Ralph Hall

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, we have no more speakers, and I yield back the balance of our time.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4429 is a very important piece of legislation, and I wish to compliment the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Barcia) and our chairman for their persistence in focusing the Congress on the impacts that electronic commerce is having on our small businesses throughout this country. Competing as a small businessman can be very tough under the very best of circumstances, and it gets just that much harder during times of rapid change. Today, computers and e-commerce are turning the world of many small businessmen and women on their head. They do not know which way to go. The gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Barcia) and his cosponsors have written legislation that will really help small businesses. It will help them tremendously in obtaining the information and expertise necessary to make intelligent business decisions as they move onto the Internet. This help will be available through the Manufacturing Extension Program of the Department of Commerce. The gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Barcia), the gentlewoman from Michigan (Ms. Rivers), and the gentlewoman from Michigan (Ms. Stabenow) also introduced H.R. 4906 earlier this year. It is a bill that very aggressively addresses another small business problem that is just around the corner. According to recent testimony before the Committee on Science, European governments are spending over $45 million per year to develop standards that will permit companies to exchange manufacturing data instantaneously and in effect establish virtual manufacturing enterprises. H.R. 4906 provides for a meaningful U.S. role in the development of these standards and for creating the tools that small businesses will need to participate in this new mode of business interaction. We appreciate the willingness of the gentleman from Wisconsin (Chairman Sensenbrenner) to add sections from H.R. 4906 to the bill before us today, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4429. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Barcia).

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. I thank the gentleman for his explanation. Mr. Speaker, the minority concurs in the necessity to correct the enrollment of H.R. 1654. Therefore, we do not object to the immediate consideration of the resolution. Mr. Speaker, I withdraw my reservation of objection.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that we finally have an opportunity to consider the reauthorization of the Small Business Innovation Research [SBIR] program. It is a shame that we have waited until the very week the program is scheduled to expire to bring a compromise text here for our consideration. This is a program that has done a great deal of good over the past 18 years. There are numerous companies, both large and small, in my State of Texas and throughout the Nation, that got their first big breaks through this program. There are many more emerging high technology companies around the country that need a helping hand today. They have the ideas that will lead to tomorrow's prosperity, and we need to give them the chance to get started. A lot of hard work went into developing the SBIR portion of H.R. 2392. We carefully debated our ideas over the last year and a half in Committees, on the House and Senate floors, and in negotiations between House and Senate. We have come up with a revitalized program that builds on the SBIR program's historic strengths while attempting to address a number of recommendations for improvement. We have a good work product--one that should lead to even more successful small businesses over the next 8 years. There is just one cloud on the horizon. Despite time being short, other small business provisions have been added to the bill. While in principle, there is nothing wrong with considering related bills together, the more complicated a bill is, the more chance we have to slip up. I therefore urge my colleagues, who are in negotiations with the Senate Small Business Committee, to do all in their power to work out the final details. We need to make every effort to submit this important legislation to the President promptly enough that the SBIR program and the small businesses that are depending on it are not disrupted.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, in the Extension of remarks accompanying the introduction of H.R. 4899, there seems to be a desire for the proposed Commission to prefer one nation to another. India over China. There is always a danger that we will codify a temporary mindset so as to put ourselves in a policy box where the principles and boundaries of our foreign policy becomes rigid; where a future Congress and chief Executive will be unable to alter course as our national interest compels; and where we may surrender our freedom of choice. Lastly, I question the good that this nation can derived by so explicitly preferring India over China, whereby prompted by our affection for India, we may withhold criticism of India's actions and policies in the regional conflicts of South Asia. This can be seen as hostile to the people of Pakistan.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Lampson) whose district encircles Johnson Space Center.

