Emanuel Cleaver

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to be here this morning. On Sunday, November 1, the Kansas City Royals took game five of the World Series from a very good New York Mets team. They beat them in the 12th inning, and they bring the Commissioner's Trophy back to Kansas City for the first time in 30 years. The Royals' championship season had the best record in the American League: 95 wins, defeated the Astros in five games, defeated the Blue Jays in six, and defeated the Mets in the World Series in five games. These unheralded comeback kids scored 51 runs in the seventh inning or after in the postseason, shattering the previous record by 15 runs. It was made clear on Tuesday that this championship was not only about the Royals, but about their loyal fan base. Mr. Speaker, 800,000 people turned out for the celebration. Every school within 100 miles was closed. The 2015 Royals team epitomizes what it means to play like a team. Our players never gave up. They have respect for themselves and the game, and they treat each other like family. I want to congratulate my team, the Kansas City Royals, and express sympathy for the losers.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Charles Dorch, a remarkable leader whose passion for music and teaching has touched so many young people in Kansas City. Mr. Dorch attended Arkansas AM&N University in Pine Bluff on a music scholarship, and then turned down a job in Detroit to teach in Kansas City at Southeast High School after his wife was hired at Paseo High School. As we celebrate the distinguished and acclaimed history of Southeast High School in Missouri's Fifth District, it is necessary that Mr. Dorch be celebrated as well. His dedication to his students as the band director reached far beyond expectations. Starting at Southeast Junior High in 1970 and continuing to Southeast High School in 1973, Mr. Dorch was a gift to the music department of the Kansas City School District for over fifteen years. He was determined to revitalize the band program at the high school, by encouraging students to enjoy playing music in and outside of the classroom. While he was band director, the high school participated in numerous publicized appearances, including varsity football games, pre- games, and half-time shows; annual American Royal parades; the once Kansas City Kings basketball games; and even a bicentennial half-time performance at the Kansas City Chiefs football game. The regard of the band program, under his leadership, is clear when looking at this list of striking performances. In addition, Mr. Dorch led students through the jazz lab, stage band, and symphonic concert band. All of these opportunities were ways in which students could be involved in activities outside of the classroom. Prospects for students to perform at such occasions as the Goombay Festival on a Bahamas cruise, the nationally televised Republican National Convention at the Charlie Parker Center, or move on to compete in district or all-state bands, were all ways in which students were enthused to further appreciate music and continue their education. Mr. Dorch urged students to pursue music beyond high school. He knew the importance of a college education, and many students continued on to schools such as Bishop College, Florida A&M, Langston University, and Prairie View A&M University, which I proudly call my alma mater. His effort to help his students' musical interests did not stop with his students either. Mr. Dorch also created the Band Parents Association in order to get the students' parents involved, as well as help with fundraising, which provided such amenities as new uniforms. His instruction through music also brought him to direct the St. James United Methodist Church choir for nine years. His musical aptitude shined in his ability to not only prime and motivate the choir during worship, but also expand their reach by adding instruments and genres of music to their ensemble. Mr. Speaker, please join me and our fellow colleagues in conveying our gratitude to a teacher, a man of worship, and a man of music. Mr. Charles Dorch has spread his passion for music and has inspired thousands of his students, young and old alike. He has provided them with opportunities to show off their full musical talent and adoration, where they may have not been able to before or under different guidance. We join the alumni and leadership of Southeast High School in honoring the accomplishments of Mr. Charles Dorch for his tireless enrichment of our community and country.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, the 1930s and 1940s produced the names of jazz legends like Count Basie, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and Mary Lou Williams, who either began their careers or played in Kansas City's storied 18th & Vine District, which I proudly represent. Among those legends was Luqman Hamza, who honed his musical skill listening and playing alongside these extraordinary musicians. Originally born in St. Louis, Missouri on September 15, 1931, Hamza's mother passed away when he was only 6 years old. He was blessed to have been raised by foster parents, Isaiah and Elizabeth Cummings, a Christian minister and his wife, in Kansas City, Missouri. Hamza once related how impactful his foster father was, comparing his life to a history book. Cummings' father had been a slave and his mother a Native American Indian, which helped shape Hamza during his formative years. Hamza grew up in Kansas City's 18th and Vine District, surrounded by music. Just a stone's throw away lived Charlie Parker and dozens of clubs were located within the district's six-block area. Hamza began singing for pocket change around his home when he was only a young child. From age 11 until he was 17, Hamza studied voice and piano under the Reverend John S. Williams. Williams, a minister and choir director at the Bethel Church, was also a music teacher at Lincoln High School and is known to have helped educate many of Kansas City's finest musicians. At the age of 12, Hamza, along with boyhood friends Sonny Kenner, Lucky Wesley and various other artists, formed a group known as the Four Steps and later renamed to the Five Aces. This group would play at several clubs in the 18th and Vine District, including Scott's Theater and the Chez Paris. The young band won a statewide high school talent contest in 1948, which allowed them to play on the Bob Hope show at Municipal Auditorium Music Hall. They would also land a live radio broadcast on KIMO every Sunday for several weeks. Hamza co-wrote his first chart-hitting release, When You Surrender, with Ted Battaglia when he was only 19 years old. Hamza's experiences included playing with Charlie Parker when he was in town, and later with Miles Davis. By 1954, Hamza would venture out of Kansas City to continue his professional development. He returned to St. Louis, where he found work at the Glass Bar and the Toast of the Town. He then moved on to Chicago, where he thrived while the jazz scene was at its zenith. He lived and ``gigged'' in Chicago for over a decade, playing at numerous established clubs, such as the Black Orchid and the Playboy Club. Although Hamza was raised in a Christian household, he began to explore Islam while in Chicago and became a Muslim in the mid 1960's. He grew up with the name of Larry