Paul Gillmor

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today I pay a very special tribute to an outstanding individual from the state of Ohio. On Saturday, March 25, 2000, the Liberty Center Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6596 and the Ladies Auxiliary Post 2898 will honor Alice Zaborowski for her work as District One President of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Alice Zaborowski is a member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 2898 in Toledo, OH, and has served as 1999-2000 District One President. As District One President, Mrs. Zaborowski has jurisdiction and responsibility for managing 28 Ladies Auxiliaries in eight counties in Northwest Ohio. Alice Zaborowski has served in various positions during her time with the Ladies Auxiliary. She has served as President of the George Rill VFW Auxiliary No. 606 three times. During that time, she gave unselfishly of her time to work for veterans in our area. She then transferred her membership to the Lucas County Auxiliary No. 2898 in Toledo where she is a Life Member and currently holds the office of Secretary. Alice's commitment to our nation's veterans runs very deeply as her husband, Edward Zaborowski, is a World War II veteran. She has been very active in various VFW Auxiliary groups and gives freely of her time to many volunteer organizations. Clearly, Alice Zaborowski lives each day by the theme she employed during her Presidency--``Protect the rights of those who fought for our freedom.'' Mr. Speaker, our nation's veterans have paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the very freedom and liberty that we enjoy today. Alice Zaborowski has spent much of her life serving and working on behalf of our veterans. Her efforts are a true testament to her patriotism and her affection for those who served our country. I would urge the members of the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying special tribute to District One President of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Alice Zaborowski. We thank her for all of her work and we wish her the very best in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay special tribute to a truly outstanding individual from the state in Ohio. On Sunday, March 12, 2000, Mr. Thomas R. Winters will celebrate his fiftieth birthday. I certainly want to extend my warmest wishes to him on this event. Tom Winters has attained a long and illustrious career working in all aspects of government and politics in Ohio. Tom served for more than ten years as a top assistant and Chief of Staff to then Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives Vern Riffe. In that time, Tom served as Clerk of the House, Executive Secretary of the House, and Majority Counsel. During his service, Tom worked very closely with members of the Ohio General Assembly and has maintained a strong relationship with current and past members of the Ohio House and Senate. As President of the Ohio Senate, I had the opportunity to work with Tom first-hand and found him to be talented and helpful in my dealings with Speaker Riffe and the entire Ohio House. Although we were on opposite sides of the political fence, Tom worked aggressively for the benefit of all Ohioans, not just a select few. His commitment to sound public policy and positive legislative accomplishments is well documented and deserves our commendation. Currently, Tom is a partner in the Columbus office of Vorys, Sater, Seymour, and Pease LLP where he represents governments, businesses, and trade associations on legislative matters at the national, state, local, and administrative agency levels. As an attorney, Tom works diligently on behalf of his clients to ensure that their interests are represented with the highest level of character and integrity. While I do not have the opportunity to see Tom as often as I did while I served in the Ohio Senate, I know that his words are true and his intentions honorable. Mr. Speaker, Tom Winters has spent more than twenty-five years working to improve public policy and build our system. It is often said that America prospers due to the unwavering commitment of her sons and daughters. Without question, Tom Winters has freely given of his time and talents to the betterment of government and politics. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in wishing Thomas R. Winters a very Happy Birthday. We look forward to his continued success and we extend our best wishes to him, his wife, Mary, and his entire family.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding individual from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. For more than thirty years, Larry Burkhart has educated the children of Ottawa, Ohio as a teacher, coach, and current guidance counselor at Ottawa-Glandorf High School. Larry Burkhart has dedicated much of his life to ensuring that our children are prepared and ready to face their lives. While growing up in Northwest Ohio, Mr. Burkhart first realized the difference that teaching can make in the lives of our youth while attending Miller City High School. After graduating from high school, he went on to college and graduated from Bowling Green State University. Not long after graduation, Larry Burkhart began his long and distinguished career in education by teaching industrial arts. Larry Burkhart truly has made an enormous difference with his students. Through personal interaction and diligent attention to their academic achievements, he has helped them through some of their biggest successes and disappointments. He spent several years in the classroom before becoming a guidance counselor--a position in which he has served for the past twenty-seven years. In addition to his service as a teacher and guidance counselor, Larry Burkhart has made an immeasurable difference on the more than 750 athletes he has coached in the last three and a half decades. During that time, he has helped instill in those students the qualities of respect, sportsmanship, competitive spirit, dedication, and hard work. Larry Burkhart's students, both athletes and nonathletes alike, will carry with them throughout their lives the positive aspects he has taught. Clearly, Larry Burkhart has given freely and unselfishly of his time and energy for the betterment of our children. He understands that our children are the future of our nation and the best way to prepare them to lead is to provide them with the best education possible. His caring and guidance for his students and his strong support for the profession of education distinguish him as one of the community's most respected educators. Mr. Speaker, it is often said that America prospers due to the wondrous deeds of her sons and daughters. Without question, Larry Burkhart has dedicated his life to the future of our nation through the education of our children. I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Larry Burkhart. For his extraordinary service to education, we salute him and wish both him and his family the very best in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise to pay special tribute to one of Ohio's most oustanding individuals. Dr. Manuel Tzagournis will be stepping down from his position as Vice President for Health Services at The Ohio State University. He is without question a great physician, a great teacher of medicine, and a very close friend. Dr. Tzagournis began his long association with Ohio State as an undergraduate student. He earned his bachelor's degree, medical degree, and master's degree from OSU. After medical school, he started his residency at OSU in 1961, and received a fellowship in endocrinology in 1965-66. A very bright and talented physician, he was named an Instructor of Medicine in 1966, promoted to Assistant Professor in 1968, Assistant Dean of the College of Medicine in 1973, and Dean of the College of Medicine in 1981. In 1983, he was appointed Vice President