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

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge), a member of the committee.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Larson). (Mr. LARSON asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would like to say a few words, add a few words to what our chairman, the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner), has said in support of the conference report. The report, of course, provides a 3-year authorization for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Specifically, it provides a total authorization of $42.4 billion over the period starting in fiscal year 2000 through fiscal year 2002, including the authorization of $14.184 billion for fiscal year 2001 and $14.62 billion for fiscal year 2002. While I feel like I may be as conservative maybe as some of the other guys around here in the House, I still believe and I think we are on solid ground when we invest in NASA. I think it is the right thing to do, and I think especially it is the right thing to do now that we finally balanced the Federal budget, and that we are in for some years of surplus years. Within those overall spending levels, the conference report fully funds NASA's major programs in both fiscal year 2001 and fiscal year 2002, including the International Space Station and the Space Shuttle. As part of the Space Shuttle authorization, funding is provided for needed safety and reliability upgrades to the Shuttle. All of the other accounts are also funded at or above the levels requested by the administration, including the Space Launch Initiative, an initiative that is intended to dramatically reduce the cost of getting payloads into orbit. An area of research that I am personally interested in is life science and microgravity research. I am very pleased that the conference report increased funding for this important research, research that has already benefited our citizens here on Earth in many ways, and I am convinced that we will see even more significant ventures and more safe returns on our investment in that research once the space station is operational. Among the areas receiving increases are NASA's educational programs. In particular, funding for the Space Grant program have been increased to $28 million in both fiscal year 2001 and fiscal year 2002. That is an increase of almost $9 million over what the President had requested for fiscal year 2001. In addition to other very good features of this bill, in addition to the authorization levels, the conference report for H.R. 1654 includes a number of policy provisions. One of the policy provisions, namely section 313 on ``Innovative Technologies for Human Space Flight,'' was proposed by our former chairman and my good friend the late George Brown. Ever the visionary, George wished to push NASA to apply the lessons of faster, better, and cheaper to human space flight, so that human exploration behind Earth's orbit could become affordable for this Nation in the not-too-distant future. I will not take up a lot more time detailing all the provisions included in H.R. 1654; the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner), the chairman, has done a very good job of that. My colleagues have copies of the conference report and accompanying statement of managers available to them. Instead, I would like to close by expressing my appreciation to fellow conferees for all their hard work, including the gentleman from Wisconsin (Chairman Sensenbrenner), who is not only a good guy, he is very knowledgeable. He is good to work with, and we appreciate him; the gentleman from California (Chairman Rohrabacher), who worked steadily with us; the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Gordon); the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Weldon); Chairman McCain; Chairman Frist; Chairman Stevens; Senator Hollings; and Senator Breaux. In particular, I again want to commend the chairman for his leadership; as chairman of the conference, it was a difficult conference at times, but I think all the conferees made a good-faith effort to achieve a constructive piece of legislation. Mr. Speaker, if H.R. 1654 is enacted into law, it will become the first NASA Authorization Act enacted since 1992. I think this is quite an accomplishment. I believe that it is important for both NASA and for the Congress that we do enact H.R. 1654. Furthermore, I believe that the conference report for H.R. 1654 represents a reasonable compromise that will help ensure the continued strength of the Nation's civil space program. I urge my colleagues to support the conference report. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee), a supporter of NASA and the space station. (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Gordon), the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics of the Committee on Science.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to the citizens and former residents of Celeste, Texas, who are celebrating the rich heritage of their hometown with a community celebration on September 3, 2000. Founded more than 100 years ago, the town of Celeste has endured and thrived due to the hard work, devotion, and community spirit of those who have chosen to live and work and raise their families there. From the early settlers to today's citizens, Celeste has been blessed with honest, hard-working families who take pride in their community and work hard to preserve the wonderful town that I am honored to represent in the Fourth Congressional District of Texas. The town of Celeste was born when Santa Fe Railroad officials purchased land situated in Hunt County, 50 miles from Dallas, on high rolling prairie between the north fork of the Sabine River and the south fork of the Red River and at the junction of the Missouri