Tom Davis

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, please include the attached exchange of letters between Chairman Bill Thomas of the Committee on Ways and Means and myself in the Congressional Record at the end of the debate on H.R. 2751. House of Representatives, Committee on Government Reform, Washington, DC, January 28, 2004. Hon. William M. Thomas, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Thomas: Thank you for your recent letter regarding your committee's jurisdictional interest in H.R. 2751, the GAO Human Capital Reform Act of 2003. I appreciate all of your efforts to ensure that the Government Accounting Office has the resources it needs to effectively carry out its responsibilities. I acknowledge your committee's jurisdictional interest in this legislation and appreciate your cooperation in allowing speedy consideration of the bill. I agree that your decision to forego further action on the bill will not prejudice the Committee on Ways and Means with respect to its jurisdictional prerogatives on this or similar legislation. I will support your request for outside conferees should there be a House-Senate conference on this or similar legislation. Finally, I will include a copy of your letter and this response in the Congressional Record when the House considers the legislation. Sincerely, Tom Davis, Chairman.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2751, the GAO Human Capital Reform Act of 2003. Over the last couple of years, the Government Reform Committee has worked tirelessly to revitalize the federal civil service in an effort to bring the Federal workforce into the 21st century. In November 2002, Congress granted the new Department of Homeland Security the authority to develop its own human resources management system, largely outside of the confines of the 50-year-old Federal civil service system. In June 2003, Congress authorized the Securities and Exchange Commission to utilize streamlined hiring procedures to address critical staff shortages at the Commission. In November 2003, Congress granted the Defense Department authority similar to Homeland Security to develop a human resources management system for its civilian workforce. In January of this year, Congress authorized a number of new workforce authorities for NASA that will enable the space agency to compete with the private sector in recruiting and retaining a highly specialized workforce. Now GAO--a legislative branch agency that helped us to craft these reforms--has asked Congress to provide it with some of the same personnel flexibilities that we have provided to these other agencies. Civil Service Subcommittee Chair Jo Ann Davis responded by introducing H.R. 2751, which would provide GAO with the authority to offer early buyout packages, base employee compensation on performance, offer additional relocation benefits, offer more flexible annual leave policies, and establish an executive exchange program with the private sector. H.R. 2751 was developed in coordination with the minority members of the Government Reform Committee, the General Accounting Office and the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee, all in a bipartisan manner. We in this body rely on the GAO to ensure the performance and accountability of the Federal Government, and this legislation will assist the Comptroller General in ensuring a vibrant and effective workforce to meet this important task. I urge Members to support this important legislation.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of the late Mrs. Esther ``Kitty'' Buhler Bradley, widow of General Omar N. Bradley, the last five-star general of the U.S. Army. Mrs. Bradley was born in New York City and graduated from Manhattan Business College. In the late 1940s, she took a U.S. Government job in Japan and also began freelance writing for the military newspaper Stars & Stripes and the news service United Press. While on an assignment for the United Press in Okinawa, she first met General Bradley. She soon developed a close relationship with General Bradley and secured the rights to his life story, which she hoped to turn into a motion picture. Upon returning to the United States in the 1950s, Mrs. Bradley found work as a film and television writer under the name Kitty Buhler. Some of her most notable projects were the 1958 Victor Mature film, ``China Doll,'' and two television production series, ``The 20th Century Fox Hour'' and ``My Three Sons.'' In 1966, following the death of General Bradley's first wife, Mrs. Bradley and General Bradley were reunited, then married in San Diego. Although Mrs. Bradley never realized her dream of taking her husband's life story to the big screen, parts of General Bradley's career were chronicled in the 1970 ``Patton,'' starring George C. Scott as General George Patton and Karl Malden as General Bradley. The couple worked closely together, assisting in the making of the film. For nearly 15 years, the Bradleys lived happily together. Mrs. Bradley not only was a loving wife to the highly respected and admired five-star general but also a successful freelance writer and screenwriter in her own right. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to pay tribute to the life and work of Mrs. Bradley and express my deepest condolences to all who knew and loved her.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, my question is what are the CBO costs on this?

