Wm. Clay

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Doris Dunlap Darden, an educator who has devoted 50 years of service to the St. Louis Public School District. She has dedicated her life to enabling children to attain quality education and providing opportunities that help students realize their abilities and achieve their highest goals. She began her commendable teaching career in 1953 and has worked diligently to level the educational playing field for at-risk youth in low-income neighborhoods throughout the city of St. Louis. Darden has encouraged hundreds of children by setting high expectations and implementing programs for students to gain leadership and communications skills necessary to succeed in life. She has been committed to reaching both the students and their parents with her educational outreach. Darden impressively took the initiative to create ``Home, School and Community,'' a program which introduced students to local and national newsmakers and celebrities. This innovative program allows famous guest speakers to encourage students to achieve academic excellence, while their parents attended informative workshops and seminars. Darden solidly believes that all children deserve a high quality education regardless of their socioeconomic status. As a tutor, early in her career, she took note of the way wealthy parents trained their children and introduced those same learning techniques to inner city students. Darden found that her efforts helped raise both the productivity level and esteem of children who would otherwise might have been cast off by society. In addition to her unwavering commitment to teaching, Darden has selflessly allotted time for community service. She had dedicated numerous hours to working with the Colored Women's Association, National Association of University Women, Tot's N' Teens, various city- wide committees and Leadership for Teachers. Mr. Speaker, it is with great privilege that I recognize Doris Dunlap Darden to today before Congress. This extraordinary women strongly believes that every child has the capacity to learn and deserves a chance to express that capacity through life goals. In 50 years, Darden has influentially touched the lives of thousands of young people in classrooms and throughout the St. Louis community. She has a stellar record of demonstrating compassion in the classroom. I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring a treasured member of the St. Louis community, Doris Dunlap Darden.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to St. Louis Children's Hospital. I am extremely honored to commend them for their dedication and commitment to the well-being of precious children in need of medical attention. They were recently ranked 6th in the nation among the top 10 Best Children's Hospitals in America by Child Magazine. The hospital's devotion to ensuring that children are receiving high quality and appropriate medical, nursing and mental health care, earned them the privilege of a five-star customer service award for patient satisfaction. They placed fourth for their excellent neonatology/neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). St. Louis Children's Hospital is highly devoted to improving the health of children and providing the highest quality care. This hospital has the country's largest full-service pediatric cerebral palsy program and the world's largest pediatric lung transplant program in the world. The doctors at St. Louis Children's Hospital performed 70 pediatric transplants in 2001, more than any other hospital surveyed. St. Louis Children's Hospital diligently researches to generate scientific information that provides insight to the cause, treatment and prevention of childhood disease. In addition, such studies provide essential knowledge for improving the general health of all children. The hospital has conducted more than 500 peer-reviewed clinical trials, including the largest and longest childhood asthma study. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis Children's Hospital has provided specialized care for children for over 120 years. Their health care professionals are both skilled and compassionate with all patients and their families. They are well-deserved of our honor and I urge my colleagues to join me in commending them for the commitment and remarkable care they provide to the children of the greater St. Louis region.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. I rise today to pay tribute to a very brave and valiant pioneer, Astronaut Michael P. Anderson, one of seven courageous crew members who perished when the space shuttle Columbia disintegrated on February 1, 2003. Air Force Colonel Anderson was a Payload Commander aboard space shuttle Columbia which had just completed a 16 day scientific journey through space. Tragically, it broke apart just after re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere and only 15 minutes before its scheduled landing at [Kennedy] Space Center. The entire world was shocked to learn of this tragedy and the citizens of the St. Louis area were just as numbed to learn that Colonel Anderson was the nephew of one of its favorite sons. The reality of this devastation truly hit home and was even more heart wrenching when the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported that Dr. James DeClue, a friend, constituent and highly respected ophthalmologist, was among the many close relatives to suffer this tragic loss. Born on Christmas Day, 43-year-old Colonel Anderson considered Spokane, Washington his hometown. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics/astronomy from the University of Washington in 1981. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force and spent four years flying for the strategic Air Command. He later earned a Master of Science degree in physics from Creighton University in 1990 and was selected by NASA as an astronaut in 1994. As Payload Commander aboard Columbia, Colonel Anderson was responsible for the shuttle science mission. As the first African-American to visit a space station during a trip to the Russian Mir outpost, Colonel Anderson will serve as inspiration to minority youth everywhere. He bravely ignored the dangers associated with space travel and risked his life because he believed that what he was doing would have great consequences and benefit all mankind for generations to come. By all accounts he was a man of faith who believed that life was a gift and a blessing. Colonel Anderson fulfilled his life's mission on Earth as a scientist and explorer. He had logged more than 211 hours in space and will always be remember for his faith in the future. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my condolences to Colonel Anderson's family and let them know how very proud the St. Louis community is of his remarkable accomplishments. Colonel Anderson set lofty goals for himself and accomplished them. He will live forever in our memories. I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Colonel Michael P. Anderson.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to ask for further congressional scrutinizing of recommended changes to the Federal Home Loan Bank system. The Federal Home Loan Bank system has enjoyed continued success as a regionally based cooperative that provides critical liquidity to its constituent member institutions. The currently proposed changes involve three major issues that include the assumption of new powers, the dismantling of the regional character of the System, both of which bring into issue concerns about corporate transparency, and whether the FHLBank's disclosure practices are adequate. It is thought by many in Congress and in the industry that efforts by some members of the FHLBank system to create a new market for securitization of mortgages would expand its mission in an era of economic uncertainty. Congress should have an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of any proposed reforms before the system is allowed to abrogate its traditional mission. Moreover, the adoption of a multi-district charter would undermine the strength of the system which lies in its regional structure that allows each bank to have independence and flexibility in addressing its varying needs. As a result, further consolidation could threaten competition and lead to a limitation of access to credit for home ownership. Finally, any expansion of FHLBank powers and activities should be accompanied by more stringent disclosure requirements; additional statutory standards such as affordable housing goals; and appropriate capital requirements. In order to safeguard the continued viability of the Federal Home Loan Bank system, any changes to its fundamental mission should receive adequate congressional scrutiny.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today in tribute to the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation and its president, Earl Wilson, Jr. On Sunday, September 29, 2002, the Sports Foundation hosted the grand opening of its new 15,000 square foot, $2.7 million headquarters. The building, located at 202 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive in St. Louis, Missouri, will house office space, a computer lab, gymnasium, auditorium, state-of-the-art boxing area, banquet facilities and classrooms. In addition a ``Walk of Fame,'' which lined the sidewalk outside the new building was unveiled. The ``Walk'' honors African-Americans from Missouri who have made a positive impact on the St. Louis community and the nation. As the Representative of the 1st Congressional District in Missouri, I was proud to participate in the opening of the new facility. Since its founding in 1994, the Gateway Classic Foundation has sent a strong message to our young people that someone cares about them, that someone will invest in their skills and talents and provide positive alternatives to negative influences. The Foundation's community outreach has increasingly emphasized the importance of building a better future for the youth in St. Louis, through programs that target their educational, health, intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual development. Every year, the Foundation stages the Gateway Classic college football game and hosts other sporting events such as high school basketball tournaments, track and field competitions and boxing matches. In nine years, the Foundation has donated more than $2.9 million to local charitable organizations and has awarded 35 full, 4- year scholarships to students to attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The 17 ``Walk of Fame'' inductees are true heroes, not just to the black community, but to our nation as a whole. In sports and entertainment, the inductees were: Jackie Joyner Kersee, Elston Howard, Dick Gregory, and members of the 5th Dimension. In government, the inductees were: Congresswoman Maxine Waters, former St. Louis Mayor Freeman Bosley, Jr., U.S. Army General Roscoe Robinson, Jr., U.S. Army Air Corps officer Wendell Pruitt, former St. Louis Alderman Wayman Smith, Jr., and former Congressman William L. Clay, Sr. Other inductees were: Reverend James E. Cook, Dr, Julia Davis, Civil Rights activist Percy Green, Nanny Turner Mitchell, Homer G. Phillips, Margaret Bush Wilson, and Nathan B. Young. All of these inductees are priceless assets to the St. Louis Community and the nation. I salute them for their achievements and commend the Foundation for seeking to honor these individuals. The Foundation also recognized and presented special awards to its minority contractors for their part in the construction of the new headquarters. The minority owned component included; Interface Construction Company, contractor; Fleming Corporation, architect, and Kwame Building Group, construction manager. In closing, I would like to extend ``Birthday Greetings'' to Earl Wilson, Jr., who celebrated his 70th Birthday yesterday. On behalf of his family and many friends in the 1st Congressional District, I wish him good health, continued success and many more birthday celebrations!

