Paul Gillmor

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an exceptional city located in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This year, the city of Blakeslee, will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its founding. Blakeslee is located in Williams County in northwest Ohio. The area has a rich history dating back to earliest settlements in the Ohio Territory. Its position above the St. Joseph River made it a favorite for pioneers traveling West. The city itself dates from its incorporation in 1895. Today, Blakeslee is a community renowned for its civic pride and commitment to service. Throughout its history there has never been a lack of enthusiasm or volunteer labor for its many projects. The citizens have continually displayed the Ohio tradition of neighborliness and caring for others. Mr. Speaker, anniversaries are a time to reflect upon past accomplishments. They are also a time to look toward new horizons. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the history and achievements of the city of Blakeslee and encouraging its citizens to continue to uphold its impressive legacy.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding organization located in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. On August 27, 1995, the Paradise Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center will celebrate their 25th anniversary. The center serves residents from the counties of Putnam, Paulding, Allen, Van Wert, Defiance, Lucas, and Sandusky. Under the leadership of Administrator Deborah Russ, and the center's dedicated staff of professionals and volunteers, it has steadfastly served northwest Ohio for 25 years. Selecting a nursing facility for a loved one can be an extremely difficult decision for anyone. Paradise Oaks understands this and strives to make the decision-making process as smooth and gentle as possible. Mr. Speaker, anniversaries are a time to reflect on past accomplishments. They are also a time to look towards new horizons. The staff at Paradise Oaks has made it their responsibility to serve those in need by keeping pace with the ever increasing challenges facing mankind. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the Paradise Oaks Quality Care Center and encouraging them to continue to uphold what has become the standard for service in Ohio.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an old friend and outstanding citizen of Ohio who is no longer with us. Philip Huss of Fremont, OH, was in many ways the epitome of a model citizen and patriot. Many people in the Fremont area remember Phil as ``Smoky'' the clown. His death was mourned by the whole community because his love touched so many people. Smoky's charming smile and humorous demeanor delighted children of all ages for many years. You could hardly attend a parade, festival, or community event without witnessing Phil's delightful presence. Philip Huss served his Nation during World War II as a sailor in the Pacific. He was the Pacific Fleet's Heavyweight Boxing Champion in 1944 and won several Golden Gloves titles in the sport over his lifetime. After the war, Phil joined the Fremont Police Department and worked many years as a detective and juvenile officer. During his tenure on the department, he received numerous awards for outstanding service to the community. Despite his successful career with the police department, Phil will always be remembered as Smoky. He began clowning in 1954 at the Fremont Speedway. In his rag-tag clown outfit and scooter, he brought countless smiles to children, parents, and grandparents over the next 40 years. Mr. Speaker, Philip Huss distinguished himself as a reliable and dedicated public servant and a genuine role model in his private life. I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our deepest sympathies to Phil's wife Martha, and in joining the community of Fremont in remembering and celebrating Philip's accomplishments. We will always miss him.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding individual and a good friend of Ohio, Dan Zeno, who is retiring on June 30, 1995, after a distinguished career with Ohio Edison. An Ohio native, Dan graduated from Toronto High School in Toronto, OH, and served as a sergeant in the United States Army in Korea from 1950 to 1953. After the Army, Dan pursued a degree in finance at Kent State University. In 1961, he began a career in public service at the Akron Area Chamber of Commerce. While there, he was responsible for designing a financial plan enabling the city to participate in urban renewal projects of over $100 million. Before coming to Ohio Edison, Dan was director of finance for the city of Akron. As its chief financial officer and a member of the mayor's cabinet, he was responsible for long-range planning, budgeting, debt management and accountability of all city funds. Through the years Dan has been active in a variety of community and business groups. He is on the board of directors of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, the board of trustees of the Ohio Public Expenditure Council, and a member of the Akron Regional Development Board Taxation Committee among others. In addition, he is a visiting lecturer at Akron University and involved with the Weathervane Community Playhouse. Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the Akron community and the State of Ohio have benefited greatly from Dan's hard work and dedication over the years. His service is a model of citizenship. I ask my colleagues to join me today in wishing Dan Zeno and his wife June well as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of Ohio. State senator and chairman of the senate judiciary committee, Barry Levey is retiring after a distinguished career in service to the people of Ohio. I had the privilege of serving in the Ohio State Senate while Barry served in the Ohio House of Representatives during the 1960's and again when he joined the State senate in 1987. I can tell you Barry has been a strong advocate and outstanding friend to southwestern Ohio. Barry's aggressive leadership has been crucial in promoting the concerns of the citizens of this area. Barry holds the distinction of being the only member in Ohio history to be the chairman of both the senate and house judiciary committees. He is a graduate of Middletown High School, the University of Michigan, and the Ohio State University College of Law. This former officer in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General Corps was first elected to the Ohio House of Representatives in 1962 and served in that body until 1970. After a successful career in banking and business, Barry returned to public service in 1987 as a State senator. Throughout his distinguished tenure, Barry has demonstrated his deep faith in, and dedication to, upholding the principles of American democracy. He has been a strong advocate for education and has been recognized for his efforts on behalf of controlling government spending. Mr. Speaker, we have often heard that America works because of the unselfish contributions of her citizens. I know that Ohio is a much better place to live because of the dedication and countless hours of effort given by Senator Barry Levey over the years. While Barry is leaving his official capacity as State senator, I know he will continue to be actively involved in those causes dear to him. I ask my colleagues to join in paying a special tribute to my friend, Senator Barry Levey's record of personal accomplishments and wishing him, his wife Marilee, and their three children all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding organization located in Ohio's [[Page E 1292]] 5th Congressional District. On June 22, 1995, the Maumee Valley Guidance Center will celebrate their 35th anniversary. The guidance center is a community mental health center serving residents of Defiance, Fulton, Henry, and Williams Counties in OH. Under the leadership of executive director, William Bierie, and the center's dedicated staff of professionals, it has steadfastly served northwest Ohio for 35 years. The Maumee Valley Guidance Center believes in the principles associated with continuous quality improvement as supported by various health care accrediting agencies and consistent with organizations committed to excellence. The purpose of continuous quality improvement is to provide a mechanism whereby onging and systematic monitoring and evaluation of the quality of client services can be accomplished. Continuous quality improvement activities provide direction for the development and implementation of change toward improved quality of care and client outcome. Mr. Speaker, anniversaries are a time to reflect on past accomplishments, they are also a time to look toward new horizons. The staff of the guidance center has made it their responsibility to serve those in need by keeping pace with the ever increasing challenges facing mankind. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the Maumee Valley Guidance Center and encourage them to continue to uphold what has become the standard for service in Ohio.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an out-standing company in Fremont, OH. Cresent Manufacturing Co. was founded in 1898 as a disposable blade manufacturer and has operated continuously in Fremont since that time. The firm makes 1.5 million steel blades a day for use in the medical, industrial, and other specialty fields. In March 1995, the owners of the company were nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year. This honor recognizes the tremendous effort performed by the management and staff of Crescent in bringing their company through a chapter 11 bankruptcy process. Their story reflects the spirit of enterprise that has made our Nation strong. After taking over the company in 1990, the directors decided the debt which Crescent owed was too big and filed for protection under chapter 11. The very next day after obtaining controlling interest in the stock, changes were made. Costs were cut, customers were brought on- line, employees assisted in productivity enhancements and the company operated successfully through the bankruptcy process. The company exited chapter 11 on June 19, 1991, just thirteen months after filing for its protection. Loyalty from customers, suppliers, and in particular, employees got Crescent through tough times. In every year since, sales have increased reaching $10.1 million in 1995. Crescent employs 150 people and has a payroll of $4.5 million annually. Their success has been Fremont's success. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the staff and management of Crescent Manufacturing Co. and encourage them to continue to uphold what has become the standard of excellence in Ohio.