Jerry Costello

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legislation. I ask unanimous consent that the balance of time on our side be controlled by gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Corrine Brown).

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the victims of one of history's most terrible tragedies, the Armenian Genocide. On April 24, 1915, 300 Armenian leaders, intellectuals, and professionals were rounded up in Constantinople, deported, and killed. From 1915 through 1923, Armenians that lived under Ottoman rule were systematically deprived of their property, freedom, and dignity. In addition, one and a half million Armenians had been massacred and 500,000 more had been deported. The Armenian community saw its culture devasted and its people dispersed. This date is remembered and commemorated each year by the Armenian community. In my district, there is a significant population of Armenian survivors and their families that showed heroic courage and a will to survive in the face of devastating obstacles and adversities. These survivors are an important window into the past and an invaluable part of our society. With faith and courage, generations of Armenians have overcome great suffering and proudly preserved their culture, traditions, and religion. It is through their unforgettable tragedy that we are able to share in their history and strong heritage. The history of the Armenian Genocide must never be forgotten. Mr. Speaker, genocide is the most potent of all crimes against humanity because it is an effort to systematically wipe out a people and a culture as well as individual lives. Denying that genocide took place when there are recorded accounts of barbarity and ethnic violence is an injustice. Instead, we must ensure the lessons of the Armenian genocide are properly understood and acknowledged by paying tribute to the Armenian community on this solemn occasion. I am pleased my colleagues and I have this opportunity to ensure this legacy is remembered.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 104, a resolution expressing the support and appreciation of the Nation for the President and the members of the Armed Forces who are participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Many people have questioned the need for the United States to remove Saddam Hussein or the method in which this matter has been handled by the Bush administration. However, the time has come to end the debate and turn our complete and unified attention to supporting our troops. I know there is no more important decision than whether or not to send our sons and daughters into armed conflict. Our President has made the decision to commit troops and with pride an resolve, the Congress stands solidly behind our troops. We will do whatever we can to make certain that they have everything needed for a quick resolution and their safe return home. Mr. Speaker, the thoughts and prayers of all Americans are with the nearly 300,000 brave men and women who are currently putting their own lives in danger to carry out the orders of the Commander in Chief. Every one of us is proud of their service and their courage. We pray for their safety tonight and in days to come, and offer comfort and support to their families and loved ones.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 5, the HEALTH Act. There is no question that medical liability insurance rates are out of control. These high insurance costs are threatening to put many doctors and other health care professionals out of business and limit access to health care. However, I cannot in good faith support legislation that limits the rights of patients, victims, and their families while protecting the health insurance industry. HMOs and big health insurers should not receive special treatment; they are not above the law and should not be exempt from responsibility through this legislation. Under H.R. 5, insurance carriers can still raise rates any amount, at anytime. The Republican Leadership refused to allow free and fair debate by not allowing a substitute or any amendments to be debated and voted upon by the House of Representatives. The substitute would reform malpractice insurance carriers, which is essential in solving the medical liability crisis. It would also weed out frivolous lawsuits without restricting the rights of legitimate claims. H.R. 5 is a one-size-fits-all approach that places caps on non- economic and punitive damages and does not address the issue of frivolous lawsuits. When a stay-at-home mother, child, or senior citizen dies or suffers irreversible harm, there is no economic loss because it is impossible to prove damages from loss of income. H.R. 5 takes away the rights of parents who lose children, husbands who lose wives, children who lose parents, and patients who have very real losses that are not easily measured in terms of money. These caps imposed in H.R. 5 unfairly take away the rights of victims of medical malpractice to receive compensation for their injuries. H.R. 5 is modeled after the state of California's 1975 reform laws; however, my Republican colleagues give a false impression of the ramifications of that law. For more than a decade after California passed the 1975 law limiting damages in medical malpractice lawsuits, doctors' premiums continued to rise faster, overall, than the national rate of inflation. Once voters enacted Proposition 103, a measure to cap all insurance rates in California, premiums leveled off. The ballot initiative curbed the premiums, not the law implementing caps. Physicians in Illinois and across the country are facing skyrocketing medical liability premiums, and for many providers, medical liability insurance is either unaffordable or completely unavailable. I believe something needs to be done to derail frivolous lawsuits and reform the insurance industry. Insurers' business practices for accounting and pricing have contributed sharply to the current problem. H.R. 5 does not reform the insurance industry, places unfair, restrictive caps on victims, and does not address frivolous lawsuits. For these reasons, I oppose H.R. 5.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the one-year Anniversary of President Bush's decision to impose temporary tariff relief on behalf of the domestic steel industry. Since 1998, our domestic steel industry has been in crisis, with the worst year coming in 2001. The fundamental cause of this crisis was massive foreign overcapacity, which had caused the United States to become the dumping ground for world excess steel products. As a result of this, 35 steel companies have filed for bankruptcy, and over 50,000 American steel workers have lost their jobs. In my home state of Illinois, the crisis has resulted in four steel companies filing for bankruptcy, including Laclede Steel and the parent company for Granite City Steel, which are in the Congressional District I represent. Approximately 5,000 steel workers have lost their jobs in Illinois alone. In 2000, I joined my colleagues on the Congressional Steel Caucus in urging the President to implement a Section 201 investigation by the International Trade Commission to determine if our domestic markets had been harmed by illegal dumping. I also testified before the ITC to express my concerns regarding the steel crisis. The ITC ruled unanimously that the steel industry had indeed been harmed. While the ITC's decision was welcome, it didn't guarantee relief for the domestic steel industry. That decision was left to the President to determine what type of remedy should be afforded to the industry. I was pleased that the President decided to impose the tariffs, rather than quotas, which would not have been as helpful to the industry. Mr. Speaker, we have seen the positive results of the President's decision to impose tariffs. The steel industry is beginning to show signs of recovery. Prices are stabilizing and steel companies are returning to profitability. The industry is restructuring and consolidating. All of this has happened without hampering the availability of competitively priced steel products. In fact, steel imports were higher in 2002 than they were in 2001. However, for the industry to continue its recovery, it is imperative that as the Section 201 tariff measures are reviewed, they remain fully enforced for at least three years as ordered by the President, and that exemptions to the tariffs are limited. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting our domestic steel industry by supporting the existing tariffs on foreign steel. This support will allow for the continued recovery of this nation's domestic steel industry.