Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you to recognize the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium and Ivy Tech State College Northwest as they join together for the second National Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Day Odyssey. They, along with other community leaders, will come together on Friday, April 2, 2004, at the Westfield Shoppingtown in Merrillville, Indiana, to explore alternatives to powering cars and trucks with fuels besides gasoline and diesel throughout many locations all across northwest Indiana.

The National AFV Day Odyssey began in 2002. The first event reached more than 17,000 people at 51 sites nationwide. This event will explore the environmental needs for AFV in our country, and local participants will learn of alternative fuel options to protect the future of not only northwest Indiana but the rest of the Nation as well. The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium and Ivy Tech State College Northwest will be educating participants on how alternative fuel and advanced-technology vehicles rely on domestic fuels such as propane and natural gas to provide power for vehicles, which in turn help protect our environment.

The mission of the National AFV Day Odyssey is as follows: ``To strengthen our Nation's energy security, to preserve our Nation's energy independence, to improve our Nation's air quality, to support our national expertise and technological advancement, to offer wider choices and opportunities for American drivers, and to spread the exciting news that advanced-technology and alternative fuel vehicles are a positive choice for transportation.'' The mission and goals of National AFV Day are vital to the protection of our environment and for the future generations of our country and the world.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in recognizing and paying tribute to the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium and Ivy Tech State College Northwest as they strive to provide the tools and education for protecting our local, as well as national, interests in securing both the future of our environment and our Nation's energy independence.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I congratulate St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church as they join together in celebration of their 90th anniversary. They will be celebrating this very momentous and special occasion November 13 and 14, 2004.

St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church and School is known throughout the northwest Indiana community as ``Serbian Gary'' because of its continued efforts over the past 90 years to perpetuate the Serbian Orthodox faith and traditions. In 1914, the founders proclaimed their mission of their new church before the Secretary of State in Indianapolis, Indiana. Their mission is as follows: ``The purpose of this parish is to preach the Word of God (the Lord Jesus) and take spiritual care of its members; to spread goodness, justice, brotherly love, and respect among its members.''

After much debate and discussion on who would be their chosen patron saint, it was unanimously decided that the patron saint of the parish and church would be St. Sava, the First Serbian Archbishop and Enlightener. In 1917, the parishioners, although under tremendous economic hardships, built the first church and school on 20th Avenue and Connecticut Street in Gary. Mr. Michael Pupin, a well-known Serbian scientist, served as Kum at the consecration services. Immediately after the Great Depression, the parish built an even larger church, school, parish hall, and library on 13th Avenue and Connecticut in 1938. Mr. Nikola Tesla, a well-known Serbian inventor and scientist, served as Kum at the consecration services.

In 1969, after Chairman Nick Chabraja purchased 40 acres of property on 49th Avenue in Hobart, the parish built a new parish hall for their summer meetings and family picnics. In February of 1978, during the day of honor to St. Simeon and Ana, the church was completely destroyed by a terrible fire. Under the leadership of President Zivojin Cokic and many volunteers, they built another church in the small hall of the 49th Avenue building. In May of 1991, the parish celebrated a ``new beginning'' when a brand-new building was constructed. The new building opened in Merrillville, where relics which survived the fire were blessed and installed into the new church.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church on their 90th anniversary. Throughout many hardships and trials, the members of St. Sava have dedicated themselves to providing a spiritual and guiding light through the protection of the Serbian Orthodox faith and traditions for all of northwest Indiana. Their constant dedication and commitment is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I congratulate the Nativity of Our Savior Church in Portage, IN, as they celebrate their 40th anniversary. During the weekend of September 11, 2004, and September 12, 2004, the Nativity of Our Savior Church will be celebrating their anniversary with an Anniversary Celebration Mass and an All-Parish Anniversary Celebration Family Picnic.

