Sam Farr

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 6061. The consideration of H.R. 6061 is a thinly veiled effort from the Republican Leadership to garner their party's base support in November. H.R. 6061 is a red herring to the real issue that Congress should address: comprehensive immigration reform. But, as we all know, ``Politics . . . (for) all too long, has been concerned with right or left instead of right or wrong.'' (Richard Armour) This bill's objectives are not new to this body, in fact, we have already voted on them in the form of H.R. 4377, the very bill which has spurred protests all year long, throughout the country, due to its punitive and unjust nature. The major initiative in H.R. 6061 is to complete segments of fencing, eventually ensuring 700 miles of it along the southwestern border. One section of this wall would cover practically the whole Arizona- California border. But Republicans and Democrats know that more fencing along the border is like placing a band-aid on a gaping wound. It will not fix our broken immigration system; it will only serve to move the flow of illegal immigration into more remote and dangerous portions of the country. In fact, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff has called fencing ``a less efficient way'' to address border security than adding more border security officers and yet this Republican led House insists on considering this bill. Furthermore, building a 2-layer fence through hundreds of miles of public lands and National Parks will have severe ramifications on the delicate ecosystems of the desert. Already in Arizona alone, the Border Patrol estimates that 39 protected or proposed to be protected species are being affected by its operations. This only serves to highlight how this issue has not been viewed through a comprehensive lens. As people cross our southern border, what kind of image do we want to portray to visitors, our own citizens or their family members? We should not convince ourselves that America is exempt from the images associated with other historic barriers, such as the Berlin Wall, the Maginot Line and the Great Wall of China. I urge the Republican Leadership of the House of Representatives to address comprehensive reform of the Nation's immigration system so that immigration is legal, safe, orderly, and reflective of the needs of American families, businesses, and national security instead of engaging in this election year political grandstanding.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dominican Hospital on 65 years of high quality, passionate, and kindhearted healthcare in Santa Cruz County. Created by six Dominican Sisters from Adrian, Michigan, the Catholic hospital was duly named ``Sisters Hospital.'' Today, the hospital continues to approach the healthcare needs of the region by partnering faith with scientific innovations. Since its inception in 1941, ``Dominican Santa Cruz Hospital'' has consistently delivered comprehensive and modern medical care for the county. Part of the compassionate mission of Dominican Hospital is to ``improve the health of the people of the greater Santa Cruz area, without distinguishing by race, creed, or source of payment . . .'' The hospital is known for partnering with other healthcare providers in order to improve the quality of life for those who are less fortunate. In 1951, ``Sisters Hospital'' became aware of the ever growing needs within the community for a comprehensive healthcare institution. Due to this realization, the hospital decided to expand its services and obtain a new location. The hospital acquired its Soquel Avenue location and renamed itself, Dominican Santa Cruz Hospital. In 1984, Dominican Santa Cruz Hospital, in a partnership with the County of Santa Cruz, agreed to provide the first inpatient mental health services program in the county. This was in response to the ever growing needs the hospital saw emerging within the community. Dominican Hospital, time and time again, proves its love for the community by constantly evaluating and reacting to the needs of the people, and I am very grateful to them. The hospital again expanded its services in 1988. It introduced the county to its first cardiac program. It also created Dominican Oaks, an assisted and independent living community, providing 206 residents with comprehensive medical support. Dominican also joined forces with Catholic Healthcare West, a hospital system of similar values and visions with locations throughout California, Arizona, and Nevada. Dominican Hospital now serves about 150,000 patients annually, has birthed over 75,000 children, and currently counts 379 beds on two campuses. The medical specialties available at the hospital are numerous. They include, but are not limited to, complete Emergency Services, a renowned Intensive Care Service, the only Level 2 and Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery in the county, Behavioral Health Services, and an array of outreach services, and educational options focusing on community needs and healtb prevention.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Eutiquio Chapa upon his receipt of the National Hispanic Heritage Youth Award in the category of Education. This prestigious award is given each year to Latino high school graduates who have excelled in academic achievement, community service, and writing. The Hispanic Heritage Foundation, a Washington-based non-profit organization which commemorates ethnic dignity and education, specifically tasks each applicant to express the influence of their heritage on their personal success. Looking at Mr. Chapa's accomplishments and goals, it is evident why he was chosen. Mr. Chapa was a top student at Palma High School, where he graduated with a 4.4 GPA and was named a National Hispanic Scholar. Furthermore, Mr. Chapa was chosen for a special summer program at M.I.T. in 2005. All of this success was in the face of criticism he endured from his own peer group for changing schools midway through high school. Eutiquio Chapa has been accepted to Stanford University for the fall and will no doubt have much success there. A second-generation Mexican-American from King City, CA, Eutiquio Chapa is interested in furthering his knowledge of the human brain. He plans to develop manners of instruction in order to improve the education process for low-income elementary grade level students learning English as a second language. He is obviously determined to equip others with educational possibilities. Mr. Speaker, my heartfelt congratulations go to Eutiquio Chapa. It is a true pleasure to have him as a member of my constituency.