Butch Otter

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of the House the distinguished accomplishments of Courtney Floyd of Boise, Idaho. Courtney is the recipient of the Salvation Army's Emily Reno award for service to community. Courtney, the daughter of Greg and Suzanne Floyd, is a senior at Centennial High School in Boise, Idaho, where she serves as a student council officer, cheerleader, and member of the Key Club. In addition to her extensive involvement in school activities, Courtney has served her community in various volunteer capacities--through her involvement with Special Olympics, soup kitchens, humanitarian aid projects, and retirement centers. A key element in the Salvation Army's Christmas food drives; Courtney has initiated the collection of more than 590,000 pounds of food for the needy during the past 3 years. Mr. Speaker, I wish to convey a special thanks to Courtney Floyd for her hard work and sense of community. Courtney's unselfish actions epitomize the ministry and mission of the Salvation Army.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Al Henderson of Boise, Idaho as the recipient of The Salvation Army's William Booth Award for service to community. The William Booth Award is one of the highest awards that may be conveyed upon an individual by The Salvation Army. Al Henderson's many past civic associations include being co-founder of Idaho Working Partners and the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame, The Salvation Army advisory board chairman, Chamber of Commerce board member, Rotary Club member, American Cancer Society, West Side Optimists Club and the Boise City Library Board. Mr. Henderson is also closely involved with the good works of the University Christian Church in Boise. Currently he serves part time as an employee for the Federal Emergency Management Administration. Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate Al Henderson for his receipt of this distinguished award. I have had the honor of being personally acquainted with Al for many years, and I can think of no other person more worthy or deserving of such an award. I have been inspired by Al's principled character and his steadfast commitment to the State of Idaho. His achievements, continued unselfish work, and sense of community serve as a lustrous model of exemplary citizenship.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and praise the singular vision of a family business in my district whose proprietors understand the value of service. John and Tona Henderson own The Rumor Mill Bakery at 4th and Washington Streets in Emmett, Idaho. Tona does all the baking for the shop, which has become known for its patriotic spirit as well as its pastries. One day in July 2002, six gentlemen from the community met for their usual coffee and conversation when the idea came up of putting photographs on the walls of local veterans and active duty military personnel. Tona approved, and made theirs the first photographs to go up. More than 100 photos have since been added to the walls of The Rumor Mill Bakery, and Tona has a story to go with each and every one. The tears in her eyes reveal the heartfelt patriotism and pride she feels in sharing each tale. Tona hopes someday to completely cover the walls of her business with the images of American heroes, past and present. Her expression of support for community and country is an inspiration to everyone who stops by The Rumor Mill Bakery. I'm proud to represent the Hendersons, as well as the men and women of our Armed Forces who are honored on their walls.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Chairman, unfortunately I missed the vote on the Vitter amendment to H.R. 1350, Improving Education Results for Children With Disabilities Act of 2003. Had I been present I would have voted for the amendment. Announcement by the Chairman Pro Tempore

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, just as railroads brought prosperity to small towns in rural America during the Industrial Revolution, glass fibers and silicon wafers are driving today's Information Age. Data is the commodity in this new economic revolution, and it can travel at the speed of light. Through E-commerce, rural America can again be revitalized. But this train is bypassing some parts of the country, especially rural areas-- some of which I represent. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) must favor policies that foster real competition and promote consumer choice, not bureaucracy and regulation. FCC policies should not create disincentives for companies to deploy new fiber solely because they may have more resources and greater expertise then some of their competitors. Such policies breach the basic principles of the free market: that true competition naturally encourages development of cheaper services and better technologies. True competition can never exist if regulators insist on creating competitive parity in the industry at the expense of advancing technology. Mr. Speaker, as we examine the development and deployment of high- speed communications technologies, we must ensure the existence of true competition, we must restore consumer driven integrity to the market, and we must not stifle progress.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Master Sergeant Samuel Johnston and the proud community of Kuna, Idaho. Sergeant Johnston is serving in the Iraq War as a member of the Idaho National Guard. He was deployed to Kuwait in January--leaving his 60-acre farm unattended. Last week his neighbors in Kuna finished spring planting on the Johnston farm. Francis Murphey organized the volunteer group consisting of Dick Deutsche, Alan White, Leonard Flynn, Darrell Lee Robertson, Dave Reynolds, Jack Noble, John McPherson, Lavar K. and Layne Thornton, and Ed, Gayle and Roger Hodges. I bring to the attention of the House these residents of Kuna, Idaho as they exemplify the American spirit of cooperation and patriotism by providing for Sergeant Johnston and his family--while he, in turn, serves and protects our country.