Adam Schiff

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Bethel Missionary Baptist Church of Pasadena, California. Bethel Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary with the theme ``The Church--Moving Forward in the Power of the Holy Spirit.'' Established in February 1959, under the leadership of Reverend Freeman S. Stevens with seventeen members, Bethel Missionary Baptist Church was formally recognized in June of that year as a constituted Baptist Church. For a few months, the church held services at the Pasadena Buddhist Church and with Dr. J. W. Coleman at Community Baptist Church in Pasadena. In December of 1959, Reverend Stevens and church members moved into a small frame house at 1972 N. Fair Oaks Avenue in Pasadena, and with the assistance of architect Luther Eskijian, constructed a new church at the site. Continuing to grow, the church underwent many renovations over the years, including the purchase of the adjacent property in 1984 which allowed for expansion and a major renovation of the church in 2007 under the leadership of the current pastor, Pastor John T. McCall. Since its inception, Bethel Missionary Baptist Church has provided spiritual guidance and tangible support to the Altadena and Pasadena community. Some of the church's many programs include the Youth Scholarship Fund instituted by the last Pastor Kurling C. Robinson and Wednesday Family Night, established by Pastor John T. McCall. Other services include a food pantry for the community, Project Fatherhood--a mentoring program for fathers, a youth summer program and a youth fellowship group. In addition, the church actively supports D'veal Family and Youth Services agency's programs such as the Alive and Free Violence Intervention and Prevention program. I consider it a great privilege to recognize Bethel Missionary Baptist Church on its fiftieth anniversary and I ask all Members to join me in congratulating the congregation for their fifty years of service to the community.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Juli Costanzo of San Gabriel, California. Every March we celebrate Women's History Month in recognition of the contributions and the sacrifices made by our nation's women. Accordingly it is my privilege to highlight Mrs. Costanzo as a woman whose extraordinary efforts are vital to my district. Born in nearby Glendale, California, Juli first moved to San Gabriel in 1965. She began as the Owner and Manager of a local small business, Hammy's Hamburgers, went on to become the Executive Director and President of the San Gabriel Chamber of Commerce, and now has served as a San Gabriel City Council member since March of 2003. Juli is a past mayor of the City and is also the Vice President of her family's current small business, Champion Sports Collectables, Inc. Juli's rise to the apex of San Gabriel leadership can be attributed to her unrelenting devotion to the economic and social welfare of her community. She has served as a board member and event coordinator for numerous local organizations, from the San Gabriel Mission Elementary School Board to the Mission District Mercado and the joint Family Festival and Farmers Market. In her role as a San Gabriel Parks and Recreation Commissioner, Juli helped maintain and improve the integrity of the City's beloved and historic public spaces. In addition to Juli's City and small business endeavors, she remains an active community member. Whether assisting the San Gabriel Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Program and the San Gabriel Community Coordinating Council, supporting the West San Gabriel Valley YMCA and the Mission District Partnership, or just attending an AYSO Region 40 game, Juli is an ideal example of a friendly face and a helping hand. Her steadfast dedication and selfless service are an invaluable addition to the legacy of Women's History Month. With gratitude and admiration, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in honoring an extraordinary woman of California's 29th Congressional District, Mrs. Juli Costanzo.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Libby Nardo of Burbank, California. Every March we celebrate Women's History Month in recognition of the contributions and the sacrifices made by our nation's women. Accordingly it is my privilege to highlight Ms. Nardo as a woman whose extraordinary efforts are vital to my district. When Libby moved to Burbank with her family 55 years ago, her eldest son started school and she started a lifetime of community service. Having begun with Boy & Girl Scouts, Little League, and general church maintenance and bookkeeping, she is now a city-appointed representative of the Senior Citizens' Board of Burbank, co-leader of St. Finbar Catholic Church's venerable service group, the Italian Catholic Federation, and an essential member of the Joslyn Senior Center's leadership team. Libby's ubiquitous presence is astounding: she serves on numerous boards and committees, volunteers with substance abuse prevention and youth literacy programs, and is a dependable and approachable community leader. Libby is known for her willingness to take on any task, from chairing the Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for over 200 poor and elderly Burbank residents to distributing refreshments at the yearly Senior Prom. Four mornings a week Libby becomes her own travelling food bank. After a quick stop at the nearby market, she sorts and distributes baked goods to local aid and senior centers, churches, and the Salvation Army. With such an exhaustive catalog of community commitments, it is no wonder Libby is known among her peers as a model of volunteerism. She has previously been honored with both a 20-year service award and a Presidential Lifetime Service Award, and I am pleased to applaud her today. Libby's steadfast dedication and selfless service are an invaluable addition to the legacy of Women's History Month. With gratitude and admiration, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in honoring an extraordinary woman of California's 29th Congressional District, Ms. Libby Nardo.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Melinda Hsia of South Pasadena, California. Every March we celebrate Women's History Month in recognition of the contributions and the sacrifices made by our nation's women. Accordingly it is my privilege to highlight Dr. Hsia as a woman whose extraordinary efforts are vital to my district. Born in San Francisco, Melinda graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a major in Bacteriology and received her Doctor of Pharmacy at the University of Southern California. She began to master the art of multi-tasking while working at the Glendale Adventist Medical Center for 16 years, when in addition to her medical pursuits, she obtained her real estate license and sold houses part- time. By the time her children, Andrew and Chloe, were born and her husband, Tom, retired, Melinda had become a veteran at juggling multiple roles. Outside of her volunteer efforts Melinda is an avid gardener and a pharmacist at Costco Alhambra where she counsels everyone from pediatric to elderly patients. Melinda's children have inspired her community involvement year after year. She began as a PTA member at their elementary school, helping to coordinate talent shows, musical productions, and promotions. Once her children entered high school, Melinda became the South Pasadena Music Boosters Club President and an active member of several other committees which coordinate fundraisers and competitions to support athletic and school clubs. She is currently South Pasadena High School's PTSA Vice President of Programs. In this capacity, Melinda coordinates speaker forums such as ``Over-the-Counter Drugs and Teens'' and the Developing Capable Young People series. In 2007 she received South Pasadena High School's PTSA Volunteer of the Year award. In addition to her PTSA involvement, Melinda serves her community as repeat President of the South Pasadena Chinese American Club, which raises funds for local public schools and community projects. The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, Huntington Library's Chinese Garden, the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, and the Union Station Foundation's Adopt-A-Meal program have all benefitted from Melinda's exemplary philanthropic leadership. She has supplemented her already busy schedule with positions on South Pasadena School District's Real Estate and Budget Advisory Committees and sits on the Board of Directors for the City's Chamber of Commerce. Melinda's handiwork adorns the entire South Pasadena community, whether as a refurbished classroom or as a floral centerpiece, and her selfless service is an invaluable addition to the legacy of Women's History Month. Her devotion has even created a new generation of volunteers: daughter Chloe was recently named a Bronze and Silver Congressional Award Medalist. With gratitude and admiration, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in honoring an extraordinary woman of California's 29th Congressional District, Dr. Melinda Hsia.