Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to announce that the Asian-American Medical Association will be hosting the 29th Annual Asian-American Charity Ball on Saturday, November 5, 2005, at the Avalon Manor in Hobart, Indiana. Each year, the Asian-American Medical Association honors prominent, extraordinary citizens for their contributions to the community. In recognition of their tremendous efforts, these individuals are honored at the banquet and awarded the prestigious Crystal Globe Award.

The Asian American Medical Association is a great asset to Northwest Indiana. This organization has dedicated itself to providing quality service to the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District and has demonstrated exemplary service in its cultural, scholastic, and charitable endeavors.

At this year's annual charity gala, the Asian-American Medical Association will present Mr. Gus Olympidis with the Crystal Globe award. Gus is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Family Express Corporation based in Valparaiso, Indiana. He currently serves as a Director and a member of the Executive Committee of Centier Bank. He is also a Director of the Valparaiso Community Development Corporation, Director of the Northwest Indiana Forum, and Director of Valparaiso University's College of Business Administration Advisory Council. He also serves on the Porter County Foundation Board.

Amongst Gus's many positive accomplishments throughout his civic and convenience store industry engagements, he has also taken on the role of President of the Valparaiso Parks and Recreation Foundation, Chairman of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, and was a member of the Valparaiso University Town and Gown committee and a Board member on the Regional Development Authority Committee. I am honored to commend Gus for his commitment and dedication to the well being of those who seek his knowledge and leadership. His efforts and hard work are worthy of the highest recognition.

Although Gus's career consumes much of his time, Gus has never limited the time he gives to his most important interest, his family. He and his wife, Beth, have three children and two grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending the Asian American Medical Society and Gus Olympidis for their outstanding contributions to the community. Their commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and throughout the world is truly inspirational and should be recognized and commended.

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to introduce our guest chaplain, Reverend Bruce Bigelow, pastor of the Lake Hills Baptist Church in Schererville, Indiana.

Reverend Bigelow was born on the South Side of Chicago and was raised in Gary, Indiana. Reverend Bigelow began his life of service in 1967. For the past 32 years, he has served as the senior pastor of the Lake Hills Baptist Church and will be retiring this coming April.

In his time as pastor, Lake Hills Baptist Church has grown from less than 100 members to over 450 today. The church now includes a modern family life center. In addition, it joyfully gives 30 percent of all donations it receives to help support missionary projects in the community and around the world. The congregation also provides practical help to children, teenage and college age youths, young mothers, and senior adults. Through his actions and those of the members of the church, Reverend Bigelow has brightened and made meaningful so many lives.

Throughout his time in the ministry, Reverend Bigelow has been supported by his wife Janice, his dear wife of 40 years, who has joined him today. They have three grown daughters and seven grandchildren, all who reside in Indiana.

Let us hope the words of his inspiring prayer will remain with us and his dedication to the ministry will always be appreciated.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that I congratulate Mr. Leon Lynch on his retirement from the position as United Steel Workers of America Vice President of Human Affairs. Leon has spent nearly 40 years dedicating his life to the interests of the USWA and many social and political organizations throughout the country. His career at the USWA has allowed him the opportunity to touch the lives of numerous people. In honor of his gracious service to the USWA, there will be a celebration of his accomplishments on Friday, October 28, 2005, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, IN.

Leon Lynch has accomplished many visionary goals throughout his career. Leon joined USWA Local 1011 in 1956 at the Youngstown Sheet & Tube Company Mill in East Chicago, Indiana. He has served on many local committees and was President of the YS&T Federal Credit Union. In 1968 Leon was named a staff representative and an International Representative in 1973. In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton to the Advisory Council on Unemployment Compensation. In 1995, Leon was elected to the AFL-CIO Executive Council, and in December of 2000, President Clinton appointed Leon to the Air Traffic Service Board of the Federal Aviation Administration.

Not only has Leon had many positive accomplishments throughout his career at the USWA, he has also actively contributed to his community through participation in various programs aimed at improving opportunities for people. Leon is a member of the executive committee of the Democratic National Committee, Chairman of the A. Philip Randolph Institute, President of the Workers Defense League, a board member of the National Endowment for Democracy, and a member of the Labor Roundtable of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.

