Jerry Costello

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2745, which focuses on reform at the United Nations. I do so not because I am against the mission of the U.N. To the contrary, I support the U.N.'s role in facilitating diplomacy, mediating disputes, keeping the peace and feeding the hungry. Moreover, I continue to advocate for a much larger role for the U.N. in Iraq as a means of bringing U.S. troops home. However, I believe that on the heels of the Oil for Food scandal, we must send a strong signal that reform at the U.N. must proceed. I am voting yes today because the current structure and operations of the U.N. must be reviewed, as just about every speaker on the floor today has acknowledged. Even the U.N. leadership itself has acknowledged the need for reform and, to its credit, has put forward a number of useful proposals for consideration. Like many bills we consider in the House, I do not like every aspect of this legislation. I am particularly concerned for how it would affect peacekeeping activities. But this legislation importantly calls for a more focused and accountable U.N. budget, one that reflects what should be the true priorities of the organization. I am hopeful that the prospect of this bill will force the U.N. to implement the kinds of changes we all agree are necessary to make the body more effective and efficient. Mr. Chairman, voting yes today sends a strong signal that we are serious about ensuring a strong United Nations for the future. I urge my colleagues to vote yes on H.R. 2745.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Roho Group, of Belleville, Illinois, for being awarded the President's ``E'' Award for Excellence in Exporting. ROHO was founded in 1973 by Robert H. Graebe, an electrical engineer who wanted to develop a means to heal the pressure sores that plagued so many patients at the hospital where he was working. Mr. Graebe invented a dry flotation technology in which a cushion mimics the properties of water, in a dry, air-fluid environment. This technology has proven, in clinical studies, to assist in effectively healing and preventing pressure sores. ROHO has since developed many variations of their original cushion model to address special seating and positioning needs in the medical industry. Besides producing a wide range of cushion models, ROHO has developed back support systems, mattresses and pressure measurement devices. In the late 1990's, ROHO entered the consumer marketplace with cushions designed for motorcycles, trucks and heavy equipment. ROHO is continuing to develop new products and update its product line to provide their customers with the best seating and positioning solutions available worldwide. The Presidential ``E'' Award was created by Executive Order of President Kennedy in 1961 as the nation's highest award to honor U.S. exporters. U.S. firms are recognized for their competitive achievements in world markets and their contributions in increasing U.S. exports. The selection process for this prestigious award begins with a written application, accompanied by samples of the company's international marketing materials. U.S. Export Assistance Center directors make their endorsements of applicants and forward these to a committee representing the U.S Government's various trade interests. Final selection is made by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, in the name and by the authority of the President. Roho Group has distinguished itself as a world leader in the production of support surface products used in rehabilitation and wound care. The President's ``E'' Award recognizes Roho as a shining example of the innovation, product quality and continuous improvement that are required to keep U.S. companies competitive in today's global marketplace. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating CEO Tom Oleksy and all the employees of Roho Group for being awarded the Presidential ``E'' Award for Excellence in Exporting.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.J. Res. 27, which would withdraw the United States from further participation in the World Trade Organization (WTO). I do so not because I am against international institutions, or even the stated purpose of the WTO. I am voting yes today to voice my opposition to U.S. trade policies that continue to augment the ``race to the bottom'' international trade culture that has sent good-paying American jobs overseas in pursuit of ever-lower wages and lax labor and environmental standards. Instead of pursuing policies that lift up and improve the lives of workers in this country and around the world, we have crippled U.S. communities while enabling the exploitation of foreign workforces. I believe Congress must send a strong signal to the current administration that the past ten years have demonstrated the serious failures of U.S. trade policy. In light of our massive trade deficit, loss of manufacturing jobs and the ongoing currency manipulation by foreign countries, my vote today supports the hard working families in America. To have fair, sustainable, and balanced international trade, we need a fundamental review of U.S. international trade policies, and Congress and the Bush administration should take this opportunity to lead this effort. There are serious national security considerations inherent in our trade policy, and I believe we ignore these ramifications at our own risk. Our social fabric is also endangered--as jobs leave the country, as people that have worked hard their entire lives lose their pensions and healthcare, what are these families to do? What made the U.S. the greatest country in the world is the ability of high school educated Americans to make a good living in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. These jobs increasingly have moved overseas, and it is hard to support a family on service sector wages. Meanwhile, I have tried twice in the last year to pass an amendment to simply study the issue of the outsourcing of American jobs, and have twice been defeated on close votes. Mr. Speaker, voting yes today will not solve these problems, but it will signal that we will reevaluate the trade policy of this nation. I urge my colleagues to undertake this work and vote yes on H.J. Res. 27.