The Catholic faith began in Portage in the 1600's with early settlers and French trappers, and they named the area ``New France.'' In 1882, Joseph Bailly, one of those early settlers, established a trading post which he called ``Bailly-Town.'' This area included a chapel for his family as well as other nearby villagers to worship in. During the early 1960's, the Diocese of Gary purchased the land that is now the Nativity Parish and School.

As the population grew in Portage, Bishop Andrew Grutka along with other parish members, established a larger church, which was called ``The Chapel on the Mall'' because it was located at the north end of the Portage Shopping Mall. In 1964, this 10' by 50' drive-in church was visited by over 450 cars at each Sunday mass. It was in July 1965 that the Nativity of Our Savior Church was officially established with Father Joseph Till as its first pastor. On October 31, 1965, during the Feast of Christ the King, Nativity of Our Savior became a permanent church and it was formally dedicated by Bishop Grutka on Saturday, March 12, 1966.

In September 1975, the Nativity School opened its doors to 95 students in its first year. Since the founding of the Nativity of Our Savior Church in 1964 and the opening of the school in 1975, there have been many influential pastors who have led the congregation. These include: Father Joseph Till, Father William Spranger, Monsignor Carl Mengeling, Monsignor John Morales, Father John Scott, Father Patrick Kalich, and currently Father Walter Rakoczy. Today, the Nativity of Our Savior Church has over 2,200 registered families, over 200 students in their parish school, and over 600 students in their religious education program.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Nativity of Our Savior Church on their 40th anniversary. They have provided support and guidance for all those in the Portage community, and will continue to serve their community through their selfless dedication and commitment.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana throughout its 50 years of service to the Northwest Indiana community. As the citizens of Lake County, Indiana celebrate the 50th Year Jubilee of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana, we are reminded of the dedication and valiant efforts that have been made to incorporate education and community leadership in the region.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana began in the early 1950's when Mr. Paul Guist, Mr. Sid Holub, Mr. Robert Salvaggi and several other Gary businessmen decided that the children of Gary needed a place to go, complete with worthwhile activities, to help keep kids from spending time on street corners. Their efforts led to the incorporation of the Steel City Boys Club of Gary, Indiana on August 17, 1954.

The Boys Club was incorporated in 1954 when it operated in the hallways, auditorium, gymnasium and one room in the old Beveridge School in Tolleston. Its official name became Steel City Boys Club. In 1956, another club opened in the Webster School Gym located in Glen Park. This was the year that the organization also became a United Way Agency. An additional club eventually moved into the basement of the Assyrian Church where it remained until a permanent location at 7th and Adams was established through the efforts of Mr. John Will Anderson of the Anderson Company. Through Mr. Anderson's gift, the Old Moose Lodge building at 7th and Adams was purchased in 1965. Mr. Anderson and the Anderson Company donated the money and manpower to see that the building was completely renovated and ready for operation in October, 1967. The New Boys Club facility officially opened on October 23, 1967, appropriately dedicated as the John Will Anderson Boys Club.

Another Boys Club was opened in 1969 in the Salesian Prep School in Cedar Lake, and in November, 1976 that club moved to West 133rd Avenue. In 1982, the new Cedar Lake Club was built on Fairbanks Street where it remains today. In 1973, Katherine House and the East Chicago Boys Club merged to form the East Chicago-Katherine House Boys Club and became a unit of the Steel City Boys Club organization. In 1976, the John Will Anderson Club moved to the former Young Men's Christian Association building on 5th Avenue in Gary where it remains today. In 1977, the Steel City Boys Club corporate name was changed to the Boys Clubs of Northwest Indiana. In March of 1979, the Hammond Boys Club was established in the Miller School of Hessville, and today a new building built in 1994 proudly stands on Calumet Avenue. The Lake Station Club was opened in July of 2001.

