Ken Calvert

Mr. CALVERT

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

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and commend a young lady from my district who has brought pride and honor to her family, friends and school. Macie Hanrahan, a student at Raney Intermediate School in Corona, California, won first place in the junior division individual performance category at National History Day. National History Day is an annual competition in which students research and learn about events in history. Competitions are held at the district, state and national levels and are judged by historians and educators. Students present their historical findings in papers, exhibits, performances and media presentations. The theme of this year's event was ``Migrations in History: People, Ideas, Cultures.'' As an American of Irish descent, Macie chose Irish Migration of the 1840's as her topic, with a performance entitled ``Deori! Forced From Erin's Soil.'' In her performance, she used the voices of three girls from Ireland, England and America to show differing perspectives of the Irish potato famine, the forced migration that followed, and the experiences that people of different cultures went through during this time in history. To win this event, Macie conducted exhaustive research, including using the National Archives, the Library of Congress, U.S. and Irish Census Records, and original diaries, letters and newspapers of the time. On behalf of the residents of the 43rd congressional district of California, I congratulate Macie for her hard work and a job well done and wish her continued success in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, one of the things that makes America great is the dedication and commitment of many individuals throughout our country who participate in organizations to promote the well being of their community. The Foothill Parent Teacher Association is one of those commendable organizations. The Foothill PTA represents Foothill Elementary School located in Corona, California. In order to provide an environment of quality programs and a high level of parental involvement, the Home-School Communications project was implemented. One of the purposes of this program is to provide weekly communication between home and school. Once a week each student is sent home with a packet of information, which the parent signs off on when received, allowing continual communication between home and school. The Foothill PTA also sends out a newsletter every month, which includes a calender of upcoming events and encourages parents and students to participate. Finally, the program offers up-to-date information to all parents by providing a 24- hour PTA Information Hot Line and a PTA web page on the Internet. It is important to acknowledge that the Home-School Communications project would not be possible without the volunteers who actively participate in the PTA. This outstanding program should be applauded for the positive results it has brought to Foothill Elementary School. Since the commencement of the Home-School Communications project there has been an overall increase in parental involvement in school activities. There has been 99 percent participation at parent-teacher conferences and an increase of 110 percent in PTA membership, and it has brought a sense of togetherness and satisfaction to the parents, teachers, and office staff. There also has been an increase in attendance at school events, including the Halloween Carnival and the First Annual Reflections Awards Night. All this effort and dedication by the members of the PTA has not gone unrecognized. The Foothill PTA received the California State PTA Advocates for Children Award in 1995 and the Outstanding Unit for California and Creative Membership Awards in 1997. In 1998, the Foothill PTA won Outstanding Unit for California and National PTA Outstanding Unit. Also, the Foothill PTA has been recognized as an Outstanding Unit at the council level for the last 4 years. I want to thank the Foothill PTA for all their hard work and dedication to the children in our community. I am proud to have an organization like the Foothill PTA in my district. I encourage Foothill PTA members to continue with their involvement and wish them the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, early this year several news organizations in the southern California area conducted a poll to identify issues of concern to the citizens of that region. Improving the education system was far and away the highest priority among those polled. A staggering 80 percent of respondents supported requiring that teachers take competency tests on a regular basis. The survey clearly illustrated that most Americans want training for teachers so they are better equipped for the classroom. This week in the House we will be considering H.R. 6, the Higher Education Amendments, which establishes a competitive grant system designed to improve the quality of teacher training in colleges and universities. The bill would hold institutions of higher education accountable for preparing teachers in the subjects in which they plan to teach. Mr. Speaker, today's youths are tomorrow's leaders. We must give them every opportunity to succeed. I urge all of my colleagues to support education reform and support H.R. 6.