Paul Gillmor

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding individual from the state of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, on August 31, 2000, Thomas Suddes, chief legislative reporter for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, retired after more than 25 years of service in the field of journalism. Born in Youngstown, OH, Tom's educational journey began at St. Dominic Elementary and Cardinal Mooney High School. In 1976, Tom completed his bachelor of arts degree in journalism at the Ohio State University. Now, Tom will leave the Cleveland Plain Dealer after 18 years to pursue his doctorate degree in mass communications at Ohio University's E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. While attending the Ohio State University, Tom worked as statehouse reporter, columnist, editorial page editor, and editor-in-chief of the student-run Ohio State Lantern newspaper. After graduating from OSU, Tom wrote for the Chicago Sun-Times and the Des Moines Register and Tribune. He also served as editorial page editor with Foster's Daily Democrat of Dover, New Hampshire and assistant news editor with the Clarion-Ledger of Jackson, MS. In 1982, Tom Suddes began working for the organization that would showcase his talents and allow his career to flourish, the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Tom has served in many positions with the Cleveland Plain Dealer over the last 18 years. From state desk reporter to Columbus bureau chief, from columnist to chief legislative reporter, Tom Suddes has brought honor, integrity, and fair reporting to each of his assignments. Journalists like Tom Suddes are a credit to their profession. They diligently work to secure stories, which bring their readers the information they so desire. Yet, above all, they preserve the trust and respect of the leaders and public officials they cover. Mr. Speaker, my wife, Karen, and I have known Tom Suddes for many years and have the highest regard for his character and abilities as a journalist. While Karen and I will sorely miss his insight into Ohio politics and his coverage of state and national events, we know that our friendship will continue to flourish. At this time, I would ask my colleagues of the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Thomas Suddes. His professionalism and service are a credit to the field of journalism. We wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize a very special couple from the state of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, June 30, 2000, in the presence of many of their family members, neighbors, and friends, Bill and Helen will celebrate a milestone day in their lives--the celebration of their sixtieth wedding anniversary. Mr. Speaker, the celebration of the sanctity of marriage is one of 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 that enabled their marriage to grow and flourish. Mr. Speaker, for the past 60 years, Bill and Helen 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, I would ask my colleagues in the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying very special tribute to Bill and Helen Lott on the occasion of their 60th wedding anniversary. May the love and happiness they have found stay with them far into the future. Again, best wishes and congratulations on sixty wonderful years together.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize a very special couple from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, June 24, 2000, in the presence of many of their family members, neighbors, and friends, Thomas and Mary Lou Gallagher will celebrate a milestone day in their lives. On June 24, in Sandusky, Ohio, Thomas and Mary Lou will celebrate their fiftieth wedding anniversary. Mr. Speaker, the celebration of the sanctity of marriage is one of 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 that will help the marriage through good times and bad. Mr. Speaker, for the past fifty years, Thomas and Mary Lou 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, I would ask my colleagues in the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying very special tribute to Thomas and Mary Lou Gallagher 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.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding business in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. On Friday, June 23, 2000, Toft's Dairy will host an Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social to celebrate its one-hundredth birthday. Toft's Dairy began in 1900, in Sandusky, Ohio, as the dream of Chris and Matilda Toft. The Toft's venture into the dairy business began as they started selling milk to customers in their rural area. With a great deal of hard work and determination, the Toft family was able to obtain a horse and wagon and began hauling large containers of milk to the city of Sandusky. In 1935, the Toft family began to further expand its operation and purchased the Oswald Dairy. With the acquisition of this retail dairy, the Toft Dairy operation began and would continue as the business that we know today. Over the years, many members of the Toft family began to work in the dairy as it expanded its size and scope in serving the Sandusky area. Toft's Dairy continued its efforts to diversify and grow as it began to pasteurize and homogenize milk and make its own ice cream. The 1960s and 70s brought enormous growth to the dairy as the company added new products, property, and equipment. In fact, in 1968, Toft's Dairy was the first dairy in the area to bottle milk in gallon plastic jugs. Mr. Speaker, Toft's Dairy is the second oldest dairy still in business in the state of Ohio. That is quite an accomplishment. And, Toft's Dairy is the only locally owned and operated dairy on the Lake Erie shoreline between Lorain and Toledo. Toft's supplies products to more than 250 schools and 1,200 customers. Mr. Speaker, it is often said that America succeeds due to the ingenuity and hard work of her sons and daughters. I think that is clear and true statement as the descendants of the Toft and Meisler families continue the Toft's Dairy tradition today. At this point, I would urge my colleagues in the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Toft's Dairy. We congratulate you on your one-hundredth birthday and we wish you continued success far into the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding member of our armed forces. Tomorrow, Friday, June 9, 2000, Dr. Dennis Alan Vidmar will conclude his illustrious twenty-eight year career of