Sam Farr

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, many Americans enjoy taking cruises, in large part because they get to see some of the Nation's most beautiful marine ecosystems. Cruise ships have the potential to bring these beautiful locations to many people, but these people also have an expectation that the ship that transports them will not damage the environments that they are visiting. Because I want to see these beautiful marine ecosystems protected for future generations to enjoy, I am introducing the Clean Cruise Ship Act of 2008. The Cruise Ship Industry has experienced much success over the past 18 years and has been growing at a rate of 5 percent per year. U.S. ports handled 8.6 million cruise embarkations which accounted for 75 percent of global passengers. Unfortunately, as it grows, its potential to negatively affect the marine environment grows as well. Cruise ships are floating cities, with large cruise ships routinely carrying more than 3,000 passengers and crew. Right now a new 225,000 gross-ton cruise ship is being built which will carry 5,400 passengers. This super-sized cruise ship is twice the size of a Nimitz class aircraft carrier. During a typical 1-week voyage, a large cruise ship (with 3,000 passengers and crew) is estimated to generate 210,000 gallons of sewage; 1 million gallons of graywater (wastewater from sinks, showers, and laundries); more than 130 gallons of hazardous wastes; and 8 tons of solid waste. A large cruise ship will also generate more than 25,000 gallons of oily bilge water (oil and chemicals from engine maintenance that collect in the bottom of ships and are toxic to marine life). We all know what happens when untreated sewage is dumped through accident or failure: It damages the environment. Beaches are closed. Swimmers and surfers get sick from a number of diseases. Americans have come to expect that the sewage they create is regulated and that cities will not dump untreated sewage into the water. When sewage spills occur, Americans expect that they will be quickly informed and protected. Isn't it reasonable to think that these ships should be subject to the same wastewater regulations as those governing municipalities of comparable size? I think so. Is it our responsibility to enact the policies which will ensure that these floating cities do not cause damage to our marine environment? With 75 percent of the passengers going through U.S. ports, it is our duty. While many cruise ship companies have environmental policies and agreements in place, many are voluntary with no monitoring or enforcement provisions. Unfortunately, I am all too familiar with the down-side to voluntary agreements. In my district a cruise ship-- breaking its voluntary agreement--illegally discharged 36,000 gallons of sewage into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary in 2002. Simply put, voluntary agreements between cruise lines and States are not enough to ensure protection of our oceans. The public deserves more than industry's claims of environmental performance. We need a Federal law and we need it now. It's time we strengthen the environmental regulations and in so doing, bring these floating cities in line with current pollution treatment standards. The Clean Cruise Ship Act of 2008 is the answer. The legislation that I am introducing today has bipartisan support and is endorsed by many local and national groups, plugs existing loopholes in Federal laws, bans the dumping of wastewater within 12 miles of shore, bans the dumping of hazardous waste, sewage sludge and incinerator ash in U.S. waters, requires ships to treat their wastewater wherever they operate, and authorizes broadened inspection and enforcement authority. Several States including California, Alaska, and Maine, have enacted legislation to better regulate various cruise ship wastes--similar to the legislation I am introducing today. In fact, I am proud to report that California is leading the country in protecting its coastal waters from cruise ship pollution. Now I would like to mention another way in which ships may damage our coasts: aquatic invasive species that slip into our lakes and coastal waters in discharged ballast water. Alien species that have escaped into U.S. waters are causing massive harm. We have to do everything in our power to prevent new invasive species from getting loose. With this in mind, many of us have been closely watching court cases surrounding the Environmental Protection Agency's responsibility for regulating ballast water under the Clean Water Act. That litigation may have implications for cruise ship wastewater pollution. I do not intend for this bill or these comments to interfere with or undermine the provisions of the Clean Water Act that deal with discharges of pollution into the Nation's waters. I have always supported and continue to support the Clean Water Act. It will continue to be an important tool that, in conjunction with the Clean Cruise Ship Act, can significantly reduce wastewater pollution from cruise ships. Passing the Clean Cruise Ship Act of 2008 is one of the ways to provide all States with the kinds of ocean and coastal protections that the people of California, Alaska, and Maine benefit from. Enacting this bill will protect the tourism industry by making sure that the beaches and oceans, two of the attractions that make California the most visited State in our country, will be protected from cruise ship pollution. Simply put, this legislation ensures two things: (1) a sustainable future for our oceans, and (2) a sustainable future for the cruise and tourism industry. This legislation promotes the public interest for all Americans. The public expects and deserves clean water--both in our inland waterways and in our oceans. The Clean Cruise Ship Act of 2008, through its discharge regulations, will give the public what it deserves. In closing, Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this critically important legislation.