Ken Calvert

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well being of the city of Riverside, California, was unparalleled. Riverside was indeed fortunate to have such a dynamic and dedicated political and community leader who willingly and unselfishly gave of her time and talents to make her community a better place in which to live and work. The individual I am speaking of is Ethel Marie Silver, a close friend and mentor. She passed away Sunday, September 1, 2002 at the Riverside Community Hospital after complications from surgery at the age of 76. Ethel was born in Hemet, California but lived most of her life in Riverside and graduated from Riverside Poly High School in 1944. She earned her registered nurse degree from Los Angeles County General Hospital School of Nursing where she met her husband, Dr. Harrison Silver. After graduation, she played a vital role in establishing the Riverside General Hospital Medical Auxiliary and later served as president. Ethel also regularly volunteered at the hospital blood bank. Ethel's passion for her work as a nurse was matched by her passion for politics. Throughout her life, she had been involved in campaigns from the local level to the federal level. Ethel got her start in politics volunteering on a successful 1962 congressional campaign from Riverside. Over the years she became a master of political strategy and worked tirelessly helping candidates. She was a member of several community organizations including the California Republican Central Committee and was a delegate and alternate to several Republican national conventions. Ethel received many awards throughout her lifetime and in 1997 she received the Presidents Achievement award from the Riverside County Federation of Republican Women. She is survived by her husband, her son, Jeffrey, her daughter, Jennifer Barns, two grandchildren, her brother William Gruber, and two sisters, Lil Harvill and Florence Danson. My thoughts and prayers go out to them for their loss. Mr. Speaker, looking back at Ethel's life, we see a woman dedicated to her family and community--;an American whose gifts to the Inland Empire and southern California led to the betterment of those who had the privilege to come in contact or work with her. Honoring Ethel's memory is the least we can do today for all that she gave over her lifetime.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to his country and community is exceptional. The Inland Empire has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. Mr. Arnold R. Dickson is one these individuals. Arnold R. Dickson was bom in Auburn, California and moved to Riverside, located in my congressional district, in 1958. He graduated from Ramona High School in 1962 and joined the U.S. Air Force in 1965 in which he honorably served for four years. Upon his return from the military, he attended Riverside Community College where he earned his AA Certificates in the Supervision and Middle Management Program. He obtained his Bachelor's of Science from the University of Maryland and recently completed the Executive Management Program at the University of California, Riverside. Arnold's exemplary career with The Gas Company began in 1970 as a serviceman in The Gas Company's old Eastern Division, which serviced most of Riverside County. Arnold was promoted into management in 1978 and held positions in critical areas of the company such as Pipeline Operations, Customer Service, Public Affairs and Staff Management. On July 1, 1994 Arnold was selected to be the Regional Public Affairs Manager in The Gas Company's Inland Empire Region. Arnold has also been actively involved in the community as the Vice- Chairman of the Inland Empire Economic Partnership, a board member for the Riverside County Regional Medical Center Foundation, a board member for the Loma Linda University Children's Hospital Foundation and numerous other organizations that benefit the overall well-being of the businesses and residents of the Inland Empire. Arnold has been married to his wife Priscilla for 34 years and has three wonderful children, the youngest of which resides with them in Redlands. Arnold's tireless work as a community leader has contributed unmeasurably to the betterment of the County of Riverside. His involvement in community organizations in the Inland Empire make me proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I am grateful for his efforts and service and salute him as he departs. I look forward to continuing to work with him for the good of our community in the future.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being and safety of the County of Riverside, CA, is exceptional. The County of Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. Larry Smith is one of these individuals. On August 1, 2002, Larry will be retiring after thirty-six years of dedicated service to the community as a law enforcement officer. His outstanding work as a police officer and sheriff, in addition to his personal involvement in the community, will be celebrated on August 1st dedicated as ``Larry D. Smith Day''. Larry Smith obtained his bachelor's degree in Public Management from Pepperdine University and his first assignment in law enforcement was as deputy sheriff in the Blythe Jail and Patrol. His tenure included a variety of command assignments, including narcotics enforcement, information services, jails and patrol. He served as the County's Search and Rescue coordinator and commanded the department's Emergency Services Team (SWAT). In 1987 Smith was promoted to chief deputy sheriff. Under his superb leadership as chief of the Corrections Division, two modern jails were financed and built. He guided the division through its largest growth in the history of the Department. Larry was elected as Riverside County's eleventh sheriff, winning the office in the June 1994 primary and assuming the office of sheriff on December 14, 1994. He was reelected to his second term in December 1998 and he served as the first sheriff, coroner, public administrator and marshal in the history of Riverside County. As sheriff, he procured 365 