Mike Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize three residents of St. Helena, CA. who were vital to the foundation and success of our Boys and Girls Club of my hometown. These three made vast contributions of time and energy to get the Boys and Girls Club established with a sound financial backing. Their efforts, as well as the work of many others, have ensured the success of one of the most vital and enduring youth programs in the Napa Valley. My good friend Monsignor Brenkle is the Pastor of the St. Helena Catholic Church, where he has been for 22 years. During this time he has taken the lead on many projects in the community, and he is widely known throughout the Napa Valley for his activism with farm workers to ensure adequate housing conditions. Monsignor Brenkle, working closely with Ms. Schmidt, provided space for the program in the St. Helena Catholic School's gymnasium during the summer of 1989, from which it subsequently expanded into the Elementary School's cafeteria. In 1992 the program returned to redeveloped facilities at the Catholic School with Monsignor Brenkle's blessing, and has continued to expand ever since. Ms. Mariatma Schmidt worked together with Monsignor Brenkle to complete the many tasks necessary to open the Boys and Girls Club of St. Helena. She then took on the role of president for 6 years, where she oversaw the establishment of permanent facilities and took the lead in recruiting fundraisers and volunteers to help the young program grow. Her vision left the Boys and Girls Club with a devoted network of supporters and financiers, and her efforts both with this program and other youth education foundations have had a substantial impact on our St. Helena community. Ms. Helaine Katz chaired the Fundraising Committee during the club's early years, where her creative and exciting events raised countless thousands of dollars to provide the club with the early capital it needed to develop facilities and programs for young people. Her signature event for many years has been the Rotary Club's Winter Ball, which brings together St. Helena residents to benefit children's programs in our area. Her fundraising savvy and taste for a good party makes her an invaluable member of our community, and the money raised over the last 16 years has brought a succession of new facilities to the club, culminating in the new superb facility they share with the St. Helena school district. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize all three of these individuals for the incredible contributions they have made to the Boys and Girls Club of St. Helena, and to the community at large. They are being recognized for their foundational roles in the club, and I join all in our community in thanking them for the work they have done on behalf of St. Helena's youth.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to extend my deep sympathies to the family of the honorable Leo T. McCarthy, including his loving wife, Jackie Lee Burke, his four wonderful children, Sharon, Conna, Adam and Niall, and his 11 grandchildren. Leo McCarthy's passing is a great loss for the state of California. He was a champion of equality and social justice. He was a model of public service, both as a legislator and a citizen. Leo McCarthy dedicated his life to improving the lives of his fellow Californians. In the California State Assembly, Leo McCarthy reformed the institution by bringing increased openness and accountability to the legislative process. As a three-term Lieutenant Governor, Leo McCarthy took on some of our state's most challenging social issues. He implemented programs that empowered our state's impoverished and disenfranchised citizens and aided those who could not stand for themselves. These programs have greatly increased the quality of life in California, and each day numerous Californians benefit from his wisdom and leadership. Leo McCarthy was also a champion of the environment. He led the enactment of the California Coastal Act, which has helped conserve California's precious coastal resources and further protect our coast from offshore drilling. Leo McCarthy was also a model politician. I had a great deal of respect for the honesty and fairness he brought to the political process. I admired how he instilled the values of public service and social justice into future generations. The Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good at the University of San Francisco is an example of how his legacy will benefit our state for years to come. Mr. Speaker, Leo McCarthy's contributions to our state are immeasurable. He was a friend to me and all of California, and his presence will be missed even as his legacy endures.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 150th anniversary of the County of Del Norte, the very northwest corner of the 1st Congressional District and the State of California. Del Norte County features an extraordinary landscape that includes majestic redwoods and spectacular coastline. It is home to Redwood National and State Parks, the sparkling waters of the wild and scenic Smith River and the Smith River National Recreation Area. The residents are extraordinary and rugged individuals, who work hard and who value the very special place in which they live. The county was created by the California Legislature in 1857, which transformed a portion of former Klamath County, California, into a new political entity known as Del Norte County. The Yurok and Tolowa peoples have called the region home for thousands of years and continue to play a vital role in the life of Del Norte County. Their skills in woodworking and basketry were exceptional and form the basis of a thriving cultural and artistic community. The first timber mill was brought by ship to Del Norte County in 1853, and over the next 100 plus years produced lumber that was used to build the state and realize the dreams of all Californians. The rich ocean environment has created a dynamic fishing industry and the mild climate and fertile fields of the Smith River plain grow the Nation's supply of Easter lilies. The county is blessed with two historic lighthouses, Battery Point and Point St. George. The county seat of Crescent City has the distinction of being the only city in the continental United States to be struck by a tsunami wave, on March 28, 1964. Despite the destruction of over 150 businesses, the hearty character of local residents was on display during the rapid reconstruction of the town, earning the name, ``Comeback Town USA''. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize the County of Del Norte on the occasion of their 150th anniversary, and congratulate the residents of Del Norte County on all that they have achieved.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce the ``Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act.'' This bill permanently extends the current tax treatment of motorsports complexes across the country. There are five motorsports facilities located in my district alone-- and more than 900 of these facilities nationwide. Each year, these facilities, both large and small, draw millions of racing fans. Spending by these fans contributes to local and regional economies--but the tracks themselves contribute as well, through facility construction and renovation, purchases, and permanent and seasonal employment. In 2004, Congress codified the seven-year depreciation classification for speedways and racetracks. However, this provision expires at the end of this year. These facilities need tax certainty in order to make their long-term planning decisions and continue contributing to national, regional and local economies. In order to provide this certainty, I am introducing the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act. I hope that my colleagues will work with me to enact this legislation, which will support the economic benefits provided by motorsports facilities in my district and nationwide.