Bob Filner

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit my testimony which I presented this week at the Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs into the Record of the House of Representatives. Mr. Chairman, thank you for giving me this opportunity to come before you today to speak about the important programs contained in your foreign assistance bill. I am a strong supporter of a number of these programs, including child survival, tuberculosis control and microcredit. I want to begin by thanking you for your unwavering protection of child survival programs over the past few years. I know that it is thanks to you and this Subcommittee that each year this program has been specifically protected and expanded. Child survival programs provide life-saving vaccinations and micronutrients to millions of needy children in the developing world. I know that I do not have to tell you, Mr. Chairman, that child survival programs mean simple, cost- effecient solutions like oral rehydration therapy, which prevents 1.5 million child deaths each year, and five cent capsules of vitamin A, given to children three times a year, which reduce child death rates by as much as twenty-five percent in affected populations. The vaccinations that are funded each year, Mr. Chairman, are a large part of the reason that three million children are immunized from diseases and, therefore, able to escape death. I am aware that you have had to push hard for the protection of child survival programs, and I commend you for your dedication to these children. I would also like to thank you for expanding your Child Survival and Disease Account by $50 million in FY98 to include more funding for infectious diseases. I thank you for that increase, because I know how critically important such funding is, especially in terms of our global fight against the disease of tuberculosis. The spread of TB concerns me, because it is often considered a disease of the poor and a problem of the developing world--and yet, we are all in danger of contracting it. It is on the rise around the world and here in the United States, where it is estimated that fifteen million Americans are infected with the bacteria that causes TB. This city of Washington, D.C. where you and I spend so much of our time, is one of TB's ``hot zones'' in the United States--and my own district in Southern California is at risk, as people travel back and forth across our international border. With two million people crossing international borders each day, stopping this threat at the border is not a realistic option. This disease is a danger to the health and economic well-being of all Americans, and we must do more to control it. According to the World Health Organization, infectious diseases cause nearly thirty percent of deaths in poor countries, and they receive only 1.5 percent in foreign aid. I know that you are doing your part to see that the percentage of aid going to infectious diseases is increased. Thanks to your $50 million ``set-aside'', the Administration increased its funding for tuberculosis control programs from roughly $1 million a year to $15-20 million. This is a significant increase, but I am still concerned that it will be insufficient to keep up with the spread of tuberculosis--and so I urge you to do more. You have my full support for a significant increase in funding within your legislation for tuberculosis control programs for FY99. Finally, I would like to thank you for your support for microcredit programs in the past, and I ask that you expand and specifically protect this successful and proven program in your foreign assistance bill next year. I understand, according to a recent USAID report, that funding for microcredit has declined between 1994 and 1996. In addition, AID has not achieved a goal that it set for itself in 1994 to spend half of overall microcredit funding on programs serving the poorest people. Only $42 million went to poverty-targeting of a very reduced overall level of $111 million for 1996. Given the positive effects of this program on the lives of poor families and poor children, I believe that the United States should be doing more in this area. Just as with the child survival program, however, I think that without your direction, USAID will continue to underprioritize this program which is capable of changing the lives of millions of people. Therefore, I request that you significantly expand and protect this program which does so much for poor families in the developing world. Thank you for considering these requests as you draft your legislation this year. I appreciate this opportunity to apprise you of my interest in the child survival program, in tuberculosis control, and in microcredit.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar) and the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall) for their leadership, and the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Chairman Shuster) for his courage and steadfastness throughout this struggle, which has been an inspiration to all of us on both sides of the aisle. We thank the gentleman and his staff, and the staff of the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar). They have had to deal with a lot of issues, and they worked hard for a long period of time. We thank them profusely. Mr. Chairman, I rise on behalf of the people of California's 50th Congressional District in strong support of BESTEA, because BESTEA is best for jobs. My constituents have many interests, but their most important ones can be summarized in three words: Jobs, jobs, jobs. Jobs, so they can support themselves and their families; jobs, so they can raise and educate their kids; jobs, so they can contribute to our community; jobs, so they can enjoy their recreation; and jobs, so they can provide for their retirement. This legislation addresses these concerns in an equitable manner, renews important transportation programs and creates these much-needed jobs. Contrary to all the hype and hysteria, this bill is not a budget buster. It restores the truth in the budgeting process by accessing the Nation's Transportation Trust Funds. As everyone has said before me, this bill will restore the trust the American people place in their trust funds. This is an investment in our infrastructure. It is desperately needed. We have created the strongest economy in the world through our transportation infrastructure, and this continues that policy and guarantees our future. It provides us with the opportunity to again demonstrate that we have an investment policy on a national scale. We must take this opportunity now. Mr. Chairman, I will vote for my constituents' interests and vote for BESTEA. I encourage my colleagues to do likewise. Remember, it is about jobs, jobs, jobs.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues, what could be better for this country than a financial institution run and organized by its members, members who feel comfortable saving and investing for their futures at their institution, their credit union. H.R. 1151 is about guaranteeing choice, choice for consumers who want low cost, higher returns, and convenience. Nonprofit credit unions are mostly employer-sponsored, employee-run. But to be financially viable, each credit union needs about 500 members. My district is filled with small employers. We need to protect these employers' and these employees' rights to create and participate in credit unions with broader membership bases. Credit unions came into being to provide financial service for the everyday worker. H.R. 1151 ensures that these workers' rights will not be tampered with. Mr. Speaker, all of the gentlemen in the House who have worked on this have been thanked. I want to thank the thousands and tens of thousands of credit union members around the country who got politically involved, talked to their Congress people, wrote letters to their newspaper, got on the talk shows. The credit union members around this country did an incredible job educating the Members of Congress. That effort will be rewarded with a vote today.

