Ken Calvert

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Julie Puentes for her dedicated service to the people of Orange County, California. Ms. Puentes has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and has made our community a better place to live. Julie Puentes is the Executive Vice President of Public Affairs for the Orange County Business Council, a countywide organization comprised primarily of Orange County's largest employers and small businesses dedicated to Orange County's economic vitality. She serves as a member of the organization's executive management team and manages the Business Council's Advocacy program. She coordinates the Business Council Investor lobbying efforts which are intended to foster a positive business climate and preserve Orange County's quality of life. During her time at the OCBC, Julie has done an exemplary job of building relationships, particularly with Orange County's federal, state and local representatives. She also works closely with other chambers of commerce and regional economic development organizations. Before she joined the Orange County Business Council professional staff Ms. Puentes was the owner of JFConsulting, a public affairs consulting firm. Her firm focused on engaging the business community in the development of public policy and more business-friendly environmental regulation. From 1978-1991, Ms. Puentes served as Chief of Staff to Senator Marian Bergeson, culminating a 20-year career in public service for five state legislators. Ms. Puentes served in the Wilson Administration as a member of the State Job Training Coordinating Council (now the state Workforce Investment Board) and the Governor's School-to-Career Advisory Council. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Orange County Public Affairs Association and Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse, and is a member of the California Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Council. We rely upon citizens like Julie Puentes to sustain the spirit of our communities. I have relied on her advice in addressing various water and transportation challenges facing our community and state. Julie Puentes has earned my many thanks and I wish her great success in all her future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Fire Chief Dave Carlson for his dedicated service to our country and our community. Mr. Carlson recently retired as the Fire Chief of the city of Riverside, California. He has protected our citizens as a warrior and fireman over a 39-year career in public service. Dave grew up in Sacramento and graduated from Luther Burbank High School in 1966. Two weeks later he enlisted in the Navy to pursue his childhood dream of becoming a ``frogman.'' Dave graduated from Underwater Demolition/SEAL training and went on to serve two tours of duty in Vietnam. In 1972 he became a firefighter in Santa Barbara County, California. Dave worked his way through the ranks and became a Battalion Chief in 1981. Constantly striving for self improvement, Dave attended college on his days off. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Public Service Management and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of La Verne. In 1991, Dave became the Fire Chief in the City of Norco, California. In 1994, he became the Deputy Fire Chief of the City of Riverside and in 1996 he was appointed Fire Chief. Dave Carlson is always looking for innovative ways to provide better public safety service to the community. In 1999 he implemented a paramedic program through a joint partnership with American Medical Response and the Riverside County Medical Services Agency. This partnership resulted in a higher level of emergency care and faster emergency response at no cost to the City of Riverside's general fund. Throughout his career, Dave has served in professional and public organizations. He has always been active in the California Fire Chiefs' Organization, serving a two-year term as President from 2000 to 2002. He is also the Chair of the Department of Corrections Citizens' Advisory Committee for the California Rehabilitation Center. In 2004, Dave's accomplishments were justly recognized when he received the Distinguished Public Service Career Award from the City of Riverside and was named the ``Fire Chief of the Year'' by the California Fire Chiefs' Association. Fire Chiefs such as Dave Carlson provide a remarkable level of protection to our communities. They work just as hard at preventing fires and accidents as they do in responding to them. Dave has had an exceptional career keeping our community safe. He has earned my many thanks and I wish him great success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my colleague, Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, introducing this important legislation honoring our late California constituent, Charles ``Pete'' Conrad, for his remarkable achievements in spaceflight as well as his contribution to the U.S. aerospace industry. Pete was a great American and this is a tribute to his contributions to space and to science. Pete Conrad was an individual who was always pushing the envelope with an exuberance that matched his animated personality and sense of humor. Pete's first flights were in the Gemini program, where he established both the record for endurance and for altitude in space. Then, as the commander of Apollo XII, he became the third man to walk on the Moon--to which he exclaimed in his typical enthusiastic manner, ``Whoopie! Man, that may have been a small one for Neil, but it's a long one for me.'' His final National Aeronautics and Space Administration mission was a commander of Skylab II, the first United States space station. Once he left the Astronaut Corps, Pete delved into what was then the nascent aerospace industry. He worked to sell the industry to the American people and to excite them on the possibilities of the return to and the colonization of the Moon, the development of single-stage- to-orbit vehicles, and in the exploration of the solar system. During this time, Pete stayed with his love of anything that would go fast-- airplanes, helicopters, cars and motorcycles. He raced helicopters across the country; he raced airplanes in air shows; and he raced motorcycles in local races. Tragically, he died from injuries resulting from a motorcycle accident in 1999 and at the age of 69 in Ojai, CA. This bill, which honors Pete Conrad and is a tribute to his wife Nancy, encourages young people to get involved in astronomy by offering prizes to amateurs for their contributions to astronomy by either discovering the brightest near-Earth object or by the cataloging of near Earth objects. What better way to get our children interested in science and in paying tribute to this great American.