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, together with my colleague, Ms. Woolsey from California, I rise today to recognize the outstanding career of Robin Schaef of Petaluma, California. Ms. Schaef is retiring after 21 years of service with the County of Sonoma. Robin began her career of service in Sonoma County as the Executive Director of Petaluma People Services Center where she increased the budget from $255,000 to $600,000 in less than five years. She then accepted the position of Director of the Sonoma County Multipurpose Senior Services Program. This newly formed county case management program served a caseload of 200 clients. Ms. Schaef's strong leadership and management skills were a determining factor in her promotion to Director of the Sonoma County Area Agency on Aging in 1987. When the County reorganized eight years later, her vision and skills made her the natural choice to become the Department Head of the Sonoma County Area Agency on Aging. In this capacity she oversaw five programs with a staff of 60: the Area Agency on Aging and its 21 member Advisory Council, In-Home Support Services, Adult Protective Services, the Multipurpose Senior Services Program and the Veterans Services Office. In addition to her work for the County of Sonoma, Ms. Schaef has served in leadership positions in professional organizations at the local, state and national level. These include the California Association of Area Agencies on Aging, the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging and C4A. Madam Speaker, Robin has dedicated herself to developing and delivering essential social services to the elders of our county and persons with disabilities. She has set an example of visionary leadership that has been invaluable to Sonoma County. Ms. Woolsey and I wish to thank her for all she has meant to so many, and wish her much happiness and fulfillment as she retires.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I am here today to ask all of my colleagues to support this resolution. Hydrocephalus is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the brain, and it affects nearly 1 million Americans. Without treatment, hydrocephalus is fatal, but when treated, most people with this condition can lead full and productive lives. I became aware of this condition through a constituent and a friend of mine, Cynthia Solomon, who has a family member who suffers from this condition. Cynthia struggled to find information about hydrocephalus and wanted to connect with other affected families. So she cofounded the first patient advocacy organization for this condition, the Hydrocephalus Association. As anyone who has been affected by this condition can tell you, the symptoms are many and they vary from person to person. Excess fluid in the brain can cause head enlargement, blurred vision, seizures, learning disabilities and impaired physical development. In older adults, symptoms can mimic dementia, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, often leading to a misdiagnosis and a delay in receiving critical and proper treatment. Doctors do not yet understand the specific causes of hydrocephalus. However, the current treatment was developed back in 1952 and involves surgically inserting a shunt into the brain. This carries serious risk of shunt failure, infection and obstructions. Overdrainage is also a threat. This can trigger a vertical collapse, causing blood vessels to tear and possibly resulting in a subdural hematoma. Improvement in this treatment is long overdue, and with additional research, we can make it happen. The National Institutes of Health recognizes this need and recently organized their first ever conference on hydrocephalus. This has resulted in efforts to initiate new collaborative research projects and an expansion of their focus on the development of new treatments. This resolution commends the NIH for their action and encourages them to continue their collaborative efforts. It also calls for additional research into this serious condition. However, we cannot depend solely on Federal efforts to expand awareness about hydrocephalus. I commend the Hydrocephalus Association and other groups for their commitment to patient advocacy and public education. Partnerships between these groups, health care providers and the government will bring us closer to our common goal: improved treatment of this condition. I would like to say a special thanks to Dory Kranz, who is the current director of the Hydrocephalus Association, for her help in putting this resolution together and her ongoing work in this regard. I ask my colleagues for their support of this resolution so we can further research into this very serious and important condition and we can bring about improved treatment to those individuals who are affected by this very, very serious and debilitating condition.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for recognizing me for time. Mr. Speaker and Members, as a combat veteran, from the bottom of my heart, I say thank you to the brave men and women who have served in Iraq, each with great distinction. Our troops have done an outstanding job. They have done all that has been asked of them and more. They have performed with the utmost professionalism, making all of us very proud. Now, I believe it is past time that we start bringing these brave men and women home. They should be home with their families, not in the middle of Iraq's civil war. Moreover, we shouldn't be sending more troops into Iraq's civil war. Some of our servicemembers have been on two, three, and even four tours of duty in Iraq already. This escalation would put too much strain on our military and not just our troops. Much of our military's equipment is damaged. It will take years and billions of dollars to repair it and replace it. Nearly every Reserve and National Guard member has been mobilized. The escalation is in no one's best interest. Two weeks ago I joined with my colleague Patrick Murphy from Pennsylvania, a decorated Army captain who served in Iraq, to introduce binding legislation to begin a phased redeployment of our troops out of Iraq. Our bill, which has already attracted 20 co-authors from both sides of the aisle and has a companion bill in the Senate, provides a practical and comprehensive strategy for ending our military involvement in Iraq. It sets a firm deadline for phased redeployment of our troops beginning May 1 with all combat brigades out by March 31 of 2008. It provides a concrete plan for shifting security responsibilities to where they belong: with the Iraqis. I have visited with our troops in Iraq, and I have talked to those who have been training the Iraqi security forces. They have told me that the