Cummings, but adopted the name Luqman Hamza during this time. He held that name in great reverence, as it held personal significance and he felt it should be treated with respect and honor. The name Luqman was mentioned in the Quran as the wise man, and the name Hamza was that of the Prophet Mohammad's uncle. In 1971, Hamza returned to Kansas City to raise his own family. His music career would continue to thrive as he became the featured performer at Kansas City's Playboy Club until it closed a few years later. Hamza continued to play around Kansas City at various clubs until he ventured to St. Louis in 1992, before returning to Kansas City just five years later. In 2000, at the age of 69, Hamza released two nationally acclaimed recordings, With this Voice and When a Smile Overtakes a Frown, which received strong praise. Hamza was honored with the American Jazz Museum Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008 when they highlighted his work with the Five Aces, amongst other achievements. In addition to a successful personal career, Hamza has also committed himself to mentoring and tutoring future musicians at his alma mater, Lincoln High School. He still performs regularly, oftentimes in a quartet that includes his lovely wife and songstress, Raynola. Hamza once commented, ``I love music, and it doesn't matter to me about being no star. I'm blessed to be at my age and be able to sing, play and make people enjoy, that makes you rich.'' Mr. Speaker, please join me and our colleagues in honoring and celebrating Mr. Luqman Hamza on his 84th Birthday for a lifetime of devotion to the melodies of jazz His music, his voice, his teachings have served as inspiration to generations of artists and peaceful enjoyment for the thousands who have listened to him.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome Czech Ambassador Petr Gandalovic and Slovak Ambassador Peter Kmec to Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which I proudly represent. The Ambassadors were invited by Kansas City based honorary consuls, Sharon Valasek (Czech Republic) and Ross Marine (Slovak Republic) for a ``Celebration of Czechs & Slovaks Collabration.'' The celebration includes meetings with local business leaders, a tour of The National World War I Museum and Memorial, a commemorative wreath-laying ceremony at the Truman Presidential Library and Museum and a special musical performance by world renowned Slovak violinist, Filip Pogady, sponsored by the National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This is an especially notable visit because of the Midwest's strong relationship with their two home countries, the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. Thousands of immigrants from these central European countries have come to the heartland since the early history of our country. They farmed, worked hard labor jobs, became teachers and took great pride in being Americans. While the numbers are smaller than in the past, Czech and Slovak people continue to come to the Midwest and assimilate into our economy and our way of life. The Czech Republic and Slovak Republic have been allies and friends of the United States, dating back to the formation of Czechoslovakia on Oct. 28, 1918, as witnessed by the close relationship of the two presidents, Woodrow Wilson of the United States and Tomas Garrigue Masaryk of Czechoslovakia. The United States encouraged political and economic transformation in Czechoslovakia after its liberation from communism in 1989, and established diplomatic relations with the Czech Republic in 1993 after the country split into two republics (Czech Republic and Slovak Republic). The two sovereign nations are fellow members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and are important and reliable allies in promoting U.S. interests. The two countries work together to strengthen security, promote economic development and democratic values, and defend basic human rights. Both nations have growing economies and are immersed in the global marketplace. The Slovak Republic has been recognized as a large and upcoming competitor in technology and automotive industries and was ranked in one of the highest tiers for ``Doing Business'' by the World Trade Organization. Similarly, the Czech Republic is a leader in aerospace and aviation, automotive manufacturing and engineering. The Czech government continues to emphasize Czech-American collaboration in the most demanding fields which require high quality and innovative products. Missouri's Fifth Congressional District is particularly proud to have been the host of the signing of Czech Republic's NATO admission documents in Independence, Missouri at the Truman Presidential Library. It is appropriate then that the Ambassadors have the opportunity to visit the Truman Library during their visit. Many communities in the Midwest take pride in their Slavic heritages, and the Fifth District is pleased to be one of them. The rich cultural and historical ties between our District and the Czech and Slovak Republics are a demonstration of the melting pot culture we celebrate in the United States. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt congratulations to the Czech Republic and Slovak Republic for their relentless efforts in extending good will, commerce and democratic principles, not only within their borders, but to the global community, including Missouri's Fifth Congressional District. I urge my colleagues to please join me in expressing our appreciation to these two nations and their Ambassadors, who continue to advance democratic principles.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I regrettably missed votes on July 27-28, 2015. Had I been present I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call vote 467, ``yes'' on roll call vote 468, ``yes'' on roll call vote 469, ``no'' on roll call vote 470, ``no'' on roll call vote 471, ``yes'' on roll call vote 472, ``no'' on roll call vote 473, ``no'' on roll call vote 474, ``yes'' on roll call vote 475, ``yes'' on roll call vote 476, ``yes'' on roll call vote 477, ``yes'' on roll call vote 478, ``yes'' on roll call vote 479, ``yes'' on roll call vote 480, ``yes'' on roll call vote 481, and ``no'' on roll call vote 482.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding dedicated employee of the Kansas City community. On July 31, 2015, Ms. Melba J. Curls will officially retire as the councilwoman of Kansas City's 3rd District-at-large, having served the last eight years on the Kansas City City Council. Her commitment to shaping and improving the Kansas City, Missouri community is unparalleled. She is a trailblazer, civil rights activist, a devoted family woman, and a community leader who has dedicated her life to serving others. Born on October 3, 1941, Melba Curls is a lifelong resident of Kansas City. She graduated from Central High School where she was one of the first classes in an integrated school. She later went on to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia. At an early age, Melba was active in politics and the civil rights movement. She was active in the NAACP's Youth, and actually met her future husband, the late Missouri Senator Phil B. Curls, on a civil rights trip with the organization. The Curls were married for 43 years before his untimely passing in 2007. She is the proud mother of four