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding organization located in Ohio's 5th Congressional District. The St. Joseph Honor Choir of Fremont, OH has been selected as one of only two choirs to represent the United States at the Pueri Cantores International Congress in Quebec, Canada from June 28 to July 9, 1995. This is an honor for the choir to be Goodwill Ambassadors of the United States to an International Congress of this magnitude. St. Joseph Honor Choir is a proud member of Pueri Cantores. This international organization of children choirs, the name means little singers, has a world wide membership of over 25,000 children and encompasses such internationally renowned choirs as the Sistine Chapel Choir, the Vienna Boys Choir, and the Golden State Boys Choir and Bellringers of San Francisco, who hold the honor of also representing the United States at the Congress. The St. Joseph Honor Choir consists of 43 children and 16 men. The Choir's repertoire is classical, religious, and secular music. Established in 1993, the Choir has quickly made a name for itself. The 1994-95 year has been and will be a very active and exciting year for the Choir. It began in November when the Choir hosted La Maitrise De Cap De La Madeline, which is recognized as one of the top children choirs in Canada. In December 1994, the St. Joseph Honor Choir went on its first mini-tour to Pittsburgh, PA. Also during the holiday season, the Choir performed for many church and civic organizations throughout the Fremont area. The Choir performed at numerous choir festivals, churches, and organizations throughout Northwest Ohio during the Spring season. Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the community and the members of the Choir have greatly benefited from the effort that was started in 1993. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the St. Joseph Honor Choir and encourage them to continue to uphold what has become a standard for excellence.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young man from my district who has recently accepted his appointment as a member of the class of 1999 at the U.S. Naval Academy. William M. Couch graduated Margaretta High School in 1992 and joined the Navy. In the service, he has won numerous awards and commendations. While in high school, William distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. He is an outstanding citizen and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the U.S. service academies. While at the Academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that William M. Couch has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his accomplishments to date and to wish him the best of luck as he continues his career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young man from my district who has recently accepted his appointment as a member of the Class of 1999 at the U.S. Military Academy. Jerrod E. Hawk graduated Paulding High School in 1994 and enrolled in Marion Military Institute. At the institute he has worked hard to prepare himself for a career in the military. While in high school, Jerrod distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. He is an outstanding citizen and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the United States service academies. While at the academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that Jerrod Hawk has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his accomplishments to date and to wish him the best of luck as he begins his career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the bill. Mr. Chairman, few other programs in the Federal budget have received more scrutiny than the Civilian Marksmanship Program. Much of this scrutiny has demonstrated a clear lack of knowledge about the program. To set the record straight, I raise three points. First, although the Civilian Marksmanship Program was created by Congress in 1916 to promote marksmanship among able-bodied citizens, the 102d Congress restructured the program by statute, downsizing it. The program currently focuses on marksmanship training for American youth, aged 10-17. This training includes, in part, 450 Boy Scouts of America summer training camps which benefit approximately 450,000 scouts. The cost to the taxpayers for the Boy Scout camps was roughly 50 cents per participant. Second, while the program has never been intended as a recruiting tool, the junior participating in the program have frequently been exposed to role model service men and women on marksmanship teams. The result of this positive exposure has resulted in conservative estimates that nearly 2,400 past participants annually volunteer for the armed forces. Moreover, the positive exposure is not limited to active duty personnel. Adult trainer also include parents, law enforcement officers, national guardsmen and reservists, and volunteer active in Boys Scouts, Future Farmers of America, the American Legion, the Jaycees, 4-H, and others. Values instilled in youth participants through these volunteers in this program include self-discipline, responsibility, safety discipline, self- [[Page H5797]] esteem, and character development. Any link opponents try to draw between this programs and urban violence is comparable to linking Olympic boxing competition with hoodlum street fighting. In the wake of the Oklahoma City bombing, some of the long standing opponents of the Civilian Marksmanship Program have called for its abolition based on the remote possibility that terrorists might have participated in Civilian Marksmanship Program activities. Under this reasoning, we would outlaw all intercity youth programming based on the possibility that a gang member may have participated. Mr. Chairman, obviously the reasoning in both circumstances is absurd. Third, the cost of the program per participant is cost-effective when compared to similar federally funded youth programs. The National Youth Sports Program, funded through the Department of Health and Human Services, reached 70,000 youth in 1993 at a cost of $9.4 million of $134 per participant. Like the civilian marksmanship program, the stated goals of this program are to motivate youth to earn and learn self-respect through a program of sports instruction and competition. If the Civilian Marksmanship Program only reached the 36,000 junior club members whose organizations participated in the national matches last year, the cost per participant would be under $70 per youth. The Civilian Marksmanship Program, however, positively impacts many more youth, including nearly