U.S. troops have finished their job and that Iraq needs to step up and start securing their country. Americans cannot continue to do it for them. Our bill recognizes that the President's escalation plan is a continuation of his failed ``stay the course'' slogan and it would not allow the increase of troop levels without congressional approval. Mr. Speaker, the United States cannot win the peace in Iraq. The Iraqis must be the ones to do that. Our bill recognizes this reality and creates a surge in diplomacy, not troops, by creating a special U.S. envoy that will help build relationships between Iraq and their neighbors. Our bill is a strategy for success in Iraq and is the best way to bring our brave men and women home as quickly and safely as possible. While I strongly believe that today we should be debating and passing our binding solution, H.R. 787, I know that this week's debate is the first real debate we have had on Iraq in more than 4 years. In this week alone, we will more than quadruple the amount of time given to debate this war since it began. Thank you, Speaker Pelosi, for bringing this important matter to the floor. This resolution is a critical step in getting our men and women out of this ugly mess, a full blown civil war in Iraq. I support today's resolution, which joins with the American people in sending the President a loud and clear message that escalation is not the answer. We need to focus on getting our troops out of Iraq as safely and quickly as possible and making sure that the Iraqis step up and assume the security responsibilities for their country. I also rise to tell those who have served, those who are serving in Iraq today, and their proud families thank you. Your Nation thanks you for your great service to our country.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Well, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I want to thank all of you who have taken time to come to the floor tonight to talk about this very, very important issue, an issue that impacts all of our districts, and most important the people that live within our districts. Mr. Speaker, and Members of this House, the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act was created to provide critical education and transportation funding for all of the counties that do not receive property tax from lands managed by the National Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management. This program was enacted by this Congress to compensate local governments for the tax exempt status of these public lands. The law authorizing these payments, as you have heard tonight, expired at the end of fiscal year 2006. And all of the counties that are touched by this issue received their last payment on December 2 of 2006. If we do not reauthorize this funding by the 15th of March, county school districts will have to fire teachers, and reduce critical education programs. Counties will be forced to slash their transportation budgets. My Congressional district is heavily impacted by this issue, because of over 1.2 million acres that are managed by the National Forest Service. The National Forest Service acreage in my district is twice the size of the State of Rhode Island, and every single acre is exempt from property tax. No county in my district will be hurt more than Del Norte County. I have a map of Del Norte County, not wanting to be outdone by my friends with their visuals, but no county will be hurt more in my district than Del Norte County, where nearly 80 percent of the county, 80 percent of all of the land within the county is owned by our Federal Government. Jan Moorehouse, the Superintendent of the school district up in Del Norte, and she was I think very, very succinct in pointing out the problem. I will just tell you what she said. I cannot say it any better. She said, the loss of funding is heart wrenching and carries an enormous impact on our ability to fund critical education programs for our youth. This is our future leaders. These are the people that will serve in Congress, serve in the State legislature, run the businesses, be on the city council, the people that will make the money to generate the greatness that our country is known for. And we are taking money right out of their education, the things that will benefit them the most. Without this funding, the school district will have to increase their class size and lay off as many as 25 teachers. And that may not seem a lot to big city school districts, but up here it is nearly 10 percent of the entire teaching faculty. With more students and less teachers, this will dramatically reduce the student to teacher ratio and shortchange our kids. In addition to the loss of faculty, Del Norte County School District will have to close their art and music programs, and some of the smaller schools in our county will have to close completely because they won't have the money to keep the doors open. Now, this is going to require that the school district bus students who live far from town travel over an hour each way to school on seasonably treacherous rural mountain roads. Other county school districts in my district will also be hit hard and will have to eliminate teachers and staff for early literacy programs, special education and arts education. The Klamath-Trinity School District on the Hoopa Indian Reservation will have to lay off eight teachers, nearly 15 percent of their entire faculty. And as I mentioned earlier, the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act also provides critical funding for county transportation needs. Again, this is because the counties do not receive property tax from land managed by the National Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management. Humboldt County in my district has over 1,200 miles of county roads. The funding this program provides represents a large portion of that county's road maintenance budgets. Humboldt County has a maintenance backlog of over $150 million. Many other rural counties have similar backlogs, and the loss of this funding is going to be devastating. Back in Del Norte County, the transportation money from this program represents 20 percent of the county road budget. And to add insult to injury, 40 percent of the county roads in Del Norte County are within the national forest. So the county is responsible for maintaining the roads in the very areas that are exempt from property taxes. Mr. Speaker and Members, I urge this Congress to reauthorize and to fund this very important program as soon as possible. It is unconscionable for the Federal Government to walk away from our obligation to help these rural counties. Rural counties depend on these funds. They have no other option. We made a commitment, and it is up to us to follow through on that commitment. Again, I thank you for taking the time to put this Special Order together and help us convince all of our colleagues how necessary and how important this program is and how critically important these funds are to a large area within our great country.