Rodney Frelinghuysen

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Borough of Stanhope, in Sussex County, New Jersey, a vibrant community I am proud to represent. On March 24, 2004 the good citizens of Stanhope are celebrating the Borough's Centennial Anniversary with a special re- enactment of the Incorporation Ceremony that took place over 100 years ago. Stanhope is an old ``iron town,'' and as the industry grew, so did Stanhope, which until 1904 was part of neighboring Byram Township. The earliest records indicate that the first iron production at Stanhope occurred about 1794. Silas Dickerson, brother of the future state governor and U.S. Senator Mahlon Dickerson, erected a forge and nail factory on the Musconetcong River in Stanhope--one of the first such forges in New Jersey. By the 19th century, Stanhope was a substantial iron-manufacturing community. The proximity of the Borough to the Morris Canal, which flows through its center, was pivotal to the early development of this rural town. In fact, the completion of the Morris Canal in the mid 1800s saved the iron industry and consequently the town. By 1830, the wood supply needed for charcoal to fire the forges was depleted and the industry shut down. But when the Morris Canal opened up a link to a new fuel, anthracite coal from northeastern Pennsylvania, the iron economy of New Jersey and Stanhope was revitalized. Stanhope also became a well-deserved rest stop along the 102-mile canal from Phillipsburg to Jersey City, with a busy General Store and hotel and a large coal transfer station. The iron industry in Stanhope thrived for another 100 years, and by 1930, people discovered Stanhope for what it remains today: a beautiful, rural community in the New Jersey Highlands, bordered by the Musconetcong River and Lake. Between 1930 and 1980, Stanhope's population tripled in size and today the quaint community boasts more than 3,500 proud residents. In recent times, citizens have become more and more aware of the importance of protecting Stanhope's natural resources and efforts to balance development with the preservation of open space, clean water and air have been a commendable priority for its municipal leaders. Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the residents of Stanhope on the celebration of 100 years of a rich history and the building of one of New Jersey's finest municipalities.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, on this very day 8 months ago, Prime Minister Tony Blair stood in this chamber and addressed a joint session of Congress. He said, ``The spread of freedom is the best security for the free. It is our last line of defense and our first line of attack. ``And just as the terrorist seeks to divide humanity in hate, so we have to unify around an idea. And that idea is liberty. ``We must find the strength to fight for this idea and the compassion to make it universal. Abraham Lincoln said, `Those that deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.' '' Mr. Speaker, for over 2 decades Saddam Hussein denied freedom and liberty to the Iraqi people. He killed Kurds because of their ethnicity. He killed Shiites because of their religion. He killed Sunnis for their political views. And he even killed Egyptians, Kuwaitis, and Iranians because their lives meant nothing to him or his evil regime. Today, Saddam's regime is no more. Overthrown in May and pulled from a spider hole in December, Saddam is now in jail. America and its great military--made up of men and women from all branches of our Armed Forces including our resilient National Guard and reserves--recognized that our security and freedom was under direct threat from Saddam Hussein. With the strength of an international coalition, America took decisive action and set out on a clear mission: to defend America. Nearly one year later we are seeing the fruits of our work take hold. Operation Iraqi Freedom has delivered hope and optimism to the well- educated people of Iraq. Today, 25 million Iraqis are free from the grip of Saddam's oppressive regime. Our operation and responsibility in Iraq, however, did not end with a quick and decisive military victory. Finishing the fight and removing Saddam did not mean we finished the job. We pledged to see a new Iraq government grow into a model for democracy and freedom in the Middle East. We must stay until the job is done because America's security still depends upon it. Terrorism cannot be defeated unless we bring civility to Iraq. With assistance from our coalition, the Iraqi people have taken the first steps toward controlling their own destiny. Schools, medical clinics and hospitals have been reopened. An army and more effective police force have been rebuilt. A fair judicial system has been constituted. And a foundation has been laid for democratic elections. An interim constitution has been signed. Every Iraqi--no matter their gender, religion or ethnic origin--today has the guarantee of basic freedoms, rights and protections under law. I wish every member of this House could have taken the trip I took to Iraq last year. Led by Chairman Jerry Lewis, we traveled from Baghdad to Mosul to Al Hillah to witness the incredible work of our brave young men and women in uniform. We thanked them for their service to our country and let them know how grateful America was for job they were doing protecting our freedom and bringing democracy to Iraq. To see our mission up-close and through the lens of our soldiers gave me great hope that one day Iraq will be a country of great promise and able to demonstrate strong leadership in the region. On the first anniversary of Operation Iraqi Freedom let us honor every service man and woman who is making our country safer and more secure. And let us remember all those who have sacrificed and fallen while defending our freedom. We mourn the loss of very American soldier and pray for the early recovery of our wounded. Today, America's courage remains firm and steadfast. Yet, we know that dangerous days still lie ahead. Terrorists who have previously sought weapons of mass destruction from Saddam ``like ants to honey'' continue to plot against America. The terrorists will not rest. When they're not attacking, terrorists are planning or strategizing about where and when to attack next. And remember, we were attacked without provocation on September 11, 2001. For freedom and democracy to prevail over violence and terrorism, we must continue to take the fight to the terrorist before they again bring terrorism to our shores. Mr. Speaker, let us commend the members of the United States Armed Forces and Coalition forces for liberating Iraq by passing this resolution.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, today I rise in strong support of H.R. 3717, the Broadcast Decency Enforcement Act and commend Representative Upton for this initiative to ``clean up'' our Nation's airwaves. In response to a number of recently televised events, I have received a deluge of complaints and comments from my constituents in New Jersey who are fed up with the offensive and indecent programming invading their homes through television and radio. With their thoughts in mind I cosponsored this legislation to let it be known: broadcasters offering irresponsible and indecent material--especially at times when our children are likely watching or listening--should be held accountable for their actions. H.R. 3717 would increase the penalty the FCC can assess for violations of broadcast indecency, obscenity and profanity laws from $27,500 to $500,000 per violation. The current fine has become a mere cost of business for many of the large broadcast companies. Today, Congress, on behalf of America's families, is sending a message to the industry that this kind of disregard is not going to be tolerated and hit them where it hurts--in their pockets. It is time we act to ensure that every family may watch broadcast television programming free of indecency, obscenity and profanity. I believe this legislation takes the right approach. That is why I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important initiative and vote yes for H.R. 3717.