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman for engaging in this colloquy with me addressing the Department of Defense, DOD's concern in any decision FERC would make authorizing the siting of liquefied natural gas facilities, LNG, on or contiguous to our defense installations. Mr. Chairman, I know and believe our colleagues all recognize the extreme importance of our duty to ensure that our men and women in uniform are able to operate and train in an environment free of any unnecessary constraints. Should a proposal to site an LNG terminal be on or adjacent to a military installation or range, I believe there would be concerns that should be addressed as to whether there may be an impact upon military operations, training and readiness. Among the factors that may impact the day-to-day operations of a military installation or range include the actual location of an LNG storage and regasification unit, shipment routes, frequency of shipments, natural gas pipelines, maintenance and inspection regimes, and other activities mandated by Federal and State laws and regulations. I have spoken with the officials at the Department of Defense and assessing non-military impacts to installation operations and training is something they are capable of and in fact do on a regular basis. It is my belief the Department of Defense should have a role in assessing the impact of such proposed sitings to be considered on or contiguous to a military installation or range. I believe that the commission should consider the Department's evaluations so that any siting does not interfere with our military's duties as prescribed in title 10 of the U.S. Code. Mr. Chairman, can you confirm that we can discuss this concern further at conference?

Mr. CALVERT. I thank the gentleman.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, my congressional district in Riverside, California is extremely fortunate to have a dynamic and dedicated group of community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give of their time and talents to ensure the well-being of our city and county. These individuals work tirelessly to develop voluntary community action to improve the community's economy, its education, its environment and its overall quality of life. One individual, who is a member of this group, is Captain Ray Cota. On the 19th of March, Ray will be honored with the Ira. D. ``Cal'' Calvert Distinguished Service Award by the Corona-Norco Family YMCA. The award is given in memory of my father, ``Cal'' Calvert, and his enumerable philanthropic gifts to the community and his efforts to encourage others to serve their community in a similar fashion. The award recognizes Ray for his exceptional devotion to developing community volunteerism. Ray has been a police officer with the Corona Police Department for over 25 years. Throughout his career, he has been involved in the community and specifically with youth service organizations. He has served as President of the Circle City Kiwanis, helped organize an annual golf tournament that raises money for at-risk youth, and participated in the Corona High Parent Teacher Student Association. Additionally, Ray has served with the Corona Police Activities League, which provides sports and recreational activities to neighborhood youth and seeks to reach out to other deserving youth in the community. Ray and his wife Rebecca have been married for 21 years. They have a 13 year old son, Raymond, who attends Corona Fundamental Intermediate School. Ray's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Corona, California. Ray has been the heart and soul of many community organizations and events and I am proud to call Ray a fellow community member, American and friend.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, my congressional district in Riverside, California is extremely fortunate to have a dynamic and dedicated group of community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give of their time and talents to ensure the well-being of our city and county. These individuals work tirelessly to develop voluntary community action to improve the community's economy, its education, its environment and its overall quality of life. One individual, who is a member of this group, is Tom Kenney. On the 19th of March, Tom will be honored with the Ira D. ``Cal'' Calvert Distinguished Service Award by the Corona-Norco Family YMCA. The award is given in memory of my father, ``Cal'' Calvert, and his enumerable philanthropic gifts to the community and his efforts to encourage others to serve their community in a similar fashion. The award recognizes Tom for his exceptional devotion to developing community volunteerism. Tom was born in Pennsylvania, but moved to California during his service with the Navy. He met and married Barbara Keith, a school teacher in the Corona-Norco Unified School District, attended Riverside Community College and graduated from the University California, Riverside. After 12 years with Prudential Insurance Company, and earning an M.B.A. from University of Southern California, Tom moved to take what became a series of executive jobs. In 1995, Tom and Barb, with their sons Christopher and Patrick, took the opportunity to purchase the Key-Freeman Agency and move back to their California home. Tom has been involved in many community organizations, serving on the boards of Corona-Norco United Way, the Corona Rotary Club, the Corona Library Foundation, and the Corona Chamber of Commerce. Tom's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Corona, California. Tom has been the heart and soul of many community organizations and events and I am proud to call Tom a fellow community member, American and friend.