Jim Walsh

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Jeff Miller) one of our newer Members. We are delighted to have him with us today.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from Florida (Mr. Weldon).

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Watkins).

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young), the distinguished chairman of the Committee on Appropriations.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I also rise in support of H. Con. Res. 243 sponsored by Congressman Joseph Crowley. My wife DeDe and I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Congressman Crowley and his family for the tragic loss of his cousin, John Moran, a Battalion Chief in the New York Fire Department, who died during the attacks on the World Trade Center. Since September 11 we have listened to a myriad of accounts focusing on courageous men and woman, often referred to as ``guardian angels'' who lost their lives during sheer acts of bravery at the World Trade Center and Pentagon. We have continued to watch firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency assistance personnel work around the clock as they tirelessly assist in the rescue and recovery efforts. We have been able to listen and focus on these heroes who have put their lives first and have displayed true loyalty and dedication to their role as emergency leaders. The Medal of Valor is a symbol of our country's appreciation to all of those who have served over and beyond their basic duty and have helped us to rise from this great challenge. This medal ensures that these acts of courage on and after September 11 will never be forgotten. Their endurance and bravery has given us the unconditional strength to move forward and to focus on the positive energy that so many role models have displayed during these tragic times. Whether it be those who lost their lives or those who continue to assist in recovery projects, we have been able to look up to these heroes who have motivated us to reach out and unite.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Madam Speaker, I also rise in support of this resolution sponsored by Congressmen Engel and Watts, that expresses our profound sorrow for the senseless loss of life and injuries suffered by our heroic first responders as a result of the World Trade Center, Pentagon, and Pennsylvania tragedies on Tuesday, September 11, 2001. My prayers, thoughts and deepest sympathies are with their families and loved ones at this definitive moment in American history. Tocqueville once said of Americans, ``They show with complacency how an enlightened regard for themselves constantly prompts them to assist one another and inclines their willingness to sacrifice a portion of their time and property to the welfare of the state.'' These words describe the 300 firefighters and 70 police officers that have died in this senseless tragedy. Their names are forever inscribed on the portals of fame. America now truly understands how much we as a nation owe these heroic people, both those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and those who continue to serve with honor day in and day out. God help us always to have these men and women who believe in what they are doing and who will fight to the very end for what they believe. This resolution also speaks to the unity of public safety officers. There is an old saying in the fire service that goes, ``Firemen are a brotherhood. They do not care what department a man belongs, if he is a fireman enrolled for the same purpose, fighting under the same banner, they are ready to extend the hand of fellowship.'' This is true literally and figuratively. Literally, there are many families who serve together as firefighters and police officers or both in New York City. Currently, they are working to help recover their figurative brothers and sisters. This figurative bond was also evident with the outpouring of help that came into the New York City, and Virginia from around the country and the world. So much help, that some of it had to be turned away. The literal and figurative unity is stronger than ever as a result of the attacks on our country. When I visited the Pentagon and ``Ground Zero'' with President Bush in New York, I saw first hand the destruction and the tireless rescue efforts underway. I thought to myself, ``why do these people, the firefighters and police officers, do what they do?'' I soon recalled a book I had read in the 1970's by Dennis Smith, a retired New York City fireman and founder of Firehouse Magazine who also assisted in the rescue efforts. In his classic book ``Report from Engine Co. 82'', an account of his life on a South Bronx fireman, Smith said after recovering a victim who had perished in a fire, ``I don't say anything further, nor does Billy, as I look up to his eyes. They are almost fully closed, but I can see they are wet and teary. The corneas are red from heat and smoke, and light reflects from the watered surface, and they sparkle. I wish my wife, my mother, and everyone who has ever asked me why I do what I do, could see the humanity, the sympathy, the sadness of these eyes, because this is the reason I continue to be a firefighter.'' America saw this same scene played out time and time again on September 11th and the following days. As a result, we as a nation can start to understand why they continuously sacrifice their lives and pay them a long overdue thank you. We thank them, we praise them, and we will never forget them. God bless these heroes, their families and God bless America.