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4174, the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act of 2007 authored by my friend and fellow co-chair of the House Oceans Caucus Representative Allen. Since the industrial revolution, the human species has begun a dangerous experiment with our planet. Humans have become, according to Alan Weisman, a volcano that has been erupting continuously for 150 years. We have taken tons of carbon from the earth and put it up in the atmosphere. It is now clear that the increase in atmospheric CO2 is causing drastic and rapid changes in ocean chemistry. The ocean has no choice but to absorb the increase in CO2, in fact, the ocean will continue to absorb CO2 long after we reduce our output. Recent research from a study led by Dr. Feeley, a NOAA scientist, has found that ocean waters from the 1950s were much more acidic than expected. We do not know the outcome of our global experiment, but we know that it will change the chemistry of the ocean. Many fisheries off of our coasts are already collapsing. We do not know how this increase in acidity will affect these collapsing populations or the fisheries that are currently healthy. An increase in ocean acidity will dissolve the shell of the endangered black abalone of the California coast. We know that corals, already under stress from the increased ocean temperature will have their skeleton dissolved by a more acidic ocean. We must have more research to discover how this unprecedented change will affect shellfish, corals, and the food chain that fish, and mammals, including humans, that depend on the ocean. We must create collaboration between the federal agencies who manage and study the ocean to address this problem. This bill will provide funding for research and collaboration between researcH and management agencies necessary to address this serious problem. Mr. Speaker, I cannot emphasize enough the need to show our ocean stewardship now, so we can turn the tide on the dire consequences facing our oceans and Great Lakes. The oceans and the Great Lakes belong to all the people of the United States and it is our duty to understand the implications of our actions on them. I strongly support the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act and I urge my colleagues to help understand and protect our shared ocean.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for yielding. I rise, supporting this resolution, with the backing of almost all the Members of Congress and certainly many co-authors that are on here. This resolution commends the firefighters who are fighting. On this incredible map, you can just see what the extent of fires are in California. Having come off the fire in the Big Sur region that I represent, you can't help but have an incredible amount of pride for the ability to call to order firemen and women from all over the United States, and in this case, because we are so over strapped, we are now asking help from Mexico with both crews and equipment. We have had firefighters come down from Canada and, as I understand, CAL FIRE is negotiating now with New Zealand and Australia to even bring in more personnel. These firefighters work nonstop. They are on 12 hours and then off 12 hours. But they have to work every day. They don't stop on weekends. They just keep going out of the camps and into the fire lines. As was pointed out by the Speaker just a moment ago, the tragedy for two of those workers, one a volunteer fireman from Anderson Valley Fire Department, Robert Roland, died on the fire line of heart failure. John Hermo, who is a firefighter, full-time professional firefighter from Oregon, came down to fight the California fires and got some time off after so many days on the fire, and during his rest, just not being on the fire line, drowned in the river there, in the Kern River. It's really a tragedy. Here, these families have sent off these young folks to help us to respond as first responders, as emergency responders. So this resolution is a profound debt of gratitude to them. I know that those firefighters can't see this on their C-SPAN at home, but certainly the parents and relatives of all of those who have sent loved ones to these fires. Fires have threatened 9,000 homes and businesses. There are still 223 wildland fires burning in California. More than 14,000 fires have already been contained because of the work of the firefighters. There are 18,000 personnel, firefighters on the lines right now, and there have been evacuation orders in Kern, Mendocino, Santa Barbara, Plumas, and in my county, and I'd like to personally thank our sheriff, Mike Kanalakis, for lifting the mandatory evacuation, which made people leave their homes in the rural area, many of whom felt that they were best suited to protect those homes. That evacuation order has been lifted and now the Big Sur Highway, Highway 1, is back in order for local personnel. So our firefighters are working nonstop, and some for 4 weeks without rest. They are going to need rest. You can't stop the fire burnings. You're going to have to bring in more personnel. That's why we are reaching out to other countries. So I want to thank those who I saw on the lines, the people I talked to, the communities that rallied around them. This is a heartfelt thanks from the Congress of the United States of America to the personnel in this country who respond on a basis to keep our cities and rural areas safe during wildfires. Thank you very much.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to add my comments for the record on this Medicare bill that we debate today. Yes, it is a critical bill. It will prevent a 10.6 percent cut in payments to doctors who treat America's senior citizens, the wide network of doctors in the Medicare system. In addition, it shores up those payments with a 1.1 percent payment increase in 2009. But though I applaud what is in this bill, I bemoan what is not in the bill. The negotiators on this bill have heard from me--and others--long and loud about the flaws in the formula that determines Medicare doctor fees. In a number of States across the country the formula knowingly and erroneously designates some areas as being rural in nature when they are by all other definitions clearly urban. The result of this deliberate misclassification is to pay doctors at low rural reimbursement rates rather than at their true costs of operating a medical practice in a high-end urban setting. Doctors in my district and 9 other counties in California are paid upwards of 10 to 12 percent less than the law--yes, the law--says they ought to be paid. But because the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, CMS, won't make the necessary technical formula adjustment in a factor called the Geographic Practice Cost Index or GPCI, these doctors are underpaid. Doctors in Santa Cruz, Sonoma, Monterey, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Sacramento, El Dorado, Marin, and San Benito counties in California are mistreated by CMS. But nothing in the bill we debate today will help them. Previously this House did take a step to correct this inequity. In H.R. 3162, the original CHAMP bill that we passed last summer, Section 308 fixed the GPCI factor. But despite my efforts and those of my colleagues from affected counties throughout California and in similarly impacted States of New York, Texas and elsewhere, H.R. 6331 maintains the flawed formula and perpetuates the clear disparities of this CMS payment policy. Even the GAO in its report last year, GAO-07- 466, showed that without a doubt the CMS formula did not fairly compensate doctors and needed serious reform. Despite mountains of evidence and years of engaging the Ways and Means Committee on this issue, H.R. 6331 ignores an opportunity to do what's right by these doctors. I am not going to vote against this bill. But I have to say that it is a sad day when this House votes to pass a doctor payment reform bill that only reforms doctor payments for some and not for all.