Joe Baca

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, the Labor H.H.S. conference report signals a bipartisan commitment to place education as a top priority. Education must be top priority not just for children of privilege, not just for those who speak English as their first language, all children deserve the opportunity to learn! Latinos remain among the most educationally disadvantaged of all students. Education must be a top priority for all children. In education, our children are the underdogs. Our children are without a voice. As elected officials we have the responsibility of voicing loudly and plainly the educational realities of poor and disadvantaged children. I can assure you that we in the Hispanic Caucus have not forgotten our roots. We are standing strong and fighting hard not only for our children but all children, so that no child is left behind. This bill makes significant strides in funding for our educational priorities but make no mistake that we as Hispanic members of Congress will continue pushing for adequate and protected funding for bilingual education, immigrant and special education. We will continue fighting so that every poor child, eligible for services can receive assistance. We are not only fighting for our children to catch up we are also fighting for our children to move ahead, excel, fulfill their hopes and dreams and lead us into the 21st century. We need to move out of the box to meet the needs of the changing population to meet the unique needs of our community. We need to provide the resources so that the opportunities for our children are real. We need to provide the resources so that all children, if they work hard, can succeed. That is the American promise. That is the American dream. We must remember the words of Cesar Chavez: Si se puede, Yes we can! With the passage of this bill we are well on our way. I strongly support final passage of H.R. 3061.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I stand in support of this rule. I commend the committee on a bipartisan effort. We really have come together and compromised. Education is our top priority, and should always be our top priority. We want to make sure that every child has an opportunity to learn and be all that he or she can be. We believe that H.R. 1 returns those original goals to targeting the funding for students who need it most, closing the achievement gap between the rich and poor, minority and non-minority. If we state that no child is left behind, we have to address this issue. H.R. 1 begins to address that issue, and I commend President Bush in making the statement that no child be left behind. This begins to address that. It is important that each and every one of our students receive the appropriate education, the training, and that we do have accountability. This provides for accountability in our schools. It provides opportunity for parental involvement in our schools which is very important. It is important that our students receive motivation, self-esteem, that they are able to go on. It is with dedicated teachers and accountability. I know because my son, Joe Baca, Jr., is a teacher in secondary schools. My wife has been a substitute teacher for over 20 years. My daughter is a teacher's aide. This is a step in the right direction. We still have a lot of work ahead of us as we look at class size reduction, school modernization and special ed. We want to make sure that every child is prepared to go into the 21st century, to make sure that he or she can be all that they want to be, that they can obtain jobs and employment, but have the same advantages as others. This also addresses a critical issue, the Hispanic dropout rate. When we look at the dropout rate, we have a 30 percent high school dropout rate. It addresses issues which are important to us, and hopefully we can reduce those numbers and provide opportunities and ensure that these students finish high school and go on. With that I say, let us support this bill. It is moving in the right direction.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I stand in opposition to the Fast Track legislation that is being proposed. Our country is at war. We must prioritize safety and security of the American people. There are lingering concerns of biological contamination. The American people continue to worry about anthrax, about new reports from the administration to be on high alert. Now is not the time to move forward on the Thomas Fast Track legislation. The U.S. has officially entered an economic recession. Millions of workers are suffering: unemployed, no health coverage, and jobs lost. Terrorists have struck the American people in their pocketbooks. The holidays are approaching. Hundreds are fearful of imminent layoff. Do you know what it is like to be laid off, not being able to make your payments, not being able to put food on the table, feed your children, stand up with pride? It is very difficult for many Americans who are being laid off, who are now trying to figure out a way to pay their bills. Now is not the time to move forward with this Fast Track legislation. Expediting a trade negotiation is the last priority for the American people, the last priority for the American people in these trying times. International trade directly affects the lives and the livelihood of increasing numbers of Americans. Congress cannot be confined to the back bench. We in Congress must be active and participate in all international trade negotiations. The Thomas bill would have us serve merely as consultants. That is not what we were elected to do. We were elected to voice and protect the interests not only of my district but of the American people in general. The Thomas Fast Track bill is an unfortunate manipulation of trade policy. Since September 11, broad bipartisanship has been a top priority. This bill serves in dividing the line. This bill is driving a wedge between the Democrats, the Republicans, between the Democrats and the high-tech community. The partisan tactics of the proponents of the Thomas Fast Track bill stands in stark contrast to the President's statement last week that the passage of Trade Promotion Authority would send a signal that Congress and the administration are united on trade. Congress is not united on trade. Now is not the time to move forward with the Thomas Fast Track legislation. Mr. Speaker, I would support legislation granting President Bush Fast Track negotiation powers provided it addressed effectively the key issues of labor and the environment and the role of Congress. I am not against free trade. Unfortunately, this bill we will vote on tomorrow fails to address the new realities of trade in an effective and realistic manner. The Thomas bill endangers a rare opportunity to build a bipartisan consensus in support of tearing down trade barriers in a way that would create jobs and raise living standards around the world. Labor and environmental considerations are not merely social considerations. The truth is that inclusion of labor and the environmental issues has real commercial significance for the terms of trade. A growing number of people around the world, having experienced the negative effects of free trade agreements, we can look back at NAFTA, are opposing accords such as the proposed free trade agreements because we know what we have experienced from many of the jobs lost in the auto industry, the manufacturing industries, and many other areas where people lost their jobs. We need a different kind of trade agreement, one that would benefit working people and the environment in every country. We can no longer give free reign to the over-exploitation of the workers who abuse not only workers but children and the environment. We must protect the interests of hard-working Americans and the hard-working individuals in our global community.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in the memory of my beloved Aunt, Carmelita Zamora and in commemoration of the close of an important history. Hers was a quiet life, and yet she played the central role in the life of her family. Her story began in Punt de Agua, New Mexico, on June 23, 1916. Carmelita Zamora left a legacy of nine children, 24 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren when she died on November 26, 2001. A loving and joyful memory survives her. They say a person is measured by the lives she touches. Through the grace of God, Carmelita touched the hearts and lives of many. She touched the lives of her loving children Jake, Abram, Philip, Eugene, Lawrence, Wilferd, Edwina, Alice and Maryanne Peggy. She touched the lives of 24 grandchildren Diana, Mary, Mario, Laura, Donna, Carol, JD, JJ, Mark, Sophia, Dominic, Adonis, Valerie, Ricky, Jennifer, Anthony, Christopher, Jessica, Candace, Angel, Eloisa, Penny, Ermogenes, Lisa Marie and of 34 great-grandchildren. Carmelita touched their lives in her very special way. Born the oldest of five siblings, Carmelita had two brothers and two sisters. When she was not yet a teenager, Carmelita developed the instincts of protector, caregiver and mother. Her own mother became ill, so Carmelita was forced to discontinue her elementary school education to care for her young siblings. Carmelita began a new chapter in her life on March 11, 1935, at 20 years old, when she met and married Ernesto Zamora. In 1951, Carmelita and Ernesto would move the family to Wyoming before moving back to the Southwest. In July of 1957, Carmelita and her family arrived in Barstow, California where she would live for the remainder of her