Dennis Cardoza

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share my concerns about H.R. 5 and to urge my colleagues to support the Democratic Motion to Recommit. I think we all agree that skyrocketing medical malpractice premiums are spiraling out of control and demand our immediate attention. As a former member of the California Legislature, I voted to uphold MICRA on three separate occasions and I think that doctors everywhere deserve the same protection. MICRA is a model for federal reform because it has produced a stable, competitive medical liability insurance market while ensuring prompt and fair payments to those injured and in need. While I am pleased that H.R. 5 adopts the basic framework of MICRA, I am deeply concerned about other elements of the bill that provide cover to special interests, including liability protection to HMOs, pharmaceutical manufacturers and medical device manufacturers. Now is not the time to give greater protections to pharmaceutical companies that put unsafe drugs like Vioxx on the market. Such protections have nothing to do with the liability insurance crisis facing doctors and should be stripped from this bill. I am also concerned that the caps California established in 1975 under MICRA were never indexed to inflation: To provide the same level of compensation in today's dollars, the cap would have to equal $800,000. Put another way, the $250,000 MICRA cap has decreased in value since 1975 to approximately $70,000. With that in mind, I believe we should adjust the $250,000 cap to reflect its current value. As we all know, health care costs--including hospital charges and medical fees--have risen dramatically since 1975. If we are going to model our national law after the 1975 MICRA model, I suggest that we start by using realistic figures that reflect 2005 dollars. Despite these concerns, in 2003 and again last year, I voted for H.R. 5 with the expectation that improvements would be made in conference with the Senate. Unfortunately, that did not happen, and today we are considering a bill under a Rule that blocked a number of reasonable amendments, including a substitute offered by my colleague from Michigan, the ranking member on the Judiciary Committee. While I plan to support this legislation today, my continued support is predicated on substantial changes as the Senate attempts to align it more closely to California's MICRA law. If this happens, I will support the conference report. However, I--as well as a number of physicians I know--will oppose a bill that provides inappropriate protection to drug companies, HMOs and medical device makers. I hope that my colleagues in the House leadership will take these concerns into mind as debate moves forward on this critically important issue.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, when are Washington Republicans going to listen to the American people? At the beginning of this year, President Bush unveiled a general plan that would lead to the privatization of Social Security. When his plan was met with a lukewarm response, President Bush decided that he would travel around the Nation for 60 days trying to sell the American people on the concept of privatizing Social Security. The American people listened, and they gave President Bush a resounding no. Our constituents paid into Social Security, and they want it paid back to them when they retire. Cutting Social Security benefits that Americans have earned should always be a last resort. And yet recently there was legislation introduced by the Republicans that would divert payroll contributions from Americans to create private accounts. By taking money away from Social Security, the Republican plan would explode the deficit or force deep cuts in guaranteed benefits our Nation's citizens have already been promised. It is time to listen to our constituents and realize Americans are not going to back Social Security privatization. Let us strengthen Social Security rather than destroy it.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. Miss McMORRIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, the Democrats on the Committee on Resources support the passage of H.R. 1797, which will provide a fair and equitable financial settlement for the Spokane Tribe of Indians. H.R. 1797 will provide the Spokane Tribe of Indians with compensation which will be proportional to the compensation provided to the Colville Tribes through enactment of Public Law 103-436, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation Grand Coulee Dam Settlement Act. Our only concern with H.R. 1797 is the included sunset language in section 6 of the bill. As noted in the additional views filed with the committee report on this bill, however, the Spokane Tribe has agreed to the sunset provision in the bill with the understanding that in the future the tribe may seek an amendment to extend or modify the sunset provision or otherwise seek reauthorization of the Bonneville Power Administration's annual payments after the year 2030. With this understanding, and in the interest of moving the legislation forward and thereby providing long overdue relief to this tribe, we do not object to the inclusion of the sunset provision in the bill, and urge passage of the bill.