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Again, the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Flake) and I have worked together on so many battles. I respect what the gentleman is trying to do here, but I have to oppose this amendment for several reasons. First of all, as the chairman of the Committee on Science noted, if we amend this bill today, it goes back to the other body, the black hole. We have been waiting a long time to get these personnel changes into effect so we can go out and retain part of that workforce that is now contemplating retiring, and we can start retaining the best and brightest out of our universities. Every day we delay that, we lose flexibility to do that. The NASA budget is $15.5 billion. The personnel costs are only $2 billion. If we want to go after NASA's budget or start holding it down, the way to control that is by their section 302(b) allocation through the appropriations process. It is designed that NASA will eat these costs under the current appropriations. They may pay a little more for personnel in some areas and may pay less in some areas, but they have to do it under the budget that we pass. This appropriates no additional money, but it does give them flexibility to pay people at the top, our top rocket scientists, top engineers, and top program managers, the kind of dollars that will keep them in the program and recruit some of our best people into our space program instead of going out into the private sector where they can gain a lot more money. The costs of failure of not doing this are much greater. A failed launch, cost delays, those costs are literally astronomical, if we are to do that; and that is what we are trying to eliminate here, the downside of not passing this. It is a cost-avoidance issue. We control this through the budget process, the section 302(b) allocations that we make and budget, and there are no additional monies appropriated. These costs will be eaten up within the NASA budget, and there is plenty of flexibility to do this. There is a $15.5 billion budget, $2 billion for personnel costs, and $80 million can be reallocated without any additional cost to American taxpayers; and we can retain and recruit some of the quality people that are needed to run this space program and keep it going on the right track. It is for those reasons that I urge my colleagues to vote against this amendment.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, for years we have been sounding the alarm that the Federal Government faces grave danger when it comes to losing highly specialized employees. NASA is certainly no exception. In fact, it leads the pack. Fifteen percent of NASA's workforce is currently eligible to retire. A quarter of the agency will be eligible to retire over the next 5 years. Scientists and engineers over 60 outnumber those under 30 by nearly three to one. The potential loss of institutional knowledge is staggering. Why are we in the midst of a human capital crisis? When it comes to the kind of very smart, very well-educated, highly specialized people who work in our space program? It is largely because we are competing directly with the higher-paying private sector firms. But it is also because when it comes to the civil service, preserving traditions has become a tradition unto itself, and I think it is time to change that tradition. NASA, as well as the country as a whole, scored a major victory this month by safely landing two unmanned rovers on the face of Mars. In order to make sure that NASA's successes such as this outweigh its failures, we need to provide NASA with as much flexibility as possible in order to recruit and retain the best and the brightest that this country has to offer for our space program. The simple fact is that NASA's personnel policies are dated and are holding the agency back. The modernization that this bipartisan legislation promises marks a significant step in the right direction for NASA, for the government, for science and for taxpayers. It has been over a year since NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe first came to Capitol Hill requesting these much-needed personnel flexibilities. And while I wish we could have responded sooner, I am pleased to be here today to see the legislation finally making its way through the process. The Committee on Government Reform, which I chair, marked up similar legislation last May, and the House Committee on Science marked up the legislation last July. I want to thank my friend and colleague, the chairman of the Committee on Science, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Boehlert) for his tremendous efforts in moving this important legislation forward, as well as the subcommittee chairman, the gentleman from California (Mr. Rohrabacher), and the ranking minority members as well; and I look forward to working with them in the future to improve workforce flexibilities available to NASA, as well as to other Federal agencies that work to expand the frontier of science. One of the difficulties we have in recruiting employees today for NASA and other agencies, is that when they go to a job fair and they talk to a college recruiter, by the time they go back and go through all the rules and regulations in hiring, sometimes background checks, it is months before they can put an offer on the table. In the meantime, the private sector is up there with hiring bonuses, and they are up there with an offer on the table immediately with a job guarantee. We cannot compete in that kind of environment. I know some of my friends on the Committee on Science on the other side of the aisle are concerned about paying bonuses, but this is commonplace in the private sector with which we are competing. We are talking about some of the brightest people in the world, scientists, engineers, literally rocket scientists that we want running our space program. We do not want to go second tier with people who are salaried and getting bogged down making sometimes one-tenth of what they could make in the private sector. It does not work that way. So I support this legislation, and I am proud to see it moving forward. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Moran of Virginia, Mr. Wolf, and I rise today to honor Chief Tom Manger for 27 years of dedicated service to the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD.) The FCPD is the largest local police department in the Commonwealth of Virginia, with 1,300 sworn and 500 civilian members. Manger first joined the FCPD in 1977 as a patrol officer. He quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating great commitment to the safety and security of Fairfax County and the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area. Manger was promoted to deputy chief in 1995 and to acting chief in 1998. On January 10, 1999, the Fairfax Board of Supervisors appointed him chief of police. Through impressive organization and development efforts, he brought officers closer to the people they serve, making community policing a top priority. Moreover, he held the department to the highest ethical policing standards, instituting a number of new policies to increase FCPD accountability to the public. Fairfax County's crime rate is the lowest in the country for a jurisdiction over one million people. Over the past few years, Chief Manger has faced challenges ranging from hurricane flooding to anthrax scares. Under his leadership, the FCPD received the Fairfax County Human Rights Commission award for combating bias crimes. In 2002, when sniper shootings shocked the nation, Chief Manger tirelessly worked to capture and convict the two snipers for the murder of FBI employee Linda Franklin. Throughout his accomplished career, Chief Manger has received numerous awards, including the Silver Medal of Valor. He significantly contributed to the FCPD tradition of excellence and will be greatly missed. We extend our heartfelt thanks for nearly three decades of service to Fairfax County and wish him the best of luck as police chief in Montgomery County, Maryland. Mr. Speaker, Fairfax County's loss is Montgomery County's gain. Chief Manger is an outstanding police chief, and a shining example to all others in his field. We ask that our colleagues join us in applauding Chief Manger.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Patricia Garman as Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year. Ms. Garman, known to friends and colleagues as Patt, is widely respected throughout the Fairfax business community. Honest and reliable, with business savvy, Patt has proven to be an incredibly effective businessperson. She gives every venture her all and is always ready to take on new challenges. Moreover, Patt sees every project through until completion, producing consistently impressive results. Patt heads a team of four investment advisors at Capital Planning & Investments, Inc., her own successful, independent advisory firm. CPI offers a variety of financial solutions for local businesses and individuals, including customized investment and insurance advice on an hourly and ongoing basis. In addition, Patt is highly involved with the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce. She serves on the CFCC Board of Directors and Small Business Committee, and through the CFCC, she has become treasurer of the citywide Chocolate Lovers Festival Committee. While in these positions, Patt has had numerous notable accomplishments. For example, she created a program in which CFCC breakfast seminars would pay for themselves. Through her table-top display program, Patt personally works with CFCC members to attract and schedule sponsors for the seminars. The popularity of Patt's program has enabled it to continue in the upcoming year. Patt also was responsible for computerizing CFCC files for easy recording, implementing an aggressive budget and achieving Not-for- Profit status. These successes are indicative of her commitment, drive and character. Patt likes to make things happen and motivates others with her infectious spirit. When she sees needs, she addresses them, rallying others around her to turn visions into reality. All things considered, Patt's special honor truly is well deserved. Over the years, she has made a lasting impact on the CFCC and greater Fairfax business community. She is an accomplished businessperson who successfully leads others through example. I ask that my colleagues join me in applauding Patricia Garman and congratulating her on this distinguished achievement. -

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Chapter 893 of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE), located in Springfield, Virginia. NARFE is a multi-tiered, political, nonpartisan organization dedicated to preserving the earned retirement benefits of all Federal civilians. Membership eligibility includes current, former, and retired Federal civilians, as well as their spouses and survivor annuitants. Chapter 893 is one of over 1600 NARFE chapters nationwide. From December 1963 to October 2003, the Springfield Chapter grew from 14 to 1,793 members, making it the fifth largest NARFE chapter. The majority of Chapter 893 members reside in the Springfield area; however, nearly 200 members reside outside Virginia, with two members in the Netherlands and Canada, respectively. Over the years, Chapter 893 has become one of the most active in NARFE. It long has been and continues to be dynamic, progressive, and energetic, overcoming every challenge it faces. Chapter members have had a strong voice in many national and local legislative issues. The Springfield Chapter approaches all issues in a realistic and humanitarian manner. Its members have worked tirelessly for the benefits of Federal retirees and all elderly, cooperating with local, State, and Federal agencies to do so. While Chapter 893 always has placed emphasis on fulfilling primary NARFE functions, its members have not neglected local community needs. Chapter 893 members have volunteered countless hours at hospitals, libraries, blood drives, meals on wheels, and local elections. Beginning in 1987, Chapter members most generously have contributed to Alzheimer's Research, the charity of choice by NARFE nationwide. They participate in dollars and miles to the local area Alzheimer's Memory Walk, bringing in roughly $1,000 each year. Over the course of its successful history, the Springfield Chapter has benefited from many dynamic, accomplished leaders. Several past presidents have been elected as officers or appointed committee chairs of the NARFE Virginia Federation of Chapters. Others have served in civic, professional, or fraternal organizations locally. Most notable are the accomplishments of past presidents David F. Sullivan, Vincent Agnelli, and Milton Kramer. Past President Sullivan was elected NARFE National Secretary in 2000 and 2002. Past President Agnelli served on an ad hoc committee influential in the 1993 Virginia State Supreme Court litigant tax refund issue. And Past President Kramer played a major role in organizing the Northern Virginia Caucus of Chapters. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to congratulate Chapter 893 on 40 years of success. They have become a strong organization committed to serving the interests of their members and their community. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding the chapter members' past accomplishments and in wishing Chapter 893 the best of luck in the many years to come.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Virginia law enforcement officers, and those throughout the nation, who have lost their lives this year in service to their communities. Every day, these men and women display their courage, commitment and service to their fellow man. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial recently held a wreath laying ceremony here in Washington, DC to honor these eight brave officers who gave their lives to protect us, the citizens of Virginia, and I would like to take a moment to recognize, remember and honor these individuals. On January 12, Henrico County Police Officer Andre Booker was attempting to use his patrol vehicle to stop a person suspected of firing gunshots in a shopping center when his car crashed through a fence and landed in an icy pond. Six other officers at the scene were unsuccessful in freeing Officer Booker from his vehicle. He was 26 years old. On January 16, 39-year-old Norfolk Police Officer Sheila Herring was killed after responding to reports of gunfire inside a bar. The suspects opened fire on the responding officers, fatally wounding Officer Herring. She worked with Norfolk Police Department for 11 months and had recently moved from Detroit, Michigan, where she spent 10 years as a law enforcement officer. On January 29, Virginia State Trooper Michael Todd Blanton was killed by a drunk driver he had pulled over on Interstate 64. As Trooper Blanton attempted to reach into the car, the driver sped off, dragging Trooper Blanton until the car crashed, pinning him under the vehicle. Trooper Blanton is survived by his wife and 6-year-old son. On May 9, 20-year law enforcement veteran Scott Allen Hylton of the Christiansburg Police Department was shot and killed after responding to a report of a hold up at a convenience store. Officer Hylton was shot and killed as he exited his cruiser at the scene. Also a member of the Army National Guard, Officer Hylton was the father of four. On May 28, Officer Ryan Cappellety of the Chesterfield County Police Department, a recent graduate from the police academy, was shot and killed when he and other officers responded to reports of gunshots. Upon arrival, a suspect standing on his front lawn with a gun opened fire on the officers, fatally wounding Officer Cappellety. He was 23 years old. On June 23, Officer Rodney Pocceschi of the Virginia Beach Police Department was shot and killed during a traffic stop on Dam Neck Road in Virginia Beach. Officer Pocceschi served the Virginia Beach Police Department for 4 years and is survived by his wife and young son. On July 30, Richmond Police Officer Douglas E. Wendel was shot and killed by a suspected drug dealer. Officer Wendel had been with the Richmond Police Department for 5 years. He was a 41-year-old father of three. On August 26, Sergeant Rodney Davis of the Greene County Sheriff's Department was shot and killed while serving an arrest warrant on a narcotics suspect near Standardsville, VA. As Sergeant Davis and other officers searched the house, the suspect opened fire and fatally wounded Sergeant Davis. Davis worked with the Greene County Sheriff's Office for 2\1/2\ years but had been in law enforcement since he was 19 years old. The 30-year-old left behind an expectant wife and two young children. Mr. Speaker, the eight officers killed in the line of duty this year matches the highest total of law enforcement officer fatalities in the Commonwealth's history. Nationwide, there have been 114 law enforcement officers killed this year, a grim reminder of the vital and dangerous role these officers play in our national well-being. We are all eternally grateful for the service and sacrifice of these true American heroes.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Wolf and I rise today to honor former Delegate Alston H. Smith, Jr., an outstanding citizen of Winchester, Virginia, who, for nearly half a century, has served his community and country. Delegate Smith's successful career began in 1954 when he cofounded Shenandoah Foods 2000, a major employer for the Shenandoah Valley. He served on the boards of both Jefferson Bankshares and First Bank, playing a critical role in assisting the economic development of western Virginia. Delegate Smith also faithfully served in the Virginia House of Delegates for over 20 years, where he was a Democratic leader and tireless advocate of public education. He was instrumental in the development of the Winchester/Frederick County area, bringing critical improvements to his beloved Shenandoah University. Delegate Smith not only dedicated himself to the Winchester/Frederick County area, but also worked to bring progress to the entire Commonwealth. For nearly a decade, he served the interests of the coalfields of Virginia as chairman of the House Mining and Mineral Resources Committee. Delegate Smith certainly has recognized that the surest way to make a difference is to begin in his local community. Additionally, he generously has donated much of his personal time to improving economic development opportunities and education for all Virginians. Delegate Smith loves the Valley and loves Virginia. All of Virginia extends their heartfelt thanks for his continuing role in improving the lives of our children, families, and seniors. Mr. Speaker, the life and service of this Virginian serves as a shining example to all who wish to improve education and opportunity through civic and community involvement. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Delegate Smith.