Pacific, Gulf Colorado and Santa Fe Railways. The engineers divided the town site into blocks and streets, and a public sale of town lots was held on April 19, 1887. The settlement was named Celeste in honor of one of the railroad official's daughters. On February 11, 1898, more than 20 residents and qualified voters met in the office of the Hunt County Judge for the purpose of incorporating Celeste, and an election was held on March 5, 1898, officially incorporating the town. In the early years, and even before the railroad began to purchase land or lay tracks, numerous small settlements were established around what is now known as Celeste. Some families still reside in these communities; other settlements are marked by graveyards and other markers, and their history is kept alive through the memories shared by those who once lived there. White Rock, Kingston, Prosperity, Alliance, Dulaney, Hackberry, Goosneck, Orange Grove, Hickory Creek, Hogeye (where Audie Murphy once lived), Nicholson, Midway, Bradburn, and Lane are some of the beloved settlements that were part of Celeste's early history. Those were the days when small (sometimes one-room) schools were commonplace. Most of these communities established their own schools, and other beloved schools in the area included Antioch School, Crescent School, Davenport School, Sam Houston School, Prairie Hill School, Enterprise School, and Rainbow School. These eventually consolidated and most became part of the Celeste school system. Churches also were vital to these communities, providing spiritual and moral guidance as well as a ``meeting place'' for social gatherings. Some of these churches remain active in their respective communities. Records indicate that Celeste received its first postmaster in 1886. The post office was housed in several buildings until 1962, when a new building was dedicated by Congressman Ray Roberts, who traced its legacy to his predecessor, the Representative from the Fourth Congressional District and the great former Speaker of the House, Sam Rayburn. For many years the Celeste Courier chronicled the events of this community. Births and deaths, school and church activities, commerce and crime, politics and social events, sports and other interests were reported for area residents. But of course much of the news also was shared in person by this close-knit community, most of whom know each other well. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize this outstanding city in the Fourth Congressional District and to pay tribute to the citizens of Celeste, Texas, as they honor their hometown on the occasion of this wonderful celebration. Let us join today in celebrating the rich history of Celeste and wishing this community much happiness and prosperity for another hundred years.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding citizen and community leader from the Fourth District of Texas--the late Joseph Henry Skiles, Jr., of Sanger, TX, who passed away earlier this year at the young age of 56. Mr. Skiles was president of Tenstrike Oil and Gas and advisory director of Guaranty National Bank of Sanger. He was a member of the Sanger Lions Club and the Public Library Board and was a lifetime member of the First United Methodist Church in Denton. Mr. Skiles was born on November 4, 1943, in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Joseph Henry Skiles, Sr., and Kathleen Clayton Skiles. A graduate of Denton High School, he earned a bachelor's degree in economics in 1965 from Southern Methodist University and a jurisprudence degree in 1968 from Harvard University School of Law. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was a Vietnam veteran. Mr. Skiles is preceded in death by his wife Kathleen Dolan Skiles. He is survived by his son, Clayton Dolan Skiles and daughter, Claire Elizabeth Blanche Skiles, and many other family members and friends. He was an integral part of his community and will be sorely missed. So as we adjourn today, let us do so in memory of Joseph Henry Skiles, Jr.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of an exemplary citizen of the Fourth District of Texas, Don Legg of Mabank, TX, who celebrated his ninety-third birthday this year. Retirement seems never to have been an option for Don, as he continues to serve as the ``glue'' that holds together the staff of The Monitor, the local Mabank newspaper. The staff of the newspaper wrote a moving tribute to Don on the occasion of his birthday, some of which I would like to recount for the Congressional Record. No one seems to know exactly how many years Don has worked for the newspaper, but each Wednesday and Friday he still reports to work for a final proofing of the newspaper and continues to hold his title as primary reporter for the Kemp community and its schools. He is an avid fan of the Kemp Yellow Jackets and reports on any and all sporting events in which the school competes. Two years ago Don suffered a stroke. While in the hospital, recuperating from the stroke which left his speech impaired but his mind still sharp and his desire for writing intact, he continued to work on stories and to cover events and meetings with the help of his wife, Mary, and a number of devoted friends. According to the newspaper tribute, Don always has a smile and a joke to share with coworkers. He has taught young reporters the art of ``reporting,'' and they have learned from his extensive knowledge and experience. As the staff said, ``The office just wouldn't be the same without him.'' And the same could be said of his beloved community. ``It just wouldn't be the same without him.'' So, Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, let us do so in honor of Don Legg, who at the age of 93 may be a ``senior citizen''--but also is still an ``active citizen.'' Happy Birthday, Don!

