Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary group of men and women in Northern Virginia. Each year, the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce, along with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, recognizes public safety officials who have courageously demonstrated selfless dedication to public safety. These individuals are honored with the highest honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its public safety officials--The Valor Award.

There are several Valor Awards that a public safety officer can be given: The Lifesaving Award, a Certificate of Valor, or a Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. During the 25th Annual Awards Ceremony, 88 men and women from the Office of the Sheriff, Fire and Rescue Department, and Police Department received one of the aforementioned honors for their bravery and heroism.

It is with great honor that I enter into the Record the names of the recipients of the 2003 Valor Award in the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. Receiving the Lifesaving Award: Captain John Hart, Shift Supervisor Roy B. Shrout III, Asst. Shift Supervisor Tammy Read, Psc.III Judith Lassiter, Psc.III Susan Farria, Psc.III Alicia Dale, Lieutenant Joseph Palau, Firefighter Juan C. Ayala, Technician Gregory W. Hunter, Technician David H. Gilmore, Technician Bryan J. Nix, and Technician James H. Williams; Certificate of Valor: Senior Building Inspector Michael A. Andreano, and Firefighter James M. Furman; Silver Medal of Valor: Lieutenant Wayne B. Stottlemyer, and Technician Ronald S. Pifer; Bronze Medal of Valor: Master Technician John C. Mayers.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. The events of September 11th served as a reminder of the sacrifices our emergency service workers make for us everyday. Their constant efforts on behalf of Fairfax County citizens are paramount to preserving security, law and order throughout our neighborhoods, and their individual and collective acts of heroism deserve our highest praise. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating this group of extraordinary citizens.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary group of men and women in Northern Virginia. Several members of the Fairfax County Office of the Sheriff were honored at the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce's 25th Annual Valor Awards. Each year, the Chamber recognizes individuals who have courageously demonstrated selfless dedication to public safety. These outstanding men and women have played an intricate role in building a better community. This hard work and determination has earned several members of the Office of the Sheriff the highest honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its public safety officials--The Valor Award.

There are several Valor Awards that a public safety officer can be given: Lifesaving Award, a Certificate of Valor, or a Gold, Silver or Bronze Medal of Valor. During the 25th Annual Awards Ceremony, 88 men and women from the Office of the Sheriff, Fire and Rescue Department, and Police Department received one of the aforementioned honors for their bravery and heroism.

It is with great honor that I enter into the Record the names of the recipients of the 2003 Valor Award in the Fairfax County Office of the Sheriff. Receiving the Lifesaving Award: Deputy Charles Taggart; Certificate of Valor: Private First Class Michael Hammond, Private First Class Leslie Sheehan, Deputy Randall Naeve, Master Deputy Sheriff Amy Gaisor, Private First Class Sharon Fogle, Sergeant Kevin Timothy, and Deputy Charles Taggart.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating this group of extraordinary citizens. In addition, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the men and women who serve the Fairfax County Office of the Sheriff. The events of September 11th served as a reminder of the sacrifices our emergency service workers make for us everyday. Their constant efforts on behalf of Fairfax County citizens are paramount to preserving security, law and order throughout our neighborhoods, and their individual and collective acts of heroism deserve our highest praise.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Program for their strong portrayal of public service and dedication to the blind and severely disabled.

For the past 64 years JWOD has provided 38,000 disabled Americans with opportunity, incentive, and employment. Through this program, dedicated employees provide federal and military consumers with a wide array of SKILCRAFT and other high JWOD products and services.

In addition, JWOD provides a plethora of product categories that include office supplies, military specific, safety, maintenance, repair, medical-surgical, janitorial-sanitation, and customization. JWOD also provides many service to the federal and military customers that include call center and switchboard operations, military base and federal office building supply centers, CD-Rom duplication-replication, data entry, document imaging, and grounds care.

I commend Javits-Wagner-O'Day Program and the opportunities it provides for an underemployed category of deserving citizens. Furthermore, due to the exceptional quality and socioeconomic benefits of the program I urge my colleagues to purchase SKILLCRAFT and JWOD products from the Capitol Hill Office Supply Store.