life. Those remaining years would be spent filling the pages with memories. Carmelita was talented and creative. Her children proudly remember her ability to sew clothes and never use patterns. They swear that had she been born at another time and under easier conditions she would have been a famous fashion designer. Many memories stem from this talent of hers. Carmelita's son Abram fondly remembers a pair of new overalls she made him for school. They were so fine that when Abram arrived at school, all the other children begged for a pair of their own. Her granddaughter Penny treasures memories of spending time with her grandmother, talking while they washed clothes or while Carmelita sewed blankets. Carmelita even spoke of life lessons in terms of clothing. ``It doesn't make any difference if you are poor,'' they remember her saying. ``It doesn't matter if your clothes have patches as long as your shoes were shined and your clothes clean. That's all that matters.'' Her son Gene fondly recalls receiving such advice from his mother every Monday night during their weekly conversation. Those calls got him through his week. Whether they discussed her love for the sport of wrestling or she was providing advice for his day-to-day trials. She was the source of his strength all his life. All Carmelita's legacies remember her as a very strong woman. Her daughter Edwina said, ``She was there for me when my husband passed away at a very young age leaving me here with four young children. I couldn't have made it through without her love and strength.'' She was there for all of her children in times of need. Forever a mother, she was responsible for getting many of them through very difficult times. She was a mentor and an unyielding resource. She never asked for anything but always wanted to give. She generously offered her advice and left it up to her children whether or not to take it. Her grandchildren remember her not only as a source of strength but also a source of nourishment. Nourishment of the heart as well as the body. Granddaughter Lisa cherishes the time she spent with Carmelita watching soap operas or wrestling while eating cookies and drinking sodas. Eloisa similarly remembers her grandmother always wanting to feed them even if they were not hungry. ``She liked to feed everyone.'' This was because, as granddaughter Angel remembers, Grandma was the backbone of the family, she guided everything. She was a firm believer in God and always prayed to God to help the family in times of need. She also prayed to God for his blessings and in thanks for times of happiness. Aunt Carmelita is irreplaceable and we will not live one day without remembering this kind and gentle woman. This tribute to her life, to her legacy and to her story will allow her memory to survive all of us. And so Mr. Speaker, I submit this loving memorial to be included in the archives of the history of this great nation. For women like Carmelita are what make this nation great. Women like Carmelita leave a legacy of lives filled with love to all who knew her. She is the fabric from which our nation was created.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with regret and deep sadness that I rise to honor Tony Martinez, former constituent from Colton, California who passed away on October 4, 2001. I cannot begin to express how saddened I am by the passing of my friend Tony Martinez. All men die, but not all men really live; we can honestly say that Tony lived. He was a model citizen, community leader, father, grandfather, great- grandfather, and an extraordinary man. Tony Martinez was born in Colton but lived in Redlands for most of his life. Tony was a remarkable example of humanity. He left high school at sixteen to start his own trucking company, and until the day he was drafted to fight in World War II, he hauled fertilizer, fruits, and vegetables from Mexicali to Los Angeles. When Tony returned from the war he moved to East Los Angeles, where he had his first taste of politics. The California Community Service Organization was in its infancy and Ed Roybal, later to become Congressman and the father of Californian Latino politics, needed good men and women to help fight for Latino civil rights. Tony Martinez jumped headfirst and worked alongside the likes of Ed Roybal and Cesar Chavez to improve the lot in life of the average Latino. In the words of Congressman Ed Roybal, ``Tony is a man of great integrity . . . active in community affairs.'' Tony and Ed knew each other for over forty years and held each other in the highest esteem. Tony Martinez moved to Redlands in 1952 and since then became a fixture of the community. He worked hard every day to provide to his family and to improve his community. In 1973 he helped save the local Head Start program and soon after dedicated himself to the building of a community senior center. Tony was unyielding and unwavering in his dedication to this dream and his community. Tomorrow, the Redlands Community Center/Senior Nutrition Center will celebrate Tony's life to thank him for his selfless dedication. Although he was defeated three times for Redlands City Council, he never lost his faith in the community or the democratic process. In fact, he was one of the leading voices in a successful ballot measure to create city council wards, after the city council voted to eliminate them. Thanksgiving is a time of the year for family unity and to thank the blessings God has given us. Predictably, Tony had his own way to thank God for all his blessings; his daughter Anita remembers, ``I was seven years old and saw my dad dressed as Santa Claus taking pictures with the local kids and then he would make us all race over to the community center to hand out turkeys to poor families.'' If Tony was not busy showing the kids at the Boys and Girls Club to box, he was busy with his home-operated charity to fight poverty and hunger--Su Casa de Amistad. Not a single day was ever wasted. Tony used to say, ``anyone staying in front of the TV drinking beer is not going to last on this world.'' Tony Martinez is proof that we can live life to the fullest until our last day. At the age of 82, until the day he died, he worked tirelessly for his community. We will all miss you. Tony Martinez is survived by his wife Rosa Martinez, five children (Tony, Michael, Rebecca, Maria, and Anita), eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Tony is irreplaceable and we will not live one day without remembering this kind and gentle man.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Madam Speaker, I strongly support restoring the current language, and I think it is important, but I am in opposition to H.R. 1992. Madam Speaker, all of us strongly support distance learning, but I am very much concerned about the monies it will take away from our colleges, our universities, and our students who attend them. I think, as the individual just talked about right now, many individuals are taking advantage of the loans and the opportunities. Why are they taking advantage of them? They have an opportunity to take 12 hours or more, and the equivalencies are there, so students are going to do that. As we see the increase of our student population, we do not see the increase in funding of the pie. It is important that the funding in that pie be the equivalency. We have not increased it. We have seen the crises that are here today that are affecting us right now. Education is a high priority for all of us. But are we putting the additional dollars to assure that every student has access to it? No, we are not. I want to make sure that our colleges, our universities, and the individuals who are attending them have an opportunity to receive the funding that is there. I am also concerned about the digital divide between those who have computers and those who do not. Many individuals do not have access to our computers. I believe that every student should have the ability to be able to have computers and access. When they do, then we are at the same level playing field to assure that everybody has access to high technology. Until everyone has access, I say, how can we have certain students, individuals who are taking 12 units or less, receive the assistance while the other students are not going to? What effect does it have on the institution? Now when we talk about AFDA, there will be monies that will not go to our institutions that were taken away because instead of having students go there 12 hours or more, they will be taking a few classes to receive the kind of assistance they need, and our institutions then will be penalized. That is why I am supporting an appropriations request for KVCR district from my area in instructional television. But I am saying, increase the funding. Without the funding it becomes very difficult. All of us are not against distance learning. We believe distance learning is important to all of us. We want to make sure that everyone has the same opportunities. Our colleges and universities have always been the gateway of opportunity. We should not take funding away from them and hurt lower- income students. That is who it is going to affect, lower-income students at these institutions of learning, and the loan programs that will affect them have always been there. We have to make sure they are there now and in the future as we see the growth in our State colleges and universities. That is why I stand against H.R. 1992, because I want to make sure that every student has the ability to go. I know that I had that opportunity when I went to a community college and a State college and a university, that the loans were there. I am afraid that those monies will not be available for individuals as we see the increase. I would have loved to have seen this if we would have had the additional funding tied into that. I would have been one of the strongest supporters, because I believe in distance learning. But the funding is not appropriated toward this bill, and we are going to hurt our State colleges and universities. We want to make sure that everybody has access to our State colleges and universities, and has an opportunity to receive those loans. Many individuals of low income will be hurt because the monies will not be there for them to assure that they have an opportunity to fulfill their dreams and their goals in obtaining their education. Until we do, I urge a no vote.