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in agreement with the wishes of 19,290 voters in Mendocino County, California concerning the United States military engagement in Iraq. On November 8, 2006, Measure Y: Iraq War Advisory was on the ballot in Mendocino County. The measure asked the following: Should the United States end the military occupation of Iraq and bring the troops home now? It passed by 67.17 percent of the vote. Madam Speaker, the voters who approved Measure Y know what has been evident for some time--we need to begin redeployment of the United States military forces out of Iraq. As of today, 3,056 brave American servicemen and women have been killed in Iraq and over 23,000 have been wounded. We must redeploy our troops as quickly and safely as possible while putting an emphasis on diplomacy and shifting security responsibilities to the Iraqi people. The President has already spent close to half a trillion dollars on war spending and he has called for more troops and more money, but the results of our efforts have been to endanger American lives, and worsen living conditions for Iraqis. It is time to bring our troops home. The will of the American people is indisputable. They want a swift end to the U.S. involvement in Iraq. Madam Speaker, in accordance with the wish of my constituents, I submit this advisory into the Congressional Record.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the Knights of Columbus Council 7899, Mary Queen of Peace Parrish, in Clearlake, California. In Clearlake, throughout Lake County, and across the nation the members of the order, in keeping with their mission, have greatly contributed to the community and welfare of America. The Mary Queen of Peace Parrish was chartered on December 17, 1981 with the mission to bring the values and benefits of the Knights of Columbus to Clearlake. Since that time, they have been active in numerous community charitable causes and have been model members of the community through their active civic participation. Their members are characterized by their love and charity for all, and their attention to members of the community, such as the elderly who may need companionship and support. In Lake County, the Knights of Columbus have been the sponsors of many good works and projects. They have given ongoing support to People Service, Inc., an agency created to support members of the community who need assistance in their daily lives. They run an annual Tootsie Roll drive in support of the Knights of Columbus' work to help fund the Special Olympics and lend support to the annual Passion Play each spring. Madam Speaker and colleagues, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize the Knights of Columbus Council 7899, Mary Queen of Peace Parrish, in Clearlake, California, in honor of the 25th anniversary of their foundation.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my friend Robert Chalk on the occasion of his retirement after 32 years of service as a Sheriff Deputy, Police Officer and Chief of Police in Lake County and Clearlake, California. Mr. Chalk has served his community with distinction. His commitment to running an open, citizen-oriented department will long be remembered. Mr. Chalk began his career in law enforcement in 1975 as a new hire with the Lake County Sheriff's Department. For the last 25 years he has worked for the Clearlake Police Department, rising from Patrol Officer to Sergeant and then Lieutenant before being appointed Chief of Police in 1993. During this time he has also been immensely involved with local law enforcement groups, including 13 years as President of the Lake County Law Enforcement Chief's Association. During his tenure as Chief, Mr. Chalk has overseen a sharp reduction in crime rates in and around Clearlake. His strength of character and affection for his community has been reflected in the work he has accomplished as Chief of Police. In addition to his work as Police Chief, Mr. Chalk volunteers in a number of civic and philanthropic organizations, working to strengthen his community. He was actively involved with the Citizens to Restore Clearlake, which was formed to bring about substantial improvements to the environment in Clearlake. Mr. Chalk has deep roots in Lake County. Mr. Chalk was born in Lakeport, California and has lived and worked in Lake County all his life. He and his wife Marsha are the proud parents of 3 children, Johnnie, Merissa and Ryan and 10 grandchildren. Madam Speaker and colleagues, it is appropriate at this time that we thank Mr. Robert Chalk for his many years of service to Lake County and the City of Clearlake, and extend our best wishes to him in retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4, and I am not here to claim that it will instantly bring seniors huge discounts on their drugs, but this legislation is an important first step, because it gives the Secretary one more tool to maximize savings for seniors and value for taxpayers. It is important for another reason, lowering drug prices means that it will take seniors longer to hit the coverage gap, the donut hole, the period during which time they have to pay 100 percent of their drug costs. Less than 25 percent of the drug plans in my district offer any sort of coverage during this donut hole period, and most of them have premiums of upwards of $100 a month. A lot of northern California seniors can't afford that. When they hit the coverage gap, they foot the entire bill, or they go without their medicine. Allowing the Secretary to negotiate prices will complement, not replace, the negotiations being conducted by the private plans. It is one more tool that can be used to lower costs and prolong the amount of time it takes before seniors hit their donut hole. This legislation does not create price controls, which I oppose, and it explicitly prevents the Secretary from setting a national formulary. Our Medicare program offers seniors choice and allows seniors access to the medicines that they need. This legislation will maintain that choice and access, and it is a good first step to bring about lower prices. I support H.R. 4, and I encourage all of my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3, legislation to expand Federal research on devastating diseases like Alzheimer's, diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and various cancers. When President Bush announced in 2001 that Federal funds would be available for research performed using currently existing embryonic stem cell lines, I truly believed we had begun to open the door for life-saving research. Unfortunately for all Americans, less than a quarter of those lines proved suitable for research. As a result, research conducted in the United States has slowed considerably. Federal restrictions on new lines have dashed the hopes of millions of Americans who are impacted by life-threatening illnesses stem cell research may cure. In addition, America is losing top medical researchers and scientists to other nations without such restrictions. A handful of States have stepped in where the Federal Government has failed. My home state of California was the first to act, passing a ballot initiative in 2005 that authorized $3 billion in funding for embryonic stem cell research. I strongly supported that ballot initiative, and I would like to acknowledge the other States that have stepped up to the plate in a similar fashion. Last year, I voted with 237 of my colleagues in the House and 63 Senators to pass Federal legislation to fund stem cell research. Tragically, the President ignored the will of the Congress and the American people by casting the only