Jim Walsh

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Chairman, if I could, I'd like to enter into a colloquy with the gentleman who's offered the amendment. I'd like to ask the gentleman from Louisiana what is the offset that he's proposed to pay for this additional expense.

Mr. WALSH of New York. I yield to the gentleman from Louisiana.

Mr. WALSH of New York. I do, Madam Chairman.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. I thank my good friend and colleague from Florida for giving me time to speak on this issue, and to my colleague from California, who brought this resolution to the floor, and my colleague from Texas. This is a wonderful celebration of a great success for mankind, not just for the Irish, but for all of mankind. And it's an important and significant foreign policy success for the United States of America. About 12 years ago, then-Speaker Gingrich asked me if I would be willing to chair the Friends of Ireland, an ad hoc organization within the Congress that had been begun by Tip O'Neill, and the tradition continued through Speaker Wright and Foley and then Gingrich. Historically it had been a Democratic Congress, and I was the first Republican to chair it. But we never missed a beat. The Democrats and the Republicans worked side by side. Both Houses, Senators Kennedy and Dodd, McConnell and Connie Mack worked hand in hand with Rich Neal, Pete King, myself, Ben Gilman, and so many others. There is a real paradigm here for American foreign policy. If we can get everybody working together, we can solve I think pretty much anything in the world. But we played a part in this. The significant players were the British, beginning with John Major, and certainly Tony Blair, who focused on this all through his entire career. And also on the other island of Ireland, going all the way back to Elbert Reynolds and John Bruton, and then Bertie Ahern for the last 10 years. Every one of them, and again, different parties, different leaders, different philosophies, the same with the United States at the White House with President Clinton and then President Bush. Regardless of party, regardless of nationality, people all focused on what needed to be done. I remember when I first took on this assignment, and what a labor of love for me, as an Irish-American, son of an Irish mother and an Irish father, when I first met David Tremble and I asked him, what do you expect to get from all of this? He said one word, Peace. And then subsequently, a day or so later, I had the chance to meet Gerry Adams and I asked Gerry Adams, what do you expect from all this? He said in three words, Peace with justice. And so I think both men showed remarkable patience and persistence through this process. And certainly now we have a government that combines the republican forces of Northern Ireland, Adams, McGuinness and others, and the loyalist forces led by Ian Paisley, Peter Robinson, Jeffrey Donaldson and others. It's a remarkable achievement. It's almost like having Sunnis and Shia working together in Iraq. Imagine that. It's possible. But we should celebrate this victory as Americans, and as members of the family of man, because it is a great victory. We have taken a very, very dangerous place on the Earth and made it a peaceful place. We have seen the people of Northern Ireland, loyalists, nationalists, Catholic and Protestant, come together in one exercise, a democratic legislation. And it was that election, the election this spring, that really provided the coup de grace to violence and established democracy because all the parties participated and the people provided ultimately the leadership that was required to make this happen and gave their leaders the strength and the political capital to form this government. So Tim Murphy and I and a number of others, Rich Neal, were in Ireland to watch Ian Paisley walk across the sidewalk in Dublin and shake hands with Bertie Ahern, say, I've got to grip this man's hand, give him a good grip. It was astounding. And the pictures of Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness and Peter Robinson and Ian Paisley meeting together was an astounding picture that sent hope out to the entire world. So credit everyone. Victory has a thousand fathers and mothers. And we should all celebrate that.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of SSgt Matthew P. Patnaude, 314th Civil Engineering Squadron, United States Air Force. SSgt Patnaude, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal, EOD, Technician, has been recognized by the Air Force Times as the 2007 Airman of the Year. As an EOD Technician, SSgt Patnaude was deployed to Kirkuk, Iraq, to help protect our armed forces from various forms of enemy ordnance. During his time in Iraq SSgt Patnaude safeguarded over 16,000 coalition troops by executing 105 high-risk missions, neutralizing 45 IEDs, uncovering 9 weapons caches, and disposing of 40,000 pieces of enemy armaments. This exemplary service record alone is reason enough to recognize SSgt Patnaude, but his impressive resume stretches far beyond these black and white numbers. While on a mission to neutralize a roadside bomb in Iraq, SSgt Patnaude was attacked by an enemy sniper. Although seriously injured by the sniper's bullet, he vectored his security team to the sniper's location, as well as kept the medic treating his wounds advised of the enemy's activities. The SSgt also exemplified courage under fire when wounded by an enemy lED during yet another high-risk mission. Always putting his team first, SSgt Patnaude checked on his chief, radioed security, and set up the area for medical personnel. As SSgt Patnaude's supervisor has previously stated: ``his actions under fire are, simply put, heroic.'' SSgt Patnaude is the recipient of two Purple Hearts, but praise from his command goes far beyond his service in Iraq. In addition to his impressive record while on-duty, SSgt Patnaude is also deeply involved in community service. SSgt Patnaude volunteers for both Air Force and local community projects, including his role as an Air Force ambassador to the Boy Scouts of America. I wish to express my admiration and respect for such a fine example of the excellence and heroism that abounds in our Armed Forces. I am proud to have such an exemplary soldier and citizen come from my Congressional District. On behalf of the people of the 25th District of New York, I extend my sincere congratulations to SSgt Patnaude on his selection as the 2007 Airman of the Year.