one-half million Boy Scouts. Mr. Chairman, while I believe that the cost effectiveness of the Civilian Marksmanship Program is noteworthy, I am also mindful of our commitment to balance the Federal budget by 2002. Given these budgetary pressures, I have been working for several months to draft a proposal that would preserve the Civilian Marksmanship Program without the need of any further appropriations. The Edwards-Gillmor amendment is the result of good faith efforts by Members of both sides of the aisle. The product is a rational solution which achieves the dual goals of preservation and privatization. The amendment has three major components. First, the amendment replaces the current National Board for the Promotion of Rifle Practice and the Army's Director of Civilian Marksmanship with a independent nonprofit federal corporation. Second, the amendment allows the new corporation to solicit funds from nonfederal sources, eliminating the need for direct appropriations. By comparing FY 95 and FY 96, this approach saves the taxpayers $2.5 million. Third, the amendment preserves the basic components of the current civilian marksmanship program. I have fully consulted Army Under Secretary Joe Reeder about the provisions of this amendment and he has told me that the Army is comfortable with them. Mr. Chairman, the civilian marksmanship program has a history of being one of the most cost-effective youth programs funded by the Federal Government. But given current budget necessities, the time has come for this program to wean itself from appropriated funds. This amendment does that. I would like to thank Rules Committee Chairman Jerry Solomon for his past support and hands-on leadership on this issue. I would like to thank Congressman Duke Cunningham for his very active and supportive role on behalf of our privatization efforts in both the Subcommittee on Military Readiness and the Committee on National Security. I also want to thank Congressman Chet Edwards, Subcommittee Chairman Herb Bateman and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur for their help on this amendment. Finally, I would also like to recognize and thank Congressman John Dingell and Congressman Jack Murtha for their past support of the Civilian Marksmanship Program. I urge my colleagues to support this bi-partisan amendment.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel Scott E. Mills, U.S. Air Force, on the occasion of his retirement from the military. Scott Mills has served as Chief of the U.S. Air Force Academy Activities Group since June, 1993. During the last 2 years, he has worked closely with many of our offices in coordinating Congressional nominations and inquiries for the Academy. Born in Berkeley, California, Scott Mills received a Bachelor of Science degree as a member of the U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1973. He received a Master of Science in Logistics from the Air Force Institute of Technology in 1984. His professional military education includes Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College, and the Air War College. Scott Mills' Air Force career is one marked diverse accomplishments. He is a Master Navigator with over 3,000 flying hours, serving as both C-141 navigator and C-141 navigator instructor. He has served with 4th Military Airlift Squadron, 323d Flying Training Wing, Headquarters Air Training Command, the Joint Cruise Missiles Project, and the 323d Support Group. Scott Mills has received numerous awards including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters and the Air Force Commodation Medal with one oak leaf cluster. Mr. Speaker, Scott Mills' service to his country has touched the lives of countless young men and women either serving in the U.S. Air Force or attending the United States Air Force Academy. His integrity and his commitment to excellence are the trademarks of his career. I ask my colleagues to joint me in thinking him for his distinguished and selfless service to our nation. As he returns to civilian life, may he and his family enjoy the full blessings of the freedom he has so ably defended during this career as a officer in the U.S. Air Force.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, the telecommunications bill we are introducing today is one of the most important bills to be considered in Congress in many years, and its passage will have a tremendous impact in America for decades to come. If this legislation is enacted, the law will begin to foster economic and technological development, instead of hamper it. The bill will provide consumers and businesses new communications services, an increase in choices in the marketplace, more competition and better prices. The bill represents the biggest single deregulation of a major industrial sector in American history, involving one-seventh of the U.S. economy and affecting virtually every American citizen. In addition to the provisions of the main bill, I have introduced a measure to allow public utilities to enter the telecommunications industry. Right now utility companies have the technological capacity to offer cable and telephone services, but they do not have the legal capacity. This legislation I am sponsoring with Representative Rick Boucher would allow public utilities this entry, further increasing competition and reducing prices for consumers.