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mrs. Joylene Wagner of Glendale, California. Every March we celebrate Women's History Month in recognition of the contributions and the sacrifices made by our nation's women. Accordingly it is my privilege to highlight Mrs. Wagner as a woman whose extraordinary efforts are vital to my district. Born and raised in Monrovia, California, Joylene graduated in 1976 from University of California, Santa Cruz with a degree in Western Civilization and continued on to the University of San Diego's Legal Assistant program. During her five years working as a litigation paralegal in San Diego and later in Los Angeles, she served on the founding board of the San Diego Association of Legal Assistants and in the La Jolla University/Community Chorus and Orchestra Association. Joylene and her husband Robert moved to Glendale in 1981, where they both became active in the Adams Hill Homeowners Association. They are very proud of their 3 children, who all attended Glendale schools. Their daughter Meg now teaches children with autism in Fairfax County, Virginia, son Will serves on the staff of Senator Arlen Specter, and son Nick will graduate from Glendale High School this year. Since 1985, in addition to singing in the First United Methodist Church choir, Joylene has split her time between volunteering in the schools and community and working part-time teaching children's choral music either at church, in Glendale elementary schools, or at the Los Angeles Children's Chorus. Her community involvement has included serving on the boards of Glendale Healthy Kids, Verdugo Workforce Investment, Los Angeles County School Trustees Association, and the League of Women Voters, as well as on the Glendale Arts and Culture Commission. Before her election to the Glendale Unified School District Board of Education in 2005, Joylene worked locally as a substitute teacher and completed graduate work in education. She has since served as the Board's President, working to find ways to enrich and increase student learning through arts instruction and career-technical education opportunities. In the face of drastic state funding cuts and in an effort to ensure budgetary support for educational priorities, Joylene has facilitated creative, courageous, and cooperative community conversations about what is most essential for student success. Joylene's steadfast dedication and selfless service are an invaluable addition to the legacy of Women's History Month. With gratitude and admiration, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in honoring an extraordinary woman of California's 29th Congressional District, Mrs. Joylene Wagner.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Maadam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Kathryn Perini of Temple City, California. Every March we celebrate Women's History Month in recognition of the contributions and the sacrifices made by our nation's women. Accordingly it is my privilege to highlight Ms. Perini as a woman whose extraordinary efforts are vital to my district. Few people take the chance to positively impact their community to the extent that Kathy has. A lifelong Temple City resident, Kathy earned her degrees at the nearby University of Southern California and returned to her hometown to apply her education towards helping the people she knew and loved. Kathy began as a teacher and a counselor and she eventually became the principal of Emperor Elementary, a California Distinguished School. At Emperor, Kathy has created and maintained cooperative and influential relationships with the community, parents, teachers, and students. With a clear action plan, she has crafted a school of academic scholars who benefit from Character Education as the curriculum's core. Kathy also shares her insight by working as a consultant, helping regional and nationwide schools develop not only educated but also responsible citizens. Various esteemed organizations have recognized her with awards, from local PTA groups to the National Character Education Center and the Mattel Foundation Family Learning Program. Throughout her years as an education trailblazer, Kathy has remained devoted to giving back to the community that helped raise her. In 1986 she founded the Temple City Youth Development program to benefit local students unable to afford extensive field study trips and remains the non-profit's director today. For nearly twenty years Kathy has been a dedicated member of the Tournament of Roses and presently serves on the organization's Executive Committee. Kathy's dual roles as educator and community leader were tested in early 2006 when her school fell victim to the violent act of arson. Even in the face of adversity, she rose to the challenge by reaching out to the community for supplies to ensure that all her students' needs were met, regardless of the devastating classroom destruction. In response, Kathy was happily inundated with resources, support, and encouragement. We are fortunate to have Kathy, a pillar of loyal community leadership, help us develop a new generation of bright and giving Americans. Her steadfast dedication and selfless service are an invaluable addition to the legacy of Women's History Month. With gratitude and admiration, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in honoring an extraordinary woman of California's 29th Congressional District, Ms. Kathy Perini.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. I thank the gentleman. Mr. Speaker, I want to join in acknowledging the leadership of my colleague, Darrell Issa from California, in developing this bill. He has fought hard for it for several years now. We are hoping this is the time we succeed. We have a deep interest in improving the efficiency of the patent process, in taking a lot of the costs out, some of the litigation costs and the inefficiencies in the patent review, and also by improving the quality of patents. We are at present trying to work on those broader patent reforms. We hope we can succeed with those. This bill is a win-win situation. Through it, we can expand upon the knowledge and expertise of the courts that decide patent issues. We can allow the courts to identify judges that have an interest in this area and that want to engage in further education to improve the quality of decision making. Unfortunately, these cases are often very complex. The result is that you get decisions that are too often reversed on appeal. So to the degree that we can encourage some specialization in the district courts, improve the cost quality of decisions in the court process, we can reduce costs and we can improve the process. So I think that this pilot project is a very important step forward. Again, I want to congratulate my colleague. I know how hard he has worked on this. It is good to have somebody with the experience of getting a patent himself. I have some fabulous patent ideas, multimillion-dollar ideas. I haven't gotten them patented yet. But when I do, I want to make sure that there is a good, efficient system. And should anyone have the unmitigated temerity to actually challenge one in court, I want judges who are well educated and understand that my patent is valid and any claim to the contrary is without merit. I congratulate my colleague, thank him for his superb work, and urge my fellow colleagues to support the bill. I rise today in support of H.R. 628, legislation that will enhance expertise in patent cases among district judges, provide district courts with resources and training to reduce the error rates in patent cases, and help reduce the high cost and lost time associated with patent litigation. I joined my colleague Mr. Issa in introducing this legislation because I believe this proposal will provide us with valuable and important insight on the operation of patent litigation in the federal court system. In the 109th Congress, the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual property held a hearing on improving federal court adjudication of patent cases in response to high rates of reversal at the Federal Circuit. At this hearing, a number of proposed options to address this issue were discussed. Serious concerns were expressed with a number of proposals, including those that would create new specialized courts and those that would move all patent cases to existing specialized courts. These concerns centered around the need to maintain generalist judges, to preserve random case assignment, and to continue fostering the important legal percolation that currently occurs among the various district courts. Our proposal aims to avoid these pitfalls. H.R. 628 establishes a mechanism to steer patent cases to judges that have the desire and aptitude to hear such cases, while preserving the principle of random assignment in order to prevent forum shopping among the pilot districts. The legislation will also provide the Congress and the courts with the opportunity to assess the program on a periodic basis. Reports will examine whether the program succeeds in developing greater expertise among participating District judges, the extent to which the program contributes to improving judicial efficiency in deciding these cases, and whether the program should be extended, expanded or made permanent. By providing our courts with the resources they need to carefully consider patent cases, we will ultimately save the American taxpayer money. The legislation has been passed by the House in the 109th and 110th Congresses. We are pleased that companion legislation has been introduced by Senator Specter, and we hope that the other body will act on this proposal this Congress. While this legislation is an important first step at addressing needed patent reforms, I believe that Congress must continue to work on a more comprehensive reform of our patent system. I look forward to continuing my work with my colleagues in the Judiciary Committee and in Congress to address these issues.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, colleagues, 5 years ago in January, 2004, I had the privilege of being in the control room at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory when Spirit, the first of two identical Mars rovers, landed in Gusev Crater. It was an amazing experience to watch the dozens of engineers, controllers and scientists who had worked so hard and for so long on the rover project to see its initial success. I'm proud to have many of them as my constituents, and I'm honored to share JPL with my colleague, David Dreier, and have joined him in this resolution honoring 5 years of surface operations by Spirit and its twin, Opportunity. Spirit and Opportunity landed on Mars to begin what was planned as a 3-month mission to evaluate whether conditions would have at one time been suitable for life on the red planet. Under the leadership of Dr. Charles Elachi and Principal Investigator Steve Squyres of Cornell University, JPL employees worked around the clock to make the most of what was planned as a limited duration mission. Equipped with cameras, spectrometers and grinders, America's robotic explorers have now been hard at work for more than 5 years and are still going strong. The rovers' incredible durability is a testament to the quality of their design, the care with which their operations are managed and a scientific bonanza for scientists here and around the world. The rovers' discovery of evidence of past water on Mars was 2004's top scientific ``Breakthrough of the Year'' according to the journal Science. The rovers have also uncovered evidence of Mars' violent volcanic past and have transmitted more than 36 gigabytes of data back to Earth. Despite a gimpy wheel, Spirit has spent most of the past year exploring an area dubbed Home Plate, which is rich in silica, another telltale sign of water. Opportunity has had shoulder troubles, but has covered a lot of ground in the last 5 years. The rover spent almost 2 years exploring Victoria Crater and has now begun a long drive to its next major destination, a much larger crater called Endeavour. At more than 14 miles in diameter, Endeavour is more than 20 times larger than Victoria. People around the world have been captivated by the stunning photographs of the Martian surface and the planet's ruddy sky. In the first 2 months after Spirit and Opportunity landed on Mars, JPL's rover Web site registered almost 9 billion hits. Since then we have watched the seasons change on Mars and have marveled at the changing terrain as the rovers have moved about the surface. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, managed by the California Institute of Technology, designed, built and controls the rovers. JPL has been the pioneer of our exploration of the solar system from the beginning of our space program and is one of the crown jewels of American science. Explorer I, America's first satellite, was a JPL project. At the time it was launched, the United States had fallen behind the Soviets in the space race, and several other attempts of getting an ``American Sputnik'' into orbit had ended in fiery explosions on the launch pad. Not only did Explorer I salvage our pride, but the tiny satellite discovered the Van Allen radiation belts that circle the Earth. Since then, JPL probes have explored most of our solar system--from the Ranger series that paved the way for the Apollo moon landings, to Voyager's grand tour of the outer planets in the 1970s and 1980s, to last spring's landing on Mars by the Mars Phoenix--and have also surveyed the cosmos as well as our own planet. In 2 years NASA will launch an even larger rover, the Mars Science Laboratory, which will build on the work being done today by Spirit and Opportunity. With a little luck, the rovers will still be working-- still expanding our understanding of Mars and, more importantly, of ourselves. I urge all my colleagues to support the resolution.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. I thank the chairman and rise in support of the rule and the stimulus bill. In 2008, more than 2.6 million Americans lost their jobs, the highest yearly job loss total since 1945. In my home State of California, the unemployment rate soared to 9.3 percent last month, its the highest in 15 years. It's clear that Congress must take aggressive action to stave off a long and deep recession. This legislation will help create jobs quickly, restore purchasing power and help those in need. With such a large stimulus under consideration, we also have an opportunity to build infrastructure that will promote long-term prosperity. While we have to place a premium on dispensing funds quickly, we must also make a large significant and lasting investment in our country's future. When this recession is far behind us, I hope we can look back and see that something positive came out of it. By investing in renewable energy, we can achieve both short-term and long-term goals. We can fund many shovel-ready projects that will give the economy a quick boost, but we can also make an investment in America's future, creating high-paying jobs and changing the energy paradigm of this country. Let's make sure we produce a foundation for the Nation's long-term health and prosperity and a lasting improvement in our standard of living. In 2008, more than 2.6 million Americans lost their jobs, the highest yearly job-loss total since 1945. In my home state of California, the unemployment rate soared to 9.3 percent last month--its highest point in 15 years. It is clear that Congress must take aggressive action to stave off a long and deep recession and that we must do more to ensure that appropriated money is spent efficiently and effectively to ensure America's future success. This legislation will create jobs quickly, help restore purchasing power, assist those in need and begin to reignite our flagging economy. With such a large stimulus package under consideration, we also have a unique opportunity to build infrastructure that will promote long-term prosperity. While we must place a premium on dispersing these funds quickly, we must also make a large, significant and lasting investment in our country's future. I hope to be able to look back on this period, when the recession is far behind us and see that something positive came out of this crisis. By investing in renewable energy, we can achieve both short-term and long-term goals. The green energy sector has many shovel-ready projects that would give the economy a quick boost. But renewable energy is also vital to our continued economic health--it creates high-paying American jobs in a fast-growing industry and protects our nation's natural resources. In passing this bill, we take the first step on the path toward a clean sustainable high-tech economy. I believe that the stimulus will help revive our economy both by helping American families who are struggling to make ends meet and by making critical investments in our future. It will help establish the foundation for the nation's long-term economic health and prosperity and ensure a lasting improvement in the standard of living for our children and their children.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to extend my best wishes to the millions of Asian Americans who are celebrating the Lunar New Year, which ushers in the Year of the Ox. Representing one of the largest Asian American populations in Southern California, I have had the distinct privilege in joining many of my Asian American constituents to commemorate this historic tradition. The communities of Alhambra, San Gabriel, and Monterey Park have organized events and festivities for families to gather and celebrate the Year of the Ox. I am also delighted that this will be the 110th year that the Annual Golden Dragon Lunar New Year Parade, hosted by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles, will be bringing floats, marching bands, and various forms of entertainment to over 100,000 people. From parades to festivals, all will be able to enjoy the colorful, rich traditions that have been observed by many Asian cultures for centuries. I wish you all the best in the Year of the Ox.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, in 2006 I cofounded the Congressional Caucus for Freedom of the Press, and since then this bipartisan, bicameral caucus has sought to highlight the importance of free expression around the world. I rise today to honor Lasantha Wickramatunga, a brave journalist who was gunned down while driving to work in the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo. Threats, attacks and murders of journalists are becoming all too common in Sri Lanka. Mr. Wickramatunga knew the dangers too well but courageously continued reporting. Recognizing his work might cost him his life, Mr. Wickramatunga wrote a letter to be published in the event of his assassination. Today I will read excerpts of his letter which was published by his paper, The Sunday Leader, on January 11, 3 days after he was killed. He wrote, ``No other profession calls on its practitioners to lay down their lives for their art save the armed forces and, in Sri Lanka, journalism. In the course of the past few years, the independent media have increasingly come under attack. Electronic and print media institutions have been burnt, bombed, sealed and coerced. Countless journalists have been harassed, threatened and killed. It has been my honor to belong to all those categories and now especially the last. ``Why then do we do it? I often wonder that. After all, I too am a husband, and the father of three wonderful children. I too have responsibilities and obligations that transcend my profession, be it the law or journalism. ``But there is a calling that is yet above high office, fame, lucre and security. It is the call of conscience. ``The Sunday Leader has been a controversial newspaper because we say it like we see it: whether it be a spade, a thief or a murderer, we call it by that name. We do not hide behind euphemism. The investigative articles we print are supported by documentary evidence thanks to the public-spiritedness of citizens who at great risk to themselves pass on this material to us. We have exposed scandal after scandal, and never once in these 15 years has anyone proved us wrong or successfully prosecuted us. ``The free media serve as a mirror in which the public can see itself, sans mascara and styling gel. From us you learn the state of your nation, and especially its management by the people you elected to give your children a better future. Sometimes the image you see in that mirror is not a pleasant one. But while you may grumble in the privacy your armchair, the journalists who hold the mirror up to you do so publicly and at great risk to themselves. That is our calling, and we do not shirk it. ``If I seem angry and frustrated, it is because most of my countrymen--and all of the government--cannot see this writing plainly on the wall. ``It is well known that on two occasions I was brutally assaulted, while on another my house was sprayed with machine-gun fire. Despite the government's sanctimonious assurances, there was never a serious police inquiry into the perpetrators of these attacks, and the attackers were never apprehended. In all these cases, I have reason to believe the attacks were inspired by the government. When finally I am killed, it will be the government that kills me. ``As for me, I have the satisfaction of knowing that I walk tall and bowed to no man. And I have not traveled this journey alone. Fellow journalists in other branches of the media walked with me: most of them are now dead, imprisoned without trial or exiled in far-off lands. ``As for the readers of The Sunday Leader, what can I say but Thank You for supporting our mission. We have espoused unpopular causes, stood up for those too feeble to stand up for themselves, locked horns with the high and mighty so swollen with power that they have forgotten their roots, exposed corruption and waste of your hard-earned tax rupees, and make sure that whatever the propaganda of the day, you were allowed to hear a contrary view. For this I--and my family--have now paid the price that