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Mr. CARDOZA asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith) for yielding me this additional time. As I was saying, the Iraqi Constitution, unless we intercede, will subject Iraqis of all religious and cultural backgrounds to strict Islamic law. Additionally, I recently met with His Beatitude Mar Emmanuel III Delly, the Chaldean Assyrian Catholic Patriarch, one of the most widely respected religious and political leaders in the world, who expressed similar concerns. He and I met for over an hour on this topic. I believe the United States has an obligation to guarantee the rights of all Iraqis, particularly women and Christians, so they are not overlooked in the constitutional process. Throughout history, the Assyrian people have suffered greatly in their attempts to obtain greater freedom and recognition. Despite this oppression, the Assyrians were central partners in the Iraqi opposition movement and paid dearly with the assassination of many of their political leaders under Saddam Hussein's regime. We must make certain that ethnic and religious groups who suffered and sacrificed under Saddam Hussein's regime are afforded human rights guarantees in the permanent constitution. We must ensure that the political and religious persecution seen under Saddam Hussein's brutal regime are never repeated in that country. I urge my colleagues to support the Eshoo amendment.

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Eshoo) on the situation facing Assyrians and other Christians in Iraq. I strongly support her amendment which calls for the Bush administration to use its diplomatic leverage to ensure that the new Iraqi government respects the rights of all Iraqis, regardless of sex or religious affiliation. Additionally, it calls on the administration to allocate USAID funds for the welfare and resettlement of Assyrians and other Christian groups in Iraq. The Eshoo amendment is consistent with my recent work on this issue, including a letter I sent on July 6 to the Bush administration asking that the rights of Assyrians and Christians in Iraq be protected in the new Iraqi Constitution. Like my colleague, I represent a large Assyrian community in central California, one of the largest concentrations of Assyrian Americans anywhere in the United States. Since the January 2005 elections, many in the community have expressed their deep concerns over the direction of Iraq's constitutional process. Namely, they are concerned that the new Iraqi Constitution will subject Iraqis of all religious and cultural backgrounds to strict Islamic law.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, the authors of the Congressional Republican Social Security privatization plan are not being straight with the American people. The Republicans claim that the plan that they introduced last month includes a lockbox that prevents the use of Social Security funds for other programs. This could not be further from the truth. Under their privatization plan, Social Security's surplus cash would continue to go to the government, which would continue to spend it. Instead of a Social Security trust fund, account holders get Treasury bonds. Even the bill's Republican author, the Social Security Subcommittee chairman, has acknowledged that under their bill the cash can still be used in the way it is now. Over the last 4 years, the Republicans have raided $670 billion from the Social Security trust fund to help pay for tax breaks. Despite their rhetoric now, the new Republican Social Security privatization scheme proves that they are up to their old tricks. As we prepare for the 70th anniversary of Social Security next month, the American people deserve a plan that strengthens Social Security for future generations and stops the raid on the Social Security trust fund.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Madam Chairman, I rise today, in support of the Baca- Hinojosa amendment to the agriculture appropriation bill to increase funding for Hispanic serving institutions. This increase would grant additional funding for 193 of our Nation's Hispanic serving colleges and universities who are committed to ensuring greater Hispanic representation in higher education in the U.S. There are 54 Hispanic serving institutions in my home State of California, and in my congressional district, which ranks among the highest in agriculture producing districts in the country, there are four Hispanic serving institutions. One Hispanic serving institution in particular that will benefit is UC Merced, an exceptional research institution committed to reducing under-representation of valley students in the fields of agricultural sciences and natural resources. Madam Chairman, I support an increase in ag-related educational funding. I believe that it will not only benefit my district but also the agricultural education and production of our country on a whole.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest pleasure that I rise today to honor my friend, Dr. Santokh Singh Takhar. Affectionately known by many as Toki, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize his 40 years of dedicated service to our community as a local veterinarian, long-time Democrat, and endearing friend to many. Born and raised in India, Toki came to the United States as a young man through the efforts of his aunt and uncle, Dr. and Mrs. G. S. Sahi who were residents of Livingston, California. Upon arriving in Merced County, Toki began his pursuit of education as a student at Modesto Junior College. He soon after continued on to California State University--Fresno, and ultimately, University of California--Davis Veterinarian School. After years of hard work and study, Toki began his career as a veterinarian on June 6, 1963. During a return visit to India in 1969, Toki met his wife of 35 years, Amrit Clare. They married on January 11, 1970 and have since resided in Hilmar, California. In addition to Toki's veterinarian