Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and sincerity that I wish to honor Pastor Cato Brooks, Jr. of the Tree of Life Missionary Baptist Church In Gary, Indiana, and his wife, Mrs. Bettye Brooks. The members of the Tree of Life Missionary Baptist Church will be honoring Pastor and Mrs. Brooks throughout the month of March for their many years of service to the congregation.

Pastor Brooks was born in Forrest City, Arkansas, where he attended Steward Elementary School and Lincoln High School. During high school, Pastor Brooks proved himself to be a stellar athlete, having been honored as an All-State football and basketball player. For his efforts in athletics, in 1999, Pastor Brooks was honored by his hometown and inducted into the Hall of Fame. Following high school, Pastor Brooks attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA and then answered the call to serve a tour of duty in the U.S. Army. Upon completion of his tour, he returned to school at the University of Kansas, seeking a degree in Sociology. Pastor Brooks has also attended the Mid-America Baptist Seminary, Ouachita Baptist University, and Indiana Christian University, where he earned a bachelor's and a master's Degree, as well as a doctorate of divinity. Pastor Brooks also received his Ph.D. in Communiology from California Western University of Palo Alto, CA.

Pastor Brooks began his ministry on January 26, 1969. He served as Pastor of the Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas from 1970 to 1977 before relocating to serve as Pastor of the First Baptist Church in East Chicago, Indiana; 18 months later, Pastor Brooks organized the Tree of Life Missionary Baptist Church, serving a congregation of only 26 members, where he continues to serve today as Senior Pastor. He is also the Chairman of the Tree of Life Community Development Corporation and Care Center and a former Chaplain for the Gary Police Department.

Pastor Brooks has also achieved many accolades and accomplishments throughout his lifetime. To name a few, Pastor Brooks has been recognized by the NAACP, A Walk Without Fear, for his efforts in the civil rights movement, and on May 23, 2004, he was elected Moderator of the Northern Indiana Missionary Baptist District Association. In addition, Pastor Brooks published his first book, Studies in Ephesians, in September 2003.

The youngest of 9 children, Bettye Brooks was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she attended the Little Rock public schools. She later attended Arkansas Baptist College, Henderson State Teachers' College, Philander Smith College, and Indiana University Northwest. Mrs. Brooks has a degree in Business Administration and is a certified Personnel Management Specialist, Housing Counselor, and Housing Development Professional.

Mrs. Brooks has held several positions in government and community service throughout her professional career. She has been a Grants Management Supervisor for the City of Little Rock, a State Planner for the State of Arkansas, serving under then-Governor Bill Clinton, a personnel director for Pulaski County, AR, a Regional Program Specialist for the National Urban League, and an Employment Specialist for the Lake County Job Training Corporation.

After coming to Tree of Life in 1991, Mrs. Brooks became the Executive Director of the Tree of Life Community Development Corporation. In this capacity, she and her housing development partner have successfully rehabbed over 600 housing units in Gary, East Chicago, and South Bend, Indiana. In addition, Mrs. Brooks serves as the administrator for Treasure's Child Development Center and was recognized for her efforts in 1993 with the Athena Award by the Gary Chamber of Commerce. Mrs. Brooks also serves in many other capacities within the church and the community. She is a Sunday School teacher, a trustee, Executive Director of Development and Training, Finance Coordinator, and First Cook at the church. She is also a past president of the Ernie Pyle PTA and the Inter-Denomination Association of Minister Wives' and Widows' of Gary and Vicinity.

Most impressively, the Brooks's never let their accomplishments get in the way of their family. Pastor and Mrs. Brooks are also the proud parents of 6 children and 13 grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Pastor and Mrs. Cato Brooks, Jr. as they are honored for their service and ministry throughout the month of March. Their years of service have touched and improved the lives of all whom they have served. Their unselfish and lifelong dedication is worthy of the highest commendation, and I am proud to represent them in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sincerity and admiration that I wish to congratulate Father Evagoras Constantinides on the 50th Anniversary of his ordination into the Holy Priesthood. Father Constantinides will be recognized at a banquet in his honor at the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral on Sunday, February 26, 2006, which will also be a celebration of the 60th Wedding Anniversary of Father Evagoras and his wife, Presvytera Mary.

Father Constantinides was born in Lapithos, Cyprus in 1918 and was educated in his village through his second year of high school, where he graduated with the Gold Medal Award for academic excellence. He entered Athens College in 1932, where he was accepted on a yearly scholarship with the school's science section. Father Constantinides had no trouble maintaining his scholarship for six years, and he graduated with honors while receiving the Delta Public Speaking Prize and the English Language Prize. This dedication and commitment to his studies exemplifies the hard work on which Father Constantinides prides himself.

After finishing college in Greece, Father Constantinides traveled to the United States to continue his studies and broaden his experiences. In 1938, he enrolled at Fenn College, which is now Cleveland State University, where he studied civil engineering. During his four years at the University, he served as a Greek teacher and as the Hellenic Board of Education Secretary for the Greek Orthodox Community of the Annunciation of Cleveland, Ohio. Although he enjoyed his time in Cleveland, his final year was interrupted by World War II. As a British subject, Father Constantinides entered the Canadian Army as a private in the fall of 1942. After completing his basic training, he was enrolled in the officer training program, from which he graduated as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Engineer Corps with proficiency in explosives, mines, and demolitions. His outstanding ability as a military officer, coupled with his excellent intellect, allowed Father Constantinides the opportunity to work for the United States Central Intelligence Group translating Japanese documents and the Greek Constitution into English.

After being discharged in 1947, Father Constantinides returned to the United States and began extensively studying theology. On March 11, 1956, Father Constantinides was ordained into the priesthood, and on September 1, 1969, he was appointed pastor of the Saints Constantine and Helen parish in Gary, Indiana. Since arriving in Northwest Indiana, the graciousness and generosity of Father Constantinides has touched many lives. In 1971, Father Constantinides was instrumental in the construction of the Hellenic Cultural Center in Merrillville, Indiana, as well as in the design and construction of the Saints Constantine and Helen Cathedral, one of the ten largest Orthodox churches in the Americas, in 1975. During his years of service, Father Constantinides has also become deeply involved in the work of Hospice of the Calumet Area.

In addition to the many contributions within his own parish, Father Constantinides has committed himself to improving the community, the nation, and the world. To name just a few of the appointments and accolades bestowed upon Father Constantinides throughout his years of service, he was honored with the office of Protopresbyter in 1972, and he served as the Treasurer and member of the National Presbyters Council from 1970-1974, and again from 1980-1982. He received the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America Service Award and Gold Cross in 1976 for his struggles and lobbying activities for the liberation of invaded Cyprus. Father Constantinides has shared his immense wisdom and faith in various countries, including Russia, Kenya, Uganda, and India. Remarkably, Father Constantinides has even found time to author four Sunday school books for children and has translated six Orthodox Service books from Greek to English.