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Payne) for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, over the last few weeks my constituents in St. Louis have made their opinions clear to me regarding the President's positions regarding Iraq, and I hear great opposition to war against Iraq. I hear mothers, fathers, seniors, college students and veterans opposing any action in the region. Their voices are black, white, Asian and Hispanic. And while the reasons for their opposition vary, the one common question they all seem to have is this: How does this conflict serve America's best interest? I, along with many Americans, believe that the state of our sagging domestic economy has to be considered our Nation's greatest concern at this time. In the past year and a half this country has experienced increasing unemployment, growing national debt, tumbling economic growth, and a floundering stock market which has lost all consumer confidence. Despite all this, our domestic issues have been pushed aside as we debate a possible preemptive attack against Iraq. Important issues like education, Social Security, unemployment, and affordable health care have been almost completely ignored by this diversion. Another question my constituents frequently ask is this: How will this war affect our young men and women serving in the Armed Forces? When one looks at the make-up of our Armed Forces, African Americans make up more than 25 percent of the U.S. Army and over 38 percent of our Marine Corps. And since African Americans comprise more than 50 percent of my district, my constituents are justifiably concerned that instead of making their lives more secure, this war will likely expose them to even greater dangers. Mr. Speaker, if my constituents are any gauge of the American public's concern regarding possible military action against Iraq, then I hope all Americans will contact their elected officials here in Congress at 202-225-3121 and voice their opposition to this resolution. Neither my constituents nor I have forgotten September 11. We are still asking questions about the magnitude of this country's loss, but debating unprovoked unilateral action against a country whose ties to terrorism are suspect at best is not providing any answers. I for one believe that our military's top priority should be fighting al Qaeda and finishing the war against terrorism that we started in Afghanistan. Those who support this resolution have not yet come close to proving to me that Iraq represents a big enough military threat to take our focus off of bin Laden. In addition, the stability of the Middle East is in danger. Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt would be subject to extreme internal pressure and unrest that would disrupt and threaten American interests in the region. The concerns of my constituents echos voices heard more than 200 years ago. The men and women who founded our country imagined a Nation based on liberty and republican principals. One of these principals was that no country had the unilateral right to attack another without just cause. And President George Washington went so far as to suggest that America should keep its hands out of most foreign affairs. Washington stated, ``The great rule of conduct for us in regards to foreign nations is in extending our commercial relation to have as little political connection as possible.'' It appears that now, 200 years later, we have strayed quite far from our Founding Fathers' vision. And I cannot in good faith subject my constituents to this military conflict. I urge my fellow Members of Congress to also vote against this resolution.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I am very happy to take this opportunity to share with my colleagues in Congress the news that Mrs. Hilda Willenburg DuFaux will celebrate her 90th birthday next week on September 9, 2002. Mrs. DuFaux, a resident of Missouri's First Congressional District, was born in the year 1912. In 1936 Hilda married Charles Willenburg. They were blessed with three daughters, Karen, Kathy and Jeanette. She raised her daughters on her own after her husband passed away in 1954. In 1967 Hilda married Vince DuFaux and was devoted to him until he passed away in 1970. Today she is blessed with 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Hilda has lived in the city of Overland, Missouri for the past 64 years. Since moving to Overland, she has faithfully worshipped God at Presentation Catholic Church. Mrs. DuFaux lives an active life and has a great many hobbies and interests including gardening, playing cards and going to garage sales. She enjoys babysitting her young great- grandson and is truly a cherished and loving member of her family and a treasured member of our community. I salute Mrs. Hilda DuFaux as she achieves this special milestone. She has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to life. She is a remarkable woman whose strength, determination and spirit serve to inspire others.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 348, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``Yea.''

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, Paul Ecke, Jr., revolutionized the way poinsettias are bred, produced and sold in the United States, making it the best selling potted flowering plant in the United States and the world. The poinsettia, which is native to Central America, flourished in Southern Mexico, where the Aztec Indians used it decoratively, for medicine, and for dye for textiles. The poinsettia was first brought to the U.S. by Joel Roberts Poinsett, the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico from 1825 to 1829. Ecke Ranch, established by Paul Ecke, Sr., and subsequently owned and developed by Paul Ecke, Jr., created a worldwide poinsettia market. In 2001, poinsettias contributed $250 million in sales at the wholesale level to the United States economy, and many times that amount to the economies of countries around the world. This resolution recognizes Paul Ecke, Jr.'s integrity and determination and love of people which have enabled him to develop the poinsettia industry and extends condolences to his family on his death. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, the debris from the cleanup of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center towers were taken to the Fresh Kills Landfill on Staten Island, New York for cleanup and investigation. Over a 10-month period following September 11, 2001, more than 1,000 workers at the landfill, around the clock, tirelessly and carefully sifted through all 1.62 million tons of debris from the World Trade Center site, searching for remains, personal effects, and evidence from what is now considered to be history's largest crime scene. These workers came from 28 New York City, State, and Federal agencies to participate in these cleanup and recovery efforts. They recovered approximately 20 percent of all of the victim remains following the towers' collapse, as well as more than 54,000 personal items. The remains of 188 of the 1,215 World Trade Center victims whose remains have been identified and returned to their families were recovered at the landfill. The actions of these workers brought peace to the hundreds of friends and families that were touched by this horrific attack against the United States. This resolution pays tribute to the workers who helped clean up the debris of the World Trade Center site and recovered the remains and effects of the victims. I urge my colleagues' support for this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Committee on Government Reform, I am pleased to join my colleague in the consideration of H.R. 5145, a bill to designate a facility of the U.S. Postal Service after William C. Cramer. H.R. 5145 was introduced by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young) on July 16, 2002, and enjoys the support and co-sponsorship of the entire Florida congressional delegation. William Cramer was born in Denver, Colorado, and at the age of 3 moved with his parents to St. Petersburg, Florida, where he attended public schools. After serving as a lieutenant in the Naval Reserve and the State House of Representatives, William Cramer was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1955, and served until January 1971. He is currently retired and a resident of St. Petersburg, Florida. Mr. Speaker, I urge the swift passage of this bill. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 295, H.R. 4687, National Construction Safety Team Act, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis) for yielding. I also thank my friend from Oklahoma (Mr. Sullivan) for speaking on behalf of the resolution. Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 455 honors the life of John Francis ``Jack'' Buck, one of the true giants of sports broadcasting and a St. Louis icon. Jack Buck, the voice of the St. Louis Cardinals for nearly 50 years, sadly passed away last week at the age of 77 after a long battle with lung cancer and Parkinson's disease. He was one of the most respected and admired baseball broadcasters to have ever sat behind a mike, and his passing signals the passing of the golden age of baseball. Jack Buck came to prominence in the 1950's, a time when baseball and radio were not simply intertwined, they were inseparable. In the 1950's and early 1960's, radio was the primary source for baseball for most Americans. And on any given night, Jack Buck on KMOX radio in St. Louis could be heard throughout middle America, from the upper regions of Wisconsin, all the way down to the Deep South. Like many St. Louisians, I grew up listening to Jack Buck broadcast St. Louis Cardinals games. It was through his broadcasts that I and millions of other baseball fans first learned the intricacies and the beauty of the game of baseball. His friendly voice, his baseball knowledge, and his sense of humor enabled us to mentally picture the action on the field and were instrumental in fostering our love for the game of baseball. In the words of Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post Dispatch, Jack Buck provided ``the soundtrack for St. Louis summers'' for 48 years. He was there in our backyards as we gathered around our grills and picnic tables; and he was there on our porches, under an evening sky. He was there in our cars, always the friendly travel companion along for the ride; and he was there under our pillows late at night as countless kids smuggled their radios into bed to stay up and listen to a distant game from the west coast. He was part of the family. He introduced us to all the Cardinal stars, Stan Musial to Bob Gibson to Ozzie Smith to Mark McGwire to Albert Pujols. His words were the link that connected them all. He was there at Sportsman Park and he was there at Bush Stadium. Jack Buck was a beloved figure in baseball and an institution to fans of the St. Louis Cardinals. His passing has brought great sorrow to Red Bird fans across the country and we all mourn our loss and the Buck family's loss. I also want to extend my personal condolences to the Buck family. Jack Buck is rightfully considered to be one of the greatest baseball announcers of all time joining Vin Scully, Red Barber, Mel Allen, Ernie Harwell, and Harry Caray. I urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I include for the Record an untitled poem that Jack Buck wrote and read September 17, 2001, at the resumption of baseball following the September 11 attacks. Jack Buck's Poem Since this nation was founded under God, more than 200 years ago, We've been the bastion of freedom . . . The light which keeps the free world aglow. We do not covet the possessions of others, we are blessed with the bounty we share. We have rushed to help other nations . . . anything . . . anytime . . . anywhere. War is just not our nature . . . we won't start, but we will end the fight. If we are involved we shall be resolved to protect what we know is right. We've been challenged by a cowardly foe who strikes and then hides from our view. With one voice we say there's no choice today, there is only one Thing to do. Everyone is saying the same thing and praying that we end these senseless moments we are living. As our fathers did before, we shall win this unwanted war. And our children will enjoy the future, we'll be giving.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I voted against the rule and H.R. 4700 because they do not address the transportation needs of TANF program participants and this rule does not provide any opportunity for members to support a Mobile Allowance program for TANF participants. It is time to admit that the working poor cannot keep their jobs if they cannot get to work. The working poor are fighting to overcome poverty. They are hard working Americans who are struggling to keep low paying jobs, hoping to find a way out of their poverty. Their family resources are most limited. These households can barely meet their basic needs. Very often they have no chance of ever accumulating the savings needed for unexpected financial needs. TANF recipients have few assets and very often a poor credit history. These circumstances make it almost impossible for the working poor to ever acquire automobiles. And yet, we know that transportation is the key to helping people keep their jobs. Without transportation, the working poor risk losing their jobs and remaining confined to the cycle of poverty. Studies