Jim Walsh

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Aquinas High School Mens Varsity Football Team for winning the Class A New York State Football Championship on December 2, 2002. This has been the second consecutive season that Aquinas has clinched the Class A Title. Through hard work and dedication the Aquinas team has come together this season and continued their reign at the top of their division. From September to the State Championship, they were ranked number one in their league, ending their season 12-1. The Lil' Irish have set the bar high for both their league and across the state. Aquinas, led by Coach David Neiman, has been established as a unified, passionate, and courageous team. Capturing three State Titles in the last five years, they have stayed focused on their goals, and despite fierce competition, have not let anyone stand in the way of yet another winning season. On behalf of the people of the 25th District of New York, it is my honor to congratulate the Aquinas High School Football Team and their coaching staff on their Class A State Football Championship. With these remarks, I would like to recognize the following players and staff: John Brennan, Arel Gorgon, Ian Goodbarlet, Ed Baron, Calvin Hall, Jon Houck, Linell Greene, Mark Zeppis, Ryan Brennan, Ryan Rozzi, Chris Kelly, Lou Ricci, Dave D'Aurello, Chris MacDonald, Dan Zegarelli, Jon Sirianni, Nick Rovisa, Josh Kacprzak, Ricky DiFranco, Dom Borrelli, Vaughn Brooks, Mark Smith, Bill Amering, Sal Rosso, Jason O'Mara, Chris Vincelli, Joe Testa, Billy Wagner, Andy Laughlin, Chris Citano, Mike Yankowski, Mark Stolke, Matt Stolte, Mike Guey, Tom Neilson, Dan Poors, Andy Brooks, Matt Querola, Joss Rodriguez, Rick Cheffee, Nate Adams, Chris Rivera, Reed Rothschild, Pat Duffy, Matt Flecher, David Cassell, Dan Magil, Matt Thompson, John Contestabile, Donny Moss, Andy Welch, Head Coach David Nieman, Athletic Director Dick Carons, President Mike Daisy, Principal Sally Cardill, Athletic Trainer Mike Cararo, and Assistants Derek Annechino, Bob O'Effore, Mark Magllocco, Pete Haugn, John Marola, John Mintel, and Jack Foote.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Resolution honoring our fallen NASA heroes who perished last Saturday high above the southwestern skies of the United States. I was stunned and heart broken after hearing the news of this tragic event. My mind quickly thought back to the time of 10:44 AM, January 16th, when NASA's Columbia Shuttle Mission STS-107 launched into space from the Kennedy Space Center Pad 39A. I was fortunate enough to attend this event with NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe, along with a number of students and teachers from Fowler High School in Syracuse, my hometown in New York. The Fowler students were there because they had spent three years researching and analyzing a science project that was carried aboard space shuttle Columbia. As I watched the liftoff, I couldn't help but think of the brave men and women aboard Columbia as pioneers who were furthering America's vision of discovery that started in 1958 with the creation of NASA. Actually, this vision started long before NASA and space travel. We are a nation of pioneers. NASA and its mission of human space flight and exploration seems to be a natural extension of the Lewis and Clark expeditions commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in the early 1800s. Similar to Lewis and Clark's expedition, Columbia's mission was primarily scientific in nature, furthering mankind's understanding of our universe. I was very proud that my district's small corner of the world was part of historic science mission. On their 16-day journey, Columbia's international crew of seven worked 24-hour-a-day shifts to successfully complete all of the research projects in the space, life and physical sciences. The crew, all from diverse backgrounds-- including the first Israeli astronaut, was a true reflection of America at its best. They completed their work, did it well, and no doubt were looking forward to their return home to Cape Kennedy last Saturday. As our Nation and the world watched in horror, we saw Columbia literally explode before our eyes some 200,000 miles in the heavens above. The crew of Columbia and their families knew and accepted the risks associated with their work. They also realized they were representing something much greater than themselves. They were a shining symbol of America. They were explorers on a great new adventure to benefit mankind. For this I thank both the crew and their families. As we honor the crew, their families, and NASA itself, we will always hold the Columbia astronauts in a special place in our hearts. Their sacrifices were great. With the United States flag at half-staff across the Nation to honor the crew of Columbia, NASA and space exploration will move forward. We will find the problem that created the disaster, fix it, and move forward. They may well be the legacy left by Columbia; a better, safer shuttle for those who follow them. Somehow I think they would like that. God Bless the crew of Columbia, we're deeply proud and grateful for their contributions to both our country and the world community. They will not be forgotten.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Penfield boy's Soccer team for ending their 19-2-2 season as New York State Section V Class A Champions. Last year the team won the school's first state championship, but had to share the title when the game ended in a tie. This year, the patriots rose to the top again, and won their first official title, the first Class A state title in 15 years. This team truly deserves to end the season with such a rewarding finish. Years of hard work and dedication resulted in a season that will go down in school history, and will be remembered always. The players, coaching staff, and parents should be proud of this exciting accomplishment. On behalf of the people of the 25th District of New York I would like to congratulate the following players, coaches, and bench personnel for this achievement: Mike Annechino, Steve DeMaria, Brian Annechino, Mike Evans, Jason Maher, Feliks Kogan, Felix Liverman, Tom Doran, John Koestner, Adam Agresti, Guilherme Fonseca, Greg Herbert, Brian Usinger, Matt Malone, Dave Carr, Jamarr Miller, Eric Schomske, Tom Gordon, C.J. Pruner, Adam Benson, Dan Bergan, Ari Silbermann, Jaden Rocco, Mike Lentine, Matt Bader, Ryan Kota, Jon Farber, Matt Kavanaugh, Ryan Michaels, Kyle Zinter, Ed Silco, Varsity Coach Jon Butterworth, Assistant Coach Dave Heise, Program Coach Tim Graves, Assistant Alissa Vanmulem, JV Coach John Cotsonas, Frosh Coach Al Pisano, and Trainer Jen Stantz.