Since his retirement in June 1995, Father Constantinides has devoted his time to the Orthodox Christian Mission Center through writing, lecturing, and substituting at churches in the Chicago Diocese, but he has also been able to devote much of his time to his loving wife, Mary, and their four children. Presvytera Mary has stood by her husband's side for the past 60 years. I am sure Father Constantinides would agree that the unwavering support of his loving wife has been a major factor in the many achievements he has reached in his lifetime. Father Evagoras and Presvytera Mary are a shining example of true dedication to their vows and each other.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in thanking Father Evagoras Constantinides for his contributions to the members of his parish, the citizens of Northwest Indiana, and his fifty years of service to people throughout the world. I also ask that you join me in congratulating Father Evagoras and Presvytera Mary Constantinides on their 60th wedding anniversary. Their love for each other and for all mankind is truly an inspiration to us all, and I am proud to be their representative in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and respect that I take this opportunity to welcome home members of the 376th Engineer Battalion of Hammond, Indiana, and to honor them for their patriotism, their dedication, and their willingness to defend their country. These brave soldiers, known as the Men of Steel, recently returned to Northwest Indiana after completing several missions in Mosul, Iraq in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The 376th honorably provided security during the recent Iraqi elections, took part in reconstruction efforts within Iraqi cities, provided humanitarian support to the people of Iraq, and courageously disposed of improvised explosive devices. The members of the 376th Engineer Battalion will be recognized at a homecoming ball in their honor, which will take place on January 21, 2006, at the Dynasty Banquet Hall in Hammond, Indiana.

The people of this entire nation, as well as the citizens of Iraq, can be proud of the sacrifice and courage of these fine individuals: CPT Sean Begley, PV2 Alexander Baker, SPC Christopher Bennett, PV1 Adam Branson, SPC David Croyle, PV1 Joseph Gibbs, SPC Jaime Hoch, SPC Muain Issa, SPC Tobey Johnson, SGT Nicholas Kowalczyk, SPC Ashley Sharp, SPC Terry Specyal, SGT Jose Tovalin, SPC Aaron Vance, SPC Michael Vician, SGT Travis Wheatley, SFC William Johnson, SPC Luke Abbott, SPC Daniel Wiley, SPC Joseph Veyette, SPC Enrique Uribe, SSG Mark Tegtman, SPC William Sideris, SPC Aaron Santonelli, SPC Carlos Reyes, SPC Brian Panzik, SGT Donald Mull, PFC William Mills, SPC Angel Lozano, SPC Timothy Bishop, PFC Christopher Boger, SPC Steven Bramer, PV2 David Kuzmar, SPC Jason Loebbaka, SPC Thomas Martinez, PFC Brandon McCormick, SGT David Moake, SSG Stephen Otten, SGT Gershom Parr, SFC Melvin Pennington, SPC Daniel Rubalcava, SPC Vincent Lenart, SPC Allen Hughes, SGT Robert Jaso, SPC Matthew Gabrano, SGT Ryan Bood, SPC Jonathan Bright, SPC Corrie Covelli, SPC Ryan Eder, SGT Michael Guz, SGT Brian Brandenburg, SPC Joshua Buikema, SPC Jonathan Cuevas, SSG Thomas Kopanda, SPC Paul Gordon, SSG Matthew Hamater, PFC Michael Brunsman, and SPC Michael Coughlin.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the members of the 376th Engineer Battalion, the Men of Steel, for their dedication and courage in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. They will forever remain heroes in the eyes of their families, their communities, and their country. Let us welcome them home and thank them for their commitment to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I congratulate Mr. James Reyome on his retirement as Public Works Director for the Town of Griffith. James has spent over 40 years of his life dedicated to the interests of the residents of Griffith, Indiana. His career in public service has allowed him the opportunity to touch the lives of numerous people.

James has accomplished many visionary goals throughout his career. He started his career with the Griffith Police Department in 1962, where he worked until 1983, spending the last 7 years as Chief of Police. James also worked security at LTV Steel. He then became Lake County Police Chief under then Sheriff Bob Stiglich. In 1997, he was named Town of Griffith Public Works Director, a position his father held for 20 years. However, shortly before assuming the position of Public Works Director, James had a major stroke, followed by 2 milder strokes in 2002 and August 2005, which caused him to speed up his retirement plans.

James's family and friends should be proud of his efforts, as his leadership has served as a beacon of hope throughout the community. His longstanding commitment to improving the quality of life for the citizens in Griffith, Indiana is truly inspirational and should be commended. Our community has certainly been rewarded by the true service, uncompromising dedication, and loyalty displayed by Mr. Reyome.

While James has dedicated a considerable amount of time and energy to his community, he has never limited the time he gives to his most important interest: his family. James and his wife, Anna, have 3 children, 2 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. James Reyome for his outstanding devotion to Indiana's First Congressional District. His unselfish, lifelong dedication to those in need is worthy of the highest commendation, and I am proud to represent him in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sorrow that I rise to remember the late Coretta Scott King. Our nation has lost one of its great leaders, but her memory will live on forever. Her legacy will live on so that future generations will continue to know and fight for the compassion and equality that she treasured so dearly.

With the passing of Coretta Scott King, our country has lost a leader; a leader who dedicated her life to doing what was right and what was just. In order to carry out her legacy--and that of her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.--we must each individually dedicate ourselves to the causes they so passionately believed in.

Equality, justice, and opportunity drive the human spirit forward, and by working on behalf of these principles, Coretta Scott King advanced the causes of mankind. My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to her friends and family. Our nation will miss her greatly.

As we reflect on Coretta Scott King's legacy, we are reminded of the challenges that democracy poses to us and the delicate nature of liberty. Her life reminds us that we must continually fight to secure and protect our freedoms. In her courage to act, her willingness to meet challenges, and her ability to achieve, she embodied all that is good and true in the battle for liberty.