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 20th anniversary of the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) in Syracuse, New York. What began as a vision of the National Council of Jewish Women Greater Syracuse Section, the Junior League of Syracuse, and the Technology Club, now exists as a permanent fixture for all to visit and enjoy. Dedicated to the exploration of science and technology through hands on participation, the MOST today boasts hundreds of exhibits, a domed IMAX theater, and a planetarium. During the past twenty years, the museum has welcomed more than two million visitors, provided educational programming for thousands of children, and encouraged individuals to pursue careers in science and technological fields. The MOST has enabled the Central New York community to embrace learning through its innovative science fairs, educational workshops, and collaborative efforts. Residents of Central New York and beyond can rest assured that by supporting the MOST, its vision to dispense knowledge and understanding will continue well into the future. On the occasion of its 20th anniversary to be celebrated on Thursday, November 15th, it is my honor to recognize the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology and extend best wishes for many more successful years of providing knowledge to the youth and families of Central New York. Congratulations.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 100th anniversary of SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Auburn, NY. The congregation gathered to recognize this important milestone during a Centennial Jubilee celebration on Sunday, September 30, 2001. It was during the pontificate of Pope St. Pius X that the first Ukrainian Catholic Bishop was appointed in the United States. An occasion such as the Centennial Jubilee was an appropriate time for the parish to reaffirm their loyalty to the currently reigning Pope Paul VI. Many Ukrainian Catholic priests served the Parish during the past 100 years as visitors, pastors/administrators, assistant pastors, missionaries, and substitutes. There were also many parochial projects that the pastors directed throughout the years. This celebration was a time for reflecting on the love and dedication by members of the parish. Gratitude was given to those who devoted time and effort toward the well-being of the parish and also those who used their talents in special fields for the benefit of the parish. On the occasion of its 100th anniversary, it is my honor to recognize the people of SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church and to extend best wishes for many more successful years of faith-based ministry to follow.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to serving our nation, the 25th District of New York, Cayuga County, and the city of Auburn. From the day he enlisted in the U.S. Army, until today, as he steps down as Judge of Cayuga County Surrogate Court, he has exemplified nothing but dedication to our country and local community. I am honored to congratulate and thank the Honorable Robert A. Contiguglia for his ongoing support and devotion to our community. Throughout his distinguished career, Judge Contiguglia has embraced several leadership roles with spirit and loyalty. He has served as Chairman of the city of Auburn Zoning Board, Cayuga County Supervisor, Chairman of Cayuga County Legislature, Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York, and Assistant Attorney General for the State of New York. He has been an attorney for 45 years and practiced law with his father Anthony J. and brother Louis. Today we celebrate Judge Contiguglia's lifetime of achievements to express our gratitude for his 23 years of service on the Cayuga County Surrogate Court bench. On behalf of the people of the 25th District of New York, I am honored to congratulate Judge Contiguglia for his well- deserved retirement from public life, and thank him for his years of service to Central New York. We wish him and his family the very best.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I also rise in support of H. Res. 247 sponsored by Representative Ehrlich that recongnizes the outstanding contributions Cal Ripken, Jr. has made both on and off the baseball field. He is an American icon symbolizing integrity, team spirit, and discipline, and has exemplified true leadership throughout his twenty- one season baseball career. Since 1978, Mr. Ripkin has been honored with several prestigious awards including Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player, Golden Glove, Lou Gehrig Award, and Most Valuable Oriole. Baseball's ``Ironman'' has broken several significant American and personal records such as ending a 2632 consecutive games-played winning streak in 1998, scoring his 400th home run in 1999, and hitting his 3000th career hit in 2000. These moments will never be forgotten. His greatest contribution has been the ability to take this success off the diamond and outside the walls of Memorial Stadium and Camden Yards by contributing significant time and energy towards various charitable organizations within the greater Baltimore area. Along with his wife, Kelly, he established the Kelly and Cal Ripken, Jr. Foundation which supports adult and family literacy, youth recreational, and health-related programs. They have also been greatly involved in the Baltimore Reads Ripken Learning Center and other organizations within the area. I was fortunate enough to be able to attend opening day in Baltimore this season, and saw firsthand the all star abilities of this great baseball player. Cal Ripken is a winner in every sense of the word and his contribution to our national pastime will live in the minds of fans forever. He deserves the nation's recognition today. He is truly a living legend.