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, throughout this country of ours there are a few individuals who, because they contribute so generously of their time and talents to help others, are recognized as pillars of their community. Charles and Rebecca Gunnoe are two individuals who have combined their forces over the past 25 years, both in medical practice and in the community. I would like to take this opportunity to honor and praise them for their commitment to family, community, and the well-being of the Nation as a whole. Early in his career, Dr. Gunnoe began the practice of advocating quality care for patients and firmly believes that it is possible for one physician to make a difference. He moved to Corona in 1954 and quickly became involved in many community activities. He began by serving as co-chairman on a committee of Corona citizens to recommend specialized needs and priorities for the future of Corona. He was also the Charter President of the Corona Junior Chamber of Commerce and helped develop and dedicate the first Boys Club of Corona. In addition to establishing a family life in Corona, Dr. Gunnoe founded the Circle City Hospital which is now part of the Corona Regional Medical Center. He also built the Corona Clinic where he continues to practice today. Along with working on a daily basis with her husband, Mrs. Gunnoe too has demonstrated a commitment to the community in the development and funding of the Corona chapter of the Trauma Intervention Program, or TIP. This volunteer based organization assists families of victims in tragic situation. Together they have provided funds and assistance in the development of a Christian school library, supported community resources such as the YMCA, Lion's Club, and other service organizations such as the Cancer Society, Foundation of Circle City Hospital and Corona Regional Medical Center, United Way, and Police and Sheriff Relief Funds. I am fortunate to have Chuck and Becky Gunnoe as members of my district and personal friends. Their commitment to family and community is one that should serve as a model for others to follow. I thank them for their innumerable contributions and wish them the best of luck in all of their future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and praise an individual in my district who has worked tirelessly in her community and devoted much of her time to helping others. This individual continually strives for excellence and is willing to take on any project that comes her way. Her abilities to succeed and make a difference are matched by her compassion and kindness. This dedicated individual is Beth King. Beth King is a member of the Board of Directors for the Corona Regional Medical Center Foundation ands, as such, is co-manager of its gift shop where she oversees purchasing, merchandising, bookkeeping and coordinating the staff of volunteers. She is also very active in the community and participates in several organizations. She is a member of the American Cancer Society Board of Directors, the Settlement House Board of Directors where she serves as treasurer, and the Circle Club Rotary Club where she serves as the Board of Directors member who serves as the Community Service Director. Her time and energy have been well spent as a dedicated leader in fundraising on several committees, such as the Corona Regional Medical Center Foundation which hosts the Annual Gala, co-chaired by Beth in 1997. For three years, Beth has co-chaired the American Cancer Society Dinner Dance and Auction. These events have become two of the largest in Corona. I would like to thank Beth for her innumerable contributions in her community. I encourage her to continue in her efforts to make the city of Corona a better place and wish her the best of luck in all of her future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I take the floor today to honor an individual whose dedication to the community and to the overall well- being of the 43rd Congressional District is unparalleled. My district has been fortunate to have dynamic and dedicated community leaders who willingly and unselfishly given of their time and talents to promote the businesses, schools, and community organizations within their various cities and throughout the district as a whole. Mr. Stanley M. Grube is one of these individuals. Stan Grube has been extremely involved in several health care membership activities as well as various community education activities. He has served as Chairman of the Corona-Norco Unified School District Year-Round Education Task Force, in addition to currently serving as a member of the Riverside Community College Foundation and La Sierra University's Community Advisory Council for the California School Administrator Credentials Program. Stan Grube is Chairman and member of the County of Riverside Emergency Medical Care Committee and Externa, Advisory Board Member for the University of Miami Comprehensive Drug Research Center. His community involvement extends from past positions on the Corona Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, President and member of the Board of Directors for the United Way, Corona Rotary Club and the Corona-Norco Family YMCA. In 1997, he appointed by Governor Pete Wilson to the Economic Strategy Panel. Stan's outstanding accomplishments make me proud to call him my friend, community member, and fellow American. I thank him or his contribution to the betterment of the community and I encourage him to keep up the good work.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, the 43rd Congressional District has been fortunate to participate in the writing of United States military history. I take the floor today to praise and honor a military installation that is an important part of Riverside, California. For the past 80 years, March Air Reserve Base, as it is now called, has contributed to the defense of our country and made a lasting impression in the lives of many service men and women. The March community is currently celebrating a milestone--the 80th anniversary of the installation and the 50th anniversary of the Air Force Reserve. As March Air Force Base, it witnessed many advances in aircraft technology, from the JN-4D ``Jenny'' which landed there in 1917, to the KC-10 which was housed at the base in the 1980's. On March 20, 1918, March Field was officially named in honor of Second Lieutenant Peyton C. March, who had been recently killed in a flying accident. From there, Captain William Carruthers took over as the field's first commander. Following World War I, March Field was forced to close its doors due to budget cuts. With the creation of the Army Air Corps in 1926, March Field soon reopened as a pilot training field, training such luminaries as Hoyt Vandenberg, Nathan Twining, Thomas Power and Curtis LeMay. March Field became an operational base in 1931 and in 1949 became a part of the relatively new Strategic Air Command. From 1949 through 1993, March Air Force Base served as an integral part of the Strategic Air Command and America's nuclear deterrent force, a logistical springboard for supplies and equipment during the conflict in Southeast Asia and an effective support for the United States' defensive posture. March Air Force Base received its first Reserve unit in 1960. In 1993, March Air Force Base was selected for realignment. Knowing how important the base has been historically and realizing its significance for the future, I fought vigorously to insure that it remained open. From its inception as a dirt air strip to today, the base has been a key element in the advancement of aviation and the growth of the modern Air Force. The impact of March Air Reserve Base's contributions to the community and the nation will be appreciated for many years to come. As March Air Reserve Base restructures, I want to offer them my full support, encourage them to look to their future as a large and important Air Force Reserve Base and look forward to their continued contributions to the defense of the United States.