practice, he and Amrit have become successful almond farmers on land that includes the property once owned by Toki's aunt and uncle nearly four decades ago. In addition to maintaining a successful veterinarian office and productive almond orchards, the Takhars have raised two accomplished children. Their son Clare Takhar currently resides in Turlock with his wife Amy and their daughter Sydney Clare Takhar. Clare serves as a Paramedic/Firefighter in Alameda County and Amy is a local school teacher. The Takhar's daughter Simrin Takhar has established her career with the California Association of Health Facilities. Throughout his life, Toki has remained an active participant and supporter of Democratic politics. His passion for political involvement stems from his admiration of the late President John F. Kennedy. His commitment to his civic duty sets the standard that all Americans should strive to achieve. As he enters this new phase of his life, Toki can certainly be proud of all that he has represented and accomplished. After 40 years of dedicated work, I would like to offer him my sincerest best wishes for many years of fulfillment as he continues in life as a Democrat, a farmer, and devoted husband, father and grandfather. It is my honor and privilege to join Toki's family and friends in recognizing his lifetime of service to the community of Hilmar and congratulate him on his retirement. Our community benefits greatly from the splendid example that he has set as a local veterinarian and distinguished member of the Hilmar community. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in offering Dr. Santokh Singh Takhar best wishes for continued success and happiness in the years ahead.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest respect and sincerity that I rise today to honor the late Mr. Joseph Stefani. Known to many as simply ``Papa Joe,'' he was an endearing friend, a successful businessman and beloved member of our community in Merced, California. At the age of 92, Joseph Stefani passed away on Saturday, April 16, 2005. Joseph Stefani, a life-long resident of Merced, was the son of Italian immigrants Carlo and Annunziata Stefani. He was born October 28, 1912 on his parents' 20-acre farm on Franklin Road. He attended and graduated from Franklin Grammar School, and then continued on to Merced High School. However, before he was able to graduate, the Great Depression forced Joe to leave school in order to earn money to help pay property taxes on the family's farm. Soon after leaving school to work as a grocery clerk, Joe was hired at the Workingmen's Clothing Store in downtown Merced. After only four years of learning the business, and at the young age of only 24, Joe opened his own store--Stefani's Sport Shop on June 1, 1936. With a lifetime of success and happiness ahead of them, Joe married his first love, Mary Gonella Stefani on February 5, 1938. In the years following, the Stefani's business expanded and prospered. They eventually opened an additional store in the Merced Mall, and in the neighboring communities of Atwater and Los Banos. After 51 years as a downtown merchant, Joe reluctantly retired in 1987. In addition to creating and maintaining a successful business, Joe and Mary created a beautiful family of three children, Bob, Larry and Kathleen. Throughout his life, Joe Stefani remained committed to the growth of Merced and dedicated his time to countless civic and business committees including the Merced Downtown Improvement Association, and the Merced Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Downtown Rotary Club for more than fifty years and was a Paul Harris Fellow. His service to the community continued up to the time of his passing, as he was currently a member of many organizations including the Merced Elks Lodge, and the Italian Catholic Federation. Throughout his entire life, Joe was a devout Catholic and an active member of Our Lady of Mercy/St. Patrick's Parish. He was instrumental in the building of a new Our Lady of Mercy School which opened in 1956, and in the building of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in the 1990's. During his life he had the distinct honor of a personal audience with Pope John Paul II which serves as further evidence of his lifelong commitment to his church. Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary, his son Bob, and his brother Angelo Stefani. He is survived by his son Larry and daughter Kathleen, both of Merced, his sister Mary Lucich of Merced, his sister Caroline Cugia of Concord, 11 grandchildren, 11 great- grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and privilege to join the community of Merced in recognizing Joseph ``Papa Joe'' Stefani. Our community benefits greatly from the example he set throughout his lifetime of service as a successful businessman who dedicated his life to his community, his family, and his faith.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today once again to express my disappointment with the lack of attention to our Nation's fiscal crisis. The system is broken, plain and simple. We need to focus our efforts on finding a cure for our addiction to deficit spending in this body. The Blue Dog Coalition, which I am a proud member of, has been a leading voice in Congress on fiscal responsibility for over a decade. Recently the Blue Dogs have posted signs in front of all of our offices that explain to everyone exactly how bad the fiscal crisis is, an example of which is on my right here. We update the numbers on these signs every day. The sad part is that our Nation's debt is increasing so fast that by the end of each day, these signs are inaccurate. As you can see from the sign, today the National debt is at $7,755,874,000 or $27,000-plus per person. Ladies and gentlemen, these numbers are appalling. The Blue Dogs are dedicated to fighting our Nation's ballooning national debt, and we will continue to lead the fight for fiscal sanity until Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle and the White House realize that we cannot continue to run our Nation deeper and deeper into the deficit hole. There is no secret that our National debt is out of control, as we are expected to run another $427 billion deficit in 2005, with more deficits projected into the future. We do not even have a firm grip, ladies and gentlemen, on where our money is going. At the Department of Defense, for example, only 6 of 63 departments are able to produce a clean audit. That is less than 10 percent. This budget we passed omits so many major expenses that frankly it is a sham. The administration essentially cooked the books using Enron- style accounting and Congress is just blindly going along with the program. We all know as well that foreign holdings of U.S. debt is on the rise. Interest on the national debt is the fastest growing area of our budget. And the trade deficit is totally out of control as well. As this happens, what are we doing? Ladies and gentlemen, we are doing absolutely nothing. Recently the Blue Dogs introduced a 12-step reform program to cure our Nation's addiction to deficit spending. It requires a balanced budget, stops Congress from buying on credit, and puts a lid on spending. We have a provision in this plan that requires pay-as-you-go budgeting, so that when we have an increase in the budget, or we have a tax decrease, we have to offset them. The principles in this 12-step reform plan should be able to be agreed on by everyone. The plan injects a little common sense into the way Congress and the White House does business. I hope that some day this Congress will wake up and help us restore our fiscal responsibility as a Nation. The time to stop digging the hole deeper is now.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the amendment and in opposition to the underlying legislation. We need to increase our fuel efficiency if the U.S. is ever going to get serious about our energy crisis. Last year, Mr. Chairman, I voted for this energy bill because I thought we needed a national plan, but that was when oil was selling at $30 a barrel. This year, when oil is averaging $55 a barrel and gas prices are nearly $3 a gallon in some places, it is bad public policy to add to the national debt, borrowing the money to give to companies who are making record profits. The American people deserve better. I ask for an ``aye'' vote.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Modesto Police Department for being awarded full accreditation by the Commission on Law Enforcement Accreditation (CALEA). This accreditation is a significant accomplishment for the Department as only twenty four percent of all full-time police officers in the United States are members of agencies officially accredited by CALEA. The goals of the CALEA are to strengthen crime prevention and control capabilities, formalize essential management procedures, establish fair and nondiscriminatory personnel practices, improve service delivery, solidify inter-agency cooperation and boost citizen and staff confidence in the agency. The Modesto Police Department was recognized with full accreditation for achieving and sustaining these goals. Under the leadership of Police Chief Roy Wasden, the Modesto Police Department has worked diligently for many years to ensure that high quality professional police services are provided to the community of Modesto. The Department was finally recognized for their longstanding commitment to excellence in law enforcement after a thorough agency- wide evaluation and exacting outside review. The Modesto Police Department became the 13th law enforcement agency in California to achieve accreditation. It is now the largest police department in California to be accredited. I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Modesto Police Department for their hard work and commitment to protecting and serving our community. Standing with tradition, the Department can always be counted upon and turned to during times of need. Such outstanding departments are the cornerstones of each member of the Department for their hard work and tireless dedication. They are truly heroes of our community. I am honored to represent such a distinguished police department in the 18th Congressional District of California.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Eugene Welsh. During World War II, Eugene Welsh served for 19 months in the Asia- Pacific Theater with the U.S. Army's 19th Infantry Regiment. In one single battle, he rose from the rank of private to staff sergeant and went on to fight in four more major combat actions. As a squad leader, he directed 12 men in combat. During his service, he received numerous wounds and each time was patched up and returned to duty. Staff Sergeant Welsh's commitment to the United States Army and his fellow soldiers is truly commendable. Among the awards he received are the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantry Badge. His actions during the Second World War exemplify the spirit of the infantry soldier go well beyond the call of duty and deserve nothing less than the highest recognition and honors. Helping ease the burden of combat was a friend back home, Bettye Cavazos. The two wrote to each other as often as possible. Following the war, on June 14, 1946 the two were married and settled in Ceres, California where they raised two sons, Michael and Ronald. Ronald is now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Welsh have eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. After the war, Mr. Welsh committed his life to his family and community. He was the owner of Ceres Body Shop and Towing for many years. During the 1950s he served as the commander of the American Legion's Ceres Post and was the Boys State chairman numerous times. Among his recognitions and honors are Ceres Citizen of the Year, Rotarian of the Year and Stanislaus County Senior of the Year for the 5th District. Mr. Speaker, it is among the finest traditions and honors to rise today and recognize Mr. Welsh. His commitment to our nation, our community and his family sets an example we all should seek to follow. I wish he and his family all the best.