After she married Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and as a young pastor he began his civil rights work in Montgomery, Alabama, Mrs. King worked closely with him. She organized marches and sit-ins at segregated restaurants while balancing an equally daunting task: raising their four children. She held the family together as it endured the tragic events surrounding Dr. King. Even after her family home was bombed in Montgomery, she persevered--at a time when most would have given up. Those children, Yolanda Denise, Martin Luther III, Dexter Scott, and Bernice Albertine are as much a part of her legacy as her dynamic civil rights work.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues rise in honor of the legacy and life of Coretta Scott King. Her determination and dedication has made our world a better place to live, and I am proud to honor her legacy.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and reflect on his life and work, we are reminded of the challenges that democracy poses to us and the delicate nature of liberty. Dr. King's life and, unfortunately, his untimely death remind us that we must continually fight to secure and protect our freedoms. Dr. King, in his courage to act, his willingness to meet challenges, and his ability to achieve, embodied all that is good and true in the battle for liberty.

The spirit of Dr. King lives on in the citizens of communities throughout our Nation. It lives on in the people whose actions reflect the spirit of resolve and achievement that will help move our country into the future. In particular, several distinguished individuals from Indiana's First Congressional District will be recognized during the 27th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast on Monday, January 16, 2006, at the Genesis Center in Gary, Indiana. The Gary Frontiers Service Club, founded in 1952, sponsors this annual memorial breakfast.

This year the Gary Frontiers Club will pay tribute to five local individuals who, for decades, have unselfishly contributed to improving the human condition of others in the City of Gary. Those individuals who will be recognized as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marchers at this year's breakfast include: Reverend Norman L. Hariston Sr., who is retired and a member of St. John Baptist Church; Dr. Alfonso D. Holliday II, a semi-retired physician who served Gary residents and is now a consultant; Roosevelt Haywood Jr., activist and former Gary City Councilman; Willie Kuykendall, a 1960's voting activist; and Cherrie B. White, a retired activist, will receive the 2006 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award.

The late Mrs. Rosa Louise Parks will become the only person to receive a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Honorary Drum Major Award for her single courageous act of dignified defiance on December 1, 1955, which set in motion the Modern Civil Rights Movement.

Though very different in nature, the achievement of all these individuals reflect many of the same attributes that Dr. King possessed as well as the values he advocated. Like Dr. King, these individuals saw challenges and rose to the occasion. Each one of the honored guests' greatness has been found in their willingness to serve with ``a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.'' They set laudable goals, and they worked hard to achieve them.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending the Gary Frontiers Service Club:

President Floyd Donaldson, Breakfast Chairman Oliver Gilliam, Breakfast Co-Chairman Clorius L. Lay, Master of Ceremonies Alfred Hammond, Melvin Ward, and all other members of the service club for their initiative, determination, and dedication to making Northwest Indiana a better place for all who live and work there.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the restrictive rule for H.R. 2830, the Pension Protection Act, and I ask my colleagues to join me in opposition.

Last night not only were my four amendments disallowed, but a substitute measure offered by Mr. Rangel and Mr. Miller was also disallowed. From my perspective, given the importance of the underlying legislation, we ought to have an open debate. We ought to have votes, and we ought to have decisions made by the full membership.

In terms of the amendments I offered last night to the Rules Committee, the first set essentially said that the funds in retirement accounts are the workers' money, and employees ought to have a voice in single employer pension plans regarding the management of those moneys. Given the number of pensions that have been thrown overboard, and given the tens of thousands of Americans who have been hurt, I also think, as a bare minimum, companies ought to once, every 3 years, be required to inform their employees of the health of their pension funds.

The third amendment I offered essentially said that every last option, whether it be from the perspective of the PBGC or the company be exhausted before that pension is assumed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, given the fact that, on average, at least 15 percent of the retirees who have their pensions assumed by the corporation are going to receive less than their full promised pension.

A case in point was in United Airlines negotiations, the unions of the company were still bargaining and the PBGC came in and unilaterally assumed that pension.

The final goes to the heart of the matter, and that is to close that gap. For those pensioners that do not receive their full pension under the PBGC, they are out that pension money. I am disgusted by the fact that they do not have standing under the

procedures. And I would use Adelphi Corporation, which recently declared bankruptcy as an example of the abuse of the system and the disadvantage that the employees are put under.

Adelphi, headed by Mr. Smith, who also was at Bethlehem Steel when they went bankrupt and they dumped their pensions over, really has no interest in going out of business. They want to dump their liabilities. Under the Bankruptcy Code, Mr. Miller and up to 500 executives at Adelphi are entitled to 30 to 250 percent bonuses for running their company into the ground, going through bankruptcy, dumping their liabilities and hurting people.

What happens to the workers who do not get their full pension after Mr. Miller and his gang dump those pensions overboard, they have no standing under the Bankruptcy Code.

All I asked the Rules Committee last night was that we ought to talk about that here on the House floor and we ought to have a debate. Those people who gave their lives to that company who are now short money for the rest of their lives when they need it the most should have some standing. I ask Members to oppose the rule.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to this restrictive rule for H.R. 2830, the Pension Protection Act and I ask that my colleagues join me in opposition.

Last night in the Rules Committee, I offered four amendments that I believe would have made this a better bill, none of which were found to be in order. Furthermore, this restrictive closed rule does not even make in order a substitute measure authored by Ranking Members Miller and Rangel. In a time when Delphi will be awarding 500 executives, bonuses of 30 percent to 250 percent of their base salaries, workers are seeing their pensions frozen, I find it very troubling that the majority refuses to have a full and open debate on an issue so critical to our Nation's retirement security.

My first amendment would have put employee representatives on the trustee board of single employer pension plans, which would ensure that employees have a voice in how their investments are managed. The growing significance of pension plans in the U.S. economy has sparked a continued public debate over the control of pension fund investments. A generation ago, Congress took action to safeguard pensions in response to an Enron-like debacle at Studebaker. These protections for defined benefit plans included diversification requirements as well as government insurance. Pension funds represent deferred compensation and there is no reason why single-employer pension plans still lack employee representation on their boards.

My second amendment would have required that plan sponsors furnish pension participants with the most current benefit statement at least once every 3 years. Fiscally unhealthy pensions have caused severe hardship on employees who have depended on their pensions as part of their retirement security. In order for pensioners to have a more complete understanding of the health of their pension fund, it is necessary to provide full and accurate information on a timely basis. Both the underlying bill as well as Mr. Miller's substitute address this issue, but I do not believe that they go far enough.

My third amendment would make it more difficult for companies to abuse the bankruptcy process in order to dump their pension obligations. Specifically, this provision requires that alternatives to pension-dumping be identified, which would essentially make pension- dumping a last resort for companies rather than a financial-planning tool. The amendment would require both employer-initiated and PBGC- initiated terminations to identify and disclose alternatives to dumping their pension obligations.