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Onondaga Senior High School Boy's football team for winning the New York State Class C championship title and in the process continuing a 26 game winning streak. The Tigers roared in the Carrier Dome, and once again brought home a State title. This team, with a solid coaching staff and a strong network of fans, strove for perfection, and as a result, won their second consecutive championship title. The OCS Tigers were Class D championships last year, and came out Class C victors this year. They are the only team in 10 years to win consecutive titles in different classes. This team should be truly proud of such a well-deserved victory. The strength and dedication they have displayed over the course of their football careers and throughout this electrifying season has made their school and entire community extremely proud. On behalf of the entire 25th District of New York, I would like to congratulate the following champions: Hodges Sneed, Andrew Abbott, Ryan Hotaling, Justin Graham, Richard Bova, Adam Legg, Don Cummings, Matt Popov, Carl Runge, John Manley, Chad Amidon, Ryan Clifford, Dakota McCann, Mike Hart, Kyle Martin, Robbie Cormier, Dan Germain, Zach Carrington, Zach MacCollister, Brian Beacham, Todd Amidon, Marty Brunner, Jacob Cummings, Cory Dill, Richard Beak, Todd Gardner, James Sanford, Matthew Majewski, Thomas Brownell, Caleb Golembiewski, Dan Willis, Scott Campbell, Pat Neuman, Kurt Wasilewski, Aaron Johnson, Steven Tiss, Felipe Diaz, Brad Glaister, Adam Goodman, and Jesse Schneider; Coaches Bill Spicer, Paul Taylor, Jeff Pierce, Victor Zampetti, and Rick Bailey; Volunteer Coaches Dave Pierce and Steve Louis; Managers Jim Barry, Nick Gilbert and Luke Joyce.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the victorious Baldwinsville High School Girls' Soccer team for winning the 2002 State Class A state soccer championship. This stellar team was the first Section III, Class A team to ever win a state soccer title. This great triumph is a direct result of years of hard work, discipline, dedication, and devotion to the sport. The players, coaching staff, and parents brought the game of soccer to new levels, and the entire team should be congratulated for a season that will no doubt go down both in school and district history. I would like to recognize Coach Lisa Deil for guiding this team to victory, and for being recently named state coach of the year. On behalf of the people of the entire 25th District of New York, I would like to congratulate the following champions for reaching such an exciting goal: Kate Ferrara, Jessilyn Fritz, Brenna Sexton, Lindsey Belle, Madison Gates, Ashley Gray, McKenzie Gray, Megan Jenkins, Vanessa Kenyon, Shaylyn Lawrence, Tessa Schraven, Carly Schurman, Mallory Wilder, Jessica Bill, Emily Mahar, Kim Ross, Dana Sheftic, Julianne Hasbrouck, Stacey Schurman, Danielle Wilder, Head Coach Lisa Deil, and Assistant Coash Jake Czyz.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership and also the distinguished ranking member for the gentleman's hard work. Mr. Speaker, we had the opportunity to debate all of these issues at the subcommittee level, at the full committee level, and in many cases on the floor. But all of these items have been debated. It has been stated that there has not been time for debate, but there has been. We have spent hours and hours and hours. We spent 2\1/2\ months in our subcommittee putting this very, very complex bill together, the VA-HUD bill. If we could move forward and pass this and then get to a point where we can pass all of the fiscal year 2003 appropriations bills, that would be a good thing. There has been discussion about veterans. We have substantial increases in veterans' health care benefits in the 2003 bill. We cannot get to those until we pass this continuing resolution and send a bill to the Senate. We cannot make the increases in the housing accounts for the homeless, in housing for people with AIDS, in the section 8 program, in the senior housing programs. We cannot get those funding measures to the department heads and the money to the department heads to implement those policies if we do not pass this bill. So there has been plenty of time to debate all of the policy issues. We are at a point where we need to bring closure to the 2003 year. I know I have and the other subcommittee chairmen have a lot of work to do. As soon as we complete on these 2003 bills, I will begin hearings for the Veterans Administration, for HUD, for NASA, for FEMA, for the EPA, for the National Science Foundation. There is a tremendous amount of work to be done, and every minute of every day, every hour that we delay here puts our decisions off for the future, and those are critical decisions. Advocates are coming to us, veterans are coming to us, people from the science community are coming to us and saying please get these bills done so we can begin to plan for next year's bills. If we work very closely with OMB and the House and the Senate work closely together, we will have a budget resolution to work with. That is what happened this year. The House did its job. We passed our budget resolution. The Senate did not. Had they passed a budget resolution, we could have worked out the differences and had a road map to work with. But we did not have that road map. That is why we are at this juncture. We need to get this work out of the way, get the bills passed, complete our work on 2003 and get a good solid budget resolution passed for 2004 and get these appropriations bills done. It is not that difficult. It is not rocket science, but we need to get last year's work out of the way first.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, each year in November American families across the country gather together in thanksgiving to recognize the variety of blessings they have received. It is fitting that we also choose this month to recognize the importance of adoption in our society. Currently, thousands of children across the country, freed for adoption, are waiting to be a part of a loving and caring family with a stable home and attentive parents. Many of these children have special physical, mental, or emotional needs and require special nurturing from devoted parents and families. Let it be known that their adoption by special people who elect to take full responsibility for their care, their upbringing, and their overall well-being is an important service not only to these children, but to our country at large. Adoption not only provides obvious benefits to the affected child, but it has proven to be one of the most rewarding experiences for many adoptive parents. We all benefit when a needy child is adopted. The County of Onondaga in New York's 25th Congressional District will be recognizing the importance of adoption on Friday, November 22nd in ceremonies at Onondaga County Family Court. It is my privilege to recognize and thank all those families, case workers, and staff gathered for this important event who have dedicated themselves to improving the welfare of our community's children. It is my hope that this recognition further promotes the importance and benefits of adoption for all those involved. I thank all those responsible for organizing this special local observance of National Adoption Awareness Month.