover more than 10 billion barrels of oil from a small corner of ANWR that was reserved specifically for energy development. ANWR consists of 19 million acres of land. Technology now makes it possible to reach ANWR's hydrocarbons by drilling on just 2,000 acres of the 19 million acres of land. That's just one-tenth of 1 percent of ANWR's total area. And we can reach ANWR's oil deposits with almost no impact on land and local wildlife. It's important for our citizens to understand how much technology has changed. Developing this tiny section of ANWR could eventually yield up to a million barrels of oil a day. Do you realize that that's more than half of what we import each day from Venezuela, for example? The more oil we can produce at home in environmentally sensitive ways, the less dependent we are on foreign sources of energy. (Applause.)

With oil at more than $50 a barrel, by the way, energy companies do not need taxpayers'-funded incentives to explore for oil and gas. To expand domestic energy production, we need to expand our use of nuclear power. Today, nuclear power provides about 20 percent of our nation's electricity. It produces without pollution or greenhouse gases. Congress needs to send me an energy bill. If we're serious about diversifying away from foreign sources of energy, Congress needs to send me a bill that includes liability protection and regulatory certainty for nuclear power plants. (Applause.)

Third, as we increase domestic production of existing resources, an energy bill should also help -- should also help us diversify our nation's energy supply by developing alternative sources of energy. If future generations can count on energy in different forms, they're going to be less vulnerable to price spikes or shifts in supply of any one form of energy.

The energy bill should encourage greater use of ethanol. And I like the idea of people growing corn that gets converted into energy. Somebody walks into the Oval Office and says, there's a lot of corn being grown, Mr. President. Hopefully, that one day will mean we're less dependent on foreign sources of energy. The more corn there is, the more we have to eat. The more corn there is, the more energy there is. And so the bill includes monies for research to make sure we use ethanol. Incredibly enough, we may be able to get ethanol from municipal waste dumps or forests.

In our budget, we've got $2.5 billion in tax credits for the purchase of hybrid vehicles. In other words, we're beginning to diversify away from old habits. Hybrid vehicles are a part of becoming less dependent on foreign sources of energy. An energy bill should also help advance another vital project, the project I outlined in the State of the Union address, the hydrogen fuel initiative. Two years ago, we launched a crash program to develop hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles. We've dedicated $1.2 billion over five years to this effort. We know that when hydrogen is used in a fuel cell, it has the potential to power anything from a car to a cell phone to a computer, that emits pure water instead of exhaust fumes.

The energy bill, if they get it to my desk, will authorize vital funds to help move hydrogen-powered cars from the research lab to the dealership lot. With investment now, we can make it possible for today's children to take their driver's test in a completely pollution-free car. (Applause.) An energy bill should also provide tax credits for renewable power sources such as wind and landfill gas. By harnessing innovative technologies, we can ensure a cheaper, cleaner, more abundant supply of energy for all Americans.

Fourth, as we diversify our energy supply, we need an energy bill that will help us modernize our domestic energy infrastructure. In some parts of the country, homes and businesses are receiving 21st century power through infrastructure built decades ago. Transmission lines and pipelines and generating facilities are deteriorating here in America. Different regions share electricity over unreliable transmission lines. And these strains on the system are leading to higher prices, bottlenecks in delivery and inefficient use of energy, which we can no longer afford. And just when one piece of the power grid fails, the result can be darkness across the map, as we learned a couple of years ago. And that hurt small businesses. It makes it harder to risk capital. It affects job creation. The problems can be solved. Congress needs to act.

Current law makes it optional, rather than mandatory, for power companies to ensure reliability across the electricity grid. Most of you consider it mandatory for a light to come on when you flip the switch. The Congress should, too. (Laughter and applause.) An energy bill should repeal outdated rules that discourage investment in new power infrastructure, should encourage the development of new technologies such as super-conductive power lines to make the grid more efficient. In other words, we're dealing with old laws that need to be changed and modernized for the sake of job creation and job growth.