I have long known I will one day have to pay. I am--and have always been--ready for that. I have done nothing to prevent this outcome: no security, no precautions. I want my murderer to know that I am not a coward like he is, hiding behind human shields while condemning thousands of innocents to death. ``That The Sunday Leader will continue fighting the good fight, too, is written. For I did not fight this alone. Many more of us have to be--and will be--killed before The Leader is laid to rest. I hope my assassination will be seen not as a defeat of freedom but an inspiration for those who survive to step up their efforts. Indeed, I hope that it will help galvanize forces that will usher in a new era of human liberty in our beloved motherland. I also hope it will open the eyes of your President to the fact that however many are slaughtered in the name of patriotism, the human spirit will endure and flourish. Not all the Rajapakses combined can kill that. ``People often ask me why I take such risks and tell me it is a matter of time before I am bumped off. Of course I know that: it is inevitable. But if we do not speak out now, there will be no one left to speak for those who cannot, whether they be ethnic minorities, the disadvantaged or the persecuted.'' These were the words he wrote in anticipation of his own assassination. Mr. Speaker, I submit the entire text of his letter for the Record. The following editorial by Lasantha Wickramatunga, was published in The Sunday Leader on January 11. No other profession calls on its practitioners to lay down their lives for their art save the armed forces and, in Sri Lanka, journalism. In the course of the past few years, the independent media have increasingly come under attack. Electronic and print-media institutions have been burnt, bombed, sealed and coerced. Countless journalists have been harassed, threatened and killed. It has been my honour to belong to all those categories and now especially the last. I have been in the business of journalism a good long time. Indeed, 2009 will be The Sunday Leader's 15th year. Many things have changed in Sri Lanka during that time, and it does not need me to tell you that the greater part of that change has been for the worse. We find ourselves in the midst of a civil war ruthlessly prosecuted by protagonists whose bloodlust knows no bounds. Terror, whether perpetrated by terrorists or the state, has become the order of the day. Indeed, murder has become the primary tool whereby the state seeks to control the organs of liberty. Today it is the journalists, tomorrow it will be the judges. For neither group have the risks ever been higher or the stakes lower. Why then do we do it? I often wonder that. After all, I too am a husband, and the father of three wonderful children. I too have responsibilities and obligations that transcend my profession, be it the law or journalism. Is it worth the risk? Many people tell me it is not. Friends tell me to revert to the bar, and goodness knows it offers a better and safer livelihood. Others, including political leaders on both sides, have at various times sought to induce me to take to politics, going so far as to offer me ministries of my choice. Diplomats, recognizing the risk journalists face in Sri Lanka, have offered me safe passage and the right of residence in their countries. Whatever else I may have been stuck for, I have not been stuck for choice. But there is a calling that is yet above high office, fame, lucre and security. It is the call of conscience. The Sunday Leader has been a controversial newspaper because we say it like we see it: whether it be a spade, a thief or a murderer, we call it by that name. We do not hide behind euphemism. The investigative articles we print are supported by documentary evidence thanks to the public- spiritedness of citizens who at great risk to themselves pass on this material to us. We have exposed scandal after scandal, and never once in these 15 years has anyone proved us wrong or successfully prosecuted us. The free media serve as a mirror in which the public can see itself sans mascara and styling gel. From us you learn the state of your nation, and especially its management by the people you elected to give your children a better future. Sometimes the image you see in that mirror is not a pleasant one. But while you may grumble in the privacy of your armchair, the journalists who hold the mirror up to you do so publicly and at great risk to themselves. That is our calling, and we do not shirk it. Every newspaper has its angle, and we do not hide the fact that we have ours. Our commitment is to see Sri Lanka as a transparent, secular, liberal democracy. Think about those words, for they each have profound meaning. Transparent because government must be openly accountable to the people and never abuse their trust. Secular because in a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society such as ours, secularism offers the only common ground by which we might all be united. Liberal because we recognise that all human beings are created different, and we need to accept others for what they are and not what we would like them to be. And democratic . . . well, if you need me to explain why that is important, you'd best stop buying this paper. The Sunday Leader has never sought safety by unquestioningly articulating the majority view. Let's face it, that is the way to sell newspapers. On the contrary, as our opinion pieces over the years amply demonstrate, we often voice ideas that many people find distasteful. For example, we have consistently espoused the view that while separatist terrorism must be eradicated, it is more important to address the root causes of terrorism, and urged government to view Sri Lanka's ethnic strife in the context of history and not through the telescope of terrorism. We have also agitated against state terrorism in the so-called war against terror, and made no secret of our horror that Sri Lanka is the only country in the world routinely to bomb its own citizens. For these views we have been labelled traitors, and if this be treachery, we wear that label proudly. Many people suspect that The Sunday Leader has a political agenda: it does not. If we appear more critical of the government than of the opposition it is only because we believe that--pray excuse cricketing argot--there is no point in bowling to the fielding side. Remember that for the few years of our existence in which the UNP was in office, we proved to be the biggest thorn in its flesh, exposing excess and corruption wherever it occurred. Indeed, the steady stream of embarrassing exposes we published may well have served to precipitate the downfall of that government. Neither should our distaste for the war be interpreted to mean that we support the Tigers. The LTTE are among the most ruthless and bloodthirsty organisations ever to have infested the planet. There is no gainsaying that it must be eradicated. But to do so by violating the rights of Tamil citizens, bombing and shooting them mercilessly, is not only wrong but shames the Sinhalese, whose claim to be custodians of the dhamma is forever called into question by this savagery, much of which is unknown to the public because of censorship. What is more, a military occupation of the country's north and east will require the Tamil people of those regions to live eternally as second-class citizens, deprived of all self respect. Do not imagine that you can placate them by showering ``development'' and ``reconstruction'' on them in the post-war era. The wounds of war will scar them forever, and you will also have an even more bitter and hateful Diaspora to contend with. A problem amenable to a political solution will thus become a festering wound that will yield strife for all eternity. If I seem angry and frustrated, it is only because most of my countrymen--and all of the government--cannot see this writing so plainly on the wall. It is well known that I was on two occasions brutally assaulted, while on another my house was sprayed with machine-gun fire. Despite the government's sanctimonious assurances, there was never a serious police inquiry into the perpetrators of these attacks, and the attackers were never apprehended. In all these cases, I have reason to believe the attacks were inspired by the government. When finally I am killed, it will be the government that kills me. The irony in this is that, unknown to most of the public, Mahinda and I have been friends for more than a quarter century. Indeed, I suspect that I am one of the few people remaining who routinely addresses him by his first name and uses the familiar Sinhala address oya when talking to him. Although I do not attend the meetings he periodically holds for newspaper editors, hardly a month passes when we do not meet, privately or with a few close friends present, late at night at President's House. There we swap yarns, discuss politics and joke about the good old days. A few remarks to him would therefore be in order here. Mahinda, when you finally fought your way to the SLFP presidential nomination in 2005, nowhere were you welcomed more warmly than in this column. Indeed, we broke with a decade of tradition by referring to you throughout by your first name. So well known were your commitments to human rights and liberal values that we ushered you in like a breath of fresh air. Then, through an act of folly, you got yourself involved in the Helping Hambantota scandal. It was after a lot of soul-searching that we broke the story, at the same time urging you to return the money. By the time you did so several weeks later, a great blow had been struck to your reputation. It is one you are still trying to live down. You have told me yourself that you were not greedy for the presidency. You did not have to hanker after it: it fell into your lap. You have told me that your sons are your greatest joy, and that you love spending time with them, leaving your brothers to operate the machinery of state. Now, it is clear to all who will see that that machinery has operated so well that my sons and daughter do not themselves have a father. In the wake of my death I know you will make all the usual sanctimonious noises and call upon the police to hold a swift and thorough inquiry. But like all the inquiries you have ordered in the past, nothing will come of this one, too. For truth be told, we both know who will be behind