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to honor the 30th anniversary of The Korean American Medical Association of District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, Incorporated. The Korean American Medical Association of District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, Incorporated (KMA) is one of the most respected Korean-American nonprofit organizations in America. The association was founded in 1974 by a small group of respected Korean physicians. The KMA was the first Korean Medical Association in the United States. Its hard work and dedication has led the association to grow from a handful of members to a membership of about 400 physicians from the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. Since its inception, the association's involvement in the Great Washington, D.C. Metropolitan community has been commendable. The KMA provides health care services, seminars and educational opportunities to the community. The dedication that the members of the KMA have to its community is exceptional. The KMA provides a forum for its members to exchange ideas and continue education helping its members continue to provide excellent service to the community. The care and services these physicians provide to their neighbors and friends is a testament of their hard work. The KMA certainly has distinguished itself as an outstanding group. Mr. Speaker, in closing, with all the contributions to the community made by The Korean American Medical Association of District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, Incorporation, we have a great reason to celebrate today. I want to commend the association 30 years of excellence and extend my warmest wishes for the years to come. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding the KMA on its 30th anniversary.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, let me just say it is a pleasure to follow my friend and colleague from California, and I have enjoyed working with her on these issues and the leadership she has given to the human rights issues in Vietnam. I rise in support of H. Res. 427, a resolution to that congratulates the Unified Buddhist Church of Vietnam for its courageous leadership and calls for religious freedom and related human rights in Vietnam. Mr. Speaker, Vietnam's constitution protects the rights of religious belief, and the Vietnamese government has acceded to a number of international treaties to protect the right to faith and practice. Buddhism has a 2,000 year history in Vietnam, and the Unified Buddhist Church of Vietnam is an important part of this tradition. Yet, in 1981, the Vietnamese government outlawed the UBCV, the Unified Buddhist Church of Vietnam, and has since detained and harassed many of its clergy members and subjected them to other forms of persecution. Earlier this year, the Vietnamese Prime Minister met with the Venerable Thich Huyen Quang, the Supreme Patriarch of the Unified Church of Vietnam, and assured him that previous arrests were mistakes and that the government would respect and honor religious freedom. But despite these promises, the Vietnamese government arrested members this past September after they held a meeting to discuss church matters and elect new leadership. The punishment by Vietnamese authorities of individuals who practice their religious faith or exert other basic human rights are not uncommon in Vietnam. In addition to the arrests of the Most Venerable Thich Quang Do and other members of the UBCV, the Vietnamese government has imprisoned father Nguyen Huu Le, Dr. Nguyen Dan Que, Father Van Ly and three of his relatives, and many other individuals for practicing their faiths and for promoting human rights in Vietnam. As the United States continues to establish diplomatic and economic relationships with Vietnam, we have to remember that many of the most basic issues remain unresolved, including the lack of religious freedom and related human rights violations. House Resolution 427 sends a clear signal that we will not tolerate these violations. Mr. Speaker, I commend the new leadership of the Unified Buddhist Church of Vietnam, and I urge my colleagues to vote in support of this bipartisan resolution.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Tauzin) on, I think, a very good bill, controversial but weaving a lot of disparate sections together. I thank him and the others for the hard work and determined effort that went into the completion of this conference report. I want to point out two sections in particular under my committee's jurisdiction which demonstrate the value we have gotten in adding flexibility to government contracting. First, we have the energy savings performance contracts that we make permanent in this legislation. Energy savings performance contracts, ESPCs, allow agencies to contract with energy service companies to upgrade and retrofit existing Federal buildings with modern, energy-efficient equipment. The agencies pay for this upgrade using the energy savings generated by the upgrade themselves. These contract mechanisms enable the Federal agencies to improve energy efficiency of their facilities without depending on annual congressional appropriations for capital improvements. From 1988 to 2000, agencies using ESPCs to leverage an estimated $795 million in private sector financing for energy improvements in Federal buildings, resulted in a 20-percent savings. This legislation makes ESPCs permanent. I also want to describe a new acquisition authority granted in this legislation. This is the authority granted by the Department of Energy to engage in what are called Other Transactions in certain circumstances. Other Transactions, OTs, are contractual arrangements that support research and development without using standard procurement contract grants or cooperative agreements. They have been used successfully in the Department of Defense for a number of years. Firms who are understandably hesitant to conduct research for the government because of government patent rules, accounting practices, and business requirements are willing to consider working with us under these arrangements. Some companies that have tried to work with the government under normal procurement rules have found it impossible to remain competitive in the private sector and contract under standard government restrictions and rules. It is time to recognize the government needs the best, the most innovative research available. We need to become increasingly self- reliant in the energy field. We need to engage inventive firms that have until now refused to do business with the Federal Government because of arcane and inflexible standards. This new flexibility is a major step toward harnessing the magic of America's research and development center in our quest for energy independence. I urge an ``aye'' on the rule and an ``aye'' on the bill.