Rodney Frelinghuysen

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, every year, more high school seniors from the 11th Congressional District trade in varsity jackets for Navy peacoats, Air Force flight suits, and Army brass buckles than any other district in the country. But this is nothing new: Our area has repeatedly sent an above-average proportion of its sons and daughters to the Nation's military academies for decades. This shouldn't come as a surprise. The educational excellence of our area is well known and has long been a magnet for families looking for the best environment in which to raise their children. Our graduates are skilled not only in mathematics, science, and social studies, but also have solid backgrounds in sports, debate teams, and other extracurricular activities. This diverse upbringing makes military academy recruiters sit up and take note--indeed, many recruiters know our towns and schools by name. Since the 1830's, Members of Congress have enjoyed meeting, talking with, and nominating these superb young people to our military academies. But how did this process evolve? In 1843, when West Point was the sole academy, Congress ratified the nominating process and became directly involved in the makeup of our military's leadership. This was not an act of an imperial Congress bent on controlling every aspect of the Government. Rather, the procedure still used today was, and is, one further check and balance in our democracy. It was originally designed to weaken and divide political coloration in the officer corps, provide geographical balance to our armed services, and to make the officer corps more resilient to unfettered nepotism that handicapped European armies. In 1854, Representative Geritt Smith of New York added a new component to the academy nomination process--the academy review board. This was the first time a Member of Congress appointed prominent citizens from his district to screen applicants and assist with the serious duty of nominating candidates for academy admission. Today, I am honored to continue this wise tradition in my service to the 11th Congressional District. The Academy Review Board is composed of nine local citizens who have shown exemplary service to New Jersey, to their communities, and to the continued excellence of education in our area--many are veterans. Though from diverse backgrounds and professions, they all share a common dedication to seeing that the best qualified and motivated graduates attend our academies. And, as is true for most volunteer panels, their service goes largely unnoticed. I would like to take a moment to recognize these men and women and to thank them publicly for participating in this important panel. Being on this board requires hard work and an objective mind. Members have the responsibility of interviewing upward of 50 outstanding high school seniors every year in the academy review process. The nomination process follows a general timetable. High school seniors mail personal information directly to the Military Academy, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy once they become interested in attending. Information includes academic achievement, college entry test scores, and other activities. At this time, they also inform their Representative of their desire to be nominated. The academies then assess the applicants, rank them based on the data supplied, and return the files to my office with their notations. In mid-December, our Academy Review Board interviews all of the applicants over the course of 2 days. They assess a student's qualifications and analyze character, desire to serve, and other talents that may be hidden on paper. Last year, the board interviewed 32 applicants. Nominations included 10 to the Naval Academy, 17 to the Military Academy, 4 to the Air Force Academy, and 1 to the Merchant Marine Academy--the Coast Guard Academy does not use the congressional nomination process. The Board then forwards their recommendations to the academies by January 31, where recruiters review files and notify applicants and my office of their final decisions on admission. It is both reassuring and rewarding to know that many of our military officers hail from our hometowns or close by. When we consider the role of these officers in peace or war, we can rest easier knowing that the best and brightest are in command. Wherever they are sent, be that Bosnia, Somalia, Haiti, or Vietnam, many of these officers have academy training. And while a few people may question the motivations and ambitions of some young people, the academy review process shows that the large majority of our graduates are just as highly motivated as the generation before them. They still seek guidance from loving parents, dedicated teachers and schools, and from trusted clergy and rabbis. Indeed, every time I visit a school, speak at a college, or meet a young academy nominee, I am constantly reminded that we as a nation are blessed with fine young men and women. Their willingness and desire to serve their country is perhaps the most persuasive evidence of all.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, today I introduced legislation along with Representative Menendez to encourage America's schools to teach our young students about a tragic period in history that nearly destroyed the people and country of Ireland and forever changed the face of America. The mass starvation in Ireland from 1845 to 1850 initiated by the dramatic failure of the Irish potato crop is most commonly referred to as the Irish potato famine. Although Europe's poorest country in the middle 19th century, Ireland's 8 million inhabitants were curiously well nourished. The Irish people relied on the potato for the bulk of their diet since it was inexpensive and high in nutrients. However, in 1845, the Irish potato crop was ruined across the entire countryside by phytophthora infestans, an airborne pestilence. At the time, no one knew what caused the potato blight and so little could be done to save the crops. Across the whole of Ireland, potatoes simply rotted on the ground. The failure of the potato crop led to the inability of most Irish families to pay the rent on their cottages which, after Britain's annexation of the island in the late 18th century, were often owned by British landholders. The vicious cycle of poverty was held intact by both the continuation of the potato blight and the active exportation of the Irish grain crop by the British Crown. Those who traveled across the island during the famine noted the horrifying situation in which they encountered the Irish people. Men, women and children literally starved to death on the roadside and families huddled together in the cold waiting to die. In fact, while visiting Ireland in 1845, the African-American abolitionist Frederick Douglas wrote that the people of Ireland ``are in the same degradation as the American slaves.'' A number of British groups threw aside the prevailing prejudices against the Irish to provide relief from what had become a starvation of epidemic proportions in the colony. The Quakers, or the Society of Friends, even set up a vast array of soup kitchens throughout the countryside. However, it was not enough to stop the hunger and loss of farming wages. By the end of the epidemic in 1850, more than one million Irish had perished from the hunger, cold and disease brought about by the potato blight. It seemed the only way to elude the horrors of the famine was to leave Ireland--and so many did just that. Although the voyage was treacherous and relatively expensive, more than one million Irish emigrated to the United States during the famine. Initially, they settled in the cities of the northeastern seaboard such as Boston and New York. Later they pushed westward to Chicago, the Great Plains and the uncharted western territories. With them they brought their Celtic culture and determination. Aside from impacting the basic makeup of the American people, Irish-Americans have made significant contributions in American business, law, music, athletics, literature, religion and politics. In fact, U.S. Presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, considered by many to be the greatest Presidential orators of their respective political parties this century, are both from Irish-American families. Perhaps, though, the legacy of the Irish famine's immigration wave to America is most evident in our everyday lives. Today, more than 1.5 million of New Jersey's 8 million inhabitants claim some Irish descent, as do millions of other Americans. The resolution put forth today by myself and Representative Menendez recognizes the contributions made by Irish-Americans to our greater American heritage. Irish-Americans have left an indelible mark on our American culture and history, and for that reason our children should learn more about the tragic famine which brought so many of them to our shores in search of freedom from hunger, freedom from want and freedom from colonial rule.