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Chairman and Members, I rise in support of this bill. I have been listening to this debate all day. I don't think most people have read it. The bill deals with the slaughter for humane consumption. Now, I represent California, the most populous State in the Union, which has the most horses. Guess what, this has been the law in California for many years, and all of these naysayers and predictors of bad happening just doesn't happen in California. Change this debate; change this debate. What if we were up here talking about slaughtering cats and dogs for profit for human consumption? You wouldn't have people up here saying, well, the cats and dogs population will ruin everything; it will stop the world. We take care. The slaughterers don't buy sick horses, injured horses. They buy fresh horses, and they buy them for human consumption. This bill says you can't do that. Now this is the day and age in America when we ought to be not allowing people to for profit buy horses merely to slaughter them for human consumption. That is wrong. This bill is right. I urge a rejection of the amendment and a passage of the bill.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a national treasure located in my district and commemorate an auspicious occasion: the 40th anniversary of the California State University's Moss Landing Marine Laboratories at the heart of Monterey Bay. Founded in 1966, Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) is the second oldest marine lab on the Monterey Bay: The founders were a small group of strong-minded faculty and forward-thinking administrators at California State University (CSU) who were dedicated to the pursuit of marine science, research and education at the highest possible level. Currently, MLML is operated by a consortium of seven CSU campuses (Fresno, East Bay, Monterey Bay, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose, and Stanislaus), with undergraduate and graduate students pursuing their Masters of Science degrees in marine biology and oceanography. From its grass roots conception and its humble beginnings in an old cannery building, MLML has grown into an institution of international reputation for excellence and has trained generations of students. The current director, Dr. Kenneth Coale, 9 full-time faculty and a complement of adjunct professors and affiliated researchers dutifully cultivate the mission, which is to ``Provision the Pioneers of the Future in Marine Sciences'' through a hands-on, field-oriented approach to their curriculum, placing their students at the frontiers of marine science where discoveries are being made. Since MLML is associated with the California State University system, the primary responsibility of the faculty is teaching. Despite their emphasis on well-taught courses and mentoring of graduate students, the MLML faculty and associated researchers are regional leaders within their research disciplines. Their research has been critical to the creation of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, and has shaped the development of new. programs throughout CSU. Findings by the faculty have been acknowledged as some of the most significant in the field of oceanography over the last 50 years by the National Research Council, and MLML has received the Environmental Heroes Award bestowed by the head of NOAA and former Vice President Al Gore. The Moss Landing Marine Laboratories are a testament to the power of academic freedom and the commitment to Science-Based Earth Stewardship. MLML has educated over 1000 marine scientists who now hold positions in the federal government, the most prestigious academic and research institutions nationwide, regulatory and resource agencies, and teaching institutions throughout the country. The great wealth of nearby marine resources, the faculty emphasis on mentoring and teaching with integrated research, and the excellent facilities, staff, and marine operations contribute to making this one of the best programs for a Master of Science in Marine Science in the United States. I celebrate the pioneers that founded this institution and those who continue to lead the way in maintaining excellence.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the achievements of Joe Hall, who has recently retired after serving the citizens of Santa Cruz in various capacities since 1973. Joe is best known in my office as the steward of the San Lorenzo River Flood Control Project, an effort on which we have worked together since I began my service in Congress and is finally nearing completion. Through his hard work in the City of Santa Cruz Planning Department and later as assistant director of the Santa Cruz Redevelopment Agency, Joe worked tirelessly to corral the resources of local, State, and Federal agencies toward a project that will provide vital flood protection to the residents and businesses of Santa Cruz. He was the primary source of information for me as I advocated for the project in Washington, and I know he is as proud of the success of this project as I am. There is no doubt that the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake is the defining moment for a generation of Santa Cruz residents, and Joe played an integral role in the miraculous redevelopment of a downtown that was literally leveled by the quake. It might have been an accepted idea at the time to