Elton Gallegly

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 468) affirming the importance of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), supporting continued United States participation in NATO, ensuring that the enlargement of NATO proceeds in a manner consistent with United States interests, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration.

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, on November 21 and 22, the heads of state and government of the 19 members of the NATO alliance will gather in Prague in what will arguably be the most important meeting of the alliance in a decade. At Prague, the future of the alliance will thoroughly be debated. That debate will include the critical issue of whether the alliance can agree on what threats the alliance is likely to face in the future and whether the alliance members will make a serious and credible commitment to the development of the military capabilities necessary to meet those threats. In addition, the summit will affirm the new relationship with Russia and will make history by likely issuing invitations to the largest number of new members ever in the history of the alliance. Last November, when the House voted on the Solomon Freedom Consolidation Act, we were entering the beginning of a debate within the Congress, the Bush administration, the media, and among our NATO partners over the future of the alliance and what kind of alliance we would be inviting new members to join. As chairman of the Subcommittee on Europe of the Committee on International Relations, I felt it would take some time to address several of the questions being asked regarding the alliance. Some of those questions included: Was NATO still relevant to Euro-Atlantic security? Were the alliance's roles and missions in need of new definition? What was the ability of the alliance to carry out those missions? What was the rationale for adding new members, and what could those new members provide the alliance? Finally, what would the impact of an enlarged NATO on a West-leaning but still somewhat skeptical Russia be? To attempt to find those answers, I laid out a comprehensive plan to gather the necessary information to make an informed judgment to present to the House. The subcommittee held several hearings on the future of NATO and enlargement. I met with numerous foreign visitors, both alliance members and candidates alike. I traveled to three of the candidate states to review the commitments they are making to becoming responsible members of the alliance. Subcommittee staff attended countless meetings, analyzed much of the information available on the alliance and the candidate countries, and twice traveled to NATO headquarters in Brussels. All this was designed to ensure that the subcommittee, and subsequently the whole House, would feel comfortable supporting the NATO alliance and endorsing new countries wishing to join the alliance. H. Res. 468 is the work product of the Subcommittee on Europe's efforts to address the importance of the events which will take place in Prague. H. Res. 468 reaffirms the need for our commitment to the NATO alliance. This is also the view held by President Bush and Secretary Powell. H. Res. 468 addresses the urgent need for upgrading NATO's military capabilities in order to meet today's changing threat environment. It agrees with the need for a strong NATO-Russia cooperative partnership. Finally, it affirms that the further enlargement of the alliance will further the stability of Europe, add to the security of the alliance, and is appropriate and welcomed. During consideration of H. Res. 468 in the subcommittee, I offered an amendment regarding enlargement which was unanimously adopted. That amendment endorsed the candidates of seven countries, including Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia. This endorsement was determined after reviewing an extensive report prepared by our staff. The report addressed the progress the candidates had made in accordance with NATO's member action plan or MAP. The analysis focused on political, economic, and social development with each candidate. It looked at their ability to develop a military structure capable of providing for the overall security of the alliance, and it reviewed the commitment to provide the resources necessary to ensure that the reforms continued and that required military capability would be achieved. The analysis was by no means exhaustive, but it was intended to provide the Members an overview of what issues are important to NATO in making an informed assessment of each candidate. Overall, all 10 candidates should be congratulated for the efforts they have made thus far to meet the criteria for becoming a member of NATO. Progress in the candidate countries, ranging from political and military reform, resources commitment, to ensuring the support of the population, has been very impressive. Each has displayed a level of enthusiasm and commitment to the alliance as we saw demonstrated when the ambassadors of all 10 of the candidate countries testified before our subcommittee. Each has already displayed their willingness to be a fully participating member of the alliance through their actions and contributions in the Balkans and with respect to the campaign against terrorism. Each candidate brings with it its own individual strengths. Each is a viable democracy which shares a pro Euro-Atlantic view. Each is committed to market economies, all have embraced military reform, and each provides a unique geopolitical perspective or geostrategic location. These attributes make them all desirable members, either now or in the near future. On the other hand, each candidate has its weaknesses. Not all have mature political systems or strong institutions. Some have weak economies with structural deficiencies needing attention. Not all have sufficiently addressed corruption. Some need further reform of their militaries and more modern equipment. Of course, all need to spend more money. Nevertheless, it is our judgment that each of the seven countries listed in the amendment thus far meet the MAP criteria in a satisfactory way. And each has been judged to be a potential net contributor to the alliance security. Does this mean they have nothing left to do? Far from it, Mr. Speaker. Each has plenty more to be done, and that work must continue until Prague and beyond Prague, whether they receive an invitation to join or they do not. To conclude, Mr. Speaker, given the continued importance of NATO to the United States and the importance of the upcoming Prague summit, I believe the House of Representatives should play an active role in expressing our views on NATO and its future. I believe we should also provide our input on which countries should be admitted to the alliance as guidance for the administration, which will play a key role in determining who ultimately will be invited; and we offer our advice to our colleagues in the other body who, as stipulated in the Constitution, will be called on to ratify those selections. I believe H. Res. 468 provides a mechanism for such expression of the will of the House, and I urge its adoption. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I have no other speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself 3 minutes. Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 253 was introduced by our previous speaker, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Stupak), and endorses the candidacy of Slovakia for NATO membership. In light of the action about to be taken by the House, I believe this resolution is complimentary to H. Res. 468 and elaborates the reasons why Slovakia should be included in NATO. Five years ago, Slovakia was seriously under consideration for NATO membership, but was denied due to the government in power at the time. That government was subsequently replaced, but it threatened to return to power this year, again calling into question Slovakia's candidacy. However, Slovakia just recently held a very important national election and the current government has been returned to office. The outcome of the elections were one of the keys to the status of Slovakia's application to NATO. The election results did come out to everyone's satisfaction, and that has lessened the apprehensions about Slovakia's commitment to NATO. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the people of Slovakia for their strong showing in the election. Over 70 percent of the voting population actually voted. I also want to commend the work of our ambassador, Ron Weiser, and his entire embassy staff for their efforts to encourage a strong voter turnout. Mr. Speaker, I urge the adoption of this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, today, along with my fellow conferees, I'm pleased to deliver a comprehensive conference report and ask for other members' support. We have worked diligently to address a wide variety of issues. From crime prevention programs, to drug education and treatment, a fix in the H1-B visa system and the inclusion of the Judicial Improvements Act, this conference report is a complete package. I'd like to take the opportunity to highlight these provisions and thank several individuals who made the inclusion in this conference report possible. First, the conference report includes a provision that permits consumers who visit wineries to ship a limited quantity of wine back to their homes. This language is needed because post-September 11, as the Federal Aviation Administration and Congress supported strong airline security measures, it became difficult, if not impossible, to carry-on bottles of wine after a visit to a winery. This provision is not only pro-consumer, but it is also very important to California's $12 billion wine industry. I would like to thank Chairman Sensenbrenner for his support on this provision. In addition to the direct shipment of wine, we are also including legislative language that will allow motor vehicle dealers, who sign franchise contracts with manufacturers, to have the opportunity to either accept or reject mandatory binding arbitration after a legal dispute arises. Currently, the mandatory arbitration requirements are either ``take it or leave it'' provisions in the contracts, forcing auto dealers to waive important legal safeguards. I would personally like to thank Chairman Sensenbrenner and Congressman Gekas for their support on this issue. Finally, I am very pleased that this conference report includes five additional federal judgeships for the Southern District of California, as well as one temporary judgeship for the Central District of California. The numbers speak for themselves; the Southern California District is the most overwhelmed in the country and greatly needs these additional judgeships. In the year 2000, the weighted caseload for the Southern District of California was 978 cases per judge. That was more than double the national average of 430. Most alarming is the number of felony cases, which tripled between 1994 and 1999 without additional judgeships. These additional judgeships will ensure that the very integrity of our judicial process will be protected. For that, I'd like to thank all of the conferees for their support.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to a close friend, Ed Hogan, who is celebrating his 75th birthday with no sign of slowing down. Just over a year ago, I rose to honor Ed and his wife, Lynn, for celebrating 50 years of marriage as business partners and partners in life. I spoke extensively about their entrepreneurial success and their extensive philanthropic endeavors. Some highlights: Together, Ed and Lynn opened Pleasant Travel Service and built it into a limited liability corporation with more than 1,700 employees and revenues exceeding $400 million. They formed the Pleasant Hawaiian Holidays Foundation to grant annual scholarships and awards to benefit Hawaiian residents. The non-profit Hogan Family Foundation is dedicated to promoting an understanding of the importance of travel and tourism. The Ed and Lynn Hogan Program in Travel and Tourism is funded at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Ed and Lynn volunteered for numerous other non-profit organizations focused on health care, child abuse and education, and sit on several boards, and have been honored frequently for their efforts. In 1993, Ed and Lynn were inducted into the American Society of Travel Agents' ``Hall of Fame,'' the travel industry's highest honor. In 1995, Ed served as a delegate to the first White House Conference on Travel and Tourism. The past year has been no less busy. Through the Hogan Family Foundation, Ed and Lynn opened a community garden in Thousand Oaks, California, that is free and open to the public. The Gardens of the World was the site of a one-year anniversary tribute to the heroes and victims of September 11, 2001, sponsored by the city and the foundation. The Hogans also opened the Hogan Entrepreneurial Program at the Chaminade University of Honolulu. Ed joined the board of the California Tourism Association. And, they were blessed with the birth of their third grandchild, Gavin Hogan, son of Gary and Nadine. Mr. Speaker, through a lifetime of hard work and family teamwork, Ed Hogan has achieved the American dream. At the same time he has upheld the highest ideals of America by sharing his knowledge and the fruits of his success. I know my colleagues will join Janice and me in wishing Ed Hogan a very happy 75th birthday. We can hardly wait to see what this year brings.