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Southern Illinois Airport for being awarded the General Aviation Airport of the Year for 2005 by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Southern Illinois Airport is located between Carbondale and Murphysboro, and is among the busiest airports in the state, with 120,000 takeoffs and landings each year. In addition to the private and business customers who use the airport on a daily basis, Southern Illinois Airport is also home to the Aviation Management and Flight programs for Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The airport is designed to accommodate aircraft from the smallest propeller airplanes to the small jets used in business fleets. Its proximity to the commercial, recreational and educational facilities of Southern Illinois make it convenient for the private or business traveler. Location alone is not responsible for the success of Southern Illinois Airport. Airport Manager Gary Shafer and approximately 200 full and part-time employees have earned through their hard work and commitment to excellence no only the General Aviation Airport of the Year Award for 2005 but the continued respect and confidence of the flying public. This marks the fourth time that Southern Illinois Airport has been the recipient of this prestigious award, the second highest number among all the airports in the state of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Airport Manager Gary Shafer, the Commissioners and staff of Southern Illinois Airport for this very well-deserved award.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in opposition to the rule on H.R. 1817, the Homeland Security Authorization Act for FY2006. Republicans on the Rules Committee blocked the consideration of several amendments offered by me and my colleagues to this bill. This body should have the right to discuss and to consider each amendment. One of the amendments blocked was the amendment I offered which would put passenger security fees into two funds that will guarantee that TSA will spend the authorized amounts of $650 million a year and $250 million for the installation of inline baggage screening systems and passenger checkpoint explosive detection, respectively. We are currently collecting over $1.5 billion a year from the passenger security fee for aviation security services. Given that these security investments are financed by the existing passenger security fee, the Congressional Budget Office has determined that the increased investment does not increase the size of the deficit. In April, the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General (DHSIG) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) both released reports that indicate that our airport screening system still needs improvement. While the traveling public is more secure today than before September 11th, 2001, airport screeners are not detecting prohibited items at the level we need. Without a significant investment and commitment by Congress and this Administration to upgrade our technology, our screening system will continue to fail. We must and can do better. Last year, the 9/11 Commission specifically recommended that the TSA and the Congress improve the ability of screenings checkpoints to detect explosives on passengers. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act (P.L. 108-458) authorized $250 million for the research and deployment of advanced passenger screening technologies, such as trace portals and backscatter x-ray systems. To date, only about $30 million has been appropriated specifically for the passenger screener technologies. The recent DHS IG report clearly stated that the ``lack of improvements since our last audit indicates that significant improvement in performance may not be possible without greater use of technology.'' Further, the TSA concurred with the 9/11 Commission recommendation that we must ``expedite the installation of advanced (in-line) baggage screening equipment.'' In addition, in-line baggage screening systems have a much higher throughput than stand-alone systems. If we install in-line systems, more bags will be screened by explosive detection systems instead of less reliable, alternative methods. The TSA and airport operators rely on commitments in letters of intent (LOIs) as their principal method for funding the modification of airport facilities to incorporate in-line baggage screening systems. The TSA has issued eight LOIs to cover the costs of installing systems at 9 airports for a total cost to the Federal Government of $957.1 million over 4 years. The GAO reports that TSA has estimated that in- line baggage screening systems at the 9 airports that received LOI funding could save the Federal Government $1.3 billion over 7 years. TSA further estimated that it could recover its initial investment in the in-line systems at these airports in a little over one year. In total, the GAO reports that 86 of 130 airports surveyed are planning or are considering installing in-line baggage screening systems throughout or at a portion of their airports. Yet, the TSA has stated that it currently does not have sufficient resources in its budget to fund any additional LOIs. While $650 million is authorized for the installation of in-line baggage screening systems, annual appropriations have not allowed for any new LOIs to be signed. We know what needs to be done to improve screener performance, and we must take action now. We must demonstrate leadership and deploy technologies that will keep the American public secure. Mr. Chairman, I ask my colleagues to vote no on the rule so we can work to deploy technologies that will help our screeners do their jobs and keep the American traveling public safe.