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I support House Concurrent Resolution 90, which authorizes the revision and reprinting of the book, ``Hispanic Americans in Congress.'' Within the pages of ``Hispanic Americans in Congress'' you will find inspirational stories of bravery, commitment, dedication, and selflessness. Such examples include Congressman ``Ed'' Roybal. Since Romualdo Pacheco in 1876, the state of California had not had a Latino Representative to Congress. Congressman Edward Roybal became part of history in 1962 by becoming the second ever Latino Member of Congress from California. ``Ed'' Roybal has been an inspiration to countless numbers of Latino citizens, community activists and elected leaders. Congressman Roybal is one of the many examples of Latino leadership that will inspire our leaders of tomorrow. Since 1960, more Hispanics have been elected to Congress than in the previous 140 years. We have reason to be proud of the contributions Latinos have made to our country. The future grows brighter everyday for Latinos. Latinos buying power is over one-third of a trillion dollars and every day a hard working American of Latino origin is setting up a business or buying a house. Little by little, Latinos have worked their way to recognition. This book will help inspire that joy of recognition, will serve history, and will motivate our youth with positive role models. Mr. Speaker, I please ask that we pass H. Con. Res. 90, so we may recognize Latino achievement and inspire new generations of Latino Members of Congress. Let us commemorate Congressman Roybal and the many others that have helped our community prosper.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to recognize the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Reyes) for creating this opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of Hispanics to this great Nation in the area of education, the area of business, the area of media, the area of veterans, the area of civil rights, individuals like Cesar Chavez and Delores Huerta of the United Farm Workers, who fought for equality and justice for all. I want to thank our Chair for taking the lead in having this. There are many individuals whose names will not even come out right now, but it is important for us to look at the contributions that Hispanics have made to this great Nation, from the time that we were here to the time that we will exist, and as we look at the growth in the population, we will continue to contribute to this great country, because we believe in this country, we live in this country, we are proud of this country. Last month, the sanity of our Nation was violated on our own soil. Our Hispanic sons and daughters are amongst the victims of this monstrous act of terrorism. With their patriotic hearts, our Hispanic sons and daughters are now rising to our Nation's defense. I state that our Hispanic sons and daughters are now rising to our national Hispanic defense. The Hispanic community understands freedom is not free, that freedom does not come without a price. Historically, as a community, we have militarily invested our hearts and soul in securing the peace for our abuelas, for our hijas, for our families. If asked, more than 85,000 Hispanics currently in active military duty will once again step up to the plate for our country; and I state step up once again to the plate for our country along with many other men and women serving our country. It is fitting, therefore, that we use this Hispanic Heritage Month to commemorate the military contributions of our courageous Hispanic community, for our culture is rich in its heritage, traditions and customs. We are proud people, willing to serve this great country. From the American Revolution to today's voluntary service, over 1 million Hispanic veterans have served our country with honor and courage. Hispanic Americans answered the call of duty every time during the wars throughout the Nation's history. As many as 500,000 Hispanics fought for the United States in World War II. Thirty-eight, and I state, 38 have received the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest award of valor. One individual from my area, Joseph Rodriguez, a sergeant from San Bernardino, received such a valor and high award and prestige. We were the second largest American minority in Vietnam, with over 19 percent of our numbers killed and wounded. As we move forward in our latest defense of freedom, freedom from terrorism, we will fight, and I state, we will fight to recapture the American peace. Mothers and fathers across the Nation will experience sleepless nights, worried about the possibility of a draft, worried about the possibility that their hijos will once again be called to duty. I know, because my mother was worried during the time that I served during the Vietnam era war. When I had to serve, every night she had a candle that she lit, she put up, and prayed every night that I would return home. And, yes, I did return home. We must not be afraid to step forward, to let our hijos step forward to make that choice, for if we are, we will have allowed them to win. We must have the courage to pay the price for our precious freedom. Through our military contributions we have seen and we will see notable reflections of the Hispanic commitment to the family, respect for others, and love of this country, all virtues transcending ethnicity, all virtues reflecting the American spirit. The Hispanic military community will step forward again with selflessness and bravery in response to our national call. We must be willing to step forward with them. As the first chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus' Veterans Task Force, I am working to secure a voice for Hispanic veterans in Congress, a voice for recognizing, a voice for understanding. Let us today acknowledge and give thanks to the Hispanic military community that will preserve the peace, so that future generations of Hispanics will be able to freely contribute to our Nation's economic, artistic, legal, and political communities, as more than 30 million Hispanic Americans do every day. This is in essence a Hispanic heritage. This is what it is to be an American. We are all proud Americans. We love to serve our country.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I support H. Con. Res. 130, to authorize the printing of a book entitled ``Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in Congress'' to recognize the contributions and achievements of Asian and Pacific American members of Congress. Since 1903 thirty-three Asian and Pacific American men and women have served the American people in Congress as members of the House and Senate. Today, I am proud to serve alongside nine such Members who continued to break down ethnic barriers while representing America's ever growing diversity. In honor of this well deserved recognition, Mr. Speaker, I would like to call your attention to one particular former Member, our current Secretary of Transportation, Norman Mineta. The Honorable Mineta's career has been one of historic firsts. Norman Mineta's distinguished career has been marked by great achievements not only in his field of expertise, transportation, but as an Asian American in civil rights. Norman and his family were among the 120,000 Americans of Japanese ancestry forced from their homes and businesses into internment camps during World War II. Forty years later Mineta served as the driving force behind the passage of H.R. 442, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which officially apologized for and redressed the injustices endured by the Japanese Americans during World War II. Norman, like so many Asian Pacific Americans, has dedicated his life to public service. After graduating from the University of California at Berkeley, Mineta joined the Army and served as an intelligence officer in Japan and Korea. Norman entered politics in 1967, serving on the San Jose City Council until 1971 when he was elected Mayor. Norman Mineta was the First Asian Pacific American mayor of a major U.S. city. In 1975, Mineta was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he represented the heart of California's Silicon Valley until 1995. Norman Mineta was known in this chamber for his commitment to the people of his district, for bipartisan consensus building, and for his policy achievements in transportation, technology, trade and the environment. After a brief turn in the private sector as a vice-president at Lockheed Martin Corporation, Mineta again answered the call of public service when he was appointed by President Clinton as Secretary of Commerce. Norman Mineta became the first Asian Pacific American to serve the cabinet. As a new administration came into office this year, Norman was again called into service by President Bush who appointed him as the Secretary of Transportation. Norman Mineta made another first as the first Secretary of Transportation to have previously served in a cabinet position. Throughout his career, Norman Mineta has never forgotten his commitment to the Asian Pacific American community. In 1994 he founded the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and served as its first chairman. The caucus is committed to advancing and promoting issues of concern to Asian Pacific Americans (APA) and ensuring that the concerns and needs of the APA community are met. The Caucus also works to educate other Members of Congress and the public about the history, contributions, and concerns of Asian Pacific Americans. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to the publication of ``Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in Congress'' in honor of our colleagues who, like Norman Mineta, have made history serving our country with pride.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, last month the House of Representatives voted to help our Nation's airlines keep flying. We also promised relief for American workers. I will state that we promised, we promised help for American workers. I am here today to remind Members of that promise, and to remind Members that it is not the money that keeps our planes in the air, it is not the money that keeps our economy growing, it is hard-working Americans. We must refocus our efforts. This is not about an industry, this is about hard-working Americans being able to feed their families, being able to feed their families. Laid-off ground crews and flight attendants deserve a guarantee of health care coverage and an unemployment benefit. Also, it is our duty, I state, it is our duty to provide additional training to those whose duties will forever be changed, and I state, forever be changed. We all realize that over 100,000 have been laid off. In my immediate area, it is expected that 12,000 will be expected from L.A. International Airport to be laid off. I am also proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 2955, this Displaced Workers Assistance Act. That is what the bill is. Mr. Speaker, we must bring this bill, we must bring this bill to the floor. We must stand in solidarity with the airline industry workers and hundreds and thousands of those other hard-working Americans across the Nation impacted by this massive layoff and jobs lost. Hard work will be our Nation's strength, and I state, will be our Nation's strength. Hard work will fuel our self-reliance. Mr. Speaker, let us get to work on behalf of the airline employees. Let us get to work on behalf of the working people, on behalf of the working people affected by this tragedy across the Nation. On September 11, our enemy struck us at the heart. Our enemy struck innocent Americans, and I state, innocent Americans in their workplace, in their workplace, not on the battlefields. Those who died in the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, in the hijacked planes, died at work, died at work. At the top of the tower were restaurant employees preparing for the day, financial analysts devoted to keeping our economy strong, government employees securing our Nation from the Pentagon. Eight pilots and 25 flight attendants were sacrificed for the terrorists' causes, and were struck down while doing their job, not to mention the 80 police officers and the 329 firefighters who also lost their lives. It is impossible to imagine an event with greater capacity to compel America to unite in action, to unite and to take action. No citizen was untouched. No citizen across the United States or the world was untouched. Working people around the country all wanted to know what they could do to help. They continue to ask, ``How can we help our Nation?'' Firemen and women, police officers, medical crews, labored around the clock in dangerous and dramatic conditions. No doubt that their work was straining and heartbreaking, but they did it. Why? Because they believed in helping America. We, too, as Members of Congress must do all that we can. I state, we, too, as Members of Congress, must do all that we can. We must work for the American people. We must commemorate their hard work and the sacrifices. We must never forget that for some of those, it was the ultimate sacrifice. We must provide relief, and I state, we must provide relief related to the workers: the flight attendants, the pilots, the ground crew, security workers, as well as workers in the hospitality industry. We must do what is right for America. We must help working families. We must support this legislation. We must come together. We must bring it to the floor. Only together in solidarity in working can we bring our Nation back to its strength. We must all come together.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great joy and personal pride that I give tribute to a great American, Margaret E. Ansley of San Bernardino, California on the occasion of her 100th birthday. The history of one person can be a deep sea of history, as is the case with Margaret. Margaret was born in 1901 Norwalk, Connecticut. The daughter of Hungarian immigrants, Margaret grew up in Connecticut and moved to San Bernardino, California in 1926 with her husband Alex. Like many others of that simpler and more dedicated time, she commuted to work from Connecticut to New York City everyday. When she moved to California, Margaret and her sister Anne ran a grocery store in San Bernardino next to the Santa Fe Railroad. Unfortunately, in 1933 her husband Alex passed away from tuberculosis, but she remarried in 1936 to Howard Ansley. Together Margaret and Howard bought some land in Bloomington to grow grapefruits and raise a family. Since then, she has been a loving wife, active member of her parish, and a good citizen. Margaret and I attend Saint Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church on Sundays. I've gotten to know this wonderful lady over the years and I can say without a doubt, Margaret is one of the most decent and fine examples of our community. Margaret lives in the Inland Empire to this day. She is an active and distinguished California resident that has brought credit and distinction to her family. It is because of her legacy of commitment to our region and the value of hard work that she has demonstrated every day of her life, that I pay homage and tribute to this wonderful woman.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to pay tribute to my friend, Tim McCallion, who will be inducted into the Independent Telephone Pioneer Association's Hall of Fame on September 29, 2001 in recognition of his distinguished career with GTE. Mr. McCallion is an individual of great distinction, and we join with his colleagues, family and friends in honoring his remarkable achievements in the telecommunications industry and his service to his community. Tim's long career with Verizon, formerly GTE, began in 1976 when he joined the accounting department in Erie, Pennsylvania, as he was finishing up his MBA at Gannon University. Over the next two decades, Tim's career with GTE took him all around the country from Pennsylvania, to Indiana, Connecticut, Hawaii and finally to California. Though Tim's career began in the accounting field, he quickly moved into public policy. Tim currently serves as the Pacific Regional President responsible for Regulatory, Government Affairs, Public Affairs and corporate interests in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Tim's colleagues refer to him as the ``go to guy.'' A man who applies initiative and creativity to his service, Tim never fails to take on daunting tasks. When the ITPA needed to have their books audited, and incredibly demanding job with Verizon, Tim volunteered. His colleagues remark that in the fast paced and ever changing telecommunications market it is nice to know that there are people like Tim willing to help. I personally know this to be true. As a member of the California State Assembly and Senate, I worked closely with Tim over the years on several pieces of telecommunications legislation. I could always count on Tim for his tenacity and his expertise in telecom regulation and policy. He worked to spearhead telecom legislation in California that greatly benefited my constituents and the rest of the state. It was always a pleasure and an honor to work with Tim. Tim has continued to be a valued informational resource to me here in Congress. America leads the world in the Telecommunications Revolution, but there are still many goals to accomplish. I salute Verizon for its efforts to end the Digital Divide. Verizon has been a key supporter of HR 1542, the Tauzin-Dingell Bill, which will stimulate competition in the high speed internet market, giving consumers more choices, lower prices and more services. Tim's hard work supporting this important legislation has been critical in the two-year struggle that I have been involved with since I came to Congress to bring this bill to fruition. Tim is not only being recognized for his career achievements with Verizon. A man committed to his community, Tim serves on the boards of several civic and charitable organizations. He is very involved in his local Catholic Church in Thousand Oaks, California and remains highly dedicated to the United Way of Ventura County having served on the Executive Board as co-chair, vice-chair and campaign chair. He has also acted as Verizon's Executive chair on annual United Way campaigns. Tim has displayed his civic leadership on the boards of the Los Angeles Urban League, the California Telephone Association, Los Angeles Children's Museum, and the Ventura County YMCA, and as a member of the California Chamber of Commerce, and the California Business Roundtable. It is precisely this commitment to his community that makes him such a vital asset in public policy. I have personally seen how Tim brings community service to Verizon. Tim facilitated Verizon's support of young students from my district who came to the Nation's Capitol to perform Mariachi music during Cinco de Mayo. It is employees like Tim McCallion that make Verizon a leader in community and charitable events. And so, Mr. Speaker, I join Tim's loving family, wife, Anne, sons, Brian and Keith, and daughter in law, Melinda, numerous friends and colleagues at Verizon in admiration of Tim McCallion's long and distinguished career in telecommunications and public policy, and we express admiration that he has received this wonderful and well- deserved honor from the ITPA.