In 1988, Boys Clubs of Northwest Indiana officially changed its name to Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana--as girls were recognized as official club members. In spite of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana's growth and changes, their philosophy has never changed--to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana, as well as its staff and community leaders on their 50th anniversary. Their many great accomplishments and service to Lake County, Indiana will forever be cherished and commended.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of the Hammond Council Parent Teacher Association (PTA) as it celebrates the PTA's 2004 Founders' Day. This very important occasion will be celebrated on Friday, February 13, 2004 at the Dynasty Banquet Hall in Hammond, Indiana.

The National PTA was founded in 1897 by Ms. Alice McLellan Birney and Ms. Phoebe Apperson Hearst. In 1970, the National Congress of Colored Parents, which was founded by Ms. Selena Sloan Butler, joined the National PTA. Due to the vision and determination of these women, the organization has taken the lead in promoting the welfare of children throughout the country.

The Hammond Council PTA was chartered on April 30, 1945 as a member of the Indiana PTA and the National PTA. Being a member of the state as well as national PTA, the Hammond Council has provided continuous support and resources to local families which focus on the health and education of children. The Hammond Council has continued the legacy of the PTA's founders through many projects such as Hammond's Survive Alive Program which has developed and saved the lives of many students and their families.

Each year, the Hammond Council also recognizes the top ten students from the four Hammond high schools through a special scholarship program. The recipients are honored in partnership with the School City of Hammond and the Hammond Rotary Club. Along with their leadership in their local community, members from the Hammond Council have also gone on to serve as officers for the Indiana PTA. Some of the local leaders include, past President Ms. Beverly Zawadski, the current President Ms. Marilyn Jones, the President Elect Ms. Dee Jones, and the Secretary Ms. Pat Taylor.

Each year in February, the PTA celebrates Founders' Day to recognize the accomplishments and dedication of teachers, volunteers, administrators, and community leaders who have made a positive impact on their community. During the celebration on Friday, February 13, the Hammond Council PTA will announce its 2004 winners of the 15th Volunteer of the Year Award, the Outstanding Local Unit Award, and the Membership and National PTA Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Mr. Speaker, as this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Hammond Council PTA and all its members as they celebrate the 2004 Founders' Day. Their many great accomplishments and service to the children of the Hammond community, as well as throughout the state, is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and enthusiasm that I rise to recognize and congratulate Dr. Paul Swanson. This dedicated and giving man will be honored tonight with the Ambassador for Peace Leadership in Reconciliation and Peace-Making Award. A resident of Northwest Indiana, Dr. Swanson has devoted his life to the preservation of peace in his community and throughout the world. His work will be honored this evening at the Ambassadors for Peace Awards Banquet.

Throughout his career, Dr. Swanson has united his fellow citizens by demonstrating the importance of compassion and understanding toward those of different beliefs. As a mentor to many pastors in the Midwest, Dr. Swanson has broken new ground in the areas of ecumenical and interdenominational dialog.

Mr. Speaker, Dr. Paul Swanson is currently a Professor Emeritus of Family Counseling for the Lutheran School of Theology at the University of Chicago. Although he has spent his career helping others, Dr. Swanson's family has always been his first priority. His wife Cordie, and their two children provide the inspiration for Dr. Swanson in his commitment to improve the community around him.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Dr. Paul Swanson for his outstanding service to the residents of Northwest Indiana. His efforts to improve his community should be commended, and I am proud to represent him in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a great sense of honor that I rise to celebrate

Black History Month and its 2004 theme--Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education. On May 17th of this year, we will celebrate the anniversary of the Supreme Court's decision to desegregate public schools in America. Because of this ruling, many significant pathways have been opened within our country that focus on justice, equality, and the importance of education.

As we reflect on the importance of the Brown v. Board of Education ruling, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to an individual from the First Congressional District that has represented the epitome of leadership in education within the African-American community, Dr. YJean Chambers. YJean passed away on Wednesday, November 12th, 2003, but her legacy of courage and dedication continues to inspire us all each day.

