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

Togo Presidential Election

Togo’s Presidential Election , The United States calls on the Togolese government to conduct a credible election on April 24 that reflects the will of the Togolese people.

We note disturbing instances of violence over the past weekend, and we call on all sides to maintain calm during the election period. This election can promote peaceful national reconciliation in Togo, but only if it is conducted in a free and fair manner.

Reports of incomplete voter registration, uneven distribution of voter cards and violence are troubling. We are particularly disappointed that the Government of Togo has refused to permit the training of candidate representatives by the National Democratic Institute. We urge Togo to reconsider this decision.

The United States commends the efforts of the Special Envoy of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to improve Togo’s election process. The United States look for results that are credible and accepted by both Togo’s citizens and the international community.

SOURCE: state.gov2005/428 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC April 18, 2005

RELATED and background, Togo

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Question: There is an individual in Los Angeles who claims he is the "Honorary Consul for the Republic of Northern Cyprus." What is the U.S. position on this?

Answer: The United States does not recognize the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" and therefore there cannot be any diplomatic or official representation of it in the United States, including honorary consuls or consulates. Members of the Turkish Cypriot community informed us they intended to name a representative in Los Angeles. This individual has no official standing as far as the United States is concerned.

2005/431 Released on April 18, 2005

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC April 18, 2005 Question Taken at April 18, 2005 Daily Press Briefing

President and Mrs. Bush Congratulate Pope Benedict XVI

President and Mrs. Bush Congratulate Pope Benedict XVI The South Lawn 3:31 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Laura and I offer our congratulations to Pope Benedict XVI. He's a man of great wisdom and knowledge. He's a man who serves the Lord. We remember well his sermon at the Pope's funeral in Rome, how his words touched our hearts and the hearts of millions. We join with our fellow citizens and millions around the world who pray for continued strength and wisdom as His Holiness leads the Catholic Church.

Thank you all.

END 3:32 P.M. EDT For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, April 19, 2005

Tenth Anniversary of Oklahoma City Bombing

President's Statement on Tenth Anniversary of Oklahoma City Bombing

The tenth anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing takes us back to the terrible tragedy that touched all Americans and took the lives of so many from Oklahoma City. We remember the malice that led to the death of 168 innocent people in the Murrah Federal Building. For the survivors of this crime and for the families of the dead, the pain goes on. We also remember the many acts of courage and kindness we saw in the midst of that horror. Oklahoma City will always be one of those places in our national memory where the worst and the best both came to pass. We pray for the lives that were lost that day - and we pray for their families. We ask God for strength and peace for those who lost so much.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 19, 2005

Annual U.S.-E.U. Summit in Washington, D.C

President to Host Annual U.S.-E.U. Summit in Washington, D.C.

This year the annual U.S.-EU Summit will take place in Washington, D.C. President Bush will host the Summit on June 20, 2005. The United States and the European Union have an important and expanding agenda of global cooperation. The President looks forward to this opportunity to discuss our transatlantic agenda with European Council President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 19, 2005

Passover Message, 5765

President's Passover Message, 5765

I send greetings to those observing Passover, beginning at sundown on April 23.

This celebration marks the historic exodus of the Israelites from Pharaoh's oppression more than 3,000 years ago. During Passover, Jews around the world gather with family and friends to share the story of God's deliverance of the Israelites from slavery to freedom. Through songs and prayers, they remember the blessings and mercy of a just and loving God. By passing this story from generation to generation, they teach the triumph of faith over tyranny and celebrate God's promise of freedom.

The lesson of this story is timeless and reminds us that even in the face of struggle, hope endures. As we work to bring hope to the oppressed, we recall the words of the Psalmist, which are read at the Seder meal: "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Laura and I send our best wishes for a joyous Passover. GEORGE W. BUSH

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 19, 2005

Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., 2005

Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., 2005 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

As we enjoy the great freedoms of our country, we are mindful of our obligation to pass on to our children the values that sustain our liberty and our democracy. On Education and Sharing Day, we reaffirm our commitment to teach young people the lessons they need to preserve and strengthen our Nation, and to reach as far as their vision and character can take them.

Education and Sharing Day honors the memory of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who established education and outreach centers that offer social services and humanitarian aid around the world. Commemorating his life and legacy teaches the next generation that a single life of conscience and purpose can touch and lift up many lives. By helping to heal a broken heart, surrounding a friend with love, feeding the hungry, or providing shelter for the homeless, we can change America for the better, one heart, one soul, and one conscience at a time.

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 April 20, 2005, as Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A. I call upon all our citizens to dedicate their time and talents to help our rising generation grow into caring and responsible adults.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth 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 19, 2005

Madagascar and Millennium Challenge Corporation Board

Statement on Madagascar and Millennium Challenge Corporation Board

Today, Madagascar became the first country to sign a Compact with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Board. The signing of this compact marks the beginning of a new approach to development assistance that recognizes sound policies and good governance are vital to poverty reduction and economic growth in developing countries. The United States congratulates the Government of Madagascar for its hard work with the Millennium Challenge Corporation to develop this $110 million program to raise rural incomes and productivity, and for its commitment to ruling justly, investing in its people, and promoting economic freedom. MCC is working in partnership with other eligible countries to complete their proposals for MCA assistance.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 18, 2005

RELATED, background on Madagascar and Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)

Stephen Hadley, V. Phillip Lago, Executive Secretary National Security Council.