The JWOD Program is administered by the president-appointed Committee For Purchase From People Who are Blind and Disabled, assisted by National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and NISH, who work in co- operation with more than 650 non-profit agencies to ensure disabled persons receive quality employment.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my warmest gratitude to the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Program for their admirable contributions to Fairfax County, Virginia. The program is distinguished through their devotion on disabled citizens and community service. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding their achievements and supporting their cause.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, which was named the 2002 Large Business of the Year from the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce.

Having served its community with steadfast dedication for over 25 years, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital is well deserving of this recognition. Since 1977, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital has been devoted to providing quality health care services in the most customer-friendly service environment possible.

In 2002 the hospital implemented its ``Service Excellence--Straight From the Heart'' focus to provide all staff, volunteers, and physicians additional tools to meet and exceed the service expectations of their patients. This new service campaign produced fantastic results, with impatient and outpatient satisfaction increasing substantially.

In the interest of promoting health and wellness, the hospital regularly offers free blood pressure screenings and each fall provides an opportunity for community members to receive flu shots. Health fairs and free health screenings are frequently offered as well. Through these activities, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital has clearly established itself as a prominent and vital member of the Northern Virginia business and health care communities.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating Inova Mount Vernon Hospital and its staff for their many achievements, and wish them continued success in the future.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor the Mount Vernon Voice, which has recently been named the 2002 New Business of the Year by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce.

The Voice, founded by Marlene Miller and Steve Hunt, is a weekly newspaper dedicated to providing complete community coverage of the Mount Vernon and Lee Districts and the City of Alexandria. Having celebrated its one-year anniversary in January 2003, the Mount Vernon Voice has already proven to be a good neighbor and an invaluable member of its community.

Being the only newspaper located in the community, it serves and is staffed by residents of the area. Additionally, the Voice is proud to sponsor numerous community events and organizations, including Mount Vernon Community Day, the Mount Vernon Orchestra, Lee District Nights, educational forums on local public schools, the Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival, the Animal Welfare League's Canine games, and many more community functions.

Located in the heart of the 11th District of Virginia, the Mount Vernon Voice has established itself as a vital member of the Northern Virginia community.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Mount Vernon Voice and its staff for their many achievements, and wish them continued success in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Frank Meeks, who has recently been named the Chamber Citizen of the Year by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Meeks earned a degree in political science and English from the University of Southern Mississippi, with the goal of attending law school. In order to help defray the cost of continuing his education, he became a delivery boy for Domino's Pizza in 1979. Within a short amount of time, Mr. Meeks became manager of the store, and decided to stay with Domino's.

In December 1980, Mr. Meeks took 2 years off from Domino's Pizza and served as a congressional aide for Senator Trent Lott, then a Member of the House of Representatives. Mr. Meeks continued to earn extra money by assisting Domino's Pizza in opening up new stores in the Virginia area. After 2 years with Mr. Lott, Mr. Meeks decided to return to Domino's and was awarded the franchise for Northern Virginia and Washington, DC. Mr. Meeks opened his first store in July 1983 in Alexandria, Virginia. Today, Frank Meeks oversees the operation of fifty-nine Domino's Pizza stores in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Mr. Meek's franchise, Domino's Pizza Team Washington, continues to be one of the top franchises in Domino's Pizza, Inc.

Under Mr. Meek's leadership, Team Washington has been active in supporting area schools. Team Washington has generously contributed to the post prom and after graduation parties in Fairfax County, Virginia, and Montgomery County, Maryland. In addition, Team Washington has also contributed to the Washington's Children's National Medical Center, Food and Friends, Mount Vernon High School, and numerous other organizations.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, it gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations to Mr. Frank Meeks. I call upon my colleagues to join me in honoring him for all of his success and dedication to his work and the community.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Rent-All Center which was named the 2002 Small Business of the Year by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce.