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Madam Speaker, I also stand in support of House Resolution 119. My father served as a pilot of a landing craft during the Battle of Iwo Jima, and it is an honor and a pleasure to recognize the sacrifice and contributions of the United States Marine Corps and other services on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. I had the honor of meeting a humble hero of the Battle of Iwo Jima sometime ago back in my district when we dedicated the Medal of Honor Memorial at the Riverside National Cemetery. His name is Bob Bush, and he received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service as a medical corpsman with the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, on May 2, 1945. His citation reads like a scene from a John Wayne movie, but it is all true: ``Fearlessly braving the fury of artillery, mortar, and machine-gun fire from strongly entrenched hostile positions, Bush constantly and unhesitatingly moved from one casualty to another to attend the wounded falling under the enemy's murderous barrages. As the attack passed over a ridge top, Bush was advancing to administer blood plasma to a Marine officer lying wounded on the skyline when the Japanese launched a savage counterattack. In this perilously exposed position, he resolutely maintained the flow of life-giving plasma. With the bottle held high in one hand, Bush drew his pistol with the other and fired into the enemy's ranks until his ammunition was expended. Quickly seizing his discarded carbine, he trained his fire on the Japanese charging pointblank over the hill, accounting for six of the enemy despite his own serious wounds and the loss of one eye suffered during his desperate battle in defense of the helpless man. With the hostile force finally routed, he calmly disregarded his own critical condition to complete his mission, valiantly refusing medical treatment for himself until his officer patient had been evacuated, and collapsing only after attempting to walk back to the battle aid station.'' Madam Speaker, his humility is typical of those who braved the sands of Iwo Jima, and I proudly support this resolution offered by my good friend from California.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a hero from my congressional district. On December 21, 2004, U.S. Army Specialist Jonathan Castro of my hometown of Corona, CA, was killed in Mosul, Iraq. Specialist Castro, along with 18 other American soldiers, died from injuries sustained when their dining facility was attacked. I would ask that the House of Representatives honor and remember this incredible young man who died in service to his country. Specialist Castro will be remembered as a hero who lived a life filled with compassion and a respect for all people. Jonathan, son of Jorge and Vickie Castro, spent most of his life in Corona, CA. The summer after graduating from Corona's Centennial High School in 2001, he enlisted in the Army. He entered the military with the hope that it would enable him to pay his own way through school and would open his eyes to the world. He was assigned to the 73rd Engineer Company in Fort Lewis, WA, and was deployed to Iraq in October, 2004. He is remembered not only for his caring nature, but also for his intelligence. He was a budding engineer with a talent for working with metals and wood, as well as having strong skills in computer-aided drafting. He demonstrated creativity and ingenuity during high school as he built his own electric guitar, as well as a full-sized electric car. On December 1, 2004, in Mosul, Iraq, while sharing a meal with his fellow soldiers, the dining facility was attacked. This has been the deadliest blast to date at a U.S. military base in Iraq, with 22 people killed. Specialist Castro was only 21 years old. He is survived by his loving parents and seven brothers. Jonathan was decorated posthumously with the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Jonathan, and men and women like him, contribute to the incredibly rich history of our country. I commend all our service members who volunteer to defend our ideals of freedom and democracy. I extend my ongoing thoughts, prayers and deepest gratitude to the Castro family. I hope they know their son and brother's goodness and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my condolences to the family of Bob Matsui. Bob was my friend for 13 years. Even though we sat on opposite sides of the aisle we shared a bond as fellow Californians, and he always had my utmost respect. In this House Bob always strove to do the best for his district, his State, and his country. He entered Congress with a distinguished class in 1978 and made a lasting impression. His 26 years here were an example of how a man can be an effective promoter of his party and the consummate gentleman at the same time. Even in the most partisan of positions, chairman of his party's Congressional Campaign Committee, Bob took the high road and set an example for us to follow. He was a man of unparalleled integrity, compassion, intelligence and dedication. I will miss Bob Matsui. I know that the people of California, the United States, and the Members of this body share my sentiments.