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today in support of House Concurrent Resolution 84. This bill expresses a sense of Congress supporting the goals of Red Ribbon Week and preventing drug use. We must focus on awareness and prevention. The battle against drugs is being fought in our homes, in our living rooms with real human beings and with our children, our brothers, our sisters, our parents, our neighbors, our friends, our relatives and our communities. In California, I have worked hard to recognize Red Ribbon Week, as you can see by the red ribbon that I am wearing now. And as it was stated earlier before, it originally started in 1985 in Imperial Valley; and we have celebrated in San Bernardino, throughout the last 7 or 8 years, Red Ribbon Week. We have a parade. I think it is important for our communities to know that drugs kill our children. We must be aware. We must do everything possible to prevent the use of drugs, saving a life and getting a child to go in a positive direction is good for our children. Let them know that we will say no to drugs. Drugs are bad, bad for our children, bad for our community, bad for our society, whatever we can do to promote that awareness and involvement in our neighborhoods. We have got our communities involved. We have schools that are involved. We have businesses that are involved. We have neighborhoods that are involved. We have youth and families that participate because we know what it means and what a disaster it is to a family who is involved in drugs. It is also a savings in taxpayer dollars to us as well. When we look at a child or someone who is into drugs, it costs us for that particular child to rehabilitate them. It is a lot better to do the prevention and awareness to save the child and save a life. I believe we have to do everything possible to make sure our communities are drug free. We participate with law enforcement in our communities. We participate with the fire department. We participate with our neighbors. We want healthy and productive and drug-free life society. By all of us being involved and coming together, we are touching the lives and saving the lives of many individuals in our community. Today we are committed in this movement and we will continue to do this. This week is Red Ribbon Week; and hopefully, everybody will display the red ribbon that I have here along, of course, the flag that we carry in our lapel for many Americans right now. As we look at what has happened right now, as many of the individuals who died there, we want to demonstrate to those individuals who have sacrificed their lives to save a life, it is that life for many other individuals and possibly those children that lost their lives there and many of the children we have to save as well. Mr. Speaker, I ask everybody to recognize we must save the lives of our children.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution to authorize the President to take necessary actions against terrorist nations, organizations or persons. And in authorizing the President this power, we must ensure that we protect innocent people and nations and that we, as a Nation, do not use this authority to go back in time against innocent Americans. It is time to end this barbaric cowardly act on our country and Nation. What happened on September 11 was clearly an act of war that has landed on our shores. It has touched the lives of our country and Nation and many individuals, individuals such as Cora Holland, mother of three and grandmother of two from my district; Rhonda Sue Rasmusen, who lost her life at the Pentagon; Navy Yeoman Second Class Melissa Rose Barnes, who remains unaccounted for at the Pentagon, and many innocent civilians at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, as well as those who were on the flights who were used to commit this evil horrible act. We as a Nation will pull together and build our courage and strength for we are united and our faith will guide the President and Congress in dealing with this horrible act. When America is attacked, we respond with one voice, with the full force of our Nation. I urge support of this resolution. God bless America.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with regret and deep sadness that I rise to honor Cora Holland, a former constituent from San Bernardino, who passed away on September 11, 2001, when her plane was hijacked and collided with the north tower of the World Trade Center Building in New York, New York as part of an evil terrorist act. Throughout the years, Cora was a true humanitarian. She loved her family and followed the Christian teaching of loving our fellow man. I believe that the well-being of our Nation's peoples depends on all our dedication and efforts to invest in the present and the future. They say a person is measured by the lives he or she touches. Through the grace of God, Cora touched many lives. Cora was, and will continue to be eternally, the mother of three children and the grandmother of two. Her children Stephanie, Jessica, and Nathan received constant attention from what family and friends alike call ``an incredibly dedicated mother.'' Cora left two grandchildren behind, Drew and Amelia. Cora Holland grew up in San Bernardino around K and 14th Streets. She graduated from San Bernardino High and worked at the County Hospital when it was in San Bernardino. It was while working in the hospital that Cora Hidalgo met her future husband, Steve Holland. Cora was, according to her family, the center of the family. The family would often wait for her arrival so that she would coordinate what they were going to do. Her strong and religious spirit also extended to her involvement with feeding the homeless. Cora, a homemaker, spent countless hours using her knowledge of Spanish to help feed the homeless. May God protect the soul of this wonderful woman. Cora was something that is in short supply in the world, a decent human being. Kind and selfless as seen in her community activism. Caring as seen in her devotion to her family. Her soul is one of the many departed on that fateful day, but the impact of her death is a deep well of sorrow in itself. I wish to extend to her brothers Gonzalo and Ernie, her children, her husband, and the rest of her family my most heartfelt condolences. I cannot ever come to comprehend what her loss means to her family, but I am saddened and I mourn with them. Let us take comfort in the fact that she is now guarded by our Lord. Cora you are loved by many, you are a hero in every sense of the word, and will not be forgotten. Cora's family had nothing but praise for her, describing her as a dedicated mother, wife and humanitarian. So in giving this honor, we are honoring her this day. A devoted wife to Steve Holland, she lived in Sudbury, Massachusetts. Cora has three children: Stephanie, Jessica, and Nathan. In short, she was a model of excellence we can all follow, at home and in our community. Cora will be missed by family and friends alike. She touched us all with her kind deeds and dedication to her family.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I stand in support of this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I think it is important that we demonstrate to America that we do have the flag. I know that this weekend is very critical to many of us Mexican Americans, to Hispanics. We are going to be celebrating the 16th of September. But I think in honor of what happened, I think it would be important for all of us as we begin to celebrate the 16th of September that we carry the flag and show the flag. I know that in my district we have Route 66, where over 80,000 people will be participating. I encouraged yesterday in a memo that each and every one who is participating display the flag. It is important that we do that, for what it stands for as a symbol. We have got to realize that many of our veterans have fought for this country, for the freedoms that we enjoy today, and it is the symbol of that flag that was carried by many individuals who were willing to give of their lives. Yes, it happened once again on September 11. Many individuals died. I think we have a responsibility to this country, we have a responsibility to those individuals, to demonstrate that we are a strong Nation, that we will not tolerate what happened; and we will demonstrate our unity and solidarity in carrying the flag that we are so proud of as Americans. Mr. Speaker, I encourage everyone to display the flag. Some of us have already begun to display it in our offices, us Members and others, in our homes; and hopefully we will have the flag flown throughout the Nation. So I support the resolution. I think it is important for all of us to do this.