acres at March Air Reserve Base for a public safety training center, which provides training for law enforcement, fire and paramedics. This paved the way for future centers throughout the United States by enabling the transfer of surplus land from the U.S. Military to the private sector through the legislative process. Larry has also been actively involved in the community, serving as a member of the board for the American Heart Association and the United Way of the Inland Empire. He presently serves on the Advisory Committee for the Debbie Chisholm Memorial Foundation, a charitable group dedicated to granting the wishes of terminally ill children. In recognition of his outstanding service, Larry has been a recipient of numerous awards such as special recognition in 1996 from the California Narcotics Officers' Association; he was named the outstanding law enforcement officer in 1996 from Veterans of Foreign Wars; the 1997 director's award for partnership from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection; and, the 1998 professional of the year from the California Peace Officers Association. Larry's tireless work as the Riverside County Sheriff has contributed unmeasurably to the safety and betterment of Riverside County. His involvement in community organizations makes me proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that all of the residents of Riverside County are grateful for his service and salute him as he departs and I look forward to continuing to work with him for the good of our community in the future.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2003. This bill provides our armed forces with the resources to fight terrorism and strengthens military quality of life, readiness, infrastructure and modernization programs. I would like to commend Chairman Lewis, Ranking Member Murtha and their staffs for their bipartisan work in putting this bill together. The bill also includes funding for 12 new C-17 airlifters along with other acquisitions and improvements for our cargo and tanker fleet. Combat forces cannot fight, peacekeepers cannot keep the peace and humanitarian aid cannot be distributed without an effective, rapid global mobility force. Continuing to build up our cargo and tanker fleet will help ensure that the United States military can continue to effectively deliver both guns and butter anytime, anyplace.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased and honored to welcome Chaplain Fred Huscher as our guest chaplain in the House of Representatives today. Chaplain Huscher serves as the Riverside County Sheriff's Department chaplain and is visiting Washington, D.C. as a member of the FBI Chaplains Steering Committee. Chaplain Huscher served honorably in the United States Air Force and then graduated with a degree of theology from Concordia Seminary in Springfield, Illinois, in 1964. He moved on to work as pastor in Oregon and Washington and obtained his Doctor of Ministry degree from Concordia Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He settled in California in 1973. After serving as vice president of the Concordia University in Irvine, California, Chaplain Huscher was hired in 1997 to be department chaplain and peer support coordinator for over 3,000 personnel of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, located in my congressional district. There he contributed greatly to the well-being and overall morale of the sheriff's department. Some of his accomplishments include acting as a state chaplain for the Peace Officers Research Association of California, serving on a panel for the California Department of Justice Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, and serving as the FBI chaplain for Los Angeles Field Office and the Riverside Resident Agency. Chaplain Huscher's life has been marked by continual service and dedication to the word of God, his community, and his country. It is my distinct pleasure to welcome him to Washington today and thank him on behalf of the United States House of Representatives for our opening prayer.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being and safety of my hometown of Corona, CA, is exceptional. The City of Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. John Robert Dalzell is one of these individuals. On Thursday, June 27, 2002, John Robert Dalzell will be retiring after 31 years of dedicated service to the community as a law enforcement officer. His outstanding work as a police officer, in addition to his personal involvement in the community, will be celebrated at a luncheon in his honor. John Robert Dalzell was born in Illinois on September 1, 1947 and shortly after his family moved to Arizona. After graduation from high school, John enlisted for and honorably served in the United States Navy for five years which included tours of duty in Vietnam. He obtained his Bachelor's Degree from Chapman College and began his law enforcement career with the Corona Police Department as a reserve officer and police officer in 1976. He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 1980 and to captain in 1983. John's exemplary career as a police officer includes serving as the commanding officer in charge of all three divisions in the police department. John holds several advanced Peace Officer Standards and Training certificates including Advanced and Executive Certificate and has served on law enforcement advisory boards throughout Riverside County. John has also been actively involved in the community, as the past president and current member of the Corona Breakfast Lions club, former chairman of the American Cancer Society Charity Dinner Committee and the 2001 recipient of the Temescal District Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award. John's tireless work as a police officer has contributed unmeasurably to the safety and betterment of the City of Corona. His involvement in community organizations of the City of Corona make me proud to call him a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that all of Corona is grateful for his efforts and salute him as he departs. I look forward to continuing to work with him for the good of our community in the future.