And to keep local disputes from causing national problems, federal officials should have the authority to site new power lines. We have modern interstate grids for our phone lines and highways. It's time for America to save energy by building a modern electricity grid, as well.

The energy bill now before Congress contains the elements of the strategy I just outlined. But it's four years behind schedule. And now it's time for Congress to pass it. I met yesterday with leaders from both parties who are going to shepherd the energy bill through the House and the Senate. I appreciated the bipartisan discussion we had. I appreciated the spirit of trying to get something done. I urged the House and the Senate to get the bill by August. I also told them that we would help them work out differences, come up with reasonable compromises on issues such as MTBE. In other words, I said I understand how important it is to get this moving, and so does Congress need to understand how important it is to get this bill moving.

All measures that I've discussed with you today are designed with one overriding goal: to address the root causes of higher energy prices and to address our dependency upon foreign sources of energy.

We're in a situation today because for more than a decade our nation has not had a comprehensive energy strategy, and we need one now, and passing a bill is the first step. An energy bill wouldn't change the price at the pump today. I know that and you know that. It will help us make better use of the energy supplies we have. It will make our supply of energy more affordable and more secure for the future.

I've set big goals for this policy; I understand that. You think about how comprehensive the strategy is I outlined to you. There's a lot we can and will do, and I'm confident we can meet those goals. History has shown us the American innovative spirit is never in short supply. And I know we can harness this spirit in this new century. What I'm talking about is making sure that we leave our children and grandchildren a cleaner, healthier and more secure America, an America that is less dependent on sources of energy from overseas.

And to achieve these goals, I'm going to need your help. As you work the halls of Congress -- and I know you're pretty darn good at it -- (laughter and applause) -- I would like very much for you to visit with the Congress and urge them to get an energy bill passed, urge them to rise above the kind of partisan bickering that sometimes dominates Capitol Hill and focus on this country's interests. And it is in this interest to get me an energy bill I can sign by August of this year.

Thank you for giving me a chance to come by to visit with you. Que Dios los endiga. Thank you all. (Applause.)

END 1:41 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 20, 2005

President Announces 2005 National and State Teachers of the Year

President Announces 2005 National and State Teachers of the Year FULL STREAMING VIDEO
The Rose Garden President's Remarks 11:10 A.M. EDT

MRS. BUSH: Congratulations, Jason. And congratulations to every one of our Teachers of the Year, America's Teachers of the Year. I love this event. I always look forward to it, in the few years that we've been here. Everyone of you are doing the most important job in the world -- no offense to the President. (Laughter.)

Once you love teaching, it's really very difficult to give it up. And I still love visiting classrooms around the United States and talking to young people, and teachers, and parents, and coaches, and now I'm talking to them about a new initiative called Helping America's Youth. Through Helping America's Youth, we're highlighting the fact that every child needs a caring adult in his or her life. And a teacher is often that caring adult.

In fact, when you ask young people who had the most influence on their lives, besides their parents, they often say a teacher or a coach. You teach the children the knowledge they'll need to grow into intelligent and discerning men and women. You also serve as role models and mentors to young people, helping them form strong characters and make healthy decisions.

All of you deserve the gratitude of your fellow Americans for dedicating your lives to helping our sons and daughters. I'm especially happy this year that there are so many men Teachers of the Year. More men are needed in our classrooms, more who can teach by example showing young boys, particularly, many who are growing up without fathers in their homes, how to be responsible, caring adults; someone little boys can look up to and say, I want to be just like him.

Our main speaker today is a pretty good role model for students, too. Children throughout America look up to the President. In fact, one little boy named Jeremy wrote to him and said, "You're a wonderful President. I think that Mrs. Bush is lucky to have you." (Laughter.)

Ladies and gentlemen, the man I'm lucky to call my husband, President George Bush. (Applause.)

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Please be seated. Welcome. Welcome to the Rose Garden. And it's a beautiful day to continue the tradition of honoring America's finest teachers at the White House. We're really happy you're here.

Somewhere along the way, all of us got to know a teacher who made a real difference in our lives. In my case, I married one. (Laughter.) And I appreciate you. I appreciate my love for Laura; I appreciate Laura's love for teaching; and I appreciate the great job you're doing as the First Lady. (Applause.)