veto of his administration against this bill. I am very proud that the Democratic majority has made facilitating this life-saving research a cornerstone of our agenda. Today's vote signifies a Federal commitment to exploring every possible option available for curing these terrible illnesses. Today, we cast a vote for hope. I urge my colleagues to vote in support of H.R. 3, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the long and successful career of Mr. Gary Louis Simpson, the Sheriff- Coroner of Napa County, California. On December 28th Mr. Simpson will stand down after 20 years and 5 terms as the elected Sheriff of Napa County. During his tenure, the Sheriff's Department has developed and expanded numerous programs to extend the involvement of the department with other law enforcement agencies and county departments. He leaves behind a technologically sophisticated and well-trained department prepared to continue the work he has advanced for many years. Mr. Simpson was born in Missouri, but moved to California at an early age, and grew up in Oakland. He attended Pacific Union College and graduated with a B.A. in Social Sciences in 1965. Mr. Simpson served in the United States Army from 1966-1969 and left at the rank of 1st Lieutenant before joining the Napa Police Department that same year. In 1983 he was promoted to Lieutenant in the Police Department. In 1986 he ran for the office of Sheriff, and was elected the 25th Sheriff of Napa County. As Sheriff, Mr. Simpson expanded the work of the Sheriffs department beyond the strict. confines of law enforcement and into the communities of the Napa Valley. Through a variety of programs like DARE and the Sheriffs Activity League, Mr. Simpson has reached out to the youth of the Napa Valley and helped develop a safe and healthy place for children to grow. He has created an innovative program, the Sheriff Citizens Academy, which is conceived to allow people living and working in the Napa Valley to better understand the work of the Sheriffs Department. Additionally, this important program has begun the process of building bridges between members of the community and law enforcement. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize Mr. Gary Louis Simpson on his retirement after 20 years as the Sheriff of Napa County. He has been instrumental in developing the resources and capabilities of law enforcement in Napa County. He will enjoy retirement in the company of his wife Veronica, their children, and their two granddaughters.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today for the solemn purpose of commemorating the life of a monumental figure. Ike Livermore was one of the great leaders of the conservation movement, and as much as anyone in the 20th century, he was responsible for preventing the development, division, and exploitation of California's last unblemished areas. But his legacy far exceeds a crusade against the intrusion of the modern world into the wilderness. In the life he lived and through the ideas he championed, Ike Livermore reminded us that the obligation to protect our natural heritage is not a burden, and though the battles and compromises may not be easy, the reward for perseverance is a richer existence for all. Ike Livermore lived an adventurous life. At the age of 15, he and a friend took mules across a rough section of the central coast for 10 days without crossing a single road. This was the trip that formed the basis of his long-standing opposition to the construction of Highway 1 on the coast. Having graduated from Stanford, he traveled to the 1936 Olympics as a member of the Unites States' baseball team. Subsequent to completing his M.B.A. degree, again at Stanford, he served as a Lieutenant in the United States Army during World War II. Here he was a witness to history during the invasions of Sicily, Okinawa, and Iwo Jima. After returning to California, Mr. Livermore first founded a mule- packing company in the southem Sierra and then a small lumber mill near his family home in Northern California. In 1952 he went to work as treasurer at Pacific Lumber Company, and helped promote sustainable logging practices during the heyday of the California logging industry. Many of the areas he advocated be protected as wilderness were near areas being logged by the company, but Ike understood the need for balance in resource management. In 1967, he gladly accepted a request to join the cabinet of California Governor Ronald Reagan as the Secretary of Resources. During his time in the Reagan Administration, Ike was a fierce opponent of several attempts to build roads over these passes he himself had walked, and finally convinced the Governor to scuttle plans to build two roads over the highest passes. His wisdom is readily apparent: the areas in question have now been designated Sequoia National Park and the John Muir wilderness. He was also instrumental in the creation of Redwood National Park on the northern Coast. Marshalling the same arguments he had made in his master's thesis 30 years earlier, he convinced members of Governor Reagan's cabinet that the economic benefits of wilderness far outweighed other potential uses of the land. Such reasoning is the foundation of the important modem understanding that the preservation of wild land can be as valuable as its exploitation. Ike's heart was always in the wild country, and throughout many years in the enviromnental community he caused others to share his appreciation of unspoiled natural beauty during expeditions all over the state. Among his favorite places in the high Sierra Nevada was the long, mostly undeveloped stretch from Yosemite National Park to Walker Pass. While operating his mule-packing venture he covered much of this territory, and after he had folded the business and moved on with other pursuits, he continued to return to the area for many years leading Sierra Club expeditions and fighting to oppose development. Madam Speaker, many people will gather at the end of the month to remember Ike, and all the good that he has done. But it takes more than great accomplishments to earn a place in people's hearts. Ike Livermore was, above all, a great and kind man. Loving towards family and friends, calm and respectful in his conduct, a strong and passionate leader for the causes he championed, Ike's life is a model for future generations. His works did not define him, but were a reflection of the man who gave so many his wisdom arid guidance. He will long be remembered as a true, Californian, a visionary environmentalist who understood the balance of man and nature, and realized that both must be allowed to prosper. Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we remember and celebrate the life of Ike Livermore. His accomplishments are innumerable, but he leaves behind a greater legacy of personal involvement in the wilds of California. He proved by example that one can be an industrialist and an environmentalist, and after his retirement from public life, he remained active fighting for wilderness all over the state. His life will long be remembered, even as his ideas continue to bear fruit.