service in the United States Navy. Mr. Speaker, Dennis Vidmar was born in Cleveland, Ohio in August of 1950. He attended Case Western Reserve University and received his Bachelor of Science and MD degrees from the Ohio State University. In 1972, Dr. Vidmar began his military service as a First Division Officer aboard the U.S.S. Detroit. For the next twenty-eight years, Dr. Vidmar would devote his energy and talents to the field of medicine and to the service of his nation. Currently, Dr. Vidmar serves as a Captain in the United States Navy Medical Corps in the Dermatology Department at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. In addition, Dr. Vidmar is a Professor of Military Medicine and Dermatology in the Department of Military and Emergency Medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Dennis Vidmar has truly been an asset to the profession of medicine and to the United States Navy. His excellent care and unselfish dedication in directing the Dermatology Department have proven invaluable in the treatment of his patients. Dr. Vidmar has been published more than thirty times in various military and medical journals. Clearly, Dr. Vidmar's work has been outstanding and his efforts admirable. To honor his service, he has been awarded the Navy Achievement Medal and the Navy Commendation Medal. Mr. Speaker, it is often said that success of America is due in part to the dedicated efforts of her sons and daughters. Dr. Dennis Vidmar has spent a large part of his life furthering the profession of medicine and honorably serving his nation in the United States Navy. While his work will be sorely missed, we wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors. At this time, I would urge my colleagues of the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Dr. Dennis Vidmar--an outstanding doctor, a dedicated Naval officer, and a true American hero.

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 Kyle W. Hemminger of Port Clinton, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Mr. Speaker, Kyle's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. 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. Kyle is an outstanding student who brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Port Clinton High School, Kyle has attained a grade point average of 3.929, which places him seventh in his class of one hundred ninety-three students. Kyle is a member of the National Honor Society and has received the Port Clinton Kiwanis Scholar Athlete Award for his academic achievements. Outside the classroom, Kyle has distinguished himself as an excellent student-athlete. On the fields of competition, Kyle served as Captain of the Varsity Football team and received the 1997 and 1998 Football Ironman Award. Kyle is also a member of the Varsity Wrestling team and was named the 1997-1998 Most Improved Wrestler. He is the President of the Leadership Council and is a member of the Varsity Club. In addition, Kyle has performed in several school musicals and was a delegate to Buckeye Boys State. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Kyle W. Hemminger. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Kyle will do very well during his career at West Point 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 an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Thomas J. Root of Norwalk, Ohio has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Mr. Speaker, TJ's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. 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. TJ brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Norwalk High School, TJ has attained an astounding grade point average of 4.329, which places him fourth in his class of one hundred fifty-three students. TJ is a member of the National Honor Society, Principal's List, and was Captain of the Academic Challenge Team. Additionally, TJ placed fifth in the state on the Ohio Test of Scholastic Achievement Pre-Calculus exam. TJ was twice presented with the Huron County American Legion Award for his academic accomplishments. Outisde the classroom, TJ has distinguished himself as an excellent student-athlete. On the fields of competition, TJ has earned letters in Varsity Football and Wrestling. TJ was also named Captain of both the Football and Wrestling teams. TJ has also been active in the Norwalk High School Key Club and with his church youth group. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Thomas J. Root. Our service academic offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that TJ will do very well during his career at West Point 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 an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Luke M. Twarek of Marblehead, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Mr. Speaker, Luke's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Naval Academy this fall with the incoming midshipmen class of 2004. 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. Luke brings an outstanding mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class at the Naval Academy. While attending Danbury High School, Luke has attained a grade point average of 4.055, which places him first in his class of forty-six students. Luke is a member of the National Honor Society and is an Honor Roll member. Luke has received the PTO Academic Honors Award and Academic Letters in each year of high school. Clearly, Luke has performed very well in the classroom. On the fields of competition, Luke has distinguished himself as a fine student-athlete. He is a four-year member of the Varsity Football team and served as co-captain during his senior season. Luke is also a four-year letter winner on the Varsity Track team. In fact, Luke has received the Scholar-Athlete Award in both football and track. Luke serves as Vice President of the Key Club, Editor of the school web page, and co-captain of the Academic Challenge Team. He is also a member of the Science Club, Concert and Pep Band, Computer Club, and has attended the Naval Academy Summer Seminar. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Luke M. Twarek. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Luke will do very well 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 an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional district. I am happy to announce that Jeremy L. Haas of Sandusky, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Mr. Speaker, Jeremy's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. Attending one of our nations' 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. Jeremy brings a great deal of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class at the Air Force Academy. While attending Sandusky High School, Jeremy has performed very well in the classroom. Jeremy has attained a grade point average of 3.775, which places him eighteenth in his class of three hundred six students. Jeremy is a member of the National Honor Society. In addition, Jeremy has received Scholar Athlete Awards in Football and Track in each year of his high school career. On the fields of competition, Jeremy has distinguished himself as a fine student-athlete. He is a member of the Varsity Football team and has participated in the summer running and weightlifting programs. Jeremy is also a member of the Varsity Track team. In addition, Jeremy has been involved with the International Club and the Sandusky High School band. He has also served as a volunteer at the Sandusky Community Police Station. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Jeremy L. Haas. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Jeremy will do very well at the Air Force 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 an outstanding young woman from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Kristy L. Laudick of Van Wert, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Mr. Speaker, Kristy's offer of appointment poises her to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. 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. Kristy brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending the Culver Military Academy in Culver, Indiana, Kristy has attained a grade point average of 3.42, which places her thirty-third in her class of one hundred seventy-nine students. During her time at Culver Military Academy, Kristy has received several commendations for her superior scholastic efforts. During her first year, she received two Gold Cards. Kristy received two gold A's, one Silver Star, and one Gold Star during her second year. In addition, she received two Gold Stars and two Silver A's for her academic efforts in her third year. Outside the classroom, Kristy has distinguished herself as an excellent student-athlete. On the fields of competition, Kristy has participated in Varsity Cross Country, Varsity Swimming, and Varsity Crew. She has also been involved in the Fall Rowing Club. Kristy has served as Secretary of the Campus Activity Board and is involved in the German Club, Band, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Kristy L. Laudick. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Kristy will do very well during her career at West Point and I wish her the very best in all of her future endeavors.

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 Brian J. Dyer of Sandusky, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Mr. Speaker, Brian's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. Attending one 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. Without question, Brian brings a special mix of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Perkins High School in Sandusky, Brian's academic diligence has helped him to attain a grade point average of 3.66. Additionally, Brian is a member of the National Honor Society. Outside the classroom, Brian has distinguished himself as an excellent student-athlete. On the fields of competition, Brian is a three-year letterman on the Perkins Swimming team and a two-year letterman on the Cross Country team. His efforts on the field and in the classroom helped Brian to receive the Scholastic Award in each year he has participated in both sports. Brian has also been active in the Pep Band, Jazz Band, and Brass Choir. To further demonstrate his commitment to our nation's military, in the summer of 1999, Brian enlisted in the Ohio Army National Guard and is a private in Troop 2C/ 107th Cavalry. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Brian J. Dyer. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Brian will do very well during his career at West Point and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding individual and a devoted public servant from the State of Ohio. Later this summer, William N. Morgan will retire from his position as senior vice president of the Ohio Bankers Association after more than 25 years of dedicated service. Bill Morgan's call to duty and service began as he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1957. After three years of work with the Military Police Criminal Investigation branch in Germany, Bill left the military and prepared for his future taking a position as chief deputy sheriff in Perry County. Bill also served as chief probation officer with the New Lexington Juvenile Court. With a keen interest in government and politics, Bill was elected mayor of the city of Shawnee in 1966. Bill's commitment to public service continued when he was named deputy director of the Tax Collection Department within the Ohio Treasurer's Office. Four years later, in 1970, Bill assumed the role of director of public affairs for the Ohio Association of Insurance Agents. Then, in 1974, Bill began his distinguished tenure with the Ohio Bankers Association. Mr. Speaker, I have known Bill Morgan for many years and have had the opportunity to work with Bill on a variety of issues during my tenure in the U.S. Congress and as president of the Ohio Senate. I am not alone in saying that Bill Morgan is a man of honor and integrity and has given freely of his time and talents to further public policy. Bill has been a good friend and his public service to the State of Ohio will be sorley missed. At this point, Mr. Speaker, I would urge my colleagues in the 106th Congress to rise and join me in paying special tribute to Bill Morgan on the occasion of his retirement. We wish him, his wife, Virginia, and his entire family the very best now and in the future.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today I pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Nelson B. Gray V, of Norwalk, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Mr. Speaker, Nelson's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. 