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Master Nestor Folta on his 50th birthday and 20 years of successful Uechi-Ryu Karate study. Master Folta is a civil engineer with the U.S. Department of Energy. He resides in Oakton with his wife and two children. For years, he has dedicated notable time and energy to the study and teaching of Uechi- Ryu Karate. Uechi-Ryu is traditional Okinawan Karate, developed by Master Kanbun Uechi and his son Kanei Uechi. Uechi-Ryu has its origin in the ancient Chinese tradition of martial arts. Today, it is the only form of Okinawan Karate that remains in its original Soke, handed down from father to son from generation to generation. Master Folta is a seven-time world champion of Uechi-Ryu and an inductee in the martial arts hall of fame. He has demonstrated a strong aptitude for and commitment to the study of karate. The Academy of World Champion Nestor Folta (AWCNF), located in Fairfax County, carries on the Uechi-Ryu tradition. Through the study of Uechi-Ryu Karate, over 100 AWCNF students learn self-defense, self- discipline, and self-respect. Uechi-Ryu encourages the formation of high personal standards and respect for fellow men and women. The AWCNF's mission is to use Uechi-Ryu to help students become positive, successful, respected, contributing members of society. Each year, AWCNF tuition raises an estimated $25,000 for Fairfax County. In addition, the AWCNF has raised over $20,000 for 9/11 victims. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to recognize Master Folta's efforts to better himself, his students, and his community through the practice of Uechi-Ryu. I wish him a happy birthday, commend 20 years of success, and extend him all of my best for the years to come. I call upon all my colleagues to join me in applauding Master Folta.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. 262, the National Anthem ``SingAmerica'' Project, and to bring to the attention of my colleagues this wonderful, new national initiative to commemorate American patriotic music and the role it has played in our history. This new initiative will involve several exciting music-related patriotic programs over the next 3 years. The National Anthem ``SingAmerica'' project is designed to invigorate and inspire the American people to a greater appreciation of their patriotic musical heritage. Through this project, we will be able to renew our appreciation for the patriotic music that so movingly expresses our core national sentiments. The members of the National Association for Music Education, in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, and with support from the American Sportscasters Association, are already actively pursuing the laudable goals of the project. The National Anthem ``SingAmerica'' project includes a series of activities calculated to bring the music, words, and sentiments of the Anthem and our nation's patriotic songs to everyone-and to energize the participation of students and adults alike in this essential expression of patriotism. America's youth will give voice to our national anthem and be able to sing it proudly, accurately, and with a full understanding of its rich text. The American Sportscasters Association will be working to increase the emphasis on our national anthem at major sporting events, reaching many of those who otherwise would not have this musical experience. The National Association for Music Education will release a CD with patriotic music played by the Marine Band, complete with a history of this music's role in our nation's development. Teachers' guides will be distributed across the nation to help educators bring the practice and meaning of this music to our nation's students. All of this activity will culminate on June 14, 2006, when the Smithsonian's National Museum of American's History unveils the newly restored Star Spangled Banner. This event plans to include history's largest performance of the National Anthem with millions of participants from around the country joining thousands of high school band and chorus members on the National Mall to celebrate the display of the restored Star Spangled Banner, the Flag that inspired the National Anthem. Even more than producing these rousing patriotic events, the National Anthem ``SingAmerica'' project is a catalyst for all Americans to experience a greater understanding and appreciation of our patriotic music history. It will also remind us of the countless sacrifices made by so many and of the courage displayed by all Veterans' who have served our country with great honor and pride. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I am proud to introduce H. Con. Res. 262 and to honor the flag and the song that are the symbols of America. I call upon my colleagues for their unanimous support in passing the SingAmerica Act.