Adam Schiff

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3833, the ``Dot Kids Implementation and Efficiency Act.'' I am proud to be a cosponsor of this important legislation, which was introduced by Representatives Shimkus and Markey, and commend the efforts of this House to protect our children on the Internet. While the Internet has afforded our children amazing opportunities for learning and discovery, it has also posed serious dangers. The Internet makes it easy for children to gain access to inappropriate materials, turning simple searches into avenues for pornographic or violent web pages. As a parent of a young daughter, my hope is that she will be able to search the Internet freely and use it as a tool to explore books, stories, and educational games without worrying about what might turn up. This bill will make this possible. H.R. 3833 creates a safehaven for children using the Internet by creating a separate domain name for content that is appropriate for kids under 13, while filtering any subject matter that may be harmful or threatening to this audience. By directing the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to establish and oversee the structure and rules for the new domain name, we are ensuring that the criteria for the ``dot.kids'' domain meet the necessary standards to protect children using the Internet. Further, this bill requires that the NTIA publicize the availability of the new domain and educate parents on how filter and block inappropriate material. In today's web-based environment, it is vitally important that we work together with parents to ensure that our kids are safe in cyberspace. Congress is taking a remarkable step forward in this endeavor by passing this legislation. I urge my colleagues to support the ``Dot Kids Implementation and Efficiency Act'' on the House floor today.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise to today in great honor to ask the House of Representatives to pause to remember a former Member of Congress, George E. Brown, Jr, and to pay tribute to him and to the Monterey Park Democratic Club, which he helped found 50 years ago. As a new Representative to Congress, I know that I stand on the shoulders of many giants who have come before me, including the longest serving Member of Congress in the history of my state--George Brown. Fifty years ago, in his early thirties, George Brown had settled in the Los Angeles suburb of Monterey Park. With several other civicly- active residents, he helped found the Democratic Club of that community. George was its first President. Today, the Club is headed by President Irving Willner, a Club member for 48 years and its longest serving President at ``only'' 18 years of service. From being Club President, George ran for public office. Like many here in this body, he lost his first race. But he had persistence and conviction, ran again, and was elected to the Monterey Park City Council, became Mayor, then was elected to the California State Assembly in 1958. He ran and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1962. In 1970, he left his House seat to run for the U.S. Senate. He lost in a close Democratic primary. He then ran again for the House in 1972, and won. And he continued to win. Even though he had some of the most consistently close races in the nation, George won 14 more times, winning his last race in 1998, before passing away in 1999. A tremendous electoral record. George Brown had an impressive public policy record. He was known in Congress for his support for anti-poverty programs, for peace, for space and scientific advancement, and for civil rights and tolerance of diversity--a cause that he shared deeply with the Monterey Park Democratic Club. George remains deeply remembered and appreciated in Monterey Park and by the past and current members of the Monterey Park Democratic Club. As social commentators have long noted about America, it is our freedom to form voluntary clubs and associations that keeps America vibrant and gives Americans a good part of our ability to exercise our political rights and participate in our political system. Through their 50 years of organizational life, the Monterey Park Democratic Club and its members have helped the people of Monterey Park become civicly active in the cause of a continually better city, a better nation, and a better world. Mr. Speaker, I ask that the House of Representatives join me today in honoring the 50th anniversary of the Monterey Park Democratic Club and in paying tribute to their first president, the Honorable George E. Brown, Jr., and all the members of the Club.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in urging support for the Democratic substitute in opposition to the base bill for one simple reason, and that is, we cannot ask of a single parent on welfare that they leave their children without adequate child care. Yes, we need to move them to work; and yes, we need to increase the level of that work, but we cannot leave their children out in the street.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Reverend John G. Simmons. For over 60 years now, Reverend Simmons has dedicated himself to the causes of peace and justice throughout his community and in honor of his achievements, the Reverend John G. Simmons Opportunity House will be dedicated on May 16, 2002. The Opportunity House will serve as a treatment facility for the Mentally Ill Offenders Program. Born in Mountain Grove, Missouri, Reverend Simmons is a graduate of Drake University, Ruther Seminary, University of Chicago and the University of Southern California. A devoted family man, he is married to Bethend Simmons and together they have three children--Johnny, Ginger and James. Rev. Simmons is also the proud stepfather to four children--Linda, Tylon, Paul and Karen. His eight grandchildren are his great pride. Reverend Simmons has been an outspoken advocate and proponent for individuals and families in need of affordable housing and health care, specialized health needs and reasoned, caring healthcare practitioners. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Pacoima Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Sunair Children's Foundation and is the Founder of the Golden State Community Mental Health Center and the Los Angeles Family Housing-Valley Shelter. Along with his dedication to healthcare and housing, Rev. Simmons has also pledged his support to education. As a founder of Casa Loma College, an institution dedicated to licensing vocational nurses, certified nurses and home health aides, he has ensured that qualified and experienced nurses are available to meet the health needs of at- risk individuals. He is also the founder of California Lutheran University, which is dedicated to the educational needs of students throughout the world. As a strong advocate of social justice, civil liberties and civil rights, Reverend Simmons has been active in the ACLU, NAACP, Amnesty International, the Lutheran Peace Fellowship, L.A. County Commission on Human Relations and the Medical Committee for Civil Rights. It is with great honor that I ask all Members to join with me in congratulating the Reverend John G. Simmons for his life's dedication to the social welfare of his community and on the dedication of the Rev. John G. Simmons Opportunity House.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Juliann Budimir, who will receive the 2002 Betty Preston Award for Civic Achievement at the 35th annual NewsPress Achievements Awards at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California on May 15, 2002. Each year, this award is given to a volunteer who demonstrates extraordinary commitment and dedication to civic achievement. Juliann Budimir was nominated by the Oakmont League of Glendale. She has served for three years as President, two years as Vice President, and one year as Treasurer of the Northwest Glendale Homeowners Association Board of Directors. She worked with homeowners to identify issues of community concern and then acted as a liaison to city departments to help resolve those issues and concerns. Her major triumph was getting a stop sign installed at the dangerous intersection of Kenneth Road and Sonora Avenue. Juliann was a representative for the Greater Downtown Glendale Strategic Plan and for the study sessions for Glendale's Hillside Ordinance. She served in many leadership roles for the Glendale Homeowners Coordinating Council and was its representative to the City of Glendale Sign Ordinance Study Session Committee for two years. She served as Director of the Music Mobile program of the Glendale Junior Philharmonic, teaching elementary school children about classical music by taking a van loaded with instruments to schools for on-stage demonstrations. She is President of the Oakmont League, a philanthropic organization that sponsors an annual egg hunt party for the Salvation Army Day Care Center and provides scholarships to public high school and Glendale Community College students. For her laudable civic, philanthropic and music education endeavors that have helped make Glendale a better community, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in congratulating Juliann Budimir upon receiving the 2002 Betty Preston Award for Civic Achievement.