Located in the heart of the 11th District of Virginia, the Rent-All Center was opened by Freeman and Lois Jones in 1970. It was created to serve the Mt. Vernon community as a source for home improvement and light contracting equipment. Today, the company has grown from a local tool rental shop into a full service party rental company, servicing the entire metro Washington, DC, area.

The Rent-All Center can best be described as a family-operated business. While currently managed by Douglas Jones and Judith Beyer, the children of Freeman and Lois Jones, on any given day three generations of family members can be found working there.

In addition to its outstanding business ethic, the Rent-All Center has distinguished itself through its commitment to serving the local community through participation in numerous community organizations, such as the Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation. Rent-All Center also supports youth sports, and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Woodlawn Little League.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I call upon my colleagues to join me in congratulating Douglas Jones, Judith Beyer, and all those associated with the Rent-All Center for their many achievements, and wish them continued success in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate National Bass Guide Service on their recognition by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce as the Home- Based Business of 2002.

Founded by Steve Chaconas, National Bass Guide Service is a fishing charter operation on the Potomac River that specializes in largemouth bass. Since its foundation two years ago, National Bass Guide Service has tripled the number of fishing charters it provides. In addition, Mr. Chaconas has expanded into outdoor writing for four publications, giving more exposure to the sport of fishing.

In addition to the numerous services they provide along the Potomac River, National Bass Guide Service is dedicated to contributing to the community. Mr. Chaconas has served as chairman and Master of Ceremonies for the St. Jude Children's Hospital Annual Bass Fishing Tournament, raising nearly $100,000 for the hospital. National Bass Guide Service has also donated fishing trips to the Hollin Hall Senior Center, the Recreation Boating and Fishing Foundation, as well as to churches and organizations for fundraising auctions.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is an honor to extend my warm congratulations to National

Bass Guide Service for all of their achievements. The recognition by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce is well deserved. I call upon my colleagues to join me in wishing the National Bass Guide Service future success.

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 2(a)(2) of Rule XI of the Rules of the House of Representatives, I hereby submit the rules of the Committee on Government Reform for the 108th Congress for publication in the Congressional Record. These rules were adopted by the Committee on February 13, 2003, in a meeting that was open to the public.

1. RULES OF THE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT REFORM

U.S. House of Representatives

108th Congress

Rule XI, clause 1(a)(1)(A) of the House of Representatives

provides:

Except as provided in subdivision (B), the Rules of the

House are the rules of its committees and subcommittees so

far as applicable.

(B) A motion to recess from day to day, and a motion to

dispense with the first reading (in full) of a bill or

resolution, if printed copies are available, each shall be

privileged in committees and subcommittees and shall be

decided without debate.

Rule XI, clause 2(a)(1) of the House of Representatives

provides, in part:

Each standing committee shall adopt written rules governing

its procedure. * * *

In accordance with this, the Committee on Government

Reform, on February 13, 2003, adopted the rules of the

committee:

Rule 1.--Application of Rules

Except where the terms ``full committee'' and

``subcommittee'' are specifically referred to, the following

rules shall apply to the Committee on Government Reform and

its subcommittees as well as to the respective chairmen.

[See House Rule XI, 1.]

Rule 2.--Meetings

The regular meetings of the full committee shall be held on

the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m., when the House

is in session. The chairman is authorized to dispense with a

regular meeting or to change the date thereof, and to call

and convene additional meetings, when circumstances warrant.

A special meeting of the committee may be requested by

members of the committee following the provisions of House

Rule XI, clause 2(c)(2). Subcommittees shall meet at the call

of the subcommittee chairmen. Every member of the committee

or the appropriate subcommittee, unless prevented by unusual

circumstances, shall be provided with a memorandum at least

three calendar days before each meeting or hearing explaining

(1) the purpose of the meeting or hearing; and (2) the names,

titles, background and reasons for appearance of any

witnesses. The ranking minority member shall be

responsible for providing the same information on

witnesses whom the minority may request.

[See House Rule XI, 2 (b) and (c).]