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dave Mora, who is retiring after 35 years of exemplary public service to his community and his country. Dave's public life began with the Boy Scouts and culminates with 17 years as city manager of Salinas, California. Dave began his career in California local government in 1973 with the city of Santa Barbara as Director of Community Relations. He also served as the city manager of the city of Oxnard and Town Manager of Los Gatos, but Mora said the years in Salinas were some of the best in his life. This is where he and his wife Judy raised their two daughters, Gabi and Teresa. In 1990, Dave Mora came to Salinas to serve as the city manager. Salinas is the largest city in my congressional district and the seat of Monterey County government, so I have had the pleasure of working closely with Dave Mora since I was elected to Congress in 1993. During his tenure as city manager, Dave has faced continuing challenges resulting from State budget crises, yet he was able to restore Salinas' budget from red ink to black ink by making tough decisions while ensuring that the most critical public safety and social services remained in place. Dave's financial acumen enabled city leadership to assure city residents that their shared sacrifice, however painful in the short-run, would result in a financially stronger Salinas. Dave's city manager skills have been honed by his participation in the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) where he served as president and was involved in a number of international initiatives, including work in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. He currently serves on the ICMA Retirement Corporation Board of Directors. Mora is also a member of the National Academy of Public Administration and has worked on such issues as citizen engagement, social equity, environmental management, and economic development. Mora's interest in these issues and his career in public service may have been shaped by his experience in the Peace Corps whose motto is, ``The toughest job you'll ever love.'' Dave served in the Philippines from 1967 to 1970, after he graduated from California State University Los Angeles. Following his Peace Corps service, Dave earned a master's degree in public and international affairs at University of Pittsburgh. Madam Speaker, I know my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me in wishing Dave Mora happiness in his well-earned retirement from ``the toughest jobs he ever loved.'' His commitment to public service is a life well lived.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, on rollcall 431, I was unable to record my vote. I intended to vote ``no'' on that question.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to welcome those from all over the United States who are here this week celebrating National Oceans Week. They are here to celebrate a week that, frankly, we have no national ocean policy about, and that is why I want to speak to you today about the need to have this Congress enact laws that will make the ocean policy like clean air and clean water policy, perhaps addressing some of those problems that other speakers have talked about today. America's waters are managed by 140 different laws that spread across 20 different agencies. I have introduced a bill, Oceans 21, with strong bipartisan support. It is moving through Congress, and I urge my colleagues to join their constituents in helping Congress address this national policy. A New York Times editorial last week told Congress that they must give ocean issues greater priority, in part by reorganizing the way the Federal Government deals with them. America's waters are managed by too many laws and too many different government agencies, and they recommend the adoption of our bill. So join us in thinking about the oceans. If they are not well, neither will be the planet.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Command Sergeant Major Brett Rankert for his 25 years of service to the Nation as a member of the United States Army. On behalf of the whole House, I am honored to extend to CSM Rankert and his family the gratitude of the Congress and the American people for his service on this occasion of his retirement. I have had the great personal pleasure of meeting CSM Rankert during his tour of duty as the Presidio of Monterey Command Sergeant Major. I can say without reservation that his performance in this position epitomizes the very best of what military service should be--smart, professional, selfless, and humane. He has truly been an ambassador for the uniformed services in general, and the Army in particular. My office has repeatedly worked with CSM Rankert to help resolve problems ranging from individual soldier concerns to the frustrations of several elderly Presidio neighbors over the `just outside the gate' smoking habits of certain DLI students. In every instance of which I am aware, CSM Rankert has helped to transform a situation from conflict to resolution with grace, certainty, and a smile. CSM Rankert is also a warrior--a soldier's soldier. A native of South Bend, Indiana, he first enlisted into the Army in 1983. CSM Rankert's leadership qualities, particularly his attention to the soldiers in his care, led to a succession of promotions and leadership positions, including Team Leader, Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, and ultimately Command Sergeant Major. His assignments included the 313th Military Intelligence Battalion in support of the 82nd Airborne Division; the 102nd Military Intelligence Battalion in support of the 2nd Infantry Division; and the 101st Military Intelligence Battalion serving as the Bravo Company First Sergeant. Finally, I should note that CSM Rankert never scored below a perfect 300 on his annual physical fitness test. His military education included the Army Airborne Course, Basic Instructor Training Course, Advanced Noncommissioned Officers Course, First Sergeants Course, United States Army Sergeants Major Academy, Command Sergeants Major Designee Course, and the Garrison Sergeants Major Course. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Liberal Arts from Excelsior College, New York, and an Associates of Applied Science Degree in Intelligence Operations. CSM Rankert's Awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Army Parachutist Badge, Meritorious Service Medal (3rd OLC), Army Commendation Medal (2nd OLC), Army Achievement Medal (4th OLC), Kosovo Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon (4th Award), NATO Medal. Madam Speaker, in closing, I want to emphasize the importance of military families in the ultimate success of our military's mission. CSM Rankert's past and future success are very much built on the support and partnership of his wife Sharon and son Justin. I want to thank them for their public service and wish the Rankert family good luck and God's speed in the next chapter of their lives.