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, one of the things that makes America great is that in towns and cities across our nation there are citizens who are willing to step forward to dedicate their talent and energy to make life better for their friends and neighbors. The city of Perris, California has been fortunate to have many citizens who have given so freely of themselves in their dedication to the future of the youngest members of our district. Mr. John R. Harrison is one of these outstanding individuals. Mr. Harrison has been an instrumental part of Perris Valley area business and youth programs for many years. After graduating from college, he became a partner in Dan's Feed & Seed, a business which supplies the Perris Valley and surrounding areas with animal feed, seed, veterinary supplies, hardware and plumbing items. He has since become a 100% shareholder in Dan's Feed & Seed and expanded his operation to include stores in Perris, Hemet, and Temecula. He also owns a grain handling facility in Blythe. As a result of his dedication to the business community, Mr. Harris is active in various civic groups in Perris. He is the past president and only remaining charter member of the Perris Rotary Club, past president of the Chamber of Commerce, past president of the Perris Farm Bureau, and the current president of the Perris Alumni Association. In 1994, Mr. Harrison received the Howie Award from the Riverside County Farm Bureau. In 1953, he started the Perris Panthers 4-H club and was its leader until the mid-1960's. His continued involvement in the organization has produced one of the strongest 4-H clubs in Riverside County. Mr. Harrison has also been instrumental in the original organization of Perris Little League. Mr. Harrison has been a member and past president of the Farmers Fair Board and has served as chairman of the Farmers Fair Livestock Auction for 30 years. Due to his dedication, this auction is one of the most prosperous in the fair system, successfully raising money for the 4-H club and Future Farmers of America member's college tuition. In recognition of his many accomplishments in various business and youth organizations in Perris, I commend John Harrison for his contributions and dedicated service to his community. I encourage Mr. Harrison to continue with his involvement and wish him much success and happiness in his future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the conference report to H.R. 1757, the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act. This conference report accomplishes three important international goals by authorizing assistance to the democratic opposition in Iraq; reforming and consolidating the State Department; and most importantly, denying funding to foreign organizations that perform or promote abortions. There is no justification for using our federal money to perform or promote abortions overseas, or here at home for that matter. This bill also takes an important step in consolidating two out of three international affairs agencies back into the State Department. And, it is important for the U.S. to support the democratic opposition in Iraq. The problems in the Middle East have continued for too long. It is time to put an end to Saddam Hussein's reign of terror. I do not like the provision authorizing U.S. arrearages to the United Nations. I am no fan of the United Nations, and do not trust that institution to respect American sovereignty. It is our job as constitutionally elected representatives of the American people to protect our sovereignty. I am disappointed that this provision was included in such important legislation. Again, I strongly support three out of the four key provisions of this bill, particularly regarding no U.S. funds being used to perform or promote foreign abortions. American foreign policy should not include promoting abortions, and no federal funding should be authorized abroad or domestically to pay for abortions. I urge President Clinton to do the right thing and sign this important legislation.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. If the gentleman will continue to yield, I have heard some discussion about 60 percent of the restaurants would be exempt on the 3,500 square foot gross. Now, I know from my experience in the restaurant industry, many restaurants today are fast food establishments, and if you are adding that restaurant to the component, which I believe it is, I suspect that the number of dining restaurants, sit-down establishments is much lower than the number that is being thrown out here today. I point out another subject. When I was in the restaurant business, I paid ASCAP and BMI fees because I had live entertainment, and I used to tape music. So if I used FM radio on the interim, it would not have raised my BMI or ASCAP fees at all. But those restaurants that just have FM radio, public access, and television, which are very few, by the way, it seems to me the only reason that we pursue the Sensenbrenner amendment and not the McCollum amendment. From my perspective, real estate companies who have background music, or you mentioned dentists' offices, moving around to pursue collecting fees from these businesses is, I think, poor business on their part, but certainly intrusive to all small business. I would encourage everyone here to vote against the McCollum amendment and vote for Sensenbrenner.