Stephen Hadley, Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, announced today the appointment of V. Phillip Lago as Executive Secretary of the National Security Council.

Phil Lago comes to the White House with a distinguished career spanning more than 25 years in the Intelligence Community, including the Central Intelligence Agency where he held various management and analytical positions. Most recently, Mr. Lago served as the Executive Secretary for the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI), and was responsible for the DCI's continuity of operations and continuity of government programs. In 2004, Mr. Lago received the prestigious Director's Award from the DCI. He was a member of the DCI's 9/11-response team and served as the DCI's representative to a series of White House working groups on homeland security.

A native of Washington, D.C., Mr. Lago spent a substantial part of his youth traveling the world with his family. Mr. Lago now lives with his wife, Linda, in Vienna, Virginia.

# # # For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary April 18, 2005 Personnel Announcement

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum,

President Dedicates Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Springfield, Illinois 11:59 A.M. CDT

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all very much. Thanks for the warm welcome. Laura and I are so very grateful for your generous invitation to be here. Mr. Speaker, thank you for your incredibly warm words. I appreciate your leadership, I appreciate your friendship and so do the people of Illinois.

I am so honored to be here to dedicate a great institution honoring such a great American. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum was a long time coming. But as many speakers have said, it's really worth the wait. Laura and I were just given a tour by Richard -- appreciate his leadership, by the way. I guess the best way to describe what we saw is a superb collection; a superb resource for scholars; and an invitation for all, especially the young, to rediscover Lincoln for themselves.

The mission of this library is essential to our country, because to understand the life and the sacrifice of Abraham Lincoln is to understand the meaning and promise of America. Most of you all know, the First Lady was a librarian. (Applause.) Any time she can get me into a library is a pretty good deal, as far as she's concerned. (Laughter.)

I want to thank your Governor and Patti, for their hospitality. Thank you, Lieutenant Governor. I thank the two United States senators from Illinois, Senator Durbin and Obama. I appreciate the members of the United States Congressional delegation who are here. I particularly want to pay my respects to Ray LaHood, who has worked so hard on this project. I want to thank all the members of the State House who are here. I appreciate the Mayor, Mayor Davlin. I appreciate the Secretary of State and Treasurer, I appreciate you all for coming.

It's an honor to be here with our fellow citizens. I particularly want to say thanks to my friend, Jim Edgar, for his leadership to get this museum going. (Applause.) I want to thank Brian Lamb -- C-SPAN happens to be one of my mother's favorite networks. (Laughter.) I particularly want to thank Mihan Lee for standing up in front of us and expressing her words so eloquently about living in a free society. (Applause.) I thank Reverend McLean for his prayers. And I thank you all for coming. All of us have come here today because of our great appreciation for the 16th President of the United States.

In a small way, I can relate to the rail-splitter from out West because he had a way of speaking that was not always appreciated by the newspapers back East. (Laughter and applause.) A New York Times story on his first inaugural address reported that Mr. Lincoln was lucky "it was not the constitution of the English language and the laws of English grammar that he was called upon to support." (Laughter.) I think that fellow is still writing for the Times. (Laughter.)

In Washington, D.C., where Lincoln served America and where he was assassinated, we honor his influence in a great temple of democracy. Here in Springfield, in Illinois, where he lived along with Mary, and where their sons were born and where the funeral train ended its journey 140 years ago, we honor his good life in a more personal way. Here we can walk through his house, see his belongings, and read the Gettysburg Address in his own hand. And even across the mounting years, we can sense the power of his mind, the depth of his convictions, and the decency that defined his entire life.

Abraham Lincoln started life in the last month of Thomas Jefferson's presidency, with no early advantages other than curiosity and character. Before history took notice, he earned money as a storekeeper, a surveyor and a post master. He taught himself the law. He established a successful legal practice and rose in a new political party on the power of his words. Those who knew him remembered his candor, his kindness and his searching intellect -- his combination of frontier humor with the cadences of Shakespeare and the Holy Bible. As a state legislator in Springfield, a congressman, and a debater on the stump, Lincoln embodied the democratic ideal -- that leadership and even genius are found among the people themselves, and sometimes in the most unlikely places.

Young Lincoln didn't worry much about how he looked or what he wore. He took great care of the things he said, and Americans took notice beyond the borders of Illinois. In New York City, an eyewitness at his Cooper Union Speech in 1860 said this: "His face lighted up as with an inward fire; the whole man was transfigured. I forgot his clothes, his personal appearance, and his individual peculiarities. Presently forgetting myself, I was on my feet with the rest, cheering this wonderful man."

An ambitious young Lincoln was heard to lament that the great work of the American Revolution was all in the past. When he departed Springfield as President-elect, he spoke of duties perhaps even greater than George Washington faced. Events proved him correct. His very election as President was regarded as a cause for war. And as he sent legions of men to death and sacrifice, Lincoln's own burden began to show in a lined and tired face. Without really knowing, the American people had chosen perhaps the only man who could preserve our unity and assure our future as a great nation. He was the relentless enemy of secession -- without hatred or malice toward those who seceded. He grieved every day at the ruin and waste of war -- yet he knew that even this tragedy could be redeemed by the renewal of American ideals. On Good Friday, 1865, Lincoln did not know it was his last day on Earth. But on that day, he knew that all the sacrifices and the sorrow across the land had meaning, and the Union had been sa

When his life was taken, Abraham Lincoln assumed a greater role in the story of America than man or President. Every generation has looked up to him as the Great Emancipator, the hero of unity, and the martyr of freedom. Children have learned to follow his model of integrity and principle. Leaders have read and quoted his words, and have hoped to find a measure of his wisdom and strength. In all this, Lincoln has taken on the elements of myth. And in this case, the myth is true. In the character and convictions of this one man, we see all that America hopes to be.