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 100th Anniversary of Boilermakers Local 363. The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers was born on September 1, 1893. On that day, at a meeting in Chicago, representatives from the International Brotherhood of Boiler Makers and Iron Ship Builders, which had been organized on October 1, 1880, and the National Brotherhood of Boiler Makers, which had been formed in Atlanta in May of 1888, resolved to consolidate their organizations. It was further agreed that the new organization, to be known as the Brotherhood of Boiler Makers and Iron Ship Builders of America, would make its Headquarters in Kansas City, Kansas. Two and a half years later, on June 9, 1896, the Brotherhood affiliated with the American Federation of Labor. In subsequent years, the Brotherhood continued to grow, and in 1902, the Helpers division was formed. Because helpers were barred from sitting in the lodge room with mechanics, this new division had its own local unions and was entirely separate from the Boiler Makers. This would change a decade later when the Helpers Division would be consolidated with the Mechanics Division. In March 1906, at a special Convention in Kansas City, the name of the Union was changed to the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders and Helpers of America in order to incorporate the newest division. Also at this time, the term ``Boiler Makers'' was condensed into one word, ``Boilermakers.'' The Boilermakers affiliated with the National Building Trades Department of the American Federation of Labor in February 1931. At the turn of the century, total membership stood at about 8,500, but by 1944, due in part to dramatic increases in the shipbuilding, railroad, and fabrication shop industries during World War II, the Boilermakers numbered over 350,000. In 1954, the Boilermakers merged their organization with the International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, Drop Forgers and Helpers. The International Brotherhood of Blacksmiths had been organized in 1889 and added Helpers to both their membership and their name in 1901. A 1919 merger with the Brotherhood of Drop Forgers created the Union that, on June 29, 1953, merged with the Boilermakers to create the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers. A year later, a new International seal was adopted to include all crafts. On October 1, 1954, the Boilermaker National Health and Welfare Fund was established, on November 9, 1959, the Boilermakers National Joint Apprenticeship Fund began, and the Boilermaker-Blacksmith National Pension Trust became effective October 1, 1960. Delegates to the 1977 Convention voted to establish a Construction Division at International Headquarters for the purpose of servicing those members with employment in, or related to, the construction industry. On March 15, 1984, the delegates to the Special Merger Convention of the United Cement, Lime, Gypsum and Allied Workers International Union voted to merge with the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers. The merger of the CLGAW, formed in 1936, and its ten thousand members who dominate the building products and supplies industry, and the Boilermakers forged an organization with a greater ability to provide services to its members. On October 1, 1994, a merger was consummated with the Stove, Furnace and Allied Appliance Workers International Union--a skilled trade union that was organized in 1891. The Stove Workers, with 5,800 members, became a Division of the International Brotherhood known as the Stove, Furnace, Energy and Allied Appliance Workers Division. The word energy was inserted to give special recognition to the coal miners within that Division. The Division had its members employed primarily in the manufacturing of stoves and various types of appliances. During the same period, merger talks were also being carried out with an independent union known as the Western Energy Workers. This one- local union, formed in 1978 with members employed in the coal strip pits, signed a merger agreement with the Boilermakers effective December 1, 1994. In October 1996, a merger agreement was made with the Metal Polishers, Buffers, Platers and Allied Workers International Union. This union was also an old line, skill trade union that was organized in 1892. This merger brought 4,000 new members to the Brotherhood. These members are employed primarily in plating and polishing shops within the United States and Canada. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the past, present and future members of the Boilermakers International Union, Local 363 on the occasion of their 100th Anniversary.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 50th Anniversary of Special Children Incorporated of Belleville, Illinois. Special Children Incorporated is a not-for-profit organization which began in 1953 as ``The Parent Group for Mentally Retarded Children, Incorporated'', when a group of parents came together to address their concerns over a lack of appropriate education for children with special needs. After developing and holding classes in local churches and homes, a permanent site was constructed in 1971 at 1306 Wabash Avenue in Belleville. A 10,000 square foot addition was completed in 1993 to meet the expanding needs of the agency. This building was constructed completely from the fundraising efforts of parents and community volunteers. Special Children, Inc. continues to provide services for individuals in the St. Clair, Monroe, Randolph and Madison county area. The mission of Special Children, Inc., is to provide educational and early intervention services to children developmentally and or physically disabled from birth through 21 years of age and to provide education and support to the parent/guardian in hopes that these children can continue to reside in the most supportive and least restrictive environments. Mamie O. Stookey School is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education as a Non-Public Facility in the State of Illinois to educate trainable mentally handicapped and severe profound handicapped students. Special Children develops an individual education plan, which provides a comprehensive assessment of the student's health, education, and social needs. An interdisciplinary team trained to provide specialized pediatric treatment is provided, as is a low pupil-teacher ratio. Special Children also provides for an adaptive physical education program including swimming, bowling, and adaptive therapescrotoscrotoutic playground. Daily progress reports to the family/guardian of each student are given as well as linkage and coordination to other community resources. The program has eight self-contained classrooms that provide individualized instruction in the area of motor skills, language and communications, socialization; self help skills of daily living, and pre-vocational activities. The program focuses on a developmental curriculum, which include a variety of support services; Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy consultation, adaptive physical education, social services, and nursing. The family has the primary responsibility for the child's early learning environment. What happens in these early years is crucial to the child's success during the school year. Born of this belief and commitment to help parents of young developmentally delayed children do their job more effectively and enjoyably, the PRIME/CARE program started in 1974. An Individual Family Service Plan (I.F.S.P.) provides a comprehensive assessment of the child and family's health as well as their education and social needs. An interdisciplinary team has also been trained to provide specialized pediatric treatment and case management. Special Children follows an interagency approach to treatment designed to enhance coordination and ease the transition between medical, social, and educational services in the community. Special Children provides for comprehensive developmental assessment at referral and also schedules assessments by other professionals for coordination and individualized planning. They provide progress review and a program update every three months. All assessed, but not eligible, children are referred to appropriate community resources. Special Children Service teams represent these area disciplines; Special Instruction, Speech and Language Therapy, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Service Coordination Additional Special Children Services include; PRIME (home based)-- Weekly home visits, CARE (toddler Classroom), Parent Support Groups and a Parent Education Group. Special Children Inc. also serves Newborns Through Two Year Olds, primarily infants at risk for developmental disabilities as the result of prenatal, perinatal and neonatal factors; such as: severe respiratory distress, prematurity, seizures and feeding problems. Special Children also treats infants and toddlers with diagnosed medical disorders such as; Rubella, Tuberous Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Microcephaly and Down's syndrome. Infants, Toddlers and Preschoolers with delayed development (25 percent or more) in one or more areas are also treated for analysis in: cognition, expressive language, receptive language, fine motor development, gross motor development and affective/social/emotional development. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 50th Anniversary of Special Children Incorporated and recognize the work that they do in the community to benefit the health, safety and welfare of children.