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to express my disappointment with the lack of attention to our Nation's fiscal crisis. We have a budgeting process that simply defies logic. The system is broken, plain and simple. We need to focus our efforts on finding a cure for our addiction to budget deficit spending. This dog of a budget does not hunt, but the Blue Dog Coalition has introduced a 12-step reform plan that is a good place to start with reforms. It requires a balanced budget, stops Congress from buying on credit and puts a limit on spending. It requires an accurate account, cost estimates and allows sunshine to purify the process. It is no secret that our national debt is out of control. We are expected to run a $427 billion deficit in 2005, with more deficits projected as far as the eye can see. We do not even have a firm grip on where our money is going. Within the Department of Defense, only six of 63 departments are able to produce a clean audit. That is less than 10 percent. This budget omits so many major expenses that it is a sham. The administration has essentially cooked the books using Enron-style accounting and Congress is just blindly going along with the program. We find ourselves trying to pass a budget that hides half of our problems. We know that foreign holding of U.S. debt is on the rise. Interest on the national debt is the fastest growing area of the Federal budget, and the trade deficit is totally out of control. What are we doing about it? Not a darn thing. I hope that this Congress will wake up and restore fiscal responsibility and accountability. It is time to stop digging this hole deeper.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our Nation's fiscal crisis and budgeting process that, frankly, defies logic. As we consider the budget this week, let us keep a few facts in mind: First, our Nation's debt is out of control. We are expected to run a $427 billion deficit in 2005, with more deficits projected well into the future. This is $600 billion if you count what is being stolen from Social Security trust funds. Second, we do not even have a firm grip on where our money is going. For example, at the Department of Defense, only 6 of 63 departments are able to produce a clean audit. That is less than 10 percent. Third, the Bush budget omits so many major expenses that the budget is virtually a sham. The administration has essentially cooked the books using Enron-style accounting. So here we are trying to pass a budget that hides half our problems. Already we know that foreign holdings in the United States, as far as United States debt, are on the rise and that the trade deficit is totally out of control. Mr. Speaker, I hope this Congress will wake up and restore fiscal responsibility. The Blue Dog Coalition's 12-step reform plan is a good place to start. It requires a balanced budget, stops Congress from buying on credit, and puts a lid on spending. The time to stop digging is now.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to address our Nation's fiscal crisis. The Blue Dog Coalition, of which I am a proud member, has been a leading voice in Congress on fiscal responsibility for over a decade now. We are dedicated to fighting our Nation's ballooning national debt with every last breath we take, and we will continue to lead the fight for fiscal sanity until the Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle and the White House realize that we cannot continue to run our Nation deeper and deeper into the deficit hole. What comes as common sense to American families and the business owners across this country does not come that easily to Members of this Congress and especially to members of the administration. The Blue Dog Coalition 12-step budget reform plan that we introduce today injects just a little bit of common sense into the way that Congress and the White House does business. Our 12-step plan is the most comprehensive reform program to date and makes the attempted reforms in the President's budget look like child's play. Here is our plan: Number 1. Require a balanced budget. The Blue Dogs believe a balanced budget amendment is the only way to ensure fiscal discipline in Congress. Number two, do not let Congress buy on credit. The Blue Dogs want to restore the budget rules that Congress once lived by, including pay-as- you-go budgeting. Restoring PAYGO will put our Nation back on track to fiscal responsibility. We did it once before; we can do it again. Number three, put a lid on spending. The Blue Dogs want strict spending caps to slow the growth of runaway government programs. Number four, require agencies to put their fiscal houses in order. Sixteen of 23 major Federal agencies cannot complete a simple audit of their books. These agencies should be doing a better job of tracking the taxpayer dollars. The Blue Dogs propose a budget freeze for any agency who cannot balance its own books like Americans do their checkbooks. Number five, make Congress tell taxpayers how they are spending the money. Many spending bills slide through Congress on a voice vote with no debate. The Blue Dogs propose that any bill calling for $50 million in new spending must be put to a roll call vote right here on the floor of the House of Representatives. Number six, set aside a rainy-day fund. Forty-five States already do this. If the Federal Government had done it when we had surpluses as the Blue Dogs suggested then, we would be a lot better off right now. Number seven, do not hide votes to raise the debt limit. The current House rules allow for automatic increases in the debt limit. The Blue Dogs believe that increases in the public debt limit should not be hidden from public view. We want to make every increase in the debt limit subject to a rollcall vote. Number eight, justify the spending