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

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Chairman, I am glad the gentleman from Indiana brought up these points. I thought I would come on down as a person who was in the restaurant business or used to be in the restaurant business before I came to this body.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an institution in California's 43rd Congressional District that is celebrating a milestone this week. La Sierra University is celebrating 75 years of service to students in the Riverside area, as well as students worldwide. La Sierra University has shown a strong commitment to the education of our community and I would like to especially recognize Lawrence T. Geraty, the university's current president. Mr. Geraty's leadership and dedication will prepare La Sierra University for the transition into the next millennium. La Sierra first opened in 1922 as La Sierra Academy with 84 students. In 1927, the school became Southern California Junior College, and, in 1939, the school was renamed La Sierra College with the addition of a variety of four-year programs. After merging with Loma Linda University in 1967, La Sierra College became the La Sierra campus of Loma Linda University. La Sierra once again became an independent institution in February 1990, assuming its current title as La Sierra University. In the meantime, the professional Schools of Education, Business and Management, and Religion were added. The campus is currently expanding by developing an additional 350 acres of land. La Sierra University has also added a variety of new programs, including offering a Masters degree in Business Administration and a minor in gender studies, with their curriculum continuing to grow. They were recently chosen by the John Templeton Foundation for its 1997-1998 Honor Roll of Character-Building Colleges. They also recently received an accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music for their music department, as well as certification from the Western Association of Colleges and Schools. La Sierra University is also home to the four-time international championship team of students competing in the Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE). SIFE is a national organization which is supported by the Walton family, founders of Wal-Mart, that encourages entrepreneurship and community service by students interested in business. SIFE is an instrumental organization on campus, organizing tutoring, recycling and other service programs. In addition to these activities, SIFE has also been involved in several business ventures. As a result, La Sierra University gives students the atmosphere, guidance, and moral foundation needed to succeed in today's competitive job market. I would like to commend La Sierra University for their commitment to the worldwide scholastic community. Over 1,500 students are currently enrolled, representing more than 60 countries. I encourage and support La Sierra University in continuing to set and meet its outstanding goals in the area of education for decades to come. On behalf of the residents of the 43rd Congressional District, I would like to thank La Sierra University for its contributions and dedicated service to the community, and wish them great success with their 75th anniversary celebration.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to John Orellana, an individual from my hometown of Corona, California who contributed generously of his time and talents to help others and to make his community a better place in which to live and work. In doing so, he made the ultimate sacrifice and died in January in the line of duty. Mr. Orellana was not born an American citizen--he immigrated from El Salvador to the United States when he was 17 years old. He was proud of his adopted country, served honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps, and worked hard to provide for his family. Mr. Orellana was a 22-year veteran of the Immigration and Naturalization Service and worked as a special agent in the anti-smuggling unit. He was killed in a car crash as he responded to a call for help from a U.S. Border Patrol agent. Mr. Orellana was a husband, a father, and a great American who went out everyday to make a difference. And he did, some days in small ways, some days in big ways, and on January 29, 1998, it cost him his life. Mr. Orellana deserves our deepest respect and gratitude. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in remembering John Orellana. Our prayers and most heartfelt sympathy are extended to his family and loved ones. To Mr. Orellana's wife Aura, and his children Nami, David, and Pilar--we honor your husband and father and wish him God's peace.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Riverside Community College District, located in Riverside, California, for their innovative education initiative, Passport to College, which makes college education a reality for the students of six school districts in Riverside County. The Passport to College program is being honored at a White House ceremony today as one of ten exemplary educational programs in the United States. The president is using this ceremony as an opportunity to demonstrate to the nation educational programs that are worthy of duplication. In 1996, Riverside Community College District began the program working with fifth graders in the Riverside, Alvord, Corona-Norco, Jurupa, Moreno Valley and Val Verde unified school districts. If the fifth graders follow the program guidelines and graduate from high school, Riverside Community College District has pledged free tuition and fee assistance. This amounts to 12,000 eligible students participating in the program. In addition, working with local universities, the Passport to College Program has secured the commitment of La Sierra