amazing children: Phil Jr., Michael, Monica and Louis. Melba has been involved in public service most of her career. She spent several years working for the City of Kansas City where she served the citizens in the Personnel and Legal Departments and as a Staff Assistant to then Mayor Charles B. Wheeler. She also worked on the staff of U.S. Senator Tom Eagleton. Melba spent almost 15 years working at the KCMC Child Development Corporation in support of the Head Start Program and early childhood education in Kansas City. In 1999, Melba was elected by the citizens of the 41st District to represent them in the Missouri House of Representatives, where she served for seven years. During her tenure in the State Legislature, she was able to work with colleagues, government officials from all branches, and community leaders, regardless of their political affiliation, race, gender or socio-economic background, to help find solutions to the problems plaguing the community. Melba also served as the Chairperson of the Committee on Urban Affairs, from 2000 to 2002, and as the Vice-Chair of the Ethics committee, from 2004 to 2006. She then successfully ran for City Council in 2007. Councilwoman Curls' interests in helping better the lives of others through various organizations in our community include her involvement with: The De La Salle Education Center, the Jackson County Board of Domestic Violence Shelters, and the American Jazz Museum, just to name a few. She also currently serves as an Executive Board Member to the longest-serving civil rights organization dedicated to serving the needs of Kansas City's African-American community--Freedom, Incorporated. Kansas City Mayor Sly James selected Councilwoman Curls to serve on the Neighborhoods, Housing and Healthy Communities and Transportation and Infrastructure committees. Over the years, Melba has been able to earn the respect of her colleagues by working hard to be a bridge-builder between individuals and organizations. She is an active member of the City Council, and is very focused on participating in community activities and being involved in the community that she serves. Mr. Speaker, please join me and our colleagues in recognizing and honoring Ms. Melba Curls for a lifetime of devoted commitment to the Kansas City community. While she embraces this next phase of life in retirement, I wish to thank her for her tireless service to the Kansas City Community for the past three decades. Demonstrating unparalleled dedication, Melba serves as an inspiration and role model for our community.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and to remember the late Mr. Fred Curls, a pioneer for civil and political rights and a resident of the Fifth District of Missouri, which I am honored to represent. On Friday, May 15, 2015, Mr. Curls passed away, after an incredible and inspiring ninety-six years of life. The silhouette of Mr. Curls now joins the always growing shadow of little-celebrated Kansas Citians whose work will make a difference for generations as yet unborn. Young African-American elected officials may not realize that the very office they hold--or aspire to hold--is, in no small part, related to the political pioneering of Mr. Curls. Mr. Curls was one of the original founders of Freedom Incorporated, an African-American political organization which at one time could generate nearly 70,000 votes and remains influential to this day. The organization was at the forefront in serving as a catalyst for change in civil rights, public accommodations, and the election of candidates at all levels of government. Freedom Inc.'s office has been visited by City Councilpersons, Jackson County Executives, Mayors, Missouri State Senators and Representatives, Governors, Congresspersons, Senators, Presidents, and those who have Presidential aspirations. For more than fifty years, Mr. Curls dedicated his life to the Greater Kansas City community, promoting and improving political empowerment and the civil rights of people of color. The ripples of his efforts are felt in our community and around the country. His children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren have followed in his footsteps in acknowledging their responsibility of giving back to the community. His son, State Senator Phil B. Curls, Sr. was the President of Freedom Inc. during a period when it was recognized as one of the most potent political organizations in the United States and brought about the election of the first African-American Congressman from the Fifth District of Missouri, U.S. Representative Alan Wheat. Since the mid-1950s, Fred Curls was involved in real estate sales and appraisals, most notably in the African-American community of Kansas City. He fought against ``restrictive covenants'' whereby residential homes could not be sold in certain areas to minorities. He was part of a class action lawsuit which resulted in the United States Supreme Court outlawing such covenants. In all of his activities, Mr. Curls demonstrated his dedication and commitment to the greater good of others. He was actively involved with his high school graduating class, the Class of 1937, which remained close even in recent years. He was honored by Jackson County, Missouri, as one of its ``Legacy Awardees'' for its 175th anniversary as a political subdivision. He was also honored by fellow Missourian, U.S. Representative William Lacy Clay of St. Louis and myself as an awardee of the ``Missouri Walk of Fame'' designation, as one of the pioneers of Kansas City's African-American political struggle. Throughout his life, he believed in the saying ``make it happen.'' He put his principles into practice, and the results of his efforts ``made it happen'' throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. For those reasons and more, it is indeed an honor and a privilege to honor and remember the life of Mr. Fred Curls. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our sympathies to the family of Mr. Fred Curls, and our gratitude for his endless commitment to serving the residents of Kansas City and the State of Missouri. Whatever we, as African- Americans, may attain in the political arena, Fred Curls and those who labored to act on our behalf as political pioneers have helped to change the course of history. He was a true role model not just to the African-American community in Missouri, but to the entire community at large.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I regrettably missed votes on May 20th and May 21st, 2015. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no'' on rollcall No. 258, ``yes'' on rollcall No. 259, ``no'' on rollcall No. 260, ``yes'' on rollcall No. 261, ``no'' on rollcall No. 262, and ``no'' on rollcall No. 263.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I regrettably missed votes on May 14th and 15th, 2015. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no'' on rollcall vote 225, ``yes'' on rollcall vote 226, ``yes'' on rollcall vote 227, ``no'' on rollcall vote 228, ``no'' on rollcall vote 229, ``no'' on rollcall vote 230, ``yes'' on rollcall vote 231, ``no'' on rollcall vote 232, ``yes'' on rollcall vote 233, and ``no'' on rollcall vote 234. Amendment No. 32 Offered by Mr. Blumenauer