have shown that when the working poor are given the help they need to stay employed, their use of public assistance drops significantly. If this body is going to authorize a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program we must at the very least, recognize that such a program should address the transportation needs of the working poor or we must admit that TANF has very little chance of genuinely helping families overcome poverty. The role of transportation in the successful transition from welfare to work cannot be overstated. It is time to include the transportation issue in the debate about how to improve Temporary Assistance to Needy Families. TANF is meant to provide a safety net for the poor and a lifeline to economic stability. The TANF program cannot achieve this goal without addressing the critical link between jobs and transportation. Some states have already established programs to help TANF participants meet their transportation needs. It is time to ensure that all States address this need and establish a Mobile Allowance program.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I ask for unanimous consent to insert my statement into the record and revise and extend my remarks. William Burrus is the President of the American Postal Workers Union, AFL-CIO. The APWU represents 330,000 clerk, maintenance and motor vehicle employees working in the 38,000 facilities of the U.S. Postal Service, as well as workers in several private transportation and mail companies. Mr. Burrus was elected in October 2001 with more than 53 percent of the vote in a three-way contest. He is the first African-American in 220 years of American labor history to be directly elected president by the membership of a national union. He also serves on the Executive Council of the national AFL-CIO. Mr. Burrus has held numerous elected and appointed positions within the APWU. Beginning in November 1980, he served as APWU Executive Vice President until his election as president. From 1974 to 1980, he served as President until his election as president. From 1974 to 1980, he served as President of the Cleveland, Ohio APWU Local. While President of the Cleveland Local, he was a delegate to the Cleveland AFL-CIO. In 1968 he was elected Vice President of the Cleveland Local of the National Postal Union, a predecessor of the APWU. In 1971, after serving on the committee that merged five unions to create the American Postal Workers Union, he was elected Director of Research and Education of the Ohio State APWU. In 1972, he was appointed to the national APWU's Human Relations Committee. In 1975, Mr. Burrus joined with the presidents of the APWU locals in New York, Pittsburgh and Detroit to form the APWU Presidents Conference. He was elected chairman in 1978. During his tenure, he led a movement to reject the 1978 tentative collective bargaining agreement, resulting in a re-negotiation of the wage package. Mr. Burrus began working for the United States Post Office in 1958 as a distribution clerk. In 1980, Mr. Burrus was appointed to the Ohio Advisory Board of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, and in 1984, he was elected to the National Board of the A. Philip Randolph Institute. Mr. Burrus served on the Board of Directors of the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame. He serves as a member of the Executive Board of the National Coalition of Black Voter Participation. In May 2002, Ebony magazine named Mr. Burrus one of the 100+ Most Influential Black Americans. Mr. Burrus is a member of the Executive Committee of the Union Network International, a global federation of unions that represent postal workers and other service workers. He also serves on the Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health. William Burrus was born in Wheeling, West Virginia. After graduating with honors from Lincoln High School, he attended West Virginia State College. He served in the 101st Airborne Division and 4th Armored Tank Division of the United States Army. Mr. Burrus is married to Ethelda Burrus. He has four daughters: Valerie, Doni, Kimberly and Kristy, one stepson, Antwon, seven grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. He resides in southern Maryland. I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Burrus, a great American labor leader.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I support H. Res. 392 in its expression of American solidarity with the people of Israel, our closest and most reliable ally in the region. I also support its declaration of our country's long-standing commitment to ensuring Israel's right to exist and its right to security in the region, although this commitment has never been in question. Given those two points, I will vote in favor of this resolution. But at the same time, I am also deeply troubled by the timing of this resolution and the fact that it expresses no concern over the decades- long plight of the Palestinian people and their struggle for independence and security. Additionally, this resolution condemns only the sins of one side of this conflict, despite the fact that both parties share responsibility for the massive escalation of violence in the region over the last 18 months. Nor does this resolution provide any encouragement for either party to return to the negotiating table to work out a fair and lasting peace. Because of that, my vote in favor of this resolution comes with extreme reluctance. I question the wisdom of the House Leadership for forcing a vote on this resolution at this time. This resolution has the potential to derail the current peace initiatives being offered by their own Republican Administration, initiatives that I and the vast majority of the American public support. It also has the potential of inflaming extremists on both sides to continue the violence, if the United States is perceived as a biased influence. This would be a disaster for both the Israeli and Palestinian people. The United States has many vital strategic, economic and political interests in the Middle East. These vital nations interests require that the United States reconcile its simultaneous commitments to ensuring the security of the State of Israel; to supporting Arab allies to achieve regional stability; and to containing the proliferation of non-conventional weapons. That is why a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians is an imperative and not merely an option for the United States. The U.S. goal of achieving regional stability, including security for Israel, is impossible without a comprehensive resolution of the Israeli- Palestinian conflict. I hope this resolution does not impede us from reaching that goal.