forget about downtown Santa Cruz and redevelop an economic base elsewhere in the area, but the visionary work of Redevelopment Director Ceil Cirillo, Joe, and other city officials led to an amazing rebirth in downtown that continues today. Joe also was instrumental in the creation of legislation on the State level that provided a special bond financing mechanism to assist with the seismic retrofit of older buildings. While the legislation was approved too late to help Santa Cruz, other California cities have since benefited from Joe's ideas. While Joe has been an outstanding employee of the city of Santa Cruz since 1973, he has also served the Santa Cruz community in a number of other capacities, including president of the board of education, a public affairs talk show host for a local public radio station, and an instructor in city planning at Cabrillo College. And while Santa Cruz may have benefited most from Joe's good works, he has also served his country with honor and dignity. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army upon his graduation from UCLA, Joe served as a training officer for the U.S. Army Electronic Command and in 1996 he retired from the U.S. Army as a lieutenant colonel. I am certain that I have not heard the last from Joe, as I expect he will remain an active member of the community, but I do want to wish he, his wife Marcella, and his children Eric and Christine, the best as they enter this exciting new chapter.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Arnold Manor of Carmel Valley, California who passed away on June 2, 2006, after an extraordinary 96 years working to make the world a better place. Dr. Manor lived his life to its fullest, selflessly serving others and living an impressive and honorable life that serves as an example for all Americans to follow. His love of life and his dedication to helping others will be missed by all. I offer his wife Dorothy, daughter Susan, and the rest of Dr. Manor's family my deepest condolences. A pioneer in our local community, Dr. Manor became the first professional to specialize in Obstetrics and Gynecology on the Monterey Peninsula beginning in 1938. Over the course of his 52-year medical career, he helped deliver over 7,500 babies into this world. Dr. Manor was committed to giving his patients the utmost care and respect and his interactions with his patients serve as an example for other medical practitioners to follow. In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Manor served as one of the leaders during the planning and construction of the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula. Along with his dedication for caring for others in the medicinal world, Dr. Manor donated much of his time to various noteworthy non- profit boards throughout the community. Dr. Arnold served as chairman for the Monterey Urban Renewal Agency, the Carmel Bach Festival, the Carmel Music Society, the Devereux Foundation, and the Gateway Center, just to name a few. One of Dr. Manor's most lasting marks on our community was his leadership at the Monterey Peninsula College. Dr. Manor lived his life to its fullest and shared his kindness with all who were fortunate to meet him. He is remembered by friends as one whose life was enriched by his love of music, reading, and nature. In his final decade, Dr. Manor frequently enjoyed the company of his hiking companions in the Haasis Hikers group. Dr. Manor brought out the best in people, working amicably and productively, never seeking praise or reward for his honorable work. Mr. Speaker, in short, our country has lost a remarkable citizen. While Dr. Arnold may no longer be with us, his memory and life's work will carry on in all those whose lives he touched. I regret that Dr. Manor was unable to be in every city in our country, because our society grew greater and kinder with every person he touched. On behalf of the United States Congress, it is my privilege to honor the life of Dr. Arnold Manor, and I join his family, friends, and communities of the Monterey Peninsula in mourning the loss of this truly great American.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to praise the work of Carl Pohlhammer, one of the pillars of my California Central Coast district. Carl is one of those Americans who embodies the meaning of the word citizenship; who works from humble circumstances to strengthen the quality of our democracy. I am privileged to be able to call Carl a friend. Carl and I both share a common point of personal history having mothers who both chose the San Francisco Bay Area as our port of entry into the world. And while my parents had the good sense to move our family to the Monterey Peninsula in the late 1940s, Carl left it to the U.S. Navy to decide. In 1963, Carl arrived at the Naval Postgraduate School as a Navy Lieutenant and Assistant Professor where he taught political science. That same year, Carl also began teaching political science down the road at Monterey Peninsula College, the Monterey Peninsula's community college. Carl eventually left the Navy, but has continued to teach to this day, despite his nominal retirement in 1995. Prior to arriving in Monterey, Carl graduated cum laude from San Jose State University followed by the University of California at Berkeley. He married Anita Arellano, his college sweetheart, in 1954, and then spent a year in France, courtesy of the U.S. Army. Since arriving on the Monterey Peninsula, Carl has been active in numerous community campaigns and organizations. Perhaps his most infamous effort was to chair the 1968 `bourbon renewal' campaign to convince his adopted hometown of Pacific Grove to allow the sale of alcoholic beverages. Always active Democrats, Carl and Anita attended both of the Clinton inaugurals. Anita was a delegate to the 1984 Democratic Convention in San Francisco. Carl has been a member of the Monterey County Democratic Central Committee since 1996, and was Chair from 2001 to just this year. Mr. Speaker, every member of the House knows from their own district the crucially important role that civically involved volunteers play in the life of their own communities. Our democracy depends on them. Carl is one of those people who deserve the Nation's gratitude for his public service as a community activist.