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to address H.R. 1036, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. In light of the concerted efforts by opponents of the Second Amendment to destroy the gun industry through frivolous lawsuits, it has become imperative we provide manufacturers and sellers of firearms and ammunition protection from these attacks. I find the idea of holding an industry liable for the criminal misuse of their legal products deplorable. Our nation cannot allow the innocent to pay for the dealings of the guilty, or we serve to circumvent the very foundation of the rule of law. Those individuals, not the makers of the means, who commit violent crimes, with or without the use of a firearm, must take personal responsibility for their actions through the restitution and civil penalties affirmed by law. Without this legislation, further unfounded lawsuits against the gun industry will lead to an encroachment upon our second amendment rights. Congress must work diligently to reduce the level of political rhetoric surrounding gun control, protect the Second Amendment, and promote the role of personal responsibility in society.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call the attention of my colleagues to a stirring essay written by a young woman from my district, Eagle High School senior Kayleigh Jack. She is this year's Idaho State winner of GOPUSA's Young Patriots Essay Contest. In describing a visit to New York City and her encounter with a homeless veteran named ``Sarge'' who was seeking shelter near Ground Zero, Kayleigh paints a stark picture of the visceral impact that the events of September 11, 2001, had on millions of Americans like Sarge who have sacrificed for our freedoms. More than that, her work provides a valuable and hopeful insight into the hearts and minds of young people like her. The lessons of the past truly are learned anew with each lifetime. Kayleigh's essay shows just how profound that earned wisdom can be. I am grateful for the help in understanding more clearly that there is a generation growing to adulthood that now grasps what makes America, its people, principles and institutions so great. Idaho State Winner--Kayleigh C. Jack Eagle, ID, Eagle High School, Public, 12th Grade On a cold cement step sits a scruffy man in heavy clothing. A small American flag is propped atop his knapsack. Behind him, a fading golden hue illuminates a gaping hole in the earth where two magnificent towers once stood. For Sarge, it will be another cold night in the Big Apple. On September 11, Americans were awakened to gleaming knives slicing through America's seemingly impenetrable national security. For older Americans, it was Pearl Harbor reawakened. For younger Americans, like me, these were new sounds, new visions--new feelings. During a recent trip to New York City, I felt a discomfort when seeing Sarge, a homeless veteran, huddled near ground zero. I again felt that same discomfort while staring into the cold empty crevasse behind him. I later realized how much the man and the victims of September 11 had in common; all paid the price for freedom... for being Americans. All of my life, I've sat in the comfort of my secure home and watched televised scenes from distant lands of people whose loss of liberty meant the loss of life. But, until September 11th, I've never been truly touched by these images. Now, reflecting on September 11th and remembering Sarge near ground zero, I feel threatened... and grateful. While flying home from New York, I thought about the generosity and patriotism following September 11th. I wondered about the flag in front of my home. Was I a good American or just part of a passing national fervor? What about Sarge? Outside the VA Hospital a sign reads, The Price of Freedom is Visible Here. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, 40% of all homeless are veterans... just like Sarge. In appreciating what it means to be an American, my brother and I brought flowers to the Idaho State Veterans Home. Inside, experts on the topic warmly shared their views: respect the flag, constitution and one-another; be faithful; appreciate blessings and liberties as well as those who sacrificed for them; learn from the past; confront mistakes and shortcomings--regardless the discomfort. While driving away, we passed a white-haired man pushing a walker. When he smiled and flashed a thumbs up, something said to turn back. His name was Bernard Wolff (WWII-Army). Amid falling leaves and scurrying squirrels, we shared a bench while he recounted exciting, yet tragic memories. Softly, he said, ``Nothing worthwhile in life is free-- especially freedom. The price is how we live it; being informed, making votes count, finding common ground, not taking anything for granted... making sacrifices.'' He thanked us for making his day. But really, he made ours. I will always remember where I was on the morning of September 11th. I will always remember Sarge sitting near ground zero. I will not allow my 9/11 patriotism to become a passing fad. I will regularly visit the Veterans Home with my violin ensemble and take moments out of my life to honor those who paid the ultimate price so this nation might remain a beacon of hope for all who value freedom, justice, and liberty. It is but a small price for me, but a huge part of what it means to be an American. Conquered and oppressed are countries who forget their heroes.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Chairman, I join my colleague, the gentleman from California (Mr. Cunningham), on the floor today, as I joined him on the floor not too long ago when all of us sat in this Chamber and listened to these words: ``If they are not with us, they are against us.'' I think that acid test that was asked for, not too long ago, we asked that question of our friends in Turkey. That question was asked and they failed that test. True democracies are joined irreversibly at the heart and soul with one great and unyielding truth, that is, their belief in freedom. This surely was a test of the love of our freedom for this entire world and this entire effort we are engaged in; freedom, I might add, that swears perpetual hostility over any form of tyranny. I believe this country should have understood, if they had lived that long with that close of a neighbor, that if they did not understand the tyranny that such a tyrant as their neighbor in Iraq was leading that country with, surely they understood that. I would just close by asking my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from California (Mr. Cunningham), what would be the price that would have been paid when the wingman left the gentleman's wing the first time?