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to take this opportunity to share with my colleagues in Congress the news that Mrs. Hester Rachel Wallis Davis celebrated her 106th birthday on this past Easter Sunday, March 31, 2002. Mrs. Davis, a resident of Missouri's First Congressional District, was born in Tennessee in the year 1896. She moved to St. Louis at the age of 16. Six years ago, on her 100th birthday, Willard Scott recognized her on the NBC Today Show and she was honored by the Mayor of St. Louis, Freeman Bosley, Jr. Later that same year, Mrs. Davis suffered an illness that required two brain surgeries. She recovered and continues to be alert and keeping up with current events. Mrs. Davis is the oldest and most cherished living member of the Temple Church of Christ in St. Louis. And although her eyesight is failing and she can no longer read the Bible, she has a prodigious memory which supports her interpretations and pronouncements. ``Mother Davis'' as she is known by those who share her life, enjoys company and always has words of encouragement and prayers for her visitors. I am told that Hester Davis remembers the joys and challenges of youth and is always empathetic and supportive of the younger generations. The staff of the B-J-C Medical Center have expressed astonishment at Mrs. Davis' youthful appearance, her lack of some of the ailments attributed to aging, her pleasant attitude and her communication skills. Mrs. Davis has had to curtail some activities in recent years, she is no longer able to visit the jail where she brought encouragement to the incarcerated. Today, she counts her doctors, lawyers, pastor and friends among her family. She is a genuine inspiration to all who have come to know her and she will be forever remembered as one of the most adored and beloved members of the St. Louis community. I salute Mrs. Hester Rachel Wallis Davis for her outstanding commitment to life. She is certainly a remarkable women of strength, determination and spirit who is an inspiration to many generations.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, it is with much pride and satisfaction that I rise today to offer my warm congratulations to my alma mater, the University of Maryland, and its coach, Gary Williams and its men's basketball team, for winning the 2002 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament and being crowned national champions. The Terrapins basketball team, led by those heralded seniors, guard Juan Dixon, forward Lonnie Baxter, and guard Byron Mouton, secured the school's first national basketball title with a 64-52 victory over the Indiana Hoosiers earlier this month. It was a magical tournament run for Maryland's leader and All- American, Juan Dixon, who averaged 25.9 points per game throughout the tournament and was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. Dixon, the Terrapins' steadiest hand throughout the year, led Maryland to a record 32-4 season, with Terrapins winning 19 of their last 20 games. And now Maryland has the first NCAA basketball championship in school history. The University of Maryland has a rich basketball history and much to be proud of, even before this national title. Its men's basketball team has posted 20-win seasons 19 times. They have also been to the NCAA Tournament 19 times. Fourteen players have been named All-American. But for various reasons, the school had never even reached a Final Four until this last season. And it had never won it all until last month. In their ninth straight appearance in the NCAA tournament, this year the Terrapins finally went the distance. Before this year however, Coach Williams had been a victim of his own great success. The pressure for him to win was incredible. Getting into the tournament wasn't good enough for Terps fans anymore. For Maryland, March had become maddening, and they wanted a championship. And Gary Williams delivered. For Williams, this is the culmination of so many dreams. When he returned to his alma mater 13 years ago to take over a program struggling under probation and with an image problem, this goal seemed so far away. But he worked at it every day and now he has reached the pinnacle of college basketball. For the joyous Terrapin fans, who danced through the streets of Atlanta and College Park, this was Maryland's time to be hailed as ``No. 1''. This was the year to ``Fear the Turtle.'' Once again, I congratulate Coach Williams, the Terrapins basketball team and the entire University of Maryland administration and student body for their school's exceptional basketball season.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on a matter that is critically important to every individual in this country, and critically important to the welfare of our economy. I am referring to the condition of our United States Postal Service. In a proceeding now before the Postal Rate Commission, the Postal Service, which is in considerable financial difficulty, is proposing to give large mailers more than $700 million per year in unjustified discounts. The cost of these unjustified discounts will be imposed on individual citizens and small businesses who must use the United States postal system. It has been widely reported in the press that the Postal Service has suffered financial difficulties as a result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, and the problems caused by the discovery of anthrax in the mail. What has been less reported, but which is of equal or even greater long-run significance, is the fact that important issues of public policy affecting the vital interests of the Postal Service are being debated and decided in a little-noticed proceeding before the Postal Rate Commission. I am deeply concerned that the policy decisions about to be made by the Postal Rate Commission may cripple the Postal Service. Unfortunately, the Postal Service itself appears to be cooperating with those who seek to exploit or weaken it. I am referring to the fact that, in a misguided effort to speed up the postal rate increases, the Postal Service has proposed, and the Postal Rate Commission seems poised to accept, rates that will subsidize large business mailers at the expense of individuals and small businesses. This may occur because the Postal Service has proposed setting presort discounts for large business mailers at a rate which cannot be justified by the cost-savings to the Postal Service when mail is presorted. The only party opposing the proposal to establish excessive discounts for presorted mail is the American Postal Workers Union. I am well aware, of course, that postal workers have a self-interest in opposing pre-sorting of mail. To the extent that mail is pre-sorted, work that might be done by postal employees is done by private