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Committee on Resources chairman, the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Hansen), and subcommittee chairman, the gentleman from California (Mr. Radanovich), for bringing this bill before the floor today. Mr. Speaker, this legislation passed the House of Representatives on June 6 of last year by a voice vote and passed the Senate with an amendment by unanimous consent on August 1 of this year. This bill, which I introduced with my colleague, the gentleman from California (Mr. Sherman), would adjust the boundaries of the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area to enhance and protect the principal wildlife corridor between the Simi Hills in my district and the Santa Monica Mountains in Mr. Sherman's district. It adds nearly 3,492 acres of private land in the recreational area at no cost to the taxpayer. Of that, 2,797 acres that were previously donated to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, a State agency, will be transferred to the Park Service. Another 362 acres is publicly and privately owned open space. The rest, about 330 acres, is comprised of developed residential areas in the cities of Calabasas and Agoura Hills. The changes made by the Senate exclude three parcels of private property whose owners wish not to have their property included within the boundary adjustment. The changes were made by Senator Diane Feinstein and Senator Jeff Bingaman at my request. I thank the Senators for helping ensure that the rights of these individuals are protected. All the other property owners impacted by this legislation have agreed to be within the proposed boundaries of the recreation area. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support these changes and this bill.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to again thank the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Hansen), the full committee chairman, and the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. McInnis), the subcommittee chairman, for helping bring this bill to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4917, the Los Padres National Forest Land Exchange Act, will facilitate a land exchange between the U.S. Forest Service and the United Water Conservation District, a local public agency. Under this legislation, the U.S. Forest Service will convey 420 acres to United Water. Of that total, 290 acres are mud-flats surrounded by Lake Piru, 80 acres are campground, and 50 acres are primarily two separate sections of Blue Point Road. United Water will convey to the Forest Service 340 acres. The land is open space within the Los Padres National Forest previously leased for grazing. Both the Forest Service and United Water benefit from the exchange. The Blue Point Campground, which has been closed by the Forest Service since 1995, will be opened on a limited basis by United Water. This will provide additional recreational opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts for frequent trips to the forest. In addition, United Water has pledged to increase patrols around the campground's arroyo toad habitat, which the Forest Service admits does not have the resources necessary to adequately patrol and maintain. In addition, United Water will own all of the land surrounding Lake Piru. This will allow the United Water district to better manage its operations with less bureaucracy. The Forest Service will gain ownership over the entire western part of the Lisk Ranch, which is within the boundaries of the Los Padres and open space. The cost of this exchange would be minimal. Both United Water and the Forest Service have agreed to share the cost of the appraisals and land surveys to be done after enactment. I believe this exchange is a win/ win for the public, the Los Padres National Forest, and the United Water Conservation District; and I urge the House to adopt this measure.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a good friend, Charles ``Rudy'' Longo, who died Sunday after a lifetime of devotion to his family, friends, the Navy and his community. Rudy retired from the United States Navy in 1975 after a 31-year career, including eight years in my district at the Pacific Missile Test Center in Point Mugu. Thereafter, he made his home in Ventura. He enlisted in 1944, was commissioned an ensign in 1946 and retired as a captain. To say Rudy was a photo specialist would be to gloss over his wide range of talents and accomplishments. He served as administrative officer for the Sixth Inter-American Naval Conference, director of the command staff and comptroller for the Naval Missile Center and public relations director of the Pacific Missile Test Center. Aside from photography, he loved golf, table tennis, billiards, magic and cooking. Rudy was a longtime member of the Ventura Rotary Club, serving as its president and official photographer. He was also a member of the Retired Officers Association, the American Legion Post No. 339, and was a member and usher at Ventura Missionary Church. Rudy met his wife of 50 years, Pati, while stationed at the Naval Photography School in Pensacola, Florida, where she also was stationed with the Navy. Together they raised three sons, who are now married and who have blessed them with four grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, Rudy believed in the American ideals of family and community and dedicated his life to promoting those ideals. I know my colleagues will join me in celebrating Rudy's life and in sending our condolences to Pati and their family.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Rahall Amendment and urge its adoption by the House. Included in the Interior bill are several provisions relating to trust reform efforts and the Cobell v. Norton litigation. These legislative provisions will limit an historical accounting of trust funds from the period of 1985 to 2000, which will assume all records before 1985 are correct. There is also language included in the bill that would not provide an accounting for funds held in an account closed as of December 31, 2000. I believe these provisions undermine existing Federal law requiring a full accounting of all trust funds and a Federal court decision requiring an accounting of all funds regardless of the date deposited. As a former Chairman of the Native American and Insular Affairs Committee of the House Resources Committee, I have heard countless times the concerns of Native Americans who say they just want an historical accounting done by the government entrusted with managing their assets. They have waited long enough. I would strongly encourage the House to vote for the Rahall Amendment.