Lincoln's career and contributions were founded on a single argument: That there are no exceptions to the ringing promises of the Declaration of Independence; that all of us who share the human race are created equal. At a campaign stop in Chicago, Lincoln said, "If that Declaration is not the truth, let us get out the statute book, in which we find it and tear it out. Who is so bold as to do it? Let us stick to it then, let us stand firmly by it then." This led him over time to confront the great tension in America's founding between the promise of liberty and the fact of slavery. Lincoln was morally offended by what he called "the monstrous injustice of slavery itself." And he believed the permanent acceptance of the institution of slavery would represent the end of the American ideal. He would not accept that our new world of hope and freedom must forever be a prison for millions. And so with the relentless logic and clarity of Lincoln, he pushed his countrymen to choose: Live up to the truth wr

President Lincoln sought every reasonable political compromise that might avoid war -- but he did not believe America could surrender its founding commitments and remain the same country. As his presidency unfolded, this conviction gathered force and urgency until the day he freed millions by signing a proclamation. And then he looked up and said, "That will do." Days before his death in April, 1865, Lincoln spoke from a White House window and declared that the right to vote should be extended to some freed men and African Americans who had fought for the Union. In that audience was a man named Booth, who vowed, this is "the last speech he will ever make."

Lincoln's voice was silenced, but he, more than any other American, had spoken to all the ages and his words have haunted and driven our history. His authority was asserted after the war as we corrected our Constitution and finally ended the great national sin of slavery. Citizens enlisted Lincoln's principles in the fight to bring the vote to women and to end Jim Crow laws. When Martin Luther King, Jr. called America to redeem the promissory note of the Declaration, he stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial -- and Lincoln was behind him in more ways than one. From the lunch counter to the school house door to the Army barracks, President Lincoln has continued to hold this nation to its promises. And we will never relent -- we will never rest until those promises are met. (Applause.)

The convictions that have guided our history are also at issue in our world. We also face some questions in our time: Do the promises of the Declaration apply beyond the culture that produced it? Are some, because of birth or background, destined to live in tyranny -- or do all, regardless of birth or background, deserve to live in freedom? Americans have no right or calling to impose our own form of government on others. Yet, American interests and values are both served by standing for liberty in every part of the world. (Applause.)

Our interests are served when former enemies become democratic partners -- because free governments do not support terror or seek to conquer their neighbors. Our interests are served by the spread of democratic societies -- because free societies reward the hopes of their citizens, instead of feeding the hatreds that lead to violence. Our deepest values are also served when we take our part in freedom's advance -- when the chains of millions are broken and the captives are set free, because we are honored to serve the cause that gave us birth. (Applause.)

Sometimes the progress of liberty comes gradually, like water that cuts through stone. Sometimes progress comes like a wildfire, kindled by example and courage. We see that example and courage today in Afghanistan and Kyrgystan, Ukraine, Georgia and Iraq. We believe that people in Zimbabwe and Iran and Lebanon and beyond have the same hopes, the same rights, and the same future of self-government. The principles of the Declaration still inspire, and the words of the Declaration are forever true. So we will stick to it; we will stand firmly by it. (Applause.)

Every generation strives to define the lessons of Abraham Lincoln, and that is part of our tribute to the man himself. None of us can claim his legacy as our own, but all of us can learn from the faith that guided him. He trusted in freedom and in the wisdom of the Founders, even in the darkest hours. That trust has helped Americans carry on, even after the second day of Gettysburg; even on December 8, 1941; even on September the 12th, 2001. Whenever freedom is challenged, the proper response is to go forward with confidence in freedom's power. (Applause.)

Lincoln also trusted in the ways of Providence, the working of an unseen power. He knew the course of Providence is not always what we hope, or ask, or expect -- but he trusted still. In his example, we are reminded to be patient and humble, knowing that God's purpose and God's justice will break forth in time. (Applause.)

Abraham Lincoln had a streak of melancholy in him. He said our short lives are like "the break of the wave." But the wave of his life is still felt in our world. The Union he saved still thanks him. The people he freed still honor him. And here in the place he called home, Springfield, Illinois, we proudly dedicate the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum.

May God bless you all. (Applause.)

END 12:18 P.M. CDT For Immediate ReleaseOffice of the Press SecretaryApril 19, 2005

minimum wage and overtime violations

U.S. Department of Labor Collects $40,000 in Back Wages For 59 California Chicken Processing Employees

SAN FRANCISCO—Overhill Farms, a Vernon, Calif.-based chicken processing company, has agreed to pay $40,000 in back wages owed by one of its subcontractors to 59 Hispanic workers. The subcontractor, FPT/Fresh Pak, went bankrupt and Overhill Farms agreed to cover the back wages although it was not legally required to do so.

The U.S. Department of Labor discovered minimum wage and overtime violations during an investigation into the subcontractor’s pay practices over a five-month period ending December 2004.