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the retirement of Vijay Mital, the City of Auburn, New York's Director of Planning and Economic Development. Vijay, who retires next month, has been a dedicated public servant in the Auburn community for 32 years. Having worked with this exceptional individual for 14 years, I can say he will be missed by all those who have come to know and respect his work. If anyone can attest to living the American dream, it is Vijay Mital. He grew up near New Dehli, India before immigrating to the United States in 1970 at the age of 30. While visiting his sister in my hometown of Syracuse, Vijay came across an employment ad for an opening in Cayuga County's planning department. He applied for the job, was hired five days later, and as they say, the rest is history. He has worked for the county for 20 years and spent the last 12 years with the City of Auburn in his current position. A humble and modest man, Vijay is the only Director of Planning and Economic Development the city's ever had. Here are just some of the extraordinary accomplishments of his career. Vijay and his staff have diligently worked to bring over $50 million in state and federal aid for local projects. At one point, the Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded the city 19 consecutive grants. This is record at the agency that still stands today. Upon learning SnyderGeneral, now McQuay International, was going to close its local plant and move elsewhere, Vijay led a city delegation to the company's headquarters in Texas. There, he convinced the company to stay open in Auburn saving 350 jobs. Since that time, the company has more than doubled its workforce, adding a new marketing division. Vijay has also been instrumental in developing the Stryker Homes and the Boyle Center senior citizen complexes, the Holiday Inn, and the new Falcon Park minor league baseball field. As everyone can see, Vijay is truly an extraordinary person. I join his wife Nisha, daughter Seema, and son Mansha in saluting his lifetime of work for the people of Cayuga County and the City of Auburn. Vijay Mital has made a difference in his community and I wish him well in his future endeavors.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, on 2 June 2002, Colonel Thomas Webster retired as the Commander of the 152nd Air Operations Group, New York Air National Guard in Syracuse, NY. He assumed this position in February 1998. The Air Operations Group was established at this time as the first ever within the Air National Guard. He was assigned as the Director of the Minimum Essential Airfield in Rome, New York from October 1995 to February 1998, earning a USAF Meritorious Service Medal for his expert leadership and command excellence. Colonel Webster was born on October 19, 1946, in Rochester, Minnesota, and graduated from Lourdes High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal arts from the University of Minnesota in 1969. He has completed many career-related schools during his military career. This includes the Army War College at Carlisle Pennsylvania in July 1992. Colonel Webster completed Officer Training School in May 1972, and joined the 174th Fighter Wing in January 1975. He attended undergraduate pilot training at Williams AFB, Arizona and spend several years as a traditional guardsman pilot in Ohio and New York while continuing his civilian career. He began his full-time military career with the 174th Fighter Wing as a Quality Control Officer, and then became the Maintenance Squadron Commander in 1985. Colonel Webster was assigned as the Maintenance Squadron Commander for the 138th Fighter Squadron, 4th Tactical Fighter Wing (Provisional) at Al Kharj Air Base in Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Shield/Storm. He returned to the 174th Fighter Wing as the Maintenance Squadron Commander in May 1991. In 1992 he became Vice Wing Commander of the 174th Fighter Wing and Air Commander of the full-time force. Colonel Webster is a command pilot with more than 2,500 flying hours in fighter aircraft, including the A-10 and F-16. His military awards include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Saudi Arabia, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with V and four devices, the Combat Readiness Medal with two devices, the National Defense Service Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three devices, the Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with four devices, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with one device, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, the Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal. Colonel Webster is married to the former Denise Schwartz. They live in Baldwinsville, New York and have two sons, Paul and Nicholas.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, the decision before the Congress this week is whether or not to give the President the option to use force with Iraq if all else fails. It is similar to the one before the Congress early in my career when the elder Bush was in the White House. The main difference was that Iraq had invaded a sovereign nation, Kuwait, to the outrage of the world community. The world agreed that Iraq was the aggressor and must be driven out. The U.N. voted for precisely that and we led the effort. Although much clearer in circumstance, it was an extremely difficult decision. Today things are not quite so clear. There has been no invasion and there, at least at the moment of this writing, is no U.N. sanction for military action. The arguments are more like piling straws on a camel's back. Saddam Hussein is a murderer of his own people. He is a warmonger, witness Kuwait, Iran and the Kurds in his own country. He aggressively pursues the development of nuclear weapons. Remember