for Health Services at Ohio State, responsible for all components of the College of Medicine and University Hospitals. And, in 1994, Dr. Tzagournis was named Vice President for Health Sciences with the additional responsibility for academic and fiscal leadership of the colleges of Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Optometry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, and the Comprehensive Cancer Center--Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Research Institute. Dr. Manuel Tzagournis is not only one of Ohio's best physicians and administrators, he is nationally recognized as an expert in the field of endocrinology. Dr. Tzagournis has written myriad articles in professional journals and several textbook chapters on various medical topics. His professional attributes are remarkable and his contributions to healthcare and medicine are unparalleled. Manuel Tzagournis has been honored by his colleagues, friends, students, and various medical, academic, and civic organizations for his outstanding contributions to medicine, academia, and the community. He was named to the Board of Directors of the Association of Academic Health Centers in Washington, DC, in 1998. Both chambers of the Ohio General Assembly have honored him for his service and achievements. He has twice been selected to receive the outstanding faculty award by the College of Medicine's student research organization. He received the Health Care Leadership Award from the Hospital Association of Central Ohio in 1996, and received the Distinguished Physician Award from the Hellenic Medical Society of New York. Mr. Speaker, more significantly than his professional recognitions, Manual Tzagournis is a devoted husband and father. He and his lovely wife, Madeline, are the proud parents of five wonderful children. I am very happy to say that they are our close friends. It is often said that America's success is dependent upon the efforts and dedication of her citizens. Dr. Manuel Tzagournis has dedicated his life to the betterment of the lives of others and clearly exemplifies that statement. Mr. Speaker, I would urge my colleagues of the 106th Congress to rise and join me in paying very special tribute to the extraordinary career of Dr. Manuel Tzagournis. We wish him and his family the very best now and in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to one of the truly outstanding individuals from the state of Ohio, Mr. Richard E. Schumacher. On December 31, 1999, Richard Schumacher will retire from his position as Executive Director of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). For thirty-nine years, Richard Schumacher has been a valuable asset to Ohio's retirees and his colleagues at PERS. He joined the staff at PERS in 1960, and since then has worked diligently to serve the state of Ohio and ensure that PERS remains strong far into the future. Beginning his tenure with PERS as an accountant, he steadily advanced through various positions including assistant director, controller, and deputy director. Finally, in 1991, Richard Schumacher was appointed as the Executive Director of the system. Throughout his career, Richard Schumacher has upheld the high standards of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System. In performing the duties of Executive Director, he has demonstrated the kind of integrity that Ohioans expect from our government leaders. His hard work for nearly four decades has helped PERS flourish into one of the premier public employee retirement systems in the country. Under his strong leadership, PERS assets have grown from $440 million to $53 billion. In the thirty-nine years Richard Schumacher has worked for PERS, he has watched the system grow to more than 350 employees, 125,000 beneficiaries, and 371,000 contributing public employees. Clearly, Richard Schumacher has undertaken successfully the task of building and growing PERS for Ohio's public employees. Richard Schumacher is an outstanding public servant and a standard bearer in his profession. He has served on numerous boards and associations including terms as president and vice president of the National Association of State Retirement Administrators, the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Government Finance Officers Association, and the Government Accounting Standards Advisory Committee. Mr. Speaker, it is often said that America succeeds due to the remarkable accomplishments and contributions of her citizens. It is evident that Richard Schumacher has given of his time and energy to assist Ohio's public retirees. For his efforts, we certainly owe him a debt of gratitude that mere words cannot sufficiently express. At this time, I would ask my colleagues of the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Richard E. Schumacher. On the occasion of his retirement as Executive Director of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System, we thank him for his dedicated service and we wish him all the best in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding individual from the Fifth Congressional District of Ohio. We are fortunate that Ben Richmond makes his home in our area and is able to share his artistic talents with us. Ben Richmond is without question one of Ohio's premier artists. Concentrating on the rich heritage and natural surroundings of the Great Lakes, Ben Richmond seeks to combine feeling, personality, and clear relationships in each of his paintings. While his paintings and artistic creations are produced in wondrous fashion today, in his youth, art class was not at the top of Ben's priority list. However, with some guidance from his parents and one of his college professors, Ben embarked upon a remarkable career as an artist. Mr. Speaker, after honing his skills as an artist, Ben graduated from college and went to work in the business world. But, business simply did not capture Ben's imagination and talents the way painting did. So, one weekend, while traveling through Marblehead with his wife, Wendy, they noticed the picturesque beauty of the Lake Erie region. In 1981, the Richmonds purchased a building in the village of Marblehead and turned it into an art gallery. Thus began the artistry of Ben Richmond. Ben Richmond's myriad collection of works of art seems to have no end. From his signature painting of the Marblehead Lighthouse to the other limited edition paintings, posters, sculptures, and collectibles, the Richmond Galleries has become known as The Collectors Choice for custom artwork and framing. For his accomplishments, Ben Richmond's work has been featured at the Grand Central Art Galleries in New York, Great Lakes Regional Art Exhibition, the Salmagundi Club in New York, and many others. As well, Ben has received numerous awards and recognitions from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, National Watercolor Society, U.S. Lighthouse Society, Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism, and the Decor Magazine Award of Excellence. Ben Richmond has also been called upon to showcase his work in the interest of public service. By request of the Governor of the state of Ohio, Ben designed the Ohio lighthouse license plate. Through the sale of the license plate, more than five million dollars has been generated to help clean and maintain the Lake Erie coastline. Not only are Ben Richmond and his wife, Wendy, outstanding entrepreneurs, they are always more than willing to assist their community. Over the years, the Richmonds have graciously and unselfishly given to others. Through grants, scholarships, and other donations, many hospitals, schools, and senior centers have benefited from their generosity. Although they seek no recognition, we applaud their unwavering dedication to their community. Mr. Speaker, Ben Richmond has inspired many with his work and has been named the Featured Artist for the state of Ohio Bicentennial Celebration in 2003. Ben Richmond will commemorate this historic event with a limited edition print, minted coin, and sculpture of the Ohio Capitol building. I can think of no better way to recognize the hallmark event of Ohio's 200th Anniversary than with the works of Ben Richmond. I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying very special tribute to Ben Richmond for his outstanding contributions to the world of art.