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and a privilege today to remember and pay tribute to a great American and a good friend, Allen Gordon Smith Sr., of Diana, TX, who died on April 21 of this year. Mr. Smith was an American war hero, a prisoner of war, and an outstanding citizen of East Texas. His influence on his community and his friends and family will be felt for many years to come, and his dignity shall not be diminished by time. In October 1939, Mr. Smith voluntarily joined the U.S. Army Air Corps at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana--a decision that would change his life. He became a member of the 27th Bomb Group of the 16th Squadron. The group was sent to the Philippines, landing in November 1941. Mr. Smith was captured by the Japanese on April 9, 1942, at the fall of Bataan. He survived the infamous Bataan Death March and spent 42 months in Japanese prisoner of war camps. No words could adequately tell his story about this experience--so suffice it to say that he emerged from the war as a true American hero and a strong advocate for veterans. Mr. Smith was a leader and a life-time member of the American Ex- Prisoners of War as well as the Disabled American Veterans. He served two terms as national director of the American Ex-Prisoners of War and one term as commander of the Department of Texas Ex-Prisoners of War. He also was a Veterans Administration Service officer, in which capacity he worked on behalf of fellow veterans. His distinguished service in defense of our Nation and in support of veterans will be long remembered. Following his service in the war, Mr. Smith returned to Longview and married Helen Florence Jones on November 22, 1946. He attended the University of Houston. In 1956, Mr. and Mrs. Smith moved to Diana, where they devoted much of their time working with the youth in their community. They served on a governor-appointed committee to work with youth in Upshur, Camp, and Wood Counties, and Mr. Smith served on the board of directors for Baseball for Boys in East Texas. Mr. Smith also worked with youth through the Cub Scouts and the 4-H Club. After 24 years of service, Mr. Smith retired from Lone Star Steel. He was a member of the Judson Road Church of Christ in Longview. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife, Helen; his son and daughter-in- law, Allen Jr. and Elayne Smith; his daughter and son-in-law; Daneila Smith Woods and John Woods; four granddaughters and grandsons-in-law; one grandson and granddaughter-in-law; two great-granddaughters; four step-great-grandchildren; a sister and brother-in-law, Julia and Robert Crowder; a brother and sister-in-law, Alvin and Patsy Smith; and a number of other relatives and friends. Mr. Speaker, Allen Gordon Smith was a man of dignity and honor who lived a distinguished life in service to his country, his community, and to his family and fellow citizens. He was a wonderful role model to many children in East Texas, and his influence will be felt for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering, honoring, and paying our last respects to this outstanding American--Allen Gordon Smith, Sr.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to a fine American and great Texan, Mr. Donald Vickers of Blossom, TX. In 1942, at the age of 16, Donald Vickers felt the need to fight for his country during World War II. He left his home in Blossom and joined the Army, and his service to his country lasted 31 years and 7 months, during which time he fought in World War II, Korea, the Cuban conflict, and Vietnam. This fine gentleman, who is revered by friends and family and lovingly called ``Papa Donald'', received his early training at Camp Shelby, MS, and soon after was sent to fight in North Africa. Later he trained in England and was a part of the fateful landing on D-Day, during the Normandy Invasion. He served in the European theater operation from 1943 to 1945, being assigned to a Tank Destroyer Battalion. In 1946 he re-enlisted and later served in Korea as an advisor to the 59th Republic of Korea Army Tank Company. During the Cuban conflict he was deployed off Cuba in the LST's, which were ready to land both men and equipment. His first tour in Vietnam from December 1965 to December 1966 was with the 25th Infantry Division, 69th Armor Battalion. After serving stateside in 1967, he was assigned to serve with the Military Advisors Corp in Vietnam from December 1968 to December 1969. His other tours of duty included Germany and Hawaii. Stateside, he served in Mississippi, Kansas, Georgia, California, New Jersey, New Mexico, and later, back home in Texas, before he retired from the service in August 1974. Donald Vickers, now Sergeant