Jim Walsh

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Committee do now rise and report the bill back to the House with the recommendation that the bill do pass.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that in the engrossment of the bill, H.R. 5385, the Clerk be authorized to make technical corrections and conforming changes to the bill.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the Williamson Flying Club, Inc. The Williamson Flying Club began as a shared dream by five men from Williamson, New York. These men held informal hearings to share their aspirations of wanting to fly and starting their own flying club. On May 4, 1956, these men began to realize part of their dream and purchased their first aircraft. With time, the group began to expand their membership and services. By May 18, 1956, the Williamson Flying Club became incorporated as a member corporation. In the beginning, the group operated from the Palmyra airport, later they moved to a dirt strip that became the Williamson-Sodus Airport. The Williamson-Sodus Airport was an 1800-foot runway that was seeded in July 1957. Over the years the runway has been upgraded and is now a 3,800 ft. hard surface asphalt runway with modern lighting and taxiways and is always under improvement. By 1975 the club had expanded to 6 aircraft and today they have over 140 members. The Williamson Flying Club, Inc. has a storied history ranging over five decades. As stated in their corporation certificate: ``The purpose for which the corporation is to be formed are to promote and encourage interest in aviation and all allied sciences . . . to teach the members of the corporation to fly and improve their ability . . . to purchase . . . airplanes . . . airports, hangars . . . but not for profit.'' Out of a deep love and respect for aviation, the group carries an altruistic spirit to share and spread the wonders that flying can bring not only to individuals but also to the surrounding community. I congratulate the Williamson Flying Club, Inc. on a successful history and wish them the I best of luck for the many more years of flying they have ahead.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 150th Anniversary of Zion United Methodist Church of West Walworth, Wayne County, New York. For 150 years, the Zion United Methodist Church has offered a place of worship and services to the area in and around Wayne County. Through its rich history, the church has served the community by providing a place to make great memories that range from baptisms to weddings. To honor the church's 150 year celebration Zionist Methodist has planned various events such as a church picnic, pot-luck suppers, and culminating with a special gala dinner in the fall. This yearlong celebration will truly be a remarkable experience to the Zion Methodist congregation and all those who participate. A true prominent staple to the area, I wish the Zion Methodist Church of West Walworth many more years of service and success.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and honor The Home Builders Association of Central New York on having their project, Casey's Place, chosen as ``Project of the Year'' by the National Housing Endowment. The Home Builders Association of Central New York is the first association in the Northeast to receive this prestigious award. Casey's Place, a pediatric respite house for children with disabilities, is truly a remarkable project. It is the only facility of its kind in the U.S. that offers the needed services for the medically fragile and the developmentally challenged and their families, all free of charge. Casey's Place came about through the hard work and dedication of the 350 member Home Builders Association of Central New York. Members donated materials, labor, and made financial contributions in order to create this dream home where families can escape the hardships of dealing with these types of tough medical conditions. The 10,000 square foot space is equipped with a media room, recreation room, accessible kitchen, themed restrooms, fully accessible shower and bathing facilities with reclining air jet tubs and state-of-the-art overhead lifting systems. To date, Casey's Place has provided overnight, school break and summer day programs to over 150 children and their families from Central New York. Casey's Place lets these kids experience many of the activities we all take for granted. Without the altruistic spirit of the Home Builders Association of Central New York, none of this would be possible. They deserve special recognition. I wish them the best of luck with the Casey's Place and hope they are able to touch many more families across the region.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th Anniversary of The Onondaga County Medical Society. The Onondaga County Medical Society was first founded back on July 1, 1806. Back then, 11 physicians met on top of Onondaga Hill at the first Onondaga County Courthouse to establish this great society. Since its founding, the society has helped Central New York deal with some of the more menacing health threats of the time. In the 1830s, physician members of the society dealt with Asiatic cholera. In the 1900s, the society addressed the local impact of the worldwide flu; which resulted in over 750 deaths within the Syracuse area. During the 1950s the society assisted the local community in dealing with the polio epidemic. Currently, the society and its more than 1,260 members are working with the New York State Department of Health in preparation for the possibility of a bird flu outbreak. The Onondaga County Medical Society also played a leading role in the establishment of the College of Medicine at Syracuse in 1872. In 1950, this college went on to become the Upstate Medical University, which has become a tremendous resource and aide for the entire Central New York region. Throughout its history, The Onondaga County Medical Society has played an important role in the healthcare of the people of Central New York. Members have done their best to live up to the Society's motto, ``to promote and preserve quality health care by working for patients, physicians and the community.'' On behalf of the people of Central New York, I applaud the 200 years of hard work members of The Onondaga County Medical Society have provided. I wish the Society the best of luck and expect nothing but the best service in the many years to come.