Investigators of the department’s Wage and Hour Division found that FPT/Fresh Pack misclassified as independent contractors employees they contracted to work at a de-boning plant. FPT/Fresh Pack violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) when it failed to meet payroll for two weeks, pay minimum wages and overtime pay, and keep adequate payroll records. The subcontractor also illegally deducted the cost of aprons, gloves, hair nets and other required equipment from workers’ paychecks.

“The Department of Labor is committed to helping workers, especially low-wage earners, receive all the wages to which they are entitled under the law,” said George Friday, regional administrator of the Wage and Hour Division in San Francisco.

The violations came to light as a result of employees contacting the Mexican Consulate in Los Angeles, a partner with the Wage and Hour Division in the EMPLEO program. EMPLEO is an alliance of federal and state agencies, the Diocese of San Bernardino, Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles) and the consulates of Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica to educate Spanish-speaking workers and employers on workplace rights and responsibilities. The EMPLEO toll-free help line (1-877-552-9832) has relayed information assisting a number of investigations.

The back wages, already paid by Overhill to the Department of Labor, are being distributed to the affected former FPT/Fresh Pack workers. Overhill Farms processes chicken into frozen foods for major clients such as Panda Express, Sara Lee, and Delta Airlines.

The Wage and Hour Division recovered nearly $200 million in back wages in fiscal year (FY) 2004 for more than 288,000 workers.

SOURCE: The United States Department of Labor For more information about the FLSA, call the Department of Labor’s toll-free help line at 1-866-4USWAGE (1-866-487-9243) or contact the Los Angeles Wage and Hour office at (213) 894-6375. Information is also available on the Internet at wagehour.dol.gov.

OPA News Release: [04/18/2005] Contact Name: Deanne Amaden Phone Number: (415) 975-4741 Release Number: 05-708-SAN (SF-039)

Operation FALCON

ATTORNEY GENERAL ALBERTO R. GONZALES ANNOUNCES ARRESTS OF MORE THAN 10,000 FUGITIVES THROUGH OPERATION FALCON

WASHINGTON, DC - Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales and Ben Reyna, Director of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), today announced that the USMS, working closely with its federal, state and local partners, has successfully completed the largest fugitive apprehension operation in American history. Through Operation FALCON (“Federal And Local Cops Organized Nationally”), which was conducted April 4-10, 2005, Deputy U.S. Marshals and their law enforcement partners arrested a total of 10,340 fugitives and cleared more than 13,800 felony warrants.

“Operation FALCON is an excellent example of President Bush’s direction and the Justice Department’s dedication to deal both with the terrorist threat and traditional violent crime,” said Attorney General Gonzales. “This joint effort shows the commitment of our federal, state, and local partners to make our neighborhoods safer, and it has led to the highest number of arrests ever recorded for a single initiative of its kind. We will use all of our Nation’s law enforcement resources to serve the people, to pursue justice, and to make our streets and Nation safer.”

“This operation, which produced the largest number of arrests ever recorded during a single initiative, would not have been possible without the cooperation of our law enforcement partners on the federal, state, and local levels,” said Director Reyna. “Working together, we were able to take more than 10,000 fugitives off the streets, making our communities safer for everyone.”

Nearly 960 federal, state, and local agencies helped the USMS identify thousands of the nation’s most dangerous fugitives during Operation FALCON. The Marshals Service’s five regional fugitive task forces and three foreign field offices joined forces with their counterparts to put more than 3,000 law enforcement officers on the street during each day of the operation. The members of the task force prioritized for arrest those involved in homicides, sexual assaults, gang-related crimes, kidnappings, major drug offenses, crimes against children and the elderly, and unregistered sex offenders.

Operation FALCON task force members sought foreign fugitives believed to be in the United States, handled cases referred by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and received support from the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) at the Department of Justice. INTERPOL and the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service assisted in the investigations of persons wanted by law enforcement worldwide. Sixteen foreign and international fugitives who were arrested during Operation FALCON now face deportation or extradition proceedings.

One such fugitive arrested through Operation FALCON is a Connecticut man who was wanted in Hartford for murder and assault after shooting three individuals. While the Marshals Service, the Hartford Police Department, the Connecticut State Police, and the Connecticut Department of Probation actively pursued their investigation, the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement determined that the man had fled to Jamaica, where he had relatives. Leads were forwarded to the USMS foreign field office in Kingston, Jamaica, where Deputy U.S. Marshals, working in coordination with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, located him at his mother’s residence. The man is now being detained pending extradition.

“I applaud the achievements of every Deputy Marshal, police officer, detective, trooper, investigator, deputy sheriff, and special agent who hit the street virtually around-the-clock for seven days,” said Robert J. Finan II, the Marshals Service’s Assistant Director for Investigative Services. “Also of note is that during the course of this initiative, there were no serious incidents or serious injuries to either law enforcement officers or those who were taken into custody.”

Operation FALCON coincided with the beginning of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.” During his remarks announcing the results of Operation FALCON, the Attorney General praised the efforts of the participating agencies, noting that targeting violent fugitives provides justice for the victims of those crimes and ensures safer communities. “By taking violent fugitives off the streets and putting them behind bars where they belong,” said Attorney General Gonzales, “we’ve honored the victims and made our streets safer.”