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Monterey County Fair on an outstanding 70 year tradition. During the week of August 15-20, 2006, the 7th District Agricultural Association's official County Fair will be enjoyed by both community residents and visitors with a theme of ``That's Entertainment.'' The Monterey County Fair promotes Monterey County's rich agricultural heritage with livestock demonstrations, displays and auctions to raise money for scholarships, including the participation of over 5,000 of Monterey County's youth through programs such as FFA and 4-H in festivities offered at the fair. Exhibitors can choose from agriculture, horticulture and floriculture divisions for those with a green thumb, visual arts for the crafty and artistic, home arts for culinary whizzes and wine makers, and photography for camera buffs. Livestock categories include cattle, sheep, swine, rabbits, and poultry. These fun and friendly competitions are a chance to win both ribbons and prize money. The Fair hosts Kids' Day, Seniors' Day, and Special Friends Day so that all children under age of twelve, all senior citizens living in Monterey County, and citizens of who are mentally or physically challenged can enjoy the fair. The Monterey County Fair provides an excellent showcase of the unique, creative talents of the residents of Monterey County including crafts, fine art and photography. With over 200 categories for exhibitors to choose from, such opportunities increase self-esteem and community pride for all ages. This year they have added such innovative educational exhibits as a Living Food Pyramid that showcases local produce and teaches nutrition in a dynamic way, a Birthing Barn, Kid Tractor Pulls, a special new Kids Club, a Wild West Express Act, a special Street Rodder Car Show, and the all new Battle of the Bands. The Monterey County Fair has launched a year-round Kid's Club to encourage Monterey County kids to learn more about the Monterey County Fair and get involved with many Fair activities year-round while having fun, such as the Read and Ride contest, coloring contest, and special Kids' Day activities. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Monterey County and all its citizens, I want to acknowledge the valuable contributions of the Monterey County Fair, and wish them all the best on their 70th anniversary.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the achievements and promise of Martha Lois McGinnis Cameron Norton, or just simply Martha. I have known Martha much of my life as the ``go to woman'' in local elections. She is one of those Americans who embodies the meaning of the word citizenship; who works always to strengthen the quality of our democracy. Martha was born in Washington, Iowa, in 1922. She grew up on a farm and spent her childhood raising corn, tending hogs, and seeing to all the other chores of an Iowa farm girl. But being from Washington, she had politics in her blood. As a child she saw both President Hoover and Governor Roosevelt speak during the 1932 presidential campaign. Four years later she worked her first of many campaigns when she helped re-elect President Roosevelt. While Martha built a remarkable professional career as a research scientist and educator, it is her relentless political activism that I wish to focus on today. That activism began in earnest in 1946 when Martha joined a local campaign to save San Francisco's landmark cable car system. In 1956, she worked to re-elect President Eisenhower. In 1959, she helped run her father's successful write-in campaign to become Mayor of her hometown. In 1962 Martha moved to Monterey and hasn't stopped since. She soon worked on a variety of local races, including several of my father's, who was then serving in the California State Senate. In the late '60s, she worked on the coastal protection campaign that culminated in the voters 1972 adoption of the landmark Coastal Act. That same year Martha became a Democrat. As a young woman, she registered Republican on the advice of her mother who said that it was the Republicans who secured the vote for women. But she had become disenchanted with the direction that the Republican Party had taken, especially in civil rights, and followed Leon Panetta in making the switch. In 1976, Martha worked as a precinct walker in Leon Panetta's successful race against Congressman Burt Talcott. She also worked on Jimmy Carter's presidential campaign, coordinating more than 100 volunteers from their teens into their 70s. In the '80s, she helped elect two pivotal Monterey County Supervisors, Sam Karas and Karin Strasser Kauffman. In 1996 she volunteered once again for Karin, in her primary race for the local state Assembly seat. While Karin lost the race, Martha felt that democrat Fred Keeley went on to be a great Assemblymember. And all along, Martha was instrumental in my own campaigns for local, state, and federal office. Martha truly is the tireless volunteer. In addition to her campaign work, Martha has devoted countless hours to many different boards, commissions, and other community organizations, including the MPUSD school board, the Highway 68 committee, the Toxic Waste committee for Fort Ord, several League of Women Voters committees, and local Democratic committees and clubs. Martha also served several stints as the President of the Peninsula Women's Democratic Club. She has worked tirelessly over the years to register voters and encourage participation in the political process. And it is this grass roots commitment to making democracy work that deserves the attention of this House because it is the people like Martha across this country that keep our democracy alive and well.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to speak out of order.