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. I yield to the gentleman from Texas.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, my amendment is very simple. It requires the Secretary of Agriculture to study the direct and indirect impacts of the various elements of our Nation's dairy policy, including an examination of its effects on farm price stability, farm profitability and viability, and local rural economics. Earlier the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Sherwood) offered an amendment that would have allowed States to join together in regional- based State cooperations to develop a promising solution to the continuing dairy crisis, all at no cost to the government. Considering the level of interest and support for developing policy that protects both farmers and consumers, I believe it is useful to study the many existing and proposed dairy policies. The result of my amendment would be a comprehensive economic evaluation of programs such as the Federal milk market orders, Federal milk price supports, export programs and over-order premiums and pricing programs. The study would also require an examination of the dairy compacts, similar to those included in the amendment offered today by the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Sherwood). I strongly believe that the action of 25 States, and a sound, proven record, is enough for this Congress to base and set policy on, but there are still Members who need more evidence. Therefore, I am confident that a study will help this body recognize the value of regionally based solutions to the continuing national dairy crisis. Mr. Chairman, I urge support of the amendment.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding and for speaking in favor of the Northeast Dairy Compact. I rise today also in support of the compact for a number of reasons. As I stand here today, approximately 11 years after offering my first amendment as a Member of Congress to the 1990 Farm Bill, a dairy provision, I never envisioned that it would be this difficult to get a vote on an issue of such great importance to the farmers not only of my district, but throughout the country. As many of my colleagues wait in anticipation of an up-or-down vote on the extension and expansion of the Northeast Dairy Compact, I recall it has been almost 2 years now since I stood in this Chamber and announced my opposition to the agriculture appropriations bill, a committee of which I am a member. At the same time, we had assurances all the way along through subcommittee, full committee, and then going into conference, that we would be able to address the dairy issue; but unfortunately, that was denied us also. In fact, the conference never actually concluded its work. We did not even have the opportunity to offer amendments or to debate these critical issues. As the gentleman from Pennsylvania pointed out, I did offer an amendment in the 2002 Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee but withdrew it at the request of the chairman of the subcommittee, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Bonilla), in hopes of getting consideration of the bill in the Committee on the Judiciary. The Committee on the Judiciary has objected to this amendment and have claimed jurisdiction, and they have said it is not germane. If it is the responsibility of the Committee on the Judiciary, why do they offer to hold no hearings? Why did they propose no legislation? Why did they let the clock run out? Why did they let the clock run out not only on the dairy compact, but on thousands of farmers all over the country? The clock is also running out on my New York dairy farmers. In just 5 years, we have gone from 10,000 to just over 7,000 dairy farms. As many of my colleagues will point out today, dairy compacts are the best available safety net for producers of class 1 drinking milk. They are governed by a commission of consumers and processors and farmers to ensure a fresh local supply and a fair price. I think the biggest benefit of compacts is they do not cost the taxpayer one single dollar. Payments come from the milk market, they are countercyclical, and are made to farmers only when the prices fall below the marketing order price. We should recognize the initiative of 25 States who voted to authorize dairy compacts for their farmers and for their consumers at no expense to the Federal Government. We should embrace their reactions and continue a program that returned $140 million in over-order payments since its inception to farmers in the Northeast. Many factors cause farmers to go out of business, including health, lack of interested parties to continue the business, nonstop work schedule, or land development opportunities. By providing a more livable income, the compact addresses one factor, among many others, that encourages farmers to keep farming. For farmers able, willing, and interested in continuing dairy farming, compacts provide a reliable source of assistance. This is critical as dairy farmers are key components to the survival of our rural communities. Again, I want to thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Sherwood) and the rest of the forces on this Congress from across the country who have risen to support the dairy compact.