PHOTOS/VIDEO AVAILABLE

The Marshals Service Office of Public Affairs has photos of actual arrests during the Operation available to press at www.usmarshals.gov , as well as fact sheets on arrests nationwide and in each of the agency’s 94 districts. A five-minute B-roll video package for broadcasters will be available for satellite distribution on April 14 at 2:30 P.M. EDT (11:30 A.M. PDT) and 4:45 P.M. EDT (1:45 P.M. PDT), at these C-Band coordinates: IA 6 T-15, Downlink Frequency 4000 V 93 degrees WL.

PARTICIPATING AGENCIES

A complete list of all of the federal, state, and local agencies that participated in Operation FALCON is available at the Marshals Service website at usmarshals.gov .

SOURCE: United States Department of Justice ### 05-193 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2005 WWW.USDOJ.GOV AG CONTACT: USMS PUBLIC AFFAIRS (202) 307-9065

PREPARING TAX RETURNS SCAM

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT SEEKS TO BAR MISSISSIPPI MAN FROM PREPARING INCOME TAX RETURNS FOR OTHERS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Justice Department today asked a federal court to bar Ray Robert Ladner, a tax return preparer from Pass Christian, Mississippi, from preparing income tax returns for others. The civil injunction suit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, in Gulfport, alleges that Ladner prepared a variety of fraudulent income tax returns. The government also seeks an order directing Ladner to provide the government his customers’ names, telephone and Social Security numbers, and mailing and e-mail addresses.

According to the complaint, Ladner, operating under the names Professional Accounting Services, Inc., Professional Associates, Inc., Ladner’s Accounting Service Inc., Express Refund Tax Service, and Coast Accounting & Tax Service, Inc., prepared returns improperly claiming deductions for fabricated charitable contributions, business losses, expenses, and improperly claiming the earned income tax credit. The complaint projects that returns Ladner is believed to have prepared for the 2002 and 2003 tax years may have cost the United States Treasury more than $1.8 million.

The government also accuses Ladner of improperly preparing returns by fraudulently using the names and Social Security numbers of his customers and their minor children. In one instance, Ladner allegedly claimed fraudulent dependent exemptions on a customer’s return using the names and Social Security numbers of other customers’ children. The government also accuses Ladner of fabricating income for a customer who had none in order to claim the earned income tax credit, a benefit that is available under some circumstances to low-income working people. Then, Ladner allegedly had the resulting improper tax refund paid to him, rather than to the customer whose return he prepared.

“People who prepare fraudulent tax returns cheat their customers and unfairly shift the tax burden to honest American taxpayers,” said Eileen J. O'Connor, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Tax Division. “If you have your tax return prepared, choose your preparer carefully, and be sure that what you file with the IRS is truthful.”

The government’s complaint is part of an ongoing crackdown on fraudulent return preparers. The Justice Department has filed numerous lawsuits seeking injunctions against return preparers who prepare false or fraudulent federal tax returns. More information about the Tax Division is available at: usdoj.gov/tax/. SOURCE: United States Department of Justice

### IMMEDIATE RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2005 WWW.USDOJ.GOV TAX (202) 514-2007 TDD (202) 514-1888 05-192

TAX SCAM TARGETED AT MILITARY

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT SUES TO BAR HAWAII WOMAN’S ALLEGED TAX SCAM TARGETED AT MILITARY PERSONNEL

Return Preparer Allegedly Tells Customers They Can Deduct Expenses Of Haircuts, Cell Phones, And Other Personal Items

WASHINGTON, D.C.-The Justice Department announced today that is has asked a federal court to bar Lou Ann Moser and Carla Newman of Hawaii from promoting an allegedly fraudulent tax scheme targeted at military personnel and from preparing tax returns for others. In the complaint, filed Wednesday in Honolulu, the government also seeks an order directing the defendants to provide the government their customers’ names, mail and e-mail addresses, and Social Security and telephone numbers. The government alleges that Moser and Newman operate their tax preparation service in Kailua, Hawaii.

According to the complaint, Moser falsely advises military customers that they can claim tax deductions for non-deductible personal expenses such as haircuts, cell-phone and Internet services, and other personal items and services. Moser allegedly advises and helps non-military customers to use sham corporations to improperly claim deductions for non-deductible personal expenses. Newman allegedly assists Moser and allegedly electronically files returns for customers falsely stating that the customers had prepared them when in fact Moser prepared them. The government alleges that the defendants have prepared and filed hundreds of returns for customers, and estimates that the defendants’ conduct cost the federal treasury more than $4 million for tax year 2003 alone.

“The Department of Justice and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are working methodically to halt tax fraud scams and the preparation and filing of fraudulent income tax returns,@ said Eileen J. O=Connor, Assistant Attorney General for the Tax Division. “People who prepare returns claiming false deductions are cheating honest taxpayers and creating legal problems for their customers.”

The complaint further alleges that Moser advised customers to lie to IRS agents to obstruct investigations. Moser allegedly told one customer to delay an IRS audit until her husband was deployed to Afghanistan, and then falsely tell the IRS that the husband had receipts needed to substantiate tax deductions.