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight because in a moment, we are going to have a historical presentation here on the House floor. It is the 165th time that there has been a consistent voice about getting our troops out of Iraq and ending the war in Iraq. And I know that the voice of the distinguished colleague from California, Lynn Woolsey, is being listened to because, eventually, we are going to follow her advice. It is just a question of when. I hope it is not going to take another 165 days. I would like it yield the remainder of my time to the distinguished Congresswoman representing Marin and Sonoma Counties in California for her 165th presentation on the House floor on this issue.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Louis N. Haddad, a fine public servant and dear family friend who passed away on April 21, 2006. Throughout his 82 years, Lou served in the U.S. military, realized professional success, held numerous public offices, involved himself in various community groups, and raised a wonderful family with his wife, Martha. Born in Beggs, OK, in 1923, Lou joined the Army in 1940 at age of 16. As a member of the 12th Regiment of the 1st Cavalry Division during World War II, Lou saw action in the North African campaign, the capture of Sicily, and the invasions of Anzio and southern France. He also served honorably in the Korean war as a member of the Green Berets. Lou followed his lengthy and distinguished military career by entering the professional world, successfully embarking on a second career as private businessman. Lou later began what would become a long and interesting career as a public servant. He served the city of Seaside as planning commissioner and Architectural Review Board member from 1962 to 1964, and became the Area Planning Commission chairman from 1966 to 1967. Lou was a city councilman from 1964 to 1966 and then again from 1978 to 1980. He was the mayor of Seaside from 1966 to 1972. Lou served as vice chair for Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency and Monterey County Local Agencies Formation Commission, chairman of the Tri-County Board of the California Council on Justice, director of the Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments, and the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District. Lou's public service was not limited to government agencies but extended to the greater community as well. Lou always remained very involved in community organizations, serving as president of both the Rotary and Lions Clubs. He was a member of the Elks Lodge, Knights of Columbus, and the Kiwanis Club, as well as a charter member of the Monterey Peninsula Boys and Girls Club and director for the Alliance on the Aging. Lou was also a member of the Military Order of the World Wars, U.S. Navy League, and the Nisei Veterans of Foreign Wars. Lou spent much of his life serving his fellow citizens, He proudly fought for the United States of America in two wars, devoted his time and energy to multiple public offices, and supported his community through his membership in numerous citizen groups. Lou Haddad, through the life he led and the person he became, demonstrated the potential impact that one individual can have on his community and country. He influenced people and events on so many levels, and came to represent the positive, compassionate and, above all, human force that many strive for but few actually become. I enjoyed being on his talk shows and working on many of his projects. He was a citizen of public service. While Lou is remembered for his success as a soldier, businessman, public servant, and community activist, he will be remembered most as a loving and supportive husband and father to his wife, Martha, and his children, Charles, Shirley, and Carole. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to honor the many accomplishments of Louis N. Haddad and express sincere gratitude for his accomplishments and contributions to our community and our country.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East. I am pleased that H. Res. 921 expresses Congress's ``condolences to all families of innocent victims of recent violence.'' The United States is faced with a harsh reality that peace in the Middle East has been so elusive. Yet we cannot, we must not, stop trying to broker peace. The U.S. cannot turn its back on the families in the Middle East and must not conclude that constant war is inevitable. The U.S. must step up to the challenge of engaging the Israelis, Palestinians, and Lebanese and all the Middle East nations who want a lasting peace. I am not willing to give up hope that peace in the region can be achieved and nor should this administration. It is imperative to remember that this region is very complex, and that there are forces working for peace and forces that crave war. Benjamin Franklin once said, ``There was never a good war or a bad peace.'' It is time for this administration to remember these important words. The Middle East conflict has largely been pushed to the back burner by this administration with serious repercussions for U.S. national security interests. The U.S. must stop performing band-aid diplomacy and focus on long-term solutions to move toward peace. History should have taught us that violence only begets more violence and all actors involved need to recognize the mutual benefits of peace. We are faced with a vital question--where can we go from here? First and foremost, Hezbollah and Hamas must disarm and recognize Israel's right to exist. Armed political parties that use brute force do not foster peaceful solutions. Israel has survived five major wars since its inception. This country lives in constant defense mode because terrorist organizations surrounding it still harbor hope of its destruction. The U.S. must continue its steadfast support of Israel, and all countries in the region must abide by U.N. resolutions that promote a two-state solution. The loss of civilian lives in the Middle East is tragic and continued violence makes the challenge of achieving peace more difficult. The U.S. must renew a serious diplomatic effort in the region.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. I thank the gentleman for yielding. This bill is an ignorant bill. This bill is a greed bill. It ignores getting away from the oil addiction. If oil is the street drug addiction, why at a time of energy independence are we increasing the addiction? You don't give alcoholics more alcohol to get them cured. It is a greed-producing bill. Mr. Markey pointed out that 80 percent of the drillable Federal land is already in the oil companies' hands. The bill steals State and local control. Why would the author go against his own State legislature, his own Governor, who opposes this legislation? Why would the President sign a bill such as this, which has a direct conflict with our own U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy which recommended that oil-gas leasing revenues be dedicated to ocean and coastal resources? There is no dedication in this bill. This bill is a financial and environmental disaster. A ``no'' vote allows improvement.