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with regret and deep sadness that I rise to honor Rhonda Sue Rasmussen, former constituent from San Bernardino, who passed away on September 11, 2001, when a hijacked plane collided with a section of the Pentagon where she worked. She was one of the many American heroes who perished that day from an evil terrorist attack. Throughout the years, Rhonda was a true visionary. She loved her family. I believe that the well-being of our Nation's peoples depends on all of our dedication and efforts to invest in the present and the future. Mr. Speaker, Rhonda served as an auditor for the army. She was one of the many faceless men and women that support our military forces and keep our Nation safe. She was a dedicated worker, one who always makes sure that citizens come first. She was extremely strong, brave and dedicated to her work. She had a sense of fun about her, even though she approached her duties with great seriousness and duty. They say a person is measured by the lives he or she touched. Through the grace of God, Rhonda touched many lives. Rhonda's family had nothing but praise for her, describing her as a dedicated and great hero that on Tuesday put herself in harm's way. So in giving this honor, we are honoring her this day. The last time her family saw her was during a barbeque earlier this year. It was at this barbeque, hosted by her mother who suffers from cancer, that she told her family that she would soon move to Monterey, California. Regretfully, that day will never come. A family will never be reunited, and we grieve for the loss of this wonderful soul. Rhonda served our nation proudly, raised four wonderful and dedicated children, and was loving wife. Although she, her husband, and her children had to move often due to her work, she managed to raise four wonderful children. Three of her children are in college and the fourth is a Forestry Department firefighter in Washington state. May God protect the soul of this wonderful woman. In a time when decent people are in short supply, she was a model and example to her children and her community. Selfless as seen in her commitment to the safety of our nation. Caring as seen in her devotion to her family. Her soul is one of the many departed on that fateful day, but the impact of her death is a deep well of sorrow in itself. I wish to extend to her children, husband, and the rest of her family my most heartfelt condolences. I cannot ever come to comprehend what her loss means to her family, but I am saddened and I mourn with them. Let us take comfort in the fact that she is now guarded by our Lord. Rhonda you are loved by many, you served your nation well, you are a hero, and will not be forgotten. A devoted wife to Floyd Rusmussen, Rhonda lived in Virginia during her work at the Pentagon. Rhonda has four children: Nathan, T.J., Jeremiah and Becky. In short, Rhonda Rasmussen is a model of excellence we can all follow. Rhonda will be missed by family and friends alike. She touched us all with her kind deeds and leadership in her community.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution, and to condemn the barbaric, cowardly attack on the people and the soil of the United States. This is an act of war. We will not tolerate these terrible acts. We as a Nation will pull together and pick up the pieces and build our strength. We all need to rally as a country right now, and our strength will come from our courage and our belief in our faith. America stands united. We believe in the liberty of our country, the justice of our democratic institutions. Let freedom ring. The Liberty Bell should shine with our resolve. In all of our towns where people are gathering food, materials, and people are giving blood, chapels and churches should ring the bell for freedom. We are all filled with condolence for all of the victims. America will not give up on its dreams and hopes and freedoms. I ask that we take time in our daily lives to observe a moment of silence for those who are lost, for those families and friends and loved ones, and to be thankful for what we have. In times of a national tragedy, America always comes together. We are showing the world what it is to be an American. This was an act of war on our people. We will not be divided. The President and Congress will be united in dealing with this horrible act. This is not a time of politics or blame but a time of sorrow, mourning, and healing. We must hold fast. We will investigate and we will find the culprits, and we will release the full fury of rage. But if these terrorists turn out to be foreign, we will not lash out at others of the same nationality who have no connections to the attack. Americans are human people who respect the rule of the law. This is about families that will never again be reunited: the brave souls that gave their lives in the line of duty; the police, the firefighters; the men and women and children on the planes; the workers in the World Trade Center; the place in the mind that will not heal quickly. I ask for Members' prayers for those whose lives have been lost. May God grant us the wisdom to steer our great Nation through this difficult time. This is a resolution about our families, our freedoms, our future. God bless America. We are proud of this Nation.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Chairman, we are about to engage in a battle to protect patients' rights, our rights and the rights of our loved ones. I believe that every American, those in the 42nd district of California, those across the Nation are all entitled to quality health care. We can no longer take for granted that HMOs will let doctors base decisions on our health needs. We can no longer assume that HMOs care about our health concerns over the companies' bottom line. The bottom line is that HMOs care only about one thing: Profits! Profits! Profits! Profits! instead of health needs! health needs! health needs! health needs! Too often today, HMOs are not making sound decisions about the health needs of our families, our children, our parents and grandparents! We must shift priorities away from money and back to the patient! Away from HMOS and back to our doctors! This debate is about taking care of the American people that invest in our country every day! It is about working mothers in San Bernardino with sick children at home. It is about a husband or wife in Rialto having to take time off work to see a doctor only to be referred to another doctor. This is about direct access for women to see an ob-gyn, for your child to see a pediatrician, to emergency care specialists, this is a matter of life or death! Let's not forget about those who have dedicated their lives to our health and happiness, our parents, our grandparents, the elderly. This can no longer be about profits! This is about healing the sick! This is about making sure that the health needs of every American are taken care of. Health care should be the least of our worries! You shouldn't have to worry about losing your job, you shouldn't have to worry about losing your home because your health plan wouldn't cover you in your time of need! This is America. We care about everyone in America. We should not have to live in fear. The American people should not live in fear of sickness, the American people do not deserve to fear needing medical attention! The least we can do is guarantee better health care for working Americans than the health care provided to those in our prison systems! That is why I joined a bipartisan coalition, to co-sponsor H.R. 2563, the Patient Protection Act, a strong, enforceable patients' bill of rights, the only real patients' bill of rights. I will fight against efforts to weaken this bill with amendments negotiated in the dead of night. President Bush claims he is committed to working on a bipartisan basis for the good of our people. Here is his chance! This is not a partisan issue, it is about protecting patients' rights to quality health care. It is really about the health of our country! ``Read my lips'' were his Dad's famous words. I urge the president to cut the lipservice, prove your commitment to bipartisanship! Commit to America's health Mr. President, not to the health of HMOs, not to the health of your friends in big business! This patients' bill of rights is the medicine to cure the out-of- control greed of the HMOs. I urge you to hold HMOs accountable, to fight for patients' rights! Remember who we are talking about. We are talking about the health of our children, our parents and our neighbors. I urge you to vote for the Patient Protection Act, H.R. 2563, without amendments that weaken patient protection.