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I regrettably missed votes on Wednesday, April 29. Had I been present, I would have voted ``No'' on Roll Call 176, ``Yes'' on Roll Call 177, and ``No'' on Roll Call vote 178.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to recognize a significant milestone in one of the pre-eminent organizations, not only in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri, which I proudly represent, but throughout the region--Theta Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity. I am especially proud to be a member of Theta Boule. The milestone I mentioned is the celebration of its Centennial observance that will be held June 4-6, 2015 in Kansas City. Theta Boule was chartered on May 22, 1915 with fourteen founding Archons who laid a strong foundation of fraternal fellowship in the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area. Dr. William J. Tompkins met Grand Sire Archon William C McCard while traveling in the eastern part of the country and was authorized by the Grand Sire Archon to plan the organization of a member Boule in Kansas City. With the cooperation of Archons from Beta Boule in Chicago and Eta Boule in St. Louis, Dr. Tompkins and his colleague, Dr. Lloyd E. Bailer organized Theta Boule. The charter Archons of Theta Boule were all outstanding members of the Kansas City community and of their respective professions. Faced with cultural realities of the early Twentieth Century, these Archons found in each other a source of mutual support, enlightenment and a retreat of friendship and fraternity. Each sensed a significant void created by the pervasive permanence of American institutional racism and exclusionary practices predominant during that era. Throughout its history, the Archons of Theta Boule have upheld the high standards of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity. Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, also known as ``The Boule'', was founded in 1904 in Philadelphia. Theta Boule was the 8th Member Boule founded on May 22, 1915 with 14 outstanding Archons. Our founding members included Lloyd E. Bailer, Gideon W. Brown, Charles H. Calloway, T.C. Chapman, John A. Hodge, W.C. Hueston, Woody Jacobs, J.P. King, J.E. Perry, J.D. Shannon, M.H. Thompkins, W.J. Thompkins, S.H. Thompson, and Homer Wilburn. Theta has been privileged to host the Seventh Grand Boule in 1921 and the Forty-First Grand Boule in 1992. Many outstanding Archons have been privileged to sit within the august council of Theta Boule. One of Theta's charter members, Charles H. Calloway served as Grand Sire Archon, from 1921 to 1923. Archon Calloway was also a founding member of the National Bar Association in 1925 and served as its second President. Another founding member mentioned previously was Dr. William J. Thompkins, an outstanding physician and civic leader, who later became a resident of the District of Columbia after he accepted the appointment of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1934 to serve as Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia. Dr. Thompkins was also instrumental in the establishment of General Hospital No. 2 in 1908. Theta Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity is led today by Randall C. Ferguson, Jr., who serves as Sire Archon; Ralph D. Reid is Sire Archon- elect; and Dr. Roger C. Williams, Jr. who serves as Grammateus. The remaining officers are: Thesauristes, Nikki Newton; Agogos, Stewart S. Myers; Rhetoricos, Kelvin Simmons; and Grapter, Lonnie Powell. The Membership Council is Chaired by Judge Jon R. Gray, (Ret.) and includes Herbert Hardwick and Robert Hughes, Jr. as Members. One Hundred years in the life of any person, organization or institution is a significant milestone and serves as a testament of fidelity to principles, seriousness of purpose and devotion to goals and objectives. Mr. Speaker, please join me and our colleagues in expressing our collective congratulations to Theta Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity and extending our heartfelt wishes for even greater success as it begins its second century.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Chairman, this amendment would waive the limit on total costs for Army Corps projects which are set forth in section 902 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1986. The law states that a project cannot be funded by more than 20 percent of the project's total authorized cost. This amendment would waive that limitation for any project that receives funds made available by title I of this act. Thirty or so years have passed since Congress originally authorized many of the current Federal flood control projects. Unfortunately, the large backlog of projects, incremental funding by Congress, and unforeseen circumstances has resulted in costly delays for projects across this country, pushing many over the now outdated authorized limits. Many of these projects are so close to the finish line, and this language could help them cross it. Mr. Chairman, this language is vital to the continuation of valued flood control projects in my congressional district. The Dodson Industrial District project in Kansas City, Missouri, has completed its first three phases. However, without an increase in its authorized total cost, the project cannot move forward on the final phase. Currently, the area has a floodwall unconnected to the rest of the project and investments of $250 million at risk. If the project could be fully funded at the increased total amount, it could be completed in fiscal year 2017. Projects that have reached their 902 limit can apply for a project cost modification. However, the application and review process routinely takes several years to get approval from the Army Corps headquarters. These valued projects, in which the Federal Government has already invested millions of dollars, are languishing for 2, 3, or more years during that review process. Another control project in Kansas City, called Turkey Creek Basin, has over $200 million in investment protected by this project, including a major interstate highway. It was authorized in 1999 and is ready for the final phase, but did not receive Federal funding last year or in this year's budget request because of a pending cost modification application, which began in 2013. Mr. Chairman, just in my district, there are three flood control projects that have pending cost modification applications that were started in 2013. I can only surmise that this trend has continued in just about every other congressional district in the country. Mr. Chairman, these are not exotic projects. These are projects which will help generate the businesses in those areas to a point where they can begin to grow. I would like to thank the chairman and the ranking member for their attention to this matter. With some assurances that the committee will try to address this issue as the bill moves into conference process, I would consider withdrawing the amendment at any time. I reserve the balance of my time. Point of Order

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, due to an oversight, I voted incorrectly on H.R. 685, the Mortgage Choice Act of 2015, on April 14, 2015. I had intended to vote yea on Roll Call vote 152, on passage of the Mortgage Choice Act of 2015.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. That is a real reason for us not only to look at this industry but to protect people as it is growing.