Rule 3.--Quorums

A majority of the members of the committee shall form a

quorum, except that two members shall constitute a quorum for

taking testimony and receiving evidence, and one-third of the

members shall form a quorum for taking any action other than

the reporting of a measure or recommendation. If the chairman

is not present at any meeting of the committee or

subcommittee, the ranking member of the majority party on the

committee or subcommittee who is present shall preside at

that meeting.

[See House Rule XI, 2(h).]

Rule 4.--Committee Reports

Bills and resolutions approved by the committee shall be

reported by the chairman following House Rule XIII, clauses

2-4.

A proposed report shall not be considered in subcommittee

or full committee unless the proposed report has been

available to the members of such subcommittee or full

committee for at least three calendar days (excluding

Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, unless the House is

in session on such days) before consideration of such

proposed report in subcommittee or full committee. Any report

will be considered as read if available to the members at

least 24 hours before consideration, excluding Saturdays,

Sundays, and legal holidays unless the House is in session on

such days. If hearings have been held on the matter reported

upon, every reasonable effort shall be made to have such

hearings available to the members of the subcommittee or full

committee before the consideration of the proposed report in

such subcommittee or full committee. Every investigative

report shall be approved by a majority vote of the committee

at a meeting at which a quorum is present.

Supplemental, minority, or additional views may be filed

following House Rule XI, clause 2(l) and Rule XIII, clause

3(a)(1). The time allowed for filing such views shall be

three calendar days, beginning on the day of notice, but

excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays (unless the

House is in session on such a day), unless the committee

agrees to a different time, but agreement on a shorter time

shall require the concurrence of each member seeking to file

such views.

An investigative or oversight report may be filed after

sine die adjournment of the last regular session of Congress,

provided that if a member gives timely notice of intention to

file supplemental, minority or additional views, that member

shall be entitled to not less than seven calendar days in

which to submit such views for inclusion with the report.

Only those reports approved by a majority vote of the

committee may be ordered printed, unless otherwise required

by the Rules of the House of Representatives.

Rule 5.--Proxy Votes

In accordance with the Rules of the House of

Representatives, members may not vote by proxy on any measure

or matter before the committee or any subcommittee.

[See House Rule XI, 2(f).]

Rule 6.--Record Votes

A record vote of the members may be had upon the request of

any member upon approval of a one-fifth vote of the members

present.

Rule 7.--Record of Committee Actions

The committee staff shall maintain in the committee offices

a complete record of committee actions from the current

Congress including a record of the rollcall votes taken at

committee business meetings. The original records, or true

copies thereof, as appropriate, shall be available for public

inspection whenever the committee offices are open for public

business. The staff shall assure that such original records

are preserved with no unauthorized alteration, additions, or

defacement.

[See House Rule XI, 2(e).]

Rule 8.--Subcommittees; Referrals

There shall be seven subcommittees with appropriate party

ratios that shall have fixed jurisdictions. Bills,

resolutions, and other matters shall be referred by the

chairman to subcommittees within two weeks for consideration

or investigation in accordance with their fixed

jurisdictions. Where the subject matter of the referral

involves the jurisdiction of more than one subcommittee or

does not fall within any previously assigned jurisdiction,

the chairman shall refer the matter as he may deem advisable.

Bills, resolutions, and other matters referred to

subcommittees may be reassigned by the chairman when, in his

judgement, the subcommittee is not able to complete its work

or cannot reach agreement therein. In a subcommittee having

an even number of members, if there is a tie vote with all

members voting on any measure, the measure shall be placed on

the agenda for full committee consideration as if it had been

ordered reported by the subcommittee without recommendation.

This provision shall not preclude further action on the

measure by the subcommittee.

Rule 9.--Ex Officio Members

The chairman and the ranking minority member of the

committee shall be ex officio members of all subcommittees.

They are authorized to vote on subcommittee matters; but,

unless they are regular members of the subcommittee, they

shall not be counted in determining a subcommittee quorum

other than a quorum for taking testimony.