This suit is part of an ongoing Justice Department and IRS initiative to stop the promotion of tax schemes and scams, and the preparation and filing of fraudulent tax returns

SOURCE: United States Department of Justice IMMEDIATE RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2005 WWW.USDOJ.GOV TAX (202) 514-2007 TDD (202) 514-1888

INTERNET TAX SCAM

GEORGIA FEDERAL COURT HALTS INTERNET TAX SCAM

Court Permanently Bars Georgia Man From Selling Tax Fraud Scheme

WASHINGTON, D.C. -The Justice Department announced today that a federal court in Atlanta, Georgia has permanently barred Jonathan D. Luman of Stockbridge, Georgia from selling a tax scam known as “The TaxBuster Guide.” The court also ordered Luman to provide the government his customers’ names, mailing and e-mail addresses, and phone and Social Security numbers; to notify his customers of the injunction; and to post a copy of the order on his website.

Luman’s scam, sold over the Internet, falsely promised customers that they could declare themselves exempt from federal tax laws. The court stated in its order that claiming to be a “sovereign citizen” and renouncing one’s Social Security number were actions “clearly designed to hide income from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax evasion purposes,” and that Luman “knew or had reason to know” these statements were false.

“People who buy schemes purporting to eliminate their federal taxes are not only wasting their money, but also risking serious penalties and possible prosecution,” said Eileen J. O’Connor, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Tax Division. “The Justice Department and the IRS are working methodically and effectively to detect and stop the promotion of such schemes.”

Joan S. Ulmer, a trial attorney with the Justice Department’s Tax Division, handled the case, which J. Katherine Smith, a revenue agent with the IRS’s Small Business/Self Employed Division, investigated.

More information about this case is available at usdoj.gov04789 and usdoj.gov04605. More information about the Justice Department’s Tax Division can be found at usdoj.gov/tax/index.

### 05-190 IMMEDIATE RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2005 WWW.USDOJ.GOV TAX (202) 514-2007 TDD (202) 514-1888

HUD awards NYCHA $400,000

HUD ANNOUNCES $400,000 IN GRANTS TO THE NEW YORK CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY

Funding to provide greater computer access for city’s public housing residents

NEW YORK - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) $400,000 in grants today that will give local public housing residents greater access to computer technology. The funding is from HUD's Public Housing Neighborhood Networks Program.

"These grants provide the tools public housing residents need on their way to self-sufficiency," said HUD Assistant Secretary Michael Liu, who presented the funding to NYCHA General Manager Douglas Apple. "The computer centers these grants create or enhance give residents computer access, which encourages job-training that leads to employment."

Housing authorities use Neighborhood Networks funding to establish, expand or update community technology centers. Neighborhood Networks centers provide access to computers, computer training and the Internet. NN centers can also provide a range of services to help residents achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency. PHAs may also use the funding to hire staff to manage center activities, purchase equipment, and provide computer, literacy and job training.

NYCHA plans to provide support services to 600 eligible public housing residents. The grant will provide access to computers and technology-based educational activities for guidance and preparatory programming for post secondary education, literacy training, GED preparation, computer preparatory courses, goal setting, life skills and job training. NYCHA also plans to partner with the Future Kids agency.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov. ###

HUD No. 05-048 Donna White (202) 708-0685 SOURCE: hud.gov/ For Release Friday April 15, 2005

Fish and Wildlife, Wal-Mart, to Protect Habitat

Norton Commends National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Wal-Mart for Landmark Partnership to Protect Wildlife Habitat

(WASHINGTON) - Interior Secretary Gale Norton today commended the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and Wal-Mart for developing an innovative conservation partnership under which the company will contribute $35 million over the next 10 years to conserve and protect vital wildlife habitat across the country.

Under the "Acres for America" program, Wal-Mart pledges to conserve at least 138,000 acres of habitat, equal to the footprint of all its stores and facilities in the United States. However, the amount of habitat actually conserved will be much higher, as the Foundation already has reached an agreement to acquire more than 6,000 acres to be added to Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge in Louisiana and a permanent conservation easement on more than 312,000 acres of forests, rivers and wetlands in Maine.

"'Acres for America' demonstrates the power of cooperative conservation and partnership," Norton said at a ceremony at the National Geographic Society. "With its generous contribution, Wal-Mart is empowering the foundation to protect and restore important areas of wildlife habitat that otherwise might never be conserved. The company is setting a standard of corporate stewardship that I hope other companies will emulate."

The foundation, established by Congress in 1984 as a private non-profit conservation organization, will raise $35 million from other partners to match Wal-Mart's contribution, boosting the overall total to $70 million.

"We are very excited to partner with Wal-Mart to build a premier land stewardship model for the next generation," said NFWF Executive Director John Berry.

The foundation's board identified five initial projects to be funded under "Acres for America":

Acquisition of more than 6,000 acres of newly planted forests and wetlands that will be added to Catahoula NWR in Louisiana, expanding the refuge by 40 percent. The refuge is an important migration stop for waterfowl and other birds. Partners include the Conservation Fund and American Electric Power.

A conservation easement to protect 312,000 acres of forests and other habitat in Downeast Maine along the Canadian border. This will protect 60 lakes,1,500 miles of rivers and streams and 54,000 acres of wetlands from development pressures. Partners include The Conservation Fund, New England Forestry Foundation, the State of Maine, The Nature Conservancy and the Downeast Lakes Land Trust.

Acquisition of two ranches and their associated 850,000 acres of grazing permits on Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service lands on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Ranching and grazing will continue on the land under a new management plan that will address conservation issues. Other partners include The Conservation Fund and The Grand Canyon Trust.

Acquisition of 1,226 acres of habitat used by the endangered Indiana bat in Arkansas for winter hibernation. Partners include The Nature Conservancy's Arkansas chapter, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, and private landowners.