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I would argue that the fact that home sales are increasing for manufactured homes is even more of a reason for us to want to be protective of some kind of an industry that is growing. I represent areas in which there are a number of manufactured homes throughout the rural parts of Missouri that are included in the Fifth Congressional District. I am a capitalist. I believe that people ought to be able to make money. I think they ought to make money in the manufactured home industry, and I would like for them to make money in the Fifth Congressional District. Yet I think that everyone in here would agree that we have all had questions about what happens when a car is purchased and the driver drives it around the corner and loses about $1,200 in depreciation. Nobody I have ever met or had a conversation with said, Oh, I understand that. The car depreciates almost as soon as you sign the note. What happens is that this is an unintended reason for more, I think, congressional oversight of this particular industry because these homes also lose value like automobiles. Let me give you an example from the Seattle study. This is sad, and I will try and do this quickly, Mr. Speaker. Tiffany Galler is a single mother who was living in Florida in 2005. She bought a mobile home for $37,165. With the loan she purchased from 21st Mortgage, she then rented the home out. She made payments for 8 years, payments totaling more than the sticker price of the home. Galler lost her tenant in November of 2013, and she fell behind on her payments. She arranged to show the home to a prospective renter 2 months later, but when she arrived at her home site, Ms. Galler found barren dirt with PVC pipe sticking up from the ground. She called 911, thinking someone had stolen her home, but she found out later that her home was 30 miles away and was up for sale for $25,900.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to honor the contributions of Kansas City Artist and Educator, Mr. Lonnie Powell. Mr. Powell is a native of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which I proudly represent, and his professional contributions continue to enhance the skills of young artists, and have united artists for the purpose of showcasing talent. Additionally, his unique abilities have created a treasure of expressive visual art. To have the respect of one's peers and the leadership skills to make a significant difference in one's community is the rarest of gifts. But to have the additional commitment, energy, and desire to pursue and achieve one's goals are equally extraordinary qualities. Mr. Powell's artistic development began at a young age, when he cultivated the desire to draw and create using his pencil. Despite the stress his father had placed on the importance of trade skills for financial stability, after graduating from Central High School in Kansas City, Powell chose to pursue higher education. He graduated from Lincoln University, in Jefferson City, Missouri, in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science in Art Education, and promptly began his long career in education. From 1966 to 1975, Powell taught art at several schools in the Kansas City, Missouri School District. He introduced his students to different artistic techniques and delighted in their individual creativity. Powell began working on his Master's Degree in Art Education at Central Missouri State College and had completed 37 hours when the private sector enticed him to leave teaching and join the corporate world. At Xerox Corporation, he made President's Club, an honor reserved for the upper echelon of the national sales force. Though he had significant accomplishments, and had received numerous awards, there was little time left for creating art. He missed the students and felt a pervading emptiness. Therefore, after eight years in the corporate world, Powell returned to his real passion, teaching art. He has often said that he learned from his students as much as they learned from him. He quotes Pablo Picasso, ``Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.'' In 2000, Powell retired from teaching and focused on his own artistic career. He is well known for his visual narratives which illustrate the subject's feeling and glimpses into their thoughts. Through mediums of oil, acrylics, watercolor, pastels, and pencil, he exposes the soul. For Powell, a finished piece is first appreciated and then evaluated in order to avoid complacency and continually strive to improve. In 2001, Lonnie Powell became the founder and president of The Light in the Other Room. This organization remains active and has formed many partnerships in the name of art. Powell had envisioned a collaborative of African-American, Kansas City based artists that would benefit both the community and participating artists. Powell says ``The two greatest joys for me have been learning from each other and causing a bit of a stir in the Kansas City Area. We are very optimistic about our future and the future of our beloved metropolitan area.'' His organization has worked with The Greater Kansas City Links, The Jackson County Links, Hatebusters Inc., The Epsten Gallery, The Sister City Association of Kansas City, Missouri, Central Missouri State University, William Jewell College, Vaughn Cultural Center, and Portfolio Gallery and Education Center of St. Louis, Missouri, to name a few. Powell has participated in solo and group exhibits at Ethnic Art Gallery, the Central Exchange, Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center and Museum, The American Jazz Museum's Changing Gallery, The Vine Street Studio, The Review Studio and many others. His creations have also been accepted in numerous competitions around the country. His exhibits at numerous colleges and universities include: Park University, Western Missouri University, Lincoln University, Rockhurst University (where he spent a year as artist in residence from 1969 to 1970), The University of Central Missouri, Avila College, William Jewell College and the Kansas University Medical Center. Powell's art is in numerous private collections, as well as corporate collections including: Sprint Nextel Corporation, H&R Block Corporation, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, Fishnet Corporation, Andrew/McMeel Universal, Sports Association Management, Inc., Truman Medical Center. The American Jazz Museum, Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art (Oppenheimer Collection) and The Mulvane Art Museum all have his art as part of their permanent collections. Additionally, he has some pieces in The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum's permanent collection as well as in their traveling exhibition, Shades of Greatness, which tours galleries and museums across the country. In 2005, Powell was