There is a disturbing trend of companies dumping their pension obligations not because the company is going out of business, but because the company does not want to follow through on the financial commitment made to its employees. This legislation would make it more difficult for financially-viable companies to engage in pension dumping to increase their long-term profits. Current law does not sufficiently protect against the termination of plans. By implementing this provision, pension participants would have greater opportunity to work with companies to find alternatives to eliminating existing pension plans.

After a company successfully terminates its pension plan, the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation, PBGC, takes over the financial obligations to make payments to pensioners. In certain instances, the maximum amount the PBGC will pay is less than the original amount promised by the pension.

My final amendment would have made the cost of the pension payment ``gap'' an administrative expense for the company, which would make it easier for pensioners to collect the missing funds in bankruptcy court. Pensioners deserve the full pension amount they were promised. In cases where the company goes bankrupt, and the PBGC payment is less than the original amount promised, pensioners deserve to be near the front of the line when it comes to collecting debts from the company in bankruptcy court. I believe that a promise is a promise, and if a company emerges from bankruptcy with the finances to pay the difference of a lower pension, they should do so.

Once again, I urge my colleagues to oppose this restrictive rule.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 2830. I am old enough to remember a time when everyone on my block in the Glen Park section of Gary, Indiana had a pension. The defined benefit pension system today, which protects the retirement security of over 44 million workers, retirees, and their families, is at a critical juncture. The number of defined benefit plans has declined from over 100,000 in 1985 to under 32,000 in 2004. While the number of active workers covered by such plans has dropped from over 40 million to under 20 million, an additional 20 million retirees depend on defined benefit plans for their retirement security.

Both the Congressional Budget Office and the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation have found that H.R. 2830 will add billions more to the PBGC's already mounting deficit. According to the CBO, this legislation would increase the PBGC's deficit by $9 billion dollars over the next ten years. The PBGC is already facing a deficit of $23 billion and could face additional liabilities of up to $100 billion in the near future.

In the five years leading up to the closings of LTV and Bethlehem Steel, steel companies in North America were filing for bankruptcy in record numbers, using the bankruptcy courts to break their contractual obligations and impose cuts or outright elimination of jobs, benefits, pensions and wages of steelworkers. In 2000, LTV Steel filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for protection from its creditors, including its obligations to its pension plan. In 2002, LTV filed Section 7 bankruptcy, which liquidated its assets. Today's legislation would put additional pressure on an agency that is already picking up the slack because corporate America has used them as a dumping ground.

In addition, H.R. 2830 does not ensure fair treatment between workers and executives. The bill permits CEOs to receive executive golden parachutes at the same time employees are suffering deep cuts in their promised retirement benefits. Under H.R. 2830, if an employer does not fund its pension plan above 80 percent, then workers cannot receive any increases in benefits or take a lump sum at retirement. No similar restriction is imposed on executives. If an employer does not fund above 60 percent, then the workers' plan must be frozen with no new benefits allowed to accrue. Only at 60 percent are employers prohibited from transferring funds to executive compensation. However, employers can get around this prohibition and make promises of future benefits to executives. I find this deplorable at a time when we are seeing companies like Delphi abuse the system. Under Chapter 11 reorganization, Delphi could award 500 of their executives cash bonuses of 30 percent to 250 percent of their base salary for exiting Chapter 11.

In closing Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose H.R. 2830. According to CBO, H.R. 2830 would increase the Federal deficit by over $70 billion from 2006-2015. It contains a variety of unoffset tax incentives for corporate America that will not secure the pension of the hardworking men and women who are making our steel, mining our coal, building our homes, and flying our airplanes. Congress owes working Americans more.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to the 113th Engineer Battalion of the Indiana Army National Guard, and welcome them home after 1 year of serving our country heroically in Iraq.

Upon arrival, the 113th was nicknamed the ``Ironman Battalion'' because of their links to northwest Indiana's steel industry. And throughout the past year, these Iron men and women have shown a dedication to their mission, and a commitment to their country that truly is as strong as steel.

Today Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that soldiers of the 113th are coming home--coming home to be with their family and friends; coming home to be with their wives, husbands, sons, daughters, mothers and fathers.

Based in Mosul, Iraq since last year, the soldiers of the 113th made heroic missions a part of their daily routine. They located and detonated improvised explosive devices, reinforced police stations and conducted combat patrols.

The service of these men and women has not been without sacrifice. Over 40 Purple Hearts have been awarded to the 113th battalion, each serving as a reminder of the dangers our soldiers face every day.

I welcome these soldiers home. I thank them for their service and sacrifice to our Nation, and I pledge that our support for them is equal to the sacrifice they have shown our country.

Mr. Speaker, the following men and women of the 113th have bravely served their Nation in Iraq, and I am honored to submit their names for the Congressional Record:

Rodolfo Alfaro Jr., Jose Luis Andujar, Erendira B. Ayala,

Robert Kenneth Banaszak, Lechia Tiara Banks, Timothy Patrick

Bishop, Jerry Joe Blackford, Ernest Lee Boyles, Steven Ravey

Brumfield, Travis Allen Byrd, Andre Steven Carr, Jason Allen

Carrera, Luis Valentin Castro, Johnathan Michael Clabbers,

Joseph Earl Collins Jr., Jonathon C Creviston, Michael Brian

Daake, Keenon Carlton Davis, Walter Joseph Dinga Sr., Dennis

Shawn Eastman, David Michael Eckhard, Tyler Jacob Egli,

Saleem Amin Elamin, Wesley Etchison, David James Evans, David

Paul Evans, Steven Edward Francher, Anthony Lee Fleming, John

Paul Furman III, Jennifer Arlene Graves, Justin K Greentree,

Michael Crispin Guajardo, Karl Eugene Hausenfleck, Shalonda

Moniece Henderson, Andre Terrell Hillard, Paris H.

Holeyfield, Richard Jakubowicz, Steven John Jesuit, Bradford

Shawn Jones, William Michael Rich Kalina, Douglas Paul Kinger

Jr., Gary Bernard Kinney Jr., Joshua Daniel Koch, Thomas

Kopanda, Thomas Edward Kren, Mark Lathrop, John Lindsey,

William Charles Mackey, Anthony Romon Madry, Garrett Emon

Marshall, Leo Sharpe Marshall, Scott Arnold Marshall, Nicole

Dionne McCant, Gregory Quinn McHenry, Terry Dionne McQuay,

Lester Dwayne McSwain, and James Allen Miller.