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 395, the Do-No-Call Implementation Act of 2003. This legislation authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to collect fees from telemarketers for the implementation and enforcement of a national do- not-call registry. This legislation also requires that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) finalize its rules for such a list in coordination with the FTC to ensure there are no inconsistencies in the regulations. Unfortunately, we have all experienced those annoying unsolicited phone calls as we sit down to enjoy dinner with our families. A national registry will help limit unwelcome phone calls and restore a sense of control over the telephone where it belongs, with the consumer. The FTC's decision to develop such a registry comes after nearly a year of analysis, in which more than 60,000 public comments were received, the overwhelming majority of which supported a national do-not-call list. A national list will provide consumers with a quick and efficient mechanism to remove their names from telemarketing lists. Consumers will be able to register for free online or by calling a toll-free number. This will be less burdensome than forcing consumers to make such requests on a company-by-company basis, and will work in concert with states such as Illinois that either have or are implementing such lists. I have received numerous messages from my constituents in the 12th District of Illinois concerning their frustrations with telemarketers. A national do-not-call list will answer a long-felt consumer need for better control over telemarketing calls to the home. I urge my colleagues to support this pro-consumer legislation.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, today I join my colleagues in remembering the seven extraordinary men and women aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia who gave their lives for the pursuit of science and discovery, and in expressing my condolences to their families. Until the tragic events of last Saturday, shuttle flights for many had become routine events; however, each mission is a high-risk endeavor. We are fortunate to have an astronaut corps comprised of highly trained men and women who regularly bear this risk. Their strong passion for space exploration has immeasurably benefited our nation and the world. We will never forget the dedication and sacrifice of the crew of the Columbia. As a member of the Science Committee, I have followed the space program closely for many years. But its full impact was brought home for me and my constituents in April of 1996, when our hometown hero, Dr. Sandra Magnus, joined NASA. Sandy was born and raised in Belleville, Illinois where she attended Central Junior High School and Belleville West High School. I had the pleasure of accompanying the Administrator of NASA, Mr. Sean O'Keefe, to the Kennedy Space Center for Sandy's first launch on October 7, 2002. To witness a launch is to truly know that space flight is inherently dangerous. But it is also a vital part of the American spirit and the advancement of knowledge, and it is these elements that drive the men and women in the astronaut program to strive for the unknown. If we are to gain a greater understanding of our universe, we must continue the cause of the heroes we lost on Saturday and take every step we can to make future space travel as safe as possible. We come together today in a period of national and international mourning. Our prayers are dedicated to the heroic crew of Columbia and their families. Their names--mission commander Rick Husband, pilot William McCool, payload commander Michael Anderson, mission specialist David Brown, mission specialist Kalpana Chawla, mission specialist Laurel Blair Salton Clark, and payload specialist Ilan Ramon--will live forever in our hearts and minds as dedicated pioneers yearning to reach the stars and who never lost their sense of adventure. I again express my deepest condolences to the families of the crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 175th Anniversary of McKendree College in Lebanon, Illinois. McKendree College is the oldest college in Illinois. Founded by Methodist pioneers on February 20 1828, McKendree College will mark her 175th anniversary on February 20, 2003. In recent years, McKendree has experienced remarkable growth in both quality and quantity. In academics, The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching has selected a McKendree College professor as the Illinois Professor of the Year for 2002, Dr. Nancy Beck Young. The college has welcomed its first group of students from France as part of a new exchange program in the Business Division. In addition, the college faculty has grown 65 percent and includes professors well- published and recognized in their fields of expertise. McKendree has a nationally ranked Debate and Forensics Squad and boasts and outstanding teacher education program, one that has recently received re- certification, and the only one among six institutions, to receive the certification fully and without provisions. McKendree's student body has also excelled in its 175 years of history. With approximately 1,300 students currently enrolled at the Lebanon campus, the student body has grown 67 percent in the past 10 years and the residential population has increased more than 300 percent. The current freshman class is the third largest in the history of the college, includes 22 valedictorians and has an impressive 3.7 GPA and 24 ACT. Currently, students from 15 different states and five countries are enrolled at McKendree College. McKendree also has an athletic program that is gaining in national prominence. This year the men's basketball team has been ranked #1 nationally in the NAIA, the first time in the history of the college that an athletic team has earned a first place ranking. The college football team, now in its seventh season since its return in 1996 after a 45-year hiatus, played in the NAIA semi-finals, with an 11-2 record. McKendree's athletic director and men's basketball coach has been inducted into the NAIA Hall of Fame, earning recognition as Coach of the Year and this year broke the record to become the winningest coach in NAIA history. In Track and Field McKendree athletes have won several national team championships. McKendree College is a four-year, private, liberal arts college and is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a Top Tier Midwest Liberal Arts College. For the sixth consecutive year, McKendree has been recognized as one of America's 100 Best College Buys. McKendree College has been referred to as ``the fastest growing business in Southwestern Illinois''. Dr. James M. Dennis is the 32nd president of McKendree College, inaugurated in 1994. McKendree College, founded in 1828, has the distinction of being one of the first colleges established in Illinois. Acknowledging pride of her Scottish heritage McKendree was also approved as the first institutional member of the Clan Henderson Society of the United States in 1997. Each year, students from McKendree College contribute to businesses, schools, and non-profit organizations in the region as interns, teachers and employees. The college has participated significantly in regional programs to enhance diversity education and to help prepare students from lower income areas for college. The college provides a wealth of cultural events to the community, hosting distinguished speakers, exceptional performers, and nationally ranked competitive athletic contests. They partner with many community groups and assume a leadership role to promote and enhance the benefits of the region. McKendree College provides a high quality academic program, at the heart of which is a values-centered liberal arts education. The mission of McKendree College is to include students in the joys and challenges of intellectual inquiry and its staff and faculty are devoted to nurturing this experience both inside and outside the classroom. The college has grown significantly in the past seven years and has brought esteem and recognition to our greater community. They enjoy the reputation of a high quality academic institution, with competitive athletic programs, and the diversity of social and co-curricular programs that meet and challenge a wide range of interests. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 175th Anniversary of McKendree College in Lebanon, Illinois and to recognize its alumni both past, present and future for their contributions to the success of the University.