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize LTC Harris David Arlinsky (retired) for 50 years of service to our country. This past June marks the 50th anniversary of when he volunteered for the Army National Guard at 17 years old. He did so proudly. After serving in the regular Army for a few years, Colonel Arlinsky attended college at the University of Arizona. He set his sights on being an Air Force pilot; unfortunately, his blurry vision made this impossible. Upon graduation and accepting a commission in the U.S. Army, then- Second Lieutenant Arlinsky attended training for the newly created U.S. Special Forces. The Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, are the best of the best and have been instrumental in countless conflicts. Colonel Arlinsky knew he belonged with the elite forces and passed their extremely difficult tests to gain the coveted Green Beret. As a Green Beret, he commanded a ``B'' Team for the Fifth Special Forces Group in Pleiku, Vietnam. He served two tours and was involved in pushing back Vietcong forces during the Tet Offensive. After the Vietnam War, Colonel Arlinsky continued to serve our nation through various Special Forces projects. Eventually, he left active duty to serve the civilian intelligence services, maintaining reserve status. During the Reagan administration, Harris Arlinsky worked directly for Vice President George Bush as the Special Intelligence Advisor for the National Narcotics Border Interdiction System for the southwest U.S. border region. While in the region, he also commanded a U.S. Special Forces ``B'' team with five ``A'' teams in Texas and New Mexico. Upon completion of the assignment, he returned to Virginia to assist with other national intelligence agencies. Today he is enjoying his retirement as a college professor, spending time with his wife, Kathleen; his children Beth, Abra, and Michael; and his grandson, Elias. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to commend COL Harris Arlinsky for his service to our Nation. He nobly has dedicated his life to the safety and well being of the United States of America. As COL Harris Arlinsky continues to celebrate his 50th anniversary of his first month of service to us, let us thank him and all our soldiers for their sacrifices. I ask that my colleagues join me in saluting COL Harris Arlinsky.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the 40th Anniversary of Data Systems Analysts, Inc. (DSA). In 1963, a team of software engineers aspired to provide people across the globe with sophisticated, technology-based, communication systems. Out of this objective, an information technology company, DSA, was born. Soon afterward, the company landed its first contract with the U.S. Department of Defense. Since then, DSA has remained committed to providing innovative defense solutions. This commitment most recently was demonstrated during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Today, DSA provides secure information and communication systems for governments and businesses in over twenty countries around the world. DSA is a major regional employer, continuously providing jobs for Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania residents. Moreover, through one of the nation's longest running Employee Stock Ownership Plans, DSA is one hundred percent employee owned. These employees have thrived in a corporate culture of integrity and trust, working together to strengthen DSA's customers' businesses and national security. For example, in an effort to protect our nation's children, DSA brought business, management, and information technology experts together to assist the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Committed to keeping the United States on the leading edge of technology, DSA has taken an active role in bridging the ``digital divide,'' making it possible for those with limited resources to pursue an education in technology. In this endeavor, DSA is one of the founding members of the successful non-profit organization, the Open Door Foundation. DSA also has been honored as developer of the award-winning U.S. Army Knowledge Center and recently was named a ``2003 New Jersey Finest'' by the newspaper NJBIZ. I want to make a special note that Ms. Frances R. Pierce has been with DSA for 32 of its 40 years, serving the last 12 as chairman, president, and chief executive officer. I would like to recognize and thank Ms. Pierce for her contributions. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I want to congratulate DSA on 40 years of success in providing information technology solutions and wish them my best for the years to come. I call upon my colleagues to join me in saluting Data Systems Analysts, Inc. as it celebrates its 40th Anniversary.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, this legislation has a number of component parts, concurrent receipt. It has a $500 million human capital performance fund that will reward civil servants for outstanding performance, something we have never had before. It has a services acquisition reform act element that will reform the way we buy and purchase services which can save literally billions of dollars for America's taxpayers, and it has a national security personnel system that we have created that will allow the Department of Defense to shed the shackles of its 50-year-old civil service structure, because when it comes to our civil service, the tradition of preserving traditions has become a tradition. It is time for that to change. Some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have come up with some statements on this that I think are off the mark. They have noted that this bill makes a mockery of labor-management relations. This conference report includes chapter 71, the labor-management relations in the list of nonwaivable chapters in title V of the U.S. Code. The agreement sets up an extensive collaborative process that requires the Department to work side by side with the unions and employee groups in setting up the human resources management system for the Department of Defense. The agreement sets up an extensive collaborative process that requires the Department to work side by side with the unions in setting up the process in which management and labor work together in the future. The second and third requirements are new to Federal law. No other agencies are required to coordinate with their employees, a good precedent. Another gentleman said that the bill eliminates overtime pay for civilian employees. That is absolutely false. Overtime pay is not eliminated. The agreement, in addition to having $500 million in a human capital performance fund for civil servants who perform in an outstanding fashion, the agreement provides the Department the authority to improve the current provisions in law relating to overtime pay for some of the Department's most valuable employees. It asks for this language not to scrap overtime pay; instead, they are asking for authority not to be bound by the voluminous restrictions and requirements in title V that dictate how, when, and where DOD is authorized to administer overtime pay. This will allow the Department of Defense to move into the modern age.