University, California Baptist College, and the University of California, Riverside to provide $2,500 a year in scholarships for graduates of the program who transfer to their schools. The University of Redlands has pledged $5,000 per year in scholarship assistance. Today's youth are our leaders of tomorrow, and Passport to College is a model program that demonstrates what can be achieved when a community comes together. Riverside Community College District recognized a need to help children understand at a young age that college is available for everyone. All that is required is some hard work and commitment. When we hear about the poor state of education in our country, or the problems with the youth of today, think about the success of this program and the lofty goals it is working hard to accomplish. The program achieves two very important objectives by involving parents in their childrens' education from a very early age, and making students begin to think about the importance of college early in their academic careers. Dr. Salvatore Rotella, President of the Riverside Community College District, Amy Cardulo, Director of the Passport-to-College program, and all of those participating are to be commended for their dedication and hard work to ensure the success of future generations. The success of this program is due to the hard work and tenacity of both administrators and students. On behalf of the residents of the 43rd Congressional District, I would like to congratulate them on the Passport-to-College program and wish them continued success in the future. They are a credit to their community, their state, and their nation.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and acknowledge the outstanding career of Corona Police Chief John Cleghorn, who retired on December 19, 1997. It is rare to find an individual who exhibits such strong leadership in the community, and also maintains a compassionate relationship with all levels of individuals within that community. My friend John Cleghorn is one of these individuals. My hometown of Corona, California has been extremely fortunate to have had Chief Cleghorn protecting our community and making it a safer place in which to live and work. John Cleghorn served as the Chief of Police in Corona for 12 years. He came to Corona following a successful career with the Los Angeles Police Department where he rose to the rank of captain and served as head of the force's anti-terrorism unit. He brought with him the knowledge and experience needed to lead a city that was experiencing massive population and economic growth. Chief Cleghorn was appointed to the position in 1985, and in the years that he served as Chief, Corona experienced the same massive population explosion that many other cities in California also experienced. As the Chief of Police, he dealt with difficulties associated with this type of growth in an efficient and effective manner. Chief Cleghorn has overseen a police department that grew from 66 sworn officers to 131 during his tenure, as well as adding a 12-member SWAT team, a gang unit, and CAT, a program created to deal with an increasing number of car thefts in the Corona area. In addition to his responsibilities to the force, Chief Cleghorn devoted much of his time to various community organizations. These groups include the Corona Rotary Club, the Navy League, the YMCA, the Corona Regional Medical Center Foundation, and the Corona Police Community Partnership. He is also involved with Peppermint Ridge, a facility that cares for individuals with developmental disabilities. Chief Cleghorn was recently recognized for his tremendous community efforts by being named Man of the Year for 1997 by the Corona Chamber of Commerce. On behalf of the citizens of the 43rd congressional district, I would like to thank Chief Cleghorn for his contributions and dedicated service to his community and for the example he has set for future generations. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, my hometown or Corona, California is blessed with many individuals who work tirelessly to improve the community's economy, educational system, environment and quality of life. When individuals like these form an organization, the benefits are innumerable. These benefits are reaped not only by the entire community, but also by the individuals who participate. Friendships and business relationships are formed and a tradition of cooperation develops within the community. The Corona Rotary Club is one of these exceptional organizations. This month, the Corona Rotary Club is celebrating its 75th anniversary, marking three-quarters of a century of educational aid and community service in the city of Corona. The Corona Rotary Club is part of a larger organization, Rotary International, which consists of 6,000 clubs worldwide and sponsors several types of programs both regionally and internationally. One of these programs is its PolioPlus Program, which has virtually eradicated polio worldwide. Under sponsorship from the Riverside Rotary Club, the Corona Rotary Club was chartered on January 26, 1923. The club, founded by Herb Gully, initially consisted of 25 members with Charley Scoville serving as the first president. In 1940, a great honor was bestowed upon the organization when Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary International, visited the club. Since 1923, the Corona Rotary Club has grown to include 75 members. The Corona Rotary Club sponsors an annual golf tournament in order to raise money for several youth organizations, including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, YMCA, and various sports programs. Rotary has also established numerous scholarship funds for students in the Corona area, the most recent being the Gordon Duncan Memorial Scholarship, which pays a student's tuition for four years at a California State University. The Corona Rotary Club also established the RR Root Foundation, an organization which assists children with self-esteem problems related to dental deformities and provides reconstructive surgery for children with these deformities. On a personal note, I am especially proud of the Corona Rotary Club's 75 years of service to the community because I have been a member for many years and served as its President prior to being elected to Congress. ``Service Above Self'' is the motto of the Corona Rotary Club, and it is a tradition that I would like to see continue for another 75 years. On behalf of all the residents of the 43rd Congressional District, I would like to thank the Corona Rotary Club for its contributions and dedicated service to the community, and wish them great success with their 75th anniversary celebration.