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of myself and Representatives Anna Eshoo and Mike Honda to honor Dr. George Blumenthal, a distinguished professor of astronomy and astrophysics, on the occasion of his inauguration as Chancellor at University of California, Santa Cruz. Chancellor Blumenthal has been a scholar and academic leader both at UC Santa Cruz and within the University of California system. He served as chair of the UC Academic Senate for 2004-05. He was the faculty representative to the UC Regents from 2003-2005 and chaired the UC Santa Cruz division of Academic Senate from 2001-2003. His research investigates the origin of structure in the universe and the role dark matter plays in the formation and evolution of this structure. Chancellor Blumenthal is known for his efforts to increase access to the university and for his commitment to diversity. When he was named Chancellor by the Board of Regents in September, 2007, UC President Robert Dynes stated ``we are choosing a person who has contributed significantly to UCSC's richly deserved reputation for producing world- class research and student-focused instruction. George Bumenthal's thoughtful, collegial and constructive leadership will solidify UCSCIs stature as one of the premier research universities in the Nation. Madam Speaker, my colleagues and I are proud to share the representation of the University of California Santa Cruz campus and its several regional facilities in our districts. Together, these facilities make up one of our Nation's higher education jewels. I know that we speak for the whole house in congratulating Chancellor Blumenthal on his inauguration and wishing him much success as he leads this stellar institution to even greater research, education and public service to benefit the region, the State and the Nation.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Brian Foss in his retirement as the Port Director of the Santa Cruz Port District. Brian served the Port District for 34 years, managing Santa Cruz Harbor, as well as the Santa Cruz Port. After graduating from the University of Southern California in 1964, Brian spent the next 22 years serving as a pilot for the United States Coast Guard, and as a Lieutenant Colonel Combat Rescue Pilot for the California Air National Guard Rescue. During his time working as a rescue pilot. Brian earned two air medals and one Coast Guard Commendation medal. In 1977, Brian ended his career as a pilot, and moved to Santa Cruz to work as Harbormaster for the Santa Cruz Port District. Brian's upbeat attitude and friendliness with coworkers gained him many friends, and 2 years later, Foss worked his way up to Port Director for the Santa Cruz Port District. For the next 31 years, Foss continued his tenure as Port Director, serving as the Chief Executive Officer for the District. Outside of work, Brian was, and still is, a passionate and active supporter of ocean preservation. Brian was the former Chairman of the California Marine Affairs and Navigation Conference, a 35-year-old California port and harbor advocacy association. Today, he is a member of the Bay Planning Coalition, the California Marine Parks and Harbors Association, and he is a harbor representative for Santa Cruz County Inter-Agency Task Force on economic development relevant to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. But Brian's enthusiasm is not limited to the oceans, but extends into his personal life as well. As a devoted father, Brian founded the 129th for Kids fund, a benefit program for military children who have lost parents in service. His dedication to the harbor and passion for life also extended to his employees. His coworkers described him as a fun, considerate, and polite guy to hang around, who made a difference in the lives of others; he always made sure to let everyone feel welcome and to have a say in decisions. Additionally, Brian taught many of his workers how to effectively work in public service, and always made sure to try to do the right thing for everyone. Madam Speaker, I would like to extend our Nation's deep gratitude for Brian's service to the United States and his local community. I know I speak for every Member of Congress in expressing my bittersweet feelings towards his retirement, and our thankfulness for his contributions to our Nation. Though Brian Foss may be retiring, he will not be leaving the hearts of all whom he has touched.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Chairman, I would like to rise today to congratulate the committee chair, Ike Skelton, and the ranking member, Duncan Hunter, for producing a bill that includes a component that may not be a traditional national defense item but will certainly make our Nation more secure. I would further like to thank Vic Snyder, Mac Thornberry, and Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Howard Berman for making sure the military will have a strong and capable civilian partner to do stabilization work in the future. Mr. Chairman, included within this en bloc amendment is a provision that will improve what is already a very good bill. For nearly half a decade, Members of Congress and foreign policy experts have been wringing their hands about our civilian capacity to effectively conduct stabilization and reconstruction operations. Now, in a bipartisan fashion, in this bill and with this en bloc amendment, we are strengthening our government's ability to respond to crisis by standing up a civilian response corps. Our Nation must do a better job, not just in waging wars, but also in winning the peace. If we cannot translate security gains into economic growth, social well-being and justice and reconciliation, all of the military power in world cannot secure long- term peace and prosperity for the world. This bill, together with this en bloc amendment, will improve our Nation's ability to win the peace. I encourage all the Members to support the en bloc amendment.