Vickers, has been awarded numerous decorations during his many years of service. These include the Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart with 2 Clusters, Bronze Stars with V device and 2 Clusters, ARCOM with 3 Clusters, Good Conduct Medal with Silver Bar and 1 Leaf, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Silver and 3 Bronze Service Stars, WWII Victory Medal, European and Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and Korean Service Medal. In addition, he has received written commendations from his commanding officers which reflect their recognition of his courage, his patriotism, leadership and dedication to his country, his men, and the Army. Mr. Vickers has been married for many years to Mary Jo Vickers. They have 5 children, 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. It was one of their granddaughters, Mrs. Cassidy Fuess, of Denton, TX, who in her devotion to her grandfather and desire to share his history with others, contacted me to tell his story. My thanks to Cassidy, her grandfather, and their family for their devotion to those values that Americans hold dear--love of their country and love for their family. I am proud that they are from my district, and I appreciate the opportunity to recognize Sgt. Donald Vickers and his family today.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Taylor Garrett of Van, TX, for his research efforts in Madrid, Spain, last summer that formed the basis for his Honors thesis during his senior year at Southwestern University in Texas. He and his professor, Dr. Daniel Castro, spent 6 weeks at the Archivo Historico Nacional de Madrid researching 16th to 19th century documents dealing with the Spanish Inquisition. To be chosen for this research opportunity was a great honor, and Taylor was chosen due to his proficiency in the Spanish language and his strong interest in the history of this period. Once in Madrid, these two researchers catalogued materials from archives in an effort to discover the role of women and other ``voiceless'' constituencies during the colonial Inquisition. For 6 weeks Taylor's main role was to translate paleography--a symbol-based language--into English. Southwestern University supports collaborative research between students and faculty, and I am proud that this young Texan from my district was selected to participate in this important project. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to recognize the achievements of Taylor Garrett and to commend him for his enthusiasm for learning, his willingness to work hard, and his commitment to high academic standards--qualities that are crucial to our Nation's continued leadership in research and discovery efforts in all fields.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today in recognition of the Centennial Celebration of MaBank, Texas in the fourth Congressional District. Mabank was established in 1889 when two ranchers, Mason and Eubank, convinced railroad officials to build their line through their ranches. Thus, the community Mabank was formed and named for these two ranchers--and one-hundred years later continues to be a thriving community beloved by its dedicated citizens and filled with community spirit. To celebrate this important milestone, Centennial Committee Chairman Robert Eubank, and members Louann Confer, Larry Teague, Jim Clark, John Hyde, Tom Whatley, Hughla Beets and Andrea Pickens, along with Centennial Coordinators Vicky Watters and Scott Confer, are planning a festive week of activities from October 3 to 7, 2000. The celebration will begin with a tribute to Veterans that will include a special salute flyover by F-16's from the 457th Fighter Squadron. The Mabank Band will present a patriotic concert and other Mabank Independent School District students will perform dances representative of various periods during the last century. There also will be a skit depicting the history of Mabank. Area churches will come together one evening for singing, and several groups, including the contemporary Christian band ``Forty Days'' will close the evening's events. A carnival will run through the remainder of the week, and there will be an authentic representation of the Wild, Wild West, among other special events. Friday night the Mabank Panthers football team will take on their traditional rival, the Kemp Yellow Jackets. On Saturday, a parade commemorating the history of Mabank will begin at Mabank High School. The three acres adjacent to the new Pavilion and Rodeo Arena will be bustling with the carnival, a chili cook-off, classic and antique car show and an arts and crafts festival. Other activities include a quilting show and a domino tournament. Centennial week events will