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of the House the distinguished accomplishments of the Boundary County District Library in Bonners Ferry, ID. Under the leadership of Director Sandy Ashworth, the Boundary County District Library received the 2002 National Award for Library Services. The Institute of Museum and Library Services and First Lady Laura Bush bestowed this well-deserved honor upon the library at a White House ceremony. Established in 1956, the Boundary County District Library was the first countywide library district in the State of Idaho. The library is dedicated to using innovative collaborations in raising both the quality and quantity of library resources while helping to overcome the rural isolation of Boundary County's residents. The Boundary County District Library is a model for the community and the State of Idaho, as well as for other libraries trying to meet increasing demand for services with less money. The library and the community work together toward the common goals of providing excellent service and improving the quality of life in northern Idaho. Mr. Speaker, I was honored to nominate the Boundary County District Library for this special award. Furthermore, I am very proud of the independent nature of Boundary County, ID, and citizens, whose hard work and sense of community should serve as an inspiration to us all. I wish to convey a special thanks to the Boundary County District Library for leading that effort.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express the deep sorrow I share with every Idahoan at the loss of Maj. Gregory Stone. Maj. Stone died early Tuesday at an Army field hospital in Kuwait, the second man to die from wounds suffered in a grenade attack last Saturday on soldiers at Camp Pennsylvania. Maj. Stone was the Air Liaison Officer there with the Army's 101st Airborne Division. He was a highly trained military officer with 20 years of distinguished Air Force and Idaho Air National Guard service. Maj. Stone died in a theater of war on the other side of the world, fighting to free a foreign people from tyranny and his own countrymen from fear. In that, he was true to America's most cherished values and traditions. The example of his citizenship and dedication to duty, and how we all seek to emulate it, will be his enduring legacy. Yet it was as a son and father of two young boys living in Boise that Gregory Stone will be best and most dearly remembered. The sadness felt by the people of a proud and grateful state pales by comparison with his family's grief at his passing. I can only offer them my humble condolences, and the hope that a sure knowledge of Gregory's self- sacrifice and heroism will provide some succor in the difficult days to come. Maj. Stone embodied the best of America. I am proud to represent the family of such a man. They have my personal thanks, and a promise to preserve those virtues for which their loved one gave the last full measure of devotion.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise before the House today to reintroduce the Mourning Dove Harvest Act, a bill that will give individuals who reside in all states a fair and equal opportunity to hunt mourning doves. Hunters in states north of the 37th parallel often find that mourning doves already have migrated south for the winter by the time hunting season opens on September 1st. It is not uncommon for the fall hunting season to last less than one week or even one day in such northern states as Idaho, Montana and Washington. Many sportsmen unable to follow this migration are left without a hunting opportunity. States south of the 37th parallel, meanwhile, have a full season and ample opportunity to harvest these birds. Hunters in Mexico have the additional advantage of no harvest limits. Passage of this bill is the first step toward creating a season that will give residents of northern states an equal opportunity. The designated hunting season for mourning doves that begins September 1st and ends March 10th is the result of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which in turn stems from the Migratory Bird Treaty of 1916. The Treaty signed by the United States, Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, Japan and Russia covers a multitude of migratory birds, including mourning doves. There is little legislative history justifying the selection of this fall opening date, and migration routes, hunting practices and conservation efforts have changed significantly in the 86 years since the Treaty's ratification. The last week in August has been identified as a period when these birds are not nesting, but are preparing for their annual southern migration. Passage of this bill will allow hunters in states north of the 37th parallel to hunt mourning doves seven days earlier--during a time when their migration south is about to begin. Hunters in the north will be on a more equal footing with their counterparts in the south. Scientists have found that regulated hunting has no significant effect on the mourning dove population. This legislation amends the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 and asks the Secretary of State to begin discussions with the signatories of the Migratory Bird Treaty to include this change in the Treaty. It is important to note that (1) this legislation offers hunters in the north a more equal opportunity to harvest mourning doves; (2) the morning dove is the most widely distributed and harvested game bird in North America; (3) in states north of the 37th parallel, mourning doves often begin their southern migration prior to September 1st, the opening day of the hunting season; (4) this change will not impact the mourning dove population. After exhaustive studies, analysis and discussion of this issue, the time to pass this measure is now. In the name of equitable access to this resource, I urge the passage of this bill.