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Ben Alexander, of the San Bernardino City Fire Department, for his selfless bravery in rescuing three fishermen, whose small boat was left adrift in the Pacific Ocean, buffeted by wind gales. Ben and his colleague, Isaac Horn, demonstrated courage and commitment and the highest duties of their profession, in their off-duty rescue of these individuals in need. Ben and Isaac were filming whale sharks in October for a television series in Bahia de Los Angeles, a small fishing village about 400 miles south of the Mexican border, when they were approached by a woman frantic about fishermen who were lost. The fishing boat lacked an engine and had been swept in a wind tossed sea. Ben and Isaac searched for the boat in their 21-foot craft, while braving a heavy windstorm with winds reaching about 50 to 60 miles per hour. When they spotted the fishing boat, it was in immediate peril, in danger of being swept onto the treacherous shores of an island. The boat was only 150 yards away from shore. Using a 12-foot line, the firefighters were able to pull the boat to safety, in a courageous effort that took about an hour. In gratitude, the fishermen offered them money, but Ben and Isaac refused. Mr. Speaker, Ben is a leading firefighter in our community. He has served as a firefighter/paramedic and a member of the tactical medical team. The team is part of a police swat team, which goes in armed to treat downed officers. Ben was instrumental in getting it started. His chosen occupation takes him to work in the busiest areas of the city. He is deeply committed to his work, and has a great sense of adventure, displaying a great attitude at all times, as well as an excellent sense of humor. Ben's wife, Natalie, and his daughter, Taylor, are very proud of him as we honor him today. Ben and Isaac's co-workers have nothing but praise for them, describing them as ``dedicated,'' ``great workers,'' ``you couldn't find nicer people,'' ``they do an excellent job.'' Their supervisors are equally laudatory, noting their deep commitment to help other people. It is not surprising that they would go out of their way to help someone when they are off duty. Mr. Speaker, our fire fighters put themselves in harm's way, time and time again. They are the line of defense that keeps our communities safe. As a husband, father, and grandparent, I am proud to entrust the safety of my loved ones to such fine individuals. The heroism displayed in Bahia de Los Angeles is the highest example of a calling that Mr. Speaker, many fire fighters toil anonymously, in a quiet and heroic manner. Their loved ones are faced with the prospect of a knock on the door, cap in hand, as they are informed that their spouse, brother, sister, son or daughter has made the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the public. Our firefighters jump into burning buildings, brave smoke and falling debris, make daring rescues, and save children. In honoring Ben, we honor all of his co-workers, the entire San Bernardino city fire department, indeed all firefighters. There are many other firefighters and public safety personnel who also labor day in and day out, putting themselves in harm's way. So in giving this honor, we are honoring them all. And so, Mr. Speaker, we salute Ben Alexander, and those like him, who serve the public and keep our communities safe.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Isaac Horn, of the San Bernardino City Fire Department, for his selfless bravery in rescuing three fishermen, whose small boat was left adrift in the Pacific Ocean, buffeted by wind gales. Isaac and his colleague, Ben Alexander, demonstrated courage and commitment and the highest duties of their profession, in their off-duty rescue of these individuals in need. Isaac and Ben were filming whale sharks in October for a television series in Bahia de Los Angeles, a small fishing village about 400 miles south of the Mexican border, when they were approached by a woman frantic about fishermen who were lost. The fishing boat lacked an engine, and had been swept in a wind-tossed sea. Isaac and Ben searched for the boat in their 21-foot craft, while braving a heavy windstorm with winds reaching about 50 to 60 miles per hour. When they spotted the fishing boat, it was in immediate peril, in danger of being swept onto the treacherous shores of an island. The boat was only 150 yards away from shore. Using a 12-foot line, the firefighters were able to pull the boat to safety, in a courageous effort that took about an hour. In gratitude, the fishermen offered them money, but Isaac and Ben refused. Mr. Speaker, Isaac is a leading firefighter in our community. He has served as a paramedic firefighter, and because of his great labors and professionalism, has been promoted to the rank of engineer. He is a very dedicated worker, one who always makes sure that citizens come first. If one ever needed a firefighter to pull someone out of a fire, Isaac would be the one. He is extremely strong, brave, and dedicated in his work. He has a sense of fun about him, even though he approaches his duties with great seriousness and duty. Isaac and Ben's co-workers have nothing but praise for them, describing them as ``dedicated,'' ``great workers,'' ``you couldn't find nicer people,'' ``they do an excellent job.'' Their supervisors are equally laudatory, noting their deep commitment to help other people. It is not surprising that they would go out of their way to help someone when they are off duty. Mr. Speaker, our fire fighters put themselves in harm's way, time and time again. They are the line of defense that keeps our communities safe. As a husband, father, and grandparent, I am proud to entrust the safety of my loved ones to such fine individuals. The heroism displayed in Bahia de Los Angeles is the highest example of a calling that exists twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. A firefighter's work is never done, and even off duty, or on vacation, we can rely on these brave individuals to save lives. Mr. Speaker, many fire fighters toil anonymously, in a quiet and heroic manner. Their loved ones are faced with the prospect of a knock on the door, cap in hand, as they are informed that their spouse, brother, sister, son or daughter has made the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the public. Our firefighters jump into burning buildings, brave smoke and falling debris, make daring rescues, and save children. In honoring Isaac, we honor all of his co-workers, the entire San Bernardino city fire department, indeed all firefighters. There are many other firefighters and public safety personnel who also labor day in and day out, putting themselves in harm's way. So in giving this honor, we are honoring them all. And so, Mr. Speaker, we salute Isaac Horn, and those like him, who serve the public and keep our communities safe.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I regret that due to an airline delay, I was unavoidably detained arriving from my district in California, and missed three votes this evening (July 30, 2001). Had I been present, I would have voted AYE on the following rolls: Roll 290, H. Res. 212, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the World Conference Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Related Intolerance presents a unique opportunity to address global discrimination. Roll 291, H. Res. 191, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United Nations should immediately transfer to the Israeli Government an unedited and uncensored videotape that contains images which could provide material evidence for the investigation into the incident on October 7, 2000, when Hezbollah forces abducted 3 Israeli Force soldiers, Adi Avitan, Binyamin Avraham, and Omar Souad. Roll 292, H. Con. Res. 190, supporting the goals and ideals of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in the memory of my beloved Aunt and Godmother, Christina Chavez, of New Mexico, who passed away on July 19th, 2001. Daughter of Romolo and Mary Baca; wife of Alberto Chavez; mother of Josephina Chavez, Joe Chavez, and Nicanora Thomas; grandmother to seven, and great-grandmother to five; sister to six brothers; Christina will be dearly missed by family and friends. Christina's father, Romolo, my grandfather, was President of the Conservancy in New Mexico, which oversaw the development of immigration. Her mother, Mary, a devoted housewife, passed away very young, so Christina stayed home to help raise her brothers. Christina married Alberto Chavez in 1945. Alberto's position with the Santa Fe Railroad took him away traveling a lot, so Christina spent her time raising crops, sheep and cattle on the family farm in Las Nutris, New Mexico, and performing the duties of housewife and mother. Christina's children recall bailing the hay, feeding the animals, milking the cows, and going to school 12 miles away on the school bus. They recall her perpetually in motion with housework, cleaning, and canning vegetables and fruit. Christina loved cooking. Her chile recipe was delicious, and it made her famous for miles around. And she could bake bread like you would not believe! Christina and Alberto built an Orno (Indian) oven outdoors, and in the summer months they would bake bread and roast chile. The taste of bread and chile made from scratch and baked in an outdoor oven is wonderful, much better than anything you can buy in a store. And those cakes, cookies, and biscuits! Christina could really bake! Christina's brothers, including my father, lived nearby, and would always visit and check on her. They marveled at her world-famous cooking, and shared a cup of coffee. They were often joined by lots of friends and neighbors. Christina was a very kind and loving person, always caring about people, and she always had her home open. She would welcome people with food, and she was always lending a helping hand, opening the door to friends and strangers who needed a glass of water or a meal. Christina raised three lovely, and successful, children: Josephina, who now works as a Security Officer for Sandia National Labs; Joe, who retired from the Santa Fe