culminate with a concert starring Mark Chesnutt and Woody Lee as featured entertainers. Mr. Speaker, centennial celebrations are important footnotes to our nation's history. We have much to be thankful for in our great nation, and I join the citizens of Mabank in celebrating the rich history of their hometown during their Centennial Celebration this year. I would have a difficult time in discussing Mabank and not remembering a great part of the bedrock of this city, county, state and nation--the late Andrew Gibbs. Space and time prevent me from listing his many contributions, and acts of kindness and friendship, but suffice it to say that he is missed by all who knew him. So as we adjourn today, let us do so by paying tribute to the Centennial Anniversary of Mabank, Texas, and to one of its most distinguished citizens, the late Andrew Gibbs.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today to pay tribute to an exceptional citizen of Tyler, Texas. The Texas Section of the American Society of Engineers recently honored Douglas E. Flatt, P.E. with its Service to People Award, a distinguished award that recognizes those who have made significant contributions to their community. Mr. Flatt has served as both president and director of the East Texas Chapter of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers and Northeast Branch of the Texas Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers. He is a life member of the National Society of Professional Engineers as well as the American Society of Civil Engineers. Additionally, he has served on the Board of Directors for the Texas Section of the ASCE. In 1985, he received TSPE's East Texas Engineer of the Year Award and in 1988 he received ASCE's Professional Services Award. He has also served as Chairman of the Southern Division of the Association of Independent Scientific, Engineering and Testing Firm as well as President of the Texas Council of Engineering Laboratories in 1982 and 1983. Currently he serves on both the Legislative Committee and the Membership Committee of the Consulting Engineers Council of Texas and is a member of the American Society for Testing and Materials Committee E-50 for Environmental Site Assessments. Mr. Flatt formed ETTL Engineers and Consultants in 1965 and currently serves as Chairman of the Board. Prior to forming his successful corporation, he was employed by the Texas Department of Transportation, first as senior laboratory engineer and later as senior resident engineer. Mr. Flatt's recent award, however, is a testament to the time and effort that he has devoted to his community. He has served on the City of Tyler's Airport Advisory Board and the Board of Adjustment of Planning and Zoning. He has been Chair of the Tyler Chamber of Commerce Highway Transportation Committee, President of the Smith County Youth Foundation, Chairman of the Board of the Tyler YMCA, and the advisory board of the East Texas Crisis Center, and on the board of the Texas Society to Prevent Blindness. He is also a member of the Tyler Rotary Club where he is a Paul Harris fellow, and actively serves the First Presbyterian Church of Tyler as deacon, elder and trustee. Mr. Flatt graduated from Terrell High School in 1949 and earned B.S. Degrees in Agricultural and Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1953 and 1955. He received a Master of Science Degree in 1957 from Texas A&M University following his discharge from active duty as First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Field Artillery. He maintains close ties with his alma mater, serving as vice-president and board member of the Texas A&M Association of Former Students. He is an endowed Century Club member, member of the 12th Man Foundation as well as the Pillars of A&M. He is also a contributor and participant in A&M's Spencer J. Buchanan Chair in Civil Engineering. Mr. Speaker, throughout his life, Douglas Flatt has upheld high standards in all that he has done. He has achieved success in his profession--and he has also dedicated much of his life in services to others. I join his wife, Maxine; his son, Darrell, and daughter-in-law, Donna; and his grandchildren, John and Madeline, all of whom are residents of Tyler, in congratulating him on his Service to People Award.