Israel bombed an Iraqi nuclear facility many years ago. Hussein still pursues that goal. He has accumulated thousands of liters of chemical and biological weapons and is not afraid to use them, in fact he has used them against Iran and his own people. He planned an attempted assassination of an American president. He defies U.N. resolutions that ended the '91 Gulf War, which called for the destruction of all weapons of mass destruction. He refused to allow weapons inspectors to do their job and threatened and intimidated them at every turn. Now we are told that Iraq may have become a weapons supermarket for terrorism. Some al Qaeda leaders are there and other terrorist organizations have close ties; i.e. Abu Nidal. We are told that Hussein provides $25,000 to each family of the suicide bombers who attack Israel. And we can't forget that during the Gulf War Hussein rained Scud missiles down on innocent Israeli civilians in Tel Aviv and other communities. Iraq now is working to extend the range of their missiles. Now, under the threat of U.S. action, Hussein agrees to let weapons inspectors back into his country. Can there be any doubt that the only thing this man responds to is the threat of deadly force? One is tempted to believe Hussein is now prepared to admit weapons inspectors. And indeed we should and must let that scenario play out before any act of war. But the skeptic in me doesn't believe a word that he says. History is a wonderful teacher and we all know this man's history. The U.N. has shown itself to be incapable and unwilling to enforce its own resolutions. As a guarantor of world peace they have a checkered past at best. Without having the threat of military intervention, the U.N. is a paper tiger. I have long been a supporter of the U.N. I believe that the nations of the world must have a forum in which to settle their differences but when a tyrant like Hussein thumbs his nose at the world, something isn't right. One last point, since the 9/11 attack on our country we have been pouring over the coals, literally and figuratively. One by one we have connected the dots that led to the attack. We have seen the threat that connects the plans to do great harm to our country and our people. The President in these past weeks has connected the dots for us. He has pointed to Iraq with great alarm and tried to help us to understand the threat. It is real. What we don't know is how imminent and what shape the threat will take. After much thought and prayer and consultation with my constituents and with people I love and trust, I have decided to support the resolution before the House. Not because I want to go to war. I don't, I remember the last one. I remember meeting with Marsha Connor, the mother of Patrick Connor of Marcellus who was killed in action. It was heartbreaking. But if we don't give the President that option, Saddam Hussein and Iraq will continue to grow more troublesome and if they ever develop a nuclear weapon it would be horrific. I'll vote for the resolution but I will implore the President not to use force unless all else fails. Negotiation, weapons inspectors, and U.N. sanctions should come first. And if we do indeed go, we should do so with the other nations of the world who should feel as threatened as we.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York. I am proud to say this ``home-away-from home'' located in the heart of my district, has opened its doors to thousands of families who have found themselves in need of medical care. When a child is ill, parents and family members should have the ability to focus on the task-at-hand, returning the child to full health. The Ronald McDonald House provides a strong support system, affording families a safe haven and a meal on the table while they are working through difficult times. I commend the Central New York chapter of the Ronald McDonald House as they celebrate 20 years of unconditional love and assistance. The work that you do will have a lasting effect on the children from our country and throughout the world. The lives that you touch will hopefully inspire others to follow your lead in assisting those who are working through difficult situations. The cycle of support that you have developed, will definitely live on forever. Thank you, and congratulations.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York for allowing me the time to speak. Everyone who has spoken so far from our delegation in New York about Ben Gilman mentioned that Ben was here when we came. One of the remarkable traditions of any great society is the oral tradition. The intelligence and the traditions and the history of the Congress have been handed down from Ben Gilman's generation to our generation. When I came, Ben took me under his wing immediately because he served with my father, and he still asks about my dad to this day. That is the kind of man that Ben Gilman is. But he took time for everyone, not just his colleagues here in the Congress but for his constituents, for people who came to him from around the world looking for help to support their nascent democratic movement. They always had a listener in Ben Gilman. He has been a legislator, chairing one of the most important committees in the Congress, but he stopped to deal with other Members on issues that were germane and important to his own constituency. When there was a disaster in his district for onion farmers because of bad weather, every single day I saw him on the floor he reminded me not to forget the onion farmers. He always had a letter under his arm looking for dear colleagues to support constituencies throughout the world, in Ireland where he has been such a great leader, such a remarkable leader; and I hope he stays engaged because their troubles are not behind them yet. And Israel, another country that has seen more trouble than its share, Ben has always been a friend. I guess that is the way I could find to describe him, a friend. When we look Ben Gilman in the eye, we see a lot of things. We see sincerity. We see a man who has lived a joyous life, but most of what we see is kindness, kindness for anyone who reaches out to him. He returns it a hundredfold, and I thank him for his friendship and his kindness and for his service to the country.