Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Sergeant Adrian N. Orosco who lost his life defending the freedom of our Nation in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. A native of Corcoran, CA, Sgt. Orosco, 26, joined the United States Army in 2001. After his 2 year service contract was completed, Mr. Orosco re-enlisted for an additional 4 years. Sgt. Orosco re-enlisted with the hopes that a career in the armed forces would provide a better life for his family and because military service provided him with the opportunity to serve his country in the most noble manner. He was then assigned to the 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment at Fort Irwin, California. Unfortunately, Adrian Orosco's tour in Baghdad, Iraq ended when an improvised device detonated near his military vehicle on the 9th day of December 2005. In recognition of his sacrifice Sgt. Orosco has been posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Adrian Orosco is survived by his wife, Elizabeth and their three children, Adrian, Andrew and Isabelle, all of whom reside in Fort Irwin. I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathy and most sincere condolences to Sgt. Orosco's family. It is my belief that Adrian Orosco's life symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice one can make for his country. His valor, strength, courage and pride in our Nation will forever live in the thoughts and hearts of his family and Americans across the Nation. In addition, Sgt. Orosco's dedication to the principles of freedom and democracy will serve as an example to all of us, for generations to come.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Vee-Jay Brann of Hanford, California, on the occasion of his retirement as the Kings County Director of Finance. With over 30 years of dedicated service to Kings County, Mr. Brann has demonstrated quality leadership alongside committed service to the residents of his community and the people of California. Named after the day on which he was born, VJ Day, Vee-Jay grew up in the small Wisconsin town of Algoma. Upon graduation from Wisconsin State University Oshkosh with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration in 1968, Mr. Brann entered the United States Air Force. The great lure of the San Joaquin Valley drew Mr. Brann and he settled in Hanford. Mr. Brann continued his career as a Job Training Specialist until he became the Assistant Treasurer/Tax Collector for Kings County. Working diligently to create a welcoming atmosphere for his superior, he as appointed to fill the post of Treasurer/Tax Collector upon her retirement in 1985. That same year, Mr. Brann was pleasantly surprised with the birth of his son David. In May 2004, Mr. Brann resigned his position as Treasurer/Tax Collector to become Kings County's first Director of Finance. Mr. Brann has served on many professional and social committees and boards. However he is most proud of serving as president of the California Association of Treasurer/Tax Collectors and being the president of the Hanford Rotary Club. With all of his accomplishments, Mr. Brann's greatest pride continues to be his loving wife and son, his loyal and dedicated staff and his many friends and acquaintances. While Mr. Brann looks forward to traveling, reading or trying his hand at gourmet cooking, the residents of Hanford will always remember the charismatic Vee-Jay Brann who served the community to the best of his ability.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Nick George Bronzan of Fresno, California. He is survived by his wife, Peggy, two daughters, Mary and Ann, and son Bruce. Mr. Bronzan lived a life of honor, compassion and sincere loyalty to those he cared for and to the causes for which he fought. Born in Stockton, California, Nick spent his childhood in Manteca. Upon graduation from high school, he attended California State University, Fresno and was a Bulldog academically and competitively as the captain of the Fresno State football team. Colleagues recall him as being a real leader and remember him being more interested in the condition and lives of the players than in winning the game. After graduating from Fresno State in 1939, Mr. Bronzan spent five years as the Kerman High School coach in various sports and teaching mathematics. He worked for 4 years in the Fresno Young Men's Christian Association before becoming the executive secretary of the YMCA in Southern California. Finally settling in Fresno, Mr. Bronzan took a job as the executive director of the Central Valley YMCA in 1968. Mr. Bronzan was a longtime advocate for youth, seniors, and foster children. He fought for the rights of those who could not fight for themselves. Not only did he work for the foster grandparents program but also served as its director. Mr. Bronzan volunteered alongside others older than 60 to work with children lacking parents and families. He was a member of the Fresno Rotary Club and was elected chairman of the Fresno-Madera Counties Service Area Task Force. His contributions helped develop the Area Agency on Aging for those two counties and in 1984 he was reappointed to the California Commission on Aging and Long-Term Care. Mr. Bronzan served his community in more ways than one. Although his passing brings sadness to his family, Nick Bronzan's memory will forever live on in the lives of the many people he touched.