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, as I listen to my colleagues from both sides of the aisle, I stand before you perplexed by the banter going back and forth. In case you have not noticed, we are at war, folks. I do not know about you, but I want to make sure that the dedicated men and women in uniform, our brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, mothers and fathers, are able to fight and win this war. In order to do that, our troops need the resources to win. On the eve of this Memorial Day weekend, I think about the beautiful yet harrowing tributes to the hundreds of thousands of fellow Americans that have fought to defend our freedom. The Korean Memorial bears a simple sentence: Freedom is not free. It is one of the simplest and most powerful statements ever made. Freedom is not free. Because war is not free, both in material and, sadly, in human lives. I have heard the talk about hard choices. There are a lot of choices to make. But placing the lives of our soldiers at risk over procedural and jurisdictional bickering should not be an option. If we do not supply them with the necessary resources to win, none of the arguments will matter. These funds will pay for urgent wartime expenses related to the military actions in Afghanistan and other U.S. operations against global terrorist threats. These funds will improve our homeland security by empowering law enforcement with the tools to track down terrorists and safeguard our aviation systems, nuclear assets, ports and borders. I do not like adding to the national debt and I certainly do not like seeing our Nation at war. But these two emergencies, one economic and one military, were forced upon us. Dealing with both of these emergencies in one vote is fine with me. American troops need the resources to win. I support this supplemental and urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to pay tribute to the Inland Empire Harley Owners Group as they prepare to promote West Coast Thunder, a large police escorted parade of motorcyclists to the Riverside National Cemetery to honor our military veterans on Memorial Day. In my congressional district of Riverside, California, we are fortunate to have numerous community service organizations that not only unselfishly give their time and talents to the community but find their own lives enriched in return. The Inland Empire Harley Owners Group epitomizes this and more. The efforts of the West Coast Thunder committee with thousands of parade participants over the years, has brought great recognition, unparalleled resources and multitudes of volunteers to Riverside's Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony. This event provides a compelling way for people to pay their respects as well as raise funds for the Riverside National Cemetery Support Committee. The visual impact of thousands of motorcycles, led by a full flag-bearing honor-guard, proudly gives those interred at the Riverside National Cemetery the recognition it richly deserves. The Riverside National Cemetery is currently the second largest resting place for our veterans, with over 150,000 men and women from our armed services standing silent vigil with us today. Within a short time it is expected to be the largest cemetery in the National Cemetery system and within 50 years will have more than 1.4 million honored veterans. The months of work preceding this event lead to a large gathering of veterans, family and friends desiring to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation. Their tireless efforts and dedication to honoring our brave veterans is evident as thousands participate in the Memorial Day Ceremonies. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Inland Empire Harley Owners Group for their dedication and service to our Nations veterans.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being of my congressional district of Riverside, California is exceptional. The City of Riverside has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. Cynthia Roth is one of these individuals. On May 31, 2002, Cindy will be honored by the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce for 25 years of dedicated service to the Community. Cindy Roth is president and chief executive officer of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce. Ms. Roth oversees a budget of $1.3 million and 15 employees. Cindy's career has expanded over 25 years at the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce. She attended Riverside Community College, and graduated from the United States Chamber of Commerce Institutes for Organization Management at Stanford University. The first woman to lead the organization, Cindy became the president of the Chamber in 1999. A person with passion and principles who has strived to have a positive effect upon her local community, Cindy's leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the bonds among the communities of Greater Riverside, along with their business and educational communities. Actively involved in the community, Cindy is currently a member of the Riverside Raincross Club and Western Association of Chamber Executives. She also serves as the vice president for Southern California Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. She received the 1996 Community Service Award from the Rotary Club of Arlington, Alumna of Leadership Riverside and is the recipient of the 2000 Athena Award. Cindy's tireless, engaged actions have propelled the City of Riverside forward in a positive and progressive manner. Her work to promote the businesses, schools and community organizations of Riverside make me proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that all of Riverside is grateful for her contribution to the betterment of the community and salute her for her efforts. I look forward to continuing to work with her for the good of our community in the future.