Peter Visclosky

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate one of the most dedicated and hardworking citizens of the First Congressional District of Indiana, Mr. John Mutka. John has spent the past 40 years of his life working as a sports writer and columnist for the Post Tribune newspaper in Northwest Indiana. He will retire on Monday, November 24, 2003. His career in journalism has allowed him the opportunity to reach out to numerous people, and therefore has made a positive impact within his community. John is an institution in Northwest Indiana, a household name to the thousands of residents who have read his work for the past 40 years. He is also known statewide and nationally for his excellence in sports journalism. This year, John was named Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association. Also this year, he was honored by being inducted into the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters Hall of Fame, and subsequently earned a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Lake County Sportsmanship banquet. John has given his time and efforts generously throughout his career. Along with his many accomplishments, John has also been recognized by the Indiana High School Athletic Association, the Indiana Football Coaches Association, and the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association for his dedication and hard work. Mr. Speaker, John exemplifies the values of all great Hoosiers through his dedication, his work ethic, his loyalty and humility. His continued commitment and devotion to all of Northwest Indiana is worthy of the highest commendation. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating him on his well- deserved retirement, and continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sincerity and enthusiasm that I rise to congratulate Mr. Edward Robinson on his retirement from The Community Hospital in Munster Indiana, where he served as the Hospital Administrator for 37 years. Mr. Robinson has been a substantial fixture of the health care community in Northwest Indiana and he will be greatly missed. Ed Robinson attended the University of Pittsburgh after receiving a highly competitive four-year scholarship from the American Legion. After the completion of his undergraduate college degree he was designated as a Distinguished Military Graduate by the United States Air Force in 1950, when he received his commission. With his commission, Ed served as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years and was stationed in Korea with the Fifth Air Force and was also a staff officer for the personnel at the headquarters of the Eighth Air Force, Strategic Air Command. Knowledge has always been something valued by Ed. He holds a Master's Degree in Hospital Administration from the Graduate School of Public Health of the University of Pittsburgh, as well as a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the same institution. Mr. Robinson was awarded on Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Calumet College in May 1997. Ed's career as a health care professional has been multifaceted and world-renowned. He has been published in numerous professional journals and received first prize in the ``Hospital Topics'' editorial National- wide competition for his thesis on ``Nursing Staffing Pattern in an Intensive Care Unit.'' Ed is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Health in London, England. As a member of the program committee of the Atlantic Economic Conference, an international group, he has presented papers in Paris, Rome, Puerto Rico, Scotland, and Munich on various hospital economic topics. He has been a presenter at numerous seminars with John Goodman and Associates regarding Hospital Based Heart Centers. Nobly, Ed has committed a life of service to Northwest Indiana through his work in the health care community. He has received the Meritorious Service Award from the Munster Board of Trustees and a Special Award for Outstanding Leadership from the Munster Medical Research Foundation. He is also a founding member of the Board of Directors of Community Foundation, Inc. and the President of the Board of Directors of Hospice of the Calumet Area. He has also shared his time with Board of the Northwest Indiana Symphony, as well as serving as Co-Chairman of the Community Veterans Memorial Park in Munster. Mr. Speaker, Ed Robinson will be greatly missed at The Community Hospital by all of those who have served with this caring and compassionate man. At this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Mr. Robinson for an outstanding career, not only in health care, but also in service to his community. Ed's leadership and passion for his career are to be commended, and his professional absence from the Northwest Indiana community will surely be missed.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 313, a measure urging the President to present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, in recognition of his contributions to the causes of freedom, human dignity, and peace, and to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of his inauguration as Bishop of Rome and Supreme Pastor of the Catholic Church. It is with great honor and esteem that I stand here today to pay tribute to Pope John Paul II. The leadership he has displayed during his 25-year tenure as Supreme Pastor of the Roman Catholic Church has 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. 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. At an early age, His Holiness befriended several members of the Jewish community and learned the importance of compassion and understanding. He later became the first Pope to visit a synagogue and the first to visit a memorial in nearby Auschwitz honoring victims of the Holocaust. 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. He served as a chaplain to university students at St. Florian's Church in Krakow until the communist government abolished the theology department in 1954. He continued his studies at the Seminary of Krakow and was hired as a professor at the Catholic University of Lublin, where he founded and operated a facility to assist families with marital problems, ranging from family planning to alcoholism and physical abuse. In 1956, Pope John Paul II was appointed to the Chair of Ethics at Catholic University, and in 1958 he was named the auxiliary bishop of Krakow. 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. His respect 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 spoke out in favor of the Polish Solidarity movement and against 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 repeated this theme when he visited Cuba in January 2003, stating that a government does not the authority to legislate religious beliefs. Mr. Speaker, during his 25 years as pontiff, Pope John Paul II has 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 is a testament to his genuine love for humanity. As a graduate of St. Mark's Catholic School in Gary, Indiana, I am well aware of the significant role that he has played in leading the Catholic Church into the 21st century. His teaching of tolerance and love for thy neighbor has made him worthy of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and that is why I intend to support H. Con. Res. 313.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Matheson).

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Nevada (Ms. Berkley).