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Madam Speaker, as an original co-sponsor of this legislation, I also rise in support of H.J. Res. 42 sponsored by Congressman Castle, which requires each year, the American flags on all Federal office buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service in Emittsburg, Maryland. This modest tribute to our nation's fallen heroes is long overdue. Roughly 1.2 million men and women serve our country as fire and emergency personnel and, on average, 100 firefighters sacrifice their lives each year. This year has been especially troubling for the fire service with 343 firefighters confirmed missing or dead as a result of the tragic events that unfolded on September 11th in New York City. It has also been a troubling year in Upstate New York as well. In my own Congressional district we lost Maine Firefighter Joe Vargason, who was killed by a drunk driver as he directed traffic at a car fire. Firefighter Vargason had honorably served the Maine community for 22 years prior to his death. Just last week, 19 year old Lairdsville Firefighter Bradley Golden perished during a ``live-burn'' training exercise in Oneida County, New York in Congressman Boehlert's district. These tragedies remind us all how dangerous the fire fighting profession truly is. Answering 16 million calls a year firefighters young and old, experienced or rookies, are always in harms way. They put their lives' on the line every call to ensure our nation's safety. The many sacrifices firefighters make remind me of the Baker Fireman's Fountain located in Owego, NY. The fountain was given to the Village of Owego and its firefighters in 1914 by Frank M. Baker as a memorial to his son, George Hobart Baker, who was killed in an automobile accident in 1913. Both men had been members and chief engineers of the Owego Fire Department. This fountain has become a symbol of Tioga County. The fountain depicts a firefighter holding a young baby at a fire scene demonstrating the strength, devotion, and unselfish caring that is a part of all firefighters. It is standing testament to the courage and honor of these brave men and women who are willing to pay the ultimate price for us every time they are called to duty. Much like the Baker Fireman's Fountain, H.J. Res. 42 will also honor the men and women who are firefighters. Lowering the flag to half-staff each year is a fitting tribute to our nation's heroes. We as a nation are forever in their debt.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Madam Speaker, I also rise in support of House Resolution 198 sponsored by Representative Susan Davis honoring Tony Gwynn for his numerous achievements to baseball and his community. Tony Gwynn has a career batting average of .338 placing him 15th on the all-time leaders list. This amazing feat puts him in company with great Hall of Fame players like Ty Cobb, Rogers Hornsby and Tris Speaker. In fact, he is second, only to Ted Williams amongst players in the Major League after the Second World War. Gwynn's consistent hitting rewarded him with eight Silver Bats for the eight batting titles he has won. Four of these titles came consecutively in the years of 1994-1997. Gwynn is a 16-time all-star with 3,127 career hits and is seventeenth on the all-time list behind such greats as Hank Aaron and Stan Musial. Gwynn achieved the 3,000 hit milestone faster than all but two players: Ty Cobb and Nap Lajoie. Gwynn's success has not been limited to offense. His incredible defense has earned him five Golden Glove awards in his career. Gwynn is among the all-time San Diego Padres careers leaders. He is first in batting average, hits, runs batted in and runs. Throughout his career Gwynn's sportsmanship has placed him on a highly respectable list of players that consistently conduct themselves with great dignity. By staying with the Padres, Gwynn has given his fans a consistent and stable hero. Gwynn, though, is a hero off the field as well. Despite his reluctance to speak on his numerous community service activities, they continue to emerge as amazing acts of selflessness. Gwynn is the first to help out with local baseball clinics for youngsters. He is the principal force behind the Padres' scholarship program. Gwynn's foundation actively serves the needs of physically and sexually-abused children. Tony and his wife, Alicia, also routinely open their home to troubled youth and have paid for numerous funerals for victims of gang violence. Madam Speaker, I believe Tony Gwynn is fully deserving of the honor of this resolution.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the bill (H.R. 2620) making appropriations for the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and for sundry independent agencies, boards, commissions, corporations, and offices for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2002, and for other purposes, with a Senate amendment thereto, disagree to the Senate amendment, and agree to the conference asked by the Senate.