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of Dr. Stanley S. Bergen, Jr. to mark his 25th anniversary as president of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey [UMDNJ]. Dr. Bergen has served the State of New Jersey with exceptional dedication, energy, and leadership that has distinguished his career as the first and only president of UMDNJ. Under Dr. Bergen's stewardship, the university has emerged as the largest public university of the health sciences in the country and serves as a national resource for health professions, education, research, patient care, and services to the community. Through his resolve to provide educational opportunity and health care services to all the people of New Jersey, the university has grown to include seven schools on four main academic campuses statewide with programs at more than 100 affiliated educational and health care institutions in communities throughout the State. Dr. Bergen has provided opportunities to increase representation of minority faculty and students that has made UMDNJ a national leader in minority enrollment and retention. He is recognized as a national authority on health care and a prominent leader in academic medicine in the State and the Nation. I congratulate Dr. Bergen for a quarter century of service to the people of our State. His high standard of excellence in education, research, and patient care has brought pride and honor to our State. I wish him all the best for his continued success.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, I commend to your attention a patient education conference that was held earlier this year in the 11th Congressional District--Prostate Cancer: Today and Tomorrow. Cohosted by the American Foundation for Urologic Disease, Morristown Memorial Hospital and the Prostate Cancer Support Group of Morristown Memorial Hospital, it was an effective grassroots effort to warn and educate local residents on the importance of early detection of and continued research into prostate cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the greatest cancer risk for American men, and over 317,000 males will be diagnosed with this type of cancer in 1996. It is vital that prostate cancer be recognized as a serious threat to American men and their families. Increased awareness of health issues, improved detection and testing techniques, and national awareness programs for this disease have all played significant roles in increasing public knowledge of prostate cancer. There are a number of individuals and organizations I want to recognize for holding such an important conference: First, Hon. Dean A. Gallo, the former Congressman of New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, died of prostate cancer on November 6, 1994. His widow, Mrs. Betty Gallo, is now a trustee of the Dean Gallo Foundation and she instituted the Dean Gallo Prostate Cancer Research Scholarship Fund. This scholarship fund will help fund career investigators who are committed to prostate cancer research in the State of New Jersey. Second, I commend the American Foundation for Urologic Disease, a charitable organization, whose mission is to prevent and find a cure for urologic diseases through the expansion of research, education and public awareness. For over 20 years, the Research Scholar Program of the AFUD has funded over 300 urologic researchers as they established their scientific careers. Over 98 percent of the investigators have continued in these career paths. Third, Morristown Memorial Hospital, a not-for-profit hospital serving northern New Jersey, for its leadership in the field. Founded in 1892, it has expanded in size and services to become a 599-bed medical center and the third largest in the State. It is a major teaching hospital, affiliated with Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons. Its regional Cancer Center is affiliated with the Cancer Institute of New Jersey in New Brunswick and offers expertise in surgical, urologic, medical, radiation, and gynecologic oncology specialties. Center highlights include clinical trails, cytogenetics, and patient support programs. Fourth, the Morristown Memorial Prostate Cancer Support Group which is chaired by Mr. Peter Doherty, a prostate cancer survivor. Over 75 persons, including physicians and medical professionals, prostate cancer survivors, their partners and families and friends gather to exchange information and provide support, encouragement and hope. Finally, I would also like to commend the participants of Prostate Cancer: Today and Tomorrow, outstanding physicians and an organization whose research is making significant inroads in the field of prostate cancer. They include: E. David Crawford, M.D. professor and chairman, Division of Urology of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO. He is also chairman of the Prostate Cancer Education Council [PCEC], national sponsor of Prostate Cancer Awareness Week. Charles Myers, M.D., was chief of the Clinical Pharmacology Branch of the National Cancer Institute, where he directed clinical trials of drugs used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. William H. Hait, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Arthur Israel, M.D. is chief, Section of Urology, Morristown Memorial Hospital. Dr. Israel is a member of the American Foundation for Urologic Disease and the American Urological Association. He is currently president of the New Jersey Urological Society. Schering Oncology Biotech, a corporation headquartered in Kenilworth, NJ and TAP Pharmaceutical, Inc. of Deerfield, IL for providing educational grants for prostate cancer research. All those who participated in Prostate Cancer: Today and Tomorrow made a powerful impact on patients, physicians, medical institutions, research and educational foundations, and industry to collaborate and provide accurate medical information to prostate cancer victims, survivors, and their families. I salute their work.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, I commend to your attention a patient education conference that was held earlier this year in the 11th Congressional District--Prostate Cancer: Today and Tomorrow. Cohosted by the American Foundation for Urologic Disease, Morristown Memorial Hospital and the Prostate Cancer Support Group of Morristown Memorial Hospital, it was an effective grassroots effort to warn and educate local residents on the importance of early detection of and continued research into prostate cancer. According the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the greatest cancer risk for American men, and over 317,000 males will be diagnosed with this type of cancer in 1996. It is vital that prostate cancer be recognized as a serious threat to American men and their families. Increaed awareness of health issues, improved detection and testing techniques, and national awareness programs for this disease have all played significant roles in increasing public knowledge of prostate cancer. There are a number of individuals and organizations I want to recognize for holding such an impotant conference: First, Honorable Dean A. Gallo, the former Congressman of New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, died of prostate cancer on November 6, 1994. His widow, Mrs. Betty Gallo, is now a trustee of the Dean Gallo Foundation and she instituted the Dean Gallo Prostate Cancer Research Scholarship Fund. This scholarship fund will help fund career investigators who are committed to prostate cancer research in the State of New Jersey. Second, I commend the American Foundation for Urologic Disease, a charitable organization, whose mission is to prevent and find a cure for urologic diseases through the expansion of research, education and public awareness. For over 20 years, the Research Scholar Program of the AFUD has funded over 300 urologic researchers as they established their scientific careers. Over 98% of the investigators have continued in these career paths. Third, Morristown Memorial Hospital, a not-for-profit hospital serving northern New Jersey, for its leadership in the field. Founded in 1892, it has expanded in size and services to become a 599-bed medical center and the third largest in the state. It is a major teaching hospital, affiliated with Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons. Its regional Cancer Center is affiliated with the Cancer Institute of New Jersey in New Brunswick and offers expertise in surgical, urologic, medical, radiation and gynecologic oncology specialties. Center highlights include clinical trials, cytogenetics and patient support programs. Fourth, the Morristown Memorial Prostate Cancer Support Group which is chaired by Mr. Peter Doherty, a