It is both an honor and a privilege for me to pay tribute to such a noble effort.

I am pleased to introduce the Medicare Glaucoma Detection Act of 1999 today.

To suggest otherwise, as tonight's reception does, is to forget our commitment to the ideals of freedom and democracy-- ideals that Castro does not and will never share.

Castro uses food as a weapon, cutting off the rations of those who speak out against his destructive and oppressive policies.

It is important that we remain vigilant in bringing to light the continuing deplorable behavior of Castro and his regime.

I stand today to protest tonight's reception honoring two officials of the Castro regime, which makes a statement to Cuban dictator Fidel Castro and the world that the United States considers a Communist dictator to be a good trading…

Trade with Cuba will eventually be possible, but never under this tyrannical regime.

His products may harm the environment, as they will be produced by a government without a system of checks and balances over environmental policies.

In reality, trade with Castro will actually open up our markets to cheap products made with cheap labor in Cuba.

Trade with him will not only be an affront to American ideals of human rights and freedom, but will also be disastrous for our economy.

We have learned from him the centrality of God in our daily lives, conscious of the fact that the mandate of our Faith and the obligation of our citizenship must characterize our service to those who could least fend for themselves.

As a man of God and as an indomitable leader in our community, he has rightfully earned our deepest respect and genuine admiration.

He has truly exemplified the example of Christ as the Good Shepherd, and is wisely leading his flock of believers to the demands of Faith and to the works of Charity.

Mr. Speaker, it is truly a distinct honor and privilege to pay tribute to one of Miami-Dade County's great ecclesiastical leaders, the Rev. Dr. G. David Horton, on his 20th Year Anniversary as Pastor of Greater New Bethel Baptist Church.

Rev. Dr. Horton truly represents the best and the noblest of God's Chosen Ones.

His countless awards aptly described him as a forceful, courageous and visionary leader not only of the religious community, but also our society at large.

Again, my congratulations to the Special Commission on the Situation of Vieques for their fine work in investigating U.S. Naval operations on the island.

I am pleased to note that the Governor of Puerto Rico agreed with the report's findings and recommendations and adopted them as Administration policy.