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, every year, more high school seniors from the 11th Congressional District trade in varsity jackets for Navy pea coats, Air Force flight suits, and Army brass buckles than most other districts in the country. But this is nothing new--our area has repeatedly sent an above average portion of its sons and daughters to the Nation's military academies for decades. This fact should not come as a surprise. The educational excellence of area schools 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 Government. Rather, the procedure still used today was, and is, a 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 and handicapped European armies. In 1854, Representative Gerritt 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 six 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 that the best qualified and motivated graduates attend our academies. And, as true for most volunteer panels, their service goes largely unnoticed. I would like to take a moment to recognize these men and women and thank them publicly for participating in this important panel. Being on the board requires hard work and an objective mind. Members have the responsibility of interviewing upwards 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 my office 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 late November, 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. This year the board interviewed over 50 applicants. Nominations included 9 to the Naval Academy, 10 to the Military Academy, 5 to the Merchant Marine Academy and 8 to the Air Force Academy--the Coast Guard Academy does not use the Congressional nomination process. The recommendations are then forwarded to the academies by January 31, where recruiters reviewed files and notified applicants and my office of their final decision on admission. As these highly motivated and talented young men and women go through the academy nominating process, never let us forget the sacrifice they are preparing to make: to defend our country and protect our citizens. This holds especially true at a time when our nation is fighting the war against terrorism. Whether it is in Afghanistan, Iraq, or other hot spots around the world, no doubt we are constantly reminded that wars are fought by the young. And, while our military missions are both important and dangerous, it is reassuring to know that we continue to put America's best and brightest in command. Academy Nominees for 2003 11th Congressional District, New Jersey Air Force Academy Ryan M. Cortner, Scotland, International School Michael P. Dickson, Flanders, Mt. Olive H.S. Marc D. Honrath, Dover, Morris Knolls H.S. Asha Padmanabhan, Raritan, Bridgewater--Raritan Heather G. Pinsky, Morristown, Morristown H.S. Edward J. Schmeltz, Chatham, Chatham H.S. Anthony Stegman, Sparta, Sparta H.S. Christopher A. Wolff, Mendham, West Morris Mendham H.S. Merchant Marine Steve R. Kline, Chatham, Chatham H.S. Vincent J. Lusardi, Rockaway, Morris Hills H.S. Jarrod M. Prill, Boonton, Boonton H.S. Eric B. Warner, Morris Plains, Parsippany Hills H.S. Richard W. White, Bloomingdale, Butler H.S. Military Academy Corey R. Belton, Brookside, West Morris Mendham HS Assison T. Gaydosh, Bridgewater, Syracuse University Sean P. Groome, Andover, Lenape Valley H.S. Ross Kuskovsky, Livingston, Livingston H.S. Anthony A. Margue, Randolph, Randolph H.S. Michael A. Robinson, Brookside, West Morris Mendham H.S. Allen J. Rooney, Madison, Madison H.S. Stephane M. Slotten, Mendham, Newark Academy Christopher M. Tarney, Chatham, Seton Hall Prep Ernie Young, Whippany, Whippany Park H.S. Naval Academy Sean K. Bergstrom, Mendham, Delbarton Bradley C. Fromm, Madison, Madison H.S. Chris Lakhiani, Mountain Lakes, Mountain Lakes H.S. Julie-Ann Latona, Madison, Madison H.S. John S. Quick, Liberty Corner, Oratory Prep Jonathan V. Salmon, Bridgewater, St. Joseph's H.S. Brian M. Schenig, Pompton Plains, Pequannock H.S. Sarah A. Shewmaker, Short Hills, Millburn H.S. Michael R. Wooters, Morristown, Seton Hall Prep Michael J. Zecca, Bridgewater, Bridgewater--Raritan H.S.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Township of West Caldwell, in Essex County, New Jersey a vibrant community I am proud to represent. Incorporated on February 16, 1904, the good citizens of West Caldwell are celebrating the Township's Centennial Anniversary with special events throughout the entire year. In the very early history of our country, well before the American Revolution, the towns known today as Caldwell, West Caldwell, North Caldwell, Verona, Essex Fells, Roseland, Fairfield, Cedar Grove and Livingston were inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Indians. As Europeans emigrated to the New World, however, property ownership changed hands; and soon the entire region was purchased by the newcomers and renamed Horseneck. A century after Puritans settled the ``metropolis'' of the area known as Newark in 1666, steadily growing populations spurred settlers to move slightly westward to occupy what would be the Caldwells in the early 1700s. Almost 50 years of peace followed, until disputes over property rights with the Royal Proprietors of the colony led to jailbreaks and protests led down the narrow, dusty road called Bloomfield Avenue, which today remains a major business corridor through Essex County. At the time of the Horseneck Riots in 1745, James Caldwell, after whom the Caldwells are named, was a young boy of about 11 years. By the time of the Revolution, though, he was an adult, a minister, in fact, who had endeared himself to the people of Horseneck by journeying over the mountains to preach to them. During the War for Independence not long afterwards, Caldwell earned the nickname ``the Fighting Parson'' because of his aid to Washington's men as they battled in various parts of Horseneck. Following the Revolution, a local chapel was finally erected and in memory of the Fighting Parson who had stood with them since colonial times, the citizens of Horseneck in 1798 renamed their home ``Caldwell.'' Caldwell Township flourished throughout the 1800's. Prescribed by physicians as a ``pure air'' retreat for patients with all kinds of ailments, the quiet region was home to about 485 people (1800 census). Franklin and Westville, what would eventually become known as West Caldwell, began to grow as well. Westville, owned predominantly by the Crane and Harrison families, whose historical homes still exist, was the site of farming lands and the local sawmill. Franklin, on the other hand, was the principal business center of Caldwell Township and had an economy supported by firms, a store, two factories, a cider mill and distillery. By 1904, the population of Caldwell Township had grown and become so spread out that public renovations could never be approved by residents on both sides of town. To alleviate the problem, on February 16, 1904, West Caldwell was incorporated as an individual borough comprised of 3,175 acres and 410 people. Like every suburb of the metropolitan New York and Newark, New Jersey area, the 20th Century brought with it incredible growth and today West Caldwell boasts more than 11,000 proud residents who treasure the Township's legacy of patriotism, its small town flavor and its strong sense of community. Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my colleagues to join me in congratulating the residents of West Caldwell on the celebration of 100 years of a rich history and the building of one of New Jersey's finest municipalities.