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, On 31 July 2002, Colonel Paul J. Richter retired as the Support Group Commander of the 174th Fighter Wing, New York Air National Guard in Syracuse, New York. He assumed this position in January 1994, and was responsible for over 100 full-time and 300 traditional guardsmen. He was previously assigned as the Deputy Commander for Resources from 1987–1994, during which time he was activated in December 1990 to Al Kharj Air Base, Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Storm, until the base deactivated in July 1991. Colonel Richter was born on 28 November 1948 in St Louis, Missouri. He graduated St. Mary's High School in 1967, and attended St. Louis University on an AFROTC scholarship earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering. His professional military education includes Squadron Officers School, 1984; Air Command and Staff School, 1986; and Air War College, Oct 1995. Col Richter began his military career in 1971, gaining his commission in the Air Force through AFROTC. He was assigned to the 4789th Air Base Group, Hancock Field in Syracuse, New York. He served there for four years and was assigned to various staff positions in the Civil Engineering Squadron. Col Richter entered the New York Air National Guard 174th Tactical Fighter Group's Civil Engineering Flight in 1975 as the full time Base Civil Engineer and traditional Engineering Staff Officer. He held numerous positions in the flight until assuming command in 1983. Subsequently, in 1987 he was assigned as the Deputy Commander for Resources. Upon activation for Operation Desert Storm, he was assigned as Assistant Deputy Commander for Resources at Al Kharj Air Base, Saudi Arabia. After the end of hostilities, he was given the job of Deputy Commander for Resources until the base deactivated in July of 1991. In December of 1998, he was selected for the Georgetown Capitol Hill Government Affairs Fellowship in Washington, D.C. from January until December 1999. During this fellowship, he was assigned to my staff where he worked closely on Military Construction and VA–HUD sub- committee assignments, as well as the FY00 Defense Appropriations Bill. More recently, Col Richter was assigned as the First Commander for the Air Component for the military response to the World Trade Center attacks. His military decorations include the Bronze Star, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor device and 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal with 1 device, Southwest Asia Service Medal with 3 devices and the Kuwait Liberation Medal. His state awards include the New York State Long and Faithful Service Award, Operation Desert Storm Medal, and the Conspicuous Service Cross. Col Richter was promoted to his present rank and federally recognized on 3 Mar 99.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my colleague, and friend, Congressman Tony Hall, as he becomes the United States Ambassador to the United Nations food and agriculture agencies in Rome, Italy. First elected to the House of Representatives in 1978, Tony has served the good people of Montgomery County, Ohio with distinction and honor. He has been a driving force and advocate for issues like ending world hunger, promoting food security, stopping the importation of ``conflict diamonds'' in Africa, and an infinite number of legislative accomplishments here in Congress. He has embraced his role as Congressman in an honorable fashion, and with his experiences as a public servant, I have no doubt that he will step into his new position with the same grace and fervor that he has demonstrated over the past three decades. Based on his experiences with our own government, there is no better person to lead the fight for human rights. We will miss his strength and wisdom, but his experiences and passion for the oppressed make him the ideal person to lead the Food and Agriculture arm of the UN. It is hard to see him go, but it would be selfish for us not to let this fine leader use his strengths to help overcome the hunger problems facing our world. I want to wish Tony all the best as he embarks on this new journey. If his future accomplishments are any reflection of his past contributions, the world will be a better place.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H.R. 4558, a bill to extend the Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program. This legislation would simply extend the current program for 1 year and allow another group of participants from Northern Ireland and the border counties to enter into the program in fiscal year 2003. I would like to thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gekas), who has been such a wonderful advocate for this bill and also the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner), who, despite an incredibly heavy workload in the Committee on the Judiciary, fast-tracked this bill. We are very grateful to both of them. As chairman of the bipartisan Friends of Ireland Caucus here in the House, I believe this is a vital program in support of the Northern Ireland peace process; and I thank the committee for their prompt consideration. Imagine a program where young people are able to leave Irish neighborhoods of hardship and strife to experience life in a multicultural, multireligious, and diverse Nation. Upon return, they share what they have learned with their peers and build a better life for themselves and their families, a life of greater acceptance of difference without hate. This was the idea of the Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program, which began in 1998. The original legislation, H.R. 4293, creates 12,000 3-year nonimmigrant visas, Q classification, for adults between the ages of 18 and 35 who live in disadvantaged areas in Northern Ireland and the border counties of the Republic of Ireland. It aims to assist the region in its transition to a peacetime economy. As a low-cost, low- risk, high-return investment in peace, it affords people an opportunity to obtain valuable job skills and the experience of working in the world's greatest economy. After their visit, they return home to provide the crucial skill base needed to attract private investment in their local communities. Signed into law by President Clinton on October 30, 1998, the legislation directs the Secretary of State and the Attorney General to establish a program for young people who are residents of these areas to, quote, ``develop job skills and conflict resolution abilities.'' Since its inception, this program has already allowed about 500 young people ages 18 to 35 to immerse themselves in the culture in United States hub cities, including Colorado Springs; Washington, D.C.; Boston; Pittsburgh; and, most recently, my home, Syracuse. When the program was created, the Congress had no idea how many visas would be required. We had no accurate way to gauge interest among young people in