for pork barrel projects. Since 1991 Congress has spent $185 billion on pet projects for Members. While many of these projects are worthy of taxpayer support, some are not. The Blue Dogs propose that Members of Congress provide written justifications for any earmarked spending for their pet projects. Number nine, ensure that Congress reads bills that are voted on. What a novel concept. Over the past few years, some of the largest spending bills in history have been voted on only after a few hours of consideration. The Blue Dogs propose that Members of Congress be given 3 full days minimum to have the final text of legislation before there is a vote. Number 10, require honest cost estimates for every bill that Congress comes to vote on. There are no requirements that the bills come with an honest estimate of their fiscal impact. The Blue Dogs propose that every bill that comes to the floor of the House be accompanied by a cost estimate from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Number 11, make sure new bills fit the budget. The new legislation needs to live within the rules agreed upon by the annual budget resolution. The Blue Dogs propose that the Committee on the Budget strengthen its oversight rule by preparing budget-compliant statements for every bill that is considered by the full House. Finally, number 12, make Congress do a better job of keeping tabs on government programs. Blue Dogs believe that Congress needs to carry out its oversight responsibilities. We propose that each committee submit at least two reports a year that provide an update on how each committee is fulfilling its oversight duties. Our 12 steps are commonsense ideas that should transcend partisan differences. I hope that this Congress will adopt these measures as we attempt to restore fiscal responsibility for our Nation.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my support for the War Funding Accountability Act, a bill that has been endorsed by the Blue Dog Coalition, a group of moderate to conservative Democrats with reputations for being fiscal and defense hawks. The members of the Blue Dog Coalition are some of the most pro-defense, pro-military Members of Congress, from either party. We are dedicated to seeing our troops achieve success in Iraq and Afghanistan and we applaud the Iraqi people for their recent election success. The War Funding Accountability Act, sponsored by the gentleman from California (Mr. Thompson), is about those troops, the dedicated men and women of the United States Armed Forces who put their lives on the line every single day to defend our way of life. Mr. Speaker, I believe, as people across our Nation believe, that we must provide our men and women in uniform the resources they need to complete their mission as safely and securely as possible. Our military has performed brilliantly, protecting civilians, maintaining order and promoting democracy while facing threats and guerilla-style attacks every single day. My support for our troops is unwavering, and for that reason I have supported the supplemental requests that have come before this Congress. However, the job of Congress is to make sure that the money we are spending in Iraq is going to the appropriate places, going to our troops to keep our Nation's sons and daughters out of harm's way. We must make sure this job gets done right and gets done as soon as humanly possible. So until all of our troops are withdrawn from Iraq, we need an accurate accounting method of where the money is being spent so that we can make sure our soldiers are adequately equipped and prepared. Accountability is not only patriotic, it is often determining of success or failure. If our troops do not have proper equipment, such as vehicles without armor plating, rather than them scrounging for scrap metal for do-it-yourself armor plating, we as Members of Congress can and should do something about it by redirecting the money. The Department of Defense has received $201 billion to date for the war on terrorism. While they have provided an allocation of some of these funds, they have not given Congress a full accounting. The White House has announced today that it will request $81 billion more for these operations in its fiscal year 2005 wartime supplemental, including $75 billion for the DOD. In addition, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that the costs for the war could approach $500 billion between this year and the year 2015. There have been reports of wasteful spending. One private contractor, for example, overcharged DOD by $61 million to import gasoline into Iraq from Kuwait where the government agency provided the same service for less than one-third the price. The same contractor reportedly charged taxpayers $10,000 a day for unauthorized and unnecessary expenses at the Kuwait Hilton, even though the same people could have stayed in air-conditioned tents like those used by our troops for less than $600 per day. The entire justification for having private companies is that contractors can supposedly save the taxpayers money, not cost the taxpayers dollars. With the War Accountability Act we have an opportunity to regain the oversight voice that has been lost for too long. Congress should not give up its oversight powers, Mr. Speaker, the power of the purse. And it should not write the Defense Department a blank check. The President needs to be held accountable for where our money is going. This is a responsibility that we have to the men and women serving in combat, to their parents, and to all American taxpayers who are footing the bill to ensure that the billions of dollars in supplemental funds are going to be spent in the most effective and efficient way possible. I hope all of my colleagues will stand with the Blue Dog Coalition and start to support the War Funding Accountability Act, an act for America.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take the time of the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Emanuel).