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the Bicentennial Anniversary of the Township of Jefferson, County of Morris, in my home state of New Jersey. Beautiful Jefferson Township encompasses 42 square miles of mostly pristine forests and lakes. It is home to New Jersey's largest freshwater lake, Lake Hopatcong, among many others, and the idyllic Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in the protected New Jersey Highlands watershed region. When Jefferson Township was founded in 1804 by separating itself from the Townships of Roxbury and Pequannock, there were quiet farms and noisy mines linked by dirt roads. In time, the railroads came and by the turn of the century, they brought ``summer escapees'' from the cities who treasured Jefferson's scenic beauty, many lakes and its clean, cool, country surroundings. Summer resorts and campsites flourished in the area. After World War I, automobiles appeared on Jefferson's newly paved roads bringing with it scores of summer residents. And after the second World War, young families were looking to leave the metropolitan areas and began moving westward in New Jersey to inviting municipalities like Jefferson Township. Today, Jefferson Township is still a blossoming community with a population approaching 20,000. While the once-thriving summer resorts are gone and most summer cottages have been converted to year-round residences, many tourists still make the trek to Jefferson Township to enjoy the vast open space of the Morris County Park System, protected watersheds and recreation activities on the region's numerous lakes. Indeed, lake communities still prosper throughout the Township bringing a unique sense of community to all of those who live in them. Jefferson Township's municipal leaders have carried on a tradition of being good stewards of the area's natural resources. Through determined efforts to preserve some of New Jersey's most precious open space, Jefferson Township has been able to balance development by being an active partner in the acquisition of hundreds of acres of parkland, woodlands and watersheds. Mr. Speaker, for the past 200 years, Jefferson Township has been a community which has brought Morris County and New Jersey great pride. No doubt the municipality will certainly continue to do so in the years to come. I congratulate the citizens of Jefferson Township on their special anniversary year, and urge all my colleagues to join me in wishing them well.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 130th Anniversary of the Morris Center YMCA, of Morris County, New Jersey. Since January 2, 1874, the Morris Center YMCA has provided programs essential to the people of Morris County. The 172 Founding male members first gathered in four rented rooms located in the Old Post Office in Morristown. In 1889, the Board of Directors dedicated a new building that included a gymnasium, classrooms, bowling alleys and a game room. A third building was dedicated in 1913 in Morristown that included a wing exclusively for women. But by 1968, however, it became clear that a new building was needed and plans were made to begin construction. On March 1, 1981, the grand opening of the newly completed fourth home of the Morris Center YMCA took place in Cedar Knolls. The Center featured a 25 meter swimming pool, gymnasium, track, racquetball courts, weight rooms and a fitness center. Over the years, renovations have been made to the building, bringing more programs to people of all ages in Morris County. In 2002, renovations were completed to update and expand the Y to include a larger fitness room, youth classrooms, and much more. Caring for children has always been an important specialty of the Morris Center YMCA. In 1985, the YMCA added an in-house After-School Care program. Later in 1988, the Center opened the Y's Owl's Child Care Center which provided care to approximately 130 children each day. September 2003 celebrated the new home of the Y's Owls, now the Richard F. Blake Children's Center, which is located in a newly renovated building next to the YMCA creating a 13 acre campus. The Children's Center now accommodates over 215 preschoolers. The Owl program received national accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Building on the reputation of the Y's Owl Child Care Center, the Morris Center YMCA was selected to create and manage the childcare center of the Morristown Memorial Hospital and opened the Children's Corner in the Fall of 1996. The Morris Center YMCA currently has over 400 volunteer members comprising the Board of Directors, all of its committees and program leaders. These volunteers are the heart of the Morris Center YMCA, working in all aspects of the organization. In short, the Center is people caring for people, not just buildings and equipment. Mr. Speaker, for the past 130 years, the Morris Center YMCA has provided the citizens of Morris County with programs that benefit all those who participate. I ask that you and my colleagues join me in congratulating all past and present members of the Morris Center YMCA on this special anniversary year.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Chilton Memorial Hospital of Pequannock Township, Morris County, New Jersey, in my congressional district. Chilton Memorial Hospital is celebrating 50 years of providing excellence in community health care. Despite its humble beginnings, Chilton's history is a proud one. This 256-bed hospital arose from the dream of Dr. Forrest Chilton II and his registered nurse wife, Betty. During World War II, when gasoline was being rationed and people in the area did not have enough for the drive to the hospital in the city of Paterson, Dr. and Mrs. Chilton set up a small maternity hospital above his office in Pompton Plains. Soon, as more and more of his thankful patients availed themselves of his services, it became clear that a full service hospital was desperately needed in this fast-growing area in northern New Jersey. In 1947, the good doctor and his wife donated 8 acres of land to build a hospital in memory of their son, Forrest Chilton III, and other heroes who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice for American's in World War II. That same year, Dr. Chilton formed a board of directors to help prepare a building plan. Seven years later, in 1954, thanks to the efforts of Dr. and Mrs. Chilton, the Board of Trustees, the 20 women who were the original members of the Chilton Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and 20,000 community volunteers who gave of their time and financial resources, the Chilton Memorial Hospital, with 31 employees and 50 beds, opened its doors for the first time in Pompton Plains. Within 2 months the hospital was operating near capacity and expansion plans were already underway. In that first year, Chilton Memorial admitted 2,536 patients, delivered 787 babies and treated 3,317 people in its emergency room. Fifty years later, Chilton Memorial's 1,400 employees and 575 associated physicians admit more than 11,000 patients each year, deliver 1,200 newborn babies, perform nearly 6,000 same day surgeries, treat 36,000 people in its state-of-the-art emergency department, and treat an additional 81,000 citizens on an outpatient basis. Indeed, Chilton Memorial Hospital's tradition of caring and its commitment to the surrounding communities has made it one of New Jersey's best hospitals. Today, Mr. Speaker, Chilton Memorial Hospital is credited with being the first hospital in the State of New Jersey to be awarded a perfect score by the Joint Commission Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, whose surveyors evaluate facilities and procedures at 18,000 healthcare facilities worldwide. Chilton's nursing staff has also won national acclaim for consistently receiving the highest ratings for their competence, compassion, response time, and teamwork. The future will be no different for Chilton as it continues following in the footsteps of its founder and provides state-of-the-art healthcare to a grateful community. Services like Chilton's family- centered obstetrics program that features home-like labor, delivery and recovery rooms, its renowned pediatric care, free standing same day surgery center, and centers for pain management, endoscopy, cardiac care, sleeping disorders, sports medicine and cancer care, among others, and its strong commitment to health and wellness for older men and women, have helped build Chilton's lasting legacy as a premier quality healthcare provider. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues in the House of Representatives join with me in congratulating Chilton Memorial Hospital, and all of the hospital's outstanding staff, employees, and volunteers, upon celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Fannie E. Rippel Foundation, a New Jersey philanthropic organization which is highly esteemed nationally and especially in the Northeast, and that will celebrate fifty years of grant making on December 11, 2003. During the past five decades the Fannie E. Rippel Foundation has awarded grants amounting to more than $113 million and has demonstrated its continuing commitment to improving health care in our state and nation. The Rippel Foundation, established under the will of Julius S. Rippel, provides funds to aid the aged and women of all ages, to aid hospitals and to support institutions involved in heart disease or cancer treatment and research. In the past, for example, the Foundation has provided and furnished funds for the construction of or to aid in the erection of hospitals and provided funds for their equipment as well as hospital maintenance. The Foundation has also supported humanitarian programs, emphasizing ethical issues in medicine, pastoral education, programs in rural health, better case and disease management. In particular, the Foundation has supported most generously women's health programs for elderly women with chronic conditions, academic and educational programs for women, and programs that promote better advocacy of women's health. The Foundation also stresses what is known as ``humanistic medicine,'' and advances the importance of belief, support, communications and relationships in the healing process. Mr. Speaker, there is no doubt that each and every dollar the Fannie E. Rippel Foundation gives to a hospital or a medical research facility is much appreciated. And, we can all be grateful for the Foundation's efforts because of its dedication to helping under-served rural and urban populations, and its interest in changing the wellness behavior of people through research and preventive care. Throughout the years, the Fannie E. Rippel Foundation has earned an incredibly positive reputation for the many generous acts of its Board of Trustees, Officers and Staff. Mr. Speaker, I know that you join me and my colleagues in recognizing and honoring the Fannie E. Rippel Foundation for its outstanding services to humankind for fifty years, and I ask that you and all our colleagues extend sincere best wishes for a successful Rippel Foundation Reception on December 11, 2003.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, the consolidated appropriations conference report before us this afternoon also contains the fiscal year 2004 District of Columbia appropriations bill. This portion of the conference report totals $8 billion, including $545 million for Federal payments to various District programs and projects, $1.8 billion in Federal grants to District agencies, and $5.7 billion in local funds for operating expenses and capital outlays of the District government. There is much to be proud of in this bill. I believe it reflects Congress' commitment to helping our Nation's capital. This is where we all work and where many of us live. Of the $545 million in Federal payments to various programs and projects, 68 percent of these funds, or $368 million, is for funding of the D.C. courts, public defender services, and the court services and offender supervision agency. These are District functions which we took over as a Federal responsibility in 1997. The remaining 32 percent, or $177 million, are for programs and projects that directly benefit the District. These include the very popular tuition assistance program for District college-bound students, $17 million; $11 million to reimburse the District for added emergency planning and security costs related to the presence of the Federal Government in the District; $40 million for a three-prong school choice program, promises we delivered upon; $42 million for capital development projects in the District; $5 million for the Anacostia waterfront; $4.5 million for public school facility improvements; and $14 million to improve foster care in the District. These are all initiatives we can be proud of as we vote in favor of this bill this afternoon. I ask that Members support the overall omnibus. In particular, I want to highlight the funding level for school choice. When the District of Columbia appropriations bill was on the House floor back in September, there was much criticism that the bill was walking away from the District's request of additional funding for public schools and public charter schools. While that was true at the time due to the fiscal constraints of the bill, I stated then and at every opportunity after that it was not my intention that that be the case when we come out of conference with the Senate. I fully supported the Mayor's approach and worked with Chairman Young towards a conference allocation that was sufficient to address all three sectors of education in the city. The conference agreement reflects this commitment and provides $13 million for each of the three sectors of education the District leaders requested--scholarships, public schools, and charter schools. We need to provide parents greater choices for parents and their children. In summary, the fiscal year 2004 District of Columbia Appropriations division is fiscally responsible and balanced and deserves bipartisan support. I thank Chairman Young for his leadership through a difficult conference.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. My thanks to the gentleman from California (Mr. Calvert), and particular thanks to the chairman, the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo), the chair of the House Committee on Resources, for all of his work and the work of his staff that have helped improve this bill and make it possible for us to discuss it and vote on it today. I also thank the ranking member for her assistance and recognize the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel), who is going to speak later, as well as the gentlewoman New York (Mrs. Kelly) and the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gerlach) and over 30 Members of Congress that are sponsoring this bill. Mr. Speaker, the Highlands is one of the last open treasures in the most densely populated area of the United States. In New Jersey alone, my home State, it includes more than a million acres of forests, farms, streams, wetlands, lakes, reservoirs and historic sites. We need to preserve these assets. The Highlands Conservation Act represents a major commitment to protect them. While remaining mindful of property rights, this bill complements ongoing State, private and local partnerships that are actively working to protect open space. Our bill does not ask the Federal Government to become the landowner or steward to these lands; rather, the people of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania would retain ownership and responsibility for caretaking of these lands. Indeed, the government will not be taking any land. Participants would all be willing sellers. Mr. Speaker, the President recognized the national significance of the Highlands in his 2004 budget message in January and designated the Highlands as one of nine national priorities areas threatened by development. These lands, as the gentleman from California (Mr. Calvert) has said, have been identified by the U.S. Forest Service in virtually all other Federal, State and local entities as critical lands in need of preservation. This bill represents an opportunity for the Federal Government to work with the State government and local groups to preserve the Highlands. It is a unique opportunity, an historic opportunity, and it is a symbolic opportunity of the Federal Government to work with so many partners. This legislation also represents a landmark commitment of the Federal Government to the Highlands. It is a genuine partnership. It is important to preserving open space. I am proud to support the bill and to have so many partners in that regard.