those areas. However, the program is working; and I am anxiously awaiting a review by the Immigration and Naturalization Service and the State Department next spring when the first group of participants return to their home country. Mr. Speaker, current regulations state that INS may only admit 4,000 aliens per year under this program for a maximum of 36 months and only during the years 2000, 2001, and 2002. This legislation would simply allow another group of participants in fiscal year 2003 to obtain a 3- year Q-2 visa and enter into the program. This is understood by the State Department as well as the Ireland and Northern Ireland governments. If approved, they are expecting about 250 additional visas will be issued next year. Mr. Speaker, whenever Members of Congress visit Ireland and Northern Ireland, we are thanked for the support Congress has given to the peace process and reminded of the need to maintain our involvement. We have seen firsthand benefits of private and public investment in these distressed areas that have suffered the most from the violence over the last 30 years. The peace process in Northern Ireland is a great story, but it is an ongoing story and needs leadership from within and support from outside. This program is part of our ongoing commitment to a process that would have been impossible without U.S. involvement. The visa program will leverage existing and future private investment at a time of fiscal austerity. This program is a relatively inexpensive way to promote peace, reconciliation and stability. I believe this program serves as a model for future efforts to bring peace and resolve conflicts in other hot spots around the world. Mr. Speaker, I urge the adoption of H.R. 4558.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from Connecticut, for yielding time to me, and also the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Tierney) for bringing this resolution to the floor. Mr. Speaker, as my colleague, the gentleman from Connecticut, pointed out, this Wednesday marks the 100th anniversary of the invention of the modern-day air conditioner by Dr. Willis Carrier, a New Yorker. Today I offer before the House, House Concurrent Resolution 413, recognizing this historic event. Raised on a farm on the snowy eastern shore of Lake Erie in Angola, New York, the young Carrier grew up as an only child, raised by his grandparents and great aunt. Known for his superior problem-solving capabilities, Carrier would solve every complex problem he encountered by reducing it to its simplest form and solving each component one by one. He once stated in a high school graduation essay, ``A man with the power of will could make himself anything he wished, no matter what the circumstances.'' These words would define the rest of Mr. Carrier's life. Carrier entered Cornell University at Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York, on a 4-year scholarship, but he was forced to earn room and board by mowing lawns, stoking furnaces, and during his senior year, forming a co-op student laundry. With a degree in mechanical engineering, he found a job at the Buffalo Forge Company in 1901 and he began designing heating systems to dry lumber and coffee. Carrier was soon made head of the company's department of experimental engineering. It was here that he solved his first problem in temperature and humidity control for the Sackett- Wilhelms Lithographing and Publishing Company in Brooklyn in 1902. Marking the birth of modern air conditioning, Carrier's device controlled temperature, humidity, ventilation and air quality. In 1915, Carrier and six colleagues pooled together their life savings and founded Carrier Engineering Corporation in New York. In 1910 the company bought its first building in Newark, New Jersey and soon found its way back to our Empire State. In 1937 Carrier consolidated five plants on Geddes Street near my home in Syracuse. In 1947 Carrier moved to its present location on Thompson Road in the town of Dewitt, also in my congressional district. Today Carrier Corporation, the company that bears the founder's name, is a nearly $9 billion organization and remains the global leader in providing heating, cooling and refrigeration solutions in more than 172 countries around the world. As an aside, my colleague from Connecticut (Mr. Shays) will appreciate this. As a Peace Corps volunteer in Nepal, the only night I spent in an air-conditioned room in about 2-and-a-half years was in a Carrier air-conditioned room in Kathmandu, Nepal. The 43,000 worldwide employees of Carrier Corporation can be proud that they continue to carry on their founder's tradition of excellence by generating comfort wherever people work, live and play. Many of us take for granted the fact that air conditioning has become an integral technology, enabling the advancement of society through improvements to our Nation's health and well-being, manufacturing processes, building capacities, food preservation and general productivity and indoor comfort. From its birth 100 years ago to today's $36 billion industry, employing 700,000 Americans, we can all be very proud of Dr. Carrier. He did indeed change history. I suspect that if he did not invent air conditioning, we would not be meeting in Washington today because they used to close the Capitol in the beginning of the summer and stay away long until late in the fall. This invention also may have created a tremendous upsurge in the amount of legislation passed by this body, so maybe all is not progress. The Sistine Chapel in Rome is air-conditioned with Carrier air conditioning. Many great documents of this country are enshrined in museums and the air is conditioned also by Carrier air conditioning. Indeed, this building in which we meet today is also chilled by Carrier air chillers. So in gratitude for all of that, I would ask unanimous support of H. Con. Res. 413 and I ask Members to join me in celebrating this 100-year anniversary.