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Assistance League of Glendale, represented by President Ginger Whitesell, which will receive the 2002 Organization of the Year Award at the 35th annual News-Press Achievements Awards at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California on May 15, 2002. Each year, this award is given to an organization that demonstrates extraordinary commitment to serving the community of Glendale. Chartered and incorporated in 1943, for nearly 60 years the 80-member league has spearheaded philanthropic projects to respond to the needs of the community. The group fulfills these needs in several areas. Through its annual Operation School Bell project, clothing is presented to youngsters from low-income families. In 2000, 277 youngsters received two sets of clothes including underwear, a jacket, sweater and one pair of shoes. The League organizes an Authors and Illustrators Day, which finances visits by published authors and illustrators to five or six elementary schools a year. In addition the League annually donates $1,000 to be used toward the purchase of books at Glendale elementary schools. For the Senior Neighborhood Fellowship program, members are hosts of a monthly luncheon for senior citizens, who enjoy a special program and fellowship. The group also provides $6,500 annually in scholarships for female seniors at all the high schools in Glendale and two women at Glendale Community College, including a student in the college re-entry program. To help students prepare for the Scholastic Assessment Test for entrance into college, League members organize test seminars in the fall and spring and hires instructors to teach skills in math and English. For extraordinary commitment to philanthropy and worthy projects in Glendale on behalf of young and old alike, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in congratulating the Assistance League of Glendale and its President Ginger Whitesell upon receiving the 2002 Organization of the Year Award.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Leigh McCreary, who will receive the 2002 Wanda Owen Youth Award at the 35th annual News-Press Achievements Awards at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California on May 15, 2002. Each year, this award is given to a youth volunteer who demonstrates extraordinary commitment and dedication to community service. Leigh is the 17-year-old daughter of Rose Montoya Lona and Fred Lona of Glendale. She was nominated by Mary Ann Baldonado of San Gabriel Mission High School, a private Catholic high school where Leigh is a senior. Leigh has given 86 hours of her time over 3\1/2\ years to the Midnight Mission, mostly helping to prepare and serve food to hundreds of homeless people and cleaning the cafeteria following a meal. She also takes time to talk to the homeless people at the mission. On her own initiative, Leigh sought out an internship with Assemblyman Dario Frommer's office and has volunteered more than 100 hours there. She has assisted his staff with constituent correspondence and casework, speechwriting and press releases and compiled informational packets. In addition, Leigh has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity for a year. Wielding a hammer and paintbrush, she has helped build homes for low-income families, and says her most challenging chore was using a shovel to level off a garage floor. She also tutors students after school at Incarnation Elementary School and maintains her grade point average above 4.0. For her commitment to make Glendale a better place as a youth leader in the community, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in congratulating Leigh McCreary upon receiving the 2002 Wanda Owen Youth Award.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jason Saboury, who will receive the 2002 Ellen Perry Award for service to seniors at the 35th annual News-Press Achievements Awards at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California on May 15, 2002. Each year, this award is given to an individual who demonstrates extraordinary commitment to serving the senior community of Glendale. Jason is the 15-year-old son of Cathy and Massoud Saboury of Glendale and is a ninth-grader at Clark Magnet High School. Last summer, he volunteered 84 hours at the City of Glendale's Glendale Adult Recreation Center for Senior Citizens. Jason was nominated for the Ellen Perry award by Louise Briley, recreation program coordinator. Jason said he didn't want to face another summer just sitting on the couch at home, so he went through the phone book and saw the listing for the adult center and called to find out what he could do to help. ``I wanted to do something good for the community,'' he said, ``I get along well with my grandparents and thought it would be fun and I would learn a lot from the senior citizens too.'' His service included cashiering, serving meals to senior citizens at the center, assisting at bingo games and encouraging seniors to participate in table tennis and chess. Each morning he welcomed them and talked with them. Jason said he got a lot of tips on daily life from the seniors. Jason said the seniors were appreciative of his services and company and that he treated everyone with the same cheerful attitude. When he returned to school after the summer break, Jason discovered he could get school credit for volunteering. This school year, he has volunteered 110 hours. He has helped out at the Brand Park Winter Wonderland snow day, performed clerical work, shelved books and performed other jobs at the Grandview Branch Library and helped with Balboa Elementary School's after-school program. For extraordinary commitment to serving the senior citizens of Glendale, and his volunteer work with the City of Glendale, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in congratulating Jason Saboury upon receiving the 2002 Ellen Perry Award for service to seniors.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Stephen Ropfogel, who will receive the 2002 Man of Achievement Award at the 35th annual News-Press Achievements Awards at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California on May 15, 2002. Each year, this award is given to a volunteer who demonstrates extraordinary commitment and dedication to community service. Stephen Ropfogel was nominated by the Glendale Association for the Retarded, where he has served as President and Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the past four years. He has been vital in educating the community about people with disabilities and in creating new ideas for fund-raisers for the association. His ``Summer in the City'' fundraising program, conducted in partnership with local restaurants, is one example of his dedication as an innovative fund-raiser. He also was instrumental in implementing a jewelry-making venture by clients at the association's Self-Aid Workshop. For the past five years, he has served on the Glendale Safe Place Executive Committee, which now provides 22 safe locations for youngsters to go if they are victims of child abuse or facing other dangers. He has also coordinated efforts between the Glendale Sunrise Rotary Club and Los Angeles County Medical Alliance for the awareness program ``Not Even For A Minute,'' which reminds parents of the dangers of leaving youngsters unattended in a vehicle. Stephen is also credited with helping to save the annual Days of the Verdugos Parade, a terrific community parade honoring Glendale's heritage and an event in which I have been privileged to take part. For his commitment to making Glendale a better and more caring community that treats people with disabilities with compassion and dignity, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in congratulating Stephen Ropfogel upon receiving the 2002 Man of Achievement Award.