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. I'd like to welcome our guests in the gallery today because this week is the 25th anniversary of National Tourism Week. As co-chair of the Congressional Tourism Caucus, along with my co- chair Jon Porter of Nevada and nearly 100 Members of Congress, we recognize the importance of the tourism industry to our national economy and to our local communities. It is the fastest growing industry in the world. From mom and pop restaurants to local unique shops to local State and national parks to this Capitol, which is a tourist attraction, there is so much to experience in this great country. The tourism industry also shows America's best face. Travelers experience warm, friendly and compassionate people that make up our country. This person-to-person contact between different cultures can help dissolve stereotypes and misconceptions. As Mark Twain once said, ``Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.'' So remember that while our economy grows, tourism plays a multibillion-dollar aspect of that, employing more than 7.5 million people. I hope you will join me in welcoming the representatives of the tourism industry that are here this week and celebrating National Tourism Week. The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, in the Peace Corps we say, ``Once a volunteer, always a volunteer.'' There was a time when I thought that those words were just a slogan. However, over the years I've watched the friends I made in the Peace Corps in Colombia continue to volunteer in their communities and around the world. And this continuity of volunteerism is not unique to the Peace Corps. In fact, it has become clear to people who understand public service and volunteerism, that to `'give back'' is a habit. And you can get more of it, if you open up more opportunities to people involved in volunteer service. There is a virtuous cycle in volunteerism and it is a cycle that we do well to encourage. AmeriCorps is one of the great innovations in public policy that has created opportunities for Americans all across the country to volunteer. From working in inner city schools to working in food back in small towns, AmeriCorps opens the doors for people to volunteer and in so doing provides a stepping stone to a life of service. I commend AmeriCorps for all it does and for all the doors to service it has opened. So, today as the House of Representatives recognizes AmeriCorps, I encourage all those who can do so to find a way to volunteer in their community and to give back.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1512, legislation to compensate the States for incarcerating undocumented criminal aliens. The State Criminal Alien Assistance Program, commonly referred to as SCAAP, is a very effective federal-local government partnership that deserves robust funding from the Bush Administration. Currently, SCAAP funding is about $175 million less than what it was in fiscal year 1998, and falls far short of meeting the actual costs incurred by local jurisdictions. In my home state of California, we received about $110 million for this program in 2007. However, the California Department of Corrections actually spent more than $912.5 million of its own money to arrest and hold these criminal aliens. Like many other states, California is cutting funding in education and other programs in an effort to balance its budget; by underfunding SCAAP, the Bush Administration is forcing California to spend upwards of $800 million of its own money, foisting a federal responsibility on our local governments. H.R. 1512 restores the original partnership and allows our local law enforcement officials to focus on protecting our communities. If we are truly serious about removing these dangerous criminal aliens from our country, we must make sure that we provide state and local law enforcement officers with all the tools they need to succeed.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an invaluable member of the Santa Cruz community. After two decades of service, Ceil Cirillo has announced her retirement from her post as director of Redevelopment/Economic Development for the City of Santa Cruz. Ceil began her work in the Santa Cruz community after numerous buildings and homes had been destroyed in the Loma Pierta earthquake of 1989. As a part of her work as a director, Ceil acquired the challenge of reconstructing a devastated historic downtown Santa Cruz. Her success is evident today by the vibrant destination for shopping and dining that Pacific Avenue is today. Yet this endeavor was only the beginning of her accomplishments and contributions that continue to benefit the Santa Cruz commnunity. To rebuild the commerce affected by the quake, Ceil oversaw local building expansion. Under her direction, the agency created a new department for the redevelopment of downtown, as well as a business outreach program to ensure commercial success both downtown and citywide. Ceil's humanitarian efforts made a great impact on Santa Cruz citizens who needed help the most. One of these accomplishments was overseeing the construction of low-rent units; providing housing for families with limited incomes. She also facilitated the installment of emergency housing units, 26 of which are in their planning stages or already under construction. These projects, along with others, have resulted in 407,000 square feet of newly available housing; placing roofs over the heads of those who would otherwise have no place to call home. In her reconstruction aid, Ceil has not let her artistic side go but rather channeled her passion for the arts in her efforts. She is keen on preserving and cultivating the rich culture of the community, and instituted the Tannery Arts Center and Pacific Avenue Multi-Modal Station, which today serve as outlets for local artists. In addition, in the unique spirit of Santa Cruz, she instated commercial facade projects, murals, landscaping and similar projects all over the city. These public artworks give significant aesthetic appeal to a city that had once been reduced to shambles. Prior to coming to Santa Cruz, Ceil was the Director of Redevelopment for the City of Signal Hill, California, and in addition to some private sector employment, was a Special Assistant to the City Manager in Pasadena, California. She has received numerous awards in recognition of her works in the Santa Cruz community and has served on the Board of Directors of several local charities. Madam Speaker, the City of Santa Cruz will miss Ceil's vision and leadership, but there is no doubt that she has left the City in a better place from when she first arrived. I wish Ceil the best in retirement and look forward to her continued involvement in the Santa Cruz community.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today in observance of a National Day of Silence, and in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 328. This Friday marks the 12th National Day of Silence, a day in which students remain silent for a day to highlight the discrimination some of their peers endure when they speak out about their sexual orientation and their personal gender identity. Though the United States has made great progress toward ensuring civil rights for all of its citizens, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals still face persecution, often violent, from teachers, school officials, and their classmates in our schools. This year the National Day of Silence will be held in memory of Lawrence King, an 8th-grade student in California who was shot and killed by one of his classmates because of his sexual orientation. Our country was founded on the ideal of equality for all, with the self-evident right of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We must always be mindful that our Nation's history is a chronicle of the blending of many formerly separate cultures and languages, ideas and lifestyles, into one American identity that celebrates its diversity. I look forward to a day when we can all be tolerant. The National Day of Silence recognizes that diversity is a cornerstone of American democracy--that all people are individuals and have a right to be treated with dignity and respect. I look forward to a time where anti-GLBT harassment is no longer a problem in our schools. But until that happens, I am pleased to celebrate those students who recognize and appreciate the diversity of their classmates. I urge my colleagues to do the same and support H. Con. Res. 328.