Leon has served six terms as the USWA's International Vice President for Human Affairs. He was appointed to that post when it was created by the USWA's 18th Constitutional Convention in 1976. As Vice President, he oversees the USWA's civil rights and human rights efforts. He chairs the Container Industry Conference and handles the negotiations for Rexam, Crown Cork & Seal, and Silgan Containers. He also chairs the Public Employees Conference, International Constitution Committee, and the Steelworkers Health and Welfare Fund.

Leon's family and friends should be proud of his efforts, as his leadership has served as a beacon of hope throughout the country. Leon's longstanding commitment to improving the quality of life for Steelworkers is truly inspirational and should be commended. Our community has certainly been rewarded by the true service, uncompromising dedication and loyalty displayed by Leon Lynch.

Mr. Speaker, Leon Lynch has given his time and efforts selflessly to the members of the USWA throughout his years of service. He has taught every member of the USWA the true meaning of service. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Leon Lynch for his outstanding contributions. I am proud to commend him for his lifetime of service and dedication.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that I congratulate Mr. Richard Krame on his retirement from the Town of Schererville. Dick has spent nearly 50 years dedicating his life to the interests of the residents of Schererville, Indiana. His career has allowed him the opportunity to touch the lives of numerous people. In honor of his gracious service to the community, there will be a celebration of his accomplishments on November 3, 2005.

Dick Krame has accomplished many visionary goals throughout his career. Dick was born in Chicago, Illinois and entered the United States Army in 1943, where his first mission was D-Day 1944. Dick was awarded the Croix De Guerre-with Star, which was the highest decoration a soldier could earn from French President Charles De Gaulle. He also received a number of U.S. awards for his service in the European, African, and Middle Eastern theaters. Dick felt tremendous pride for his country, and he was willing to endanger his own life to protect the lives of his fellow Americans. His courage and heroism will always be remembered, and his sacrifice will forever live in the hearts and minds of those for whom he battled.

After the War, Dick resumed his career with Inland Steel. He moved to Schererville, Indiana in 1954, and he became involved with the community in 1964. He served as an elected member of the Town Board and was Town Board President in 1970, 1971, and 1979. In 1982, Dick retired from his position as a General Foreman with Inland Steel. In 1989, he came out of full-time retirement from Inland Steel to fill many positions with the Town of Schererville. He served as Chairman of the Schererville Planning Commission, a member of the Police Commission, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce Corn Roast, a member of the Chamber's Economic Development Commission, and a member of the Quad Town Economic Commission. In 1998, Dick became the Schererville Town Manager.

While Dick has dedicated considerable time and energy to his work, he has always made an extra effort to give back to the community. Dick has been an active member of the Schererville Lions Club for over 42 years, and he was named President of the Lions in 1973 and 1986. Some other of his involvements include the Parade Picnic Committee and the St. Michael Church Council. The Rotary Club of Schererville also presented Dick with their 2004 Outstanding Citizen Award.

His work has been improving his community for over forty years. Though Dick is dedicated to his career and the community of Schererville, he has never limited his time and love for his family. Dick and his wife, Eleanor, have been happily married for thirty years.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Richard Krame for his outstanding devotion to Indiana's First Congressional District. His unselfish and 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 pride and respect that I wish to commend the mothers of Indiana's First Congressional District who have suffered the ultimate sacrifice of motherhood by losing sons and daughters who served in the Armed Forces. Their courage and perseverance perpetuate the memory of all whose lives were sacrificed in our wars.

In honor of Gold Star Mother's Day 2005, I would in particular like to recognize the mothers of the First Congressional District who have lost a child in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. They are Katherine Brown, the mother of Army Specialist Adam J. Harting; Kim Greenberg, the mother of Army Specialist Nicholas R. Idalski; Summer Lipford, the mother of Army Private First Class Steven F. Sirko; Towina ``Gail'' Nightingale, the mother of Army Private First Class Nathan E. Stahl; Marie Lisa Campos Miranda, the mother of Army Private Luis Perez; Susan Amos, the mother of Army Private First Class John Amos; Janie Espinoza, the mother of Army Reserve Specialist Roy Russell Buckley; Roberta Rios, the mother of Marine Sergeant Duane R. Rios; Leslie Sanders, the mother of Army Specialist Gregory P. Sanders; the late Janet Winters, the mother of Marine Sergeant Jeannette L. Winters.

