Peter Visclosky

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Kind).

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gene Green).

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson-Lee).

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, I yield to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Wu).

Mr. VISCLOSKY. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I do want to thank the gentleman from Michigan for raising the issue. It is an important one. We have had other ratios for determination of Corps funding that had been brought before the subcommittee during the hearing process. They were also questioned. I understand that the gentleman is concerned about ports of specific size, but I also think one of the things that we have to do a better job of, and the chairman has done his very best here, is to look at entire systems, as well, to make sure there is a fair allocation of these resources for the commerce and, potentially, for the environmental cleanup of these very systems and the individual ports; and I certainly want to join with the chairman and the rest of the subcommittee to do the best job possible looking forward to address this issue. It is an important one. I appreciate its having been raised.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, I yield to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Spratt).

Mr. VISCLOSKY. I yield to the gentleman from Ohio.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I respect the remarks and the impetus behind the gentleman's amendment, but would add my voice to the chairman's in opposition to the amendment.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Yes, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. I yield to the gentleman from New Mexico (Mr. Udall).

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 149, a measure recognizing the 57th anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel. It is my honor to recognize this anniversary which marks the restoration of Jewish independence with the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. I commend the Israeli people for their remarkable achievements in building a new state and a pluralistic and democratic society in the Middle East in the face of terrorism and hostility. On this occasion, I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes to the state of Israel and her people for a peaceful, prosperous, and successful future. Independence Day is a celebration of the renewal of the Jewish state in the Land of Israel, the birthplace of the Jewish people. In this land, the Jewish people began to develop its distinctive religion and culture some 4,000 years ago, and here it has preserved an unbroken physical presence, for centuries as a sovereign state, at other times under foreign control. On this 57th Anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel, we recognize that the Israeli people have created one of the leading nations in the fields of science, technology, medicine, and agriculture. The people of Israel have established a vibrant and functioning pluralistic and democratic political system that guarantees the freedoms of speech and press, and free, fair, and open elections with respect for the rule of law. With a strong democracy in a troubled part of the world, Israel has absorbed millions of new immigrants from all over the world. Some of these immigrants arrived without a single possession, but Israel welcomed them by providing housing, education, social security, and health care. I rise also to condemn the rising tide of anti-Semitism around the globe and to demonstrate the United States' lasting bond of friendship and cooperation with Israel, which has existed for the past 57 years. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in recognizing and paying tribute to the state of Israel as she celebrates her 57th Independence Day and again extend my warmest wishes for a peaceful and prosperous future. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Con. Res. 149.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to announce that the Indian Medical Association will be celebrating their 24th year of establishment by hosting a gala dinner and banquet on Friday, June 3, 2005 at the Halls of St. George, in Schereville, Indiana. The Indian Medical Association was created 24 years ago to promote goodwill and bonding friendships among local physicians through an exchange of medical knowledge and other healthcare related issues. They are dedicated to providing affordable and quality health care. The Indian Medical Association is also actively involved in patient care, health care delivery, charitable work, hosting educational seminars for physicians, and health fairs for the general public in the Northwest Indiana region. In 2004, the Indian Medical Association offered scholarships to medical, nursing, and high school students. In January 2005, they raised more than $100,000 for the Tsunami Relief Fund. The Indian Medical Association is a great asset to Northwest Indiana. This organization has committed itself to providing quality service to the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District in the medical community and has demonstrated exemplary service in its cultural, scholastic, and charitable endeavors. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending the Indian Medical Association for their outstanding contributions. Their commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and throughout the world is truly inspirational and should be recognized and commended.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and admiration that I offer congratulations to many of Northwest Indiana's most talented, dedicated, and hardworking individuals. On Friday, June 10, 2005, the Plumbers Local Union 210 will honor the completion class of 2005 at the Annual Apprentice Completion Banquet which will be held at the Patio Banquet Hall in Merrillville, Indiana. They will be recognizing and honoring the 2005 Apprentice Graduates. The individuals who have completed the apprentice training are: Jamie Anderson, Damon Berry, Jesse Brill, Robert Burkus, Raymond Crawford, Michael Fanning, Kenneth Francus, Jason Kennedy, Robin Marshal, Josh Musser, Scott Norwine, Joe Palek, Joshua Poston, Daniel Rosenbaum, Collin Sanders, Brian Schoff, Kevin Stonehill, Lee Thomas, Chris Tomko, and John Zbell. Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These graduates are all outstanding examples of each. They have mastered their trade and have demonstrated their loyalty to both the union and the community through their hard work and self-sacrifice. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these hardworking individuals. Along with all the other men and women of Northwest Indiana's unions, these individuals have contributed to the growth and development to the economy of the First Congressional District, and I am very proud to honor them in Washington, D.C.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to recognize and commend the members of the Gary, Indiana, branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). On Friday, May 13, 2005, the Gary NAACP will hold its 42nd Annual Life Membership Banquet and Scholarship Dinner at the St. Timothy Fellowship Hall in Gary, Indiana. This annual event is a major fundraiser for the Gary branch of the NAACP. The funds generated through this activity, and others like it, go directly to the organization's needed programs and advocacy efforts. The featured speaker at this gala event will be Attorney Dennis Wayne Archer. Attorney Archer will be honored with the Roy Wilkins Award. Archer is the Immediate Past President of the American Bar Association. He is the first person of color to hold the position as president of the ABA. Attorney Archer is also the former Mayor of the City of Detroit. Attorney Fred Work will be honored with the Benjamin Hooks Award. Attorney Work is a distinguished attorney who has provided legal services to many citizens, not only in the community of Gary, but also throughout the State of Indiana. Attorney Work was the first African- American Judge in Lake County. Work was also the first African-American to graduate from Vanderbilt Law School and the first African-America to be nominated by the Democratic Party for statewide office. The Gary NAACP would also like to recognize the accomplishments of the West Side High School girls basketball team. The team's record is 24-4. The team's winning accomplishments include: the Gary Holiday Tournament, the Northwest Conference, the East Chicago Sectional, the Valparaiso Regional, and the Elkhart Semi-State finals. Those team players I would like to applaud are Michelle Hamblin, Isabell Rhenwrick (recipient of the 2004-2005 Patricia L. Roy Mental Attitude Award) Ashley Cheairs, Ashley Gates, Farren Congress, Candise Matthews, Shanee' Butler, Erica Simpson, Jaime Sherls, Lecreia Hudson, Loreal Brown, Jasmine Brown, Moenesha Headen, Sydney Pettigrew, Ashley Woods, Nicole Moore, Britney Peeples, and Britney Harris. I would also like to recognize Head Coach Rod Fisher and Assistant Coaches Darryl Brandford, Erza Alexander, and Arnetta Gates. Their leadership both on and off the basketball court is a valuable resource to the girls on the West Side girls basketball team. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the new life members as well as the other members of the Gary NAACP for the efforts, activities, and leadership that these outstanding men and women have championed to improve the quality of life for all residents of Indiana's First Congressional District.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in observance of Holocaust Martyrs, and Heroes Rememorance Day. Known as Yom Hashoah in Hebrew, this solem day commemorates the anniversary of the beginning of the Warsaw Ghetto uprising. This year is of particular import, as it marks the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Nazi concentration camps. I join my distinguished colleagues in remembering the victims of the Holocaust while vowing that such a horror shall never again take place. In remembering the six million victims of the Holocaust, we must recommit ourselves to fighting against the evils that led to the Holocaust; anti-Semitism, racism, bigotry, and intolerance. This commitment requires that we tell the story of the Holocaust to our children and grandchildren. We owe nothing less to the survivors and to the brave men who fought to liberate the Ghettos and the death camps. I rise also to