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Bill Pauli for his efforts and contributions to the agricultural industry for his years of service as President of the California Farm Bureau Federation. Although Mr. Pauli is retiring, his dedication and commitment to enhancing the quality of agriculture in the State of California will always remain sincerely appreciated. Mr. Pauli's passion for agriculture led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in agricultural economics and business from the University of Nevada, Reno. He emerged through the industry as a product of some of California's most celebrated wine grapes and Bartlett pears in his home town of Potter Valley. Mr. Pauli's endeavors also led to the establishment of the award-winning Braren-Pauli and Redwood Valley Cellars. Colleagues, friends, and family alike hail Mr. Pauli as someone who has exemplified genuine concern and dedication to the progression of American farmers. Mr. Pauli's advocacy for agricultural issues dates back to the 1970s. He stood before the United States Congress to address farm concerns and served as a member of agricultural organizations such as the State Compensation Insurance Board, North Coast Grape Growers Association and Tri Valley Growers Cooperative. Serving as the President of the state's most active and esteemed agricultural organization, Mr. Pauli established many enduring programs that have revamped the image of the Bureau. Among them are The Farm Bureau Leadership program which has brought vibrancy to the organization. In addition, Ag in the Classroom is highly esteemed as an educational tool, and The Plan to Protect California's Family Farms has added to the Bureau's dedication to preserve the efforts of California farmers to provide the highest quality products. In addition to his extensive profile of agricultural issues, Mr. Pauli has been an outstanding member of his commnity. He donates much of his time to protecting and ensuring the welfare of the residents of Potter Valley and serves as a volunteer chief of the Potter Valley Fire Department. When asked what he would miss the most upon leaving his post, Mr. Pauli answered, ``The people, the opportunity to see the people, to see their farms and ranches.'' It is through the efforts of people like Bill Pauli that California is the breadbasket of the world. It is with a great pride and gratitude that I rise to thank and honor Mr. Pauli for his thirty-five years of commitment and loyalty to the citizens of California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I am opposed to the rule and I am opposed to this legislation. I do not think any of the Members here disagree that strong and safe borders are vital and important to the security of our country. Throughout my career, I have consistently supported strengthening our borders. And while the Sensenbrenner bill does address part of our problems, it is not the comprehensive solution we must have. It does not solve or even acknowledge the problems of illegal immigrants. Therefore, this bill is half a loaf at best. We can secure our borders and keep out illegal immigrants, and we should. But what about the 11 million-plus people here illegally who are, by and large, law-abiding members of our community? What about the 11 million-plus people who keep the hotels, restaurants, and construction sites and farms running in every State of this Union? This bill is no solution for them and it is no solution for our country. Denial is more than a river in Egypt, it is alive and well here in the House of Representatives in the form of H.R. 4437. If we continue to delay facing the reality of this challenge, the reality of the importance of immigrants who are not here legally to our economy, then I urge those of you who decide to vote for this measure to be prepared to face the wrath of business people in your towns and cities throughout this country. They will want to know why you voted to place the financial liability of document verification on them. They will want to know why you have made them a de facto agent of the Federal Government. They will want to know why you voted to require them to follow a system that makes them liable for thousands of dollars of fines when they are simply trying to run their businesses. They will want to know why you voted to cripple tourism industries, home construction and farms, by refusing to confront the undeniable evidence that 11 million immigrants here illegally are making a difference. My colleagues, we all acknowledge that the status quo of illegal immigration is unacceptable. Therefore, I implore you to act on a comprehensive solution, not the politics of division. This should not be a wedge issue. After all, lest we forget, we are a nation of immigrants. I am the grandson of immigrants. Our failure to act now is not responsible. Therefore, I must oppose this measure.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 629, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 630, I would vote to put the House on record as opposed to torture of prisoners held by the U.S. government. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 798, the Methamphetamine Remediation Act before us today. While methamphetamine abuse is currently sweeping the country, causing great alarm for law enforcement and health officials, we in California's San Joaquin Valley have been fighting rampant methamphetamine abuse, production and clean up for over 20 years. Methamphetamine is California's largest drug threat, and the Valley suffers one of the highest rates of abuse, both in production and use. According to local law enforcement officials, over 13,500 pounds of methamphetamine have been seized over the last three years. In 2004, Fresno made 180 methamphetamine related felony arrests. These are significant achievements, but there is more to be done. The San Joaquin Valley law enforcement successfully reduced the number of Superlabs seizures from 27 in 2003 to 9 in 2004. However, the need to ensure the former labs are cleaned to a safe level is key to protecting our communities. Unfortunately, methamphetamine abusers are not the only victims of this destructive drug. The production of methamphetamine in labs and ``super labs'' leave dangerous bi-products, putting innocent children and law enforcement into harms way. I am a co-sponsor of this legislation because it provides communities with the guidelines to properly clean up hazardous contaminants from former methamphetamine labs and improves methamphetamine lab detection tools. As a Member of the California State Legislature, I authored a law raising penalties for trafficking, manufacturing, and sale of methamphetamine to the same level as heroin and cocaine. In addition, I authored legislation authorizing the forfeiture of any boat, airplane or vehicle used to facilitate the manufacture of methamphetamine. My co-sponsorship of H.R. 798 represents my continued commitment to rid our great Valley of this devastating drug. I urge the adoption of this critical measure.

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Science Committee, I would like to thank Chairman Boehlert and Ranking Member Gordon for introducing this legislation. I believe it is very important throughout the country. I rise in strong support of the methamphetamine Remediation Act before us today. While meth abuse is currently sweeping the country, causing great alarm for law enforcement and health officials, we in California's San Joaquin Valley have been fighting rampant meth abuse, production and clean up for over 20 years. Meth is California's largest drug threat, and the Valley suffers one of the highest rates of abuse, both in production and use. According to local law enforcement officials, over 13,500 pounds of meth have been seized over the last 3 years. In 2004, Fresno made 180 meth related felony arrests. These are significant achievements, but there is more to be done. The San Joaquin Valley law enforcement successfully reduced the number of Superlabs seizures from 27 in 2003 to 9 in 2004. However, the need to ensure the former labs are cleaned to a safe level is key to protecting our communities. Meth abusers are not the only victims of this destructive drug. The production of meth in meth labs and ``super labs'' leave dangerous bi- products, putting innocent children and law enforcement into harms way. I am a co-sponsor of this legislation because it provides communities with the guidelines to properly clean up hazardous contaminants from former meth labs and improves meth lab detection tools. As a Member of the California State legislature, I authored a law raising penalties for trafficking, manufacturing, and sale of meth to the same level as heroin and cocaine. I also authored legislation authorizing the forfeiture of any boat, airplane or vehicle used to facilitate the manufacture of meth. My co-sponsorship of H.R. 798 represents my continued commitment to rid our great Valley of this devastating drug.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Ken Dyar of Delano, California for receiving the California Teacher of the Year award from the State of California. California State Superintendent of Public Instruction selects 5 Teachers of the Year to honor outstanding teachers. With his innovated teaching skills and passion to incorporate physical fitness into the lives of his eighth grade students, Ken Dyar is deserving of this honor. Mr. Dyar was born on May 27, 1965 in Delano, California. Son of Don and Shirley Dyar, Mr. Dyar attended Cecil Avenue Middle School and graduated at the top of his class from Delano High School. He went on to earn a degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Mr. Dyar served as a freshman basketball coach at Selma High School, a fourth grade teacher at Terrace Elementary School and a junior varsity boys basketball coach at Delano High School before discovering his true passion for teaching physical education to junior high students. Currently, Mr. Dyar is the Physical Education teacher at his alma mater Cecil Avenue Middle School in Delano, California. Mr. Dyar is a member of several education organizations including the National Education Association, California Teacher's Association, Delano Union School Teacher's Association, and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance. The honors and awards that Mr. Dyar has received are numerous. He was named Kern County Educator of the Year, was listed in Who's Who Among American Teachers, was voted Most Motivating Teacher by Cecil Avenue Middle School students. During this critical period in our nation's history, it is essential to have qualified and dedicated educators to help our youth steer this country in the direction of righteousness and honor. Mr. Dyar exemplifies such an educator and I stand to applaud his efforts. The California Teacher of the Year award is well deserved.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of former Mayor Mr. Richard C. Snyder of Sanger, California. He is survived by his two children Richard A. Snyder, daughter Jerry Ann Latham, four grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and his childhood sweetheart and wife of 59 years, Pearl Snyder. Mr. Snyder was a well respected man who always put his family and friends first. The residents of Sanger continue to appreciate the work he has done to better their community and lives. Born on May 6, 1922, Mr. Snyder was destined to live a happy and full life. He graduated from Sierra High School and spent four years of his life serving his country in the United States Air Force. Upon returning from service, Richard married his childhood sweetheart, Pearl on June 12, 1946. Richard was a man of principle. He served the residents of Sanger, California as a council member, mayor pro tempore, and mayor for a combined total of twenty years. In addition, Mr. Snyder volunteered as the Assistant Fire Chief for the Sanger Fire Department for 18 years. His kind nature and concern for others led the citizens of Sanger to honor him with the City of Sanger Citation of Appreciation Award on March 3, 1964. The Sanger Eagles, Veterans of Foreign Affairs, and AmVets are just some of the many organizations of which Richard was a member. A highly decorated veteran, he was the recipient of the Soldier Medal of Valor, Good Conduct Medal, and Distinguished Unit Badge. Mr. Snyder enjoyed fishing, hunting, swimming, but most of all he loved to spend time with his beautiful wife, two children, four grand children, and six great grandchildren. There was nothing more important to Mr. Snyder than the happiness of his family and the contentment of his friends. It is without doubt that the memory of Richard C. Snyder will live on and flourish for all of the generosity that he bestowed and the loyalty he preserved.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Edward R. Mosley of Fresno, as the honored recipient of the Community Health Champion Award from West Fresno Health Care Coalition. The life of Dr. Edward Mosley has been extraordinary in every aspect. He has broken barriers, opened doors and won the hearts of all who know him. Dr. Mosley was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1924. He grew up in a time where his skin color was the determining factor for his career goals. However, Edward continued on in his quest to reform the outlook of many African Americans in the Nation. He is truly a revolutionary in this regard and has not slowed down since. Education has been a primary focus of Dr. Mosley since the age of 4 when he begged his grandmother to teach his how to read. He began school at age 6 and immediately excelled in all subjects. He became the ``talk of the town'' because of his intelligence. His school quickly adapted to their new star student by providing him with an advanced education. Edward graduated from high school at the age of 17 and was forced to take a year off before attending college. However, never deterred, he resumed his academic career and attended the University of Illinois. Ever the steadfast student, he worked to put himself through college and graduated to attend Mehary Medical School. He completed his medical internship at Harlem Hospital in New York and his residency at Tuskegee Veterans Hospital in Alabama. Dr. Mosley also spent two years in the United States Army where he was in charge of a prisoner of war camp in Korea. It was the desire to live in California that initially brought Edward to Fresno. He established a medical office in the private sector and eventually collaborated with other doctors in the community to create the Westview Convalescent Hospital in Fresno. In recognition of Edward's accomplishments, he was the first African American elected official in Fresno when he was elected to serve on the State Community College Board of Trustees. Edward also served on many other boards in the community in efforts to advance the San Joaquin Valley. Dr. Mosley has an impressive resume that details his extensive professional career; however, it has been his outstanding devotion to community service and contributions to the medical community of Fresno for which he is being honored now. He has received many honors and recognitions, including being a Delegate to the Presidential Electoral College appointed by Governor Reagan in 1972, and being named honorary Mayor of Fresno for Contributions to the Community. It is a tremendous honor to stand today and publicly recognize Dr. Edward Mosley for all of his contributions to the community. It is a privilege to extend congratulations to Dr. Mosley on behalf of the 20th District of California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Noel Smith of Fresno, California as the honored recipient of the Community Health Champion Award from West Fresno Health Care Coalition. Dr. Noel Smith has been an outstanding contributor in the Fresno community for the past 50 years and found a place in the hearts of all who know him. Noel was born in La Brea, Trinidad in the West Indies. He attended Howard University in Washington, DC, where he received both his Bachelor's and Medical Degree. He was a Magna Cum Laude graduate and a member of the Honor Society. His professional desire to reside in the State of California and his ambition to train in a public hospital led him to Fresno in 1951 where he interned at Fresno's University Medical Center. After Dr. Noel Smith completed his internship, he completed his residency at the University Medical Center in Obstetrics-gynecology. Although he joined the private sector in 1958, Noel never stopped giving back to his community. He has been an active member on various committees such as the Supervisors Minority Adoption Committee, Model Cities Board Committee and Mayors Bi-Racial Committee. Dr. Noel Smith has received many honors for his extraordinary public service to the community of Fresno. The 1990 Health Award from the NAACP Fresno Board, Portraits of Success Award from KSEE channel 24, the United Black Men Apple Award and the Education from the Black Men United are just a few of the honors he has received Dr. Smith understands the power of education; for this reason he and his wife have made considerable educational contributions to the community. They founded the Children-A-Go-Go at Carver Middle School in Fresno, ``Young Men and Young Women of Tomorrow'' at Bethune Elementary School of Fresno and made various presentations at local High Schools on ``Developmental Education.'' We could go on and on about the remarkable contributions that Dr. Noel Smith has made to his grateful community. He is loved by family and friends, appreciated by his patients and admired by his colleagues. It is with great pleasure that I stand today and congratulate Dr. Noel Smith for all of his achievements.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Clovis City Council member Harry Armstrong of Clovis, California for receiving the Rose Ann Vuich Ethical Leadership Award. The Fresno Bee, The Fresno Business Council and The Maddy Institute at California State University, Fresno sponsor this prestigious award. Harry Armstrong was born in Merced, California. Upon graduation from Merced Union High School he joined the American Armed Forces and fought in the Korean War. He is married to Jeanine and has three children: Tom, an attorney; Jim a businessman; and, Megan, a teacher. The basic characteristics to be considered as a candidate for the Rose Ann Vuich Ethical Leadership Award are integrity, strength of character, exemplary ethical behavior, ability to build consensus, serving the public interest and vision for enhancing the community. Mr. Armstrong embodies every one of these characteristics and has set a standard by which all future public servants should use as a guide in their own service to the community. Harry Armstrong is noted as standing firm against forces that would sweep aside the freedoms and ethics of our democratic form of government. Never did he blink or stray from his standards and beliefs in the process of public involvement in honest government. He has shown his strength of character in steadily standing by his morals and values. A member of the Clovis City Council since 1970, Harry is the longest serving council member in the State of California. He was elected Mayor of Clovis on four occasions. Mr. Armstrong's leadership is not limited, however, to the Clovis City Council. He has also served on numerous boards and committees, President of the League of California Cities, Chair of the Fresno County Transportation Authority and the Clovis Planning Commission. Mr. Armstrong's ability to stand up for what is right and encourage others to do the same is what has given him the continued, never straying, support of the community. His history of involvement and knowledge has created an environment for others to listen and learn. The leadership and commitment Mr. Armstrong has shown for the community has never wavered, nor his honor in service. He personifies a man of principle and integrity. I am honored to express the gratitude the community has for Harry Armstrong and stand to show our appreciation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Paul C. White of Fresno, California. He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years Sheila White, their six children: Paul II, Crystal, LaShelly, JePahl, Brandon, and Bryson, and his five grandchildren; Paul III, Asia, Kennedy, Darion, and Jaylin. As a past Assistant Executive Director for the Fresno County Economic Opportunities Commission, Paul is remembered by all who knew him for his commendable service to the community, his love for his family and his commitment to advance and strengthen the health care and social issues that impact impoverished people so often overlooked. Paul was unwilling to look the other way, and it is for his unrelenting efforts that we celebrate his life. Mr. White learned from personal experience what certain sacrifices economically disadvantaged people are forced to make. He was born in Oklahoma City in 1947 as one of six children, raised by their mother in a house without running water or electricity. Paul's mother passed on when he was 11 and his grandparents raised all six children in Fresno. Not to be overcome by tragedy, Paul graduated from Edison High School in 1962 as a star basketball player and school leader. He immediately began his college career at Fresno City College, where he received his Associate in Arts degree in 1968. Dedicated to being better equipped in life, Paul furthered his education at California State University, Fresno where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and his Masters in Public Administration. Paul always made sure everyone around him appreciated the many wonders life had to offer. In January of 1983, Paul had complete kidney failure. In 1986 his then 14-year-old daughter LaShelly had complete kidney failure as well. That same year, both Paul and LaShelly received a kidney transplant from the same donor. To think of the generosity of strangers during their time of loss, was very humbling to the family. Paul and his loved ones endured incredible health hardships, which allowed for his appreciation of life to grow and be passed on to the many lives he touched. Paul's family triumphed over dialysis as well as kidney transplants making their ties even stronger with each other. Mr. White has served the Fresno community for over 30 years. His record of community service is quite long and includes membership in many different organizations. He was a member of the United Network for Organ Sharing, Minority Affairs Committee, California Donor Transplant Network, California Department of Health Services and Leadership Committee for the Black Infant Health Project. Paul was on the Board of Directors for West Fresno Health Care Coalition, Inc, the Marjaree Mason Center and the Boy Scouts of America. His contributions have not gone unnoticed; some of his most notable awards include the Fresno Metro Ministry Award for ``Living Out the Values of Justice in our Community,'' State of California Lieutenant Governor Cruz M. Bustamante, ``Commendation,'' California State Senate and Assembly ``Certificate of Recognition,'' California Transplant Donor Network ``Excellence Award,'' and United Black Men of Fresno ``President's Award'' and ``Certificate of Appreciation.'' It goes without saying that Mr. Paul White was a positive influence in this community. His commitment to help those in need will forever live on in the lives of the people he so graciously touched.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Vernon Conrad of Reedley, California as the honored recipient of the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce ``Agriculturist of the Year'' award. The Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce awards an individual who exemplifies leadership and integrity in the Central Valley's agricultural business community every year at their awards luncheon. This year the organization could not have chosen an individual who is more deserving of this prestigious honor. Mr. Conrad is a fourth generation Californian and his family has deep roots in east Valley agriculture; dating back to the late 1800s. He is a lifelong resident of Fresno County as a Reedley community member where he grows grapes and tree fruits. It is from this background that Vernon emerged as a respected agriculturist in the community. His leadership with the Fresno County Farm Bureau and Fresno County Board of Supervisors sets the bar high for those who follow in his foot steps. Mr. Conrad served two terms as Fresno County Farm Bureau President and during his time with the Farm Bureau Mr. Conrad worked tirelessly to promote the Valley's agriculture agenda on a national level. He traveled to Washington, DC twice to testify before Congress on some of the Farm Bureau's major issues, such as concerns over water and acreage. His concerted efforts on policy and advocacy eventually led Mr. Conrad down another path of activism as a Fresno County Supervisor. As a three term board member, Vernon, tackled various county dilemmas with renewed energy each time a new problem emerged. He focused on improving the efficiency of Fresno County operations, dealt with funding challenges and land use and zoning issues. As if overcoming obstacles faced by the county and the farming community wasn't enough, Vernon also found time to serve on various committees and associations to work actively with agriculture groups. He was a board member of the Alta Irrigation District, Kings River Conservation District, Regional Water Quality Control Board and the Kings River Water Association. Through his work with these organizations, Mr. Conrad earned a seat representing California on the American Farm Bureau Federation's Natural Resources and Water Committee, on which he served as chair for five years. Vernon Conrad's extensive efforts as an advocate of agriculture and the community have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. It is with great pleasure that I stand today and congratulate Mr. Conrad for all of his achievements, and thank him for his commitment to our Valley.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Police Chief Jerry Dyer of Fresno, California for receiving the 2005 Excellence In Public Service Award. The Fresno Bee, The Fresno Business Council and the Maddy Institute at California State University, Fresno, sponsor this prestigious award. A dedicated advocate of justice, Jerry Dyer has devoted his entire professional career to safeguarding his community. The honor of receiving recognition for public service is long overdue and well deserved. Mr. Dyer received his Bachelor's Degree in Criminology from California State University, Fresno and his Master's Degree in Management from California Polytechnic University at Pomona. He is a graduate of the California Command College, where his peers chose him as the Most Inspirational Student. Chief Dyer has served with the Fresno Police Department for 26 years. His hard work and dedication to public safety did not go unrecognized and on August 1, 2001 he was named Chief of Police. During his tenure as Police Chief, the Fresno community has experienced three consecutive years of a decrease in crime, which resulted in a 33-year-low in crime for the year 2004. Traffic safety has also been made a top priority of the Fresno Police Department since the appointment of Mr. Dyer as the Chief of Police; guided by the wisdom of Chief Dyer, the Fresno Police Department has received national and state recognition for its traffic safety efforts, which include the prestigious California Highway Patrol Commissioner's Award. The department has also received many other honors, such as first place in the International Association of Chiefs of Police ``Law Enforcement Chief's Challenge'' and ``Impaired Driving Enforcement Award,'' as well as three consecutive first place awards in the ``California Law Enforcement Chiefs Challenge.'' Chief Jerry Dyer has worked tirelessly to make the Fresno Police Department one of the state's outstanding law enforcement organizations. He has initiated rigorous processes to have the Department nationally accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. In 2005 the Fresno Police Department was awarded accreditation status; less than 4 percent of law enforcement agencies in the United States have achieved this honor. Chief Jerry Dyer personifies a hero in every aspect of the term. His sacrifices and belief in justice are admirable. The community of Fresno is honored to have a loyal, honest, and trustworthy leader of our police force and we applaud his dedication to providing a safe environment for our community.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Ulysses S. Curry of Fresno, as the honored recipient of the Community Health Champion Award from West Fresno Health Care Coalition. Dr. Curry has dedicated over 30 years of continuous medical service to Fresno and continues to devote his time to the community. Ever a generous doctor, Ulysses has donated much of his time to assist in the progression of the medical community in the Central Valley. Upon graduation from Central High School in Omaha, Nebraska, Dr. Curry immediately attended the University of Kansas in 1939. Ulysses went on to Howard University to pursue his Master's Degree, followed by Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee from which he attained his medical degree. He did his internship at Saint Agnes Hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina immediately following medical school. It was a residency program that originally brought Dr. Curry to California. After completing his residency in pediatrics at Fresno County General Hospital in