Emanuel Cleaver

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to pay tribute to Mayor Ron Stewart, the arbitrator, peace maker and enthusiastic Mayor for the City of Independence, Missouri. After providing 12 years of planned economic advancement and growth for the city of Independence, Mayor Stewart has decided to retire. For 45 years Ron Stewart has made Independence a safer and more productive city. He began his career at the City on the Independence Police Force where he served for 31 years. He cultivated an appreciation and understanding of the City and its problems. Upon retirement he was encouraged to run for the Independence City Council and won. Two years later he ran for Mayor. The citizens of Independence elected Ron Stewart every time he ran for office. The All American City appreciates and enjoys every positive objective initiated by Ron Stewart aimed at building a brilliant future while preserving a rich heritage. During his three terms as Mayor he stimulated vibrant economic growth by working with public and private entities, and community organizations. He made it a priority to work closely with the Independence Chamber of Commerce, built partnerships with neighboring cities, championed relationships between state and federal elected officials, and strengthened international relationships with Sister City Higashimurayamam, Japan. The Mayor persuaded the City of Independence to pass a sales tax to repair a debilitating infrastructure. As a result of his leadership, streets continue to be repaired and built, a critical Storm Water Control problem has been rectified through increased maintenance and repair, the City's water supply system has been upgraded, electrical supply increased, and a nonfunctioning Parks Department now serves the city with new facilities, programs and refreshed parks. His honors and awards are numerous and include the United States Department of Transportation, Appreciation for Distinguished Leadership Award, 2000; The Jackson County Inter-Agency Council, Community Service Award, 1999; The Jackson County Historical Society Award for Service, 1998; Chamber of Commerce, Distinguished Citizen Award, 1996; Kentucky State Police, Division of Department of Public Safety Award, 1966. He is a member of the F.O.P Lodge 1; National FBI Academy, Masonic Blue Lodge 76, Ararat Shrine, South Independence Optimist Club; American Legion Post 21; Fraternal Order of Eagles; Moose Lodge Rotary and the Lions Club. The citizens of Independence know Ron Stewart as a no-nonsense type of guy whose integrity has brought trust. He appreciates his life's treasures that include his family and his wife Marilyn who has been by his side for more than 46 years. He is a musician that enjoys singing and playing his steel guitar in his band, ``Country by Choice''. He rode into public service as a young Independence motor cycle patrol officer and continues to enjoy riding on his Harley-Davidson. His departing documentary was a video that followed the Mayor on his Harley-Davidson as he recounted his proudest accomplishments throughout the city. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues in the House join me in saluting the Mayor of Independence, Ron Stewart, for his leadership and many accomplishments for the City of Independence, Missouri. We wish him the very best as Mayor Stewart leaves public office with a song in his heart and time to explore on his Harley. Thank you, Ron Stewart for choosing to serve. You elevated Independence, Missouri to an All-American City.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, on this past Friday evening, our colleague, Ike Skelton, joined an elite group of Americans as he was presented with the Harry S Truman Public Service Award. He joins Colin Powell, Madeline Albright, Henry Kissinger and Tom Eagleton, just to name a few; and so I stand before you, Mr. Speaker and colleagues of Ike Skelton, to say that we can stand proud of what he has done over his career and fact that he has now been recognized by the body that salutes Harry Truman.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, if this House does not act within the next 2 weeks, millions of American seniors will face the egregious and unfair prescription drug tax. As this calendar shows, May 15 is the deadline President Bush and congressional Republicans created for seniors to sign up for a prescription drug plan. In town hall meetings I have held throughout my district, the seniors of Missouri District 5 are outraged by and confused over Medicare part D. If they do not sign up for a plan within the next 13 days, a penalty of at least a 7 percent premium tax will be forced on every single individual every single month for the rest of their lives simply because they did not sign up for this confusing and sometimes less beneficial Medicare part D program. For over a month, Democrats have come to this floor almost daily urging Republicans to join us in preventing this grave injustice from taking place on May 15. Time is running out for Congress to do the right thing and support this extension. America seniors cannot afford a Bush prescription drug tax.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, the other side will once again try to spin their 2007 budget as fiscally responsible. The American people know better. For 5 years now, Republicans have controlled both the Congress and the White House, and for 5 years our budget deficit has been spiraling out of control. Two years ago, former House majority leader Dick Armey told the Wall Street Journal, and I am quoting, ``I am sitting here and I am upset about the deficit and I am upset about spending. There is no way I can pin that on the Democrats. Republicans own the town.'' That is a former Republican leader talking about their fiscal irresponsibilities. For 5 years now those who own the town created the fourth largest budget deficit in American history. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the 2000 budget those who own the town plan to bring to the floor this week is the fourth most fiscally irresponsible budget in history, creating an additional $348 billion debt, and yet those who own the town try to claim their fiscal responsibility. Members of their own party don't even believe that anymore.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Tony ``Fish'' Aguirre, a remarkable and compassionate leader whose legacy has touched so many Kansas Citians. Mr. Aguirre entered our world on February 8, 1929, and passed on March 19, 2006. His passing is a deep loss felt by his family, the Westside community, the greater Kansas City area, and most assuredly, the thousands of lives he touched through his 50-plus years of service to Kansas City's youth. Tony was blessed with natural athletic ability and became a talented all-around athlete in his youth, almost being drafted to play professional baseball and being offered a college basketball scholarship. At the age of 17, his God-given talent led to his calling of coaching the boys and girls from his neighborhood, the Westside. Tony went on to graduate from Redemptorist High School in 1949 and later married his wife, Joan. Tony credited his wife with encouraging him to return to athletics at the Guadalupe Center after graduating from high school. From that point forward, Tony Aguirre and Guadalupe Center athletics would become synonymous and well-known throughout Kansas City. From the age of 17 until his death, Tony coached kids year-round in basketball, baseball, softball, and football for the Guadalupe Center. Tony was more than just a coach to the Westside youth; he was a friend, mentor, father figure, and counselor to at least three generations of ball players. Tony was at the forefront of youth development, before youth development became a key program term. His cheers and support came hand in hand with the patience and kindness Tony shared with ``his kids.'' Tony went that extra mile, whether it was keeping the Sacred Heart gym open late for basketball practice, or marking the park fields for baseball, softball, or football, Tony did everything possible to help ``his kids'' be competitive and proud of themselves. Tony impacted the lives of many, and his influence was far reaching, both inside and outside the Latino community. Tony will long be remembered for his kind smile and words of encouragement he shared with everyone. In 1988, the Guadalupe Center established the Tony Aguirre High School Scholarship Award to help deserving students from the Hispanic community attend private or parochial high school in Mr. Aguirre's honor. In 2000, the city of Kansas City, MO, honored Tony's contributions by naming the newly constructed Westside Community Center after him. Never seeking accolades, Tony received numerous awards throughout his life for his service, coaching, and dedication to youth. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt sympathy to his wife, Joan Aguirre, his children, Sandy, Steve, Arlynne, Kathy and Amy, his 19 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and his many relatives and friends. I urge my colleagues to please join me in conveying our gratitude to his family for sharing this great man with us, and to accept our condolences for their tremendous loss. He was an inspiration to us all.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, the Bush-Dubai ports contract was a bad deal for national security when it involved six American seaports. Now it turns out the company would operate 22 U.S. ports for far more than the President said were included in the deal. My friends, America is not secure. The majority of the voters in my home district in Missouri are appalled. They don't understand why U.S. companies cannot operate all the ports. Just yesterday, Homeland Security Secretary Chertoff said that handing over American ports to a Dubai company would give the U.S. a better handle on security at U.S. terminal operations. I don't know the Secretary personally, so I don't know whether or not he was serious. I do know this: American security should not be outsourced. The only way to increase port security at our docks is to actually screen every single container that comes into the U.S. Democrats support fully funding port security to make sure that terrorists are not allowed to smuggle dangerous chemicals into our Nation. Only 6 percent of the cargo that is coming into the ports is screened. America can do better.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, the United Arab Emirates port deal should never have been approved. Sure, the admission is now backpedaling, but despite this 45-day delay, the administration is still going to try to push this deal through. It does not matter that the Coast Guard voiced concerns about the proposal before the administration initially approved the deal. It does not matter that large numbers of Democrats and Republicans have come out in opposition to the deal. It does not matter that the overwhelming majority of Americans do not support this deal and believe it to be dumb. Nor does it matter that the administration never checked with the affected communities before signing off on it. No, the Bush administration sees this 45-day period as an opportunity to steamroll Congress. We simply cannot allow that to happen. Congress must play an active role in this decision. I hope, I really hope, that the House Republicans will join us in insisting that no deal move forward without a vote here on this floor. Democrats insist that in addition to the 45- day investigation there must also be a congressional vote. This is a national security decision, and it is simply too important for partisanship to take precedence over prudence.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, this week Kansas City and our entire metropolitan area celebrated our hometown hero, Buck O'Neil, a Hall of Famer in our hearts. It is clear that the baseball Hall of Fame has made a terrible, shameful error in not inducting Buck on this ballot. As one of the Hall's own officials said, ``The Hall of Fame is not complete without Buck O'Neil.'' Buck is the reason 17 members of the Negro Leagues will be inducted this summer. Without his national visibility as an ambassador of the Negro Leagues, they would not have this honor. Without his efforts, very few would know the intimate details of segregated baseball in the United States during the 1930s, 1940s, and even into the 1950s. Buck, the classy man that he is, will never complain about not being elected to the Hall. In fact, when told by reporters that he had not made it, he smiled and said, ``That's the way the cookie crumbles.'' And so, on behalf of a community in tears, and a 94-year-old baseball legend, I will stand and complain. The omission of Buck O'Neil was wrongheaded and an insult to Buck, the Negro Leagues, and baseball fans everywhere. Buck O'Neil is a man who has done more than anyone to popularize and keep alive the history of the Negro Leagues. The fact that he was not voted into baseball's Hall of Fame is a wrong that only Major League Baseball can make right, and I hope they will make it right next year. This humble man, who is careful not to slight, has, in fact, been slighted, apparently by a single vote, by a group who looked shortsightedly at his batting average, but not at what he has done for the game of baseball. There is one thing for sure: Buck's exploits on the baseball diamond were not steroid-aided. At a time when the game of baseball is in search of credibility, there is a need for a living symbol of all that is good and wholesome about the sport. Who better than Buck O'Neil? Think about the few people who would come to a baseball stadium and get excited about the opportunity to be near Buck O'Neil. If given an opportunity, Buck O'Neil could be one of the greatest ambassadors in the history of Major League Baseball. It is rare that an entire community rallies around a single person; but our community loves Buck, what he stands for and his indomitable spirit. Once again, Buck O'Neil is teaching us that disappointments are to be cremated, not embalmed. Buck's baseball career spans seven decades and has helped make him a foremost authority on baseball history and one of the game's greatest advocates. I have never met a man who loves baseball and his community more than Buck O'Neil; but more than that, Buck loves life. And for that inspired love, Buck is adored by all those who know him and all who have heard him. Literally hundreds of thousands of people have been touched by Buck's kind smile. He has traveled the country teaching children and adults about the Negro Leagues, baseball and life in general. Many of you may know his voice as the one in Ken Burns's documentary on baseball. We know him as the man you can find sitting behind home plate at Kansas City Royals baseball games talking to everyone who stops by to say hello. As Kansas City's mayor, I was inspired by O'Neil to revitalize 18th and Vine, the historical center for black culture and life in Kansas City from the late 1800s to the 1960s. It was the hub of activity for African American homeowners, businesses, jazz and baseball enthusiasts. One block from the district stands the Paseo YMCA building, which was built as a black YMCA in 1914. It served as a temporary home for baseball players, railroad workers, and others making the transition to big-city life. Mr. Speaker, I intend to introduce a resolution calling for the commissioner of baseball to give a special recognition to Buck O'Neil at the All Star Game. I will nominate through a bill Buck O'Neil for the Congressional Gold Medal. This week Kansas City and our entire community celebrates our hometown hero, Buck O'Neil--a Hall-of-Famer in our hearts. It is clear the Baseball Hall of Fame has made a terrible shameful error in not inducting Buck on this ballot. As one of the Hall's own officials said, ``The Hall of Fame is not complete without Buck O'Neil.'' Buck is the reason 17 members of the Negro League's will be inducted this summer. Without his national visibility as an ambassador of the Negro Leagues, they would not have this honor. Without his efforts, very few would know the intimate details of segregated baseball in the U.S. during the 1930's, 40's and even into the 1950's. Buck, the classy man that he is, will never complain about not being elected to the Hall. In fact, when told he had not made it, he smiled and said, ``that's the way the cookie crumbles.'' And so, on behalf of a community in tears, and a 94 year old baseball legend, I will stand and complain. The omission of Buck O'Neil was wrong-headed and an insult to Buck and baseball fans everywhere. Buck O'Neil is a man who has done more than anyone to popularize and keep alive the history of the Negro Leagues. The fact that he was not voted into Baseball's Hall of Fame is a wrong that only Major League baseball can make right. and I hope they make it right next year. This humble man who is careful not to slight anyone has been