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Marilyn Gunnell, who will receive the 2002 Woman of Achievement Award at the 35th annual News-Press Achievements Awards at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California on May 15, 2002. Each year, this award is given to a volunteer who demonstrates extraordinary commitment and dedication to community service. The YMCA of Glendale nominated Ms. Gunnell for this honor. She is active with the Glendale Sunrise Rotary Club, and has an outstanding record of 12\1/2\ years perfect attendance. A longtime AIDS activist, she and four members of the Sunrise Rotary created Glendale Leaders for AIDS Awareness. The group prompted the city to display an AIDS quilt in City Hall for a day. Later, the City of Glendale applied to become a California Healthy City and received a grant to generate a public questionnaire and lectures on AIDS awareness. Marilyn provided questions, conducted phone interviews and taught classes on AIDS/HIV. Marilyn helped create the ``Not Even For A Minute'' program, educating the public on the dangers of leaving children unattended in and around vehicles. She instigated collaboration on the project between the Los Angeles County Medical Association Alliance and the Sunrise Rotary and enlisted the support of the Glendale Unified School District to have related posters, brochures and window decals translated into Spanish, Armenian and Korean. She was also instrumental in bringing Project Safe Place to Glendale, selecting members for a task force that worked for more than five years to bring this worthy endeavor to fruition. Today, there are 22 Safe Places for children to seek refuge in Glendale, whether they are facing abuse at home or dangers in the community. For her commitment to making Glendale a better, more caring and safer place, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in congratulating Marilyn Gunnell upon receiving the 2002 Woman of Achievement Award.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to speak on the Edwards amendment to the DOD Authorization bill, restoring $30 million to a nonproliferation program included in the President's Budget and designed to provide an alternative to Russian reactors that generate weapons-grade nuclear materials. This amendment was unfortunately ruled not to be in order. The Defense Authorization Act, as currently proposed, cuts by $30 million this critical national security work. If this $30 million is not restored in full, it would mean at least a one year delay in shutting down these plutonium production reactors, which translates into 1.5 additional tons of weapons grade plutonium that will be produced by Russia, which is equivalent to nearly 200 nuclear weapons. Mr. Chairman, the demise of the Soviet empire ushered in a new post- Cold War period with unclear and unidentifiable threats and a new and very real sense of urgency, instability and insecurity. During the Cold War, the enemy was clear and identifiable. Regrettably, that is not the case today. In addition to the traditional nuclear weapons proliferators such as North Korea, Pakistan, and China, countries such as Libya, Iran, Iraq, and stateless terrorist organizations such as Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda, are out there and are actively in search of their next deal on nuclear weapons technology and components. It is this latter type of threat--the unclear, mobile, and not easily identifiable source of threat--that compels us to continue and increase our efforts to secure Russia's nuclear weapons and materials. In the past 11 years, while much as been done to dismantle Russia's and the former Soviet Republics' nuclear weapons, the dangers persist, and in some cases have increased. In a January 2001 report to the DOE, former Senator Howard Baker and Lloyd Cutler called the proliferation risks created by nuclear materials in the former Soviet Union the ``greatest unmet national security need'' for the United States.'' In a speech at the National Press Club on March 29, 2001, former Senator Sam Nunn addressed the need to continue to build upon existing programs such as the Nunn-Lugar Cooperative Threat Reduction program, when he said, ``As we enter the second decade of the post-Cold War world. . .the most significant, clear and present danger to the national security of the United States is the threat posed by nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. Nothing else comes close. The public perception of the threat is low; the reality of the threat is high. There is a dangerous gap between the threat and our response. To close this gap, we must make a fundamental shift in the way we think about nuclear weapons, the spread of weapons of mass destruction, and our national security. The world has changed, and with it so too have the threats. We cannot afford to cut back on such worthwhile programs. We cannot ignore or minimize these very real threats. Significant progress has been made thus far through the Nunn-Lugar Cooperative Threat Reduction program and various State Department and DOE programs. There is still much work to be done. Efforts to defund or reduce these vital programs are detrimental to our ability to protect Americans against the very real threat from weapons of mass destruction. The President's request and Congressman Edward's amendment to fund a critical program in Russia was a step in the right direction.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with overwhelming sadness in remembrance of one of our nation's fallen heroes. On Monday, April 29th, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy David March lost his life while in the line of duty and it is appropriate for all Members of this House to take a moment to remember a gentleman who dedicated his life to the protection of his community and this great nation. Deputy March, a seven-year veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, is survived by his wife Theresa and his stepdaughter Kayla. He was an avid softball player and one of the University of Southern California's most avid football fans. Before joining the Sheriff's Department, Deputy March served in the United States Marines. First assigned to the Pitchess Detention Center with the Sheriff's Department, Deputy March was recently transferred to the Temple City Station in 2000. His fellow officers remember him as a hard working, honest and all around good guy whose commitment to the community was tireless and without fail. According to Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca, ``He was an incredibly decent, honest and fair man. The people have lost a great hero.'' This tragic event reminds us all of the heroism and courage displayed by all peace officers as they strive to protect and serve our communities around the country. September 11th served as a staggering reminder of the selflessness of America's peace officers and first responders. Let us not forget the daily efforts of the men and women who serve in the hope of making our communities a more peaceful and safe place in which to live. I ask all Members to join me in remembering the life of one of America's fallen heroes, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy David March. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as we remember his heroic service to our community and our nation.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the rule and resolution expressing solidarity with the state of Israel. Israel has been subject to the most horrendous series of terrorist attacks: Weekly suicide bombings targeting civilians in cafes, on buses and in markets; gunmen who go from home to home in search of innocent victims. Today we resolve not only to support Israel in its time of need, our lone democratic ally in the region, but also to speak in a clear voice against the universal scourge of terrorism. As we saw on September 11, no nation, not even the most mighty, is immune from the poison of terrorism. We must realize that a threat to the life of civilians anywhere is a threat to civilization everywhere. I urge support of the resolution.