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young woman from my district who has recently accepted her appointment as a member of the class of 1999 at the U.S. Military Academy. Abigail M. Polus will soon graduate Bowling Green High School after 4 years of outstanding academic achievements as well as extracurricular involvement. While in high school Abigail has distinguished herself as a leader among her peers. She is an outstanding student and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the U.S. service academies. While at the academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that Abigail Polus has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating her for her accomplishments to date and to wish her the best of luck as she begins her career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young man from my district who has recently accepted his appointment as a member of the Class of 1999 at the U.S. Military Academy. Justin C. Gordon will soon graduate Keystone High School after 4 years of outstanding academic achievement as well as extracurricular involvement. While in high school Justin has distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. He is an outstanding student and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the U.S. service academies. While at the Academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that Justin Gordon has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his accomplishments to date and to wish him the best of luck as he begins his career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young man from my district who has recently accepted his appointment as a member of the class of 1999 at the U.S. Military Academy. Jerrod E. Hawk will soon graduate Paulding High School after 4 years of outstanding academic achievement as well as extracurricular involvement. While in high school Jerrod has distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. He is an outstanding student and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women academies. While at the Academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that Jerrod Hawk has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his accomplishments to date and to wish him the best of luck as he begins his career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young man from my district who has recently accepted his appointment as a member of the class of 1999 at the U.S. Naval Academy. Jason Schubach will soon graduate Old Fort High School after 4 years of outstanding academic achievement as well as extracurricular involvement. While in high school Jason has distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. He is an outstanding student and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the U.S. service academies. While at the Academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that Jason Schubach has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his accomplishments to date and to wish him the best of luck as he begins his career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young woman from my District who has recently accepted her appointment as a member of the class of 1999 at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Julie A. Balduf will soon graduate Port Clinton High School after 4 years of outstanding academic achievement as well as extracurricular involvement. While in high school Julie has distinguished herself as a leader among her peers. She is an outstanding student and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the United States service academies. While at the Academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that Julie Balduf has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating her for her accomplishments to date and to wish her the best of luck as she begins her career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives my great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding veterans organization. This year the Department of Ohio, Catholic War convention May 5-7, in Sandusky, OH. The city of Sandusky is a community renowned for its civic pride and commitment to service. It is an appropriate host to this most special of guests, the Catholic War Veterans. As a veteran myself, I am aware of the exemplary service rendered by groups such as the CWV. Throughout its history there has never been a lack of enthusiasm or volunteer labor for its many projects. Several years ago, I was honored to be chosen Outstanding Legislator of the Year by the Department of Ohio, Catholic War Veterans. It is one of the most cherished honors I have received in my years of public service. Anniversaries are a time to reflect upon past accomplishments. They are also a time to look toward new horizons. The Catholic War Veterans have made it their responsibility to serve those in need by keeping pace with the ever increasing challenges facing mankind. It is obvious that the people of Ohio and our Nation as a whole have greatly benefited from the effort that was started in 1945. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the Department of Ohio, Catholic War Veterans and encourage them to continue to build upon their proud tradition of service in Ohio.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young man from my District who has recently accepted his appointment as a member of the class of 1999 at the U.S. Military Academy. James J. Adams will soon graduate Hicksville High School after 4 years of outstanding academic achievement as well as extracurricular involvement. While in high school James has distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. He is an outstanding student and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the United States service academies. While at the Academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that James J. Adams has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his accomplishments to date and to wish him the best of luck as he begins his career in service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an exceptional young man from my district who has recently accepted his appointment as a member of the class of 1999 at the U.S. Naval Academy. William B. Swanbeck will soon graduate Huron High School after 4 years of outstanding academic achievement as well as extracurricular involvement. While in high school William has distinguished himself as a leader among his peers. He is an outstanding student and patriot. Mr. Speaker, one of the most important responsibilities of Members of Congress is to identify outstanding young men and women and to nominate them for admission to the U.S. service academies. While at the Academy, they will be the beneficiaries of one of the finest educations available, so that in the future, they might be entrusted with the very security of our Nation. I am confident that William Swanbeck has both the ability and the desire to meet this challenge. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating him for his accomplishments to date and to wish him the best of luck as he begins his career in the service to our country.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to an outstanding organization located in Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. This year, the Volunteer Fire Department of the Village of Marblehead, OH, celebrates it centennial. The village of Marblehead is a community renowned for its civic pride and commitment to been a favorite with tourists for decades. The department was created when the mayor appointed a committee to purchase three fire extinguishers to be placed at various locations throughout the village. It is still a volunteer department, but the equipment has grown from three extinguishers to three pumpers, a rescue truck, and three ambulances. The present fire chief is Harold Zura, a 25-year fire department veteran, with two assistant chiefs, Jim Lucas and Russel Zura. Marblehead was the first fire department in Ottawa County to begin ambulance service and now has a full-time paramedic/firefighter and several emergency medical technicians, in addition to well-trained firefighters. Throughout its history there has never been a lack of enthusiasm or labor for its many services. Anniversaries are a time to reflect upon a steadfast tradition of service. They are also a time to look toward new horizons. The fire department has made it its responsibility to serve those in need by keeping pace with the ever increasing challenges facing residents. Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the community and the members of the department have greatly benefited from the effort that was started in 1885. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the Marblehead Fire Department and encourage its volunteers to continue to uphold what has become the standard for excellence in Ohio.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 1327, the Tax Fairness and Deficit Reduction Act of 1995. It is with a great sense of personal satisfaction that I see this bill come to the House floor for debate as part of it, the ability for individuals to create American Dream Savings Accounts, is very similar to a bill I have been introducing since my first term in Congress. That bill, the Education Savings Account, H.R. 769, contains many of the provisions which are included in the legislation we are now debating. My legislation would allow families to contribute $1,500 annually, tax-free, to education savings accounts for each child under age 19. This provides an incentive for families to begin saving while their children are young. For families who have children closer to college age, this bill has the unique feature of allowing an immediate transfer of funds from an Individual Retirement Account [IRA] to the ESA so that those savings can be used for higher education. Money in the ESA not spent on education can be transferred penalty-free back to the IRA. Enactment of the tax bill we are now considering will allow families to take the initiative and begin saving for their children's education. We all realize how important higher education is to succeeding in today's work force and the cost of college is continually escalating. Consider the fact that the family share of college expenses has increased to more than 50 percent with parents contributing over one- fourth of the total spending on higher education and student contributing about one-fifth. This holds for both private and public schools, although the contribution is generally greater for those families whose children attend private institutions. In fact, if present trends continue, the cost of a college education for my own son who will enter college in the year 2010 could be as much as $107,000 for 4-year public schools, $168,000 for 4-year private schools and $29,000 for 2-year community colleges. That is why it is imperative for us to enact legislation such as H.R. 1327 to help families prepare for these exorbitant costs. The Fifth District of Ohio, which I represent, is small town Ohio at its best and in many respects represents the same viewpoints of small communities throughout our country. From traveling through my district, one of the most common complaints I hear is that government spends too much and taxes too much. ``Cut government spending and cut it now'' is a frequent refrain. I am delighted that the 104th Congress is about to vote on actually implementing some of these reductions. For example, as a result of this legislation your average tax reduction per filer in Ohio will save $1,439. Let me briefly examine some of the more important provisions which will have such great impact on small town Ohio. There is a section which would increase the Federal estate and gift tax exemption from $600,000 to $750,000. This increase is important for small business owners and farmers who wish to pass on their businesses to their children. There is also a changed requirement with respect to capital gains, the alternative minimum tax, and