slighted--apparently by a single vote--by a group who looked shortsightedly at his batting average, but not at what he has done for the game of baseball. There is one thing for sure, Buck's exploits on the field were not steroid aided. At a time when the game has become an American past-time in search of credibility, there is a need for a living symbol of all that is good and wholesome about the sport. Who better than Buck O'Neil? Think about the fan appeal of Buck O'Neil, a bitterless black baseball legend visiting each major league ballpark during the upcoming season. He could attract African American youngsters back to the game, and in doing so, keep the game going for another generation. It is rare that an entire community rallies around a single person, but our City loves Buck, what he stands for, and his indomitable spirit. Once again, Buck O'Neil is teaching us that disappointments are to be cremated, not embalmed. Buck's baseball career spans seven decades and has helped make him a foremost authority on baseball history and one of the game's greatest advocates. Buck Joined the Kansas City Monarchs in 1938. He left the team to serve in the U.S. Navy in World War II. When he returned from the Philippines in 1943, Buck played and managed with the Monarchs until 1955. As a manager, Buck guided the team to five pennants and two Negro World Series titles. As the major leagues' first African-American coach, Buck signed Ernie Banks and Lou Brock to their first minor- league contracts with the Cubs. I have never met a man who loves baseball and his community more than Buck O'Neil. But, more than that, Buck loves life. And for that inspired love, Buck is adored by all those who know him and all who have heard of him. Literally hundreds of thousands of people have been touched by Buck's kind smile. He has traveled the country teaching children and adults about the Negro Leagues, baseball, and life. Many of you probably know him as the voice and face of Ken Burn's documentary on baseball. We know him as the man you can find sitting behind home plate at Kansas City Royals games talking to everyone who sops by to say hello. As Kansas City's mayor, I was inspired by O'Neil to revitalize 18th & Vine--the historical center for black culture and life in Kansas City from the late 1800s-1960s. It was the hub of activity for African- American homeowners, business, jazz, and baseball enthusiasts. One block from the district stands the Paseo YMCA building, which was built as a black YMCA in 1914. It served as a temporary home for baseball players, railroad workers, and others making the transition to big city life in the Midwest. It was there that the Negro National League was founded in 1920. The 18th and Vine Historic District is now home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, where Buck O'Neil serves as Board Chairman. I have introduced House Concurrent Resolution 227, which would designate the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum as America's National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. It is the least I can do for Buck and all those great players who played magnificently and in many cases incomparably on segregated fields where their peerless talents were hidden from the nation. Buck, a long time member of the Bethel AME church in Kansas City, has never been bitter about what happened to him and all the other Negro Leagues players, about the exclusion they felt. He acted out the beliefs of his faith. He has preached a superb sermon with his life. The best sermons are lived and not preached. His reaction to the news that he had not made it into the Hall was a Sunday school lesson in humility and love. Buck O'Neil represents some of our most noble values: determination, dignity, humility and excellence. He is a pioneer and a trailblazer throughout his life and illustrious career and demonstrates in his everyday actions that determination is the pathway to success. Buck has said that all that matters to him is that he is in our Kansas City Hall of Fame, the Hall of Fame of those who know and care for him. On behalf of the millions of people who live around Kansas City I can say with absolute certainty--you are a Hall-of-Famer to us, Buck.

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to first yield 1 minute to my colleague from Kansas (Mr. Moore).

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, there was a statement made earlier that the New Testament spoke about individuals as opposed to government, and I would be glad to enter into a colloquy with anyone who would purport to demonstrate that. I can show you for the remainder of the night a litany of scripture that would suggest almost unquestionably that government has a responsibility. Jesus authenticated government, and then Paul asked that we pray for the government. This issue that we are dealing with, if we are going to bring religion into it, I think we have some obligation to at least deal with the Holy Writ in the fashion that it was written.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Associated Students of the University of Missouri (ASUM) on their 30th anniversary. Throughout their 30 years, this group of dedicated students has been the primary advocates for fellow undergraduates in the State of Missouri. Known as the student voice in the Missouri State government, the organization has been essential to craft and advance legislation that has benefited higher education in Missouri. In addition, ASUM has been the training ground for students interested in entering public service, the political arena, and is responsible for producing some of today's top government employees serving the State of Missouri. ASUM encourages students to become educated about the political process, and by doing so increases awareness, concern, and participation of young adults in democracy. ASUM's political action began on the campus of University of Missouri-Colombia in 1975. After successful participation by the students at the campus in Colombia, the student leaders expanded the organization to the other campuses within the University of Missouri System: Kansas City, St. Louis, and Rolla, where participation among the students exceeded expectations. Serving as the student voice in the federal government, state government, and on the various campuses of the University of Missouri, ASUM is responsible for the creating a student representative position on the University of Missouri Board of Curators. The student representative affords the opportunity for the Board of Curators to truly hear and value the students' perspective on issues affecting the University System. Keeping the student views in the forefront of Universities' agenda, the Board of Curators passed a policy allowing the ASUM student representative to attend closed board meetings. The over-arching impact of the policy addition was to remind the Board of Curators that every institutional change had to be in the best interest of the students. As the primary advocate of students in Missouri, the ASUM established though legislation the Bright Flight Scholarship, the most important source of financial aid for scholars from the State of Missouri. The annual $2,000 scholarship was created to encourage top ranked high school seniors to attend approved Missouri postsecondary schools. The program is geared to the top 3 percent of all Missouri high school students who have a minimum ACT score of 30 or a minimum SAT score of 780 math and 780 verbal. By requiring the student to maintain satisfactory academic progress and full time employment, this scholarship program helps the student to learn how to effectively manage their time and balance priorities. In addition to the Bright Flight Scholarship Program, the ASUM created Missouri State law to exempt sales taxes on textbooks, which has saved students in Missouri $6 million dollars every year since its enactment in 1999. Finally, the student political activists created a loan forgivingness program for teachers, medical doctors, and veterinarians who serve in high need areas of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt gratitude for the dedication of the Associated Students of the University of Missouri and their relentless efforts in extending their voices to represent all of the students of Missouri. It is essential for the members of the ASUM and other student organizations to be celebrated for their good works, for the students of today are truly our leaders of tomorrow.