Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Corona, California are exceptional. Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. George Guyante is one of these individuals. On Wednesday, April 1, 2004, he will be honored at a retirement reception.

George has called many places ``home'' during his life, having grown up in a military family. He followed in his father's footsteps and joined the Army and later attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. After receiving his degree in city and regional planning he obtained a job as a planning technician for the City of Corona in 1976.

In 1978, George started the city's Redevelopment Agency which later encompassed an economic development division as well. During his time he helped create Team Corona, a marketing and retention program designed to attract businesses and create jobs through the agency. Under his leadership Corona experienced and managed a period of high growth. The city grew from 27,000 to 140,000 during his tenure and continues to experience booming housing and commercial markets.

In May 2001, after serving as the interim city manager since November 2000, the City Council appointed George city manager after considering 44 other applicants. Under his guidance the city has worked to improve transportation, provide ample park areas for residents, provide affordable housing to low-income residents, and help the homeless.

George's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Corona, California. He has been the heart and soul of many community projects and events and I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him as he retires.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Riverside, California are exceptional. Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Mark Hawkins is one of these individuals. On Thursday, March 25, 2004, he will be honored at the Chamber's Inaugural Dinner.

Mark began his career in business in 1974 when he obtained his bachelors degree. After completing his Masters of Business Administration from Florida Southern College in 1987, he assumed to the post of Chief Executive Office of Riverside County's Credit Union. He also attended continuing education at Stanford in 2000.

Mark serves on the board of each of the four Riverside County Credit Union's subsidiary companies as well as the board of the credit union's scholarship foundation. In addition to his leadership within the business community, Mark is also very active in community organizations. He serves on the board of the Kiwanis Club of Riverside; the Raincross Club; the Riverside Orange Blossom Festival Association; the United Way of the Inland Valleys; and the Mayor's Youth Action Plan. Mark has also been involved with the Riverside Art Museum, the Parkview Community Hospital Foundation, the Kiwanis Club of Riverside's Endowment, the Riverside Educational Enrichment Foundation, and the City Manager's office for the City of Riverside.

In recognition of Mark's tremendous contributions to our community and the business climate in the Inland Empire, he has been a recipient of several awards including the California Award for Performance Excellence; being named ``Top Company to Work for in the Inland Empire'' in 2001, 2002, and 2003; Business of the Year in 2002; voted best financial institution by the Press Enterprise in 2003; and voted best employer by the Press Enterprise in 2003.

Mark's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community and business environment of Riverside, California. He has been instrumental in many community organizations and events and I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service as President of the Greater Riverside Chamber of Commerce and salute him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Corona, California are exceptional. Corona, and surrounding communities, has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Cathy Sciortino is one of these individuals. On March 27, 2004, Cathy will be honored at the annual YMCA Ira D. ``Cal'' Calvert Distinguished Service Awards Dinner.

Cathy was born in Akron, Ohio where she attended school and graduated from Youngstown State University in Youngstown, Ohio. After graduation, she worked for May Co. Corp. in Youngstown, Ohio for eleven years as a buyer of women's ready to wear clothing. In 1985, Cathy and her husband moved to Yorba Linda, California and a year later they bought a house in Corona.

After the birth of her first child, Carly, Cathy became a stay at home mom and was very active in the school system. She joined the PTA and served on the board for 14 years. In 1995, Cathy was elected to the Corona-Norco Unified School Board and served as the president in 1997- 1998 and 2002-2003. She also served as the delegate for the California School Board Association Assembly and as the Corona-Norco School Board Representative. She has also served as a chairmember on the Corona Regional Medical Center Governing Board; was a founding member of the Unity Advisory Board; the Centennial High School PTSA President; board member of the Choices for Success advisory board; and board member of the ADV advisory board.

Cathy has been the recipient of the PTA-Honorary Service Award and the Soroptimist-Woman of Distinction Award for Education.

Cathy has set a standard of excellence and commitment in his work in the community. Her tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Corona, California. Her involvement in the community makes me proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for her service and salute her as she receives the Ira D. Calvert Distinguished Service Award.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Corona, California are exceptional. Corona, and surrounding communities, has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Wayne Keith is one of these individuals. On March 27, 2004, Wayne will be honored at the annual YMCA Ira D ``Cal'' Calvert Distinguished Service Awards Dinner.