YJean and her family moved to Gary, Indiana from Kentucky when she was a young girl, seeking a better life for themselves. In 1939, she graduated from Gary Roosevelt High School ranking second in her class, and then went on to earn her Bachelor of Education degree from Illinois State University. She also went on to earn her Master of Arts degree from Purdue University, where she received Purdue University's highest award, Doctor of Humane Letters in 1993.

YJean knew how important education was to all members of her community and therefore shared her gift of knowledge and enthusiasm for learning by becoming a teacher in Madison, Illinois. After two years she began teaching speech and drama at her alma mater, Gary Roosevelt High School. In 1971, YJean became a full time professor at Purdue Calumet in Hammond, Indiana where she taught communications and was appointed Assistant Professor of Communications in 1973.

YJean gave selflessly to her community in so many ways, including being a member of several important educational organizations. She served as President of the Steel City Hall of Fame, sat on the Service Academies Nomination Board, was a member of the Board of Trustees of the Gary Community Schools, and was also a member of the Board of Directors of the Indiana School Board Association. YJean made history in Northwest Indiana by becoming the first African American woman elected to the Northwest Indiana Crime Commission and the first woman to serve on the Advisory Board of the Bank of Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education throughout Black History Month, let us pay tribute to our country's educational leaders such as Dr. YJean Chambers, who have taught us the true values of equality and determination. I respectfully ask that you and my other colleagues join me in commending Dr. Chambers, as well as all other outstanding African-American leaders in education for their efforts to build a better society for our country and the citizens of Northwest Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of Peoples Bank throughout its 94 years of service in the Northwest Indiana community. To commemorate this special occasion, Peoples Bank will be holding an anniversary celebration on Saturday, January 10, 2004, at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, Indiana.

Peoples Bank was established in 1910, and was organized to meet the needs of consumers. Peoples Bank was originally known as The First Polish National Building and Loan Association. During that time, it was the main hub for church and social activities in East Chicago, Indiana. Over several decades, the association's name changed numerous times, and in 1989 it was entitled Peoples Bank.

Peoples Bank was the first savings and loan association to ever receive a federal charter in East Chicago after the Great Depression. In the 1950s, the bank played an integral role in assisting former servicemen to build or purchase homes through G.I. Loans. At this time, Peoples Bank expanded its access to the Northwest Indiana community by moving into a multi-office operation. The Woodmar section of Hammond was chosen as the second office location along Indianapolis Boulevard.

It was during the 1960s that Peoples Bank added another branch location in Merrillville. Due to the success of these initial offices, additional branches were established in the area including Dyer, Munster, Schererville, and a second Merrillville office. In the year 2000, Peoples Bank opened its eighth branch location in Hobart.

Peoples Bank's Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, Mr. David Bochnowski, has served as the leader for the organization since 1981, after serving on the board since 1977. Through his guidance, along with all the hard work of the staff, Peoples Bank has continued to be an active force in providing superior customer service and assistance to all of Northwest Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Peoples Bank on their 94th anniversary. Their many great accomplishments and hard work throughout the years is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate one of the most dedicated and hardworking citizens of the First Congressional District of Indiana, Mr. John Mutka. John has spent the past 40 years of his life working as a sports writer and columnist for the Post Tribune newspaper in Northwest Indiana. He will retire on Monday, November 24, 2003. His career in journalism has allowed him the opportunity to reach out to numerous people, and therefore has made a positive impact within his community.

John is an institution in Northwest Indiana, a household name to the thousands of residents who have read his work for the past 40 years. He is also known statewide and nationally for his excellence in sports journalism. This year, John was named Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association. Also this year, he was honored by being inducted into the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters Hall of Fame, and subsequently earned a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Lake County Sportsmanship banquet.

John has given his time and efforts generously throughout his career. Along with his many accomplishments, John has also been recognized by the Indiana High School Athletic Association, the Indiana Football Coaches Association, and the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association for his dedication and hard work.