Rule 10.--Staff

Except as otherwise provided by House Rule X, clauses 6, 7

and 9, the chairman of the full committee shall have the

authority to hire and discharge employees of the professional

and clerical staff of the full committee and of

subcommittees.

Rule 11.--Staff Direction

Except as otherwise provided by House Rule X, clauses 6, 7

and 9, the staff of the committee shall be subject to the

direction of the chairman of the full committee and shall

perform such duties as he may assign.

Rule 12.--Hearing Dates and Witnesses

The chairman of the full committee will announce the date,

place, and subject matter of all hearings at least one week

before the commencement of any hearings, unless he

determines, with the concurrence of the ranking minority

member, or the committee determines by a vote, that there is

good cause to begin such hearings sooner. So that the

chairman of the full committee may coordinate the committee

facilities and hearings plans, each subcommittee chairman

shall notify him of any hearing plans at least two weeks

before the date of commencement of hearings, including the

date, place, subject matter, and the names of witnesses,

willing and unwilling, who would be called to testify,

including, to the extent he is advised thereof, witnesses

whom the minority members may request. The minority members

shall supply the names of witnesses they intend to call to

the chairman of the full committee or subcommittee at the

earliest possible date. Witnesses appearing before the

committee shall so far as practicable, submit written

statements at least 24 hours before their appearance and,

when appearing in a non-governmental capacity, provide a

curriculum vitae and a listing of any Federal Government

grants and contracts received in the previous fiscal year.

[See House Rules XI, 2 (g)(3), (g)(4),(j) and (k).]

Rule 13.--Open Meetings

Meetings for the transaction of business and hearings of

the committee shall be open to the public or closed in

accordance with Rule XI of the House of Representatives.

[See House Rules XI, 2 (g) and (k).]

Rule 14.--Five-Minute Rule

(1) A committee member may question a witness only when

recognized by the chairman for that purpose. In accordance

with

House Rule XI, clause 2(j)(2), each committee member may

request up to five minutes to question a witness until each

member who so desires has had such opportunity. Until all

such requests have been satisfied, the chairman shall, so far

as practicable, recognize alternately based on seniority of

those majority and minority members present at the time the

hearing was called to order and others based on their arrival

at the hearing. After that, additional time may be extended

at the direction of the chairman.

(2) The chairman, with the concurrence of the ranking

minority member, or the committee by motion, may permit an

equal number of majority and minority members to question a

witness for a specified, total period that is equal for each

side and not longer than thirty minutes for each side.

(3) The chairman, with the concurrence of the ranking

minority member, or the committee by motion, may permit

committee staff of the majority and minority to question a

witness for a specified, total period that is equal for each

side and not longer than thirty minutes for each side.

(4) Nothing in paragraph (2) or (3) affects the rights of a

Member (other than a Member designated under paragraph (2))

to question a witness for 5 minutes in accordance with

paragraph (1) after the questioning permitted under paragraph

(2) or (3). In any extended questioning permitted under

paragraph (2) or (3), the chairman shall determine how to

allocate the time permitted for extended questioning by

majority members or majority committee staff and the ranking

minority member shall determine how to allocate the time

permitted for extended questioning by minority members or

minority committee staff. The chairman or the ranking

minority member, as applicable, may allocate the time for any

extended questioning permitted to staff under paragraph (3)

to members.

Rule 15.--Investigative Hearing Procedures

Investigative hearings shall be conducted according to the

procedures in House Rule XI, clause 2(k). All questions put

to witnesses before the committee shall be relevant to the

subject matter before the committee for consideration, and

the chairman shall rule on the relevance of any questions put

to the witnesses.

Rule 16.--Stenographic Record

A stenographic record of all testimony shall be kept of

public hearings and shall be made available on such

conditions as the chairman may prescribe.

Rule 17.--Audio and Visual Coverage of Committee Proceedings

(1) An open meeting or hearing of the committee or a

subcommittee may be covered, in whole or in part, by

television broadcast, radio broadcast, Internet broadcast,

and still photography, unless closed subject to the

provisions of House Rule XI, clause 2(g). Any such coverage

shall conform with the provisions of House Rule XI, clause 4.