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, PAYGO is a budget enforcement tool that has both a history of success and a history of bipartisan support. In its original form, PAYGO was part of an agreement between the first President Bush and a Democratic Congress. A Democratic President and Congress extended it in 1993, and a Democratic President and Republican Congress extended it in 1997. Unfortunately, it was allowed to expire in 2002 and the results have been a disaster. Deficits and debt have reached historic levels and the debt limit has been raised four times. This rule takes the first step toward restoring fiscal responsibility in the Federal Government by requiring the House of Representatives to pay for the bills that we pass. I urge all my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support the passage of this rule.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I, along with my colleague Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, rise today to honor Ben Stone, who recently completed 20 years of service as head of the Sonoma County Economic Development Board. Under Ben's quiet but dynamic leadership, the Economic Development Board (EDB) has successfully implemented programs that have more than met the mandate of the County Board of Supervisors to enhance economic development by concentrating on new and innovative programs that enable businesses to remain competitive in a changing economy. Ben came to Sonoma County from the Seattle area where he had been a county administrator in Port Angeles, Washington, a consultant with Arthur Andersen & Co. and a Special Projects Director with Scafco Corporation. He graduated from Whitman College in Walla Walla and received his Masters of Public Administration from the University of Washington in Seattle. Ben tells the story that, after coming to Sonoma County, he was informed that a decision had been made to close the EDB. However, he commenced creating programs atypical of economic development, which bolstered the local economy, and, 20 years later, the EDB is thriving under his leadership. With the help of a small staff and interns, Ben has developed a number of award-winning programs in concert with local private and public sectors. Many of these programs have been successfully transitioned to community-based organizations. Among them are the Sonoma County Tourism Program, which served to increase tourism 31 percent; two technology groups (SofTech, a trade group, and the North Bay Technology Roundtable, a policy group); Youth Business Week; the Business Environmental Alliance; the North Bay World Trade Association; the Small Business Center now operated by Santa Rosa Junior College; a home-based business project; and a business crime prevention program. Ben's office still operates the Sonoma County Film Commission. Ben also initiated a broad-based strategic planning process resulting in the formation of bachelors and master's degree programs in Engineering Science at Sonoma State University, a new cooperative agricultural marketing program, and an economic research program. An EDB forum, the Business Regulatory Roundtable, involving elected officials, regulatory agencies, and business executives to improve local regulatory processes, resulted in Northern California's first multi-agency Permit Assistance Center. By creating the Economic Development Board Foundation, the EDB is able to support research projects, bring expert speakers to discuss aspects of the economy at local presentations twice annually, present an annual State of the County program, and recognize local business men and women at the annual Spirit of Sonoma County Awards program. Ben developed one of the most visited websites in the County. The EDB pages contain all the research reports, information on upcoming events, the latest initiatives sponsored by his office, and the first live web cast of the State of the County event In addition, Ben helped establish the California-Swiss Foundation, the World Affairs Council, and has been on the boards of the Sonoma County Museum, the Sonoma County YMCA, and presently is a member of the President's Council at Santa Rosa Junior College. Some form of the Economic Development Board has, been a part of Sonoma County since the late 1950s. If you wanted assistance from Ben in the early days of his 20-year tenure, your first task would be to find his office, which moved four times in the first 10 years before finding a home on College Avenue in Santa Rosa. His long-time friends particularly recall his small office on Cleveland Avenue piled with filing boxes that a visitor clambered over to reach his desk. A wall of certificates and plaques now greets visitors to his office, including a Grand Prize for Excellence from the California Association of Economic Development; four Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties; and six Innovation Awards, from the National Association of Development Organizations. Madam Speaker, we want to honor Ben Stone today for his 20 years of service to Sonoma County and the Economic Development Board. He has made many friends in the many communities he serves and is always willing to give a boost to new arrivals or make that important contact for someone who needs assistance. As Ben always says to others, we wish him many more ``Onward and Upward'' years at the Sonoma County Economic Development Board.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 540, I was speaking with Speaker-elect Pelosi. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, as a combat Vietnam veteran, I have a strong personal understanding of why granting Permanent Normal Trade Relations status to Vietnam is so important for both our country and theirs. Reconciliation with our former adversary has been a long and on-going effort, and today we are taking a long step toward furthering that process. This process began more than a decade ago when we lifted the trade embargo on Vietnam in recognition of the cooperation received from Vietnam in POW/MIA accounting. In May, the United States and Vietnam signed a bilateral WTO accession agreement, which was required as part of Vietnam's bid to join the WTO. For the United States to participate in this trade agreement, Congress must pass legislation granting PNTR to Vietnam. Mr. Speaker, it's important to understand that congressional approval of PNTR for Vietnam is a necessary step toward maintaining our competitive edge in the 21st century global economy. By passing PNTR, farmers, ranchers, businesses, manufacturers and consumers will be able to take full advantage of Vietnam's rapidly expanding economy. The facts speak for themselves: Vietnam has become our fastest growing export market in Asia. In just the last five years, trade between the U.S. and Vietnam has increased more than 400 percent, going from under $1 billion a year to $7.8 billion. If we fail to pass PNTR, we are putting ourselves at a distinct disadvantage because we will be the only WTO member country that will not have access to Vietnam's booming economy. Foreign competitors will get the benefit of lower trade barriers-- benefits we negotiated--as U.S. farmers, manufacturers and businesses watch from the sidelines. Also, granting PNTR status to Vietnam advances our interests in areas other than trade. PNTR will promote ongoing internal reforms within Vietnam. WTO membership will require Vietnam to adhere to WTO rules of law and provide greater transparency where trade matters are concerned. Vietnam's laws and regulations that affect foreign trade and investment will need to be published and made publicly available. In addition, Vietnam has been cooperative with our efforts to achieve full accounting of U.S. soldiers missing in action. Enactment of PNTR will further this good working relationship. Mr. Speaker, today, we have an opportunity to expand our economy and improve American prosperity. We also have an opportunity to eliminate the remnants from a war that ended more than three decades ago. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6406.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Gary Stewart for his decades of work as one of North America's finest waterfowl biologists, and to thank him for all that he has done to mobilize a diverse group of interested parties to further the goals of conservation. His leadership has aided conservationists throughout the Pacific Flyway in maintaining viable waterfowl populations and protecting key landscapes. He is retiring from a prestigious career with Ducks Unlimited Canada in December 2006. Mr. Stewart began his efforts with waterfowl on the Prairies of Manitoba studying blue-winged teal. His career with Ducks Unlimited Canada ignited in 1979 as a young, energetic Area Biologist starting a program in New Brunswick. After 5 years, he traveled west to take on the challenge of Alberta Provincial Biologist. In that role, Gary advanced many important scientific and program delivery components of the vital Alberta landscape for over a dozen years, including critical planning and delivery of early NAWMP activities. From his knowledge of the key waterfowl breeding areas, Mr. Stewart stimulated Flyway concern and support for conservation in the Prairies and Boreal Forest. This conservation outreach extended to the western U.S., major donors, industry partners, First Nations, and governments. A key linkage was established among Ducks Unlimited, Pacific Flyway waterfowl biologists, and especially the State of California. He was instrumental in coordinating the first Flyway biologist meeting with Ducks Unlimited Canada staff, and he built a strong cross-border working relationship with the Western Regional Office of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. and U.S. partners. In 1997 Mr. Stewart pioneered work in the Western Boreal Forest as Manager of Conservation Programs, a task at which he excelled. Under his leadership, the Western Boreal Forest readily became known across the continent as ``the other duck factory,'' with a unique set of values and challenges. His entrepreneurial spirit, passion, energetic approach and strategic thinking have resulted in a greatly increased understanding of the landscape and several specific examples of critical conservation. Mr. Speaker, over the years, Mr. Stewart has earned a great deal of personal and professional respect from those who have had the pleasure of knowing and working with him. He readily shared his knowledge with younger staff and partners. I would like to personally thank Gary for working with me, and extend the thanks of all who have benefit from his leadership.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, together with my colleague Ms. Woolsey, I rise today to recognize the outstanding career of Ms. Eeve Lewis, the County Clerk-Recorder-Assessor-Public Administrator for Sonoma County. Ms. Lewis has worked for Sonoma County for over 35 years, rising from her starting position of Clerk Typist to win 6 elections and serve a total of 7 terms as the County Clerk, during which time she has overseen and led numerous structural adjustments to the division of responsibilities in the county offices. Ms. Lewis was born in West Germany, the daughter of an Estonian woman living in a displaced person's camp. Her family immigrated to the United States in 1950, and she cites the warm welcome and opportunity they found here as one of her primary motivations to enter a life of public service. She graduated with Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Chico State and Sonoma State University, respectively. Ms. Lewis was hired by Sonoma County in 1971, and transferred to the Clerk's Office in 1974. A swift series of promotions followed. She was appointed the Acting County Clerk in 1977 when her predecessor died in office. She won her first election in a runoff and has since won six more terms in office. During almost 30 years as the elected Clerk of Sonoma County, Ms. Lewis has presided over expansion and refinement of the responsibilities and jurisdiction of the office of the Clerk. By always approaching jurisdictional matters with an open mind and a concern for the relevant statutes, Ms. Lewis has guided a series of changes that have greatly benefited the government and people of Sonoma County. By working closely with court staff, Ms. Lewis successfully organized the reapportionment of duties and streamlined costs when it became necessary to create a separate office to administer the county's court system. Similar structural adjustments in 2001 saw the Clerk's Office absorb the County Recorder's responsibilities and then the County Assessor's role. Through all of these changes Ms. Lewis has carefully studied the new responsibilities assigned to her, and maintained the high standard of performance for which the Clerk's Office is known. In addition to her work in Sonoma County, Ms. Lewis has been active in professional organizations around the State helping other counties emulate the success of Sonoma in developing and maintaining an effective Clerk staff. She is responsible for the development of a series of workshops to help train staff around the State, with the first of these meetings scheduled to take place this coming March. Additionally, she participated in a legal taskforce mandated to revise confusing or outdated portions of California Code related to the duties of County and Court Clerks. All of these activities greatly contribute to a higher quality of governance throughout the State of California and represent a service to the people every bit as important as her work in Sonoma County. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with my colleague Ms. Woolsey to congratulate Ms. Eeve Lewis on the occasion of her retirement after 35 years of service to Sonoma County, including a remarkable 28 years of capably guiding her office as, the elected County Clerk. She will leave behind the finest organization in the State and a legion of admirers who valued the insight and care with which she approached her work.