awarded Signature membership in the National Watercolor Society. He won the NWS Combined Donors' C Award for his piece, South Sun. In 2006, he was named one of the ``Ones to Watch'' by Watercolor Magic Magazine (now Watercolor Artist Magazine). In 2013, Powell was awarded ``Best of Show'', at the Harlem X-Hibit, Black Art in America. One of Powell's most bittersweet experiences took place in 2007 when he traveled with Change the Truth to Kajjansi, Uganda. There, he worked with the children of St. Mary Kevin's Orphanage. This was a profound experience in which he first felt initial shock, seeing children with so very little. However, he will tell you of the joy he came to know from working with these young children as many were extremely talented. Powell says he found it hard to leave his little students behind. Powell is blessed with a wonderful family, including his lovely wife, Brenda, their son, Gregory, (and his wife, Tava) and a beautiful granddaughter, Jaden. Mr. Speaker, please join me and our colleagues in expressing our appreciation to Mr. Lonnie Powell for his endless commitment to our artistic community. He is not only a role model for our artists, but he serves as an example of how we can all live our lives. Mr. Speaker, his art moves us and his contributions have enlightened our community.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I regrettably missed votes on January 13, 2015. Had I been present I would have voted ``No'' on Roll Call 20, ``No'' on Roll Call 21, and, ``Yes'' on Roll Call 22, ``No'' on Roll Call 23, ``Yes'' on Roll Call 24, ``Yes'' on Roll Call 25, ``Yes'' on Roll Call 26, ``Yes'' on Roll Call 27, and ``No'' on Roll Call 28.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2366, the World War I American Veterans Centennial Commemorative Coin Act, introduced by Representative Doug Lamborn of Colorado's Fifth Congressional District, and seek its immediate passage. Mr. Speaker, as you may know, this summer marked the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I. The United States formally joined the war in April of 1917. During that time, more than 4.7 million Americans served, and of those brave men and women, more than 116,000 soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. While other great conflicts, including the Civil War, World War II, the Korean war, and the Vietnam war, have all been memorialized on United States commemorative coins, there currently exists no coin to honor the brave veterans of World War I. This bill would honor their service by directing the Secretary of the Treasury to, number one, hold a competition to design the coins and, number two, mint and issue $1 silver coins in commemoration of the centennial of America's involvement in World War I. The sale of the coins will assist the World War I Centennial Commission in raising funds that will be utilized in commemorating U.S. involvement in the Great War and educating a new generation of Americans about the role the United States assumed in that war. I am also pleased to report that the passage of this bill entails no net cost to taxpayers. I would urge my colleagues to join me in passing this commonsense, bipartisan bill without further delay. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking member. This legislation is very likely going to be approved, and that is sad for a number of reasons. Let me just declare here what I declare in my district and anywhere else. I believe in earmarks because I think it is constitutional. I think it is almost politically obscene to give what the Constitution says is our responsibility to the White House no matter who is there. That is why I have some serious concerns about this special interest earmark that will make the U.S. a permanent conduit to international markets for one of the dirtiest fuel sources on the planet. This is an earmark for TransCanada. Maybe the worst abuse in this legislation is that it exempts TransCanada from all Federal permitting requirements and other Federal environmental laws. Other U.S. companies will have to abide by laws that we will exempt for TransCanada. It exempts TransCanada from paying into the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, which helps the government respond to oil spills. Now, this particular company already has had major oil spills. We will have oil spills. So what we are saying when we approve this legislation are these things: One, we are going to give an earmark to TransCanada. It is okay give it an earmark, special interest earmark, but we just can't do it here in the United States; Number two, we are saying that TransCanada will have the ability to bypass environmental laws that Americans cannot bypass; And number three, we are saying that this company does not have to pay one penny into the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, which means that the people who are watching this debate tonight will pay when an oil spill occurs, and I think that is obscene.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Kansas City VA Director Kent Hill, a transformational leader with an open door policy that is known for the unselfish public service that he has provided to our veterans, their families, his staff, and to me in my capacity as United States Representative for the Fifth District of Missouri. I think it is important to recognize the accomplishments of those who professionally serve with distinction. Director Hill has done so modestly without bringing attention on himself. The scope of his work since 2002 at the Kansas City VA Medical Center included an operating budget of approximately $260,000,000, approximately 1,500 employees and providing healthcare services to more than 45,000 veterans. He had the added responsibility of opening and overseeing clinical programs, including five Community Based Outpatient Clinics, and the new Honor Annex. In addition, the Kansas City VA Medical Center has a vibrant research and outreach program. When Kent Hill took over as Director for the Kansas City VA Medical Center, he came in as a veteran who had attended the Air Force Academy and has spent 40 years in Federal service. During his career, he cultivated a successful management style, centered on personal involvement and respect for his staff and the veterans and their families that he served. He was an advocate of the methodology outlined in the book, ``The Servant Leader''. His staff worked within a management style that delegates power, believes in a team approach, motivation, recognition, and at the core; an understanding for the veterans and their issues. He has been a strong advocate for continuing professional growth through education and initiated a mentoring program. Under Kent Hill's direction, the hospital has undergone a complete floor to floor update and expanded to include: new surgical suites, Women's