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the United Nations. The mission of the U.N. today is as relevant as it was in 1945 when this global forum was established: preserving peace through international cooperation and collective security. Cutting U.S. funding to the U.N. not only undermines the efforts of the U.N. but also reduces the United State's ability to influence reform at the U.N. Government entities by their very own definition are not perfect institutions, and the U.N. is no exception. But the U.N. is actively engaged in review and assessment of its organizations to ensure that they are effective and consistent with the core mission. The U.N. has already taken some important steps in much needed reform, like the creation of an ethics office. It has created new bodies to address the new threats of the 21st century, like the Peacebuilding Commission that will work to assist countries in the difficult transition from conflict to sustainable peace. I believe that the U.S. must be an active participant in the U.N., and push for appropriate reforms that make the U.N. more responsive to the changing challenges of the 21st century. The U.S. and Congress in particular, can support these reform efforts by robustly funding the U.N. and not undermining U.S. standing at the U.N. with amendments and rhetoric that unnecessarily criticize the U.N. without assigning any value to the important work they do. Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations to be successful.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the California State Parks Asilomar Conference Center in Pacific Grove, CA. Ordinarily, one would not expect a Member to rise on the floor to acknowledge the birthday of a conference grounds, but Asilomar is no ordinary place. For starters, Asilomar is nestled in the coastal dunes of the Monterey Peninsula. The name itself is Spanish for refuge by the sea. Asilomar also boasts an extraordinary history. It began life in 1912 as the western regional conference grounds for the YWCA on 30 acres of beach front property donated by the precursor of the Pebble Beach Company. Within a year, the YWCA hired the pioneering San Francisco architect Julia Morgan. By 1921, additional land had been donated and many buildings were completed, including the centerpiece Phoebe Hearst grand meeting hall. The center could by then accommodate up to 500 people at a time. Over the course of the 20s, Asilomar grew not only as a site for YWCA activities but also as a center for religious retreats, Scouting events, and very popular summer camps. All of that ended with the Depression. Unable to pay its bills, the YWCA decided in 1934 to cease operating Asilomar. For almost 20 years Asilomar floundered along under various concession or cooperative agreements until the YWCA finally decided to sell the property in 1951. Finally, Mr. Speaker, Asilomar is part of my own family's story. In 1955, my father Fred Farr entered the California State Senate. And while it is true that my father cared deeply about the future of Asilomar, it is also true that my mother Janet would have never let him ignore the question of its future. That year my father authored legislation along with his Assembly counterpart, Alan Patee, directing the State Parks Department to purchase Asilomar for the now unbelievably low amount of $350,000. The bill, SB 2007, passed both houses of the legislature without opposition. Unfortunately, Governor Knight then vetoed every park bill before him that summer. Needless to say, that act did not make the Governor a very popular man on the Monterey Peninsula. The uproar over the veto forced the administration to rethink its position. In December 1955, the Governor reversed his opposition to Asilomar's purchase. In the ensuing months, my father helped to broker a purchase and operating agreement between the YWCA, Pacific Grove, and the State. Those efforts culminated in the July 1, 1956 transfer of Asilomar to the State of California. Asilomar has since grown into one of the most unique public interest conference grounds in the world. It hosts conference groups as diverse as the annual Eco Farm conference, the Nation's largest annual organic farming gathering and an annual national gathering of electronic intelligence specialists. Last year, Asilomar saw over 175,000 guests from 1,000 different groups who netted the State over $3 million in fee revenues. It is a legacy that my father remained supremely proud of throughout the remainder of his life. When he passed away in 1997, he had spent over 20 years on the park's official advisory commission and had spent countless hours offering formal and informal advice on the management and future of Asilomar. So while this anniversary is a celebration of a unique public park, it is also the celebration of one of my father's most cherished personal achievements.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank you for your cooperation and for all the hard work on this important bill.

Mr. FARR. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I have a colloquy with the chairman of the committee, Mr. Wolf. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to see language in the SSJC appropriations report giving directives to NOAA and the Secretary of Commerce regarding the salmon in the Klamath River. Though the river does not flow directly through my district, my salmon fishermen and related industries are greatly impacted. The National Marine Fisheries Service severely restricted the 2006 salmon season, after significantly cutting the 2005 season. This has caused undue financial hardships for local fishing communities, causing the Governors of both California and Oregon to declare it a fishery disaster. There is definitely an immediate need to provide emergency funding to those impacted. However, we need to start addressing long-term needs to restore the habitat and rebuild the salmon population so that we do not find ourselves with a crisis every year. It would take a relatively small amount to curb much greater economic losses in the future. Would the chairman be willing to work toward increasing the amount of funding from the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund to be used for the Klamath River restoration projects and salmon recovery? This important granting fund has already been reduced by almost $47 million below what the President requested in the fiscal year `06 enacted levels, so I further ask the chairman to work to restore funding during the conference committee.