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my best wishes to a very well-loved member of the San Diego Community: J.J. the Gray Whale. When J.J. was stranded on a beach more than a year ago, she was not expected to survive her journey to Sea World, San Diego. But survive she did. She was a mere 1,670 pounds and 13 feet, 10 inches long when she was saved. She has grown more than 10-fold--to 18,200 pounds, about the weight of six Buick Skylarks, and is 30 feet long. Today, J.J. is scheduled to be released back to the Pacific Ocean to join other gray whales migrating north from Baja California to Alaska. Her recovery has been monitored by children around the country and I join them in wishing J.J. a successful transition back to the ocean and a safe journey. J.J. was named after Judy Jones, who died after a life dedicated to rescuing sea lions. Scores of veterinarians, animal-care specialists, research scientists and animal trainers showed similar dedication in saving J.J. and preparing her for release. Over the past year, they have nursed her from a malnourished and dehydrated near-death state, taught her to eat from the bottom of her pool--similar to the way whales eat from the ocean bottom--and taught her to vocalize and recognize other gray whale sounds. Her rescue and upcoming release are historic--it marks the first time that an orphaned gray whale has been raised by humans and released back into the wild. The Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, San Diego Police and Hubbs- Sea World Research Institute are handling the daunting logistics of her release. J.J.'s life thus far has provided a wealth of scientific discoveries about gray whales. Her release provides a chance for her to live with other gray whales. I ask you to join me and the literally thousands of people cheering for J.J. in extending our thoughts and good wishes for her successful journey back to the wild.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, I rise today to recognize the Annual Community Mobilization Conference and Training on Gangs, Violence and Drugs which will take place in my hometown of San Diego, California April 1-3, 1998. This will be the ninth annual conference convened by Nu-Way Youth and Social Services, a local community-based organization. The conference will be a national, collaborative event that will bring together parents, educators, law enforcement officers, probation officers, prosecutors, health and social service providers, together with civic, political and spiritual leaders to discuss the latest technologies and strategies for combating juvenile crime in our communities. I would also like to give recognition to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) and the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) of the U.S. Department of Justice for their support and co-sponsorship of Nu-Way's 9th Annual National Conference. The NCPC and the BJA will add programmatic support and technical assistance. By doing so they are providing Nu-Way access to greater numbers of nationally recognized trainers, and broader participation. Conference participants will come from throughout the United States and Canada. This support will further strengthen the Educating, Motivating, Organizing and Mobilizing (E.M.O.M.) process and demonstrate the effectiveness of the partnership between community and government. This conference is a true collaborative project. And by its very nature, will reinforce the proverb that ``it takes a whole village to raise a child''--and will challenge all of our citizens to accept the responsibility and join in our struggle to keep our youth free from the influence of gangs and drugs. Mr. Speaker, I am proud that Nu-Way, a valuable resource in the fight against gangs, drug abuse and violence, is based in my Congressional district, and I applaud the efforts of Nu-Way and the Community Mobilization Conference for their important role in our fight against juvenile crime.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, it is with both great pride and humility that I rise to join in the celebration of the 177th Anniversary of Greek Independence. On March 25, 1821 the Greeks began their long struggle for independence from what then was the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire, present day Turkey, had ruled Greece for almost 400 years. Freedom from the Ottoman Turks' subjugation had been dreamed of for many generations prior to Bishop Germano of Patras hoisting the Greek flag over a Peloponnese monastery. This simple act of defiance marked the beginning of a long and bitter struggle for the Greek people, but a struggle that few rejected and many embraced. Not only were the Greek patriots willing to fight for freedom, but they were willing to sacrifice their lives to ensure their independence. Their success was such during the first years of conflict that the Turks were surprised and confounded. To turn the tide of the war, the Sultan sought and received the help of Egyptian forces. And although the Greeks were fighting what appeared a losing battle, they never yielded, they never ceased to believe, and they never gave up their hopes and dreams of independence. Finally, with help from Britain, France, and Russia, in 1829, the Greeks not only routed the Egyptian and Turkish forces, but also demanded and received the Sultan's recognition of independence. Mr. Speaker, we all in America are taught from childhood about the heroics of George Washington, Paul Revere, Patrick Henry, Lighthorse Harry Lee, John Paul Jones, and the Minutemen of Lexington and Concord. The individuals and events of our own War for Independence are known throughout the world. But we should also take time to commemorate the struggles of the brave men and women of Greece who fought and died for their own independence. The Greek culture and heritage has greatly influenced our country and the world. It is the spirit of the Greeks who fought for independence that we commemorate and honor today. Because they stood up for freedom and honor and dignity, we in America and Greeks everywhere, owe them a great debt.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me the time; and I thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Quinn) for working so closely with the members of the subcommittee to make sure that after the problem was identified, we came up with the consensus rather quickly to solve it for the men and women in our armed forces. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased also to be an original cosponsor of H.R. 3213, what we call the USERRA Amendments Act of 1998. The measure is similar to H.R. 166, the Veterans' Job Protection Act that I introduced at the beginning of this Congress. It was clear to me that the 1996 Supreme Court decision that was referred to by Chairman Quinn would adversely affect members of the uniformed services employed by State governments and that legislation would be required to fix the problem. H.R. 3213 will accomplish this goal and restore the employment and reemployment protections that have been provided for over 50 years to State employees who are also citizen-soldiers. There have already been at least two court decisions that rule against the veterans involved, so I am pleased that the House is now acting on this matter. Mr. Speaker, since colonial days, the citizen-soldier has been one of America's oldest and most venerated military traditions; and members of the Reserve and National Guard are a critical component of our national defense. Since the adoption of the Total Force Policy in 1973, which recognized that all of