(2) Use of the Committee Broadcast System shall be fair and

nonpartisan, and in accordance with House Rule XI, clause

4(b), and all other applicable rules of the House of

Representatives and the Committee on Government Reform.

Members of the committee shall have prompt access to a copy

of coverage by the Committee Broadcast System, to the extent

that such coverage is maintained.

(3) Personnel providing coverage of an open meeting or

hearing of the committee or a subcommittee by Internet

broadcast, other than through the Committee Broadcast System,

shall be currently accredited to the Radio and Television

Correspondents' Galleries.

Rule 18.--Additional Duties of Chairman

The chairman of the full committee shall:

(a) Make available to other committees the findings and

recommendations resulting from the investigations of the

committee or its subcommittees as required by House Rule X,

clause 4(c)(2);

(b) Direct such review and studies on the impact or

probable impact of tax policies affecting subjects within the

committee's jurisdiction as required by House Rule X, clause

2(c);

(c) Submit to the Committee on the Budget views and

estimates required by House Rule X, clause 4(f), and to file

reports with the House as required by the Congressional

Budget Act;

(d) Authorize and issue subpoenas as provided in House Rule

XI, clause 2(m), in the conduct of any investigation or

activity or series of investigations or activities within the

jurisdiction of the committee;

(e) Prepare, after consultation with subcommittee chairmen

and the minority, a budget for the committee which shall

include an adequate budget for the subcommittees to discharge

their responsibilities;

(f) Make any necessary technical and conforming changes to

legislation reported by the committee upon unanimous consent;

and

(g) Designate a vice chairman from the majority party.

Rule 19.--Commemorative Stamps

The committee has adopted the policy that the determination

of the subject matter of commemorative stamps properly is for

consideration by the Postmaster General and that the

committee will not give consideration to legislative

proposals for the issuance of commemorative stamps. It is

suggested that recommendations for the issuance of

commemorative stamps be submitted to the Postmaster General.

Rule 20.--Panels and Task Forces

(a) The chairman of the committee is authorized to appoint

panels or task forces to carry out the duties and functions

of the committee.

(b) The chairman and ranking minority member of the

committee may serve as ex-officio members of each panel or

task force.

(c) The chairman of any panel or task force shall be

appointed by the chairman of the committee. The ranking

minority member shall select a ranking minority member for

each panel or task force.

(d) The House and committee rules applicable to

subcommittee meetings, hearings, recommendations and reports

shall apply to the meetings, hearings, recommendations and

reports of panels and task forces.

(e) No panel or task force so appointed shall continue in

existence for more than six months. A panel or task force so

appointed may, upon the expiration of six months, be

reappointed by the chairman.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Ms. Erin Beaulieu upon her selection as one of two recipients of the Virginia 2003 Prudential Spirit of Community Award.

Erin, a Red Cross member and eighth-grader at Whitman Middle School in Alexandria, Virginia, started a Red Cross student chapter at her school and encouraged her fellow students to become involved! The chapter now boasts more than 30 members dedicated to helping the American Red Cross respond. For her efforts, she was selected from more than 24,000 nominees to receive a Spirit of Community Award.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, created by Prudential Financial in partnership

with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, constitute America's largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer service. The award was created with the intent to impress upon all youth volunteers that their contributions are critically important and highly valued, and to inspire other young people to follow their example.

Erin should be extremely proud to have been singled out from such a large group of dedicated volunteers. I heartily applaud Erin for her initiative in seeking to make her community a better place to live, and for the positive impact she has had on the lives of others. She has demonstrated a level of commitment and accomplishment that is truly extraordinary in today's world, and deserves our sincere admiration and respect. Her actions show that young Americans can and do play important roles in our communities, and that America's community spirit continues to hold tremendous promise for the future. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding Erin for all that she has done.

Mr. Chairman, we heard some of the same dire predictions from the other side when we passed this legislation originally in 1996. We heard predictions that the caseloads were going to rise, that unemployment was going to rise, that the child poverty level would reach all-time highs. In point of fact, the opposite has occurred. Instead, welfare rolls shrank as many Americans moved from welfare to work, from dependence to self-sufficiency.

Over the last 6 years we have seen incredible results, results that need to continue to spread for the benefit of our Nation as a whole. 3.6 million fewer Americans live in poverty today than in 1996. Employment of single mothers is now more than 70 percent, which is an all-time high. Since 1994, welfare caseloads have fallen by 60 percent, today leaving less than 2 percent of the U.S. population on welfare. Moreover, crime has dropped, illegitimacy has declined, and abortions are rarer.

A lot of good things came out of that legislation that we passed in 1996.

We knew that the original system that was designed for a different time and a different era. It was designed for a time when most of the women were home. Most women did not work outside the home, and out-of- wedlock births were rare; but times changed and we have reformed a system whose incentives were perverse that discouraged self- sufficiency, that subsidized out-of-wedlock births, that trapped beneficiaries by making it too costly for them to go back to work because of the benefits that they would lose. By sharing this responsibility with the States, we are using the federalist model going back literally to a lot of innovation we get at the State level that is discouraged by Federal bureaucracies.

This legislation takes us to the next step. I think it would return more people and move them off of the welfare rolls, on to payrolls, of building successful families and building a successful country. I want to thank the authors of this legislation, and I am proud to support it.

Mr. Speaker, we rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Gerald T. Halpin for his years of service in his workplace and community. Mr. Halpin currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of WEST*GROUP MANAGEMENT LLC, a corporation he founded in 1962.

As President of WEST*GROUP, Mr. Halpin has been responsible for the development, redevelopment, and construction of over 13 million square feet of office, retail, residential, and industrial space. With his co- founders, WEST*GROUP initiated the development of the area known as Tysons Corner, Virginia, upon the purchase of a 125-acre farm in 1962. Since this initial development, Mr. Halpin has since opened four beautifully landscaped office parks located near major transportation arteries in Northern Virginia and suburban Maryland.

Having served as Chairman of Alexandria Management Corporation, Mr. Halpin has also acquired extensive experience in the development of hotels and resorts. He was an owner and key developer of the luxury resort The Cottonwoods, as well as two other hotels in Scottsdale, Arizona. In residential real estate, Mr. Halpin has also achieved a high level of expertise. Mr. Halpin has plans to construct four high- rise condominium towers in Tysons Comer, Virginia.

In addition to his professional achievements, Gerry Halpin has given back to his community. He served for more than eight years as a member of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority and its predecessors. Mr. Halpin was also appointed to the Governor's Advisory Board on Industrial Development, and has served on the Board under three governors. Currently, Mr. Halpin serves as Chairman of the Washington Monument Visitor Education Fund. In addition, he also chairs the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, an organization that he founded. Mr. Halpin has also served as a Trustee of the American Museum of Immigration, the National Parks and Recreation Association, and the Wolf Trap Foundation.

Mr. Halpin has been honored for his many accomplishments throughout the years. Most recently, he was recognized as the Ernst & Young Greater Washington ``2002 Master Entrepreneur of the Year.'' Also in 2002, he was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humanities from Shenandoah University. Other significant awards include the Fairfax County Citizen of the Year Award, the prestigious Ellie Doyle Service Award from the Fairfax County Park Authority, as well as a Virginia Senate proclamation honoring Mr. Halpin as an ``Outstanding Virginian for a Lifetime of Dedication to Fairfax County.''

Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that we extend this recognition to Mr. Gerald Halpin. His dedication to his business and community deserves to be commended. We call upon all of our colleagues in joining us to applaud Mr. Halpin for all of his accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, on the morning of Saturday, February 1st, the men and women of Columbia Mission STS-107 were on their way home when they were suddenly and tragically taken from us. Today we offer the respect and gratitude of a grateful nation for their service and their sacrifice.

Over the last few days our Nation has prayed for the family and friends of the lost and have learned of the lives of seven truly extraordinary individuals. Commander Rick Husband, Pilot William McCool, Payload Commander Michael Anderson, Mission Specialist David Brown, Mission Specialist Kalpana Chawla, Mission Specialist Laurel Clark, and Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon understood the risk and were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the advancement of humanity.

The crew conducted more than 80 scientific experiments in the physical, life, and space sciences during their voyage. The objective of their mission was to help us solve problems here on Earth through experiments such as growing bone and prostate cancer tissue in search of new treatments; testing new techniques of encapsulating anti-cancer drugs to improve their efficiency; and examining the physics of combustion and fire quenching to gain insights into fire-suppression that cannot be obtained on Earth. Their mission is a reminder of the importance of our space program and the benefits that can be achieved through these efforts.

Our search for understanding and our basic desire to reach into the darkness just beyond our grasp are both the hallmark and the calling of our humanity. As we take these moments to grieve for the lives lost and the families and friends left behind, we also stand here today resolved that space exploration and the cause of research and discovery must go on.

Perhaps it is testimony to the greatness of our society when sending men and women into the heavens seemingly becomes commonplace--and perhaps it is regretful that many of us take notice only when a tragedy such as this occurs. Nevertheless, we were reminded on Saturday that all great endeavors involve great risk. We will go on and continue the work these seven astronauts began. They will go down in history as heroes who paid the ultimate price as pioneers in the frontier of space exploration. For their memories and in their names, we rededicate our efforts to unlock the mysteries of the heavens.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Mr. Andrew Horwat, upon his selection to perform with the Honor Band of America.

Andrew has made Robert E. Lee High School history by becoming the first student ever from his high school to be selected for this national Honor Band. Every year student musicians all across the country are nominated by their band directors to take part in this national performance. After the nomination, musicians are evaluated by a distinguished panel of university wind conductors, and selected to attend the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival and National Percussion Festival. This year, the 11th District of Virginia is proud to send one of our own to this selective event.

Andrew is currently a drum major in the Marching Lancers, Lee High School's band. In March, he will represent this group when he travels to Indianapolis to perform with all other high school students selected for the Honor Band of America. This experience will provide Andrew with the opportunity to participate in rehearsals, master classes, and special clinics and concerts in addition to rehearsing with the Honor Band.

This experience will not only recognize Andrew for the dedication he has already exhibited, but also motivate him to continue his hard work. Andrew's accolade is a perfect example to young students that hard work and dedication do pay off. I believe that Andrew will serve as an example to his peers and hope that through this experience, he will be able to share with them all that he has learned.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that I extend this recognition to Mr. Andrew Horwat. His hard work and discipline are an example to all of us. The 11th District of Virginia is honored to have such a young talent in our community. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding him for all of his accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor Mr. Gregg Modesitt on his selection as The Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year for 2002. Mr. Modesitt will be honored at the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on January 23, 2003.

Mr. Modesitt is a certified public accountant in Northern Virginia, but more importantly he provides considerable community leadership. Mr. Modesitt is involved with many local organizations and has been honored by many for his professional talents and philanthropic efforts. In the past, he has served as treasurer, vice president and president of the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, in addition to serving as the Director and Vice President and Loans of the Virginia Asset Financing Corporation. He also has served on the faculty at Northern Virginia Community College, teaching adult education courses, been an active member and President of the Annandale Rotary, and served as a life member of Virginia Jaycees. These activities are simply a few of the many activities Mr. Modesitt has undertaken.

More important than his professional accomplishments are the immense personal and social impacts Mr. Modesitt has had on the Northern Virginia community. He is a strong supporter of mentoring programs in the community and is described by colleagues as one who willingly gives his time and knowledge to others who need guidance and encouragement. One notable way Mr. Modesitt has consistently given to the community is his service as Santa Claus each year for organizations that assist underprivileged children.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, it is with great pleasure that I extend a wholehearted thank you and congratulations to Mr. Modesitt. His contributions to Virginia and his community have been great. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding him for all that he has done.