[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 129 (Thursday, October 6, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2032-E2033]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR OF THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE LEGISLATURES LEADERSHIP 
                               INSTITUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 6, 2005

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the National 
Conference of State Legislatures Leadership Institute for 10 years of 
dedication and excellence in the formation of effective public policy 
makers. Over 300 State Legislators have participated in the Leadership 
Institute through its first 10 years.
  The National Conference of State Legislatures is a bi-partisan 
organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the United 
States and its commonwealths and territories. NCSL provides research, 
technical assistance, and a forum in which policy makers can exchange 
ideas.
  The primary goals of NCSL are to improve the quality and 
effectiveness of state legislatures, to promote policy innovation and 
communication among state legislatures, and to

[[Page E2033]]

ensure state legislatures a strong, cohesive voice in the federal 
system.
  The ideals of strong and effective leadership are the cornerstones 
upon which the NCSL Leadership Institute was founded. Leadership is an 
essential ingredient of any legislature. Moving beyond conflict and 
partisanship to meet the real needs of people is the fundamental test 
of legislative leadership.
  The NCSL Leadership Institute seminars foster lively discussions and 
provocative case studies, where promising leaders can explore their 
common values and the future of the legislature in a bi-partisan 
setting.
  Numerous State Legislators have attended the Leadership Institute in 
its 10 years of operation. The future of our government depends on the 
quality and creativity of the men and women who lead it and is 
imperative that we endorse programs that instill leadership qualities. 
On behalf of past, present and future Legislators, I extend my 
continued support and appreciation of the NCSL Leadership Institute.

                          ____________________