America's military should be readily available to provide for the common defense, these men and women have been tasked with greater responsibility for nearly every phase of military preparedness. We all remember the crucial role members of the Guard and Reserves played in the successful conduct of the Persian Gulf War and the sacrifices these individuals made to serve their country. Literally hundreds of thousands of our citizen soldiers, many with little more than 48 hours' notice, left their families and their jobs to answer their country's call to arms. Because the law protects veterans' reemployment rights, these brave men and women were able to contribute enormously to the Gulf War effort with the assurance that their civilian employment would be available to them following their military service. Mr. Speaker, as a result of the Supreme Court decision in 1996, members of the Guard and Reserves who are State employees were no longer to have that job protection provided for all other members of the uniformed services. The enactment of H.R. 3213 will restore this very important protection. I urge all my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Evans), for yielding me this time, and I thank the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Stump), our chairman, for bringing this bill to the floor so quickly. Mr. Speaker, I too am a strong proponent of the bill before us, H.R. 3211. The Subcommittee on Benefits held a hearing on this measure on February 24, and all of our witnesses were supportive of this bill. After all that has been said and written in recent months about Arlington National Cemetery, we all agreed that Arlington's burial eligibility requirements needed to be clarified, codified, and refined and this is exactly what H.R. 3211 will do. I am very proud that the members of our committee came together in a bipartisan fashion to introduce responsible and evenhanded legislation that will maintain the honor and dignity of Arlington's sacred ground. This matter is too important to us as a Nation, a Nation that deeply respects its military dead, for it to be manipulated. I know that all of my colleagues were comforted, as I was, by the results of the GAO investigation which found no evidence that political contributions played a role in waiver decisions. This is not to say that the Arlington waiver process does not need revision and clarification. The process needs to be reworked, and H.R. 3211 will satisfy the concerns that many of us have had about burial eligibility at Arlington National Cemetery. I do believe, however, Mr. Speaker, that the bill we are considering today can be and should be improved. As reported by the committee, H.R. 3211 includes no mechanism by which individuals who perform extraordinary acts in service to the United States can be recognized and be buried in Arlington. But common sense and historical evidence makes it clear to me that there must be some procedure in place to permit burial of those rare and unusual individuals whose military service alone does not meet the specific criteria included in H.R. 3211, but whose life accomplishments following their service in America's Armed Forces are so remarkable and distinctive and compelling that we as a Nation feel we must honor these individuals with burial in Arlington National Cemetery. I am certain that a very tight, very disciplined, and very public process can be designed that would protect and ensure the integrity of the hallowed ground of Arlington, but that would also enable Americans to demonstrate their deep respect and appreciation for the lives and contributions of our most brilliant and beloved countrymen and women. Although this issue was raised too late in the process for the committee to address it, I look forward to working with Members of the other body to further improve a very good bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of H.R. 3211.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce a tax relief package for middle class taxpayers. I collectively call them the ``Save Our Working Families And Seniors'' tax relief bills. The three bills, the Middle Income Senior Tax Relief Act, the Equal Indexing for Seniors Act, and the Middle Class Medical Tax Relief Act, would reduce the tax burden for middle class taxpayers. These taxpayers see their paychecks and retirement income dwindle because of the unfair way the Tax Code treats Social Security income and health care costs. My bills would put some of their hard-earned money back into their pockets and into their savings accounts. The Middle Class Medical Tax Relief Act would lower the exclusion percentage of medical deductions from 7\1/2\ percent to 5 percent for singles with incomes of less than $60,000 per year and couples with incomes of less than $75,000 per year. Thus, a family whose income was $50,000, would be allowed to deduct all medical expenses above $2,500 instead of those above $3,750, as is now the law. Surely, middle class taxpayers need this tax relief. Almost every year government employees receive a cost of living increase to adjust their pay for inflation. But retirees' tax liability is not indexed for inflation, so those who work or are seeing a return on their investments they made for their retirement years must pay an ever-increasing percentage of their income on taxes. My bill, the Equal Indexing for Seniors Act, would index for inflation the amount of income each year that a senior can earn before their Social Security can be taxed. And middle income seniors, who earn just a bit more in a year, would not suddenly find their percentage of Social Security benefits taxed jump from 50 to 85 percent. My third bill, the Middle Income Senior Tax Relief Act, would increase the threshold for couples to $54,000 before 85 percent of their Social Security benefits are taxed. Taken together, these two bills ensure that taxable income thresholds will rise with inflation. We, as a Congress, should not discourage seniors from working or earning a good return on their retirement investments, nor should we exclude people who have a modest amount of health care expenses from itemizing them. Madam Speaker, that is why I encourage my colleagues' support of the three bills that form my ``Save Our Middle Class Families And Seniors'' tax relief package.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate San Diego's Southwest High School Cheerleaders who just won the National Co-ed Cheerleading Championship in Orlando, Florida. The team members are a diverse group of 18 young women and men. They are: Sharyne Beza; Gail Buntingan; Alex Cardenas; Letty Cervantes; Lilygene Craig; Carla Cruz; Hilda Cruz; Wilver Dela Cruz; Tito Enriquez; Alejandra Gonzalez; Angela Guerrero; DeeJay Hunter; William Mangull; Edwin Monzon; Ian Navarette; Liezel Padiernos; Liz Trevino; and Tanya Snyder. The Southwest High School Cheerleaders used their teamwork, professionalism and spirit to climb their way to the top. A true spirit to be the best indeed yields success! The Southwest High Cheerleaders are not strangers to victory. This team holds three District Championships. With the help of Coach Roy Lucas, the team's grueling daily practices, Intense training and unwavering commitment--they achieved something very special for themselves and all of San Diego. So I say to the Southwest High Cheerleaders today--enjoy your victory and remember what it took to get you here. The skills you have learned working as a team will help you in life, whatever path you choose. Here's a huge V-I-C-T-O-R-Y cheer for Southwest High's National Champions. Congratulations on a job well done!