Railroad, where he worked on the cars; and Nicanora, who drives a school bus and also plays basketball. Her children lovingly recall being raised by their mother: ``We lived out in the country. Belen was 12 miles away. Mom would take us to the country drug store, Jenny's which had an old soda fountain. They made great root beer floats. They were very pure. The store is gone now. They tore it down. Mom would also take us to go buy groceries. It was like a treat, because we lived so far away from everything.'' Christina's children remark that one of the best gifts she left them was the values she instilled in them. She was very religious, and even when she was in the nursing home, she attended church twice a week. She liked to pray the Rosary in Spanish. Christina taught her children the teachings of the Catholic Church. During Lent, she made sure the family did not eat meat on Friday. Instead she would serve wild spinach with beans. It was excellent and made it much easier to avoid meat! She also made wonderful bread pudding with raisins. Christina was fond of singing the Hail Mary. She had a lovely voice, and her children can still recall her singing in the home: Hail Mary Full of Grace The Lord is with thee . . . And she loved to recite the Lord's Prayer: Our Father who art in Heaven Hallowed be thy name Thy Kingdom come Thy will be done On earth as it is in Heaven Give us this day our daily bread And forgive us our trespasses As we forgive those who trespass against us Lead us not into temptation But deliver us from evil For thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever Amen. Mr. Speaker, a quiet history runs through our Nation, a history that is not in our textbooks. In this history, the lonely whistles of the Santa Fe railroad can be heard through the night, as a young woman bakes bread on a farm. Her household is filled with the good smells of chile and coffee. Her children learn the words of our Holy Bible, and grow up to be good, God-fearing people with children of their own. From her they learn kindness and good deeds, the value of a hard day's work, the importance of opening a door to a stranger. This is the fabric from which our Nation is built. For often it is not the famous and the affluent who shape our country's destiny; instead it is women like Christina Chavez, who raise a family one day at a time, bake the bread, tend to the farm, go the country store. And so, we pay tribute and memory to Christina Chavez, the last of my father's generation, my aunt and Godmother, loving mother to Josephina, Joe, and Nicanora. There is a sadness that comes from great love, but there is also a quiet pride. Pride at all the families of Chavez and Baca have achieved in this great Nation. That as Latinos and Latinas we have carved a place for ourselves in the fabric of its history. Mr. Speaker, Christina's children offer these words: ``Thank you Mom for family values. You taught us how to be strong. You often raised us alone as Dad traveled on the Santa Fe Railroad.'' And so, I say to Christina, thank you for all you have been to me and to your children, all the lives you have touched. God Bless you, we miss you, but we know you are in Heaven in the arms of the Lord. Amen.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute Nancy Baca, of Barstow, on the occasion of her retirement on July 3, 2001. Nancy has had a distinguished career of outstanding service, spanning 34 years at the Marine Corps Logistics Base at Barstow, California, for which she has received 13 awards and promotions. These awards recognize her skill and acumen at accounting, express appreciation of her hard work and extra efforts, and salute her notable achievement of saving money and promoting efficiency at the Base. Through her overtime, persistence, and relentless pursuit of cost- effectiveness, Nancy has contributed to saving the Base from closure. The Base plays a pivotal role in the community of Barstow, as an employer and a resource, so we should all be grateful to Nancy and others who have worked to strive for excellence. This is not just about protecting a community, this is about standing up for the vital interests of our nation, for the Marine Corps Logistics Base at Barstow is essential for testing and repairing vehicles for the Marines. Barstow has special equipment, including water immersion facilities, to ensure that when a vehicle leaves the facility, it is in fighting shape for the mission that lies ahead. As a veteran who has worn the uniform of the United States, I can attest to the peace of mind that comes from knowing our nation has the finest Logistics facilities of any fighting force. For ultimately, the battle is won as much by dedicated workers like Nancy as it is by the labors of the soldier in the field. Nancy's story is about working hard, overcoming impoverished circumstances, seeking to better oneself and one's family by embracing opportunities. It is the story that many individuals of my generation have embodied, indeed, one my own family experienced growing up. It is the process by which our nation renews itself. It is about the dedication and hope of parents, about their striving for a better world for their children. It is about education and hard work. It is about the Latino experience. Born on February 14, 1938, and raised in Valencia, New Mexico, in a very poor family of 10 children, Nancy moved to Barstow, California, in 1954, when her father came to Barstow to work on the Santa Fe Railroad. Nancy graduated from Barstow High School in 1957, married Morris Baca, began a family, and started in 1966 as a GS II/Keypunch Operator at the Marine Corps Logistics Base, in Barstow, California. She took accounting classes, ultimately playing a key role in the accounting and budgetary operations of the base. Through it all, Nancy has been a dedicated parent of four children: Yolanda Minor, Berna Hawkins, Anthony Baca, and Anita Lo. For years she accompanied her children to baseball practice, judo matches, girl scouts. Her children have gone on to great success, completing schooling, and pursuing careers that span the courts, health care, and other Throughout her labors, Nancy has found time to travel the world, visiting Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and our Nation's Capitol. She wants to take some short cruise trips, now that she is retired, and become more involved in exercise activities. One can tell that there is no slowing Nancy down--she is still taking the world by storm! Mr. Speaker, this is the promise of America, that the daughter of a railroad man can serve our nation with distinction and see the rolling hills of Europe, the sunset over the Seine, the canals of Italy, the dusty villas of Spain. She can gaze at the panorama of our Nation's capital, and marvel at its monuments. She has the freedom that is the birthright of every American, freedom she has helped preserve in her work at Barstow! And so, I wish Nancy many fine years of active retirement, and the joy that comes through bringing in the harvest of one's labors. I wish her golden sunsets with her children, lazy days with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and all good things in life. I wish her God's blessings and good wishes on this fine occasion. We are all proud of you, we all salute you, as you embark on this new and exciting chapter in your life.

Mr. BACA

Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I stand in support of H.R. 36, to give Congress the power to outlaw flag burning. As a veteran, this issue is very important and close to my heart. As we look at it not only as a veteran but as we look at what has been said right now, people have talked about the constitutional amendment dealing with expression, freedom of expression, the right to liberty. We also have the right to interpret, when we look at the Constitution, to examine what our forefathers, who wrote the legislation sometime ago, actually meant. And sometimes there is time for a change, and this is a time for a change that we have to realize. As a symbol, many of our veterans have fought for our country. Because of the sacrifices they have made, we enjoy peace and freedom today. Because of that symbol many individuals have died. When we look at someone who has been buried and the flag is turned over to the family, it is that symbol that is turned over. When I turn around and look at the flag behind me, it is that symbol I salute. When I attend a service, it is that symbol I salute. When I see the changing of the colors, it is that symbol, it is what America is. It is what this country was founded on. To everyone who has fought for us, from the beginning to now, in each and every one of our wars, it is a form of expression. It is one we should have. We should never ever desecrate the flag. When we look at many of the veterans that are willing to sacrifice and stand up and fight for us, what have they done? Are we going to say that they have gone out and fought in every war and that we do not realize there is a symbol? When someone fell with that flag and someone else picked it up and they charged, why did they do that? Because it is a symbol of freedom, freedom of expression for our area. We must stand up and protect the flag. And let me tell my colleagues, anyone who desecrates the flag, shame on us, shame on them. It is time for a change. We have to make the change to protect what America was built on; those freedoms that are very important to us. That flag is part of that freedom and that symbol and represents every American, every individual in this country.