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Mr. VISCLOSKY asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I first of all want to as, I always do on these occasions, thank the staff because in the end they are the ones who have done the very hard work. I want to thank Kevin Cook, I want to thank Scott Burnison, I want to thank Dennis Kern, Tracey La Turner, Rob Pace, Kenny Kraft, Rob Nabors, Dixon Butler, Peder Maarbjerg, Leslie Phillips, and I would also like to add my voice of thanks to Bob Schmidt. Bob has done an incredible job as a staff member of the Committee on Appropriations. As a former staffer myself, I truly appreciate the work everyone has done on this bill, and in this case particularly the work of Bob. It is no surprise to me the quality of work he has done since he is a graduate of the University of the Notre Dame. The second set of thank you's goes to the gentleman from Ohio (Chairman Hobson). The gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Hobson) and I serve together on the Subcommittee on Defense. As mentioned, this is his first full round with the energy and water bill, and he has done an exceptional job. He has been completely bipartisan. He has been a gentleman. He has made decisions. Our Department of Energy and our energy policy in the United States of America is better off because of the work the gentleman has done on this bill. I have now served with five chairmen; they have all been very able. They have all done very good work; this is the best bill which has been brought to the floor while I have been a ranking member. Mr. Speaker, on the substance of the bill, I would want to simply say that I think the committee has done a very good job on the nuclear weapons program. On the issue of water infrastructure, we have done our very best. We have added $377 million, and put back into the process 80 programs that were eliminated by the administration under budget requests. Any failings here are not because of lack of effort by the committee. Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to thank the staff that worked to put this bill together, Bob Schmidt, Kevin Cook, Scott Burnison, Dennis Kern, Tracey La Turner, Rob Pace, Kenny Kraft, Peder Maarbjerg, Leslie Phillips, Rob Nabors, and Dixon Butler, all put in countless hours to produce this fine product. I would also like to thank my Chairman, Chairman Hobson, who guided the House priorities through a very tough Conference, and led us to produce a very good bill. He has been one of the best Chairmen I have ever work with, and I look forward to working with him in future years. Now, no bill is perfect Mr. Speaker, but this bill was a product of a truly bipartisan effort. Mark Twain once said that ``Common Sense is not that Common'' but this Conference Report advances some very common sense ideas, and though I don't want to take up much time, I would be remiss if I did not mention a few. In the area of Nuclear Weapons, this Conference Report directs the Dept. of Energy to focus on management of our aging weapons stockpile before moving forward with new concepts and designs. The Report fenced two-thirds of the money going to Advanced Concepts, or weapons research, until DOE produces a Nuclear Weapons Stockpile plan. This plan is needed to better deal with our aging war-heads and to dispose of many of those systems. Due to advances in technology many warheads are no longer practical or feasible with current Department of Defense technology and strategies. In addition, the Conference Report, funds the Modern Pit Facility program and the Robust Nuclear Earth Penetrator (RNEP) or Bunker Buster at, $10M and $7.5M respectively, half of the President's and Senate's Requests in both cases. This is because we should not be looking forward to new weapons until we have a solid plan for the weapons and technology we already have. Mr. Speaker, we should be especially wary of the nuclear waste stored in many sites across this country in this unfortunate time of terrorist threats. The compromise we came to with the other body, funded the Yucca Mountain Repository at it's highest level ever, $580M, and fully supports the submission of the December 2004 license application. I appreciate the Chairman's leadership on this issue. Finally, Mr. Speaker our funding for the Corps of Engineers was the best that we could do within the money provided. Many important projects could not be fully funded, completed, or started. This under- funding was not the fault of the Chairman or this committee, which funded the Corps approximately $377 million over the President's Request and restored approximately 80 ongoing studies that the Administration did not include in their budget. Unfortunately, this Administration, and previous Administrations, in a bipartisan failure, have not made the infrastructure of this country a priority. Currently, the Corps O&M program reflects a high priority backlog of $1 billion and an additional $1.9 billion in unfunded work. Though the conference report added $29 million to the President's request, we are still behind. For on going construction, the backlog was $44 Billion for FY 2002 and $45 billion in FY 2003. The Conference Report added $372 million to the President's request of $1.35 billion to help this situation; this is just a drop in the bucket, and I suspect this backlog will continue to grow in FY 2004. We need to invest in our future, by creating jobs, advancing the efficiency of commerce and transportation, while improving the environmental outlook and quality of life for people in this country. This can all be done through better investment in our domestic infrastructure. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would just for a moment agree with both of my chairs and refer to my opening remarks where, despite our best efforts, we are also on the appropriations side underfunding these programs. I would agree with the chairman of the authorizing committee that I would hope the other body acts sooner rather than later. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, for the past 50 years, the Agriculture Research Service, or ARS as they are better known, has performed indispensable agriculture research across the country, including in the Congressional District I represent. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize ARS in honor of their 50th anniversary as the U.S. Department of Agriculture's main research authority. From improving food safety to protecting crops and livestock, ARS has proved itself invaluable throughout the past 50 years. As the Department of Agriculture's research arm, they have been able to translate their raw data into profitability for farmers and lower costs for consumers. ARS has formed lasting partnerships with Universities throughout the nation, and has done so at Purdue University since 1965 when they released their first nationwide soil erosion-prediction equation. ARS maintains top-notch Crop Production and Pest Control, Livestock Behavior, and National Soil Erosion Laboratory units at Purdue. ARS, in conjunction with Purdue, continues to stay on the leading edge of agricultural research. Just this summer, they released their cutting edge Water Erosion Prediction Project over the Internet with software known as GeoWEPP. From this research station, individuals such as Larry Dunkle, Donald Lay, and Darrell Norton have been able to study the agricultural dynamic of Northwest Indiana. They have all contributed a fundamental service to Northwest Indiana as well as the rest of the state, and their service with the ARS is indeed recognized and deeply appreciated. The agricultural community of Northwest Indiana has counted on their contributions of ARS for 50 years now, and that strong partnership will continue into the future. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me as I congratulate ARS and its researchers on their 50th anniversary by supporting S.J. Res. 22. I would further like to express my gratitude for their service to the agricultural community. Their accomplishments speak volumes, and I thank them for their vital public service.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker it is with great remorse that I rise today to pay tribute to one of Gary, Indiana's most dedicated and caring citizens, Dr. YJean Chambers. YJean passed away on Wednesday, November 12th at Methodist Hospital after a longtime illness. Her efforts as a distinguished educator as well as her numerous contributions to her community are worthy of the highest commendation and recognition. YJean and her family moved to Gary, Indiana from Kentucky when she was a young girl, seeking a better life for themselves. In 1939, she graduated from Gary Roosevelt High School ranking second in her class, and then went on to earn her Bachelor of Education degree from Illinois State University. She also went on to earn her Master of Arts degree from Purdue University, where she received Purdue University's highest award, Doctor of Humane Letters in 1993. YJean knew how important education was to all members of her community and therefore shared her gift of knowledge and enthusiasm for learning by becoming a teacher in Madison, Illinois. After two years she began teaching speech and drama at her alma mater, Gary Roosevelt High School. In 1971, YJean became a full time professor at Purdue Calumet in Hammond, Indiana where she taught communications and was appointed Assistant Professor of Communications in 1973. YJean gave selflessly to her community in so many ways, including being a member of several volunteer and service organizations. She served as President of the Steel City Hall of Fame, sat on the Service Academies Nomination Board, was a member of the Board of Trustees of the Gary Community Schools, and was also a member of the Board of Directors of the Indiana School Board Association. YJean made history in Northwest Indiana by becoming the first African American woman elected to the Northwest Indiana Crime Commission and the first woman to serve on the Advisory Board of the Bank of Indiana. Although she dedicated her life to serving her community, YJean never limited the time she gave to her loving family. She is survived by her husband Mr. Herman Chambers, and their son Lanel. Mr. Speaker, YJean Chambers was a caring and committed woman who gave of herself in so many ways to her community. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in paying tribute to Dr. YJean Chambers, she will be remembered honorably and truly missed.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate and honor one of Northwest Indiana's most caring and dedicated citizens, Mr. Wallace Riley. Wally has served on the Lake Station City Council for 24 years and his many contributions to Northwest Indiana will be recognized on November 30, 2003, during a celebratory event at the Lake Station Veterans of Foreign Wars Facility. Wally began contributing to his community at a young age. In 1947, not long after graduating from Hobart High School in 1944 and working at his mother's grocery store, he began building the Liverpool Paint and Hardware building. Within a year and a half he opened the building for business with his wife, Betty Lou Ele and ran the company for 43 years. Wally also served in Civil Defense for two years, and then was named Civic Defense Director for another two years. In 1948, he joined the Liverpool Volunteer Fire Department as a director, and was then made an honorary fireman of the East Gary (now Lake Station) Fire Department in 1974, and still serves as an active member today. He also donated his garage building to the East Gary Fire Department Battalion for 15 months. Wally has selflessly contributed to Northwest Indiana in many ways including serving as a Democratic Precinct Committeeman for a total of 13 years, as well as directing and sponsoring the building of a new sidewalk in front of Evans School in Lake Station. He also worked with various Lake County Councilmen to pave many local streets, to widen 35th Avenue, and he has participated in many local projects in Lake Station as a volunteer. He joined the East Gary Chamber of Commerce and served as Director, Vice President, and President during his tenure with the organization. Although Wally has served on numerous committees and has donated his time throughout his entire life to his Northwest Indiana Community, he has never neglected to provide support and love for his family. Wally and his wife Betty Lou, have four children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, Wally Riley has given his time and efforts selflessly to his community and has provided leadership and dedication to all of Northwest Indiana. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Mr. Wallace Riley on his outstanding accomplishments throughout his life. His career of service to his community is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I want to join my colleagues in asking all of the House to support this resolution on behalf of a great American, a true Hoosier, and an outstanding public servant, that is, the former Indiana Congressman, Frank McCloskey. Frank devoted his life to serving people, whether it was in the military service of our country, whether it was as a mayor, whether it was as a Member of Congress, or subsequently as a private citizen. He was a man of great passion over those things that mattered to him and those things that mattered to people who could least defend and protect themselves. Frank McCloskey was a noble man engaged in noble work, and he was a man of courage. The gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Hill) mentioned he was courageous to the last breath that he took. He was always courageous in the words he spoke and in the actions he took in the House of Representatives. Frank did come to Congress in 1983, and he served his district with distinction for 12 years. He was passionate about helping working families, their children and their parents. It is also said, and it is certainly true, that Frank was as much at home in the coal mines of southern Indiana as he was in the halls of Congress. Frank authored legislation for children to make sure that companies could not send free samples of drugs or cleaning products through the mail without child safety caps. In 1990, he authored other legislation against deceptive practices. But subsequent to his public service in the United States Congress, he acted most nobly when he took great interest in humanitarian issues worldwide. He was one of the first U.S. public servants to visit Bosnia when it was embroiled in warfare and ethnic cleansing. He successfully brought the suffering to the attention of the American people, our government, and championed humanitarian intervention; and he continued that work throughout his life. In 2002, Frank was named director of the Kosovo Programs for the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, where he taught other leaders from around the globe how to govern democratically. I would close by again reflecting on Mr. McCloskey's courage, courage of his convictions, of his life, and of his commitment to everyone.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct privilege and honor to recognize and congratulate five United States heroes. Mr. Raymond Fary, Mr. Donald Erwin, Mr. Albert Fehlberg, Mr. Adalbert Wszolek, and Mr. Ernest Latta are World War II Army and Army Air Force veterans who risked their lives for the freedom of our great country. These dedicated and brave men will be honored on Sunday, November 2, 2003 at the Salute 2003 Ceremony at Munster High School in Munster, Indiana. Raymond Fary joined the United States Army at Fort Benjamin Harrison on March 23, 1943. Raymond quickly earned his glider badge and participated in the Rhineland, Central Europe, Normandy, and Ardennes campaigns as a Glider Trooper with the 82nd Airborne. He earned many prestigious honors throughout his career including the American Theater Ribbon, Holland and Belgium Fourragere, as well as the Victory Medal, just to name a few. Donald Erwin entered into the United States Army on October 23, 1942 at Camp Atterbury in Indianapolis, Indiana. During his campaigns in New Guinea, Leyte, and the Philippines, Donald served with Company C of the 19th Infantry Division. During his time of service, Donald received the Purple Heart, the Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon with two Battle Stars, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the Good Conduct Medal, as well as many other honorable medals. Albert Fehlberg, on December 1, 1942 also joined the United States Army at Camp Atterbury in Indianapolis, Indiana. Albert's three major campaigns were in North Africa, Salerno-Cassino, and Rome, Italy. Due to his extensive understanding of the German language, he was advanced into the 143rd Infantry. He received the Purple Heart with Four Oak Leaf Clusters, after being wounded five different times during his 15 months in combat. Among his many prestigious awards for his service were the EAME Theater Ribbon and the Bronze Star Medal. Adalbert Wszolek entered into active service on June 9, 1941 in Chicago, Illinois as the bottom ball turret gunner on a B-17 Bomber for the United States Army Air Force. While on his 4th mission in Germany, Adalbert was seriously wounded on June 21, 1944 but continued to fire upon the enemy. His valiant and selfless efforts inspired his crew to join together to return their damaged aircraft to safety. Adalbert received many awards for his bravery and courage including the Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Air Medal, Silver Star Medal, and countless others. Ernie Latta joined the United States Army at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 2, 1940. He was first stationed at Scoffield Barracks in Hawaii during the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was awarded the Silver Star for his brave rescue of one of his comrades as they were heavily under fire. Sergeant Latta received the Asian Pacific Theater Ribbon with three Bronze Stars, the American Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Ribbon, along with many other awards for his courage. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and thanking these five brave men, as well as all the former and current members of the United States military for their courageous and selfless dedication to the American people. These men have put their own lives in danger to protect our way of life, and for that they should be applauded and revered.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased and honored to recognize the valuable services of Mrs. Margaret Willis, as she retires as a director of the Northeast-Midwest Institute. For the past 9 years, Margaret has provided commonsense leadership by arguing effectively for policies that protect the environment and provide valuable comfort and dignity for those who are less fortunate. She has also served as the Northwest- Midwest Institute's treasurer and has been very active on several committees of the organization. Margaret Willis is from Chesterton, IN, and has formerly served as both a member of the Porter County Council, as well as a board member and officer of the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District. While serving as a Democrat County Council member, Margaret was also a liaison to the Porter County Health Board. She has been a true leader within my Northwest Indiana community by serving as an editor of the Chesterton Tribune, as well as several other local community organizations. Before her dedicated work in government service, Margaret was the founder of the Indiana Coalition Against Sexual Assault within her community, which was the first support group in Porter County. She has given her time and efforts selflessly through many generous avenues. She has also served on the Chesterton Adult Learning Center Advisory Board, the Porter County League of Women's Voters, as well as the Porter/LaPorte County AIDS Task Force and the Duneland Sierra Club. Mr. Speaker, I have personally served as vice-chair of the Northeast- Midwest Congressional Coalition. The Institute and Coalition provide many valuable information resources to both Republicans and Democrats. They help to ensure that the region's lawmakers advance Great Lakes restoration, brownfield redevelopment, as well as many other very important environmental issues. I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join with me in congratulating and applauding Margaret Willis for her sincere dedication and guidance to not only the Northeast-Midwest Institute, but for her lifetime of hard work and leadership to all members of her community.