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the Henry S. Reich Building of the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, JCCNV. The JCCNV, located in Fairfax, Virginia, is a social service organization dedicated to enriching lives through spiritual and cultural Jewish programs. The center is open to all, yet aims specifically to meet the needs of the local Jewish community by preserving and promoting the heritage and values of Judaism. In 1977, an impressive 5,000-person turnout at the First Hanukah Happening revealed both a need and support for a Jewish Community Center in Northern Virginia. The following March of 1978, the JCCNV first opened on Dorr Avenue with Adele Greenspon as Executive Director, a part-time Program Coordinator, and a part-time secretary. In 1980, the newly established JCCNV Board Of Directors voted to purchase the Commonwealth Christian School on Little River Turnpike to house the Center until a permanent facility could be built. Several years later in 1986, Jeffrey Karatz was appointed the second Executive Director of the JCCNV. Then in the spring of 1989, construction began for the Henry S. Reich building we are celebrating today. Upon completion in 1990, Governor Douglas Wilder dedicated the Henry S. Reich building. This building since has provided a home for cultural, educational, recreational, and social programming for all ages, faiths, and nationalities. More than 150,000 visit the Center each year, making the JCCNV a key part of the ever-growing Northern Virginia community. There is a myriad of programming available at the Center including: early childhood, elementary, teen, adult, new immigrant, and senior programs; camping programs; sports, fitness, and aquatics programs; art exhibits; and a JCCNV International Film Festival. The Henry S. Reich building also houses Gesher, the only Jewish Day School in Northern Virginia; The Center Company, the only Jewish professional theatre company in Northern Virginia; and an office of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. In addition, the JCCNV has a history of cooperative ventures with synagogues, local and national Jewish organizations, and Fairfax County schools and hospitals. The overwhelming JCCNV popularity motivated the Center to establish satellite programming in the western suburbs of Reston, Herndon and Springfield. All things considered, from modest beginnings in 1977, the JCCNV has experienced great success. Its founders envisioned a center of culture, spirituality, learning, exercise, and entertainment; the Henry S. Reich building has helped make this vision a reality. Through commendable drive and dedication, the JCCNV certainly has made a lasting impact on the Jewish and greater community of Northern Virginia. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to congratulate the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia on 13 years of success in the Henry S. Reich building. I call upon my colleagues to join me in applauding their efforts to uphold Jewish tradition and serve their community.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the 30th Anniversary of the Korean Central Presbyterian Church. On November 4, 2003, Rev. Yoon and several initiate members founded the Korean Central Presbyterian Church (KCPC). Since then, the congregation steadily has increased from a dedicated few to 4,666 registered households. To meet the needs of this growing congregation, the KCPC, having previously shared a facility with the Lewinsville United Presbyterian Church, moved into its own church in Vienna, Virginia. Over the years, the KCPC has had many successes, including the establishment of the Central Missionary Foundation, a Children's Ministry, an Educational Building, a Senior Center, a D.C. Community Center, and the Culpepper Prayer House. The church has been well served by three pastors: founder Rev. Yoon, and senior pastors Rev. Won Sang Lee, and Rev. Chang Soo Ro. Members of the KCPC congregation also have made significant accomplishments. Many have been ordained as deacons and elders. Twelve members of the KCPC have become missionaries, dedicating their lives to serving their community and God. For the past thirty years, the founders, leaders, and congregation of the KCPC have demonstrated great commitment to their church and community. This dedication has enabled the church to emerge from humble beginnings to become the thriving religious, learning, and service center it is today. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Korean Central Presbyterian Church on this special occasion. I commend them on 30 years of success and wish them continued success in the future. I call upon my colleagues to applaud their achievement.

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Chairman, I join my friend from Michigan in opposition to this amendment, which would apply a radical domestic source restriction to the acquisition of main propulsion diesel engines for use in Coast Guard vessels. This could have a devastating effect on the Coast Guard's ability to buy the best propulsion engines at reasonable costs to support its critical anti- terror missions. We talk about taxpayers. We are asking taxpayers to pay more money to subsidize a private company. Despite the high sounding ``Buy America'' language, this is basically an earmark for a company. This goes against everything we stand for. What about the American companies that sell abroad? This invites retaliation, so American companies selling abroad today would be retaliated against and could lose those contracts. One has to remember that 95 percent of the world's consumers live outside of the United States. Restrictive provisions such as these run counter to our efforts to create an open, flexible, responsive and impartial competitive acquisition system that will enable all government agencies, including the Coast Guard, to acquire from the world markets, the best products available at fair and reasonable prices for American taxpayers. At the end of the day, this is about American taxpayers and getting them the best deal. As the gentleman said, they went through a lengthy procurement process where this was all analyzed, and the taxpayers won out in this contract. It is trying to be reversed here on the House floor. I hope my colleagues with will join the gentleman from Michigan and myself in opposing this amendment.