my death, but dare not call his name. Not just my life, but yours too, depends on it. Sadly, for all the dreams you had for our country in your younger days, in just three years you have reduced it to rubble. In the name of patriotism you have trampled on human rights, nurtured unbridled corruption and squandered public money like no other President before you. Indeed, your conduct has been like a small child suddenly let loose in a toyshop. That analogy is perhaps inapt because no child could have caused so much blood to be spilled on this land as you have, or trampled on the rights of its citizens as you do. Although you are now so drunk with power that you cannot see it, you will come to regret your sons having so rich an inheritance of blood. It can only bring tragedy. As for me, it is with a clear conscience that I go to meet my Maker. I wish, when your time finally comes, you could do the same. I wish. As for me, I have the satisfaction of knowing that I walked tall and bowed to no man. And I have not travelled this journey alone. Fellow journalists in other branches of the media walked with me: most of them are now dead, imprisoned without trial or exiled in far-off lands. Others walk in the shadow of death that your Presidency has cast on the freedoms for which you once fought so hard. You will never be allowed to forget that my death took place under your watch. As anguished as I know you will be, I also know that you will have no choice but to protect my killers: you will see to it that the guilty one is never convicted. You have no choice. I feel sorry for you, and Shiranthi will have a long time to spend on her knees when next she goes for Confession for it is not just her owns sins which she must confess, but those of her extended family that keeps you in office. As for the readers of The Sunday Leader, what can I say but Thank You for supporting our mission. We have espoused unpopular causes, stood up for those too feeble to stand up for themselves, locked horns with the high and mighty so swollen with power that they have forgotten their roots, exposed corruption and the waste of your hard-earned tax rupees, and made sure that whatever the propaganda of the day, you were allowed to hear a contrary view. For this I-- and my family--have now paid the price that I have long known I will one day have to pay. I am--and have always been--ready for that. I have done nothing to prevent this outcome: no security, no precautions. I want my murderer to know that I am not a coward like he is, hiding behind human shields while condemning thousands of innocents to death. What am I among so many? It has long been written that my life would be taken, and by whom. All that remains to be written is when. That The Sunday Leader will continue fighting the good fight, too, is written. For I did not fight this fight alone. Many more of us have to be--and will be--killed before The Leader is laid to rest. I hope my assassination will be seen not as a defeat of freedom but an inspiration for those who survive to step up their efforts. Indeed, I hope that it will help galvanise forces that will usher in a new era of human liberty in our beloved motherland. I also hope it will open the eyes of your President to the fact that however many are slaughtered in the name of patriotism, the human spirit will endure and flourish. Not all the Rajapakses combined can kill that. People often ask me why I take such risks and tell me it is a matter of time before I am bumped off. Of course I know that: it is inevitable. But if we do not speak out now, there will be no one left to speak for those who cannot, whether they be ethnic minorities, the disadvantaged or the persecuted. An example that has inspired me throughout my career in journalism has been that of the German theologian, Martin Niemoller. In his youth he was an anti-Semite and an admirer of Hitler. As Nazism took hold in Germany, however, he saw Nazism for what it was: it was not just the Jews Hitler sought to extirpate, it was just about anyone with an alternate point of view. Niemoller spoke out, and for his trouble was incarcerated in the Sachsenhausen and Dachau concentration camps from 1937 to 1945, and very nearly executed. While incarcerated, Niemoller wrote a poem that, from the first time I read it in my teenage years, stuck hauntingly in my mind: First they came for the Jews and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew. Then they came for the Communists and I did not speak out because I was not a Communist. Then they came for the trade unionists and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak out for me. If you remember nothing else, remember this: The Leader is there for you, be you Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, low-caste, homosexual, dissident or disabled. Its staff will fight on, unbowed and unafraid, with the courage to which you have become accustomed. Do not take that commitment for granted. Let there be no doubt that whatever sacrifices we journalists make, they are not made for our own glory or enrichment: they are made for you. Whether you deserve their sacrifice is another matter. As for me, God knows I tried.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, today I rise in support of the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act. This is a landmark measure which will extend the life-changing benefit of health insurance to an additional 4 million American children. That means millions of parents won't have to bring their child to the emergency room because they're running a fever and have nowhere else to go. Millions of parents who can take their child to a dentist if their teeth hurt. Millions of parents who can take care of their children in a way most families take for granted--that when they're sick, they can go to the doctor. SCHIP has been an incredible success story, extending the benefits of health care to 7 million children, and more than 750,000 in California alone. These are children whose families have incomes that are too high to qualify for Medicaid but who do not receive health insurance through their employment and can't afford it on their own. SCHIP is based on a simple premise--that insuring kids' health care is the right thing to do. It's much cheaper to insure children, and this investment will yield healthier generations of adults, improved quality of life, and long-term health care savings. The experience of the 11 years since SCHIP was originally created proves the wisdom and prudence of providing care for prevention and wellness in our children. In addition to reauthorizing the program, this bill improves SCHIP by creating new incentives to seek out millions of children around the nation who are eligible but not enrolled. Two-thirds of uninsured children are currently eligible for coverage through SCHIP or Medicaid--this bill provides greater funding in grants for new outreach activities to States, local governments, schools, community-based organizations, and others. With this bill, more kids who are eligible will get enrolled and stay enrolled for a benefit that they are entitled. The legislation is fully paid for by an increase in the tax on cigarettes--a provision that I hope will also help discourage youth smoking. During these trying economic times, and with rising unemployment, the need for this SCHIP bill has become more critical now than ever before. This recession has forced more and more American parents to face difficult choices--finding affordable health insurance for their children shouldn't be one of them. A vote for this bill is a vote for an America that takes care of its children. In the richest nation in the history of the world, it is simply wrong that millions of children, our most vulnerable citizens, go without basic access to health care. With a yes vote, 4 million more children will enjoy the benefits of a healthy future and a real chance in life. I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation recognizing the Japanese-American 100th Infantry Battalion and 442nd Regimental Combat Team, commonly known as the ``Go For Broke'' regiments, for their dedicated service to our Nation during World War II. These brave men served with pride, courage and conviction, waging a war on two fronts--abroad against a forceful and oppressive fascism, and at home against the intolerance of racial injustice. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor incited doubts about the loyalty of Japanese- Americans, these brave men who enlisted to fight to protect our Nation were faced with segregated training conditions, families and friends relocated to internment camps, and repeated questions about their combat abilities. At a time when they could have easily turned their backs on a country which had seemingly turned its back on them, these men chose the nobler, bolder, and more difficult route. The ``Go For Broke'' regiments went on to earn several awards for their distinctive service in combat, including: 7 Presidential Unit Citations, 21 Medals of Honor, 29 Distinguished Service Crosses, 560 Silver Stars, 4,000 Bronze Stars, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 15 Soldier's Medals, and over 4,000 Purple Hearts, among numerous additional distinctions. For their size and length of service, the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team were the most decorated U.S. military units of the war. However, these regiments have yet to be honored with a Congressional Gold Medal. To answer the call of duty requires exceptional courage and sacrifice, but to respond with a vigor and persistence unaffected by those who sought to malign and impede their every achievement reveals an incredible spirit and admirable will. Please join me in honoring these courageous men by supporting the granting of a Congressional Gold Medal, collectively, to the U.S. Army's 100th Infantry Battalion and 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, the State of Israel has a right to defend its territory and its people from attack, whether that attack emanates from another sovereign nation, or, as in this case, from a terrorist organization that seized control of Gaza in a bloody putsch 18 months ago. Hamas clearly chose to escalate its conflict against Israel by unilaterally declaring an end to the ceasefire that was implemented last June and launching a large-scale rocket attack on Israeli population centers. The Israeli government