Clinic, Chiropractic care, state of the art Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, Hospice Unit, Blind Rehab Center, Cochlear implant program, Sleep Lab, New Ambulatory Surgery Unit, an OIF/OEF Case Management Program and a new Dialysis Unit. Access to VA healthcare and services have long been a priority for Director Hill. His management and oversight of veteran access included weekly meetings with clinical leaders to review capacity for appointments and wait times as well as decisions on adding staff and new services. To facilitate easy access for veterans to the programs and services of the Kansas City VA Medical Center, Director Hill originated a Greeter program, a Vet 4 Vet navigator program and shuttle service to and from the parking lots; and a successful and long awaited Veterans Transportation Service became operational. He tackled telephone access and electronic messaging to providers. Director Hill did not stop with services and programs at the main hospital--but placed emphasis on taking VA healthcare outside the parent facility and into the surrounding communities. He activated a Mobile Medical Unit, opened Community Based Outpatient Clinics, and built a community-based Radiation Therapy Building. One of his more noteworthy achievements was the opening of a large outpatient building--the Honor Annex--that houses mental health services, primary care and a women's clinic. One of the compliments that I have heard often is regarding cleanliness and modernization of the hospital. An example of his receptiveness and desire for a more accessible environment can best be illustrated with the Director's directive to remove glass partitions that had created barriers between staff and veterans. This important move coincided with many communication and outreach initiatives. During my time in office, I have watched the Kansas City VA gear up for returning veterans from current conflicts while maintaining services to all of our existing veterans. An example of Director Hill's proactive style became evident as the current conflicts brought new mental health problems and illnesses, he called for focused education for his staff on how to identify and help veterans coming home from combat. With the continual evolution of hidden wounds from war, he ensured the staff was trained to identify signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury and possible suicide. Expanding of mental health services included veterans having access to Veterans Court as well as a multitude of homeless programs and initiatives. An example of the influence and impact of Director Hill's leadership is the widespread participation of the KCVA staff in the spring and fall community Heart of America Stand Down for homeless veterans. Director Hill can be seen every year personally distributing boots to homeless veterans. Since arriving in Kansas City, Director Hill has championed inner city and rural outreach programs to ensure veterans are aware of their many benefits. His outreach efforts have touched veterans in many different locations throughout the Heartland. In 2013, Kansas City VA staff hosted and/or participated in more than 40 veteran-focused events. Director Hill can be seen at many different events always supporting causes and programs for our veterans. He has a strong dedication and commitment to the veterans he serves. One of the most compelling stories about Director Hill is when he attended the funeral of a civil war veteran, whose family had long-awaited formal burial. These are only a few of the many examples of how Kent Hill has torn down barriers and gained the respect of our veterans. Perhaps the most gratifying praise one can receive is to have the respect and appreciation from those they serve. Among the veterans of Missouri's Fifth District, Director Hill is regarded as a listener who takes their concerns seriously and will take the time to discuss solutions, explains his position with diplomacy and compassion. In an effort to have a closer relationship with our veterans, he meets periodically with the Veterans Focus Liaison Committee. This committee concept was presented to Director Hill by a group of veterans who received services at the Kansas City VA Medical Center. The idea was readily accepted and this grassroots committee took shape. The members talk to their peers and relay their concerns to the Director. He has been receptive to their suggestions and always willing to investigate their grievances. This partnership has resulted in more honest communication and better relations between staff and the veterans they serve. Veterans have commented that when meeting with Director Hill, he already was aware of the issue and had been working on solutions. Mr. Speaker, please join me and our colleagues in recognizing and honoring Mr. Kent Hill, Director of the Kansas City VA Medical Center upon his retirement from the Department of Veterans Affairs. While he embraces this next phase of life with his wife, Anita; children, Blake, Kirk, Keith and Stephen; and grandchildren, he leaves with the respect and admiration of those who have had the pleasure of working with him. I wish to personally thank him for his tireless service to our country and his unquestionable dedication to our veterans. His imprint will long be felt by future generations at the Kansas City VA Medical Center and in our community.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, due to President Obama's visit to my district, I regrettably missed votes on July 28, 2014, July 29, 2014, and July 30, 2014. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no'' on rollcall 455, ``yes'' on rollcall 456, ``yes'' on rollcall 457, ``no'' on rollcall 458, ``no'' on rollcall 459, ``yes'' on rollcall 460, ``yes'' on rollcall 461, ``yes'' on rollcall 462, ``no'' on rollcall 463, ``yes'' on rollcall 464, ``no'' on rollcall 465, ``no'' on rollcall 466, ``yes'' on rollcall 467.