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H. Res. 445, a resolution that praises the United States National Soccer Team for their outstanding performance in the 2002 World Cup tournament. I want to commend U.S. Coach Bruce Arena and assistant Coach Dave Sarachen for their superb leadership and tactical brilliance in guiding the U.S. team to the quarterfinals of the World Cup. This was the result of tiring work by players and coaches alike and this World Cup will go down in history as the year U.S. soccer arrived on the world stage. The incredible performance of the U.S. soccer team has generated enormous enthusiasm and pride in this country and our player's can hold their heads high as they proved to the world that they can compete at the highest levels with the best soccer teams in the world. The U.S. team played brilliant, inspired soccer throughout the World Cup and were able to defeat two of the top ten teams (Portugal and Mexico) in the world--a feat that no one would have predicted before the tournament started. U.S. sports fans also passionately responded to the great performance of our soccer team as sports bars were jam-packed with soccer enthusiasts and with ESPN receiving record viewership ratings in its television broadcasts of the U.S. World Cup matches. So let me once again congratulate the U.S. Soccer team for their phenomenal performance as the entire country is proud of what our players and coaches accomplished. The future of soccer is bright in this country and we can expect great things to come from U.S. soccer in the years to come.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Madam Speaker, at the 2002 World Cup in Korea, what began as a singular and stunning event, the U.S. Men's team victory over Portugal, has become prologue for its current run into the quarter finals. No American men's national team has ever reached this point nor achieved such success. Last night, our guys convincingly defeated their arch rival and fellow North Americans, Mexico, 2-0. Mexico also had a remarkable run through group play, emerging undefeated, that is until last night. Coach Arena, once again, put a team on the field that played with conviction and with class. While Mexico dominated possession, our team was opportunistic scoring on all its best chances. Goalkeeper Brad Friedel was once again outstanding, as was overall team defense. Next up, Friday morning, 7:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, mighty Germany, a team that is, again, one of the favorites. France, Argentina, Portugal, and now Mexico have gone home and our team is still playing. Can Germany be next? Join a billion other people for breakfast in Korea. Support our guys Friday morning.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of the Syracuse University Lacrosse team, the 2002 Division I NCAA Men's Lacrosse champions. On May 27th, the Orangeman won their second national title in three years. I am proud to represent this entire team of fine young men led by Head Coach John Desko and Assistant Coaches Roy Simmons III, Kevin Donahue, and John Zulberti. Lacrosse is one of the oldest American sports, and the members of this team--have taken the game to an incredibly high level. It is no wonder that lacrosse is growing at such a rapid pace with young athletes looking up to role models such as these students, who have dedicated almost their entire lives toward mastering this sport. They have truly made their University, the city of Syracuse, and lacrosse fans nationwide, proud of their accomplishments. It is my honor to acknowledge the following members of this team who have joined together to achieve the ultimate goal of becoming Division I National Champions: Chris Bickel, Solomon Bliss, Matt Bontaites, Andrew Boyle, Travis Bryan, Drew Bucktooth, John Burns, Josh Coffman, Nick Donatelli, John Glatzel, Kevin Gowin, Tom Hardy, Brian Herloski, Pat Hogan, Ryan Hogan, Joel Howard, Sean Lindsay, Steve Lykudis, Alex Mummolo, Brooks Neal, Brian Nee, Mike Nockunas, Kyle Olson, Jarett Park, Bill Perritt, Jay Pfeifer, Jake Plunket, Michael Powell, Dave Puccia, Joe Sabasteanski, Mike Smith, Brian Solliday, Michael Springer, Billy St. George, Andrew Starr, Steve Vallone, Donn Vidosh, Zack Wallace, Brett Walther, Spencer Wright, Alex Zink.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Marathon High School Girls Field Hockey Team for winning their fourth consecutive Class D New York State Championship. The MHS Girls Field Hockey team, coached by three-time New York State Championship Coach Karen Funk, finished the year with an unprecedented (24-0) season while also receiving the New York State Scholar/Athlete Team Award by maintaining a team average of 94.5. The Lady Olympians scored a total of 127 goals this season while only allowing 6 goals against them which contributed to 18 total shutouts this season. In addition to their outstanding season, MHS had two National All American players and two All State Players. With a combination of hard work and determination the MHS Girls Field Hockey Team has established a dynasty within the realms of Girls Field Hockey. On behalf of the residents of the 25th Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Marathon High School Girls Field Hockey team and their coach Karen Funk on their Class D New York State Girls Field Hockey Championship. With these remarks, I would like to recognize the following players and staff: Coach--Karen Funk, Scorekeeper--Jenelle Dayton, Alexandra Askew, Brooke Atwood, Nikki Biliings, Amanda Bliss, Danielle Braman, Lauren Brooks, Nicole Dann, Danielle Dayton, Danielle Diaz, Heather Doran, Alissa French, Lisa Gilbert, Jamie Gofgosky, Jessica Gofgosky, Eileen Hoyt, Maranda Kinsman, Tiffany Marsh, Jolene Phillips, Allison Robertson, Jacki Rose, Shira Thomas, and Kaitlin Veninsky. Congratulations to all.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate a victorious day for West Genesee High School as both the men's and women's lacrosse teams captured the New York State Lacrosse Division 1, Class A Championship titles. It was a memorable day that will go down in history for the Wildcats, as both teams soared triumphantly to the top. The day began as the women's team traveled to Cortland, New York to defend their state title, and this is exactly what they accomplished. The team ended their undefeated season with a 15-11 win. Later that afternoon at Hofstra University, the men's lacrosse team regained the State title with an exciting 10-9 victory. As Coach Mike Messere stated ``It was one of the most exciting games I've seen.'' West Genesee Lacrosse has always had the reputation for a stellar program, and as displayed this past weekend, the program continues to generate gifted athletes. These students work year-round to master the sport, and because of their relentless hard work, dedication, and passion for the game, they came out true champions. I am proud of these devoted athletes, and I commend the coaching staff, parents, and entourage of supporters who traveled this long road with them. This type of outcome does not happen overnight, nor is it a result of just one season. It takes years of dedication to get such results, and this entire team should be proud of their accomplishments. I