She was raised in Midland, just like you were, Carol. Maybe that has something to do with it.

We like to say in our household, teaching is more than a job; it is a calling. You know what I'm talking about. You wouldn't be sitting here if you had not heard the calling. By helping every child realize his or her potential, our teachers show their students that dreams can become reality. What a fantastic job, isn't it, to help somebody realize a dream can become a reality. All who answer the call to teach deserve our support, our respect, and our affection.

Somebody who understands the role of a teacher is our Secretary of Education, Margaret Spellings, who is with us. Margaret has been a longtime friend. We were involved with education reform in Texas. We bring the spirit of reform to Washington, D.C. And you're doing a fine job, Madam Secretary. (Applause.)

The Chairman of the House Education and Work Force Committee, John Boehner is with us, from the great state of Ohio. Thank you, John. Bob Filner from California; Doc Hastings from Washington; Leonard Boswell from the great state of Iowa -- welcome. Appreciate you all. (Applause.) I want to thank you for taking time out of your schedules to come here. This is an important moment, and I appreciate you recognizing it as such.

I want to thank the Mayor. Mr. Mayor, thank you for coming. I always like to tell the Mayor that it's important for the Mayor to fill the potholes -- (laughter) -- particularly close to White House, Mayor. And you're doing a fine job. Last time I saw the Mayor was at Opening Day. For those of you who follow professional baseball, you know that we've got the Nationals here in town. It's exciting for the Nation's Capital to have the Nationals. And one of the reasons the Nationals are here is because of the Mayor. And so, Mr. Mayor, thank you for your leadership. (Applause.)

And City Councilwoman Carol Schwartz, who I referred to earlier -- Laura, Carol and I were raised in Midland, Texas. Pretty long odds for three people raised in Midland to end up in Washington in the Rose Garden, by the way. (Laughter.) But welcome, glad you're here, Carol.

I want to thank the National Teacher of the Year Finalists: Stan Murphy from California -- San Diego, California; Vicki Goldsmith from Des Moines, Iowa; Tamara Steen from Washington State. We're proud you all are here. And, of course, Jason Kamras, who is standing right here.

I want to welcome his parents, Linda and Marvin. Thank you for coming. Congratulations on raising such a fine man. (Applause.)

And Jeremy -- Jason allowed his brothers, Jeremy and Michael, to show up, as well. (Laughter.) I asked one of the boys if they ever thought Jason would amount to anything. He told the truth. (Laughter.) Jason has proved you wrong. (Laughter.)

I want to thank the 51 other State Teachers of the Year for being teachers and being such an accomplished teacher that you're being recognized here in the Rose Garden. We welcome you here. We thank you for your compassion. And we welcome your guests, as well.

We welcome Tom Houlihan, the executive director of the Council of Chief State School Officers, and we appreciate you sponsoring this event. We welcome Ernie Fleishman, the senior vice president of Scholastic, Inc., which is a sponsoring organization of this event. We welcome Tom McInerney, the CEO of ING U.S. Financial Services, which is one of the sponsors of this event. Obviously, this is a big event to have required three sponsors. (Laughter.) We're glad you're here. We want to thank the chief state school officers who are here today.

I want to pay particular respect to an educational entrepreneur who has shown one person can make an enormous difference. Wendy Kopp, the president and founder of Teach for America, is with us, and we welcome you back to the White House, Wendy, and we're glad you're here. (Applause.) There is a reason why Wendy is here, which you will hear in a minute.

America's teachers help our students develop the schools -- skills they need to succeed in our schools. That's what you do. You teach a child how to read and write, but you also teach a child how to think and hope. Teaching is a demanding job. It's an incredibly demanding job. And I hope our fellow citizens understand how hard it is to get to the classroom every day and to keep your spirits up, to keep your vision clear about what is possible, and to keep your patience. I'm sure we tested our -- patience of our teachers a lot, Mayor, when you and I were growing up. (Laughter.)