Mr. Speaker, John exemplifies the values of all great Hoosiers through his dedication, his work ethic, his loyalty and humility. His continued commitment and devotion to all of Northwest Indiana is worthy of the highest commendation. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating him on his well- deserved retirement, and continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sincerity and enthusiasm that I rise to congratulate Mr. Edward Robinson on his retirement from The Community Hospital in Munster Indiana, where he served as the Hospital Administrator for 37 years. Mr. Robinson has been a substantial fixture of the health care community in Northwest Indiana and he will be greatly missed.

Ed Robinson attended the University of Pittsburgh after receiving a highly competitive four-year scholarship from the American Legion. After the completion of his undergraduate college degree he was designated as a Distinguished Military Graduate by the United States Air Force in 1950, when he received his commission.

With his commission, Ed served as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years and was stationed in Korea with the Fifth Air Force and was also a staff officer for the personnel at the headquarters of the Eighth Air Force, Strategic Air Command.

Knowledge has always been something valued by Ed. He holds a Master's Degree in Hospital Administration from the Graduate School of Public Health of the University of Pittsburgh, as well as a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the same institution. Mr. Robinson was awarded on Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Calumet College in May 1997.

Ed's career as a health care professional has been multifaceted and world-renowned. He has been published in numerous professional journals and received first prize in the ``Hospital Topics'' editorial National- wide competition for his thesis on ``Nursing Staffing Pattern in an Intensive Care Unit.'' Ed is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Health in London, England. As a member of the program committee of the Atlantic Economic Conference, an international group, he has presented papers in Paris, Rome, Puerto Rico, Scotland, and Munich on various hospital economic topics. He has been a presenter at numerous seminars with John Goodman and Associates regarding Hospital Based Heart Centers.

Nobly, Ed has committed a life of service to Northwest Indiana through his work in the health care community. He has received the Meritorious Service Award from the Munster Board of Trustees and a Special Award for Outstanding Leadership from the Munster Medical Research Foundation. He is also a founding member of the Board of Directors of Community Foundation, Inc. and the President of the Board of Directors of Hospice of the Calumet Area. He has also shared his time with Board of the Northwest Indiana Symphony, as well as serving as Co-Chairman of the Community Veterans Memorial Park in Munster.

Mr. Speaker, Ed Robinson will be greatly missed at The Community Hospital by all of those who have served with this caring and compassionate man. At this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Mr. Robinson for an outstanding career, not only in health care, but also in service to his community. Ed's leadership and passion for his career are to be commended, and his professional absence from the Northwest Indiana community will surely be missed.

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

(Mr. VISCLOSKY asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. Speaker, I first of all want to as, I always do on these occasions, thank the staff because in the end they are the ones who have done the very hard work. I want to thank Kevin Cook, I want to thank Scott Burnison, I want to thank Dennis Kern, Tracey La Turner, Rob Pace, Kenny Kraft, Rob Nabors, Dixon Butler, Peder Maarbjerg, Leslie Phillips, and I would also like to add my voice of thanks to Bob Schmidt. Bob has done an incredible job as a staff member of the Committee on Appropriations. As a former staffer myself, I truly appreciate the work everyone has done on this bill, and in this case particularly the work of Bob. It is no surprise to me the quality of work he has done since he is a graduate of the University of the Notre Dame.

The second set of thank you's goes to the gentleman from Ohio (Chairman Hobson). The gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Hobson) and I serve together on the Subcommittee on Defense. As mentioned, this is his first full round with the energy and water bill, and he has done an exceptional job. He has been completely bipartisan. He has been a gentleman. He has made decisions. Our Department of Energy and our energy policy in the United States of America is better off because of the work the gentleman has done on this bill.

I have now served with five chairmen; they have all been very able. They have all done very good work; this is the best bill which has been brought to the floor while I have been a ranking member.

Mr. Speaker, on the substance of the bill, I would want to simply say that I think the committee has done a very good job on the nuclear weapons program. On the issue of water infrastructure, we have done our very best. We have added $377 million, and put back into the process 80 programs that were eliminated by the administration under budget requests. Any failings here are not because of lack of effort by the committee.

Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to thank the staff that worked to put this bill together, Bob Schmidt, Kevin Cook, Scott Burnison, Dennis Kern, Tracey La Turner, Rob Pace, Kenny Kraft, Peder Maarbjerg, Leslie Phillips, Rob Nabors, and Dixon Butler, all put in countless hours to produce this fine product.

I would also like to thank my Chairman, Chairman Hobson, who guided the House priorities through a very tough Conference, and led us to produce a very good bill. He has been one of the best Chairmen I have ever work with, and I look forward to working with him in future years.

Now, no bill is perfect Mr. Speaker, but this bill was a product of a truly bipartisan effort. Mark Twain once said that ``Common Sense is not that Common'' but this Conference Report advances some very common sense ideas, and though I don't want to take up much time, I would be remiss if I did not mention a few.

In the area of Nuclear Weapons, this Conference Report directs the Dept. of Energy to focus on management of our aging weapons stockpile before moving forward with new concepts and designs.

The Report fenced two-thirds of the money going to Advanced Concepts, or weapons research, until DOE produces a Nuclear Weapons Stockpile plan. This plan is needed to better deal with our aging war-heads and to dispose of many of those systems. Due to advances in technology many warheads are no longer practical or feasible with current Department of Defense technology and strategies.

In addition, the Conference Report, funds the Modern Pit Facility program and the Robust Nuclear Earth Penetrator (RNEP) or Bunker Buster at, $10M and $7.5M respectively, half of the President's and Senate's Requests in both cases. This is because we should not be looking forward to new weapons until we have a solid plan for the weapons and technology we already have.

Mr. Speaker, we should be especially wary of the nuclear waste stored in many sites across this country in this unfortunate time of terrorist threats. The compromise we came to with the other body, funded the Yucca Mountain Repository at it's highest level ever, $580M, and fully supports the submission of the December 2004 license application. I appreciate the Chairman's leadership on this issue.

Finally, Mr. Speaker our funding for the Corps of Engineers was the best that we could do within the money provided. Many important projects could not be fully funded, completed, or started. This under- funding was not the fault of the Chairman or this committee, which funded the Corps approximately $377 million over the President's Request and restored approximately 80 ongoing studies that the Administration did not include in their budget. Unfortunately, this Administration, and previous Administrations, in a bipartisan failure, have not made the infrastructure of this country a priority.

Currently, the Corps O&M program reflects a high priority backlog of $1 billion and an additional $1.9 billion in unfunded work. Though the conference report added $29 million to the President's request, we are still behind.

For on going construction, the backlog was $44 Billion for FY 2002 and $45 billion in FY 2003. The Conference Report added $372 million to the President's request of $1.35 billion to help this situation; this is just a drop in the bucket, and I suspect this backlog will continue to grow in FY 2004.

We need to invest in our future, by creating jobs, advancing the efficiency of commerce and transportation, while improving the environmental outlook and quality of life for people in this country. This can all be done through better investment in our domestic infrastructure.

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Berkley).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Matheson).

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

I would just for a moment agree with both of my chairs and refer to my opening remarks where, despite our best efforts, we are also on the appropriations side underfunding these programs. I would agree with the chairman of the authorizing committee that I would hope the other body acts sooner rather than later.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 313, a measure urging the President to present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, in recognition of his contributions to the causes of freedom, human dignity, and peace, and to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of his inauguration as Bishop of Rome and Supreme Pastor of the Catholic Church. It is with great honor and esteem that I stand here today to pay tribute to Pope John Paul II. The leadership he has displayed during his 25-year tenure as Supreme Pastor of the Roman Catholic Church has helped to shape our moral conscience. His fight to end human rights abuses and his opposition to communism not only influenced the Catholic community, but the world community.