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. I first met Sonny a little over 3 years ago. The only contact I had with Sonny prior to that is when I had dinner at his restaurant in Palm Springs, Sonny's. We both share that common background. My family was in the restaurant business for close to 45 years. Three years ago we started this relationship and we became very close, both as friends and as colleagues. We represented most of Riverside County, shared a district line in many communities together. And he always just was so excellent at what he did in representing his constituents, and let me put a word in for his staff, especially Brian, his chief of staff, who did an excellent job for Sonny over the years; Frank, Beverly, the whole staff. I would like to talk briefly about the last time I saw Sonny. I got a call on a Friday afternoon that, this was two weeks before Christmas, that Sonny wanted to have a meeting, and I am sure all of us were busy, all had things that we wanted to do that Sunday two weeks before Christmas, but Sonny wanted to meet with us, it was important. And we were all there: Jerry Lewis, George Brown, Duncan Hunter, myself, Sonny, meeting in his office to talk about something he loved, something we all care about: The Salton Sea. And for two-and-a-half hours we sat in his office and we discussed ways we could finally resolve this issue that was important to every one of us. All of us have different backgrounds as both individuals or politicians, but Sonny could bring us all together, and I was thinking about that even while I was driving down on that Sunday that certainly we all cared about the Salton Sea, but we all cared about Sonny Bono, and I think that that was one of the reasons we were there, if not the most important thing, because Sonny was somebody you just liked to be around, somebody you wanted to be with. So as we come back to Congress for the second half of the 105th, we are going to miss Sonny, those moments sitting back here in the Chamber when we needed that little lift, that joke, that smile. I think all of us will always remember Sonny's smile that we are just not going to have with us anymore. But we will have that memory, and we certainly have all of our prayers for Mary and the children, and we wish them Godspeed. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud my colleagues for passing by overwhelming majority nine separate bills assailing China's human rights record, its weapons sales, its treatment of religious minorities, its support of compulsory abortion, and its relationship with Taiwan. Virtually all Americans share the same goals with regard to ending China's oppressive practices, but many disagree on the means necessary to accomplish those goals. These bills strongly show the anger and frustration of this Congress toward the Communist Chinese regime. As former President Ronald Reagan did with the ``Evil Empire,'' I believe the United States must continue to maintain firm dialog with its adversaries, contain them militarily, and saturate them with Western, pro-freedom influences. I believe a similar combination will work on China. I am tough on China and any country that allows human rights abuses and religious persecutions. As a subcommittee chairman, I denied President Clinton's ill-thought plan for a $50 million coal plant for China. I also recently took part in an event sponsored by the Congressional Human Rights Caucus and ``adopted'' Gyaltsen Choezom, a Tibetan nun, and Qin Musheng, and evangelical pastor, who are imprisoned by the Chinese Government for the peaceful expression of their political beliefs or the practice of their religion. I will join other colleagues in advocating for the release of their adopted prisoners with the Chinese Government. I am committed to improving human rights and establishing true religious freedom for all of the people of China.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. I thank the gentleman for yielding me the time, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the time has finally come. For over a year I have worked hard to introduce a certain piece of legislation which I think overcomes all our differences, goes beyond party affiliation, and shows the American people that when all is said and done, that this Congress is one, that it can be united. Today especially as we go into Veterans Day weekend, and Tuesday, November 11, as Members know, is Veterans Day, I cannot think of any legislation which comes at a more appropriate time than that of the Veterans Cemetery Protection Act, introduced with my colleague, the gentleman from Hawaii [Mr. Abercrombie]. Mr. Speaker, whenever a young man or woman enters the military, which some do voluntarily, they do so in order to protect our country and guard us against the uncertainties of the world. Sometimes they make the ultimate sacrifice. Over 1 million Americans have died fighting this country's wars. That is why it sickens me when I hear of ingrates and degenerates desecrating our national cemeteries. In June of 1996, Riverside National Cemetery in California, the second largest in the Nation next to Arlington Cemetery in Virginia, fell prey to a thief who stole bronze markers from 128 graves, and later sold them for a profit. Horribly, this theft was discovered on Fathers Day by family members who had come to pay their respects. On April 19 vandals spray-painted racist and profane words on cemetery walls at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii, located in the district of my colleague, the gentleman from Hawaii [Mr. Abercrombie]. Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The Veterans Cemetery Protection Act would stiffen criminal penalties for theft and malicious vandalism at cemeteries. S. 813, the companion bill to my H.R. 1532, as amended, would stiffen criminal penalties for theft and malicious vandalism at national cemeteries. S. 813 will require the U.S. Sentencing Commission to review and amend the sentencing guidelines to enhance penalties resulting from national cemetery desecrations and theft. The bill ensures that the sentences, guidelines, and policy statements for the offenders convicted of an offense are appropriately severe and reasonably consistent with other relevant directives and with other Federal sentencing guidelines. S. 813 seeks to protect the 114 VA national cemeteries, along with other cemeteries under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Army, the Secretary of the Navy, the Secretary of the Air Force, and the Secretary of Interior. Joseph Frank, National Commander of the American Legion, stated, ``Deliberate acts of vandalism against the final resting place of American fallen comrades must not be tolerated.'' According to the Paralyzed Veterans of America News, ``Demeaning and degrading the final resting place of veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the Nation and their loved ones strikes at all veterans and all Americans.'' This bill addresses their concerns. The Veterans Cemetery Protection Act has received the endorsement and support of numerous veterans and military organizations. I wish to recognize and thank the men and women of the Noncommissioned Officers Association of the United States of America, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the American Legion, the Fleet Reserve Association, the Enlisted Association of the National Guard, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Disabled American Veterans, the Blinded Veterans Association, AmVets, and others who have expressed their support for this legislation. Let there be no doubt, this is the Congress' gift to them and those who have gone before them. I wish to thank over 245 Members of this House of Representatives who have cosponsored this bill. I would especially like to thank the gentleman from Hawaii [Mr. Abercrombie] and his staff members, Lee-Ann Adams and Vivian Wolf for their support and leadership on this issue, the gentleman from Florida [Mr. McCollum] and his staff member, Nicole Nason, for their help and guidance in making S.813 a reality; to the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Hyde] and his staff for passing this measure out of the Committee on the Judiciary in an expeditious manner; and to the gentleman from Texas [Mr. Armey] and his floor staffer, Siobhan McGill, for their help in bringing S.813 to the floor; and to my own staff, especially Nelson Garcia, who led on this issue. I would like to thank my fellow colleagues from the Inland Empire, the gentlemen from California, Mr. Brown, Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Bono, for their help in the early stages of this bill. Being so close to Veterans Day, I solemnly ask my colleagues to put all our differences aside, accept Senate bill, S. 813, and pass the Veterans Cemetery Protection Act. Let this be a gift of Congress to our Nation's veterans.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support for H.R. 2570, the Forced Abortion Condemnation Act. One of the most contentious ongoing debates before Congress is whether or not a woman has a right to choose abortion over life. But this debate is not about the right to choose. This is about forcing a woman to undergo a dangerous procedure without her consent. Regardless of whether you believe in the right to life or the right to choose, we can all agree that this practice is inhuman and barbaric. And one that we, as Americans, cannot and should not condone. H.R. 2570 denies visas to Chinese officials who carry out forced abortion or sterilization procedures and condemns those in the Chinese Communist Party and other Chinese nationals who oversee and enforce this process. Forced abortion was officially deemed a crime against humanity by the Nuremberg War Crimes Tribunal after World War II. What the Nazis did back then is no different then what is happening today in China. China's population control methods of forced abortions and sterilizations are not the way to control overpopulation in that country. The practice holds grave implications for religious liberty and basic human rights. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 2570.