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me today to pay tribute to the late Paul Keahey, Jr., a native of Bonham, TX, and a long-time resident of Marshall, TX. Paul passed away in April of this year, having lived his life in dedication to his family, his career and to his community. I feel a kinship to Paul--and all in the Keahey family. I was born in a home built by a Keahey, and I have served as a State Senator and as a U.S. Congressman and have been privileged to get to work with Paul's mom, Florence Keahey, longtime resident of Fannin County. Paul has been an advisor and supporter--and close friend during my years of public service. I will miss him greatly. Paul was a self-employed geologist who spent 30 years working in the oil and gas fields of East Texas. He was a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, a former chairman of the Business and Economics Department at Jarvis Christian College, a member of the Marshall Historical Society, and a member of the Lighthouse United Pentecostal Church in Marshall. He was a veteran of the United States Army and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association. He was born April 8, 1937, in Bonham, TX, the son of Paul R. Keahey, Sr., and Florence Fogle Keahey. He is survived by his wife, Tanya of Marshall; son, Paul ``Pauray'' Keahey III, of Marshall; sister, Dottie Davis of Garland; uncle, Tim Bruce of Bonham; his mother; and a number of nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker, let us take a moment to remember and celebrate the life of Paul Keahey, a good man and good citizen who devoted his life to the area where he was born and raised and chose to live. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends in East Texas.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege today to recognize an exceptional individual, Bob Murdoch, of Tyler, TX, who passed away on May 27 of this year at the age of 81. Bob was well-known throughout Smith County and will be remembered for his leadership and tireless dedication to his community. In 1951 Bob became general manager of the annual East Texas State Fair and held the position of manager from 1953 to 1995. As a tribute to his phenomenal forty-four years of leadership with the Fair, the office building at the fairgrounds was named the Murdoch Building upon his retirement. At his retirement luncheon, it was said of him that he was a ``natural-born leader, dreamer and legend of our time''--a testament to his vision, dedication and commitment to community service. Bob was a long-time member of the Texas Association of Fairs and Exposition. He served as secretary/treasurer of the Texas Association from 1954 to 1983 and received the Secretary of the Year Award from the national Federation'' of State and Provincial Association of Fairs. Bob also was a leader in other community organizations. He served as chief executive director of the East Texas Agriculture Council and as executive secretary/treasurer of the East Texas Farm and Ranch Club, which he organized in 1952. He was the farm editor and broadcaster for radio station KTBB in Tyler from 1951 to 1960 and was a columnist and feature writer for the Tyler Morning Telegraph. A Dallas native, he was born on December 18, 1918. He received a journalism degree from Hardin Simmons University in 1941 and fulfilled his military duties by serving four years in the Signal Corps and Army Air Corps during World War II. After being discharged, he managed Chambers of Commerce in Bowie and Gainsville. He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Murdoch of Tyler; two daughters, Janet Tomlin of Tyler and Dianne Cavazos and her husband, Hector, of Humble; one brother, Russell Murdoch of Dallas; one granddaughter, Melissa, and her husband, Scott Eeds, of Whitehouse; two grandsons, Lance and Evan Cavazos of Humble; and one greatgranddaughter, Emily Eeds, of Whitehouse. Mr. Speaker, Bob Murdoch's contributions to his community will long be remembered--and he will be missed by his family and many friends in Tyler and Smith County. As we adjourn today, may we do so in celebration of this outstanding citizen from the Fourth District of Texas.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the 50 years of ministry that Father Carl Vogel has given to the Catholic community in Texas. Since 1984, he has been with the St. Michael Parish in McKinney, which is part of the Fourth Congressional District of Texas. Father Vogel celebrated his 50th anniversary of ordination with a Mass on May 28 at St. Michael, followed by a reception attended by his devoted parishioners and many friends. A list of credentials and milestones of Father Vogel's career would not begin to describe the many ways in which this man has served his parish--embracing not only the trials and troubles of his parishioners, but their joys as well. He is the ever-constant protector and confidant that people seek out in their pastor. He is faithful to the teachings of the church and faithful to his parish, and his service has been imbued with a characteristic sense of humor that has endeared him to all those who know him. In addition to the May 28 celebration