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today in recognition of the achievements of Dr. Wayne Giles, Chancellor Emeritus of the Metropolitan Community Colleges (MCC) in the Greater Kansas City area. Dr. Giles retired as Chancellor on June 30, 2005 after 22 years of distinguished service to MCC and our community. He served as Vice- Chancellor for Educational Services for the first ten years and the past twelve as Chancellor. He has been a tireless advocate for urban education and has implemented programs that have brought national recognition to the Community College system. For this reason and many more, I rise today to honor and celebrate his achievements. Wayne Giles' tenure with the Metropolitan Community Colleges has been fruitful for the bi-state area, the State of Missouri, and our entire Nation. Dr. Giles has overseen the establishment of two new campuses during his tenure, bringing the total to five community colleges in a system that serves approximately 43,000 students each year. The Longview campus was the first community college in the United States to be recognized as a College of the Year by Time Magazine and the Princeton Review. The Business and Technology College is the first community college in the country to earn ISO 9002 certification, which places it within a select group of companies and organizations worldwide that have achieved this quality standard. Dr. Giles has brought many innovative enhancements to MCC, most recently with the development of writing intensive and diversity courses as part of the general education learning requirements. To best serve MCC's increasingly diverse population, he initiated a faculty internship program, which will be featured at this year's American Association of Community Colleges national conference. This program has significantly increased the number of MCC faculty of color in the last two years. Wayne Giles has served on numerous committees, including: Member of the Presidents Advisory Council, NCATC from 2000 to present--a national network of resources that advocates and promotes the use of technology that enhances economic and workforce development programs and services; Member from 1993 to present, and President in 1994 of RC-2000--a national organization of presidents and chancellors of urban community colleges; Member of the Missouri Training and Employment Council from 2001 to present; Member from 2001 to present of the Coordinating Board for Higher Education Resource Group for Postsecondary Technical Education; and as a Member of the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education Advisory Committee from 1990 to present, serving as Chair in 1998. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Wayne Giles, not only for his unwavering effort to educate youth and adults in the Greater Kansas City area, but also for his courage in bringing about diversity in education and providing a vehicle for workforce training to our citizens. I urge my colleagues to please join me, in congratulating Wayne on his retirement as Chancellor of the Metropolitan Community Colleges, and in celebrating his invaluable contributions and sacrifices to provide educational and employment opportunities to constituents of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri and throughout our region.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the brave survivors of this disease. The statistics for breast cancer are staggering. One out of every eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and 1 out of every 229 women in their 30s will be affected by the disease at some point in their lives. The unfortunate truth behind these numbers is that there is a limited amount of information available on women under 35 with breast cancer. The general sentiment is that women in their 20s and 30s are too young to contract the illness, but the reality is that women of this age are not immune. Four young women have shared their stories of survival with each other as part of a support group called Nordie's at Noon, and they recently published a book of the same name documenting their stories. These women were in the first stages of their lives when they were diagnosed with breast cancer, and their stories, although different, are bound together by a common challenge. These courageous women are Patti Balwanz, Kim Carlos, Jennifer Johnson, and Jana Peters. Patti Balwanz fought a long and brave battle against breast cancer. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 24, while working as an IT consultant. Her cancer metastasized to her bones, lungs and liver, but she used her experience to educate women about the disease. Patti stayed active in breast cancer awareness outlets during her treatment by serving as a Board Officer of the Ribbons of Pink Foundation and being honored with the foundation's ``You Are an Inspiration'' award. Patti also continued her education by receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree trom Southwest Missouri State University and remaining active in the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. Until her death in 2003, Patti continued to educate women about breast cancer while bravely facing her own fight. Kim Carlos was diagnosed with breast cancer during the planning of her son's second birthday party. After three years of extensive treatment including eight rounds of chemotherapy, a mastectomy with breast reconstruction, and treatments for lymphedema, Kim is now cancer-free. Currently Kim serves as President of the Board for the Greater Kansas City Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and she was recently selected to serve on the Komen National Public Policy Council. Kim is also a member of the American Cancer Society State Advocacy Committee. She has been honored by Lifetime Television and SELF Magazine for her efforts in educating women about breast cancer. Kim now focuses on advocacy full-time with her business, K.C. Consulting, where her focus is governmental and public relations and grassroots avocacy. While five months pregnant with her first child, Jennifer Johnson was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 27. Her treatment involved chemotherapy and a mastectomy during her pregnancy. Jennifer completed her final chemotherapy treatment in 2000, and the next day delivered a healthy baby boy, Parker Matthew. Three years later, Jennifer had a daughter, Emma Grace, and she has been cancer-free for six years. Jennifer is active in several breast cancer advocacy groups including the American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen Association, the Ribbons of Pink Foundation, and the Pregnant with Cancer organization. Jana Peters was 27 and engaged to be married when she received her breast cancer diagnosis. She has undergone several treatments since then including a mastectomy and chemotherapy. In 1999 Jana founded the Ribbons of Pink Foundation, a non-profit organization with the goal of promoting breast health and serving as a support for young breast cancer survivors. She is a member of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, and she is a volunteer for several breast cancer organizations and events. Jana continues her career in the clinical research industry in San Francisco, where she resides with her husband Chris. We celebrate these courageous women who have battled breast cancer and those who continue their fight against this illness. Breast cancer survivors and supporters gather to raise awareness and encourage the access of information for breast cancer in young women. Thank you to Patti, Kim, Jennifer and Jana for sharing their stories of bravery and determination.