condemn the rising tide of anti-Semitism around the globe and to demonstrate the United States' lasting commitment to the elimination of such bigotry and ignorance. It is essential that each and everyone of us takes action to prevent such atrocities and vigorously pursues justice for the victims of acts of hatred and inhumanity. The crimes against humanity that were perpetrated by the Nazis must never be forgotten, lest we allow such evil to spread again. We must also remember the handicapped, homosexuals, gypsies, political dissidents, and even Poles who were murdered in the Nazi ``Final Solution,'' simply for being different. The Nazi hatred for anyone considered different stands as the antithesis of the values of freedom and liberty that we hold so dear. It is also important to recognize the sacrifices, service, and dedication of Allied soldiers and underground fighters that resulted in the defeat of the Nazi regime and the liberation of the concentration camps. We are indebted to the service of these brave souls who fought against evil to stop the death and destruction of the Holocaust. Mr. Speaker, today we mourn the innocent lives lost and vibrant communities destroyed by the Holocaust. We also honor those heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto who faced certain death when they fought against the Nazi's planned extermination of their community. With our solemn remembrance of the atrocities of the Holocaust, we empower a new generation to ensure that such crimes are never again repeated.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solemn memorial to the estimated 1.5 million men, women, and children who lost their lives during the Armenian Genocide. As in the past, I am pleased to join so many distinguished House colleagues on both sides of the aisle in ensuring that the horrors wrought upon the Armenian people are never repeated. On April 24, 1915, over 200 religious, political, and intellectual leaders of the Armenian community were brutally executed by the Turkish government in Istanbul. Over the course of the next 8 years, this war of ethnic genocide against the Armenian community in the Ottoman Empire took the lives of over half the world's Armenian population. Sadly, there are some people who still deny the very existence of this period which saw the institutionalized slaughter of the Armenian people and dismantling of Armenian culture. To those who would question these events, I point to the numerous reports contained in the U.S. National Archives detailing the process that systematically decimated the Armenian population of the Ottoman Empire. However, old records are too easily forgotten--and dismissed. That is why we come together every year at this time: To remember in words what some may wish to file away in archives. This genocide did take place, and these lives were taken. That memory must keep us forever vigilant in our efforts to prevent these atrocities from ever happening again. I am proud to note that Armenian immigrants found, in the United Sates, a country where their culture could take root and thrive. Most Armenians in America are children or grandchildren of the survivors, although there are still survivors among us. In my district in Northwest Indiana, a vibrant Armenian-American community has developed and strong ties to Armenia continue to flourish. My predecessor in the House, the late Adam Benjamin, was of Armenian heritage, and his distinguished service in the House serves as an example to the entire Northwest Indiana community. Over the years, members of the Armenia- American community throughout the United States have contributed millions of dollars and countless hours of their time to various Armenian causes. Of particular note are Mrs. Vicki Hovanessian and her husband, Dr. Raffy Hovanessian, residents of Indiana's First Congressional District, who have continually worked to improve the quality of life in Armenia, as well as in Northwest Indiana. Three other Armenian-American families in my congressional district, Dr. Aram and Mrs. Seta Semerdjian, Dr. Heratch and Mrs. Sonya Doumanian, and Dr. Ara and Mrs. Rosy Yeretsian, have also contributed greatly toward charitable works in the United States and Armenia. Their efforts, together with hundreds of other members of the Armenian-American community, have helped to finance several important projects in Armenia, including the construction of new schools, a mammography clinic, and a crucial roadway connecting Armenia to Nagorno Karabagh. In the House, I have tried to assist the efforts of my Armenian- American constituency by continually supporting foreign aid to Armenia. This past year, with my support, Armenia received $84 million in U.S. aid to assist economic and military development. In addition, on April 16, 2004, I joined several of my colleagues in signing the letter to President Bush urging him to honor his pledge to recognize the Armenian Genocide. The Armenian people have a long and proud history. In the fourth century, they became the first nation to embrace Christianity. During World War I, the Ottoman Empire was ruled by an organization known as the Young Turk Committee, which allied with Germany. Amid fighting in the Ottoman Empire's eastern Anatolian provinces, the historic heartland of the