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. The month of May marks the 25th year in which we honor the accomplishments and struggles of the Asian Pacific American community in this great nation. I am proud that the region I represent in Congress is a diverse one and is home to many people of Asian Pacific heritage. So many constituents have distinguished themselves through their accomplishments in education, business, medicine and science, and other forms of public and private sector involvement, and through a strong successful family life. To commemorate Asian Pacific Heritage Month, I would like to highlight the remarkable accomplishments of an organization in my Congressional district, committed to supporting and inspiring change in the area of civic participation for the Chinese American and Asian American communities. Cause-Vision 21, established in 1993, is dedicated to advancing the political empowerment of the Chinese American and Asian American communities through voter education, community outreach and leadership development. They have established dynamic and innovative programs designed to increases awareness and access to the political process. Once such program, the Chinese American Student Internship Coalition (CASIC), celebrating its tenth year, provides Chinese American college students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the political process and a deeper understanding of issues important to the Chinese American community. By being placed in a legislative office, each student is given an opportunity to become more aware of current legislative initiatives being debated in California's State Legislature. Along with CASIC, Cause-Vision 21 offers a number of community forums on a broad range of issues, voter registration drives, and get-out-the- vote efforts. Due to their efforts, the political awareness of the Chinese American community has risen exponentially and the voter registration of this group has grown considerably since the organization's inception. I ask all Members of Congress to join me in honoring Cause-Vision 21, an organization striving to ensure that Asian Americans have a strong voice in the democratic process. Their efforts on behalf of the community have been extraordinary.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, Hagop Bekerjian, Hranoush Boghosian, Gohar Madoyan, the Partamian brothers from Adana, Knarik Davoudian, Mari Filian, Hripsime Stambolian, Asadour Stambolian, Haroutiun Stambolian, Grigor Stambolian. These are a few, a precious few, of the 1.5 million men, women, and children that lost their lives at the hands of the Ottoman Empire between 1915 and 1923. Eighty-seven years ago, Armenian teachers, clergy, businessmen, writers, and doctors were rounded up and killed. The events of April 24, 1915, set the stage for the first genocide of the 20th century. Nikoghos Achabahian, Boghos Katchadourian, Mariam Katchadourian, Takouhi Katchadourian, Hovsep Katchadourian, Manoug Baronian, Peprouhi Baronian, Antaram Antaramian, Yeghsapert Vartabedian, Haroutune Antaramian, Ashod Antaramian, Naomi Antaramian, Anagule Antaramian. They were fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. They were whole families. They were a people, and they were nearly wiped out. Garabed Hovagimian, Mariam Hovagimian, Garabed Hovagimian, Jr., Siranoush Hovagimian, Boghos Hovagimian, Zarouhi Chavooshian Norsigian, Dickran Chavooshian, Arshalous Norsigian, Zabelle Norsigian, Zabelle Norsigian, Solomon Norsigian, Hatoon Chavooshian, Ardash Chavooshian. You might imagine that after the passage of so much time and with the presence of so many Americans of Armenian origin, U.S. recognition of the events of April 24 and the genocide that followed would be routine and noncontroversial. Instead, debate over the Armenian genocide has been an annual and bitter conflict. Mac Norsigian, Nazely Norsigian Sarkisian, Serpouhi Norsigian Kloian, Poompul Norsigian Bazoian, Souren Sarkisian, Makrouhi Kapoian Norsigian, Nareg Norsigian Sarkisian, Nevart Arslanian Vartanian, Sarkis Vartanian. Even though modern-day Turkey was established in 1923 out of the ashes of the Ottoman Empire and was not the actual perpetrator of the genocide, it spends millions of dollars each year on the best lobbyists, engages sympathetic allies on its behalf, and routinely threatens to sever diplomatic, military, and economic ties with the United States anytime the Armenian genocide is brought up. Haig Kurkjian, Armen Kurkjian, Sultan Kurkjian, Savgul Kurkjian Bugdoian, Boghos Mergeanian, Garabed Savulian, Zakar Savulian, Hagop Saroian, Sooren Saroian, Aslik Saroian, Goharik Saroian. Despite this concerted effort, there is no serious academic dispute about the Armenian genocide. Some of the most notable Holocaust and genocide scholars, including Israel Charny, Deborah Lipstadt, and Robert J. Lifton, among many others, join in the call for recognition. International law scholar Raphael Lemkin, who coined the word genocide in 1943, cited the Armenian case as an example. And all those people. Toros Chaglassian, Haroutiun Keusseyan, Zabel Keusseyan, Loussin Keusseyan, Hovannes Keusseyan, Garabed Keusseyan, Boghos Sarkissian, Dickranouhi Sarkissian, Carmen Sarkissian. They are not simply names. They were not simply part of the 1.5 million number. They are people. They are children. They are mothers and fathers. Our own National Archives housed diplomatic dispatches from U.S. Ambassador Henry Morgenthau and Consul Leslie Davis to the State Department, vividly describing the systematic destruction of an entire people. News accounts in the American press, most notably the New York Times, provide another trove of primary source evidence. Who are they? They are: Kasbar Jeboghlian, Toukhman Jeboghlian, Kevork Jeboghlian, Mariam Jeboghlian, Barkev Jeboghlian, Yeranig Deukmedjian, Haiganoush Deukmedjian, Rosa Deukmedjian, Hovhannes Deukmedjian, Arshalouys Deukmedjian, Kevork Deukmedjian, Mariam Jeboghlian. Because of Turkey's important strategic role in NATO, America has been reluctant to speak out. But U.S.-Turkish relations are strong and can survive our recognition of the Armenian genocide. Hagop Momjian, Nevart Sarkissian, Bedross Shemessian, Hovhannes Shemessian, Boghos Shemessian, Ester Shemessian, Lucia Shemessian, Takouhi Tejirian, Makrouhi Tejirian, Ashod Tejirian, Sahag Shamassian. Euphemisms, vague terminology, or calls for discussions to get at the truth have been used to avoid discomfort with Turkey's Ottoman past. Let me just conclude by saying the United States is fighting an unconventional enemy in the war on terrorism. Winning that war requires a level of more clarity that can provide a vision for struggling people in nations everywhere. So let us call genocide genocide. Let us not minimize the deliberate murder of 1.5 million people. Let us have a moral victory that can shine as a light to all nations. Hagop Berkerjian, Hranoush Boghosian, Gohar Madoyan, the Partamian Brothers from Adana, Knarik Davoudian, Mari Filian, Hripsime Stambolian, Asadour Stambolian, Haroutiun Stambolian, Grigor Stambolian. These are a few, a precious few, of the 1.5 million men, women, and children who lost their lives at the hands of the Ottoman Empire between 1915-1923. Eighty-seven years ago today, Armenian teachers, clergy, businessmen, writers, and doctors were rounded up and killed. The events of April 24, 1915 set the stage for the first genocide of the 20th Century. Nikoghos Achabahian, Boghos Khatchadourian, Mariam Khatchadourian, Takouhi Khatchadourian, Hovsep Khatchadourian, Manoug Baronian, Peprouhi Baronian, Antaram Antaramian, Yeghsapert Vartabedian, Haroutune Antaramian, Ashod Antaramian, Naomi Antaramian, Anagule Antaramian. They were fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. They were whole families. They were a people and nearly wiped out. Garabed Hovagimian, Mariam Hovagimian, Garabed Hovagimian, Jr., Siranoush Hovagimian, Boghos Hovagimian, Zarouhi Chavooshian Norsigian, Dickran Chavooshian, Arshalous Norsigian, Zabelle