I appreciate the fact that good teachers instill a passion for learning. You know, passion is a powerful world -- word, and that's why the teachers are here with us, because they have instilled a passion for somebody to go to class every day to learn. When young people become good students with big dreams, they become better citizens. Our country is better off as a result of our teachers instilling passion and hope.

We expect a lot from our teachers, and teachers have a right to expect a lot from us. Education is one of the top priorities of this administration and this Congress. That's why we passed the No Child Left Behind Act. People from both parties came together. I love the spirit of the No Child Left Behind Act. I suspect the teachers love the spirit of challenging the soft bigotry of low expectations. People believe that we ought to set high standards, and believe that every child -- and if you do believe every child can learn to read and write and add and subtract, it makes sense to determine whether they are, so we can -- and if not, so we can solve problems early, before it's too late.

Because of teachers and hard work, because we expect every child to learn to read and write and add and subtract, there's an achievement gap in America which is closing. I can say it's closing because we measure to find out if it is closing. I'm proud to report that test scores are up. In fourth grade, math test scores are up across the nation by nine points over the last three years. Eighth graders improved by five points over the same period of time. We're making progress.

There is more to do. Margaret and I believe we ought to build on this success by bringing higher standards and accountability to the nation's high schools. I'm sure the nation's finest teachers share our commitment that every student must be prepared for college and, therefore, prepared for the jobs of the 21st century, so we can say after it's all said and done, no child was left behind in our country.

One of the finest teachers in our country is with us today. He is the 2005 National Teacher of the Year, Jason Kamras. He teaches mathematics at John Philip Sousa Middle School, right here in the Nation's Capital. Jason joined the Teach for America program. He did so because he wanted to show students, the so-called hard to educate, that with high works and high standards, they can overcome any challenge they face.

The Teach for America program asks for a two-year commitment. Jason is now in his eighth year of that two-year commitment. Because he chose to stay, countless students have better lives, and they have a better future. He's usually at work at 7 a.m., and he rarely leaves before 7 p.m. He's had high expectations for himself and he sets high expectations for his students. He works tirelessly to raise math scores, and his students are responding. Jason says, "Nothing surpasses the joy I feel when a student proclaims proudly, 'Mr. Kamras, now I get it.'" I suspect the teachers here understand exactly what he means by saying that.

Like all great teachers, Jason knows that his students' needs do not end when the school bell rings. He understands that at the end of the day, there's more work to be done. And so he co-founded a program called "Expose,", which takes students out of their southwest Washington neighborhoods to places like the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, or the National Gallery of Art.

Jason is also teaching his students how to produce photos about their lives and communities. I think you'll find it interesting to know that these photos have been shown at the Capital Children's Museum and other places around the District. In other words, Jason is building self-esteem.

When his students need individual attention, Jason is always there to support them -- interestingly enough, even after they've left the school. I suspect this is some of your -- some of you all share the same experience. When one of his former students was preparing for the SAT, Jason studied with him three times a week for 10 weeks. Isn't that interesting? The guy got a 1300 on the test. He now goes to Morehouse College in Atlanta. He's majoring in electrical engineering. He is the first person in his family to go to college. (Applause.)

He says, "I owe most of my success to Mr. Kamras. I do not know where I would be without him. He's more than a teacher to me. He is a true friend." Gosh, it must make you feel good as teachers to have somebody say, you made a lot of difference in my life, you are a true friend.

Today, America expresses its appreciation to Jason, and to every one of our outstanding State Teachers of the Year. You give our young people the benefit of your knowledge, your support, your friendship. Your students are fortunate, really fortunate, to have you in their lives. And our nation is fortunate to have you guiding the next generation of Americans.

God bless you all for your hard work. God bless your families, as well. It is my honor to introduce the 2005 National Teacher of the Year, Jason Kamras. (Applause.)

MR. KAMRAS: Mr. President, on behalf of the 2005 State Teachers of the Year, I would like to formally thank you for your invitation to the White House this morning. Let me also thank Mrs. Bush, Secretary Spellings, and all of the other honored guests who have joined us today to celebrate excellence in teaching across the nation.