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be able to speak in support of House Resolution 322, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the founding of the state of Israel. For the past six decades, Israel has persevered in its quest to establish a free, open and democratic society--a society that reveres the same values that we do here in the United States. It is for that reason that we have been a stalwart ally of Israel. And it also for that reason that we will be allies for the next 60 years to come. For as long as it has existed, Israel has been a beacon for the Jewish Diaspora and a lone democracy in the Middle East. It has given refuge to those in search of a homeland and provided a safe haven for people around the world who have fled from persecution. While it has struggled with its neighbors to find a workable peace, Israel and its people have never ended its pursuit for a permanent solution. Over the years we have witnessed too much bloodshed and considerable sorrow, but we have also seen the enduring faith that peace will reign. Israel has proven itself capable of monumental achievement and I see no reason to despair that peace with its neighbors will not be yet another of Israel's achievement. I commend Israel on its 60th anniversary and believe its future is bright. And I continue to hope that its future will be free of the violence of much of its past.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today, with my colleagues Anna Eshoo and Dennis Kucinich to honor the memory of an optimistic, vivacious woman whose positive outlook and zeal for life inspired many. Eleanor Wasson, a driving force behind WomenRise for Global Peace, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2008. She was 100 years old. Miss Wasson grew up in Los Angeles, California and was raised by a loving, supportive family. In her life she was always conscious of the importance of giving back to the community. She devoted her life to fighting for political and social causes in the United States and abroad. Miss Wasson was an active volunteer, working three decades as a coordinator of Volunteer Services for UCLA, and later, creating her own organization. Miss Wasson helped introduce volunteerism to the rest of the world through the creation of International Volunteer Education, which was designed to teach foreign countries to recruit and train large numbers of volunteers. A feminist ahead of her time, Miss Wasson's activism and longevity was fueled by her uplifting outlook on life. Miss Wasson was noted for the ability to befriend people from all over the world and from diverse walks of life. Her warm heart led her to treat each individual with equal respect and friendliness; noting that having plenty of friends attributed to her own longevity. Above all, she led her life believing in the universal power of love, and that we all had power, providing that every action was motivated by love. Later in her life, Miss Wasson was drawn to the beauty of California's Central Coast. She moved to Santa Cruz in 1989, where she continued to cultivate her spirit of volunteerism, contributing much to a local environmental organization. EarthSave. There, she continued to make friends and spread her contagious optimism with Santa Cruz locals. Old age could not stop Miss Wasson as she continued her activist lifestyle up until her recent passing. Her memories live on, along with her book ``28,000 Martinis and Counting,'' which details her centenarian life of ``living, learning, and loving.'' Eleanor is survived by her daughters Joan Smith and Diane Wright; along with numerous beloved family members and friends. Madam Speaker, I would like to extend our Nation's deep gratitude for Eleanor's service to the United States and her own local community. I know I speak for every Member of Congress in offering our condolences to Joan, Diane and the entire Wasson family for the loss of their beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Chairman, I am very pleased to express my support for the Jubilee Act for Responsible Lending and Expanded Debt Cancellation Act. This Jubilee Act is a vital piece of legislation that will liberate poor countries from the burden of heavy indebtedness. These countries simply cannot invest in their futures if they are tethered to the illegitimate debts of their past. Today we have the opportunity to take a major step forward in our effort to combat global poverty and elevate our Nation's moral standing in the world. For that we should all feel a great sense of accomplishment. By one simple act here in the U.S. House of Representatives, we have the ability to strike a blow against one of the great scourges of the world: poverty. I have spent a lifetime in public service fighting the root causes of poverty--from my time in Colombia as a Peace Corps volunteer, straight through to this vote today as a Member of Congress. It has long been apparent to me that steady and adequate investments in health care, education, housing, and sanitation are absolute minimums to be able to eliminate poverty and hopelessness. And this bill makes those investments possible for a whole swath of the world where they would not be otherwise. This bill lifts the burden of past debts off the backs of governments that are behaving responsibly and have a proven record of investing in their own people. This is important to note, because many of these indebted nations incurred their debt, not under their current democratically elected governments, but under past autocratic regimes that pilfered the money and left the people of these countries in utter poverty. The Jubilee Act is a follow-on extension to a debt relief program with proven results. Since 1996, 30 countries have received nearly $80 billion in some form of debt relief. The money that these countries have saved in debt financing charges have gone directly into fighting poverty. By passing this bill, an additional 24 countries will have the opportunity to throw off the yoke of severe debt and begin anew to confront the conditions that perpetuate poverty with additional resources at their disposal. I am pleased to join today with so many of my colleagues, from both political parties, to reinvigorate our effort to fight global poverty. I am pleased to join today with so many of my colleagues, from both political parties, to reinvigorate our effort to fight global poverty.