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. Nelson brings a special blend of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Edison High School in Milan, Nelson has attained a grade point average of 4.047, which places him seventh in his class of one hundred forty-three students. Nelson is a member of the National Honor Society, French National Honor Society, Honor Roll, Varsity Scholarship Team, and has placed highly on the American Legion Americanism and Government test and the Greater Toledo Council of Teachers Mathematics exam. Outside the classroom, Nelson has distinguished himself as a fine student-athlete. On the fields of competition, he has earned letters in Varsity Football and Baseball, and was named Field Captain of the Varsity Football team this year. Nelson has also been active in the Boy Scouts of America, earning the rank of Eagle Scout in 1998. He is a member of the French Club, Drama Club, Choir Band, and was a representative to Buckeye Boys' State. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Nelson B. Gray V. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Nelson will do very well during his career at West Point and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today I pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Nathan J. Nahm of Tiffin, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Mr. Speaker, Nathan's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. 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 undertaking of their lives. Nathan brings an enormous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Columbian High School in Tiffin, Nathan has attained a grade point average of 3.64, which places him twenty-first in his class of two hundred sixty-nine students. Nathan is a member of the National Honor Society, Honor Roll, Who's Who Among American High School Students, and has earned several Scholar-Athlete awards. Outside the classroom, Nathan has distinguished himself as an excellent student-athlete. On the fields of competition, Nathan has earned letters in Varsity Football and Basketball. Nathan was named Captain of the Tiffin Columbian Varsity Basketball team this year. Nathan has also been active in the Tiffin Columbian Boosters Club and the Technology Advisory Council. West Point has become a home away from hone for the Nahm family. With Nathan's appointment, he stands ready to walk the same path as his two older brothers, Blair and Reed, as a West Point cadet. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Nathan J. Nahm. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Nathan will do very well during his career at West Point and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today I pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Neil Harber of Bascom, Ohio has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Mr. Speaker, Neil's offer of appointment poises him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. 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. Neil brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming class of West Point cadets. While attending Hopewell-Loudon High School in Bascom, Neil has attained a grade point average of 3.97, which places him sixth in his class of sixty-five students. Neil is an Honor Roll member, and has received the Honor Award for Spanish, English, History, and Biology. Neil has received Scholastic Awards in Baseball and has been recognized for his academic efforts at Tiffin University. Outside the classroom, Neil has performed very well on the fields of competition and has distinguished himself as an excellent student- athlete. Neil has earned letters in Varsity Football, Basketball, and Baseball. In addition, Neil was named Captain of both the Varsity Football and Basketball teams this year. Neil was named the Hopewell- Loudon Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year in 1998-1999. Neil has also been active in Student Council, Choir, Traveling Ensemble, and Quiz Bowl. He was a delegate to Buckeye Boys' State and currently serves as Vice President of the Senior Class. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Neil Harber. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Neil will do very well during his career at West Point and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, today I pay special tribute to an outstanding young man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am happy to announce that Timothy S. Brodman of Republic, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to attend the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Mr. Speaker, Tim has accepted his offer of appointment and will be attending the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming cadet class of 2004. 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. Tim brings a great deal of leadership and dedication to the incoming class of Air Force cadets. While attending Tiffin Calvert High School, Tim has attained a grade point average of 3.6, which currently places him twenty-second in his class of seventy-five students. Tim is a member of the National Honor Society, the Honor Roll, and has received Academic Letters in each year of high school. Outside the classroom, Tim has excelled as a fine student-athlete. On the fields of competition, Tim has earned letters in varsity football, basketball, and baseball. Tim was named captain of the football and basketball teams this year. Tim has also been active in the Tiffin Calvert Spanish Club, Students Against Dangerous Decisions, and as a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Mr. Speaker, I would ask my colleagues to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Timothy S. Brodman. Our service academies offer the finest education and military training available anywhere in the world. I am sure that Tim will do very well during his career at the Air Force Academy and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material on the bill, H.R. 1089, as amended.