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 136, a resolution that honors and celebrates the 24th Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service Observance Day on May 15, 2005. As a former police officer, I salute those law enforcement officials who died in the line of duty in 2004 and continue to honor those police officers who gave their lives in past years. As a member of the Congressional Law Enforcement Caucus, I strongly support critical funding for programs, such as the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, to hire additional police officers and help law enforcement acquire the latest crime-fighting technologies. I will continue to be a strong supporter of the law enforcement community and will advocate on behalf of public safety in Congress. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the career and retirement of Mrs. Josephine (Jo) Poshard, third grade teacher at the Carterville Community Unit School District No. 5, in Carterville, Illinois. Mrs. Poshard has devoted 32 years to educating the youth of Southern Illinois, serving as a teacher, cheerleading sponsor, choral director and yearbook sponsor. She has been the third grade teacher at the Carterville Community Unit School District No. 5 for the past 20 years. During that time, in addition to her devoted education of the students in her classroom, Mrs. Poshard has served on numerous committees and in many capacities. One of her most significant extra-curricular contributions has been as Team Leader of the Math School Improvement Plan. Through her leadership, the school has consistently excelled on the Illinois Standard Achievement Test. Mrs. Poshard graduated from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale with University Honors. While at Southern Illinois University, she was asked to join Alpha Lambda Delta, a national society that honors academic achievement. Mrs. Poshard began her teaching career at Thompsonville High School in Thompsonville, Illinois. She taught four sections of English as well as Journalism, Girls' Physical Education and she was the Cheerleading sponsor. After 3 years at St. Elmo Junior High School and a year as a substitute teacher in several community schools, Mrs. Poshard accepted a position as first grade teacher at the New Simpson Hill School District at Tunnel Hill. While at New Simpson Hill, Mrs. Poshard earned certification for Gifted and Talented students and implemented the Gifted program at her school. With this new program, she was teaching gifted students in grades four through eight while also teaching first grade. In 1984, Mrs. Poshard brought her years of experience and dedication to Carterville Community Unit School District No. 5, in Carterville, Illinois, as a third grade teacher. She has served that community by guiding, molding and enriching the lives of the boys and girls entrusted to her care from 1984 until her retirement this year. Mrs. Poshard has demonstrated her dedication to her chosen profession of teaching in numerous ways. She has consistently devoted an average of 50 to 60 hours a week to her job, refusing to be absent unless she was extremely ill. She applies the same expectation of excellence to herself that she does to her students. The real measure of Mrs. Poshard's success lies in the accomplishments of her students. Even though she is retiring at the end of this school year, Mrs. Poshard's influence will live on in the lives of the over 1,000 students she has taught over 32 years. Mrs. Poshard is married to one of our former colleagues, the Honorable Glenn Poshard, and lives in Murphysboro, Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in an expression of appreciation to Mrs. Josephine Poshard for her years of dedicated service to education and to wish her the very best in the future.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Chairman, those of us who come from coal-producing states, like Illinois, believe that DOE's fossil energy research and development program is very important to the future of coal utilization. Over the years, the coal R&D program of the Department of Energy has been broad-based and has led to many of the combustion and gasification technologies now in use. These technologies represent both environmental and energy-efficiency improvements over the technologies they have replaced. In last year's energy bill passed by the House, Science Chairman Boehlert and I reached agreement on a set of coal programs of research, development and demonstration priorities for the next decade. We also agreed that the authorizations for the coal programs set out in what are now sections 963, 965 and 967 should be at least 60 percent of the total authorization in section 968(a). The agreed-upon language from last year has been omitted from the version of H.R. 6 before us today. The requirement that at least 60 percent of fossil energy research and development funds be spent on coal remains in the Committee on Science's report, but not in the H.R. 6 bill language. There, the traditional categories of coal research funding are removed and replaced with a series of objectives, which are consistent with the roadmap for these programs developed by the Department in conjunction with industry. Therefore, it is my assumption and will be my position going forward into Conference that the intent of the House of Representatives towards coal research and development has not changed. We still favor a fossil R&D program that allocates at least the historical 60 percent of funds to coal R&D and that the House is not mandating significant structural changes in the program that we set out in last year's version of H.R. 6.