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Michael R. Dick who is retiring as Police Chief of Calistoga. Mr. Dick has been a member of the Calistoga Police Department for 31 years, during which time he has served Calistoga honorably and conscientiously in many roles. As a graduate of Calistoga High School, Mr. Dick grew up familiar with the area he eventually served. He studied at Napa Valley College, where he worked for his Associate of Science Degree in Law Enforcement. His constant residence in and around Calistoga has made Mike especially well attuned to the needs of his community. Throughout his career he has made an extra effort to encourage young people from Calistoga to follow his path by becoming cadets with the police force. Mr. Dick became an Officer on the force in 1975. He has earned a reputation as a thorough officer whose tenacity and initiative helped him obtain convictions in tough investigations. Beyond his conventional duties as an officer, he served for many years as the Juvenile Officer and liaison to the schools of Calistoga. His connections to the community served him well in this regard, and he developed numerous local programs targeting drug-use prevention and children's safety. For all of his hard work, Mr. Dick has 3 times been recognized as Police Officer of the Year, and in 1996 he was the City of Calistoga's Citizen of the Year. Beyond his work as a police officer, Mr. Dick has been a model citizen for the City of Calistoga, serving in numerous local volunteer capacities. He has been the Chairman of the St. Jude's Children's Hospital Bike-a-thon and served several terms as President of the Calistoga Police Officer's Association. Demonstrating once again his commitment to the children of our community, he has for many years been the Cub Scout Master for the Silverado Chapter of the Boy Scouts of America. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, it is appropriate at this time that we recognize the long and active career of Mr. Michael R. Dick, who served his hometown of Calistoga as an officer of the greatest distinction. I join the many members of his community in extending my appreciation for all of his hard work, and I wish him all the best in the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of St. Paul's Community United Methodist Church in Point Arena. St. Paul's was the first Protestant church on the rural and relatively isolated south Mendocino coast. It started out with 24 parishioners and was led by Rev. David H. Haskin as its first pastor. In 1906 it was consecrated as a Methodist church. Tragically, on April 18th, 1906, a fire occurred in the aftermath of the San Andreas earthquake and destroyed the original St. Paul's Church and elementary school. With the support of its community, the church and elementary school were quickly rebuilt. Three items were rescued from the fire: the organ, two rectory chairs and the pulpit, all of which still grace the sanctuary. The most interesting item rescued was a unique, hand-carved pulpit made of three simulated Bibles. Mr. Ole Jensen, a church member and immigrant from Denmark, who was trained to make figureheads for ships, created it. St. Paul's Church has enriched the lives of its parishioners and fellow community members through weekly religious services and an elementary school. The church is a pillar of the community on the coast. Mr. Speaker, we honor this church for its contributions to the community and the continued resilience of its parishioners. It has been a welcoming haven and example of community strength since its original founding. It is appropriate at this time that we recognize St. Paul's Community United Methodist Church on its 100th anniversary.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the tremendous contributions Dr. Robert Paul Losey has made to the lives of infants and families in Napa County. As the founder of Healthy Moms and Babies, Dr. Losey has created a successful, non-profit community health initiative that has yielded tangible results in children's health. Dr. Losey was born in Pasadena, California, where he attended high school before serving in the Marine Corps from 1957 to 1959. After leaving the Marine Corps, he attended college in southern California where he earned degrees from Pasadena City College and the University of California, Riverside. He earned his medical degree from Creighton University in Nebraska in 1966 before returning to California to complete his internship and residency in Los Angeles. Dr. Losey moved to the Napa Valley in 1986 when he was hired as the medical director of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Queen of the Valley Hospital. His work has further developed Napa County's only facility for the care of premature or critically ill infants. Through his successful private practice at Harvest Pediatrics, Dr. Losey has continued to serve the families of the Napa Valley. Mr. Speaker, Healthy Moms and Babies was founded in 1988 with the vision to provide comprehensive healthcare for low-income and uninsured women in order to guarantee that every baby is born healthy. By educating expectant women about their own health during pregnancy, Healthy Moms and Babies has brought a dramatic increase in infant health to the Napa Valley. Healthy Moms and Babies has also made special efforts to develop bilingual resources and do outreach into communities that have traditionally been medically underserved. Napa County has the healthiest babies in the State of California, and Dr. Losey and Healthy Moms and Babies have greatly contributed to this achievement. Mr. Speaker, I rise at this time to thank Dr. Robert Paul Losey for his many contributions to the community and families of Napa County. He has been active in a variety of health care- and youth-related causes, and his work as the founder of Healthy Moms and Babies has brought a new standard of care to all who live in our community.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Patricia Thompson for many years of visionary leadership as the city manager of Napa, CA. Pat has been an outstanding leader for all of us over the 17 years she has been with the city, and her hard work and dedication will be felt in the many projects and improvement she nurtured and brought to fruition during that time. Mrs. Thompson was born in San Diego and attended San Diego State University, where she received first a bachelor's degree and then her Masters of Public Administration with highest honors. She held a number of jobs with cities in Nevada, culminating in 7 years as the city manager of Sparks from 1981-1988. In 1988, Mrs. Thompson was honored by the American Society of Public Administration as the organizations National Administrator of the Year. The city and people of Napa have benefited immensely from Mrs. Thompson's arrival in 1989. Among the numerous projects that she has spearheaded are infrastructure improvements like the new Highway 29- Trancas interchange, new parks, walking paths, and a fire station. She has been a leader in attracting businesses to the Napa area through a series of development projects that have restored and expanded commercial spaces in the city. On numerous occasions when a decisive leader was needed, she has stepped in as a temporary Director of Emergency Services to meet the city's needs during floods, drought and the earthquake. She was the main force behind the city of Napa's effort to pass the Measure A Flood Control Sales Tax, and this facilitated ongoing developments and improvements to Napa County's flood control project. In addition to her busy roll as city manager, Mrs. Thompson has found time to serve on numerous local governance and non-profit boards. Her participation in these forums has allowed the various governments of Napa County to better coordinate their efforts. She has also served as an Advisory Member to the board of the Salvation Army. Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate at this time that we thank Patricia Thompson for her invaluable service to the city of Napa, and for the numerous projects she has overseen and led to completion. Her exemplary leadership has left a legacy for our community that will extend far into the future.