exercised great forbearance in the weeks prior to the formal breakdown of the ceasefire, which Hamas was already violating repeatedly, and had the international community more strongly condemned these attacks and taken action to stop them, the current Israeli offensive may have been unnecessary. But, Hamas bears ultimate responsibility for provoking this attack and for putting 1.5 million Palestinians in harm's way--a fact that Arab leaders from Egypt to Saudi Arabia have noted. Along with millions of Americans, I grieve the terrible loss of life of innocent Israelis and Palestinians. Hamas's decision to fire rockets from populated areas and Israeli strikes on those targets have resulted in many civilian casualties, and our hearts go out to all the innocents who have suffered. It is too early to tell if Israel's military actions will quell the threat of rocket attacks from Gaza and shut down smuggling routes from Egypt. The conflict in Lebanon proved how difficult this can be and a strong international effort will be necessary to avoid a recurrence of missile strikes in both theaters. This will require a level of resolution thus far not demonstrated by the international community. Israel's long-term security can only be guaranteed by a successful peace process that leads to the creation of a Palestinian state living side-by-side and in peace with Israel. President-elect Obama has committed himself to reinvigorating the search for peace and it is my hope that a timely conclusion of the present hostilities will allow the new President to begin these efforts from the first days of his administration.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Honorable Jack Scott, State Senator from California's 21st District. Jack Scott was born and raised in Sweetwater, Texas. An advocate of higher education, he received a bachelor's degree from Abilene Christian College, a master of divinity from Yale University, and a Ph.D. in American history from Claremont Graduate University. Senator Scott began his career as a professor and administrator at Pepperdine University in 1962. He then moved on to Orange Coast College, and in 1978, he became President of Cypress College. In 1987, he took over the position as President of Pasadena City College. As President, he was responsible for the development of its library, Community Education Center, Child Development Center, physical education complex, and Sculpture Garden. Despite declines in state funding, the college had more than $6 million in reserve funds when Scott retired from the presidency in 1995. In 1996, Jack was elected to the California State Assembly where he served until 2000, when he was elected to the State Senate. During his eight-year tenure in the State Senate, he chaired the Senate Committee on Education and the Joint Committee on the Arts. Throughout his term, he fought to increase the amount and quality of California teachers, improve the transfer process for community college students, and develop a new funding system for California community colleges. Senator Scott's legislative efforts have earned him recognition as Legislator of the Year from the California Federation of Teachers, Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, Association of California Community College Administrators, Association of California School Boards, California State University, and the Child Development Policy Institute. He has an honorary doctorate from Pepperdine University and has been named the Alumnus of the Year at both Claremont Graduate University and Abilene Christian University. On October 28, he received Pasadena City College Foundation's Building the Spirit of a Vibrant Community Award. Senator Scott's extensive community involvement includes the Coalition for a Non-Violent City, Pacific Oaks College's Board of Trustees, the Board of Regents at Pepperdine University and the Association of California Community College Administrators. Jack and his wife, Lacreta, have 10 grandchildren and four surviving children, Sharon Mitchell, Shelia Head, Amy Schones, and Greg Scott; their fifth child, Adam, died in 1993. In 2009, Senator Scott will begin his position as Chancellor of California's community colleges. It is my great pleasure to recognize the extraordinary achievements of Senator Jack Scott and I ask all Members of Congress to join me in thanking him for his service.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, my friend and colleague from California, Chairman Berman, has work tirelessly over the last year to make this deal better. He has been a great champion of nonproliferation in this House, and he has led many efforts to prod and question the Bush administration on the negotiations with India--pressing for a deal that would enhance our relationship with the world's largest democracy while protecting the global nonproliferation regime and our interests around world. Unfortunately, the administration resisted many of his efforts, and those of others, and I am forced to oppose the final package. I believe that our relationship with India is one of our most important. Our interests are inextricably linked, and our economies draw ever closer. In the past, that relationship has been strained by the issue of nuclear proliferation--India never signed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, and continues to build nuclear weapons. The agreement we vote on today began as a valiant attempt to bring India into the nuclear mainstream, while binding our business communities closer together. Unfortunately, it has ended with an agreement that falls short of either goal: the safeguards are not strong enough, the incentive for other nations to proliferate is too great, and while opening India's nuclear market to the world, it places American companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to French and Russian firms. Even worse, the ``deal'' is not really a deal at all. The Indian government and the Administration have been issuing contradictory statements about it for the past year. This is not a problem of each side interpreting the treaty differently--the two sides have apparently signed two different treaties. The next time India has a new government, which could be as early as this winter, it may withdraw from the agreement, and the net result of all of this negotiation will be to allow foreign companies to sell nuclear technology to India. No nonproliferation goals would be accomplished, no new business would be generated for American companies, and no new relationship with India would be achieved. So, I have a few questions for the administration, which have not been answered, and I think they're important questions to consider as we vote on this proposal. When the administration realized that the Indians would not accept a deal that punished them if they decided to test a nuclear weapon, a requirement of the Hyde Act, why did they continue to negotiate? When it became clear that the real winners in this deal were the Russians and other nuclear powers that indiscriminately and irresponsibly sell nuclear technology around the world, why didn't we pull out? When the administration realized that this deal might undermine the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, a treaty that has succeeded in dramatically limiting the number of nuclear nations, why did they not take steps to strengthen other nonproliferation efforts? When it became clear that we couldn't get the assurances we needed to stem proliferation, why didn't we shift gears and produce a deal in renewable energy, information technology, or another area that would bring actual benefits to the American economy without harming our national security? Some proponents of the deal have said that it brings India into the nonproliferation mainstream. But in fact, India remains free to test nuclear weapons, has not agreed to abide by the Nonproliferation Treaty, has not signed the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, and will only allow international inspectors access to a few of their civilian power plants. That is not the mainstream. India has become a vital partner in a world that has grown dangerous and unpredictable. But tragically, an agreement in any other field would have brought us more, without seriously weakening our efforts to prevent a nuclear arms race in the Middle East and South Asia. As a strong supporter of improving our relationship with India, but a firm advocate of nonproliferation, I cannot support this agreement, and I must urge my colleagues to oppose it as well.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by acknowledging the fine efforts of my colleague and Chairman Howard Berman to approve this deal, and I find myself in reluctant opposition. I believe our relationship with India is one of our most important. Our interests are inextricably linked, and our economies draw ever closer. In the past, that relationship has been strained by the issue of nuclear proliferation--India never signed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and continues to build nuclear weapons. The agreement we vote on today began as a valiant attempt to bring India into the nuclear mainstream while binding our business communities closer together. Unfortunately, it has ended with an agreement that falls short of either goal: the safeguards are not strong enough, the incentive for other nations to proliferate is too great; and while opening India's nuclear market to the world, it places American companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to the French and Russian firms. Even worse, the deal is really no deal at all. The Indian government and the administration have been issuing contradictory statements about it for the past year. This is not a problem of each side interpreting the treaty differently. The two sides have apparently signed different treaties. The next time India has a new government, which could be as early as winter, it may withdraw from the agreement, and the net result of all of this negotiation will allow foreign companies to sell nuclear technology to India. No nonproliferation goals would be accomplished, no new business would be generated for American companies, and no new relationship with India would be achieved. When it became clear that the real winners in this deal were the Russians and other nuclear powers that indiscriminately and irresponsibly sell nuclear technology around the world, why