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Mrs. Geneva Hayden for her creation and development of the Communities United to Rebuild Neighborhoods (CURN) organization. Over the last thirteen years, Mrs. Hayden has reached out to more than five hundred inner city youths, making a significant impact on their lives. An organization that began in Mrs. Hayden's living room as a makeshift library and homework help center, CURN has grown into an afternoon and summer program, and has positively impacted children from some of Syracuse's most challenged neighborhoods. Mrs. Hayden has organized literacy parades, picnics, and field trips to Boston, Toronto, and Washington D.C., helping to enhance the sense of cultural diversity among the children in her community and increase their exposure to a world of opportunity. Mrs. Hayden is not only the driving force behind the organization, but is also the heart and soul of CURN. She took it upon herself to rally neighbors to pick up trash, drove drug dealers from the area, provided transportation for neighborhood kids to and from school, and inspired pride in young men and women in her community. Mrs. Hayden's organization instills positive values within today's youth and offers hope for a brighter tomorrow. A wife, mother, and retired educator, Mrs. Hayden's devotion to the welfare of her community's children is most honorable, and sets an example in which all of us can aspire. I congratulate Ms. Hayden on her achievements and the positive impact she has made on her community and its youth.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of this amendment. Section 1221 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 is an abridgement of the rights of State and local governments to influence Federal policy as it pertains to their communities. In fact, section 1221, regarding the siting of overhead electricity transmission lines, permits the FERC to outright ignore State decisions and local considerations. We are elected to represent a select constituency and our States, to advocate for their needs, and to advance our national interest. In this instance those responsibilities collide. I recognize that the Federal Government can and should do more to modernize our Nation's aging and congested electric power infrastructure. But the Northeast corridor proposal negatively impacts the environment, decreases property values, poses health risks, and hurts local property tax revenue. What is worse is that it provides State and local regulatory agencies no ability to involve themselves. By failing to support this amendment, Members of Congress will, in essence, allow unknown bureaucrats in Washington, huddled around a faceless map, to make critical decisions that affect the lives and financial well-being of thousands of American families. Surely that wasn't our Founding Fathers' intent. There has to be a better way than to circumvent a State's decisions and disregard property owners' rights. By supporting this amendment, we create time to find that better way.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to praise the LeMoyne College Men's Lacrosse team on winning their second consecutive Division II National Championship on May 27, 2007. The LeMoyne College Dolphin's capped their season in dramatic fashion, scoring the game winning goal with only one second remaining on the clock to defeat Mercyhurst College by a score of 6-5. At the conclusion of their season the Dolphin's record stood at an impressive 15-2. The LeMoyne College Lacrosse team had five student-athletes selected to the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association All- American teams. On behalf of the people of the 25th District of New York, I congratulate Head Coach Dan Sheehan, Assistant Coaches Rich Barnes, Brian Datellas, Eric MacCaull, Rob Trowbridge, and the players of the LeMoyne College Men's Lacrosse Team: Jared Corcoran, Nick Gatto, Alex Bily, Markus Fallico, Brian Cost, Tim Spillett, Jamie Dodge, Brian Griffin, Tim MacLean, Drew Bezek, Matt Juriga, Matt Emerson, Jordan Witt, Keith Vetter, and Brian Welch. Paul Sullivan, Ed Street, Mike McDonald, Doug McIver, Pete Gibbons, Blake Gale, Mike Rabbit, Tom Donahue, Kevin Kohl, Brad Wolken, Matt Crandall, Marc Cizenski, Mike McLaughlin, Dan Brown, and Jeff Lewis. Joe Vincent, Jesse Demase, Russ Oechsle, Brian Orlando, Mike Cignarale, Dustin Mulcahey, Andre Carducci, Mike Malone, Matt Cassalia, Dan Ziegler, Pat O'Donnell, Pat McPartlin, and Matt Foster.