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Chairman, I am proud to be one of the supporters of this amendment to strike language in the Fiscal Year 2003 Interior Appropriations bill that would create yet another commission to study the benefits of gaming to the Native American community. The Commission on Native American Policy created by the Interior bill would report to Congress on whether Indian gaming benefits Indian communities, whether Tribal government gaming is regulated and whether Tribal government gaming is influenced by organized crime. I oppose this language because it would be legislating on an appropriations bill. This provision has not been subject to any hearings or debate in the Resources Committee, which has jurisdiction over Native American issues. I addition, because these issues have been thoroughly studied before, I believe this language wastes valuable taxpayer resources. Mr. Chairman, I believe it is more important for Congress to continue to focus funding towards providing the educational, healthcare and economic needs of the Native American community. I urge the House to adopt this amendment. Again, I thank you Mr. Chairman.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a Resolution which addresses the importance of NATO, its future, enlargement and continued U.S. support for the Alliance. In just five months, the Heads of State and leadership of NATO will meet in Prague to, among other things, discuss the future of the Alliance and its capability to address new and emerging threats and to make a decision on the enlargement of the alliance. It has been eight months since the House of Representatives debated NATO enlargement and overwhelmingly passed the Gerald Solomon Freedom Consolidation Act. Since then, there has been a great deal of debate within the Bush Administration, within the international community of experts and among the NATO partners with respect to NATO's future. But since we last discussed whether new members should be invited into NATO, I felt we should take a moment to discuss exactly what type of alliance we will be inviting new members to join and what we believe the role of this alliance should be in the future. I also wanted to address the relationship between NATO and Russia which many Members raised during the House debate on the Solomon bill last November. To that end, as Chairman of the Europe Subcommittee I held three comprehensive hearings on the question of NATO and enlargement. We heard from outside experts, we met with the Ambassadors of the ten candidate states and we heard from the Bush Administration and our SACEUR. The resolution I am introducing today is the work product of those hearings and all the other meetings and briefings which have taken place in between. Clearly, NATO must maintain its political purpose and military coherence. In this context, I disagree with those who believe that in this post- Cold War and post-September 11 era, NATO may no longer be relevant to the overall security of the United States. NATO is indeed relevant to the U.S. NATO remains the foundation of American security policy in Europe. NATO has proven to be a strong and viable alliance preserving the collective security of Europe for over 53 years. Back in 1949, when the Senate debated the ratification of the North Atlantic Treaty there was concern about what Article 5 would commit the U.S. to do in Europe. Isn't it ironic that the first time in 53 years Article 5 was invoked, as it was on September 12, it was invoked by our allies in defense of the U.S. NATO was relevant in ending the brutal conflicts in both Bosnia and Kosovo. Today, our NATO Allies provide eighty percent of the military forces remaining in those countries. And, NATO, working with the European Union, was instrumental in helping resolve the problem in Macedonia before things got out of hand. Since September 11, NATO's relevance has been clear with respect to the campaign against global terrorism and the war in Afghanistan. Although the Afghan campaign was never a NATO operation, fourteen of our allies from NATO, with some 5,000 troops are operating today side- by-side with U.S. military forces in Afghanistan as many of them have been since the first days of the conflict. Just last week command of the International Security Force transferred from British forces to Turkish forces, both NATO partners. Where would the U.S. effort be if these NATO partners considered themselves too irrelevant to help keep the peace in Afghanistan. Whose 5,000 troops would be patrolling the streets of Kabul if not for NATO forces. I also disagree with those who believe that unless NATO is willing to undergo major restructuring to become a global rapid reaction force in the war on terrorism, it can no longer be relevant. Global terrorism and weapons of mass destruction are challenges worthy of NATO concern and capability to act against and NATO must seriously address these issues between now and Prague. But at the Ministers meeting in Reykjavik in May and the Defense Ministerial in June, NATO leaders did address the realities of the new and emerging threats and have committed, with strong U.S. support, to build the capabilities necessary to address them. For many, NATO does not have to be present in places like the Philippines, or Sudan or Kashmir or even Iraq to be relevant. These matters, while important, should not be seen as the only issues which define NATO for the future. With respect to Russia, I believe the concerns expressed by some of our Colleagues last November and since then had great merit and needed to be clarified by NATO. At the Iceland summit, the U.S. and NATO initiated a new relationship with Russia which resulted in the formation of a new NATO-Russia Council which was inaugurated in June at the Rome summit between NATO heads of state and Russia President Putin. I believe this new relationship represents a breakthrough in NATO- Russia relations and should address the concerns of many. Finally, an essential aspect of NATO is the welcoming of new members into the alliance. I believe enlarging NATO does contribute to the overall security of the United States because membership in NATO does enhance overall European stability and security. We are encouraged by the number of applicants for NATO membership and their dedication and enthusiasm to achieving that goal. As we all know, there are ten applicant countries who have decided that NATO is certainly relevant to them and an organization in which they wish to be a member. But, NATO membership for them is more than joining a military alliance. For them, it will be a validation of their return to being democratic, European and pro- western states. The process under which these applicants are being evaluated, called the Member Action Plan, has been a useful tool for us to analyze their own commitment to meeting the political, economic and military standards expected of all members of the Alliance. Mr. Speaker, my resolution addresses all of these issues in a comprehensive way. Our Subcommittee intends to mark this resolution in the Fall and will consider endorsing candidate countries for NATO membership at that time and based on the best information we have on their readiness to contribute to the overall security of the Alliance. It is my hope that the House Leadership will then make time for another opportunity to debate NATO and the enlargement issue. Mr. Speaker, I believe NATO is as important for transatlantic security today than it was fifty three years ago when it was created. I ask my Colleagues to cosponsor my resolution and to continue to support NATO.