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. speaker, I rise today in support of HR 2676, legislation to restructure and reform the Internal Revenue Service. I believe this is the most important issue currently being debated in households and businesses throughout the country. This is an enormous task for Congress, but one I believe we are ready, willing and able to tackle. Ever since this issue became a national debate, I have heard from many constituents about their experiences with the IRS. To no one's surprise, the stories were filled with fear and anguish and anger. I did not hear one positive story. This has only reinforced my belief that the IRS is an agency that abuses its power and takes advantage of honest citizens. We have allowed our current system to become monstrous, unmanageable, and in some cases corrupt, and it is up to us to end the IRS as we know it and scrap the current tax code. The legislation before us today is straightforward and non-partisan. This is not the debate about choosing between a flat tax or a national sales tax. It is not about whether we are Republicans or Democrats. This about representing our constituents and responding to their requests for help. It is unconscionable that criminals in this country are innocent until proven guilty, but taxpayers are not. HR 2676 will change this practice and finally hold the IRS accountable to taxpayers and force the IRS to bear the burden of proof when conducting an audit. I am committed to improving the tax code and reforming the IRS. HR 2676 is much needed legislation that will benefit every American and I will be voting in favor of this much needed reform. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do the same.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Long Beach, CA [Mr. Horn], my good friend and neighbor. Mr. Speaker, I rise to ask my colleagues to support H.R. 404. We all know that the cost of crime prevented and a person diverted from a life of crime is much less than that of a prison cell. One of the keys to crime deterrence is a well-trained police force. Due to the efforts of the Riverside Sheriff's Department in my district to do the right thing and emphasize police training over prison space, I discovered a Federal catch-22 that I believe we should quickly correct. When the Federal Government declares real property as surplus, various local entities may apply for the property at a no-cost basis if they use the property for some valid social purpose. To obtain the excess Federal property, the local entity must apply to a Federal agency to sponsor the no-cost transfer. As would seem logical, agencies usually sponsor transfers in keeping with their charges. The Department of Education sponsors educational facilities. Housing and Urban Development sponsors housing. And Department of Justice sponsors prisons. Therein lies the problem. Incredibly, the Department of Justice is prohibited by statute to sponsor law enforcement and/or fire and rescue training facilities. They can only sponsor the building of prisons. H.R. 404, as amended, would correct this quirk in the law and allow the Department of Justice to apply its considerable expertise to sponsor its excess property for training of law enforcement, fire and rescue officials. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a minute to thank the 60 cosponsors of this measure. I especially wanted to thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Horn] for his hard work and leadership in crafting this legislation and passing the measure out of committee. I wish to thank the gentlewoman from New York [Mrs. Maloney] for her support. And I would also like to express my gratitude to the gentleman from California [Mr. Bono], who also shares the area of March Air Force Base and testified on the bill's behalf during subcommittee hearings. Finally, I wish to thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Brown], the gentleman from California [Mr. Lewis], the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Davis)] and the gentleman from California [Mr. Fazio] for their strong support.

Mr. CALVERT

Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in favor of H.R. 2746, the HELP Scholarships Act. The title of this legislation is very appropriate--HELP Empower Low-Income Parents--because H.R. 2746 gives parents greater choices to provide their children with a better education. One of the most contentious battles looming before us today is the battle to save our children by improving education. But now is the time to stop talking about saving schools and start talking about saving students. We must put partisan politics aside and debate the merits of legislation based on what is best for our children, not what is best for the education bureaucracy. Every child is unique and has different needs from the education system. Public schools may not be the answer for everyone, yet lower income families have no other choice. The system is clearly failing these students when you hear statistics like 40 percent of all 10 year olds can't meet basic literacy standards, U.S. eighth-graders placed 28th in the world in math and science skills, and almost a third of today's college freshman require some remedial instruction. This bill helps the poorest of our nation and gives their children a chance that they never had to get a quality education. In some cases, that will mean staying in a public school or going to a nearby magnet school. In others, it will mean attending a private or parochial school. But who do we think we are to stand in this chamber and dictate where every child must attend school? We are elected to represent those families, not to dictate their lives. The parents should be the ones to decide which school is right for their child. By means testing this program, as the legislation mandates, it will guarantee that only the lowest income families will be eligible to receive scholarships for their children. No one can claim that this bill is just another way to subsidize middle class parents sending their children to private schools. Scholarships would only go to students whose families are at or below 185 percent of the poverty rate to cover the cost of tuition at any private, public or religious school located in the impoverished neighborhood. This bill is about helping parents help their children. I want the parents and children in my district to have access to the best education possible. As a lawmaker, I owe it to future generations. I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 2746.