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the town of Cicero's 200th anniversary. Located on the southern shore of Oneida Lake, the town of Cicero serves as a northern suburb of metropolitan Syracuse. The town was named after the great Roman orator Marcus Tullius Cicero. The town of Cicero was one of the townships of the former Central New York Military Tract. The CNY Military Tract was land reserved for soldiers who served in the American Revolution. Cicero became a part of the town of Lysander when Onondaga County was formed in 1794. The town of Cicero split from the town of Lysander in 1807. The town of Cicero also included the town of Clay until 1827 when the township was divided. The town contains a rich history on involvement within Central New York. The town of Cicero was crucial to the building of the Erie Canal. The construction of the canal brought many settlers into the town, expanding its growth. The town of Cicero was also extensively involved within the salt industry. The salt industry provided many people with jobs, either making barrels or in furnishing lumber. When the salt mines dried up, the town's residents turned to the agriculture and dairy industries. Over its history, the town of Cicero has changed drastically. From a small farming community, Cicero has transformed into one of the fastest growing suburbs of the region. It has been an honor for me to represent the town of Cicero and its citizens for close to 20 years. The town of Cicero has provided the Central New York region with a prime example of a successful township filled with great people. The residents of the town of Cicero should be proud of their rich heritage. I congratulate them as they celebrate their first 200 years, and wish them nothing but the best for next 200 more.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Williamson-Sodus Airport. The airport's history dates back to May 9, 1957, when members of the Williamson Flying Club, Inc. purchased a half-mile parcel of land in the Town of Sodus. The Williamson-Sodus Airport was an 1,800-foot runway that was seeded in July 1957. Over the years the runway was upgraded and is now a 3,800 ft. hard-surface asphalt runway with modern lighting and taxiways and is always under improvement. Operated by the Williamson Flying Club, Inc., the Williamson-Sodus Airport has tremendously grown to serve the various needs of the community. One of the airport's functions is to serve as a ``reliever'' airport for the Greater Rochester area. The airport is also utilized by local industries as well as the United States Coast Guard. On behalf of the citizens of the 25th Congressional District of New York, I congratulate the Williamson-Sodus Airport for its 50 years of operation and achievements.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the Onondaga Community College Lazers Lacrosse team, 2007 National Junior College Athletics Association Men's Lacrosse Champions. Onondaga Community College, OCC, defeated Nassau Community College by a score of 21-14, giving the school their second consecutive men's lacrosse national title. The Lazers have an excellent track record in college lacrosse. For the past 7 consecutive years, the Lazers have won the Mid-State Athletic conference title, for the last 3 years they have been Region III Champions, and for the last 2 years they have been undefeated and national champions. The OCC Lazers Men's Lacrosse program has produced 23 All Americans, and 27 Lacrosse Coaches Association Academic All Americans. With their display of outstanding athleticism in going undefeated and winning national championships two seasons in a row, OCC has certainly established itself as one of the best junior college lacrosse teams in history. On behalf of the entire 25th Congressional District, I congratulate these young men on their outstanding athletic achievement and praise Head Coach Chuck Wilbur, and Assistant Coaches Mike Villano, Joe Villano, and Chris Brim on their team's success. I look forward to another exciting year when the Lazers take the field to defend their title in 2008. No. 1, Brooks Robinson; No. 2, Jerome Thompson; No. 3, Dan Casciano; No. 4A/37H, Jeremy Thompson; No. 5, Holdon Vyse; No. 6, Lee Nanticoke; No. 7, Jack Redmond; No. 8, Kent Squires-Hill; No. 9, Nick Larocca; No. 10, Logan Kane; No. 11, Isaiah Kicknosway; No. 12, Thomas Anthis; No. 13, Andy Lamb; No. 14, Joe Taylor; No. 15, Lee Thomas; No. 16, Bill Walton; No. 17, Ross Bucktooth; No. 18, Sean Griffin; No. 19, Pat DiMatteo; No. 20, PJ Motondo; No. 21, Nick Kazimer; No. 22, Cody Jamieson; No. 23, Keith Tomazic; No. 24, Tyler Hill; No. 25, Cody Dummer; No. 26, Adam Rivers; No. 27, Kasey Fellows; No. 28, Josh Groth; No. 29, Steve Prosonic; No. 30, Kris Frier; No. 31, Wade Bucktooth; No. 32, Kyle Wenzel; No. 33, Padraic McKendry; No. 34, Pat Dwyer; No. 35, Brian Buckley; No. 36, Fred Bush; No. 38, Kyle Turbe; No. 39, James Synowiez; No. 40, John Stanistreet; No. 41, Mike Fahey; No. 42, Spencer Mallia; No. 43, Greg Haney; No. 44, Sean McCauliffe; No. 45, Dustin Jacobsen; No. 48, Clinton Kennedy.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to join my colleagues here in the House in congratulating the people of Northern Ireland on the formation of their own duly elected government. This remarkable achievement, the formal implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, sends a message of hope to the entire world. In Martin McGuinness's words, ``This marks an end to 800 years of conflict.'' Surely if the Irish can reach a peaceful conclusion to their differences other troubled places around the world should celebrate the possibilities for themselves. Much credit goes to the political leadership of Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionist Party. Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness showed great courage in leading their Nationalist side. Rev. Ian Paisley, noted for saying no, said yes to an agreement he helped construct. British Prime Minister Blair and Irish Prime Minister Ahern never lost focus or patience. For America it was a wonderful foreign policy success. President Bush and Clinton played important and constructive roles. In the Congress, both houses linked arms and worked together. It was a case of everyone sticking together with one purpose. But the most credit should go to the people of Northern Ireland who expressed their hope for the future, first by supporting (as did the Republic) the Good Friday Agreement and most recently by giving Sinn Fein and DUP leaders a mandate to proceed. Optimism was expressed in the vote and the leaders need to move forward and do the hard work of governing. I know all Americans join together with our Irish friends in celebrating this miraculous achievement.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Senior Master Sergeant Marsha A. Rowe, who retired March 9, 2007 from the 174th Fighter Wing, New York Air National Guard in Syracuse, New York after having served over 31 years of dedicated service in the United States Armed Forces. Her last duty position was Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of Plans, Scheduling, and Documentation in the 174th Fighter Wing Maintenance Operations Flight. A native of Central New York, Sergeant Rowe's long and distinguished career in the United States Armed Forces began in January of 1976 when she enlisted in the New York Air National Guard. As a recent graduate of Indiana University, Sergeant Rowe was recruited for officer training but chose to join the enlisted ranks so she could work on the aircraft. All maintenance fields were combat positions and at that time not open to females, but Sergeant Rowe persisted and a waiver from National Guard Bureau allowed her to become a member of the 174th Maintenance Squadron Armament Section, working on gun and release systems and loading weapons on the A-37B Fighter Aircraft. Sergeant Rowe was named to the Load Standardization Crew, responsible for training all load crews, and earned the Maintenance Person of the Quarter Award. Soon after, Sergeant Rowe became the first female Recruiter in the 174th Fighter Wing. After her recruiting tour, Sergeant Rowe held numerous positions in the 174th Fighter Wing including Missile Shop Chief, Avionics Technician, Precision Measurement Equipment Lab Chief, Engine Manager, and Production Controller. In addition to the A-37B Dragonfly, she has worked on the A-10 Thunderbolt and the F-16 Falcon. Sergeant Rowe served in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, where she maintained the Electronics Counter Measure system on the F-16 Aircraft. Upon her return, she was chosen to carry the NY State Flag in both the Washington, DC and New York City Victory Celebration Parades. In addition to her full-time position, Sergeant Rowe has served as the Program Manager for the Base Security Augmentee Program for the past 13 years. She was a member of the Base Honor/Color Guard from 1976-1998, a member of the Base Pistol Team, served on the Board of Directors for the All Services Club, and was instrumental in organizing the trip to Washington, DC for the dedication of the Women's Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery. An animal advocate, Sergeant Rowe is involved in several organizations, and will be dedicating her retirement years to their causes. Sergeant Rowe's military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal; the Air Force Commendation Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters; and the Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster. Her military unit awards include the Air Force OutStanding Unit Award with Combat `V' device and four oak leaf clusters and the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award. She also holds the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal with nine oak leaf clusters; the National Defense Service Medal with one bronze service star, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three campaign stars; and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. Other service awards include the Air Force Longevity Service Award with six oak leaf clusters; the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with silver hourglass device, Mobilization ``M'' device, and Numeral 2; the USAF NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon; Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon; and the Air Force Training Ribbon. Her Foreign Service awards include the Kuwait Liberation Medal from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kuwait Liberation Medal from the Government of Kuwait. She is also the recipient of the N.Y. State Commendation Medal. Sergeant Rowe is a very special person. She willingly served her Nation in time of war, and in time of peace, exuding integrity, loyalty and pride. For her unrelenting service to her country, Sergeant Rowe can retire knowing she has earned such a status. I wish her well in retirement and thank her for her years of hard work and dedication.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Marilyn Pinsky and Kathryn Ruscitto, recipients of the 2007 Interfaith Leadership Award from Interfaith Works, for their devotion to religion, distinction in career, and dedication to community. Marilyn L. Pinsky served in Onondaga County government for 35 years, retiring in 2006 from the position of Commissioner of the Onondaga County Department of Aging and Youth. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, earning her Masters of Public Administration from the Maxwell School. She has been a prominent member of multiple community organizations, including the Community Foundation of Central New York, the Success by Six Policy Council, and the United Way. Her work in the community has benefited many and has distinguished her as a leader and an example for all of us. Kathryn H. Ruscitto has served as Senior Vice President for Strategic Planning and Organization Development at St. Joseph's Hospital since 2001. She earned her Bachelor's in Political Science and Education at LeMoyne College, and her Masters in Public Administration from the Maxwell School of Syracuse University. She has been involved with many community organizations and activities, including serving as a trustee for the Health Care Foundation of Western and Central New York, serving on the LeMoyne College Board of Regents, and as an Advisory Board member for Key Bank. Through her efforts on behalf of others, Mrs. Ruscitto has become a notable member of our community. I am proud to use this opportunity to publicly recognize Mrs. Pinsky and Mrs. Ruscitto for their outstanding dedication and service, and for earning this much deserved award.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I was not able to participate in legislative duties last week as i was in my District taking care of family commitments. On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended to H.R. 1677 Taxpayer Protection Act--Vote ``yea.'' On Motion to Suspend Rules and Agree to H. Res. 196 Supporting the Goals and Ideals of World Water Day--Vote ``yea.'' On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree, as Amended to H. Con. Res. 100 Condemning the recent violent actions of the Government of Zimbabwe against the peaceful opposition party activists and members of civil society--Vote ``yea.'' On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree to H. Res. 273 Supporting the goals and ideals of Financial Literacy Month--Vote ``yea.'' On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree to H. Con. Res. 76 Honoring the 50th Anniversary of the International Geophysical Year and its past contributions to space research and looking forward to future accomplishments--Vote ``yea.'' On Passage of H.R. 195 District of Columbia House Voting Rights Act-- Vote ``nay.'' On Passage of H.R. 1495 Water Resources Development Act--Vote ``yea.'' On Passage of H.R. 1257 Shareholder Votes on Executive Compensation Act--Vote ``yea.''

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. John Dau of Syracuse, New York. Mr. Dau has dedicated his life to helping others in his native country of Sudan to get a chance at a better life. He has done amazing humanitarian work for his fellow Sudanese people, including raising money for the building of a clinic in his home village and raising awareness about the plight of the Sudanese in general. National Geographic has recently named Mr. Dau one of the eight emerging explorers of 2007. Those given this title are adventurers, scientists, photographers, and storytellers that are said to be making a difference in their prospective fields. The National Geographic executive vice president for mission programs has referred to Mr. Dau as a ``visionary individual'' and asserted that he was precisely the sort of individual National Geographic was looking for when choosing emerging explorers. With the money from this award, Mr. Dau is going to send other ``Lost Boys'', or Sudanese who spent their adolescence fleeing war, famine, and slavery, to school in Kenya and Uganda. Mr. Dau is an accomplished humanitarian, and it is for this reason that I rise today to recognize his great work.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to reiterate support for the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 and the St. Andrews Agreement of 2006, and to commend the tireless efforts of all involved in the peace process. On April 10, 1998, the Good Friday Agreement was signed in Belfast, ending 3 decades of violence known as The Troubles. However, this landmark agreement was unable to deliver a lasting government to Northern Ireland, and in 2002 the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Executive were suspended. In October of 2006, the process was restored with the St. Andrew's Agreement, which established timetables for the restoration of the government of Northern Ireland and breathed life back into the process. This timetable required that both sides make some serious concessions to establish a peaceful and lasting government. Gerry Adams of Sinn Fein and Ian Paisley of the Democratic Unionist Party sat together for the first time ever on Monday, March 26, to announce that they had come to an agreement and that a provincial government will be established on May 8th of this year. I would like to commend them for working to establish this government, and urge the rest of my colleagues to join me in congratulating them for their great diplomatic work.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Peace Corps Week, which took place from February 26th until March 1st, 2007. The Peace Corps was founded in the early 1960s, and has grown to a force of 7,749 volunteers in 73 overseas countries. The Peace Corps has done great work all over the world in numerous fields, including improving agriculture, business development, improving information technology, bettering education, improving healthcare, and protecting the environment. The Peace Corps provides those who join with extensive training in language skills as well as skills in numerous other fields that give them the foundation to eventually work in any field they choose, much like how I ended up serving my constituents here in Washington after I had spent time in the Peace Corps serving in Nepal. Today I would especially like to thank Catherine Bukowski, Terry Callan, Katie Clifford, Laurence Dessein, Patrick Gannon, Kerry Goessling, Lisa Jackson, Chetou Lamare, Ryan McCarthy, Samuel Tassone, and Patrick Wayne; all constituents of mine selflessly serving overseas in the Peace Corps. All of these men and women should be commended for their tireless effort, and that is I why I stand today to recognize them and all those serving in the Peace Corps.