Norsigian, Solomon Norsigian, Hatoon Chavooshian, Ardash Chavooshian. You might imagine that after the passage of so much time, and with the presence of so many Americans of Armenian origin, United States recognition of the events of April 24th and the genocide that followed would be routine and non-controversial. Instead, debate over the Armenian Genocide has been an annual and bitter conflict. Mac Norsigian, Nazely Norsigian Sarkisian, Serpouhi Norsigian Kloian, Poompul Norsigian Bazoian, Souren Sarkisian, Makrouhi Kapoian Norsigian, Nareg Norsigian Sarkisian, Nevart Arslanian Vartanian, Sarkis Vartanian. Even though modern-day Turkey was established in 1923 out of the ashes of the Ottoman Empire and was not the actual perpetrator of genocide, it spends millions of dollars each year on the best lobbyists, engages sympathetic allies on its behalf, and routinely threatens to sever diplomatic, military and economic ties with the United States any time the Armenian Genocide is brought up. Haig Kurkjian, Armen Kurkjian, Sultan Kurkjian, Savgul Kurkjian Bugdoian, Boghos Mergeanian, Garabed Savulian, Zakar Savulian, Hagop Saroian, Sooren Saroian, Aslik Saroian, Goharik Saroian. Despite this concerted effort, there is no serious academic dispute about the Armenian Genocide. Some of the most notable Holocaust and Genocide scholars, including Israel Charny, Deborah Lipstadt, and Robert Jay Lifton, among many others join the call for recognition. International law scholar Raphael Lemkin, who coined the word genocide in 1943, cited the Armenian case as an example. Toros Chaglassian, Haroutiun Keusseyan, Zabel Keusseyan, Loussin Keusseyan, Hovannes Keusseyan, Garabed Keusseyan, Boghos Sarkissian, Dickranouhi Sarkissian, Carmen Sarkissian. Our own National Archives house diplomatic dispatches from U.S. Ambassador Henry Morgenthau and Consul Leslie Davis to the State Department, vividly describing the systematic destruction of an entire people. News accounts from the American press, most notably the New York Times, provide another trove of primary source evidence. Kasbar Jeboghlian, Toukhman Jeboghlian, Kevork Jeboghlian, Mariam Jeboghlian, Barkev Jeboghlian, Yeranig Deukmedjian, Haiganoush Deukmedjian, Rosa Deukmedjian, Hovhannes Deukmedjian, Arshalouys Deukmedjian, Kevork Deukmedjian, Mariam Jeboghlian. Because of Turkey's important strategic role in NATO, America has been reluctant to speak out. But U.S.-Turkish relations are strong and can survive our recognition of the Armenian Genocide. Hagop Momjian, Nevart Sarkissian, Bedross Shemessian, Hovhannes Shemessian, Boghos Shemessian, Ester Shemessian, Lucia Shemessian, Takouhi Tejirian, Makrouhi Tejirian, Ashod Tejirian, Sahag Shamassian. Some argue that recognition of the genocide has become even more problematic now, when the world is at war with terrorism and the United States cannot afford to offend the sensibility of our Turkish ally. In fact, the converse is true: At a time when the United States has been called on for a level of moral leadership, vision and inspiration not seen since World War II, we cannot afford to dissemble about crimes against humanity. Khatoun Jilizian, Lucia Jilizian, Alice Jilizian, Minas Serop Jilizian, Kevork Serop Jilizian, Haroutioun Aydabirian, Hagop Donabedian, Hripsimeh Bedoyan, Margaret Bedoyan. Euphemisms, vague terminology or calls for discussions to get at the truth are just some of the dodges used to avoid Turkish discomfort with its Ottoman past. What is there to discuss about the Armenian Genocide? What facts are there left to discover? What is to be gained by referring to the systematic slaughter of an entire people without using the word most appropriate for those grotesque circumstances? The short answer is that there is nothing to discuss, nothing to discover, nothing to be gained by denial--and much to be lost. The United States is fighting an unconventional enemy in the war on terrorism, and one against whom our overwhelming military might provides only one necessary weapon. Winning the war on terrorism will also require a level of moral clarity that can provide a vision for struggling people and nations everywhere. Only military force accompanied by an equally strong moral force will provide the essential combination to route out terrorism and prevent its reemergence. So let us call genocide, genocide. Let us not minimize the deliberate murder of 1.5 million people. Let us have a moral victory that can shine as a light to all nations. These people lived. They dreamed of their futures, as we dream about ours. They loved their family and life. Their voices were silenced in the desert, but we can respect their memory. And we must. Sarkis Dadaian, Varouhi Minassian, Miriam Derderian, Yeghsa Derderian.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, on April 24, 2002, the City of Glendale will sponsor an Armenian Genocide Commemoration ceremony and will honor the remarkable achievements in filmmaking and teaching of Dr. J. Michael Hagopian, who has dedicated his life's work to documenting the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1922. I rise today to join in recognizing the work, commitment and dedication of Dr. Hagopian, who has sought to shine the light of truth on the first genocide of the 20th century and honor the memory of the 1.5 million men, women and children who perished in it. Dr. Hagopian, the founder and chairman of the Armenian Film Foundation and president of Atlantis Productions, has a doctorate in International Relations from Harvard University. He graduated from the University of California at Berkeley, and has completed graduate work in cinema at the University of Southern California. He has taught political science and economics at the University of California at Los Angeles, American University of Beirut, Lebanon, Benares Hindu University, India, and Oregon State University, Corvallis. Since 1954, Dr. Hagopian has been engaged in making educational and documentary films for the classroom and on television. He has written, directed and produced more than 70 films that have won more than 150 national and international awards. His film, ``The Forgotten Genocide,'' was nominated for two Emmys in production and writing. Several of these films were produced under grants from the U.S. Office of Education and Ethnic Heritage Program, California Endowment for the Humanities, and California State Department of Education. In 1979, Dr. Hagopian established the Armenian Film Foundation, which has produced 13 videos and films, and gathered a film archive of more than 350 survivors of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. Most recently, he has produced ``Voices from the Lake--the Secret Genocide,'' a tragic tale told by the eyewitness survivors of Kharpert- Mezreh, one among 4,000 towns and villages of the former Ottoman Empire to have been decimated under the genocide. I was proud when serving in the California State Senate to have secured state funding for the production of this film, and, after being elected to Congress, to have arranged a screening of this remarkable documentary at the Library of Congress. ``Voices from the Lake'' is the first film in ``The Witnesses'' project of the Armenian Film Foundation. The second film in the series will examine the impact of the Great Powers on the Armenian Genocide and the third film will depict the deportation of the Armenians from their ancestral homes to the Great Syrian desert and the killing fields along the legendary Euphrates and the wilderness of Der Zor. Mr. Speaker, acknowledging and honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in the Armenian Genocide is a moral obligation fro all humankind. I ask all Members of Congress to join me in recognizing the remarkable work of one man, Dr. J. Michael Hagopian, who has dedicated his life to ensuring that we do not forget the victims of this genocide so that the world may never again tolerate such crimes against humanity.