Keith Allen Miller, William Moses Milligan, Joshua Arvino

Miranda, Johnny Melvin Mitchell, Rodney Dean Mitchell,

Leticia Marie Montez, Lawrence Edward Nemcek II, Steven

Charles Patterson, Melvin Pennington Jr., Jorge Antonio

Perez, Ricky Lee Phillips, John Edward Pitt, Peter Alan

Pizarek, Thomas Michael Prosser, Mark Steven Reimer, Tommy

Wade Roeske, Felicia Ronay, Briggs Obrian Rumph Jr., Alvaro

Eneas Saenz, Berris Fitzroy Samuels Jr., Paul Randolph Scott

Jr., Richard Dean Shatto, William Michael Sideris, Loretta

Silvers, Larry Smith, Leroy Smith Jr., Jeffrey Scott

Springer, Henry Louis Stone, Dawn Theresa Swantko, Michael

William Thomas, Samantha Nicole Thomas, Johnny A. Trinidad,

Michael Ralph Via, Dontreal Walters, Paul Nathaniel

Wilderness, Demond Ellis Wilkins, Chery Lynn Williams, David

Allen Young, Michael Zinman, Alexander James Baker, Charles

Edward Beavers, Sean Peter Begley, Samuel James Benford,

Christopher Ryan Boger, Ryan G. Bowerson, Steven Anthony

Bramer Jr., Adam Joseph Branson, Johnathan Leon Bright, Aaron

A. Brown, Charles Paul Bruce, Michael Joseph

Brunsman, Joshua Scott Buikema, and Max Allen Colestock.

Angel Luis Colon, Lasean Antowine Colter, Michael George

Coughlin, Corrie Alexander Covelli, David James Croyle,

Anthrice Arnez Culp, David Donald Davis, Earl Ernest Deal

Jr., Tony Chang Dicharia, Tywan Tremain Dickerson, Ryan

Patrick Eder, Matthew Bernard Flaherty, Matthew Alan Gabrano,

Joseph Maxwell Gibbs, Mitchel Glover Jr., Michael Aloysius

Goin, James Frederick Grauvogl, Elijah David Alvis Gray,

Michael Guz, Donald James Adams, Rex E. Agness, Jason Ray

Amstutz, Ian Thorne Armstrong, Christopher Brian Aviles,

Thomas Shawn Baker, David Matthew Barker, Michael Bauman,

Kevin Lee Bell, Tracy Red Bell, Justin Lee Bladecki, Ronnie

L. Bond, Shaun Alan Casto, Byron Scott Chambers, Charles

Scott Clabbers, Juba Akilaerveal Cochran, Robert Allen Craft,

Gary Allen Cravens, Adam Lee Davis, Craig Mathew Dryden,

Spencer Lee England, Brian Dean Farlie, Joshua Aaron Filson,

Shaun Fitzpatrick, Timothy Alan Fort, Steven Franklin Foss,

Daniel Trent Gakle, Brian Keith Gardner, Randy Jay Gauck, Joe

Gomez, John Geoffrey Grafton, Christoff Mathew Haglund,

Willim Lee Hayes, Michael DeWayne Heffner, David Scott Hitz,

and Matthew John Hooper.

William Austin Jarret, David Pascal Johnson Jr., Dean

Arthur Jones, Stefen Michael Kaur, Joseph Ralph Kolosci Jr.,

Andrew Kovats, Jason Michael Landfald, Ricky Lawson, Jared

Douglas Leinart, Kyle Lewis Leonard, Israel Lopez, Michael

Paul Ludwig, Aaron James Malerich, Jonathan Joseph Martin,

Mark Andrew Masters, Kenneth Edward Maynor, Carey Allen

McCrary, Jerame Edward Miller, Dale Allen Muzik Jr., James

Byron Newland, Charles Carlon Odle Jr., James Kenneth

Papay, James Robert Parker, David Lee Peer, David Scott

Pegg, Gregory Allen Perra, Harold Thomas Petri Jr., Paul

David Price, Franklin Allen Reed Jr., Jason Keith Reed,

Brian Michael Richmond, Robert Rollins, Daniel Gabriel

Ronay, Aaron John Rosenfeld, Brian Michael Sardeson,

Andrew Kevin Scalf, Harrold Allan Schrimsher, Damon Alan

Schroeder, Blaine Daniel Schultz, David Sendejas Jr.,

Thomas Alan Sergent, Sean Patrick Smiertelny, Carl James

Smith, Gayle Thomas Smith, Brett Robert Sobiski, Donald

Jeffery Spoor, David Michael Stone, Derek William

Surowiec, James Raymond Swanson, Timothy Michael Vaclavik,

Omar Velez, Rodney Allen Wells, Scott Allen Williams, and

Cameron Mitcheal Wright.

Marlin Lee Lloyd Wunder, Anthony Derrell Alston, Brandon R.

Antkowiak, Ryan William Ayres, Derek Michael Barragan, James

Basinger Jr., Kevin Joseph Bell, Matthew James Bisig, Gary

Robert Blake, Jason Paul Blunt, Jacob Ronald James Boyd,

Kevin Briskey, Kirk Joseph Brownson, Chandler Clint Cahoon,

Tomas Ignacio Canchola, James Edward Cash, Patrick Gerard

Cleary, Delbert Lee Clem, Rodrice Lenall Cole, Edward T

Cooney, Jason Michael Cribari, Jose Luis Cuadra, Clyde

Leonard Daniel, Brian Douglas De1court, Rene Delgadillo,

Billy Joe Dixon, Matthew Jason Farner, Richard Flores,

Richard Paul Freeman, Mark Allen Gerber, Jason Alexander

Hefner, Michael Alexander Hermann, Patrick Jermaine

Hernandez, Christofer D. Hoyum, Jamie Darrell Jarboe, Michael

Jonson, Chester Lee Jones Jr., Michael Ryan Jones, Richard

Joseph Kerr Jr., Daniel Gerard Kirby, John Harold Koch,

Stephen Kometz, David John Kozinski, Rodney Allen Kreft,

Melvin Oswaldo Lira, William Lito Loubriel II, John Quincy

Lubbe, Rick Allen Marino Jr., Brien Michael McCartney, Ivan

Lamont McIntosh, William Everett McKee III, Matthew Lawrence

Mitchell, Jason Moody, Michael Raymond Murray, Spiro David

Olympidis, Kenny Wayne Parks, and David James Phillips.