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great friend, our colleague Bob Clement, who is completing a distinguished 14-year career in the House of Representatives. Bob and I both began our service after special elections in 1988, and we have served together on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. I have had the chance to get to know his wife Mary and their children, and I wish them all the best as they begin this new phase of their lives. Bob Clement has upheld a fine family tradition of public service, following the example of his father, who served as Governor of Tennessee. Bob served in the Army and the Tennessee Army National guard, was elected to the Public Service Commission and later appointed by President Carter to the Tennessee Valley Authority Board of Directors. After success in the private sector, he became president of Cumberland University. Bob carried all of these experiences to Congress, working hard on behalf of our nation's veterans, particularly on Gulf War Syndrome issues, and focusing on the transportation needs of the country. He served as co-chair of the House Education Caucus and passed legislation dealing with the increasing problem of identity theft. While his legislative accomplishments are substantial, Bob may be best remembered for the manner in which he achieved them. Ever the southern gentleman, Bob Clement has defined comity during an increasingly partisan era. He worked well across the aisle and I hope we can keep his collegial spirit alive despite his absence. In this way, Bob has truly left his mark on this institution, and it is without doubt a better place for his having been here. Mr. Speaker, I know all of our colleagues will join me in thanking Bob Clement for his friendship and his dedicated service to the United States of America. Knowing Bob, his long, exemplary career will not end here. I look forward to the next chapter.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the heroism of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Freshman Mike McGehee of Red Bud, Illinois for saving the lives of his fellow students during a tragic fire in their Cougar Village apartment on the campus of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Early Saturday morning, October 12, 2002, Campus police received a call that a fire was underway at the Cougar Village Student apartment complex. The fire started at about 4:40 a.m. in the kitchen of Apartment 1B on the lower floor in the complex. Mike McGehee and his roommates were upstairs in Apartment 2C. Mike, normally a sound sleeper according to his parents Len and Ruth McGehee, woke up about 4:30 a.m. and smelled smoke. He woke up five other people in the apartment and guided them towards the front door. When they discovered that the front door was hot, Mike's roommates went to the balcony to jump. Upon reaching the ground, Mike didn't follow. Campus Police Officer, Tony Santiago who was on the scene helped some students who were trying to jump off balconies to escape from the second story apartments. With the fire fully engaged and Edwardsville Fire units arriving on scene, Mike became disoriented with the smoke and broke out a window, he fell to the floor and called out for help. By then Edwardsville Firefighters were evacuating other apartment units. Mike's friends alerted firefighters that Mike was still inside. Firefighters, moving through the building, felt Mike's grasp on his leg. According to Mike's parents, Mike had already mentally said his goodbyes, as he thought he was going to die. Mike was taken from the building to a local hospital and then transferred to the burn unit at St. John's Mercy Medical hospital in St. Louis where he is currently being treated for burns and smoke inhalation. Mike is expected to be released from the hospital in the coming days. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the heroism of Mike McGehee and his efforts to help save the lives of his fellow students. It was through his efforts that so many lives were saved that day.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the men and women currently in space aboard the STS-112 Orbiter Atlantis, especially, my constituent Dr. Sandra Magnus. Sandy was born and raised in Belleville, Illinois where she attended Central Junior High School and Belleville West High School. She developed an interest in the space program and in becoming an astronaut while attending Central Junior High School. At the urging of one of her teachers, Mr. Corky Helms, Sandy was encouraged to study the space program--and her dream became a reality. Dr. Magnus was selected by NASA for the astronaut program in April 1996 and reported to the Johnson Space Center in August 1996. After intensive training and evaluation, she is qualified for flight assignment as a mission specialist. I had the distinct privilege of accompanying the Administrator of NASA, Mr. Sean O'Keefe, to the Kennedy Space Center for Sandy's first launch on October 7, 2002. While at the Kennedy Space Center, I had the pleasure of visiting with Sandy's parents, Dick and Rose Hall, Corky and Vicki Helms, Bob and Joyce Dintelman, and many of Sandy's friends and family, to watch this memorable day. Sandy and five fellow shuttle crew members are currently at the International Space Station (ISS). She serves as the flight engineer and has the challenging Job of operating the robotic arm that is employed for the installation of a 15-ton truss that is part of the payload and the transportation of the spacewalkers as they conduct their connections of power, data cables and other external hardware to the truss itself. This truss is the second of 11 such truss structures that will ultimately expand the ISS to the length of a football field and increase the power through the addition of new photovoltaic modules and solar arrays. This mission is extremely important to further our understanding of space and brings us closer to achieving our goal of completing the ISS. Mr. Speaker, we are fortunate to have qualified people, like Sandy, in the space program. The crew's impressive level of achievement and accomplishment is a milestone for the space program and serves as proof to young people that dreams really do come true. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognition of all the men and women involved in the success of the mission of STS-112, especially Dr. Sandra Magnus and the crew.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the heroism of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Freshman Mike McGehee of Red Bud, Illinois for saving the lives of his fellow students during a tragic fire in their Cougar Village apartment on the campus of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Early Saturday morning, October 12, 2002, Campus police received a call that a fire was underway at the Cougar Village Student apartment complex. The fire started at about 4:40 a.m. in the kitchen of Apartment 1B on the lower floor in the complex. Mike McGehee and his roommates were upstairs in Apartment 2C. Mike, normally a sound sleeper according to his parents Len and Ruth McGehee, woke up about 4:30 a.m. and smelled smoke. He woke up five other people in the apartment and guided them towards the front door. When they discovered that the front door was hot, Mike's roommates went to the balcony to jump. Upon reaching the ground, Mike didn't follow. Campus Police Officer, Tony Santiago who was on the scene helped some students who were trying to jump off balconies to escape from the second story apartments. With the fire fully engaged and Edwardsville Fire units arriving on scene, Mike became disoriented with the smoke and broke out a window, he fell to the floor and called out for help. By then Edwardsville Firefighters were evacuating other apartment units. Mike's friends alerted fire fighters that Mike was still inside. Firefighters, moving through the building, felt Mike's grasp on his leg. According to Mike's parents, Mike had already mentally said his goodbyes, as he thought he was going to die. Mike was taken from the building, to a local hospital and then transferred to the burn unit at St. John's Mercy Medical hospital in St. Louis where he is currently being treated for burns and smoke inhalation. Mike is expected to be released from the hospital in the coming days. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the heroism of Mike McGehee and his efforts to help save the lives of his fellow students. It was through his efforts that so many lives were saved that day.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to submit the homily given by the Most Reverend Wilton D. Gregory at the Red Mass to the Congressional Record. Bishop Gregory is a constituent of mine from Belleville, Illinois and serves as the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. He delivered the Red Mass homily on October 6 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The Red Mass is sponsored by the John Carroll Society. This group was created in 1951 to encourage educational, religious and charitable activities in the community. To achieve this, the organization is involved with many projects in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including the Red Mass. The Red Mass was first introduced in the United States in 1928 at Saint Andrew's Church in New York City. Since 1953, the John Carroll Society has sponsored the Red Mass annually in Washington D.C. This mass takes place on the Sunday before the first Monday in October, just before the Supreme Court begins its new term to bless those that administer justice in our society. Bishop Gregory's homily was an eloquent message about the importance of responsibility and fairness in the administration of justice. Furthermore, while some believe there have been signs of darkness in our society in the past year, Bishop Gregory reminds us that we cannot afford to give up our hope and our faith. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Bishop Gregory and to commend him for his message of hope and his dedicated leadership. Homily of Bishop Wilton Gregory, Red Mass, Sunday 6 October, 2002 It is a pleasure and an honor to be able to add to the words of greeting of Cardinal McCarrick, my own personal recognition to all of the dignitaries who have gathered to pray with us this Sunday morning. You are here, as are we all, to invoke God's blessings upon all those responsible for the administration of justice and upon all our public officials. In doing so, we are recognizing that the exercise of civic authority, the responsibility for the well-being of our citizens, and often of many who are not our citizens, is not merely a work of our own human resources. Rather, it is a cooperative venture with the plan and the will of God Himself. Everyone who holds a title of civil office is not simply the beneficiary of honor or privilege, although that may accompany the office. More importantly, they carry the responsibility to exercise wisely, fairly, and in a personally disinterested fashion the call for justice and solidarity that God intends for us during our lives on this earth. Indeed, Christ Himself, in His hour of trial reminded His earthly judge that the power, which was given to be exercised over Him, had been given by Heaven itself For that reason, it is indeed good that we gather at this year's Red Mass to offer our prayers that God give to every civic and public official the wisdom to recognize His influence in their lives and the grace to carry out well the obligations they have accepted. The Second Vatican Council, which is one of the essential guides for our Catholic thought at this turn of the millennium, has reminded us to ``read the signs of the times'' (GS, 4) so that we might seek to carry out God's plan in the circumstances in which we find ourselves. As we read the signs of our times, we cannot fail to see how demanding they are, to us as individuals and to those who lead us. In fct, in our time these signs have raised questions about our leadership itself, in many aspects of society. We are all living daily with the memory of 9/11 as well as with the future responses to that attack. Questions are rightly raised about changes in our personal lives, and about how to react as a people in a manner that is just and moral. We continue, almost on a daily basis, to read the signs about leadership in business and our County's economy. What is the meaning of the failures of leadership summed up by names like Enron and World Com? And I would be injudicious if I did not mention the doubts about leadership that have arisen in our counuy as a result of the sex abuse scandal that has plagued the Catholic Church in the United States in recent months, and the terrible personal suffering which it has exposed. From a certain point of view, many of the signs of this time in which we live seem to be those of darkness, like endless clouds from storms that seem unwilling to pass. But we cannot allow matters to remain that way. It is neither our history as Americans, nor our nature as men and women of faith, to give in to pessimism or resignation, somehow burying our heads in the sand, wringing our hands, or doubting the power of God to guide us as we respond to the world in which we live. Because we are people of faith, we must also live as people of hope. We trust that God is not somehow looking away but even in our difficult moments, He is the reason we look confidently to the future. Do not the signs of this time call for us proudly to acknowledge our roots in faith and to renew our commitment to God in a moment of trial? Moreover, in so doing, we fulfill not only our own personal quest for faith, but we are consistent with the very values upon which this beloved nation was founded. In fact, from the very beginning of our democratic experiment, it was understood that justice, morality and good governance, indeed the essence of leadership, are not the arbitrary re-creations of each generation. Rather they are based in the will of God Himself. George Washington, in his farewell address, described his Presidency as a time of ``passions, agitated in every direction, . . . liable to mislead; appearances sometimes dubious, vicissitudes of fortune often discouraging, [and] situations in which not unfrequently want of success has countenanced the spirit of criticism''. Yet following this somber description, which could easily be applied to our own day, Washington observed that in leading the nation through these obstacles, his path had been lighted by the twin torches of religious faith and moral convictions stating: ``Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. . . . Let it simply be asked, Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of . . . justice?'' Our first great President continued, ``And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education, . . . reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.'' It is the world's experience that true greatness in leadership, be it religious or secular, is a rare commodity. The combination of spirit, intellect, courage and the gift of being able to motivate fellow travelers in this world are often diminished by sin and the human limitations that each of us knows only too well, both in ourselves and in others. It is for that reason that we are gathered here today, and gathered in hope as we pray for our public officials and administrators of justice. We do so at this Mass in which we call upon the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God Himself, and we ask that that Spirit be given to those entrusted with our welfare to strengthen them, purify their vision and guide them. Moreover, that Holy Spirit is ready to help us both to understand and to respond to the signs of our times. As Isaiah tells us in the reading this morning, this Spirit of the Lord is ``a spirit of wisdom and understanding''. He therefore assists those who must wrestle with the most complex and conflicting legal arguments and proofs, helping them not to be rnisled by what is superficial, beguiling or false. Isaiah tells us that this is ``a spirit of counsel and of strength'', guiding the vision of legislators and administrators to look to the greater good, not responsive merely to momentary influences or transient majorities, but seeking to make us a people in solidarity, brought together by the values and the bonds of truth which God has written on the heart of each one of us. This is, as Isaiah says, ``a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the Lord. And that Spirit ``shall judge the poor with justice and decide aright for the land's afflicted. He shall strike the ruthless with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall slay the wicked.'' We must not forget that the Spirit of the Lord for whose presence we pray this morning, that same Spirit, was given to Christ, as we read in the Gospel. And that Spirit brings about a special care, attention and love for those who are in need among us. Christ told His listeners that in their hearing was fulfilled His anointing with the Spirit, so that He might ``bring glad tidings to the poor ... proclaim liberty to captives ... recovery of sight to the blind ... and let the oppressed go free''. obviously no small agenda, but it is one that we too must embrace as part of the work of our time. And we should not be bashful in proclaiming from the housetops, that in many places, and under many circumstances, it is precisely churches, synagogues, mosques and temples, in short it is religious faith, that has answered the cry of those who are most in need. While there is much more still to do, we can be justly proud of the way religion has shaped our response as individuals and as a society in the United States when confronting the needs of the poor. We also know of the importance of members of different religions developing deeper respect for one another, so as to collaborate in shaping the common good. And as President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, while apologizing once more for the cleansing needed within our own house, I would argue most powerfully that those scandals must not silence nor limit the excellent influence that religious voices have in the formation of our governmental and societal policies, whether they be war and peace, the death penalty, stem cell research or questions of poverty. The truth that underlies faith is not diminished because its messengers are human beings with all their faults and failings. The miracle of faith is that truth is proclaimed in spite of ourselves. All too often in recent years, it has been a sign of our time that some urge that the role of religion