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor General Atomics, an organization that has been a catalyst for improving science and technology education for thousands of students year after year. General Atomics, located in San Diego, California, began in 1955 for the purpose of harnessing the power of nuclear technologies to benefit mankind. General Atomics' basic research into fission and fusion has matured into many technologies, making them one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely operated surveillance aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless, and laser technologies. While General Atomics has been pushing the boundaries of technology for almost 50 years, they have also heavily supported educational programs in their own community and beyond. As part of their commitment to education, General Atomics provided technical and administrative guidance to the newly-formed Science and Technology Education Partnership (STEP), which was created in my congressional district five years ago to inspire students to pursue an education in science and technology fields. Beyond their five years of participation in STEP, General Atomics has played an active role in bringing science and technology directly to Riverside County students and those from surrounding areas through their participation in each of the previous annual STEP Conferences that have been held in Riverside, California. They support the STEP Teacher Program by presenting tutorial workshops each year for elementary and middle school math and science teachers. In addition, they have become an integral and featured part of the STEP Student Program, which is attended by over 4,000 students plus more than 400 teachers and parents each year. Their exhibit booth in the ``Discovery Zone'' provides students with a hands-on introduction to plasma, electricity, thermal energy, and more. Technical personnel from General Atomics are on hand to explain to the students how the technologies work and how they are used in government and commercial applications. In the ``Oh! Zone,'' students participate in an interactive Science Show with Rick Lee and Alex Nagy, two General Atomics scientists. The Science Show involves live demonstrations, often using student volunteers, of different technologies and scientific principles in order to show students that science can be interesting, useful, and fun. General Atomics is a valued member of the technical community and a true partner in education. Their generous efforts have helped make science and technology interesting and accessible to thousands of students within the Inland Empire, throughout Southern California, and beyond.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Stephen K. Goya for his 31 years of dedicated service with the California Department of Corrections, Parole and Community Services. Mr. Goya is an example of the hard work and a commitment to excellence shown by California's Corrections Officers. He will be honored by the Department of Corrections on October 29, 2004 in the city of Brea, California. Stephen K. Goya began his career as a Parole Agent I with the Department of Corrections, Parole and Community Services Division on October 10, 1977. Prior to that, he worked as a Probation Officer for the Orange County Probation Department. He was promoted to Parole Agent II/Supervisor in January 1983. He then further advanced his career with the Department of Corrections as a Parole Agent III Unit Supervisor in October 1985 and in 1987, he was promoted to Parole Administrator I. In December 1992, Mr. Goya was once again promoted to Parole Administrator II Level. In that classification, Mr. Goya functioned as the Operations Manager for the Parole Division in Sacramento as well as the Deputy Regional Administrator in Region IV Headquarters. Mr. Goya's current classification is that of Regional Parole Administrator over Region IV. Mr. Goya was promoted to Regional Parole Administrator CEA III Level on January 20, 1998. Region IV is comprised of five different counties (Orange, San Diego, Imperial, San Bernardino, Riverside), 51 field units, 21 office locations and over 742 parole staff. We rely upon our Corrections, Parole and Community Services Officers to keep our community safe and monitor those who are making their way back into society. Stephen K. Goya has worked tirelessly for over three decades to lead these Officers in their mission. His efforts have improved life in Southern California. Stephen K. Goya has earned my many thanks and I wish him great success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Wes Keusder, who has been a dedicated, strong and effective voice for the principles and ideals of California's building community during his years as a member and leader of the Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIA/SC). Riverside County and all of southern California has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Wes is one of these individuals. On November 5, 2004, Wes will be honored by BIA at their 38th Annual Awards and Installation Dinner. Wes Keusder is a third generation home builder in California and has worked for over twenty years to make homeownership a reality for thousands of California's families. Wes followed in the footsteps of his father, Walter Keusder Jr., and grandfather, Walter Keusder, by serving as President of BIA/SC as well as participating in the California Building Industry Association and the National Association of Home Builders. Wes has demonstrated exemplary leadership and service to the building industry by serving as the President of the BIA Riverside County Chapter in 2001 and 2002. Additionally, Wes served as a Director of the Building Industry Legal Defense Fund, whose mission is to defend the rights of home and property owners. Homeownership is an American dream, and housing is a community asset which strengthens the fabric of neighborhoods. Wes has worked tirelessly to ensure that thousands of Californians can make that dream a reality. His passion and service for homeownership has improved Riverside and all of Southern California. Wes Keusder has earned my many thanks and I wish him great success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Riverside, California are exceptional. Riverside County has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give their time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. Cindy Roth is one of these individuals. Cindy currently serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce. In this key position, Cindy has been instrumental in the development of Riverside's business community. She became the first woman to hold this post, and her leadership is a testament to her diligence and understanding of business management in