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Thank you, first, Mr. Murphy, and to the chair, ranking member, and the chairman of the committee. Mr. Chairman, our amendment would transfer a modest amount, as Mr. Murphy stated, $1 million, from the Corps' expense account to the construction account. The boost in funding can help flood control projects that communities, including several in my district, are pushing in hopes that they can be completed. The United States has, as I believe we all know, an aging water infrastructure system and a colossal $80 billion backlog of Army Corps projects. Over 1,000 authorized projects vigorously compete for funding. This is understandable when you consider the fact that America's levees, dams, and inland waterways were given a grade of D by the American Society of Civil Engineers in their 2013 report card. How can we expect our economy to flourish when its bedrock is deteriorating? Water infrastructure funding is vital to my district. It sits on the confluence of several rivers, and flood control projects protect thousands of lives and billions in economic investment. One such project, Swope Park Industrial Area, lies within a 100-year floodplain. When it floods, access to and from the park is cut off, risking the lives of over 400 workers. Without a 7,000-foot floodwall and levee, those 400 workers and over $61 million in manufacturing remain unprotected. Another project in my district, Dodson Industrial Park, is ready to start its final phase. But until that final segment is completed and connected, the rest of the project, the investment $250 million within the park, remain at risk. Mr. Chairman, most Army Corps projects contain agreements between the Federal Government and local communities to share the funding and responsibilities for their construction. It is time for the Federal Government to hold up its end of the agreement, for us to step up to the plate, and fully invest in our water infrastructure. I want to thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Murphy) for his collaboration on this amendment.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Thank you, Mr. Blumenauer. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to be here, particularly with Mr. Blumenauer and Mr. Garamendi, who spoke earlier, because they have long histories--longer, in fact, than I have been in the House--of pushing for transportation issues. I think that this is a rather sad and somewhat tragic moment in our history. The interstate highway system was developed and put in place in 1956, and who would have thought when we entered the 21st century that the Congress of the United States would fail to keep that system in top condition? The transportation bill affects Americans in every State of this country. A robust Federal investment in transportation is an economic engine, strengthening hundreds of communities. The thing that I have said often in my district and, frankly, in hearings is that the best stimulus for the economy--the very best stimulus--is a transportation bill. The weird thing is that the infrastructure is the backbone of our economy upon which businesses, families, and communities thrive. Everyone is involved in this. Red or blue, urban or rural, we all rely on transportation and infrastructure. Ensuring economic prosperity is of paramount importance. It is not a Republican or a Democratic goal but one that we all share. One of the things that has troubled me most since being elected to Congress 10 years ago is that we have somehow narrowed everything down to the point at which it is either red or blue--it is either Republican or Democratic. I am not sure how we can look at highway systems in terms of political tribalism. I served as the mayor of Kansas City for 8 years during the 1990s, and I can truthfully say that I had no idea on a day-to-day basis, based on what people said and did, who the Republicans were and who the Democrats were. We were all interested in trying to preserve Kansas City. When there was a pothole in one of the streets in Kansas City--and Kansas City is a huge city. It's 322 square miles. To give you an idea, you can put San Francisco inside our city limits 30 times or St. Louis three times. It is a huge city--what we all were interested in is making sure that it was fixed because there was no Republican way of fixing it, and there was no Democratic way of fixing it. We fixed the pothole. One of my great disappointments when I arrived here was that there was a Republican or a Democratic philosophy on everything, including on transportation and infrastructure. Every dollar invested in Missouri transportation generates $4 of economic activity. The Federal Highway Administration actually estimates that, for every $1 billion spent on transportation, 34,000 direct and indirect jobs are created. Just think about that. There are 34,000 indirect and direct jobs that are generated. That is why I take every opportunity I can to talk about infrastructure and improvements to our roads and bridges and waterways in my district and in districts around the country. Investments in transportation and infrastructure generate growth and jobs during initial design, construction, and then postconstruction. I can tell you that, at a time like this when we are still having some healing needed with our economy, this is the time to pump it up. We don't need QE4. We don't need to do another Dodd-Frank. We need to pass a transportation and infrastructure bill. That will begin to help heal this economy because it is a job creator. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers' 2013 report card--and I hope the people at home get this--3,500 bridges in Missouri alone are considered structurally deficient. There are 3,500 bridges in my State that are considered structurally deficient. Over 3,300 are considered functionally obsolete. That is 14 percent of the bridges in the State of Missouri are functionally obsolete, and every day, Kansas Cityans and Missourians are driving over those bridges. That is a tragedy because it is not only bad in Missouri, it is that way all over this country--all over the country, and this body is the only body that can address the problem. While I agree that States should step up to raise the necessary revenues and make crucial investments themselves, it should be no surprise that interstate commerce is a duty in which this Congress is uniquely poised to fulfill. We are a nation of red States and blue States, urban communities and rural communities. I represent both. While each State must make investments within the communities, the responsibility to ensure our Nation remains connected and globally competitive falls on this Congress. Bridge after bridge after bridge is in danger. Highways are crumbling, and we cannot sit by and play partisan politics and argue while our infrastructure continues to deteriorate. So, Mr. Speaker, I am here tonight, hoping that these words are not falling on the floor and will not be impactful. When we come in here like this, we are hoping that these words matter and that things can change and that they will change. It is my hope that this Congress will act and act quickly because we cannot wait until the last minute, going into August, when we will end up looking at a highway trust fund becoming insolvent, and that means it will drop below the $4 billion funding level as soon as next month, July. We must do something, Mr. Speaker. I would like to thank Mr. Blumenauer for all the work that he has done on this issue over the years, and I hope that the American people will just saturate us with letters telling us: Pass a highway and transportation infrastructure bill. Thank you, Mr. Blumenauer.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Chair, I move to strike the last word.