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Chairman, I too want to thank the chairman, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump), for all his years of service. We will miss him very much, but I know he will always be in our hearts. Mr. Chairman, in my home State of California, environmental litigation may force the Fish and Wildlife Service to designate critical habitat for endangered species on over 50 percent of the 125,000-acre Camp Pendleton in Southern California. Even though there are 17 miles of coastline in Camp Pendleton, environmental restrictions allow the Marines to use less than 1 mile of that coast, as designated on this drawing. One mile. That is it. That small space. And once they get ashore, Marines have to align everything and everyone up single file to weed through the land that has been designated critical habitat and cross Interstate 5 to another location on the base to begin their maneuvers. Mr. Chairman, our Marines should be training as they fight, not as if they are going out on some field trip. Our military is one of the best environmental stewards America has. They should not be forced to give up realistic training on their own property to satisfy a few environmental extremists. Proper training saves lives. We must not sacrifice the safety of our sons and daughters so that a gnatcatcher or a fairy shrimp can have an undisturbed life.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Chairman, I commend Judiciary Committee Chairman James Sensenbrenner and Ranking Member John Conyers for their work on bringing this important bipartisan legislation, H.R. 3231--The Barbara Jordan Immigration Reform and Accountability Act of 2002--to the House floor for consideration. H.R. 3231 creates a new immigration system. It ensures that terrorist and illegal immigrants are kept out of our country. For too long our immigration system has been stuck in the dark ages allowing illegal immigrants and terrorists to slip silently into our nation. H.R. 3231 recognizes this and requires that Internet-based technologies be implemented to track immigration applications--technologies that can alert Americans now, not later when it's already to late, about illegal and terrorists threats to our liberties and homeland security. Mr. Chairman, Americans have trusted and been patient with INS for far too long as they have attempted numerous internal reorganizations-- reorganizations that have obviously not worked. INS's present mission to both administer immigration benefits and enforce immigration law is blatantly at odds with each other. Therefore, today we vote today to abolish the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to recognize what Americans have already concluded--that American's immigration system needs a clear chain of command coupled with greater accountability. America demands an immigration system that secures our homeland by keeping illegal immigrants and terrorists out, while offering an efficient process for those legal immigrants coming to America to start a better life. H.R. 3231 secures our American principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well being of the city of Norco, California, was unparalleled. Norco was indeed fortunate to have such a dynamic and dedicated business and community leader who willingly and unselfishly gave of his time and talents to make his community a better place in which to live and work. The individual I am speaking of is Steve M. Nathan. I was fortunate to have been able to call him my friend. He passed away last week at the Corona Regional Medical Center after complications from surgery at the age of 76. With true valor and love of country he served in the United States Air Force and saw combat during World War II as a B-26 Aerial Gunner where he flew 26 missions over Germany. After 25 years of service, he retired as a Senior Master Sergeant in 1968 and moved to Norco. Steve then founded and operated Norco Alarms, Inc. until his retirement in 1990. A fixture in the community, Steve was a talented businessman and never shied away from community involvement. Mr. Nathan gave much during his years to his community and the whole Inland Empire. He began his record of community service by becoming a member of the Norco Planning Commission in 1970, served over 12 years on the Norco City Council and was elected Mayor twice during that span. Steve was also elected and served as Chairman of the Riverside Transit Agency, appointed to the Riverside County Jury in 1993, serve on the California Grand Jurors Association Board, was the current three term President of the Norco Historical Society, a member of the California Rehabilitation Center Citizen Advisory Board, the Corona Masonic Lodge, Norco Lions Club, the Norco American Legion Post 328 and the Norco Chamber of Commerce. His passion for community service was matched by his passion for hunting for artifacts. He traveled many parts of the world as he enjoyed his metal detecting hobby and spent two weeks each summer in England where he hunted for artifacts. He was an avid Board Member of the Riverside Treasure Hunters Club. He is survived by his wife, Audry Murphy Nathan, two sons, Scott Nathan and his wife Emmi, Dennis Nathan and his wife Jane, two grandchildren, Nicole and Bryan, his sister Toni Nathan and brother-in law Chuck Nathan. Steve was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Doris Nathan. My prayers go out to them for their loss. Mr. Speaker, looking back at Steve's life, we see a man dedicated to his family and community--an American whose gifts to the Inland Empire and southern California led to the betterment of those who had the privilege to come in contact or work with him. Honoring Steve's memory is the least that we can do today for all that he gave over his lifetime.