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the bill before us today to make permanent tax cuts before it is clear we can afford them. Today we have the opportunity to vote to fund a new round of tax cuts right out of Social Security. Today we can vote for America to go deeper into debt, to force our children to pay billions in interest, to pay more for their homes and to have less for their schools. Today we can vote to put this country back into deficit and debt and more deficit and more debt. Or we can vote for America's future. We can vote for a balanced budget. We can vote to restore the lockbox to protect Social Security. When we had a $5.6 trillion surplus, we could afford a substantial tax cut, and I supported the President. War and recession intervened. Now we have no surplus, and we have the added expenses of the war on terrorism. While we did not ask for this war and we certainly did not ask for this recession, we cannot shrink from the consequences. To make cuts permanent when it is not clear that we can afford them is simply irresponsible. Imagine this: at the very same time that the House GOP is asking for a half a trillion dollars in additional tax cuts, the White House is asking to raise the debt limit by $750 billion. What does that mean? That means that we are asking to borrow the money to fund the tax cut. It cannot be simpler than that. We are asking to fund a massive increase in the tax cut out of our Social Security. I do not know about you, but I would have a hard time looking my parents in the face and telling them that I would like to fund additional cuts for me out of their retirement. And I would have a hard time telling my children that I was prepared to raise the cost of their homes and their education to raise the debt over their heads to fund something now that we cannot afford. I hope the circumstances change; but right now we should restore a balanced budget, and we should restore fiscal responsibility. I urge a ``no'' vote on this measure.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Indiana for yielding and for his leadership and the bipartisan ethic he has brought to this House, which has certainly been a model for this freshman. Once again, I join my Blue Dog colleagues on the House floor tonight to bring attention to an issue that has long-term implications for our Nation's future. The administration has come to Congress asking us to raise the debt limit by $750 billion. This request comes to us a full 7 years earlier than was predicted when the budget was submitted just last year. The request to raise the debt limit presents us with an ideal opportunity to re-examine our long-term budget priorities and particularly our commitment to protecting the Social Security surplus. Perhaps second only to the hanging chad, the enduring political buzz word of the 2000 election, was ``lock box.'' It seems almost quaint now to think back about lock box, but this Congress and the President promised the American people that the Social Security trust fund surplus would be placed in an iron clad box and used solely to fund the retirement of the baby boom generation. Do my colleagues remember that? Democrats and Republicans all agreed on this. The inviolable lock box. Here we are now with a budget that promises to break that lock box wide open regardless of the long-term fiscal consequences. Social Security faces a serious financial crisis, and this budget would do away with the lock box entirely and allow the surplus to be raided to pay for tax cuts and additional Federal spending. The primary source of the Social Security revenue is the payroll tax paid by millions of American workers and their employers. According to the 2001 Social Security trustee's report, Social Security outlays will exceed payroll tax revenues in less than 14 years. By 2025 Social Security will face an annual cash shortfall of $400 billion. An annual cash shortfall of $400 billion. By 2038, the last year the trust funds are technically solvent, the annual shortfall will be over a trillion dollars. Despite these ominous numbers, the administration's budget, according to the Office of Management and Budget, will consume the entire trust fund surplus in just a few years. This debate is not about whether Social Security needs reform. It does. This debate is not about whether preserving the trust fund surplus will save Social Security in the long term. It will not. This debate is about common sense and fiscal responsibility. It is common sense that we should not in any way consider tampering with the trust fund before Congress agrees to and passes Social Security reform legislation. Spending the surplus will leave our children holding the bag. They will have to pay for the unfunded obligations that build up in the Social Security trust fund if we spend the surplus, and to pay for these obligations, the Treasury will step in, pay the entitlement, and to come up with that cash, Congress will have to cut spending, raise taxes, or borrow even more as if the trust funds had never existed, and our children will pay the consequences. They will have to deal with our lack of fiscal responsibility. This Congress cannot afford to take such a risk in light of the fiscal challenges that we face in the next 10 years. Social Security is the most successful government assistance program ever. Millions of senior citizens rely on it to survive. Millions of working Americans are currently paying Social Security taxes, expecting their money to be used for its intended purpose, and we understand that we are now faced with the challenges of fighting a war and bringing our country out of this economic slowdown. We have accepted this reality and we are willing to work together to develop fiscal policies that reflect our wartime needs, protect the Social Security trust fund and set our country back on the path toward fiscal responsibility. Mr. Speaker, while we examine the need to increase the national debt, we must tread carefully and remain constantly aware of the burden we are placing on future generations because this debate is about more than our current economic situation. It is about what we will pass on to our children and to their children. We must continue to work in a bipartisan way to return to a balanced budget and fiscal discipline without using the Social Security surplus. This is a promise we make, and a promise we must keep.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Genevieve Krueger, who will receive the 2002 McGroarty Poetry Award at the Shouting Coyote Poetry Festival on April 20, 2002 at Verdugo Hills High School in Sunland Tujunga, in California's 27th Congressional District. Each year, this award is given to an individual who demonstrates extraordinary community service and tireless efforts toward the advancement of the literary arts. Twenty-four years ago, Ms. Krueger began an out-of-print book search business. She knew that her love of reading and literature would serve her customers well as she searched the country for great works of art no longer in print. In doing so, she set herself out as a devotee of the process of good writing and the need to share that writing with the world. She is also an avid book collector, with a personal collection of more than 15,000 volumes, and volunteers her time with the Friends of the Library. In 1984, she befriended a group enrolled in a poetry workshop at the McGroarty Arts Center in Sunland Tujunga, California. The class disbanded after several sessions, and, recognizing the need for writer collaboration, Ms. Krueger invited the group to her home. What began as a workshop became a weekly writers group and for sixteen years now, writers have been welcome at Ms. Krueger's home to share their thoughts and their work. The group named themselves the Chuparosa Writers after the private home, Rancho Chupa Rosa, of California Poet Laureate, Congressman, dramatist, Los Angeles Times columnist, and historian John Steven McGroarty (1862-1944) and his wife Ida. Today, the private home is the McGroarty Arts Center and the annual McGroarty Poetry Award honors the legacy of John Steven McGroarty, a legacy that lives on in the work of the Chuparosa Writers and of Genevieve Krueger. The Chuparosa Writers meet each Wednesday to share their work and foster the works of an ever-changing group of writers and poetry lovers. They have helped sponsor poetry contests for elementary schools, performed numerous poetry readings as individuals and as a group, taught poetry classes to schoolchildren, assisted in creating the Poet Laureate position for Sunland Tujunga and supported countless community endeavors. Ms. Krueger eloquently states the purpose of the group: ``We meet to share new discoveries, and work-in-progress. Through our meetings we stimulate new ideas and growth, and we hope to spread the message that writing is an important and enriching activity.'' For-her commitment to bringing the arts to a wider audience, to the literary tradition of the Foothills and to new discoveries, I ask all Members of Congress to join me in congratulating Genevieve Krueger upon receiving the 2002 McGroarty Poetry Award.