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my friend for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, at no time in our Nation's history has the need for affordable housing been so great. As the price of owning a house has risen all over America, the poverty level has risen to almost 13 percent, and now Hurricanes Katrina and Rita have left thousands more Americans, many of limited income, homeless. The bill we will consider today takes a critical step toward addressing our Nation's affordable housing crisis. By establishing an affordable housing fund, we are increasing the supply of affordable homes to low- and very low-income families. As a member of the Committee on Financial Services, I was proud to see the inclusion of an affordable housing fund in the bill and proud to support the bill in committee. Seeing this bipartisan support for this bill provided one of those moments when we can just say, oh, happy days. But this important provision will be for naught should one amendment made in order by the Rules Committee pass. The Oxley amendment would disqualify nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations, from participating in the fund if they engage in voter participation or get-out-the-vote activities. And it effectively prevents many nonprofits from participating. As an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church, I come to this discussion from a unique perspective. Mr. Speaker, it is the mission of the United Methodist Church and every denomination and every faith group in our world to serve the poor and vulnerable. For my church, the St. James United Methodist Church in Kansas City, an important part of the mission is to shelter the poor, and that is why we started in 1985 a section 202 project not far from our church. Mr. Speaker, I grew up one of those vulnerable citizens. I am not sure how many Members of the United States Congress lived in public housing, but I did. My family, including my three sisters and mother and father, lived in a shack, literally a two-room shack. My mother and father both worked all day every day, and I can tell you, growing up in public housing, not one time did we ever see a candidate canvassing our community, not one time do I remember any kind of effort to get the citizens to vote. I do not ever even remember seeing a voting precinct until I was about 17 years old because the elected officials knew that the poor do not vote. They knew that if you were poor, you were preoccupied with survival, and so there was no civic or political involvement. It was, how can we make it one more day? We have created a culture in low-income neighborhoods where people do not participate in the political process, and what we need is to democratize the low-income neighborhoods of our communities. And if you go around, I do not care whether you are Republican or Democrat or just a lazy person, if you go and look at the voting returns, you will find that people who live in low-income neighborhoods do not vote. And I do not care who you are, you ought to want to get people to vote. This is the United States of America. We are strong only if we are able to get all of our citizens to participate in the political process. Someone used the term ``liberal.'' If liberal means that I care, then color me liberal. And understand this: Caring may hurt, but not caring hurts more. We can do better than this. America can do better than this. Mr. Speaker, at no time in our Nation's history has the need for affordable housing been so great. As the price of owning a home has risen all over America, the poverty level has risen to almost 13 percent. And now Hurricanes Katrina and Rita have left thousands more Americans, many of limited means, homeless. The bill we will consider today takes a critical step forward toward addressing our Nation's affordable housing crisis. By establishing an affordable housing fund, we are increasing the supply of affordable homes to low- and very low-income families. As a member of the Financial Services Committee, I was proud to see the inclusion of affordable housing fund in the bill, and proud to support the bill in committee. Seeing the bipartisan support for this bill provides one of those moments when we can say, ``O Happy Day''. But this important provision will be for naught should one amendment made in order by the Rules Committee pass. The Oxley amendment would disqualify nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations, from participating in the fund if they engage in voter registration or get-out the vote activities, and it effectively prevents many nonprofits from participating. As an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church, I come to this discussion from a unique perspective, Mr. Speaker. It is the mission of the United Methodist Church, and every denomination and faith group in our world, as it is of many religious orders and communities, to serve the poor and vulnerable. For my church, St. James United Methodist in Kansas City, an important part of that mission is to shelter the poor by providing affordable housing. But an equally important part of that mission is empowering the poor and vulnerable by supporting their full participation in the Democratic process. I grew up one of those vulnerable citizens--my family, by any standard of measurement was financially poor. Until the age of 7, I lived in a shack--literally a two room shack--with my mother, my father, and my three sisters. We had no indoor plumbing and for a while, no electricity. My family moved into public housing when I was 7. I can tell you, growing up, no candidates canvassed our community and few, if any residents in our projects voted. My great-grandfather, who lived until age 103, never once voted in his life. I say this as a point of illustration. The poor and vulnerable are often those who need the most help to fully participate in our democracy. When you live in public housing, you are preoccupied with economic survival. Let me be perfectly clear, Mr. Speaker, by forcing faith-based organizations and other nonprofits to choose between participating in the Affordable Housing Fund or engaging in constitutionally protected voter registration and get out the vote activities with their own funds, the Oxley amendment limits the full participation of our Nation's most vulnerable citizens in our democracy. I keep a photograph of the shack where I grew up hanging on the wall in my office to remind me that I have been given the opportunity to speak for those who cannot, and represent in this the interests of the most vulnerable and voiceless American citizens here in the Congress. Every day when I go to work for the people of my district and the citizens of our country, I walk out of the front door of that shack. But whose interests are being served by passing these restrictions? We're not serving the interests of the faith-based community or the poor. These restrictions serve only the political purposes of some study group that should not have the power to derail democracy in our land. It is an assault on the poor in this country, and it is obscene. Vote ``no'' on the Rule and vote ``no'' on the Oxley amendment.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today in recognition of the achievements of Dr. Gayle Holliday, a constituent of the 5th District of Missouri which I am honored to represent. For over thirty years Gayle has dedicated her life to the Greater Kansas City, MO community, promoting and improving socio-economic conditions, political empowerment and civil rights of people of color. I recently had the opportunity to pay tribute to Gayle for her extraordinary commitment to community service. During the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 35th Annual Legislative Conference, I had the privilege of nominating Gayle for the Congressional Black Caucus Spouses' Celebration of Leadership Unsung Hero Award. While this award carries no monetary prize, it is no less a testament to her devotion to bettering our area. Helping her both personally and professionally is her tremendous educational background. Gayle holds a BA in Political Sciences, a Masters in Public Administration and a Ph.D. in Management and Applied Technology. Professionally, she is the President and owner of G & H Consulting, LLC, which has been in business for over 10 years, helping clients in the public, private and non-profit sector with strategic planning and business plan development. Additionally, under President Clinton, Gayle was selected as one of a small group of individuals to represent the transportation industry on the President's transition team. Civically, Gayle serves on twelve boards in the Greater Kansas City area, with diverse interests such as issues of healthcare, education and economic development. Gayle has been happily and eagerly ready to help our community amassing more than 70 hours of community service each month. She is also a member of the church I pastor, St. James Methodist Church, and finds time to serve as chair of the Pastor Parish Staff Relations Committee. Dr. Holliday's work on behalf of others reaches from behind the scenes to the frontlines. In all of her activities, she demonstrates her dedication and commitment to the greater food of others. Her high energy pace translates directly to the results she is able to obtain for the benefit of all in our area. Regardless of whether she is in the trenches or the boardroom, her poise and thoughtfulness is ever present. Throughout her life, Gayle Holliday has exercised a tireless belief in the principle of putting ``other'' before ``self.'' But what separates Gayle from those who simply profess to hold a belief but do nothing to promote it, is that she has put her principles to practice, and the effects of her efforts can be felt throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. That is why it was indeed an honor for me to be able to recognize her during the CBCF's Annual Legislative Conference. It is also why I am doubly honored to be able to recognize her here along with my colleagues, in the U.S. House of Representatives. While it is but a small acknowledgement for all of the work she has done, it is a heart-felt gesture, taking strength from the myriad lives she has touched in our hometown. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our appreciation to Dr. Gayle Holliday and her commitment to helping others. She is a living testament to the unspoken principle that defines unsung heroes: to be a great leader you must be a great servant.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained from the Chamber today during rollcall vote 520. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today in recognition of the achievements of Judge Fernando Gaitan, Jr., an important resident of the 5th Congressional District of Missouri, and current United States District Judge for the Western District of Missouri. Judge Gaitan was recently inducted into the Missouri Walk of Fame, during a reception as part of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, an event held to honor the achievements of African- Americans who have made significant contributions to Missouri. Judge Gaitan graduated from Pittsburg State University in 1970, and earned his law degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City-- where he was member of the Law Review. Judge Gaitan served first as a state trial judge for the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit in Kansas City, Missouri. He then went on to serve as an appellate judge on the Missouri Court of Appeals-Western District. He was elevated to the federal bench in 1991 by then-President George H. W. Bush. By the appointment of then Chief Justice William Rehnquist, he also served in the Federal-State Jurisdiction Committee of the Judicial Conference from 1997-2003. With a great desire to share this incalculable knowledge and experience with others in the community, Judge Gaitan serves as adjunct professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law. In addition, he is a member of many non-for-profit boards as well as local, state and national bar associations. Throughout his career, Judge Gaitan has been noted for his steadfast judicial prudence. His rulings have been noted for their fairness and adherence to the letter and intent of the law. His scholarly approach to judicial decisions coupled with his fundamental commitment to equality and equity are well regarded across the federal judiciary. For those reasons and more, it was indeed an honor and privilege to recognize Judge Gaitan at the Missouri Walk of Fame reception, hosted by myself and fellow colleague, Missouri Representative William Lacy Clay of St. Louis. Mr. Speaker, please join with me in expressing our appreciation to Judge Gaitan and his endless commitment to serving the residents of the State of Missouri. He is a true role model not just to the African- American community in Missouri, but to the entire African American community at large. May his success serve as a stepping stone for many other African-Americans eager to be just as successful in their endeavors.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to pay tribute to Thomas Healy and Alphapointe Association for the Blind, who will retire from the organization September 30, 2005. During his 25 year tenure as President and CEO, Thomas has been the guiding force behind Alphapointe's flourishing as a nonprofit organization in the Greater Kansas City community. Mr. Healy has been a community leader at Alphapointe for his 34 years with the organization, and as President and CEO helped Alphapointe achieve heights worthy of praise by the organization's founder, Catherine Hale. To understand how deeply Mr. Healy has touched the Greater Kansas City community, we must all understand what a unique company he has been leading. Founded in 1911 and originally incorporated as the Kansas City Association for the Blind in 1916, Alphapointe was first a group of blind men and women who gathered together for company and recreation. Originally a social organization, Alphapointe has expanded its sense of purpose to provide not only needed social services like rehabilitation and educational services, but also jobs. Today, the company proudly manufactures over 30 million plastic bottles for pharmaceuticals and over 11 million writing instruments each year. It is not the volume or product of Alphapointe's production that makes it unique; it is the composition of the company's employee base. Over half of the employees, from management to custodial staff, are blind or disabled. Remaining true to its foundation, Alphapointe continues to provide a place of community for all. Under his leadership and guidance, Thomas has helped this vital organization grow from a company of 55 employees to more than 160 earning more than $20 million per year. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues in the House join me in saluting Mr. Thomas Healy and Alphapointe Association for the Blind for their years of dedicated service to the City of Kansas City, Missouri and the surrounding metropolitan community. Thank you Thomas, we will miss seeing you at the helm, but know you will continue to be an advocate and guided voice in our area as a member of Alphapointe's Advisory Board of Directors.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time, and my goal here is to make a point, not to make an enemy. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule and in strong opposition to the Boustany amendment and to add my name to the chorus of religious individuals and organizations that oppose this ill- conceived and harmful amendment. As an ordained minister of the United Methodist Church, I recognize the important role faith-based organizations play in providing educational, health, and social support services to low-income children and their parents. The faith-based community has long played an active role in operating Head Start programs and has done so while upholding the Constitution and civil rights standards. By the faith community, we have been able to provide all kinds of services. In fact, my first job after college was working in Catholic Charities, which received tens of millions of Federal dollars to run programs. Mr. Speaker, this is not only bad policy; this is bad theology. In my religious tradition, we give great recognition to the Apostle Paul, who said: ``There is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free,'' and it goes on to say: ``Put on, therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, tender mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering.'' That is not in this amendment. Proponents of this amendment claim it is necessary to protect religious freedom. I will tell you now, as a pastor, that I take offense at that claim. How is religious freedom served when we force a teacher to choose between her faith and her job? How is it religious freedom when we tell children that they can lose their teacher because she or he is from the wrong faith? How is it religious freedom when we frustrate the laws of the land? And make no mistake, should this amendment pass, the children served by Head Start, those most at risk, would be the ones who suffer. Tens of thousands of children currently in Head Start could lose their teachers to whom they have bonded. And their parents could be denied the chance to climb out of poverty by moving from Head Start, discriminating against current and potential teachers because of religion, causing children to lose one of the most important adults in their lives, denying parents the chance to elevate themselves out of poverty. There is no doubt in my mind that these things are not only harmful, they are immoral. This is not good for America. This body has no business undoing prohibitions against bigotry. Churches have been seen historically as a citadel for justice, a place of peace, a place of racial harmony. This can be seen as a subterfuge for bigotry. When someone comes to the St. James United Methodist Church, which I pastor, they know that they are going to be considered for employment based on their qualifications and there is no subterfuge for bigotry.