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 cities and county. These individuals work tirelessly to develop voluntary community action to improve the region's economy, its education, its environment and its overall quality of life. One individual, who is a member of this group, is Richard Gonzales. He has been active in so many community groups and activities that it is hard to imagine how he found the time to become a career law enforcement officer with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), as the Chief of Police for the City of Coronoa, a husband and a father of two. On the 9th of March, Mr. Gaonzales 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 innumerable philanthropic gifts to the community and his efforts to encourage others to serve their community in a similar fashion. The award recognizes Mr. Gonzales for his exceptional devotion to developing community volunteerism. Richard's career with the LAPD lasted for an impressive 26 years where he commanded many divisions. During those years, he served as a police officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant and captain. After retiring from LAPD, Richard was named the police chief of Corona in 1998. Richard holds a Master of Arts in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, both from California State University, Long Beach. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia and holds a POST certificate for Command Development. He is also an adjunct professor at Golden West College, where he teaches a POST Discipline course at the Criminal Justice Training Center. With all of these career and family commitments, Richard's unselfish giving of time and energy to volunteering is all the more impressive and serves as a model to his community, neighbors and own children. His strong commitment to the Inland Empire is displayed in his participation in the Corona Police Community Partnership, Coalition for Family Preservation, Corona Rotary, as a board member for UNITY which deals with community youth sports and the Coronoa-Norco YMCA. Chief Gonzales has actively instituted partnerships with our local school district, ministerial groups and other services in keeping our community safe and raising the quality of life in Corona. Mr. Speaker, I take this opportunity to thank Richard Gonzales for his dedication, influence and involvement in our community. I know that we will continue to benefit from his longtime experience in the 43rd congressional district and deep commitment to the region. It is a great pleasure for me to congratulate Richard on his outstanding career with the LAPD and his lifelong devotion to the community.

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 cities 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 Roy Vander Kallen. On the 9th of March, Mr. Vander Kallen 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 innumerable philanthropic gifts to the community and his efforts to encourage others to serve their community in a similar fashion. The award recognizes Roy for his exceptional devotion to developing community volunteerism. A lieutenant in the Corona Police Department, Roy credits his upbringing and the mentors of his youth for providing an emphasis on community service for his own history of volunteerism. Losing his parents at the young age of twelve, it was through his involvement in sports programs that kept him active in school. His early love of football set the tone for the next 25 years. He was all-CIF in high school, Second Team All American in college and played fifteen years in semipro. He joined the Corona Police Department in 1978. During regular patrols and through handling many family issues throughout his career, Roy noticed that our community includes numerous low income families. The children of these families found themselves without the financial support necessary to participate in many after school sports and organizations. Seeing a need, Roy, along with Bud Gordon, co-founded the ARC Angel Foundation to address this financial void. Raising funds through an annual golf tournament, the program is administered by Corona police officers. Word of the foundation has spread throughout the city and it is now called upon to assist with Christmas gifts, food, clothing, funerals, after school programs and computer equipment. Mr. Speaker, I take this opportunity to thank Roy Vander Kallen for his dedication, influence and involvement in our community. He has aided in developing and maintaining community volunteerism in the Corona-Norco area and the Inland Empire. I know that we will continue to benefit from his experience in the 43rd congressional district and deep commitment to the region. It is a great pleasure for me to congratulate Roy on his outstanding career and lifelong devotion to the community.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, like most Americans, I have become jaded to the fact that the news media uses the airways to promote their liberal agenda. But when National Public Radio made a thinly veiled accusation that the Traditional Values Coalition could be responsible for the anthrax attacks on Capitol Hill, they crossed the line from simple bias to outright libel. Mr. Speaker, the thousands of men and women who make up the Traditional Values Coalition are our neighbors, our fellow churchgoers. They are the people who responded to our national emergency by giving their money, clothes, food, time, and even their blood to the victims of September 11. But to NPR, they are simply accused terrorists. In the end, while the people of the Traditional Values Coalition practice the American ideals of charity and compassion, NPR continues to practice their traditional values: shameful pettiness and slanderous lies.