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1187, the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries Boundary Modification and Protection Act authored by my friend Representative Woolsey. I am proud to say that I represent the 2nd largest National Marine Sanctuary in the system, which also includes the longest stretch of coastline. I can attest to their value in preservation of some of the most stunning seascapes in the world and in education of the public. The Gulf of the Farallones and the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries are adjacent to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and they have national and international significance. These sanctuaries exceed the biological productivity of tropical rain forests and support high levels of biological diversity. The sanctuaries were established ``to maintain the natural biological communities in the national marine sanctuaries, and to protect, and, where appropriate, restore and enhance natural habitats, populations, and ecological processes.'' They are the ``National Parks'' of our ocean. As such, they were the first application of ecosystem-based management to our oceans. This type of management is recommended by the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy, which we in Congress created and charged with the study of the state of the oceans and the management of this shared, valuable resource. The expansion of the boundaries of the Gulf of the Farrallones and the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries will protect a vital part of the California Coast and the upwelling zones, which form the basis of the fisheries in the Pacific Ocean. Expanding these boundaries will also help to preserve these exceptional underwater environments. We are the stewards of our oceans and coasts, and we are failing them. The oceans belong to all the people of the United States, and we must protect them and manage them for everyone's best interest. Madam Speaker, with our oceans in crisis, the Sanctuaries are a beacon of hope for future generations. I support H.R. 1187 and urge my colleagues to pass this bill.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, in mid-March, the Chinese government conducted a bloody crackdown, grossly violating the human rights of the peaceful protestors in Tibet. The protest by the Tibetans touched a nerve and rapidly spread beyond the capital city of Lhasa into other areas of Tibet and around the world. The peaceful protest drew a violent and disproportionate reaction from the Chinese government who sought to tamp down the Tibetan desire for autonomy and self-determination. Not only did the Chinese government react with terrible force upon the protesters, the authorities also tried to discredit the Dalai Lama and his movement for a free Tibet. The Dalai Lama is as determined and committed to nonviolence as he is to seeing the emergence of a peaceful, prosperous, autonomous and self- determined Tibet. The brutal crackdown that seeks to derail the inevitable movement toward a free Tibet resulted in the deaths of more than 100 Tibetans and caused a great deal of social upheaval. While we live a safe distance away from the struggle, comfortably ensconced in a liberal democratic society, we cannot act as though we do not have a role to play to support the Dalai Lama. We do. I am enormously grateful to Speaker Pelosi, who has offered this House resolution which calls upon the Chinese to end this crackdown. This violent reaction is shortsighted and unproductive and, furthermore, it's not the long-term solution that respects the human rights and dignity of every Tibetan. Rather, the Chinese Government must enter into a serious, substantive negotiation directly with the Dalai Lama and must allow independent monitors into Tibet. Only then will we be on the path toward a solution to this crisis. Furthermore, I join Speaker Pelosi and other supporters of a free Tibet, to ask for the immediate release of all Tibetans who were arrested for non-violent protest. I am pleased this evening to express my support for the struggle toward a free Tibet, and I would encourage all my colleagues to join me by supporting this important House resolution.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2342, the National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observing Systems Act authored by my friend and fellow co-chair of the House Oceans Caucus, Representative Allen. The Integrated Ocean Observing System has the following goals: To improve the safety and efficiency of marine operations; to more effectively mitigate the effects of natural hazards; to improve predictions of climate change and its effects on coastal populations: to improve national security; to reduce public health risks; to more effectively protect and restore healthy coastal marine ecosystems: and to enable the sustained use of marine resources. This bill will coordinate and manage the existing regional Ocean Observing Systems. In my district, the Central and Northern California Ocean Observing System has proven invaluable in understanding and managing the ocean. The esoteric task of observing surface currents was indispensable in reacting and responding to the Cosco Busan oil spill in the San Francisco bay. The Central and Northern California Ocean Observing System assisted in the spill tracking as well as using HF Radar systems to provide real-time information on ocean currents to the response teams. They also provided information to and continue to collaborate with the NOAA Office of Response and Restoration, NOAA HAZMAT, NOAA Sanctuaries, and the Oil Spill Prevention and Response program. These systems are at the forefront of the science of understanding harmful algal blooms, which affect human health and can cause fish kills. Ocean observing systems aid in the study of waterborne diseases and can provide vital information for navigation of ships and small boats. They also have national security implications. This set of Coordinated Regional Ocean Observing Systems will improve coastal monitoring and assist the Coast Guard in their mission to secure our waters and to provide search and rescue for those endangered at sea. These Ocean Observing Systems are the foundation we need to apply ecosystem-based management of our oceans. This type of management and even this very system of National Integrated Ocean and Coastal Observing Systems is recommended by the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy, which we in Congress created. The Joint Ocean Commission Initiative, created to continue to advise Congress on the Ocean Commission's suggestions, lists this as one of their chief priorities. I cannot emphasize enough the need to show our ocean stewardship now, so we can turn the tide on the dire consequences facing our oceans and Great Lakes. The oceans and the Great Lakes belong to all the people of the United States and it is our duty to ensure that we provide the coordination and the funding necessary to protect these precious resources. This is why I support H.R. 2342 which will re-align and coordinate the existing Ocean Observing Systems. Madam Speaker, the effects of climate change on the ocean are just beginning to be understood, while the ocean's impact on the growing coastal population increases daily. We need the Ocean Observing Systems in order to understand and respond to the challenges we are facing. I strongly support H.R. 2342 and urge my colleagues to pass this bill.