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, and colleagues, I rise today to recognize the work of Robert Sniffen, Chairman of the Board of the San Diego Veterans Services Center in Escondido, California. Mr. Sniffen was recently awarded the KGTV Channel 10 Leadership Award for his volunteer service which has made a significant impact on the San Diego County community. In his acceptance remarks, Sniffen said: I am deeply humbled and greatly honored to receive this significant award. I do so in the name of the scores of volunteers and hundreds of our supporters. I accept this award in the name of the San Diego Veterans Services Center Board of Directors, as well as our Advisory Board Members, that have made the success of the Veterans Service Center a reality. Our whole purpose for existence is to be here in any way possible for this most noble and worthy cause, on behalf of all veterans of all eras throughout San Diego County. One way in which the Veterans Service Center is there for veterans is demonstrated in the following statement by Mr. Sniffen. His statement describes the collaboration of the Service Center with the San Diego Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in order to provide the VFW-SDVS Claims Service for veterans. I would like to submit Mr. Sniffen's statement into the Record. In February 1996 The San Diego Veterans of Foreign Wars Service Office joined forces with the local non profit veterans group, San Diego Veterans Services, to create the VFW/SDVS Claims Service. Then Department Service Officer Art Rodrigues LLB-J.D. had long believed that VA Claims outreach to veterans in the North part of San Diego County was a concept long over due. Current demographics indicated that some 150,000 of the county's 371,000 veterans resided in the numerous cities north of San Diego. Because of military downsizing, many discharges from Camp Pendleton, the Marine Corps largest base, have now settled in North County. The experimental partnership forged by Art Rodrigues and Robert Sniffen, Chairman of San Diego Veterans Services, is now a major unprecedented success beyond anyone's wildest expectations! For the immediate past quarter (Oct, Nov, and Dec. 1997), 73 veterans received VA claims awards totaling $646,979. This quarterly monetary awards total was achieved in only 30 working days. Also during this quarter, 274 vets were counseled and interviewed with another 80 ``new'' claims filed. The SDVS, Veterans Service Center of North County, the home of the VFW/SDVS Claims Service, has become a magnet for those wishing to file or refile VA Claims without a major journey to VA Regional facilities. Now as the word of success of this one-of-a-kind, claims project spreads, some 10-12 veterans a day are interviewed and counseled as to their potential VA claims benefits and rights. To illuminate the impact of this innovative program, one just needs to look at the following statistics: The San Diego Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office serves Imperial, Riverside, and San Diego Counties in regards to processing VA claims entitlement applications. This region provides 12,831 disabled veterans with monthly compensation and pension benefit checks. Of that number, 315 North County vets and their families now receive such entitlements as a direct of the Veterans Service Center of North County's VFW/SDVS Claims. Since February 21, 1996 through November 30, 1997, this singular outreach program has interviewed and counseled 1817 veterans, spouses, widows and survivors to determine potential eligibility for benefit entitlements. These outstanding results were achieved in just 179 working days. As a result of the VFW/SDVS project, 567 vets have filed their VA claims and 315 vets and their families have already been granted back pay and monthly entitlement awards now topping $3,000,000.00 million dollars. That $3 million dollars improved the quality of life for vets families, homeless vets, surviving children of deceased vets, the totally and permanently disabled vets, and those vets with partial disabilities that impact their lifetime earnings capabilities. Veterans and their families in a dozen or more Northern San Diego County Cities are now enjoying ``new found'' disposable income that is rightfully due. When one considers the round trip distance of a 50 mile plus trip to VA facilities from Escondido, it simply makes common sense that certain subsets of our veterans are precluded from taking this ``Magical mystery'' tour to VA facilities. This would include an assortment of every disability for a large number of ``graying'' senior vets suffering from cataracts to hip replacements, as well as younger vets, disabled as a result of their military experience. Others simply are age-affected with fear of such a long trip. Following are a few other factors that prevent many veterans from filing their VA claims at any place else, other than the Vets Center: Homeless vets without bus fare, and a 2 or 3 hour journey by bus if bus fare is provided. The on-going distrust of government among some veterans. These Vets find it emotionally harming having to deal with the government. This skepticism is only sometimes justifiable but is real to the veteran. Veterans who must be convinced they are not ``unworthy'' of government assistance or large numbers of vets who feel that ``their buddies'' deserve it and need it more than they do. Unemployed Veterans and underemployed vets who are busy with 2-3 menial jobs and cannot afford the necessary cost of gas if they have a car. Widows of deceased veterans who for similar reasons cannot navigate their way to the regional VA office. Those veterans who come to the center for other ``needs''. These vets had no intention to file or were unaware of their rights to file for entitlement benefits. All new Center Clients are automatically funneled into ``VFW/SDVS Claims Service'' office. Vets who are referred to the VFW/SDVS Claims Service by ``Wildfire'' word of mouth from fellow vets whose claims were successfully resolved. Vets who might have filed ages ago, were initially turned down and/or abandoned their claim in the appeal process, out of frustration, moving, or a variety of other reasons. Trust and belief in the ``veterans helping veterans'' all volunteer aspect of all Vet Center programs are also vital components of this One-Of-A-Kind-advocacy outreach effort. If there is another volunteer, local non-profit effort as wildly successful as the VFW/SDVS Claims Service we have yet to hear about it. We are so very proud of these contributions of ``new disposible'' income to our vets which has vastly enhanced the quality of life for them and their families. Such efforts benefit our vets, our local businesses, and the community at large. These glaring, indisputable, ``bottom line'' numbers touted by the VFW/SDVS Claims Service has been faithfully assembled by the Number Two man responsible for all VFW Claims Offices throughout the State of California, Art Rodrigues, LL.B.J.D., the Deputy Director of the California VFW Service Department. Mr. Rodrigues has single handedly produced each claim award and has kept such numbers during his 22 years of service at the San Diego Mission Valley VA Regional office as the VFW's National Service Officer. The Veterans of Foreign Wars on the local, state, and national level have recognized the VFW/SDVS Claims Service as a unique and effective project worthy of replication. The VFW recognizes that this effective new method of dispensing claims services, because of cutbacks of VA personnel and budget constraints, will result in less services at VA regional offices. Outreach, one-stop-center efforts will eventually replace central government services across the nation. All government services, will, in