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, last week, the command of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan was handed over to Turkish military forces after a successful six months, under the command of British forces. As the Chairman of the Europe Subcommittee, I want to first congratulate and commend the British forces for the excellent work they did to establish an atmosphere of calm and security at the critical time in which the people of Afghanistan were consolidating their political and economic future. The Brits are owed a great deal of thanks. The arrival of the Turkish command marks a new period for the ISAF operation, for the new government of Afghanistan and for Turkey itself. The leadership of Turkey, a predominately Muslim state sends a clear message that the international campaign against terrorism does not have anything to do with Islam as a religion and reinforces the effort we have been trying to make that the United States has Muslim allies in this effort. For Turkey, taking command of ISAF is an acknowledgment of Turkey's important position in that region and the role it can play in the Muslim world. It is also a signal of the important prestige Turkey has accumulated both here in the United States and in the West. The government in Ankara should be commended for its willingness to take on this critically important role. We congratulate Turkey and wish their military contingent the best of success. Finally, I would be remiss if I did not point out for commendation all of the other nations whose military forces are currently serving in Afghanistan. ISAF does have some 5,000 troops serving in Afghanistan and they all deserve our thanks and continued support. I think it is also important to note that the majority of the nineteen countries who have contributed forces to ISAF are not only European, but are from our NATO partners or NATO candidate countries. I believe this is an important point that is often overlooked by those who have criticized Alliances such as NATO for not being willing or capable of conducting missions abroad. The Afghanistan campaign was not a NATO mission but the fact that so many of our NATO partners have sent troops there is a testament to the importance of the Alliance and why we in this country should continue to strongly support NATO. Consider where we would be today if NATO was no longer relevant to our security needs. Whose 5,000 troops would be patrolling the streets of Kabul and ensuring the peaceful transition of that country. So, again we salute the British forces for a job well done. We congratulate and welcome the Turkish leadership of ISAF and we thank our NATO allies and European friends for their continued support in Afghanistan and in the campaign against global terror.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to speak today in support of the underlying legislation and in opposition to the substitute. I want to thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Portman), the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cardin), and the gentleman from California (Mr. Thomas) for reporting a bill that provides permanent retirement security for all Americans by allowing people to put more money into a 401(k) plan or a traditional pension plan beyond 2011. In addition, this important legislation will make permanent the provision of the Bush tax cut that increases IRA contributions. I have worked hard to enact legislation to increase IRA contributions for many years, which is so critical to retirement savings. Mr. Speaker, middle-class Americans depend on traditional IRAs to supplement their retirement income. Seventy-two percent of people contributing to an IRA make less than $50,000 per year, and the average contributor earns approximately $30,000 per year. Many of these Americans do not have generous 401(k) plans or stock options to help them build a nest egg. Prior to the enactment of last year's tax cut, inflation had cut the value of IRAs sharply since 1981, the last time IRA contributions were increased. Saving for retirement requires long-term planning. Individuals and families need to save for many years in advance of leaving the workforce. Although the tax cut enacted last year will now gradually increase the IRA contributions to $5,000 by 2007, without further action by Congress, this increase will expire in 2011, and the amount people can contribute to their IRAs will revert back to $2,000. After taking into account inflation, this amount will fall well short of what is needed to save for retirement. By increasing the IRA contribution limit and making it permanent, we provide families with a certainty needed for their long-term retirement planning. I strongly urge my colleagues to pass this measure.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the parents, students, faculty and staff whose dedication to excellence has earned a school in my district---Chaparral Middle School in Moorpark, California-- recognition as a National Blue Ribbon school. The National Blue Ribbon award honors excellence in leadership, teaching, curriculum, student achievement and parental involvement. Chaparral Middle School is a shining example of what can happen when parents, teachers and administrators collaborate on the best approaches for providing a quality education. The attitude at Chaparral can best be summed up by the comment Principal Creighton Nicks made to a local newspaper: ``We're never satisfied with good enough. We're always trying to be better.'' The quality and dedication of teachers at Chaparral are epitomized by earth science teacher Mary Alice Reyburn, who was honored this week as a California State Science Fair Teacher of the Year. Part of the honor is a $2,000 prize, which Mrs. Reyburn plans to donate to the school to purchase science equipment. I am a product of the public school system, and I put my four children through Ventura County's public schools. One of my children is now a public school teacher. I am acutely aware that the most important tool we can give our children is a good education. Our students are the elected officials, businessmen, artists, scientists, parents and teachers of tomorrow. Nineteenth century orator and public servant Edward Everett, who shared the speaker's platform with President Lincoln in Gettysburg, once said: ``Education is a better safeguard of liberty than a standing army.'' Those words are equally true during these perilous times, as we fight terrorists for the right to remain free. Mr. Speaker, as our nation works in concert to better our education system, it would serve us well to study the successes of our National Blue Ribbon schools. They are the best of the best and a key to our future. I know my colleagues will join me in applauding Chaparral Principal Nicks, his entire staff, and the parents and students of Chaparral for raising the bar and setting a strong example for others to follow.