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mary Quarrier Gourley, who passed away on Friday, March 14, 2008. Mary, who was known to most people as Molly, was born in 1932 and grew up in Modesto, California. She attended Modesto Junior College and later Zweegman's School for Medical Assistants in San Francisco. In 1957, she married William H. ``Bill'' Gourley, who was a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. While Bill traveled the world for the United States Army, Molly was at his side. Over a 35-year span they covered every corner of the United States and Europe. Even after Bill retired, they continued to hit the road often. Among Molly's favorite places to visit were Washington DC., Germany and Turkey. Molly loved to spend her time researching her genealogy, gardening, traveling, and entertaining her friends and family. Through genealogy, she discovered her families' extraordinary history. She had family members who took part in the American Revolution and joined the Daughters of the American Revolution. Molly had a great amount of pride in her family origins. It was that pride in her family history that she imbued in her own family and what built strong bonds among them, bonds that keep them close despite being settled in disparate places. I always knew Molly as a vivacious, bubbly person--always full of life and laughter. But that bubbly spirit was not to be confused with frivolousness. Absolutely not. Molly was a person of depth and substance, a woman of strength. Hers was a presence always felt and will be sorely missed. Molly is survived by her husband, William Gourley, who attained the rank of Major General in the U.S. Army and is now retired: her son Michael; and daughter Cecily, Carolyn, Mary Jane; and her nine grandchildren. She will be laid to rest at Arlington Cemetery later this month. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Mary Quarrier Gourley, who was a thoughtful and loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Women's History Month. April was designated as Women's History Month in 1987 to honor women and the achievements they have made throughout the years. I want to pay special tribute to my female colleagues in the California delegation. I am proud that California has led the way in electing women to some of the highest offices in the federal government. Currently, there are 19 women from California in the House of Representatives, more than any other state. Among these are the Speaker of the House, a Chair and a vice-Chair, and 12 subcommittee Chairs. These women, who hold leadership positions, wield an enormous amount of power that was un- heard-of just a couple of decades ago. In the fall of 2006, the American people elected the Democrats to the majority and as a result, they put into motion a process that would ultimately break one of the ``glass ceilings'' for women in politics. After she was sworn in, Nancy Pelosi, the first ever female Speaker of the House said, ``It says to women everywhere that not only a glass ceiling but a marble ceiling can be broken and that anything is possible.'' This was an historical day for women, not only from the United States, but from around the world. I have talked to numerous women who have mentioned watching this momentous occasion on TV. These women hold their positions in part because of the hard work of women like Jeannette Rankin of Montana, who served from 1917-1919 and again in 1941-1943; Mae Ella Nolan of California, who served from 1923- 1925; Florence Kahn of California, who served from 1925-1937; and Helen Douglas of California, who served from 1945-1951. These women were pioneers in the field of politics at a time when politics was a man's purview. Thanks to these women, we have elected the first woman Speaker of the House, who is third in line for the Presidency. Mr. Speaker, I pay tribute to the women across the country, and around the world, who have made history by their varied accomplishments. And the women who have come before you and have helped lead the way for women in the political arena.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. The Monterey Chamber of Commerce was created in 1908 from a loosely organized merchants' association. In 1949, the name was changed to reflect its expansion across the entire peninsula including the sister cities of Carmel, Pacific Grove, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Seaside, and Sand City as well as the neighboring unincorporated areas of Big Sur, Carmel Valley, Carmel Highlands and Pebble Beach. Today, a chamber is more than a non-profit organization; it is a business, and its product is its members. As the largest chamber of commerce in the tri-county area, it provides leadership on issues, programs and business development that benefit both the community and their member businesses. Now 1,000 members strong, the chamber's commitment to serving the business interests of the entire peninsula strengthens economic growth, promotes the wonders of Monterey County, and serves the needs of our many visitors annually from around the world. In answer to the question, ``What has the Chamber done for me lately?'' Board chair Terry Low and president and CEO Astrid Coleman offer these programs and goals: promoting its members by making each one aware of local products and services and creating events to showcase the members; offering educational programs, coaching services and forums to help small business owners succeed; and presenting a ``voice for business'' to legal and legislative authorities about issues affecting peninsula business and the community. Recognizing the need for a properly prepared workforce, the chamber mobilizes business and community resources to ensure quality education on the Monterey Peninsula, and is dedicated to sustainability through the local greening of businesses. Madam Speaker, I salute 100 years of effort by the members, volunteers, committee members, board members, community partners, and staff of the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, whose dedication has made this organization a vital and integral part of our community.