coming decades, eminate from one-stop, outreach community centers. This was made clear by the 1997 VFW National Commander In Chief, James Neirs in his visitation to the Vets Center in early 1997 when he labeled the VFW/SDVS partnerships as a ``Model For The Nation.'' The VFW/SDVS partnership continues unabated! While Art Rodrigues has retired as a VFW Department Service Officer, he remains on the job in his capacity as the Deputy Director of the California VFW Service Department. As a volunteer three days a week, Art continues to do wonderful work on behalf of the VFW and on behalf of the veterans he serves. ``There is no question that the VFW/SDVS Claims Service is a smashing success. In my twenty two years as a DSO for the VFW I have not seen anything that compares to this efforts record of success. It is my hope that my counterparts in all veterans organization throughout California and the nation will take a close look at our collaborative outreach project and seek the replicate such an effort in their area'', stated Rodrigues. The team of Rodrigues and Sniffen, representing the good works of the VFW and SDVS, are not done yet with their outreach master plan. The 1997 VFW National Convention allocated a one year $5,000.00 grant to the state VFW which is intended for increased outreach efforts in North San Diego County. ``It has always been our intention to open another VFW/SDVS claims office in Oceanside, California to handle the ever- increasing numbers of military discharges from Camp Pendleton, many of whom chose to remain in the beautiful North County's cities where they have put down roots'' according to Rodrigues and Sniffen. While awaiting action from the VFW State level, one thing is certain, Veterans in the Northern environs of San Diego County are receiving more VA entitlement awards than ever imagined or would ever have received if not for the existence of this unique and one of the most, if not the most successful, outreach projects in the nation. Indeed, the VFW/SDVS Claims Service is A Model for the Nation.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition against this measure to intimidate voters in my State of California. Mr. Speaker, the right to vote is too sacred to be dependent on incomplete, unreliable data bases. To top it off, H.R. 1428 would allow states and local officials to reject voter registration applications and to force the person registering into the intimidating position of trying to prove that two huge bureaucracies' data bases are flawed. The Social Security Administration and the Immigration and Naturalization Service, which are both charged with verifying names of registered voters in this misguided act, say they cannot do it. The Social Security Administration did not begin recording citizenship status until 1980. The agency clearly states, ``The use of our system for confirmation of citizenship is not feasible.'' The INS has no records of native born American citizens and can only verify the status of those who were naturalized in recent years. How many people will take the time to obtain a copy of their birth or naturalization certificate that they have not had to produce for years? How many people who are native born Americans will feel that they are being given ``the third degree'' by local elected officials just because the officials perceive that they appear to be Hispanic or Asian or any other racial or ethnic minority? It is unfair, illegal and unconstitutional to make voting easy for one group of citizens and difficult and intimidating for another group. That is what H.R. 1428 does. To take information trickling out of an incomplete, inaccurate and highly bureaucratic system of flawed data bases and turn it over to local officials with discretion in interpreting this data will have only one effect--illegally preventing people from exercising their constitutional right to vote. This democracy depends on its citizens' faith in the voting system--those citizens will have no faith in a system which intimidates them and prevents them from participating in it. Vote no on H.R. 1428!

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the centennial of Philippine independence, and to recognize some true heroes of World War II, the Filipino World War II veterans. Filipino soldiers were drafted into the Armed Forces by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and promised full benefits as American veterans. But those benefits were rescinded by the 79th Congress in 1946. The gentleman from New York (Mr. Ben Gilman) and I have now introduced a Filipino Veterans Equity Act, H.R. 836, which would restore the benefits promised when these soldiers were drafted into service by the President of the United States and fought side by side with soldiers from the American mainland against a common enemy. Over 175 of our colleagues have cosponsored H.R. 836, in support of these brave veterans. A most appropriate way to commemorate the centennial year of Philippine independence is to pass H.R. 836 and restore honor and equity to the Filipino veterans of World War II. As Congressman of the congressional district which includes more Filipino American residents than any other except for Hawaii, I am very honored to have been chosen as their Representative in Congress. I look forward to participating in the 1998 celebrations commemorating Independence Day and the spirit, resourcefulness, warmth and compassion of the people of the Philippines and of Filipino Americans. June 12, 1898 is the day the Philippines gained its independence from Spain and June 12 is celebrated in the Philippines as Independence Day by order of President Diosdado Macapagal. This year, in the Philippines and in the numerous Filipino-American communities in the United States, lengthy celebrations are being prepared that will occur throughout the entire year. In my hometown of San Diego, a civic parade showcasing Filipino culture is among the many events planned to commemorate this milestone. Historians tell us that the Philippines was ``discovered'' in 1521 by Portuguese sailor Ferdinand Magellan. In spite of a bloody battle between Filipino freedom fighters and the invaders, in which Magellan was killed, Spain, for whom Magellan worked, colonized the Philippines and held power for nearly 400 years. In 1896, Filipinos mustered the courage to bond together to overthrow the Spanish colonialists. Filipino revolutionaries, led by General Emilio Aguinaldo, took to the streets of his hometown of Kawit, Cavite, about 15 miles southwest of Manila and proclaimed an end to Spanish rule. The open resistance of the imperial power of Spain led to the Declaration of Independence 2 years later on June 12, 1898, and with it the birth of Asia's first independent nation. But in real terms, just as Spain slipped out, came the colonizing power of the United States. Spain ceded the Philippines to the U.S., blatantly ignoring the Filipinos' own proclamation of freedom. So, practically, the century of independence is somewhat of an illusion, for the Philippines was a territory and then a Commonwealth of the United States until July 4, 1946. However, Independence Day is celebrated for good reason on June 12 because the victory in 1898 symbolizes to the Filipino people the triumph of political will and physical endurance by Filipinos against foreign control. Today, Filipinos are free and they have proven their quest for freedom in countless battles, most recently as part of the American army in World War II. Mr. Speaker, it is time we award these brave heroes with the recognition they deserve. Let us pass the Filipino Veterans Equity Act this centennial year.