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise to pay special tribute to a true American patriot from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Jake H. Van Meter, Jr. On October 7, 1967, Jake H. Van Meter, Jr. paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the values and ideals of democracy. On that fateful day, some thirty-two years ago, Sergeant Jake H. Van Meter, Jr. was serving as squad leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry. His Army unit was sent to the Con Thien area in the Republic of Vietnam to help relieve an outpost of United States Marines. During their mission, his unit came under heavy and intense enemy fire during an attack on the Marine outpost. During the firefight, Sergeant Van Meter demonstrated extreme bravery as he exposed himself to fierce enemy fire to draw attention away from his troops and enable them to take cover. With several of his men lying wounded, Sergeant Van Meter left his position and began removing them from the field of fire. In his efforts to save the lives of his men, Sergeant Van Meter was wounded, but he continued until they were pulled to safety. At approximately two o'clock in the afternoon, while laying down a heavy amount of covering fire in the midst of the firefight, Sergeant Jake H. Van Meter, Jr. was killed by enemy gunfire. He was just twenty- four years old. For his gallantry in action and in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and the United States Army, Sergeant Jake H. Van Meter, Jr. was posthumously awarded the Silver Star on March 15, 1968. Jake Van Meter was an ordinary young man from LaGrange, Ohio when he entered the United States Army. He lived on Factory Street and worked as a die cast operator for General Motors Corporation. However, when Jake was drafted, he accepted his responsibility, and began his duty in Vietnam on October 22, 1966. Unfortunately, his tour of duty was to have ended just 12 days after his death. Mr. Speaker, the story of Jake H. Van Meter, Jr. should make our hearts swell with admiration and pride. He courageously placed his life on the line for his men and his country. He fought for America, for democracy, and for freedom, and paid the supreme price for the preservation of those principles. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Veterans Day, let us remember the men and women who have served in our armed forces. It is often said that America prospers due to the unselfish acts of her sons and daughters. Jake Van Meter's brave actions in Vietnam demonstrate that statement very clearly. I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Jake H. Van Meter, Jr.--a faithful husband and father, a loving son, and a true American hero.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Madam Speaker, this bill makes the most important changes in the structure of financial institutions and services in over six decades. The financial combinations authorized by this bill can result in substantial savings in the delivery of financial services. However, as institutions are combined, and as they become larger, it is essential that there be safeguards for safety and soundness to protect both consumers and taxpayers. The bill for the most part contains those safeguards. While there was much discussion about each industry group wanting a level playing field tilted in their favor, the federal and state regulators also had their share of turf battles over regulatory authority. In fact, it was not until Treasury and the Fed finally reached a compromise on the operating subsidiary--affiliate issue that this bill was able to move through the conference committee. It was just this kind of authority grabbing by regulators that required a provision to prevent the federal regulators from over regulating and intruding into financial services functions in which they have no expertise. While the Federal Reserve serves an umbrella regulator over Financial Holding Companies, I was concerned about the Fed getting into the jurisdiction of the already effective insurance and securities regulators. Consumers do not derive any benefit from additional layers of regulation that can only intrude into the marketplace. My amendment in the Commerce Committee two years ago, which was included in the current bill, created the functional regulatory framework for financial holding companies. The purpose of this ``Fed Lite'' framework is to parallel the financial services affiliate structure envisioned under this legislation. This parallel regulatory structure eliminates the duplicative and burdensome regulations on businesses not engaged in banking activities, and importantly, preserves the role of the Federal Reserve as the prudential supervisor over businesses that have access to taxpayer guarantees and the federal safety net. The Information Revolution, like the Industrial Revolution, has made information much more widely available at a lower cost and in less time. Technology and innovation have altered and expanded the processes by which we use financial products and services. But the increase in the availability and transmission of information has not altered the need for consumers to transact with financial institutions to take care of their financial requirements. People will need banking, insurance and securities options. But they want these options in greater speed and convenience. Customers expect a financial relationship with their financial service provider that will benefit them with enhanced benefits and lower costs. There is legitimate concern about the misuse of information. The tremendous human benefits that have come from these advances also carry with them unprecedented new threats to personal privacy. Personal privacy needs reasonable protections, because personal privacy is an important part of individual freedom. This bill for the first time put in place strong privacy provisions for the financial services industry. With enactment of this legislation, consumers can go to a financial services provider that is able to complete globally, is subjected to streamlined regulation and must prevention your financial information from falling into the hands of unaffiliated organizations and telemarketers if you instruct it to do so. I urge the adoption of the conference report.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor and privilege to rise today to pay tribute to a special event taking place this weekend in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. Beginning today and continuing through Sunday, October 24, 1999, the Oak Harbor Hotel will celebrate its One-Hundredth Anniversary. In the final year of the Nineteenth Century, the Keubler Brewing Company of Sandusky decided to take an enormous step and build a hotel in Oak Harbor, Ohio. With a new railway line linking Toledo to points in the east, the hotel would be used to serve the many who came through Oak Harbor in search of a restful night's lodging. The three-story hotel, complete with its thirty-four rooms, lounges, and dining rooms, has served many travelers in the last one-hundred years. Its very presence in Oak Harbor and its grandiose appearance make it a truly remarkable building. For the past century, the Oak Harbor Hotel has long been a centerpiece of this wonderful community. Located on the shores of Lake Erie, the Oak Harbor Hotel continues to fill its rooms to capacity with travelers throughout the year. Its history is long and its decor is breathtaking. Through all its changes--from operating the first telephone in town to housing the area Post Office--this elegant and vibrant hotel has remained strong in its service and dedicated to those who occupied its rooms. Mr. Speaker, the Oak Harbor Hotel symbolizes all that is good in our communities--grace, elegance, and beauty. Over the last one-hundred years, the Oak Harbor Hotel has hosted many community groups, organizations, and clubs. In fact, the Rotary Club has met there nearly continuously since 1941. With its spacious and stylish dining, reception rooms, and state-of-the-art kitchen, the Oak Harbor Hotel is often the site of wedding rehearsals and receptions, banquets, and community events. Mr. Speaker, the individuality of our culture and the warmth of our spirit are embodied in our communities and places like the Oak Harbor Hotel. I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to the Oak Harbor Hotel on its One-Hundredth Anniversary.