in public life be marginalized and even suppressed. And too frequently, men and women of faith have not challenged the assertion that religion is a strictly private matter and that faith in God, and its accompanying moral and social values, have no role to play in our national life. We are even told that our children should not utter God's name when reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, as if that would do them harm or make them less fully Americans. Instead of accepting this claim, our faith in God leads us to another conclusion. As we face the signs of our times--the moral decline in society, the threats against life both from abroad and from within, and the lack of trust in our leaders--we recognize that this time, our time, is a time for religious renewal. It is a time for us to recover our sense of God, of the sacredness of human life and of doing what is right, whatever the cost and whatever the circumstance. It is a time for us to be not more reticent, but more courageous in professing our faith in God and acting upon it. Pope John Paul II, the outstanding religious and moral leader in the world today, had this to say to visiting Bishops from the United States in 1998, ``The survival of a . . . democracy depends not only on its institutions, but to an even greater extent on the spirit which inspires and permeates its procedures for legislating, administering, and judging. The future of democracy, in fact, depends on a culture capable of forming men and women who are prepared to defend certain truths and values. it is imperiled when politics and law are sundered from any connection to the moral law written on the human heart.''--(Address of Pope John Paul II to the Bishops of Region X, June 27, 1998). In gathering today and offering Mass to invoke the Holy Spirit upon those public servants who bear responsibility for the health and well being of our nation, we are inspired by St. Paul who told Timothy that he urged ``supplications, prayer, intercessions and thanksgivings ... for kings and all who are in high positions so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity'' (I Tim. 2:1). In doing so, let us highlight one thing more: our gratitude. The burden of public service, when rightly lived, is indeed a heavy burden. Not all agree to take it up. We need to pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance for our judges, administrators and governmental officials. But as well, we must pray in gratitude for those who have given a life of service to us. That service is a sacred trust and no small contribution to our ability to live the quiet and peaceable life that St. Paul mentioned. In gathering this morning for this sacrifice of the Mass, as we place before the altar our very selves, our many needs and our petitions, we must also thank God. We thank Him especially for His providence in the history of our country, raising up in difficult moments leaders, such as Presidents Washington and Lincoln, to help us through our trials. Moreover, we thank God for the leaders and public servants of our own time, who truly strive to protect our country's justice and peace, ensure for us the opportunity to work for the fulfillment of God's plan in our lives and in society.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I stand in opposition to this resolution. Mr. Speaker, the most important and difficult decision a Member of Congress must make is the decision to send our troops--our sons, daughters, husbands and wives--in harm's way. Each member must do as I have done--listen to the arguments on both sides of the issue, assemble and review all available information and then do what they believe is in the best interest of our nation. Some people have questioned the President's motives and the timing of this resolution. A few members of this body traveled to Baghdad to meet with officials of the government of Iraq. Frankly, I was appalled to see a Member of the Congress from my party in Baghdad questioning the motives of President Bush. I do not question the President's motives. I believe the President is doing what he believes is in the best interest of our nation. After much though and deliberation, I have decided to vote against the resolution before us giving the President the discretion to send our troops to war in Iraq. I do so for the following reasons: First, I believe we have a moral obligation and a responsibility to exhaust every possible resolution before sending our troops into harm's way. I do not believe that we have attempted to assemble an international coalition similar to the coalition that President George Herbert Walker Bush brought together to undertake the mission of Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991. Second, Iraq does not present a direct immediate threat to the United States. I have attended numerous briefings from the Bush administration on this topic, and I have yet to hear a good explanation as to why Saddam Hussein is a greater threat to us today than he was six months or a year ago. In fact, our intelligence agencies have concluded that Saddam Hussein is unlikely to attack the United States unprovoked, but there is a real change that Saddam Hussein will use weapons of mass destruction in response to an invasion. Last and more importantly, the President's decision to change our military doctrine from containment to preemptive action could have major ramifications to the United States and may lead to war between other countries. For the past 50 years, the United States has used our military troops to contain aggression against the U.S. and our allies. We have been able to persuade our allies to use restraint instead of their military under the most difficult circumstances and times. During the Persian Gulf war, the U.S. was able to persuade Israel to show great restraint while Saddam Hussein was deploying scud missiles toward Israel. Since the Persian Gulf war, the Israelis at the request of the United States have shown restraint in dealing with Arafat and the PLO. If the U.S military attacks a country in order to counter a perceived future security risk, other countries may very well adopt the same preemptive policy. Those countries are more likely to follow the U.S. and less likely to show restraint, with serious potential consequences for Israel and the Palestinians, India and Pakistan, Russia and Chechnya, China and Taiwan, and the list goes on. Secretary Colin Powell recently reminded us that other countries look to the United States for our leadership and example. I agree! I only hope that when looking to the United States that they do not adopt the new preemptive military policy and use that same policy against their enemies. Mr. Speaker, this administration should follow the example of the President's father prior to Desert Shield and during Desert Storm. We should be putting together an international coalition to send in weapon inspectors and if necessary take military action to disarm Saddam Hussein. A ``go it alone'' attitude or policy could have devastating consequences on our troops, the people of Israel and other parts of the world. Mr. Speaker, therefore, I will vote against this resolution and in favor of the Spratt substitute.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Air Force Major James G. Cusic III, a constituent of mine from Fairview Heights, Illinois. Major Cusic is receiving a Certificate of Merit from the American Red Cross for his actions on September 11, 2001. This is the highest award the organization gives for someone who saves or sustains a life with skills that were learned in an American Red Cross safety course. The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 made this perhaps the most tragic day in our nation's history. However, the day could have been even more catastrophic if it were not for the efforts of men and women such as Major Cusic. On the morning of September 11, Major Cusic saw the news of the attacks on the World Trade Center from his Pentagon office. As he watched, he began to feel the floor shake below him, and the television reported that a third plane had been used as a weapon. This time, the target was the Pentagon. A voice came on the Pentagon intercom with a message to evacuate the building. As the news came that a second hijacked plane might be headed toward Washington, Major Cusic cleared all the rooms in his area of the building to make sure everyone had exited. Next, he assisted five of the approximately 65 patients that were being treated at the Air Force Pararescue triage site. Major Cusic volunteered to reenter the building as one of five leaders of a 20-person team to provide medical treatment for survivors in the building. He was responsible for providing treatment for life threatening injuries. Major Cusic aided one man who had a severe scalp laceration and a spinal injury. He assisted another man who suffered from severe burns on his face and neck and was experiencing difficulty breathing. Later in the evening, Major Cusic's heroic actions were needed once again. A firefighter that had entered the building as part of the rescue effort collapsed from heat exhaustion and an erratic pulse. Once again, Major Cusic provided the treatment necessary under extreme circumstances. Major Cusic maintained clarity of mind throughout the day on September 11 and should be commended for his actions in the face of adversity. At the end of the day, he was directly involved in saving three lives and in caring for two more people with severe injuries. In addition, he provided invaluable encouragement to other survivors and those involved with the rescue effort. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Major Cusic and to wish him all the best in the future for him and his family.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Air Force Major James G. Cusic, III, a constituent of mine from Fairview Heights, Illinois. Major Cusic is receiving a Certificate of Merit from the American Red Cross for his actions on September 11, 2001. This is the highest award the organization gives for someone who saves or sustains a life with skills that were learned in an American Red Cross safety course. The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 made this perhaps the most tragic day in our nation's history. However, the day could have been even more catastrophic if it were not for the efforts of men and women such as Major Cusic. On the morning of September 11, Major Cusic saw the news of the attacks on the World Trade Center from his Pentagon office. As he watched, he began to feel the floor shake below him, and the television reported that a third plane had been used as a weapon. This time, the target was the Pentagon. A voice came on the Pentagon intercom with a message to evacuate the building. As the news came that a second hijacked plane might be headed toward Washington, Major Cusic cleared all the rooms in his area of the building to make sure everyone had exited. Next, he assisted five of the approximately 65 patients that were being treated at the Air Force Pararescue triage site. Major Cusic volunteered to reenter the building as one of five leaders of a 20-person team to provide medical treatment for survivors in the building. He was responsible for providing treatment for life threatening injuries. Major Cusic aided one man who had a severe scalp laceration and a spinal injury. He assisted another man who suffered from severe burns on his face and neck and was experiencing difficulty breathing. Later in the evening, Major Cusic's heroic actions were needed once again. A firefighter that had entered the building as part of the rescue effort collapsed from heat exhaustion and an erratic pulse. Once again, Major Cusic provided the treatment necessary under extreme circumstances. Major Cusic maintained clarity of mind throughout the day on September 11 and should be commended for his actions in the face of adversity. At the end of the day, he was directly involved in saving three lives and in caring for two more people with severe injuries. In addition, he provided invaluable encouragement to other survivors and those involved with the rescue effort. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Major Cusic and to wish him all the best in the future for him and his family.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Verlyan Ruth Byrd, an honorable federal employee who loyally served her country throughout her life. During World War II, Mrs. Byrd was recruited by the United States Army as a typist at the Granite City Army Depot in Granite City, Illinois. She worked part time at the depot as a high school student, and upon graduation she got a job as a full-time clerk typist. She continued to serve her country with the Department of Defense through 1978, when she suffered a severe heart attack. Mrs. Byrd was forced into early retirement in 1979. Upon her retirement, the Social Security Administration told Mrs. Byrd that she could file for social security upon her 65th birthday. However, when she entered the office after she reached the age of 65, she was told that due to the Government Pension Offset (GPO) law she was not eligible to receive Social Security. This law, which went into effect after she was forced to retire, reduces pension funds for spouses for work that was not covered by Social Security. While the law was originally intended to prevent ``double dipping'' into social security funds by government workers who receive substantial pensions, many seniors have been forced by the law to live in poverty while being denied the money they paid into the system. Mrs. Byrd spent the latter years of her life living in an old house that was desperately in need of repairs. She also had substantial medical bills and used as many as 15 prescription drugs on any given day. Despite her life as a loyal government employee, Mrs. Byrd was forced to live in poverty in the waning years of her life. Mrs. Byrd was said by her friends to be a considerate, generous, family oriented woman with a kind disposition. She wrote to government officials to have the GPO law repealed, but action was not taken quickly enough. Mrs. Byrd died on Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 7:20 p.m. She was not alone in her struggle with the GPO law. Many other government employees, particularly in the teaching community, are ill- served by this law. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Ruth Byrd and wishing the best for her family, and to urge immediate action by the House of Representatives to pass H.R. 664, legislation I have cosponsored to address the GPO problem.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a cosponsor of the Patriot Day Resolution, which fittingly expresses the sentiments of this body on the anniversary of perhaps the worst day in U.S. history. In many ways it is hard to believe it has been a year since that awful day--the memories are so fresh, so vivid. I visited the site of the WTC one week after it happened and spent time talking with survivors and rescue workers. That memory is just as fresh as those of last Friday, when we returned to New York City to participate in a wreath laying ceremony at the World Trade Center site, and those of this morning, when we attended the ceremony at the Pentagon to remember the victims and families. America will never forget. September 11, 2001 has left an indelible mark on the American landscape and on our national consciousness. We will never forget the events of that terrible morning, nor will we forget how America responded. We continue to be inspired by the heroism of firefighters, police officers and emergency first responders, our military men and women and other ordinary Americans who have answered the call for freedom. The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon were an attack on all of us--our people, our nation, our spirit, our way of life, our liberty and freedom. The terrorists intended to bring down and destroy the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and other targets--and the people in them. Their real goal was to instill fear, bring about disruption and to bring down and destroy our spirit. But as Reverend Billy Graham observed at a service at the National Cathedral shortly after the attacks--Their actions have done just the opposite. The terrorist attacks of September 11 could have torn our nation apart--but they have brought us together--we have become a family. Mr. Speaker, the United States is the greatest country in the world! We have been tested before and we will be tested again. Those we lost last September 11 will hold a special place in the history of our great country. As we gather together today in communities, churches and other places throughout our great land we remain one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all! I urge all of my colleagues to support the resolution, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Gina Segobiano as she receives the 2002 National Distinguished Principal award from the State of Illinois. Each year, one principal from each state is chosen to receive the award. I am pleased that this year Dr. Segobiano, from the Signal Hill School District in Belleville, Illinois, has been chosen by the Illinois Principals Association to receive the award. In 1984, the National Distinguished Principals Program was created in order to honor principals from elementary schools and middle schools who reach a high standard of quality education. The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), an organization founded in 1921 representing 29,500 educators throughout the nation, created the program. This year's awards are sponsored by the NAESP and the U.S. Department of Education in partnership with the Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company. Since 1993, Dr. Segobiano has been the principal of Signal Hill School, and she was a fifth grade teacher at the school for the prior six years. As principal, she is responsible for 450 students ranging from pre-kindergarten to 8th grade. While at Signal Hill, she has been pivotal in the development of a successful technology program. Furthermore, she has initiated a character development program and a Fight-Free program. Dr. Segobiano was chosen to receive this award because of her strong commitment to excellence. She has demonstrated a willingness and ability to actively involve parents in their childrens' education. She has also shown that she is dedicated to meeting the varied needs of the students in her district. Dr. Segobiano has been a valuable asset to the Belleville community, the Metro-East area and the State of Illinois. She has made outstanding contributions to the school and to the education profession. She is a distinguished public servant and deserves this recognition. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring, Dr. Gina Segobiano as she receives this prestigious award.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the (Catholic Knights and Ladies of Illinois) CK & L of I in Swansea, Illinois. Locally, the CK & L of I organization was started some 40 years ago by Emil Wottowa, who served as the organization's President. His son, Ed served as Vice President of the organization, which served the needs of the Catholic community in our area. The CK & L of I is a fraternal organization based upon the tenants of the organization of Catholic Fraternal Life. The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic, family, fraternal service organization. Their 1.6 million members and families are dedicated to the ideals of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. They work to benefit their communities, their church and their fellowman. In the past ten years alone, the Knights have worked effectively on programs to benefit countless others in need, donating more than $972 million and providing 421 million hours of volunteer service. The members of the Catholic family respond person to person in times of need. Members devote thousands of hours annually to fund-raising and community service programs to improve the quality of life for others. They give their time and talents and ask nothing in return. That is what fraternalism is about. Volunteer efforts and council members are the heart of the organization. With the assistance of volunteer officers, members carry out numerous social, civic, benevolent, patriotic and religious activities throughout the year. They provide support, guidance and financial assistance to help members address local needs and their social interests. They support teen centers, blood banks and the Special Olympics, as well as women's shelter and child abuse prevention programs. The CK & L of I was started locally by Mr. Wottowa who wanted to secure a place in the country where members could enjoy themselves. They started in the old Senior Center located at 116 West A Street in Belleville in 1930 and as they searched for a place for their members, they found the property that they needed at the old Dr. Walton Farm in the Fairview Hts/Swansea area along Rt. 159. Dr. Walton was an avid outdoorsman, as well as a horse enthusiast so there was plenty of undeveloped land available for members and their families to enjoy. Their first meeting was held on the grounds of the old farm, where several farmhouses were converted for use by the organization. As the complex developed over time, the organization hosted Boy Scout troops from throughout the region, on overnight campouts to learn about the wetland areas and other open space. In fact, the organization works with St. Clair County, Illinois by utilizing its lake and retention areas as a holding pond for area storm water. The complex today consists of 2 ball diamonds, an auditorium and private clubrooms. The CK & L of I plays host to many weddings, meetings and receptions. Through their charitable work, they offer rent-free space to Althoff High School, the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, St. Henry's Catholic church, the Belleville Exchange Club, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Swansea Chamber of Commerce, Senior citizen meetings, the Camelot Auction, many fundraisers and the annual Blood drive. Today the CK & L of I boasts over 1,800 members, 900 of which are the men of the organization and 950 are women. The men meet the first Monday of the month while the ladies meet on the second Monday. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 40th Anniversary of the CK & L of I organization and wish the best to all of its members both past, present and in the future.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 100th birthday of Margaret ``Mardy'' Murie. Mardy was the prime mover in the creation of one of America's great treasures, the Artic National Wildlife Refuge. She was the first female graduate of the University of Alaska. Margaret ``Mardy'' Gillette grew up in Fairbanks during a time before airplanes and bush pilots, when one entered the territory by only boat or sled. Back then, Mardy relates, the territory was such an expanse that great spaces and wilderness were taken for granted. In 1921, she then met Olaus Murie, a Minnesota native who'd just been hired by the Biological Survey to study the Caribou population in Alaska. In 1924, Mardy married Olaus in the small village of Anvik. The couple spent their first days of their marriage on the upper Koyukuk River above the Artic Circle and later followed the Caribou migration through Brooks Range. Their honeymoon was a 550-mile dogsled ride across some of the most beautiful country in the world. Mardy took to the trail with Olaus, setting up field camps and assisting with data collection and photography. Olaus completed many paintings of the settings they traveled in. Camping from the Yukon Territory to the Teton Range, they raised three children. The family eventually settled in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. It was then they traveled frequently back to Alaska to live and also to Washington, D.C. to speak out for conservation issues and wilderness preservation. During their travels, both Mardy and Olaus began to notice the impact that the spread of human habitation had on the natural world; they saw large areas of wild land begin to disappear. Over time, their commitment to natural area preservation increased. Even after Olaus` death in 1963 the commitment they shared never wavered. He is still remembered as one of the most important naturalists and environmentalists of this century. Mardy herself has become the elder stateswoman for the entire U.S. conservation movement. Though Mardy lives today in Moose, Wyoming, her spiritual home remains in Alaska. She still travels to Washington frequently and visitors to her home include a Who's Who in the conservation movement. Though she speaks more softly these days and doesn't pick up her pen to write as often, she continues to read the many letters she receives and to invite people to her home. Her home serves as a Mecca for the conservation movement, hosting the Murie Center, an organization dedicated to the conservation movement. The Center's purpose is to develop new constituencies for wilderness and to foster fresh thinking and sustain confidence in the conservation community. We owe much to the life's work of Mardy Murie, a pioneer of the environmental movement, who, with her husband, Olaus, helped set the course of American conservation more than 70 years ago. Her passionate support for and compelling testimony on behalf of the Alaska Lands Act helped to ensure the legislation's passage and the protection of some of our most pristine lands. A member of the governing council of The Wilderness Society, she also founded the Teton Science School to teach students of all ages the value of ecology. For her steadfast and inspiring efforts to safeguard America's wilderness for future generations, we honor Mardy Murie. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 100th birthday of Margaret ``Mard'' Murie.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I rise in support of the Wu amendment that seeks to permit FEMA to invite an official from one of the Department of Energy's national laboratories to participate as a nonvoting member of the Dam Safety Review Board. Our national laboratories' involvement in counterterrorism and anti- terrorism programs began years ago as a part of our work to develop technology to protect nuclear weapons and nuclear energy facilities against terrorists. Much of this technology also proved valuable for securing other important facilities and is now helping to fight terrorism throughout the world and to meet the Nation's homeland security needs. The national labs can assist the Dam Safety Review Board and Dam Safety Task Force by providing technical support through modeling disaster scenarios in other related areas. In light of the Nation's need to protect our Nation's infrastructure, including dams, from possible terrorist attacks, including an official from the national labs on the Dam Safety Review Board will assist us in furthering these goals by providing technical support in computer modeling simulations and other related security support. I compliment the gentleman for his amendment and urge its adoption.

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