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise today and honor Alfred E. Mann, a great philanthropist in the Southern California community and famed national bio-medical researcher. He has dedicated his life to his family, his church, and to the search for cures to the world's most devastating diseases and afflictions. Alfred Mann was born in Portland, Oregon in 1925 and has been a resident of Los Angeles, California since 1946. He attended the University of California, Los Angeles and has received honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Southern California and The John Hopkins University. He has earned his reputation as a biomedical pioneer because of his outstanding accomplishments throughout his professional life. As the Chairman and co-CEO of Advanced Bionics Corporation, he manufactured a developed advanced cochlear implants for the restoration of hearing and is currently developing a number of neurostimulation systems which may prove to be beneficial in treating those who face paralysis and any number of neurological disorders. He is also responsible for the manufacturing of continuous glucose monitoring systems primarily used for the treatment of diabetes and for the manufacture of hospital intravenous pumps. Mr. Mann has made a lifelong commitment to philanthropy. His countless number of charitable donations has made a lasting impact on our nation. In fact, each year, his name can be found on the list of the ten most philanthropic minded individuals. Two of his largest donations, 100 million to the University of Southern California and the promise of 100 million to the University of California, Los Angeles, will help shape the face of current and future research at both of these institutions. Also, as the founder of two medical research foundations--the Alfred Mann Foundation and the Alfred Mann Institute at the University of Southern California--Alfred Mann has ensured that the biomedical community will be able to engage in the lasting study of the diseases and ailments that affect so many Americans. Alfred Mann's dedication to the biomedical community has and will continue to produce lasting and important discoveries as our nation faces the challenge of curing the world's most devastating illnesses. His commitment to helping others through research and philanthropy has and will continue to have a positive affect for all of us. I ask all Members of Congress to join me in honoring a man who has given a lifetime to making a difference in our Nation.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the achievements and birthday this March 31st of the late Cesar Chavez, a true pioneer for workers and communities who rose to become one of our nation's--and world's--greatest advocates of nonviolent social change. Cesar Chavez is best remembered for founding and leading the first successful farm workers' union and becoming the president of the United Farm Workers of America. His tremendous efforts--and those who worked with him-- improved the lives of tens of thousands of workers and families, and inspired millions of people from all walks of life around our nation and world. Born on a small Arizona farm on March 31, 1927, Cesar Chavez began his life as a farm worker in the field at age 10. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. With the strength of family and the unity of fellow farm workers, Cesar Chavez became an organizer with the Community Service Organization, a civic group of Mexican-Americans, in the early 1950s. Soon thereafter, he moved with his wife, Helen, and eight children to California's Central Valley where he founded the National Farm Workers Association. With his young children by his side, Cesar would visit California farm communities to bring public light to the substandard working conditions and lack of sufficient pay and benefits of thousands of Latino migrant workers who worked long hours on farms. Chavez led peaceful boycotts to bring national attention to the fight for equality and justice for migrant farm workers. His passionate leadership brought together a remarkable alliance of students, unions, minorities, churches and others to fight for their fellow men, women, and children working in the agricultural sector. I was proud to be a member of the California State Senate in 2000 and vote to have the State of California recognize Cesar Chavez's birthday as a day to remember his good work and to re-ignite our personal and social passion for continually improving the conditions of workers and communities across our nation and world. So, Mr. Speaker, today I ask all Members of the United States House of Representatives to pause and honor a great man, Cesar Chavez, and the great cause he helped lead of advancing fairness, justice, and the improvement of the living and working conditions of our fellow human beings.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Women's History Month. Each year, we pay special tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by our nation's most notable women during the month of March and it is my honor to not only recognize women of the past but to also recognize women who are making a difference in my community. While a month of remembrance is certainly not sufficient, I am honored today to pay homage to such women as Eleanor Roosevelt, Sandra Day O'Connor, Harriet Tubman, Sally Ride and all the women of my Congressional District, whose contributions have made a profound difference in the face and fabric of our nation. I would like to pay special honor to an outstanding woman of my Congressional District, Ms. Ellen Daigle. Ellen is a true inspiration for all those who strive each day for their American Dream. Working to both expand her small business and improve her community, she can certainly be held up as one of my community's most precious citizens. Her business, Ellen's Silk-screening, has grown steadily since she first began producing her personalized T-Shirts from her garage 25 years ago. Today she employs over a dozen people and provides hundreds of products for schools, businesses, and the community. Ellen's success has not gone without notice. She has been named to Los Angeles Business Journal's list of Top 100 Women-Owned Businesses twice in the last five years. She has also been honored by Business Life magazine as a ``Woman of Achievement'' and by the National Association of Businesswomen with induction into its Millennium Hall of Fame. Her activism in the community has been outstanding. She has always felt that businesspeople have an obligation to donate their time and talents to ensure the vitality of the communities' in which they live and work. Ellen has served as a Park Commissioner for the City of South Pasadena, founded the group, ``South Pasadenans for Responsible Intelligent Growth'' and began ``Expanding Horizons,'' a program for local students to help them learn about career choices and the local job market. Because of her service to the City of South Pasadena's parks programs, the California Parks and Recreation Society bestowed upon her their greatest honor. I ask all Members of Congress to join me today in honoring an outstanding and extraordinary woman of California's 27th Congressional District, Ms. Ellen Daigle. The entire community joins me in thanking Ellen for her continued efforts to make the 27th Congressional District a more enjoyable place to live.