accelerated depreciation. All of these provisions will strengthen our Nation's economy and make for an improved business climate. Another reason for supporting this bill is that it goes a long way in restoring faith and confidence in our seniors while giving back to them some of the financial security that was stripped away by the administration's budget 2 years ago. This bill takes three important steps for seniors. First, it raises the earnings limit for seniors who want to work and remain productive citizens. Government should not prevent people from working, keeping them against their will in a nonactive, nonproductive retirement. There are thousands of seniors who would love to contribute to our society and we should allow them the ability to do so. Second, the tax reductions bill repeals the tax hike on Social Security benefits imposed by the Clinton administration's budget in 1993. The tax should be eliminated for a couple of reasons. To increase taxes on seniors who are in retirement on fixed incomes is to target one of our most vulnerable populations. It would be wrong to increase taxes on working seniors, seniors wanting to remain in the work force. The final reason I am for this tax reductions bill involves long-term care insurance. For many seniors, long-term care becomes a necessity. We should provide incentives for people to purchase long-term care insurance before they need it. This bill provides tax deductibility towards the purchase of long-term care insurance so that when people are in the unfortunate situation of needing long-term care, it will be there. I think the issue of Federal pensions needs to be examined. I believe the review of them has not been adequately completed, and the provisions regarding them should not be included in this bill. However, we must evaluate the bill as a whole, and on balance it is a good bill. The pension issue needs to be reviewed before this bill clears Congress. Mr. Chairman, today is not the final act in implementation of the Contract With America. Many of the initiatives must be debated by the Senate. But it is absolutely critical that the Members of the House of Representatives endorse this package with the strongest possible vote and begin delivering real and meaningful tax reform to Americans.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and pay tribute to one of the great newspapers of Ohio. This year the Delphos Herald in Delphos, OH, celebrates its 125th year of publication. The city of Delphos is a community renowned for its civic pride and commitment to service. The paper has through the years epitomized this outstanding quality. For the first quarter century, the Herald was a weekly paper. Its first editor in 1869 was David H. Tolan, and it was independent in its politics until 1877. After that, historical records indicate the Courant, a Herald rival, was considered the Republican newspaper while the Herald the Democrats'. Later both became nonpartisan and both served the community until 1961. In that year, the Herald was sold to its present owners and the Courant was discontinued. Over the years, the Herald has been the chronicle of change. Marriage, births, and funeral announcements are dutifully reported to the area, as well as national news including the exploits of those of us in Congress. This hometown newspaper has consistently benefited from a high caliber personnel, including my chief of staff Mark Wellman, who in high school was a sports reporter for the Herald. In all this time, the Herald has distinguished itself as a quality newspaper. Under the leadership of its longtime editor, Esther Bielawski, I am confident it will continue to prosper. Mr. Speaker, anniversaries are a time to reflect upon a steadfast tradition of service. They are also a time to look toward new horizons. It is obvious that the city of Delphos and the surrounding area have greatly benefited from the effort that was started in 1869. I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the achievements of the Delphos Herald and encourage the staff to continue to uphold what has become the standard for excellence in Ohio.

Mr. GILLMOR

Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen and patriot, Kathy Cole. Kathy is the Ladies Auxiliary district president of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2873 in Grover Hill, OH. America is blessed by the number of her citizens who choose to devote their time to the service of others. Through the years, Kathy has worked tirelessly on behalf of veterans and their families. She joined the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars as a member of Wauseon Auxiliary 7424 in 1981 under the sponsorship of her brother, Franklin On the district level, Kathy was elected as district guard in 1985 and progressed through the district chairs to serve her first term as district president in 1989-90. Kathy is presently serving her second term as district president, having been elected in June 1994. With her positive attitude, she said, ``The second time around will allow me to do a more perfect job.'' From the beginning of her career with the V.F.W., Kathy Cole has set high standards for herself. Her record of service is characterized by self-motivation and mission accomplishment. She has served the Department of Ohio Auxiliary as National Home chairman and counts the auxiliary's work through the youth of the organization as some of her favorite. Mr. Speaker, this is a volunteer organization and sometimes the only compensation you get for the time and efforts put into the programs for the veterans and your communities is the thanks and appreciation you receive from community leaders. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending a special thanks to Kathy Cole and the example she has set for others.