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, yesterday Congressman Oberstar, Congressman DeFazio and I have introduced a bill to enhance the security of the U.S. passenger air transportation system--The Airport Screener Technology Improvement Act of 2005. We are currently collecting over $1.5 billion a year from the passenger security fee for aviation security services. Our bill will put this fee into two funds that will guarantee that TSA will spend the authorized amounts of $650 million a year and $250 million for the installation of in-line baggage screening systems and passenger checkpoint explosive detection, respectively. Mr. Speaker, last week the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General (DHS IG) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) both released reports that indicate that our airport screening system still needs improvement. While the traveling public is more secure today than before September 11th, 2001, airport screeners are not detecting prohibited items at the level we need. Mr. Speaker, this Congress has arbitrarily capped the number of airport screeners at 45,000, and has provided neither the resources nor the technology for the screeners to get the job done. Without a significant investment and commitment by Congress and this Administration to upgrade our technology, our screening system will continue to fail. We must and can do better! Last year, the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (``the 9/11 Commission'') specifically recommended that the TSA and the Congress improve the ability of screenings checkpoints to detect explosives on passengers. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act (P.L. 108-458) authorized $250 million for the research and deployment of advanced passenger screening technologies, such as trace portals and backscatter x-ray systems. To date, only about $30 million has been appropriated specifically for the general deployment of these types of technologies. The 9/11 Commission also recommended that the TSA ``expedite the installation of advanced (in-line) baggage screening equipment.'' The Chairman of the 9/11 Commission testified before Congress that the Commission supports moving explosives units out of airport lobbies and into a secured area which will allow for movement of bags from the check-in counter to the loading area in a seamless, in-line process, promoting greater security and efficiency. In addition to these benefits, in-line baggage screening systems have a much higher throughput than stand-alone systems. If we install in- line systems, more bags will be screened by explosive detection systems instead of less reliable, alternative methods. The TSA and airport operators rely on commitments in letters of intent (LOIs) as their principal method for funding the modification of airport facilities to incorporate in-line baggage screening systems. The TSA has issued eight LOIs to cover the costs of installing systems at nine airports for a total cost to the federal government of $957.1 million over four years. The GAO reports that TSA has estimated that in-line baggage screening systems at the nine airports that received LOI funding could save the federal government $1.3 billion over seven years. TSA further estimated that it could recover its initial investment in the in-line systems at these airports in a little over one year. In total, the GAO reports that 86 of 130 airports surveyed are planning or are considering installing in-line baggage screening systems throughout or at a portion of their airports. Yet, the TSA has stated that it currently does not have sufficient resources in its budget to fund any additional LOIs. While $650 million is authorized for the installation of in-line baggage screening systems, annual appropriations have not allowed for any new LOIs to be signed. Mr. Speaker, the recommendations, findings and statements of the 9/11 Commission, the DHS IG, GAO and TSA all indicate that we need better technology to improve security at our airports. We have been put on notice, and we must take action now. We must demonstrate leadership and deploy technologies that will keep the American public safe and secure. I urge my colleagues to join me in working to pass this important legislation.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1158, the Steel and Aluminum Energy Conservation and Technology Competitiveness Act. I want to thank my friend and colleague from Illinois, Representative Biggert for her leadership, as well as Representative Melissa Hart, for her persistence in introducing this legislation in the 108th Congress and again in the 109th Congress. I am pleased Chairman Boehlert and Ranking Member Gordon acted quickly in the House Science Committee to mark-up this bill and bring it to the floor today because it helps our steel, aluminum, copper, and other metal industries stay competitive in today's global marketplace. H.R. 1158, the Steel and Aluminum Energy Conservation and Technology Competitiveness bill before us today authorizes the Department of Energy to develop a public and private partnership to build upon important research goals, such as energy efficiency, increasing competitiveness of the U.S. metals industries, and improving the environment. By working together, both the taxpayers and share holders can benefit from this federal cost share between the government and the metals industries. The domestic steel industry alone has come a long way since the steel crisis began in 1988. 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 my Congressional District. Approximately 5,000 steel workers lost their jobs in Illinois alone. Now, prices are stabilizing and the industry is restructuring and consolidating. All of this has happened without hampering the availability of competitively priced steel products. However, aggressive trade laws and other international pressures can damage the progress that was made. Therefore, it is important we continue down the path of successful recovery because the overall prospects for our steel industry can affect our future economic and national security. As a member of the Congressional Steel Caucus, I am deeply committed to making sure the metals industries stay competitive and for these reasons, I support to this bill and urge my colleagues to do the same.