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being of California's Inland Empire and the Nation is unparalleled-- Colonel Peter T. Bentley. Calvin Coolidge, America's 13th President, once said, ``Patriotism is easy to understand in America; it means looking out for yourself by looking out for your country.'' On Saturday February 9th 2002, Colonel Bentley will be honored for over 30 years of distinguished military service in which he dedicated his career in protecting fellow Americans. Colonel Bentley is the outgoing commander of the Air Force Reserve Command's 452nd Air Mobility Wing at March Air Reserve base in Riverside California. The wing is the Air Force Reserve's only unit- equipped air mobility wing with 18 C-141Cs, 10 KC-135Rs and more than 4,000 reservists. With true valor and love of country, Colonel Bentley voluntarily enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1970 through Officer Training School in Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. He has served in a variety of flying, command and staff positions throughout his career in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve. He is a command pilot with more than 8,000 hours in air refueling, cargo and troop transport aircraft. Colonel Bentley is a veteran of the Southeast Asia conflict having flown 60 combat hours there,. Throughout his career, Colonel Bentley earned numerous medals some of which include the Air Force Commendation Medal, National Defense Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with service star and the Vietnam Service Medal. His commitment to service and the protection of America and her citizens is an example of the greatness that exists within this Nation. Mr. Speaker, in my district of Riverside, California we are fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated individuals who give unselfishly of their time, talents and their lives to ensure the well-being of our city, state, nation and in Colonel Peter T. Bentley's case--world.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being of Norco, CA, is exceptional. The city of Norco has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. Mrs. Velma Hickey is one of these individuals. On January 26, 2002, Mrs. Hickey will be honored as the outgoing 2001 president of the Norco Chamber of Commerce. Through the years, Velma has served as a director on the Board of the Chamber, the Virginia Weidman Home Arts Competition Chairman, Installation Banquet Chair and most recently the Norco Fair Chairman in 2001. She is an active member of the Republican Women's Club, United We Stand America organization, and the vice president of the Norco Historic Society. Velma Hickey's leadership has led to numerous awards and recognitions. The highlights include: Volunteer of the Year Award from United We Stand America in 1990 and Principal for a Day received from the Corona/Norco Unified School District in 2001, and Lecturer at St. Mel's Catholic Church in Norco from 1987 thru 1990. A graduate of UC Irvine, Velma has a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology. Velma's tireless, engaged action has propelled the city of Norco forward in a positive and progressive manner. I know that all of Norco is grateful for her contribution to the betterment of the community and salute her as she departs. I look forward to continuing to work with her for the good of our community in the future.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being of my hometown of Corona, CA, is exceptional. The City of Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. Dr. Brenda Davis is one of these individuals. On January 5, 2002, Dr. Davis will be honored as the outgoing 2001 President of the Corona Chamber of Commerce. Currently Provost of the Norco Campus at Riverside Community College, Brenda provides great leadership, administration and supervision over her faculty and students. A person with passion and principles, who has strived to have a positive effect upon her local community, Dr. Davis' leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the bonds between the cities of Corona and Norco, along with their business and educational communities. Dr. Brenda Davis holds a Doctor of Education degree in Curriculum and Teaching, a Master of Education Degree in Psychiatric--Mental Health Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing all from Teachers College, Columbia University in New York. Dr. Davis is recognized as a very effective administrator and has held several administrative positions at Riverside Community College, including Director, Department Chairperson of Nursing; Dean, Nursing Education; Dean, Grant and Contract Services. Brenda's tireless, engaged action have propelled the City of Corona forward in a positive and progressive manner. Her work to promote the businesses, schools and community organizations of the City of Corona make me proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that all of Corona is grateful for her contribution to the betterment of the community and salute her as she departs. I look forward to continuing to work with her for the good of our community in the future.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a most exceptional California Inland Empire community leader, friend and great American--Mr. James Rees. Calvin Coolidge, America's 13th President, once said, ``No person was ever honored for what he received; honor has been the reward for what he gave.'' And Jim Rees gave much during his years of military service and banking career. With true valor and love of country, Mr. Rees voluntarily enlisted in the United States Army in 1942 and became an Officer in 1944. Like many other members of the Greatest Generation he served in World War II in both the European and North African/Middle East theaters. After the war, Jim returned to the United States and in 1948 enlisted in the Air Force. He quickly rose among the ranks and in 1957 achieved the rank of Major. Jim served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars, and in 1968 voluntarily retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. He has been honored with numerous medals ranging from the WWII victory medal to the National Defense Service Medal as well as the Air Force Longevity Service Award with four Oak Leaf Clusters. After a distinguished career in the Air Force, Mr. Rees established himself in Riverside and went into the banking business. He served the community with the same care and dedication he had served our country. An avid golfer, Jim was instrumental in the revitalization of the March Air Force Base golf course. Jim has also been active in the Strategic Air Command Group of Veterans and has always been proud to call himself a team player. A love of country can only be matched by a love of family. Mr. Rees has four children, Christine, Susan, Laura, and David, five grandchildren, Amy, Jennifer, Jim, Ian, and Susan and great-grandchild, Samuel who all refer to him as their hero. No greater honor can be bestowed on a man who has selflessly and wholeheartedly served our great nation. Mr. Speaker, looking back at Jim's life, we see a man dedicated to military service and community--an American whose gifts to the Inland Empire and California led to the betterment of those who have the privilege to come in contact or work with Jim. Honoring him today is the least that we can do for all that he has given over the past 80 years of his life.