Riverside. Additionally, Cindy serves as the President of the Southern California Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and is a past board member of the Western Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Cindy's dedication is not only to local business, but also to the wider community. She serves as part of numerous organizations, including the Monday Morning Group of Western Riverside County, the Science and Technology Education Partnership, the Raincross Exchange Club, the Foundation Board of Trustees for La Sierra University, and the Honorary Commanders of March Field. She has received the 1996 Community Service Award from the Rotary Club of Arlington, the 2000 Athena of the Inland Valleys Award, and has been honored as the 2003 Woman of the Year by Assemblyman John Benoit. It is no surprise that she is now honored as the 2004 Distinguished Citizen of the Inland Empire by the California Inland Empire Council, Boy Scouts of America. Cindy's tireless passion for community service has contributed immensely to the betterment of the community of Riverside. She has been the heart and soul of many community organizations and events and I am proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that many in our community are grateful for her service and salute her as she receives this award.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. I thank the gentleman from California for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, today's consideration of this bill is a giant step forward in resolving California's water supply problems. Our water security is a critically important issue. In California alone in the last 2 decades, the population has grown over 30 percent while the water supply in storage has increased by a mere 2 percent. Over the next 15 years, California must reduce its dependence on the Colorado River by 15 percent while the population in California is projected to grow by yet another 30 percent. California's Department of Water Resources estimates that the gap between water supply and demand in the State will total 2.4 million acre-feet in normal years of rainfall and up to 6.2 million acre-feet in drought years. When you consider that a family of five uses an average of one acre-foot of water per year, it is not that difficult to imagine how destabilizing such shortages would be to California and to other western States. We have come a long way over the last few years in assuring a reliable water supply for California. Since I have been chairman of the Subcommittee on Water and Power, we have conducted many field hearings in California, legislative hearings here in Washington, markups and too many meetings to count to get to where we are today. Today's bill is a culmination of the work and deliberation by many of us over the years. Since 1995, I have worked to bring certainty and a balanced road map for water use in California and the West. Since this bill passed the House several months ago, I have worked with the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo), Senator Feinstein, the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller), and, of course, the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Napolitano) and many others who have worked hard to bring this bill to the floor. The original intent of CALFED was to provide a balance to a complex water delivery system. H.R. 2828 achieves this goal. Under this bill, the environment, recreation, drinking water, agriculture, and industry all get better together. As our distinguished colleague from California (Mr. Pombo) has stated, this bill makes historic strides in water- quality improvements throughout the entire State of California. Improved water quality helps everybody across the board. We also create new water supplies for Northern and Southern California, and we enhance surface storage to improve our water quality and supply. Lastly, I want to thank Governor Schwarzenegger's participation recently to assure us that these feasibility reports that are in the record of decision will move forward where we can have a balanced and completed project and that we can meet our future with assurance. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support this Resolution and to recognize the Festival of Children Foundation for its valuable service to the Orange County and Southern California communities. As my colleagues said, the Foundation is an umbrella group with the specific purpose to improve the lives of children and families. Sandy Segerstrom Daniels, the founder, has had the vision and commitment to create the Festival and the ability to bring together people and organizations devoted to children's issues. Groups involved in the fields of health, education and the arts all collaborate in the Festival. Lectures, exhibits and information booths at South Coast Plaza take place for the entire month of September. I credit the Festival for increasing public awareness of children's issues and for providing opportunities for the public and non-profit organizations to donate their time and resources. I am told that over two million visitors have seen the Festival's exhibits in the past. Because of the success of the Festival, the California State Assembly and the Orange County Board of Supervisors have taken official actions commending the Festival. I believe it is now fitting and timely for the U.S. Congress to also recognize the Festival of Children by this Resolution. I encourage all my colleagues to support the Resolution and thank my colleague Dana Rohrabacher for presenting the Resolution.