A 1,120-acre conservation easement on a ranch along Squaw Creek, a tributary of the Deschutes River in Oregon. The tract provides important upland and riparian habitat for mule deer and will help in the restoration of steelhead runs on the river. The Deschutes Basin Land Trust is the lead partner.

SOURCE: U.S. Department of the Interior Office of the Secretary Contact: Hugh Vickery April 12, 2005 202-501-4633

Homeland Security and Minor League Baseball

Department of Homeland Security and Minor League Baseball Team Up To Promote Emergency Preparedness

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security today announced that for the third season in a row, it is joining Minor League Baseball to promote emergency preparedness. During the 2005 season, 48 teams across the nation will educate and encourage their fans to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and schools by featuring Ready campaign information in their ballparks, beginning April 14th, 2005.

“I am delighted Minor League Baseball is joining us again this season to highlight the importance of public emergency preparedness,” said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. “The teams' efforts throughout the spring and summer will help remind fans of the simple steps they can take to prepare: get a kit, make a plan and be informed.”

Many teams will take part in the effort by featuring Ready campaign television or radio public service announcements in their ballparks and/or game programs. Ready asks citizens to do three key things: get an emergency supply kit, make a family communications plan, and be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses. By providing this important information, teams are helping to prepare fans and their communities to respond to potential emergencies.

“Our clubs strive to be vital parts of their communities,” said Mike Moore, President and CEO of Minor League Baseball. “They’re extremely proud to be able to work with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Boy Scouts of America in helping educate Americans on how to better prepare their families in case of a public emergency through the Ready campaign.”

Boy Scout troops across the nation will also take part in the effort again this season by distributing Ready brochures during selected Minor League Baseball games. The Boy Scouts’ motto, “Be Prepared,” and its collaboration with Minor League Baseball to distribute emergency preparedness information allows the organization to support efforts to better prepare communities. In addition, the Boy Scouts’ participation in this initiative allows scouts to earn the Good Turn for America Award, which fosters joint community service projects between the Boy Scouts and organizations like Homeland Security.

“Each year, Scouts across America fulfill the Scout Oath of ‘helping other people at all times’ by participating in a wide variety of service projects,” said Roy L. Williams, Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America. “One of the most important service projects Scouts complete each year is helping communities ‘be prepared’ for emergencies.”

This effort between Homeland Security, Minor League Baseball and the Boy Scouts of America is an example of the strategic relationships the Department has secured with a variety of organizations to disseminate preparedness messages and materials to the public. SOURCE: Department of Homeland Security

The Ready campaign is a national public service advertising campaign produced by the Ad Council in partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Ready is designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to potential terrorist attacks and other emergencies. The campaign works closely with Citizen Corps, Homeland Security’s grass-roots program, to localize Ready’s messages and provide a local presence to advocate action and answer citizen’s questions on preparedness. Individuals interested in receiving a "Get Ready Now" brochure may call 1-800-BE-READY or visit Ready.gov for more information. To get involved in preparing your community, contact your local Citizen Corps Council.

### For Immediate Release, Office of the Press Secretary, Contact: 202-282-8010, April 14, 2005

2010 Health Goals For E. Coli 0157

Foodborne Illnesses Continue Downward Trend: 2010 Health Goals For E. Coli 0157 Reached

A report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) showed important declines in foodborne infections due to common bacterial pathogens in 2004.

For the first time, cases of E. coli O157 infections, one of the most severe foodborne diseases, are below the national Healthy People 2010 health goal. From 1996-2004, the incidence of E. coli O157 infections decreased 42 percent. Campylobacter infections decreased 31 percent, Cryptosporidium dropped 40 percent, and Yersinia decreased 45 percent.

Overall, Salmonella infections dropped 8 percent, but only one of the five most common strains declined significantly. Different Salmonella strains are found in a variety of animal hosts and in different geographic locations. Further efforts are needed to better understand why some Salmonella strains tend to contaminate produce during production and harvest. FDA has recently developed a plan to decrease foodborne illnesses associated with fresh produce. To better control foodborne pathogens in animals and plants, prevention efforts should be implemented across the farm to table continuum.

"This report is good news for Americans and underscores the importance of investments in food safety. Our efforts are working and we're making progress in reducing foodborne illnesses," said CDC Director Dr. Julie Gerberding. "However, foodborne disease is still a significant cause of illness in the United States and further efforts are needed to sustain and extend these important declines and to improve prevention of foodborne illnesses."

"The continued reduction in illnesses from E. coli O157 is a tremendous success story and we are committed to continuing this positive trend in the future," said USDA Secretary Mike Johanns. "These results demonstrate that through innovative policies and strong and consistent enforcement of inspection laws, we are protecting the public's health through a safer food supply."

Several factors have contributed to the decline in foodborne illnesses. USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service implemented a series of new recommendations beginning in 2002 to combat E. coli O157 in ground beef and Listeria in ready-to-eat products. In response, most establishments have significantly enhanced their food safety systems. Many have applied new technologies to reduce or eliminate pathogens and have increased their testing to ensure the effectiveness of control measures. Furthermore, these improvements likely reflect industry efforts to reduce E. coli O157 in live cattle and during slaughter.

The reduction in Campylobacter infections may be due to greater consumer awareness of safe poultry handling and cooking methods. Food safety education efforts targeted to specific foodborne hazards as well as general consumer tips, such as the public-private Fight Bac campaign, have helped consumers become more aware and knowledgeable of food safety hazards and how to prevent them.