Jon Robert Pitts, Thomas Duane Rankin, Douglas Alan Ricca,

Wesley Aaron Robertson, Samuel Victor Rogowski, William John

Schissler II, Ryan Scott, Deon Scott, Anthony Joseph Schultz,

Robin Laurence Siems, Andrew Wayne Sigler, Christopher Alan

Smith, Bartholomew Smith, Adam James Stewart, Jerry L. Sumner

Jr., Zoltan Louis Szabo, Marion Otis Thatcher, Jose Anthony

Trujillo, Frank Hobert Turner III, Theodore Widin Uzelac Jr.,

John M. Villegas, Jerod Lee Wagner, Jerome Nathaniel Watts,

Kenneth Paul Wells III, Dane Emerson Wheeler, Patrick

Williamson, Lamar Benjamin Wilson, Walter Johnson Wright Jr.,

James Ewel Yacconi, Benjamin Thomas Zimmermann, Yvette Bell,

Melissa T. Elliot, James Austin Gazaway, Steven Randall

Hines, Kevin E. Kuwik, Paul Timothy South, Reynaldo Benjamin

Urra, James Nelson Marker, Charles Richard Socks, Somsack

Thanthima, Keith Mark Hall, Matthew John Hamater, Ruben Haro

Jr., Demetrius Demonte Henderson, Jaime Demetrio Hoch,

Matthew Scott Hopkins, Allen David Hughes, Charles Edward

Hunter III, Muain Issa, Alvino Luis Jaime, Robert Anthony

Jaso, Derrell Donte Jenkins, William Robert Johnson II, Kerry

Kinney, and James Foster Knight.

Nicholas John Kowalczyk, David Marshall Kuzmar, Luis Andre

Landecho, Dean Lane, Vincent Isaac Lenart, Kevin Lee

Littlejohn, Jason Elliot Loebbaka, Angel Miguel Lozano,

Darnell Porter Malone, Thomas Martinez, Brandon Thomas

McCormick, Robert William Metcalf, William Arnett Mills Jr.,

Sean Minard, David Ernest Moake Jr., Donald Marvin Mull,

Stephen Michael Otten Jr., Brian Scott Panzik, Gershom

Richard Parr III, Bruce Wayne Pierce II, Gregory Allen

Potter, Carlos Reyes, Jody Van Roberts, James Michael

Robinson, Aaron Shane Santonelli, Julian Anthony Scott,

Ashley Cole Sharp, Richard Smart, Terry Alan Specyal, Mark

Thomas Tegtman, Jeremy Thomas, Jose Angel Tovalin, Enrique

H. Uribe Jr., Aaron Michael Vance, Joseph Edgard Vedette,

Michael Edgard Vician, Cornelius Horace Weathers, Aaron

Michael Webb, Travis Lane Wheatley, Daniel Kareen Wiley,

Larry V. Williams Jr., Danile James Wills Sr., Bryan

Thomas Zabrecky, Leonard Leroy Cottom, Paul Raymond

Gordon, Steve Elias Haddad, Benjamin Matthew Joy, Michael

Alan Kieszkowski, Thomas Willard Lamb, Jeremy Aaron

Morton, Charles Andrew Pendleton, Peter Ruvalcaba, Alan

Gene Scott, John Spann Everett, Derek Randall Sutton, and

Alan Earle Thomas Jr.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay tribute to the 113th Engineer Battalion of the Indiana National Guard and welcome them home after 1 year of serving our country heroically in Iraq.

Upon arrival, the 113th was nicknamed the ``Ironman Battalion'' because of their links to Northwest Indiana's steel industry. Throughout the past year, these ironmen and -women have shown a dedication and commitment to their country that is truly as strong as steel.

Today, Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that soldiers of the 113th are coming home, coming home to be with their family and friends, coming home to be with their wives, husbands, sons, daughters, mothers and fathers.

The service of these men and women has not been without sacrifice. Over 40 Purple Hearts have been awarded to the 113th Battalion, each serving as a reminder of the danger our soldiers face every day.

Mr. Speaker, I welcome these soldiers home. I thank them for their service and sacrifice to our Nation, and I pledge that our support for them will remain equal to the sacrifice they have shown to our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the co-chair of the House Croatian Caucus in strong support of H. Res. 529. I would first like to thank Chairman Gallegly for authoring this legislation, the ranking member on the Europe Subcommittee, Mr. Wexler, as well as Mr. Radanovich, my co-chair of the House Croatian Caucus for all of their tireless work advocating for Croatia.

Since 1994, on more than one occasion, Congress has endorsed the enlargement of NATO. Most recently, in 2003, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia signed accession protocols to the

Washington Treaty of 1949 signifying their willingness to join NATO. Since its independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1992, Croatia has made substantial progress in attaining the necessary level of military and political reforms required for receiving an invitation to begin accession negotiations with NATO. I am pleased to say that just this past October, the European Union began negotiations with Croatia based on its assessment that Croatia met the political and economic criteria for candidacy in the European Union.

Croatia is a strong ally of the United Sates in the War Against Terrorism. Croatia has sent troops to Afghanistan as part of the NATO- led International Security Assistance Force and has endorsed and is participating in the Proliferation Security Initiative to prevent the flow of weapons of mass destruction to that region.

Stability in South Central Europe is a very high priority, and Croatia has become a valuable, constructive partner in this delicate region. Given the potential for future regional conflicts, NATO should want to take advantage of the greater contribution that Croatia would make toward peace and stability as a full member of NATO.

The resolution before us today expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Croatia has made significant progress since its independence in strengthening its democratic institutions and its respect for human rights and the rule of law. In addition, it commends the Republic of Croatia for the progress it has made since the end of its war for independence. Further, the Resolution commends Croatia for its progress in meeting the political, economic, military, and other requirements of NATO's Membership Action Plan, for its contribution to the global war on terrorism, and for its constructive participation in the U.S.-Adriatic Charter.

In closing Mr. Speaker, I would like to once again thank the International Relations Committee for reporting this resolution and urge my colleagues to support this resolution and approve Croatia's accession into NATO.

Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to pay tribute to the outstanding achievements of an exceptional group of students from Lowell High School, located in Indiana's First Congressional District. On Saturday, November 26, 2005, the Lowell High School Football Team won the Class 4A State Championship game.