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the bill (H.R. 2217) making appropriations for the Department of the Interior and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2002, and for other purposes, with a Senate amendment thereto, disagree to the Senate amendment, and agree to the conference asked by the Senate.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the bill (H.R. 2311) making appropriations for energy and water development for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2002, and for other purposes, with a Senate amendment thereto, disagree to the Senate amendment, and agree to the conference asked by the Senate.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, it has often been said that America is great because it is good. This bill exemplifies the goodness of our Nation. I would like to begin by thanking the President of the United States who has been a pillar of strength throughout this incredible period of time. When I watched him yesterday, I saw tears welling up in his eyes. I saw his chin quiver. All of us have felt that since this incident occurred. But at the same time it was a velvet surface on a solid steel interior, and I think that is the way everyone has approached this tragedy. I am so proud of this Nation. I am so proud of my colleagues here in the Congress. The way people came together to resolve this, partisanship aside, bicameral differences aside, would make this country and should make this country proud. The generosity of the American people is reflected in its representation here in the Congress, and this bill is the epitome of that generosity, $40 billion. But the point is the first thing the President said to the mayor and to the Governor of New York was, ``Whatever it takes.'' When I spoke with Chairman Young, he said, ``We're going to provide whatever it takes.'' Ranking Member Obey, ``Whatever it takes.'' There was no issue of money anywhere along the line. I want to express my gratitude to them. Yesterday, I had the occasion to visit the Pentagon and to see the courage and bravery and the professional demeanor of the men and women who are working there. It inspires great strength. It inspires great confidence. The people of FEMA, the men and women over whom my subcommittee has oversight, are leading the efforts in both locations. Director Albaugh is in New York City doing his job. And he is proud to do it. We will be providing funds through this bill to FEMA. FEMA has already allocated $165 million for the response in both locations. The estimates from FEMA at this point, and they are preliminary estimates, are that the costs for the cleanup and reconstruction of this site in New York City are in the neighborhood of $9 to $10 billion. Those are only estimates. There are other estimates that are much higher. But clearly this is a proper, appropriate response to the initial damage that was done. The promise that this bill provides from getting our city and our Pentagon back on track to tracking down the perpetrators of this incredible mass murder, is that the necessary resources will be there, because everyone, right down the line, including our Speaker, has promised to provide whatever it takes.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey for yielding me this time. I rise today in solidarity with the American people and my constituents in central New York to condemn this brutal act of mass murder committed against innocent and good American people. I will never be capable of understanding how anyone could hate so much that they could point a plane full of innocent travelers at a building full of innocent workers for any reason, political, philosophical, religious, or nationalist. Our Nation was injured yesterday, but I believe we will come out of this stronger. It forces us all to dig deep to recall who we are and what we stand for, to look back at the values America was founded upon, and to draw strength from the sacrifices of these most recent martyrs for democracy, and going forward to secure our future by fighting back against this invisible enemy and making decisions to ensure our safety and our freedom.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, on October 12, 13, and 14, 2001, the New York State School Food Service Association will mark its 50th anniversary at its annual statewide conference in Syracuse, New York. The New York State School Food Service Association is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1951 whose goal it has been to provide wholesome meals to children in New York State schools. Today, the association has 3,700 members and serves 1.6 million lunches and 450,000 breakfasts per day. In addition to providing nutritious meals, the association has fought for increases in the number of free and reduced-price meals served to children deemed to be in severe need as well as breaking down impediments to participation in the School Breakfast Program. On behalf of the people of the 25th Congressional District in the State of New York, I extend my appreciation to the New York State School Food Service Association for their decades of tireless work on behalf of New York State's children. Additionally, it is my honor to congratulate the association on their semi-centennial anniversary conference and wish it continued success in ``Feeding America's Future.''