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Elaine Cass, whose law career represents success, accomplishment, and community service. Throughout an illustrious career spanning both the professional and academic realms of law, Elaine's tireless dedication has provided inspiration for friends and colleagues alike. As City Attorney, Elaine represented citizens and their elected representatives on behalf of the cities of Hollister and Seaside. Elaine was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, graduating from William Lyon Mackenzie High School in 1968. She attended the University of California, Berkeley where she received her Bachelor of the Arts degree in English literature. In 1975 she received her law degree from Santa Clara University and was admitted to the California State Bar the following year. Wasting no time, Elaine immediately embarked upon her law career working for the next six years with Legal Aid Society of Monterey County. Elaine returned to academia in 1978, becoming a law lecturer at both Santa Clara University and Monterey College of Law. While she continued to practice law throughout her university lecturing years, Elaine's educational contributions did nothing to diminish her professional ambition. If anything, lecturing on the ethical nature of law seemed to enhance her already impressive career trajectory. Elaine served as the City Attorney for Seaside for 11 years. She also served in the same capacity for the City of Hollister, where she initiated the first code enforcement program with an emphasis on substandard housing. It was later expanded to include a relocation program which requires landlords to compensate tenants displaced by such housing. Always mindful of community interests and individual concerns, Elaine successfully blended responsibility and conscientiousness to be an attorney who is both respected by her colleagues and admired by the people she represents. Elaine is married to Robert Zweben, and has two children, with her first grandchild on the way. Masterfully balancing family, career, and the desire to give back to society, Elaine's many achievements cannot be overstated. Mr. Speaker, throughout her career, Elaine has made significant contributions, both professionally and academically, to the study of law. On behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to congratulate the accomplishments of Elaine Cass and express my sincere gratitude for her commitment to her community.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, FDR once said, ``Do what you can with what you got where you are.'' We have west coast salmon fishermen that can't fish because of the government's stupidity. The administration released water in the Upper Klamath Basin to water intensive crops that killed the downstream fish, the breeding stock of wild salmon. The result is that fishermen can't fish. The governments of the States have asked the administration to call for an emergency declaration to aid these fishermen. They have refused. Today, the House of Representatives will hear about the plight of the fishermen and the failure of the GOP leadership to help them. We will do what we can with what we got where we are.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of myself and my colleagues, Representatives Michael Honda and Anna Eshoo, I rise today to note, sadly, the tragic passing of Denice Dee Denton, Chancellor of the University of California, Santa Cruz, UCSC. We have lost a colleague of immeasurable creativity and intellect. Our hearts go out to her family and loved ones in this incomprehensible time. In her memory, we stand today to pay homage to her commitment and sacrifice and pledge to further her legacy of equity, diversity and academic excellence. Chancellor Denton dedicated her professional and personal energy to increasing the presence of women and minorities in typically male- dominated academic fields. While pursuing four advanced degrees from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, including a Ph.D., she often encountered and fought against prevailing attitudes that were quietly or openly hostile to women in science. Remarkably, her academic career was just beginning to blossom. She held academic appointments at the University of Massachusetts, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she worked from 1987, leaving as professor in the Departments of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Chemistry. Beginning in 1996, Chancellor Denton was appointed Dean of the College of Engineering and Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of Washington, the first woman to hold the position at a National Research Council-designated Research One university. On December 14, 2004, Denice Denton was appointed by the University of California Regents as the ninth Chancellor of UCSC. While Chancellor, Denice incorporated the philosophy of achieving excellence through diversity in her agenda. She championed causes on an international level to engage the academic community in a dialogue pursuing equity and advancement in science, math and engineering. Also, as the university's first openly gay Chancellor, Denice embraced her identity and empowered young people and professionals across many disciplines to do the same. Mr. Speaker, it is with great regret that we speak in memory of a life so full of promise and future achievement. But we do so secure in the knowledge of a life already lived so full of accomplishment. Denice Denton was just 46 years old at the time of her death. But in that short time she paved the way for so many to follow.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Chairman, as a member of the Appropriations Committee, I recognize Chairman Wolf's hard work on the SSJC bill, H.R. 5672. However, as one of six co-chairs of the House Oceans Caucus, I was deeply concerned when I saw the degree to which NOAA was grossly under- funded, especially its wet programs within the National Ocean Service (NOS), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), and Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR). The reductions proposed in the bill are about 31 percent compared to FY06 and 36 percent compared to FY05 enacted levels, totaling about $783 million over the last 2 funding cycles. The House mark represents a major setback in protecting our Nation's ocean and coastal resources. Given that NOAA is the lead Federal agency for ocean-related management and activities, this void will not be filled elsewhere. The direct and indirect impacts the oceans and coasts have on our lives and livelihoods are paramount. They are, by far, our greatest natural resource and the life support of our only planet. Yet, we fail to see the ocean for the waves when we cut more than half a billion dollars from the NOAA budget. Over half of the U.S. population lives in coastal states. Coastal and marine waters support over 2.8 million jobs and produce one-third of the nation's GDP. The culture, economy, and security of our Nation depend on the health and sustainability of these assets, yet we are not sufficiently managing and protecting them. Though the budget this year is more constrained than ever, the decision not to make ocean funding a priority will cost the U.S. economy more than $1 billion in direct losses, and even more indirectly. Instead, an increased and sustained investment now would enhance the benefits we reap in the future, a need highlighted by the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy (USCOP) in their 2004 report and by