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay a very special tribute to one of the truly outstanding individuals from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Ms. Ardeth Chupp. On Thursday, September 30, 1999, Ardeth Chupp will retire after twenty years of service as Treasurer of Huron County. Over the last two decades, Ardeth Chupp has certainly been a valuable asset to Huron County. Since becoming the first woman to hold the office of Huron County Treasurer twenty years ago, Ardeth Chupp has worked diligently to serve Huron County and each of its residents in every manner possible. Her generosity has been unparalleled and her assistance to all in the community unwavering. Without question, Ardeth Chupp has given unselfishly of her time to help make Huron County a great place to live. Ardeth Chupp embodies the very spirit of American workmanship through her kindness and conscientious attention to detail. She has upheld the high standards of the Office of Treasurer and maintained the integrity expected from our public officials. Through her job as Treasurer, Ardeth Chupp has epitomized the word that describes her best--service. Although she is stepping down after twenty years, her hard work, commitment, and dedication to the citizens of Huron County will continue long into the future. Mr. Speaker, it has often been said that America succeeds due to the remarkable accomplishments and contributions of her citizens. It is evident that Ardeth Chupp has given freely of her time and energy to assist in the preservation of American ideals. For that, we owe her a debt of gratitude that mere words cannot sufficiently express. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would ask my colleagues of the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Ardeth Chupp. On the occasion of her retirement as Huron County Treasurer, we thank her for her dedicated service and we wish her all the best in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor and privilege to rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding community from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. On Sunday, September 19, 1999, the Village of Bradner will celebrate the One-Hundredth Anniversary of the Bradner Town Hall and Opera House. In the final year of the Nineteenth Century, the citizens of Bradner decided to take an enormous step--to solidify their position and build a town hall. The Village embarked on a venture to locate a site, procure the necessary funding and materials, and build a truly remarkable building. Their efforts, after concluding the necessary paperwork, votes, and administrative matters, were finalized in 1899 as F.K. Hewitt was hired to design and J.W. Stiger hired to build the Bradner Town Hall. The Bradner Town Hall has long been the centerpiece of this wonderful community. This small, yet vibrant area holds the same inner-strength found throughout the Fifth Congressional District and throughout the state of Ohio. That strength and common bond is driven from the town hall. For one-hundred years, the Bradner Town Hall has served as the focal point for the community, the symbol of independence and freedom, and the source of the community's pride. With all its beauty, the Bradner Town Hall symbolizes all that is good in our communities--strength, fortitude, grace, and resilience. The Bradner Town Hall and Opera House has housed the Village fire department, jail, and public utilities offices. It also contains an upstairs Opera House and a library. Throughout the many changes, its use as the governmental center of Bradner has remained constant as it is home to the mayor's office and village council chambers. After first opening the building one-hundred years ago, the Village of Bradner conducts official business in the town hall to this day. Mr. Speaker, the individuality of the American culture and the freedom of the American spirit are embodied in our local communities and the town halls located in them. I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to the Bradner Town Hall on its One-Hundredth Anniversary.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to call attention to an important designation this week in the state of Ohio. The week of Sunday, September 19 through Saturday, September 25, 1999, has been officially designated by Ohio Governor Bob Taft as lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week. The 1999 Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week campaign attempts to better educate citizens throughout the state of Ohio about the ongoing concerns of the legal problems in our judicial system. During this campaign, the Ohio Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (OCALA) has undertaken a public awareness campaign to voice the concerns about lawsuit abuse and draw attention to the impact it has on the state of Ohio. Citizens from across the state have assisted with the campaign to help OCALA spread its message. Mr. Speaker, the overwhelming rise in lawsuit abuse is not a concern specific to the state of Ohio. Certainly, these problems carry both state and national implications, which affect all Americans. In recent years, our society has become more prone to litigation. In fact, some statistics show the number of lawsuits filed each year approaching 300,000. The sheer number of these lawsuits requires millions of dollars in expenses and thousands of hours from employees. These figures demonstrate that lawsuit abuse is a heavy burden that interferes with our continued economic growth. As lawsuits continue to climb in number and scope, the impact on our standard of living is evident. Frivolous lawsuits result in higher operating costs for businesses, the withdrawal of products from the marketplace, and the potential decline in growth and overall expansion. Simple economics shows us that these costs are inevitably passed along to consumers and workers in the form of higher prices, lost opportunities, and fewer jobs. Mr. Speaker, lawsuit abuse is a serious issue facing the United States. As such, it is important for groups like OCALA to be recognized for their efforts in curtailing this abuse. Dedication to change, like that shown by OCALA and other groups, will further the cause to end lawsuit abuse and bring about overall legal reform. I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in recognizing the week of Sunday, September 19 through Saturday, September 25, 1999, as ``Ohio Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week.''