Christian Armenians, Ottoman authorities ordered the deportation and execution of all Armenians in the region. By the end of 1923, virtually the entire Armenian population of Anatolia and western Armenia had either been killed or deported. While it is important to keep the lessons of history in mind, we must also remain committed to protecting Armenia from new and more hostile aggressors. In the last decade, thousands of lives have been lost and more than a million people displaced in the struggle between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabagh. Even now, as we rise to commemorate the accomplishments of the Armenian people and mourn the tragedies they have suffered, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and other countries continue to engage in a debilitating blockade of this free nation. Consistently, I have testified before the Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee on the important issue of bringing peace to a troubled area of the world. I continued my support for maintaining the level of funding for the Southern Caucasus region of the Independent States (IS), and of Armenia in particular. In addition, on February 26, 2004, I joined several of my colleagues in sending a letter to President Bush urging him to ensure parity in military assistance between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleagues, Representatives Joe Knollenberg and Frank Pallone, for organizing this special order to commemorate the 89th Anniversary of the Armenian genocide. Their efforts will not only help bring needed attention to this tragic period in world history, but also serve to remind us of our duty to protect basic human rights and freedoms around the world.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend two of Northwest Indiana's most distinguished citizens, Mr. Bob Anadell and Mr. Timothy Sanders. On Saturday, April 23, 2005, they will be honored for their exemplary and dedicated service to the community. Their praiseworthy efforts will be recognized at the TradeWinds Gala 2005 banquet at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville, Indiana. Bob Anadell has had many positive accomplishments throughout his career. He actively contributed to his community through participation in various programs aimed at improving opportunities for the people of Northwest Indiana. He has been a powerful member of the Northwest Indiana Building Trades, Secretary Treasurer of the IBEW State Conference, Vice-President of the Indiana State AFL-CIO, Trustee of the Lake Area United Way, Board of Directors of TradeWinds, Member of the Lake County Integrated Services Delivery Board, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Investment Committee, and Executive Committee of the Legacy Foundation, as well as Co-Chairman of the Heroes Committee of the American Red Cross. Tim Sanders enjoyed serving the public for several years as Director of Senator Richard G. Lugar's regional office. In addition to serving Senator Lugar, Tim has also worked with Senators Dan Quayle and Dan Coats. Through skillful networking within the state and federal legislative agencies, he established solid relationships benefiting Northwest Indiana's businesses and constituents. Tim implemented public relations initiatives through television, radio, and print to provide information, gather support, and raise visibility on key issues. He has also extended his commitment to the community by serving on a number of Boards and Associations such as the St. Jude House, Lake Area United Way, American Heart Association, and the TradeWinds Rehabilitation Center. Although Tim has dedicated his time serving the community, he has never neglected to provide support and love to his family. Tim and his wife, Tania, have two children and three grandchildren. Both of these men have spent years as dedicated members of the TradeWinds Board of Directors; each adding their individual business acumen and combined strength that has enabled TradeWinds to continue providing quality services for children and adults with disabilities. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Bob Anadell and Timothy Sanders. Without their enduring love and compassion for the community and children of all ages and abilities, TradeWinds would not be what it is today.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 190, a measure honoring the life and achievements of His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, and expressing profound sorrow on his death. It is with great honor that I stand here today to pay tribute to Pope John Paul II and recognize his contributions to the causes of freedom, human dignity, and peace. The leadership the Holy Father displayed during his 26-year tenure as Supreme Pastor of the Roman Catholic Church helped to shape our moral conscience. His fight to end human rights abuses and his opposition to communism not only influenced the Catholic community, but the world community. He was a defender of the faith whose leadership during a pivotal time was profound. I am truly awed by the life of the Holy Father. Born Karol Jozef Wojtyla, Jr. in 1920, Pope John Paul II was the second son of Karol Wojtyla, Sr. and Emilia Kaczorwoska Wojtyla. Karol, Sr. was a retired officer for the Polish Army