would like to acknowledge the athletes and coaching staff who brilliantly represented their school, county, and state this past weekend: For the women: Chrissy Zaika, Eileen Gagnon, Vanessa Bain, Shannon Burke, Meghan Burgoon, Katie Donovon, Lindsey Moore, Jackie Griffin, Kendall Tupper, Lindsey Shirtz, Kelly Fitzgerald, Colleen O'Hara, Nicole Motondo, Katherine Kenneally, Juilie Fabrizio, Kelly Kuss, Katherine DelPrato, Beth Elmer, Lindsey Hamann, Meghan O'Connell, Katie Kozloski, Keelin Hollenbeck, Eileen Flynn, Head Coach Bob Elmer, and Assistant Coach Erica Gerber. And for the men: Mike Malfitano, Dean Mancini, Jake Bebee, Zack Forward, Jeff Murphy, Jed Bebee, Alex Cost, Kevin Hennigan, Matt O'Connell, Andrew Hanover, Rob Lemos, Mike Conklin, Cheney Raymond, Mark Conklin, Pat McCormack, Chad Clark, Drew Dabrowski, Devin Burgoon, Kiel Moore, Mike Solamon, Jim Mullaley, Andrew Sugar, Bill Gleason, Casey Rotelia, Chris Bulawa, Brian Cummings, Matt Woolsbiager, Brian Calabrese, Bob Toms, Mike Malone, Andy Zysk, Matt Cassalia, P.J. Burns, Head Coach Mike Messere, Assistant Coach Bob Deegan, and Scorekeepers Melissa McCarthy, Shadia Nesheiwat, Monica Macro, Kim Fischmann, Danielle Wood, and Jessica Lebduska.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Henninger High School Boys Basketball Team for winning the Class A State Championship. The win was a great testament to the hard work and dedication of this team and its staff. The Black Knights of Henninger made history when they won the Class A championship title by defeating McQuaid Jesuit High School of Rochester, 71 to 56. They were the first team in their section to bring home a Class A championship. On top of this great victory the Black Knights had a close to perfect season winning 25 of their 27 games played. Henninger player Chris Turner was deserving of special recognition by breaking the Class A single-game record, scoring 38 points to aid in the teams victory. He and fellow teammate Jerice Crouch were also players on the New York All-State Team and helped to carry the Black Knights to their victory. I would also like to give a special recognition to Joe Mazella for his dedicated service as Head Coach to the Black Knights. He is going to be stepping down from his position at the end of this season. Mazella finished his career with an impressive record of 245 wins and 78 losses. Under his direction, the team won nine Onondaga League championships and five sectional crowns. Personally he has won the All- Central New York coach of the year twice, once in 1995 and then again in 2002. On behalf of the people of the 25th district of New York, it is my honor to congratulate the Henninger High School Basketball Team and its coaching staff on their Class A Championship. With these remarks I would like to recognize the following players and staff: Chris Turner, Chase Frazer, Jerice Crouch, Quincy Fulmer, Markese Brown, Jason Nelson, Justin Wright, Terrance Evans, Roger Robinson, Erris Robinson, Dan Rogers, Lawrence Graser, Lenell Graham, Sedric Hawkins, and Head Coach: Joe Mazella.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 175th anniversary of the town of Clay. The first settler arrived in the township of Clay in 1793, and the town was the scene of much of Central New York's notable early history. Clay became its own entity on April 16, 1827. The town was named in honor of Henry Clay, the great statesman from Kentucky, and is surrounded by three beautiful Central New York rivers--the Oneida, Seneca and Oswego. This location was the site of numerous Indian Councils and served as the center of the Iroquois Confederacy. It was here that early French and English explorers, traders and military officers met with the Indians and matched eloquence with that of the Indian orators. The town flourished in its early days and continues to grow at a rapid pace. In the 175th year history of Clay the town population has grown from 700 to over 58,000, and Clay continues to expand. It remains Onondaga County's most populated town today. It is my honor to recognize the town of Clay and extend best wishes for many more years of distinguished history in Onondaga County.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 200th Anniversary of the Town of Owasco. This bicentennial will include town historical events beginning in June and continuing through the year long celebration. Settlers began arriving in this scenic area in 1792 and built their homes along the beautiful shores of Owasco Lake. The town of Owasco was officially founded in 1802. During the town's early history, dignitaries such as Martin Van Buren and Washington Irving were entertained in this beautiful Cayuga County setting. The jewel of Owasco, perched on the North end of the lake, is what is now known as Emerson Park. While many facets of life in Owasco have changed over the past two hundred years, the park has remained a staple of the community. It opened on July 1, 1889, boasting a family orientated atmosphere with a merry-go-round and a 350-foot miniature train ride. By the 1890's the park had a hotel, dance hall, and even began to serve ice cream cones. The park became the centerpiece of entertainment in Cayuga County and the gem of the Town of Owasco. The rich history of Owasco and Emerson Park provides the backdrop for this bicentennial celebration. It is my honor to recognize the Town of Owasco and to extend best wishes for many more years that will continue to contribute to the distinguished history of Cayuga County.

Mr. WALSH

Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Susan Migon of St. Charles Borromeo School in Westvale, NY for being honored by New York State as Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Educator of the Year. This award is named to Susan Migon in recognition of her extraordinary commitment to the New York State D.A.R.E. program. The D.A.R.E. program provides fifth grade students with the knowledge necessary to successfully turn away from drugs and alcohol. Susan Migon contributes to the D.A.R.E. course taught by local police chiefs by bringing enthusiasm and constant participation to her classroom. She serves as a valuable asset to the program and should be honored for her exemplary dedication. Susan Migon received a nomination for the award from the Geddes Police Department, and has worked closely with them on the D.A.R.E. program for the past nine years. On behalf of the residents of the 25th Congressional District of New York, it is my honor to congratulate Susan Migon of St. Charles School for her award as New York State's D.A.R.E. Educator of the Year.