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. One of the most important changes in America in the last couple of decades has been the tremendous expansion of direct ownership by individuals of America's businesses. More people than ever now have a direct stake in the profitability of American companies. In fact, 80 million Americans own stocks. Some of those 80 million own stocks in individuals companies, and many others own shares in mutual funds. Those 80 million shareholders represent half of America's households. More and more Americans are utilizing mutual funds because of the ease of investing and for the diversification that they provide. Investors have done well in recent years in most mutual funds. But there is a major category of critical information that investors have not had access to in the past and generally do not have access to now. I originally introduced this legislation 2 years ago to assure that investors could obtain access to that information. I am happy that the Committee on Commerce has by unanimous vote recommended this bill for passage, and that is why H.R. 1089 is before the body today. Also, I want to thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Oxley), the subcommittee chairman; the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Bliley), the full committee chairman; as well as the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Markey), the ranking member, for their support of this legislation. The critical information that I am talking about is the actual after- tax return of various funds. Without that information, it is almost impossible for investors to make a meaningful comparison of real returns between different funds. This bill provides for the Securities and Exchange Commission to require all funds to make this information available. All funds report their pre-tax returns; however, very few funds report their after-tax returns, which can be dramatically lower. Because of the way different funds operate, the tax consequences and the real returns for an individual investor can vary tremendously from fund to fund. Some funds have very little turnover in the stocks they manage and, therefore, impose a relatively small tax burden on their investors. Other funds trade frequently. Each trade imposes some type of tax consequences on the investor. Often, all of that frequent trading, which is sometimes called churning, does not even result in a higher pre-tax return. Certainly it results in a lower after-tax return. But that fact is seldom disclosed to a mutual fund investors. This chart shows the hypothetical mutual fund return over a 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, 15-year and 20-year period using the average mutual fund return over the past several years of 16.4 percent per year. First, the investor never really sees that 16.4 percent. On average, 2.8 percent of that return goes to mutual fund fees and expenses, bringing the return down to 13.6 percent. Then one has in the average fund an additional 3 percent for the investor that goes for taxes. Factoring that in, the return drops to 10.6 percent. Well, what does that mean in real dollars? It means a lot. Over a 20- year period, an initial investment of $10,000 at 16.4 percent grows to $208,000, which is represented by the yellow. However, when one takes out the fees and expenses, that shrinks to $128,000, represented by the red. Finally, after taxes, the investor is left with only $75,000, represented by the blue. In other words, over 20 years, the investor loses $133,000 of the $208,000 to costs and to taxes. Now, this bill does not in any way tell the mutual fund what stocks to buy. It does not limit in any way the amount of trading a fund can do. All it says is that an investor should know the after-tax return as well as the pre-tax return when making an investment. This is the type of information a fund investor should have, but does not now generally receive. It is very difficult to make an intelligent investment decision without it. The bill provides an important protection for investors by making available critical information which was not available before. It will also, I suspect, result in increased competition in the mutual fund industry. Now, over the course of the 2 years since I introduced this legislation, I have worked with Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Arthur Levitt and the commission as well as the mutual fund industry. I am encouraged by the responsible efforts of the mutual fund industry to improve after-tax disclosure. I would like to commend both the industry and the SEC for the forward-looking approach that they have indicated they will be taking toward this problem. I urge the Members to join me in approving H.R. 1089. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume to once again express my appreciation to the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Markey) for his stalwart support of this legislation; as well as the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Bliley); the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Oxley); and the ranking members, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Dingell) and the gentleman from New York (Mr. Towns). Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume to once again urge passage of the bill.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1089) to require the Securities and Exchange Commission to require the improved disclosure of after-tax returns regarding mutual fund performance, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding institution of higher education located in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. Today, we mark the One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary of the founding of Defiance College in Defiance, Ohio. Defiance College is an independent, coeducational institution dedicated to educating today's young people and providing them with a clear understanding of leadership, service, and knowledge. With personal attention and an environment designed to bring out the best in education, Defiance College instills the values of integrity, diversity, and professionalism in its students. Chartered in 1850, Defiance College continues today as a four-year liberal arts college affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Its forty undergraduate majors and graduate degrees offer students in Northwest Ohio the opportunity to achieve superbly in the classroom while also preparing them to face the challenges of the workplace. More than one thousand students attend Defiance College with the goals and dreams of learning and understanding more about the world that surrounds them. The faculty and staff at Defiance College work tirelessly to provide a rich academic atmosphere to develop the minds and the character of the student body. Clearly, Defiance College has developed a strong reputation for success in these areas. Mr. Speaker, education is the foundation upon which the United States rests. Through education, we provide our young people with the tools they need to face the challenges of the future. Defiance College, for one hundred fifty years, has prepared its students to be the leaders of tomorrow. For that, we owe Defiance College our gratitude and congratulations. I would urge my colleagues in the 106th Congress to stand and join me in paying special tribute to Defiance College. May its next one hundred fifty years of service be as successful as its first.

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.