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, I will vote for the final supplemental package. However, I do rise to express a number of concerns that I have. This is the largest foreign aid package that any current Member of this Congress has voted for, and I do not believe that it should be left to our children and grandchildren to bear the burden of today's decision. During the Committee on Appropriations markup of this aid package last week, I voted in favor of an amendment offered by the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Obey), the ranking minority member. The gentleman from Wisconsin's (Mr. Obey) amendment would have transferred $4.6 billion from the reconstruction of Iraq to the equipment needs of our brave men and women who are still in harm's way. I would again support this amendment if it were allowed to be offered in the House because I strongly believe that it is our duty and our responsibility to first ensure that every American soldier and military personnel in Iraq has the equipment they need to fight and defend themselves; secondly, that our generation should pay for it, not our children. The gentleman from Wisconsin's (Mr. Obey) amendment would have added additional funds for repairing and replacing equipment used in operations. It would have included funds to allow the Army to increase its number of active-duty troops from the current level of 480,000 to 500,000. These additional troops, enough for one full Army division, after 1 year would help relieve pressure on an already overdeployed active-duty force, but most importantly, the entire $87 billion package would be paid for by canceling the top tax cut rate of 1 percent. The amendment restores the top tax rate to pre-2001 levels of 39.6 percent. It would have placed us in a position of not borrowing money to fight a war today that our children would have to pay for tomorrow.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I wish to congratulate the members of the Crown Point Lions Club as they celebrate their 60th anniversary. To commemorate this special occasion, the Crown Point Lions Club will be having an anniversary banquet on October 18, 2003 at the St. Matthias Hall in Crown Point, Indiana. The Crown Point Lions Club is a part of Lions International, which is the largest service organization in the world and includes over 1.4 million members throughout more than 193 countries. The mission of the Lions Club is ``We Serve,'' and the Crown Point Lions Club has selflessly given their support to the Northwest Indiana community, especially the people of Crown Point, in many ways. The Club has given financial support to 30 local organizations and schools, as well as contributed to seven state, national, and international programs. During Easter and Thanksgiving, the Lions donate food to those in need. They have provided sight and hearing testing machines to many local schools, helped the Crown Point Girls Softball Team get lighting for their field, as well as contributed to the good of the community by providing a Braille computer to a local student who is blind. Throughout the past 60 years, the members of the Crown Point Lions Club have offered their dedication and support to their noble cause of serving their local community. Each year the Lions Club helps many local students obtain hearing aids and eyeglasses. Also each year they give a $1000.00 scholarship to a local student whose educational concentration is in hearing and sight related areas. This year, the Crown Point Lions Club is helping the community build a pavilion at the Lake County Fairgrounds. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating the members of the Crown Point Lions Club on the 60th anniversary of their noble organization. These giving and selfless individuals continue to dedicate their time and unrelenting efforts to serve their local community, as well as all of Northwest Indiana. It is their great desire for helping others that makes their organization and efforts such a motivating force in the First Congressional District, and I am proud to represent them in Washington, D.C.

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 Saturday, October 11, 2003, Sheet Metal Workers Local Union No. 20, formerly also Local No. 303, will honor distinguished members at their 100th Anniversary Open House and Awards Banquet at the Local Gary Area Training Facility in Portage, Indiana. These individuals will be recognized for their many years of dedication and service to Northwest Indiana with 25-year and 40-year pins. The 2003 Sheet Metal Workers Apprentice Graduates will also be honored at this special event. The Sheet Metal Workers will celebrate tenures ranging from 25 years to 40 years of service. The member being honored for 40 years of commited service is Mr. Walter Biser. Members being honored for 25 years of service include: Mr. Larry Alumbaugh, Mr. Lon Baczkowski, Mr. John Camplan, Mr. Elmer Dellenbach, Jr., Mr. Frank Duffy, Mr. Phillip Felling, Mr. Jeffrey Fitzgerald, Mr. Mark Fusak, Mr. Wyleania Gaither, Mr. Donald Hammond, Mr. Robert Hostinsky, Mr. Mark Katona, Mr. Ronald Kersey, Mr. Jay Kimmel, Sr., Mr. Philip Lukasik, Mr. Steven Nelson, Mr. David Nolbertowicz, Mr. Bruce Pollock, Mr. Mark Remlinger, Mr. Jack Rizzo, Mr. Dalia Salina, Mr. James Salmi, Mr. David Thomas, Mr. Timothy Weaver, and Mr. Walton Woodard. The Sheet Metal Workers will also be recognizing and honoring the 2003 Apprentice Graduates. These individuals are Mr. Robert Alvarez, III, Mr. Jared Benavides, Mr. Richard Blackmon, Mr. Sam Bodish, Mr. Aaron Burkhart, Mr. Steve Claussen, Mr. Dave Finnerty, Mr. Jeff Fryar, Mr. Terence Henney, Jr., Mr. Shaun Janis, Mr. Jason Johnson, Mr. Mike King, Mr. Richard Kvarta, Mr. Brian Meeks, Mr. Jeff Myres, Mr. Dave Polen, Mr. Jason Reis, Mr. Todd Ribar, Mr. Jesse Rippe, Mr. Mark Robbins, Mr. Josh Skalba, Mr. Art Stahl, Mr. Eric Sczcudlak, Mr. Chris Truman, Mr. Tim Vandermeer, Mr. Robert Vigland, and Mr. John Worline. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these hardworking and honorable members of the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union No. 20. These individuals, along with all the other men and women of Northwest Indiana's unions, have contributed to the growth and development to the economy of the First Congressional District, and I am very proud to fight for and honor them in Washington, D.C.