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 75th anniversary of St. Brigid and St. Joseph Church in Syracuse, New York. Its congregation is gathering to recognize this important milestone during a memorial mass and celebration on Sunday, September 16, 2001. Established on May 26, 1926, and incorporated on August 9, 1926, St. Brigid's was formed from a portion of the rapidly growing St. Patrick's Parish on Tipperary Hill. While masses were first celebrated within St. Patrick's School by St. Brigid's founding pastor--Rev. William H. McCormick, the parish's first sanctuary was constructed the following year at the corner of Willis Avenue and Herkimer Street at a cost of $165,000. The church's cornerstone was laid on June 15, 1927 with its first mass on August 21st. St. Brigid's School opened on September 6th of that year under the direction of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondolet. Since that time, the parish has grown considerably. Under the leadership of its second pastor--Rev. William J. Brennan, the parish's debt was retired. Construction of a larger sanctuary began in 1955 with a Dedication Day Mass celebrated in the new church on November 6, 1956. Rev. J. James Bannon was pastor at that time. In 1964, St. Brigid's merged with St. Joseph's French Church to become St. Brigid and St. Joseph's Parish. Rev. David J. Norcott became the combined church's first pastor followed by Rev. James A. McCloskey. The parish is served today by Rev. Laurence W. Kennedy, Pastor, Mr. Leonard S. Monnat, Deacon, and Sister Theresa Brown, CSJ, Director of Human Development and Parish Minister. Approximately 510 families are served by St. Brigid and St. Joseph's Church. The parish continues to be a strong steward of Christian values and community outreach, ministering to the people of Syracuse's Westside. On the occasion of its 75th anniversary, it is my honor to recognize the people of St. Brigid and St. Joseph's Church and to extend best wishes for many more successful years of faith-based ministry to follow.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to a longtime Syracuse journalist who passed away as a result of a sudden brain aneurysm while visiting family in Florida. For over 20 years, Donna Speziale Richards covered breaking news in Syracuse and Onondaga County as both a radio and television news reporter. Born in Syracuse, she was a graduate of Solvay High School and Onondaga Community College. She worked as a radio reporter for both WFBL-AM and WHEN-AM, where she also served as news director. She then went on to cover local stories for WTVH-TV5 as a television news reporter for eleven years. 1988 she won an Emmy award as a member of a team of reporters covering the bombing of Pam Am Flight 103. During her tenure as a journalist, Donna's work was recognized by the Associated Press Broadcasters Association, the state Broadcasters Association, and the Syracuse Press Club. Most recently, Donna had left broadcasting to serve our community as a public relations specialist for the U.S. Small Business Administration office in Syracuse. Through her work in that position, she was known as an informative and helpful source for local media and business people and a committed federal employee. Donna leaves her husband, Donald; two stepsons, David and Paul Richards; her mother, Mary Speziale; and a brother, Skip Speziale. She was 43 years old. Throughout her career, Donna was not one to seek special recognition or the spotlight. With this honor, it is my hope that her local involvement and balanced work receives the attention that it deserves. Donna leaves a reputation for fair and accurate reporting that should serve as a lasting example for all young, local journalists who follow in her footsteps. She will be missed.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to proposals to drill for natural gas within the Finger Lakes National Forest located in Hector, New York between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes. This proposed drilling will have catastrophic effects on wildlife, recreation in the area, and tourism vital to the region's economy. The Finger Lakes National Forest is the smallest national forest in the country and draws 46,000 recreational visitors each year who hunt, fish, camp, and hike on the 16,000-plus acre reserve. Any drilling in national parks, including the proposed drilling in the Finger Lakes National Forest which would utilize 130 foot rigs and pipelines, will cause irreparable damage to the landscape and environment. Recently, my office has been flooded with letters from concerned neighbors across Upstate New York. I have referred their correspondence to Dale Bosworth, Chief of the United States Forest Service, to be included as part of the record on this issue. In addition, I have expressed my concern to Congressman Callahan, Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development. I encourage Mr. Callahan and my fellow Appropriations Committee colleagues to support language recently added to an accompanying Senate Appropriations bill that would ban all oil and natural gas exploration in the forest. Our House Energy and Water Development conferees have the ability to retain the Senate version's language when the spending package is considered in conference later this year. My father, former Rep. William F. Walsh, represented this area in Congress in the 1970's. During that time, he fought hard to ensure this pristine wilderness area would be protected for future generations. In our current attempts to construct a sound and responsible national energy policy, it is my hope that this body recognizes the need for continued environmental stewardship to protect these national treasures for the generations that follow. I urge my fellow members to support my call to ban drilling in the Finger Lakes National Forest.