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest pleasure that I rise today to honor Lazar and Francia Piro on the occasion of their 40th Wedding Anniversary. Lazar Piro and Francia Yacou met in Beirut, Lebanon in the early 1960's and married soon after on January 31, 1965. They began a family in 1966 with the birth of their daughter Caroline. Their family quickly grew with the births of their two sons, George in 1967, and Serj in 1968. Ten years later, in July 1979, the Piros left Lebanon for Turlock, California where Lazar's brother and Francia's sisters resided. Shortly after arriving in the United States, the family moved again as Lazar took a job with a dental company in Des Moines, Iowa in 1980. The family resided in Iowa until 1985, at which time Lazar decided to start his own business and return to California. Twenty years later, Piro Trading International remains a thriving family business in Stanislaus County. In addition to creating and maintaining a successful family business, Lazar and Francia raised three successful children. All three of their children obtained college educations, each having attended California State University, Stanislaus. Caroline, who now works with her father in the family business, currently resides in Turlock with her husband Sam and their 12-year-old son George. Serj also resides in Turlock, where he is a Territory Manager for a pharmaceutical company. George, a FBI agent, now lives in Herndon, Virginia with his wife Mona and their two sons Lazar, 12 and Marcus, 9. Throughout the years, the Piros have been admired for their strong relationship, and respected for their commitment to the community. Francia has dedicated her life to her husband and family, as a devoted wife and mother of three. With her support and companionship, Lazar remains deeply involved in the community. Since settling down in Turlock, he has dedicated himself to the Assyrian community having founded an organization aimed at providing aid to those in need. He currently participates in many committees and boards throughout the County, including the Assyrian National Council of Stanislaus County. It is my honor and privilege to join Lazar and Francia's family and friends in recognizing the very special and momentous occasion of their 40th Wedding Anniversary. Our community benefits greatly from the splendid example they have set. Marriages such as theirs form a sound foundation for our country, and contribute greatly toward making this a better world in which we live. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in offering Mr. and Mrs. Lazar and Francia Piro best wishes for continued happiness.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California upon the celebration of their 70th Annual Convention. The Cabrillo Club is dedicated to the civic progress of Californians of Portuguese descent, to teach and foster Americanization, and to encourage better education and perpetuate the achievements of their forefathers. The Club is dedicated to these ideals in memory of John Rorigues Cabrillo, the discoverer of California. The Cabrillo Civic Clubs, Inc. was organized in 1934 by Californians of Portuguese descent who were proud that a Portuguese mariner had discovered the beautiful state of California. Today, there are fourteen clubs throughout the Golden State with nearly 3000 members. The Club is known for its many charitable activities including blood drives, fundraising for polio and cancer research, assisting candidates for U.S. citizenship, and providing college scholarships for students of Portuguese descent. In addition, the Cabrillo Clubs strive to foster an interest within their communities in Portuguese customs and culture through local events such as ``Festas Portuguesas.'' I am especially honored to recognize this remarkable organization, as I am of Portuguese heritage. I too appreciate the importance of celebrating our culture, and embracing the ideals upheld by the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California. Their 70 years of dedication to preserving our heritage while promoting progress is admirable and certainly deserving of recognition. Mr. Speaker, I wholeheartedly ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California, an organization steeped in culture and tradition that remains committed to the preservation and progress of the Portuguese community and the State of California.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of a man who represented the best in American politics and government. Congressman Matsui was what many of us aspire to be as lawmakers. He was a passionate advocate for his constituents, upheld the highest ethical standards, and conducted himself with the utmost civility. He never failed to be there for others who were less experienced. When I first ran for Congress, he served as my mentor. Bob visited my district several times, and we became good friends. I appreciated his advice and benefited greatly from his expertise on issues such as Social Security. But I was most impressed with how Bob went about his daily business calmly and with a composure that helped him gain the respect that he deserved. His devotion to others was remarkable and unrelenting, and he could always be relied upon to do the right thing. His contributions to our country, particularly on behalf of Japanese Americans, will never be forgotten. We are all better for his efforts. While I am greatly saddened that he is no longer with us, it is my honor to be able to recognize and pay tribute to such a fine American.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Stanislaus County Supervisor Pat Paul, as she will be retiring on January 1, 2005, as Supervisor of District 1 of the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors. Pat Paul was born and raised in Washington, DC. In 1965 she obtained her bachelor of science degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina, and began teaching at John F. Kennedy High School in Rockville, Maryland. She continued her education at Adelphi University, Long Island, New York, earning her masters degree in 1972. Just 4 years later she obtained her administration credential from California State University, Stanislaus. In 1975 Pat arrived in Stanislaus County, California and in the years following she taught at Oakdale High School, Modesto City Schools, Modesto Junior College and Beyer High School. Supervisor Pat Paul began her career in public service as a member of the Oakdale City Council in 1980 and served as vice-mayor for the city in 1982. Then in 1989, Pat Paul became the first woman ever to be elected to the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors. She served as chair of the board in 1992, 1996 and 2001. Supervisor Paul's exceptional leadership and commitment to the community has been recognized on many occasions throughout her career, as she has received numerous awards for her outstanding service. Over the years Pat has been honored with the Department of Defense Teacher of the Year Award, the Outstanding Woman of Stanislaus County Award, the Soroptimist International Women Helping Women Award and many others. In addition, Pat has also served on various commissions and boards including the Stanislaus County's Children and Families First Commission, the California State Workforce Investment Board, and the San Joaquin Valley Water Coalition and Executive Board. It is my honor and privilege to join the community in recognizing Supervisor Pat Paul for her extensive dedicated service to the citizens of Stanislaus County. Throughout her career, she has distinguished herself as a leader, educator, and member of the community. I am delighted to congratulate Supervisor Pat Paul upon her retirement and thank her for her outstanding service to Stanislaus County.

Mr. CARDOZA

Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Stanislaus County Supervisor Paul W. Caruso, as he will be retiring on January 1, 2005 as Supervisor of District 5 of the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors. Paul W. Caruso was born on June 20, 1947 in San Jose, California. When Paul was two months old, he and his family moved to Stanislaus County, California where he has resided for the past 57 years. Paul attended local schools including Modesto Junior College and California State University, Stanislaus. He served in the California National Guard from 1967 through 1973 earning the rank of Staff Sergeant. Supervisor Caruso and his wife, Sharon, continue to reside in Stanislaus County, where they raised their daughter Amanda who is a recent graduate of California State University, Stanislaus. Paul's involvement in the community throughout the years has been extensive, serving as a member, charter member, or Past President of the Ceres Chamber of Commerce, the Salvation Army Modesto Corps and Red Shield Board of Directors, and the Ceres Rotary Club. He has served as Chairman or Past President of the Stanislaus County Council of Governments, the San Joaquin Valley Regional Association of California Counties, and Mountain Valley Regional EMS, among many others. Paul is also the President and CEO of Caruso Shopping Center, Inc. which was built in 1951. Prior to his election to the Board of Supervisors, Paul was elected to the Democratic Central Committee in 1976. In 1984 he served as Fire Commissioner to the Industrial Fire Protection District until 1987 when he was elected to the Ceres City Council. It was in November of 1990 that Paul W. Caruso was first elected as Supervisor for District 5, of the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors. He has since served as Chairman of the Board in 1995, 2000 and 2004. Supervisor Paul W. Caruso has had a remarkable career in public service that has been recognized on many occasions. He received the 2001 VFW Modesto Post 3199 Man of the Year Award, the Ceres Chamber Honorary Life Member Award in 1989, Rotarian of the Year Award in 1986 and 2000, Ceres Citizen of the Year 1985, and the Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow Award in 1985, among many others. Throughout the years, Paul has certainly distinguished himself as a leader and dedicated member of the community. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor and privilege to congratulate Supervisor Paul W. Caruso upon his retirement and thank him for his outstanding service to Stanislaus County.