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I stand today in strong support of this important legislation. In 1994, during my first term in Congress I introduced a bill to create a system now known as the Basic Pilot Program. Representing a district very close to the U.S./Mexico border, I heard from many INS agents dissatisfied with the tools they were given to track illegal immigrants and from employers who wanted a way to verify the employment eligibility of prospective employees. As we discussed the means to develop such a system, one idea that kept cropping up was a simple 1-800 telephone number that businesses could use to verify the Social Security numbers of people they had hired. In 1996, I was successful in getting the Basic Pilot Program included in the Immigration Reform Act and I am pleased that companies across the country are now using the toll free verification line. I applaud my friend from Iowa for moving to extend the program. Now, more than ever, it is clear that we need to provide tools that will help the INS track people in this country illegally. Even while this program continues, we will be working together to ensure that the INS meets the requirements of the 1996 law. I have asked INS to complete their report on the Basic Pilot Program and will work with the Service, the gentleman from Iowa and the Chairman of the Committee on ways to improve and expand the program to all fifty states. Again, I would like to thank the gentleman from Iowa for introducing this key legislation and would urge all my colleagues to vote for its passage.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a couple whose dedication to the community and to the overall well-being of California's Inland Empire is unparalleled. On December 11, 2001, Francis and Jean Domenigoni will be honored as Distinguished Citizens for the Good Scout of the Year Award. The Domenigoni family is one of the oldest pioneering families in the region. They share a history that is as rich as the soil in which they have farmed for over five generations. Angelo Domenigoni, along with his brother Peter and a friend named Gaudenzio Garbani, immigrated to this great nation in 1874. The patriarch of the family, Angelo, arrived in ``Pleasant Valley'', now known as Winchester in 1879, and set the Domenigoni family on the road to achieving the American Dream. Through hard work and dedication he and his wife, Maria Antonia established a life that was blessed with seven children: Antonio, Natal, Peter, Jack, Rita, Serafina and Dominica. Antonio married Dominica Fiscalini and they had five beautiful children of their own; Angelo, Francis, Julia, Fred, and Elsa. All five children were born and raised on the ranch. Fred and Francis Domenigoni carried on the family farming operation all of their lives. Francis Domenigoni married Jean Connell, a member of the Garbani Family. Continuing in the tradition of his parents, Francis and Jean raised five children; Richard, Larry, Donald, Andy, and Steve. Together with his son, Andy, Francis managed the family's farming and ranching business for twenty years. In 1997, Francis passed away, leaving his wife Jean, his sons, and grandchildren to carry on the family legacy. For the past fifty years, the Domenigoni Family has been a major sponsor and contributor to the Junior Livestock Auction and Farmers Fair. Active members in the Riverside County Farm Bureau, they support the Winchester Harvesters and Pleasant Valley 4H Programs. The Domenigoni's have also opened their ranch for the past decade for a riding event to support the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and American Disabilities Association. The family also recently dedicated a building shell for the Winchester Community Center and Recreation Facility. The Domenigonis continue to endorse higher education by sponsoring the UC Riverside Foundation, the Mt. San Jacinto College Foundation, and providing annual scholarships to agricultural students at Hemet and West Valley High Schools. They are also active participants in the Winchester Homeowner's Association; the Chambers of Commerce in Winchester, Murrieta, and Temecula; the Riverside County Property Owners' Association; the Murrieta Temecula Group, and the Hemet-San Jacinto Action Group. It is a well deserved honor and I am proud to pay homage today to a family who has done much for the people in my district.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being of my hometown of Corona, CA, is exceptional. The city of Corona has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated business and community leaders who willingly and unselfishly give time and talent to making their communities a better place to live and work. Karen E. Stein is one of these individuals. On December 4, 2001, Karen Stein will be honored as the outgoing 2001 City of Corona Mayor, after serving two terms on the city council. Currently serving on the Corona City Council's Infrastructure and Economic Development Committees, Karen was first elected to the Corona City Council in 1994. Previously she was a member of the Corona/Norco Unified School District Board of Trustees, the Corona Parks and Recreation Commission and the Corona Chamber of Commerce. As a past chairwoman of the Regional Water Quality Control Board- Santa Ana Region, Karen Stein spearheaded a successful effort in 1995 to expand the city of Corona's wastewater treatment plant. Karen Stein's leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the bonds between