The people of Lowell, as well as the entire Northwest Indiana community, can be proud of the following members of the football team: Michael Kreczmer, Jeffrey Clemens, Zach Porras, Jacob Gill, Zachary Zolmer, Scott Gray, James Ritter, John Black, Lukas Palmer, Jonathan Cap, Joshua Kuiper, Christopher Jacobson, Max Znika IV, Michael Dowling, Christopher Briggs, Christopher Lampa, Johnny Underwood, Joshua Lofrano, Chad Small, Mark Puskar, Steffan Peck, Christopher Thompson, Dean Frigo, Jeffrey Barker, Timothy Lukasik, Matthew Garton, Joseph Carlson, Daniel Remboski, Paul Demro, Ethan Winel, Tyler Overdorf, Eugene Wentworth, Kaleb Layman, David Lang, Anthony Hurst, Ryan King, Trenton Keelen, Nicholas Traficanti, Andrew Steuer, Chris Caputo, Matthew Heabel, Brandon Werblos, Jed Travis, Joshua Hayden, Robert Becker, Jr., Jon Sgouroudis, Mark Lunsford, Michael Staniewicz, Randy Layman, Eric McGee, Joe Wojcik, Justin Jackson, Gerald Jackson, Ben Rigby, Eric Roadruck, Dustin Warren, Robert Stluka, Mina Jae Park, Manager Sagan Roney, and Manager Lindsay Rothas.

In addition, I would like to recognize the other members of the Lowell State Championship Team: Athletic Trainer Bobby Wong; Student Trainers Ashley Barragan, Jessica Besaw, Nicole Carlson, Courtney DuBord, Nicole Ford, Samantha Norfleet, Krystol Pigg, and Stephanie Revere; the Varsity Cheerleaders, Junior Varsity Cheerleaders, and their coaches--Cindi Blandford, Linda Glaze, Druanne Smith, and Don Bales. The team's success is also due to the outstanding ability and leadership of its teachers and coaches. In particular, Kirk Kennedy, Jim Carlson, Jim Kiechle, Keith Kilmer, Brad Stewart, Trent Staggs and Ed Miracle should be commended for the devotion they have demonstrated as coaches. Additionally, Lowell Principal James Koger and Assistant Principals Mike Chelap and Ben Ingram should be recognized for their strong support of the football team. The accomplishments of these outstanding individuals are a reflection of their hard work and dedication. Their effort, determined preparation, and rigorous approach have made them the best in the state. They have also brought pride to themselves, their families, their school, and their community.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to once again extend my most heartfelt congratulations to the members of the Lowell High School Football Team for their commitment to excellence, as well as to the faculty members who have instilled in their students the desire to succeed. I am proud to have been given this opportunity to recognize these future leaders, and I look forward to their future achievements as they continue to rise to the top!

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend these dedicated individuals who have made significant contributions to Northwest Indiana: Bob Anadell, Hannah Cherry, Nancy Kelly, and the members of the Hispanic Women's Forum of Northwest Indiana. These individuals will be honored by the Calumet Project at an awards luncheon for their dedication to justice and to the people of Northwest Indiana. The event will take place at the Social Hall of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Hammond, Indiana on Friday, November 18, 2005.

The Calumet Community Hero Award is being presented to Mr. Bob Anadell. Bob has had many positive accomplishments throughout his career with I.B.E.W. Local 697; he has also actively contributed to his community through participation in various programs aimed at improving opportunities for the people of Northwest Indiana. He has been a powerful member of the Northwest Indiana Building Trades, Secretary Treasurer of the IBEW State Conference, Vice-President of the Indiana State AFL-CIO, Trustee of the Lake Area United Way, Board of Directors of Trade Winds, Member of the Lake County Integrated Services Delivery Board, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Investment Committee, and Executive Committee of the Legacy Foundation, as well as Co-Chairman of the Heroes Committee of the American Red Cross.

Also receiving a Calumet Community Hero Award is Ms. Hannah Cherry. Ms. Cherry graduated from Maywood High School in Hammond, Indiana where she was one of three African Americans that year. Her passion has always been to improve the conditions in the city where she lives and to fight for justice for all people. Hannah is a lifetime member of the NAACP, a member of the Project Area Committee, and a charter member of the Neighborhood Action Council. She has also given her time and efforts selflessly

as a volunteer at St. Margaret's Hospital for almost twenty years. Hannah is a compassionate activist and she is being honored for her ongoing quest to see to it that justice prevails.

The third Calumet Community Hero Award is being presented to the Hispanic Women's Forum of Northwest Indiana. The forum was started in the early 1980's when a group of young Hispanic women came together with an idea to form an organization that would focus on mentoring fellow Hispanic women. The Forum's common goal was to make Hispanics in professional careers more visible in the community by stressing the importance of education. The Hispanic Women's Forum conducts a yearly luncheon where they honor young Hispanic women graduating from local high schools. Monetary awards are given to some of the young women based on a selection process. The Hispanic Women's Forum's longstanding commitment to improving the quality of life is truly inspirational and should be commended.

The final award, the Lifetime Achievement Award, is being presented to Nancy Kelly for her outstanding service to the Northwest Indiana Community. Nancy decided at a young age to be a local missionary in the service to her community. Mrs. Kelly was a volunteer and community organizer under Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley's administration. She moved to Gary, Indiana 30 years ago with her late husband. Mrs. Kelly dedicated herself to improving the quality of life for the residents in her community. She is the founder of the Horace Mann Ambridge Neighborhood Improvement Organization and she has served on the LCEOC board as well as numerous other boards. Mrs. Kelly's lifetime of service continues as she still serves with the Grand Calumet River Task Force. Along with her many other contributions to society, she was also honored with the Indiana Older Hoosier Award of the year. I am proud to commend Mrs. Kelly for her lifetime of service and dedication.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending these individuals for their outstanding contributions to Indiana's First Congressional District. Their hard work and dedication has improved the quality of life for the community and is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I recommend that all Members join me in supporting this conference agreement. Its presentation has been bipartisan, and the chairman has been fair throughout his preparation. I would also join the chairman in adding my appreciation to the staff led on the majority side by Kevin Cook. He is joined by Terry Tyborowski, John Blazey, Scott Burnison and Tracy LaTurner. They are a very strong team.

On the minority staff, I would like to thank Dixon Butler. This year we have two of the finest detailees ever from the Army Corps, Taunja Berquam helping with the majority and Felicia Kirksey helping with the minority. I would also thank Kenny Kraft on Chairman Hobson's staff as well as Peder Maarbjerg on mine.

Conference negotiations this year were protracted and their favorable resolution required both patience and firmness in pushing for positive reforms of the Corps of Engineers management practices.

I want to thank Chairman Lewis as well as Ranking Member Obey for their steadfast support in getting this done.

As I said in my remarks earlier this year, Chairman Hobson has led our subcommittee to take a long-term perspective on a number of important issues, and this is resulting in some profound and positive changes, including saner and safer policies on nuclear weapons, insistence on 5-year planning from the Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and the Department of

Energy; a focus on completing projects in management reforms, particularly at the Corps. On this side of the aisle I am pleased to have had the opportunity to support my chairman on these issues.