Wayne has been an active member of the community since he moved here in 1969. He began work as the general manager of ALCOA's Premium Casting Division in Corona. There is hardly an organization that hasn't benefited from his participation. Wayne has served as President of the Corona Rotary Club, the Western Municipal Water District and the Navy League. He has been on the Board of Directors of United Way, Corona Chamber of Commerce, Corona Community Hospital Foundation, UCR Foundation, Good Samaritan Boys Club and California Manufacturers Association.

A longtime member of the First Congregational Church, he has held a number of church positions from choir member to vice president of the board of directors. Wayne has also donated countless hours to Peppermint Ridge, serving three terms on its board of directors and chairing several committees. He also directed renovations of the Woman's Improvement Club clubhouse, and chaired fundraising activities for the Corona-Norco Family YMCA.

Wayne began his career in 1945 with ALCOA after receiving his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He stayed with ALCOA over 40 years. During his career he was active in professional associations, has written on the subject of aluminum, and is co-holder of a patent for stair treads.

For all his volunteer efforts, Wayne has been recognized with several awards. In 1975, he was named Citizen of the Year by the Corona Chamber of Commerce; received the Chamber's ``George'' Award; was chosen, along with his wife Evie, Corona Community Hospital Volunteers of the Year; and was recipient of the Golden Hinge Award--only the second one given--by Peppermint Ridge.

Wayne has set a standard of excellence and commitment in his work in the community. His tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Corona, California. His involvement in the community makes me proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him as he receives the ``Ira D. Calvert Distinguished Service Award.''

Mr. Speaker, consider this scenario: ``The formation of a free and democratic society is being hampered by internal and external strife. The drafting of a constitution encounters opposition and various parties within the country are struggling for power. The economy is underdeveloped and there is little order. The people are unsure of their future and this promise of democracy. It would take decades for this democracy to truly flourish and become the republic that it is today.'' That's the history of America, Mr. Speaker. The people of Iraq, a year after their liberation, are facing many of the same obstacles of early Americans. However, they have accomplished more in one year than the United States accomplished in a decade--they have drafted a working constitution that guarantees freedom of religion and worship, freedom of expression, freedom to peacefully assemble and demonstrate, freedom to organize political parties, freedom to join unions and the right to equal treatment under the law. This progress is unprecedented.

365 days ago, our troops, along with other coalition forces, entered the country of Iraq to liberate a badly battered and abused population. Our troops performed with determination and tenacity: they were given their mission and performed brilliantly. Now, because of their accomplishment, 24 million people live in a country that has voiced its dedication to freedom and democracy. Unfortunately, there are those in this country that lack the same resolve to freedom and democracy. At the first sign of opposition and test of honor they run and hide behind words such as ``quagmire.'' This wavering support is disheartening at best and it undermines the incredible accomplishments of our troops, especially those that have made the ultimate sacrifice. It also undermines the determination of the Iraqi people to establish a democracy--deeming them incapable and incompetent.

Even as we speak here today, progress is being made in Iraq. As chairman of the Water and Power Subcommittee I've visited Iraq and witnessed first-hand their accomplishments. With our help, they have surpassed prewar peak electrical generation levels and are on track to be generating at 140 percent over their prewar level by June. Water facilities are currently operating at 65 percent of prewar levels, mostly due to years of neglect, electricity shortages and post-war looting of plant and emergency generators. Current projects include the rehabilitation of 15 water treatment facilities and portions of the Sweet Water Canal to Basrah. These projects will benefit over 14.5 million Iraqis and provide a future for water reliability.

One year ago this country, along with our allies, made the decision to topple a tyrannical regime, liberate a people, and help build a democracy in the heart of a terrorist breeding ground. Our troops have done, and continue to do, their part. It is time for all leaders in America to do their part: we must stand by the Iraqi people and government as they begin their long and challenging journey towards freedom. Our own past demonstrates that democracy is messy; at times there will be setbacks and frustrations, but in the end, freedom is worth every sacrifice.

Mr. Speaker, as we speak here today, progress is being made in Iraq. As chairman of the Water and Power Subcommittee, I have visited Iraq and witnessed firsthand their accomplishments. With our help, they have surpassed prewar electrical generation levels and are on track to be generating at almost 140 percent over their prewar level by June. Water facilities are currently operating at 65 percent of prewar levels and are improving. Current projects include the rehabilitation of 15 water treatment facilities and a canal to Basra. These projects will benefit millions of Iraqis and provide for a future of water reliability.