prostate cancer survivor. Over seventy-five persons, including physicians and medical professionals, prostate cancer survivors, their partners and families and friends gather to exchange information and provide support, encouragement and hope. Finally, I would also like to commend the participants of Prostate Cancer: Today and Tomorrow, outstanding physicians and an organization whose research is making significant inroads in the field of prostate cancer. They include: E. David Crawford, M.D., Professor and Chairman, Division of Urology of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO. He is also chairman of the Prostate Cancer Education Council [PCEC], national sponsor of Prostate Cancer Awareness Week. Charles Myers, M.D., was chief of the Clinical Pharmacology Branch of the National Cancer Institute, where he directed clinical trials of drugs used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. William H. Hait, M.D., Ph.D., Director of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Arthur Israel, M.D., is Chief Section of Urology, Morristown Memorial Hospital. Dr. Israel is a member of the American Foundation for Urologic Disease and the American Urological Association. He is currently president of the New Jersey Urological Society. Schering Oncology Biotech, a corporation headquartered in Kenilworth, New Jersey and TAP Pharmaceutical, Inc. of Deerfield, Illinois for providing educational grants for prostate cancer research. All those who participated in Prostate Cancer: Today and Tomorrow made a powerful impact on patients, physicians, medical institutions, research and educational foundations, and industry to collaborate and provide accurate medical information to prostate cancer victims, survivors and their families, I salute their work.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduced legislation along with Representative Menendez to encourage America's schools to teach our young students about a tragic period in history that nearly destroyed the people and country of Ireland and forever changed the face of America. The mass starvation in Ireland from 1845 to 1850 initiated by the dramatic failure of the Irish potato crop is most commonly referred to as the Irish Potato Famine. Although Europe's poorest country in the middle 19th century, Ireland's 8 million inhabitants were curiously well-nourished. The Irish people relied on the potato for the bulk of their diet since it was inexpensive and high in nutrients. However, in 1845, the Irish potato crop was ruined across the entire countryside by phytophthora infestans, an airborne petilence. At the time, no one knew what caused the potato blight and so little could be done to save the crops. Across the whole of Ireland, potatoes simply rotted on the ground. The failure of the potato crop led to the inability of most Irish families to pay the rent on their cottages which, after Britain's annexation of the island in the late 18th century, were often owned by British landholders. The vicious cycle of poverty was held intact by both the continuation of the potato blight and the active exportation of the Irish grain crop by the British Crown. Those who traveled across the island during the famine noted the horrifying situation in which they encountered the Irish people. Men, women, and children literally starved to death on the roadside and families huddled together in the cold waiting to die. In fact, while visiting Ireland in l845, the African-American abolitionist Frederick Douglas wrote that the people of Ireland ``are in the same degradation as the American slaves.'' A number of British groups threw aside the prevailing prejudices against the Irish to provide relief from what had become a starvation of epidemic proportions in the colony. The Quakers, or the Society of Friends, even set up a vast array of soup kitchens throughout the countryside. However, it was not enough to stop the hunger and loss of farming wages. By the end of the epidemic in 1850, more than 1 million Irish had perished from the hunger, cold, and disease brought about by the potato blight. It seemed the only way to elude the horrors of the famine was to leave Ireland--and so many did just that: Although the voyage was treacherous and relatively expensive, more than 1 million Irish emigrated to the United States during the famine. Initially, they settled in the cities of the northeastern seaboard such as Boston and New York. Later they pushed westward to Chicago, the Great Plains, and the uncharted Western territories. With them they brought their Celtic culture and determination. Aside from impacting the basic makeup of the American people, Irish-Americans have made significant contributions in American business, law, music, athletics, literature, religion, and politics. In fact, U.S. Presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, considered by many to be the greatest Presidential orators in their respective political parties this century, are both from Irish-American families. Perhaps, though, the legacy of the Irish Famine's immigration wave to America is most evident in our everyday lives. Today, 5 million of New Jersey's 8 million inhabitats claim some Irish descent, as do millions of other Americans. The resolution put forth today by myself and Representative Memendez recognizes the contributions made by Irish- Americans to our greater American heritage. Irish-Americans have left an indelible mark on American culture and history, and for that reason our children should learn more about the tragic famine which brought so many of them to our shores in search of freedom from hunger, freedom from want, and freedom from colonial rule.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding this time to me, and I rise in support of the conference agreement. Mr. Speaker, let me first thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Lewis] and the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Stokes] and the staff for their leadership and guidance. Specifically, the bill provides funding for two very important programs that I am very pleased to support and that I have actively worked on throughout the year: the Superfund program and the program for housing for people with disabilities. This conference report dedicates $1.3 billion to the Superfund program. All of us know how important this program is, and for the second time in the 104th Congress this committee has earmarked over $900 million, the most money ever for remediation activities. This money will go a long way toward cleaning up many serious toxic waste problems. Coming from a State, New Jersey, that has the most Superfund sites of any State in the Nation, I am very pleased that Congress has attempted to put money towards cleanup and less money toward litigation. I am hopeful next year, Mr. Speaker, we can put our differences aside and reauthorize the Superfund program. Finally, I would like to comment on the increases for both the disabled and senior housing programs. Realizing the importance of both of these programs, this agreement increases the funding above the President's request by $20 million for the disabled housing and $50 million for senior housing. In addition to these increases, the conference report recognizes the importance of providing housing for people with disabilities. The committee has, for the first time, earmarked $50 million for tenant- based rental assistance, to ensure that there is decent, safe, and affordable housing in the community for low-income people with disabilities. I specifically thank the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Lewis] for his leadership and help on these earmarks. Access to housing, Mr. Speaker, in the community, is a cornerstone to independence, integration, and productivity for people with disabilities, the three hallmarks of the philosophy of the disability community. This bill strongly supports these principles, and I believe these extra dollars will empower the community in their goals of living with dignity and independence.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding this time to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3907, and I thank the gentleman from Utah [Mr. Hansen] and the ranking member for their support and hard work in helping this long sought objective be realized. I strongly support the provisions for the acquisition of Sterling Forest, this important largest undeveloped property in the New York-New Jersey metropolitan area. It is a water and recreational reserve area and especially a valuable watershed for northern New Jersey. Approximately 3\1/2\ million citizens depend on this area for clean water. Let me thank the Speaker, the gentleman from Georgia [Mr. Gingrich], the gentlewoman from New Jersey [Mrs. Roukema], my colleague, the gentleman from New Jersey [Mr. Martini], for their leadership in preserving this valuable and scarce open space. Without their efforts, and most particularly the efforts of the gentleman from Utah [Mr. Hansen], we would not be here today, and I am here today to support this proposal, and I urge my colleagues to adopt it. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3907, the Snowbasin Land Exchange and Sterling Forest Land Acquisition Act. I strongly support the provisions in this legislation that authorize $17.5 million for the acquisition of Sterling Forest. Sterling Forest consists of 20,000 acres in New York and New Jersey and is currently owned by the Sterling Forest Corp., which plans to develop residences, retail, and light industrial properties on the site. If development takes place, it will impact this critical watershed that provides water for over 3\1/2\ million people in northern New Jersey. This is almost 28 percent of New Jersey's water supply that would be negatively affected by development of the land tract and would possibly cost New Jersey hundreds of millions of dollars in construction costs for new water treatment plants. This issue has been a priority for the State of New Jersey for some time, and a priority for me as well. When I served in the State Legislature as chairman of the Assembly Appropriations Committee, I was able to provide $10 million for the acquisition of the land in the State budget. Gov. Christine Whitman has worked in conjunction with Gov. George Pataki of New York to secure adequate funding to see that both our States contribute these essential dollars toward the overall purchase price. This legislation today continues this effort at the Federal level. And, upon authorization of this bill, I am committed to pursuing funding as a member of the Appropriations Committee. I have also received assurances from Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt on several occasions that he will support funding for Sterling Forest once the project is authorized. Let me make clear that this authorization is a one-time cost to the Federal Government. The $17.5 million authorized in this legislation is for acquisition costs only after that point, the area will be fully operated and managed by the Palisades Interstate Park Commission. In fact, the long-term costs to the local and State Governments for water treatment and road construction will be far greater if this purchase is not made. And, the Federal Government's cost is small relative to the total amount needed to buy and maintain the property--a major commitment made by New Jersey and New York and a testament to the importance of the preservation of Sterling Forest to our area. Sterling Forest is the largest remaining undeveloped wilderness tract in the New York metropolitan region. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for your commitment to preserving this land, as well as Congressman Martini and Congresswoman Roukema for all of their work on this issue. This acquisition is for the public benefit and will serve the interest of present as well as future generations. Again, I strongly support this legislation and urge support for the bill.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 3816 making appropriations for energy and water development for fiscal year 1997. I would first like to thank Chairman John Myers and Ranking Member Tom Bevill for their leadership and direction. Although I have not had the pleasure of working with them as long as some of my colleagues, I am grateful that I have had 2 years to learn from them. I will miss both of them in the next Congress as they are retiring. I would also like to thank the dedicated staff of the subcommittee, without them our jobs would be tremendously more difficult. Their knowledge and professionalism is to be commended. The bill before the House today stresses national priorities while keeping our commitment to downsize the Federal Government, maintain funding for critical flood safety projects, coastal protection, and dredging harbors and waterways throughout our Nation. We have made some tough choices about where to reduce spending but I believe the $19.8 billion that we have provided is targeted toward the areas that are the most important. I am particularly pleased with the subcommittee decision to flatly reject the President's proposal to end coastal protection and smaller navigation projects. These projects are very important to local economies all over the United States and especially New Jersey. The President's policy was shortsighted and would have resulted in hurting many communities that rely on promises the Federal Government has made to provide flood protection. And more often than not, they are projects that have been undertaken in partnerships with local and State governments. I am hopeful that the administration will abandon future efforts such as these and concentrate on providing the protection that our citizens deserve. In addition, this bill provides $225 million for magnetic fusion energy research. While this number is reduced from last year level, I am hopeful that as the bill moves through the legislative process the committee will be able to increase the number. I am also optimistic that the committee will be able to reach a compromise on language giving the Department the greatest flexibility in meeting the FEAC recommendations contained in this year's report. Scientists who work in this special area of fusion research tell me that the prospects for achieving practical fusion energy have never been greater. The progress over the past several years has been truly impressive. Fusion energy research needs to be continued if we have any hopes of finding future energy sources that do not harm our environment. Mr. Chairman, this bill represents real progress toward setting national priorities. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 3845, the Fiscal Year 1997 Appropriations Act for the District of Columbia. Let me begin by complimenting my subcommittee chairman, Congressman Walsh, on his excellent work on this bill, as well as the ranking member, Mr. Dixon, for all of his work. Many months of hearings, meetings, and negotiations, have resulted in the strong, bipartisan bill before the House today. H.R. 3845 appropriates $717.8 million for the Federal payment to the District of Columbia. The bill's funding levels are identical to last year's appropriation, except for an additional $5.7 million that the committee provided to reimburse the city for the upcoming 1997 Presidential inauguration. I do believe that the approach the Appropriations Committee has taken in this bill will move the city toward financial stability. This bill caps the city's fiscal 1997 budget deficit at $40 million. This represents an amount that is $60 million less than what the city and the control board forecast. I believe that this deficit cap represents great progress in the District's path toward stability, allowing for responsible spending to meet the needs of city residents without affecting essential services. H.R. 3845 also approves a budget blueprint for the city that was reached by the Financial Control Board, the D.C. Mayor and City Council and seems like a responsible attempt to control spending. I am pleased that the budget blueprint that H.R. 3845 approves earmarks the full budget request of $1 billion for local law enforcement, fire, and emergency services personnel along with the judicial and corrections system. While the District needs to control spending, I firmly believe that reductions should not be taken from an already understanding public safety force. Overall, the priorities reflected in the blueprint promote education, public safety, public works, and economic development. I would urge the control board to continue its close scrutiny of District financial matters to assure that the District adheres to the sound fiscal policy that this bill promotes. While I strongly support this bill today, I continue to have concerns in two areas not addressed by this appropriations bill. First, I have strong reservations about the control board's recommendation for Congress to authorize long-term deficit borrowing for the District. The city has proposed borrowing $500 million over 15 years to pay off the accumulated debt and finance future deficits. I continue to be concerned that deficit borrowing would cost current and future taxpayers over $750 million in interest costs alone. Second, although a great deal of progress has been made, the 4-year financial control plan has not been approved by the committee. I would urge the completion of this long-term plan so that Congress, city leaders, and control board members may begin review and negotiations for essential structural changes in the city's management that must be made in order to reach long-term stability. Again, I rise in support of H.R. 3845 and I would urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recall