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. April 24, 1915 is remembered and solemnly commemorated each year by the Armenian community and others throughout the world. On that day, Armenian religious, political, and intellectual leaders were arrested in Constantinople, taken to the interior of Turkey and murdered. 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 were massacred, with 500,000 more deported. Despite the efforts of some to minimize the scope and deny the occurrence, the Armenian Genocide is a historical fact. In my district, there is a significant population of Armenian survivors and their families that showed heroic courage and a will to survive. Many of the survivors of the genocide came to the United States, where they and their descendants have contributed to our society in countless ways. With faith and courage, generations of Armenians have overcome great suffering and proudly preserved their culture, traditions, and religion and have told the story of the genocide to an often indifferent world. 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. As Members of Congress and people of conscience, we must work to overcome the indifference and distortions of history, and ensure that future generations know what happened. Mr. Speaker, it is impossible to imagine an evil more forceful than the efforts 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. This was a tragic event in human history, but by paying tribute to the Armenian community we ensure the lessons of the Armenian genocide are properly understood and acknowledged. I am pleased my colleagues and I have this opportunity to ensure this tragedy is remembered.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 6, the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Completion of this energy bill is a step forward in our struggle for energy security and independence. A reliable and affordable energy supply is crucial to America's economic vitality, security, and quality of life. While this energy bill is not perfect, we continue to make progress towards promoting energy conservation and efficiency; increasing the use of all domestic energy resources, including coal and ethanol; improving our energy infrastructure; and promoting the development of advanced energy technologies. The combustion of fossil fuels is essential to our energy policy and must continue to be a part of a balanced energy plan for this country. Coal is absolutely critical to our nation's economic health and global competitiveness because there is no present alternative to coal to meet our energy needs. Coal accounts for more than 50 percent of U.S. electricity production in the U.S., and in my home state of Illinois, the coal reserves contain more BTU's than the oil reserves of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Twenty-three of the state's 82 generating facilities run on coal and employ over 2,883 employees. However, a majority of the coal facilities burn Western coal. The coal provisions included in today's energy bill could help these plants switch back to Illinois coal, keep them operating in a more environmentally friendly way, and maintains jobs. I am pleased this year's energy bill contains provisions for clean coal technologies to burn coal more efficiently and cleanly with the hope of achieving a healthier environment while maintaining jobs. Specifically, I am referring to an important provision in H.R. 6 that authorizes $200 million for fiscal years 2006 through 2014 for the Clean Coal Power Initiative (CCPI) to direct the Secretary of Energy to carry out pollution control and coal gasification projects to promote environmentally safe energy production using performance goals for coal emissions, awarding grants and funding coal gasification projects. I am also pleased the energy bill again contains my language to create national centers for coal research, one of which is Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) because of the university's proven record of demonstrating clean coal technologies. Further, this year in the House Science Committee, I introduced a new initiative that was included in today's energy bill to create a program to develop advanced technologies to remove carbon dioxide from coal emissions and permanently sequester it below ground. This is one of the technologies that the FutureGen project is designed to use. Southern Illinois is the perfect location for FutureGen, which is a clean coal power plant with emissions equal to those of natural gas that has been proposed by President Bush and needs Congress's support. In addition to the clean coal provisions, the bill contains provisions instrumental in helping increase conservation and lowering consumption. Included in this are ethanol provisions that are used as a replacement and additive for gasoline consumption. Under this legislation, ethanol use would increase, nearly tripling the current requirement. This is expected to increase the average price of corn paid to farmers 6.6 percent, or 16 cents per bushel and increase average net cash income to farmers by $3.3 billion over the next decade, or more than six percent. This increased use of ethanol will save 1.3 billion barrels of oil by 2016, improve the trade deficit by $28.5 billion over 15 years, add $135 billion to the American economy by 2016 through increased agricultural demand and new capital spending, and generate $32 billion in income for American consumers over 15 years. Illinois currently produces over 800 million gallons of ethanol per year at 7 different plants, roughly 28% of all U.S production, employing 1,168 people. Although I am pleased the energy bill promotes essential investments in energy efficiency, renewable fuels, and advanced vehicle technologies, much more is needed. The security and environmental challenges can no longer be overlooked if our country wants to truly reduce our oil dependence. Therefore, I am disappointed the Boehlert/ Markey amendment which I supported did not pass. This would have increased the fuel economy of America's vehicles to 33 miles per gallon by 2015. The technology exists today to make all vehicles to go farther on a gallon of gas while improving safety and consumer choice. This amendment would save American consumers money at the gas pump, protects the environment, and cuts America's dangerous dependence on oil. I am also disappointed an amendment offered by Representatives Markey and Johnson that would prohibit drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). I have consistently opposed oil and gas exploration, development, and production in the Arctic Refuge and voted in favor of the Markey/Johnson amendment to strike the title from the bill. Finally, I supported a motion to strike a provision in H.R. 6 that has been identified by the Congressional Budget Office as an unfunded mandate on state and local governments and the private sector. This provision shifts the clean-up of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), burden on communities and the federal government. Clean up is a huge and growing problem in communities across the country, including my congressional district, as MTBE contamination is extremely expensive, and taxpayers should not be obligated to pick up the tab. Mr. Chairman, America deserves an energy policy that makes the country safer and more secure. There are many aspects of the energy bill, such as the coal and ethanol provisions that help Illinois, and I will work with my colleagues to ensure they are an integral part of our energy future.