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today recognition of the bicentennial anniversary of the Town of Ontario. Ontario is located in the northwest corner of Wayne County, with Lake Ontario forming its northern border. Led by Freeman Hopkins, the town separated from the town of Williamson 200 years ago, on March 27, 1807. After its separation, the town came to be known as Freetown. On February 12, 1808, the town officially became known as Ontario, in honor of the Great Lake on its border. Ontario was a major location of the iron industry in Wayne County. In 1811, iron was first discovered in Ontario by a Mr. Knickerbocker. A few years later, Samuel Smith built a forge and began the making of iron. The real boom in iron industry came in 1880 when the Furnaceville Iron Company constructed a $200,000 furnace. For the next 17 years, Ontario became a mining town, and the product was sold for mill and foundry iron. As competition from the other parts of the country grew, the iron beds in Wayne County became idle and the people of the town of Ontario turned to another attribute of the region for sustainability. Sitting on the shores of Lake Ontario the area proved to be the perfect climate for apple growing. From the initial apple farms roughly a hundred years ago, the apple industry in Wayne County has grown to one of the top producing apple regions in the country. During the Civil War, the people of Ontario lived up to their town motto of ``A Community of Good Neighbors.'' No other town in Wayne County had as many fearless and brave citizens who served in the Union Army. Today, the town of Ontario is home to many high-tech industries and alternative energies. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant provides clean energy for the town and the surrounding region while wind power investment at Harbec Industries has spurred economic development. Other small businesses in the town boost accolades that include the manufacturing of parts for the Hubble telescope and equipment for our American troops. This once farming community has seen many changes from once booming iron production. Today Ontario grows and expands its industrial base while continuing to be a community of good, and proud, neighbors. On behalf of the people of the 25th Congressional District of New York State, I proudly honor the 200 years of existence of the town of Ontario.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking member, Mr. Lewis, for his hard work in providing this response, this very, I think, respectful response. I would submit to you that any sacrifice any American has made in Iraq is a worthy, worthy sacrifice. Mr. Speaker, here we go again. Thus far in the 110th Congress, the House has considered two pieces of appropriations legislation. Thus far, we have twice done so under rules that stifle debate and amendment. First, we operated under a closed rule on the 2007 continuing resolution, limited debate, no amendments, a bill that spend hundreds of billions of dollars. Now we are doing the same thing with a war supplemental. Let me be clear about what is happening here tonight. The majority does not want a vote to remove the egregious and unconstitutional provisions restricting the Commander in Chief's authority over our Armed Forces. They do not want to allow us the opportunity to strike the unprecedented deadline for withdrawing our troops. Never before has a Congress in our history written into law a date for the withdrawal of American troops in a war. They won't allow us that opportunity because Republicans and Democrats would vote bipartisanly to strike that deadline. They have proposed a rule that will prohibit Members from offering amendments that could modify the bill in such a way that the President could sign it. Let's be clear: by proposing a closed rule, the Democratic leadership signals it wants this bill vetoed. In short, the majority would rather play politics than find a solution to the problem. And who will lose this game of political chicken? The troops who stand in harm's way as we talk; the troops, who are relying on this Congress to provide the necessary funds before the end of May so they can complete their mission successfully and as safely as possible. This bill should be rejected out of hand and the majority should immediately bring back a clean supplemental so we can ensure that our troops will have the resources they need. Let's stop the posturing and pass a clean bill. That's the bottom line.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Mr. Paul Baker, recipient of the prestigious Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device in recognition of his actions on February 19, 1945 at Iwo Jima. The Battle of Iwo Jima was a crucial victory in World War II against the Japanese. On the morning of February 19th, 1945, the first of 70,000 Marines and Sailors, including Pharmacist's Mate First Class Paul Baker, U.S. Navy, landed on Iwo Jima. By the end of the battle 35 days later, the Allies were victorious, but suffered over 25,000 casualties, including over 5,000 deaths. On that initial morning of the invasion, Petty Officer Paul Baker, was among the first infantry troops to land on the island. Baker was rendered unconscious by a Japanese artillery shell that struck his ship. Upon regaining consciousness, despite his injuries and without regard for his own safety, Baker began treating multiple injured Marines, refusing medical treatment for his own injuries to save the lives of his fallen comrades. Only after all of the wounded Marines had been transferred to the medical personnel on the USS Sanborn, did Petty Officer Baker allow himself to be treated. Petty Officer Baker displayed the highest level of dedication and selflessness by his courageous actions that day. He is a shining example of the heroism and valor that was displayed by so many of our troops during World War II. On Friday, March 23rd Secretary of the Navy Donald Winter will personally present Mr. Baker with this Bronze Star with Combat ``V'' at a ceremony in Irondequoit, New York. I am proud to use this opportunity to publicly recognize Mr. Baker and to congratulate him and his family on this long overdue recognition.