The Gold Star Mothers and the soldiers of the First Congressional District are powerful examples of service and sacrifice for us all. With dignity, bravery, and compassion, they have worked to promote patriotism, foster peace, and encourage goodwill. Their generosity of spirit has touched the lives of countless Americans and made certain that the selflessness they demonstrated in service to our

country remains a prominent part of our national character. I speak for this entire body when I say that words cannot express the gratitude we have for these courageous individuals.

Gold Star Mother's Day was established in respect and recognition of the sacrifices our Gold Star Mothers have made. The Congress designated the last Sunday in September as ``Gold Star Mother's Day'' in 1936 and authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this day. This day is a fitting public salute of the sympathy and the respect that our Nation holds for its Gold Star Mothers.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the mothers of the fallen heroes of the First Congressional District. Today, as we enjoy the peace and security our Nation has achieved through the sacrifices of American citizens, Gold Star Mothers can take solace in knowing that their sons and daughters left all humanity a legacy of invaluable meaning. Let us never forget the sacrifices they made to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of the Pangere Corporation throughout its 100 years of service in Northwest Indiana. To commemorate this special occasion, the Pangere Corporation will be holding an anniversary celebration on September 24, 2005, at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, Indiana.

John T. Pangere established The Pangere Corporation in 1905 as an industrial painting contracting company. He built the framework of a company that today offers a complete line of construction services. Because their roots are in Gary and they wanted to give back to the community what it had given them over the years, the Pangere family built its headquarters in the center of Gary, Indiana. Northwest Indiana has certainly been rewarded by the true service and uncompromising dedication this company has displayed to the community.

Throughout its growth and expansion, the officers and owners of the Pangere Corporation have strived to maintain the corporate culture and values of being a family business. The Pangere family recognizes the need and importance of community involvement. The company contributes financially to many charitable and community organizations and its employees are encouraged to participate in community events. Steve Pangere has given his time and efforts selflessly to the people of Northwest Indiana. He serves as a board member of several charitable organizations and he has taught his employees the true meaning of service.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating the Pangere Corporation on their 100th Anniversary. This company has contributed to the growth and development of the economy of the First Congressional District. Their service and devotion deserves the highest commendation, and I am proud to represent them in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend two of Northwest Indiana's distinguished citizens, Judy and Alan Rooth. On Sunday, September 25, 2005, Judy and Alan will be honored for their exemplary and dedicated service to our community and to the State of Israel. Their praiseworthy efforts will be recognized at the Northwest Indiana-Israel Dinner of State, as they receive the Jerusalem Medal. The Special Guest speaker is Dr. Mitchell Bard, executive director of the American-Israeli Cooperative Enterprise.

Judy Rooth is completing her fourth year as president of the Jewish Federation. She previously served as the Federation's Women's Division Campaign co-chair for 3 years, and she also chaired the Jewish Community Services of the Federation. Judy is a lifetime member of Hadassah and has served as board secretary for Congregation Beth Israel. She also served on the boards of Kneseth Israel and CBI. Judy is also active in the Kneseth Israel Sisterhood.

Alan Rooth has served on various committees and also as an officer of several organizations. He was vice president of the Jewish Federation and also served as vice president and co-president of Kneseth Israel. Alan served as the chairman of the Annual Walks for Israel. He has also served on the Kneseth Israel Board and Congregation Beth Israel for a total of 20 years. Alan is the School Board chairman of both Kneseth Israel and Congregation Beth Israel.