The conferees were given an allocation of $749 million larger than was available when the House developed its bill back in the spring. The tragic events that resulted from the hurricanes demonstrated that our Nation has crying needs in the areas served by the program of the corps, and we have devoted the increased funds to meet these needs along the Gulf of Mexico and across the Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask for my colleagues' support of this conference agreement.

Mr. Speaker, I recommend that all members join me in supporting this conference agreement. Its preparation has been bipartisan and the Chairman has been fair throughout its reparation. I would add my appreciation to the staff led on the majority side by Kevin Cook. He is joined by Terry Tyborowski, John Blazey, Scott Burnison, and Tracy LaTurner. They are a strong team. On the minority staff, I would thank Dixon Butler. This year we have two of the finest detailees ever from the Army Corps: Taunja Berquam helping the majority and Felicia Kirksey helping the minority. I would also thank Kenny Kraft on Chairman Hobson's staff and Peder Maarbjerg on my staff.

Conference negotiations this year were protracted and their favorable resolution required both patience and firmness in pushing for positive reforms of the Corps of Engineers management practices. I want to thank Chairman Lewis and Ranking Member Obey for their steadfast support in getting this done.

As I said in remarks earlier in the year, Chairman Hobson has led our subcommittee to take a long-term perspective on a number of important issues and this is resulting in some profound and positive changes, including saner and safer policies on nuclear weapons, insistence on 5- year planning from the Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and Department of Energy, a focus on completing projects, and management reforms, particularly at the Corps. On this side of the aisle, I am pleased to have had the opportunity to support him on these issues.

The conferees were given an allocation $749 million larger than was available when the House developed its bill back in the Spring. The tragic events that resulted from hurricanes Katrina and Rita demonstrated that our Nation has crying needs in the areas served by the programs of the Corps of Engineers, and we have devoted the increased funds to meeting these needs both along the Gulf of Mexico and across the Nation.

The Energy and Water Development conference agreement had to work within the constraints that started with the President's budget request and its inadequate commitment of resources to the programs of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The events of this year amply demonstrated the latent threats to our Nation from natural disasters and the failure of inadequate manmade structures. The Congress is doing the right thing in increasing spending on the Corps in FY 2006 by more than $1 billion over the request. Hopefully the Administration will now understand the level of investment needed and submit a budget for FY 2007 that sustains and extends this investment level for the water infrastructure of our Nation.

An additional top priority within the Energy and Water appropriations is nuclear nonproliferation. While the overall level included in the conference agreement is slightly below the request, considerable funds have been shifted from a construction project with major unspent balances to support of high priority programs to help Russia protect and control its nuclear weapons material. The Russian side has signaled strong willingness in this area, and bureaucratic obstacles in the U.S. have been removed. We must seize this opportunity for the increased safety of us all.

Alas, this conference agreement is limited by an overall constraint forced by allocation.

Four fifths of the Energy and Water funding goes to the Department of Energy, but energy research, development and demonstration is only 10% of the Department. The cost of gasoline, natural gas, and home heating oil have exploded over the past 18 months. Only the Federal Government can invest in the long-term R&D needed and stimulate demonstration and deployment of new technologies through partnerships with the private sector.

When our Nation faced high costs and uncertain supplies for energy in the mid-1970s, President Carter and Congress, made major investments in energy conservation and renewable energy along with unconventional sources of fossil fuels were funded. A comparable response today would require quadrupling our support for renewable energy and doubling our support for conservation R&D at DOE. As a start, Democrats advocated for creation of an energy independence fund of one-quarter billion dollars of new money at DOE at the time the House considered the Energy and Water appropriations bill.

The prosperity of our Nation is built in part on preeminence in almost all areas of fundamental science research. The Department of Energy is the primary supporter of physical science research and provides state-of-the-art user facilities available to investigators from government, academia, and industry.

The constraints on this conference agreement have allowed only one area of research and user support to be increased above the request-- high performance computing. This is an area where the United States invented the field and long held undisputed leadership in the world. Several years ago, that leadership was challenged by Japan with their development of the Earth Simulator. For three years in a row, the Congress has had to increase support substantially in this area to sustain momentum in reachieving U.S. leadership.

The conference agreement provides no increased support for the operations of DOE user facilities. Construction of these facilities represents a major investment. Before the recent run-up in energy prices, it was estimated that an additional $95 million was required to operate these facilities at full capacity. Operation of these facilities is energy intensive, and the FY 2006 operating levels are likely to be smaller than planned.

Within the constraints of the conference allocation, the Energy and Water conferees have made good choices for our Nation. I ask for support for this measure.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Bishop).

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I congratulate Galilee Missionary Baptist Church as they join together in celebration of the 5th Pastoral anniversary of their esteemed Pastor Reverend Charles M. Morgan. They will be celebrating this very momentous and special occasion November 18-20, 2005.

Reverend Morgan was born to the late James and Lillie Morgan in Kansas City, Missouri. He completed his undergraduate studies at Ottawa University and Calvary Seminary. He is presently matriculating in the McCormick Theological Seminary. Reverend Morgan is an active member of the Baptist Minister's Conference of Gary and Vicinity, and he is the 2nd Vice Moderator of the Northern Indiana Missionary Baptist District Association. He is a regular participant at the Stephen Olford School for Expository Preaching in Memphis, Tennessee. Reverend Morgan has also been an instructor for the Baptist Minister's Seminar for the past two years.

From its modest beginning, Galilee Missionary Baptist Church has emerged as a cornerstone of the community. Under Pastor Morgan's guidance, Galilee continues to thrive, both in terms of spiritual growth as well as practical improvements. The proud members of the church are thankful for the spiritual and emotional leadership he and the previous pastors have provided during the years.

Though Reverend Morgan is dedicated to the Galilee Family, he has never limited his time and love for his family. Reverend Charles Morgan and his wife Francine have three daughters, Natasha (deceased), LaRonda Lindsey, and Rasheeda; one son, Johan; and two grandchildren, Manuel and Jackson.

The celebration weekend begins on Friday, November 18, 2005, with the Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church Family and Pastor Charles L. Emery. On Saturday, November 19, 2005, there will be an evening of love and appreciation at the Turkey Creek Country Club Banquet in Merrillville, Indiana. The celebration banquet will conclude the festivities on Sunday, November 20, 2005, when the church honors Pastor Morgan and his family with special guests, including Pastor Mike Nicholson and the Mount Calvary Baptist Church Family of Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Reverend and Mrs. Charles M. Morgan and the Galilee Missionary Baptist Church on their 5th Pastoral anniversary. Their constant dedication and commitment is worthy of the highest commendation.