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the late Mr. Levi ``Lee'' Smith who served his central New York community in a number of unique ways. He founded the Onondaga Citizens League, OCL, which promotes civic education and involvement in public affairs. Organized in 1978, the OCL has offered the community studies on local government consolidation, voter participation, area health services, the quality of local arts, and community housing assessments among others. Lee's Institute for Retired Professionals offers local retirees the opportunity to remain intellectually active in community affairs after retirement. Perhaps most notable is Lee's work to found the Thursday Morning Roundtable, TMR, 41 years ago. The organization is a public service speaker series that was created to provide an environment where people who were interested in political and civic issues could discuss their ideas and opinions. Lee's foresight in founding TMR as a forum for thoughtful study and exchange laid the groundwork for other civic involvement initiatives in our community, like FOCUS Greater Syracuse and Syracuse University's Tomorrow's Neighborhoods Today, TNT. Mr. Lee Smith passed on February 6 of this year at the age of 88, and his life will be celebrated at a memorial service on February 18. Lee's commitment and dedication to serving the community and educating others has been, and will continue to be, an important asset to our community. I thank his wife Alice and the entire Smith family for sharing Lee with our community all these years.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in fundamental support of H.R. 547, The Advanced Fuels Infrastructure Research and Development Act, which provides important direction for further development of the infrastructure needed to bring various biofuels, like ethanol, to the entire U.S. market. Currently the biofuel infrastructure in our country is not ready for an influx of biofuels and the impending transition from petroleum fuels to alternative fuels. Appropriately, the corrosive nature of ethanol is addressed in H.R. 547. The bill directs federal agencies to look at new infrastructure components, along with potential additives to alleviate the harm ethanol and other biofuels can have on our Nation's current energy infrastructure. But H.R. 547 needs to do more. My home State of New York is currently dependent on ethanol produced in the Midwest. Regions outside the cornbelt, such as New York, are subjected to additional costs associated with the transportation of ethanol across the country. Such costs can easily be alleviated by regional biofuel markets. While H.R. 547 addresses some of the issues surrounding biofuel infrastructure, it does not address the idea of regional biofuel markets. The concept of regional markets has the potential to supplement and augment the existing ethanol infrastructure while easing transportation risk and costs. Further, regionalized biofuel markets have many economic implications. Local and regional markets bring jobs to rural areas throughout our country by putting farmers back to work. Regional markets create new opportunities for hard working Americans at refineries and jobs through the local transportation networks needed for ethanol distribution. Such economic activities add to the tax base in our small towns and immediately promote environmental consciousness. Such environmental consciousness and the promise of a regional ethanol market are most notably being felt in Upstate NY. Stemming from research and development done at SUNY-ESF, shrub willow trees are now being used to produce cellulosic ethanol. This technological advancement was funded by the Federal government and the State of New York over the last decade. Through the financial backing and support of Catalyst Renewables, the ESF technology has been integrated with a biomass electric facility to create a CO2 neutral to negative cellulosic ethanol refinery. This energy independent facility creates transportation fuel, electric energy and provides residual steam to other industries, which further reduces fossil fuel use. The result will be one of the first commercial cellulosic ethanol plants in North America which will create a regional market that will be felt throughout New York and surrounding states. Such encouraging developments in New York State will greatly benefit from the ethanol technologies supported in H.R. 547. However, the cellulosic ethanol industry, which is still in its infancy, faces numerous challenges. These include competition with established fossil fuels, corn based ethanol production, and tax inequality with wind and solar energy. As a Nation, we must promote the regionalization of biorefineries beyond the cornbelt. Currently, such markets do not receive equal funding opportunities, hindering biomass refinery commercialization. If our Nation is serious about lessening our dependence on foreign oil and promoting alternative energies like that developed at ESF, we must embrace and encourage the economic benefits of regional biofuel markets.