The Jerusalem Medal is given each year to worthy recipients who demonstrate their dedication and service to Israel, the State of Israel Bonds, the Jewish community, and their own community at large. The Rooths are most certainly worthy recipients of this year's award. The Jewish Federation Community Building will be filled Sunday night with friends and family who have been blessed with the opportunity to know and work with Judy and Alan Rooth and who wish to celebrate with them as they receive the Jerusalem Medal.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Judy and Alan Rooth for receiving the 2005 Jerusalem Medal. Their dedicated service to both the State of Israel and our Northwest Indiana community is commendable and admirable. No government, leader, or military can safeguard the twin blessings of freedom and opportunity without the labors of dedicated, conscientious citizens. Their service and devotion to Indiana's First Congressional District deserves the highest commendation, and I am proud to represent them in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate the Croatian Sons Lodge Number 170 of the Croatian Fraternal Union on the festive occasion of its 98th Anniversary and Golden Member banquet on Sunday, October 16, 2005.

This year, the Croatian Fraternal Union will hold this gala event at the Croatian Center in Merrillville, Indiana. Traditionally, the anniversary celebration entails a formal recognition of the Union's Golden Members, those who have achieved 50 years of membership, This year's honorees that have attained 50 years of membership include: James Andrew Blaney, Mary Ann Ciochina, Ann Fadell (deceased), Patricia Janjecic, Mary Ann Kasperan, Leonard J. Klarich, Margaret M. Lacko, Gloria J. Miller, Marie Morgan, Theresa Peretin, Johanna M. Petruch, Janis Marie Ramirez, Steve John Ratajec, Matthew Sedey, Petar Seibal, Thomas Sencaj, Vilma Stipancic, Kathy R. Sut, Margaret Jean Tomich, Roy P. Vale, Steven J. Vician, Magdaline M. Wagner, Carole J. Waters, Paul William Yurkas, John Zamko, Bernard Zemen, and Helen Zemen.

These loyal and dedicated individuals share this prestigious honor with approximately 455 additional Lodge members who have previously attained this important designation.

This memorable day will begin with a morning mass at Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Gary, Indiana, with the Reverend Father Stephen Loncar officiating. The Banat Tamburitza Orchestra will perform at this gala event. A formal dinner banquet at 3:30 in the afternoon will end the day's festivities.

Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Lodge president Betty Morgavan, and all the other members of the Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge Number 170, for their loyalty and radiant display of passion for their ethnicity. The Croatian community has played a key role in enriching the quality of life and culture of Northwest Indiana. It is my hope that this year will bring renewed hope and prosperity for all members of the Croatian community and their families.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and respect that I wish to commend Army Specialist Adam James Harting for his bravery in the field of battle and his

willingness to fight for his country. Specialist Harting was assigned to the 3rd Battalion 69th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 42nd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, GA. Specialist Harting lost his life on Monday, July 25, 2005, in Samarra, Iraq. His sacrifice will be remembered by a community that has been struck hard by the devastating loss of one of its own.

A native of Portage, IN, Specialist Harting graduated from Portage High School. It came as no surprise to those who knew Specialist Harting that he would serve his country. A true patriot, his love for his country was evident from the time that he was a child. He wanted to help make a difference in the world. At a young age Adam and his twin brother, Alex, wrote contracts to their father promising they were going to join the military.

Specialist Harting wanted to be a hero. He began speaking to recruiters about joining the military. The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 made his decision final. Specialist Harting felt tremendous pride for his country, and he was willing to endanger his own life to protect the lives of his fellow citizens. Soon after graduation he joined the military. In January 2003, at the age of 19, he was featured in Time magazine for being one of the youngest soldiers to arrive in Kuwait to serve in the conflict. He helped take a bridge over the Tigris River, and overran the airport in Baghdad. On July 25, 2005, less than 2 weeks after returning to the country for his third tour, Specialist Harting was killed when an explosive device detonated near the Bradley Fighting Vehicle that he was driving. His courage and heroism will always be remembered, and his sacrifice will forever live in the hearts and minds of those for whom he battled. He gave his life so that the freedoms and values he treasured could be enjoyed by those around the world.