But make no mistake, we did not go into Iraq to improve water infrastructure or increase electrical power capabilities. One year ago, this country, along with our allies, made the decision to topple a tyrannical regime, liberate a people, and help build a democracy in the heart of a terrorist breeding ground. However, the gift of freedom and democracy is being built on the basic level of services and quality of life which they are building today. We must stand by the Iraqi people in their long and challenging journey toward democracy because their freedom contributes to our security and the security of the world.

God bless America and God bless our troops.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and c6ntributions to the community of Riverside, California are exceptional. Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Dr. Larry Geraty is one of these individuals. On Wednesday, February 25, 2004,

he will be honored at a surprise dinner for ten years of academic and community excellence.

Dr. Geraty grew up as a citizen of the world as part of a Seventh-day Adventist missionary family who lived and worked in China, Burma, Hong Kong, and Lebanon. Dr. Geraty received a rich educational experience from attending schools in China, Hong Kong, Lebanon, England, Germany, France, Israel, California, Maryland, Michigan, and Massachusetts. These experiences set him on a lifelong course committed to the values of diversity and education.

After completing his undergraduate degree at Pacific Union College, Dr. Geraty graduated from the Theological Seminary at Andrews University. He then served a short term as a pastor in Santa Ana, California. Later, Dr. Geraty joined the Andrews Theological Seminary faculty, he first went to Harvard University to study Hebrew Bible and biblical archaeology where he earned and received with distinction his Doctor of Philosophy degree.

Returning to Andrews Theological Seminary as Professor of Archaeology and History of Antiquity, Dr. Geraty distinguished himself as a teacher and scholar for the next 13 years, teaching also in Jamaica, Jordan, Trinidad, Costa Rica, Europe, and Australia, and directed a series of major archaeological expeditions to the Middle East. During this time he was also the curator of the Horn Archaeological Museum and founding Director of the Institute of Archaeology at Andrews University.

In his notable scholarly career, Dr. Geraty has received numerous honors, including a Fulbright Fellowship and served as advisor on archaeology to former Crown Prince Hassan of Jordan. Dr. Geraty also served as president of several scholarly societies; vice president of the American Center of Oriental Research in Amman, Jordan; lectured all over the world and contributed to numerous publications.

Adding to his teaching focus, in 1985 Dr. Geraty became president of Atlantic Union College in South Lancaster, Massachusetts where he earned the reputation as a progressive academic administrator. Since July 1993 Dr. Geraty has served as President and professor of archeology at La Sierra University in Riverside, California, where he has also become active in the community, serving currently on the boards of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, United Way of the Inland Valleys, The Employers Group, Metro Riverside International Cabinet, Mayor's Higher Education/Business Council, Raincross Club, Monday Morning Group, and the Riverside Youth Action Executive Policy Board.

In the year 2000, Dr. Geraty received the P. E. MacAllister Award for Excellence in Field Archeology from the American Schools of Oriental Research, and in 2001, the Charles Elliott Weniger Award for Excellence at Pacific Union College. On July 1, 2002, he began a three-year term as president of the American Schools of Oriental Research (ASOR), the premier organization for American archeologists working in the Middle East. From headquarters at Boston and Emory universities, he will supervise an annual scholarly convention, the publication of several scholarly books and journals, the accreditation of American archaeological projects in the Middle East and relate to research centers in Jerusalem, Amman, and Nicosia.

Dr. Geraty and his wife, Gillian, have a daughter in Colorado, a son in Michigan, and between them five grandchildren. Truly, one of Dr. Geraty's most impressive accomplishments has been his ability to remain active as an archaeologist and churchman while continuing to lead and direct a university which combines the religious values of a faith community, the educational ideals of a liberal arts college, and the research opportunities of a comprehensive university.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a hero from my congressional district. On January 31, 2004, Sgt. Eliu Miersandoval, born Abi Mier, of San Clemente, California, was killed in action in Kirkuk, Iraq. Today I would ask that the House of Representatives honor and remember this incredible young man who died in service to his country.

Eliu was born on June 26, 1976, in Durango, Mexico, to Pascual and Estella Mier, who currently reside in Pomona, California. Eliu went to high school at San Clemente High, and after graduating he joined the Army in 1996 for great future opportunities and to travel. In 1999, he was sent to Fort Hood, Texas, and was later promoted to Sergeant in the 4th Infantry Division. He was a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic in what is the most technically advanced combat division in the Army. It was the 4th Infantry Division that participated in the capture of Saddam Hussein.