at St. Michael, other celebrations were planned at the Holy Family Mission in Van Alstyne, Texas, where Father Vogel is also pastor, and at Christ the King Church in Dallas, where he celebrated his solemn Mass in 1950. Father Vogel grew up in the Oak Cliff section of Dallas and attended Blessed Sacrament Church and Our Lady of Good Counsel School. After his graduation from St. Joseph High School, he enrolled in college to study journalism. The calling to the priesthood prevailed, however, and he followed that call at St. John's Seminary in Little Rock, Arkansas. Father Vogel served as a military chaplain for nearly three decades and was a chaplain for the Armed Forces during the Cuban Missile Crisis of the early 1960s. Prior to his assignment at St. Michael, Father Vogel served at Our Lady of Victory in Paris, Good Shepherd in Garland, St. Patrick in Denison, St. Cecilia in Dallas and St. Patrick and St. Rita parishes in Fort Worth. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me to pay tribute to this beloved priest from the Fourth District of Texas. Father Carl Vogel has devoted his life to the ministry. He has helped countless souls in his care and is loved and respected by so many who have known him and whose lives he has blessed. I know and love Father Vogel. I have changed schedules many times just to get to appear with him at public ceremonies. His prayers sustain me and all those who hear him. His devotion to his calling for 50 years warrants our recognition and appreciation today, so as we adjourn, let us do so in honor of Father Carl Vogel.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, here we go again. Of course I oppose this amendment. I have opposed it ever since the gentleman from Indiana has been in Congress. I hope I am opposing it for the next 10 years with him because he is a wonderful guy; he just has a lousy amendment. He is continuing that tradition even though the first segment of the International Space Station is already in orbit and operational and additional elements of the station are awaiting launch from Cape Kennedy. There are so many reasons. I will just say that we are here in the annual argument again. It has been argued before time and time again. It has never passed. I think if it should pass this station to go on to the next station that we would have every hotel and every eating establishment within 100 miles of here covered by school children and university people and people across the country that know that this is the future of America. We have to have a Space Station. We need it for many reasons: medical, all types of electronic fallout, national defense. You name it; we need it. I urge my colleagues to vote against the amendment.

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I am honored to support this amendment. It is a good amendment. I thank the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Mollohan) for bringing it forth. I also want to suggest that the subcommittee chairman, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Walsh), in his very level and fair-handed handling of this, has agreed to look at this with the gentleman and see if something cannot be worked out. That allows me to give back maybe some of the 3 minutes the gentleman has given me. The gentleman has covered almost everything. The figures have been covered. Members know I am a strong supporter of the national space program. I will not spend time today recounting all the benefits that have come out of the program over the years. I think everybody is aware of them. But I am disappointed in the way this appropriations bill treats NASA. NASA is not a Republican thrust nor a Democratic thrust. It is really an American thrust, and it has always been handled that way. When it came time, when the information came from the executive to cut back on programs, NASA was cut back more than any. NASA complied. Administrator Goldin agreed and cut it back because he knew he could cut it decisively with an intelligent knife; and if we cut it, sometimes we cut it with a baseball bat, not knowing really what we are doing. He cut it back about 35 percent over a period of 2\1/2\ years. I think we have kept the faith and we ought not to be cutting back on this NASA program again. I urge that the Mollohan amendment be supported. The gentleman touched on Living With the Star, and that has already been addressed, the space launch initiative and our skills in that field, and the space launch initiative, which transforms telecommunications, weather prediction, defense intelligence work, just to list some of the areas. It would be a mistake I think to lose our leadership in space transportation by failing to make these important investments.