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and join my friends and colleagues in celebrating and honoring Black History Month. As we observe and reflect on the achievements of African-Americans in our Nation, I enthusiastically support and salute this year's theme, ``The Path Towards Empowerment.'' The African-American business community has been the hallmark of empowerment efforts in my Congressional District. This year marks the fifth consecutive year that I will host a Small Business Conference in my Congressional District in San Diego. These conferences have already opened the doors of opportunity to many African-American businesses which lacked such access in the past. These seminars have been concentrated in the African-American community and have produced significant achievements. Bryco Distributing Company, one of San Diego's largest paper goods distributing companies, has relocated into my Congressional District. We are also developing both a Business Improvement District and a Micro-Business District in the heart of San Diego's African-American community. Government contracting has also increased opportunities for the African-American business community. The Navy Exchange system has enabled an African-American baking goods company to acquire a Navy vendor contract. Construction contracts for Navy housing and other facilities have given African-American contractors, subcontractors and vendors valuable opportunities of historic proportions. My own efforts have also attempted to provide local empowerment through the business community. I am working with local African- American leaders to foster a strong working relationship with the African-American Chamber of Commerce in my district. I regularly review actions of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and that of local banks to monitor adherence to California's Community Reinvestment Act passed to guarantee investment in traditionally red-lined communities. I have also supported efforts of the Economic Community Magazine to create an Entrepreneurial Training Center. Our efforts here and at home on behalf of African-American businesses work to further strengthen this community and create additional opportunities. It is this community empowerment which will ultimately sustain on-going efforts to ensure equality, guarantee justice and maintain hope in the future.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Chairman, I thank the ranking Member. Well, Mr. Chairman, there they go again. The Majority is again sacrificing commonly accepted rules, practices, traditions, and even their own sacred mantras to meet their own partisan needs of the moment. The self-proclaimed party of family values now seeks to strip the name of America's founding father, George Washington, from the airport that serves the capital city, also named in his honor. The Congressional Majority that only 3 years ago legislated a prohibition on unfunded mandates now blindly ignores the unfunded costs imposed on the Metropolitan Washington Airport's Authority and other local jurisdictions. The Majority that purports to favor low local control and coined the word ``devolution'' now dismisses any notion of local control. They disregard the opinions and wishes of our colleagues who represent the airport, as well as the local airport authority, which itself was created by legislation that Mr. Reagan signed. The mantra of a smaller, less intrusive government is conveniently forgotten again as the heavy arm of Congress reaches out to impose its big government will by edict. Forgotten too are the accepted practices of not renaming structures, of seeking bipartisan support for naming efforts and of not naming structures of people who are still living. It is all another case of ``Do as I say, not as I do,'' Mr. Chairman. The rules do not suit the Majority, so the Majority is changing the rules. Yes, I believe that we should have a suitable memorial to Mr. Reagan. We have it in the $800 million Ronald Reagan Building in the International Trade Center. We have it in the future $4.5 billion U.S.S. Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, the Ronald Reagan Courthouse in Santa Ana, California, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, and a dozen other sites throughout the Nation. We in California remember Governor Reagan's famous phrase, ``If you've seen one redwood tree, you've seen them all.'' I say, in paraphrase, ``If you've seen one Ronald Reagan memorial, you've seen them all.'' We should not cut the redwoods. We should not cut Washington out of Washington National Airport. I will follow our accepted procedures, honor America's founding father, President George Washington, vote to keep his name on Washington National Airport.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, I rise today to pay tribute to Captain Jose Calugas, who passed away on January 18, 1998. Captain Calugas was the only Filipino World War II veteran to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. Jose Calugas was a true hero! On January 16, 1942, he was a mess sergeant who voluntarily ran 1,000 yards across a shell-swept area to take command of a gun position where all the cannoneers had been killed or wounded. Organizing a volunteer squad of 16 men, he placed the gun back in commission and fired effectively against the enemy although this position was under constant and heavy fire. Born December 29, 1904 in the Philippines, he entered military service in the Philippine Scouts in 1930. Captured by the enemy forces after the fall of Bataan in 1942, Calugas survived the infamous Bataan Death March and more than two years as a prisoner of war. He remained in the United States Army after the war, and retired with the rank of Captain in 1957. He received his Bachelors Degree in Business Administration at the University of Puget Sound and worked for Boeing Aircraft in Seattle until his retirement in 1972. Upon receiving the Medal of Honor, Calugas, a naturalized United States citizen, said: When the situation confronted me, I did not have any hesitation to fight and give my life for the cause of freedom and my country. I feel great being an American. I am proud to be such and I humbly say thank you. Besides the Congressional Medal of Honor, Calugas was awarded many additional military decorations, including the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, the Distinguished Unit Citation with 1st and 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, the World War II Victory Medal, and an Ex-Prisoner of War Medal. He also received many civilian awards, including the Honorary Citizen Award of Tacoma, Washington, the Key to the City of Tacoma, and the Medal of Honor Permanent Car License Plate Recipient, presented by then Governor of Washington, Dixy Lee Ray. He is survived by his wife, four children, 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. It is an honor to acknowledge the life and bravery of Captain Jose Calugas and his courageous action under fire to preserve the freedoms we all hold dear.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Issac Gonzales, a community leader in my Congressional District who passed away on January 21, 1998 at the age of 72. Issac was born and raised in National City, California. In his younger years, he served with distinction in the United States Army and received a number of military honors for heroism and bravery including two bronze stars, a victory medal, and a purple heart. Issac was a true community leader. He was honored for his service to his neighborhood as a volunteer in the Community Policing Program and worked until his death as a member of the San Diego Senior Citizens Patrol. A quiet man, he also worked tirelessly within his church and led by example. Issac won the respect and appreciation of his friends, family, and the entire community for his involvement in all aspects of the community life of National City. We come across a small number of special people who touch our hearts and souls with their activism, optimism, and dedication to making everyone's life richer. Issac was one of those chosen few. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Silvia, his sons Andrew and Robert, and his family and friends. Issac Gonzales will be dearly missed.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Steve South, the outgoing President of the National City Chamber of Commerce in National City, California, located in my Congressional District. Mr. South, the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of EDCO Disposal Corporation, a waste collection and recycling company, served as President of the National City Chamber Board of Directors during 1997. During that year, his leadership led to many successful accomplishments and many ``firsts'' for the Chamber. The first New Member Orientations were established, and a new ``Business Forum'' section of the Chamber newsletter was implemented. His leadership also spearheaded new levels of membership in the Chamber. Corporate, student and friendship levels were established to broaden the scope of the Chamber's ability to recruit new members. Also for the first time in Chamber history, an ad hoc Strategic Planning Committee was established to begin developing a vision for the Chamber of Commerce. The goals of this committee are to update the Chamber's mission and to plan the direction of the Chamber and the economic development of National City into the 21st Century. Mr. South initiated a student and parent recognition program with the National School District. A campaign was also established to promote the positive assets of National City by developing a promotional media kit, ``Good Attributes in National City: Community, People, Business and Schools.'' Mr. South also supported the building of coalitions with other community groups and initiated the Chamber's support of the National City Collaborative and the National City Boys and Girls Club. His commitment to a safer National City was demonstrated by his support of the establishment of the Senior Volunteer Patrol, a partnership between the City of National City and the Chamber of Commerce. In these and many other ways, Steve South has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for the residents of his city. His dedication is to be admired, and I am pleased to recognize his contributions to the entire community of National City with these remarks in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the beginning of a year-long celebration of the centennial of Philippine independence. June 12, 1898 is the day the Philippines gained its independence from Spain--and June 12th is celebrated in the Philippines as Independence Day by order of President Diosdado Macapagal. This year, in the Philippines and in the numerous Filipino-American communities in the United States, lengthy celebrations are being prepared that will occur throughout the entire year. In my hometown of San Diego, a civic parade showcasing Filipino culture is among the many events planned to commemorate this milestone. Historians tell us that the Philippines was ``discovered'' in 1521 by Portuguese sailor Ferdinand Magellan, who worked for Spain. In spite of a bloody battle between Filipino fighters and the invaders in which Magellan was killed, Spain colonized the Philippines and held power for nearly four hundred years. In 1896, Filipinos mustered the courage to bond together to overthrow the Spanish colonialists. Filipino revolutionaries, led by General Emilio Aguinaldo, took to the streets in his hometown of Kawit, about 15 miles southwest of Manila, and proclaimed an end to Spanish rule. The open resistance of the imperial power of Spain led to the declaration of independence two years later on June 12, 1898 and with it the birth of Asia's first independent nation. But in real terms, just as Spain slipped out, came the colonizing power of the United States. Spain ``ceded'' the Philippines to the United States, blatantly ignoring the Filipinos' own proclamation of freedom. So, practically, the century of independence is somewhat of an illusion, for the Philippines was a territory and then a commonwealth of the United States until July 4, 1946. However, Independence Day is celebrated for good reason on June 12th, because the victory in 1898 symbolizes to the Filipino people the triumph of political will and physical endurance by Filipinos against foreign control. Today, Filipinos are free and they have proven their quest for freedom in countless battles--most recently as part of the American Army in World War II. Filipino soldiers were drafted into the Armed Forces by President Franklin D. Roosevelt--and promised full benefits as American veterans. But these benefits were rescinded by the 79th Congress in 1946. Congressman Ben Gilman and I have now introduced the Filipino Veterans Equity Act (H.R. 836) which would restore the benefits promised when these soldiers were drafted into service by the President of the United States and fought side-by-side with soldiers from the American mainland against a common enemy. Over 175 of our colleagues have co-sponsored H.R. 836, in support of these brave veterans. A most appropriate way to commemorate this centennial year of Philippine independence is to pass H.R. 836 and restore honor and equity to the Filipino veterans of World War II! As Congressman of the Congressional district which includes more Filipino-American residents than any other except for Hawaii, I am very honored to have been chosen as their representative in Congress. I look forward to participating in the 1998 celebrations commemorating their Independence Day and the spirit, resourcefulness, warmth, and compassion of the people of the Philippines and of Filipino-Americans.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, as I speak here tonight, members of the Kurdish community are conducting a vigil for peace and a hunger strike to spotlight the continuing oppression of the Kurdish people. I rise tonight for one simple reason: to express my solidarity with the hunger strikers and my support for the Kurdish people's struggle for freedom, justice--and self-determination. The symbol of that struggle is a fellow democratically elected representative, the imprisoned Kurdish leader, Leyla Zana. In Turkey today, Mr. Speaker, innocent Kurdish civilians are being massacred, entire Kurdish villages are being destroyed, and millions of Kurds are forced from their homes, forced to the cities where unemployment and inflation are extremely high. The entire region of southeastern Turkey has been ravaged--it has become an economic and humanitarian disaster area. This is simply unacceptable. This is a cause for alarm for a country that uses American arms to commit such crimes. United States-made weapons should never again be used against the Kurds or against anybody else, as they were at the ancient Kurdish city of Halabia, where over 5,000 Kurdish civilians, mostly women and children, were gassed to death. Never again. Leyla Zana has committed her life's work to pursuing a peaceful and just resolution to the enduring Kurdish question. I hope my colleagues will learn her story--an incredible story of self-education, political growth, heroism and courage. The Turkish Government feared Leyla Zana was progressing too far in her endeavors for peace and now she shares a prison cell with a convicted murderer. But they cannot imprison her picture, her words, her courage, and her inspiring story. An initiative has been undertaken in the U.S. House of Representatives in pursuit of Leyla Zana's freedom. I, and 143 of my colleagues in Congress have signed a letter to President Clinton urging him to seek Leyla Zana's immediate and unconditional release from prison. More Members of Congress are standing with Leyla Zana and the Kurdish people now than ever before. Without a doubt, the U.S. Congress is becoming more aware of, and more sympathetic to, the plight of the Kurdish people. Kurds in Iran, Iraq, Syria, as well as Turkey live as second class citizens, denied the basic human rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Because of the inspiring work of Leyla Zana and thousands of others, the oppression of the Kurdish minority will someday come to an end. To achieve this result, it is far better to use peaceful measures and end the longstanding violence. Thus, we must embrace Leyla Zana for risking her life for the Kurdish people, not through violence, but through peaceful and democratic activism. So, Mr. Speaker, I salute those who are fasting today in support of the freedom of Leyla Zana. And I say to the Government of Turkey: in the name of humanity, free Leyla Zana.