the unprovoked Turkish invasion of Cyprus on July 20, 1974, and the strife that still exists on the island as a result of Turkish aggression. After Cyprus gained independence from Great Britain in 1960, the island, whose population remains nearly 80 percent Greek, experienced clashes between the Greek and Turkish communities. Despite the overwhelmingly Greek population and culture dating back to ancient times, the Turkish government invaded Cyprus during a transition in political rule. Turkish forces invaded the northern coast of the island and soon amassed 30,000 troops that quickly overwhelmed the unexpecting Greek Cypriot population. Although the U.N. Security Council negotiated peace talks, the Turkish forces controlled 37 percent of Cyprus by August, leaving one-third of the Cypriot population homeless and more than 1,600 persons still unaccounted for to this day--including 5 Americans. Now, 22 years later, Cyprus remains divided despite repeated attempts at peace talks. Greek Cypriots who lived in towns for generations now stare across a barbed-wire fence that divides them from the Turkish controlled section of their homeland where their homes, property, and churches have been destroyed. This 112-mile border that divides the Greek south from the Turkish-controlled north, is as tense as the old Berlin Wall. U.N. troops still patrol this partition that has existed since the Turkish invasion. Mr. Speaker, after 22 years of cold war, sharp division, unanswered questions, and tension created by Turkish actions since 1974, there must be a resolution and settlement since this situation is tragic for Greek Cypriots and a real danger to greater European peace and security. Cyprus should be a free and open state and those responsible for the tragedies and crimes of the past and present should be held accountable and brought to justice.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time, and I rise in support of the Lewis amendment and to thank the gentleman from California, Chairman Lewis, for offering this amendment and for his leadership and cooperation in working with the Members of Congress from New Jersey, Governor Christine Todd Whitman, and Commissioner of Health Lynn Fishman from New Jersey. I would also like to thank my colleagues from New Jersey, Congressmen Dick Zimmer, Chris Smith, and Jim Saxton, for working on this important issue and for bringing it to my and our committee's attention. This amendment will for the first time provide the needed funding for the Toms River cancer cluster study. The funding will allow the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry to begin to look at possible causes for the increased cancer rate around Toms River. We have a responsibility to the people of this area to find out what is causing these cases and this funding will help us find this out. Mr. Chairman, again, I would like to thank Chairman Lewis of this subcommittee, most particularly for his leadership and his cooperation, and urge adoption of this amendment on behalf of all the citizens of New Jersey.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me, and I rise in support of the bill. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman from California [Mr. Lewis], the chairman of the committee, the ranking member, the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Stokes], and the subcommittee staff for their leadership and guidance. Our bill contains funding for many vital programs for our Nation's veterans to protect and preserve our environment, to help house the needy and disabled, and for scientific research and discovery. It has been a difficult task balancing all the national priorities contained in this bill. However, I believe we have achieved this goal, and I am proud to support the final agreement. In total, our bill provides over $848 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, and 17 independent agencies and offices. Specifically, the bill provides funding for two very important programs that I am very pleased to support and that I have actively worked on throughout the hearing process: first, the Superfund Program; and second, the program dealing with housing for people with disabilities. This bill dedicates $1.3 billion for the Superfund Program. All of us know, especially those of us from New Jersey, how important this program is. For the second time in the 104th Congress, this committee has earmarked the most money ever for remediation, over $900 million. This money will go a long way towards our commitment to clean up these priority sites, and should be adequate funding to move the sites through to completion. The time has come to reauthorize this program and move the process forward. This bill allows this to happen. In addition, Mr. Chairman, this bill recognizes the importance of providing housing for people with disabilities. The committee has, for the first time, earmarked $50 million for tenant-based rental assistance to ensure that there is decent, safe, and affordable housing in the community for low-income people with disabilities. Access to housing in the community is the cornerstone for independence, integration, and productivity for people with disabilities, the three hallmarks of the philosophy of the disability community. This bill strongly supports these principles, and I believe these extra dollars will empower the community and help them achieve their goal of living with dignity and independence. Mr. chairman, I am proud, as a member of this committee, of the work of this committee and I am pleased with the final product. I urge all my colleagues to support it.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. I am pleased to rise to honor the memory of my friend and colleague, the gentleman from Missouri, the late Bill Emerson. For the past 18 months, he has been a friend and periodic advisor. He has generously shared his love of Congress as an institution with me and his deep knowledge and interest in American history, most especially the role of Abraham Lincoln and his family. Bill Emerson touched the lives of two generations of Frelinghuysen's in Congress. He was a congressional page in 1954 when my father, Peter H.B. Frelinghuysen was a Member of this body. He was on the floor, as my father was, on the fateful day when Puerto Rican nationalists shot and wounded several Members of Congress from the spectators gallery. He was a special person and one who had an immediate impact on those he met. Perhaps the greatest indication of his impact on this House and those who work in it is the testament that we've heard today--from Republicans and Democrats, liberals and conservatives, men and women, old friends and new who all respected this honorable man. At a time when it is fashionable to criticize government and Congress, Bill Emerson was always unabashed in his defense of this institution. He served as an example to us all that quiet leadership, an open mind, and a strong commitment to constituent service is the best way to earn the public trust and the respect of our colleagues. We can honor his service by practicing these virtues. And through this effort by each and every one of us, the House of Representatives that Bill Emerson loved so much will bear his grand imprint for many years to come.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, when ``Braveheart'' won the Oscar for best motion picture this year, everyone knew about it, because an Oscar is the top award for the motion picture industry. The Emmys, the Tonys, the Pulitzers, the Nobels, and others are just like it. We recognize these awards and immediately equate them with excellence and unparalleled achievement in a certain field of endeavor. They represent the ``creme de la creme,'' the best of the best. And when people win them, they receive well-deserved recognition. But 2 weeks ago, a group of neighbors, friends, relatives, and peers in our community who work at Picatinny Arsenal won the top military awards for installation excellence, and no one seemed to notice. In fact, they won the top three awards, including the highly coveted President's award--an extremely rare feat in the military and one which is referred to as the Triple Crown in the hallowed halls of the Pentagon. At the ceremony, I sat next to Senator Strom Thurmond--who's served in the Senate longer than anyone else--and even he was shaking his head in amazement that one base won all the awards. I was fortunate to have been with base commander Brig. Gen. James W. Boddie, Rockaway Mayor John Inglesino, and a group of Picatinny employees when they received the Army's top award, and I must admit it was an awesome explosion of pride. Military brass up to and including Secretary of Defense William Perry clapped long and loud, saluted time and again, and sat up and took notice of the success of Picatinny Arsenal. The Defense