Mr. WALSH of New York

Mr. WALSH of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution formalizing this body's resolve to support and protect the men and women in the United States Armed Forces in Iraq and disapproving of President Bush's decision to deploy 20,000+ additional combat troops to Iraq. Like the overwhelming majority of my colleagues in the House and Senate, in 2002 I voted to authorize the use of force in Iraq should the President deem such force necessary. Since then, the men and women of our Armed Services have carried out their mission with great courage and bravery, and they successfully achieved every military objective we set forth. They removed a tyrannical, oppressive dictator who brutally slaughtered his own people, including innocent women and children. They rebuilt schools and replaced a crumbling infrastructure. And they provided security for the Iraqi people to successfully conduct interim elections, to write a new constitution, and to democratically elect and install new national leadership. The remaining objectives articulated at the outset--conflict resolution between Sunnis and Shiites and national peace and stabilization--can only be achieved for the Iraqis, by the Iraqis. Their success will take personal will and political compromise from all domestic parties involved. Mr. Speaker, success in Iraq today requires a political solution, not a military one. Twenty thousand more armed American men and women on the ground in Iraq will not change the determination or alter the strategy of the warring factions and militants our troops now face. The addition of more American forces will certainly not encourage the Iraqi Forces to take responsibility for their nation's security. This premise never became clearer than when GEN. John Abizaid told the Senate Armed Services Committee, ``I believe that more American forces prevent the Iraqis from doing more and from taking more responsibility for their own future.'' He continued, ``I've met with every divisional commander--General Casey, the corps commander, General Dempsey--we all talked together. And I said, `in your professional opinion, if we were to bring in more American troops now, does it add considerably to our ability to achieve success in Iraq?' And they all said no.'' Today's U.S. military role in Iraq should be to assist in support and training initiatives, not to lead the charge. We must remember that this democracy does not belong to us, but to the Iraqi people who are responsible for protecting and enhancing it. If an increase of troops is needed to stabilize specific regions, those troops ought to be Iraqi troops. At last count there were 325,000 trained, equipped and fielded Iraqi Security Forces. At some point in time, these Iraqi Forces have to lead security efforts. What better time than now? What better opportunity could there be for the Iraqis to manifest their national pride and commitment to democracy by concrete actions? The Iraqis are ready and the U.S. needs to stop enabling their dependence. Recently, the 174th Fighter Wing of the New York Air National Guard based in my hometown of Syracuse returned from a support tour in Iraq, and I'm proud that a young member of my staff deployed with them. Dozens of other young men and women from New York's 25th Congressional District have fought in Iraq and Afghanistan. I am deeply proud of them and their remarkable service to our country. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you as a member of the greatest deliberative body in the greatest representative democracy in the world. We are the people's House. We are all elected--chosen--every two years by citizens across this land to converge here in Washington to represent them, to vote on their behalf, and to ensure that their voices are heard in every national debate. And as Members of Congress we do so with a unique balance of personal belief and public will. The President is the Commander in Chief. That is a fact. But he is not the sole decider. We--the other elected leaders of our government-- have a responsibility to express the will of the American people as we perceive it. The people of my New York district overwhelmingly supported this mission at its start, as did I. We still support its goals. We will always support our troops. But we do not support the continued build up of U.S. troops in Iraq. This resolution states the House's disagreement with the President on this strategy, and I support this 97-word resolution before us. But I also say today clearly and without equivocation that I will not support any proposal to cut funding to our troops while they are in harm's way. America has kept her promises to the people of Iraq. Over 3,000 American soldiers have given their lives to ensure those promises were kept, and their families now go forward with a constant reminder of the price of their sacrifice. This resolution confronts the reality that there are defined military objectives, defined diplomatic objectives, and defined political objectives that can only be achieved by a sovereign and selfsustaining people. This resolution, ultimately, is about the role and the responsibility of the Iraqi people. This resolution does not call for us to step out-- American troops there need to remain and take on a different role. Rather, this resolution calls for Iraq to step up. For that reason, it has my support.