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, It is with great remorse that I rise today to pay tribute to Porter County Commissioner Larry Sheets, a special friend, a mentor and a very decent man. Larry passed away late Saturday evening at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago from a pulmonary infection acquired after undergoing a stem cell replacement to prevent the return of his leukemia. I knew Larry Sheets for many years and considered him a close personal friend. He was a good man with a good heart. Larry was a man of true and outstanding character who loved his family, was loyal to his friends and was dedicated to making the lives of people he had never met better through politics. In all my years of association with him, I never once saw him do something that was mean or petty. He was a conciliator and a man of political courage. I always saw him place the public good before anything else when a decision had to be made. During an age of cynicism about those in public life, this alone is truly remarkable. This has been a heartbreaking moment for all of us in Northwest Indiana, as Larry served Porter County very ably as a public official for 17 years. He was a fine public servant, a man who sincerely cared about his constituents, his fellow citizens and his civic responsibilities. Larry retired in 1999 after 34 years as a steel worker at Bethlehem Steel's Burns Harbor Plant and in 1982 won his first election as a Porter County Commissioner. In the early 1980s, while working for the late Congressman Adam Benjamin, Jr., I had the privilege of first meeting Larry Sheets. Later, during my first bid for Congress in 1983, Larry was the first and one of only a few public officials to endorse me. At the time I was ``nobody.'' Larry made me ``somebody.'' Our friendship was extended to a shared passion. Along with my father, Larry, Bill Wallace and I would spend many fall Saturdays together in South Bend, Indiana, watching the Fighting Irish play football. Although his work with the community put extraordinary demands on his time, Larry never limited the time he gave to his most important interest, his family. He and his gracious wife, Paula, have two terrific children: Amber and Larry Jr. Mr. Speaker and my other distinguished colleagues, Larry Sheets was a wonderful man. We are going to miss him in Northwest Indiana. He represented the epitome of what a dedicated public servant should be, but seldom is, and for that he will always be remembered.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration and respect that I offer congratulations to some of Northwest Indiana's most dedicated and talented workers. On Friday, September 26, 2003, the Millwright Local 1043 of Burns Harbor, Indiana will honor special members at their Annual Retirement and Awards Banquet at the Avalon Manor in Hobart, Indiana. Devoted to their hard work and dedication, these individuals will be recognized for their many years of service to their union. Members who have served for 20 years or more will be honored, as well as the 2003 retirees. Millwright Apprentice Graduates will also be recognized at this gala event. Finally, the ceremony will include special recognition of members who have passed away in 2003. Local 1043, led by President Bruce Wright, will celebrate tenures ranging from 20 years to 55 years of service. Those members being honored for 55 years of service include: Nick Christoff, Joseph Drasich, and Steve Kicho. Millwrights who will be honored for 50 years of service include: Whitney Duhon, Robert Erickson, and Alfred N. Salvesen. Members of Local 1043 who will be honored for 45 years of service include: John Cisarik, Archie Fisher, Joe Williams, and Paul D. Maness. Those who will be honored for 40 years of service include: James L. Geer, John Pegg, and Herbert E. Sprinkle. Millwrights honored for 35 years of service include: Dona Banks and Carl Dean Robinson. Those who will be honored for 30 years of service include: Randy Ames, Jerome Bielak, Gary Talcott, Dionisio Trinidad, Louis A. Vendramin, John Vintila, David B. Whitaker, and John Zavalydriga. Local 1043 members who will be honored for 25 years of service include: Michael Adams, Greg Allen, Terrill Crase, Steven J. Kime, Mark Liston, Monie Parker, Jon R. Smith, Houston L. Stevens, and John Wardell. Finally, those Millwrights being honored for 20 years of service include: Jay Beere, Jay Childress, Jeffery Ludvigson, John E. Naccarato, Paul Pasley, and John Williams. Local 1043 will also be recognizing and honoring dedicated members who are 2003 retirees. These members include: Jerry Forcht, Fred Miller, Rick Pierce, Gerald Purevich, Sr., and Kenneth Rippe. The Apprentice Graduates of Millwright Local 1043 will be acknowledged for their hard work and dedication. These individuals are Ryan M. Davis, Frank A. Hines, Thomas J. Hoeckelberg, Rodney L. Hyatt, Jon P. St. Myer, Gary E. Torbeson, Jr., Mark A. Tuszynski, and Vanessa Vlach. There will also be special recognition in memory of members who have passed away in 2003. These members include: Frank Kark, Lawrence Ray, Donald Janisch, William Kollada, James Dowdy, Thomas Stewart, and Tony Vrbancic. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these dedicated, hard-working, and honorable members of Millwrights Local 1043 in Burns Harbor, Indiana. They, along with all the other men and women of the Northwest Indian unions, represent the true backbone of our economic community. Their commitment and loyalty to the First Congressional District is worthy of the highest commendation and respect.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and enthusiasm that I congratulate St. John the Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana, as they celebrate their 85th anniversary. They will be celebrating this special event on September 28, 2003, with a morning mass, a candlelight service in the afternoon, followed by a dinner in the evening honoring long time members with awards and recognition. St. John the Baptist Church was first organized on July 10, 1918, by Reverend J. R. Butler. Over the many years of St. John's history, there have been many influential pastors that have led the congregation in faith and spiritual growth. Some of these inspirational pastors were Reverend A. J. Allen, Reverend T. L. Ballou, Reverend Leon Davis, Reverend Ivor Moore, Reverend Julius James, and the current pastor, Reverend Raymond McDonald, II. It was during the 38th year of St. John's service to the Northwest Indiana community, and under the pastorate of Reverend Julius James, that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made his first visit to Gary, Indiana. It was also during this time that St. John's began its 144 unit non- for-profit housing development, St. John Homes, which supported fair employment and housing in Gary. Pastor James is most remembered and revered for his implementation