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Iowa for yielding time to me and for his leadership on all issues relating to the International Relations Committee. I would especially like to thank Chairman Hyde and Ranking Member Lantos for their leadership and the entire International Relations Committee and their staff for their hard work and effort in getting this important resolution to the floor at such a critical period in the Northern Ireland peace process. The timing of this resolution could not be more appropriate. We are fast approaching the eighth anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, and recent media reporting suggests that the British and Irish governments are working to restore a devolved government that has been under suspension since the police raids and the Unionist walkout of October 2002. As one of 35 million Irish Americans in this country, I can't tell you how pleased and encouraged I am with these developments. For far too long, the people of Northern Ireland have been denied an equal voice and equal representation in government. It is time for the Assembly and Executive to be up and running and the people's business to be addressed. Her island's citizens have spoken. They expressed their views for a shared future by overwhelmingly approving the Good Friday Accords by a margin of 95 percent in the Republic of Ireland and 71 percent in Northern Ireland. It is time for Northern Ireland's political leadership to acknowledge their wishes and fully carry them out. In the last few years, progress has been spotty, but, nonetheless, there has been progress. That progress must continue without any backward steps or delays. I believe recognizing a few key leaders that have nurtured this progress can help highlight and strengthen this initiative. First I would commend Prime Minister Tony Blair of Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland's Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern. Northern Ireland has no better friend than these two men. They have been understanding to all viewpoints and fair to all political denominations and respectful of all traditions. They have been firm in conviction and steadfast in their beliefs; and, most importantly, they have been true leaders committed to a lasting peace. Both men deserve recognition and praise for their work. Second, the leadership of Sinn Fein for their role in facilitating the complete decommissioning of the IRA's weaponry. This was certainly no small task. Sinn Fein has never received the full credit it deserves for delivering this historic moment. Sinn Fein made the commitment, the commitment was delivered in full, and that commitment has been verified by the International Monitoring Commission and the International Commission on Decommissioning led by General de Chastelain. I have read reports of individuals being skeptical and wary of this declaration, but the facts speak for themselves. The IRA has abandoned its armed struggle in pursuit of its goals by political means. This must be fully acknowledged. Continued challenge does nothing but obstruct and inhibit the peace process. I would like to add also, Madam Speaker, that the members of the Democratic Unionist Party, the DUP, led by Dr. Ian Paisley, will be here today meeting with Members of Congress, and we welcome them. We are delighted that they are here. We are excited about hearing their vision for the future of Northern Ireland, and they will be here to express that and develop personal relationships. Many of them are members of Parliament, in addition to being elected members of the legislative assembly in Northern Ireland. Finally, the Policing Service in Northern Ireland, under the leadership of Hugh Orde and Nuala O'Loan, deserves recognition. Northern Ireland has experienced a dramatic improvement in policing over the last 8 years, with the current Catholic to Protestant employment percentage up 18 percent since the restructuring, and the police recruit ratio holding firm at 50-50. It is imperative that people in all communities recognize that the Policing Service, while not perfect, is certainly not the Policing Service of old. They must begin to develop a relationship of trust and confidence in their police. It is only through this type of relationship that the community will be best served. Madam Speaker, again it gives me great pleasure to stand before you today in order to praise the Good Friday Agreement as the framework for peace in Northern Ireland and to recognize the remarkable progress that has been achieved. I would also like to recognize the efforts of all the Members of Congress, House and Senate, and Presidents of both parties for their commitment to this process. I commend the efforts of all past leaders who have put personal and political ramifications aside for the greater good of Northern Ireland and urge all current leaders to continue to move forward. I urge adoption of this resolution.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department. Fifteen courageous citizens formed this outstanding and brave fire department on March 23, 1906. Since it's inception, the department has had over 850 faithful volunteers that have protected the communities of East Webster, Village of Webster, and North East Penfield. Today, the Webster Volunteer Fire Department has a membership of 140 brave firefighters who on average respond to 1200 calls per year. These calls for aid range from fires, accidents, emergency medical care and service calls; all showing the departments ability to assist the varying needs of the communities they proudly serve. In addition to their heroic tasks, the department also provides fire prevention programs, CPR and first aid training for all citizens. The Webster Fire Department also works closely with various neighborhood groups such as local Boy Scout troops, Girl Scout troops, and various other groups. In honoring their 100th anniversary, the Webster Fire Department will begin its celebration with a Founders Banquet, followed by a gigantic Carnival and Parade for the entire community. I stand here today proud of the services these brave men and women provide our area. Their strong tradition of service and bravery has kept our citizens safe over the past century. I personally thank the Webster Volunteer Fire Department and thank them for their past service as well as the next 100 years that lie ahead.