I think we all recognize that one of the ways to deal with this energy crisis is simply demand reduction.

Not just in Alaska, but around. We have many things in common. And our concern for infrastructure is a common passion amongst us.

that has a huge impact on the quality of life of families and children in this country.

I think it's ironic--I'll use that term--that you--we have one of the most effective programs in the history of this country.

we have to reinforce success, not undercut it.

that's a very, very shocking and, indeed, shameful statistic.

I think is--and I'm alluding to what was suggested by Senator Mikulski--we're reaching the point where, if we deny effective resources to the Department, this level of efficiency will be compromised.

for the first time, the Great Depression, 25 percent of children in this country are living in poverty.

I introduced legislation last year to expand work sharing, which just over 20 States have adopted or implemented.

we are looking at over 11 percent unemployment in my State.

It worries me to see that China has taken that kind of initiative and we have not.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman, and thank you, Mr. Secretary. And certainly you have an extraordinarily challenging job, given the budget pressures. I think you rightly point out the central need to fundamentally reform our education…

That's a very, very shocking and, indeed, shameful statistic.

These cuts will come, not from the D.C., Washington, Baltimore, metro area. Most of them are from the local offices.

We're reaching the point where, if we deny effective resources to the Department, this level of efficiency will be compromised.

I think it's clear that, you know, this is one of those cases--and they're not that frequent in any endeavor, particularly Government--where we have to reinforce success, not undercut it.

For the first time, the Great Depression, 25 percent of children in this country are living in poverty.

What that leaves, though, is big--potentially, big service gaps.