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this comprehensive energy package, the Conference Report on H.R. 6. Three months ago the lights went out in the Northeast, Midwest and throughout parts of my congressional district in northern New Jersey, leaving millions of New Jerseyans sitting in the dark. More than anything else this event taught us that we cannot lurch from energy crisis to energy crisis. It's an economic risk we cannot afford to take or ever let happen again. While Americans are beginning to find jobs, our economy is still volatile to domestic and international events. Too many New Jerseyans are still looking for work. That is why I believe it is important that we continue to advance more aggressive pro-growth, pro-job policies including this first step toward a long-term comprehensive, national energy plan that is before us today. This package will further strengthen our economy and ensure the stability of our energy supply by preventing the loss of jobs while creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs in all sectors including manufacturing, construction, agriculture and technology. While prices at the gas pump are going down and more jobs are being created--make no mistake about it--may families face natural gas, oil and electric bills two or three times higher than they did just a few years ago and some employers are still hiring fewer workers to absorb the rising cost of energy. Mr. Speaker, we need this legislation to promote more energy conservation, research, and development, and to provide for security and diversity in the energy supply for the American people. While I am pleased that this legislation is good for our economy, I am also happy to know that it is working to promote conservation. This legislation takes great strides to promote energy efficient products, renewable energy and alternative fuels--all of which are environmentally responsible energy policies. We live and work in a nation that demands more energy than we can adequately supply. Every American, whether they realize it not, depends upon reliable, affordable energy. To drive a car, run a small business, or own a home--we need energy. We are also a nation that relies on fossil fuels, and whether we think that's good or bad, it's a fact that is not going to change anytime soon. Oil, gas, coal and nuclear energy fuel our Nation. In fact, half of our of our Nation's electricity is generated in powerplants that burn coal, 20 percent of our Nation's electricity is nuclear powered, and 18 percent of America's lights are turned on by natural gas. Specifically, New Jersey generates 37 percent of its energy from coal, 17 percent from nuclear energy, another 17 percent from natural gas, 15 percent from oil, 5 percent from hydroelectric energy and 1 percent from other sources. In recent weeks, New Jersey was reported to have one of the highest heating oil prices at $1.45 a gallon, while at the same time homeowners are expected to pay an average of $841 to heat their homes with natural gas this winter. Clearly, we must all share the goal of energy conservation. To keep our prices down, we must be smarter and more efficient about the way we produce and consume energy. Mr. Speaker, we need to pass this energy package to strengthen our national security by reducing dependence on foreign energy sources. Our Nation has become dangerously dependent on foreign sources of oil, especially since America imports 60 percent of the oil we use from other countries including nearly 20 percent from Persian Gulf countries and 40 percent from OPEC countries as well as Canada and Venezuela. We need to pass this package so that we can increase funding for programs to help low-income residents over their high energy costs. At the present time, it is estimated that the Northeast Heating Oil Reserve's maximum inventory of heating oil is 2 million barrels. The Department of Energy believes that this reserve will provide relief from weather-related shortages from approximately 10 days, which is just enough time for ships to bring heating oil from the Gulf of Mexico to our New Jersey/New York Harbor. To protect against the risk of empty oil barrels, especially as we approach the winter season, we need to pass this legislation so that New Jersey's low-income families do not have to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table. They need immediate assistance to overcome the burden of rising energy costs. In direct response to August's blackout, we also need to modernize our electrical infrastructure. This legislation contains important measures to help attract new investment into the industry and ensure the reliability of our Nation's electricity grid. It provides for enforceable mandatory reliability standards, incentives for transmission grid improvement and reforms of transmission rules. Mr. Speaker, there is no doubt about it that we need a stronger and more stable supply of energy. By passing this energy plan we can upgrade our electrical grids, develop new techniques for energy efficiency, increase domestic production and ultimately create hundreds of thousands new jobs. But more than anything else, we can provide Americans with a more steady and reliable stream of power and help them pay less in their electric bills. It has been 11 years since Congress has sent an energy bill to the White House. That's 11 years too long. And now the August blackout has only crystallized the urgent need for action. We cannot afford to wait any longer. The stakes are too high. I strongly urge the passage of this energy package.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2754, the Energy and Water Appropriations conference report for fiscal year 2004. Let me first thank Chairman Hobson for his strong leadership of our subcommittee's work and to Ranking Member Pete Visclosky for his bipartisan approach to this conference report. And my thanks to the subcommittee staff for their tireless efforts to put this conference report together. While public attention is rightly focused on the war on terrorism abroad, our committee continues to do its part to protect our nation's security at home. The issue of energy security is now clearly before us--our energy facilities and networks must be safe and secure. And we must also continue the critical work of the Department of Energy to do the research and development on domestic sources of energy, reducing the demand of foreign oil imports and to find better ways to protect our nuclear stockpile. I applaud the chairman for providing $82 million for the new Office of Electric Transmission and Distribution (OETD), which is $5 million over the requested amount. The Office of Electric Transmission & Distribution is a new DOE program office formed to help ensure a robust and reliable U.S. transmission grid for the 21st century. I am pleased our subcommittee has provided DOE with the funding needed to lead a national effort to help modernize and expand America's electric delivery system to better ensure economic and national security. Further, it is important to note the conferees added the $5 million over the requested amount to allow the Department of Energy to complete its investigation into the causes of the August 14th, 2003 blackout, which highly affected thousands of people in my region of the country. It is important DOE conduct an extensive investigation to get to the bottom of what caused or contributed to the outage so we can take proper steps to ensure such failures are never repeated in the future. Chairman Hobson has produced a conference report that continues the Federal commitment to work in partnership with our states and local communities to address such vital needs as flood control, shore protection, environmental restoration and improving our Nation's waterways. By doing so, we are helping to meet critical economic, environmental and public safety needs in virtually every state in the country. I want to especially thank Chairman Hobson for his support of top priorities in my home state of New Jersey. Keeping our port open for business is critical to our regional economy and the 229,000 thousand jobs related to port activity in New Jersey and New York. Protecting and restoring our 127 miles of shoreline is vital $30 billion dollar tourism industry. And, this bill continues to work to protect New Jersey's communities from natural disasters such as flooding and continues