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the gentleman's concern for the construction of the new veterans hospital in New Orleans. I would like to state, also, that I congratulate him and thank him for the leadership that he has provided to the great city and the great people of New Orleans. He has been a consistent and strong supporter. We will continue to work on this issue, and I will work with the gentleman and all other interested parties to ensure that all necessary funding is available to complete the hospital on schedule.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the bill. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong opposition to the gentleman's amendment. I understand the point he is making regarding the concept of splitting bills, however, the direct result of this amendment, if it were to pass, and I hope it doesn't, would be to strip all the money out that we need to restore military facilities and veterans facilities in that region. In fact, this bill, title II, includes $184 million to replace military facilities at bases in the gulf coast damaged by the hurricanes, such as a fire crash rescue station at Keesler Air Force Base. It also includes funds to replace the Veterans Hospital in New Orleans. Eliminating this title puts these facilities and our military personnel at greater risk. For those reasons, Mr. Chairman, I strongly oppose the amendment. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALSH. I yield back.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to reclaim the time held in opposition to the amendment.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Rogers), chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis), chairman of the Appropriations Committee.

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

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I appreciate his great concern for the National Guard facilities in the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana. We will continue to work on this issue as we move towards conference, and I am convinced we can resolve all the questions as we complete the work in the conference.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, I rise as Chairman of the Military Quality of Life Subcommittee on Appropriations within whose responsibility this amendment lies, to thank the gentlewoman for offering this amendment. This is a very important issue. And there is definitely a need for future training in prosthetics to meet the needs of our wounded veterans, and indeed, some of our active duty service people. The only concern I have is that this would take $20 million out of the defense health budget and move it basically to training. Now, this is a very perspective, thoughtful idea. It needs to be done. And the only concern is the current needs of the defense health budget. But I am prepared, Mr. Chairman, to accept this amendment, to move forward, and as we come to conference, if there is any need to reassess, we would do that. But in the spirit in which it is offered, I am prepared to accept the amendment.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department. Fifteen courageous citizens formed this outstanding and brave fire department on March 23, 1906. Since its inception, the department has had over 850 faithful volunteers that have protected the communities of East Webster, Village of Webster, and North East Penfield. Today, the Webster Volunteer Fire Department has a membership of 140 brave firefighters who on average respond to 1,200 calls per year. These calls for aid range from fires, accidents, emergency medical care and service calls; all showing the department's ability to assist the varying needs of the communities they proudly serve. In addition to their heroic tasks, the department also provides fire prevention programs, CPR and first aid training for all citizens. The Webster Fire Department also works closely with various neighborhood groups such as local Boy Scouts troops, Girl Scouts troops, and various other groups. In honoring their 100th anniversary, the Webster Fire Department will begin its celebration with a founders banquet, followed by a gigantic carnival and parade for the entire community. I stand here today proud of the services these brave men and women provide our area. Their strong tradition of service and bravery has kept our citizens safe over the past century. I personally thank the Webster Volunteer Fire Department and thank them for their past service as well as the next 100 years that lie ahead.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of the courageous Coretta Scott King. Mrs. King first came to the public eye as the wife of the great civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. Aside from being Mr. King's wife, Coretta Scott King became an international symbol for the civil rights movement and a prominent advocate of the women's rights movement. As a civil rights leader, Mrs. King's vision of racial peace and nonviolent social change was a fortifying staple in advancing the civil rights movement. Following her husband's untimely death, Mrs. King fought strongly to continue battling the struggle against social injustice. Mrs. King went on to found the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Non-Violent Social Change in Atlanta, GA, and led a valiant effort for a national holiday in honor of her late husband. Both actions are a strong indicator of Mrs. King's dedication to scholarship and activism. Through her continued efforts, Mrs. King came to be seen as an inspirational figure. Her enormous spirit and strong moral values came to personify not only the ideals Dr. King fought for, but also personified a movement that transformed our Nation. I would like to extend my thanks to Mrs. King for all the wonderful contributions she made throughout her life. I also would like to extend my prayers and condolences to her family, who will undoubtedly continue to fight for what Mrs. King stood for. It is an honor to stand and praise all the hard work this beloved figure has done to better our Nation.