The incidence of Shigella, which is found in a wide variety of foods, did not change significantly from 1996 through 2004. Vibrio infections increased 47 percent. Vibrio infections, which are primarily associated with consumption of certain types of raw shellfish, can be prevented by thoroughly cooking seafood, especially oysters.

In 1996, the FoodNet surveillance system began collecting valuable information to quantify, monitor, and track the incidence of laboratory confirmed cases of foodborne illnesses caused by Campylobacter, Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, E. coli O157, Listeria, Shigella, Yersinia and Vibrio. Since its inception, FoodNet has grown to include ten states and 44 million people, about 15 percent of the American population.

SOURCE: United States Department of Health and Human Services The full report, "Preliminary FoodNet Data on the Incidence of Infections with Pathogens Transmitted Commonly Through Food - Selected Sites, United States, 2004" appears in this week's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (April 15, 2005) and is available online at cdc.gov/mmwr. To learn more about FoodNet please visit cdc.gov/foodnet/. To learn more about various foodborne pathogens, visit cdc.gov/az.do.

### FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, April 14, 2005 Contact: CDC Press Office (404) 639-3286

Turkish Cypriot Election Results

Turkish Cypriot Election Results

The United States congratulates Mr. Mehmet Ali Talat on his victory in the Turkish Cypriot elections on Sunday, April 17. Turkish Cypriots exercised their right to select the leader of their community in free, fair and democratic elections. The United States welcomes this reaffirmation by Turkish Cypriots of their commitment to a comprehensive solution and reunification of the island. We look forward to working with all interested parties to this end.

The United States will continue to support the efforts of the UN Secretary General to promote a solution to the long-standing division of the island, based on the UN Secretary General's settlement plan and in a manner acceptable to majorities on both sides of the island. As part of our effort to pave the way for reunification, the United States will also continue to work to ease the economic isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community and to reduce economic disparities between the two communities through economic development in the north.

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/427 Press Statement, Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman, Washington, DC, April 17, 2005

National Airspace System: Progress and Ongoing Challenges for the Air Traffic Organization

National Airspace System: Progress and Ongoing Challenges for the Air Traffic Organization.

Congress's formation of the Air Traffic Organization (ATO) and the Joint Planning and Development Office (JPDO), both within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), represent the latest efforts to address the monumental challenges of modernizing the national airspace system (NAS) during the first quarter of the twenty-first century. For more than two decades, FAA has been working to modernize the air traffic control (ATC) system, but projects have repeatedly missed cost, schedule, and performance targets. Consequently, ATC modernization has been on GAO's list of high-risk federal programs since 1995. The ATO's focus is on a rolling 10- year outlook to operate and modernize the NAS. By contrast, the JPDO's vision is longer term, focused on coordinating the research efforts of diverse federal agencies to achieve a common goal of meeting potential air traffic demands in 2025. This statement discusses (1) GAO's assessment of the ATO's efforts to date in addressing some of the key challenges for the ATC modernization program and (2) challenges that lie ahead for the ATO and options that it could consider in addressing the needs of the NAS over the next decade, as well as longer-term needs defined by the JPDO.

The ATO is taking a number of positive steps to address the legacy cost, schedule, and performance problems that have affected the ATC modernization program for the past two decades. For example, the ATO is beginning to involve stakeholders early and throughout a system's development; has demonstrated a willingness to cut major acquisitions that are not meeting their goals, even after investing significant resources; and has improved its management of information technology. However, the ATO does not use a knowledge-based approach to acquisitions, characteristic of best commercial and federal practices, which would help avoid cost, schedule, and performance problems. Additionally, the ATO has used a process improvement model in several software-intensive acquisitions. However, because the ATO has not mandated use of the model in all such acquisitions, it risks taking a major step backwards in its capabilities for ATC systems and software. Finally, the ATO is taking steps to change the culture of its component organizations by, for example, replacing a personality-driven culture with one that is more sustainable and stable. Continued management attention in this area will be important to the organization's success. The ATO faces the challenges of (1) modernizing and expanding NAS capacity to accommodate an expected 25-percent increase in the volume of air traffic over the next 10 years, (2) hiring thousands of air traffic controllers to replace those expected to retire over the next decade, (3) working with the new JPDO to coordinate the research efforts of diverse federal agencies to transform the NAS to meet potential air travel needs of 2025, and (4) addressing aging infrastructure. To fund its major system acquisitions through fiscal year 2009 while remaining within projected budget targets, the ATO has substantially reduced funding for other areas. However, the ATO does not provide administration and congressional decisionmakers with information about the impact of the reduced funding on NAS modernization. To deal with these challenges, some aviation experts suggested options that the ATO could consider, including contracting out more services and incurring debt to obtain multiyear funding for capital investments (an option requiring legislative change). Our work and some experts also suggest clarifying budget submissions to show decisionmakers how constrained budgets affect NAS modernization and how the ATO is working to live within its means. SOURCE: GAO

Subject Terms

Air traffic control systems, Cost analysis, Cost overruns, Federal procurement, Internal controls, Investment planning, Performance measures, Program evaluation, Schedule slippages, Strategic planning, FAA Air Traffic Control Modernization Program

GAO-05-485T - PDF, April 14, 2005 Highlights-PDF new items PDF