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the achievements of five Idaho artists who were selected to exhibit this week in Boise at the ``Women's History Month Juried Art Exhibition''. Katie Rosenberg, Diane Ronayne, Tobiann Grindstaff, and Katie Cepek, all of Boise; and Sheila Martz, of Payette, are showing their works as part of an event to showcase and promote female artists. The exhibition features 33 diverse pieces produced by nineteen women throughout nine states. Having five Idaho artists selected for the exhibit reflects exceptionally well on our state. It is especially important to showcase women artists in order to fully reflect the times we're living in. Whether or not the art deals with women's issues specifically, each of these women has a purpose and an individual interpretation of the world she's living in. They are history-makers. The ``Women's History Month Juried Exhibition'' opened Friday, March 7, 2003 at the Boise State University Hemingway Center Gallery. I encourage my constituents to avail themselves of this opportunity and I congratulate Katie, Diane, Tobiann, Katie, and Sheila on their successes.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise before the House today to introduce the America's Wilderness Protection Act--a bill to apply urgency and accountability to the process of evaluating potential wilderness by setting firm deadlines. There are 666 wilderness study areas across the nation that were designated more than 10 years ago, totaling nearly 23 million acres in 18 states. In Idaho alone there are 86 wilderness study areas totaling about 3.1 million acres. Sixty-three of the 67 Idaho parcels managed by the Bureau of Land Management have been locked up since the early 1980s--even though 40 of them have been found unsuitable for wilderness protection. The other four have been withdrawn from multiple-use since 1976. Most of the 19 Forest Service wilderness study areas have been in place since the mid- I980s and two have held that status since 1972. That means Congress has dragged its feet and obstructionists have gladly accepted the do-nothing status quo on these lands through the administrations of seven presidents and during the entire lifetime of many working people in Idaho. The problem stems from the failure of the Wilderness Act of 1964 and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, which created the wilderness study area process, to provide for release of areas eventually deemed unsuitable for wilderness designation. America's Wilderness Protection Act addresses that intractable situation by establishing a timetable for completion of wilderness studies. Lands designated as study areas would be released from that status on the earlier of: (1) 10 years after the legislation is enacted; (2) the date the area is designated wilderness by Congress, or (3) the date that the secretary of Interior or Agriculture determines the area is unsuitable for wilderness designation. In the past, some have referred to acreage allowed to languish as wilderness study areas for decades as ``de facto wilderness.'' This term is too kind. Designated wilderness has the advantage under law of being actively managed to retain its values. Wilderness study areas, on the other hand, are virtually untouchable. These lands are left to overgrowth, disease and infestation by noxious weeds and other invasive species. They become ripe for catastrophic wildfires that threaten not only the acreage being ``studied'' for preservation but nearby private and public land as well. Critics contend this bill would eliminate any incentive for ranchers and other multiple-use advocates to become engaged in earnest discussions of possible wilderness designations. The argument goes that they would only have to wait out the process and protection ultimately would be denied any parcel they choose. That couldn't be further from the truth. There are no more avid outdoors enthusiasts and conservationists than those who make their living from the land. They have a deep understanding of the cycles of life and the value of protecting and cherishing the natural world. They appreciate the importance of stewardship; it's a principle they embody every day. While the land itself is timeless, the scenic, cultural, habitat and aesthetic values of any particular tract--if left to the ravages of time--are decidedly limited. Just as vulnerable are the economic futures of the many families whose livelihoods have been stripped away by the loss of access to so much of what now can only laughingly be called `public' land in the West. This legislation promotes resolution and collaboration. After a generation of paralyzing indecision and refusal to accept responsibility, the 108th Congress has an historic opportunity--if it can muster the wisdom and courage to embrace it.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise before the House today to introduce the Clearwater Basin Project Act, a bill to provide for enhanced collaborative forest stewardship management within the Clearwater and Nez Perce national forests in Idaho. I am pleased to be joined by Congressman Mike Simpson, a fellow Idahoan, in introducing this legislation. The Forest Service has not been able to adequately address insect outbreak, catastrophic fire, and other fish and wildlife habitat and ecosystem health issues on the lands it manages within the basin. That is why I am introducing The Clearwater Basin Project Act to provide a better mechanism to address critical resource issues concerning Clearwater and Nez Perce national forest lands. The legislation takes advantage of existing collaboration and stewardship mechanisms to provide a more effective framework for stakeholders to work with the Forest Service to attain some meaningful forest management results on the ground. In 1996, the state of Idaho established a Federal Land Task Force to design potential pilot projects on federal lands. The task force report identified a broken decision-making process as part of the problem on federal lands. An eight-member working group identified five pilot projects on Idaho's federal lands. The legislation I am introducing today is a product of that process. The Clearwater Basin Project Act implements concepts and addresses needs identified in the Clearwater Basin Collaborative Project that was described in the December 2000 Federal Land Task Force Working Group Report, ``Breaking the Gridlock.'' The aims of the original Clearwater Project and the Act are to provide a better mechanism to address critical resource issues concerning Clearwater and Nez Perce national forest lands within the basin. This legislation provides an up-to-date, reasonable and realistic approach to implementing a pilot project on national forest lands in the Clearwater Basin. The Act facilitates forest management through consensus-building procedures to expedite identification, scheduling and implementation of specific high-priority forest stewardship activities. The legislation provides a working test of innovative collaborative management, fully within the framework of existing environmental laws. This legislation requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish the Clearwater Advisory Panel (CAP), a collaborative group comprised of a broad spectrum of stakeholders in Clearwater Basin national forest management. The CAP is to work with the Forest Service, other agencies and the public to consider and recommend specific high-priority forest stewardship activities to implement over a five-year period within the Basin. This act does not bypass existing environmental legislation. Rather, it requires the Forest Service and other federal agencies to complete National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other consultation and coordination procedures for each proposed schedule of activities, within one year after the Forest Service issues the public scoping notice for the proposed schedule. The appropriate forest supervisor is required to review the five-year schedule of activities for each forest, then issue a decision document within 30 days regarding whether to approve the schedule recommended by the CAP. The Act also provides additional authority for stewardship and other contracting to prepare and carry out activities recommended and approved for priority implementation. Also authorized is monitoring to measure the success of the project and to assure accountability and determine what funding and other support is needed for the project to succeed. It is important to note that nothing in this act (1) transfers ownership or control of any national forest lands from the United States to anyone else; (2) transfers Forest Service national forest decision authority to anyone else; (3) exempts Forest Service decisions or the priority activities from environmental laws, or from administrative appeal and judicial review; or (4) impairs opportunities for participation by any interest group or the general public. The need for this legislation is greater now then ever. Elk City, a small rural community in my district, is an island in a sea of Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and state lands. The town is surrounded by dead and dying timber. However, because of federal regulations there is little or no access to the resource. That is threatening the local mill and placing the city and its residents at risk of catastrophic wildfires. Inaction no longer is an alternative for the Clearwater Basin. We cannot sit idly by and watch the forest bum. We must take action before our precious resource is destroyed and the lives of those dependent upon the resources are changed forever.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) on the occasion of its 60th Anniversary of service to the food industry. AFFI is the only national trade association representing the entire spectrum of frozen food professionals, including processors, suppliers of goods and services, transporters and marketers. Like other complex enterprises, the frozen food industry benefits not only from competition, but also from cooperative, coordinated action. Launched in 1942 by 19 frozen fruit and vegetable packers, the National Association of Frozen Food Packers went on to become today's American Frozen Food Institute. AFFI's more than 500 member companies account for over 90 percent of the total annual production of frozen food in the United States, valued at more than $60 billion. AFFI works to ensure that nourishing and convenient frozen foods are continually abundant, reliable, varied, satisfying and economical. During its years of growing use and popularity, the technology of frozen foods has earned its place among modern America's constructive innovations. When Clarence Birdseye, one March morning in 1930, optimistically combined an inventor's creativity with a salesman's confidence and arrayed his selection of neatly packaged, quick-frozen foods into a grocery store display case in Springfield, Massachusetts, he inaugurated an industry that would forever change the way the world eats. The industry's momentum initially was driven by the economy and convenience of frozen foods. However, a further reality ultimately would ensure their enthusiastic endorsement by health experts: frozen foods supply superior nutrition. Following years of scientific studies at the University of Illinois, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration concluded in 1998 that fruits and vegetables picked at peak freshness and immediately frozen contain as many, and often more, nutrients than their raw equivalents. Moreover, for food of all kinds, modern freezing and packaging means unsurpassed food safety, reliable product consistency, and year-round availability anywhere. In addition, I would invite my colleagues to join Congressman Cal Dooley and me on September 25 at the Frozen Food Filibuster, a reception showcasing the variety of frozen foods here in the Cannon Caucus Room. Congressman Dooley and I are co-chairmen of the frozen food caucus on Capitol Hill. Caucus participants are Members of Congress who have AFFI member companies' headquarters or plants located within their district, or an interest in the food industry in general. The Institute briefs the membership periodically on issues that affect their constituents who work in the frozen food industry. Our goal is to ensure the caucus is as active and innovative as the nation's frozen food companies. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to the American Frozen Food Institute. Our democratic institutions are served well by having responsible industry associations, who care about the active participation of their companies in the legislative and regulatory process. I am confident that AFFI will continue to serve the food community for many years, well into the future. We wish them the very best on this special occasion.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, Early on the morning of November 15, 2002 the House of Representatives passed, by unanimous consent, S. 990, the American Wildlife Enhancement Act. This bill, which amends the Pittman- Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act, is purported to improve the provisions relating to wildlife conservation and restoration programs. Had I been present when the House considered this legislation, I would have opposed the bill. I am concerned that as written this bill could undermine private property rights and impact state water rights. I am concerned that no hearings were held in the House and we never had time to consider the full implications of the bill. I am hopeful the bill does not make it to the President's desk this year. If this legislation is introduced next Congress, I will work with my colleagues to ensure the protection of private property and water rights.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for House Joint Resolution 114, authorizing the use of United States Armed Forces against Iraq. After careful consideration of the information provided by the President it is clear that the threat posed by the current Iraqi regime can no longer be tolerated. Thousands of my constituents have contacted me about this resolution, and many have expressed the earnest hope that war can be avoided. I share that hope, and urge our President to use every means short of war to persuade Iraq to end their violations of Security Council resolutions, to stop developing weapons of mass destruction, and to allow their people to live in peace and freedom. Unfortunately, the current regime has shown no willingness to do any of these things. The Iraqi regime, controlled by Saddam Hussein and his family, is unique in its level of violence, both against its own people and its neighbors. Since Mr. Hussein came to power he has invaded both Iran and Kuwait. He has fired ballistic missiles against Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Israel. He has sponsored terrorist attacks against American citizens and Iraqi dissidents abroad. The Hussein regime is also unique in its unquenched thirst for weapons of mass destruction. Iraq has used chemical weapons against its own people and Iran. It has developed biological weapons. Most disturbingly, Iraq seeks to acquire nuclear weapons. Some have said that the Iraqi weapons problem can be solved by inspections, but Iraq consistently hindered international inspections when they allowed them, and since 1998 has not permitted them at all. Meanwhile they go ahead with their research program funded by illegal oil smuggling. An Iraq armed with nuclear armed ballistic missiles would not only be the dominant military power of the Middle East, but it would be the natural ally of all states and groups that oppose the United States. We cannot allow unbridled power into the hands of such an unscrupulous regime. America's future cannot be made dependent on a regime armed with the ultimate weapon. The Iraqi regime led by Saddam Hussein is based on the ruthless use of force, and only responds to the use of force by those it threatens. If force must be used to resolve this crisis, we must ask ourselves: Should we use it now to defend peace and freedom, or later to avenge the murder of innocent men, women, and children by Saddam Hussein's weapons of mass destruction. I believe that the answer to this question is clear and that our President is correct. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for House Joint Resolution 114. I am grateful for those allies such as the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, and others who are standing with us, and remain hopeful that other nations will join our cause. I ask our President to seek the support of as many nations and international organizations as possible, and to make available whatever additional intelligence or security they need. I also must reiterate that our quarrel is with the Iraqi regime, not its people. As we move forward I urge my fellow Americans to remain tolerant of their neighbors and to avoid any action based on the ethnicity or religious persuasion of others. I also urge all Americans, and all sides in this debate, to support our troops who may be called upon to enforce this resolution and defend their country.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, previously scheduled commitments caused me to miss the vote on H.J. Res. 111—making continuing appropriations for the fiscal year 2003. Had I been present I would have cast my vote in favor of this legislation. This legislation is critical to the continued operation of our government.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I introduced H.R. 4874 to correct 122-year- old survey errors along Spirit Lake and Twin Lakes in northern Idaho. The bill requires the Bureau of Land Management to conduct a new survey of the lakes to correct errors identified in the original 1880 survey and directs the Secretary of the Interior to disclaim any Federal interest in lands. For over one hundred years, individuals have owned land around the beautiful lakes located in Idaho's Kootenai County. However, ownership now is in question for more than 400 people who bought the land and pay taxes on the property. H.R. 4874 will correct that problem. In 1880 John B. David, a surveyor under contract with the General Land Office, grossly misrepresented portions of the actual lakeshore around Spirit Lake and Twin Lakes. In some places the meander lines along the shore are up to a mile and a half away from their actual location. No one noticed the inaccurate survey when the land was originally patented, and no one caught the mistake over the years as the land changed hands. In the meantime, the shorelines of these popular lakes have become heavily developed. It was not until recently that Kootenai County Surveyor discovered the problem. County officials have expressed concern over their inability to approve and regulate new developments, surveys, and permits due to the inaccuracy of the original government survey. The problem will only worsen as the lakes become more developed. Under current law, the Bureau of Land Management is