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Board of Cooperative Educational Services, BOCES' 50th anniversary. Enacted in 1948, New York State Legislature and the New York State Education Department sought a way to offer districts an even stronger cooperative network. In 1955, school board members from several eastside Monroe County school districts petitioned the State Education Department for a BOCES to serve their area. On January 5, 1956, Monroe BOCES was established. Boards of Cooperative Educational Services, or BOCES, are public education collaborative that function as extensions of local school districts. A BOCES helps school districts provide quality programs and services that are more economical to offer cooperatively, sharing costs with other districts. The function of a BOCES is to provide shared services to the component school districts, providing efficiency, effectiveness and equity for students. Monroe BOCES provides support for thousands of individuals, from newborns to adult students, to help them achieve success and improve the quality of their lives. BOCES coordinated more than 86 programs and services that helped students of diverse backgrounds and abilities discover their learning potential in an environment that benefited all students. More than 5,500 students from the 10 suburban school districts in eastern Monroe County attended BOCES programs. BOCES also served school districts by helping their students meet the State learning standards in specialized areas. BOCES programs and services provide valuable hands-on learning opportunities for students that they might not experience otherwise, opportunities such as career and technical training, workplace preparation and internships, as well as a network of services for transitioning to the workforce. An organization such as Monroe BOCES will sustain itself and continue to coordinate innovative educational enrichment programs, from the arts to technology, to help students reach beyond classroom walls. It is my honor to recognize and congratulate Monroe County BOCES on its continued success and 50th anniversary.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Chairman Regula for his leadership on this bill. This bill, of all bills, has a very, very strong history of bipartisanship. One of the predecessor chairmen of this bill was a fellow named Bill Natcher who served with great distinction in this House for 40 years. Never missed a vote. And when he would get up and ask for bipartisan support for this bill, he would get it. As a member of the minority, for year after year I voted for this bill because it is the people's bill, because the needs of the American public are met by this bill. And the people who pay the taxes benefit in large part from the services and support programs provided in this bill. There are over 500 programs in this bill. It is a very complex bill, something that our chairman, Mr. Regula, understands better than anyone. And he knows this bill inside and out. So I would appeal to my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to provide the same level of nonpartisanship that we did when we were in the minority. The American public is very concerned about the level of acrimony and partisanship here in Washington today. Here is a day, here is a bill where we can set that aside and work together to provide a bipartisan vote to support this bill. Is it a perfect bill? No. But it is a good bill. And there is an old saying: Do not let the perfect be the enemy of the good. And this is a very good bill. We do not have unlimited resources in this country. We have to make priorities. And Chairman Regula has done that. Under his leadership, and since our party became the majority party, we have doubled--doubled the amount of Federal aid to public education. We have doubled. That is an astounding number. And there is an even better one. We have tripled the funding for the National Institutes of Health, the institute that provides the research, that supports the research done at American colleges and research institutions around the country, that gives us, this country, the level of quality of health care that it has, the best in the world. So we not only have set these priorities in a very tough budget year, but he has increased funding. By making further changes in the bill, Chairman Regula has provided an additional $100 million for funding for special education to States. Now, again, both parties have been very supportive over the years of the Individuals in Education Act. We, our party, I think, to our credit, have dramatically increased the level of funding in IDEA. The Democrats did their part. We are doing our part. We have, again, increased LIHEAP, which is very important in my part of the country, in the Northeast. And community health centers, for the people who do not have health insurance in this country, here is an opportunity to help them, to provide health care, good solid health care that we all need. So I just hope that we can set partisanship and some of that acrimony that we all have to deal with on a daily basis down here; let us set it aside on this really good, solid effort, and let us all support this bill. And I thank Chairman Regula for his leadership, and I am proud to be a member of this subcommittee.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis), chairman of the full Appropriations Committee, a gentleman who had the great vision to assemble new jurisdiction for this committee and create this subcommittee and a personal mentor of mine.

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.