as well as a tailor, and Emilia was a schoolteacher. Pope John Paul II repeatedly demonstrated his unique ability to form friendships that crossed the social norms of the time. Although his hometown of Wadowice, Poland was wrought with anti-Semitism, Pope John Paul II and his family did not share in that hatred. He was the first Pope to visit a synagogue and the first to visit a memorial in nearby Auschwitz honoring victims of the Holocaust. His Holiness was also the first Pope to visit a mosque. Shortly after his father's death in 1941, Pope John Paul II attended an underground seminary in Krakow, where he was eventually ordained in 1946. His powerful compassion and faith carried him quickly up the ranks of the Church as he was named the auxiliary bishop of Krakow in 1958. He was instrumental to the Vatican Council II deliberations in 1962, which encouraged diversity in language and practice of the Catholic faith in order to facilitate the inclusion of laymen in worship while also condemning anti-Semitism around the world. The profound respect he enjoyed throughout the Catholic community led to his election as Pope after the death of Pope John Paul I in September 1978, making him the first Slavic Pope in history. Less than a year after being named Pope, John Paul II returned to his native Poland and forcefully supported the Polish Solidarity movement and opposed communism. His insistence that no system of government override religious beliefs gave hope to people of faith throughout the former Soviet Union that reforms would take place. The courage and determination that he displayed in opposition to a world power reflected the strength of his convictions and his willingness to stand up to an institutional force that challenged the beliefs of the church. Pope John Paul II was an indomitable figure despite increasing infirmities. Though he survived an assassination attempt in 1981, his health was never quite the same. However, his warmth and compassion shone brightly to all who met him and quickly endeared him to young people around the world. He is said to have been seen by more people than anyone else in history, exemplifying his connection to ordinary people. He was an unwavering moral leader whose power and appeal derived from the way he lived his life. He demonstrated this when he prayed for his would-be assassin. Pope John Paul II was also an intellectual, a pragmatist, and a scholar who was a defender of liberty. His charisma and his ability to lead were intertwined with his status as the ``People's Pope.'' He forged a bond with people of all faiths by projecting his warmth and compassion beyond his flock. Pope John Paul II's life provided strong moral leadership during a pivotal time in history that enabled the fall of communism and the victory of liberty. The world was truly blessed to have Pope John Paul II. Mr. Speaker, during his 26 years as pontiff, Pope John Paul II spread the Catholic faith with visits to over 115 countries. His gift for uniting those of different beliefs earned him Man of the Year honors from Time Magazine in 1994, and his popularity among both Catholics and non-Catholics around the world was a testament to his genuine love for humanity. His teaching of tolerance and love for thy neighbor will be a lasting legacy for this truly great religious leader.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I congratulate the First Baptist Church in Hammond, Indiana as they celebrate the grand opening of their new auditorium. They will be celebrating this very momentous and special occasion on Sunday, March 20, 2005. Allen Hill founded the First Baptist Church of Hammond, Indiana in 1887. The church has since met for services in five different auditoriums. The first auditorium was built in 1888 under Pastor Hewitt, and doubled in size under Pastor Carter in 1900. The third auditorium was constructed in 1913 under Pastor Adams. In 1959, Pastor Hyles became pastor, and under his leadership, in 1964, a new auditorium was constructed seating approximately 2000. The auditorium doubled in 1975. Throughout the years Pastor Hyles dreamed of building a new auditorium. Sadly, he passed away in 2001. However, the determination of the church proved that although Pastor Hyles was now in heaven, the Lord of the Harvest was still alive and well. Pastor Schaap took the helm in March 2001, and he immediately led First Baptist Church to the next level. With the increased attendance, once again the congregation began to outgrow the auditorium. Ground was broken for the new auditorium on November 3, 2004. From its modest beginning, First Baptist Church has emerged as a cornerstone of the community. Under Pastor Schaap's guidance, First Baptist continues to thrive, both in terms of spiritual growth as well as practical improvements. The proud members of the church are thankful for the spiritual and emotional leadership he and the previous pastors have provided during the years. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the First Baptist Church of Hammond, Indiana on the grand opening of its new auditorium. They have provided support and guidance for all those in the community, and will continue to serve their community through their selfless dedication and commitment.