of the Ecumenical Celebration, which honors the lifetime legacy and goodwill of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Reverend McDonald has continued this celebration and legacy. Reverend McDonald, along with his parishioners, has given selflessly to the citizens of Gary by actively pursuing the church's mission of ``Serving People Between Sundays'' through a variety of community outreach programs. Some of these programs include weekly feeding programs where thousands of people are given nourishment, the Community Anchor's Program which helps form future leaders through after school programs, and the Golden Eagles Seniors' Program which fosters community involvement by senior citizens of Northwest Indiana. Reverend McDonald and his congregation continue their vision for a new church building in the hope to even better serve the needs of the citizens of Gary and all of Northwest Indiana. By offering service and guidance to others, the members of St. John the Baptist 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. John the Baptist Church of Gary, Indiana on their 85h anniversary. They deserve the highest commendation for their devotion and commitment to all the citizens of the First Congressional District of Indiana.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest honor and pride that I congratulate the St. Joseph's Carmelite Home for Girls in East Chicago, Indiana as they celebrate their 90th anniversary. On September 27, 2003, the women of St. Joseph's and other community members will gather together for a reunion of gratitude and friendship during their 90th Jubilee Celebration. In 1913, the vision of St. Joseph's Carmelite Home for Girls became a reality when Mother Mary Theresa of St. Joseph was granted permission from Bishop Herman Alerding to actively work with the poor children of Lake County. It was the generous donation of two small frame houses by Mr. Walter Riley, chairman of the First National Bank in East Chicago that brought the home to life. The two small houses became homes to some seventy children and at the time both boys and girls lived in the homes. St. Joseph's Carmelite Home for Girls began as an orphanage, grew to a group home, and today provides residential treatment to many Northwest Indiana girls. It was in 2001 that the doors of the Holy Innocents Center and Emergency Shelter opened to newborns, infants, toddlers, as well as young children in need. Sister Maria Giuseppe, the home's administrator, along with six nuns, four postulants, and 45 lay people, give support, guidance, and comfort to over 50 young girls who are now in residence at the home. Their selfless dedication to the girls in the home, as well as all the citizens of East Chicago, is an outstanding model for all Americans. With my father Mr. John Visclosky as a former member of the Carmelite Home's board of directors, I know firsthand the importance of St. Joseph's Carmelite Home for Girls to the Northwest Indiana community. The generosity and love that the St. Joseph Carmelite Home provides for its residents is remarkably selfless and giving and deserves the highest recognition. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating St. Joseph's Carmelite Home for Girls as they celebrate their 90th anniversary. Their sincere commitment to the children of East Chicago and all of Northwest Indiana is worthy of the highest gratitude and admiration. I am truly honored to represent such exceptional and giving citizens in Congress.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, it is with genuine sadness and a very heavy heart that I rise today in support of the resolution in honor of Indiana Governor Frank O'Bannon. Governor O'Bannon, as was mentioned, tragically passed away this past Saturday. I also want to extend my deepest sympathy, prayers and offer of assistance to Governor O'Bannon's wife Judy and their children and family. One of the finest opportunities my career in politics has given me is meeting, working with and becoming friends with Frank O'Bannon. Frank was one of the most gentle men, one of the most decent men and one of the kindest individuals I have ever, ever met in my life. He is a man who could have been successful at any pursuit in life. He chose a life of public service because it was a life he could give to others. Except for his love for Judy and their children and their family, nothing was more important to Governor O'Bannon. His commitment to the future in children was foremost as far as his administration. And because Frank O'Bannon always knew who he was, he allowed his quiet demeanor and gentle nature to mask his inherent strength and ability to make very hard and very tough decisions for the good of all of the citizens of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, a number of my colleagues have mentioned anecdotes and we all deal with individuals on a personal level, and I would add my two. Many years ago when Frank O'Bannon was first campaigning for Governor, I was at St. Mary's Orthodox Church hall in Gary, Indiana, at a political rally. Someone came in and said my father had fallen on the ice and snow outside. I go outside, Dad was perfectly fine, but there was Frank O'Bannon because he was near my father. There was nothing more important to Frank at that moment in time and if it took all night he was going to make sure he was up, he was fine, he was cleaned off and he got in that hall, no matter what his other demands were. The other continuing recollection I have is I tried not to impose upon the Governor's good nature or offices very often but whenever I called for assistance, he never said he would do it. He never said yes. He always said, ``I'll see what I can do.'' And invariably the problem was solved, someone was helped or the State of Indiana moved ahead because you knew he was always going to do his best. Frank O'Bannon was a good, good man. We are all going to miss him not only in our State but in this great country.