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the career and retirement of Dr. James Rosborg, ``Superintendent of Belleville School District #118. Dr. Rosborg has devoted 33 years to the education of our youth, serving as a teacher, coach, guidance counselor, principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent. He has been the superintendent of Belleville District #118 for the past 11 years. During that time, Dr. Rosborg has achieved recognition at both the state and national level for his leadership and hands-on involvement in the success of the students in his district. Typically, Dr. Rosborg has credited the faculty, staff and parents for the high level of student achievement and it has been the collaboration of these groups, along with community leaders, that has been a cornerstone of Dr. Rosborg's success. Belleville School District #118 consists of eight elementary schools, two junior high schools and one early childhood facility, with a total enrollment of approximately 3700 students. In spite of a high percentage of low-income students, compared to state averages, the district has won numerous awards for high achievement. These awards include Golden Spike Awards, State and National Blue Ribbon School Awards, the national AFT-Saturn/UAW Collaboration Award and Illinois Spotlight School Awards. In addition to these awards for the District, Dr. Rosborg has been the recipient of the Illinois Master Teacher Award, the Illinois State Board of Education ``Those Who Excel'' Award, the Illinois State Board of Education ``Break the Mold'' Award and the Boy Scouts of America Russell C. Hill Award for outstanding contribution to character education. Last year, Dr. Rosborg was named the 2004 Illinois School Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Rosborg's service extends beyond District #118 while, at the same time, he still enjoys meeting individually with the students of his district. He has served as an adjunct college professor at both St. Louis University and Lindenwood University. He has served as President of the Illinois statewide Elementary District Organization and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Illinois Association of School Administrators. Dr. Rosborg is the Illinois superintendent representative on the State Superintendent's Testing Task Force, which is dealing with the federal ``No Child Left Behind'' legislation and its impact on state testing in Illinois. According to Dr. Rosborg, the bottom line of success in any district rests with the individual teachers in the classrooms. He has the highest regard for educators as professionals and believes that the main goal for administrators should be to foster an environment where teachers can maximize the educational achievement of each student. Dr. Rosborg is a product of Illinois education. After graduating from Hoopeston High School in Hoopeston, Illinois, he received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and both his masters and doctorate degrees from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Dr. Rosborg and his wife, Nancy, have three children; Mike, a civil engineer, and his wife Wendy; Kyle, employed by LaSalle Bank in Chicago; and Carol, a senior in accounting at the University of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in an expression of appreciation to Dr. James Rosborg for his years of dedicated service to education and to wish him and his family the very best in the future.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the Knights of Columbus Council 1028 of Belleville, Illinois. In 1905, 31 members of the Knights of Columbus Council in East St. Louis, who lived in or near Belleville, Illinois, desired to have their own Council. After several rounds of negotiations with Bishop Janssen, the first bishop of the Belleville Diocese, this committee was successful in obtaining his approval. The National Council issued the charter and the first meeting of Belleville Council 1028 was held on July 7, 1905. From this small but determined group of initial members, Council 1028 would grow to a peak of approximately 700 knights at the time of their Golden Jubilee, in 1955. During this time of growth, the goals of the Knights of Columbus, Charity, Unity and Fraternity, would be the guiding principals of the Belleville Council. In 1906, one year after the Council was formed, and again in 1907, Council 1028 presented Bishop Janssen with checks of $1,000,--a substantial sum in those days!--for the support of 81st. John's Orphanage. For the remaining time that 81st. John's was in existence as an orphanage, that institution was a favorite charity of Council 1028. Other worthy recipients of support through the years have been 81st. Elizabeth's Hospital, the Newman Foundation at Illinois Universities, Parent Teachers of Exceptional Children, the Mamie O. Stookey School, the Autism Society of Illinois, the Murray Center, Special Olympics and numerous local organizations. The Belleville Council has always been a supporter of local youth activities. Boy Scout Troop 16, at St. John's Orphanage, was organized by the Council and supported for years. Catholic grade school field days were sponsored and numerous trophies were supplied for individual and team sports. The Council still sponsors local youth sport teams and continues to hold annual and recreational programs and many religious activities have helped promote camaraderie among the knights and their families. While the names are too numerous to mention of those who have been instrumental in the history of the Belleville Council, one name is now officially linked to the Council. The Belleville Council is now named Monsignor Leonard A. Bauer Council 1028 to honor the dedicated service of Monsignor Bauer as the Council Chaplain for many years. Council 1028 has seen many changes through the last 100 years but they have always stayed true to the Knights of Columbus goals of Charity, Unity and Fraternity. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 100th Anniversary of the Knights of Columbus Council 1028 and wish them the best for continued service in the future.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Pope John Paul II, a true statesman and defender of faith. The Pope's death is truly a loss to the world. Many are the people he touched with his unconquerable quest for peace and equality. Pope John Paul II brought hope to all corners of the world, to people of all faiths and backgrounds, with his powerful belief in the human spirit. I will always remember the Pope's visit to St. Louis in 1999. Having the opportunity to meet him was a special moment in my life, and his visit was one of the great moments in our region's history. He will be remembered as a tremendous spiritual leader and as a force for good in the world, and his legacy will last a long time. He was a man who truly reflected justice and the sanctity of life in his teachings, travels and way of life. From making landmark trips to various parts of the world to strongly upholding the Christian way of life, I will always intensely admire his moral courage and integrity. For all of humanity, Pope John Paul II has been an inspiration in a troubled world. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in support of H. Res. 190 and paying respect and recognition to Pope John Paul II.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 188, a resolution to honor and recognize firefighters for their many contributions throughout the history of the Nation. As a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I commend the service and honorable duty firefighters across the country provide to our communities. I am especially proud of the firefighters and fire departments that protect and look after the 12th Congressional District of Illinois. For the fire service to maintain a strong voice in the federal discourse on homeland security issues, we must have a strong U.S. Fire Administration and sufficient funding for personnel, vehicles, and equipment. As a result, I have continually supported the Assistance to Firefighters Grants program and have been very successful in helping many departments in Southern Illinois secure grants to improve their operations each fiscal year. Additionally, I am a cosponsor of several bills in the l09th Congress to aid firefighters and fire departments to ensure they are properly equipped to protect themselves and their communities. I am pleased the House of Representatives is considering H. Res. 188 today, and urge my colleagues to support the passage of the bill.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Chairman, first let me say thank you for a job well done to the chairman of the full committee, the gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young), the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Petri), and the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. DeFazio) for their leadership in bringing this bill to the floor today. They have labored many hours over many months in order to get us to the point where we are and without their leadership, dedication, and persistence we would not have a bill on the floor today. Our interstate system is almost 50 years old; 32 percent of our major roads are in poor or mediocre condition; 29 percent of our bridges are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete; and 36 percent of the Nation's urban rail vehicles and maintenance facilities are in substandard or poor condition. The bill before us today is essential, for it increases investment in our roads and bridges, allowing States and local communities to not only maintain but to improve them. Despite an uphill battle, we are here today to consider what I think is a good 6-year bill. While I would have preferred to see a bill that provided the $375 billion funding level passed by the committee last year, I support the bill before us today in hopes that we can make it even better in conference. H.R. 3 provides almost $284 billion over 6 years, which is about a 42 percent increase from the current spending levels, with highway funding receiving 38 percent more and the transit program receiving 51 percent more. I am pleased we have a section in the bill for projects of regional and national significance. These projects are extremely important to our Nation's transportation system that otherwise could not be funded out of the normal State funding formula. Finally, it is important that we pass this bill out of the House today and get it out of conference quickly. Each billion dollars invested in the Federal highway and transit system creates 47,500 new jobs and $6.2 billion in economic activity. Further, transportation infrastructure generates up to a six to one net on return on our investment. Mr. Chairman, this is a good bill before us today. I thank the leadership of the committee for bringing the bill to the floor, and I urge Members to vote ``yes'' on passage.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Patrick Novak of Carbondale, Illinois, for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal. The Congressional Award Program, established in 1979, recognizes initiative, achievement and service in young people. It began as a bipartisan effort in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives. The program recognizes community service, achievement, and personal development. The Award builds confidence and self-esteem in countless young people as they grow into productive citizens in all walks of life. The program is considered America's award for the youth of our country. The Congressional Award Gold Medal has been presented to Patrick for his service to others. He earned the Gold Medal while serving active duty in the United States Air Force. While stationed at Kadena Air Force Base, Japan, Patrick volunteered with the 18th Services Squadron. His work in the squadron as an ``Ambassador'' allowed Patrick to raise funds for Okinawa's Misata Children's Home. I applaud his hard work and dedication. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the contributions of Patrick Novak who has received the Congressional Award Gold Medal. The outstanding work done by this dedicated young man has been truly influential in not only his community but to the people of Okinawa, Japan and I congratulate him as he is recognized among the Nation's most outstanding young people.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the career and public service of John Baricevic. For 25 years, John Baricevic has been an effective leader for St. Clair County, Illinois and the entire St. Louis metropolitan region. His regional approach to public policy issues has steered both St. Clair County and the region in a positive direction since the beginning of his term as St. Clair County Board Chairman fourteen years ago. John's vision is credited as the driving force behind numerous projects that continue to enhance not only St. Clair County, but our entire area. John's persistent dedication and interest in regional projects has truly made a difference in how the St. Louis region has evolved. With the addition of MidAmerica Airport, John's vision provided a new reliever airport for the region and his strong support for MetroLink in Illinois has its proof in the miles of track which are laid, this year more of which are in Illinois than in Missouri where the system started. His strong leadership in working to keep Scott Air Force Base open has continued to keep a major engine in our regional economy strong and healthy. Through his direct lobbying efforts, on behalf of the Leadership Council, Scott Air Force base has been kept open through four rounds of nationwide military base closures. Only one more round of closures is predicted. Scott is the largest employer south of Springfield, Illinois and is the 4th largest employer in the St. Louis area. Scott brings about $2 billion annually to our economy and the men and women at the base are an integral part of our churches, schools, civic activities and communities. John continues to campaign and work with me to protect Scott from closure in this final round. Working with the St. Louis Regional Chamber of Commerce, John continues to spearhead the planning and development of a new Mississippi River Bridge, a project he sees as important to erasing the divide between Illinois and Missouri by creating a new Mississippi river crossing. Without a new Mississippi River Bridge our regional transportation system would come to nearly a standstill and the flow of commerce and goods would be drastically reduced. John works closely with my office to seek the funds and the support to make the bridge a reality. John's interest in helping people started early in his life. After graduating from Assumption High School in East St. Louis, he headed to Atchison, Kansas for his B.S. in Business Administration and then to Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, Kansas, before heading back to Illinois to attend law school at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He has held numerous temporary jobs during his lifetime, serving for a time with the Teamsters, the Machinists and Carpenters. He is a certified teacher and has been a head football coach, a substitute teacher and a college admissions director. In the late 70's John's interest in law lead him to serve an internship with the St. Clair County State's Attorney's office, this lead to a full time position within the office and eventually he was elected as the St. Clair County's States Attorney in 1980. When John became elected as the County's Board Chairman in 1990, he became the Chief Executive Officer of the County, managing over 800 employees and a budget in excess of 50 million dollars. He became involved in several projects of regional significance and worked closely with my office to see these projects completed and through all of this time; he continued to privately practice law and to help people in need. Throughout his busy life, John has been married to Marti Lee Chatham, and the father of four children: Charles J., 18; Chris, 17; Brianne, 16; and Brice, 11. For more than 25 years, John Baricevic has served St. Clair County with integrity, vision and foresight, paving the way for people, on both sides of the river, to enjoy a better life. Recently, for his lifetime of service, FOCUS St. Louis honored John as their 2004 Leadership Award recipient. John continues to serve on regional boards and commissions and brings southern Illinois views and perceptions to regional business leaders. John now leaves the service of St. Clair County and in early December is sworn in as a Circuit Judge in the 20th Judicial Circuit in Illinois. He will now apply his knowledge and abilities, in helping people, to the courtroom where I am confident he will do an excellent job. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the contributions of John Baricevic and wish him and his family the very best in the future.

Mr. COSTELLO

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans).

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on the subject of this Special Order.

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to another Illinois colleague, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Emanuel).

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I would now like to yield to my friend and colleague, the gentleman from the City of Chicago, Illinois (Mr. Davis).

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, as we come to the final days of this session of Congress, I want to recognize the service of our colleague and dear friend, Congressman Bill Lipinski from Chicago. Bill decided not to seek reelection in this past general election after serving the people of his district for 22 years. Bill Lipinski has been a tireless advocate for the people of his district and the people of the Chicago area. Bill has been the go-to person to get things done for the City of Chicago. As a senior member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, he has delivered for Chicago and for the State of Illinois. Bill has secured funding for every major transportation project in the Chicago area for the past several years. From the southwest transit line to the Central Avenue bypass to the expansion of Midway and O'Hare airports, it was Bill Lipinski who was there to move the projects forward. Bill has been an effective leader for his district, his city, and his State because he studies the issues and he rolls up his sleeves to get the job done. Bill always worked in a bipartisan manner, and in fact has as many friends on the Republican side of the aisle as he does on his own side of the aisle. I have been privileged to serve on the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure with Bill Lipinski for the last 16 years. He was always there to help me and to help any other member of the committee seeking his advice and his wisdom. I have always admired Bill's ability to get things done for his district and the City of Chicago. I appreciate his service not only to the people of his district and the State of Illinois but the people of this great Nation. And, more importantly, I appreciate his friendship. I wish Bill, his wife, Rose Marie, and their family the very best and know that his successor, his son Dan Lipinski, will serve the people of his district very well. Mr. Speaker, I would now like to yield to my colleague from the City of Chicago, the gentleman from Chicago, Illinois (Mr. Rush).

Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Schakowsky).