Eliu is remembered as an outstanding athlete and talented musician. More importantly, he was a loving husband to his wife Amanda and a proud father to his son Adrian.

As we look at the incredibly rich military history of our country, we realize that this history is comprised of men and women like Eliu who bravely fought for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Each story is unique and humbling for those of us who, far from the dangers they have faced, live our lives in relative comfort and ease. My thoughts, prayers and deepest gratitude for their sacrifice go out to his wife and family. There are no words that can relieve their pain.

His wife and family have all given a part of themselves in the loss of their loved one. Their loss is part of a larger effort to give the Iraqi people and all people around the world the opportunity to live in freedom and without fear. I hope they know that their son and the sacrifice he made will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and pay my respects to an individual whose contributions to his community were exceptional. San Juan Capistrano City Councilman John Gelff recently passed away and today I would like the House of Representatives to recognize his contributions to his community.

John's life is marked by his service to community and others. He served in many public capacities throughout Orange County during

his life and six years ago moved to San Juan Capistrano. His immediate devotion and commitment to San Juan Capistrano was evident in his leadership as Mayor in 2003 and his service as Chairman of the City's Redevelopment Agency.

Community members remark on his love for the city and charitable organizations, such as the American Diabetes Association's South Orange County Walk and his service on the Orange County Library Commission. His accomplishments during his short time as a city councilmember include the prevention of a second railroad track in town, the prevention of a San Diego Gas & Electric electrical substation being located in the City, and working with the Orange County Transportation Authority to make traffic improvements along the San Diego Freeway corridor.

In 2000, my congressional district changed to include part of San Juan Capistrano and immediately I was impressed with John's passion and commitment to his community. San Juan Capistrano is undoubtedly a better place because of John Gelff's contributions. His leadership and energy will be truly missed.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Riverside, California are exceptional. Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live

and work. Laura Pearson is one of these individuals.

Laura has represented Ward 7 of the City of Riverside for 14 years and has faithfully represented her constituents who live in both rural residential and contemporary neighborhoods. Her ability to see all sides of an issue have enabled her to be an effective councilmember.

Laura served as the Chair of the Governmental Affairs Committee, Vice Chair for the Development Committee and as a member of the Utility Services/Land Use/Energy Development Committee. At the regional level, Laura served on the Riverside County Habitat Conservation Agency Board, City/County Animal Control Advisory Committee, Regional Water Quality Board and the Model Deaf Community Task Force.

In 1998, a former Riverside City employee broke into the Riverside City Council Chamber during a meeting and seriously injured several people including Laura. Despite this incident, Laura persevered and continued public service. Her courage and devotion demand our deepest respect and gratitude.

Laura is newly and happily married to Bill Densmore, a County Veterans' Service Officer and a City of Riverside Planning Commissioner. She is also a proud mother and grandmother.

Laura's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Riverside, California. She has been the heart and soul of many community initiatives and I am proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for her service and salute her as she retires.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication arid contributions to the community of Riverside, California are exceptional. Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Chuck Beaty is one of these individuals.

Chuck Beaty's career has been dedicated to education and community service. In 1961, Chuck received his B.S. in Education from the University of Kansas. While he was working towards his Master's in History and Political Science, at the University of Missouri, he taught American History and Literature at a local junior high school. After receiving his M.A. in 1965, Chuck became a high school social studies department chairman and teacher for 3 years.

In 1984, Chuck became Riverside's Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services and was responsible for several department managers. He was promoted to Deputy Superintendent 2 years later and was the District representative to Riverside's Task Force 2000. During this time he also served as the Acting Superintendent and was responsible for the administration of a 31,000 person ADA school district.

After serving in the educational field for 32 years, Chuck was elected to represent Ward I of the City of Riverside. He retires after a decade of leadership and service to the community of Riverside. He is also a member of the American Historical Society, the Association of California School Administrators, the Riverside Association of School Managers, and the Social Studies Supervisors Association. One of his true passions in Riverside has been for the Evergreen Cemetery.

In 1998, a former Riverside City employee broke into the Riverside City Council Chamber during a meeting and seriously injured several people including Chuck. Despite this incident, Chuck persevered and continued public service. His courage and devotion demand our deepest respect and gratitude.