New Jersey's special role to provide for a future energy source that is clean and unlimited: that is the work of the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Finally, I want to take a moment of my time to thank the Army Corps of Engineers for their efforts to improve the quality of life that the American people have at home as well as for the Iraqi people abroad. Today, well over 300 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers military and civilian employees are in Iraq assisting the people in many areas. The Corps also provides daily assistance to the reconstruction effort with technical advice for the International Aid Developments program of reconstructing water and sanitation facilities; public facilities, such as hospitals and schools; roads, bridges and railroads; and airport and seaport rehabilitation. Of vital importance is the Corp's work with the Coalition Provisional Authority, the U.S. State Department, and U.S. engineering societies that help Iraqi engineers gain knowledge lost during the last 30 years. Mr. Speaker, I wholeheartedly support this conference report and urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legislation and urge its prompt adoption this evening. I want to commend the chairman of the committee and the chairmen of the Defense and Foreign Operations Subcommittees for their expeditious and effective handling of this emergency supplemental for Iraq and Afghanistan. To our young soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan: Help is on the way. Difficulties remain, especially in the ``Sunni triangle.'' It continues to be a dangerous place. But we're there to finish the job--terrorists, Saddam loyalists, and common criminals must be pursued and brought to justice. This bill is more than just dollars and cents--this is direct support for the safety and security of our young troops standing in harm's way and for the reconstruction of Iraq. It's the resources our troops need: Better weapons, reliable intelligence, more ammunition, body armor, vehicles, better pay, and additional equipment to get the job done. For example, the conference report increases funds to purchase body armor Special Armor Plate Insert, to clear unexploded ordnance and to increase production of other force protection measures such as armored HMMVV's and electronic jammers. Quality of life for our troops and their families is also important. The conference report includes a provision which authorizes continued payment of per diem for travel of family members of military personnel who are ill or injured as a result of active duty service and includes a provision to continue the increased monthly rate of Imminent Danger Pay and Family Separation Allowances through September 30, 2004. In addition, the Conference report requires DOD to notify reservists in writing of their expected mobilization and deployment period--to help reduce the uncertainty many reservists have faced regarding call- up times, departure dates, and overseas deployment periods. The conference report also provides $32 million for the Family Advocacy program, and $10 million for the National Guard Family Readiness Program--programs which provide support services to military families, especially those who have faced losses, or who have a family member deployed. Finally, Mr. Speaker, the report prohibits service members injured in combat or training from being billed for meals during their hospitalization. Make this benefit retroactive to 9/11/2001 and provides reimbursement for those who have already paid meal charges. Of course, we mourn the loss of any American soldier and pray for the early recovery of our wounded. We are forever in their debt and reject the mindless notion that their sacrifice is in vain. Mr. Speaker, the Coalition Provincial Authority, working with our military and civilian officials of 131 nations, especially the United States Agency for International Development has been working hard to improve the quality of life and deliver needed assistance. This Supplemental for Iraq and Afghanistan will go toward creating conditions on the ground in Iraq that will enable our troops to succeed in their mission--by providing the basic services and humanitarian relief that will make a big difference in stabilizing the country. Mr. Speaker, the reconstruction package is critical to the military mission. I urge its adoption.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. I rise in opposition to the Pence amendment. Mr. Chairman, some feel that we should give loans to Iraq rather than provide direct assistance. I believe that this is the wrong approach. As the Washington Post asserted in its lead editorial yesterday, ``To make a loan in these circumstances is like swimming out to a drowning man and handing him a 10 pound weight.'' I could not agree more. For two decades, Saddam Hussein spent billions of dollars building his elaborate palaces and war machine and neglecting his oil infrastructure, while the people of Iraq were forced to bear the burden of his neglect of basic health and educational services. Now, Saddam has left Iraq $225 billion in debt, including approximately $100 billion owed to France, Germany, Russia and other nations, and an additional $125 billion in reparations owed to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia for damage done by his invasion of Kuwait in 1990. At this point, why should the Iraqi people bear the brunt of debt incurred by their former dictator? There is an underlying premise that we must never forget: support for reconstruction and stabilization in Iraq is inextricably linked to the security of our soldiers on the ground. With success, a free Iraq will send a clear message to the people of the Middle East and beyond that freedom and democracy, not violence and terrorism, are the best paths for the future. A larger crushing debt burden will lead to greater discontent and instability, and again make Iraq an incubator for terrorists who will stop at nothing to hinder our mission. To lessen this risk, this supplemental request will provide the resources necessary to help ensure stability, peace, and democracy in Iraq. This will create a safer environment for our troops and a safer world for our children and grandchildren and, indeed, our strategic interests. Mr. Chairman, I urge the rejection of this amendment.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Kolbe) for yielding me the time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the supplemental package and urge its prompt adoption. In fact, the sooner we pass this legislation and provide material support for our troops and begin rebuilding the Iraqi economy savaged by decades of Saddam Hussein's corrupt rule, the sooner our dedicated service personnel will come home with their mission accomplished. I have just returned from Iraq with a number of my colleagues as part of a fact-finding trip led by the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis), the chairman of the Subcommittee on Defense. We visited with our troops. These brave young men and women are proud of what they are doing and know that it is important to our national security. Of course, we mourn the loss of any American soldiers' lives, and we pray for the early recovery of our wounded. We are forever in their debt and reject the mindless notion of some that their sacrifice has been in vain. Since my return, I have also been struck by the stark contrast between the reality of the success of our military and civilian missions in Iraq and the stubborn perception that we are failing there. It is not true. I am also one who strongly objects to the notion held by some that our involvement in Iraq does not count for something. Our involvement does count. The world and our homeland are safer for Saddam's removal. There is a better life for the Iraqi people after 30 years of oppression and torture and killing. Our involvement there and the sacrifices of our soldiers count for something. The reality is encouraging. Two hundred and forty hospitals are now operating, and 90 percent of the medical clinics are now reopened. A hundred primary schools and 22 universities