Department created these awards to recognize excellence and to reward improvement in quality, performance, and productivity. The criteria that is used is exactly the same that private businesses are rated on when being judged for the prestigious Malcolm Baldridge Awards for Quality. But what makes this achievement much more amazing is that all of this took place during what Secretary Perry called in his remarks ``the toughest times in the U.S. military.'' Indeed, several top officers told stories of the pain and reality of working in the times of base closures and defense downsizing, when both civilian and military employment rolls are being reduced. ``You can't cut excellence,'' said Lt. Col. Carl Smith, in reference to the shrinking military. Smith is a staff officer who works for the assistant chief of staff for installation management. I asked him how rare it was that Picatinny hit the grand slam of military awards. ``It is a milestone, because most of the time the larger installations--the Fort Bennings--are the top-dog winners. To have a smaller installation like Picatinny come in and win all three really is precedent-setting.'' I couldn't say it any better myself. On Memorial Day, we'll salute and remember the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for this Nation. And when we do, we often think of veterans and those who currently serve our Nation in the armed services. The men and women at Picatinny Arsenal are these people. They build the munitions and armaments that our soldiers in Bosnia and throughout the world are using. They assure that we have the best technology and arms to keep the peace. When I traveled to Bosnia in December and met with our troops on the eve of their deployment, I saw determination, professionalism, and a willingness to do the job. When Secretary Perry led the thundering and raucous applause to congratulate Picatinny employees for being the best of the best, I saw joy and pride of a job well done. Congratulations, Picatinny. I salute you, and salute those who gave their lives and those who have defended our country on this Memorial Day.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 178, the fiscal year 1997 budget resolution. Over a year ago, I stood on the floor in support of this essential effort to balance the Federal budget. Since then, doing so has been my No. 1 priority as a Member of Congress. I am pleased to be able to say that over the past year we have taken the first step toward a balanced budget. We have reduced the deficit and cut Government spending by $43 billion. Today, I stand in support of taking the next step forward toward securing a better future for our children and for our country. This budget sets reasonable priorities for Federal Government spending, returns money to the pockets of hardworking American citizens and returns important decisionmaking power where it belongs--out of the hands of the Washington bureaucracy and into the hands of States, municipalities, and families. This resolution balances our country's economic needs with our commitment to our veterans, seniors, students, and hard-working taxpayers. House Concurrent Resolution 178 reforms welfare and Medicaid, and preserves, protects, and strengthens Medicare for millions of older Americans. We make these reforms while increasing spending on all three of these programs, improving services and saving $211 billion over 6 years. This budget protects our Nation's natural resources and ensures a clean and healthy environment. The bill recommends increasing funding for actual Superfund cleanups by $700 million. In New Jersey and around the country, this means that sites would get cleaned up more quickly and less time and money would be spent on litigation and overhead. This bill also provides more funding for our National Park System and safe drinking water. I strongly support this effort to assure Americans have cleaner air and water, greater access to outdoor public recreation, and to protect wilderness and historic areas. Safe homes, streets, and communities are also a priority under our budget proposal and we recommend a net spending increase of $9.3 billion, including increased spending for the violent crime reduction trust fund. We have focused over the past year on making our streets safer, improving law enforcement, and making commonsense reforms to our Department of Justice. This budget continues that focus and provides resources to carry out these priorities. The House Republican budget also renews America's commitment to those who have served and those who continue to serve our country in the armed services. As a veteran myself, I am pleased that under our budget we were able to increase veterans spending to almost $40 billion and reject the Clinton administration's proposed cuts in veteran's medical care, VA hospitals, medical research, and the National Cemetery System. This budget also continues our efforts to reduce the size of our Federal Government. Last year, we greatly reduced the size and spending of Congress. This year, we greatly reduced the size and spending of Congress. This year and over the next 6 years House Concurrent Resolution 178 envisions savings of $5 billion by imposing a moratorium on constructing and acquiring Federal buildings, reducing overhead, and reducing funding for the Executive Office of the White House by 15 percent. Finally, unlike other proposals House Concurrent Resolution 178 returns money to the hands of the American people while reducing the deficit. Our proposal eliminates corporate tax loopholes, provides an adoption tax credit, and contains a $500-per-child tax credit. This resolution provides $122 billion in permanent tax relief, of which the majority will go to taxpayers earning between $30,000 and $75,000 annually. I am pleased to support this 6-year budget resolution that makes commonsense spending decisions, sets priorities, continues adequate levels of spending on important Federal programs to protect our health, safety, environment. This budget resolution is true to our commitment to balance the Federal budget and live within our means. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank and congratulate a group of very talented young men and women from the 11th Congressional District of New Jersey. I am, of course, referring to the 49 students from 15 high schools in our area who entered the annual congressional arts competition called, ``An Artistic Discovery.'' Mr. Speaker, we have a long and distinguished history of educational excellence in the 11th Congressional District--which encompasses all of Morris County, and parts of Essex, Somerset, Sussex, and Passaic Counties. We send more of our graduates to the Nation's military academies than any other congressional district in the country. A young scientist from Morristown recently placed sixth in a nationwide scientific research contest for his impressive work on fusion energy. And judging from the entries I saw last month, I know that we have some of the best young artists in the country as well. So let me first thank all the students who participated because it is their hard work and effort that makes this contest special. The high school, followed by student's name and name of art work, follows: Academy of St. Elizabeth: (1) Clara McAuley, ``Passing;'' (2) Nicole Pantos, ``Harp;'' (3) Alice Otchy, ``Me in the Middle.'' Bayley-Ellard High School: (4) Gail Houston, ``Aftermath;'' (5) Michelle Mechanic, ``Pigments.'' Boonton High School: (6) Nicole Batalias, ``Self- Portrait;'' (7) Danny Joldzic, ``Jungle Cat;'' (8) Laura Potucek, ``Victoria;'' (9) Tim Stettner, ``Art Nehf.'' Chatham High School: (10) Will Batten, ``Untitled;'' (11) Kit Herbert, ``Composition With Scissors;'' (12) Jim Newton, ``Still Life #4.'' Delbarton School: (13) Jon Colleran, ``Chronic;'' (14) Adam Herbert, ``American Icons;'' (15) Rory McDermott, ``Neptune;'' (16) Henry Prendergast, ``Time Zone.'' Kinnelon High School: (17) Tiffany Lum, ``Nectar Scream;'' (18) Alejandra Madriz, ``O Holy Ducky;'' (19) Roland McIntosh, Jr., ``Carpenter Was But One Trade;'' (20) Katharina Mordhorst, ``Dreaming of Red Hair.'' Madison High School: (21) Steve Fleming, ``Lanterns;'' (22) Pamela Schwartz, ``Portrait of a Woman;'' (23) Marlene Toledo, ``Translucent Hydrant.'' Matheny School: (24) Luis Carmona, ``Ski Trails;'' (25) Chet Cheesman, ``Crossroad;'' (26) Hassan Daughety, ``Piranha Dance;'' (27) Natalia Manning, ``Blue & Gold Over Black.'' Montville Township High School: (28) Emily Gilbert, ``Still Life;'' (29) Susan Groome, ``Self-Portrait;'' (30) Halley Tsai, ``Waiting for the Stranger.'' Morris Hills High School: (31) Keith Fitzgerald, ``Portal to My Imagination;'' (32) Susan Petrarca, ``Impressionistic View;'' (33) Sharon Robleza; ``Blue Dream;'' (34) Alan Schenkler, ``Sister.'' Morris Knolls High School: (35) Melissa Kurtz, ``Metamorphosis;'' (36) Kamila