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in recognition of our guest Chaplain, Dr. Steve Houpe, founder and Pastor of the Harvest Church in Kansas City, Missouri. Soon after his graduation and ordination from Rhema Bible Training Center in 1986, Dr. Houpe began his ministry and founded Harvest Church, one of the fastest-growing congregations in our community. But this was just the beginning. Dr. Houpe had a strong calling to education; and, in 1990, he founded Harvest Christian Schools, now Faith Academy, to educate children in a Christian environment with a strong academic emphasis. And, in 1996, he founded Harvest Bible Institute to teach men and women to give of themselves for service in the ministry. Dr. Houpe has also been called to bring the word of God into the homes of people beyond his congregation through his authorship of four inspirational books. Pastor Houpe further devotes himself to his wife Donna and their six beautiful children. Pastor Houpe has touched countless lives in our community and across this Nation, and we are pleased to have him here today.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Illinois for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina is almost unfathomable. Hundreds of lives have been lost; families have been torn apart; people's homes, jobs, possessions and everything they have built up over their entire lives has been swept away; billions of dollars in damage has been inflicted; and the coast along the States of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida has been flattened and flooded. New Orleans, the Big Easy, the Crescent City, the culinary capital of the Nation, has simply become an extension of Lake Pontchartrain. It is now clear that Hurricane Katrina is one of the worst natural disasters to ever hit America. My son Evan graduated in May from Dillard University in New Orleans and was still there when Katrina struck, and I thank God that he escaped with his life; but like so many others, he lost most of his possessions when Katrina pulled back the roof of the apartment building where he lived. Having now been separated from his friends, his work and his adopted city, his life will never be the same. Although he lost almost everything, he was able to retrieve his video camera and was able to record what is now left of New Orleans. He shared that video with his mother and me this past week; and although I cannot fathom what it is like for those who have experienced Katrina's wrath firsthand, I can tell my colleagues that I was deeply, deeply saddened and affected by the images of utter devastation wrought by the storm. Seeing that video reinforced my resolve to help Katrina's victims, help rebuild the Gulf Coast; and it reinforced in my mind that there is an incredible need for prayer. That is why I decided to introduce this resolution for a national day of prayer and remembrance. Many in our Nation believe, as do I, that prayer changes things and that it represents the highest level of human communication. As many of us now know, this Friday, September 16, has been designated as a day of prayer and remembrance for the victims of Hurricane Katrina; and my resolution, the resolution we are currently considering, expresses the support of Congress for such a day and urges all Americans to join together this Friday to remember those that have lost their lives and to ask for strength and determination for those that are trying to rebuild their lives and their city. In the wake of tragedy, the American people have always stepped up to support their fellow man and woman, and Hurricane Katrina is no different. The American people have opened their hearts, their checkbooks and even their homes in sheltering the storm's victims, providing food and medical assistance, and donating hundreds of millions of dollars to the relief effort. In my home State of Missouri, for example, Children's Mercy Hospital of Kansas City, Missouri, has opened their doors to a number of young patients and families flown in from New Orleans by the Missouri Air National Guard, and the Red Cross has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in Kansas City. The compassion and generosity of the American people is unparalleled; but as the devastation and full impact of Hurricane Katrina is further understood, its victims and their families will more than ever need us all to keep them in our thoughts and prayers as well. As senior pastor of the St. James United Methodist Church in Kansas City, I have called on my congregation to support the evacuees with their time, talent, treasure and prayer. I have asked them to pray for the victims of Hurricane Katrina, their families and all those who are aiding in the recovery and relief effort. I hope my colleagues will all join me in the support of this resolution and will join me in prayer, along with the President, at the National Cathedral this Friday and join the American people to remember all those affected by the devastating events of the past 2 weeks.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, my heart and my prayers go out to all those caught in the path of Hurricane Katrina and the conditions they are suffering in its wake. Katrina was a hurricane of biblical proportions that has left thousands of people without food, clean water, shelter and medicine, particularly those people stranded in New Orleans where conditions are absolutely unlivable and public safety is virtually nonexistent. They have waited for days hoping for at least some sort of information about when they might get to escape their ravaged city and where they will go next. With the chaos and looting that has ensued in New Orleans, it is critical that our government get in there and provide the necessary relief--not tomorrow, not next week, but right now. People are dying on the streets; the President and the Federal Government cannot afford to waste another minute. It is inexcusable that the President and his administration did not act more swiftly to provide the basic necessities of survival to the victims, nor did they act swiftly to ensure the City's public safety. As the richest nation in the world and the world's only superpower, we ought to be ashamed. With so many troops abroad in Iraq attempting to secure a whole nation, it is inexcusable that we cannot secure one city on our own shores. That is why I am pleased that Congress acted quickly today to pass legislation providing $10.5 billion in emergency funds for the relief and recovery from Hurricane Katrina. The Supplemental Appropriations Act will deliver $10 billion in emergency aid for FEMA and $500 million for the Department of Defense. However, this is only a down payment. FEMA is currently spending $500 million a day and under this scenario, the $10 billion for FEMA will provide only another 20 days as they continue to assess the needs of the devastated communities. It could take months for families to find homes and establish some sort of normalcy in their day-to-day life, and I call on the President and the Federal Government to remain committed to helping people rebuild their lives. Each of us has in some way been personally touched by this horrific tragedy. For my wife Dianne and I, it was waiting for our youngest son, Evan, to make his way to our house after escaping the disaster of New Orleans. We were further touched as we learned that a family member of a parishioner at the Church I pastor, St. James United Methodist, was given refuge by a kind elderly couple after being stranded in a home surrounded by water. Fortunately, the Coast Guard rescued them all on Sunday morning. All of us have a duty to reach out to those in greatest need. Americans will stand strong together to help our brothers and sisters in their time of dire need, and the Kansas City area is no exception. Children's Mercy Hospital has already opened their doors to twenty-four sick children and their families flown in from New Orleans by the Missouri Air National Guard, and the Red Cross has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars from Kansas Citians. The outpouring of support from across the country has been phenomenal, and I am confident that our citizens will remain resolute until the job is done.