Born Karol Jozef Wojtyla, Jr. in 1920, Pope John Paul II was the second son of Karol Wojtyla, Sr. and Emilia Kaczorwoska Wojtyla. Karol, Sr. was a retired officer for the Polish Army as well as a tailor, and Emilia was a schoolteacher. Pope John Paul II repeatedly demonstrated his unique ability to form friendships that crossed the social norms of the time. Although his hometown of Wadowice, Poland was wrought with anti-Semitism, Pope John Paul II and his family did not share in that hatred. At an early age, His Holiness befriended several members of the Jewish community and learned the importance of compassion and understanding. He later became the first Pope to visit a synagogue and the first to visit a memorial in nearby Auschwitz honoring victims of the Holocaust.

Shortly after his father's death in 1941, Pope John Paul II attended an underground seminary in Krakow, where he was eventually ordained in 1946. He served as a chaplain to university students at St. Florian's Church in Krakow until the communist government abolished the theology department in 1954. He continued his studies at the Seminary of Krakow and was hired as a professor at the Catholic University of Lublin, where he founded and operated a facility to assist families with marital problems, ranging from family planning to alcoholism and physical abuse. In 1956, Pope John Paul II was appointed to the Chair of Ethics at Catholic University, and in 1958 he was named the auxiliary bishop of Krakow. He was instrumental to the Vatican Council II deliberations in 1962, which encouraged diversity in language and practice of the Catholic faith in order to facilitate the inclusion of laymen in worship while also condemning anti-Semitism around the world. His respect throughout the Catholic community led to his election as Pope after the death of Pope John Paul I in September 1978, making him the first Slavic Pope in history.

Less than a year after being named Pope, John Paul II returned to his native Poland and spoke out in favor of the Polish Solidarity movement and against communism. His insistence that no system of government override religious beliefs gave hope to people of faith throughout the former Soviet Union that reforms would take place. The courage and determination that he displayed in opposition to a world power reflected the strength of his convictions and his willingness to stand up to an institutional force that challenged the beliefs of the church. Pope John Paul II repeated this theme when he visited Cuba in January 2003, stating that a government does not the authority to legislate religious beliefs.

Mr. Speaker, during his 25 years as pontiff, Pope John Paul II has spread the Catholic faith with visits to over 115 countries. His gift for uniting those of different beliefs earned him Man of the Year honors from Time Magazine in 1994, and his popularity among both Catholics and non-Catholics around the world is a testament to his genuine love for humanity. As a graduate of St. Mark's Catholic School in Gary, Indiana, I am well aware of the significant role that he has played in leading the Catholic Church into the 21st century. His teaching of tolerance and love for thy neighbor has made him worthy of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and that is why I intend to support H. Con. Res. 313.

Mr. Speaker it is with great remorse that I rise today to pay tribute to one of Gary, Indiana's most dedicated and caring citizens, Dr. YJean Chambers. YJean passed away on Wednesday, November 12th at Methodist Hospital after a longtime illness. Her efforts as a distinguished educator as well as her numerous contributions to her community are worthy of the highest commendation and recognition.

YJean and her family moved to Gary, Indiana from Kentucky when she was a young girl, seeking a better life for themselves. In 1939, she graduated from Gary Roosevelt High School ranking second in her class, and then went on to earn her Bachelor of Education degree from Illinois State University. She also went on to earn her Master of Arts degree from Purdue University, where she received Purdue University's highest award, Doctor of Humane Letters in 1993.

YJean knew how important education was to all members of her community and therefore shared her gift of knowledge and enthusiasm for learning by becoming a teacher in Madison, Illinois. After two years she began teaching speech and drama at her alma mater, Gary Roosevelt High School. In 1971, YJean became a full time professor at Purdue Calumet in Hammond, Indiana where she taught communications and was appointed Assistant Professor of Communications in 1973.

YJean gave selflessly to her community in so many ways, including being a member of several volunteer and service organizations. She served as President of the Steel City Hall of Fame, sat on the Service Academies Nomination Board, was a member of the Board of Trustees of the Gary Community Schools, and was also a member of the Board of Directors of the Indiana School Board Association. YJean made history in Northwest Indiana by becoming the first African American woman elected to the Northwest Indiana Crime Commission and the first woman to serve on the Advisory Board of the Bank of Indiana.