didn't the administration pull out? When the administration realized that India would not accept the deal that ended cooperation if it decided to test a nuclear weapon, a requirement of the Hyde Act, why did they continue to negotiate? When the administration realized this deal might undermine the MPT, a treaty that has succeeded in dramatically limiting the number of nuclear nations, why did they not take steps to strengthen other nonproliferation efforts? Some proponents of the deal have said that it brings India into the nuclear nonproliferation mainstream. Mr. Speaker, I urge opposition to the agreement. Mr. Speaker, my friend and colleague from California, Chairman Berman, has worked tirelessly over the last year to make this deal better. He has been a great champion of nonproliferation in this House, and he has led many efforts to prod and question the Bush administration on the negotiations with India--pressing for a deal that would enhance our relationship with the world's largest democracy while protecting the global nonproliferation regime and our interests around the world. Unfortunately, the administration resisted many of his efforts and that of others, and I am forced to oppose the final package. I believe that our relationship with India is one of our most important. Our interests are inextricably linked, and our economies draw ever closer. In the past, that relationship has been strained by the issue of nuclear proliferation--India never signed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, and continues to build nuclear weapons. The agreement we vote on today began as a valiant attempt to bring India into the nuclear mainstream, while binding our business communities closer together. Unfortunately, it has ended with an agreement that falls short of either goal: the safeguards are not strong enough, the incentive for other nations to proliferate is too great, and while opening India's nuclear market to the world, it places American companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to French and Russian firms. Even worse, the ``deal'' is not really a deal at all. The Indian Government and the administration have been issuing contradictory statements about it for the past year. This is not a problem of each side interpreting the treaty differently--the two sides have apparently signed two different treaties. The next time India has a new government, which could be as early as this winter, it may withdraw from the agreement, and the net result of all of this negotiation will be to allow foreign companies to sell nuclear technology to India. No nonproliferation goals would be accomplished, no new business would be generated for American companies, and no new relationship with India would be achieved. So, I have a few questions for the administration, which have not yet been answered, and I thInk they're important questions to consider as we vote on this proposal. When the administration realized that India would not accept a deal that ended cooperation if it decided to test a nuclear weapon, a requirement of the Hyde Act, why did they continue to negotiate. When it became clear that the real winners in this deal were the Russians and other nuclear powers that indiscriminately and irresponsibly sell nuclear technology around the world, why didn't we pull out? When the administration realized that this deal might undermine the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, a treaty that has succeeded in dramatically limiting the number of nuclear nations, why did they not take steps to strengthen other nonproliferation efforts? When it became clear that we couldn't get the assurances we needed to stem proliferation, why didn't we shift gears and produce a deal in renewable energy, information technology, or another area that would bring actual benefits to the American economy without harming our national security? Some proponents of the deal have said that it brings India into the nonproliferation mainstream. But in fact, India remains free to test nuclear weapons, has not agreed to abide by the Nonproliferation Treaty, has not signed the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, and will only allow international inspectors access to a few of their civilian power plants. That is not the mainstream. India has become a vital partner in a world that has grown dangerous and unpredictable. But tragically, an agreement in any other field of renewable energy would have brought us more, without seriously weakening our efforts to prevent a nuclear arms race in the Middle East and South Asia. As a strong supporter of improving our relationship with India, but a firm advocate of nonproliferation, I cannot support this agreement, and I must urge my colleagues to oppose it as well.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation recognizing the Japanese-American 100th Infantry Battalion and 442d Regimental Combat Team, commonly known as the ``Go For Broke'' regiments, for their dedicated service to our nation during World War II. These brave men served with pride, courage and conviction, waging a war on two fronts--abroad against a forceful and oppressive fascism, and at home against the intolerance of racial injustice. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor incited doubts about the loyalty of Japanese Americans, these brave men who enlisted to fight to protect our nation were faced with segregated training conditions, families and friends relocated to internment camps, and repeated questions about their combat abilities. At a time when they could have easily turned their backs on a country which had seemingly turned its back on them, these men chose the nobler, bolder, and more difficult route. The ``Go For Broke'' regiments went on to earn several awards for their distinctive service in combat, including: 7 Presidential Unit Citations, 21 Medals of Honor, 52 Distinguished Service Crosses, 560 Silver Stars, 22 Legion of Merit Medals, 15 Soldier's Medals, and nearly 10,000 Purple Hearts, among numerous additional distinctions. For their size and length of service, the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442d Regimental Combat Team were the most decorated U.S. military units of the war. However, these regiments have yet to be honored with a Congressional Gold Medal. To answer the call of duty requires exceptional courage and sacrifice, but to respond with a vigor and persistence unaffected by those who sought to malign and impede their every achievement reveals an incredible spirit and admirable will. Please join me in honoring these courageous men by supporting the granting of a Congressional Gold Medal, collectively, to the U.S. Army's 100th Infantry Battalion and 442d Regimental Combat Team.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 30th Anniversary of the Armenian General Athletic Union and Scouts- Homenetmen, Glendale Ararat Chapter. As an ardent believer in the strong mind in a strong body concept, Homenetmen provides young adults with scouting, moral, physical, health, social and cultural education. Established on December 15, 1978, by seven volunteer members, the Ararat Chapter has served over 14,000 members since its inception. Ararat's main focus consists of developing and supervising balanced programs for our community's youth. A dedicated staff of eight, assisted by more than 300 volunteers, does a remarkable job of planning, implementing and overseeing year-round supervised after- school and weekend activities for more than 2,300 children, teenagers and young adults between the ages of 7 and 25. Homenetmen ensures that youngsters are taught civic and cultural values, volunteerism, teamwork, and leadership training in a family- oriented atmosphere, and are kept away from the negative influences of drugs, gangs and crime. Homenetmen has always been an influential organization in the community. In accordance with their roots in civic duty, they have built close ties with other community and volunteer organizations. Some of Homenetmen's accomplishments include blood drives with the American Red Cross, drug awareness education programs with the Glendale Adventist Medical Center, preparation of holiday lunches and dinners in cooperation with the Salvation Army, graffiti cleanups, participation in cancer walks and visiting senior retirement homes. Our community is grateful to Homenetmen and honors them as an important resource in shaping the lives of the children in the 29th Congressional District. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Homenetmen, Glendale Ararat Chapter on their 30th anniversary.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great appreciation and admiration for Hoover High School student Lauren Arana, who saved her friend's life earlier this year. I am truly proud to have Lauren, who is now a 10th grade student from Glendale, as a constituent of mine. On May 14, Lauren received a text message from a friend of hers in Nebraska who said that she was going to commit suicide. Lauren did not hesitate for a second in responding to this call for help. She immediately took the initiative to try and contact her friend's mother, and when she was unsuccessful, she contacted her friend's school in Sioux City, Nebraska. Upon receiving Lauren's call, an assistant principal stepped into action and went to the troubled student's home, where he found her with a knife to her neck and having already consumed antifreeze. Thankfully, due to Lauren's swift actions, the assistant principal was able to intervene in time to save her friend's life. This is a remarkable story, and demonstrates Lauren's extraordinary character. Youth suicide is a tragic problem plaguing our Nation. It is the third leading cause of death for 15-to 24-year-olds and the sixth leading cause for 5- to 14-year-olds. Lauren's heroic intervention is a perfect example of how anyone should react to such a call for help. We should all learn from this story which, thankfully, avoided a tragic ending.