the city and business community. A person with passion and principles, who has strived to have a positive effect upon her local community, her other community activities include: the Fender Museum of the Arts Foundation Board of Directors, member of the Corona Historic Preservation Society, charter member of UNITY (United Neighbors Involving Today's Youth) and more. Unquestionably a leader of women in her community, Karen has received numerous awards including being named ``Woman of Distinction'' by the Inland Empire Business Press and Soroptimist International. Karen's tireless, engaged action have propelled the city of Corona forward in a positive and progressive manner. Her work to promote the businesses, schools and community organizations of the city of Corona make me proud to call her a fellow community member, American and friend. I know that all of Corona is grateful for her contribution to the betterment of the community and salute her as she departs. I look forward to continuing to work with her for the good of our community in the future.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Riverside Community Hospital, which will observe its 100th anniversary on December 2. For the past century, Riverside Community Hospital has been committed to delivering the very best healthcare to the people of Riverside and the Inland Empire. One hundred years ago, local physicians in Riverside, concerned by the lack of available healthcare facilities and the performance of surgeries in private homes, formed what would become Riverside Community Hospital. In a meeting at the home of Dr. C. Van Zwalenburg, these local physicians pledged their own money to convert a 12-room house at the southwest corner of Eleventh and Orange Streets as the first hospital. Shortly after the hospital opened, it was bursting at the seams and the construction of a new building was desperately needed. The citizens of Riverside generously provided much-needed financial assistance for the building's construction. In May 1904, a brand new two-story hospital building opened on Walnut Avenue, which would later become Brockton, between Eleventh and Twelfth Streets. The Riverside Daily Press described the new hospital as ``a handsome two-story building with pebble dash finish and a handsome pillared portico.'' Over the last 100 years, Riverside Community Hospital has seen its community change quite a bit. When it first opened the area was full of orange groves and people from Los Angeles drove east to take in the winter sun. A lot has changed since then but one thing has remained constant, Riverside Community Hospital's dedication to its friends and neighbors. Riverside Community Hospital has demonstrated an ability to meet whatever challenges its faces: its staff has successfully adapted to a rapidly growing community; secured financial resources to meet the community's health demands; as well as, kept pace with scientific advances and technological changes. On behalf of the citizens of the 43rd congressional district of California, as well as the countless number of patients they have served, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to the Riverside Community Hospital for their 100 years of outstanding service to the community.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, the growth of services in the U.S. economy has been a tremendous boon to our Nation's GDP and the rate of employment. The benefit of services trade are particularly evident in my home State of California, and at the local level. In California, for example, services account for more than 85 percent of the State economy and 77 percent of employment. There are over 5,500 establishments exporting professional, scientific and technical services in California. Those establishments alone provide jobs for more than 130,000 people, according to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data. Software publishers, broadcasting and telecommunications services employ another 130,000 people in California, a number which would grow if new trade agreements that would reduce barriers to services and tariffs on industrial products and agriculture are signed. The services sector needs successful trade negotiations that expand substantially opportunities for U.S. trade in services. Trade negotiating authority plays a crucial role in our country's ability to negotiate, and implement, these negotiations; and so we need to move these negotiations along.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor today to rise and pay tribute to Doctor Clarence Romero, associate professor of psychology, at Riverside Community College upon being named the 2001 United States Professor of the Year. My congressional district is privileged to have Dr. Romero teaching our young adults as he is one of only four awardees recognized each year for extraordinary dedication to undergraduate teaching. Skillful, enthusiastic and innovative teachers change the lives of countless students for the better by encouraging curiosity and understanding and by contributing to the development of mind and spirit. The United States Professors of the Year program, presented by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and directed by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, is the nation's most highly respected program to recognize outstanding faculty. The Professor of the Year represents the thousands of dedicated university and college instructors throughout the nation who serve their students, their community and their state with vigor and talent. Mr. Speaker, the United States has long supported excellence in undergraduate teaching through competitively funding faculty salaries and other initiatives making our system of higher education the envy of many nations. The quality of life and the scope of opportunity for many future citizens will be determined by the quality of teaching in the classroom. Therefore, I join with all of the citizens in my district in thanking and congratulating Dr. Clarence Romero as he is honored for his devotion to teaching the young minds of our future generations.