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, in these times of world gloom and heightened concerns for global safety and security, peace and prosperity in the aftermath of the tragedy of September 11, we have come to better understand the stark reality that people and communities who feel powerless and who live in poverty-stricken conditions with little hope for a different future often become frustrated and angry with their lives. These conditions often breed contempt for society in some and eventually can contribute to the corrosion of world stability. But we also know that human misery, powerlessness and other forms of depravation can be addressed and are being successfully addressed by organizations such as CHF International which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary during this year of 2002. Begun in 1952 as a housing cooperative building affordable housing in rural America and in low-income neighborhoods of older cities, CHF has grown into a world renown catalyst for sustainable positive change in low and moderate income communities around the world. CHF International works in communities from Africa to Asia to meet the challenges posed by global poverty, complex emergencies and humanitarian crises, social and economic disparities caused by conflict or political transition, and environmental degradation. Led by the energetic and unselfishly committed team of Chairman Gordon Cavanaugh, President and CEO, Michael Doyle and Vice President Judith Hermanson and hundreds of dedicated staff worldwide, CHF International is clearly making a difference in the lives of ordinary people in over 100 countries. CHF's formula for success, as recognized by the United Nations on its ``Scroll of Honour'', has always been a strong belief in the goodness and power of the human spirit, fortified by openness and transparency, fiscal responsibility, continuing education, democratic governance and greater community participation. Supported in large part by the United States Agency for International Development and other international and domestic benefactors, CHF International, over the past ten years, has been able to leverage over $165 million to provide more than $60 million in microenterprise loans, to create over 500,000 jobs, to train over 103,000 people for community operations, to build or improve close to 100,000 homes, improve the economic standing of over 2 million impoverished women and help form or strengthen some 8,000 local co-ops. Mr. Speaker, as the former Chairman of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee and current Chairman of the Europe Subcommittee, I have been aware of CHF's programs in places stretching from El Salvador and Guatemala to Serbia, Kosovo and Azerbaijan. The work of CHF International and its worldwide staff has been impressive and should be recognized, applauded and supported for its extraordinary contribution to humanity. Once again, congratulations to CHF International for fifty years of working to build a better world.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to my longtime friend, Michael D. Bradbury, who will be honored this week by Interface Children Family Services ``for his contributions and dedication to youth and to the community throughout his long career as a public servant.'' Mike was elected District Attorney of Ventura County, California, in 1978, a year before I was elected to the Simi Valley City Council. We developed a steadfast friendship and mutual respect while working together on a variety of issues over the years. Mike will retire from the District Attorney's Office at the end of the year. He will long be remembered as a no-nonsense prosecutor and a recognized leader in law enforcement both statewide and nationally. No one person, of course, is responsible for creating a community that is recognized annually as the safest urban area in the western United States. But certainly Mike Bradbury leads the pack. Under his direction, the Ventura County District Attorney's Office adopted a no- plea-bargaining policy. Criminals know if they commit a crime in Ventura County they will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Because of his tough stance on crime, Mike was re-elected District Attorney five times. At the same time, Mike recognizes that crime prevention is more than being tough on criminals. It also requires providing a safe and secure environment for families and children and providing children with the tools they need to become productive members of society. In addition to his work with Interface Children Family Services, Mike was an honorary fundraising chairman for Big Brothers/Big Sisters; president of the Boy Scouts of America, Ventura County Council; member of the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club of California and the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center; member of the National Advisory Committee of Fight Crime: Invest in Kids; and a member of the Advisory Board of the Assistance League of Ventura County. Not surprisingly, he has been equally active in law enforcement organizations, and holds the distinction of being the first district attorney in California history to be twice elected president of the California District Attorneys Association. In 1992, Governor Pete Wilson appointed him chairman of the California Council on Criminal Justice and, in 1982, President Ronald Reagan appointed him to the President's Commission on Drunk Driving. Mr. Speaker, I could go on and on with praise for my respected friend. But let me sum up his achievements by noting the numerous awards he has received for his dedication and accomplishments, note that he is also an educator at prestigious law schools, and that he has published numerous articles on criminal justice. Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues will join Interface Children Family Services and me in thanking Michael D. Bradbury for a lifetime of dedication to his community and the criminal justice system, and wish him and his wife, Heidi, and his sons and daughters, many years of rest and relaxation at Hang 'em High Ranch. Although, knowing Mike, he won't be resting long.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to James W. Walker, who will retire this summer as president of Moorpark College, in Moorpark, California. President Walker has overseen enormous growth at Moorpark College in his ten-year tenure as president. When he arrived in 1992, enrollment stood at 11,900 students. Today it stands at more than 14,500 and is projected to grow to 19,000 students by 2015. To prepare for that growth, President Walker recently led the college through a strategic planning process and the creation of a Moorpark College Facilities Master Plan. The comprehensive document details renovations and new construction that will be necessary to continue providing an outstanding education to Moorpark students. His work on the Master Plan was instrumental in convincing the Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees to place a $356 million bond measure on the March 5, 2002, ballot, which passed with 65 percent of the vote. The Master Plan and successful bond measure are typical of President Walker's leadership. During his tenure, he oversaw construction of the Performing Arts Center and the Kavli Science Center, and planning for the Learning Resource and Telecommunications Center. He established numerous educational and business partnerships, including preparations for off-campus centers in Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks. In 1999, he partnered with the Moorpark Unified School District to create The High School at Moorpark College for high-achieving Moorpark students. President Walker's retirement caps a 43-year career in public education, which includes teaching at the high school and community college levels and many management positions. In 1994-95, he was tapped to serve as interim chancellor of the College District because of the untimely death of then-Chancellor Thomas Lakin. He is a former member of the Board of Directors of the Chief Executive Officers, California Community Colleges and current board member of Intelecom. He was a founding member of the advisory board for California State University at Channel Islands and is on the Board of Visitors for Pepperdine University. In his spare time, he served on the boards of the Moorpark Boys & Girls Club and the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. He has also run all 17 Los Angeles Marathons. Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues will join me in thanking James W. Walker for his lifelong dedication to the education of our children, and in wishing him and his wife of more than 40 years, Nancy, well- eamed quality time with their son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Kerri, and their three daughters; and daughter and son-in-law Laura and Kevin, and their three sons.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, on March 7 I missed roll call vote number 52. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on the vote.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to two of my constituents and friends, Glen and Sally Becerra, who for the second year are chairing the Simi Valley Education Foundation's Lew Roth Dinner. Few passions are more important to the future of America than the education of our children. Lew Roth epitomized that passion during 23 years as a School Board trustee in my hometown of Simi Valley, California. We registered in different parties, but we were bound by that belief. He was a true teacher and a good friend. Lew founded the Simi Valley Education Foundation in 1989 to provide the business community and individuals with an avenue to improve our schools. The Lew Roth awards were founded after Lew died in 1991 to recognize other school personnel who share Lew's passion for educating our children. Awarded during a gala dinner celebration, the awards honor a classified school employee, a manager, a teacher and a volunteer. This year's recipients are PTA volunteer Annette Morgan, Garden Grove School Principal Lynn Friedman, Santa Susana School cafeteria manager Linda Pistachio, and longtime educator Peggie Noisette. They join an elite group more important than any Hall of Frame promoted regularly on television. This year's gala, to be held on Friday at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, is a festive gathering that brings the community together to recommit to Lew's ideals and his vision. It is an important fund-raiser for the non-profit foundation, and provides a large share of the funds the foundation spends each year for teacher grants, classroom technology and other educational needs. The success of the evening helps shape the success of the foundation for the coming year. And, the success of the evening depends largely on the people who chair the event, the caliber of an active foundation board, and the cadre of other volunteers they assemble to assist them. It's a huge commitment and one that Glen and Sally Becerra have taken on twice. It is anticipated that the galas last year and this year will have raised about $200,000 for the foundation. I know personally of Glen's and Sally's commitment to family and community. They have two young children who are the loves of their lives. Sally is a dedicated mother and Glen a dedicated father who together actively nurture their children. In addition to serving as a foundation board member, Glen is a city councilman. They have long been active in their community, like their parents before them. Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues will join me in congratulating Gland and Sally Becerra on another successful event and thank them for their dedication and ensure our children receive a rich and rewarding education.