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pleasure that I rise today to revisit the proud and distinguished history of one of General George Washington's first commissioned cavalry units, Sheldon's Horse, the Second Continental Regiment, and to recognize the efforts of the members of the current-day Sheldon's Horse for their efforts in keeping their history alive. During the War of Revolution New York Campaign of 1776, the usefulness of a detachment of Connecticut militia troopers under the command of Major Elisha Sheldon and the intimidation of some of the Continental Army infantrymen by similar British units led George Washington to call for the addition of light horsemen to the Continental Army. Congress directed Major Sheldon to raise a light dragoon regiment and appointed him lieutenant colonel commandant of calvary. Consisting of troops from Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, Sheldon's Horse participated in engagements in Northern New Jersey, the defense of Philadelphia, New York (1779), Connecticut (1779), New York (1780), New York (1781), and Connecticut (1781). The unit served as Washington's ``eyes,'' scouting and skirmishing with the British advance forces and denying the British supplies and forage. The unit was recognized by our French allies as the best equipped and best trained regiment in the American Army. After the war, the Regiment was disbanded on November 20, 1783, after being furloughed five months earlier with General Washington's last encampment at Newburgh, New York. By act of the Governor of Connecticut, the Second Continental Light Dragoons has been reactivated in 1980, as a representative ceremonial unit of the State of Connecticut to serve as historic functions. Under the leadership of Commander Salvatore F. Tarantino, present day Sheldon's Horse is worthy of its proud legacy. Great effort is made to observe actual historical data to ensure authenticity of appearance and purpose. Sheldon's Horse is recognized as one of the finest reenactment units in America. Sheldon's Horse continually wins awards for best military appearance, best drill, best field (battle) performance, and best historical demonstration. Mr. Speaker, historical perspective of our national experience and its accurate preservation are a vital part of that which defines us as a nation. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the work of today's Sheldon's Horse in preserving the unit's distinguished history and in perpetuating it for current and future generations of Americans.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pleasure that I rise today to pay special tribute to a truly outstanding individual from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This Saturday evening, July 24, 1999, members of the Van Wert, Ohio community will gather to recognize the efforts of Merle F. Brady. Merle Brady was born in Illinois in 1919, but has lived in Van Wert for more than fifty years. During those years, Merle Brady has been a true asset to the community and a friend and neighbor to all those who know him. A successful business man, Merle owned his own retail clothing store for many years, while operating a successful real estate business. For many years, he was Chairman of the Board of the Van Wert National Bank, and still serves as Director Emeritus. A true American hero, Merle served bravely in the United States military in World War II where he received the American Theater Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal. He is a life member of the American Legion, and has served as Post Commander, District Commander, Ohio State Commander, and National American Legion Executive Committeeman. Merle is still active in his American Legion Post. Mr. Speaker, Merle Brady's service to the Van Wert community is endless. He was elected to the Van Wert City Council, and served two terms as Council President. Merle has been an active member of the Van Wert Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Masonic Lodge, Elks, and the Trinity United Methodist Church. Merle has also given freely of his time and energy to the Van Wert Y.M.C.A. and Associated Charities Foundation. Mr. Speaker, it is often said that America prospers due to the outstanding deeds of her citizens. Without question, Merle F. Brady epitomizes that saying. Mr. Speaker, I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Merle F. Brady. Thank you for your unwavering contributions to the Van Wert area, and best wishes for the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Madam Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time and I thank him for his leadership on this issue. I rise in support of the bill. Madam Chairman, this bill makes the most fundamental change in the laws covering financial institutions in 60 years. It deals with a broad scope of services, banking, insurance, securities. It also recognizes the changes that have taken place in the economy over that period of time and also the dramatic change in technology which has made possible the offering of services now which would not have been possible before. The financial combinations authorized by this bill can result in significant savings in the delivery of financial services. But as institutions are combined and as they become larger, it is essential that there be safeguards for safety and soundness to protect both consumers and taxpayers. This bill for the most part contains those safeguards. I am also happy that the bill before us contains several provisions I sponsored in the Committee on Commerce. Among those was the requirement that the Federal Reserve consider before approving mergers whether the merged institution would be ``too big to fail.'' Mergers that are if they fail so big that the taxpayers or the government will have to bail them out simply should not be permitted. The bill also contains a provision I introduced to prevent discrimination against certain banks in the sale of title insurance, and those regulatory restrictions I sponsored in last year's bill have stayed in here called ``Fed Lite.'' Regrettably, it does not include some of the provisions I introduced in the Committee on Commerce, which the committee approved, to protect the privacy of customers of merged institutions. But I am happy that those privacy provisions were made in order in the amendment to be offered by the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Oxley) later in this bill. I urge the support of that amendment and I urge the support of the bill. Madam Chairman, I rise in support of the bill. This bill makes the most fundamental change in the laws covering financial institutions in over 60 years. It deals with the broad scope of services--including banking, insurance and securities. It recognizes the changes which have taken place in the economy in that time, and also the dramatic change in technology which has made possible the offering of services now which would not have been possible before. This bill has the potential of expanding financial services to consumers and creating more competition. The financial combinations authorized by this bill can result in substantial savings in the delivery of financial services. However, as institutions are combined, and as they become larger, it is essential that there be safeguards for safety and soundness to protect both consumers and taxpayers. The bill for the most part contains those safeguards. Two years ago as H.R. 10 was being considered in the previous Congress, I was concerned with the broad expansion of certain regulatory powers. My amendment in the Commerce Committee two years ago, which was included in the current bill, created the functional regulation framework for financial holding companies. The purpose of this ``Fed Lite'' regulatory framework is to parallel the financial services affiliate structure envisioned under this legislation. This parallel regulatory structure eliminates the duplicative and burdensome regulations on businesses not engaged in banking activities, and importantly, preserves the role of the Federal Reserve as the prudential supervisor over businesses that have access to taxpayer guarantees and the federal safety net. Besides numerous consumer protections, H.R. 10 also includes important taxpayer protections. I am happy that the bill before us contains certain provisions that I sponsored before the Commerce Committee. Among those was the requirement that the Federal