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Veterans Benefits Act of 1997, S. 714, as amended. Veterans' programs and benefits will be enhanced as a result of enactment of this legislation. I am particularly pleased that this legislation includes provisions which clarify eligibility for and implementation of the new program that provides benefits for the children of Vietnam veterans who are born with spina bifida. This very important program is in the early days of implementation, and we must ensure that the Veterans Administration is administering the benefits provided in this program in accordance with the intent of Congress. Madam Speaker, I also want to point out the extension of the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Pilot Program included in section 201 of this bill. Under this program, native Americans who live on trust lands can receive direct loans to build, purchase, or renovate a home. Prior to the enactment of this program as a pilot 5 years ago, these native American veterans were not eligible for VA home loan assistance. Although this direct loan program has been generally successful, we have been somewhat disappointed in the number of native Americans who have taken advantage of the loans available under this program. I believe that the outreach and reporting requirements included in S. 714 will significantly increase participation and enable the VA to more effectively administer this program. Also included in this bill is a requirement that the VA develop a national policy on mammography screening for women veterans. All of us know that the incidence of breast cancer among American women has reached near epidemic levels. Our women veterans are no less at risk than our female civilians. We also know that critical to the management of this disease is early detection, and mammography is an important weapon in the fight against breast cancer. I want women veterans who have served in the Armed Forces on our behalf to have the same high level of access to mammography screening that I would want for members of my own family. Section 208 of this bill will ensure that access. Madam Speaker, S. 714 is an excellent bill, and it is fitting that this legislation be approved just before Veterans Day. I urge my colleagues to demonstrate their support for America's veterans by voting for S. 714.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, I rise today to mourn the passing and celebrate the life of one of San Diego's most cherished civic leaders, Sylura Barron. For almost seven decades Sylura Barron made her mark on San Diego business, politics, and society. Sylura was born on Christmas Day, 1900, to Richard Richardson and Comelia Booker in Mainsfield, LA. Joining Calvary Baptist Church where her father was its first pastor in 1929, she remained a loyal member until her passing on November 4, 1997. She leaves a loving extended family, an admiring community of friends, and a legacy of service from which we will all draw strength and courage. Sylura Barron championed the shared goals and beliefs of the Democratic Party, and every Democratic leader from Franklin Delano Roosevelt to William Jefferson Clinton was honored by her input and her unflagging devotion to the community and Nation. which she viewed as her own extended family. The Democratic Party and our beloved Nation are better because of the contributions made by true patriots like Sylura Barron. Throughout her life, Sylura fought to promote educational and business opportunities in communities that often lacked strong and determined representation. Sylura was a thoughtful and eloquent promoter of a society that could step beyond divisions of race, class, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Sylura was a voice for all of us. Sylura Barron learned very early in life that there would be many barriers put in front of her, and she became determined to not only cross over those barriers, but to tear them down so they would not slow anyone following in her steps. Sylura Barron always felt that room should be made in the Democratic Party and in the Nation as a whole for every segment of our society. ``Leave out no one'' was one of her favorite slogans. She was a determined and dedicated fighter, and she demanded that her voice be heard. Many times she led progressive movements to make the point that her political party was truly the party of the people. Sylura sometimes wondered if she was fighting this battle alone. Sylura, you can rest assured, thousands followed your lead--and you left out no one. Mr. Speaker, I hope that my colleagues will join me in keeping Sylura's dreams for our Nation alive. Leave out no one.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a unique educational program--a partnership between the YMCA's Childcare Resource Service and KPBS Television in San Diego. The First Books program, part of the nationwide ready to learn campaign, will provide 200 free books each month to children from low-income families. The First Books program has a simple goal: to promote literacy in homes where books may not be readily available. They plan to make reading books more pleasurable and entertaining by connecting them to public television programming. Children in 25 different San Diego day care programs will receive free books from the First Books program. The YMCA's Childcare Resource Center staff, led by Director Nan Mitchell, hopes to extend the joy of books to the parents and teachers through monthly workshops designed to teach ways of making learning fun by combining books and public television. Providing books to children in homes where books are not always available is a proven way to build a firm foundation for future generations of schoolchildren. When one member of a family reads, it inspires the whole family. The First Books program will make sure that the children of working parents who strive to make ends meet, are not left behind, but will be involved in fun activities with books to make sure they are ready to learn. Research tells us that reading to our children from a very young age supports their development and enhances their learning. The adults who read with them--whether it be their parents or childcare providers-- share in unlocking the wonders of imagination that books foster. This program ensures all children will have the opportunity to discover the delight of books. Books are many children's most cherished possessions and provide long-lasting memories. I salute KPBS and the Childcare Resource Service for introducing all children to this magical world.

Mr. FILNER

Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, due to an official meeting, I was unable to be present for the vote on rollcall No. 614. Had I been here, I would have voted ``yes.''