have been rehabilitated and reopened this month. More than 55,000 Iraqi police officers are better trained and back to work, and they are being trained by the Coalition Provisional Authority in professional policing, including border security and human rights. Over 4,000 Iraqis are working side by side with coalition soldiers as part of the Civil Defense Corps, and the CPA is working to field 27 battalions of a new Iraqi Army. Among the most hopeful signs, and we saw it firsthand, were the fact that 90 percent of the cities, towns and villages in Iraq are now governed by elected or appointed local councils, representing, indeed, diverse ethnic groups and religious groups from across the country. Clearly, there is hope growing in Iraq. Thankfully, the Coalition Provisional Authority, working with military and civilian officials of more than 30 nations, have been working hard to improve the quality of life and deliver much-needed assistance, and now we debate the supplemental for Iraq and Afghanistan. As we know, more than 60 percent of these funds will go to support the efforts of our young men and women in uniform, including extra combat pay, stronger physical protection, better-quality housing, and most importantly, enhanced intelligence gathering and the equipment that includes the latest technology to win the war on terrorism. I am grateful, as all Members are, that we will now be providing, with these new funds, more money for body armor, radio jammers and reinforced Humvees. These are concrete steps to protect the well-being of our soldiers. The remaining funds will go towards creating conditions on the ground in Iraq that will enable our troops to succeed in their mission. This supplemental is needed.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Sherwood), a member of the Committee on Appropriations.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a tradition that for 30 years has brought together the families of some of the most vibrant communities in my Congressional District. The people of Denville, New Jersey and its surrounding municipalities in Morris County, and all of Northern New Jersey have gathered each year to enjoy the St. Clare's Harvest Festival, a day of family fun and frolic, all for a good cause, to benefit St. Clare's Hospital which also celebrates a milestone this year by providing 50 years of loving care and service to the people of Morris, Sussex and Warren Counties in northwestern New Jersey. The hospital was initially created to care for the nuns and guests at St. Francis Health Resort, but the Sisters saw the need for a community hospital to assist the ever increasing population of Denville. We are all glad for their vision as St. Clare's has grown into an institution that delivers the highest quality health care, teaming up to provide the best medical care for New Jerseyans with the likes of the distinguished Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Indeed, it wouldn't be Fall in Morris County without the St. Clare's Harvest Festival, but sadly, all of us who have treasured our time at the Festival know that this year it will end. On Saturday, October 4, thirty years of hard work, tireless volunteerism and good old-fashioned fun will culminate in the last Festival. A wonderful fundraiser for the Hospital, the Harvest Festival was jointly established by the Sorrowful Mother, a Catholic order and Sister Mary Urban Harrer, who incidentally is celebrating her 90th year and remains thrilled that her efforts have come this far. Each year the Festival offers delicious homemade foods, the talents of local artisans and crafts men and women, and carnival rides and petting zoos for the area's children. A day at the Festival is a day filled with memories. These memories and the 30 years of success would not be possible without legions of incredible volunteers who have dedicated so much of their time, energy and spirit to the Festival year after year. The cooperation and teamwork between community members and St. Clare's staff--the fantastic doctors, nurses and other health care professionals--is legendary. I especially want to recognize these individuals who deserve our praise and thanks for their commitment to serving their community and helping others. So many of my constituents will warmly recall the St. Clare's Harvest Festival and those who made it possible. Though the Harvest Festival will no longer be a ``fall fixture'' on the calendars of thousands of citizens in New Jersey, St. Clare's Hospital will continue to serve our communities with the same loving care and compassion it has brought to the field of health care for the last 50 years. Mr. Speaker, I know that you join me and my colleagues in congratulating all of those associated with the St. Clare's Harvest Festival on 30 years of success and in wishing the St. Clare's Hospital family another 50 years of outstanding community service.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a cosponsor and strong supporter of the chairman from Louisiana's bill and commend him for taking swift action against the ruling of the District Court in Oklahoma City. Over the years through my Know-Your-Caller Act, I have worked with the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Tauzin) and the FTC to bring consumers greater protection from the many unwanted annoying calls that telemarketers placed at all hours of the day and night, seven days a week. These calls are an invasion of privacy, not to mention that many of these callers are unscrupulous and prey on older American senior citizens. The FTC, Congress, and the American consumers have got it right, and this district court has got it completely wrong. This is the most incorrect and outrageous ruling I have seen in a long time. It is a direct shot at every consumer. Millions of them have registered to get their names on the list, who receive these annoying calls during dinner with their families, in the middle of the night, and then again early in the morning. Mr. Speaker, I support this bill, and commend the chairman for his leadership and quick action.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, as we debate this appropriations bill today, we should recall the words of our President, George W. Bush, shortly after the attacks of September 11, 2001. He stated: ``America is a nation full of good fortune, with so much to be grateful for. But we are not spared from suffering. In every generation, the world has produced enemies of human freedom. They have attacked America, because we are freedom's home and defender.'' Madam Chairman, the bill we have before us today is our answer to those who would attack America. This is a strong legislative product-- one that reflects well on the Committee on Appropriations. I want to commend you, Chairman Lewis, Chairman Young and Ranking Members Obey and Murtha for your leadership. Madam Chairman, as we consider this important legislation, we must remain mindful that our young troops are in the field--brave men and women fighting a new kind of war, as we speak. It is a war fought with new technology in lands and civilizations that are very old--Iraq and Afghanistan. The first part of the war had Forward Air Controllers riding horseback and calling in strikes from laptop computers. It was also a war that was fought from our ships stationed 700 miles from targets. It was a war that utilized B-52's and B-2s and B1Bs for precision targeting, and a war that called for our troops to go from cave to cave or building to building to seek out the enemy. More than ever, today it is a war whose enemy is difficult to identify. At the same time as our men and women are in action in Iraq and Afghanistan and other parts of the world, the leadership of the Department of Defense continues its wide-ranging transformation of the methods, missions and capabilities of our fighting forces. In this context, America's armed forces have been charged with developing the capabilities to fight jointly and with coalition partners to secure victory across the full spectrum of warfare while continuing the transition to a more flexible, more agile, lighter and more lethal force. Of course, our