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great sense of honor that I rise to celebrate Black History Month and its 2005 theme--the Niagara Movement. Fitting with this theme which honors the first African American meeting held to end racial discrimination, I would like to recognize the struggles and achievements of African Americans in the steelworker union movement who faced daunting challenges, but whose lives were forces for change. Over the last century, African American industrial history has broken through significant barriers. However, the struggle for equal rights and protections faced numerous challenges during this time. The modern struggle for access to equal rights, protections, and work began in 1892 with the Homestead Strike, when African American workers were brought in on trains, unaware of their destination, to break the strike. This marked the advent of the northward migration of African American fieldworkers to the mills of the North. Though African Americans would increasingly join the steel mills, they faced discrimination and limited opportunities once they arrived. This, despite the increased strength and numbers the African American community provided the labor movement, particularly during World War I when African American representation in the steel mills swelled. However, it is important to note the perseverance of these brave workers who accepted some of the most dangerous jobs and the legacy they provided for the generations after them who continued the fight for equal rights and equal opportunity. Unfortunately, the successful CIO organizing drives of the 1930s and success of the broader labor movement began to leave African Americans behind. Though African Americans had increasingly joined the mills and unions, by World War II they still faced de facto limits on the types of opportunities they could expect at the mills. Generally limited to the lower skilled positions, regardless of their actual ability, this generation began to challenge the working order and demand equal treatment, both by their own unions and by management. These struggles culminated in the 1970s, when the mills and unions began setting hiring and promotion goals for women and minorities. Though this represented a watershed event for African American steelworkers, they have continued to forcefully advocate for their rights while working tirelessly for labor rights and the future of the steel industry. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in recognizing the contributions these American heroes have made to the labor movement and to their communities. I am proud to honor the ideals represented by Black History Month and its 2005 theme of the Niagara Movement, by recognizing the African American steelworkers who struggled and continue to fight for equality, opportunity, and an end to racial discrimination.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and admiration that I offer congratulations to many of Northwest Indiana's most talented, dedicated, and hardworking individuals. On Friday, February 4, 2005, Indiana University Northwest's Leadership Development Program will honor their 11th graduating class. The Institute for Innovative Leadership is a partnership between Indiana University Northwest and Northwest Indiana's community and business leadership throughout all sectors. The Institute is designed to create a binding link between educational experience and leadership practice. The Leadership Development Program is the core of the Institute. Various resources are utilized to help ensure that students of every level acquire the skills, knowledge, values, motivation and vision needed for success in careers and as citizens. The Institute for Innovative Leadership will be recognizing and honoring the following 2004 Graduates: Bobbi Atzhorn, Sandra Bowie, Alice Carter, Gail Coleman, Larry Hayden, Crystal Jelks, Brock Lloyd, Ryan Mistarz, Melissa Murdock, Damian Perkins, Mary Louise Rieger, Cora Robinson, Jennifer Stewart, Gabriela Tirado, and Reginald Williams. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these hardworking individuals. I am very proud to honor them in Washington, DC.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and reflect on his life and work, we are reminded of the challenges that democracy poses to us and the delicate nature of liberty. Dr. King's life, and, unfortunately, his untimely death, reminds us that we must continually work and, if necessary, fight to secure and protect our freedoms. Dr. King, in his courage to act, his willingness to meet challenges, and his ability to achieve, embodied all that is good and true in the battle for liberty. The Gary Frontiers Service Club, founded in 1952, sponsors this annual memorial breakfast. This year the Gary Frontiers Service Club will pay tribute to four local individuals who have unselfishly contributed to improving the human condition of others in the City of Gary for decades. Those individuals, who will be named Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marchers at this year's breakfast, include Dr. Clarence W. Boone, Sr. MD, Richard Comer, Dharathula (Dolly) Millender, and Sgt. Louis Stewart. Mr. Johnathan Comer will be honored with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award. Mr. Comer has dedicated his