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a recent achievement of two people who, in celebrating their 50th year of marriage, have provided an inspiring example to all Americans. On June 5, 1954 at Holy Family Church, South Buffalo, New York sweethearts Gordon Elwell married Mary Mattimore. With not much more at the beginning to call their own except their marriage, their faith and vast opportunities afforded by this great country, Gordon and Mary have come a long way in the 50 years of marriage. Gordon became a respected house builder in the Buffalo, New York area. Mary ran the household and tirelessly provided a loving and nurturing home environment for her husband and eight children. Throughout their incredible life together, Gordon and Mary have dedicated their lives to each other, their and children and grandchildren. To date they have been blessed with twelve grandchildren to spoil as only grandparents can. In a society with one of the highest divorce rates in the world, Gordon and Mary have provided their children and grandchildren with a shining example of a successful marriage. It is all about hard work, a sense of humor and yes, a love that will not quit. Gordon and Mary have been truly blessed by the first 50 years of this magical marriage, and here's hoping that the best is yet to come. On behalf of my colleagues, let me join the many friends and admirers in wishing Gordon and Mary, and their family, all good fortune during the next 50 years.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication and contributions to the community of Riverside County, CA, are exceptional. We have been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give of their time and talent and make their communities a better place to live and work. Mischelle Townsend is one of these individuals. Mischelle Townsend has lived and worked in the Inland Empire most of her life. Today she retires from public service, where she will be greatly missed. Mischelle Townsend came to Riverside County after five years working with the aerospace industry, North American Rockwell Corporation, including direct support of the Apollo Project. She then entered the public sector, where her time and talent has been vital to the growth of the Inland Empire. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Redlands and a Masters in Public Administration from California State University, San Bernardino. Twenty-two years Riverside County has been privileged to have Mischelle Townsend, as the Executive Officer of the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). LAFCO is a state regulatory commission responsible for jurisdictional changes such as the incorporation of new cities, annexations and formation of new special districts. Under Mischelle's tenure at this agency, three cities where established in seven years: Moreno Valley, La Quinta and Cathedral City. Mischelle Townsend later served six years as Assistant Chief Administrator Officer, where her responsibilities included: preparation of Riverside County's annual budget, development of policy recommendations from 33 county departments and agencies, administration of an $18 million Special District Augmentation Fund, preparation of the annual Capital Improvements Program, and chairmanship of various task forces and policy advisory committees. She then moved onto Director of Riverside County's General Services Agency and eventually moved into her current position as Registrar of Voters on July 31, 1997. As Registrar of Voters, Mischelle has been widely recognized as an innovator in modern election services. Outside of the office, Mischelle has been equally giving of her talents. Her community involvement includes, but is not limited to: President of the Executive Council for the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA/Inland Empire); Vice President/Volunteer Personnel for the Inland Empire Chapter of the Boy Scouts of America; past member of the Board of Directors for Alternatives to Domestic Violence; Soroptomist International of Riverside; and, active member of Crossroads Christian Church. Mr. Speaker, Mischelle Townsend's tireless passion for her profession and community has contributed immensely to the betterment of the Inland Empire, California. She has been the heart and soul of many innovative projects and events and I am proud to call her a fellow community member, American, and friend. I know that the community is equally grateful for her service and salute her as she retires from professional service.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, the answer to the gentleman's question is: No.

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. As my friend, the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller), knows, negotiating water agreements is not easy; and we have had numerous conversations about the subject of water over the years. And certainly he has a long history in water in the State of California. As everyone knows who has been involved in water negotiations, they are difficult. There are conflicts all over the place. One of the concepts that we took when we went down this road was balance; and the Record of Decision that was a difficult Record of Decision to come to a conclusion, part of that was water storage on four projects. There were a lot more water projects that were being considered in that Record of Decision, but it was weaned down in difficult negotiations to really a limited amount of water storage. Over $12 million has been spent to date on looking at the feasibility of these four projects. All of the environmental laws must be met, and that is considerable, before any of these projects could ever become feasible. And even then if in fact they are deemed feasible, you would have to go through the appropriation process. As I would point out to my friends, the Auburn Dam is an authorized project. I doubt if it will ever get appropriations to build. Unless a project is feasible, unless it has the political support in order to build, it will not happen. And so I would say this motion to recommit takes the balance out of the process that we put together, and I believe it would remove all support for this CALFED process to continue. So I would urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on the motion to recommit and vote ``yes'' on final passage. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from California (Mr. Cardoza).

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Napolitano), the ranking Democrat.

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the motion to recommit. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo).

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