Reserve consider before approving mergers whether the merged company will be ``too big to fail.'' Mergers that are so big that failure would result in the government or taxpayers bailing them out should not be permitted. We are in the age of megamergers, and the creation of increasingly large financial institutions. To give you an idea of how big, consider that the recent merger of Citicorp and Travelers created a company with $690 billion in assets. The merger of Bank of America and Nations Bank left an institution with $614 billion. To put those figures in prospective, the budget for the entire federal government is $1.8 trillion, or one thousand eight hundred billion. There are clearly economic benefits to be gained from consolidation. But the larger the potential for economic benefits, the larger the potential costs become to the financial system, and the American taxpayers, should the combined entity fail. Any substantial disruption in the institution's operations would likely have a serious effect on the financial markets. There is currently no statutory requirement that the Fed explicitly examine whether a combined entity would be too big to fail. The too big to fail provision does not focus on limiting megamergers, but instead maximizes the credibility of prudently managed large financial institutions, which will benefit financial consumers and the American taxpayers. The bill before us also contains the provision I introduced to prevent discrimination against certain banks in the sale of title insurance. This amendment brings the special carve out for one kind of insurance activity back in line with the purpose of financial modernization--the consistent application of authority and restrictions on title insurance activity for all banks. The operating structure of the new financial entities created by this bill is a crucial issue for the safety and soundness of our financial system. The question is not how the financial institutions can best offer and market their financial services and products. The fact is, whether under an affiliate structure or an operating-subsidiary structure, business will make it work either way. Instead, the question is how to regulate the structure under which financial services and products are offered and sold. Under the holding company affiliate structure, if one business goes broke, that failure will not affect the safety and soundness of the bank in the holding company. But under the operating-subsidiary structure, if a subsidiary of a bank goes broke, that can pose material risk to the safety and soundness of the bank. Banking regulators have indicated that they do not like deferring to functional regulators for activities of bank subsidiaries. Do we want a politicized federal banking regulator to regulate a structure that is supposed to achieve competitive equality across the board for all financial services? The bank holding company affiliate structure is the best institutional vehicle that permits participation in financial modernization with the least risk of transferring the safety net subsidy. Regrettably, this bill does not include all the provisions I introduced in the Commerce Committee, and which the committee approved, to protect the privacy of customers of these merged institutions. However, I am pleased that most of my privacy protections were made in order to be offered in an amendment later in the bill. This amendment which I offered in committee was an important step forward in protecting individual privacy. It protected consumer privacy by regulating the disclosure and sharing of customer information by financial institutions to third parties. My amendment, which the committee adopted, required that a financial institution not only disclose to a customer its policy about transfer of non-public personal information about the customer to a third party, it also requires that the customer have the opportunity to opt-out of having personal information disclosed to a third party. Privacy is more of a concern than it was in the past. George Washington didn't have the privacy threats that face even the average individual today. To obtain George Washington's private information you would probably have had to break into Mount Vernon, and then have been lucky enough to find the right papers in his desk or strong box. It is now much easier to get anyone's personal information. The simple reason for the much greater threat to privacy today is the astounding growth of technology and information gathering. The tremendous human benefits that have come from these advances also carry with them unprecedented new threats to personal privacy. Personal privacy needs reasonable protections, because personal privacy is an important part of individual freedom. Personal information is much more accessible now, even without the person whose privacy is being invaded ever knowing. The sale and transfer of personal information, without the individual's knowledge or consent, is both widespread and growing. Individual privacy is in danger from government, from business, and even from individuals sitting at home with a computer. My amendment recognizes those changes by providing in the area of financial institutions reasonable and realistic privacy protections, without unduly interfering with the normal and reasonable conduct of business.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Madam Chairman, I want to commend the chairman for his leadership on the privacy issue. This amendment is an important step in protecting individual privacy. It protects it by regulating the disclosure and the sharing of consumer information by financial institutions. It contains a number of the elements that were in an amendment that I offered in the Committee on Commerce, and the Committee on Commerce did adopt those provisions but it is not in the version before us. Consumers feel they have lost control over how their financial information is being collected, how it is being distributed by institutions having nothing to do with the financial relations they have with those providers. Personal information is much more accessible now, even without the person whose privacy is invaded knowing it is being invaded. The sale and transfer of that information is both widespread and it is growing. And the simple reason is the astonishing growth in technology today and information gathering and the human benefits the tremendous benefits we get from that also carry with them unprecedented threats to personal privacy and personal privacy need protection because it is an important part of individual freedom. I urge support of the amendment.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay very special tribute to a truly outstanding individual from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. For more than thirty years, Dr. David B. Baker has made significant contributions to Heidelberg College in Tiffin, Ohio. As he prepares for his retirement from Heidelberg, I felt this was a most appropriate time to recognize him for his efforts. After graduating from Heidelberg College in 1958, Dr. Baker pursued his master's and doctoral degrees at the University of Michigan. Following a year of post-doctoral study in Germany, Dr. Baker began his distinguished teaching career at Rutgers University. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Baker returned to Heidelberg where, since 1966, he has been a faculty member in the Biology Department. In a turn that brought international acclaim to him, Heidelberg College, and his research associates, Dr. Baker led the effort that formed the Heidelberg Water Quality Laboratory. Dr. Baker's efforts at the lab have helped with various environmental public policy efforts including evaluating storm run-off, restoration of the once-severely polluted Lake Erie, setting Environmental Protection Agency standards for river compounds, and many more. As the one and only director of Heidelberg Water Quality Laboratory, Dr. David Baker pushed the lab to its current level of international prominence. Dr. Baker set out to share the lab's work with the public through his numerous speeches, public information programs, and test and research sharing techniques. Mr. Speaker, Dr. David Baker is a remarkable individual who has given freely of his time and talents to ensure that education and the environment are made better for the future. Through his outstanding service to Heidelberg College, to the Water Quality Laboratory, and to the academia world, Dr. Baker has made a lasting impact that will not soon be forgotten. At this point, I would urge my colleagues of the 106th Congress to stand and join me in special tribute to Dr. David Baker. We extend our congratulations on his retirement and best wishes for the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay very special tribute to an outstanding individual from the state of Ohio, George Cox. This weekend, in Columbus, Ohio, a very special celebration will take place marking the 100th Anniversary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Mr. Speaker, George Cox is currently serving as the State Commander for the Ohio Veterans of Foreign Wars and has been instrumental in organizing the 100th Anniversary celebration. Through his efforts over the years, George Cox has helped make the Ohio VFW one of the premier veterans service organizations in the nation. Without question, George Cox has taken his love of country and his commitment to duty and honor very seriously. He served valiantly during the Korean Conflict with the First Marine Division. In 1968, Mr. Cox joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars and has achieved success over the years serving as State Commander, District Commander, and Post Commander. He is currently a member of VFW Post 6772 in Spencerville, Ohio. Not only has George Cox given much to the VFW, he has shown unwavering devotion to many other activities as well. He has served on the Allen County Veterans Commission, American Legion Post 191, and retired from the Ford Motor Company after forty-two years with the company. In addition, George spends time working with children at the national home, in parades, and at Post 6772 events. George also founded a Christmas party for underprivileged children in Spencerville. Mr. Speaker, George Cox is a remarkable person. A dedicated family man, he and his wife, Mary, have been married for forty-six years and have a wonderful family. He has unselfishly given his time and energy to serve veterans from across the state of Ohio and for that we owe him our profound thanks. At this point, I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to the Ohio State VFW Commander, George Cox, and to everyone attending the 100th Anniversary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. We wish you the very best both now and in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding individual from the great state of Ohio. This weekend, in very special ceremonies in Columbus, Ohio, the Ohio Veterans of Foreign Wars will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the organization. At those ceremonies, Ms. Chloe Williams will be among those helping make the 100th Anniversary a success. Ms. Williams, of Post 1090, has given her time and energy to assisting our nation's veterans. A veteran of the United States Army, Ms. Williams is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Through her service to our veterans and the VFW, she has moved through the ranks at the district and state levels of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary. Mr. Speaker, it is people like Chloe Williams that truly make a difference in the lives of our veterans. Through her work in District 8 and around the state, she has vigorously promoted the programs of the VFW, especially the Operation Uplink program, which provides long distance phone service to active duty personnel and to veterans. It has been said that America thrives and prospers due to the unselfish and dedicated efforts of her citizens. With the hard work of Chloe Williams and the two million members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, I think that adage is perfectly clear. Mr. Speaker, on this 100th Anniversary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, I would like to say thank you to all those who have worked so hard on behalf of our veterans. Certainly, Chloe Williams has made a positive impact, and we thank her for her commitment. I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in special tribute to Chloe Williams and to those attending the 100th Anniversary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Best wishes to each of you now and in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Matthew T. Russell, of Napoleon, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Mr. Speaker, Matthew has accepted his offer of appointment and will be attending the Naval Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2003. Attending one of our nation's military academies is an invaluable experience that offers a world-class education and demands the very best that these young men and women have to offer. Truly, it is one of the most challenging and rewarding undertakings of their lives. During his time at Napoleon High School, Matthew has attained a perfect 4.0 grade point average, which ranks him first in his class of one-hundred ninety-seven students. Matthew is a member of the National Honor Society and was selected for the Who's Who Among American High School Students and an All-American Scholar by the U.S. Achievement Academy. Outside the classroom, Matthew has distinguished himself as an outstanding student-athlete. On the fields of competition, he is a varsity letter winner in soccer and football. During his junior season of football, Matthew was selected as a First Team All-District and Honorable Mention All-State place kicker. Among his other activities, Matthew is an active member in the St. Paul Lutheran Church, was a delegate to Buckeye Boys State, and, in February 1998, attained the rank of Eagle Scout. Mr. Speaker, at this point, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Matthew T. Russell. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Matthew will do very well during his career at the Naval Academy, and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to a truly outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. Recently, I had the opportunity to nominate Cullen T. Gallagher for an appointment to attend the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I am pleased to announce that Cullen has been offered an appointment and will be attending the Air Force Academy with the incoming cadet class of 2003. Attending one of our Nation's military academies is one of the most rewarding and demanding time periods these young men and women will ever undertake. Our military academies turn these young adults into the finest officers in the world. Mr. Speaker, Cullen has demonstrated the kind of leadership and dedication needed to enter the Air Force Academy with the class of 2003. While attending Perkins High School in Sandusky, Ohio, Cullen excelled academically attaining a grade point average of 3.795, which ranks him forty-first in his class of one-hundred sixty students. Cullen is a member of the National Honor Society, the Academic Challenge Team, and the Who's Who Among American High School Students. In October, 1998, Cullen was named the Rotary Club's Student of the Month. In addition, he attended the National Youth Leadership Forum on Law and the Constitution in Washington, D.C., and attended the United States Air Force Academy Summer Scientific Seminar. Outside the classroom, Cullen is the president of the Ski Club, and is a member of the Spanish Club, Drama Club, Marching Band, and Show Choir. On the fields of competition, Cullen is a member of the Perkins High School Varsity Cross Country and Tennis teams. Mr. Speaker, at this point, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Cullen T. Gallagher. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Cullen will do very well at the Air Force Academy, and I wish him much success in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay a very special tribute to one of the truly outstanding individuals from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Mr. Elbert Gill. On Monday, May 31, 1999, Elbert Gill will retire from service as Chairman of the Ottawa County Board of Elections. Elbert Gill has certainly been a valuable asset to the Ottawa County Board of Elections. Since joining the Board of Elections in March 1989, Mr. Gill has worked diligently to serve the voters of Ottawa County in every manner possible. Whether it is his generosity in taking the staff to meetings or assisting with trouble-shooting on election night, Elbert Gill has given unselfishly of his time and helped make Ottawa County one of the best Boards of Elections in the state of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, Elbert Gill embodies the very spirit of American workmanship through his conscientious attention to detail. In his job as Chairman of the Ottawa County Board of Elections, Mr. Gill has epitomized the word that best describes him--service. Although he is retiring after ten years on the board, his hard work, commitment, and dedication to the citizens of Ottawa County will continue long into the future. Mr. Speaker, it has often been said that America succeeds due to the remarkable accomplishments and contributions of her citizens. It is very evident that Elbert Gill has given freely of his time and energy to assist in the preservation of American ideals. Our electoral process is the backbone of our nation, and those individuals, like Elbert Gill, who work hard to make that system free and democratic are true American patriots. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Elbert Gill. On the occasion of his retirement as Chairman of the Ottawa County Board of Elections, we thank him for his service and we wish him all the best in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to a truly outstanding individual from the state of Ohio, the late Major General Walter A. Churchill (ret.), United States Marine Corps. On Monday, June 7, 1999, a special celebration will take place in Toledo, Ohio to honor the outstanding life and military career of General Churchill. Mr. Speaker, Walter Augustus Churchill, Sr. was born on November 12, 1903. At the age of 19, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and began a distinguished military career culminating with the rank of Major General in 1962. General Churchill retired from the United States Marine Corps on December 1, 1963, after a remarkable 41 years and 8 days of service to his country. During his career in the Marine Corps, General Churchill served the United States proudly around the world at Guantanamo Bay, Iceland, Guam, Guadalcanal, and other areas of the Pacific theater in World War II. While serving in World War II, General Churchill was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat ``V'' for Valor and a Gold Star as Commander of the Fifth Field Service Command, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific. After his military career, General Churchill was instrumental in forming the United States Marines Youth Foundation, whose goal is to keep children free from the dangers of drugs and substance abuse. General Churchill was also the Chairman of the Board and CEO of Churchill Supermarkets, Inc., the family business of five supermarkets. His tireless dedication and innovation helped propel General Churchill's standing in the business community. Always the community activist, General Churchill was a member of the Toledo City Council and was Chairman of the Toledo Republican Executive and Central Committees. He was a member of the Toledo Rotary Club, National Association of Grocers, Ohio Automobile Association, and many more. Among others, General Churchill was recognized as ``Marine of the Year,'' ``Grocer of the Year,'' and, in 1992, he received the President's Distinguished Service Award. Mr. Speaker, I would urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying tribute to the late Major General Walter A. Churchill. For his unwavering service above and beyond the call of duty, we owe him our most gracious thanks.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to a truly outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. Recently, I had the opportunity to nominate Geoffrey L. Earnhart for an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. I am pleased to announce that Geoff has been offered an appointment and will be attending West Point with the incoming cadet class of 2003. Attending one of our nation's military academies is one of the most rewarding and demanding time periods these young men and women will ever undertake. Our military academics turn these young adults into the finest officers in the world. Mr. Speaker, without question, Geoff belongs with the incoming West Point class of 2003. During his time at St. Francis DeSales High School, in Perryburg, Ohio, Geoff has achieved a remarkable grade point average of 4.427, which currently ranks him tenth in his class of 178 students. Geoff is a three-year member of the National Honor Society, and has received many awards for his academic excellence. Outside the classroom, Geoff has been a four-year member of the St. Francis DeSales Marching Bank. In his senior year, Geoff is the leader of the percussion section. In addition, Geoff has demonstrated his dedication and commitment to excellence by obtaining his Eagle Scout ranking with the Boy Scouts of America. He has also been a Scout patrol leader and summer camp counselor. Mr. Speaker, at this point, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Geoffrey Earnhart. Out service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Geoff will do very well at West Point, and I wish him much success in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a very special couple from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, May 15, 1999, in the presence of many of their family members, neighbors, and friends, Bob and Louise Voelzke celebrate a milestone day in their lives. On May 15, at the Ballville Community Hall in Fremont, Ohio, Bob and Louise celebrate their fiftieth wedding anniversary. Mr. Speaker, the celebration of the sanctity of marriage is one our most cherished and time-honored traditions. Throughout the ages, husbands and wives have reaffirmed their trust, faith, and, most importantly, love for each other on their wedding anniversaries. On this most treasured day, we, as their friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members, have the opportunity to recognize them for their commitment, their sharing, and their love for each other. The day on which two people are united in marriage is much more than simply a ceremony, with wedding vows and the exchanging of rings. It is the true union of two individuals who then become one, inseparable entity. It is the common bond and an unwavering dedication to each other than will help the marriage through good times and bad. Mr. Speaker, for the past fifty years, Bob and Louise Voelzke have shown how love, compassion, and conviction are the cornerstones of their long and lasting marriage. Their strong commitment to each other is an example for each of us to follow. Mr. Speaker, at this time, for myself and the members of the 106th Congress, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Bob and Louise Voelzke on the occasion of their fiftieth wedding anniversary. May the love and happiness they have found stay with them far into the future. Again, best wishes and congratulations on fifty wonderful years together.