Fresno, Dr. Curry moved to Denver, Colorado to finish his residency in internal medicine at Denver Veterans Administrative Hospital. Dr. Ulysses Curry permanently returned to Fresno and opened his General/Family Practice at which he continues to practice medicine. Dr. Curry is affiliated with many hospitals in the Central Valley, such as Fresno Community Hospital, Clovis Community Hospital and Sierra Community. Ulysses also has memberships with many professional medical associations. He is an active member of Fresno-Madera Medical Society, John Hale Medical Forum, California Medical Association as well as a lifetime membership to the California Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Family Physicians. It is obvious from his extensive career that Dr. Ulysses S. Curry is worthy of such recognition from the West Fresno Health Care Coalition. It is with great pleasure that I stand today and congratulate Dr. Curry for all of his achievements.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the point of order from the gentleman from Washington. I am here to speak to my colleagues, but especially the 235 of you who, like me, served in legislatures throughout the country prior to coming to Congress. The fiscal sleight of hand that we are undertaking here today is simply that of a financial shell game, and the loser is already clear, it is our States. You don't have to take my word for it. The Congressional Budget Office has spoken and they have identified that the reduction in child support without a change in the requirements is a violation of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 that many of you were here that supported on a bipartisan basis. It is a violation of the law. We can play this ridiculous game of pretend and safely ensconce ourselves in these walls but do you truly believe that the actions today will go unnoticed and that State legislatures are not watching what we do? I know that the National Conference of State Legislatures is watching. I hope that ALEC is watching, too, and I suspect that the National Governors Association is taking notes. I can assure you that they are tuning in to C-SPAN and taking careful notice of today's proceedings because besides illegal, today's vote will have a direct impact on their ability to serve the people of their States, the same people who live in our districts. In fact, President Ronald Reagan's promise of federalism today is nowhere in this Chamber. President Reagan's famous debate line with Mr. Mondale is frighteningly apropos in this exercise: ``There you go again.'' And yes, here we go again attempting to balance our Federal budget on the backs of 50 States.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, having served in the California State legislature for 24 years, half of which was spent in a leadership role, I know how to engage in a bipartisan process. This budget reconciliation bill is not bipartisan. Rather than provide the House with an opportunity to engage in a serious and meaningful budget discussion, we are left with this take- it-or-leave-it package that, if passed, will increase our budget deficit nearly $20 billion. Rather than accept an offer by the Blue Dogs to discuss our 12-point deficit reduction alternative, we are left with this plan as our only option. It is a Hobson's choice, which is no choice at all. Rather than do what our constituents expect us to do, which is discuss, debate, and have meaningful oversight and make tough policy choices, we are left with a budget reconciliation package that is nothing more than a fig leaf to cover up a host of fiscal shortcomings. I may be new to Congress and the process, but I know this budget reconciliation package is wrongheaded and sadly lacking in transparency. I urge a ``no'' vote.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Lieutenant Ron Downs of Fresno, California. Mr. Downs was a respected member of the Fresno police department. He passed away Monday, October 31st, 2005 of a heart attack; he was three weeks away from retirement. Mr. Downs was sworn as a police officer in July 1, 1967, at the young age of 22. He worked as a lieutenant and commander of the special investigations bureau, for the department's narcotics unit. He previously was commander of the internal affairs bureau. At the time of Mr. Downs' death, he was one of the longest-serving active officers in the department. Mr. Downs worked tirelessly on behalf of our community for 38 years as a member of the police force. On any given day, he was willing to sacrifice his own safety to protect others. Mr. Downs was an exemplary citizen; his contributions to our community will be long lived. Mr. Downs is survived by his wife, Carolyn. He is also survived by his son, Kenneth Downs; his daughter, Kris Loughney; his wife's son, Michael Dick; three brothers; and five grandchildren. The community of Fresno is saddened by his passing and I would like to extend my condolences to his family.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H.R. 4179. This legislation would impose trade sanctions on Japan if the ban on American beef is not lifted by a reasonable date. For decades, Japan has been a friend and reliable trading partner with the United States, and I anticipate that relationship will prosper. However, in spite of our best efforts, our fine relationship has been strained by Japan's continued ban on imports of U.S. beef. There is reason to be optimistic that this legislation will not be enacted if Japan takes reasonable action. Japan's Food Safety Commission gave a favorable report on Monday, October 31, 2005, and will continue to review the ban for a mandatory one-month comment period. After the one-month waiting period, the Japanese government may drop the ban and resume beef imports. However, should the Japanese not take favorable action, the trade sanctions would go into effect on December 15, 2005. The December 15 date is not arbitrary. In fact, I believe it is a well-timed and necessary mechanism to encourage the ban to be lifted. The U.S. beef industry and the federal government have not only assured the Japanese government of our stringent safety standards, but have also made every effort to exceed the requirements set forth by Japan's Food Safety Commission. American beef continues to be the safest and the highest quality beef in the world. The American beef producers deserve the full benefit of our bilateral trade agreement. This legislation reserves our right to respond forcefully should Japan prolong this shortsighted ban. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this legislation.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and memory of the civil rights icon Rosa Louise Parks. Almost half a century ago, Mrs. Parks' refusal to surrender her bus seat triggered the first organized actions in the civil rights movement. Because of her action that day, Mrs. Parks will always be remembered as the ``mother of the civil rights movement.'' Rosa Parks was born in Tuskegee, Alabama on February 4, 1913. As a girl, she wrote, ``I had a very strong sense of what was fair.'' She led a life dedicated to improving civil rights and acted as an inspiration to many Americans. On December 1, 1955, Mrs. Parks sat in an unreserved section of a city bus. When asked to give up her seat for a white man she politely refused. It is a common misconception that Rosa Parks was unwilling to give up her seat because she was tired from a long day at work. As she told it, ``the only tired I was, was tired of giving in.'' Mrs. Parks' act of civil disobedience is the popular inspiration that led to Martin Luther King Jr.'s decision to lead a bus boycott that lasted an amazing 381 days. On November 13, 1956, in an important victory for the civil rights movement, the Supreme Court outlawed segregation on buses. The civil rights movement would experience many important victories, but Rosa Parks will always be remembered as its catalyst. Mrs. Parks was a shy, soft spoken woman who was uncomfortable being revered as a symbol of the civil rights movement. She only hoped to inspire young people to achieve great things. However, in 1996 her place in U.S. history was cemented when she was awarded the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton. Mrs. Parks passed away October 24th at the age of 92, at her home in Detroit. Rosa Parks will be remembered for her lasting contributions to society. Her legacy lives on in the continued struggle for civil rights around the world. She will be missed.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and memory of the civil rights icon Rosa Louise Parks. Almost half a century ago, Mrs. Parks' refusal to surrender her bus seat triggered the first organized actions in the civil rights movement. Because of her action that day, Mrs. Parks will always be remembered as the ``mother of the civil rights movement.'' Rosa Parks was born in Tuskegee, Alabama on February 4, 1913. As a girl, she wrote, ``I had a very strong sense of what was fair.'' She led a life dedicated to improving civil rights and acted as an inspiration to many Americans. On December 1, 1955, Mrs. Parks sat in an unreserved section of a city bus. When asked to give up her seat for a white man she politely refused. It is a common misconception that Rosa Parks was unwilling to give up her seat because she was tired from a long day at work. As she told it, ``the only tired I was, was tired of giving in.'' Mrs. Parks' act of civil disobedience is the popular inspiration that led to Martin Luther King Jr.'s decision to lead a bus boycott that lasted an amazing 381 days. On November 13, 1956, in an important victory for the civil rights movement, the Supreme Court outlawed segregation on buses. The civil rights movement would experience many important victories, but Rosa Parks will always be remembered as its catalyst. Mrs. Parks was a shy, soft spoken woman who was uncomfortable being revered as a symbol of the civil rights movement. She only hoped to inspire young people to achieve great things. However, in 1996 her place in U.S. history was cemented when she was awarded the Nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton. Mrs. Parks passed away October 24th at the age of 92, at her home in Detroit. Rosa Parks will be remembered for her lasting contributions to society. Her legacy lives on in the continued struggle for civil rights around the world. She will be missed.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, Americans were shocked by our government's response to Hurricane Katrina. They watched as days passed before the people of the gulf coast communities were rescued. Americans rightly wondered, given this poor response to a natural disaster, is our government ready to respond to a terrorist attack? Americans now deserve the answers, and I believe those answers can best come from an independent commission to both identify what went wrong but, more importantly, to find solutions so that this failed response never happens again. Mr. Speaker, this Congress shares with the current administration a weak reputation for oversight. We need only to look back a couple of years to be reminded that it was not Congress nor the White House who demanded an appropriate oversight of 9/11 attacks. Members on the 9/11 Commission have acknowledged it was the families of those lost in the attacks that came to Washington and demanded a thorough review of what went wrong. Mr. Speaker, do we intend to wait for the people of Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas to march to the Capitol and demand that their administration and their Congress do the right thing and create an independent commission to find out truly how we can best respond in the future?