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Women's History Month. Each year, we pay special tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by our nation's most notable women during the month of March and it is my honor to not only recognize women of the past but to also recognize women who are making a difference in my community. While a month of remembrance is certainly not sufficient, I am honored today to pay homage to such women as Eleanor Roosevelt, Sandra Day O'Connor, Harriet Tubman, Sally Ride and all the women of my Congressional District, whose contributions have made a profound difference in the face and fabric of our nation. I have the privilege today of recognizing an outstanding woman of California's 27th Congressional District. Ms. Joan-Patricia O'Connor has dedicated her professional career to the support of non-profit associations, educational institutions, and community organizations. JP is a graduate of both Pomona College in Claremont, California and the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. After earning double M.A. degrees, in Journalism and Public Relations, JP remained at USC as a member of the School of Journalism's Public Relations part- time faculty. She currently serves as the Dean of the Association of Management track at ASAE's School of Management in addition to teaching Membership Marketing at the same institution. She has developed a program for UCLA's Extension Program and is called on frequently as a guest lecturer. JP began her consulting and marketing firm over 25 years ago, directing her efforts to the world of non-profit groups and associations. She has helped countless organizations recruit volunteers, raise funds, and attract participants. Due to her efforts on behalf of these groups; JP has created a sense of volunteerism and giving which permeates the community. JP's volunteer service is enhanced by her professional expertise. She currently serves as the President of the Board of the Burbank YMCA where along with the Board she completed a strategic plan for the facility, which serves over 28,000 adults and children. She also serves on the Board of the Burbank Noon Rotary as the scholarship chair and newsletter editor. For her countless efforts JP has twice been named one of the ``Outstanding Young Women in America'' and was awarded a Fellowship by the American Society of Association Executives, a honor she shares with fewer than 200 people nationwide. I ask all Members of Congress to join me today in honoring an outstanding and extraordinary woman of California's 27th Congressional District, Ms. Joan-Patricia O'Connor. The entire community joins me in thanking JP for her continued efforts to make the 27th Congressional District a place of extraordinary volunteerism and superior giving.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Women's History Month. Each year, we pay special tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by our nation's most notable women during the month of March and it is my honor to not only recognize women of the past but to also recognize women who are making a difference in my community. While a month of remembrance is certainly not sufficient, I am honored today to pay homage to such women as Eleanor Roosevelt, Sandra Day O'Connor, Harriet Tubman, Sally Ride and all the women of my Congressional District, whose contributions have made a profound difference in the face and fabric of our nation. I am truly honored to pay special recognition to an outstanding woman of California's 27th Congressional District, Ms. Nancy Stone. For over 15 years, Nancy has brought an abounding spirit and energy to her service in the foothills communities. Those fortunate enough to meet and work with Nancy instantly recognize her enthusiasm and passion for helping others. A graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, Nancy currently works part time at Salomon Smith Barney in Glendale, California. She has been married to Chip Stone for 19 years and is the proud mother of Sarah and Rob. Her dedication to her children has manifested itself in the groups and organizations which she leads and supports. She has served as the President of the Mountain Avenue Elementary School PTA and as the Vice President of the Rosemont Middle School PTA. Noted for her involvement with Seeds of Peace, an organization she helped to create to actively nurture a caring and accepting community, Nancy has dedicated herself to working for a more peaceful neighborhood environment in which to live and raise our families. Her outstanding work with the community's young people truly sets her apart as someone who is keenly aware that our future lies with our children and in recognizing that, she has introduced innovative program ideas to help enrich the lives of all young people. She created the Community Service Learning Project in order to extol the values of unselfishness and community caring. Today the project has 600 students who dedicate approximately 10,000 volunteer hours to the community each year. Currently, she is the driving force behind efforts to open an after school teen center for the high school students of my district. For her efforts, the community has recognized her for selflessness and unsurpassed giving. In 2001 she was named the Glendale Youth Coalition's Woman of the Year and in the same year was named as one of the Glendale News Press's 103 Most Influential People. The Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce named her their Woman of the Year in 1995. I ask all Members of Congress to join me today in honoring an outstanding and extraordinary woman of California's 27th Congressional District, Ms. Nancy Stone. The entire community joins me in thanking Nancy for her continued efforts to make the 27th Congressional District a more selfless, peaceful and accepting place to live.

Mr. SCHIFF

Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Women's History Month. Each year, we pay special tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by our nation's most notable women during the month of March and it is my honor to not only recognize women of the past but to also recognize women who are making a difference in my community. While a month of remembrance is certainly not sufficient, I am honored today to pay homage to such women as Eleanor Roosevelt, Sandra Day O'Connor, Harriet Tubman, Sally Ride and all the women of my Congressional District, whose contributions have made a profound difference in the face and fabric of our nation. It is my distinct honor to recognize the personal achievements of one of California's 27th Congressional District's most outstanding women. Mary Pinola has dedicated over 20 years of service to this community and it is an honor to recognize her for her continued efforts in support of so many worthwhile organizations and foundations. Mary received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from California State University, Long Beach and later received from the same university, a Master of Arts degree in Speech-Communication. She completed her education by receiving her Ph.D. in Education from the University of Southern California. Mary currently serves as the Director of Development for the AAF Rose Bowl Aquatics Center and has served as the Director of Community Relations for Verdugo Hills Hospital, as an Adjunct Lecturer at California State University, Long Beach and as a High School Speech and English Teacher at Arroyo High School in El Monte, California. Over the years, Mary has dedicated herself to founding and joining groups and organizations that truly make a positive and lasting impact on the community. Along with her husband Charles Kenny, she is a founding member of the La Canada Educational Foundation, a Member of the Board of Directors of the Roger Barkley Community Center, and has served as the chair of countless numbers of charitable fundraisers. More recently, Mary has been the driving force behind raising funds for the Mary Pinola/Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce Educational Endowment Fund. The Fund gives annual grants to educational programs throughout the Crescenta Valley. This year, the Fund grew to $66,000 and has been invested in a Donor Advised Account with the Glendale Community Foundation to ensure a legacy of charitable gifts. She has also been instrumental in raising funds for the Outdoor Science Laboratory at La Canada Elementary School, which will be completed in the fall of 2002. I ask all Members of Congress to join me today in honoring an outstanding and extraordinary woman of California's 27th Congressional District, Ms. Mary Pinola. The entire community joins me in thanking Mary for her continued efforts to make the 27th Congressional District a place of extraordinary, selfless giving.