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I congratulate and recognize the Northwest Indiana Alliance Basketball Team on winning the national title for the 9th grade category at the United States Specialty Sports Association Nationals in Fort Wayne, Indiana on August 3, 2003. The tournament began on July 30, 2003 and ended with the Alliance's outstanding victory against the Illinois Wildcats on August 3rd. The Northwest Indiana Alliance is made up of seven high school sophomores and two freshmen from across Northwest Indiana, along with their coach Mr. Jim Van Weelden. With their collaborated efforts, they achieved victories over other teams from Illinois, Michigan, Ohio. and other states across the nation. With an outstanding record throughout multiple tournaments, the Alliance completed their highly successful season with 34 victories and 17 losses, 16 of those by ten points or less. Mr. Aric Van Weelden, a sophomore at Munster High School, has been a member of the Junior Varsity team for Munster since his freshman year. Two other Alliance members, Mr. Scott Rutkowski and Mr. Jeff Marinier, were also members of the Munster High School Junior Varsity Basketball Team as freshmen. Mr. Andrew Helmer, from Highland High School, plays three different sports for his high school including football, basketball, and baseball. All four of these great athletes from Northwest Indiana became leaders for the Alliance team by averaging 12 to 15 points each per game. Mr. Nate Triezenberg, a resident of Highland, is a freshman at Illiana Christian High School, and is recognized by his teammates for his positive attitude and strong will. Mr. Nick Ullman just completed his freshman year at Andrean High School in Merrillville last spring, and is now a sophomore at Crown Point High School. Another Alliance member that plays many different sports at his high school is Mr. Derek Moser, who plays football, basketball, and baseball for Highland High School. The remaining two members of the Northwest Indiana Alliance are Mr. Mike Bizoukas and Mr. Nick Stolarz from Munster High School. Mike recently completed his 8th grade year at Wilbur Wright Middle School, and is now a freshman at Munster High School. Nick, as a freshman, played on the Junior Varsity team, and is now a sophomore at Munster High School. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating the Northwest Indiana Alliance Basketball Team for their outstanding championship victory at the United States Specialty Sports Association Nationals. Their hard work and dedication is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of the Hammond Public Library throughout its 100 years of service to the Northwest Indiana community. As the citizens of Hammond and all of Northwest Indiana celebrate the centennial of the Hammond Library, we are reminded of the dedication and valiant efforts that have been made to incorporate education and community leadership to the region. It was in 1903 that the first library board of Hammond was appointed. This board included Dr. W.F. Howat as the first president, Mr. J.G. lbach as the vice president, as well as many other distinguished appointed members. In 1904, the first library was moved into its own room in the Chicago Telephone Building. Mr. Andrew Carnegie, who at the time was contributing to the funding of public libraries across the nation, donated $27,000 to construct a new building for the library. On July 8, 1905, the library dubbed "Old Main," was dedicated as the first fully constructed library building in the area and it served the community well for 62 years. In 1910, the first branch office was established in a room above a fire station, and it was known as Branch No. 1. Three more branches were established in the next 12 years and the library deposited many collections of books in local department stores, the State Bank of Hammond, and also in private homes. Throughout the years, additional branches were opened to provide books and a community gathering space for the citizens of Hammond. The Hansen Branch was named after the first librarian of the Hammond Public Library, Ms. Marie Hansen. The branches continued to be named after influential leaders that helped make the dream of the library a reality. After a time of change in the community and lack of resources, some branches were forced to close. But because of the city's strong encouragement and need for the library, they renovated the main library, as well as other branches. No matter what challenges face the community, the Hammond Public Library continues to provide many important resources for the community including books, classes, summer reading programs for children, and many community outreach programs. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Hammond Public Library as well as its staff and community leaders on their 100th anniversary. Their many great accomplishments and service to the Hammond community will forever be cherished and commended.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I wish to congratulate Mr. Hank Stram on his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Hank Stram's path to football greatness began many years ago when he was an athletic standout at Lew Wallace High School in Gary, Indiana earning all-state honors as halfback. On Sunday, August 3, 2003, Hank Stram received the ultimate honor with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. After graduating from Lew Wallace High School, Stram attended Purdue University on a football scholarship. He earned four letters in baseball and three in football for the Boilermakers. His collegiate career was interrupted for three years of military service in World War II. During his senior year at Purdue, Stram received the coveted Big Ten Medal that is awarded to the conference athlete who best combines athletics with academics. Immediately upon graduation in 1948, Stram joined Purdue's football coaching staff. He served 12 years as an assistant on the collegiate level, with stops at Southern Methodist, Notre Dame and Miami (Florida). In 1960 he was named head coach of the Dallas Texans in the new American Football League. The rest is history. Stram guided the Texans to the AFL championship in 1962 and the team then moved to Kansas City and became the Chiefs. In Kansas City, Stram led the Chiefs to the 1966 and 1969 AFL Championships. His 1966 Kansas City team played in the first Super Bowl, losing to the Green Bay Packers. The highlight of Stram's illustrious coaching career came on January 11, 1970, when the Chiefs defeated the Minnesota Vikings, 23-7, in Super Bowl IV. He also led the Chiefs to playoff appearances in 1968 and 1971. Strarn coached 17 years in professional football and had a career won-lost-tied record of 136-100-10. His victory total is 11th on the all-time NFL coaches list. He finished his career with 2 seasons, 1976 and 1977, as head coach of the New Orleans Saints. Hank Stram was known by his players and colleagues as being a truly innovative coach with ideas that inspired and motivated his players and all those who had the opportunity to work with him throughout his career. At the age of 80, Stram continues to provide motivation for area athletes. Every year, the Silver Bell Club, Lodge 2365 of the Polish National Alliance of the United Slates, hosts its Hank Stram-- Tony Zale Sports Award Banquet to honor young athletes in Northwest Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending and applauding Hank Stram, a true sports hero who has achieved greatness. His lifetime of devotion to his players, fans, and family will truly be celebrated and remembered.