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr Speaker, I proudly rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Lyle K. Querry, a political activist, humanitarian, and a man of faith, whose legacy continues to enrich the lives of all Kansas Citians. After 24 years of service, Keith, as he is known by all his friends, retired on June 30, 2005, as the Business Manager and Financial Secretary for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, IBEW, Local 53. His dedication and commitment spanned 48 years as a member of IBEW and his service to the Kansas City community is the reason for this recognition and celebration. Keith's reputation as a leader within the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the community, and political organizations extends beyond the borders of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri and even of our Nation. Among the many accolades Keith has received over the years was the prestigious Outstanding Leadership Award by the Heart of America United Way in 1988. In 1995, he received the distinguished Harry S. Truman Democratic Achievement Award, named in honor of a former Independence, Missouri, resident, and one of our country's most respected public servants, the 33rd President of the United States. Keith's steadfast commitment to and respect by the IBEW was rewarded when he was named to the Law Committee for their 33rd and 34th conventions held in 1986 and in 1988, respectively. As of July 1 of this year and despite ``retiring'', Keith was appointed as an International Representative for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Keith has not only been an active member of the IBEW and many political organizations, he has also contributed his time, energy, and expertise to numerous civic organizations in the metropolitan area. He has served as an executive board member of the Heart of America Central Labor Council, was a board member of the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and a board member of the Jackson County United Way. He is currently serving on the boards of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, the Labor Management Council of Greater Kansas City, as a member of the executive committee of the Missouri State Democratic Party, as a committeeman for the 8th Senatorial District, and as chairman of both the IBEW Outside Task Force and Local 53 Safety Committee. He also serves as chairman for both the Missouri Valley Line Constructors Apprenticeship and Training group as well as the Line Construction Benefit Fund. Born in 1938, a graduate of Fort Osage High School and a member of St. Matthews Presbyterian Church, Keith and his lovely wife Sandy will celebrate their 45th anniversary in October of this year. They are the proud parents of two daughters, Ronda and Tricia, and grandparents to five grandchildren, Marissa, Robert, Allen, Shannon, and Tyler. Over the years, Keith and Sandy have been one of the most influential and respected couples within the Missouri Democratic Party and have regularly been delegates at Democratic National Conventions. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Lyle Keith Querry, for his relentless efforts in protecting and assisting the rights of others, while extending the labor movement, not only within the boundaries of the Fifth Congressional District, but within the United States and the entire global community. He represents the best in all of us. I urge my colleagues of the 109th Congress to please join me in congratulating Keith on his retirement from the 2,000 member Local 53 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Although we know that he has not completely retired, the desire of this body is that Keith Querry will enjoy the community he helped build.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the achievements of Dick Kurtenbach, the former Executive Director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Kansas and Western Missouri and tireless advocate for the constitutional rights of Americans. Mr. Kurtenbach retired on June 30th, 2005 after 20 years of distinguished service to the ACLU and his community. For this reason, I rise today to honor and celebrate his life achievements. Dick Kurtenbach's tenure with the American Civil Liberties Union has been prolific for the Western Missouri and Kansas region as well as fruitful for the entire Nation. He oversaw notable litigation, such as Cruzan v. Director of the Missouri Department of Health, which was herd by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1990. The ruling was a victory, by recognizing that patients are entitled to the fulfillment of their end- of-life care wishes. More importantly, the case raised much needed public awareness towards the importance of living wills, medical proxies, and other means of documenting those wishes and was lauded as a success by supporters. However, Dick's unwavering commitment to the values of liberty didn't always make him friends. In 1989, while I served on the City Council, his office filed suit on behalf of the Missouri Knights of the Ku Klux Klan arguing that the Kansas City, Missouri City Council had violated the Klan's First Amendment rights by denying them access to rant on a public cable TV channel. I remember being interviewed with Dick on ``The Today Show'' in New York City. As we walked out of the NBC studios, it was obvious that he was painfully uncomfortable having appeared to side with a group like the Klan. All I could do was put an arm on his shoulder and say, ``Hey, I understand what you're doing and why.'' It is a tough job but he has done it time and time again. Dick's steadfast refusal to compromise on something as precious as our civil liberties is representative of the purity and character of the American way. Dick Kurtenbach had been the Executive Director of the Kansas and Western Missouri ACLU since 1985 and was responsible for their original merger. Prior to that, he was the Executive Director of the Nebraska Civil Liberties Union from 1979 through 1985. He has worked on several Senate and Congressional campaigns, as well as for the Nebraska Democratic Party. Dick is a veteran of the United States Army, having served on active duty from 1967 to 1970, including 15 months of service in Southeast Asia. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Kansas City Civil Rights Consortium, The Human Rights Project, and the Western Missouri Coalition Against the Death Penalty. Dick graduated from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln with a Bachelors of Arts degree and is married to Joette Pelster. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Dick Kurtenbach, not only for his unwavering efforts to preserve the tenets of our Constitution, but also for his courage in defending the individual rights of citizens, no matter how unpopular or difficult. I urge my colleagues to please join me, in congratulating Dick on his retirement as Executive Director of the Kansas and Western Missouri American Civil Liberties Union, and in celebrating his invaluable contributions and sacrifices to the cause of freedom.

Mr. CLEAVER

Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor five firefighters from my district, Missouri's Fifth, who selflessly risked their lives in the line of duty. On February 23, 2004, Captain Patrick Martin, Firefighter Marvin Donaldson, Firefighter David Bradley, Firefighter Stephen Johnson, and Mr. Sean McKarnin responded to a fire at a residence in South Kansas City not far from where I live. Upon their arrival at the scene, they came under heavy and rapid gunfire from a nearby residence and were pinned down for nearly 30 minutes while the fire raged. In the midst of this chaos, a paramedic who also responded to the scene was shot. The team members successfully pulled her to safety and eventually extinguished the fire. Today, these five heroes will be awarded the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor by President Bush. He will recognize their extraordinary valor above and beyond the call of duty. The medal is the highest national award for valor by a public safety officer and only 10 public safety officers will receive this award this year. I commend those firefighters for their exceptional courage and decisiveness in an extraordinary situation and know my colleagues will join me in honoring them today.