goal is to provide a new level of efficiency and protection to our warfighter so that they may fight--and win--the new kind of wars that will face the United States of America in coming years. Madam Chairman, we are a peaceful people. But recent months have shown the world that we will fight anywhere to defend our national security. The men and women of our Armed Forces have made us proud. For them, and their families, I urge adoption of the bill and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time, and I congratulate the gentleman from New York (Mr. King) and his colleagues, the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Maloney) and the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel), for their proposal, and I strongly support it. Mr. Speaker, no words nor any precious medal can capture the grief and heartache of September 11 better than the words of the poem ``The Names'' by Billy Collins, the Poet Laureate of the United States, who gave us this wonderful piece of poetry so eloquently as we met in a special session of Congress in New York last year at this very time. ``Yesterday, I lay awake in the palm of the night. A soft rain stole in, unhelped by any breeze, And when I saw the silver glaze on the windows, I started with A, with Ackerman, as it happened, Then Baxter and Calabro, Davis and Eberling, names falling into place As droplets fell through the dark. Names printed on the ceiling of the night. Names slipping around a watery bend. Twenty-six willows on the banks of a stream. In the morning, I walked out barefoot Among thousands of flowers Heavy with dew like the eyes of tears, And each had a name-- Fiori inscribed on a yellow petal Then Gonzalez and Han, Ishikawa and Jenkins. Names written in the air And stitched into the cloth of the day. A name under a photograph taped to a mailbox. Monogram on a torn shirt, I see you spelled out on storefront windows And on bright unfurled awnings of this city. I say the syllables as I turn a corner-- Kelly and Lee, Medina, Nardella, and O'Connor. When I peer into the woods, I see a thick tangle where letters are hidden In a puzzle concocted for children. Parker and Quigley in the twigs of an ash, Rizzo, Schubert, Torres, and Upton, Secrets in boughs of an ancient maple. Names written in the pale sky. Names rising in the updraft amid buildings. Names silent in stone Or cried out behind a door. Names blown over the earth and out to sea. In the evening--weakening light, the last swallows. A boy on a lake lifts his oars. A woman by a window puts a match to a candle, And the names are outlined on the rose clouds-- Vanacore and Wallace, (Let X stand, if it can, for the ones unfound) Then Young and Ziminsky, the final jolt of Z. Names etched on the head of a pin. One name spanning a bridge, another undergoing a tunnel. A blue name needled into the skin. Names of citizens, workers, mothers and fathers, The bright-eyed daughter, the quick son. Alphabet of names in a green field. Names in the small tracks of birds. Names lifted from a hat Or balanced on the tip of the tongue. Names wheeled into the dim warehouse of memory. So many names, there is barely room on the walls of the heart.'' Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from New Jersey thanks the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo), the chairman of the Committee on Resources, for yielding to me; and I thank him for his vision of this national memorial. I congratulate the gentleman because in coming from the New York-New Jersey region, we particularly salute him for helping us remember so many people who lost loved ones. Mr. Speaker, today we reflect on the event of September 11, 2001, and express our deep sorrow, grief, and heartache for the victims of that tragic day and pledge never to forget them. There were about 700 New Jerseyans who were lost in those attacks and many more from New York State, other States and from other nations, as well as we remember today the lives lost at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania. In the face of terrorist attacks, we witnessed the remarkable bravery of EMS and first aid men and women, firefighters and police officers, including many from my State who were first on the scene, who selflessly raced into the heavily damaged World Trade Center towers to aid and rescue those in need. It was not until later that we learned that so many of them never made it out. Today we will remember their bravery and pay our respects to their families. Like so many of us, I was touched by many heartbreaking stories and pleas from families, but one encounter I had continues to resonate with me and remind me of the tragedy of that day. On a cold, blustery, early morning in October of last year, a man walked up to me at a train station and said, ``Congressman, I am angry.'' My first thought was that he did not agree with one of my votes in Congress or he did not like the outcome of a constituent case matter that we had tried to help him with. But then he said, ``I lost my brother in the World Trade Center on September 11 and I want you to be angry too. I want you to never stop being angry.'' Before leaving the train station that morning and having heard this man's plea, I walked over to a tree planted in memory of the victims of September 11, many of whom came from that small town. There was a plaque in part that read under the tree and I quote, ``We shall never forget our friends and neighbors who rode the rails with us that morning but did not return with us that night.'' We will forever remember the victims who died at the hands of such evil men on that day. And I think we can also promise that we will never stop being angry over the attacks on our country, and this memorial proposal by the gentleman from California (Mr. Pombo) and the ranking member and his committee may help in that regard. Ensuring the safety and security of our Nation and my State is my duty. To protect our communities and neighborhoods, we are continuing to implement a variety of strategies for homeland security. That includes full and unfledged support for our police officers, firefighters and first aiders, defense against bioterrorism, security at our ports, harbor crossings, railroads and road networks, and new procedures and standards for preparing and standards when responding to emergencies. Along with President Bush, I can assure you that the government at every level is responding to terrorist threats, working to track down every lead, and standing watch 24 hours a day against terrorism. We remain resolved and vigilant in our efforts. We know that our work will not be done until every American is free from fear of future terrorist attacks. This memorial, this excellent proposal, this excellent vision will be a living one as has been said, such that we will never forget.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I would like to reiterate that Mayor Anthony Williams, the chief elected officer, the mayor of this city, supports this choice option. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to yield 6 minutes to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Tom Davis), the chairman of the Committee on Government Reform, who I have had the pleasure of working with and who is the architect of this D.C. parental school choice initiative in his bill. (Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Committee do now rise.

Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the amendment. Mr. Chairman, the Federal portion of this bill, as the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fattah) and I already know, is 8.4 percent below last year's level which is about $43 million. It has made it difficult for to us meet the city's priority. Actually if we had not received the $10 million from the gentleman from Ohio (Chairman Regula), our allocation would have been 10.4 percent below last year's allocation level. This amendment, well intended, would reduce the Federal funds to the District by another 1 percent or $4.6 million. The District needs every dollar it can get for programs and priorities of the District. And I urge my colleagues to oppose the amendment.