industry. Nevertheless, the arguments made by the American Postal Workers Union against excessive presort discounts are correct and should be recognized and supported. The former Chief Financial Officer of the Postal Service, Dr. Michael Riley, has provided testimony in support of the APWU position opposing these subsidies for large mailers. Dr. Riley is no advocate for union interests, nor can he be discounted as an ideologue of any kind. Dr. Riley is a businessman, and he has addressed the issue of postal rate making from a sound business perspective. As Dr. Riley has very persuasively argued before the Postal Rate Commission, it makes no business sense--it is unsound business--to give discounts to pre-sort mailers that exceed the costs avoided by the Postal Service when mail is pre-sorted. But that is what the Postal Service is proposing to do. The Postal Service is proposing to set discounts that will, in some cases, be 125 percent of costs avoided. This is wrong, it is a wrong business decision, and it is a wrong policy. When the Postal Service was created, it was set up to be run like a private sector business. Private sector business does not give away hundreds of millions of dollars. If this decision were to be based on solid business considerations, pre-sort discounts would be set at an amount below the cost avoided. Sound business practice would require that the discounts be set as low as 80 percent of costs avoided, and certainly never 125 percent of costs avoided as the Postal Service is proposing. I want to emphasize again how critically important this issue is. Universal mail service at a uniform cost to mailers is essential to a sound economy, and it is particularly important to those non-urban areas who must depend on the United States Postal Service. Every year, the United States Postal Service adds 1.7 million additional delivery points to its universal service. This is enough delivery points to be about as big as the City of Chicago. That is an enormous undertaking and it is an undertaking that is enormously important to our country. Many of the people served by the Postal Service have no other practical alternative to the U.S. mail. As this network expands, it must be maintained on a sound financial footing. But that financial footing may be undermined if the Postal Service continues on its present course. The Postal Service already has frozen 800 capital investment programs that are important to the future health of the Postal Service. The Postal Service's 2001 Annual Report described the impact of this freeze as follows: The Capital plan is at extreme risk . . . for the second year in a row we will not be able to make the necessary capital investments to meet the growth demands of universal delivery. Given the present rate proposal, these programs will continue to be frozen, further compromising the future of the Service. Furthermore, withholding $800 million in Postal Service automation spending will contribute to the unfortunate softness in the economy. For this large postal enterprise to be taking a backward stance at this important turning point in our hoped-for economic recovery will be counterproductive for all concerned. Because the compromise proposed by the Postal Service would set rates at an artificially low level, we are facing the need for another rate increase in the near future, and that rate increase may have to be substantially larger. Predictably, there will be opposition to large postal rate increases in the future. So, by misallocating postal rates now the Postal Service is setting itself up for even greater difficulties in the future. I am afraid that difficult future is at hand. I urge my colleagues to take note of this important issue, and I urge the Postal Service and the Postal Rate Commission to reconsider this misguided course of action.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, again, I join my colleagues in congratulating the Census Bureau on its 100th anniversary, and I also want to thank Dr. Margo Anderson, author of The American Census, from which some of my remarks were drawn. I would also like to congratulate William Barron, who is retiring, the former Director of the Census Bureau, and congratulate him on conducting the most accurate census in the history of our Nation, the 2000 census. I want to also congratulate the chairman of our subcommittee, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Dan Miller), for his leadership of that subcommittee. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. George Miller).

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Schakowsky).

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise to join my colleagues in honoring the U.S. Census Bureau. Mr. Speaker, much has changed since 1902, and the Census Bureau has been important in documenting and helping us to understand those changes. Despite the importance of the census to Congress and the country throughout the 19th century, it was not until the end of that century that discussions began in earnest about creating a permanent census office. Throughout the 19th century, Congress created a special census office every 10 years to carry out the function of taking the census. That office was disbanded after the census data were published, only to rise again a few years later. In February 1891, the Senate requested the Secretary of the Interior to draft a bill creating a permanent census office which was introduced in December 1891 and died in committee. Hearings were held in the House of Representatives on the need for a permanent census office in 1892, and legislation was again introduced in 1896. However, there was not yet sufficient legislative support for a permanent census office, and the 1900 census was conducted under temporary authority. Among the issues debated by Congress were whether the office should be independent or housed within a department, whether the employees should be covered by civil service rules or be patronage positions as in the past, and, of course, what the office would do in the years between censuses. During the conduct of the 1900 census, the census office sponsored several studies to address pressing public policy issues in the hope that these studies would illustrate what a permanent census office could do. Among those contributing to this effort was W.E.B. DuBois. Finally, in 1902, Congress passed a relatively simple bill that said, quote: ``The census office temporarily established in the Department of the Interior is hereby made permanent.'' Over the last 100 years, the census and the Census Bureau have never been far from the center of controversy. It was the census of 1920 which informed us that the country was passing through a transition from