required to conduct a resurvey of the actual meander of the lakes. The lands between the old incorrect meander line and the new meander line would become omitted land and would revert to federal ownership. Property owners would be required to repurchase, at fair market value, the land they believed they owned for over 100 years, as well as pay for survey and administrative costs. That is simply not fair. These individuals bought the land in good faith and the government should not be allowed to take it from them simply because of a survey error over 120 years ago. My legislation corrects the problem by creating a solution that retains the correct ownership situation without placing the expense of correcting it on the affected property owners. H.R. 4874 allows BLM to issue a “disclaimer of interest” in the affected lands so title companies and Kootenai County can proceed with ownership related matters surrounding clear title. The legislation also authorizes the necessary funding for BLM to conduct a new survey and perform the required administrative procedures. Most of the property owners involved in this situation have a chain of title that goes back over 100 years. H.R. 4874 is really the only acceptable solution to the problem. I look forward to passage of this legislation into law.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to place into the Record a newspaper article carrying a welcome story about America's technology industry. Over the last year the financial markets, as well as the American people, have been rocked by stories of huge corporations that used accounting chicanery and outright lies to defraud investors. I am proud to say that Micron, based in Boise, Idaho, has a worldwide reputation for conservative accounting and fair-dealing with employees, investors, and the community. I am hopeful that innovative, upstanding companies like Micron will lead this Nation into economic recovery and renewed faith in the marketplace. [From the EE Times, Asia, Sept. 16, 2002[rsqb] Micron's Cost Management Envy Micron execs have been talking about conservative financial management long before the industry came to know about the shocking revelations of Worldcom's accounting irregularities. Some EEs in Silicon Valley often wonder how Micron Technology Inc. escapes cyclical storms that have become the hallmark of semiconductor businesses. Industry observers generally point to its single-minded focus on memories and its frugal culture that helps keep production costs low. But there is something more remarkable about the Boise, Idaho-based company that became evident only lately: conservative accounting. Micron execs have been talking about conservative financial management long before the industry came to know about the shocking revelations of WorldCom's accounting irregularities. Memory business has been intensely competitive, and on top of that, sometimes countries or rather a group of companies tend to make memories a strategic business. ``We prepare for that by not borrowing too much money, which helps us prepare to face all kinds of situations,'' says a Micron executive. In 1990, Micron was ranked as the 11th DRAM maker, while last year, it was the second largest memory vendor. Despite the rupture of the Hynix deal and the fear of decline in DRAM market this year, Micron is progressively investing in new technologies. The memory chipmaker has recently demonstrated the first DDR-II system for PC applications--with memory channel running at 533/MHz data rate for a channel bandwidth of 4,300/MBps. The demonstration included a variety of developments including a 256/Mb DDR-II device, a hardware- analysis board and signal-analysis software. The system would allow not only to verify DDR-II channel performance, but also to characterize how well the channel works for various operating conditions, data patterns as well as timing and voltage margins. While Micron's decisions are driven around cost scenarios, this tradition will be soon be put to the test in the much talked-about 200/mm-to300/mm conversion. So far, the chipmaker seems to be a trendsetter as it relates the 300/mm transition to production cost. As CEO Steve Appleton puts it, the company doesn't care what anyone else is doing, unless it helps to drive the cost of 300/mm and change the model. After the irrational exuberance of 2000 was followed by pessimism last year, the industry is waking up to new realities born out of accounting loopholes. Here, Micron's prescience and financial savvy can provide some significant lessons.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, Idaho is blessed with a variety of natural resources, many of them located on public lands. We also are blessed with a diverse array of recreational choices, many of which also are available on public lands. Over 63 percent of Idaho is public land. Tens of thousand of visitors to our state each year are drawn by the beauty of those lands and by opportunities to drive Idaho's byways, camp, ski, hike, hunt, river raft or enjoy a host of other activities. America's public lands are an important legacy that belongs to all citizens. Recognizing that fact, Idaho recently hosted a special expedition called American Frontiers: A Public Lands Journey, which is drawing attention to this special legacy. This 3,200-mile journey by two teams of adventurers is helping to educate schoolchildren about public lands and bringing all of us the opportunity to better understand the way these lands help shape the West. I encourage people to visit the special Web site that chronicles this amazing interactive journey, at www.americanfrontiers.net. The dispatches from the trail recount stories in Idaho ranging from encounters with grazing sheep and their shepherds to a ``town'' with a winter population of one person. All of the trekkers were impressed, most of all, with Idaho's vast beauty. As one of them observed: ``The view across the meadow to the mountains is stunning. We see and hear three sandhill cranes flying overhead. The whole scene seems like right out of a movie.'' I commend the Public Lands Interpretive Association for organizing this effort. And I congratulate the individuals who will complete this two-month journey on September 28 in Salt Lake City!

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H. Res. 524. This resolution, expressing the view of the House on permanently repealing the death tax, also reflects the view of the American people concerning the death tax. Across this country shopkeepers, farmers, small manufacturers, and everyday individuals who managed to save for their families through hard work and sacrifice are urging the passage of the Permanent Death Tax Repeal Act of 2002. Passage of that act will provide added incentives for savings and productive investment, and end the harmful dissolution of family farms and businesses. Idaho towns and farms in particular are hard hit by the death tax and urgently seek its permanent repeal. I urge members of this House to join a bi-partisan majority supporting H. Res. 524, supporting H.R. 2143, and supporting the American dream.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5157. This bill will allow Boise, ID and dozens of other transit systems around the county to maintain bus and transit service. Boise, like many other communities around the Nation, depends upon its Section 5307 grants under TEA-21 to meet the operating costs of maintaining bus service. Unfortunately, the current 5307 program restricts federal funds to capital costs when an area's population increases to over 200,000. Boise and 51 other cities crossed that benchmark in the last census and now face losing the funds they need for operating bus services. When TEA-21 was passed in 1998 the potential disruption after a census was not taken into consideration. Forcing communities to make major changes in their financing is unfair, particularly when that program, and its rules, are to be reauthorized in less than a year. H.R. 5157, Mr. Speaker, will prevent large disruptions in service Idaho and nationwide., It will protect the jobs of those who commute to work by public transit. It will help the environment, and relieve traffic congestion. It will give community leaders another option in planning the growth of their cities and enable our transit systems to build for the future. Boise is one of the fastest growing areas in the Nation, and is suffering the growing pains of traffic congestion and air pollution. An integrated program of highway and transit development is essential to meeting growth. At the same time federally provided funds must be flexible enough to meet the unique needs and challenges of each community. As this House prepares TEA-21 reauthorization I will fight for more generous and flexible funding of transit needs in Idaho and other fast- growing rural states. I want to thank Chairman Young of the full committee for introducing this bill, and Chairman Petri for managing the debate today. I also want to thank Kelly Fairless of Valley Ride in Boise, Grant Jones of Boise Urban Stages, and Steve O'Neal of the Idaho Transportation Department of their work on behalf of Idaho transit, and the drivers and maintenance personnel for Valley Ride who work everyday to bring mobility to the people of the Treasure Valley.

Mr. OTTER

Mr. OTTER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the achievements and service of Donna Euler of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Donna has served as the Adoption Coordinator with Lutheran Community Services Northwest, located in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho for 16 years. Prior to her work at Lutheran Community Services she served the State of Idaho by providing adoption services for families and children. For years Donna has been instrumental in placing numerous children in good homes with good parents. Donna has continually utilized her expertise in adoptions to enhance adoption services in the State of Idaho. In 1992-93 she served on Idaho's Adoption Task Force to improve adoption practice within the State. In 1996, she participated in the Idaho Focus group that implemented the President's Adoption 2002 Initiative in Idaho. In 1999, Donna served on the Idaho Children's Treatment Rulemaking Project to assess and gather public input on the revised rules and regulations for licensure of children's agencies and foster homes. Her knowledge, passion, and commitment are unmatched. I am pleased I am able to nominate her for the Congressional Coalition on Adoption's Angels in Adoption Award.