Mr. Speaker, Adam's sacrifice for his country is a tribute to his dedication and willingness to put others before himself. He died not only while defending his fellow soldiers, but also defending his country and the Iraqi people from an oppressive regime. He is survived by his parents Jim and Katherine; stepmother Brenda; his twin brother, Alex, who served in the United States Air Force; and his siblings Mark, Josh, Jimmy, Tiffany, Tabitha, Hanna, and Leslie. Those who knew him best describe Adam as a kind, fun-loving person who always wanted to help others. He ultimately gave his life while protecting his fellow Americans and his heroism will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, United States Army Specialist Adam Harting. He will forever remain a hero in the eyes of his family, his community, and his country. Let us never forget the sacrifice he made to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to honor Mr. Gary Neale on the occasion of his retirement as Chief Executive Officer of NiSource, where he has served the people of Northwest Indiana since 1989 and who I am proud to call a friend.

Mr. Neale guided the Northern Indiana Public Service Company, a mid- sized utility provider, to become NiSource, one of the Nation's leading energy companies. Today, NiSource is a Fortune 500 company--the only one headquartered in Northwest Indiana, and one of the few located in the State of Indiana. Because of Mr. Neale's work, NiSource is now

the largest natural gas distributor east of the Rocky Mountains. This incredible growth came under the talented leadership of Mr. Neale, as he has brought an unparalleled level of vision and energy to NiSource. Because of his commitment to the community and his company, he will continue to serve NiSource as Chairman of the Board of Directors after his retirement.

Upon his retirement, Mr. Neale will have nearly 40 years of experience in the energy industry. He has become one of the most well- respected leaders in the industry over the years. Mr. Neale has served as the chairman of the American Gas Association and the North American Electric Reliability Council. He was also appointed by former U.S. Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham to serve on the U.S. Department of Energy's Electricity Advisory Board and was selected by former U.S. Energy Secretary Bill Richardson to serve on the National Petroleum Council.

His contributions to the economy of Northwest Indiana are only eclipsed by his commitment to community service. The NiSource Charitable Foundation contributes more than $5 million per year to non- profit organizations in the communities served by NiSource. Under his guidance, NiSource developed its Environmental Challenge Fund to support wildlife enhancement projects. To date, the fund has awarded more than $850,000 in support of wildlife projects. Mr. Neale himself is personally committed to public service, serving on the boards of the Northwest Indiana Symphony Society, the Lake County United Way Campaign, and the Northwest Indiana Americans With Disabilities Act Advisory Board. A leader in economic development and a man of foresight, Mr. Neale has worked to improve the efficiency of local government services through his involvement with the Good Government Initiative in Northwest Indiana. Additionally, he has invested great amounts of personal time and energy in the Indiana Dunes Environmental Learning Center. He is also committed to higher education in Northwest Indiana, serving as a Trustee of Valparaiso University.

Mr. Neale has accomplished much since coming to Northwest Indiana from his home state of Washington, where he received his B.A. and M.B.A. from the University of Washington. I wish him, his wife Sandy, his two children, Julie and David, and his five grandchildren the best of luck in his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Gary Neale for his outstanding contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana. His commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of the First Congressional District of Indiana is truly inspirational and should be recognized and commended. Over the years, I have sought out Gary for his advice and counsel on energy issues and to seek his assistance on matters affecting Northwest Indiana. I have always found him to be conscientious, deliberate, and innovative in his guidance. As James Joyce said, ``not in time, place, or circumstance but in the man lies success;'' or, as my father would say, ``he's a 100% guy.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that I congratulate Mayor George Pabey for being honored as 2005 East Chicagoan of the Year. For sixteen years, Twin City Community Services in East Chicago, Indiana, has awarded this title to prominent members of the community who have greatly contributed to the city and people of East Chicago. This year's festivities will take place on Friday, August 5, 2005, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in East Chicago.

George is a native of East Chicago, Indiana. At a young age his parents taught him the importance of hard work, accountability, and community service. His strong family values set the tone for his life and career. These values paved the way for George's decision to serve the people of East Chicago. In 1972, he decided to become a police officer with the East Chicago Police Department. George quickly rose through the ranks and his hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. He served in the Narcotics Unit and was instrumental in developing the city's Gang Unit. In 1990, he was appointed Chief of Police. After he retired from the East Chicago Police Department in 1997, he was appointed Director of Security for a nationally known casino located in East Chicago, Indiana.