a rural agrarian society to an urban industrialized society. That same census documented the importance of immigration in the growth of the Nation. The 1930 census marked a change from a debate in Congress every 10 years about how seats would be apportioned to the States to a process set in law. The 1930 census also saw Congress direct in the Census Act that data be collected on unemployment over the objection of the Census Bureau and the Census Advisory Committee from the American Economic Association and the American Statistical Association. The 1940 census began the measurement of census undercount when 13 percent more black men registered for the draft than the Census Bureau thought existed. The measurement of the undercount and what to do about it remains a controversy today. So it goes down through history. From voting rights to revenue sharing to equal representation for all, the Census Bureau has been at the center of nearly every controversy. Why? Because without good numbers, we do not know who we are or whether society has progressed or regressed; and the Census Bureau has been the source for many of those good numbers. I do not pretend to know what the next century will hold for our Nation or for the Census Bureau, but I can predict one thing: Whatever happens, we will look to the Census Bureau for help in understanding the past, present and future.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to pay a special tribute to one of our nation's most outstanding organizations, a group recognized as both the largest women's and the largest Jewish membership organization in the United States, Hadassah. Hadassah is a name that has come to be synonymous with strength of purpose and humanitarianism. The women of Hadassah are a force for change with an unchanging commitment to serving human needs. Hadassah, the Women's Zionist Organization of America, recently celebrated its 90th anniversary. Throughout its long history, the women of Hadassah have exemplified the highest ideals of civic awareness and action. They have long combined an agenda of vital international and domestic issues. Proponents of a strong Israeli nation and a peaceful Middle East, they are also champions of fundamental social and domestic programs. In many ways, Hadassah exemplifies the heart and soul of our democratic society--active involvement in public policy making and civic life. The Hadassah members have successfully channeled their remarkable energies toward an agenda that spans from education and health care, to religious freedom and social justice, to energy and the environment. They are genuinely devoted to serving the human cause. In so many fundamental ways our nation changed forever last September 11, and we have begun a new chapter in our history. As leaders in Congress, we strive to restore the strength of the American spirit and confidence that was eclipsed by the terrorist events. In this role I am inspired by the women of Hadassah. They have long exercised a very special and unique commitment to domestic and international issues. They are an organization of courageous women whose faith, perseverance and strength of purpose flourishes and thrives in the face of challenge and adversity. I salute Hadassah for its longstanding commitment to enhancing the quality of life for both the people of the United States and the people of Israel. Hadassah members are a source of inspiration and guidance for all Americans as we strive to meet the challenges of achieving peace and domestic security in the years ahead.

Mr. CLAY

Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, each year during Black History Month we honor the many great African American men and women, who over the course of our nation's history have made important and lasting contributions to our country and its people. It is also a time that we, as a people, examine our place in American society. Through this examination, we identify and celebrate our achievements, while also rededicating ourselves to overcoming those obstacles that still confront us. Here in America, people are born equal and made unequal by their surroundings. These conditions create a socioeconomic gap, where birth and inheritance breed success, while merit and hard work are frequently meaningless. It is worth noting that, more often than not, the roots of this socioeconomic gap have come from the seeds of racism. But let's assume for the sake of argument that racism is dead. I certainly will not claim that race makes no difference in society today, but this assumption will help prove a point. Let me first say one thing: Wealth and poverty are inherited more than they are earned. Because of this fact, we need to do more to resolve race-based inequalities within our system. The battle over affirmative action has been, more than anything else, an attempt to solve the social inequalities based on race in America. It is a means by which people who come from poor quality public schools to move up the socioeconomic ladder, whereas without such a mechanism, escaping the lower class is extremely difficult no matter how hard you work. But assuming racial preferences are dead, there needs to be some kind of remedy to ensure at least equal opportunity at success. Those opposed to racial preferences claim that it is the way affirmative action actually equalizes the playing field that is unfair. But this argument only works if an alternative solution is proposed and enforced. This has not happened. So in the absence of affirmative action, the best solution to leveling the playing field in educational opportunity is to equally fund all public schools. All Americans should want to eliminate any barriers that underprivileged people now face in attempting to educate themselves and make a decent living. In the meantime, there is still something to be said for hard work. But at the same time, when hard work cannot save a large portion of society from living a lower-class lifestyle, our system of capitalism is failing. That is why it is imperative that public schools be funded equally and that people who can't afford college tuition can still go to college if they so choose. Capitalism relies on the theory of competition, and the hardest work and greatest talent paying off the most. Right now, the hardest work and greatest talent can get you nowhere or anywhere depending on where you start from. For a capitalist system to hold true to its ideals--and to even be efficient--it must allow people from all types of backgrounds to have the same opportunities; or else the best will not always reach the places where they can be most productive. This will never occur until we have equal funding and equal opportunity at all levels of our educational system.