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, since regaining its independence in 1991, Ukraine's democracy has made significant progress but has not been without its difficult periods. Nowhere has the integrity of the country's political system been more challenged than in its electoral process. On March 31, Ukraine will hold its third election for parliament. This election will be a critical test of the strength of Ukraine's evolving democracy and its new election laws. Given the importance of a strong and stable Ukraine in the region, the importance of our relations with Ukraine and our keen interest in Ukraine's continued emergence as a responsible, democratic member of the international community, we are naturally interested in the electoral process as well as progress the country has made in the areas of human rights, rule of law, freedom of expression and the strength of its democratic institutions. In this context, the United States Congress, through H. Res. 339, expresses its interest in, and concerns for, a genuinely free and fair parliamentary election process which enables all the various political parties and election blocs to compete on a level playing field; allows the voters to acquire objective information about the political candidates; and expects all parties to the election to observe their own laws. Historically, since 1991, elections in Ukraine have been marred by problems such as intimidation of journalists and opposition candidates; denial of access to the media; unbalanced news coverage; abuse of power and political position by government officials; and the illegal use of public funds. Today, we have received reports from Ukraine that the current election period has been beset by similar allegations of individuals or groups illegally trying to influence the outcome of the elections. This is not to say that the overall electoral process is seriously flawed. The Ukraine parliament has passed a positive new election law. What H. Res. 339 does say, however, is that the reported abuses of the election law have to be stopped, that the government has the responsibility to enforce its election law fairly, and that every effort must be taken to ensure that a free, fair and transparent election take place on March 31. This resolution we are considering today does represent a genuine concern that the reported activities of some could cast a negative cloud over these elections and the entire democratic process in Ukraine. The authors of this Resolution are to be congratulated for bringing these problems to our attention, and we hope the resolution is seen in a positive and constructive way inside Ukraine. By addressing these concerns, Ukraine can only be better off and its democracy made stronger I urge passage of this resolution and reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the heroic memory of Air Force Senior Airman Jason Dean Cunningham, who died March 4, 2002, during a firefight with America's enemies in the mountains of eastern Afghanistan. Airman Cunningham is to be laid to rest today in Arlington National Cemetery. Jason lived briefly in my district with his wife, Theresa, and her parents, Lucy and Lito DeCastro, in Camarillo, CA. Jason's parents, Lawrence Dean and Jackie Cunningham, hail from Gallup, NM. Theresa joined the Navy after graduating from Rio Mesa High School and met Jason while both were stationed in Italy. At that time, Jason also served in the Navy. He switched to the Air Force 2\1/2\ years ago to become a pararescueman--a paramedic who has trained at a special forces levels. Jason underwent 2 years of intense training in airborne, scuba and survival schools, search and rescue, and, of course, medical training to join this elite group of lifesavers. He was assigned to the 38th Rescue Squadron at Moody Air Force Base, near Valdosta, GA. By all accounts, Jason was a dedicated and skilled airman, and a dedicated and loving family man. He and Theresa have two daughters, Kyla, 4, and Hannah, 2. On March 4, he and six others died trying to rescue a Navy SEAL. It is important to remember them as well, for they fought by Jason's side and will be with him for all eternity: Sgt. Bradley Crose, 22, of Orange Park, Florida; Spc. Marc A. Anderson, 30, of Brandon, Florida; Pfc. Matthew A. Commons, 21, of Boulder City, Nevada; Petty Officer 1st Class Neil Roberts, 32, of Woodland, California; Tech. Sgt. John A. Chapman, 36, of Windsor Locks, Connecticut; and Army Sgt. Philip J. Svitak, 31, of Joplin, Missouri. Jason is the second serviceman from my district to die in Afghanistan since the hostilities began. Special Forces Staff Sgt. Brian Cody Prosser of Frazier Park, CA, died in Afghanistan in December. Considering the relatively low casualty rate so far, that's a high percentage for a congressional district. But the people in my district were patriotic long before September 11. They believe strongly in freedom and know deep in their hearts that freedom often comes with a price. Jason and Brian joined the military to protect their families, friends and neighbors from America's enemies. We forever will be grateful. Mr. Speaker, we are deeply saddened by the loss of Jason Dean Cunningham but our resolve is strong. Our enemies must know that when they attack us they will be destroyed. I ask my colleagues to join me in sending our heartfelt sympathy to Jason's family and to all those who have lost loved ones in the pursuit of freedom.

Mr. GALLEGLY

Mr. GALLEGLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to Peggy Kelly, who has been named the Santa Paula, CA, Citizen of the Year for 2001. It's unusual for a journalist to be named a city's Citizen of the Year, but then Peggy Kelly is an unusual journalist. Peggy believes that when a journalist picks up a notebook she does not simultaneously give up her civic responsibility to actively improve her community. Her rich and thorough reporting on the people and activities in Santa Paula reflect her profound understanding of the community--an understanding she cultivated through passionate and personal interactions with her neighbors throughout the 13 years she has called the city home. In a sense, I followed Peggy to Santa Paula. When I was first elected to Congress, Peggy lived in Thousand Oaks, which was then in my district. In 1992, I lost the majority of Thousand Oaks and picked up Santa Paula, ensuring that I would once again represent Peggy in the halls of Congress. And Peggy is the model of why I am proud to represent the people of the 23rd Congressional District of California. She is active in the local Rotary Club and has hosted many fundraising events for local nonprofit organizations, activities she undertakes with an ever-present smile and a sharp wit. When I attend an event in Santa Paula, I know Peggy will be there as well. When she talks to you, you know you have her full attention--a fact that's underlined when she puts it in writing. As a freelance journalist who works primarily for the Santa Paula Times, Peggy covers every aspect of the city--City Council, Planning Commission, and School Board meetings; Chamber of Commerce events; and virtually every other event where the people of Santa Paula gather. Her reporting has been described as being wrought by ``professionalism, balance and heartfelt love and admiration for the people she writes.'' Mr. Speaker, Peggy Kelly is a credit to her profession and a godsend to her community. She is very deserving of the honor of being named Santa Paula's 2001 Citizen of the Year. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating her for a job well done.