life to fighting for civil rights. These distinguished individuals from Indiana's First Congressional District will be recognized during the 26th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast on Monday, January 17, 2005, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana. The invited guest speaker will be The Honorable Mitch Daniels, Governor of the State of Indiana. This year the Gary Frontiers Club also will honor Richard Grey, the Post Tribune's North Lake editor and columnist for his outstanding service to the Gary Frontiers Service Club, Inc. in publicizing the Martin Luther King Jr. Marchers and Drum Major Awards. Richard passed away on November 25, 2004 at the age of 53. Mrs. Audrey Grey will accept his award. Ms. Sydney Eastern, a senior at Wirt High School in Gary, Indiana will be honored for receiving first place among all participants in the State of Indiana in the 2005 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest. Ms. Gloria Griffin is Sydney's teacher. Though very different in nature, the achievement of these individuals reflects many of the same attributes that Dr. King possessed, as well as the values he advocated. Like Dr. King, these individuals saw challenges and rose to the occasion. Each one of the honored guests' greatness has been found in their willingness to serve with ``a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.'' They set goals and worked to achieve them. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the Gary Frontiers Service Club President, Mr. Floyd Donaldson, Oliver Gilliam, Melvin Ward, Clorius L. Lay, and all other members of the service club for their initiative, determination and dedication to making Northwest Indiana a better place for all who live and work there.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I congratulate St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church as they join together in the celebration of their 75th anniversary. The festivities will begin on Saturday, January 8, 2005. The parish community of St. Francis will also host a variety of activities throughout the entire year of 2005. In 1882 there were two churches, Catholic and Methodist that existed in Lake Station, Indiana. The first Catholic Church was located at a Way Station on the Stage Line that operated between Michigan and Joliet. It stood on the identical spot which the present church now occupies. The Way Station was listed on railroad bulletins as Lake Station. The Michigan Central Railroad was built from Detroit to Chicago in 1852, and at this time the structure was not known as a parish church but as a chapel. This building was in existence before the railroad. The original bell from the structure was stored when the building was razed and is now still in use at the present church. Father Francis Xavier Guerre was the pastor of St. Mary of the Lake in Miller, Indiana. He was persuaded to start a mission parish in East Gary. Father Guerre founded the mission parish of St. Francis Xavier in 1930, and Bishop John F. Noll dedicated the church in 1931. The name St. Francis Xavier was in honor of Father Guerre's patron saint. The parish continued as a mission until 1941, when Bishop appointed Father Francis Quinn as its resident pastor. In 1950 Father Koors planned for the enlargement of the existing church and the erection of a Parochial School. However, Father Koors needed a written guarantee that nuns would be available to teach in the school. Six orders of nuns were contacted before a written guarantee was received from Mother Emily of the Poor Sisters of St. Francis of Seraph. Mother Emily persuaded her Council to give the necessary written guarantee for the Sisters to teach at St. Francis Xavier. On September 5, 1956, the St. Francis Xavier School was officially opened for classes. The School was dedicated and blessed on November 11, 1956 by Bishop Pursley. In 1984, Father Robert Evers became the Pastor of the St. Francis. Father Evers reopened the ``Center'' and procured the help of the Jesuits to service the Spanish community with week-end and daily masses. When the Jesuits left, liturgies were again celebrated in the main church. Father Evers retired in June 2004 after serving the parish for 20 years. The proud parishioners are thankful for the spiritual and emotional leadership he and the previous pastors have provided during the years. The present church's beautiful interior features sculptured statues of the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, the Infant of Prague, and St. Theresa. The beautiful, dimly-lit interior is illuminated by sunlight through the stained-glass window and dozens of votive candles flicker through ruby and sapphire tinted globes. The present pastor, Reverend J. Anthony Valtierra and his congregation continue to serve the needs of the citizens of Northwest Indiana. By offering service and guidance to others, the members of St. Francis Xavier Church have proven their sincere dedication and motivation for assisting others in need. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating St. Francis Xavier Church on their 75th anniversary. They have provided support and guidance for all those in the community. Their constant dedication and commitment is worthy of the highest commendation.