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Asbarez-Armenian Daily Newspaper. Asbarez, which translates to `arena' in English, was founded on August 14, 1908 in Fresno, California, by seven dedicated members of the Armenian-American community: Aslan Aslanian, Bedros Hagopian, Levon Hagopian, Abraham Seklemian, Hovaness Kabadayan, Avedis Tufenkjian and Arpaxat Setrakian. Like its counterparts in other Diaspora communities, such as Hairenik in Boston and Aztag in Lebanon, Asbarez has chronicled the Armenian experience worldwide. Among other things, they have written about the dire conditions in the homeland under Imperial Russia and Ottoman Turkey, the calamity of the Armenian Genocide, the World Wars, the rise and fall of the first Republic, Soviet rule, the tragic 1988 earthquake, the Karabakh ``Artsakh'' liberation and the independence of the Republic of Armenia. In the words of Edward Megerdichian, who worked at Asbarez from 1956- 1963, ``[Asbarez] was ninety percent voluntary, and everyone had a sense of ownership, a sense of community--that this is our paper and our lives are described in this paper.'' During the 1970's Asbarez Publishing Company moved its operations from California's San Joaquin Valley to the Los Angeles basin. Since its inception, the circulation of the newspaper has grown from 1,200 copies to thousands; it has become a formidable bilingual daily newspaper and a dependable source for information in the online community. It is my distinct honor to recognize Asbarez's unwavering commitment to inform and educate the public. I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Asbarez on their 100th anniversary.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, in the days after the 9/11 attacks, politicians, journalists and assorted experts rushed to claim that America and the world had entered a new era and that the battle with al Qaeda would define the first decades of the 21st century. As the fight against al Qaeda has continued and intensified, we have come to see the impact of that fight on a key national security paradigm of the post Cold War era: the quest for energy security in an industrializing and ever-flattering world. The United States has long recognized that our global leadership and economic strength depended on cheap, abundant energy from the Middle East. Disruptions to that supply as a result of the 1973 oil embargo, the Iranian revolution of 1979 and the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait had demonstrated our vulnerability to events halfway around the world. Rather than taking the steps necessary to wean ourselves from Middle East oil, we sought to create stability in the region by aligning ourselves with pro-Western autocrats whose powerful internal security forces kept restive populations in check. Capacity and price, the first high and the second low, stayed our hand. Cheap and plentiful oil powered the American economy to preeminence while solar, wind and biomass energy were expensive. Environmental concerns, including increasing evidence that the burning of fossil fuels was altering the Earth's climate, were relegated to secondary status. All of that has now changed. The 9/11 attacks and the Iraq war have highlighted the seething political instability in the Middle East. The rise of China and India have increased competition for oil even as the global supply has remained stable. Finally, the Earth's climate is changing more rapidly and more profoundly than many scientists had forecasted, leading to a global consensus that humanity must take immediate steps to curtail the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses. This confluence of political, economic and environmental factors is one of the greatest challenges that this Nation has faced in its history, but just as we have risen to meet other challenges--from the Revolution to the Civil War to the Great Depression and the totalitarian dictatorships of the 20th century--I am confident that we will emerge from this crisis stronger and better positioned than our economic rivals to prosper in this new world. As for the other problems that we have faced, finding a solution will require us to put our faith in American ingenuity and in our enormous capacity to fund and focus research and development efforts. In the last 2 years, we have dramatically increased funding for research into renewable energy, but we must do even more by declaring a new Apollo Project for energy independence. Even as we provide incentives to accelerate scientific research into reducing the cost of renewable energy, we must also act now to reduce our fossil fuel imports. The cheapest and quickest way to accomplish this is to reduce energy and fuel use through fuel efficiency, energy efficiency, conservation, and green development. We can also reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and foreign oil in the short term by a responsible increase in domestic production, but this must be viewed for what it is--a short-term expedient and a bridge to a future based on renewable energy. We cannot convert our economy from one dependent on fossil fuels to one that is based on renewable energy overnight, but we must take the position that our continued use of oil and gas will be largely phased out in the coming decades and that renewed, environmentally responsible exploration is intended to ease the conversion to a post-fossil fuel economy. As a threshold matter, we must improve the fuel efficiency of our cars and trucks, as Congress mandated last December, and develop plug- in hybrid vehicles to drive further efficiency. Doing this will not only break our addiction to oil, it will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent. This effort should be undertaken in conjunction with the national effort to improve our public transportation system, which still receives just a fraction of the investment that we put into roads. Congress has acted to increase public transit, but more needs to be done both at a local level and, more importantly, at State and regional levels. We must also make our homes more energy efficient by installing rooftop solar panels, switching to energy-efficient appliances and enabling consumers and businesses to pay lower prices for electricity at night so that we can reduce the daytime spike in electricity usage that requires utilities to keep high-price power generation on call. Companies have invested and workers have trained themselves in industries that were supported by our past Tax Code and its provisions. Climate change legislation will change those incentives, and while many high-tech American industries will prosper, some industries will suffer. For example, in my home State of California, solar and geothermal are growing by leaps and bounds. There are start-ups throughout the State building solar energy plants and installing solar energy systems. The silicon shortage that has slowed solar development in the last 3 years is fading as new factories come online. But this new development is still dependent on the tax incentives that Congress has still not extended past the end of the year. We must not let these tax incentives expire and, instead, extend them for several years so that this expanding industry can become a driver in the economy. Mr. Speaker, my constituents are telling me they want Congress to take the steps necessary to transition our Nation to clean, renewable energy. I urge us to do exactly that. They have told me that the energy crisis has imposed enormous hardship on them and on millions of other Americans. But, as in crises past, they also believe that our ingenuity, our can-do spirit and optimism will enable us to bequeath to our children and grandchildren a world that is cleaner and more prosperous. I share their hopes and their determination.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. I thank the chairman for yielding, and rise in support of H.R. 5959. I want to congratulate our chairman, Mr. Reyes and his staff for putting the bill together. In particular, I am proud that this bill authorizes the funding that our intelligence community needs to help prevent terrorists from attacking the United States with a nuclear device. A nuclear terrorist attack on the United States or on our troops in the field is the greatest national security threat facing our country. While part of this fight occurs at our borders, the intelligence community is the tip of the spear, at the forefront of our efforts to prevent a nuclear terror attack. The many analysts and officers of the intelligence community ensure that we know as much as possible, not only about the terrorists who would attack us with a nuclear device or a radiological disease, but also about those who may sell fissile material that they seek. This bill supports our men and women in the intelligence community as they attempt to ensure that nuclear material stays out of the wrong hands. It is much easier to prevent terrorists from getting a hold of nuclear material than prevent them from getting nuclear material or a nuclear device into the country. Our country is large, our borders are porous, and we have to stop the access of people who mean us ill from gaining nuclear material. The bill protects Americans against nuclear terrorism by funding the Nuclear Materials Information Program as well, a Department of Energy- led effort to understand how much nuclear material is stored worldwide, what the security is at these sites, the signatures of this material, also a key ingredient of our nuclear forensics efforts. But there is more that we still must do. H.R. 1, signed into law by the President almost a year ago created the position of the United States Coordinator for the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction, Proliferation and Terrorism. We must have an individual, a single person who can marshal all the resources and expertise to prevent the most horrific attack imaginable. However, no one has been appointed to this post. It remains vacant. I urge the President to fill this position as soon as possible. Nuclear terrorism is the preeminent threat of our time, and all efforts have to be made to mitigate that threat. What we need to do is imagine what a post-nuclear 9/11 Commission report would look like, what would its recommendations be? And we have to implement those recommendations now; not wait until there is a calamity. I am proud that this legislation addresses the threat by authorizing the resources our intelligence community needs to meet that threat. And again, I want to thank you, Chairman Reyes, for your leadership, and urge all of the Members to support the bill.

Mr. SCHIFF

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

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleague in urging passage of the legislation. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.