I am privileged to be a member of a profession that is filled with so many extraordinary individuals. My colleagues work tirelessly every day, doing wonderful and challenging work. They lend their passion, creativity, intellect and love to children of all ages, and they do so almost always without recognition. There is simply no group of people that I would be prouder to represent.

To the State Teachers of the Year gathered here today, and to all of the other educators around the nation, let me say with the deepest admiration, thank you.

I would also like to thank my family, my friends, and inspiring colleagues at John Philip Sousa Middle School for their unceasing support and encouragement. Most of all, I want to thank my students. They are the reason I love teaching and the reason we are all gathered here today. Four of them are here, and if I could ask them to stand. (Applause.)

For the record that's Wendell, Ta-sha, Marco and Brandy. They inspire me every day with their intelligence, their humor, their creativity, and their resilience. (Applause.)

Mr. President and Mrs. Bush, let me formally invite you to Sousa Middle School. We're only a short drive down Pennsylvania Avenue. (Laughter.) I know my students would love to share their knowledge and their ideas with you.

Like all children, my students simply want the opportunity to pursue their dreams, and I am honored that I have been able to support them in their pursuit of their dreams. But there are still so many young people in under-served communities across the nation that still do not have access to an excellent education. This social challenge is why I teach. As educators, we can play a fundamental role in alleviating this inequity, despite the challenges we face, by holding ourselves and all of our students to the highest of expectations and demanding excellence from them. We can, and we do, make a dramatic difference in their lives every day.

As National Teacher of the Year, I call upon my colleagues to join me in helping alleviate inequity in education, to ensure that all children have access to an excellent education and the opportunity to pursue their dreams.

Thank you.

END 11:29 A.M. EDT For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 20, 2005 President Announces 2005 National and State Teachers of the Year

Diplomatic Security Special Agents

Enhanced Authorities for Diplomatic Security Special Agents

An amendment to the State Department Basic Authorities Act included in Public Law 107-228 expanded the law enforcement authorities of special agents of the Bureau of Diplomatic Security.

The new authorities, which became effective on April 6, 2005, with the publication of Public Notice 5208 in the Federal Register, allow Diplomatic Security special agents to:

Obtain and execute subpoenas, summonses, and search and arrest warrants for any federal offense;
Make an arrest without a warrant for any federal offense committed in a special agent’s presence or for any federal felony if an agent has probable cause to believe that the person to be arrested is committing or has committed such felony.
The guidelines impose reasonable limitations, including a requirement that a warrant be obtained when the need to make an arrest is reasonably foreseeable.

"This is a great day for the Bureau of Diplomatic Security," stated Joe D. Morton, Acting Assistant Secretary for Diplomatic Security. "These new authorities enhance the ability of our special agents to conduct effective criminal investigations, secure U.S. borders, and protect the American people from the threat of terrorism."

Diplomatic Security is the worldwide law enforcement and security arm of the U.S. Department of State with special agents assigned to U.S. diplomatic missions overseas and field offices throughout the United States. Diplomatic Security special agents conduct passport and visa fraud investigations worldwide and are responsible for security at 285 U.S. diplomatic facilities around the world.

SOURCE: state.gov Contact: Andy Laine (571) 345-2499 E-mail: LaineA2@state.gov 2005/432 Released on April 19, 2005 Media Note Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 19, 2005

Death of Lebanese Minister Basil Fleihan

Death of Lebanese Parliamentarian and Former Minister Basil Fleihan

The United States notes with sadness the death today of Lebanese Parliamentarian and former Minister Basil Fleihan, who was injured in the February 14 terrorist attack that killed former Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri and others. The United States offers its condolences to Minister Fleihan's family and friends and to the people of Lebanon.

Minister Fleihan was committed to moving Lebanon toward full freedom and democracy, and he worked tirelessly to promote an active civil society. His death makes us more determined than ever to help the Lebanese people run their own affairs. Free and fair democratic elections on time would help honor his memory.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/429 Released on April 18, 2005 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC