June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1281 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

A TRIBUTE TO RAQUEL SHIVDAT his Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, 17th tonight and every night because of heroes like Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. Louis Niedermeier who sacrificed all for the HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS He died just 2 weeks short of his 21st birth- love of country and the love of freedom. OF NEW YORK day. Mr. Speaker, a grateful Nation said thank Louis was a soldier’s soldier. He wanted to you today to a courageous soldier and I join IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES enlist in the Army immediately after the events all my colleagues today in expressing our sor- Monday, June 20, 2005 of 9–11, but he was only 17. His day came row and our thanks for the life and the service Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to though as soon as he graduated from Pinellas of Louis Niedermeier and to the strong and honor an outstanding leader, Raquel Shivdat. Park High School in 2003. He followed in his loving family and friends he leaves behind. His Ms. Shivdat may not have a very visible father’s footsteps and enlisted in the Army and was a life that was all too short in time but full personality, but behind the scenes she is one a year later found himself serving in Iraq. of love and grace. As a scout, Louis served on the front lines, of the biggest influences in the explosion of f Caribbean music entertainment in New York providing critical targeting information to our City. As Promotion and Marketing manager of air and artillery forces. He served with pride JUNETEENTH AFRICAN-AMERICAN the JMC Entertainment Inc. (which includes and with courage to bring about freedom in a INDEPENDENCE DAY JMC records, JMC Trevini band and Rum Jun- land far from home. The true testament of gle Bar and Restaurant), Ms. Shivdat’s re- Louis’ service as a soldier came from the re- HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL membrances of three soldiers from his unit sponsibilities range from the promotion of OF NEW YORK who served side-by-side with him in Iraq. The shows to the management of music record- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES three were wounded in combat and were ings. After more than twelve years in the en- stateside at the time of Louis’ death. They Monday, June 20, 2005 tertainment industry, Ms. Shivdat has become drove 36 hours nonstop from Fort Carson, a defining force. Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Colorado to be with Louis and his family this Ms. Shivdat rose through the ranks in the commemorate an African-American day of afternoon. They said they did it because if the family’s business, starting as flyer designer at celebration of freedom and justice. Juneteenth roles had been reversed Louis would have JMC Records and later working at the family’s marks the end of slavery for African-American been there for them. Roti Express diner. Additionally, Ms. Shivdat communities around the country. It is a day to Louis’ parents Edward A. Niedermeier and embrace our freedom and equality, to reflect managed to pursue a degree in Fashion Mar- Denise A. Hoy were proud of their son. They keting at Berkeley College in New Jersey, on the progress we have made as people, and were proud that he chose to serve his Nation to ponder our future role in this country. while managing her household as a wife and in uniform. They were proud that he served Despite the signing of the Emancipation mother of two boys, Tyler and Shane. with distinction to defend the principles of free- Proclamation in January 1963, it took two and At Rum Jungle, Ms. Shivdat produces at dom and democracy. And they were proud a half years—June 1965—for the liberation of least one concert every month involving artists that despite the fact that he served halfway all slaves in the United States to occur. For from the West Indies. The biggest names in around the world, first in Korea and then in 140 years now, African-Americans have cele- Soca and Chutney music are regular per- Iraq, that he never forgot to remember his brated the final attainment of their freedom on formers at the club. Ms. Shivdat also brought family and friends back home. the legendary Indian performers Babla and Both Ed and Denise marveled this afternoon the 19th of June. Tradition has it that it is the Kanchan to New York. that before they knew it Louis had grown from date when news of emancipation from slavery Ms. Shivdat also makes regular contribu- a boy into a man. They recounted Louis’ love was finally delivered to slaves in Texas, the tions to charitable organizations and com- of family and country. And they emphasized furthest point from Washington where slavery mittee projects in New York and has done that if Louis had it to do over again, they are existed. The most accepted explanation is that fund raisers at Rum Jungle for the Prime Min- convinced he would not have changed a thing. the delay was caused by the primitive commu- isters of Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. Army Sergeant First Class Charles Welsh nications of the day, but some historians be- At 32 years old, Ms. Shivdat has become a also attended today’s services. He not only lieve that the news of emancipation was delib- key member of the JMC Company and she had the honor of serving with Louis in Iraq, but erately denied to slaves. says that she always draws inspiration from he was Louis’ uncle. He recalled the day Louis On this Juneteenth, African-Americans her father Mohan Jaikairan who owns the came to him and told him he had enlisted in across the country will contemplate the impor- business. the Army as one of the proudest moments in tance of their freedom compared to their an- Mr. Speaker, Ms. Shivdat, a wife, mother this young man’s life. cestors. They will reflect on their ability and and entrepreneur, is both passionate about The price of freedom is great and in the rights to hold a job, to ride a bus, to own prop- her chosen field of music and her community. case of Louis it was a life cut way too short. erty, to live unencumbered by the government, Thus, we proudly recognize her today. It was also the tragic interruption of a life to- and to make decisions about their own lives. f gether Louis had planned with his fiancee Some will think about the obstacles that re- Sarah Hatley. Sarah and Louis were high main in their way of achieving the ‘‘American TRIBUTE TO ARMY SPECIALIST school sweethearts who both volunteered to dream.’’ Others will ponder the future of their LOUIS NIEDERMEIER serve their Nation in uniform. Sarah is a Sea- children and the opportunities ahead of them. man serving aboard the U.S.S. Fitzgerald, sta- I, for one, would think both about how far HON. C. W. BILL YOUNG tioned in Yokosuka, Japan. Her ship was un- we have come as a country and how much OF FLORIDA derway off the coast of Australia when she further we need to go to erase racism and dis- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES learned of Louis’ death. crimination from our society. Once the slaves Mr. Speaker, our Nation said goodbye to of plantation owners, African-Americans now Monday, June 20, 2005 Specialist Louis E. Niedermeier today at Ar- can freely move about the country, hold jobs Mr. YOUNG of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise lington National Cemetery. We said goodbye and careers of importance, marry their chosen to pay tribute to Army Specialist Louis E. to a brave soldier who proudly wore the uni- partner, provide for their families, raise their Niedermeier of Largo, Florida, who gave the form in defense of freedom here and through- kids, and live in true freedom. African-Ameri- last full measure of service to our nation while out the world. We said goodbye to a good cans are graduating from college at increasing serving in Iraq. son, a good nephew, and a good friend to so rates; receiving medical, professional, and Our nation buried Louis with full military many people. And we said goodbye to the doctoral degrees; working in major corpora- honors this afternoon at Arlington National love of a young girl’s life. tions and businesses; and making decisions Cemetery following his death by sniper fire in As the day draws to an end, we can take about the future of this country. We have Ar Ramadi, Iraq on June 1st while serving with solace in the fact that America sleeps better come a long way in our struggle for equality.

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.001 E20PT1 E1282 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 Nonetheless, we have far to go. Less than TRIBUTE TO MR. ROBERT L. service to our Nation will be missed, he has half of African-American families own their PANEK left a legacy of high standards and superbly own homes and they are twice as likely to be trained professionals in his wake. We wish denied mortgages as whites. While the unem- HON. C.W. BILL YOUNG him fair winds and following seas! ployment rate for whites is 5 percent, the OF FLORIDA f black unemployment rate is 10 percent. Afri- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES can-Americans are three times more likely to SCIENCE, STATE, JUSTICE, COM- Monday, June 20, 2005 be arrested as whites and on average serve MERCE, AND RELATED AGEN- longer sentences than whites. Crime, drugs, Mr. YOUNG of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise CIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2006 and poverty are rampant in many minority today to recognize and pay tribute to Mr. Rob- SPEECH OF communities. Many young African-Americans ert L. Panek, who retired from the Senior Ex- are disillusioned, frustrated, and feel power- ecutive Service, in the Department of the HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY less in their own country. Navy, on June 3rd, 2005. Mr. Panek’s long OF NEW YORK The challenges African-Americans are fac- and highly distinguished career spans nearly IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 34 years of Federal Service and eclipses 27 ing today are rooted in the system of slavery. Thursday, June 16, 2005 After emancipation, segregation, a system of years of dedicated service in the Office of the continued oppression, was imposed which Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial The House in Committee of the Whole maintained the disparities between blacks and Management and Comptroller). House on the State of the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 2862) making ap- whites. It fueled the animosities, resentments, A native of Oceanside, New York, Mr. Panek received a Bachelor of Science degree, propriations for Science, the Departments of and discrimination that would separate and di- State, Justice, and Commerce, and related vide this country. We are still grappling with a Naval Reserve commission, and a Merchant agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the effects of slavery, racism, and discrimina- Marine Third Officer’s license from the Mari- tember 30, 2006, and for other purposes: time College of the State University of New tion. We must do more to undo the wrongs of Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise in York, before entering Federal Service in 1971. that evil institution. support of the Moran amendment to restrict On this Juneteenth, let this great country Excelling as a management intern with the Naval Ordnance Systems Command, budget the exportation of 50 caliber sniper rifles. come together to reflect on the role slavery This weapon was not built for hobbies or analyst in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Sys- has played in our system today. marksmanship, but for military purposes. Ac- tems Project Office, financial management ad- cording to its original patent filing, it was de- visor to the Deputy Chief of Naval Material, f signed to destroy aircraft at long range, be- and budget analyst/branch head in the Depart- yond security perimeters. A TRIBUTE TO WINSTON P. ment of the Navy (DoN) Budget Policy and Semi-automatic versions of these guns can THOMPSON Procedures Directorate, Mr. Panek was ap- fire as many as ten rounds in one minute at pointed to the Senior Executive Service (SES) a plane, but it only takes one accurate hit to in July 1986. As a SES officer, his breadth of HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS the fuselage, engine or cockpit to cause dis- responsibilities grew to encompass nearly OF NEW YORK aster. every facet of the DoN budget to include set- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES There are even two published books on the ting policies and procedures for the formula- Monday, June 20, 2005 market that explain how to use this sniper tion and execution of the DoN budget; direct- Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in weapon to attack planes and helicopters. ing DoN budget operations; and overseeing All this may be why the conservative Rand recognition of a distinguished and accom- Investment, Research & Development, Con- Corporation, in a 1995 report, found the 50 plished Brooklynite, Winston P. Thompson. It struction, and Acquisition accounts. In Decem- caliber sniper rifle to be a serious threat to is an honor to represent Mr. Thompson in the ber 1994, Mr. Panek’s exemplary career cul- U.S. military air bases. House of Representatives and it behooves us minated in his selection as the Associate Di- Today, nine years after that report and three to pay tribute to such an exemplary citizen. rector, Office of Budget with responsibility for and a half years after 9/11, these terrorist Mr. Speaker, Mr. Thompson worked dili- the formulation, presentation and execution of weapons remain under extremely loose regu- gently and attained his undergraduate and the DoN budget. In this position he achieved lation. graduate degrees from St. Francis College the grade of Senior Executive Service, Level 6 They are as easy to purchase as a regular and Pace University. His work experience is and also served as Special Assistant to the rifle and even easier to purchase than a hand impressive—from being employed as an audit- Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Financial gun and yet we know terrorists and criminal ing officer for Morgan Guaranty Trust Com- Management and Comptroller). organizations have sought them. pany, a Wall Street Investment Banking firm, Mr. Panek’s devotion to duty, financial acu- According to the Violence Policy Center, Al for two years, and a big five international ac- men, and commitment to the Navy-Marine Qaeda has at least 25, the Church Universal counting and consulting firm, where he re- Corps Team have made our Nation safer and and Triumphants has at least 10, the IRA has mained for five years. our Navy and Marine Corps Stronger. He has 2, and the Militia Training Camp in Canada Over the past 20 years, he has dem- been awarded numerous performance awards has 1. onstrated deep devotion and civic commitment and citations throughout his career to include This weapon not only threatens American as a CPA and Financial Planner by offering the Department of the Navy Superior Civilian planes and airports, but also chemical and re- tax and financial services to the Brooklyn com- Service Award in December 1988, the Presi- finery plants. munity. In addition, he is the founder, Presi- dential Meritorious Rank Award in 1993, and The military’s top choice of ammunition for dent, and Chief Executive Officer of Thomp- the Department of the Navy Distinguished Ci- the 50 caliber is not only armor-piercing, but son & Company, a Certified Public Accounting vilian Service Award in 2001. His selflessness, also explosive and incendiary—meaning it and Consulting firm based in Downtown exemplary conduct, and commitment to a causes fire. Brooklyn, which recently enjoyed its twentieth cause greater than himself is memorialized in That type of ammunition could easily cause year in operation. his parting email to his shipmates in the De- a huge disaster. Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent partment of the Navy in which he reminded We should protect ourselves and pass the on this body to recognize the achievements them—‘‘Finally, please always, always remem- Moran Amendment. and service of Mr. Thompson. He continues to ber that we do this for our Sailors and Marines f offer his talents and services for the better- that go in harm’s way.’’ ment of the community through his involve- It is fitting and altogether appropriate to rec- A TRIBUTE TO DECOSTA HEADLEY ment in several community activities and orga- ognize Mr. Panek’s contributions to the DoN at nizations, particularly as a Member of the Car- the same time that we consider the Fiscal HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS ibbean American Chamber of Commerce, the Year 2006 Defense Appropriations Act. Our OF NEW YORK Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and the Bed- Nation and the Department of the Navy have IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ford Stuyvesant Real Estate Board. been made better through the talent and dedi- Mr. Speaker, may our country continue to cation of Mr. Robert L. Panek. I know all of my Monday, June 20, 2005 benefit from the civic actions of committed and colleagues join me in congratulating Bob, his Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in talented individuals such as Winston P. wife Susan, and their two daughters, on the recognition of a Brooklynite and distinguished Thompson. completion of an outstanding career. While his entrepreneur, DeCosta Headley. It is an honor

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.005 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1283 to represent Mr. Headley in the House of Rep- Jack served as an appointed member of Colonel Peabody is a model soldier and his resentatives and it behooves us to pay tribute New York State Assemblyman Rolland Kid- many awards and commendations stand as to such an outstanding leader. der’s staff from 1976 until 1982. testimony to that. His awards and decorations Mr. Speaker, Mr. Headley obtained a Bach- During that time Jack continued to work include the Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, Joint elor of Arts degree in Behavioral Science from very hard for his constituents back home. In Meritorious Service Medal, Army Meritorious Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina. 1975 Jack was elected to the Forestville Vil- Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary He became a successful entrepreneur, serving lage Board of Trustees where he served until Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service and as the president of Diversified Inch By Inch, 1977 when he was elected mayor. Expeditionary Medals, the Presidential Unit Ci- Inc., one of the city’s leading African-American In 1980 Jack began a four-term streak as a tation, Master Parachutist Badge, and Ranger general contracting firms. In this position, Mr. member of the Chautauqua County legislature. Tab. Headley demonstrated deep commitment to During his time as a legislator, Jack’s leader- I know that the members of Congress will the community through several development ship and consensus building skills led him to join me in honoring Colonel John Peabody projects that his company undertook, including be chosen by his colleagues to be both the and wishing his family and him all the best in the construction of local medical and dental fa- majority leader and the minority leader. the years to come. cilities for Oxford Health Plans, Brookdale The year 1992 ushered in six terms as the f Hospital & Medical Center, and Interfaith Med- Arkwright Town Supervisor where there is no SCIENCE, STATE, JUSTICE, COM- ical Center, and new housing, including a doubt that he did all he could to better the multi-level senior citizens apartment complex MERCE, AND RELATED AGEN- community. CIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2006 for Berean Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Over 20 years later Jack decided to hang Headley launched efforts of urban renewal by up his hat as an elected official and in 1998 SPEECH OF assisting in the development of senior citizen he began a 5-year duty as the clerk of the housing and youth centers for communities in Chautauqua County legislature; a responsi- HON. EARL BLUMENAUER need across the five boroughs. bility he was well suited to fill following his OF OREGON Mr. Headley has exhibited the qualities of years of experience in the legislature. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES an exemplary community leader in his service In addition to all of these outstanding Thursday, June 16, 2005 as District Leader for the 40th Assembly Dis- achievements in public service, Jack still gave The House in Committee of the Whole trict in the East New York section of Kings his all and served as the town of Arkwright’s House on the State of the Union had under County. During his term, he remained dedi- Democratic Chair for 27 years. consideration the bill (H.R. 2862) making ap- cated to improving the quality of life for his Mr. Dillenburg deserves recognition and propriations for Science, the Departments of constituents by continuously engaging in initia- congratulations for the vast contributions he State, Justice, and Commerce, and related tives aimed at expanding college scholarships, has made over the last three decades, not just agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- tember 30, 2006, and for other purposes: employment opportunities, affordable housing, to the Democratic Party in general, but to the public assistance services, and social serv- people of his community, his county and to all Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Chairman, I con- ices, including senior citizen centers that offer of western New York. Chautauqua County is a tinue to be concerned about some of the fund- hot meals, transportation, and access to basic better place because of Jack Dillenburg’s ing cuts in this bill, but am heartened by the health care services. In addition, he remained commitment to public service, and I am proud, Committee’s rejection of the President’s pro- actively involved on various local community Mr. Speaker, to have an opportunity to honor posal to eliminate Community Development and planning boards, founded the community’s him today. Block Grants and the passage of the Sanders first Local Development Corporation along with amendment that rolls back some of the most f the Federation of Block Associations for East egregious components of the PATRIOT Act. New York, and established the Federation of TRIBUTE TO COLONEL JOHN While I am troubled by the lack of funding for Addiction Agencies that offers a drug-free PEABODY important programs such as community polic- treatment program in East New York and ing and public broadcasting, the final version Brownsville. Currently, Mr. Headley enor- HON. IKE SKELTON of the bill reflected significant improvements mously contributes to the political sector of the OF MISSOURI from the Bush administration’s recommenda- tions. Despite my initial opposition, when it community by successfully managing the cam- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES paigns of candidates running for positions in came time to vote, I felt the improvements the city, state, and federal levels of govern- Monday, June 20, 2005 made to the bill warranted my support. ment. Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take f Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent this opportunity to recognize Colonel John TRIBUTE TO VINCENT JOHNSON on this body to recognize the remarkable Peabody who has served our Nation’s Army achievements and selfless service of Mr. with distinction for over 25 years. He will Headley as he continues to benevolently ex- shortly be leaving his current post at the Pen- HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS tend his talents and services for the better- tagon and transferring to the State of Hawaii. OF NEW YORK ment of the community. Colonel Peabody is a graduate of the United IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, may our country continue to States Military Academy at West Point. John Monday, June 20, 2005 benefit from the civic actions of committed and continued his education through the Command Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in laudable community leaders such as Mr. and General Staff College and the Army War recognition of a Brooklynite and distinguished DeCosta Headley. College, where he earned his Master’s Degree lawyer, Vincent Johnson. It is an honor to rep- f in Strategic Studies. He also has earned de- resent Mr. Johnson in the House of Rep- COMMENDING JACK DILLENBURG grees from EI Colegio de Mexico and Howard resentatives and it behooves us to pay tribute FOR EXEMPLARY COMMUNITY University. to such an outstanding leader. SERVICE Colonel Peabody has field proven leader- Mr. Speaker, Mr. Johnson obtained a Bach- ship capabilities and an exemplary warrior elor of Arts degree from Brooklyn College and ethos. He was first assigned to the 193rd In- a Juris Doctor degree at St. John’s University HON. BRIAN HIGGINS fantry Brigade in Panama where he served as School of Law. Before completing his under- OF NEW YORK a Sapper Platoon Leader, Company Executive graduate studies, Mr. Johnson dedicated four IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Officer, and Aide-de-Camp. Later, he served years of service to the United States Air Monday, June 20, 2005 as the Logistics Support Command Engineer, Force, where he rose to the rank of Airman Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Somalia. He also was the Political-Military Di- first class and was assigned to the Scott Air commend the exemplary public service of vision Chief of the J5, US Southern Command Force Base in Belleville, Illinois and Jack Dillenburg, a resident of the town of in Panama. During Operation Iraqi Freedom Tachikawa Air Force Base in Japan. Arkwright in Chautauqua County, upon the oc- he commanded the 3rd Infantry Division’s En- Mr. Johnson became an associate in the casion of his recognition as the 2005 Chau- gineer Brigade totaling over 3,000 engineers Admiralty Law firm of Fields & Rosen upon tauqua County Democrat of the Year. with ten attached units. Currently, he is as- graduating from St. John’s University School Jack’s dedication to public service has been signed to the Army’s Office of the Chief, Leg- of Law, and was appointed an assistant Dis- manifest, and his commitment to the residents islative Liaison, where he is the Programs Di- trict Attorney in the Kings County District Attor- of Chautauqua County has been outstanding. vision Chief. ney’s office, where he generously devoted

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.010 E20PT1 E1284 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 eight years serving the community. Mr. John- Fleet, and he directed the Joint Staff’s Crisis if the suggested reforms are not met, would son is now dedicated to the general practice Action Team for Desert Shield and Desert allow the United States to work with other na- of law and holds an office at 26 Court Street. Storm. Admiral Clark’s first flag assignment tions to achieve true reform. He remains particularly active in several orga- was at the U.S. Transportation Command There are numerous problems with this bill. nizations, including the Bedford Stuyvesant where he was director of both Plans and Pol- Perhaps the most ridiculous is the mandating Lions Club, Brooklyn Bar Association, Phi icy and Financial Management and Analysis. of the withholding of 50 percent of our dues to Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity, 100 Black Men While he was commanding the Carl Vinson the U.N. by giving inadequate flexibility to the of New York, and Comus Social Club. Battle Group, he deployed to the Arabian Gulf Secretary of State. The bill, in effect, man- Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is incumbent and served as Deputy Commander, Joint Task dates a withholding of U.S. dues by imposing on this body to recognize the achievements Force Southwest Asia. He also served as the an unrealistically long list of 38 reforms, a and selfless service of Mr. Johnson as he con- Deputy Chief of Staff, United States Atlantic number of which are virtually impossible to tinues to offer his talents and philanthropic Fleet; the Director of Operations and subse- achieve in such a short period of time. services for the betterment of the community. quently Director of the Joint Staff. He became In my estimation, given that our country has Mr. Speaker, may our country continue to the 27th Chief of Naval Operations on July 21, been, and remains to be, the single largest benefit from the civic actions of altruistic com- 2000. contributor to the U.N., that we should not at- munity leaders such as Mr. Vincent Johnson. Admiral Clark’s awards and decorations in- tempt to simply strong arm the organization f clude the Defense Distinguished Service with threats or sanctions merely to achieve the Medal (three awards), the Distinguished Serv- types of reforms we deem necessary. In fact, PERSONAL EXPLANATION ice Medal (two awards), the Legion of Merit in 2002, our contributions to the U.N. totaled (three awards), the Defense Meritorious Serv- more than $3.0 billion, a total which included HON. ROBERT E. ANDREWS ice Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (four over $5 million in assessed contributions to OF NEW JERSEY awards), the Navy Commendation Medal, and their regular budget and U.N. affiliated agen- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES various service and campaign awards. cies; about $750 million in assessed contribu- tions to U.N. peacekeeping activities; about Monday, June 20, 2005 Admiral Vern Clark has shown the highest level of commitment and devotion to his coun- $50 million for war crimes tribunals; and about Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I missed nine try. Today we recognize him for his unwaver- $1.7 billion in voluntary contributions to U.N.- votes on June 17th, 2005 because I was at- ing patriotism and dedication to both his pro- affiliated organizations and programs. To reit- tending my daughter’s graduation from ele- fession and the American people. erate, I simply do not think that unilaterally mentary school. Had I been present I would Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Ad- withholding funds from the United Nations is a have voted ‘‘aye’’ on rollcall Nos. 274, 275, miral Vern Clark, the 27th Chief of Naval Op- good way to achieve real reform of the organi- 276, 277, 278 and 281. I would have voted erations, on his retirement from the United zation, and if I had been able to be here ‘‘no’’ on rollcall Nos. 279, 280 and 282. States Navy. today, I would have voted ‘‘yes’’ on the Lan- f f tos-Shays Substitute, and ‘‘no’’ on overall pas- sage of the Hyde bill. RECOGNIZING ADMIRAL VERN HENRY J. HYDE UNITED NATIONS f CLARK, CHIEF OF NAVAL OPER- REFORM ACT OF 2005 ATIONS, FOR HIS SERVICE AND IN RECOGNITION OF CHIEF RON DEDICATION SPEECH OF ACE FOR HIS 30 YEARS OF SERV- HON. CORRINE BROWN ICE TO THE CONCORD POLICE DEPARTMENT HON. J. RANDY FORBES OF FLORIDA OF VIRGINIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Friday, June 17, 2005 HON. GEORGE MILLER Monday, June 20, 2005 OF CALIFORNIA The House in Committee of the Whole IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in House on the State of the Union had under recognition of Admiral Vern Clark, Chief of consideration the bill (H.R. 2745) to reform Monday, June 20, 2005 Naval Operations, for his loyal service to the the United Nations, and for other purposes: Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. Mr. United States of America. Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, my colleague, Mrs. TAUSCHER and I, Admiral Clark’s dedication and loyalty to the Speaker, I stand in wholehearted opposition to rise to pay tribute to Chief Ron Ace who is re- advancement of our naval service and the Na- this outrageous Republican bill, which requires tiring from the City of Concord Police Depart- tion as a whole is to be highly commended. the Secretary of State to press for numerous ment after 30 years of serving the residents of Admiral Clark’s devotion to duty has re- reforms at the United Nations (UN) including Concord and the entire region. flected the highest standards of the military budgeting, oversight and accountability, Ron Ace began his career in public service profession through a number of command and peacekeeping, and human rights. H.R. 2745, even before his work with the Concord Police staff positions. He served aboard the destroy- which requires the Secretary of State to with- Department when he served in the U.S. Ma- ers USS John W. Weeks and the USS Gear- hold 50 percent of U.S. assessed contributions rine Corps from 1967 to 1971. As a Marine, ing. As a Lieutenant, he commanded the USS to the regular budget of the U.N., if the Sec- he served a tour of duty in Viet Nam in 1969, Grand Rapids. He also commanded the USS retary is unable to certify that the reforms attached to a Huey Gunship helicopter squad- McCloy, USS Spruance, the Atlantic Fleet’s called for by this bill have been met, is simply ron as a door-gunner. Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center, De- unacceptable. Chief Ace began his distinguished career stroyer Squadron Seventeen, and Destroyer The United Nations, which is based in our with the City of Concord Police Department in Squadron Five. After being selected for flag country, in New York City, was created in 1975, having previously served as a Deputy rank, he commanded the Carl Vinson Battle 1947 by the United Nations Participation Act, Sheriff with Alameda County. In 1985, Ron Group/Cruiser Destroyer Group Three, the with a mission of assisting the President and Ace was promoted to Police Sergeant. Ten Second Fleet, and the United States Atlantic the Department of State in conducting United years later he became a Lieutenant, and in Fleet. Ashore, he served as Special Assistant States policy at the United Nations. 1998, he was promoted to Captain. to the Director of the Systems Analysis Divi- Along with my Democratic colleagues, I In 1999, Ron Ace was promoted to Police sion in the Office of the Chief of Naval Oper- wholeheartedly believe in the goals of the Chief for the City of Concord. As Chief, he has ations. He later served as the Administrative United Nations, yet I do believe there is some been instrumental in helping the Police De- Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Naval Oper- need for reforming the organization. The idea partment become recognized throughout the ations and as the Administrative Assistant to that our country can just unilaterally withhold country as a model law enforcement agency. the Deputy Chief on Naval Operations. He 50 percent of what we owe to the U.N. and During his tenure, Chief Ace helped to de- then served as the Administrative Aide to the then veto any new or expanded peacekeeping velop and advance the Department’s gener- Vice Chief of Naval Operations. He also operations is not good politics, and does not alist model of community policing. This ap- served as Head of the Cruiser-Destroyer Com- serve our national interest by any means. I do proach has worked to support collaboration bat Systems Requirements Section and Force however; strongly believe that the Lantos- among police officers, residents, and civic Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer for the Com- Shays substitute, which, if passed, would em- leaders to ensure the safety of residents and mander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic power the Secretary of State to withhold funds the individuals who work to protect the City.

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.014 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1285 Chief Ace’s efforts have resulted in an inte- bands and wives of soldiers throughout our Mohonk. Together, Keith and Ruth had a ho- grated philosophy of community policing that country’s history. Whether their loved ones listic approach to life, the environment and to is visible throughout the entire community. manned a battleship in the South Pacific, the world around them. Their vision lives on Chief Ace maintains membership in several served in the sweltering jungle of Vietnam, or today through Mohonk Consultations. peace officer associations and he is currently are currently performing dangerous duties in Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to submit these serving his second term as a Commissioner the sands of Iraq, it has been service mem- remarks in honor of Keith and Ruth Smiley for the Commission on Accreditation for Law bers’ spouses who provide love and care to and in recognition of the 25th anniversary of Enforcement Agencies. anxious children and work long hours to make Mohonk Consultations. Chief Ace’s work and commitment to Con- ends meet. Our nation’s deeply felt gratitude cord has been recognized by the Association goes out to all of our servicemen and women f of California School Administrators and the and their families who have endured so much Northern California Juvenile Officer’s Associa- on our behalf. IN HONOR OF THE GROWER-SHIP- PER ASSOCIATION OF CENTRAL tion. He also received the Warrington Stokes f Award for Child Abuse Prevention. CALIFORNIA Ron Ace has lived in Concord with his wife PAYING TRIBUTE TO KEITH AND Carol and daughter Susan for more than 25 RUTH SMILEY AND MOHONK HON. SAM FARR years. As a resident, he has gone far and be- CONSULTATIONS yond his professional responsibilities and OF CALIFORNIA served as an outstanding member of the Con- HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cord community. He has been active in school OF NEW YORK Monday, June 20, 2005 activities, youth sports and community organi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES zations. Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Monday, June 20, 2005 For 30 years, Chief Ron Ace has served the honor an extraordinary organization based in Concord Police Department and surrounding Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to my Central California district, the Grower-Ship- community. His hard work has improved the honor the memory of my departed friends per Association of Central California, on the safety of the City, the community as a whole, Keith and Ruth Smiley, on the occasion of the occasion of its 75th anniversary. Initially and ensured an enduring legacy of public 25th Anniversary of Mohonk Consultations. It formed in 1930 by a handful of growers and service in Concord. Today, we are proud to is with great pleasure that I honor Keith and shippers to represent one commodity—iceberg commend him for his service to the commu- Ruth for their outstanding vision and their lettuce, the GSA now includes over 300 mem- nity, his dedication to duty and his commit- steadfast dedication to a more equitable and bers, spanning four Central Coast counties ment to the people of Concord. sustainable global community. and representing dozens of commodities—vir- tually all vegetables, berries, mushrooms, and f Keith Smiley was a good friend, who shared my enthusiasm for protecting and preserving wine grapes. Through its long record of RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBU- the unique beauty of the Shawangunk Moun- achievement, the Association has become the TIONS OF ANGELA WILZ OF BIS- tains. Keith’s life reflected his Quaker upbring- premier local representative of agriculture on MARCK, ND ing. He treasured the world around him and the Central Coast. sought to bring peace and social justice to For most of its first 50 years, the Associa- HON. EARL POMEROY people by promoting self-determination. He tion’s work focused on the issue of labor. Today the GSA tackles an extensive workload OF NORTH DAKOTA truly believed that all people had the innate including food safety and security, pest and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES right to be involved in the decisions that af- fected their day-to-day lives. However, the plant disease prevention, control and eradi- Monday, June 20, 2005 quality that made him special, and that I pay cation, land use in the agriculture/urban inter- Mr. POMEROY. Mr. Speaker, a constituent homage to today, was his ardent belief that face, water supply and distribution, market ac- of mine, Angela Wilz of Bismarck, North Da- these decisions, decisions on governing and cess and trade, agricultural research and edu- kota, has shown tremendous courage during a development, must take into account their im- cation, government, legislative and regulatory very challenging year for her family. When her pact on the environment. affairs, worker safety and training, and labor husband—CPT Grant Wilz of North Dakota’s The idea of ‘‘consultations’’ had always and employment law. 141st Engineer Combat Battalion—was de- been part of the Mohonk Mountain tradition While managing these increased chal- ployed to Iraq in February of 2004, Angela and under Keith Smiley’s leadership they were lenges, the Grower-Shipper Association main- was forced to face the challenges of parenting very successful. When the Mohonk Trust was tains a commitment to its members and com- and managing a household without her part- formed in 1963, the Smileys were able to fur- munity. Its mission statement declares ‘‘We ner. Though this is always a difficult task when ther their stewardship of the land as well as are the local solution representing our mem- a spouse is serving overseas, Angela’s situa- their goals of promoting international under- bers’ agricultural needs.’’ The Grower-Shipper tion was especially demanding. standing and world peace through con- Association lives up to this standard through Angela took over her husband’s responsibil- ferences and the exchange of ideas. After education, representation, and advocacy. In ities as administrator of a local retirement successfully hosting a gathering of environ- 2003, GSA established the non-profit Grower- home, working overtime to help meet the mental and international development groups Shipper Association Foundation to further its needs of those charged to her care. On top of for the Agency for International Development, support of the Central Coast agricultural com- these professional duties, Angela continued to Keith moved forward with his own dream for a munity. Funds from the Foundation will allow provide love and care to the couple’s three unique environmental organization. Mohonk the Association to significantly expand its sup- children—including their oldest child who has Consultations was officially incorporated in port of educational, training, and other pro- special needs. 1980. Since that time, the group has brought grams of service to the community. To make matters more challenging, Angela together the foremost leaders on the environ- The Grower-Shipper Association has made was diagnosed with thyroid cancer during her ment, the economy and other individuals seek- a substantial contribution to both the agri- husband’s tour of duty. After undergoing two ing new, environmentally sound methods of culture industry and the broader community of surgeries, Angela began to experience com- getting things accomplished. the Central Coast. The Association’s achieve- plications—including temporary paralysis that A tribute to Keith and his work would be in- ments are a direct result of the leadership of resulted in hospitalization. Never one to feel complete without mentioning his wife, Ruth. its members, boards, and presidents, past and sorry for herself, Angela prayed for her health Trained as a naturalist and horticulturist, she present. For 75 years the GSA organization to return so that she could continue to be truly appreciated the sublime nature of her has earned a reputation for integrity that hon- there for her children. surroundings. What Keith brought to the table ors the culture, companies, and employees of Thankfully, Angela is on her way towards a in discussion, Ruth brought through her photo- Central Coast agriculture that have made this full recovery and Captain Wilz is now back graphs. She always had her camera ready to region the most productive and innovative in home in North Dakota, safe and sound. capture the beauty of the Mountains and was the world. Mr. Speaker, it is truly an honor to The courage showed by the Wilz family is an eager participant in the numerous pro- recognize the Grower-Shipper Association of indicative of the sacrifices made by the hus- grams and nature walks sponsored at Central California.

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.018 E20PT1 E1286 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 NOAA VESSEL TIME CHARTER vessel lease with the roughly $1.6 million re- ugees and internally displaced persons maining of the amounts already appro- (IDP’s), as well as the brave people who help HON. DON YOUNG priated for that purpose. This will hold open them rebuild their lives. I recognize the gen- the door to allow NOAA to exercise the first erosity of the United States and its assistance OF ALASKA annual contract option if Congress appro- to refugees. However, the next year promises IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES priates vessel lease funds in Fiscal Year 2006. Both Congress and NOAA deliberated long to be a unique opportunity for the return of ref- Monday, June 20, 2005 and hard before establishing the longterm ugees, and in order to seize this opportunity, Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. Mr. Speaker, begin- vessel lease program as an additional method we must increase our investment in long-term ning in Fiscal Year 2001 Congress began pro- to reduce the survey backlog. Given the time development to make refugee returns durable. viding funds for a vessel time charter for the and effort it has taken to get that program I also urge the Bush Administration govern- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- under way, it would be very inefficient for ment to do more to protect current refugees, NOAA to kill the program this year, and tion, NOAA, to use in addressing the critical resolve the conflicts that produce refugees, then go through another multi-year contract and prevent future refugee crises. hydrographic survey backlog. The vessel time bidding process starting next year. There- charter added a third method of acquiring the Among the most vulnerable groups of peo- fore, we urge you to use the remaining funds ple in the world are those who are displaced, data needed to update and improve the hydro- to extend the vessel contract. graphic charts of our nation’s waterways. Thank you for your expeditious consider- whether as a result of conflict, persecution or other human rights violations. Often losing ev- These charts are essential for our national se- ation of this request. We look forward to erything but hope, refugees and IDP’s are curity, defense and economy. NOAA now uses your prompt response. among the great survivors of our time. Initially, (1) its own hydrographic survey vessels, (2) Sincerely, DON YOUNG, the fear that refugees and IDP’s must over- data—contracts under the Brooks Act, and (3) Congressman for All come may be the immediate one of trying to a long-term, multi-year, vessel lease/charter of Alaska. escape the horrors of war and persecution, a private sector vessel with contract hydrog- NORMAN D. DICKS, the pain of losing homes and loved ones, and raphers. Member of Congress. the ordeal of flight. Refugees and IDP’s de- The long-term vessel lease/charter, is now f serve our respect—not just for enduring the completing its first year of operation. I rise CELEBRATING THE 40TH ANNIVER- dangers and violence of the crises that made today to urge NOAA to reprogram funds to ex- them refugees—but also for the courage they tend the current charter through the end of SARY OF GARY JOB CORPS IN SAN MARCOS, TEXAS show in rebuilding their lives and contributing this calendar year. This extension will allow to society in difficult or, unfamiliar cir- enough data to be gathered to determine cumstances. Albert Einstein, Victor Hugo, whether the continued use of the time charter HON. HENRY CUELLAR Congressman TOM LANTOS, Thabo Mbeki, is cost effective, and competitive with other OF TEXAS Marlene Dietrich, and Paul Rusesabagina (of methods of acquiring hydrographic data. It will IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Hotel Rwanda fame) were all refugees whose also keep the contract going long enough to Monday, June 20, 2005 phenomenal achievements earned the world’s determine if fiscal year 2006 funds are avail- respect. Today’s refugees are also heroes and able for continued long term vessel charters. Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recog- deserve no less than our respect. To emphasize the bipartisan importance of nize Gary Job Corps for 40 years of success- But giving our respect to refugees and this issue, I ask that the May 31, 2005, letter ful service to the people of San Marcos, IDP’s—truly honoring their courage—requires to the NOAA Administrator that my good friend Texas. much more than flattering rhetoric and pledges and colleague, NORM DICKS signed with me, Located on a campus of 1,000 acres at the of solidarity. It requires us to look back at what be entered into the RECORD. former Gary Army Air Field, Gary Job Corps is the world has done well to assist refugees and CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES, the largest of 118 Job Corps campuses nation IDP’s. It also requires us to deepen our under- Washington, DC, May 31, 2005. wide, enrolling nearly 2,000 young men and standing of the perils and fears they continue Vice Admiral CONRAD C. LAUTENBACHER, Jr., women. It represents the fulfillment of Presi- to face. In addition, if we truly want to cele- Undersecretary for Oceans and Atmosphere, Na- dent Johnson’s 1964 promise to develop a na- brate their courage, it means we must focus tional Oceanic and Atmospheric, Adminis- tional job training program for youth, a prom- our attention on what still needs to be done to tration, Herbert Clark Hoover Building, ise he made while visiting the former South- help them. Washington DC. west Texas State University. People have fled persecution from the mo- DEAR ADMIRAL LAUTENBACHER: As you are For 40 years, Gary Job Corps has been ment in history when they began forming com- aware, the Nation faces a huge backlog of critical hydrographic survey work. To reduce helping young men and women achieve their munities. The tradition of offering asylum this backlog, the National Oceanic and At- academic and professional dreams. In addition began at almost the same time. And when na- mospheric Administration (NOAA) had de- to providing vocational training for careers in tions began to develop an international con- veloped a three-pronged approach. NOAA is the health occupations, business, computers, science in the early 20th century, efforts to using 1) its own hydrographic survey vessels cooking, and numerous other industries, it has help refugees also spread across the globe. In and personnel; 2) data acquisition contracts; sent on its alumni to the student bodies of 1921, Fridtjof Nansen was appointed as the and 3) a leased vessel staffed by contract hy- Texas State University, Alamo Community first refugee High Commissioner of the League drographers. College, and other institutions of higher edu- of Nations, the forerunner of the United Na- In fiscal years 2002 through 2005, Congress tions. The United Nations High Commission provided funding and specific direction to cation. NOAA to enter into a multi-year vessel Gary Job Corps has helped countless young for Refugees (UNHCR) began as a small or- lease. After a lengthy bid process, the Mili- Texans achieve their life goals, and has ganization, with a three-year mandate to help tary Sealift Command entered into a lease helped bring economic growth, educational resettle millions of European refugees who on NOAA’s behalf that included a base year, achievement, and the promise of a better fu- were still homeless in the aftermath of the and 4 one-year options. The first year of that ture to Central Texas. I am happy to have this Second World War. Since that time, the orga- lease will soon end, and unless it is extended opportunity to congratulate Gary Job Corps on nization has continually expanded to meet the this portion of the hydrographic surveying the occasion of its 40th anniversary, and I growing needs of refugees and other dis- initiative will end. The bidders, including wish all of its staff and students many more placed people. In more than five decades, the the winning bidder, based their bids on a 5- agency has helped an estimated 50 million year lease period. Therefore, it was very dis- years of success. appointing to learn that NOAA does not in- f people restart their lives. Today, a staff of tend to exercise even its first annual lease more than 6,000 people in more than 100 option, especially since NOAA appears to be WORLD REFUGEE DAY countries continues to help some 17 million satisfied with the work that has been done persons in every corner of the world. Today I by the leased vessel. HON. DONALD M. PAYNE commend the outstanding, tireless work of the We have requested that the Appropriations OF NEW JERSEY UNHCR. However, as a former high commis- Committee include funding to continue the sioner said, the fact that the world still finds a vessel lease program in fiscal year 2006. This IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES need for the UNHCR should serve as a sober- will allow NOAA time to acquire and exam- Monday, June 20, 2005 ine cost data on the lease to determine if ing reminder of the international community’s vessel leasing is a cost effective method of Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, on continuing failure to prevent prejudice, perse- acquiring hydrographic data. While this re- World Refugee Day, to pay tribute to the in- cution, poverty and other root causes of con- quest is pending, we urge you to extend the domitable spirit and courage of the world’s ref- flict and displacement.

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.022 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1287 In our tribute to the world’s refugees, it is repression and the displacement of millions. In total number of Congolese refugees up to important not to forget the internally displaced 2004, several governments continued or inten- 462,000. In Northern Uganda the murderous persons, or IDP’s. Last week, during his first sified anti-rebel military campaigns labeled Lord’s Resistance Army continues to abduct few days as the 10th U.N. High Commissioner ‘‘counter-terrorist’’ operations, which resulted thousands for use as soldiers and sex slaves. for Refugees, Anto´nio Guterres reminded the in new internal displacements and prevented In Burundi, under pressure from Rwanda, the world that millions of internally displaced peo- return, including in Chechnya (Russian Fed- Burundi government recently announced that ple are not currently being cared for. The in- eration), Aceh (Indonesia), Colombia, northern 10,000 Rwandan asylum seekers who had ternal displacement problem is one of the big- Uganda and Nepal. Second, I call on the Bush fled Rwanda since the beginning of April in gest neglected humanitarian problems that we administration to reexamine the effectiveness fear of persecution over the 1994 genocide face. The abstract term ‘‘internal displace- of U.S. bureaucratic structures that are in- would not be granted asylum, despite not hav- ment,’’ created to distinguish IDP’s from refu- tended to assist IDP’s. Currently, the responsi- ing been screened to see if they met the defi- gees, fails to convey the immense human suf- bility for assisting IDP’s is shared between the nition of a refugee. Already, at least 5,000 of fering most internally displaced people are State Department’s Bureau of Population, Ref- the refugees have been returned to Rwanda, forced to undergo. The act of displacement ugees and Migration and the U.S. Agency for and because the UN was not granted access itself often is accompanied by violence and International Development; however, this re- to the refugees, many fear they were forced to the most serious human rights violations such sponsibility is poorly defined, suffers from lack return. In Afghanistan, there is a need for as killings, torture, kidnappings and rape. of coherence, and is vulnerable to bureau- more comprehensive solutions for Afghans still IDP’s are a very vulnerable category and most cratic turf battles. Regarding IDP’s, the rela- outside their country, and dialogue between of them receive less assistance than refugees tionship between PRM and USAID must be the UNHCR and relevant governments and in camps. Whereas refugees have managed better defined in order to facilitate the creation other stakeholders in the Afghanistan situation to cross borders to escape persecution, the in- of a more effective system to monitor and as- must continue. In addition, although a peace ternally displaced, for various reasons, are sist the internally displaced. deal in January officially ended Sudan’s north- stuck within the same borders between which Finally, I call upon the Bush administration south conflict, at least 7,500 people had fled forces of violence and persecution continue to to set up a fund specifically intended to assist into Uganda this year, and refugees and IDP’s hunt them. IDP’s. IDP’s continue to fall through the cracks say that food distribution had stopped in The number of people ‘‘of concern’’ to in our handling of crises. Establishing such a camps inside Sudan. UNHCR, including IDP’s, grew last year by fund—to be administered by the appropriate Because of its long history of displacement, over 2 million to 19.2 million. The increase government agency—would serve as a first and since Africa Refugee Day corresponds was mainly the result of a rise in the numbers step toward not treating IDP’s as an after- with World Refugee Day in many countries, of internally displaced people and stateless thought. It would also serve as a model to the Africa merits special attention in this examina- persons to 7.6 million—up from 5.3 million at international community that would facilitate an tion of refugees and IDP’s. Africa hosts ap- the end of 2003. Of the world’s approximately improvement in how we address the sad phe- proximately 3 million refugees, about 30 per- 25 million IDP’s, 13 million are in Africa. nomenon of internal displacement. In sum- cent of the world’s total. Africa also hosts 13 Sudan has the largest IDP population in the mary, let us not neglect IDP’s, for their strug- million IDP’s, or more than half of the world’s word, with between 5 and 6 million displaced gle is often just as dangerous as that of refu- total IDP population. In Africa today, return persons. Sudan also is the country with the gees, and their courage also merits a tribute and reintegration opportunities abound if we largest number of newly displaced persons in today, a tribute that translates to humanitarian can get the politics of peace right. There are 2004 (about 1 million, mostly in Darfur, where action. an unprecedented number of repatriation and a total of 2 million IDP’s survive on a day-to- Today, the worldwide suffering of uprooted reintegration operations currently underway— day basis). Sudan is followed by the Demo- peoples continues. There are currently nearly particularly in Burundi, Liberia, Angola, the cratic Republic of the Congo with 2.3 million 20 million refugees and other persons of con- Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sierra IDP’s. In Colombia, Afro-Colombians continue cern to the UNHCR, the majority of whom are Leone, and Somalia. In 2004, refugees from to be caught in the crossfire between govern- women and children. Afghans remain by far Liberia (100,000), Burundi (90,000), Angola ment troops and rebels. Afro-Colombians rep- the biggest refugee group in the world at 2.1 (64,000), and the Democratic Republic of the resent a disproportionate level of the country’s million. In Sudan, the increase in refugees in Congo (30,000) returned to their countries in IDP population of more than 2 million, which 2004 accounted for the largest increase in the large numbers and the UNHCR started a pro- represents the world’s third largest IDP popu- world. Sudan produced 125,000 new refugees, gram intended to help an additional 340,000 lation. Iraq and northern Uganda each have mostly people fleeing genocide in the Darfur Liberians repatriate. In March 2004, the around 2 million IDP’s. region to neighboring Chad. The total number UNHCR took an important step to act on the Despite the scale of the worldwide internal of Sudanese refugees world-wide rose to improved prospects for the return home of mil- displacement crisis, its destabilizing effects on 731,000 in 2004, from 606,000 in 2003, an in- lions of long-time refugees in Africa. The regional security, and the vulnerabilities of crease of 20 percent. UNHCR launched its Dialogue on Voluntary many internally displaced populations, the Recent trends give some room for guarded Repatriation and Substainable Reintegration in U.S. and other members of the international optimism. On June 17, the UNHCR reported Africa. The Africa Dialogue calls on the inter- community have been slow in addressing the that the global number of refugees fell 4 per- national community to seize this unique oppor- issue. Refugees, usually far more visible, con- cent in 2004 to 9.2 million, the lowest total in tunity for the return of up to 2 million refugees tinue to receive a great deal more international almost a quarter of a century. Repatriations and several million displaced persons across attention, although their number is only about are also up. In 2004, a total of 1.5 million refu- the continent, and it stresses the need to in- half that of IDP’s. The IDP problem is a hu- gees repatriated voluntarily, an increase of vest in long-term development to make returns manitarian challenge, as well as a challenge some 400,000 over the previous year. The durable. Today, the Africa Dialogue continues to peace-building and post-conflict recovery. 2004 returns include 940,000 refugees who to make progress; however, considerable chal- For example, it will be extremely difficult to re- went back to Afghanistan and 194,000 who re- lenges still lie ahead. Returns must be build Sudan with millions of persons uprooted turned to Iraq. In addition, over the past few matched by post-conflict reconstruction and and on the move. As we see in the massive years, successful repatriation operations in Af- reintegration in order to break the cycle of vio- displacement crises of Colombia and Somalia, rica and the countries of former Yugoslavia lence and make repatriation sustainable. The the U.S. and the rest of the international com- have reduced significantly the number of peo- populations of Burundi, the Democratic Re- munity are far from being capable of effec- ple of concern to the UNHCR. In Burma, re- public of the Congo and Somalia all await the tively responding to or preventing such emer- cent developments are providing a basis on outcome of political negotiations, and the U.S. gencies. Due to the chronic under-funding of which to plan for the eventual return of refu- and the UNHCR must lend their support to aid agencies by donor governments, the IDP gees in Thailand. Across the globe, resettle- these peace efforts while assisting the victims problem will not likely see progress towards a ment continues expanding through the prac- of conflict. solution any time soon. Unless we change this tice of group resettlement. The UNHCR, with Of great concern, the genocide being per- shameful status quo. support from the U.S., has succeeded in help- petuated by the government of Sudan in that Today, I call on the Bush administration to ing several million people begin new lives. country’s Darfur region has forced approxi- take three specific steps to help the internally Despite the good news, though, numerous mately 2 million Darfurians to become inter- displaced. First, I call on the Bush administra- serious challenges remain. In the Democratic nally displaced. In addition, more than 200,000 tion to actively pressure countries that are Republic of the Congo, the numbers of refu- Sudanese have fled Darfur and are now living using the global ‘‘war on terror’’ to justify brutal gees increased by 2.4 percent, pushing the in camps in neighboring Chad. For the

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.026 E20PT1 E1288 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 UNHCR mission in eastern Chad, where 300 at times did not cooperate with the UNHCR to ensure a smooth transition from repatriation UNHCR staff assist a total of 213,000 refu- during 2004. Although repatriations of Burun- to reintegration, rehabilitation and reconstruc- gees in 12 camps, the U.S. has given $18 mil- dian refugees living in Tanzania continues, the tion so that refugees can go home and stay lion in 2005, or half of all donors’ contribu- U.S. and the international community must en- home. The results show that an investment in tions. However, the UNHCR still lacks about gage Tanzania regularly to ensure that the solutions is a good investment indeed. $40 million to cover the 2005 needs-based country does not turn its back on those in The U.S. has shown great hospitality and budget. need, and on decades of humanitarian tradi- generosity in hosting and assisting refugees Across the border from the camps in east- tion. At the least, we must listen to Tanzania’s and other displaced people. In 2004, the U.S. ern Chad, the situation in Darfur is more dire. concerns and explore options to provide more welcomed 52,000 refugees from Africa, Asia, In Darfur, the mismatch between humanitarian support to what has traditionally been the the Middle East, and Latin America. In abso- capacity and human need grows more deadly most hospitable country in Africa for refugees. lute terms, the U.S. continues to be the lead- by the day. The UNHCR Darfur mission has a The best solution for refugees is voluntary ing donor to UNHCR and for humanitarian as- total of 25 staff. The U.S. has provided no repatriation, or going back to one’s original sistance to refugees world-wide. However, as money for UNHCR operations in Darfur in homeland once all the key conditions are in a proportion of national wealth, the U.S. con- 2005, although half the year has already place. However, for some people who fled tribution to refugees and IDP’s lags far behind passed. There is now a disgraceful $30 million their homes amid conflict and widespread most western countries. The persistent failure shortfall from what the UNHCR needs in human rights abuses, returning is still a distant of donor government, including the U.S., to Darfur for 2005. The lack of security is still a prospect. For this reason, finding creative so- provide funding for relief efforts is the most tremendous problem, partly due to an increase lutions for meeting the needs of refugees and critical flaw in the humanitarian aid process in small arms trafficking. Government-recruited the local populations that host them is critical. today. The UN Consolidated Appeal (CAP) is and armed Arab militias, also known as One example is the Zambian Initiative, a gov- a collaborative assessment of the minimal fi- Janjaweed, continue to target civilians, and in ernment-led ‘‘Development through Local Inte- nancial commitment necessary to provide es- April, rape, kidnapping, and banditry in- gration Project’’ established in 2002. The Zam- sential emergency assistance in humanitarian creased. Aid workers are still at great risk of bian Initiative has promoted a holistic ap- crises. Despite the CAP, all assistance pro- being targeted. Due to the conflict and failed proach in addressing the needs of refugees gramming is under-funded by almost 35 per- harvests, the food situation is serious. More and Zambians living in refugee hosting areas cent every year, leaving tens of millions of than 3.5 million IDP’s are in critical need of in the Western Province of Zambia. By facili- men, women, and children around the world to food and are running dangerously short of tating cooperation between the host commu- suffer needlessly. The recurring shortfall in fi- water. The World Food Program does not nities and the refugees, the UNHCR and the nancial assistance is not the only thing hin- have what it needs to feed persons of concern Zambian government have enabled the pro- dering our response to the refugee and IDP past July. Local Sudanese officials are pres- duction of food and housing, thus alleviating crises of the world. In the last five years, glob- suring some IDP’s to return to their villages, the effects of a food deficit, poor infrastructure al food aid has dropped by nearly 50 percent, despite the constant threat of government-sup- and limited access to services and economic despite an 8 percent increase in the number ported Janjaweed militias and other armed opportunities. The presence of refugees can of chronically hungry people in the world. In groups. Although the presence of the AU force stretch local resources and infrastructure and addition, funding delays continue to jeopardize in Darfur promises some protection, it will exacerbate poverty. However, in Zambia, local the progress of emergency relief for refugees never be sufficient. development committees involve the local and IDP’s. In Somalia in recent years for ex- A country of concern that is often forgotten populations and refugees by identifying needs ample, nearly 50 percent of all funds received is Western Sahara, a swath of land in West and projects in areas such as health and edu- for emergency assistance arrived in the last Africa that lies along the Atlantic Ocean. In cation. While voluntary repatriation of Angolan quarter of the year. And currently, reportedly camps in Algeria, about 165,000 refugees refugees continues, the Zambian Initiative has due to bureaucratic delay, the U.S. has still from Western Sahara, a country that has been created a sense of ownership while pursuing not contributed any funds to the UNHCR oper- occupied illegally by Morocco since 1975, con- durable solutions for refugees through local in- ation in Darfur, although we are already in the tinue to live in ‘‘deplorable conditions,’’ accord- tegration. We must commend and encourage second half of 2005. ing to a recent report from UN Secretary Gen- this type of innovative approach to refugees The U.S. must act as a leader to address eral Kofi Annan. The government of Morocco and the pressure their presence can place on the persistent and damaging delays in funding has promised the people of Western Sahara, local populations. Let us use World Refugee for refugees and IDP’s. If the U.S. wants to re- the Sahrawi, a vote to determine their own fu- Day to call for more such innovation, so that form the UN and render the international ture. However, more than a decade later, that refugees will not be trapped in the same sad donor community more effective, this is a vote has yet to occur, and Morocco continues status quo. good place to start. Therefore, I call on the to disregard international law. No progress has The donor response to the Indian Ocean Bush administration and other members of the been made in UN efforts to find a solution to tsunami in December 2004 was admirable and international community to increase financial the dispute between Morocco and the generated unprecedented world-record con- commitments to humanitarian appeals for refu- Sahrawis. The U.S. must put pressure on Mo- tributions, thanks in part to the dramatic nature gees and IDP’s. At the least, the international rocco, not only to end the exile and suffering of the tsunami, its effects on numerous coun- community should pledge to provide 75 per- of Sahrawi refugees, but also to allow a free, tries, and its timing, the day after Christmas. cent of the aid requested in the CAP pledge fair and transparent referendum to determine However, other humanitarian catastrophes, es- in order to ensure that the most critical emer- the country’s future and prevent the creation pecially the needs of refugees and IDP’s in Af- gency relief programs remain funded. of more refugees. rica, remain virtually ignored. As UN Humani- Many prosperous countries with strong Another source of concern is Tanzania. A tarian Coordinator Jan Egeland has pointed economies complain about the large number generous host of refugees over the last 30 out, in many ways, Africa has a silent tsunami of asylum seekers and refugees, but they offer years, Tanzania continues to host Africa’s several times each year. If you look at the little to prevent refugee crises. Humanitarian largest number of refugees. However, re- numbers in Sudan or the Democratic Republic action is of limited value if it does not form cently, a troubling policy shift seems to have of the Congo, you see that the impact of con- part of a wider strategic and political frame- emerged, reflecting an increasingly harsh flict on refugees and IDP’s is equivalent to a work aimed at addressing the root causes of stance towards refugees. Local and national tsunami every few months. Today, we have an conflict. Experience has shown time and time politicians are feeling increasing pressure from opportunity to honor the courage of refugees again that humanitarian action alone cannot their constituencies due to the perception that and IDP’s by recognizing the magnitude of solve problems which are fundamentally polit- refugees receive more attention and assist- their suffering, but to do this we must act out ical in nature. Yet all too often, humanitarian ance than local communities and have in of the same compassion that drove us to al- organizations like the UNHCR have found some cases publicly blamed them for crime leviate the suffering of the tsunami victims. themselves isolated and alone in dangerous and the spread of disease. In 2004, the gov- The UNHCR is working hard to resolve and difficult situations (such as Darfur), where ernment frequently did not provide protection many of the protracted situations around the they have had to operate without adequate fi- against refoulement, the return of persons to a world. But it is a labor and resource-intensive nancial and political support. Therefore, we country where they feared persecution; on a endeavor, requiring sustained international at- must invest in lasting solutions: conflict pre- number of occasions, the government refouled tention and continuing donor support, including vention, return, and reintegration. We must refugees and refused persons seeking asylum support from the United States. The same is support the UNHCR’s efforts to ensure inter- or refugee status. In addition, the government true of UNHCR’s advocacy efforts and its work national protection and assistance to refugees

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.029 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1289 and IDP’s through a range of solutions, includ- son’s disease and related movement dis- ice connected disabled veterans, and thank ing improved management of operations. We orders—the VA is able to treat 42,000 vet- you for your continued support of disabled must not demonstrate a lack of political com- erans with Parkinson’s disease. veterans Sincerely, mitment to solving refugee problems during Together the PADRECCs and the Consor- tium serve as a channel for collaboration and JOSEPH A. VIOLANTE, the post-conflict phase, when the spotlight of National Legislative Director. the international media has moved away. We development in the areas of clinical care, sci- PARKINSON’S ACTION NETWORK, must more fully recognize the link between entific research and educational outreach. The Washington, DC, June 16, 2005. human displacement and international peace collaborative efforts of the PADRECCs and House of Representatives, Veterans’ Affairs and security. History has shown that displace- Consortium provide veterans nationwide with Committee, Cannon House Office Building, ment is not only a consequence of conflicts; it integrated, expert medical care and access to Washington, DC. can also cause conflict. Without human secu- the full spectrum of state-of-the-art diagnostic DEAR MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE: On be- and therapeutic services to meet and exceed half of the Parkinson’s Action Network rity, there can be no peace and stability. The (PAN), I would like to express support for U.S. must recognize the link between refugees the standard of care. In just a brief time since their inception, the legislation that will be introduced by Rep. and IDP’s, on the one hand, and stability and Lane Evans shortly that provides for the es- the seeds of democracy on the other. six PADRECCs, which are based at the VA tablishment of the Parkinson’s Disease Re- If we are to honor the courage of refugees medical centers in Houston, West Los Ange- search Education and Clinical Centers and IDP’s today, we must come together with les, Philadelphia, Portland-Seattle, Richmond (PADRECCs) in the Veterans Health Admin- the UNHCR, nongovernmental organizations, and San Francisco, have made enormous istration of the Department of Veterans Af- and other donor governments to actively pur- contribution to Parkinson’s disease care and fairs. sue durable solutions. If we fail to do so, refu- research and training of health care profes- PAN is the unified education and advocacy voice of the Parkinson’s community—more gees and IDP’s will remain in their miserable sionals. The PADRECCs, including the VA hospitals in Albuquerque, has Vegas, Lorna than one million Americans and their fami- conditions—surviving on a handful of maize lies. Through education and interaction with each day, living in immense boredom under Linda and Long Beach, Calif., Phoenix, San the Parkinson’s community, scientists, law- windblown tents, and clinging to their hope Diego and Tucson, which are affiliated with makers, opinion leaders, and the public, PAN amid memories of atrocities. On World Ref- the Southwestern PADREEC located at the leads the fight to ease the burden and find a ugee Day and every other day, let us show West Los Angeles VA Medical Center put VA cure. PAN increases awareness about Par- the refugees and IDP’s that we are with them. at the forefront of the landmark clinical study kinson’s disease and seeks federal support Having endured conflict, rape, abduction, traf- to assess the effectiveness of surgical implan- for Parkinson’s research. More than one million Americans have ficking, chronic hunger, squalor, and other un- tation of deep brain stimulators in reducing the symptoms of the disease. Parkinson’s disease, with approximately speakable suffering, the courage of refugees 60,000 more diagnosed each year. As the dis- and IDP’s has been tested beyond what we The efforts of the VA PADRECCs are the ease progresses, patients are ultimately can imagine. However, despite their courage, model of innovation in the delivery of robbed of their ability to speak, walk, and they remain vulnerable to the loss of hope. If healthcare and research for chronic disease in perform many of the activities of daily life we will allow them to lose hope, we allow the veteran population. The efforts of the such as rising from a chair or rolling over in them to lose courage. In our tribute to their in- PADRECCs deserve continued support. bed. domitable courage, we must pledge never to Today, I am proud to introduce H.R. 2959 PADRECCs, as suggested by their name, are charged with conducting clinical and let that happen. We must pledge to help them along with Mr. BAKER of Louisiana, Mr. BOEH- LERT of New York, Mr. UDALL of Colorado, Ms. basic science research, administering na- rebuild their lives today, to commit ourselves tional outreach and education programs, and MALONEY of New York, Mr. PICKERING of Mis- to long-term solutions, and to prevent the providing state-of-the-art clinical care. nightmare from reoccurring tomorrow. sissippi, Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon, Mr. KING of These services, provided by the existing six New York, and Mr. BLUMENAUER of Oregon, f PADRECCs, are vital not only to veterans, which would permanently authorize these six but to the entire community. AUTHORIZATION OF PARKINSON’S PADRECCs. The Disabled American Veterans We firmly believe that patients, family DISEASE RESEARCH EDUCATION and Parkinson’s Action Network support per- members, and the general public should con- AND CLINICAL CENTERS manently authorizing the PADRECCs. tinue to have access to the invaluable serv- I urge my colleagues to support this bi-par- ices provided by the Parkinson’s Disease Re- HON. LANE EVANS tisan bill which will benefit tens of thousands search, Education, and Clinical Centers. On of veterans and provide additional hope for all this basis, PAN respectfully requests your OF ILLINOIS support of this important legislation. Americans who have Parkinson’s disease. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES If you have any questions please feel free DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS, to contact me or Mary Richards, PAN Direc- Washington, DC, June 17, 2005. Monday, June 20, 2005 tor of Government Relations at (202) 638–4101. Hon. LANE EVANS, Sincerely, Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, Parkinson’s dis- Ranking Member, House Veterans’ Affairs Com- AMY L. COMSTOCK, ease is a serious health problem in the United mittee, Cannon House Office Building, Executive Director. States. Up to 1.5 million Americans have the Washington, DC. disease and approximately 60,000 new cases DEAR REPRESENTATIVE EVANS: The Dis- f are diagnosed each year nationwide. By 2010, abled American Veterans supports your draft an estimated 39,000 veterans who are age 85 bill that would authorize the Department of CONGRATULATING COMMERCE and older will have this progressive neuro- Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish six Par- BANK AND PRESIDENT IGNACIO logical disorder. Treatments exist for Parkin- kinson’s Disease Research, Education and URRABAZO ON THE OPENING OF Clinical Centers. Currently, VA medical cen- THEIR NEW HEADQUARTERS son’s, but medical research continues to im- ters treat over 40,000 Parkinson’s disease pa- prove treatments and to find a cure. tients every year. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) These centers would conduct research cov- HON. HENRY CUELLAR took an important step in 2001 towards eradi- ering basic biomedicine, rehabilitation, OF TEXAS health services delivery, and clinical trials cating this disease by establishing Parkinson’s IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Disease Research Education and Clinical to assess the effectiveness of treatments Centers (PADRECCs). In addition to providing such as surgical implantation of deep brain Monday, June 20, 2005 stimulators in reducing the symptoms of an unparalleled environment for researchers to Parkinson’s disease. Furthermore, the estab- Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recog- see their results rapidly and directly applied to lishment of a consortium would allow VA to nize Commerce Bank and President Ignacio better patient care and shared with the med- design a national network of VA clinicians Urrabazo on the opening of their new head- ical and scientific community, these centers of with expertise and interest in the fields of quarters. excellence are the backbone that now enables Parkinson’s disease and related movement The headquarters will serve as the bank’s the VA to provide excellent care to veterans disorders. The collaboration and develop- primary location for the Laredo market. Com- with Parkinson’s disease and to conduct re- ment in the areas of clinical care, scientific merce Bank is dedicated to providing conven- search. research, and educational outreach would en- ient and superior services to its customers, sure specialized care will be embedded Through the PADRECCs and the National throughout the continuum of care provided even if that means traveling to a customers’ VA Parkinson’s Disease Consortium—a net- by the VA health care system. place of business, or working far beyond a work of nationally dispersed VA clinicians with Thank you for your efforts to improve banker’s traditional hours. Customers are expertise and/or interest in the fields of Parkin- VA’s specialized medical programs for serv- known by their names, not by their account

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.032 E20PT1 E1290 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 numbers. This personal attention allows serv- Just as Minnesota has been a refuge—a and is truly a betrayal of the value we share ices to be tailored to the specific needs of place of safe, I want to publicly commend the as Americans. A likely perpetrator of genocide their clients. people of Chad, a very, very poor nation with should never be the dinner guest of our gov- Commerce Bank President and CEO difficult geography, little water and few re- ernment. Ignacio Urrabazo sees the expansion as part sources, for providing nearly a million Suda- As a superpower, as a free people, as a of a larger commitment to help accommodate nese survivors of genocide a safe place. In people who will generously reach out any- the outstanding growth that Laredo is currently normal times the people of Chad have very lit- where in the world to help people in need, we experiencing. Mr. Urrabazo supports a com- tle, now they are sharing what they have with cannot be on the side of the victims and the munity-oriented banking approach, and is ac- the Darfur refugees. murders at the same time. The terror the peo- tive in minority causes. In 1999, he co-found- In Darfur, at least 180,000 people have ple of Darfur are experiencing every day must ed Minbanc, a nonprofit organization which been killed, starved to death or died of dis- be the same War on Terror our Nation is fight- works to support and promote the continued ease because of the intentional campaign of ing—those people’s lives have value and it is success of minority-owned banks across cleansing by the militias sponsored by the wrong for the CIA or anyone else in Wash- America. Mr. Urrabazo also endeavors to en- government of Sudan. Tens of thousand of ington to sell them out. courage minority businesses in the oil and gas women and girls have been raped and tor- Let me say in conclusion, that I respect and industries. tured in this campaign of terror. admire the courage, the determination and I am honored to recognize the Commerce Inside Sudan almost 2 million people are amazing spirit of the refugees I have had the Bank and its President Ignacio Urrabazo on displaced—driven from their homes. Let me privilege to meet and know—both in Min- the opening of their new headquarters in La- praise the work that Hugh Parmer and his nesota and in Chad. redo. The outstanding work put forth by the staff at the American Refugee Committee are The struggle and journey to find peace, se- Commerce Bank and President Urrabazo doing to keep people alive in Sudan—they are curity, hope and opportunity is real for refu- helps foster Laredo’s continued economic true heroes. gees and anyone forced to flee their home. growth and success. In the camp I visited in Chad the women This is exactly what all human beings seek in f were exhausted, the children were restless life. It is my hope and it will be my determined commitment to myself, the families I work for WORLD REFUGEE DAY and the men were few—most had been killed. The struggles of daily life were unimagi- in Washington, and the women and children I nable—little water, little food, almost no shelter met from Darfur, that our government work HON. BETTY McCOLLUM and only very limited health services. The tirelessly to make sure there are fewer refu- OF MINNESOTA trauma of escaping genocide, surviving rape, gees, fewer displaced persons and much, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES watching one’s family be murdered is almost much more peace, security, hope and oppor- Monday, June 20, 2005 too much to comprehend. Yet, these brave tunity over the next twenty-five years. Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- souls fight on to care for their children, hope This is truly the world I hope we can build er, I am very proud to represent in the U.S. for the future and work together to make the together. Congress thousands and thousands of refu- most of every day. f gees who live in St. Paul and the East Metro The people of the U.S. are helping—and INTRODUCTION OF THE TRUE RE- area. Whether they are originally from East helping a lot. More than $1 billion in aid and INVESTMENT FOR AMTRAK IN- Asia, East Africa, Eastern Europe or Central emergency humanitarian relief has been pro- FRASTRUCTURE IN THE 21ST America, Minnesota is now their home and we vided to keep people alive. The courageous CENTURY ACT call them our neighbors, our co-workers and humanitarian workers who help deliver this re- our friends. lief take big risks and work tirelessly and they The resettlement of refugees in Minnesota deserve both our praise and our prayers. HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ OF NEW JERSEY is a success story. We should all celebrate the The crisis in Darfur is man-made, not some IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES economic, social and cultural contributions natural catastrophe. This is genocide—mass, made over the past generation who found planned murder of thousands. This is a horror. Monday, June 20, 2005 peace, hope and opportunity in Minnesota. For Ending the genocide in Darfur requires more Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, today I am the refugees and the communities that wel- than humanitarian aid—it requires the political pleased to be joined by Mr. NADLER and Ms. comed them it has not always been easy, but will of nations—especially the United States SCHWARTZ to introduce the True Reinvestment it has worked and worked to the benefit of our willing to stand up and say these lives have for Amtrak Infrastructure in the 21st Century state. value—this killing must be stopped. Every dip- Act, otherwise known as TRAIN–21, which Let me acknowledge the state, county and lomatic, political, and if necessary—military would provide the true federal commitment to local government officials as well as the staff tool—must be used to stop the killing. Amtrak that has been missing for too long. and educators from our school districts who This brings me to a disturbing and shameful Amtrak is currently under attack by people work so hard to get families settled and recent episode. For all the good the U.S. has who don’t recognize the tremendous benefits transitioned to life in Minnesota. Let me also done with humanitarian relief for the victims of generated by intercity rail in this country. Not thank the resettlement agencies, community Darfur—our government also appears com- the billions of dollars generated in commerce, based non-profits, the faith community and the mitted to working with the perpetrators of the nor the thousands of businesses along the many families and volunteers. This collective genocide. Northeast Corridor whose employees are de- effort has kept the refugee resettlement expe- It was recently reported that in April of this pendent on Amtrak, nor the national security rience positive for both new Minnesotans as year, a U.S. government jet owned by the CIA value of having an additional mode of trans- well as long-time residents. flew Major General Salah Abdullah Gosh—the portation, nor the benefits to our environment While today is a celebration of sorts, I do head of Sudan’s intelligence agency—to by taking cars off the road. However, 25 mil- not want anyone here to forget that suffering Washington for meetings with high level CIA lion people did recognize those benefits and also continues for the more than 19 million officials. This was a reward for his govern- rode Amtrak in 2004, which was the 2nd people around the world fleeing persecution. ment’s work with the U.S. on the war on ter- straight year of record ridership. The fact that more than nine million people rorism. Amtrak is crucial for more than just the busi- are refugees and almost eight million more are The government of Sudan is officially des- nessmen who ride its trains along the North- internally displaced inside their own country ignated a ‘‘state sponsor of terrorism.’’ The east Corridor. It is just as crucial for com- due to violence—while millions more are state- government of Sudan has participated in the muters who unknowingly are dependent on less or seeking asylum. murder and terrorizing of tens of thousands of Amtrak’s survival. Were Amtrak to go bank- Earlier this year I traveled to Eastern Chad their own citizens. The women and children I rupt, nearly 100,000 New Jersey commuters to visit refugees in camps along the border of met in the refugee camps were victims of the would be stranded, because over three-quar- Sudan’s Darfur region. The men, women and Sudanese government’s terror. ters of New Jersey Transit trains ride on track children I met had escaped the horrors of It is beyond my belief that a senior official owned and maintained by Amtrak. And Amtrak mass murder, mass rape, the burning of their complicit in this terror, this genocide could be is just as crucial for the people in rural Mon- villages, the killing of their animals and the jetted to Washington with our tax dollars to be tana or Colorado, who depend on the train as poisoning of their wells. These exhausted commended for his ‘‘counter-terrorism’’ efforts. their link to the national transportation system. souls were the survivors a genocide that con- This episode is offensive, a slap in the face to There is no question that Amtrak has its tinues to go on today—at this very moment. every survivor of this horrible ethnic cleansing share of problems. But there are two ways to

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.037 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1291 address Amtrak’s problems. The first is what valley. Contract authority will also be distrib- do them harm. He leaves behind him an ex- we’ve been doing: blame Amtrak, blame labor, uted to states with other federally-designated ample of extraordinary service and courage. and keep cutting until the system becomes high-speed corridors, states with long-distance He died a hero, and he deserves the thanks profitable. This method has been a failure. Amtrak trains only, and states not served by of a grateful nation. Keeping Amtrak on a starvation budget means Amtrak at all. maintenance can’t be performed, the system The goals of this program are simple: run f can’t be improved, and service deteriorates. more trains, faster, and on-time. This does not This path leads to certain bankruptcy and the require using exotic technologies, and it does IN HONOR OF THE 30TH ANNIVER- elimination of intercity passenger rail service in not require massive new investments. This is SARY OF IRRELEVANT WEEK this country. just a simple shift of philosophy. Instead of try- The people who prefer this method of cut- ing to pare Amtrak down until it becomes prof- HON. CHRISTOPHER COX ting funding and raising expectations seem to itable, which would have the inevitable result OF CALIFORNIA forget a few simple truths: First, the reason of leaving us with no trains at all, we will ex- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Amtrak was created in the first place was be- pand it and improve it so that people begin to cause the railroads were hemorrhaging money ride Amtrak in ever increasing numbers. Monday, June 20, 2005 on passenger service and begged the govern- In addition, the bill reauthorizes Amtrak at a Mr. COX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay ment to take it off their hands. Second, public level of $2 billion per year, the same level re- tribute to Andy Stokes, this year’s 255th Na- transportation is not profitable. No public tran- cently passed by the Transportation and Infra- tional Football League draft pick. The final pick sit system in the country covers its operating structure Committee, which will go a long way of the NFL draft is a position of tremendous expenses with passenger fares, and virtually towards addressing the $5 billion in back- honor in my hometown of Newport Beach, no intercity passenger rail systems in the logged maintenance on the Northeast Cor- California. For the past 30 years, the NFL Un- world turn a profit, either. The trains that we ridor. derdog has been treated to a week-long cele- admire in Europe are supported yearly by Just as important is what this bill does not bration in his honor. This annual tradition of Ir- large government subsidies. Third, no form of do. It does not put the burden of paying for relevant Week was founded by my friend Paul transportation pays for itself, including high- trains onto the already over-burdened States. Salata as an occasion for ‘‘Doing Something ways. But we subsidize them because they It does not cannibalize Amtrak into different Nice For No Reason.’’ Irrelevant Week XXX, improve the quality of our lives. And that’s companies. It does not mandate the elimi- which commences today, will celebrate ‘‘Mr. Ir- what transportation is about. It’s not just get- nation of long-distance routes. And it does not relevant’’ Andy Stokes, a tight end from Wil- ting from one place to another. It’s about cre- harm the essential labor protections that cover liam Penn University in Iowa, who was chosen ating jobs, revitalizing neighborhoods, stimu- rail workers. by the New England Patriots as the final pick lating commerce, redeveloping underutilized I have heard some people say that rail is in the 2005 NFL draft. land, and making us more secure. the past. An obsolete mode of transportation That’s why I’m introducing this legislation for a bygone time. I strongly disagree. In fact, Though Andy Stokes may have been the today that will put us on the other path to- I believe that rail could be the mode of the fu- final pick for the Patriots, the St. George, Utah wards solving Amtrak’s problems: Actually giv- ture. With rising gas prices and overcrowded native will be number one in Newport Beach ing it the funding it needs to be successful. highways and airports, we need alternative as we use this occasion to celebrate the NFL That means addressing the huge backlog of ways to get around. This legislation firmly es- Underdog and to recognize all former ‘‘Mr. deferred maintenance on the Northeast Cor- tablishes a true national commitment to inter- Irrelevants’’ from the past three decades. ridor, and establishing new funding mecha- city rail, and put Amtrak on a path towards Among the highlighted events for Irrelevant nisms to improve rail service throughout the lasting success. Week XXX are a welcoming party, grand ban- country. This idea has been tried recently, with f quet, and activities at various Southern Cali- tremendous success. In California, for exam- fornia resorts. The fun and games will include HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE ple, a serious investment into train service by a football game with Mickey and Goofy at OF SERGEANT ROBERTO the State since 1998 has resulted in a near tri- Disneyland, a tailgate party at Angel Stadium ARIZOLA, JR. pling of ridership and a doubling of revenues. before the Angels vs. Dodgers baseball game, They accomplished this with a simple formula: and a visit to Hollywood Park with other NFL run more trains, run them faster, and run them HON. HENRY CUELLAR alumni for a day of horse racing action. on time. OF TEXAS This special anniversary Irrelevant Week This legislation would take that model and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES also serves as an opportunity to pay tribute to build on it. It establishes a Federal/State Monday, June 20, 2005 its 30 years of service to our community. matching program for passenger rail, similar to Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recog- Though Irrelevant Week is a lighthearted af- what we do for highways and transit, and it nize the life and service of Sergeant Roberto fair, over the years it has helped to raise over provides a stable funding source that’s not de- Arizola Jr., who died serving his country as one million dollars for charities that help youth pendent on annual appropriations. It does this part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. in both the academic and athletic arenas. This by establishing an independent corporation, Sgt. Arizola died on June 8th, 2005 in Bagh- year, at the behest of Newport Beach Fire the Rail Infrastructure Finance Corporation, dad when an improvised explosive device det- Chief Tim Riley, who serves on the Irrelevant which will sell bonds and invest the proceeds onated near his vehicle. He was assigned to Week steering committee, Irrelevant Week will in a way to provide for a steady stream of in- the Army’s 297th Military Intelligence Battalion, be sending 15 to 20 children to special camps come. The Corporation will select rail projects 513th Military Intelligence Brigade, of Fort designed to lend emotional support and friend- approved for funding by the Secretary of Gordon, Georgia. Roberto was awarded the ship to child burn survivors. Other bene- Transportation, and provide 80 percent of the Army Achievement Medal in 2000 for his ex- ficiaries of Irrelevant Week XXX include Costa necessary money, with the State, or consor- traordinary performance in operations ‘‘Joint Mesa United and Orangewood Children’s tium of States, providing the other 20 percent. Endeavor’’ and ‘‘Joint Guard’’ in Bosnia- Home. And the money will be distributed in the form Herzegovina. Irrelevant Week has long been recognized of contract authority good for 6 years, so A superb soldier, Sgt. Arizola was an even by the NFL, ESPN and others in the sports States will be able to make firm long-term better friend, husband, and father. Roberto world because it is a celebration of the under- plans. was kind and loving, possessing a charismatic dog. Moreover, Irrelevant Week provides an The Corporation will be authorized to dis- personality that brought joy to those lucky opportunity for sharing community spirit and tribute $500 million in contract authority each enough to share in his company. providing support for children in need. On be- year, with the bulk of that going to four cor- Sgt. Arizola died a soldier, defending the half of the United States House of Represent- ridors that have been identified by Amtrak as lives of those unable to defend themselves. atives, I would like to commend Paul Salata being ‘‘ready to go’’ for investment: A South- The father of a seven-year-old son, he died so and his family for founding and carrying on the east Corridor from Washington to Jacksonville; that other families and other children might tradition of Irrelevant Week for the past 30 a Midwest Corridor radiating outwards from live. He gave up a safe life in a free country years. I also ask my colleagues to join me Chicago to Minneapolis, Detroit, and St. Louis; so that others might grow up in safety and today in congratulating Andy Stokes on his se- a Pacific Northwest Corridor from Eugene to freedom. lection as ‘‘Mr. Irrelevant’’ and wishing him the Vancouver; and a California Corridor running Sergeant Roberto Arizola gave his life to very best for a long and successful career in along the Pacific coast and through the central protect ordinary people from those who would the National Football League.

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.040 E20PT1 E1292 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 HENRY J. HYDE UNITED NATIONS the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian Peo- I was recently presented a copy of an inter- REFORM ACT OF 2005 ple. esting opinion piece by Ambassador Yoram The United Nation needs to be reformed so Ettinger—former Minister for Congressional Af- SPEECH OF it is a body of creating diplomacy and under- fairs at Israel’s Embassy in Washington, Israeli HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY standing not a forum for hate. Consul General in Houston, and Director of I do believe the United Nations needs to be Israel’s Government Press Office; and cur- OF NEW YORK reformed to remain a strong supporter not just rently editor of ‘‘Straight from the Jerusalem IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES because of its close proximity to my Congres- Cloakroom and Boardroom’’ newsletters—re- Friday, June 17, 2005 sional district or the large amounts of my con- garding the potential consequences of ceding The House in Committee of the Whole stituents who work at the United Nations but Israeli territory to terrorists. I would like to House on the State of the Union had under because I strongly believe in the founding have the text of this Op-Ed placed into the consideration the bill (H.R. 2745) to reform principals of the United Nations. CONGRESSIONAL RECORD following my state- the United Nations, and for other purposes: This multilateral organization has helped the ment. Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today world come together since its creation and [May 26, 2005] to speak in support of the Lantos Shays sub- brought us out of the horrors of World War II. JERUSALEM CLOAKROOM #178: THE IMPACT OF stitute and in opposition to the United Nations If we truly want to work toward reform we DISENGAGEMENT ON U.S. INTERESTS Reform Bill sponsored by Chairman HYDE. must work with our friends and partners to (By Yoram Ettinger) While I am concerned about the withholding make this happen—not just threaten the loss 1. Escalated Terrorism. The morally/stra- of funding from the United Nations, I believe of contributions. tegically justifiable demolition of terror re- that reforms are needed within this world body This will solve none of the reforms that are gimes in Iraq and Afghanistan is incon- while enhancing not diminishing the U.S.’s needed so badly to get the United Nations sistent with the creation/bolstering of a ter- moral authority in this august body. back on the right tract. ror regime in Gaza, Judea and Samaria. The While I agree with many of my colleagues I do not support this bill in its current form 1994–6 series of disengagement from 85 per- cent and 40 percent of the territory (and 100 who have spoken on this bill that reform is and urge all of my colleagues to support the Lantos Shays substitute so we can start to percent and 95 percent of the population) of needed, I am troubled by the way Chairman Gaza and Judea and Samaria have estab- HYDE has drafted this bill. have a real dialogue on the much needed re- lished the largest terrorist base in the world, I have great respect for the Chairman but I form of the United Nations. led/harbored by PLO/PA graduates of ter- think the bill could have been drafted in a less f rorist camps in Iraq, Yemen, Sudan, Leb- anon, Syria, Libya and Tunisia. Since 1993 draconian manner. THE POTENTIAL IMPACT OF This bill makes it almost impossible for the the PA has harbored anti-U.S. terrorists. ISRAELI DISENGAGEMENT ON U.S. GIs in Afghanistan and Iraq were en- United Nations to complete all the reforms U.S. INTERESTS countered by Palestinian terrorists. within the time frame that has been set. 2. Higher U.S. Terror Casualties. The July I do not believe that the United States 2000 disengagement from Southern Lebanon should be withholding contributions if reforms HON. DAN BURTON propelled Hizbullah from a local, to a re- OF INDIANA are not made at the pace this bill sets them gional, profile, haunting U.S. GIs in Iraq and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES at. Afghanistan and threatening U.S. homeland Withholding our contributions from the Monday, June 20, 2005 security. 3. Contradicting U.S. War on Terrorism. United Nations until certain programs are shift- Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, the Disengagement is perceived, by the Mideast, ed to voluntary is something that all of the death of PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat, the as cut and run, appeasement and cave-in, in member states would have to approve and I emergence of a new Palestinian leadership, sharp contrast to U.S. war on terrorism: No do not believe that this bill gives a reasonable and the government of Israel’s proposed dis- negotiation with—and no concession to—ter- enough time frame. engagement from Gaza and parts of the West rorists; no ceasefire with—but destruction The Lantos Shays substitute will arm the Bank have created a high degree of optimism of—terrorist regimes; no political—but mili- tary—solution to terrorism. United States to promote serious reforms and in the International Community that we are on 4. Setback to Peace. The only peace attain- not just forcing to cut off funds to the United the cusp of dramatic new openings in the Mid- able in the (inter-Arab) Mideast is deter- Nations that would be counterproductive to our dle East peace process. rence-driven peace. Disengagement under- national interests. As a senior Member of the House Inter- mines deterrence; hence it sets the area far- The substitute keeps the reform of the national Relations Committee, I have watched ther from peace and closer to exacerbated Chairman HYDE’s bill as a goal, but does not the often turbulent goings on in the Middle terrorism and an all out war. Every square link it to a mandatory $100 million deduction in East for a few years to say the least, and my inch ceded by Israel to the PA, since the 1994 U.S. contributions. experience tells me that our optimism should disengagement, has been transformed into a platform of hate-education and homicide Another important difference between the be tempered by the lessons of the past. In bombing. Chairman’s bill and the substitute is the inflexi- fact, I believe we should take a very cautious 5. Tailwind to Anti-U.S. Terrorists. While bility on the issue of peacekeeping. view of the current round of Israeli Palestinian the 1976 Israeli Entebbe Operation con- The substitute retains the much needed re- peacemaking, particularly with regard to stituted a tailwind to the U.S. war on ter- forms on peace keeping instead of just cutting Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza and parts of the rorism, the 1993–2005 retreat by the role- aid to these missions. The substitute will pro- West Bank. model of countering terrorism (Israel) in vide the Secretary of State with a waiver in I have met Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Shar- face of the role-model of terrorism (PLO/PA) the event that a new mission is essential to on and I know that he is a fine man. I am sure has added more fuel to the fire of terrorism. Disengagement has been heralded by the America’s national interest. he firmly believes that this ‘‘strategic retreat’’ PLO/PA and other Arabs as a crucial victory, We all know that the United States has from the Gaza Strip and four settlements in frequently compared to the U.S. flight from problems and we see one of the most evident the West Bank is the best way to guarantee Beirut (1983) and Somalia (1993). It would ones in its treatment of the state of Israel. Israel’s long-term security by allowing Israel to nurture Arab hope that neither the U.S. nor The General Assembly has turned itself into conserve and consolidate military and security Israel possess a marathon-like steadfastness, a forum to bash Israel and until recently it had resources, reducing opportunities for further required for a long-term victory. a policy equating Zionism as racism. friction with the Palestinians, and potentially 6. PA Feeds Anti-U.S. Terrorism. A cor- relation has existed between the bolstering The U.N. Commission on Human Rights reducing pressure on Israel to negotiate a final of PLO stock since Oslo 1993 on one hand, also routinely castigates Israel and the Gen- peace settlement on unfavorable terms. Per- and the exacerbation of anti-U.S. terrorism eral Assembly has gone out of its way to pass sonally, I will not second guess the Prime Min- on the other hand (since the 1993 Twin Tow- a one-sided resolution condemning Israel for ister’s wisdom; I very much hope that he is ers I, through the 1995 Khobar Towers, the protecting its citizens from terrorism. right. But again, my experience tells me that if 1998 Kenya and Tanzania U.S. embassies, the The General Assembly created two commit- you take steps to appease an enemy you only 2000 USS Cole and 2001 Twin Towers II); the tees which focus negatively on Israeli actions give him a green light to put more pressure on wider the maneuverability of the PLO/PA, and protectively on the Palestinians: the Spe- you. In my opinion, it is imperative and critical the deeper the inspiration to regional anti- U.S. terrorism, irrespective of (and probably cial Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices to U.S. National Security that we as policy- due to) U.S. and Israeli appeasement of—and Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian makers understand the consequences should unprecedented concessions to—the PLO/PA. People and other Arabs of the Occupied Terri- the Israeli disengagement plan fail to live up to 7. Undermining the Stability of Pro-U.S. tories, and the Committee on the Exercise of expectations. Regimes (e.g. Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar,

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.044 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1293 etc.). Disengagement would enhance the pro- Vietnam, but he passed up his 100 percent TALENTED BOY file of the PLO/PA, a lethal threat to the disability status when he returned because he Harold Berg was a machinist and inspector Hashemite regime and a chief ally of radical wanted to help others. Despite a host of seri- regimes in the Mideast and beyond. PLO- who retired from Camcar years ago. His ous medical issues, John served as a vet- Hashemite relations have been a classic case health is poor but his memory and spirits are of zero-sumgame: The stronger the PLO the erans representative for 25 years at the Illinois good. His wife, 80-year-old Vergene, has Alz- weaker the Hashemites. The rise of the PLO/ Department of Employment Security before he heimer’s disease. They spend their days in PA has emboldened subversive anti-U.S. ter- died in 2003 from cancer caused by shrapnel side-by-side hospital beds in the Cherry Val- rorists in Jordan and in the Gulf area. lodged in his brain from his Vietnam injury. On ley home of their daughter Hilary Belcher, 8. Strengthening Anti-U.S. Mideast Re- Memorial Day, I sat with John’s widow, Lynn, who cares for them. Her husband, Nick, and gimes. Disengagement would buttress the and several of John’s friends as his name was 9-year-old daughter, Chenoa, help. PLO/PA, which has been a sustained ally of one of just four this year officially added to the Young John Berg wanted to be a musician. the Saddam and bin Laden forces, of Kho- Vietnam Wall. It was a remarkable day for a His mother was a long-time organist for meini and his successors in Iran, of the ter- ror regime in Sudan and other anti-U.S. Mid- remarkable man. I have attached a newspaper their church, and her firstborn son also east regimes. A stronger PA would be a li- article written by Judy Emerson of the Rock- played the organ, as well as piano, violin and ability—to the U.S.—in the U.N. and in the ford Register Star that describes John’s con- guitar. A 1965 graduate of East High School, context of Clash of Civilizations. tributions and his character perfectly: John took some classes at Rock Valley Col- lege until he was drafted in the summer of 9. Invigorating Mideast Profile of U.S. ADDING SOLDIERS TO THE WALL Global Rivals. The strengthening of the PLO/ 1967. ‘‘We tried to talk him into going into PA would facilitate the road to a re-assertive One hundred years from now, someone will the Air Force, but he thought he’d get this Russia in the Mideast. It would improve the read the name ‘‘John H. Berg’’ cut into black over with in two years,’’ his dad said. By strategic posture of China and North Korea granite on The Wall in Washington, D.C., and January 1968, 20-year-old John was in Viet- in the region, at the expense of vital U.S. they will assume he died in Vietnam in the nam. His early letters home to his parents, concerns, including U.S. standard of living. spring of 1968. Berg was fatally wounded three younger sisters and a brother revealed 10. Ignoring Plight of Christians. The 1995 April 7, 1968, in combat near Khe Sahn, but a diminishing innocence as reality and the disengagement from Bethlehem and Beit it took him 371⁄2 years to die. When he did, on futility of the mission sank in. ‘‘I only hope Jallah has accelerated the flight of Chris- Oct. 10, 2003, it was in his rural Rockford this year goes fast and I come back in one tians, caused by PLO/PA oppression and home surrounded by family. But the Viet- piece,’’ he wrote two weeks before his injury. desecration of churches. nam War took his life, just as surely as if he His wife, Lynn, said John could remember 11. Setback to Mideast Democratization. had died that spring day long ago as he lay Disengagement would promote the most cor- in the dirt with blood streaming from the what happened during the firefight on April rupt and repressive Arab regime in the Mid- hole in his skull. Medics postponed his death 7, 1968, up until he was wounded. He was feed- east, rewarding a terrorist regime, thus deal- that day. Military doctors patched him up as ing an ammunition belt into a machine gun ing a blow to moderate Palestinians. well as they could and sent him home to being fired by another soldier when he 12. Undermining Israel-Egypt Peace. The Rockford with a plate covering the hole in turned to dive for cover from incoming mor- 1979 peace treaty disengaged Israeli and his skull and shrapnel still embedded in his tar. It’s still unclear whether he was shot in Egyptian military forces from one another. brain. the head or hit by shrapnel or both. He was The Plan of Disengagement would reengage He dragged his left leg, and his left hand unconscious or semiconscious for weeks. The them in a terror-ridden area, thus fueling was useless. He slurred his words. Back in Western Union telegram arrived early one unintentional and intentional confronta- Rockford, he couldn’t find a job. A talented weekday morning as Harold Berg was getting tions. It could drag the U.S. unnecessarily musician, he was bitterly disappointed that ready for work. ‘‘Deep regret . . . very seri- into such conflict. Egypt has facilitated/tol- he couldn’t play piano, organ, violin and gui- ously ill list . . . penetrating fragment erated the smuggling of terror hardware, tar, as he once did. But he went to college. wound to the head.’’ Vergene couldn’t stop missiles and mortars into Gaza. It has under- He re-learned how to play his instruments crying. Hilary Belcher, who’s 15 years young- mined U.S. interests in Africa, in the Red with only his right hand and arm. He sought er than John, doesn’t remember too much Sea and in the U.N., and it has spearheaded the company of other Vietnam veterans who about the time, except that her parents were anti-Jewish Arab/Palestinian hate education understood the struggle. He found a job that distraught. (PA hate education employs Egyptian school gave him purpose. For 25 years, he was a vet- text books). erans representative at the Illinois Depart- The telegrams kept coming with updates 13. PLO’s Track Record of Inter-Arab ment of Employment Security. Over the on her brother’s condition, and after John Treachery. Abu Mazen Abu Ala’, Inc. fled years, he helped thousands of veterans find was transferred to a hospital in Denver, Egypt (late 1950s) for subversive activities. jobs and get benefits to which they were en- Colo., the family drove out there to see him. They escaped Syria (1966) for betraying their titled. Many were disabled, as he was. ‘‘I remember walking down a long hallway hosts. They were expelled from Jordan for In 2002, doctors found the tumor growing and doorway after doorway, there were all attempting to topple the Hashemite regimes under the plate in Berg’s head. His widow, these men with holes in their heads, just like via terrorism. They exacerbated a series of Lynn Berg, said doctors found shrapnel when John,’’ Belcher said. ‘‘We took him out for a civil wars in Lebanon since 1975. They spear- they tried to carve away the tumor and buy while. You could hardly understand him headed Saddam’s invasion of Kuwait (1990), her husband a little more time. Even fight- when he talked.’’ Months later, when he which hosted them since the 1950s. Their sys- ing the relentless growth of a malignant came home, she said, ‘‘I ran out to him say- tematic violent violation of the 1993 Oslo Ac- tumor, Berg continued to work. He lived ing ‘John’s home! John’s home!’ He screamed. He thought I was going to knock cords have been consistent with their inter- longer than anybody expected. him down. ‘‘I used to run to him and he’d Arab back-stabbing. Disengagement would When he died, his buddies at VietNow, be viewed—by the PLO/PA as a reward to throw me up in the air.’’ There was plenty of which he’d helped to start, began the process trauma to go around. treachery, which would vindicate the afore- to have his name added to The Wall, the mentioned track record. Vietnam Memorial in Washington. The De- ‘‘Those first eight years, he was very f partment of Defense concluded that Berg’s angry,’’ Belcher said. ‘‘When you get a head fatal wound was incurred in Vietnam in 1968 injury, it changes your whole personality.’’ HONORING ARMY PRIVATE FIRST and that he qualified to have his name listed John was bitter that he couldn’t play his in- CLASS JOHN HAROLD BERG on the memorial. And so, Berg’s name was struments. His disability was obvious, and carved on The Wall earlier this month. A nobody would hire him. ‘‘It took him years small diamond after the name signifies a to find a job. He even applied to a gas station HON. DONALD A. MANZULLO confirmed combat death. His name was to pump gas, but they told him, ‘You only OF ILLINOIS placed as close as possible to those of other have one hand, ’ ’’ Belcher said. He decided to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES soldiers who suffered their fatal injuries on go back to Rock Valley College. There, he the same day. The thinking is that they Monday, June 20, 2005 met Reuben Johnson, dean of community should be together. His father, 86-year-old services and the producer and founder of Mr. MANZULLO. Mr. Speaker, last month, I Harold John Berg, said that the memorial Starlight Theatre. Johnson helped Berg 1 had the honor and privilege of attending the was waiting for his son, despite the 37 ⁄2-year learn to play the piano, organ, guitar and annual Memorial Day Vietnam Wall observ- reprieve from death. ‘‘We saw the wall once,’’ violin with one hand. the elder Berg said. ‘‘And now we go the rest ance, in which one of my constituents and of the way. He’s on it.’’ John H. Berg of It was a turning point, as was the job Berg friends, the late Army PFC John Harold Berg Rockford was fatally wounded in Vietnam landed in July 1977 as a veterans representa- of Rockford, Illinois, was honored for his serv- April 7, 1968. He died Oct. 10, 2003. What he tive at the Illinois Department of Employ- ice to our country. John was gravely injured in did in between is the story. ment Security. He was good at it, said Jack

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.048 E20PT1 E1294 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 Snyder, who also is a disabled Vietnam vet- Retired U.S. Army Col. Fremont HUMAN RIGHTS IN VIETNAM eran. The two men worked together at the Piercefield knew Berg well from their mu- department for close to 25 years. ‘‘I’ve never tual work in various organizations, including seen a person give so much heart and caring the VFW, Disabled American Veterans and HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH to his job as John did,’’ Snyder said. ‘‘We had the Winnebago County Veterans Association. OF NEW JERSEY guys coming in who were basically homeless. ‘‘He was the gentlest, kindest man,’’ the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES He would take them home until they got on colonel said. ‘‘He was there when you ex- Monday, June 20, 2005 their feet. ‘‘I’ve seen him cry at his desk pected him and when you needed him.’’ He over some of these situations, over the mis- was the same way on the home front, his Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, use and abuse the military has given some of wife said. He took care of the house and the today in the Subcommittee on Africa, Global these people.’’ cars and the lawn, but he also taught her Human Rights and Africa, I chaired a timely Berg often referred clients to the Winne- how to do those things. She needs to know and critical hearing that examined the govern- bago County Veterans Assistance office in them now that he’s gone. Memorial Hall. Herbert L. Crenshaw, also a He would see a need and answer it before ment of Vietnam’s respect for human rights Vietnam veteran, works there. He and Berg other people noticed, she said. For instance, and religious freedom. worked together to get help for thousands of he was concerned that one of her daughters Our witnesses included Ms. Nina Shea, Vice vets over the years, he said. ‘‘He worked with was in danger walking from the library back Chair, U.S. Commission on International Reli- this office to get veterans back on their feet, to her dorm at Northern Illinois University gious Freedom; Ms. Minky Worden, Media Di- to get jobs, get assistance,’’ Crenshaw said. after using a computer late at night. He rector, Human Rights Watch; Ms. Helen Ngo, ‘‘He had walked in their shoes. He had the bought her a computer for her room. Chairwoman Committee for Religious Free- same difficulties and disabilities they had.’’ There were health issues over the years. Berg, like many of his clients, had a full Berg took medication to deal with headaches dom in Vietnam; Dr. Nguyen Than, Executive disability designation from the Department and seizures that came with the head injury. Director, Boat People S.O.S.; Mr. Vo Van Ai, of Veterans Affairs. ‘‘He could have sat home He learned to compensate for the partial pa- President, Vietnam Committee on Human and drawn a disability,’’ Crenshaw said. ‘‘He ralysis of his left side and minimized the Rights; Mr. Y Khim Nie, Executive Director, chose to work.’’ Berg had a network that he limp. He never regained use of his left hand. Montagnard Human Rights Organization. The could use to get practical assistance for vet- It looked just as it did when he was 20 years excellent testimony these witnesses provided erans and offer them moral support. He old, his wife and sister said, as if it had been can be found online (http://wwwc.house.gov/ helped found VietNow, a support group for frozen in time the day he was injured. international_relations/) Vietnam veterans that started in Rockford THE END OF SOMETHING and then became a national organization. It Before I report on the human rights crisis in In May of 2002, Berg began having excru- Vietnam, let me say at the outset, Mr. Speak- still thrives. ciating, debilitating headaches and more fre- Nick Parnello, one of the original VietNow quent seizures, his wife said. Brain scans er, that I remain deeply concerned about ob- members and now president of the Vietnam showed bright spots of shrapnel but the brain taining a full, thorough and responsible ac- Veterans Honor Society, said John was ‘‘the tumor was not detected for a couple of counting of the remaining American MIAs from only guy that always showed up’’ at the months. He had surgery, but the tumor was the Vietnam conflict. As my colleagues know early meetings. ‘‘Some of the guys felt that malignant, and doctors indicated it was just well, of the 2,583 POW/MIAs who were unac- we should give up because there were so few a matter of time. Lynn Berg remembers one of us back then,’’ Parnello said. ‘‘But if John counted for—Vietnam, 1,921; Laos, 569; Cam- doctor predicting John had about nine bodia, 83; and China, 10—just under 1,400 re- could show up in his disabled condition, it months. He exceeded that by about seven was an inspiration to all of us. ‘‘Everybody months. VietNow treasurer and good friend main unaccounted for in Vietnam. While the he came in contact with was changed be- Darrell Gilgan visited Berg as he was joint POW/MIA accounting command normally cause of his commitment to them.’’ recuperating from the surgery in a Beloit conducts four joint field activities per year in MARRIAGE AND FAMILY nursing home. Vietnam, I remain deeply concerned that the In November 1991, Berg met Lynn Walquist Berg’s radio was missing one day and government of Vietnam could be more forth- of Rockford. Her daughter and son-in-law, Gilgan asked him about it. ‘‘He gave it to coming and transparent in providing the fullest who knew Berg through mutual acquaint- the guy in the next bed, a B–17 pilot during accounting. It is our sacred duty to the families ances in the veterans circle, fixed them up. World War II,’’ Gilgan said. ‘‘He was like ‘‘I’ve got four kids—two in college—and all that.’’ Berg continued to work as much as he of the missing that we never forget and never these animals,’’ recalled Lynn, who’s always could, but the tumor was growing again and cease our pursuit until we achieve the fullest had a cat and at least one dog. ‘‘What’s the pain was awful, his wife said. During his possible accounting of our MIAs. wrong with him?’’ last months, she cared for him at their Today’s hearing on human rights abuses in The kids always had rock music blaring home, with help from the Northern Illinois Vietnam must be reviewed in the context of when Berg came to pick her up for a date. Hospice Association. He died Oct. 10, 2003. A the official visit this week to Washington by Vi- ‘‘He said, ‘Do you ever listen to classical few months later, Gilgan began the paper- etnamese Prime Minister Phan Van Khai. De- music?’’’ she said, she didn’t. He taught her work necessary to have Berg considered for signed to mark 10 years of diplomatic relations to love it as he did. Lynn’s scrapbook holds addition to the Vietnam Memorial. The key tickets from concerts they attended at the element in Berg’s favor was that the Depart- between the United States and Vietnam, the Lyric Opera in Chicago and elsewhere. By ment of Veterans Affairs had determined visit is the highest-level since the end of the then, Berg could make music on the piano that his death was a result of the combat in- Vietnam War. Khai will meet with President and other instruments with one hand. He jury in 1968. Bush and Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld, sang with the Rock Valley Chorale and with Gilgan sent a letter to U.S. Rep. Don Man- conclude intelligence agreements on terrorism a Mendelssohn Club group. They fell in love zullo, R-Egan, who sent it through the prop- and transnational crime, as well as begin and were married April 25, 1992. ‘‘It was the er military channels. ‘‘I had known John for IMET military cooperation, meet with Microsoft years,’’ said Manzullo, who will sit with best day of our lives,’’ Lynn Berg said. ‘‘He chairman Bill Gates, and ring the bell on the told me: ‘I’ll never say no to you,’ and he Berg’s family at a Memorial Day ceremony kept his promise.’’ Monday at The Wall. ‘‘Here is a guy who floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Over the years they attended VietNow con- could have given up, but he refused to accept Vietnam hopes to gain U.S. support to join ventions and events. She became active as an the fact that people told him he was 100 per- the World Trade Organization this year. Trade ‘‘associate,’’ which is what veterans’’ spouses cent disabled. ‘‘He went to work to serve as with the United States has exploded in the are called in the group. ‘‘He always said that a witness and an example to people who are past decade, from $1.5 billion to $6.4 billion in he felt very fortunate. He was only in Viet- severely disabled.’’ 2004. Vietnamese exports to the United States nam for three months,’’ Lynn Berg said. Some friends and family have traveled have also jumped from $800 million in 2001 to from the Rockford area to join Lynn Berg at ‘‘The others who had been there longer were $5 billion last year. the ones who came back with so many prob- the ceremony, which will include a special lems.’’ His friends became her friends. Her remembrance for her husband and three An outside observer looking at all of this ac- children and grandchildren were his. other veterans whose names have been added tivity would in all likelihood conclude that Viet- He’s smiling in every picture his wife has on The Wall. John Berg’s parents are not nam is a close business and political partner in her numerous photo albums. But it would well enough to go. His dad wishes he could, of the United States in Asia. And that ob- be a mistake to say Berg’s transformation though. ‘‘It’s an end to something, I guess,’’ server, if asked, would also likely deduce that from an angry young man to a person with Harold Berg said. ‘‘He just got an extension in order to cooperate so closely, Vietnam must purpose and a zest for living was easy, said on his death.’’ That sad morning when the also share the core values of the United his sister, Hilary Belcher. ‘‘He had to grow telegram came so many years ago and the into a new personality and lifestyle and ev- day his son died all those years later occupy States that make our country great. Values erything,’’ Belcher said. ‘‘He was gung-ho the same place of grief in his heart. ‘‘We such as the promotion of democracy, respect when he went into the service, and then he hoped the day would never come,’’ his dad for human rights, and the protection of reli- lost it and he got angry. ‘‘But he got through said, ‘‘but then we found out he wasn’t going gious freedom, free speech, and the rights of it, and his gung ho came back.’’ to make it, after all.’’ minorities.

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.052 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1295 A quick look at the State Department’s an- and even veteran communists in their own Give special consideration to prisoners and nual Human Rights report on Vietnam, how- homes, and lately in Internet cafes, for speak- cases of concern raised by the United States ever, reveals the opposite. According to the ing out for freedom and against corruption. In during the granting of prisoner amnesties. 2004 report released just three months ago: fact, the comments I am making right now Time will tell whether the government will ‘‘Vietnam is a one-party state, ruled and would easily fetch me a 15-year prison sen- respect this agreement and comply with its controlled by the Communist Party of Viet- tence replete with torture if I were a Viet- provisions, or whether there will be a return to nam (CPV). . . . The Government’s human namese national or Member of Parliament business as usual once the spotlight is re- rights record remained poor, and it contin- making these comments in Vietnam. moved. But the agreement does shows that ued to commit serious abuses. The Govern- It is a government that crushes thousands ment continued to deny citizens the right to the provisions of the International Religious change their government. Several sources re- of Montagnard protestors, as they did in the Freedom Act seem to be helping to improve ported that security forces shot, detained, Central Highlands during Easter weekend in the respect for religious freedom in some of beat, and were responsible for the disappear- 2004, killing and beating many peaceful the worst violator countries. ances of persons during the year. Police also protestors. The more important point is that religious reportedly sometimes beat suspects during The government has forcibly closed over freedom is not a matter of compliance with an arrests, detention, and interrogation. . . . 400 Christian churches in the Central High- agreement, but an attitude of respect for citi- The Government continued to hold political lands, and the government continues to force and religious prisoners. . . . The Government zens who choose to worship and peacefully tens of thousands of Christians to renounce practice their religious beliefs that extends significantly restricted freedom of speech, their faith. I would note here that it is inspiring freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, from the highest government leaders down to and freedom of association. . . . Security but not unexpected that many of these Chris- local authorities and the village police. tians have steadfastly resisted those pres- forces continued to enforce restrictions on In a recent interview given prior to his visit sures and refused to renounce Christ. One public gatherings and travel in some parts of to the United States, Prime Minister Khai stat- the country, particularly in the Central pastor estimated that 90 percent have refused ed, ‘‘we have no prisoners of conscience in Highlands and the Northwest Highlands. The to renounce their Christian faith, despite gov- Vietnam,’’ and declared that ‘‘political reforms Government prohibited independent polit- ernment efforts to compel them to do so. ical, labor, and social organizations. . . . The This is a government that has detained the and economic reforms should be closely har- Government restricted freedom of religion leadership of the Unified Buddhist Church of monized.’’ and prohibited the operation of unregistered Vietnam and continues to attempt to control His statement is typical of the attitude of the religious organizations. Participants in un- the leadership of the Catholic Church. government of Vietnam, which has scoffed at registered organizations faced harassment as the Vietnam Human Rights Act and dismissed well as possible detention and imprisonment. This is a government that imprisoned a The Government imposed limits on freedom Catholic priest by the name of Father Ly and charges of human rights abuses, pleading the of movement of some individuals whom it meted out a 10-year prison sentence. Father tired mantra of interference in the internal af- deemed a threat. The Government did not Ly was imprisoned in 2001 when he was ar- fairs of their government and that our struggle permit human rights organizations to form rested after submitting testimony to a hearing is some way related to the war in Vietnam. or operate. of the United States Commission on Inter- They say, Vietnam is a country, not a war. Moreover, in September 2004, the State De- national Religious Freedom. In his testimony, That is their protest, and I would say that is partment designated Vietnam as a ‘‘Country of he criticized the communist government of precisely the issue. Particular Concern’’ or ‘‘CPC’’ for its system- Vietnam for its policies of repressing religious The hearing we held today was about the atic, ongoing, egregious violations of religious freedom. In fact, I was the author of H. Con. shameful human rights record of a country, freedom. Res. 378, which called for the immediate re- more accurately, of a government that abuses Congress has also expressed its grave con- lease of Father Ly and cleared Congress 424– the rights of its own people. And, of course, cern about the state of human rights in Viet- 1 on May 12, 2004. Vietnam is a country with millions of wonderful nam. The House of Representatives has twice Thankfully Father Ly, along with Dr. Nguyen people who yearn to breathe free and to enjoy passed legislation authored by me on human Dan Que, were released from prison earlier the blessings of liberty. We say, behave like rights in Vietnam. H.R. 1587, The Vietnam this year, in all likelihood due to the pressure an honorable government, stop bringing dis- Human Rights Act of 2004, passed the House from the United States with its CPC designa- honor and shame to your government by by a 323–45 vote in July of 2004. A similar tion. abusing your own people and start abiding by measure passed by a 410–1 landslide in the Their release was part of a process called internationally recognized U.N. covenants that House in 2001. The measures called for lim- for in the 1998 International Religious Free- you have signed. iting further increases of non-humanitarian dom Act, which I cosponsored, which man- When is enough, enough? Vietnam needs U.S. aid from being provided to Vietnam if cer- dates that the U.S. government engage in dia- to come out of the dark ages of repression, tain human rights provisions were not met, logue with severe violators of religious free- brutality and abuse and embrace freedom, the and authorized funding to overcome the jam- dom to improve conditions or face ‘‘Presi- rule of law, and respect for fundamental ming of Radio Free Asia and funding to sup- dential actions,’’ which could include sanctions human rights. Vietnam needs to act like the port non-governmental organizations which or withdrawal of non-humanitarian assistance. strategic partner of the United States we promote human rights and democratic change The Vietnamese government also took would like it to be, treating its citizens, even in Vietnam. Regrettably, both bills stalled in some other positive steps in response to the those who disagree with government policies, CPC designation, including a new law stream- Senate committees and have not been en- with respect and dignity. acted into law. lining the application process for religious Human rights are central, are at the core of I regret that no one from the State Depart- groups registering with the government and our relationship with governments and the ment was available to participate in today’s prime ministerial directives which prohibit hearing to explain the incongruity of United forced renunciations of faith and allow Protes- people they purport to represent. The United States support for the government of Vietnam, tant ‘‘house churches’’ in ethnic minority prov- States of America will not turn a blind eye to as expressed in our close and growing-ever- inces to operate if they renounce connections the oppression of a people, any people in any closer trade and military relations, and U.S. to certain expatriate groups, particularly the region of the world. concern for the appalling lack of respect for Montagnard Foundation, which is based in the the basic human rights of its citizens that the United States. f Vietnamese government has consistently dem- And in May, the State Department an- INTRODUCTION OF THE WEATHER onstrated. nounced it had reached an agreement on reli- MODIFICATION RESEARCH AND The Human Rights Reports, the Report on gious freedom with Vietnam. Under the agree- TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER AU- International Religious Freedom, the Traf- ment, the Vietnamese government committed THORIZATION ACT OF 2005 ficking in Persons Report, the reports of lead- to: ing international human rights organizations, Fully implement the new legislation on re- and countless witnesses, some of whose testi- ligious freedom and to render previous con- HON. MARK UDALL monies were provided today, give evidence to tradictory regulations obsolete; OF COLORADO the fact that the government of Vietnam has Instruct local authorities to strictly and completely adhere to the new legislation and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES inflicted and continues to inflict terrible suf- ensure their compliance; Monday, June 20, 2005 fering on countless people. Facilitate the process by which religious It is a regime that arrests and imprisons congregations are able to open houses of Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise writers, scientists, academics, religious leaders worship; and today to introduce the Weather Modification

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.057 E20PT1 E1296 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 Research and Technology Transfer Authoriza- On June 17, 2005, I was unable to be the Lincoln Rotary Club and chairman of the tion Act. This bill will increase and enhance re- present for rollcall vote #265 to the Fiscal Lincoln Recreation Committee. He also search and development in weather modifica- Year 2006 Science, State, Justice, and Com- coached youth baseball and basketball. tion to better understand its effectiveness in merce Appropriations Act. I was unavoidably In addition to his professional responsibil- addressing drought in our country. detained by other Congressional duties related ities, Dr. Wallingford is a devoted outdoors- The western part of our country, including to the 29th District of Texas. man. He has been a member of the National my own state of Colorado, has experienced I would have voted ‘‘no’’ on the Moran Ski Patrol since 1989 and serves on the drought conditions in recent years. Efforts amendment to prohibit Federal funds from Squaw Mountain Ski Patrol. He is a licensed have been made to address drought recovery, being used to license the export of .50 caliber whitewater guide and has a land and sea rat- preparedness and mitigation. However, little firearms. Federal agencies already have the ing as a licensed private pilot. Dr. Wallingford fundamental research has been done to better ability to prohibit exports of certain firearms to also owns and manages the Moosehead Lake understand weather modification, which some certain countries or groups when that is in the Sporting Camps and Mt. Kineo Cabins. believe can increase the snowpacks that pro- national interest. In addition, there are count- vide water resources for several western Dr. Wallingford and his wife Elaine have less sources of firearms in the global market- been married for 35 years and they have three states. place. Unfortunately, this amendment would The National Academies of Science report children. Richard III is a physician and is com- not have provided any benefits in terms of re- pleting his residency in psychiatry at Harvard Critical Issues in Weather Modification Re- ducing terrorists’ access to firearms. search, released in 2003, noted that there is University. Denise holds a Master’s Degree no scientific proof that weather modification is f from Boston College and is an elementary effective, however attributes this to a lack of CONGRATULATIONS TO DR. school teacher. Tiffany is a graduate student understanding of ‘‘critical atmospheric proc- RICHARD WALLINGFORD, JR. at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, California. esses’’ that has caused unpredictable results The American Optometric Association is the with weather modification, not a lack of suc- HON. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD professional society for optometrists nation- cess with such efforts. The report called for a wide and has more than 34,000 members. Dr. national program for a sustained research ef- OF MAINE Wallingford will lead the association on its mis- fort in weather modification research to en- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sion to improve eye and vision care in the hance the effectiveness and predictability of Monday, June 20, 2005 United States. weather modification. Dr. Richard Wallingford has built a distin- There is currently no federal investment in Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, doctors of op- guished record of service and leadership in his weather modification, though there are private tometry from around the nation will convene in profession and in his community. I am con- funds that are largely going toward unproven Dallas, Texas, from June 22–26 for techniques. My bill, similar to a bill introduced Optometry’s Meeting, the American Opto- fident that he will have a very successful term as president of the American Optometric As- in the Senate by Senator KAY BAILEY metric Association’s 108th annual convention. sociation. I join his family, friends and col- HUTCHISON, establishes a federal research and On Saturday, June 25, they will elect Dr. Rich- development effort to improve our under- ard Wallingford, Jr. as the association’s 84th leagues in congratulating him on this achieve- standing of the atmosphere and develop more president. ment and wishing him good luck and good effective weather modification technologies Dr. Wallingford is a resident of Rockwood, health. and techniques. Maine, on Moosehead Lake. He is a native Specifically, the bill creates a Weather Modi- son who has practiced optometry in our state f fication Advisory and Research Board in the for 30 years. He is a graduate of the Univer- Department of Commerce to promote the ‘‘the- sity of Maine at Orono and the College of Op- PERSONAL EXPLANATION oretical and practical knowledge of weather tometry at the State University of New York. modification’’ through the funding of research He currently serves as Director of Clinical HON. JIM McDERMOTT and development projects. The board will be Services at Vision Care of Maine in Bangor. made up of representatives from the American Dr. Wallingford has been a leader in his pro- OF WASHINGTON Meteorological Society, the American Society fession at the state, regional and national lev- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of Civil Engineers, the National Academy of els. He has been a member of the Maine Op- Monday, June 20, 2005 Sciences, the National Center for Atmospheric tometric Association since 1975, and served Research, the National Oceanic and Atmos- as president in 1982. He was appointed to the Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, I missed pheric Administration, a higher education insti- Maine Board of Optometry in 1989, and he votes on Friday, June 17, 2005 due to a pre- tution and a state which is currently supporting served until 1999. He was also a member of viously scheduled event in my district. Had I operational weather modification projects. the New England Council of Optometrists, and been able to, I would have voted: In Colorado, a large portion of our water he currently serves on the Board of Trustees Against the Royce amendment to H.R. 2745 source comes from the snowpack run off each of the New England College of Optometry. (rollcall vote No. 274). year. A better understanding of weather modi- At the national level, Dr. Wallingford has Against the Fortenberry amendment to H.R. fications has the potential to enhance our been a member of American Optometric Asso- 2745 (rollcall vote No. 275). snowpacks, and thus assist in addressing ciation (AOA) since 1971, and has served in drought concerns. the association’s volunteer structure since Against the Flake amendment to H.R. 2745 Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support 1983. He was elected to the AOA Board of (rollcall vote No. 276). the expansion of the research and develop- Trustees in 1998 and was re-elected in 2001. For the Chabot amendment to H.R. 2745 ment of weather modification and urge a swift Remarkably, Dr. Wallingford has maintained (rollcall vote No. 277). passage of this bill. his hectic schedule while battling multiple Against the Pence amendment to H.R. 2745 f myeloma, a form of blood cancer. Diagnosed (rollcall vote No. 278). PERSONAL EXPLANATION with the disease in 2000, he began an aggres- Against the Gohmert amendment to H.R. sive treatment plan last year which included 2745 (rollcall vote No. 279). HON. GENE GREEN six rounds of chemotherapy and two stem cell Against the Stearns amendment to H.R. transplants. In January, Dr. Wallingford re- OF TEXAS 2745 (rollcall vote No. 280). ceived good news that the myeloma was in re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mission. For the Lantos amendment to H.R. 2745 Monday, June 20, 2005 In his community, Dr. Wallingford was elect- (rollcall vote No. 281). Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, ed to the board of Maine School Administra- Against Final passage of H.R. 2745 (rollcall I ask unanimous consent to include this per- tive District (MSAD) #67, where he served as vote No. 282). sonal explanation in the RECORD. chairman for two years. He was president of

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A20JN8.060 E20PT1 June 20, 2005 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1297 SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS of Linda Morrison Combs, of North 2:30 p.m. Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, Carolina, to be Controller, Office of Homeland Security and Governmental Af- Federal Financial Management, Office agreed to by the Senate on February 4, fairs of Management and Budget, Linda M. Federal Financial Management, Govern- 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- Springer, of Pennsylvania, to be Direc- ment Information, and International tem for a computerized schedule of all tor of the Office of Personnel Manage- Security Subcommittee meetings and hearings of Senate com- ment, Laura A. Cordero, of the District To hold oversight hearings to examine mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge disparities in federal HIV/AIDS CARE tees, and committees of conference. of the Superior Court of the District of programs, focusing on the effectiveness This title requires all such committees Columbia, and A. Noel Anketell Kra- of CARE Act funding allocations in en- to notify the Office of the Senate Daily mer, of the District of Columbia, to be suring that all Americans living with Digest—designated by the Rules Com- an Associate Judge of the District of HIV are provided access to core med- mittee—of the time, place, and purpose Columbia Court of Appeals, and several ical services and life-saving AIDS of the meetings, when scheduled, and post office naming bills. medications. any cancellations or changes in the SD–562 SD–562 meetings as they occur. 10:30 a.m. Intelligence As an additional procedure along Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry To hold closed hearings to examine cer- To hold hearings to examine the Live- tain intelligence matters. with the computerization of this infor- stock Mandatory Reporting Act of 1999. mation, the Office of the Senate Daily SH–219 SR–328A 4:15 p.m. Digest will prepare this information for 2:30 p.m. printing in the Extensions of Remarks Armed Services Commerce, Science, and Transportation Strategic Forces Subcommittee section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD Aviation Subcommittee To hold a closed briefing on the Ballistic To hold hearings to examine financial on Monday and Wednesday of each Missile Defense Test Program. stability of airlines. week. SR–222 Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, SR–253 June 21, 2005 may be found in the Daily Intelligence JUNE 28 Digest of today’s RECORD. To hold a closed briefing on certain intel- 10 a.m. ligence matters. Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry MEETINGS SCHEDULED SH–219 To hold hearings to examine the Agricul- JUNE 22 JUNE 23 tural Risk Protection Act of 2000 and related crop insurance issues. Time to be announced 9:30 a.m. SR–328A Foreign Relations Armed Services Commerce, Science, and Transportation Business meeting to consider the nomi- To hold hearings to examine United Global Climate Change and Impacts Sub- nations of Ronald E. Neumann, of Vir- States military strategy and oper- ginia, to be Ambassador to the Islamic ations in Iraq. committee Republic of Afghanistan, Gregory L. SR–325 To hold hearings to examine coastal im- Schulte, of Virginia, to be U.S. Rep- Judiciary pacts. resentative to the Vienna Office of the Business meeting to consider pending SR–253 United Nations, with the rank of Am- calendar business. Indian Affairs bassador, and to be U.S. Representative SD–226 To hold an oversight hearing to examine to the International Atomic Energy 10 a.m. regulation of Indian gaming. Agency, with the rank of Ambassador, Commerce, Science, and Transportation Room to be announced Michael E. Hess, of New York, to be an Business meeting to consider pending Energy and Natural Resources Assistant Administrator of the United calendar business. National Parks Subcommittee States Agency for International Devel- SR–253 To hold hearings to examine S. 206, to opment in the Bureau of Democracy, Finance designate the Ice Age Floods National Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance, To hold hearings to examine United Geologic Trail, S. 556, to direct the and Dina Habib Powell, of Texas, to be States-China economic relations. Secretary of the Interior and the Sec- Assistant Secretary of State for Edu- SD–215 retary of Agriculture to jointly con- cational and Cultural Affairs. Foreign Relations duct a study of certain land adjacent to S–116, Capitol To hold hearings to examine issues rel- the Walnut Canyon National Monu- 9:30 a.m. ative to developing an HIV/AIDS vac- ment in the State of Arizona, S. 588, to Indian Affairs cine. amend the National Trails System Act To hold an oversight hearing to examine to direct the Secretary of the Interior the In Re Tribal Lobbying Matters, Et SD–419 and the Secretary of Agriculture to Al. Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions jointly conduct a study on the feasi- SH–216 To meet to discuss the Family Medical bility of designating the Arizona Trail 10 a.m. Leave Act. as a national scenic trail or a national Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry SD–430 To hold hearings to examine the nomina- Veterans’ Affairs historic trail, and S. 955, to direct the tion of Richard A. Raymond, of Ne- To hold hearings to examine pending vet- Secretary of the Interior to conduct a braska, to be Under Secretary of Agri- erans benefits related legislation. special resource study to determine the culture for Food Safety. SR–418 suitability and feasibility of including SR–328A 2 p.m. in the National Park System certain Commerce, Science, and Transportation Appropriations sites in Williamson County, Tennessee, To hold hearings to examine telecom Business meeting to mark up H.R. 2744, relating to the Battle of Franklin. mergers. making appropriations for Agriculture, SD–366 SR–253 Rural Development, Food and Drug Ad- 3 p.m. Homeland Security and Governmental Af- ministration, and Related Agencies for Energy and Natural Resources fairs the fiscal year ending September 30, Water and Power Subcommittee Business meeting to consider S. 662, to 2006, H.R. 2862, making appropriations To hold hearings to examine the water reform the postal laws of the United for Science, the Departments of State, supply status in the Pacific Northwest States, S. 457, to require the Director Justice, and Commerce, and related and its impact on power production, of the Office of Management and Budg- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- and S. 648, to amend the Reclamation et to issue guidance for, and provide tember 30, 2006, and proposed legisla- States Emergency Drought Relief Act oversight of, the management of micro- tion making appropriations for fiscal of 1991 to extend the authority for purchases made with Governmentwide year 2006 for the Legislative Branch. drought assistance. commercial purchase cards, S. 611, to SD–106 SD–366 establish a Federal Interagency Com- Judiciary JUNE 29 mittee on Emergency Medical Services Constitution, Civil Rights and Property and a Federal Interagency Committee Rights Subcommittee 9:30 a.m. on emergency Medical Services Advi- To hold hearings to examine the con- Indian Affairs sory Council, S. 37, to extend the spe- sequences of Roe V. Wade and Doe V. Business meeting to consider pending cial postage stamp for breast cancer re- Bolton. committee issues. search for 2 years, and the nominations SD–226 SR–485

VerDate Aug 04 2004 06:30 Jun 21, 2005 Jkt 039060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\M20JN8.000 E20PT1 E1298 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 20, 2005 10 a.m. that will impact how health services SEPTEMBER 20 Commerce, Science, and Transportation are provided in the future. 10 a.m. To hold hearings to examine Spectrum- SR–253 Veterans’ Affairs DTV. 2 p.m. To hold joint hearings with the House SR–253 Appropriations Committee on Veterans’ Affairs to ex- 2:30 p.m. Business meeting to mark up H.R. 2528, amine the legislative presentation of Commerce, Science, and Transportation making appropriations for military the American Legion. Disaster Prevention and Prediction Sub- quality of life functions of the Depart- 345 CHOB committee ment of Defense, military construc- To hold hearings to examine national tion, the Department of Veterans Af- CANCELLATIONS weather service-severe weather. fairs, and related agencies for the fiscal JUNE 22 SR–253 year ending September 30, 2006, pro- 10 a.m. JUNE 30 posed legislation making appropria- Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions tions for fiscal year 2006 for the Depart- 10 a.m. Business meeting to consider pending ment of State and foreign operations. Commerce, Science, and Transportation calendar business. SD–106 SD–430 Technology, Innovation, and Competitive- 3 p.m. ness Subcommittee Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions To hold hearings to examine how infor- Education and Early Childhood Develop- POSTPONEMENTS mation technology can reduce medical ment Subcommittee errors, lower healthcare costs, and im- 9:30 a.m. To hold hearings to examine issues relat- Environment and Public Works prove the quality of patient care, in- ing to American history. To hold an oversight hearing to examine cluding the importance of developing SD–430 grants management within the Envi- interoperable electronic medical ronmental Protection Agency. records and highlight new technologies SD–406

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