the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative in their recent list of ocean policy priorities for Congress. Along those lines, I want to emphasize the invaluable services and programs of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the lead federal agency for ocean-related management and activities. Among these are the National Marine Sanctuary Program, the Integrated Ocean Observing Program, the National Sea Grant College Program, and the Protected Species Research and Management Program, just to name a few. Combined, the many NOAA activities support necessary ocean protection, research, exploration, and education. Therefore, the significant cuts that are proposed in this bill are unacceptable and would seriously impair the efficiency and effectiveness of the agency. To allow cuts would be a step in the wrong direction and would sustain the ``failing grade'' received on this year's U.S. Ocean Policy Report Card released by the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative. Furthermore, it is about time for the ``blue'' of our world's oceans to get at least as much attention as the ``blue'' above us. After all, our planet of more than 70 percent water is largely unexplored. The amendment being offered by Mr. Gilchrest on behalf of the House Ocean Caucus is one way to start showing recognition for our need to reprioritize. The amount requested here ($783 million) would come out of NASA's Exploration Systems which was marked to more than $3.8 billion--more than NOAA's entire budget for the year! The cost of just one NASA mission could restore 2 years worth of funding cuts to all of NOAA, without compromising basic science and research conducted by NASA. I cannot emphasize enough the need to show our ocean stewardship now--and stewardship for our own planet--so we can turn the tide on the dire consequences facing our oceans. Therefore, I wholly support the amendment offered by Mr. Gilchrest. I would hope that the House of Representatives would take a position that makes oceans more of a priority by supporting funding for NOAA programs that are of critical importance to our nation and beyond. This step would give us a better platform as we move into Conference negotiations with the Senate. Let us start to make the necessary investments in the FY07 cycle or the losses will be greater and more irreparable the longer we wait. Attached are (1) a summary of the NOAA Impact Statement and (2) a copy of the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative letter in regards to H.R. 5672.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Hinchey-Rohrabacher- Paul-Farr amendment. Mr. Chairman, every year we bring this amendment to the floor. So far it has never passed. Some may ask, well, why are we doing this again? Well, the answer is because of the statements that have been made already by Mr. Hinchey and Mr. Obey about compassion for people who are suffering. We offer this amendment for terminal cancer patients, for AIDS victims, for persons who suffer chronic pain. We offer this amendment not only to protect those people; we offer this amendment to protect these States that are progressive enough to provide alternative medical options to those who need it. So often this body insists on protecting the rights of States to define marriage. So often this body insists on protecting the rights of States to set abortion policies. So often this body insists on protecting the rights of States to determine education curricula and standards. But when it comes to protecting the rights of States to set medical scope of practice, this body balks. All of a sudden States no longer have the right to determine what is best for their citizens when it includes medical marijuana. The Hinchey amendment does not change Federal law. It does not change drug policy. It does protect States' rights. For those of you who come from States that do not have medical marijuana laws, nothing in this amendment will affect your State. Everything in your State remains status quo. For those of you who come from States that do have medical marijuana laws, very little in this amendment will impact your State. The only difference now is that your State will be able to implement its laws without little old ladies being busted by Federal cops. I support this amendment.

Mr. FARR

Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tremendous public career of Dr. Richard Elster who will retire this year from his post as the Naval Postgraduate School's provost and academic dean. As many of my colleagues know, the Naval Postgraduate School, NPS, located in Monterey, CA, is this Nation's premier institution for graduate level military education and research. While its name points to its origins as a Navy facility, NPS in fact graduates masters and Ph.D. candidates from every U.S. military service and many allied foreign militaries. It also houses a pioneer program to research and grant masters degrees in homeland security. Dr. Elster has been associated with NPS since 1969, when he joined the faculty as an assistant professor. Since then he has at various times served at NPS as an associate professor, professor, chairman of the Department of Administrative Sciences, dean of instruction, and finally the provost and academic dean position from which he is retiring. In the last 10 years, under Dr. Elster's tenure in this last position, NPS has seen a burst of activity, not only in the areas mentioned above but in many small ways that make it a key component of our Nation's security. Under Dr. Elster's leadership, much of the academic work of NPS students and faculty responds directly to real world defense mission needs. It's a marriage of top notch academics and military mission that no other institution in the U.S., or the world for that matter, can duplicate. Considered on its own, Dr. Elster's academic career sets a remarkable standard of achievement. However, interspersed through his time at NPS, Dr. Elster served in several high ranking Pentagon positions. Starting in 1975 as a special advisor to the Secretary of Defense for Manpower and reserve affairs, Dr. Elster also held positions as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Resource Management and Support. This record of service reflects both Dr. Elster's keen intelligence and leadership qualities, but also his absolute dedication to public service. The combination of these qualities and his achievements in national security management and in the classroom allow Dr. Elster to leave more than several lifetimes of achievement upon his retirement. Mr. Speaker, it is easy to say that Dr. Elster's retirement from NPS will leave a void that will be hard to fill. That much is obvious. What is also apparent to me and many others is that he has over these past 30 years set so powerful an example that there are many men and women in public service today who can fill that role by virtue of Dr. Elster's example. It is my privilege to share with Dr. Elster the thanks of this House on the occasion of this retirement and to offer him and his family our best wishes on his life and work to come.