Chuck's tireless passion for education and community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Riverside, California. Chuck has been the heart and soul of many educational institutions and I am proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him as he retires.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Riverside, CA are exceptional. Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Joy Defenbaugh is one of these individuals.

Joy has represented Ward 3 of the city of Riverside for 12 years and has continually worked for the interests of her constituency. Her area of representation includes the Magnolia Center and the Riverside Municipal Airport.

Joy served as chair of the Development Committee and served on the Finance and Government Affairs Committees. She is a member and past chair of the March Joint Powers Commission for the reuse of March Air Reserve Base. Her commitment to the improvement of the city of Riverside has been steadfast.

Early in her political career, Joy recognized the diversity and cultural differences within the community. At the direction of Colin Powell, Joy spearheaded the Common Ground Task Force which brought different groups of people in the community together regardless of ethnic background and cultural differences in order to relieve tension within the community.

In 1998, a former Riverside City employee broke into the Riverside City Council Chamber during a meeting and seriously injured several people. Despite this incident, Joy persevered and continued public service.

Joy's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Riverside, CA. She has had a commitment to the economic growth and has demonstrated leadership by recognizing an immediate need for community initiatives such as railroad crossings and the Vision for Today and Tomorrow. Her patriotic spirit for military and country is admirable. She has been the heart and soul of many community initiatives and I am proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for her service and salute her as she retires.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community

of Riverside, California are exceptional. Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Don Harriger, General Manager of the Western Municipal Water District is one of these individuals. On Wednesday, January 28, 2004, he will be honored at a special retirement dinner.

Don was appointed General Manager in 1989, and has been responsible for the planning, direction, management, and overall supervision of the activities and operations of the District.

Prior to his appointment as General Manager, Don served the District as Assistant General Manager. In that previous position, he was appointed by the court to two Watermaster Committees, appointments he currently still holds. The Western-San Bernardino and the Santa Ana River Watermaster Committees were established as part of the 1969 Stipulated Judgments that settled the massive water rights issues in the Santa Ana Watershed. In June of 2003, Don was elected chairperson of the Santa Ana River Watermaster Committee.

Before joining Western, Don was Chief Engineer and Assistant Manager of the Santa Ana Watershed Planning Agency, the forerunner of the present-day Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority (SAWPA), a joint powers agency responsible for regional water resources planning and project implementation. At SAWPA, he was primarily responsible for the technical direction of the development of the Santa Ana Watershed Basin Plan. Prior to his position at SAWPA, Don was associate engineer with the State of California, Department of Water Resources.

A California registered professional engineer, Don received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois and his Master of Science Degree from California State University Sacramento. He and his wife Arvina reside in Riverside.

Don's leadership at the Western Municipal Water District has contributed immensely to the betterment of the District and the community of Riverside, California. I am proud to call Don a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many community members are grateful for his service and salute him as he retires.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor an individual who has been a tireless supporter of education in my congressional district. My congressional district has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live. Diana Poulton is one of these individuals.

Over the last four years, Diana has been actively involved with the Science and Technology Education Partnership (STEP), a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring students to pursue science and technology careers. As the Honorary Chairman of STEP, I have witnessed first-hand Diana's deep commitment and dedication to building a brighter future for students in the Inland Empire.

The flagship program for STEP is the annual STEP Conference, which hosts thousands of 4th through 8th grade students at a fun-filled learning event dedicated to the exciting world of science and technology. This conference puts thousands of students in contact with some of the top science and technology companies and organizations, which they might otherwise never experience in their school career. With the increasing demands for science and technology workers and the diminished supply in our region, the STEP Conference is one of the largest in California and serves as a spark to ignite the imagination of young minds.

This successful conference takes a great amount of time and energy to plan and Diana is an integral part in the planning and execution of the event. It is not uncommon for her to work after-hours to ensure the conference will be a success. Not only is she an inspiration to the students but also to the volunteers who know they can count on her to answer their questions or help them in any way. Diana serves a vital role to the STEP organization and I commend her commitment to STEP, students and education. As a member of the Science Committee, I am thankful for people like Diana Poulton because she sets an example that will serve as a guiding light for others in the future.

Diana's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the Inland Empire in Southern California. She is part of the heart and soul of STEP and I am proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend.

Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 3 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.''