George's political career began in 1999. After campaigning on a platform of providing safer streets, reinvigorating neighborhoods and empowering people, George was elected to East Chicago's Common Council. Throughout his career, he earned praise for his leadership and integrity. On October 26, 2004, George made history and became the first Hispanic democrat to rise to the standing of Democratic nominee for Mayor of the City of East Chicago.

The Knights of Columbus Hall will be filled Friday night with friends and family who have been blessed with the opportunity to know and work with George and who wish to celebrate with him as he receives his award. George's hard work and dedication, which have earned him the East Chicagoan of the Year award, have been improving the community and the lives of East Chicagoans for over twenty years. Though he is dedicated to his career and the community of East Chicago, he has never limited his time and love for his family. George and his wife, Hilda, have two children, Maria Lisete and Anthony, and two grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Mayor George Pabey on being recognized as East Chicagoan of the Year. It is my privilege to extend my personal thanks to Mayor Pabey for his lifelong dedication to the citizens of the First Congressional District of Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to announce that the McGill Manufacturing Company will be celebrating their 100th Anniversary on Friday, August 5, 2005, during an Open House and luncheon at the McGill Manufacturing Plant in Valparaiso, Indiana.

James H. McGill founded the Crescent Company in Chicago, Illinois. In 1905, he moved his company to Valparaiso, Indiana where it continued as the Crescent Company until December 1, 1910, when the name was changed to McGill Manufacturing. The first products produced by the company were for the electrical industry, and included wire guards for lamps, cord spools, socket handles, coloring fluid for incandescent light bulbs, Chatterton compound, and other specialty products.

The McGill Metal Company was then formed, and among other products, they developed a line of bronze retainers for ball bearings that were sold to the Strom Bearing Company in Chicago, Illinois. In 1924, a number of ex-Strom employees moved to Valparaiso, Indiana and interested James McGill in producing bearings using the aluminum bronze retainers formerly sold through the Strom Company. The initial production was under the trademark of ``Shubert,'' but in late 1926 all bearings were marked with the McGill name.

Hardwork and dedication led McGill to become a nationally-recognized leading source of precision bearings. After their incorporation, McGill expanded and built additional plants in Indiana, Texas, and Taiwan. In 1990, McGill was sold to Emerson and McGilll/EPT in Valparaiso is the headquarters of the Emerson Power Transmission Division.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending McGill Manufacturing/EPT for their outstanding contributions. The proud history of this outstanding company deserves to be honored by Congress. This company has contributed to the growth and development of the economy of the First Congressional District, and I am very proud to honor them in Washington, DC.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and admiration that I offer my congratulations to many of Northwest Indiana's most talented, dedicated, and hardworking individuals. On Friday, July 29, 2005, the Lake County Electricians Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee IBEW & NECA will honor the Completion Class of 2005 at the 50th Annual Apprentice Completion Banquet, which will be held at the Avalon Manor Banquet Hall in Hobart, IN.

They will be recognizing and honoring the 2005 apprentice graduates. Those individuals who have completed the apprentice training are: Joseph Anderson, Randall Bard, Jacques Berbesque, Robert Brannon, Feliciano Bucio, Jonathan Buczek, Christopher Buitron, Jeff Campbell, Larry Chandler, Eric Cisneros, Keenan Collier, Cameron Collins, Steve Cruise, Lester Daniel, Brian Derolf, J. Matt Dees, Todd Dodd, Lou Donaldson, Phil Dorin, Jeremy Drenth, Ryan Ferry, H. Tom Floyd, Julianne Guidotti, Tom Guined, Eddie Jackson, David McCarty, Scott Morgan, Steve Petri, Nate Plants, Derek Popovich, Timothy Ramsey, Ryan Rentschler, R. Chad Robinson, Nick Roper, Nick Santostefano, Robert Severa, Aaron Shelton, Ivan Simmons, Tom Stidham, and Jonathan Vicari.

Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These graduates are all outstanding examples of each. They have mastered their trade and have demonstrated their loyalty to both the union and the community through their hard work and self-sacrifice.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these hardworking individuals. Along with all the other men and women of Northwest Indiana's unions, these individuals have contributed to the growth and development of the economy of the First Congressional District, and I am very proud to honor them in Washington, DC.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and respect that I pay tribute to Army Reserve Private First Class Lowell W. Bellar for his bravery in the field of battle and his willingness to fight for his country. Private First Class Bellar lost his life on December 1, 1950 in North Korea. Almost 55 years later, his sacrifice will be remembered at funeral services on Friday, July 15, 2005, on his birthday.

A native of Gary, Indiana, Private Lowell Bellar graduated from Horace Mann High School. It came as no surprise to those who knew Private Bellar that he would serve his country. A true patriot, his love for his country was evident from the time he was a child. He wanted to help make a difference in the world. Private Bellar entered active duty on his 17th birthday in 1948. He was one of more than 1,000 soldiers who had to be left behind in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir as enemy troops from the People's Republic of China overran the region.

Private Bellar was reportedly killed on December 1, 1950, during the Korean War. He was among more than 8,000 United Nations soldiers that never returned home. Private Bellar was classified as missing in action until recently. In April 2005 his family was notified that his remains were recovered. Private Lowell Bellar will finally be buried with full military honors on his birthday, more than a half-century after he was declared missing in action in North Korea. His courage and heroism will always be remembered, and his sacrifice will forever live in the hearts and minds of those for whom he battled. He gave his life so that the freedoms and values that he treasured could be enjoyed by those around the world.

Although he loved his unit and his country, Private Bellar treasured his family above all else. He is survived by his brother, George Bellar, also an Army veteran, his wife Pat, their children and grandchildren. These individuals were the heroes to a man that we will forever call a hero, and we should honor them in this tumultuous moment as well.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, United States Army Private Lowell W. Bellar. He will forever remain a hero in the eyes of his family, his community, and his country. Let us never forget the sacrifice he made to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness and respect that I wish to commend United States Army Specialist Nick Idalski for the service and sacrifice he paid to this country. Specialist Idalski was tragically killed in the field of battle, while bravely conducting combat operations in Ramadi, Iraq, on June 21, 2005, just over a week shy of his 24th birthday. Specialist Idalski served our country with great honor, valor, and courage.

Specialist Idalski was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, and 2nd Infantry Division in Fort Carson, Colorado. His sacrifice will be remembered at funeral services on Wednesday, June 29, 2005, by a community that has been devastated by the loss of one of its own.

A native of Crown Point, Indiana, Specialist Idalski graduated from Crown Point High School in 2001. After graduation he went on to work for a local construction company and then to train as an emergency medical technician, where he finished at the top of his class. Instead of taking a more conventional route, Specialist Idalski bravely decided to enlist in the army to make a difference and to make his family proud.

Many of his friends and his family recall him as a free spirited teenager, so it came as a surprise when Specialist Idalski decided to join the Army. However, as his time in the army progressed and he finished basic training in 2003 at Fort Benning, Georgia, he made his friends and family proud. After spending time in Korea, he was sent to Iraq in August of 2004, where he courageously served his country. Specialist Idalski had chosen to make a career out of his service in the Army.

He loved his country and the members of his unit; however, Specialist Idalski treasured his family above all else. He is survived by his Mother, Kim Greenberg; Step-Father, Rick Greenberg, a retired Marine; Step-Brother, Army Sergeant Kevin Greenberg; and girlfriend, Lisa Wheeler. His community mourns with his family, and he is missed tremendously. The city of Crown Point, Indiana will honor Specialist Idalski with a moment of silence at the beginning of their Fourth of July parade.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a fallen hero, United States Army Specialist Nick Idalski. Specialist Idalski sacrificed his life during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and his passing comes as setback to a community already shaken by the realities of war. Specialist Idalski will forever remain a hero in the eyes of his family, his community, and his country; thus, let us never forget the brave sacrifice he made in order to preserve the ideals of freedom and democracy.