Although she dedicated her life to serving her community, YJean never limited the time she gave to her loving family. She is survived by her husband Mr. Herman Chambers, and their son Lanel.

Mr. Speaker, YJean Chambers was a caring and committed woman who gave of herself in so many ways to her community. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in paying tribute to Dr. YJean Chambers, she will be remembered honorably and truly missed.

Mr. Speaker, for the past 50 years, the Agriculture Research Service, or ARS as they are better known, has performed indispensable agriculture research across the country, including in the Congressional District I represent. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize ARS in honor of their 50th anniversary as the U.S. Department of Agriculture's main research authority.

From improving food safety to protecting crops and livestock, ARS has proved itself invaluable throughout the past 50 years. As the Department of Agriculture's research arm, they have been able to translate their raw data into profitability for farmers and lower costs for consumers. ARS has formed lasting partnerships with Universities throughout the nation, and has done so at Purdue University since 1965 when they released their first nationwide soil erosion-prediction equation. ARS maintains top-notch Crop Production and Pest Control, Livestock Behavior, and National Soil Erosion Laboratory units at Purdue. ARS, in conjunction with Purdue, continues to stay on the leading edge of agricultural research. Just this summer, they released their cutting edge Water Erosion Prediction Project over the Internet with software known as GeoWEPP.

From this research station, individuals such as Larry Dunkle, Donald Lay, and Darrell Norton have been able to study the agricultural dynamic of Northwest Indiana. They have all contributed a fundamental service to Northwest Indiana as well as the rest of the state, and their service with the ARS is indeed recognized and deeply appreciated. The agricultural community of Northwest Indiana has counted on their contributions of ARS for 50 years now, and that strong partnership will continue into the future.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me as I congratulate ARS and its researchers on their 50th anniversary by supporting S.J. Res. 22. I would further like to express my gratitude for their service to the agricultural community. Their accomplishments speak volumes, and I thank them for their vital public service.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate and honor one of Northwest Indiana's most caring and dedicated citizens, Mr. Wallace Riley. Wally has served on the Lake Station City Council for 24 years and his many contributions to Northwest Indiana will be recognized on November 30, 2003, during a celebratory event at the Lake Station Veterans of Foreign Wars Facility.

Wally began contributing to his community at a young age. In 1947, not long after graduating from Hobart High School in 1944 and working at his mother's grocery store, he began building the Liverpool Paint and Hardware building. Within a year and a half he opened the building for business with his wife, Betty Lou Ele and ran the company for 43 years. Wally also served in Civil Defense for two years, and then was named Civic Defense Director for another two years. In 1948, he joined the Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department as a director, and was then made an honorary fireman of the East Gary (now Lake Station) Fire Department in 1974, and still serves as an active member today. He also donated his garage building to the East Gary Fire Department Battalion for 15 months.

Wally has selflessly contributed to Northwest Indiana in many ways including serving as a Democratic Precinct Committeeman for a total of 13 years, as well as directing and sponsoring the building of a new sidewalk in front of Evans School in Lake Station. He also worked with various Lake County Councilmen to pave many local streets, to widen 35th Avenue, and he has participated in many local projects in Lake Station as a volunteer. He joined the East Gary Chamber of Commerce and served as Director, Vice President, and President during his tenure with the organization.

Although Wally has served on numerous committees and has donated his time throughout his entire life to his Northwest Indiana Community, he has never neglected to provide support and love for his family. Wally and his wife Betty Lou, have four children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, Wally Riley has given his time and efforts selflessly to his community and has provided leadership and dedication to all of Northwest Indiana. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Mr. Wallace Riley on his outstanding accomplishments throughout his life. His career of service to his community is worthy of the highest commendation.