Sutah, ``Eternity;'' (37) Lexington Wilson, ``There Is Still Room;'' (38) Kara Zaloom, ``Gargoyle.'' Mount Olive High School: (39) Matt Kernan, ``Untitled;'' (40) Margaret Przybysz, ``Untitled;'' (41) Eric Schroeder, ``Fruit of Man;'' (42) Christopher Weber, ``Phreak Explosion.'' Pequannock Township High School: (43) Elizabeth Fritz, ``Crescendo;'' (44) Darah Semancik, ``A Study of Architecture;'' (45) Kristen Siwek, ``Michael Stipe;'' (46) Traci Wood, ``Southern Exposure.'' Randolph High School: (47) Bijal Amin, ``Untitled;'' (48) Alex Katsov, ``Diplomat.'' West Morris Central High School: (49) Russell Catalusci, ``Domecile.'' Now, I'd like to list the honorable mentions in the contest, which, as you might imagine, Mr. Speaker, were very difficult to choose. Alice Otchy for ``Me In the Middle,'' Tim Stettner for ``Art Nehf,'' Jon Colleran for Chronic,'' Pamela Schwartz for ``Portrait of a Woman,'' Alan Schenkler for ``Sister,'' Matt Kenam for ``Untitled,'' Darah Smancik for ``A Study of Architecture,'' and Alex Katsov for ``Diplomat.'' These were exceptional works of art and I wish we had room for all of them in the Capitol. The two judges choices went to Chet Cheesman for his work called ``Crossroad,'' and to Kamila Sutah for her entry entitled ``Eternity.'' Chet is a student at Matheny School in PeaPack and Kamila hails from Morris Knolls High School in Denville. And Best in Show for this year's arts contest went to Laura Potucek of Boonton High School for her painting called, ``Victoria,'' which will be displayed for one year in the corridor between the Cannon House Office Building and the Capitol alongside winning entries from Congressional districts across the country. I am also hoping she can visit me in Washington for the ceremony and maybe meet the Speaker of the House. I'd also like to thank our judges William and Kitty Sturm of Budd Lake. Mr. Sturm teaches at Dover High School, operates art studios in Budd Lake and Blairstown, and also oversees the revolving art program in the atrium of the County of Morris Administration Building. Mrs. Sturm runs a specialty arts and frame shop in Budd Lake. And finally, let me acknowledge our corporate sponsor, Schering- Plough Corporation of Madison, New Jersey. We greatly appreciate them displaying all the art in their offices and hosting the reception. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor and pleasure to represent these students and their families in Congress. It seems that almost every week, another student from the 11th District is winning an award, getting a scholarship, or being nationally recognized for scholastic or academic achievement. This recognition is the best testament of all that the teachers, schools, parents, and communities in the 11th District are dedicated to the future of New Jersey and to our country. To them and for Congress, I say thank you.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Florida for allowing me to rise today in support of H.R. 2137 and to commend my colleague, the gentleman from New Jersey [Mr. Zimmer], for his leadership on Megan's Law. It is a sad note that it took the tragedy of Megan Kanka's abduction and murder to make America aware of the need for this legislation. However, the gentleman from New Jersey, Mr. Zimmer's, Megan's law is a major victory for victim's rights and for the rights of the public at large against convicted sexual predators in our community. It is about time that our Federal laws gave victims and their families priorities over the rights of convicted criminals. As parents we constantly worry about the well-being of our children because we know of their innocence and vulnerability. Megan's Law goes a long way in helping parents and communities to protect our children from danger. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to support this bill and to commend the gentleman from New Jersey [Mr. Zimmer] for his active work in its passage.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Ronald J. Del Mauro, president and CEO of St. Barnabas Health Care System. On April 20, 1996, Mr. Del Mauro will be honored by the Mental Health Association of Essex County for his outstanding leadership and philanthropy in serving as head of the St. Barnabas Behavioral Health Care System. His worked has helped thousands of residents who are often the most vulnerable members of our population--the mentally ill. Mr. Del Mauro created the St. Barnabas Behavioral Health Network because, unfortunately, for many parents and their children, a number of health services are often separated for those with psychiatric problem and those with substance abuse problems. Mr. Del Mauro, recognizing this, created the St. Barnabas Behavioral Health Network to provide parents and their children with a place to turn get appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Mr. Del Mauro is also responsible for the St. Barnabas Health Care System which includes, in addition to St. Barnabas Medical Center, the 201-bed Union Hospital, four nursing homes with 660 beds, 10 corporate affiliates and 20 for-profit business ventures. The St. Barnabas Health Care System operates in 13 facilities throughout New Jersey and the Behavioral Health Network has 17 locations in the tristate area. More than 7,000 employees, including 1,800 physicians, treat a total of 59,000 inpatients, and provide treatment and services for more than 300,000 outpatient visits annually. I recently had the opportunity to visit St. Barnabas and tour their facility in Livingston, NJ. The health care delivery system Mr. Del Mauro has developed is an outstanding one and I would strongly recommend any of my colleagues look to at St. Barnabas as a national model. Mr. Del Mauro is also an active and effective leader in other areas. He serves as chairman of the New Jersey Hospital Association, as well as being a member of the Center for Health Affairs, Inc., Life Sciences Advisory Committee of the CIT Group, Inc., Seton Hall University Center for Public Services Advisory Council, board of trustees of the Paper Mill Playhouse and the Essex/Hudson/Union Hospital Council. He is a graduate of Seton Hall University, where he served as a adjunct professor at the Graduate School of Public Administration from 1983 to 1985. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Mr. Del Mauro for his leadership in helping to make our communities a healthier place to live and for his ongoing commitment to the mentally ill in New Jersey.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise to oppose this proposal. This issue, Mr. Chairman, ultimately comes down to congressional accountability and integrity. If Congress removes the transportation trust funds from the budget and therefore budget scrutiny, it will set forth a dangerous precedent for the other 160 trust funds under Federal jurisdiction. The progress was made in last year's budget for funding the Pell grants, veterans health care and housing improvements for our military families would be at risk if the transportation trust funds were taken off-budget. If we take this action, where are these cuts going to come from? Appropriations are not Houdini. If you tie our hands and drop us in a pool, do not expect us to get our heads above water.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as we celebrate Women's History Month, to honor the contributions of women to our economy as part of the labor force and as business owners around the country and especially in the State of New Jersey. In some ways, the facts speak for themselves. The number of women in the paid work force has almost doubled in the last 20 years. Women in the work force grew from 36.2 million in 1974 to 60.2 million in 1994. There are many talented women that are making enormous contributions to business and industry in the State of New Jersey. During a recent series of visits to companies located in the 11th district of New Jersey, I had the opportunity to meet and speak with many women who have risen or are climbing to the top positions and management in their respective companies. In addition to those outstanding women in corporations, the State of New Jersey is ranked ninth in the Nation in the total number of women- owned businesses with a recent total of 164,798. I am especially encouraged because this number increased in my own State by 40 percent over a period of 5 years. Nationally, women are starting businesses at twice the rate of men and the Small Business Administration anticipates that women will own 50 percent of all small businesses in America in the 21st century. These women-owned businesses employ more people than all Fortune 500 firms combined. Women employers are also bringing more than their economic achievements to the workplace; they influence and change the workplace for all employees by being more likely to offer flexible work arrangements, child care and heath care benefits. As women continue to make their mark in the workplace as employers and employees they face many challenges--access to child care, pay equity, educational opportunities, and access to capital and investors. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor these achievements. As our economy continues to change and we face new challenges as we enter the 21st century, I believe we can count on these entrepreneurs and executives to help lead the way to a stronger and more prosperous America.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to Dale Anderson, in honor of his retirement after serving as the mayor of the Borough of Florham Park for the last dozen years. This Saturday, Dale will be honored by the Florham Park Jaycees and the borough's mayor and council as the 1995 recipient of the Distinguished Service Award for his dedication to making his community a better place to live. Anyone who knows Dale Anderson can assure you of his love and dedication to Florham Park. He and his wife Carole have resided in the borough for the past 30 years where they have raised three children. Dale's first involvement in public service came as a member of the Florham Park Jaycees and he served as its president from 1970 to 1971. Dale's service with the Jaycees launched him into what would become a 20-year commitment to public service. As a sales representative with International Business Machines [IBM], Dale Anderson used the lessons he learned in the business world and applied them to managing municipal affairs. Like any salesman worth his salt, Dale took a ``hands on,'' personal approach to governing, whether it was managing the annual budget of Florham Park or welcoming a new Fortune 500 company in his community's highly skilled work force and ideal public facilities and services. During his tenure on the council and then as mayor from 1984 to 1995, Dale Anderson presided over a period of unparalleled economic growth in Florham Park. He also worked to provide recreational and other activities for children and adults in his home town. Mr. Speaker, it is often said that a leader reflects the people he represents and Dale Anderson's service to his community confirms this. The Borough of Florham Park was established by an independent and concerned group of citizens almost a century ago and Dale Anderson and the people that he serves are committed to the same high standards as its founders. These qualities are what makes Florham Park a wonderful place to work and raise a family and it is what made Dale Anderson such an effective leader. Mr. Speaker, I want to honor Dale Anderson for his commitment to one of the communities that makes New Jersey's 11th Congressional the envy of the Nation. And I congratulate him on receiving the 28th Annual Distinguished Service Award--he is certainly deserving.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment. The H-1A temporary visa program was created in 1990 as a result of a nursing crisis shortage of the 1980's. While I acknowledge the very real need for foreign nurses in those years, this program expired in September 1995, and I see no need to revive or perpetuate this program. Therefore, I oppose this amendment.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to revise and extend my remarks to mark the memory of Elizabeth Boggs who died on January 27, 1996. I am privileged to join many other Americans in paying tribute to Dr. Elizabeth Boggs. We met when I first entered the New Jersey State Legislature in the early 1980's. She was physically striking--but it was her towering mind that was totally overwhelming. Elizabeth had an encyclopedic memory and when she said she knew the law, she meant it. Elizabeth would quote chapter and verse of most every statute since she in most cases wrote them. She was not boastful, but rather quite matter of fact: facts, figures, dates, times, locations, and people. When she looked down at you through her glasses you'd better be prepared to be questioned, grilled, interrogated, and vastly overpowered and outmanned on all counts. When I chaired the appropriations process in the New Jersey Legislature, she would confront me in person and write long and detailed letters citing the most irrefutable evidence for her arguments. Elizabeth Boggs took my breath away literally with her intellect. Her integrity was unquestioned, so the force of her arguments made many of us rewrite our policy and appropriations bills accordingly. As well, she put a human face on her advocacy for individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. I consider myself lucky to have been in her company during my time in Trenton and more recently in Washington. Most of us in politics and government are lay people, thank goodness, so we benefit from those who educate us. While there are many teachers in my past, Elizabeth Boggs was one of the best and most memorable. Her education formula: perseverance, patience, repetition, love, and lots of heart.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, for Greek-Americans and those who practice the Greek Orthodox faith, I rise in their honor to join in the commemoration of the very special 175th anniversary of Greek Independence Day. Our mutual respect for freedom and liberty for all mankind dates back to the late 18th century when our Founding Fathers looked to ancient Greece for direction on writing our own Constitution. Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson persuaded a noted Greek scholar, John Paradise, to come to the United States for consultation on the policital philosophy of democracy. Later, the Greeks adopted the American Declaration of Independence as their own, sealing a bond which has endured between our two nations ever since. March 25, marks the date when in 1821, the Greek people rose against four centuries of Ottoman rule. Under the leadership of Alexander Ypsilanti, the Greek people fought valiantly in pursuit of freedom and self-rule for 8 years. Finally, in 1827, the Allied powers lent support to the greek effort. In 1829, not only did the united forces defeat the Turks, but the Greek people also gained recognition of their independence by the very power that had oppressed them since the fifteenth century. The Greek people continued their struggle against the threat of undemocratic regimes into the 20th century. At the height of World War II, when it appeared that Nazi forces would soon overrun Europe, the Greek people fought courageously on behalf of the rest of the world--at a cost of a half a million lives. The Greek people dealt a severe blow to the ability of the Axis forces to control the Mediterranean and seal off the Black Sea which helped to turn the tide of the war. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared: ``in ancient days it was said that Greeks fight like heroes, now we must say that heroes fight like Greeks.'' During the Truman administration, the United States finally realized Greece's unwavering commitment to democracy. President Truman recognized this commitment by including Greece in his economic and military assistance program--The Truman doctrine. And, in 1952, Greece joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which was later tested when Russia threatened to crush the Acropolis unless Greece abandon the alliance. Greece stood firm and proved its commitment once again. Mr. Speaker, March 25 marks Greece's accomplishment as an independent nation. However, more importantly, this day symbolizes the Greek people's continued defense of democracy, an idea given birth by the great philosophers in Athens more than 2,500 years ago. Unfortunatly, this year's independence celebration is tempered by the loss of one of Greece's greatest poets, Odysseus Elytis, who died 3 days ago. Elytis is most famed for ``Axion Esti'' (``Worthy It Be''), an epic poem described as a ``Bible for the Greek people'' by renowned composer Mikis Theodorakis, who, admiring it so much, set it to music. In 1979, Elytis became the second Greek to win the Nobel Prize for poetry. In his own words he said, ``I am personifying Greece in my poems * * *. All the beautiful and bitter moments beneath the sky of Attica.'' Odysseus Elytis personifies the Greek spirit of love and respect for culture and freedom. Although he will be missed, Elythis left a wonderful legacy for his people. I am grateful for the opportunity to join in observing this very important celebration. This week I will remember where our own democratic principles were derived, and I will honor the countless, invaluable contributions Greek-Americans have brought to this country. The more than 700,000 Greeks who have come here, benefited us with a stronger, civilized and more cultured heritage. Mr. Speaker, I salute Greek-Americans for their outstanding achievements and their commitment to the ideals of freedom.